Library friends,

I’m so happy to touch base with you this month and let you know what’s happening with a big project, the development of our strategic plan for the next five years.
 
We are so fortunate to have been able to work with a consultant from the State Library of Ohio (free to us thanks to a federal grant) who tabulated all the results from the community surveys you turned in as well as comments from two public and one staff focus groups. Believe me, focus group attendees were very open with their opinions and ideas, which is exactly what we want and need.   Then the consultant grouped the results into categories and prepared a report for us to consider, which is what I’m currently digesting—literally, since I’m taking it with me to lunch along with a highlighter!
 
In short, it has been advised that we:

   - Satisfy Your Curiosity by focusing on programming for all ages, increasing our already strong partnerships and increasing adult programming to serve as a cultural center of our community;

   - Help you Know Your Community by becoming a hub of information about local services and organizations;

   - Help your children Succeed in School by developing a homework help center; and

   - Provide a Comfortable Place through updating the physical layout of our buildings including finding room for meeting spaces. (This has been a puzzle we haven’t solved yet, but will investigate with renewed vigor!)
 
There are no surprises here other than that our top priorities in the current plan are not even listed—materials to check in and out, promoting early childhood literacy, and providing public internet. But I know why…we are already doing those things so well, it’s expected we’ll continue, and now it’s time to look further out. The other surprise is that things we *thought* you would care about…3-D printing!  Technology!...barely registered on the dial. That doesn’t mean they won’t happen, but we do know where to focus efforts.
 
And that’s the whole point of this exercise. We are responsible to you, and responsive to your ideas and suggestions. This is YOUR library, and we appreciate every person who took time to share your opinions. I hope to have a draft plan to the Board for consideration in November.
 
And now to share one humorous comment from the surveys. At least it cracked ME up! Thank you to the commenter who likes the picture above the fireplace at the Main library. However…it’s NOT Robert E. Lee. It’s library benefactor J. Walter McClymonds, whose $20,000 gift to the library in 1899 still provides funds for materials. His in-laws' home on Fourth Street NE was the first public library building in town; you know it now as the Library Apartments. The McClymonds’ family home is Five Oaks, home of the Massillon Woman’s Club. As far as I know, Robert E. Lee has absolutely nothing to do with Massillon, and we obviously need to brag a lot more about Mr. McClymonds!
 
I have some excellent book suggestions for you this month. The very controversial memoir Hillbilly Elegy by JD Vance has become the book I annoyingly talk about to anyone who will listen. Not everyone agrees with Vance’s conclusion about personal choices contributing to generational poverty, but this former marine and Yale Law School graduate gives a powerful account of growing up in a poor Ohio Rust Belt town with a heroin-addicted mother and offers a probing look at the struggles of America’s white working class. In fiction, I’m enjoying Daphne Du Maurier’s dark My Cousin Rachel. A 2017 film adaptation called to my attention this book I’d never read by the author of Rebecca. Did this charming woman kill Phillip’s cousin and godfather Ambrose? I don’t know yet. (No spoilers from me!) My book club is also reading America’s First Daughter by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie and I’m intrigued with the life of widower Thomas Jefferson’s daughter Patsy who served as his hostess at Monticello and France, and gave birth to the first White House baby. The authors did copious research, and particularly the scandalous relationship between Patsy’s father and his slave (and half-sister to his wife) Sally Hemings fascinates. I hope you also have a great book at hand!
 
Happy reading, 

Director, Massillon Public Library

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OCTOBER STORY TIMES

Family Story Time
Mondays: October 2, 16, 23, 30  
7:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
For all ages, accompanied by an adult.
No registration required.

Little Listeners Story Time
Wednesdays: October 4, 18, 25 
10:15 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.
For children ages 2-5, accompanied by an adult.
No registration required.

Tyke Tales
Thursdays: October 5, 19, 26
10:15 a.m. - 10:35 a.m.
For children ages 0-2 ½, accompanied by an adult.
No registration required.

Shake-It-Up Story Time
Thursdays: October 5, 19, 26 
1:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
For children ages 2-5, accompanied by an adult.
No registration required.

Simply Stories
Fridays: October 6, 13, 20, 27 
10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
For all ages, accompanied by an adult.
No registration required.

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Kendal Burying Ground: No Stones, Only Bones
Tuesday, October 3 --- 6:30 p.m.
The Kendal Burying Grounds has been called the Cholera Cemetery, the Black Plague Cemetery, or just a mass grave. Local historian Bob Bratton has spent decades studying this unmarked cemetery in residential Massillon. What are the myths and what is the truth? Join us for this free lecture from the Spring Hill Speaker Series. Contact the library at 330-832-9831, ext. 312 for more information.

Meditation: True Prayer
Tuesday, October 3 --- 6:30 p.m. - 7:45 p.m.
Featuring guest presenter Gwen Miller. A beginners’ introduction will be provided at 6:30 p.m. At 6:45, the group will meditate together and then move into that night's topic. Registration required. 330-832-9831, ext. 312

Massillon Genealogical Society Meeting
"You Are Not Quite Dead Yet: Writing Your Own Obituary"
Wednesday, October 4 --- 6:30 p.m.
This program will help you consider what you should include in your obituary that family members might overlook (or purposefully leave out), as well as the information about yourself that you want your descendants to know. No registration required. The Massillon Genealogical Society welcomes the public to all of its meetings and programs. 330-832-9831, ext. 337

Internet for Beginners
Thursday, October 5 --- 3:00 p.m - 4:30 p.m.
An introduction to navigating the Internet and the World Wide Web using a computer laptop. Prerequisites: Experience using a computer mouse, keyboard, and Windows. Registration required. 330-832-9831, ext. 327

The Hygge Lifestyle
Saturday, October 7
10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Guest presenter Gloria Miller will explain Hygge, a concept created by the Danish, who are considered to be the happiest people on earth. Hygge is more than the process of creating coziness and comfort in your home using things such as candles, warm slippers, pastries, sheepskin rugs, lattes, and a warm fireplace. It is a way to live mindfully and with less stress. During this free program, attendees will learn how to create Hygge in their homes, making the winter months welcoming and enjoyable! Registration is recommended. 330-832-9831, ext. 312

Junior Friends Meeting
Saturday, October 7 --- 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Membership is open to students in grades 7 through 12. Ask how you can join! 330-832-9831, ext. 321

CLOSED
Monday, October 9
The Massillon Public Library, the Barry Askren Branch in Navarre, and the Pam S. Belloni Branch in Brewster will be CLOSED on Monday, October 9 for a Staff Enrichment Day. There will be no Bookmobile stops on October 9.

PAWS To Read
Tuesday, October 10 --- 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Children of all ages are invited to come meet and read to some very friendly and well-behaved dogs. This program provides a relaxed atmosphere for children to practice their reading skills, and to interact kindly with dogs of various sizes and breeds. No registration required. 330-832-5037

Rudy Film Showing
Wednesday, October 11 --- 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
The biographical film about a boy who gets into Notre Dame and fights his way onto the school's football team has been named by ESPN as one of the top 25 sports movies. Join us for a free showing of the film, presented as part of the 2017 One Book, One Community program series. Free refreshments provided.

SARTA Travel Training
Thursday, October 12 --- 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
A valid picture ID is required to receive a bus pass at the end of the training session. Registration required. 855-887-2782

Basics of Internet Email
Thursday, October 12 --- 3:00 p.m - 4:30 p.m.
An introduction to creating and using an Internet email account on a personal computer. Prerequisites: Experience using a computer mouse, keyboard, and Windows; and being familiar with navigating the World Wide Web. Registration required. 330-832-9831, ext. 327

Anime Night: Ghost Hunt!
Friday, October 13 --- 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Teens in grades 7-12 are invited to watch Anime and enjoy snacks from Japan! 330-832-9831, ext. 321

Early Massillon and Lost Kendal
Book signing and lecture featuring author Mandy Altimus Pond
Saturday, October 14 --- 1:00 p.m.
Before Massillon, there was Kendal, Ohio. The story of these communities is a tapestry of local, national, and international history. Referencing new archival discoveries in the Massillon Museum, Spring Hill Historic Home, and Massillon Public Library collections, this book tells stories of early Kendal and Massillon, shedding light on the Ohio frontier and its pioneers from 1812 to 1860. Come hear some of the stories and meet the author of Early Massillon and Lost Kendal. Books will be on sale after the program for $21.99 plus tax. For more information, contact the library at 330-832-9831, ext. 312.

Tween Time: Zombie Beanie Hats
Saturday, October 14 --- 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Kids in grades 4-8 are invited to make their very own beanie hat that looks like a zombie! Limited to 12 participants. Registration required. For more information, contact the Children's Department at 330-832-5037.

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Zombie Dancers & Craft

As part of Massillon’s annual Zombie Walk on Saturday, October 14, library staff of the Massillon Public will host a free kids’ craft at Anderson’s in the City, 121 Lincoln Way East, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Zombie Walk will begin with the “Thriller” dance at 1st Street SE at 6:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and also on the library front lawn at 7:00 p.m. The dance is presented by costumed community members in conjunction with Massillon Zombie Walk. These zombies who are taking over downtown Massillon have Hollywood-quality makeup and costumes! In other words, parents of young children and the easily frightened should definitely BEWARE! To see videos of previous years, visit Massillonzombiewalk.com.

No registration required. For more information, contact the Children's Department at 330-832-5037.

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Discover Your Revolutionary War Ancestor
Tuesday, October 17 --- 4:00 p.m. - 7:45 p.m.
DAR volunteer genealogists and the library genealogy specialist will assist you in researching your lineage to join the Daughters of the American Revolution. If you've already started compiling a family history, bring your existing research with you. For more information, contact Louise Moore at 330-232-4266 or the library's Reference Desk at 330-832-9831, ext. 312.

Family Movie Night
Tuesday, October 17 --- 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Auditorium doors open at 5:15 p.m. Limited seating offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Free popcorn! 330-832-5037

Meditation: Gratitude
Tuesday, October 17 --- 6:30 p.m. - 7:45 p.m.
Featuring guest presenter Gwen Miller. A beginners’ introduction will be provided at 6:30 p.m. At 6:45, the group will meditate together and then move into that night's topic. Registration required. 330-832-9831, ext. 312

Microsoft Word 2007 Basics
Wednesday, October 18 --- 3:00 p.m - 4:30 p.m.
An introduction to Microsoft Word, a word-processing computer application. Prerequisites: Experience using a computer mouse, keyboard, and Windows. Registration required. 330-832-9831, ext. 327

Pinterest Craft Series
Wednesday, October 18 -- 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Join us as we try our hand at popular crafts being shared on Pinterest! Space is limited. Registration required. 330-832-9831, ext. 312

YA: Halloween Crafts
Thursday, October 19 --- 2:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Students in grades 7 through 12 are invited to make a variety of Halloween crafts, watch Hocus Pocus, and enjoy some treats! No registration required. 330-832-9831, ext. 321

Super Saturday: Halloween Hullabaloo
Saturday, October 21 --- 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Kids in grades K-5 are invited to listen to slightly spooky stories, play hauntingly hilarious games, and enjoy a “booffet” of tempting treats! Come in costume if you wish! Registration required. 330-832-5037

Sensory-Sensitive Storytime & Movie
Saturday, October 21 ---- 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m
Sensory-sensitive children of all ages and their families are invited to a 30-minute storytime followed by a sensory-friendly showing of Despicable Me 2 in a safe, accepting environment. Participants are free to talk, sing, or move as needed during the movie, which features lower sounds and lighting. No registration required. Contact the Children's Department at 330-832-5037 for more information.

Monday Book Discussion
Monday, October 23
Small Wonder by Barbara Kingsolver
An afternoon book discussion will take place at 12:00 p.m. in the library auditorium. An evening discussion about the same book will be held in the Second Floor Meeting room at 6:00 p.m. No registration required.

From Page to Screen Teen Movie Night
Wednesday, October 25 --- 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Kids in grades 7-12 are invited to a free showing of Coraline. Popcorn and drinks provided. (Donations welcome!) No registration required. 330-832-9831, ext. 321

Board of Trustees Meeting
Thursday, October 26 --- 4:00 p.m.
The public is invited to attend board meetings.

Student Chess Club
Friday, October 27 --- 1:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.
Students in grades 1-12 are invited to come and play the game of chess. Library staff members will be on hand to teach those who do not know how to play the game. Those who already know how to play are invited to bring some friends and challenge them! Stop in anytime between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to play. Kids in grades 3 or below must be accompanied by an adult. No registration required. 330-832-5037

Jazz Tuesday
Massillon Senior Center, 39 Lincoln Way West
Tuesday, October 31 --- 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
The first part of the evening will feature traditional New Orleans jazz presented by the Massillon Dixieland Jazz Band. The last part of the program will be open to musicians of all ages who want to sit in and jam with the band. Contact Jim Chatterton at 330-809-6377 for more information.

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Marbling
works by Christine Zavislak
on display in the Computer Center
September 4 - October 30

Christine Zavislak was born in August, 1956 in Parkersburg, West Virginia. She came to Massillon, Ohio in 1970. She is a self taught artist who doodled in her youth and began experimenting with mixed organic mediums in her 20’s. She put art on hold to raise a family of three children and now has five granddaughters. Zavislak has rediscovered her passion for creating art in her 50s, while taking care of a loved one with terminal cancer. She mostly works with acrylics and currently with fluid acrylics. She is semi-retired from over 21 years of work in the healthcare industry and dreams of retiring and devoting time to work in her own studio creating art for joy. This is her first experience sharing her works of art.

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Massillon Public Library 208 Lincoln Way East                     Massillon, OH 44646                    330-832-9831	Bookmobile See the bookmobile schedule online: http://www.massillonlibrary.org/node/48 330.832.9831 ext. 329
Barry Askren Memorial Branch 1200 Market Street NE Navarre, OH 44662 330-879-2113	Pam S. Belloni Branch 12000 Navarre Road SW Navarre, OH 44662-9486 330-767-9939