It’s February, and what do I LOVE?

I love that the study rooms I told you about last month are finished, and furniture is due any day. I love that a roomful of staff from all departments just attended training on our new online tutoring service Tutor.com and are ready to roll it out to K-12 students. I love that we’re getting excited about Big Read programming for Spring, and at the same time we’re picking a book for fall’s One Book One Community event. (I don’t love that I procrastinated and now have three days to read three books in preparation for the committee meeting. When will I learn?!) I love that I can put away my strategic planning folder and start working again on a disaster recovery plan, which no one wants to think about, including me. But it’s essential, and I’m making that my priority.

I also love a great idea from a colleague who suggested I respond to interesting questions from our suggestion box in this newsletter column. I was pondering ideas like pinning them on a bulletin board, and she reminded me that I have this forum. So without further ado, I christen a new feature of this column I’ll call “Answers from the Library Director.”
 

Q—When using the online catalog to put holds on books, there should be a star or something to indicate that the item only lends for one week. I have refused books at the desk when I find out they are 7-day books, and this would save time.

A—We’ll do even better for you. Frontline staff tell me that many people feel the same as you do…so we are eliminating 7-day loan limits on new books, starting with the next items to be processed! You will still see some with that label until Technical Services can corral them and remove the labels and make the change in the computer system. New movies will still have a 7-day loan period, but we understand in this busy world you might need longer to read your new books. Enjoy!
 

Q—You need additional public restrooms.

A—We agree, and have struggled with the “where” for years. It’s not even so much the money, which would be substantial, but if you’ve been in the Main building, you know there’s not a square inch unused. What can we give up? We’ve been unable to find a workable solution in decades of trying, but I’m open to any ideas you want to drop in the suggestion box.
 

Q—We hate where the audiobooks are now shelved. (This comment was submitted in various forms by about twenty people.)

A—We do not have a good answer for why the shelving we ordered in October (!) is still back-ordered. Trust me, we are being pests. They must be chopping down the trees and allowing the wood to cure! But in all seriousness, we really do have a shelving unit on order that will reside in the Reading Room and hold a rotating collection of the newest and best of our audiobooks…at eye level. We hate to cancel this order and start again, because it might be another six months. So please…hang in there and ask a staff member to reach something that’s on a bottom shelf.

That’s how this will work—I only have room for a sampling. I won’t bother with silly questions, of which we’ve had only a few. Mostly we get intelligent and thoughtful questions from good people who care about making your library better, and that’s another thing I love!

Director, Massillon Public Library

A quick book recommendation for the last book I read that was my own choice: Love and Other Consolation Prizes by Jamie Ford. It’s historic fiction based around a true story that immerses you in time and space-- the best kind. In this case, a 12-year old half-Chinese orphan finds that he himself is the raffle prize at the 1909 Alaska-Pacific-Yukon Exhibition in Seattle, and the prizewinner is the madam of a high-profile brothel. You’ll know more about our country and be moved by the characters. Ford’s Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet is also a gem.

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February Story Times

Family Story Time
Mondays: February 5, 12, 26
7:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
For all ages, accompanied by an adult.
No registration required.

Little Listeners Story Time
Wednesdays: February 7, 14, 28
10:15 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.
For children ages 2-5, accompanied by an adult.
No registration required.

Tyke Tales
Thursdays: February 1, 8, 15
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: February 1, 8, 15
1:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
For children ages 2-5, accompanied by an adult.
No registration required.

Simply Stories
Fridays: February 2, 9, 16, 23
10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
For all ages, accompanied by an adult.
No registration required.

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Junior Friends Meeting
Saturday, February 3 --- 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

Friends Meeting
Monday, February 5 --- 6:30 p.m.
New members always welcome! 330-832-9831, ext. 301

Meditation
Tuesday, February 6 — 6:30 p.m.
Led by guest presenter Gwen Miller. As a prelude to each session, the group will discuss a chapter from the book Empowering Your Soul Through Meditation. The group will meet again on Tuesday, February 20. Registration is required for each session. For more information or to register, contact the Reference Desk at 330-832-9831, ext. 312.

Massillon Genealogical Society Meeting: Publishing Your Genealogy Research
Wednesday, February 7 --- 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Why is it important to document your family’s history? You will be leaving a legacy for current and future family members. And because of your research, no one knows the details like you do. Explore how to organize the genealogical research you have collected and prepare it for publication. No registration required. For more information, contact Jill Wingard at 330-832-9831, ext. 337.

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AARP Presents Fraud Watch Workshop
Wednesday, February 7 --- 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
This workshop provides an overview of cyber safety and helps empower participants to protect themselves from fraud and scams in the cyber world. Learn how to identify and avoid online and financial identity theft and fraud. Information and handouts will be provided by the AARP. This workshop is free and open to adults of all ages.

This workshop will be repeated on Wednesday, February 14 at 3:00 p.m. The workshops are free, but registration is required as seating is limited. Contact the Computer Center at 330-832-9831, ext. 327 for more information or to register for one of the presentations.

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Valentine Crafts
A Massillon 2nd Saturday Program
Saturday, February 10 --- 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Stop in any time between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to make Valentine’s Day crafts and cards for yourself or for your Valentine! Children under age 10 must be accompanied by an adult. No registration is required. 330-832-5037

Internet Basics
Barry Askren Memorial Branch Library
1200 Market Street NE Navarre, OH 44662
Tuesday, February 13 --- 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Participants will be given an introduction to navigating the Internet and the World Wide Web using a computer laptop. In addition, an explanation and demonstration will be given of the popular web browsers being used today on the Microsoft Windows system. Experience using a computer mouse, keyboard, and the Windows operating system is needed to participate in this class. Registration required. Contact the Askren branch at 330-879-2113 to register.

PAWS To Read
Tuesday, February 13 --- 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. For more information, contact the Children's Department at 330-832-5037.

YA Anti-Valentine's Day Party
Wednesday, February 14
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Teens in grades 7-12 are invited to an Anti-Valentine's Day party! The fun will include decorating and eating broken heart cookies, listening to music, and other activities. No registration required. Contact 330-832-9831, ext. 312 for more information.

Anime Night
Friday, February 16 --- 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

Super Saturday: Wonderland Tea Party
Saturday, February 17 --- 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Kids in pre-K to grade 6 are invited to enjoy a fabulous tea party with their favorite adult. Guests will make a Mad Hatter hat, play flamingo croquet, and sample tea party refreshments. Kids may come in their fanciest dress or hat, if they wish! Please bring your own tea cup. Registration is required. For more information or to register, contact the Children’s Department at 330-832-5037.

Student Chess Club
Saturday, February 17 --- 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 4:45 p.m. to play. Kids in grades 3 or below must be accompanied by an adult. No registration required. 330-832-5037

Askren Branch Book Club
Barry Askren Memorial Branch Library
1200 Market Street NE Navarre, OH 44662
Tuesday, February 20 --- 9:00 a.m.
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley
No registration required. For more information, contact the Askren branch at 330-879-2113.

Family Movie Night
Tuesday, February 20 --- 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

Internet Email Basics
Pam S. Belloni Branch Library
12000 Navarre Road SW Navarre, OH 44662-9486
Tuesday, February 20 --- 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
An introduction to creating and using an email account on a personal computer. Experience using a computer mouse, keyboard, and the Windows operating system is needed to participate in this class. Registration is required. To register, contact the Belloni branch at 330-767-9939.

Chair Fitness
Wednesday, February 21 --- 6:00 p.m.
Featuring guest presenter, Julie Fairless. Have fun stretching and moving to music while staying safely seated! Participants will practice strengthening muscles and increasing range of motion through gentle exercise. This class will give you a general idea of what is involved in these types of chair classes for those with arthritis or for anyone! Registration is required. 330-832-9831, ext. 312

Pinterest Craft Series
Wednesday, February 21 -- 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

Board of Trustees Meeting
Thursday, February 22 --- 4:00 p.m.
The public is invited to attend board meetings.

100 Things Cavaliers Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die
Thursday, February 22 -- 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Bob Finnan, author of “100 Things Cavaliers Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die,” will share inside stories and tips for fans of Cleveland basketball. Finnan's book is the ultimate guide for true fans of Cleveland basketball and includes plenty of juicy stories about Lebron and other players. The book will be available for purchase at the event for $14.95. No registration is required for this free event. For more information, contact Sherie Brown at 330-832-9831, ext. 314.

SARTA Travel Training
Friday, February 23 --- 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

Tween Time: Sign Language
Saturday, February 24 --- 1:00 p.m.
Kids in grades 4-8 are invited to learn some basic communication in American Sign Language. Registration is suggested. For more information, contact the Children's department at 330-832-5037.

Monday Book Discussion
Monday, February 26
The Forgetting Time by Sharon Guskin 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. For more information, contact the Reference Desk at 330-832-9831, ext. 312.

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e-Health Technology Presentation
Tuesday, February 27 --- 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
This presentation demonstrates some of the current technology for personal wellness such as fitness trackers, a mobile EKG that fits in your pocket, and a mobile blood pressure monitor. Many of the devices interact with smart phone apps to help you track fitness and well-being.

This presentation will be repeated on Wednesday, February 28 at 2:00 p.m. The presentations are free, but registration is required as seating is limited. Contact the Computer Center at 330-832-9831, ext. 327 for more information or to register for one of the presentations. This program is for adults.

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Poetry Contest
Local bards are invited to submit original poems to our annual poetry contest. Winners will be chosen in three categories: grades 3-8, grades 9-12, and adult. A $75 gift card to Books-a-Million will be awarded to the winner of each category.

Deadline for entries is Saturday, March 31.
Visit our website for more information and entry forms:

www.massillonlibrary.org/poetry

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February Computer Classes
Main Library - 208 Lincoln Way East

Using Windows File Explorer
Monday, February 5
2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Using Windows File Explorer
Tuesday, February 6
6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m

Libby App and Library Access from Home
Monday, February 12
2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m

Mouse Basics
Monday, February 19
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Keyboard Basics
Wednesday, February 21
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Registration is required for computer classes.Contact the Computer Center at 330-832-9831, ext. 327 for more information or to register.

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Winter Reading Challenge

Adult readers are invited to play Book Lover’s BINGO this winter! To play, read books from the categories listed on your BINGO card and cross off the appropriate square. Every BINGO you get earns you an entry in the prize drawing. A completely filled BINGO card equals 12 drawing entries!

BINGO cards are available at the Reference and Adult Circulation Desks, and can be downloaded from the library’s website. Completed cards may be turned in at any library location. Cards must be received by Wednesday, March 21, in order to be entered into the drawing. You may submit more than one finished BINGO card.

This challenge is open to Massillon Public Library cardholders, ages 18 and over. If you don’t have a library card, you can get one for FREE at any Massillon Public Library location or apply for a digital card online. For more information, contact the library at 330-832-9831, ext. 312.

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"Capturing Memories"
photographs by Tracy L. Gregg on display in
the Computer Center through March 3, 2018

Tracy Gregg hails from Williamsport, Pennsylvania. She moved to Akron, Ohio, with her family in 1985. She has been married for 19 years to Glenn who has shown amazing support and love in all aspects of her life. She has two grown sons; Charles and Michael and four grandchildren who are the light of her life. She formerly owned and operated Moffit Heights Preschool and Daycare Center. It was there that her passion for photography blossomed. She currently owns and operates Making Memories Photography by Tracy & Custom Framing in our fair city of Massillon where she is instrumental in capturing the most special events in people’s lives. Keith Carretta and Tim Sidel have been a source of inspiration in fostering her growth and success throughout her career.

In true fashion for her quest to give back to the community she donates her services to capture milestones in the lives of children who long to find their “Forever” homes. She is also dedicated to capturing the history as well as current events within the great city of Massillon. She looks forward to traveling down many paths in life and sharing those experiences from behind her camera lens.

“Don’t let your memories pass you by!