What's New at AADL

Beatnik Chicks

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 17:07:06 -0800

I didn't want to write another blog about a graphic novel, but.... it's the end of the semester, and they make a nice genre to read in between work and writing papers.

Harvey Pekar is most famous for his long-running comic book American Splendor, but he also writes interesting little graphic histories of topics that are near to his heart, usually falling at the intersection of radical politics and great American literature. Students for a Democratic Society is an anthology spear-headed by Pekar with graphic vignettes about the SDS and its place in the counter-culture of the 60's.
Now, he has given us The Beats:A Graphic History: a similar collection of short historical pieces about key figures in the Beat Movement. Written by Pekar himself and a group of other writers, the book of course treats the main figures of the movement like Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and William S. Burroughs. These biographical pieces are brief, so I agree with many reviews I found online that complain of the thinness of the material. But I would say that it gave me a view of the beat landscape and definitely conveyed Pekar and his cohort's passion for their writing. Honestly, I have not read a lot of the books of these iconic writers, but Pekar's short biographies made me curious to know more about the wild lives that they lived and why their work has been so influential. I was especially glad to know more of some of the other names from the movement: Phillip Whalen, Gary Snyder, Michael Mcclure, Amiri Baraka, Philip Lamantia as well as many others. This is not a comprehensive history of the beats, but not a bad place to start.

But, why did I title this blog "Beatnik Chicks"? Pekar's wife Joyce Brabner writes a section about the women of the movement who, as often so sadly happens, are not given proper credit for their contribution. Knowing how famous these men are, it is refreshing to know about the women who were part of this vibrant artistic scene and lived expressive, passionate lives. Women like Diane Di Prima, Carolyn Cassady, Joyce Johnson, Hettie Jones, and Jay DeFeo seem like fascinating people, and Brabner's short but fiery tribute to them is well worth the read.

If you know someone looking to know more about the Beats, tell them about Pekar and Brabner.

Homework Help

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 12:58:37 -0800

Homework; the word provokes anxiety for students and parents alike. With a little preparation and teamwork, it can be a lot easier. Professor Mom, Aliki McElreath of Family Education explains how to begin; “Create a designated homework spot for your children to retreat to every afternoon to complete their work.”

Parents can help in forming positive habits like teaching their child to be organized, or developing a schedule with their student. However, it may be challenging to recall high school Algebra or the Physics class you didn’t have. Don’t fret. You can help your child, by knowing valuable resources at the library.

The Ann Arbor District Library has tutoring for elementary through high school on Wednesday evenings from 4:00- 8:00 p.m. in the Downtown Youth Services. The drop in service provides free tutoring by college students. It is sponsored by the
University of Michigan’s Circle K chapter, part of Kiwanis International.

In addition, the library offers an online tutoring service that matches students of all ages with a live tutor for homework help. Brainfuse is a relatively new service available at the library an at home with your Ann Arbor District Library card. It is free for district card holders. Students can work with tutors, including Spanish-speakers, from 2:00- 11:00 p.m. 7 days a week. No appointment is necessary.

Your student can get ideas for assignments and resources for papers and projects on the Ann Arbor District Library's website. Look for the research tab and look for a list of databases. Go to the website for a complete list of databases that may be helpful for homework. Click here for a link to select sites.

The library also has a host of helpful books on homework help including,
Cool sites. Homework help for kids on the Net by Lisa Trumbauer. Although it was published in 2000, it offers a range of resources for middle school ages students. A good title for parents is Same homework, new plan: how to help your disorganized kid sit down and get it done, by Sally G. Hoyle, It is on the Parent Shelf at the Downtown Library along withHow to help your child with homeworkby Jeanne Shay Schumm.

The combination of parent involvement and tutoring will help nurture a more confident and successful student.

Dawn Farm Education Series

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:55:59 -0800

teens using drugs

The "Teens Using Drugs: What To Know and What To Do" series will be presented on December 1 (part one, "What To Know") and December 8 (part two, "What To Do.") This free, ongoing, two-part series is presented by Ron Harrison & takes place here. The series is co-sponsored by Dawn Farm, the Livingston/Washtenaw Safe and Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Consortium, and St. Joseph Mercy Hospital. A flier for this program is here. All are welcome!

H1N1 Flu Vaccination Clinic Announced

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 04:46:05 -0800

H1N1

The Washtenaw County Public Health Department will offer H1N1 vaccinations to high priority individuals at a mass vaccination clinic at Manchester High School on Saturday, Dec. 5th from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. The high school is located at 20500 Dutch Drive, Manchester 48158.

Children and adults fitting within the following priority groups are currently eligible for H1N1 vaccination:

pregnant women
people who live with or provide care for infants younger than 6 months
health care and emergency medical services personnel with direct patient care
Children and adolescents 6 months through 24 years of age
Adults 25 to 64 years of age who have medical conditions that put them at higher risk for influenza-related complications. Conditions include: neurological disorders, chronic lung conditions (like asthma), immune disorders, cardiovascular disorders (not including high blood pressure), diabetes, lung and liver disorders, chronic aspirin therapy, and kidney disorders.

Come Learn About the iPhone!

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:34:16 -0800

aadl.org
The iPhone is more than a phone, it's a computer that allows you to browse the internet, send text messages, take pictures, capture video and send/receive email..., and that's just the beginning. Interested? Come to the iPhone class on Thursday December 10, 2009: 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm -- Downtown Library: Training Center.

Registration is required. Register online, visit any AADL location, or call 734-327-4555.

See you in class!

Applying for Jobs Online

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:16:51 -0800

aadl.org
Have you ever had trouble filling out forms on the internet? Come to Applying for Jobs Online and learn some tips and tricks for using online forms and job applications.

Friday December 11, 2009: 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm -- Downtown Library: Training Center

Registration is required. Register online, visit any AADL location, or call 734-327-4555.

See you in class!

Christmas in Vienna at The Hill

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:13:57 -0800

Christmas carols have arrived, whether we want them to or not. A different way to experience Christmas music, and perhaps more moving, is live with the famous Vienna Boys’ Choir. The choir will be performing Christmas in Vienna at the Hill Auditorium on Sunday, November 29 at 4 pm. (See here for ticket information.) To get yourself ready, check out some of their CDs.

The Vienna Boys’ choir, one of the best known boys’ choirs in the world, has been around since the 13th century but was officially founded in 1924. For touring purposes the choir is divided into four sub-groups, each named after a famous Austrian composer, and all with equal standing.

Prior to the concert will be Caroling on the Steps of Hill, from 3-4 pm, where local choral groups will perform on the steps of the Hill Auditorium and then invite the public to join them. Joy!

Motawi Tileworks: Tile Making Workshop

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 08:27:44 -0800

motawi

Karim and Nawal Motawi, co-owners of Ann Arbor-based Motawi Tileworks, will share their expertise about art tile. Make your own art tile at this workshop; it will then be fired, glazed and available for pick up at Motawi Tileworks from December 17 to January 31. Tiles make great gifts! There is no charge for this event.

Tuesday, December 1 | 7-8:30 PM | Downtown Multi-Purpose Room

Canned Food Drive

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 12:51:57 -0800

truck

The Washtenaw Youth Mentoring Coalition and the Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living are hosting a canned food drive to benefit Food Gatherers November 30 through December 12. Please bring non-perishable items that have not passed their expiration date, and avoid bringing items in glass containers. Food Gatherers also accepts toothbrushes, toothpaste, diapers, soap, and shampoo. Bring the items to the Ann Arbor CIL, 3941 Research Park Drive, Ann Arbor. The CIL is open Mondays through Fridays 9 am to 5 pm.

The Queen of Manga

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 12:35:43 -0800

Rumiko Takahashi FamilyYou might not recognize Rumiko Takahashi by name, but I bet you’ve seen her manga and anime characters before. Rumiko Takahashi is one of the most successful manga artists/authors in the world. She’s the creator of several worldwide favorites like InuYasha, Maison Ikkoku, and Ranma ½. Her manga is very popular and several of her series have been made into anime TV shows. AADL has lots of her manga series and a few of her anime series on DVD. Take a look!

One more thing. Fans of InuYasha will be happy to know (if you don’t already) that the final story arc is at long last being adapted for TV! AADL has DVDs of the original series and the movies. Check out the manga and follow along with the story as it unfolds each week.

Everyone's favorite orphan on stage starting Friday

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 12:06:27 -0800

The popular musical "Annie" will be presented by Encore Musical Theatre Company in Dexter at 8 p.m. Nov. 27-29 and Dec. 3-6, 10-13, & 17-19. This highly peppy, Tony Award-winning 1976 musical comedy was inspired by the Little Orphan Annie comic strip. Set in New York in the Great Depression, the story follows feisty Annie and her puppy Sandy as they escape from an orphanage and find a home with millionaire Daddy Warbucks. Popular songs from the show include "Tomorrow," "Hard-Knock Life," and "Easy Street." Buy tickets here.

Calling All Knitters: Knitter & Author Jillian Moreno

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:17:58 -0800

yarn basket

Jillian Moreno, author of Big Girl Knits will demo some cool projects this Saturday at the Traverwood branch, from 2:00-4:00 pm. You bring the needles; we'll bring the yarn!

Maybe you're looking for some projects to finish up before the holidays? We'll have ideas for easy patterns and samples of finished projects. Did you know that AADL carries several magazines with tips and tricks for every level of knitter? Try, Creative Knitting, Vogue Knitting, or Interweave Knits and a couple websites you might try are, www.knitty.com or www.magknits.com Hope to see you Saturday.

Helping Hands -- Parent Magazine Update

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:52:25 -0800

helping hand

It takes work to be a responsible parent, or even just a responsible adult. This month's parent magazine update focuses on magazines that give advice -- because we all need a little help now and then.

Home Education Magazine has advice for any parent who wants to be a little more involved with their child's education -- including an article on the National History Day contest, a guide to running a book club for boys, and a list of good books for teaching teens about money.

Working Mother Magazine features a list of the 100 most family-friendly companies to work for, a guide to purchasing life insurance, and an article on how to rid your home of scary chemicals often found in paint, upholstery and even toys.

American Baby Magazine provides a guide to recognizing signs of autism spectrum disorders in children and seven tips for managing tantrums.

The Case for Books

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:10:30 -0800

Did you catch it? NPR's The Diane Rehm Show aired an interesting interview with Robert Darnton, director of the Harvard University Library and author of The Case for Books: Past, Present, and Future, which just came out in October. Darnton and Diane discussed the history of the book, from scrolls to codices to kindles, and Darnton's predictions for the future of books and e-books.

AADL has some excellent books about books. The Coming Of The Book, Art Of The Printed Book, and A Short History Of The Printed Word are all first-class books for learning about the history of books starting with the invention of printing in the middle ages. If you are interested in even earlier books, our Ladies' Library Collection has some beautifully illustrated books about manuscripts. I found the plates in A History Of Illuminated Manuscripts really amazing.

PreK Bits - GO, Go, go!

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 09:04:53 -0800

Kids LOVE things that GO and books and songs about things that go. Here are some very good ones to share.
The Wheels On The Race Car. Guess what tune you use?
Zoom! Zoom! Zoom! I'm Off To The Moon
Duck On A Bike
Row, Row Row Your Boat
The DVD Cars Boats Trains and Planes
and of course ... Don't Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus!
Do you know we have pre-packaged sets for you to check-out called WHEELS to GO. Each bag contains items on themes for preschool ages.
Explore and discover Stories To Go: Transportation.
See what you think!

Spotlight on Pacific Northwest Artist: Blitzen Trapper

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:37:41 -0800

The American northwest has become a music mecca once again, only this time it's not the power chord wallowing of grunge but the low harmony of Americana and folk-pop music that's growing out west. With a nod to the early '70s autumnal sound of groups like The Band and The Grateful Dead, several bands have emerged from the pine woods of Oregon to both critical praise and pop audience accolades.

Blitzen Trapper is among this camp, distinguishing themselves from the pack with their heel stomping Skynard-esque southern rock style while flirting with bluegrass and even baroque rock throughout their last two records. On last year's Sub Pop release, Furr, Blitzen Trapper produced their most consistent work, with standout songs "Fire + Fast Bullets" and the title track bringing listeners back for repeat listens. This year's EP, Black River Killer, is a collection of songs they've been playing live on the Furr tour, so it serves as a great traveling buddy for the full length Furr. As the title, Black River Killer, indicates, the songs here are of a darker vein both thematically and sonically, but the songwriting remains just as strong.

Documentary Alert: Trouble the Water

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 07:46:48 -0800

If you’ve read Zeitoun, Dave Eggers’ account of one family’s “adventure” during Hurricane Katrina (which I highly recommend), you may enjoy this Academy Award nominated documentary, which won Grand Jury Prize for Best Documentary at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival.

Trouble the Water begins 24 hours before Hurricane Katrina fully hit New Orleans, with 24 year old aspiring rap artist Kimberly Roberts’ hand held video camera footage of the initial onslaught. She and her family decided to stay and brave the storm rather than evacuate with the rest of city. The film interweaves Roberts’ personal footage with that of documentary film makers. The footage is truthful, heartfelt and horrific. The film follows Roberts, her husband, and nearby neighbors before, during and after Katrina, where some of them view the tragedy and severe loss as a doorway to a new life.

I also recommend A.D.: New Orleans after the deluge, a graphic novel by Josh Neufeld. Similarly, it tells true survival stories of seven individuals before and during Hurricane Katrina, as told through fabulous illustrations by the author.

Helen Thomas at the Michigan Theater

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 12:00:46 -0800

helenthomasSince John F. Kennedy's presidency, Helen Thomas has covered more presidents as a member of the White House Press Corps than any journalist working today. When she appears at The Michigan Theater (603 East Liberty, Ann Arbor) on Tuesday, November 24 at 7pm to discuss her new book, (co-written with Craig Crawford), 'Listen Up Mr. President: Everything You Always Wanted Your President to Know and Do,' her sharp humor and candid views about the White House will make for a memorable evening. This special event is cosponsored by Michigan Radio. There is no charge for this public event. Tickets are not required.

Revenge

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 08:35:09 -0800

My name is Daniel and I'm the Defender of Earth. The alien the Prayer killed my parents when I was 3. Now I use my superhero powers to kill the aliens on the most wanted list my parents had used. Hopefully one day, I'll catch-up with the Prayer and get my revenge. You can read about my adventures in The Dangerous Days of Daniel X and Daniel X: Watch the Skies. They even made a graphic novel about me, Daniel X: Alien Hunter.

I rejoice that there are owls... A short blog about Thoreau

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 07:47:47 -0800

John Porcellino has written a graphic story inspired by Henry David Thoreau's life at Walden Pond. The images in Thoreau at Walden are as simple and still as Thoreau's words and convey the deliberate life of meaning that he sought to live in his cabin in the woods. This is a refreshing reminder of an inspiring life.

The Red Book of Carl Gustav Jung

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 06:46:34 -0800

Red Book

One literary masterpiece which is presently creating a stir is known simply as the Red Book. Unveiled recently, after being hidden in a bank vault in Switzerland for 25 years, it is the very revealing and brave self-analysis of Carl Jung, containing the exploration of his own psyche, his visions and dreams, in both narrative text and glowing art work. Read this article to learn the history of the red leather diary, which was carefully guarded, until now, by Jung’s heirs for fear that their venerable grandfather would be considered, well...crazy.

Currently on display at the Rubin Museum in New York City, a page is turned every day and shown online at this website. Resembling an illuminated manuscript, with carefully hand-lettered text and finely detailed, pulsating color paintings of mandalas, winged serpents and mythic characters, it reveals the inner life of one of the world’s experts on inner life. It will soon be published and, though fascinating, it might not be recommended for bedtime reading!

In our collection, there is a wealth of information about Carl Jung, including his classic autobiography Memories, Dreams, Reflections, the popular The Tao of Jung and the DVD The World Within.

"As far as we can discern, the sole purpose of human existence is to kindle a light in the darkness of mere being". Carl Jung, Memories, Dreams, Reflections, 1962

Hot Holiday Meals for the Hungry

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:54:27 -0800

thanksgiving dinner

St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Ann Arbor will serve its daily hot breakfast on Thanksgiving from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. as it does every day of the year. The Original Cottage Inn will offer its annual Thanksgiving meal for the needy and homeless, a tradition that dates back almost 30 years. The dinner is served on Thanksgiving between 10:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. Vineyard Church will have hourly shuttles from Liberty Plaza to its Thanksgiving Meal, the first one leaves downtown at 11:00 am. There are also two churches in Ypsi providing meals: Holy Trinity Church, 511 W. Forest will serve food from 11:00 am till the food is gone & New Testament Church will serve a meal from noon-1:00, 1230 West Michigan Ave.

Crimestoppers Unite!

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:10:11 -0800

dick tracy
Today, November 20, is the birthday of Chester Gould, born in 1900 in Pawnee, OK, and the creator of the famous, long running comic strip, Dick Tracy. Tracy, the square jawed detective, proved the adage,"Crime doesn't pay." The strip first appeared October 4, 1931 in the Detroit Daily Mirror and was later syndicated in over 1,000 newspapers. It featured Tess Trueheart, later to become Mrs. Tracy, and a slew of bad guys with names like Pruneface, Flat Top, B-B Eyes and Mumbles. Gould also created within the strip a "Crimestoppers Notebook" with tips on crime prevention. This led to the creation of many "Crimestopper" clubs for kids, the first in his hometown of Woodstock IL. So, all you CSI fans, learn the basics of criminal investigation from one of the masters. The Library has a great collection of books on the history of comics that may include some of the Tracy strips or if you know someone who's a Tracy fan, you can order collections online. We also have the movie starring Warren Beatty and Madonna. Stephen Sondheim wrote some of the music.

More November Books to Film

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:59:40 -0800

Feature film The Blind Side is based on Michael Lewis's sports biography The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game.

Teenager Michael Oher, homeless, wearing shorts and a t-shirt in the dead of winter is spotted on the street by Leigh Anne Tuohy who, without a moment’s hesitation, takes him in. What starts out as a gesture of kindness becomes much more as the family helps Michael fulfill his potential, both on and off the football field. Tim McGraw, Quinton Aaron, Sandra Bullock, and Kathy Bates star in this inspirational film. (November 20th release)

The Road is based on Cormac McCarthy’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, set in an indefinite, futuristic, post-apocalyptic world, a father and his young son make their way through the ruins of a devastated American landscape, struggling to survive and preserve the last remnants of their own humanity. (Starring Viggo Mortensen and Charlize Theron , it opens November 25th everywhere).

Newcomer Christian McKay, Claire Danes, Zac Efron star in Me and Orson Welles - based on a romantic coming-of-age novel about a teenage actor Richard Sameuls, who lucks into a role in Julius Caesar as it’s being re-imagined by a brilliant, impetuous young director named Orson Welles at his newly founded Mercury Theatre in NYC, 1937.

Author Robert Kaplow chronicles the roller-coaster week leading up to opening night when the charismatic-but-sometimes-cruel young Welles stakes his career on a risky production while Richard mixes with everyone from starlets to stagehands. When the mercurial Welles casts his eye on the woman with whom Richard himself had fallen in love, all hell breaks loose. (Limited release November 25th).

Feast for eye and mind

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:10:09 -0800

If you haven't yet visited The Future of Our Past: The Evolution of Multicultural Children's Literature, do it before this magical exhibit closes Nov. 29. Among books on display are In the Beginning: Creation Stories From Around The World and More More More Said The Baby: 3 Love Stories. This joint exhibit of AADL and the University of Michigan Special Collections Library includes books from the UM Children's Literature Collections and material highlighting world cultures. The exhibit is in the glass cases on the lower level of the downtown library. Don't miss it!

Washtenaw County Public Health H1N1 Clinic

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:33:23 -0800

phlogo

Washtenaw County Public Health Department will provide H1N1 vaccinations to priority groups at a mass clinic on Sunday, Nov. 22 at Eastern Michigan University Convocation Center. Vaccinations will begin at 10:00am and continue until 7:00pm, or until the last person with a wristband is served. Wristbands will be provided to eligible persons starting at 9:00am, one hour prior to the clinic opening. Wristbands are first come, first served, while supplies last. Priority groups for H1N1 vaccine include pregnant women, caregiver contacts of infants younger than 6 months of age, health care personnel with direct patient care, individuals from 6 months to 24 years of age, and individuals 25 to 64 years old with medical conditions that put them at a higher risk of influenza-related complications. For updates to the H1N1 vaccination clinic schedule, click here. Public health nurses and heath educators are available to answer more detailed questions at 734-544-6700.

Hockeytown Heroes

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:52:18 -0800

It's been an historical couple of weeks for three former Detroit Red Wings stars. Last week two players, one known to Wings fans simply as The Captain, Steve Yzerman, along with scoring machine, Brett Hull, were inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto, ON. And then yesterday, after 21 seasons tormenting opposing defenses, Brendan Shanahan decided to hang up his skates. Shanahan won three Stanley Cups with Detroit, Hull won one, and Yzerman won three as a player and one in an executive role with the team. Before Stevie Y came to the Motor City, the team had been mired in a Cup slump for the previous 47 years. Since then, the team has brought four Cups home to the Joe Louis arena. The AADL has a great collection of books chronicling the storied history of the Detroit Red Wings and its players.

Fifteen Minutes of Fame -- Teen Magazine Update

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 10:41:29 -0800

Epic Mickey

From Mickey Mouse to Jay DeMerit, from Hiroshi Watanabe to William Gibson -- this month's teen magazines are filled with the faces of the famous, or the infamous, depending on your perspective.

Soccer America Magazine features some teams in the news right now -- the qualifiers for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Good news, the U. S. is one of them. Bad news, we have a lot of tough opponents before we make it to the finals.

This month's Giant Robot Magazine is absolutely stuffed full of interviews with famous people, from the aforementioned author William Gibson, writer of cyberpunk classic "Neuromancer" and inventor of the word "cyberspace," to Korean extreme horror filmmaker Kim Jin-Won.

Game Informer Magazine brings us a famous face with new twist -- Disney favorite Mickey Mouse is showing his darker side in new Wii game "Epic Mickey". The magazine also covers how the popular Prince of Persia video game will be getting the star treatment as a movie starring Jake Gyllenhaal.

Doulas Care

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 09:07:43 -0800

doulas

Who uses a Doula? Thankfully, women with limited resources from all over Southeastern Michigan can have a Doula guide and support them during pregnancy and delivery. Studies show that women who use a doula in childbirth minimize both the need for medication and risk of getting postpartum depression. You can read up on the subject AND attend an event Friday November 20th at 7pm to raise funds for this worthy cause at Cobblestone Farm. Call 734-332-8070 for more information.

Celebrate with AADL!

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:38:36 -0800

AADL received two recognitions this past week confirming that the presence of a strong and vital public library is important in our community. Once again your direct feedback to the International City and County/Management Association (ICMA) and the National Research Center (NRC) resulted in an award for Excellence for the AADL. The award honors jurisdictions nationwide with the highest rated services among all those surveyed. To win for Excellence, the rating for service quality must be one of the top three among all eligible jurisdictions and must reside in the top 10 percent among the over 500 jurisdictions in the NRC database of citizen surveys.

In addition, the AADL also received a ranking of 5 Stars from Library Journal. This ranking is based on data submitted each year to the Institute of Museum and Library Services. 98 public libraries in the US reported in our budget category of 10M-29M, and AADL was ranked in the top 10. We are the only 5 star ranked library system in Michigan, and we wish to congratulate the public library in Canton, MI for receiving a 3 star rank in their budget category. The rankings are based on: circulation transactions per capita, including checkouts and renewals; visits to library buildings per capita; computer sessions per capita; and program attendance per capita.

The Board and staff of AADL thank you for both of these recognitions. Awards that are generated by those who are paying for library services, and that are unsolicited by the AADL, are the very best!

Josie

Teen Stuff: Feed by M.T. Anderson

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:25:49 -0800

This weekend at a U of M hockey game I sat behind someone that texted, talked, and googled non-stop on their phone for the entire 2 hour game, not once looking up to follow the live action on the ice. This is not a commentary, merely an observation. But I couldn't stop thinking about M.T. Anderson's novel, Feed, which follows a futuristic group of teenage friends, all of whom have 'The Feed' implanted in their brains from a young age.

The Feed functions like a search engine, complete with instant message capabilities and streaming advertisements catered to (or shaping) their personal interests. The characters live their lives unquestioningly until Violet enters their scene, sans Feed, and illuminates the unsettling cost of information overload. Listening to the book on CD is especially engaging, since part of the narrative is the sound of The Feed, channeled directly to the listener.

Physiology of Addiction

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 07:54:22 -0800

Dawn Farm pic

Join Dawn Farm in their free Educational Series, continuing Tuesday November 17 with Carl Christensen, MD, PhD, Addictionologist . All programs are 7:30 to 9:00 PM in St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Education Center. The series lasts through June 2010, with topics such as Co-dependency and Trauma, Chemical Use & Addiction. Dawn Farm is a valued source for information on addiction and recovery, one we're lucky to have in our community. Take advantage of this series by printing this flier. All are welcome.

New York Times Editors' Choice

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 11:15:13 -0800

NYT
Book picks from NYT editors:

Fiction:

Under the Dome by Stephen King
When an enormous transparent dome settles over a small town in Maine, separating its citizens from the world of Obama, it’s just fine with Big Jim, the local tyrant-in-waiting, and his pet goon squad.

Last Night In Twisted River, by John Irving
Concern about the status of fiction is central to Irving’s novel, which follows a father and son through 50 years in “a world of accidents.”

Lacuna, by Barbara Kingsolver
This novel, about a boy’s consequential bonds with Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo and Leon Trotsky, is a call to conscience and connection.

Non-Fiction:
Bright-sided: How the Relentless Promotion of Positive Thinking Has Undermined America, by Barbara Ehrenreich
An argument that can-do optimism has hardened into a suffocating force that bears little relation to genuine happiness.

Biography:
Mennonite In a Little Black Dress: A Memoir of Going Home, by Rhoda Janzen
Janzen is as sharp about the academics she now lives among as about religion and family eccentricities.

Poetry:
Dearest Creature, by Amy Gerstler
Gerstler’s poems — skillful in every kind of comedy, yet deeply serious — show a fondness for animals without sentimentalizing them.

Kids:
14 Cows For America, by Carmen Agra Deedy with Wilson Kimeli Naiyomah (for ages 6 to 10)
Masai villagers bestow a heartfelt gift after 9/11: a true story.

Waiting for Winter, written and illustrated by Sebastian Meschenmoser (for ages 5-8)
Creatures look for something white, wet and cold.

Bill Harley is coming to town!

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 09:51:59 -0800

When I met Bill Harley thirty years ago, and heard him tell stories at a concert in a beautiful old church in Cambridge, MA, I knew he had the sense of humor, depth and compassion to move everyone in the family to laughter and tears. I am tickled pink that our library will be hosting this Grammy award-winning storyteller and musician on Sunday, November 22 at 1:00 pm for a free family show at the Ark for ages five and up. If you are a grown-up looking for an evening of classy entertainment come to the 7:30 pm Ark show that same date for more edgy and exquisite fun!

Secrets of the Library: Museum Adventure Pass

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 12:37:47 -0800

museumExpecting out of town visitors for the holidays? Show them the rich cultural offerings of southeast Michigan (and get out of the cold) with a Museum Adventure Pass, which offers free admission for 2 or 4 people to participating museums. Walk off that extra helping of mashed potatoes in the grand halls of the University of Michigan Exhibit Museum of Natural History, the Arab American National Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD), and many more! Passes are available at all branches.

Youth Music Notes -- Wizard Rock

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 12:20:36 -0800

Wrock

The Ann Arbor District Library has been fortunate enough to host wizard rock bands Tonks and the Aurors and The Remus Lupins, but did you know that we also have a collection of wizard rock on CD -- that fans of all things Harry Potter can listen to whenever we want?

Harry and the Potters bring us the "good" side of wizard rock, their several CD's chock full of inspiring music to fight the Dark Lord by. Exactly what we expect from the co-founders of the Harry Potter Alliance. Have I mentioned that they also have a special Christmas CD? How...seasonally appropriate.

Representing the often overlooked Slytherin perspective, we have evil wizard rock band Draco and the Malfoys, with a collection of twelve heart-wrenching tunes to remind us that evil wizards are people too.

And, of course, for purists, we also have many authorized CD's of the Harry Potter movie soundtracks.

In the words of Harry and the Potters, "It's never too loud to read," so turn up the CD player and get ready to sing along to some quality wizard rock.

Looking for a Job?

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:10:28 -0800

jobsearch

When you are looking for a job, the Michigan Talent Bank is the place to be. As a job seeker, you can search more than 15,000 new job openings monthly and post your resume so more than 40,000 employers can find it. You can also search for internships or look into local employment fairs. Good luck on finding a great career!

Master of the true story

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:07:56 -0800

Today, November 12, is the birthday of writer Tracy Kidder who was born in New York in 1945. When he returned to the States after serving as a lieutenant in Vietnam, all he wanted to do was write. And he's been producing highly readable, insightful books on a variety of topics ever since. From The Soul of a New Machine to Mountains Beyond Mountains, Kidder has given us intimate portraits of the people behind significant cultural, political and social movements. His latest, Strength in What Remains, is a moving portrait of Deogratias, a medical student from war torn Burundi who arrives in the U.S. almost penniless but with determination and the kindness of strangers, continues his education and helps his people recover as he too must recover from the traumas of war.

Note: Mountains Beyond Mountains was the book chosen for the 2007 Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Reads program.

November's Books to Film

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:52:08 -0800

The Box is a horror film based on the 1970 short story Button, Button by Richard Matheson, previously adapted into an episode of The Twilight Zone.

Norma Lewis (Cameron Diaz) is a teacher at a private high school and her husband, Arthur (James Marsden), an engineer working at NASA are, by all accounts, an average couple living a normal life - until a mysterious man appears on their doorstep and presents a life-altering proposition and an impossible moral dilemma: the box.

Almost too bizarre to believe The Men Who Stare at Goats is based on Jon Ronson's (2004) comedic and eye-opening exploration of the government’s attempts to harness paranormal abilities to fight its wars.

Reporter Bob Wilton discovers a top-secret wing of the U.S. military when he accompanies an enigmatic Special Forces operator on a mind-boggling mission. Starring Ewan McGregor, George Clooney, Kevin Spacey, Jeff Bridges.

And if you need ME to tell YOU about New Moon - the second installment of Stephenie Meyer's Twilight saga, then you should just skip it. Seriously! And if you are going, I hope you have tickets in hand already. (Opening Nov. 20th).

Rebecca Miller, a painter and actress before turning her hand to writing and directing, directs the adaptation of her debut novel The Private Lives of Pippa Lee (FFF, 2008).

When her stable public life is disrupted by her older husband's decision to retire to a community, 50-year old Pippa Lee begins to lose her grasp on reality. Embarking on a bittersweet journey of self-discovery, accompanied by a new, strange and soulful acquaintance, Pippa must now confront both her volatile past and the hidden resentment of her seemingly perfect life in order to find her true sense of self.

Previously, Rebecca Miller's feature film adaptation of her short-story collection Personal Velocity (2001) won the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance.

The Flaming Lips -- Embryonic

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:24:50 -0800

Embryonic is the latest release from the self-ascribed 'fearless freaks', The Flaming Lips, and the title is the most spot-on descriptor of the music here. Well, maybe if the embryo is actually a maladroit android making observations about the human race and its penchant for self-destruction, then embryonic is just about right. But the record is also a kind of re-birth for The Flaming Lips themselves, as the last few albums -- beginning with 1999's brilliant The Soft Bulletin -- were all about turning up the levels of wackiness and fun; Wayne Coyne sang gleeful pop tunes about Yoshimi the mighty protector, a spider bite that could break up the band, and the "radical fanaticals" around him.

On Embryonic, however, Coyne delivers heavily distorted lines about regret, missed opportunities, and nightmares over the course of eighteen tracks that spiral from sound scape epics to two minute ideas. Sonically, the album pulls more from Clouds Taste Metallic and Zaireeka-era FL than anything they've done in the last ten years, but that doesn't mean it's a regression either. The songs here are an uncompromising clash of all the diverse elements that make The Flaming Lips a great band, staged not on a lunar landscape but right back here on earth.

Fremont, USA: A City's Encounter With Religious Diversity

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:01:10 -0800

fremont usa take 2

Thursday, November 19, from 6:30-8:30 PM, at the Downtown Library/MPR, the film, 'Fremont, USA: A City's Encounter With Religious Diversity' will be shown, followed by a discussion with Director, Ellie Pierce, from the Harvard Pluralism Project.

This film explores the complex and challenging issues of religious diversity in Fremont, California, a city transformed by new immigration. Through civic engagement and interfaith action, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, and Buddhists have gone from being strangers to neighbors in this American city.

This event is part of the University-Community Social and Environmental Film and Discussion Series sponsored by the Michigan Community Scholars Program and AADL.

Baby Bits - Kiss Kiss

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 06:48:01 -0800

Babies love books, but what to pick? Pick a book with a sentence or two a page with words and pictures they recognize in their little world. Ms. Rachel did Kiss Kiss today in playgroup. Songs and fingerplays come from CDs in the collection. Try some of these:
Little Gorilla with CD Deep In the Jungle by Joe Scruggs.
Quack Daisy Quack with CD Tom Glazer Sings Honk Hiss Tweet
Bear and Dog with CD Unbearable Bears
How Do You Sleep? with CD Lullabies With Mandolins.

Take a survey and help the Michigan Electronic Library

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 10:03:18 -0800

mel logo

Have a few minutes? If so, consider helping the Michigan Electronic Library (MeL) by taking this survey. In an effort to continue improving MeL resources, including the popular MeLCat state-wide catalog, the Library of Michigan is conducting a study on the Michigan eLibrary to make sure libraries and Michigan residents get the most benefit from the program. The survey takes only a few minutes to complete...and you may be surprised to discover what's available for free through MeL.

Amazing Brainfuse!

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 08:10:08 -0800

brainfuse

It's 9:00 p.m. Your 8th grade child pulls out her math homework and divulges she 'doesn't get it' and of course, it's due tomorrow. They call it Everyday Math, but you know YOU don't use it every day. There's tears, fear and anxiety as you try to remember what you learned in 8th grade, about a million years ago. Relax, Dad! Have your student visit AADL's new LIVE homework help called Brainfuse. This service is available from 2 pm-11 pm EVERY DAY of the week from home or at AADL sites when we're open! Core subject tutoring is offered for grades 3-12 and it's quick, secure and FUN! Try it TODAY!

Meeting on the Future of Mack Pool

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 12:38:00 -0800

Mack

What does the future hold for Mack Pool? Attend the public meeting of the Mack Pool Task Force on Thursday, Nov. 12, 6:30 ~ 8:30 p.m. in the Media Center at Ann Arbor Open School at Mack and evaluate the options. Mack Pool currently offers public swimming, Red Cross swim lessons, master's programs and synchronized swimming programs in a six-lane, 25 yard main pool and attached children's pool. For more info on the meeting contact Dan McGuire, Mack Pool supervisor at 734.794.6237 or dmcguire@a2gov.org.

A World Without Ice: Nobel Prize Winner Henry Pollack and the Implications of Climate Change

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 07:20:42 -0800

University of Michigan Professor Emeritus and Nobel Prize Winner Henry Pollack will discuss his new book, World Without Ice, on Wednesday, Nov. 18th, 7 p.m. at the Downtown Library. A starrred review in Kirkus leads the raves on this "clear, engaging review of a disturbing environmental pattern." Dr. Pollack will answer questions and sign books following the presentation.

Curious about Blindness?

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:06:48 -0800

Do you have kids or family friends who know someone who is visually impaired? I know I was fascinated about the subject as a child. I've run across a couple books lately that would have fit the bill for me. One is "Do You Remember the Color Blue?" And Other Questions Kids Ask about Blindness by Sally Hobart Alexander & although it is somewhat outdated regarding Assistive Technology, the book asks & answers some tough questions to its blind author. The other book, The Black Book of Colors, has descriptions of color based on imagery & illustrations made with raised lines. Both books, as well as our collection of Braille + Print books can make for an interesting family discussion.

Library Closed On Wednesday, November 11

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 06:59:40 -0800

All locations of the Ann Arbor District Library will be closed on Wednesday, Nov. 11 for a staff training day.

Regular Library hours will resume on Thursday, November 12.

What to read?

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:20:38 -0800

IMPAC

On November 2, the longlist was announced for the 2010 International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award - the largest prize worldwide for a single work of fiction published in English.

The prize is open to novels written in any language and by authors of any nationality, provided the work has been published in English or as an English translation. The annual award is €100,000 and is administered by Dublin City Public Libraries. The titles are nominated by 163 libraries in 43 different countries.

The list includes 156 authors from 46 countries, written in 18 languages. 41 are translated from languages such as Arabic, Chinese, Croatian, Icelandic, Serbian and Slovenian. 33 are first novels (Look for more FFF to come).

Among the nominated is the winner of the 2008 Man Booker Prize - (The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga); the winner of the 2009 Commonwealth Writers Prize - (The Slap by Christos Tsiolka); the winner of the 2009 Orange Prize - (Home by Marilynne Robinson); and the winner of the 2009 Independent Foreign Fiction Prize - (The Armies by Evelio Rosero).

Dublin City Council will announce the shortlist on 14th April 2010. The Lord Mayor will reveal the winning novel on 17th June 2010.

Want to share your shortlist with us?

IMPAC

Brainfuse: For You to Use

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 06:45:59 -0800

bf logo

AADL's access to on-line LIVE tutoring is SWEET! The first page is oh-so simple to navigate. It's available from 2 pm-11 pm EVERY DAY of the week from your home computer & 2 PM till closing time at AADL branches. Use your Account Log in to access the service. Core subject tutoring is offered for grades 3-12 and there's help for adult learners, too. There's also a writing lab & a 24/7 Help portal. Brush up on your subjects before mid-terms or other pesky tests! It's fast, secure & FUN!

Fabulous Fiction Firsts #184

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:29:07 -0700

Recently picked by Booklist as one of the ten top first novels of the year, Carolina De Robertis's debut novel The Invisible Mountain* is a "deeply intimate exploration of the search for love and authenticity, power and redemption, in the lives of three women, and a penetrating portrait of a small, tenacious nation, Uruguay, shaken in the gales of the twentieth century."

This gripping and lyrical story, at once expansive and lush with detail, begins with Pajarita, a healer with a mysterious second birth, her daughter Eva , a poet who suffered sexual assault as a child, and granddaughter Salome who as a revolutionary endures arrest, torture and imprisonment.

" De Robertis is a skilled storyteller in relating the stories of these stalwart women, but it is her use of language from the precision of poetry to the sensuality of sex that makes this literary debut so exceptional".

Readers of historical fiction from a strong female perspective would also find interesting The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allenda; and the 2004 National Book Award winner The News from Paraguay* by Lily Tuck.

* = Starred Reviews

Fall Back: Daylight Saving Time Ends This Sunday, November 1

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 08:20:32 -0700

This coming Sunday, November 1, at 2:00 a.m. the time will become 1:00 a.m. and Daylight Saving Time will end. Everyone gets an extra hour of Halloween fun this year thanks to DST.

Under the provisions of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, Daylight Saving Time, since 2007, begins on the second Sunday of March and ends the first Sunday in November. Before 2007, Daylight Saving Time had started on the first Sunday in April and ended on the last Sunday of October.

You can no longer call 665-1212 to hear “At the tone, the time will be…” but you can go to the Official U. S. Time to make sure you set your clocks correctly.

This website, plus a WebExhibits article on Daylight Saving Time, are among the websites listed in the Time, Calendar, and Holidays section of the AADL Select Sites (a guide to useful and interesting websites).

For more on Daylight Saving Time consult Seize the Daylight: the Curious and Contentious Story of Daylight Saving Time by David Prerau, published in 2005.

October Books to Film, Part 2

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:27:50 -0700

amelia

The much anticipated Amelia, based on Journalist Susan Butler's exhaustively researched biography entitled East to the Dawn : The Life of Amelia Earhart, throws new light on many of the more controversial elements of the aviator's life and death. A star-studded biopic with Hilary Swank, Richard Gere and Ewan McGregor (Oh, I am SO there!) Check out the The New York Times movie review.

The Damned United is based on British author David Peace's fictional account of Brain Clough's brief spell as manager of Leeds United Football Club in 1974. Clough, played brilliantly by Micheal Sheen, is portrayed as a deeply flawed hero.

David Peace was named one of the Best of Young British Novelists by Granta in their 2003 list. He is also the author of Toyko Year Zero, (FFF), a riveting mystery of a real-life serial-killer case in post-WWII Japan.

The Vampire’s Assistant is a fantasy-adventure about a 16 year-old who unknowingly breaks a 200-year-old truce between two warring factions of vampires. Pulled into a fantastic life of misunderstood sideshow freaks and grotesque creatures of the night, one teen will vanish from the safety of a boring existence and fulfill his destiny in a place drawn from nightmares.

This teen crowd-pleaser is adapted from Darren Shan's immensely popular series Cirque Du Freak. With Salma Hayek, John C. Reilly, Ken Watanabe playing the leads, expect long lines at the box office.

amelia

Ancient Food and Extreme Science -- Youth Magazine Update

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 10:02:01 -0700

Eric Guilbert

From history to travel, interviews to fiction -- this month's youth magazines sure have a lot of interesting stories to share!

Dig Magazine starts the party with an issue focusing entirely on the history of food. Learn about Ancient Egyptian bread baking and the history of the tortilla, as well as how to roast a whole pig. Even more fun than McDonald's!

Jack and Jill travels the world, with a look at winter holiday celebrations and life in Mongolia's Gobi Desert, as well as an interview with 16-year-old figure skater and Olympic hopeful Mirai Nagasu.

Ever heard of scientists who brave dense jungles and hang from trees to study rare insects? Ranger Rick Magazine has the whole story, along with cool pictures of animal sculptures made entirely from tin cans.

If this makes you feel like exploring the world, come on down! The library is always the best place to start.

More Energy Meters Available!

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:38:50 -0700

energy meter

Are you curious about how much energy your appliances are using? You can borrow one of our Energy Meters to find out. The City of Ann Arbor has given AADL 7 new meters for our patrons to use. You can borrow these kits for 4 weeks or longer if there are no holds on them. Need to research new appliances? Nothing beats Consumer Reports for unbiased information about products on the market. Even better: You can access this info from home with your aadl log in by going to our Research Page and clicking on Magazine articles!

Disaster Survivor Pierette Domenica Simpson Discusses Her Experience On The Andrea Doria and her Book 'Alive on the Andrea Doria: The Greatest Sea Rescue in History'

Ann Arbor District Library — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 03:40:38 -0700

Pierette Domenica Simpson will share her up-close and personal account of surviving the most catastrophic ship collision in history between the Andrea Doria and the Stockholm, in July of 1956, when she was 9 years old. Now an outspoken proponent of safety at sea, she is the only survivor in history to have written a complete shipwreck account, investigating and reporting on both the human and technical aspects that lead to the collision. This event will include a book-signing, books will be on sale courtesy of Nicolaâ€™s Books.

Frances Kai-Hwa Wang Discusses Multicultural Toolbox: Strategies for Raising our Children with Culture(s), Language(s), and Pride

Ann Arbor District Library — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 03:31:23 -0700

In our quickly changing world, cultural fluency and multiple languages are becoming more important for our childrenâ€™s identity, self-esteem, friendships, connections with family, and future job possibilities. In this lively and fast-paced event, Frances Kai-Hwa Wang will introduce practical tools and strategies to make cultural education a part of our everyday lives. How do we make teaching about their/our/other cultures and values â€œnormalâ€, and then use it to build better and stronger communities for all of us? Frances Kai-Hwa Wang is a second-generation Chinese American. She is an editor for www.IMDiversity.comâ€™s Asian-American Village; she writes the syndicated column Adventures in Multicultural Living (available at annarborchronicle.com); and she is the Executive Director of American Citizens for Justice/ Asian American Center for Justice.

The Art of Movement: Parkour & Freerunning

Ann Arbor District Library — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 03:19:42 -0700

One of the most popular AADL events last year was the fall lecture (with video footage) on Parkour and Freerunning led by American Ninja Warriorâ€™s Levi Meeuwenberg. So we are excited to offer another opportunity to revisit the topic, this time at a facility where experts will present a live demo. Parkour is the art of moving through your environment using only your body and the surroundings to propel yourself. It can include running, jumping, climbing, even crawling, if that is the most suitable movement for the situation. Mike Metze, leader of the UM Parkour Club, will discuss the sport and then offer a live demonstration with Parkour experts at the Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center (2960 Washtenaw Avenue in Ann Arbor).

Internationally-Known Clinician Kenneth J. Pienta, M.D. Discusses Prostate Cancer

Ann Arbor District Library — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 03:08:36 -0700

One man in six will get prostate cancer during his lifetime, and 1 man in 35 will die of this disease. However, more than two million men in the United States who have had prostate cancer at some point are still alive today and the death rate for prostate cancer is going down. Internationally-known clinician and Director of the Michigan Institute of Clinical and Health Research (MICHR), Kenneth Pienta M.D. will discuss prostate cancer and the research into the causes, prevention, and treatment now being done in medical centers around the world. This event is cosponsored by the University Of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center's Community Outreach Program.

Bright Nights Community Forum: Brain Stimulation: New Hope for Depression

Ann Arbor District Library — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 02:59:00 -0700

Depression is a brain disease that is pervasive in our population, affecting over 20 million American adults. When detected early, it can have high recovery rates- up to 80% of those treated effectively for depression show an improvement in their symptoms, generally within four to six weeks. However, one in five depressed Americans have what is known as "treatment resistant depression," or TRD. Steve Taylor, MD, Co-Director, Psychiatric Neuromodulation Program and Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School will discuss new strategies and techniques for treating TRD. A panel discussion of experts, including Leora Bowden, LMSW, Clinical Social Worker and Research Coordinator, University of Michigan Dept. of Psychiatry and Daniel Maixner, MD, also Co-Director of the U-M Psychiatric Neuromodulation Program, will follow the presentation and include a Q & A session.

2nd Public Meeting on the Future of the Ann Arbor Senior Center

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 06:11:40 -0700

senior center

The Ann Arbor Senior Center Task Force will hold a second public meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 27, 6:30 ~ 8:30 p.m. at the Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Avenue, adjacent to Burns Park, to discuss options for the future of the Ann Arbor Senior Center. As outlined in the Ann Arbor Chronicle article, City budget constraints will require a re-evaluation of the services offered at the Senior Center. Public input and comments will be greatly appreciated at the meeting. If you have further questions, please call Facility Manager Pam Simmons at 734.794.6250.

The Art of Eating

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 13:36:53 -0700

The Art of Eating

The latest casualty in the world of print publications is Gourmet magazine, which, after a run of 65 years in production, is closing with the November issue. And what a spectacular issue it is: “Perfect Thanksgiving Recipes”, worth a look for old time’s sake. We carry annual "best of" editions of Gourmet in the cookbook section.

Gourmet’s closing does not signal disinterest in subjects related to food, however, as all of the food channels, farmer’s markets, our cookbook section and the number of holds on any book or dvd to do with Julia Child, attest to a lively following of “foodies”. We subscribe to many periodicals on the subject and two of my favorites are Saveur and The Art of Eating, which, so far, seem to have a healthy prospect for remaining in print.

The Art of Eating relies on no advertising and its special niche highlights, “tradition, simplicity and a sense of place”. Excellent writing, without glossy pictures, about the regional influences on food and wine in the US and on the continent, points to the fact that appreciating the arts of the table is not passé, as some magazines are.

Saveur is especially for food enthusiasts who like to travel (or who like to imagine traveling) as it combines a passion for food and wonderful ingredients with articles, and spectacular pictures, about food cultures all over the world. I think my favorite issue was #109, sometime in 2008, called "The Beauty of Butter", with recipes from around the world using this most tasty ingredient.

Toys, Tweens, Pies and Trees -- Parent Magazine Update

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 09:22:35 -0700

tween

The magazines on our parent shelf are taking on the world, and they can take you along for the ride.

Parenting: School Years starts out strong with an article on how to enjoy your child's "difficult" tween years, and just keeps on swinging with a special Mom Congress report on the necessity of art education, a guide to family hapiness, and their picks for "toys of the year."

Coincidentally, Family Fun Magazine also features their Toy of the Year Awards -- number one is Klutz's "Invasion of the Bristlebots", a kit for making robots out of toothbrush heads. The magazine continues with an article on blogging as a family, a list of fun Thanksgiving activities, and five unique pie recipes for those bored with the same old pumpkin-from-a-can variety.

Gifted Child Today tackles some serious issues in their fall edition -- a guide to involving children in caring for the earth, an article by Dr. Gilman W. Whiting, director of the Scholar Identity Institute on reducing dropout rates among diverse students, and a guide to identifying signs of Asperger's syndrome-- an Autism-spectrum disorder.

If all this makes you want to roll up your sleeves and dive in, great! These great ideas and more are just a trip to the magazine rack away.

New at LearningExpress Library!

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 07:22:57 -0700

learningexpress

Did you know that you can access dozens of practice tests and 150 e-books by going to the LearningExpress Library from our Research Pages? Just click on the Research Tab and then the LearningExpress Library. You will need an additional log in to access this database to take practice tests. Believe me, it's worth having a look-see for Academic preparation, Civil Services exams, Skill Building for kids and adults and So MUCH MORE!!!

Forest Hill Cemetery Interpretive Tours

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 11:18:28 -0700

Founded in 1857, Forest Hill is Ann Arbor's oldest cemetery, rich in history and remarkably colorful this time of year. Indeed, it's a perfect time for an interpretive tour of the graveyard with local historian Wystan Stevens, who leads groups through the grounds with stories of Ann Arbor's history every Sunday from Oct. 4 - Nov. 8 starting at 2pm. Be sure to catch him this time around, for Stevens will end his popular 30 year tradition this year. The tours are $10 for adults and free for children, and they begin at the cemetery gate on Observatory, north of Geddes. Additional information is available at 734.662.5438. For a further glimpse into the lore of Michigan's past, try the books Ann Arbor Area Ghosts, and Ghost Towns of Michigan.

Using RedLaser with AADL

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:01:14 -0700

Thanks to the help of rjstoneus, if you have an iPhone and use the RedLaser application you can use it to search the AADL Catalog, MelCat and World Cat.

To install the additional options you will need to visit the following links on your iphone in safari. You then save the bookmark to your home screen.

AADL Scan for RedLaser
MeLCat Scan for RedLaser
WorldCat Scan for RedLaser

A note on UPCs. While there is some coverage there may be misses depending on editions, etc. We're working on making UPC coverage more robust for searching.

Easy English News

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 11:55:14 -0700

easy english news

AADL now carries the Easy English News at all of our locations. This publication is written at a 3rd or 4th grade reading level but with newsworthy topics of interest to adults. Let all your English Language Learning friends & relatives know about this new addition to our collection.

Sports, Manga and Gaming -- Teen Magazine Update!

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 11:41:16 -0700

fans

This month's teen magazine update focuses on the few, the proud, the fans. All you who love -- really love -- your sport, hobby, game or series, this is for you.

Basketball fans can all rejoice now that the October issues of Dime Magazine is on the shelf. Dying to hear the latest news on O. J. Mayo, Travis Outlaw, and Amar'e Stoudemire? Dime will give you that, and throw in an exclusive, up-close look at some of the bling NBA stars like Lebron James will be wearing this season.

For the tabletop war gamers out there, White Dwarf Magazine is currently featuring the Space Wolves -- with guides to painting and assembly as well as a blow by blow Battle Report describing a clash with Chaos Daemons. Not to be missed!

Last, but not least, Otaku USA's winter issue is out -- providing 32 pages of quality manga for FREE! Of course, really they just want to get you addicted to newcomers "Hero Tales" and "Battle of Genryu," but what the heck. Hey, speaking of otaku...the library will host a fun afternoon of amigurumi crochet November 15 for any fans of Japanese culture and small, cute, crocheted things.

Alright, fans, I've done my part. Now go and feed your passion (with magazines)!

Now online: The Signal of Liberty newspaper

Sat, 17 Oct 2009 08:05:01 -0700

Signal of Liberty issue

Take a step back to the 1840s when a cord of hickory wood or "produce of every description" assured Ann Arborites a year's subscription to The Signal of Liberty--the voice of the Liberty Party in Michigan and the state's most prominent antislavery newspaper. Published in Ann Arbor above a shop on Broadway by Theodore Foster and Reverend Guy Beckley, whose home on Pontiac Trail was an important stop on the Underground Railroad, The Signal of Liberty brought Ann Arborites seven years of emotionally charged news from the many stories of slavery's outrages to the speeches of great statesmen and important national issues of the day, to more sobering local news, notices, and advertisements for dubious health cures. You can now browse The Signal of Liberty or search the full text online.

New Classes in November!

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 17:28:43 -0700

aadl.org

Learn how to burn DVDs with your photo slideshows and videos in iDVD. Optional: Bring your USB flash drive loaded with your pictures and videos and your own writable DVD. Tuesday November 10, 2009: 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm -- Downtown Library: Training Center

Curious about the iPhone? Bring your iPhone with you or just sit back and watch our demonstration. Tuesday November 24, 2009: 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm -- Downtown Library: Training Center

Registration is required. Register online, visit any AADL location, or call 734-327-4555.

See you in class!

Learn iPhoto and iTunes on Saturday October 17th

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 17:23:29 -0700

aadl.org

Learn how to use iPhoto on your Mac to edit your photos and create photo albums and slideshows.
Saturday October 17, 2009: 9:15 am to 11:15 am -- Downtown Library: Training Center

You don't have to have an iPod to attend the iPod Fever class, anyone is welcome to learn about iTunes and iPod on a mac!
Saturday October 17, 2009: 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm -- Downtown Library: Training Center

Registration is required. Register online, visit any AADL location, or call 734-327-4555.

See you in class!

Make it a De-LIGHT-ful Summer: Lighthouse Expert Nancy Finlayson Presents Tips On Including Lighthouses In Your Vacation Plans

Ann Arbor District Library — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 06:25:50 -0700

Did you know that Michigan has more lighthouses than any other state? Join Nancy Finlayson, The Lighthouse Lady, for a slide show and lecture featuring tips, suggestions, and itineraries for putting a lighthouse or two (or more) in your summer vacation. Learn how to spend a couple of hours or an entire day visiting these intriguing sites that appeal to visitors of all ages. Nancy Finlayson, now known throughout Michigan as 'The Lighthouse Lady' is a former teacher with Riverview Community Schools. She has visited over 250 lighthouses in North America and Ireland in the last four years, including about 80 in and around Michigan.

Wizard Rock Concert featuring Remus Lupins with Special Guest Tonks and the Aurors

Ann Arbor District Library — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 05:54:31 -0700

Calling all Harry Potter fans! Get your fix a month before the film is released with this afternoon of Wizard Rock with two Harry Potter-themed bands. From Los Angeles, we've got the Remus Lupins and, as an opening act, Ann Arbor's own Tonks and the Aurors.

Understanding Alzheimer's with The Alzheimer's Association and UM Research Experts

Ann Arbor District Library — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 05:24:11 -0700

Every 70 seconds, someone develops Alzheimer's. But what exactly is Alzheimer's and what clinical research is being done in the area of this disease? At this program you will hear from experts in the field of Alzheimer's and have an opportunity to ask questions. The event will feature introductory remarks by Justine Galat, MSA South Central Regional Coordinator for the Alzheimer's Association Michigan Great Lakes Chapter, followed by a presentation on the disease given by Jennifer Howard of the Alzheimer's Association. Information on how to recognize the effects of Alzheimer's disease on the brain and how to gain access to community resources will be included. Other speakers will be Bruno Giordani, Ph.D., Director, Neuropsychology Section, U-M Clinical Core & Associate Director, MADRC and Nancy Barbas, M.D., M.S.W., Associate Professor, Department of Neurology, Director, Cognitive Disorders Clinic, University of Michigan. This event is made possible through a Partners In Research Program with the National Institutes of Health and is cosponsored by the Michigan Institute for Clinical and Health Research.

AADL Productions Podcast: Carol Mull and the Underground Railroad

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 13:22:00 -0700

Carol Mull

A few days ago we spoke with Carol Mull, a local historian of the Underground Railroad. Carol talked about her upcoming book on the Underground Railroad in Michigan and her work with the Michigan Freedom Trail Commission. She also spoke about some of the gems she found in The Signal of Liberty, a 19th century abolitionist newspaper published in Ann Arbor. On Saturday, October 17, Carol will be on hand at the launch event for The Signal of Liberty online. A related bus tour of local stops on the Underground Railroad will take place Sunday, October 18 at 2:00.

Attachment	Size
AADL_productions_podcast-Carol_Mull.mp3	12.30 MB

Facts on Flu.

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 17:03:25 -0700

flu

Are you: confused as to the differences between H1N1, Avian Influenza, and Seasonal Flu; looking for a convenient flu shot clinic; in need of pandemic planning resources; seeking advice on assistance; conflicted as to the facts on vaccine safety; struggling to locate reliable flu information for non-English speakers; or just morbidly curious? We've created a handy Influenza guide in our AADL Select Sites resource to answer all your influenza related questions. You can find it and many other research guides under our Research Tab, just look for the Select Sites side bar.

Sign up for the Journey to Freedom tour

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 06:44:35 -0700

Huron Block

On Sunday, October 18, from 2-5:00 p.m., the African American Cultural & Historical Museum (AACHM) will host a special "Journey to Freedom" bus tour. This popular tour of historical points of interest on the Underground Railroad--an official tour of the National Park Service--is led by Deborah Meadows of the AACHM. The bus departs from the front of the Industrial Technology Building on the campus of Washtenaw Community College, 4800 E. Huron Drive. (map) and tickets are $15. To reserve a seat, call 734-476-3158 or email deborahmeadows2@msn.com. This special tour accompanies the launch of The Signal of Liberty online, Saturday, October 17, from 2-4:00 p.m.

The Signal of Liberty, Ann Arbor's 1840s-era abolitionist newspaper, goes online

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 06:14:22 -0700

Signal of Liberty issue

Join us at the Traverwood branch on Saturday, October 17, 2-4:00 p.m. to help us launch the online version of Ann Arbor's Signal of Liberty newspaper. The full text of this abolitionist newspaper, published in Ann Arbor in the 1840s, will be available online for the first time. Carol Mull, local historian of the Underground Railroad in Michigan, will be on hand at the launch to talk about some of the unique content in the Signal of Liberty and its role in her research; and Library staff will demonstrate browsing and full text access to over 12,000 articles and 312 issues of the newspaper. This project was done in partnership with the Bentley Historical Library and Digital Library Productions Services.

On Sunday, October 18, from 2-5:00 p.m., the African American Cultural and Historical Museum will host a related "Journey to Freedom" bus tour of local stops on the Underground Railroad. Click here for additional information about the tour.

Fear Itself

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 12:25:40 -0700

Ask October

Just in time for the scariest month of the year, Ask magazine has come out with a special issue on...you guessed it... fear.

Ask magazine goes beyond the usual scary story collection, however, with an article on how the brain processes and produces fear as well as a guide to controlling and dealing with fear -- useful for kids and adults! This issue also includes the instructions for Ask's latest contest -- to design a Monster so terrifying it will frighten other monsters. Winners will get published in a future issue of Ask!

From the Observer to the Web: Then & Now Goes Online

Ann Arbor District Library — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 07:51:51 -0700

The Ann Arbor District Library and the Ann Arbor Observer are extremely pleased to unveil 'Ann Arbor Observer: Then & Now' to the public. Local historian Grace Shackman and Ann Arbor Observer editor John Hilton will discuss the history of the Ann Arbor as viewed by the Observer and staff will introduce 'Ann Arbor Observer: Then & Now' an online collection of local history articles published in the Ann Arbor Observer over the past three decades. These articles give a rich picture of the various themes, people, and places that make up Ann Arbor. Accompanying the articles is an image gallery with photographs from Ann Arbor's past. Refreshments will be served at this event, which will include a demo of this new historical resource.

Green Energy for the Homeowner, Discussed By Hans Steiner of SolarYpsi

Ann Arbor District Library — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 07:43:40 -0700

How much do YOU know about green energy? If you have taken significant steps to reduce your energy consumption â€“ is there more you can do? At this program, Hans Steiner of Solar/Ypsi will discuss information on going green, current and upcoming incentives, inspiring examples, and much more. The members of Solar/Ypsi are dedicated to the use of renewable energy sources. This Ypsilanti Solar Project was launched in 2005 when the Ypsilanti Food Co-operative won a grant from the State of Michigan's to install a small, demonstration, solar photovoltaic system on their roof. As part of this initial grant, volunteers have created a traveling educational presentation to explain how solar power works in Michigan. Over a thousand people have attended Solar/Ypsi presentations, which have evolved to include information on other renewable and efficiency measures that provide great returns on investment for the homeowner.

Helpful and Heartwarming

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 13:06:48 -0700

Baby

Get ready to have your heart warmed and your wallet emptied. The October edition of American Baby magazine is out -- featuring an article on adoption and the 2009 American Baby Best of the Year Awards.

In the article, three women talk about the experience of placing their children with adoptive families through open adoption, which enables the birth mother to choose the adoptive family and stay in contact with them after the adoption takes place. This year's Amby award honors such useful products as Boppy as well as the interestingly named Boudreaux's Butt Paste.

Also included in this issue are a baby naming guide to help you overcome common pitfalls, and a "cough decoder" to help you diagnose your child by sound.

DDA Announces Closure of "library lot" on September 30

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 10:55:27 -0700

The Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority has announced the closure of "library lot" in preparation for the construction of the 5th Avenue underground parking garage. The lot will close at midnight on September 30 and construction fencing will go up on Friday October 2. The DDA is hosting a groundbreaking ceremony at 4:00 PM on October 1 and the public is invited. Parking will remain available in the "Y" lot, the Fourth and William structure, and on the street.

Questions should be directed to the DDA.

Josie

It's Time to Rock Out

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 12:46:33 -0700

Rocking Out

Good news, music lovers -- "Alternative Press" magazine has come out with their new 'Fall Ball' issue, with in-depth interviews of bands who will be appearing live, including The Academy Is..., Mayday Parade, Set Your Goals and more!

The Fall Ball is coming SOON -- September 25 in Pontiac and September 27 in Grand Rapids -- so get the scoop on all your favorite bands and learn their dirty little secrets ASAP. Or you might end up backstage and have nothing to say.

This issue also includes the latest in cool rocker gear, tons of music and film reviews and an opinion piece on bullying by Mark Sanchez, of Make Beats Not Beatdowns.

Let's Fill in the Family Tree

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 06:25:07 -0700

familytree

The experts from the Genealogical Society of Washtenaw County will be on hand Sunday, Sept. 20, 2:00 ~ 3:30 p.m., at the Traverwood Branch to help you with your family history research. Following a short presentation on the resources available to you at the GSWC Library and the Ann Arbor District Library including Ancestry Library Edition and HeritageQuest, society members will work one-on-one with you whatever stage you're at in your quest to fill in the family tree.

Argo Dam: The Report

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 06:47:22 -0700

argo

City staff prepared a 32-page Report briefing City Council on the options to consider in responding to the order by the Michigan Dept. of Environmental Quality regarding Argo Dam. City Council reviewed the report at a Sept. 8 public work session. The session will be replayed tonight Friday, Sept. 11 at 7:30 p.m. on CTN Channel 16.

Amended Executive Order Preserves Library of Michigan Yet Funding for Statewide Library Services Remains Threatened

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 06:20:21 -0700

On Wednesday afternoon, Governor Granholm issued an amended Executive Order Abolishing the Department of History, Arts, and Libraries. The amended Executive Order does eliminate the Department of History, Arts and Libraries, but it preserves the administrative functions of the Library of Michigan, including retaining the Library of MI by name with a staff person to be designated as State Librarian. The amended Executive Order also emphasizes the importance of statewide resource sharing and services administered by the State Librarian and the Library of Michigan. The Ann Arbor District Library commends and thanks the Governor for acknowledging the importance of the Library of Michigan and its functions to the citizens of Michigan. We would also like to recognize and thank the legislators involved in advocating for this amendment, and all of the citizens who contacted elected officials to request a reconsideration of the original Executive Order issued in July.

Unfortunately, the funding required by the Library of Michigan to continue providing statewide online database access, MelCat Interlibrary loan, and Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped services at the levels offered today is not appropriated by this Executive Order, nor is it guaranteed. Funding for these services is allocated in the state budget process as State Aid to Libraries.

Please read Governor Granholm’s Amended EO and consider contacting your State Senator and your State Representative to advocate for funding of State Aid to Libraries at the current level of $10 million.

Josie

Striking up the band for Labor Day

Sun, 06 Sep 2009 14:07:18 -0700

Otto's Band

Otto’s Band used to help Ann Arbor celebrate Labor Day, marching from downtown to Schwaben Park at Madison and Fifth for a picnic for labor union members. Starting around 1875 and continuing for about 50 years, this fascinating band drummed up enthusiasm by marching in parades, playing at dances, giving concerts, and sending soldiers off to war. Once the band became professional, participants became the first local members of the musicians’ union. Among other honors was being the first to play the U-M fight song, “The Victors.” Read all about the band in Ann Arbor Observer Then and Now.

AADL Productions Podcast: Madcat Ruth

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 08:38:18 -0700

Madcat

Peter "Madcat" Ruth, a world-class harmonica player who's lived and played in Ann Arbor for over 30 years, celebrated his 60th birthday last April. We had the privilege of talking with Madcat about his varied career, which included lessons from Chicago blues harmonica legend Big Walter Horton; touring with Dave Brubeck; inventing the Madcat harmonica microphone; and winning a Grammy for his solo performance in Songs of Innocence and Experience. Madcat also reminisces about playing the many lost music venues in Ann Arbor and treats us with his signature harmonica rendition of "Take Five".

Attachment	Size
AADL_productions_podcast-madcat.mp3	31.71 MB

AADL Library Services Threatened by Governor's Executive Order to Abolish State Library

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 13:57:34 -0700

On July 13, Governor Granholm issued an Executive Order abolishing the Department of History, Arts and Libraries, as part of her effort to reach a balanced budget for the next state fiscal year. It is understood and accepted that hard decisions must be made, and that all departments of state government should be expecting to find savings and efficiencies.

It is not clear how abolishing the department dedicated to promoting Michigan history and the arts, and supporting all libraries in Michigan will result in significant savings; the Governor has indicated that there is an unfunded plan to move the collections to repurpose the State Library building. Library services, when separated or isolated from a larger system, and placed in a bureaucratic environment, will wither.

How will this proposed plan affect you? The State Library administers the services of the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped. AADL is a sub-regional service provider and has been since February of this year. The plan as proposed moves the Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped from the Library of Michigan to the Commission for the Blind. It is not clear if any funding will follow the move, and the Commission is facing the same cuts as all other state departments and agencies. If services from the Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped statewide are to remain stable and funded, the Governor, and our legislators, should be made aware that the proposed move is a threat to its existence.

The Library of Michigan also administers the group purchasing of databases that are made available to all libraries statewide for reduced costs. Any library cardholder or Michigan citizen with a valid driver’s license can access those databases from anywhere in the world. If the resources of the Library of Michigan are dispersed or eliminated, and if the State Aid to Libraries allocation is reduced, then access to these databases will disappear. Only the larger, most affluent communities will be able to consider locally funding these resources. Even at AADL, continuance of the currently available set of resources will not be possible.

The very popular statewide interlibrary loan program via MeLCat is also administered through the Library of Michigan, and paid for through a match of State Aid allocation with Federal funds. Each $1.00 of state funding for this service is matched with $.50 of Federal funding, and the total to fund this statewide delivery service is in the millions of dollars. This service is also threatened if the Library of Michigan is abolished, and State Aid is reduced.

It is an irony that in a time when all are calling for efficiency, resource-sharing, consolidation of services, and collaborations to save and find money, a state institution that has led statewide programs that work for the benefit of all Michigan citizens, and which help to provide the critical tools needed for our workforce to reinvent itself, is threatened because someone has the very uncool and uninformed notion that libraries are obsolete.

The Ann Arbor District Library opposes Executive Order #2009-36, and supports funding of State Aid to Libraries at the current level of $10M.

Josie

Please consider contacting your State Senator and your State Representative.

Traverwood Branch Is Open

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:34:33 -0700

I wish to thank everyone who was inconvenienced by the closing of Traverwood for your patience and support. The floors are done, and they are beautiful, too! The branch re-opened this morning, August 28, at 9:00 AM.

We have backdated the returns at Traverwood to avoid fine accrual, but if after returning material you find accrued fines on your account, please call the Renewal Line at 327-4219 to have the fines removed.

Josie

The new aadl.org: week 2!

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 08:23:25 -0700

Thanks to all our patrons for such great feedback about the new catalog since its launch last week. We still have some things missing that we're working on, but a lot of changes have been made and fixes implemented based on your input, so please keep it coming. Here's what we're working on this week:

Personal Card Catalog will be back with all your saved cards intact
Adding sort by item type to the Checkout History screen
Adding reviews and summaries back onto item record pages
Fix for various Internet Explorer display issues including hidden copy lists
Better support for special characters in the search

...plus whatever you uncover. As a bonus, if you use Firefox or Internet Explorer 7 or 8, you might try out this new aadl search plugin, thanks to one of our patrons!

Thanks again for all your continued patience and feedback as we've made this significant transition. If you're looking for last week's catalog thread, you can find it under About Us :: Library News.

Traverwood Branch to be Closed August 20-27

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 07:17:21 -0700

The wood floors at Traverwood Branch are being sanded and sealed, and the work begins on Thursday of this week. We apologize for any inconvenience the closing of the branch will cause you and your family. After closing on Wednesday, August 19th at 9:00PM, all remaining items on the hold shelves at Traverwood will be moved Downtown, and will be available for pick up on Thursday. Hold requests for Traverwood will be available Downtown until the branch reopens on Friday, August 28 at 9:00 AM.

The return slots on the north side of the building will remain available and open, but the return bin in the garage will be unavailable during this week. Computer classes scheduled for this week at Traverwood will be relocated or rescheduled. Staff will contact those who have registered about changes in location or time.

We appreciate that this notice is short, and we do apologize. Thank you in advance for your patience. Please consider exploring other AADL library locations. They will be open regular hours and some very cool and smart people are working in them. They will enjoy helping you.

Josie

Welcome to a new aadl.org!

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 05:07:49 -0700

Today we're pleased to release a completely rebuilt catalog on an upgraded website. The new catalog offers significantly improved performance and usability as well as numerous small enhancements throughout the site. That said, there are sure to be glitches, temporarily missing features, or tweaks yet to come, so please take a look around and let us know what you find and what you think, either by commenting on this post, or by contacting us. Thanks for your patience, and thanks for using the library!

Update: some older web browsers may have trouble using the menu bar buttons. We're working on this; for now, you should be able to go straight to http://aadl.org/myaccount or http://aadl.org/catalog. Thanks for your patience!

Catalog and My Account down for Upgrades Tuesday Morning

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 15:02:44 -0700

Due to a system upgrade, the aadl.org Catalog and My Account pages will be unavailable Tuesday morning 8/18 starting at 7 AM. The rest of aadl.org will still be available. It is planned that the system will be back up before 9 AM. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions. Watch this space for updates, and thanks for your patience!

Traverwood Branch Reopens at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, August 11

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 06:35:31 -0700

The Traverwood Branch will open at 10:00 AM, an hour later than usual today, Tuesday, August 11, due to an unexpected maintenance situation. We apologize for the inconvenience. All other locations will open as scheduled at 9:00 AM and will close at 9:00 PM.

Josie

Celebrate the AA Farmers Market

Sat, 01 Aug 2009 12:52:43 -0700

A 90th birthday celebration for the venerable Ann Arbor Farmers' Market is Saturday Aug. 8. Stop by for gelato, music, birthday cake, and kids' activities. Vendors and market goers will tell stories at the Oral History Booth from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. To get excited about market history, see The Farmers’ Market Bounces Back and Reinventing the Farmers' Market in Ann Arbor Observer: Then and Now, a rich collection of more than 100 articles recently archived by AADL.

3rd Annual Manga Drawing Contest Winners Announced!

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 16:32:07 -0700

2009 Manga Contest

The judging is done and the winners have been announced! Judging was conducted by Jerzy Drozd and Shannon "Roku-Chan" Townsend. With over 80 entries in four age categories the judges had a tough time this year! The top three finishers in each category received gift certificates to Wizzywig and medals. All of the artwork will be on display through August in the Downtown Youth Department and can also be found online in our image gallery!

Click Read More to see the list of the winners!

Grades K-2
1st Place = Erin Shi
Runner-Up = Abby Deng
Honorable Mention = Raymond Jiang

Grades 3-5
1st Place = Alice Wu
Runner-Up = Rosa Chen
Honorable Mention = Ann Marie Zheng
Fan Art = Angela Wang
Best Original Character = Freyja Hofler

Grades 6-8
1st Place = Wentao Xu
Runner-Up = Hope Lu
Honorable Mention = Susan Doong
Best Fan Art = Taylor Zheng
Best Original Character = Lisa Ruan

Grades 9-12
1st Place = Melissa Wang
Runner-Up = Angela Wang
Honorable Mention = Laura Luo
Best Comic = Desha Stewart
Best Fan Art = Shirley Wu

An Income Tax for Ann Arbor?

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 09:49:45 -0700

a2logo

The City of Ann Arbor has released the Income Tax Feasibility Study and FAQ prepared July, 2009 by Plante, Moran. Print copies for citizen review are available in the Downtown Branch reference collection as well as two previous studies, the Income Tax Feasibility Summary prepared in 2004 by Plante, Moran and the Revenue Impacts of a City Income Tax for Ann Arbor prepared by the University of Michigan School of Public Policy in 1997.

Traverwood Branch Closed Due to Power Outage

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 13:08:25 -0700

The Traverwood Branch closed at 4:00 PM today, Tuesday June 23, due to a power outage. The branch will remain closed until 9:00 AM on Wednesday, June 24.

We apologize for the inconvenience. All other library locations are open.

Josie
Director

New Public Computers - Hardware

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:32:36 -0700

We recently overhauled the public computing setup at AADL, though it hasn't been rolled out at all the branches yet. It consists of a mix of linux hosted web management software, linux thin clients and windows terminal servers. It is a bit of a unique setup so figure I should share. Once we get it farther towards complete we'll probably release the code.

Some History

For some background the previous setup consisted of windows thin clients and windows servers running Citrix. The thin clients had published application sets that connected to a fairly basic server farm. The farm wasn't really setup well resulting in high loads and slow logins. A custom set of flash applications and php gateways administered it all.

As I researched options I decided I wanted to drop Citrix as I didn't really see it as needed and the licensing costs aren't exactly small. I also decided I would prefer as much be opensource as possible though we decided on keeping Windows for the public facing part for now.

I tested out quite a few public computing management software, lockdown software, cyber cafe software but didn't really find anything that did everything I wanted, kept it fairly simple, was flexible, etc. For reference here are a few things about our setup:

Patrons can use the computer as long as they want without interruption unless there are other patrons waiting for a computer. They have a minimum 30 minutes if there is a line, after which they are given 5, 2, 1 minute warnings.
They can be idle for a total of 10 minutes before being ended (given a warning after 5)
They swipe their card at an assigner first that gives them a station. These are spaced out then random

The New Thin Clients

The thin clients we settled on are HP Compaq t5735 Thin Clients. In bulk they ran under $250 each. The specs worked out for what we needed:

VESA mountable on both sides. Made it easy to securely mount to tables and even to the back of monitors
1 GB Flash, 256M RAM
VGA and DVI
Lots of USB ports including back, front and secure (within case)
Debian Linux preinstalled (stock plus some custom HP packages)

The thing I like most about the thin clients is the imaging process. The clients come with a HP programs called HPThinState which can write a bootable imager to a USB drive. Once the USB is imaged you can boot other machines from the USB and walk through a simple imaging process. The process is simple enough that front line staff now image machines themselves when needed (usually ext3 partition corruption after power failure). This has significantly cut time of IT staff and reduced how long a client is out of order for simple problems.

Another nice thing is that all changes are put on flash immediately, no special write/flashing software needed. You can apt-get upgrade and have the changes there on reboot with no further interaction.

Break Out Boxes

One of the biggest problems we had previously was USB ports being damaged on clients. We tried multiple things like hubs, etc but nothing really lasted. Our latest attempt is using a modular box that is meant to be inserted in a 5.25 cd bay on a tower. We put 2 usb extenders and a headphone jack extender in it and mount it to the table. This leaves an easily replaceable port and also lets us move the thin client out of harms way. So far this has worked great and we haven't had to replace a port yet. At about $10-12 it can't be beat.

Other Hardware

We have USB floppy drives available for use and may expand to other formats. The monitors are stock though we add on privacy screens. Each station is also equipped with a USB based barcode reader that is used for signin purposes.

We also have one of the thin clients VESA mounted to a monitor and barcode reader that acts as the assigner.

More information on the actual software / workflow behind it coming up in a second post. Overall though we've been really happy with the hardware described above. Really stable and much better priced.

It's Lego and Manga Contest Time Again! Contest Guidelines Released!

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 07:06:21 -0700

Lego Contest year 2

If it's summer it must be time for our annual Lego and Manga Contests! Use the summer to focus your creativity and maybe you will win! In order to enter either contest participants must read and follow the rules and guidelines. Children and teens aged preschool to 12th grade are invited to enter the 4th Annual Lego Contest. This year the Lego contest award ceremony will take place at Weber's Inn (3050 Jackson Ave) on Monday, August 10 @ 8:00 PM. For complete submission guidelines and the talent release form click here. Top finishers will receive gift certificates to Toys R Us, and we'll have medals for winners of the special categories!

It's our 3rd Annual Manga Drawing Contest for grades K-12. The award ceremony will be on Monday, July 27 @ 7:00 PM in the Downtown Youth Room. For complete submission guidelines and the talent release form click here. Top finishers will receive gift certificates for Wizzywig Collectibles!

It's Humid in the Downtown Library

Thu, 28 May 2009 10:06:21 -0700

Two air handlers, circa 1958, are being replaced in the Downtown Library. Fresh air is not being pushed through the older portion of the lower level, or the 1st and 2nd floors so it is muggy and sticky inside the Library. We apologize for the inconvenience, and are doing all that we can to cool those spaces down. There are no operating windows in the Downtown building, so we are limited. However, the front doors are opened at 7:00 AM and are left open until closing.

If you are circa 1958 or earlier, you can remember, as I can, a time when this was the normal summertime condition in all buildings!

The work is scheduled to be completed within the next week or two. We are hoping for a cool spell.

Josie

Infrastructure Upgrade: Online CD Previews

Thu, 21 May 2009 08:37:27 -0700

About the Upgrade

We've been working hard lately on an aadl.org infrastructure upgrade that includes updates to Drupal, SOPAC and the servers that run the site.

While it will still have the same look and feel, behind the scenes we've made changes to speed things up, fix bugs and give us a robust platform to more quickly roll out new features and bug fixes. You'll notice most of the changes in the catalog which was completely revamped. Below is one such update to the catalog you can look forward to when we go live with the changes.

Stay tuned for more previews and please leave any feedback and suggestions you have.

Online CD Previews

You may have used our CD preview stations that are present in our branches. They allow you to scan a CD and listen to samples of the tracks. Thanks to the company that produces our stations we were able to get a head start on moving these samples online. Here is a screen shot of the tracks for Big Dave and the Ultrasonics:

The display is based on the BSD licensed project SoundManager 2. While we're starting small with just simple previews the project supports more advanced scripting of volume and playlists which we can hopefully take advantage of. This also opens the door for featured previews, playlists and the like.

Currently our sample collection is rather incomplete but we hope to fill it out and hopefully get some of our more unique and obscure items up for easier discovery.

If you have ideas of projects/ideas that can take advantage of this new track and preview data, please leave a comment.

New Public Computers

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 13:44:49 -0700

This past week we rolled out our new public computer stations at the Malletts Creek branch, bringing the number of locations with our new system to three (the others being Traverwood and West). The new stations have a few features that improve both hardware management and the user experience:

The new thin clients have standard VESA mounts on both the top and bottom. The bracket splits into two parts, with one part attaching with screws to the client and the other attaching to the table. Once you've made your cable connections you slide them back together. Super easy, and very solid. The thin clients run a customized version of linux, which gives us more control over configuration and remote access than the embedded windows of the old system. Once you log in to a computer, it launches a full screen remote Windows session, which is transparent to the user.

The new system gives us better access to USB and audio on the stations, and to prevent any abuse of the thin client hardware we found these great breakout boxes with USB and audio cable extenders. This allows us to place the hardware further back under the tables but give easy access to the connections. If a port gets worn out, or (more likely) broken by a user, we can easily pop out that extender cable and pop in a new one.

Witch Hunter Robin

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 11:54:53 -0700

Witch Hunter Robin is a must see anime for fans of science fiction and fantasy. It follows the story of Robin Sena, who moves to Japan after being raised in Italy to join STN-J, a secret government group that hunts witches. Witches have powers that are inherited genetically and can lie dormant for many years before they "awaken." Members of STN-J often have their own powers and are trained to hunt witches. Robin's power of fire is particularly powerful.

The first half of the series follows Robin's integration into STN-J and various hunts, with each episode featuring a new witch. The latter half starts to delve into deeper questions of what makes a person a witch. As Robin learns more about the people she works for, she begins to question her own powers and alliances.

Witch Hunter Robin is a relatively short anime series. The art, especially the hunt scenes involving Robin's power, is visually stunning and fun to watch. The music and mood of the show is quite haunting and makes this a more serious anime. This is for older audiences and is generally recommended for people 13 years and older.

Easy Parallel Processing with PHP on the Command Line

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 12:00:25 -0700

Developers often come across tasks that can be sped up with Parallel processing. When there is a lot of repetitive tasks to be done, which can be split into independent parts, being able to run multiple processes simultaneously can speed the job up immensely. A good example is a running some calculation on every line of a huge report. Here's how I was able to make a command line script in PHP that allowed me to break a process into parts and process them all at the same time. One caveat: this technique only works on the command line and on Linux/Unix servers.

Part 1: starting another process from within PHP using exec()

The exec() function will run the command given to it. Normally, your PHP script will wait for the command to complete before proceeding, but if you redirect the output to a file and end the command with a '&', exec() will run the process in the background. so instead of writing

exec("ls -al");

you can write

exec("ls -al > listing.txt &");

and your script will create a new process and then proceed to the next statement immediately.

Part 2: make your function recursive with $argv

When used on the command line, PHP always will support the $argv superglobal, which is an array of the command line arguments used when the script was launched. If you have a script called "script.php" and you call it with the command

php script.php arg1 arg2 arg3

Then the $argv variable will be an array:

array(4) { [0]=> string(10) "script.php" [1]=> string(4) "arg1" [2]=> string(4) "arg2" [3]=> string(4) "arg3"
}

You can easily check if a script was called with an argument by checking the value of $argv[1].

Part 3: putting it together
Combining these two steps you can create a script that calls itself multiple times, and they can all run at the same time. For example, let's say I need to process 10,000 rows in a database table, and that I want to split it up into 10 processes of 1,000 rows apiece. I have a function process_records($id, $count) that will start at record number $id, and process $count rows after that. If I wanted to run them sequentially, I would write:

$processor = new MyClass();
$processor->process_records(0, 10000);

But if I want to run 10 processes , each processing 1,000 rows simultaneously, I can write the following:

if ($argv[1]) { $processor = new MyClass(); $processor->process_records($argv[1], 1000);
} else { for ($i = 0; $i < 10000; $i += 1000) exec("php script.php $i > $i.log &");
}

The for() loop will create new processes of "php script.php 0", "php script.php 1000", "php script.php 2000", etc. all running at the same time, each one processing 1,000 rows and creating a file of the script's output as 0.log, 1000.log, 2000.log, etc. As long as you haven't maxed out your system memory or processor capacity, you'll finish in 1/10th of the time it would take to run sequentially.

Drupal Development Tricks

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 19:08:46 -0700

Last week I was privileged to attend the drupal4lib camp at Darien Library. I was prepared to give a lightning talk on my development environment for drupal but we ran out of time. I thought I'd share a couple of tricks I've found here. Nothing earth shattering, but they've become very helpful to me in my day-to-day code monkeying.

1) Use SSHFS to access remote files

If you've ever tried modifying code on a server you know what a pain it can be to transfer the files from the machine you're working on to the remote machine. You can use an FTP client to pull copies to your local drive and push them back up after you're done. But that's a lot of extra clicks, especially when you're trying to track down a nit-pick bug. Some editors have built in support for remote access, like FTP, SFTP, etc. But there's usually a painful server configuration process where you have to enter your username and password, and then you're tied into the copy that's open in that editor. The programs you run on your own machine work best with files on your local drive, and SSHFS allows you to do exactly that. It allows you to connect to your server via SSH and map any directory to a local folder. You can then copy files to and from that directory with any program on your local machine.

Let's say I wanted to be able to access my home directory on a server called margo.aadl.org. First I need to create a local folder to hold the connection, I'll create it in my home directory

mkdir ~/margo_home

Now that I have the folder, I just initiate the connection using the sshfs command

sshfs ejk@margo.aadl.org: ~/margo_home

It'll prompt me for my password, then ta-da, I can browse my home directory on the server just like any other folder on my local machine. Plus, the entire connection is SSH encrypted so I don't need to worry about someone intercepting file transfers.

SSHFS is available for Linux, and as part of the MacFuse project for OS X.

2) Komodo Edit

I use ActiveState's Komodo Edit editor to write my PHP files. It's the free, open-source component of their larger Development Environment. One of the most helpful features of Komodo Edit is the code completion feature. If you start typing the characters of a variable or PHP function, a little drop-down menu will appear with the possible completions. This works with all PHP functions out of the box, but if you create a new komodo edit "Project" file in the root of your codebase, it'll autocomplete the custom functions defined in that code as well. What I do is create a new Komodo Edit Project file in the root of my drupal installation, and I can easily remember and autocomplete all of the drupal functions as well as any custom module functions I have created.

Another cool thing about Komodo Edit is that it is extensible like Firefox because it's built on the same foundation. ActiveState even has a hosted plugins library that you can browse and install from inside the program. My favorite plugin is the Komodo Source Tree, which puts a drop down list of all the current file's functions inside a pane, with easy double-click access.

Komodo Edit is available from ActiveState.com for all platforms.

AADL Celebrates 5 Star Ranking in Library Journal Survey of Public Libraries

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 05:48:07 -0800

The Ann Arbor District Library is one of the top libraries in the country, according to a new survey by Library Journal, America’s Star Libraries, published in its February 15 issue. Of the 7,115 libraries evaluated for the report, only 256 (3.5 %) received stars for their achievements. AADL was one of ten of 88 libraries nation-wide in its budget bracket (libraries with an annual budget of $10M – $29.9M) to receive the highest possible overall ranking of 5 stars. In Michigan, 376 libraries qualified for evaluation, with only two receiving stars - AADL with its 5-star ranking, and Canton Public Library which earned 3 stars in its budget bracket.

The survey was based on data reported to the Institute of Museum and Library Services for fiscal year 2005-2006 and since this data was collected, AADL’s service statistics have continued to rise. Traditionally, many public library decision-makers have focused on circulation alone as the performance indicator for a successful library. Today, the full range of services now includes electronic access, facilities use, and programming.

The inaugural LJ Index of Public Library Service, sponsored by Baker & Taylor's Bibliostat, is based on 2005-2006 data for:

• circulation transactions per capita, including checkouts and renewals;
• visits to library buildings per capita;
• computer sessions per capita;
• program attendance per capita,

as reported by local libraries to their state library agencies and compiled by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Top libraries are organized into star tiers, much like the Michelin guide, for example, with five, four, or three stars. Libraries are scored in relation to other peer libraries based on total operating expenditures rather than on community population.

These numbers and this ranking reflect YOUR use of YOUR public library. Enjoy!

AADL STATISTICS AND INCREASES
Based on the data reported to IMLS in fiscal year 2005-2006, AADL, with a service population of 155,000 had:

• 34.3 circulation transactions per capita
• 9.1 visits to library buildings per capita
• 1.6 computer sessions per capita
• 0.3 program attendees per capita

Since 2005-2006, growth has continued at AADL:

• Annual circulation transactions have increased 57% to 8,173,534
• Visits to library buildings rose 16.5 % to 1,642,078
• Computer sessions increased 6% to 259,338
• Event attendance increased 14% to 52,891

With an equally expanded projected service population of 165,000 AADL now boasts:

• 49.5 circulation transactions per capita
• 10 visits to library buildings per capita
• 1.6 computer sessions per capita
• .3 program attendees per capita

For more information about Library Journal’s 'America’s Star Libraries', visit the index at libraryjournal.com.

Josie

Bleach, Naruto, Trigun?

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 08:43:22 -0700

Trigun

Season 2 of Bleach comes to a close with Disc 10. However, action junkies still waiting for their Naruto or Bleach DVDs to come in might want to check out Trigun: Vash the Stampede is an unstoppable gunslinger known for leaving devastation in his wake. Two insurance company representatives are on his trail to make sure he doesn't incur any more property damage while villainous foes and 'upstanding' lawmen right and left want him dead. But who is he, and is he bad or good? An anime series that's a little older, but definitely still worth a second peek.

2nd Annual Manga Drawing Contest Winners!

Tue, 05 Aug 2008 06:50:10 -0700

2nd Annual Manga Drawing Contest

Our 2nd Annual Manga Drawing Contest has drawn to a close! This year our hard working judges were Jerzy Drozd and Shannon Towsend. They each spent hours judging the entries and providing feedback to each and every entry - thank you! In case you don't know what manga is click here. If you missed this year and are looking to find other places to post your work Jerzy made a great resource sheet. You can check out all the entries in this year's contest in our image gallery.

Click Read More to see the list of the winners!

Grades K-2 Category:
1st Place – Angela Wang
Runner-Up – Susanna Wu
Honorable Mention – Desiree Lu
Best Fan Art – Kareem El-Tawil
Best Original Character – Oliver Mayman

Grades 3-5 Category:
1st Place – Rosa Chen
Runner-Up – Natalie Liu
Honorable Mention – Alice Wu
Best Fan Art – Eric Ren
Best Original Character – Sally Lee

Grades 6-8 Category:
1st Place – Angela Wang
Runner-Up – Angela Huang
Honorable Mention – Zbyszek Sikora
Best Original Character – Genna Liu
Best Fan Art – Rujia Zha
Best Comic Strip – Connor Quigg

Grades 9-12 Category:
1st Place – Caitlin Dooley
Runner-Up – Lena Ji
Honorable Mention – Tracey Fu
Best Original Character – Lauren Houser
Best Fan Art – Stephanie Mannheim

Greetsaver Update

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 09:37:24 -0700

As requested by superpatron Ed Vielmetti, here's a fresh link to the latest and greatest version of our "GreetSaver", which welcomes patrons and visitors to various locations of the Library.

GreetsaverQC.qtz

This should work on any Mac running OSX Leopard, but there's a bit of additional configuration that must be done. You need to subscribe to the AADL video podcast, and you need to put some awesome library pictures into a new folder called "GreetPics" inside your Pictures folder (~/Pictures/GreetPics for you terminal geeks out there).

*UPDATE* I forgot I used a custom patch to grab the video files on the welcome page. If you want them to show up follow these instructions:

Download the latest Folder Movies patch from Kineme: http://kineme.net/QuartzComposerPatches/FolderMoviesPatch
Create a new folder in /Library/Graphics called "Quartz Composer Patches" (there should already be a folder there called "Quartz Composer Plug-Ins", don't use that folder)
Copy the FolderMoviesPatch.plugin file into this new folder "Quartz Composer Patches"

This should make a random movie from the AADL video podcast display on the welcome screen.

Enjoy, and throw me a note if you have questions or want to mash it up.

3rd Annual Lego® Contest and 2nd Annual Manga Drawing Contest Guidelines!

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 12:00:49 -0700

Lego Contest year 2

A year has passed, you've been planning and we can't wait to see what you come up with! We're happy to be hosting our 3rd annual Lego® Contest for preschoolers thru 12th grade. Prizes will be awarded in five age categories. Complete rules and guidelines can be found here. Even if you don't enter the contest we invite you to come and take a look on the evening of Wednesday, July 30 in the Downtown library multi-purpose room - it's a spectacular, but limited time only display. Last year we had over 100 entries! Doors open @ 7.

We invite fans of anime and manga, who also like to draw, or write comics, to enter our 2nd Annual Manga Drawing Contest. Entries are limited to those in grades K - 12. Prizes will be awarded in four age categories! Complete rules and guidelines can be found here. All artwork submitted will be on display in the Downtown Youth Department during the month of August.

Death Note on DVD

Fri, 02 May 2008 10:24:39 -0700

If you loved the Death Note manga, you won’t want to miss the fabulous anime adaptation now available on dvd at the library. For those of you unfamiliar with the series, it’s the story of a bored high school student, Light Yagami, who takes justice into his own hands when he finds a notebook which gives him the power to kill simply by writing down someone’s name. But when criminals begin to die of unexplained causes, the authorities send the legendary and eccentric detective L to track down the killer. The cat-and-mouse chase between Light and L is one for the ages. Volumes 1, 2, and 3 are in, and volume 4 is on order. Add your name to the hold list today! For older teens and adults.

You want to Ubuntu?

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 06:53:56 -0700

I'm sure many of you have seen Jessamyn's awesome video installing Ubuntu on a couple of donated library PCs. I made the switch to Ubuntu for my primary desktop workstation here at AADL after we had a windows virus get loose on our network and I was fed up. I never looked back, even after the virus was summarily squashed.

If you're looking to jump into or even experiment with Ubuntu, this week might be the time to go for it. The latest version of Ubuntu, code named Hardy Heron, is scheduled to be released April 24. Ubuntu releases new major versions about every 6 months, but only once every two years do they label a release as Long Term Support (LTS), which means it will be supported for 3 years for the desktop (5 years for the server edition). The last LTS release was code named Dapper Drake, released in 2006. This version also includes tools that makes it even easier to try Ubuntu, letting you install it like an application inside Windows to try it out.

Ubuntu 8.04 Long Term Support (LTS) provides a stable platform for software and hardware vendors, developers and users. With three years of support and maintenance on the desktop, 8.04 LTS is a great choice for large-scale deployment. A substantial and growing ecosystem of free and commercial software built for Ubuntu provides a rich set of choices for desktop users. This is the eighth desktop release of Ubuntu. Ubuntu's track record in delivering - on a precise schedule every six months - a commercial operating system that is free, stable, secure and fully supported, remains unique. (read more...)

Specific to my geekly duties at AADL, here are some of the applications I use on Ubuntu:

Gimp: Great image editor, perfect for quick crops and resizes as well as multi-layer intensive editing. (included in Ubuntu)
Firefox: not only works with flash, but all the great Firefox plugins like Adblock plus, firebug, and greasemonkey. (note Firefox 3 beta 5 is included in Hardy)
OpenOffice: able to open and edit MS Office docs, still a necessity in this day. (included in Ubuntu)
Komodo Edit: a free PHP editor with code completion and syntax highlighting. (Download linux version here).
VMWare Server: I've been unable to find a email client that can establish a consistent and stable connection with our Exchange server for email, so I installed XP and Outlook2003 in a virtual machine in VMWare Server. Also nice when I need to test something in Internet Explorer or another Windows-only app. (Download linux version here)
Flex Builder: Adobe has an alpha of their Eclipse-based Flex editor for linux. Unfortunately it doesn't include the Design view, but the code completion and compiler work just right. (Install info here)
Innovative Millennium: Yes, because the Millennium client is Java based, it works just as well on Linux as any other platform. (download from csdirect)

So give Ubuntu a shot. You might never look back.

Back to the past

Sat, 29 Mar 2008 10:20:16 -0700

Think you know everything there is to know about Fullmetal Alchemist after watching the anime? Think again. The manga’s and anime’s plots diverge after a certain point, and the most recent events in the manga will be a big surprise to anime-only fans. Fans of the state military characters will especially like volume 15, which takes readers back to the Ishbal Conflict that Colonel Mustang, Lieutenant Hawkeye, and others fought in seven years earlier. Catch up with the story today!

PHP Class Notes

Wed, 05 Mar 2008 08:47:12 -0800

Below is the sample code I created during a PHP class on Tuesday. I'm planning to cover storing and retrieving data from MySQL on Thursday, plus some more practical examples of web applications. If you have any questions or suggestions, log in and comment or send me an email.

<html> <head> <title>Example</title> </head> <body> <form action="test.php" method="post"> First Name: <input type="text" name="first" /><br /> Last Name: <input type="text" name="last" /><br /> <input type="submit" name="submit" value="Submit me!" /> </form> <?php echo "<p>" . date('l dS \of F Y h:i:s A', time()) . "</p>"; if ($_POST) { $first_name = $_POST['first']; $last_name = $_POST['last']; if ($first_name == "Eric") { echo "Authorized User: "; } else { echo "Unauthorized User: "; } echo $first_name . " " . $last_name ; echo "<pre>"; var_dump($_POST); echo "</pre>"; echo "<table border=1>"; foreach($numbers as $number) { echo "<tr><td>" . $number . "</td></tr>"; } echo "</table>"; } ?> </body>
</html>

Welcome to the Contests Page!

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 10:24:34 -0800

AADL sponsors a variety of contests for kids and teens. Each contest offers participants the opportunity to show off their creativity from writing to graffiti. Our annual contests include...

The Graffiti Art Contest is held annually during the Ann Arbor Art Fairs for grades 6-12. All supplies, including paint and painting surfaces, are provided. Participants work on site within a structured time period. Judging occurs the same day and prizes are awarded in the form of gift certificates. All artwork will be displayed for one month at the Ann Arbor District Library. Check out the list of winners and look at all the artwork created for the 2008 & 2009 contests.

The LEGO Contest is for ages pre-School through grade 12. Participants build their projects at home and bring them to the library for judging. Prizes are awarded in the form of gift certificates and award ribbons during a large awards ceremony on the evening of the judging. The 2009 LEGO Contest takes place on Monday, August 10 at Weber's Inn (3050 Jackson Ave); take a look at the rules and guidelines for more details. Check out the list of winners from every contest and look at all the entries to the 2008 LEGO Contest.

Our Manga Drawing Contest occurs each summer for grades K-12. Participants create artwork at home and bring it to the Library for judging and display. The contest culminates with an awards ceremony and prizes are awarded in the form of gift certificates. For more information take a look at the rules and guidelines. Check out the list of winners and look at all the drawings entered in the 2008 & 2009 contests.

The "It's All Write!" Short Story Writing Contest includes generous prizes to be distributed among nine winners! The contest is open to students in grades 6-12. Writers submit an original short story to be judged by a panel of published authors. The Awards Ceremony is held during the Ann Arbor Book Festival in May. Check out the list of winners from the past few years and read the winning stories from the 2008 & 2009 contest.

Read the blog posts below for more information on upcoming and past contests....

Exhibits at the AADL

Fri, 28 Sep 2007 06:45:03 -0700

Exhibits

Apply to Exhibit at the Ann Arbor District Library

Over one million people walk through our doors each year making us an ideal community space to showcase your work at either of our Downtown or Malletts Creek Branch locations. From paintings and photographs to ceramics and glass works to special collections, a wide variety of media and shows are considered. Fill out an exhibit application today, and take advantage of this wonderful community resource.

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING:

The Downtown Multi-Purpose Room is booked through August, 2010.
The Downtown 3rd Floor is booked through August, 2010.
The Downtown Lower-Level Display Cases are booked through July, 2010.
Malletts Creek is booked through July 1, 2010.

Permanent Collection

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 12:27:38 -0700

On Display

On Display at all library locations

The Ann Arbor District Library has an extensive permanent collection comprised of work by local as well as regionally and nationally known artists. Much of the collection is due to the generosity of the Ladies’ Library Association, which has long supported the arts at the library, donating paintings and sculpture for the Malletts Creek and Pittsfield locations and contributing annually to our large collection of art books.

Also available on our website, are digital archives of some of our past exhibits including the Downtown Library 50th Anniversary Exhibit

Welcome to AADL's local history page!

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 13:09:19 -0700

We have several local history collections you may be interested in, including...

50 Years of Originality: A History of the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair
Ann Arbor Architecture Archive
Ann Arbor City Council Meeting Minutes
Ann Arbor Cooks
Ann Arbor Observer: Then & Now
The Ann Arbor Police Department Online History Exhibit
The Downtown Ann Arbor Historical Street Exhibit Program
The Ford Gallery of Ann Arbor Founders
The Making of Ann Arbor
pictureAnnArbor
Signal of Liberty
Ypsilanti Gleanings

We've also invited some local historians to contribute to a local history blog, which begins below. Thanks for your interest, and enjoy!

AADL Developer Blog

Tue, 12 Jun 2007 09:17:02 -0700

Welcome to the AADL Developer Blog! Software Development is a big part of what we do here at AADL, and this section of aadl.org is the place to keep up with our new features, see what our developers are working on, and find out what kind of tools we're playing with.

We also have open-source software that we've developed available for download, and you can find that here. Please feel free to comment on our posts or contactus if you have any other questions, and thanks for your interest!

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