Talk from the Top

Libraries to Open on Time...Urge Caution

2012-01-23T03:00:00.000-08:00

This morning, January 23, FCLS staff will do their best to have the libraries open on time. We urge caution on our parking lots and sidewalks until the temperature clears the freezing point, which should happen by about 9:00. Please check the conditions in your area before leaving home.

Please be careful this morning on all roadways and sidewalks.

Snow/Ice Delay!!!!

2012-01-21T03:44:00.000-08:00

FCLS libraries will delay opening this morning, Saturday, January 21, until 10:00 to check the safety of sidewalks and parking lots for our customers and staff. Please stay home and stay safe until the storm has passed. Sometimes it is even dangerous to approach our bookdrops in icy conditions. We will always given you a grace day if your materials become overdue during winter weather.

Libraries included are: Coyle Free, Grove Family, Besore Memorial, Alexander Hamilton, St. Thomas, and Fort Loudon.

Library Holidays

2011-12-22T07:42:00.000-08:00

Our libraries will be closed Friday, December 23, through Monday, December 26, 2011 for Christmas, then will close at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, December 30, to re-open at their normal times on Tuesday, January 2. Thank you for allowing our staff to spend time over the holidays with their families.

Happy Holidays, everyone!

Downloadable Books

2011-11-03T14:00:00.000-07:00

This week, OverDrive e-book downloads join One-Click Digital audiobook downloads on our website.

Yes! A new format of the book debuts at Franklin County Library System and Fulton County Library.

Check out the variety of titles immediately available. More will be added on a monthly basis. You will notice they are available in as many as 3 different forms, Epub, Pdf, and Kindle. There are directions through the OverDrive link to help you register and download the format of your choice. These books are on loan from Franklin County Library System for FREE. The advent of the free library e-book download has come to our area.

We welcome your requests of titles at your local library or through my email address bdcrouse@fclspa.org. If you make the request at a local library desk make sure you indicate your format preference: e-book, e-audiobook; Epub, Pdf, or Kindle. Not all titles are readily available through library vendors in any or all formats, so please be patient with us as we build our collection.

We have not and are not abandoning the paper book. Many of our readers love to hold a traditional book in their hands. However, we are forced to remember that at one time literature was on stone or papyrus, so why not electronic devices, too? As always, we will continue to respond to your needs.

Strategic Planning Progress

2011-11-03T13:52:00.000-07:00

Our consultant from Tweed-Weber has led discussions of the wonderful survey input you provided with groups of staff and board leaders. The priorities for the next three years are developing out of the suggestions that you have made.

Thank you so much for your compliments to our staff and your overwhelming response that our libraries are important to you and your communities! We value your input and you as customers.

The winner of the Color Nook is being contacted, and we will make a public announcement very soon.

I will also update you when the plan is complete.

Gearing Up

2011-10-24T13:43:00.001-07:00

Everyone is busy gearing up for the huge book sale this coming weekend. Don't miss the best selection, brownies and coffee on Friday, starting at 4:00 p.m.

Coming October 28-30...FCLS Book Sale

2011-10-15T16:51:00.000-07:00

Wondering where to get reading materials with all the local bookstores closing? Check out our great fall book sale just two weekends from now! More than 20,000 books of all genres to choose from...great prices from $0.25 to $3.00 per book, collectible books available by silent auction. No junk! Just great reading materials, VHS, and more! Chidlren's books, inspirational books, and many of your favorite authors an subjects!

Plus brownies and gourmet coffee on Friday, family activities, lunch and bake sale on Saturday, then bargains on Sunday.

The sale is sponosered by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Budget Self Storage, and Estate Pro.

Sale benefits library improvements at Coyle, Grove, Besore, St. Thomas, Ft. Loudon, and on the bookmobiles.

LEARN Children's Art Show

2011-10-15T16:43:00.000-07:00

Our Besore children, the Book Buggy, and Executive Director Bernice Crouse participated in the LEARN Art Show at First Lutheran Church today. We had some beautiful artwork on exhibit from the preschoolers at Besore Memorial Library. Crouse demonstrated painting a seascape with acrylics for families present and helped children experiment with painting on large sheets of paper. Other LEARN partners led other arts and crafts activities and storytimes were held with Leo Lionni's A Color of His Own.

Thank you Land o' Lakes Foundation for sponsoring FCLS's "Arts in Literature" program and materials over the last year.

Planning Moves Ahead

2011-10-15T16:39:00.000-07:00

Monday, library leaders meet to review your input and start the planning process. We will soon know who the Nook winner is. It is no surprise to learn that library users want their hours back, and we are working to make that happen by January 1.

We are working with Tweed-Weber on the planning process. More to come...

Help Us Plan for the Future

2011-07-31T18:54:00.001-07:00

Over the next few months Franklin County Library System will be updating its strategic plan for the next three years (2012-2014). Our mission reflects our desire to bring the best in information and literacy resources, services and programs to you. We want to know what your dreams are and how we can help you reach them. We want to know what you value most in the community. We want to meet your needs as we change and grow through the years.

If you would like to be involved in the planning process, watch our updates here, on Facebook, and on our website to learn how you can shape the future of Franklin County public libraries.

Thank you.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

2011-07-29T06:23:00.000-07:00

Love your library? Want to get into the Franklin County Fair for free?

Franklin County Library System needs volunteers to work three-hour shifts at "The Chicken House" foodstand during the week of August 22-27. Volunteers must have their own transpotation and be at least 12 years old. The volunteers will be doing customer service at the window (handling money, too), dishing up chicken dinners, soup and potpie, grilled chicken sandwiches, and homemade pie. Some food preparation and cooking under supervision is also needed. You can pick your favorite station for the shift. Available shifts include 10 a.m. -1 p.m., 1 -4 p.m., 4 - 7 p.m., and 7-10 p.m. On busier shifts, we welcome family groups (age 12 and up). There will be experienced volunteers on all shifts, so don't worry about being new. Volunteering a shift will get you free admission to the fair. You could work a shift, then enjoy the rest of the evening's events. If you are not aware, the fair is based at Chambersburg Rod and Gun Club on Warm Spring Road.

This is being done to raise funds for your libraries. Please help if you can.

Contact me directly to sign up ASAP at 709-0282 x212 or bdcrouse@fclspa.org.

Important Notice

2011-07-21T08:18:00.000-07:00

Due to the excessive heat, the bookmobile will not be in service today (7/21/2011) or tomorrow (7/22/2011). The generator and airconditioners cannot keep up with the high temperatures and we do not want to endanger any patrons' or staff members' health by inviting the use of this mobile library. The Book Buggy continues to be in service at this time.

Since Excessive Heat Warnings expire over the weekend, we hope the bookmobile will be back on its normal summer schedule on Monday.

Some of our libraries are also struggling to keep down their temperatures. Please bear with the 80 degree days internally when they occur.

Thank you.

Great Actvity for Families

2011-06-12T15:23:00.000-07:00

Want to start the summer off with a great day for your family? Join the libraries, Healthy Communities Partnership, and more organizations at Mike Waters Park tomorrow (Monday, June 13) from 4:00-7:00 p.m. for sports, games, an inflatable slide, balloon sculptures, food and treasure! It's HCP's second annual Drugfree Summer Kickoff, and you can be a part!

Thank You

2011-04-05T07:45:00.001-07:00

I wuld like to thank everyone who voted for the Franklin County Library System in the Public Opinion advertising grant competition. If you are not aware, we lost to a few very worthy organizations and commend them for their victory.

State Funding Action Urgently Needed

2011-04-05T07:41:00.000-07:00

Please show your support of the level of "Public Library Subsidy" in the governor's budget proposal by contacting your local legislators and members of the PA Appropriations' Committee today. We need to maintain the status quo in funding until increases can be made to restore your library's normal hours of operation and provide adequate staff to meet your library service needs.

Coyle Closes Early Due to Power Outage

2011-02-11T14:46:00.000-08:00

Coyle Free Library is closing today, February 11, at 5:45 p.m. due to a power outage from a nearby automobile accident. We apologize for any inconvenience this might cause you. We hope to have the library open with electricity at 9:00 a.m. tomorrow, February 12.

Thank you.

Grove Library Birthday Bash

2011-02-04T13:39:00.000-08:00

Please join me tomorrow for Grove Family Library's 5th birthday celebration. Festivities begin at 9:00 a.m. and continue through 1:00. Enjoy children's authors and outstanding music from celebrated PA songwriter and musician Steven Courtney. He is a longstanding favorite of Franklin County and Pennsylvania children, and had his own television show for awhile. This event is proceeding as scheduled despite the possibility of some wintry mix tomorrow, so come and join in the fun! Refreshments include birthday cake!

Weather Alert/Early Closing

2011-01-26T10:43:00.001-08:00

All public libraries in Franklin County will be closing early today. After 3:00, please call your local library before venturing out to go there. It is possible that Coyle will remain open until 5:00, but call ahead to be sure. The next heavier surge of snow is due to hit Franklin County during the late afternoon. The libraries opened on time this morning, but plan to close at 3:00 to allow everyone safe travel home.

Hopefully, the libraries will be able to open at their normal times tomorrow, Thursday, January 27.

We are sorry for any inconvenience this might cause you. Thank you.

Grove Family Library 5th Anniversary Celebration

2011-01-21T08:27:00.000-08:00

Join me in celebrating the 5th Anniversary of the opening of Grove Family Library. Enjoy art, authors, music, refreshments throughout the week of January 31. See the schedule at the link above.

Hard to believe, isn't it? 5 years ago (on January 27 and 28) more than 100 volunteers were moving the contents of little Ragged Edge Library across Route 30 to newly completed 17,000 square foot building. And oh the number of people who have visited the library since, more than 400,000 people, checking out almost 530,000 items from the collection. That's a five-year average of 80,000 visitors and 106,000 items per year, which continues to grow!

In 2005, the building project totaled about $3.50 million. $0.75 million was given as in-kind contributions from Guilford and Greene Townships, contractors, architect, and other businesses. Cora Grove gave $1.5 million. We thank many others for their generous contributions, which have reduced our debt to $560,000. Having paid off about $700,000 of the debt principal over the last 5 years, our goal now is to pay off the balance from donations over the next 5 years. The library system is paying the loan interest out of Grove Library's annual operating allocation, now. Please stop at the library to enjoy the festivities, then if you have not received a mailing, pick up an "Extinguish the Debt" campaign brochure, select a naming opportunity where appropriate, and help the library move ahead to new intitiatives for the future.

Thank you!!

Cutbacks in Library Hours

2011-01-07T06:54:00.000-08:00

No doubt by now most of you have seen something in the media about the cuts Franklin County public libraries have made in their operating hours for this year. The cuts were a direct reflection of the huge cuts we have experienced in state funding over the last 2 years.

Our staff fought a huge battle last year to remain customer-friendly in very tough working conditions. Every staff member had lost either pay or hours, and that was very hard on morale and energy level. I congratulate and thank them for serving you well under such advers conditions. This year by cutting the operating hours during times when each library was quieter, we were able to avoid any further cuts in pay. These same staff members are already significantly underpaid before the state cuts hit libraries. In 2009 and 2010, we were able to limit hour restrictions by cutting many other areas of the budget, but the additional cuts were crippling. There were no more options, when other costs continue to rise, ie utilities, insurance, library materials.

We all greatly appreciate the financial commitment of our local officials and donors. The steady county library tax, commitments from local governments and school districts, and generous donors who met our annual appeal goal for 2010 are now the backbone of our operating budget. The state cuts reduced that annual budget by 1/8th.

THANK YOU FOR BOTH YOUR FINANCIAL AND MORAL SUPPORT DURING THESE TOUGH TIMES!!!

Thank You!

2010-11-22T06:08:00.000-08:00

I would like to personaly thank all the library supporters who marched in the Chambersburg parade with me on Saturday. It was great! People responded well to us, especially to the "Cat in the Hat" and the Kindly Canines. Every person was impotant, because we were able to spread out and greet the crowds. What a wonderful expression of support for public libraries!

Have a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Chambersburg Reads 2010

2010-09-09T06:48:00.000-07:00

Chambersburg Reads to Inspire Service kicks off Monday, September 13 (National Literacy Day), 7:00 p.m. at Franklin Firehouse, with "Rising Stars: Celebrate Community Volunteerism". Join me there to hear award-winning motivational speaker Kathy Silks. You may know her from WITF, one of the organizers of the local "Reading Rainbow" programs of the 1990s. She is terrific! We will also present awards to 11 deserving local community volunteers and get a glimpse of their personal inspirational stories.

This event is being sponsored by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Franklin Fire Company, RSVP Capital Region, and the Chambersburg Reads Partners.

The next scheduled event is a Mural Painting Workshop at Grove Family Library on Saturday morning, September 25. Marti Yeager of Fayettville is the instructor. Please reserve your spot by September 20. (click website link below)

For more information on the calendar of events, recommended reading, organizations that need volunteers, and our sponsors visit Chambersburg Reads website . Chambersburg Reads is a two-month regional community reading program for Franklin and Fulton Counties.

Change Matters, You Can Make a Difference!

2010-09-09T06:38:00.000-07:00

Hi, Everyone,

As you have no doubt already heard, the state has cut public libraries again this fiscal year. We will be operating on about $16,000 in invested annual appeal funds in 2010 to keep the status quo in programs, operating schedules, staff and new materials. Over the 2-year period, Franklin County has lost a total of over $250,000 per year in state funding to local public libraries. This is one-eighth of our previous budget.

We just heard that to balance the cuts in federal dollars to PA, Governor Rendeel is cutting public library funding by an additional 1.9%, immediately.

Even your spare change will make a difference. We figured out that if each person using each library through less than $1.00 into the donation jar on each visit to his/her favorite library over the following year, we could meet the budget this year and next year. Awesome thought! Maybe it is doable. Please pick up the "Change Matters" bookmarks at your library desk over the course of the next month our two and consider helping us meet a level 2011 budget.

Senate Proposes Additional 9% Cut to PA Public Libraries

2010-06-30T14:37:00.000-07:00

Save Your Library Services -- Contact your PA Representative Today

Today we have learned that the PA Senate passsed a state budget including another 9% cut in the public library subsidy (among other library funding cuts). Following the disproportionate cuts of 21% in last year's state budget, this is the straw that will break many of the library services and programs that you know and love. That would make the 2010-2011 cut about $61,000 on top of the almost $200,000 cut in state funds to Franklin County public libraries from 2009-2010, bring the total cut over a 2-year period to about $255,000. That is the value of 25 years of summer reading programs or more than 10 full-time staff members -- 350 per week, or approximately 175 hours of library operations, since we cannot open a library without 2 people on duty. Last year we cut about 35 hours of library operation per week across the county.

The irony is that while the Senate is voting to cut more money from public libraries they are also supporting large increases in "educational spending". Public libraries are an important part of the Department of Education, yet we continually get the crumbs that fall from the table of the rest of that Department.

Please contact your PA legistlators today, and let them know that this is unacceptable. Not only do public libraries serve as "everyone's college" for life, but they provide valuable information and literacy support to formal education in our schools and colleges. Indeed, library use continues to grow as the economy struggles. Urge your representatives to halt the disproportionate chopping of public library funding.

How the Public Uses Library Computers to Help Get Jobs

2010-06-28T09:52:00.000-07:00

Results from Gates Foundation National Study...

Seventy-seven million Americans age 14 or older---equivalent to one-third of our population---use public library computers or wireless networks, says a new study funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation titled: Opportunity for All: How the American Public Benefits from Internet Access in U.S. Libraries. Of this group, 40% search for jobs and fill out applications, 37% research health issues for themselves or their families, and 42% find help with educational research or completing homework assignments.

Another key finding identifies low-income adults as more likely to rely on the public library as their sole access to computers and the Internet than any other group.

Unfortunately, access to public library services in Pennsylvania is shrinking due to budget cuts at the state and local level despite the fact that millions of constituents see libraries as essential tools to connect them to opportunity.For the 2010-2011 state budget, the Pennsylvania Library Association urges Governor Rendell, State Senators and State Representatives to restore access to much needed library services for their constituents. Take Action Now.

House Tour

2010-06-28T09:47:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to everyone that participated in the house tour yesterday, from the generous home-owners, to the wonderful volunteers and committee members, to our sponsors Wolf Furniture and Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, to those that purchased advertising, and to everyone who went on the tour and/or bought raffle tickets. By the time all is said and done, we will have cleared almost $7000 with the event.

Thank you, one and all!

Have Fun and Help, This Weekend

2010-06-25T06:01:00.001-07:00

Tickets are still available for the Annual Chambersburg Library Home Tour this Sunday, June 27, from Noon to 5:00 p.m. Six awesome homes to tour, all for $20! Support your Chambersburg library and enjoy yourself at the same time! Tickets are at Coyle Free and Grove Family Libraries. Those libraries will be open during the tour and will probably have tickets to sell that day. However, when the ticket supply runs out, no more will be made, so get yours today to be sure.

Thank you!

Urgent Budget Message: No More Disproportionate Library Cuts!

2010-06-25T05:58:00.000-07:00

Your public library needs your help today!

Additional information from Pennsylvania Library Association:

Many times, where’s there’s smoke, there’s fire. Today, there’s a lot of smoke in Harrisburg which may mean that the state budget fires (negotiations) are heating up.

The situation remains fluid. Public pressure—and lots of it—can still make a real difference. Legislators face two huge budget challenges: a revenue shortfall between $1.2 and $1.5 billion, and election-year constituencies opposed to any taxes. In the absence of new revenue, balancing the next budget through program cuts alone, poses a real danger to existing programs.

Tell legislators and the Governor that their constituents who depend on libraries have already done more than their fair share through deep cuts in the current budget—the four library line items already were cut this year by 73%, 51%, 21%, and 3% respectively.

Tell Harrisburg: No More Cuts to Libraries. Read the update and send the Governor and your legislators an email here: http://www.capwiz.com/ala/pa/issues/alert/?alertid=15111281

Or call their office using PaLA’s online Legislative Directory. You can browse for names from the alphabetical list or type in your zip code to find your State Senator and State Representative. After you locate them, click on the “contact” tab above their photo to find their phone numbers (and mailing addresses, too.) Search now.

Here’s what we know as of mid-day on Thursday.
Political posturing is less intense indicating that negotiations are substantive and progressing.
News reports and “capitol snooping around” indicate that negotiators are zeroing in on an overall budget figure in the range of $28 billion. This is more than the $27.5 billion in revenue expected next year, but quite a bit less than the $29 billion requested in Governor Rendell’s original budget (a draft budget that proposed 1% and 2% cuts for library line items.) Clearly, a $29 billion budget would require significant new taxes and fees to be passed by the legislature.
If the final budget is $28+ billion, this figure would include some new taxes, most likely on natural gas extraction, cigars, and smokeless tobacco.
No specific line items are available during this sensitive and fluid stage of negotiations. Given the worsening revenue picture that created a $1.2+ billion hole in the budget, the potential for more programs cuts—including libraries—remains real.

Now is a key moment to speak up and urge all your friends to do likewise. Tell Governor Rendell, your State Senator, and your State Representative this one simple message: No More Cuts to Libraries. Library line items already were cut this year by 73%, 51%, 21%, and 3% respectively. Tell them that cutting libraries again is unacceptable, especially during this recession when libraries are busier and more needed than ever. No More Cuts to Libraries.

And while you’re online, join PaLA’s Facebook page, “5.6 Million Pennsylvania Library Card Holders Can’t Be Wrong,” here: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=123050057708453. Please share the link and invite your friends, too.

Thank you for taking action TODAY and spreading the word to your friends and family. Stay tuned for further updates as we gather more information.

Urgent!! Franklin County Public Libraries Need Your Help!

2010-06-23T04:57:00.001-07:00

Just in from Harrisburg (Pennsylvania Library Association)...
No More Cuts to Libraries; Speak Up Now!

The deadline to pass a state budget is just days away. The effects of the recession have created a hole in the state budget in the range of $1.2 billion. If we are to avoid a repeat of last year’s 101-day late budget, Governor Rendell and legislators must pass a new state budget by June 30, one that fills this revenue gap either through increased taxes and fees, or more cuts to state programs—or both.

Raising taxes and fees in an election year with the recession lingering is a tall order. This reality increases the chances that the next budget might be balanced primarily through budget cuts, a possibility that could threaten library funding once again. No specific library funding cuts have been mentioned but library supporters need to stay informed and engaged.

Now is a key moment to speak up and urge all your friends to do likewise. Tell Governor Rendell, your State Senator, and your State Representative this one simple message: No More Cuts to Libraries. Tell them that cutting libraries again is unacceptable, especially during this recession when libraries are busier and more needed than ever. Remind them that in this year’s state budget, the four library line items already were cut this year by 3%, 21%, 51%, and 73% respectively.

Send the Governor and your legislators an email here: http://www.capwiz.com/ala/pa/issues/alert/?alertid=15111281

Join PaLA’s facebook page, “5.6 Million Pennsylvania Library Card Holders Can’t Be Wrong,” here:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=123050057708453. Please share the link and invite your friends, too.

Here’s a chart detailing all library funding categories in the state budget: http://palibraries.org/associations/9291/files/State%20budg%20chart%20for%20website.pdf

Thank you for speaking out for libraries, and for spreading the word far and wide. Stay tuned for more updates as events change.

Libraries Open Today

2010-02-26T07:01:00.000-08:00

Dismayed by another school closing? Bring your family to the public library. Our libraries are currently open today, Friday, February 26.

Weather Closing Update

2010-02-11T09:48:00.000-08:00

Coyle Free and Grove Family Libraries in Chambersburg will be open 1:00-5:00 p.m. today. St. Thomas and Fort Loudon branches will open at their normal times, but may close at sundown. Alexander Hamilton (Waynesboro), Lilian Besore (Greencastle), and Blue Ridge Summit will be closed all day today. The Bookmobile and Book Buggy are not in operation today. No overdue fines will be charged for books due February 9-11 if they are returned by Friday. The parking lots and at Coyle and Grove have been plowed and salted for your safety.

February 11, 2010 Afternoon Opening

2010-02-11T05:40:00.000-08:00

Our staff is making every attempt to get in to open libraries by 1:00 p.m. today. The parking lots at Coyle and Grove will be plowed and salted by noon. However, please call ahead to make sure your local library is open, since local conditions vary and many staff members are snowed in at home.

There will be no overdue fines for today! Please stay safe!

Snowstorm Closing

2010-02-06T06:18:00.000-08:00

Please do not attempt to come to Franklin County Library System facilities today, Saturday, February 6, 2010. All the libraries are closed for the duration of the storm. For your safety, do not try to use the bookdrops to return items due today. Fines for today will be forgiven. Return your books early next week, once the snow has been cleared.

Our first concern is your safety, so we hope you enjoy this time at home curled up with a good book. Our online services, including reserves and renewals, continue to be available throughout the snowstorm.

2010 Update

2010-01-12T08:32:00.000-08:00

Thank you, one and all, for helping the library system meet its Annual Appeal goals for 2009. We cleared the $50.000 mark during the week before Christmas! On December 31 the 2009 Annual Appeal donations reached $50,705, $90 more than in 2008, even in this tough economy. Thank you very much for giving from the depth of your hearts. Truly Franklin County residents love their libraries!

While state funding has been cut to Franklin County public libraries, indeed to libraries all over the state, our vision for serving you continues to be foremost in our hearts and minds.

All of our full-service libraries have lost some staff, but we are developing in other ways. We are offering you more online databases and upgrading our website and library management system to make it easier for you to access the resources and information you need. Our libraries are incorporating music and movement into preschool storytimes through funding from the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) administered by the Office of Commonwealth Libraries. The program is locally coordinated by Lori Cooley, our new Book Buggy manager (717) 264-9863 ext. 202. We are working with Early Childhood partners to create the first Franklin County Infant/Toddler Learning Calendar. And wait until you see what's coming in 2010 as Chambersburg/Franklin County Reads!

Please bear with the interuption of some of our normal website services and the recent adjustments in library hours to make it possible for library staff members to be available to serve you. We are working harder than ever to give you the best service possible.

Budget Woes

2009-10-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

Well, the verdict is in and public libraries get cut, not just by the 20.1% in State Aid, but in statewide programs like our online databases and reference.

Please lend a hand. If you have thought about giving to the local library of your choice or Franklin County Library System, make the decision "yes" today to assist us with a $175,000 slash in countywide library services. You can mail a check to Franklin County Library System or use the "Donate Now" link on our webpage to make credit card contributions.

We want to provide you with the service that you desire, but losing $175,000 per year is tough! We will be making adjustments in our staff, hours, and programs over the next few months to deal with the problem. Hopefully, those cuts will NOT often be apparent to you. When they are, please bear with us. These cuts are not by our choice. We would actually like to expend services to meet growing needs.

Also, beginning in January, two changes in overdue fines will be implemented: the daily rate will be increased to $0.20 per day per item and a surcharge on postal mailings of overdue notices of $0.50 per letter. We encourage each borrower to register his/her email address with their home library to avoid the snail mail charge. The cost of snail mailing overdue letters is huge!

State Budget for Libraries

2009-09-30T08:36:00.000-07:00

Still no news on the PA public library subsidy! We did meet with local officials, donors, and advocates last Friday morning for breakfast at Grove Family Library. We were delighted with the turnout! Breakfast was sponsored by Panera Bread of Chambersburg.

Fifty people turned out to hear my state of the library message, tour the library or Book Buggy, and listen to Representative Kauffman read Our Library by Eve Bunting to a group of storytime preschoolers.

To advocate for your library, use the contact information on our main webpage. Thank you.

Upcoming Events -- Community Reading

2009-09-30T08:33:00.001-07:00

If you are interested in local or American history, don't miss author Bob O'Connor's talk about John Brown on Thursday evening, October 1, 7:00, at Coyle Free Library. Bob is coming from West Virginia to talk, sell, and autograph his books.

He will be returning November 9, to discuss Abraham Lincoln at Grove Family Library.

Upcoming Events

2009-08-31T10:27:00.001-07:00

Don't miss the following events with our partners:

A benefit showing of the movie "Freedom Writers" at the Capitol Theatre on the evening of September 8, which is Naitonal Literacy Day -- proceeds for Franklin County Literacy Council, admission $3.00

The Franklin County Community Services Expo at the Franklin Fire Company on Franklin Street, on Thursday, September 10 -- great door prizes!!

Budget Update

2009-08-28T11:17:00.000-07:00

Sadly, there is not much new information about state funding to public libraries coming out of Harrisburg. Each day brings us closer to additional cutbacks. So far, the largest reduction in Franklin County library operations has been a 10% cutback in expenses for books, audiovisual materials, and magazines. We are also letting our subscription to HeritageQuest (online) expire at the end of the year.

We continue to stretch every dollar until the print gets blurry. Next year, depending on the level of the state cut in funding, we may have to reduce staff and hours.

Meanwhile, payments on our federal grants continue to be delayed. The word is, "no LSTA payments until the Pennsylvania budget is settled." We are not exactly sure what one issue has to do with the other. That delay in payments has halted the teen collection development project at Grove Family Library and the system-wide preschool storytime music and movement project.

On a brighter note, I would like to thank everyone who has given to the Annual Appeal this year. At the moment, we have received more donations this year than we had at the same time last year. Thank you for digging deeper. With libraries busier than ever, we are really in need.

Please take a moment to advocate for public library funding with your favorite state official today. Thank you!

Special Projects

2009-07-30T09:11:00.001-07:00

The library system has been awarded grants from the national Institute for Museum and Library Services to develop Grove Family Library's teen collection and to introduce "In Motion @ Your Public Library" to all preschool storytime participants. The state government has decided to withhold our payments of federal grant money until the PA budget is resolved, delaying implementation of these two exciting projects.

Just to keep you up to speed, however, Lou Cowles and Grove staff have placed one order for new teen reads with their initial grant payment. So watch for the new items and visti their reorganized Teen Center.

We have appointed Lori Cooley the coordinator of the preschool "In Motion" project, ordered yoga mats from Dunhams at a nice discount, and prepared orders for program and collection materials to support the project. Hopefully, we will still be able to introduce the program this fall in most of Franklin County's libraries.

State Funding

2009-07-30T09:01:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy creating tools to help library supporters advocate (see the main webpage) that I haven't spared time to talk to you on the blog. At Franklin County Library System, we need all hands on deck to convince state legislators that public libraries are MOST CRITICAL to the public during economic crisis.

While we do not expect to avoid cuts completely, we are asking on behalf of our customers that our cuts be equitable to other critical human services. There has been repeated talk from the Senate of cutting public libraries by 50%, like was done in 2003. That would have a crippling affect on your library services, reducing our overall budget by 20%.

Your voice counts! Please let it be heard in favor of strong funding for Pennsylvania public libraries.

One Book Author and Illustrator Visit McConnellsburg

2009-05-15T05:15:00.001-07:00

Did you know that Florence and Wendell Minor, author and illustrator of If You Were a Penguin, visited McConnellsburg yesterday afternoon? Wendell shared his experiences growing up as an artist and illustrating books today.

Their visit was made possible through funding for the Pennsylvania "One Book, Every Young Child" program. Visit http://www.paonebook.org/ website today for more information about the program and activities connected with the featured book.

Chambersburg Spring House Tour

2009-05-11T11:02:00.000-07:00

Get your tickets now, while supplies last. For just $20.00 you can tour 6 wonderful houses in the Chambersburg area. Last year, this event sold out at 600 participants. This year tickets are available until we hit that mark.

Our main sponsor is Wolf's Furniture. There is a wonderful raffle connected with the tour with many great prizes. You do not need to go on the tour to purchase your raffle tickets.

Franklin County Public Library Week

2009-05-11T05:51:00.000-07:00

Next week, May 17-23, is Franklin County Public Library Week. County Commissioners took action Thursday to proclaim this a special week to celebrate our public libraries.

Fort Loudon is holding Cake Bingo on Wednesday, May 20, at 6:00 p.m. Play all games for a donation of $3.00. Last year this event had a fullhouse, Standing Room Only crowd.

Celebrate your support of libaries by advocating full and fair state funding for PA public libraries for state fiscal year 2009-2010.

The recent PA Senate budget proposal cuts public library subsidy by 50%, equaling about a potential loss in revenue to Franklin County's public libraries of more than $425,000 per year. This is about 1/5 of the libraries' operating budget! The last time we experienced such a state cut, the libraries lost staff members, hours of operation, and customers got many fewer new books and materials and experienced many delays in service. This would be terrible, when more people than ever are taking advantage of public library materials, services, and programs to improve their quality of life, their job skills, and educate their young children.

Take heart! You can make a difference. The budget is not final. Both Governor Rendell and the House of Representatives have a less radical approach to cutting library funding. But please contact your favorite PA politician today in support of fully funded public libraries. Contact information for our local legislators is available elsewhere on the http://www.fclspa.org/ website.

Thank you!

Early Learning Awards

2009-05-11T05:20:00.000-07:00

Franklin County Library System earned two Pennsylvania Library Association Early Learning Awards in April. We celebrate this achievement, especially since it was our county's first time to receive the prestigious honor.

Amanda Flagle and Rose Trombetta accepted the award for their 2008 "One Book, Every Young Child" outreach programs with preschools in the area. Bernice Crouse and representatives of our Head Start partnership received the award for our joint program assisting librarians, teachers, caregivers, and parents with meeting the social and emotional needs of preschoolers. Components of this program include a website and blog for those interested in the topic -- blog at http://www.frwholechild.blogspot.com/ , website at http://www.freewebs.com/frwholechild . This has become one of our busiest blogs.

Our winners were photographed with Wendell and Florence Minor, illustrator and author of PA's 2009 One Book, Every Young Child selection, If You Were a Penguin.

Head Start representatives are Terri Monn, Jennifer Rodgers, and Kay Witmer, who designed the Whole Child project with Bernice Crouse at a summer 2008 Governor's Institute.

FCLS Spring Newsletter Available

2009-03-02T06:27:00.001-08:00

Please check the library website or the desk at your local public library for the spring newsletter. It covers all the exciting things happening at libraries March through May.

Here's a few tidbits to tempt you...
Today is "Read Across America Day", Dr. Seuss's birthday!
We are participating in the ECECEP Children's Fair on March 28 at the Church of the Brethren
on South Fourth Street in Chambersburg
Kick-off of "One Book, Every Young Child" on April 1 in Harrisburg
Captain Coyle's Cook Off on April 17 at Coyle
Books 2 Eat Exhibit and Silent Auction at Grove Family Library on April 18
Friends of Grove Book and Bake Sale on May 8 & 9
Spring House Tour in and around Chambersburg on May 31
Great activities for youth and teens, including a video contest

Check out all the library events and information online on in a paper copy of the Lifelong Learning Almanac. If you would like to have it emailed or snail-mailed to you door, please contact dbigham@fclspa.org.

Libraries Busy During Recession

2009-02-17T14:38:00.000-08:00

In 2008, the public libraries in Franklin County circulated almost 45,000 more items to patrons than they did in 2007. Wow! We have always heard that people flock to public libraries when times are tough, but now our own statistics prove it.

There have been some great local and national news items about how busy the libraries are today, CNN Headline News, local Channel 27, the Record Herald, and Herald Mail to name a few.

One thing is for sure, that the public library is a great place to learn new job skills, to discover great bargains, and to enrich and entertain your life. We are here to help you through thick and thin.

Come inside to find great programs for all ages and to find a wonderful book, magazine, CD, or video with which to curl up during the cold days yet to come. Keep visiting our webpages for a myriad of resources your can access from your home computer, and don't forget that with your library card number and a PIN, you can now renew and reserve materials from your own computer, as well.

America's Most Historic Videos

2009-01-16T11:52:00.001-08:00

If you are between the ages of 14 and 24, want to have some fun using a DVD camcorder, and have any interest in life in America, please contact me at bdcrouse@fclspa.org, subject American Album.

If you are 50 or older and have a favorite story to tell from your childhood or young adult years, WE WANT YOU!

"An American Album" is a federally-funded project, under my leadership to share American stories in two ways:

100 book discussion totebags containing 10 copies of a book about American life, a discussion guide, and either an audiorecording or videorecording of the book, or a magnifying glass to be used by groups in Franklin and Fulton Counties for book discussions

a collection of DVD recordings of personal "oral" history accounts from people right here in Franklin and Fulton Counties.

Later this spring we will be holding a contest for the young people who record and edit these videos, 1st place will receive $50!

What's Old and New With Library Funding?

2009-01-16T11:25:00.000-08:00

The good news is that through your support, the foresight of our County Commissioners, and a lot of dedicated work by our library staff, you will not see any real cuts in library service until at least July. Pennsylvania did cut our January State Aid payment by 0.8% (about $6500), but that will not have significant ramifications, thanks to the 2008 0.2 mill increase in county libary tax.

However, it is the 2009-2010 Pennsylvania budget that most concerns us. With the economy continuing to slump, we may expect more cuts in state funding to public libraries by July. How much, we have no idea at this point. We are already receiving information about contacting our state and federal officials to let them know how important public libraries are to people in economic distress. A reporter from the Hagerstown Herald Mail is currently working on a feature article on that subject. Please stay tuned to our website for ways you can help your library survive the crunch.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-16T11:21:00.000-08:00

Have you noticed our new Mango Language resource on the webpage? You can learn new language on your online with your library card. 85 users have already taken advantage of this great resource in less than 2 months.

For the geneology researchers we are also adding Heritage Quest to our website.

You will notice some improvements on the website courtesy of our webmistress-librarian.

Buy Cool Gifts, Help the Libraries

2008-12-13T10:23:00.000-08:00

Did you know that you could purchase your Christmas gifts at one of your favorite libraries and help them raise money for their projects? Try out these wonderful and economic gifts:

Coyle pewter and stained glass ornaments

Grove cookbooks and clothing

Plus notecards and totebags at Besore, Grove and Coyle.

Everything is $15 or less. I also have some copies of Franklin County Reads Northwest Wilderness Adventures books for adults and teens left in stock. Contact me at bdcrouse@fclspa.org for the remaining booklist.

Updates, Updates, Updates

2008-11-08T04:39:00.000-08:00

FCLS's new Preschool Book Buggy has hit the road under the management of Lisa Skiles

12 FCLS employees received Community Emergancy Response Team (CERT) and CPR training in Septmber and October

Yesterday FCLS held in-service training for 60 library staff members from Franlin and Fulton Counties, including 3 hours of training for mandated reports of child abuse

Chambersburg/Franklin County Reads Northwest Wilderness Adventures has attracted more than 1400 people to programs and activities, but one focus of the program is literature -- Shelley Gill's visit was especially popular -- visit the "Recommended Reading" list on http://www.chambersburgreads.org/ today to select a book for purchase or library check out -- there will be book discussions on November 20 at Grove and Besore Libraries, on Call of the Wild and Jason's Gold, respectively -- sign up at the libraries today

I, and several other librarians will be in King of Prussia the first half of next week for the Pennsylvania Library Association conference. We always bring back wonderful ideas for new programs and collection development.

College Intern Needed

2008-07-25T19:09:00.000-07:00

I need one additional English or American Studies major to intern at Franklin County Library System in the coming fall or spring 2009 semesters. The intern would be working with me on book discussion guides for the "American Album" program, creating book discussion totes on American themes for groups of senior citizens, teens and adults. The intern might develop the discussion questions, lead discussions, assist teens in interviewing and recording senior citizens, and in editing videos clips for addition to the library collection.

If you or someone you know might be interested, please contact me at bdcrouse@fclspa.org.

Thank you.

Grove Phone-a-thon

2008-07-25T18:55:00.000-07:00

I would like to thank all the volunteers and staff who worked over the last 3 days to phone almost 1200 residents about donating to Grove Building Fund to help reduce the debt! I also thank Smith, Elliott, Kearns & Company LLC for allowing our volunteers to use their telephones for 3 evenings! I believe the event was a great success. Many people committed to donations. We will not know the monetary results until their checks start rolling in, because often they needed to consult with a spouse before deciding on an amount.

Early next week, everyone who received a call will receive a follow-up mailing. During the second quarter of this year, we received more than $37,000 in new commitments to Grove campaign. The Ssytem Annual Appeal is also doing well. Thank you donors, one and all. We are approaching the $600,000 level on the remaining principal in the Grove mortgage. We have come a long way from $1 million, ALMOST HALF WAY! We at the library understand that money is tight for everyone this year. We hope that finances will be better for everyone soon. Meanwhile, remember the libraries in your planned giving, so we can continue bringing the best in information, media, programs and services to the fine residents of Franklin County.

State Budget Brings Sad News for Public Libraries

2008-07-05T13:50:00.000-07:00

Today, I received the news that the 2008-2009 state budget includes only level funding for public libraries. In all fairness to the legislators, with the state of the economy, maybe it was too much to expect an increase this year. However, please remember that inflation is way beyond its normal mark this year. That means that all costs have increased significantly for our public libraries. Thanks to the increase granted by the County Commissioners last fall, we will be able to keep doors open and services rolling, I hope. The biggest question mark is about fuel and utility costs. They keep jumping!

Please remember your favorite library and give what you are able to annual and capital fund drives. Library services would suffer greatly without your generosity. Thanks to all who give money, time, and talents and to those who wrote to their legislators in support of public library funding. Without those letters and emails, we might have been one of the agencies to experience cuts.

New Head Start Partnership

2008-07-01T07:55:00.000-07:00

I am excited to tell you about a new project that developed out of my attendance at the Governor's Institute on Pre-K learning last week. Three teachers from Franklin County Head Start and I were on a team together, which decided to create a new online support group of early childhood educators, caregivers, and children's public library staff. We will be sharing information on a new blog at http://www.frcowholechild.blogspot.com/. Look there for information on the social and emotional wellness of preschoolers and ideas on how to apply that information to preschool education and parenting. We hope to eventually create a new webpage with links to great whole child resources online.

Walkers & Phoners Needed

2008-06-14T18:12:00.000-07:00

Do you enjoy taking a walk down a pleasant street? If you do, Grove Family Library needs your help on one comfortable morning or afternoon to disribute gift bags through a nearby neighborhood. 2,500 gift bags have already been delivered to doorknobs in Guilford and Greene Townships by wonderful volunteers. Another 500 bags are ready for your wlling hands and feet.

Do you enjoy chatting on the telephone? If you do, Grove Family Library can use your help for 90 minutes on the evenings of July 22-24 for their capital campaign phone-a-thon. Enjoy a party atmosphere while you chat.

To assist with either project contact Jill Myers (264-9863) or Amy Wertz (709-0282 x216). We would appreciate your help, which reduces the mortgage on Grove Family Library.

Summer Reading Is For Everyone!

2008-06-14T17:54:00.000-07:00

Catch the Reading Bug! I belong to the summer reading club. It's great! No matter what your age or what genre you enjoy reading, sign up today. Let's show the rest of Pennsylvania that Franklin County can read more books! If you register to read, and keep your record, you can win prizes while enjoying any book you want.

For teens and children, there are many exciting activities. Check the event calendar on our main webpage or visit the children's or teen's page of your closest library for details. Metamorphasize your life @ the library to fill those lazy days of summer or vacation.

Parents, did you know that participation in library reading and activities during the summer is the best way to keep your children's minds stimulated and ready to begin the next year of school? Some families have even discovered that the fun atmosphere of summer reading clubs in public libraries create a fresh love of reading in students who struggle during the school year. Encourage your child's participation by signing up yourself. Families who read together, learn together! Catch the Reading Bug, Together! You will never regret it.

Franklin County Public Library Week

2008-05-21T03:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Franklin County Commissioners presented library representatives with a proclamation naming this week -- May 18-24, 2008 -- Franklin County Public Library Week! This is the 3rd year of this event and the 10th year of Franklin county Library System's existence. The Commissioners cited the positive impact of local public libraries on protecting democracy and supporting lifelong learning across the county, despite recent irregularities in funding. They also indcated that response to the recent county library tax increase has been nothing but positive.

Since the Annual Appeal mailing went out today, this is a great time to celebrate public libraries county-wide by giving from your heart! While county library funding is at its all-time high, many community library needs remain uncovered, such as building renovations and the continued astronomic increases in utilities. County funds have brought us closer to bridging the gap, but NOT taken the Library System to where you (the customer) want it to be.

I'm So Excited and Honored

2008-04-12T05:13:00.001-07:00

Representing the Lions of District 14-T (Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, and Perry Counties), District Governor Frank Wedig of Harrisburg, honored the community service of Bernice Crouse, Executive Director of the Franklin County Library System. Mrs. Crouse, of Chambersburg, has worked tirelessly to expand and improve library services in the county. Lions Clubs International emphasizes recognition of citizens who make important contributions to their community, reflecting the Lions motto: We Serve.
He presented her with a framed print of the winning 2007 Lions International Children’s Peace Poster ("Peace Around the World") at a dinner hosted by the Chambersburg Evening Lions.

Volunteers Needed!

2008-03-28T02:09:00.000-07:00

This spring Franklin County Library System needs a number of volunteers to assist with a variety of special tasks in support local library and county-wide initiatives. Grove Family Library needs people to help with copying, stuffing, canvassing communities, making phone calls, and brainstorming new ideas. Coyle Free Library needs community members to serve on its Building Program Committee and Steeering Committe for a future capital campaign. Both Grove and Coyle need volunteers to help with the Spring House Tour on June 1.

The Library System needs volunteers to do behind-the-scenes preparation for reading programs, for children, teens, and adults, and to sort through book donations and plan a major book sale. We also need community respresentation on various committees.

Please contact Jill Snyder at 264-9863 or Erica Pryor at 709-0282 x209 for ideas of how your talents can be best utilized and to sign up as a volunteer, whether short-term or long-term.

All libraries can use volunteers to assist with special projects and weekly routines. So if you care, and have time to give, call today. We can use your help in a community close to you.

Career Planning?

2008-03-28T01:57:00.000-07:00

Beginning on April 1, 2008, you will be able to get a free token at a local public library to plan your career and its development online through a great service called ACT Discover! Your token will open a world of interest, ability, and values' inventories, related career ideas and information, and a database of education information to you. Tokens are available from Coyle Free and Grove Family Libraries in Chambersburg, Besore Memorial Library in Greencastle, Alexander Hamilton Library in Waynesboro, and Fulton County Library in McConnellsburg. Once registered to use the service, users may login from any computer on the Internet to continue their inventories and searches for information. Don't forget that the library website www.fclspa.org, has other wonderful free resources to help you choose and develop careers, select colleges and technical schools, locate scholarships and loans, and prepare for standardized tests.

Preschool Bookmobile Coming Soon

2008-03-02T04:12:00.000-08:00

This week Franklin County Library System purchased a lightly-used health-screening vehicle from Franklin County for a sealed bid of $20,000. After interior refurbishment, mechanical service, and repainting are complete, the 2002 specialty van with less than 2,000 miles on it, will hit the road as FCLS's new preschool bookvan.

We expect to be able to complete the work, and put the preschool bookvan into operation before the end of 2008, thanks to the support of Patricia and Michael Hurt, T. B. Woods, Altra Industrial Motion, Genstar LLC, the Rotary Clubs of Chambersburg, Greencastle, Mercersburg, and Waynesboro, and Franklin County government. $42,000 is in hand to pay for the van and refurbishment, with another $58,000 committed to the project over the next 4 years.

The goal of the preschool bookvan is to expand outreach service to additional preschool educational and childcare centers throughout Franklin County. If you represent such a facility and would like to be considered for the expanded service later this year, please contact Bookmobile/Outreach Librarian Amanda Flagle, at aflagle@fclspa.org or 264-9863, who is overseeing the project.

Federal Grant Approved for New Project!

2008-03-02T03:55:00.000-08:00

"An American Album", a new book discussion and local history project is coming to Franklin and Fulton County public libraries. The project, designed by me, was approved for $10,500 in funding under the Library Techology & Services Act from the Institute for Museum and Library Services, for implementation later this year.

American Album is a two-phase project: (1) creating discussion kits of paperback books and study guides on the theme of American History for local groups, then (2) stimulating local senior citizens and teens to work together to digitally videorecord oral history to DVD for local library collections.

During creation and implementation of "Blast From the Past", an American History public library program targeting the families of elementary students, we discovered the plethora of personal memories that came from grandparents attending the programs, their personal stories of World War II, the Great Depression, and much more. Sadly these stories are being lost, as grandparents and great-grandparents forget or pass away.

Phase one of the project will stimulate book discussion groups to ponder their own American History. Phase two will bring teenage techies together with other generations to learn about their heritage, while creating a permanent record of it.

If anyone out there is or knows any teenagers, senior citizens, or adults who may be interested in helping with this project later in 2008 and early 2009, please contact me.

VHS Loans Free!

2008-03-02T03:49:00.003-08:00

Beginning Monday, March 3, all VHS viceocassettes will circulate for free from Franklin County Library System facilities. No more rental fees for VHS recordings! They will also check out for 2 weeks instead of 2 nights or 1 week. This applies to both entertainment and educational VHS recordings and to educational DVDs. Rental fees will only apply to entertainment DVDs.

This is a direct resut of the recent county increase in public library funding. Thank you, Franklin County Commissioners and taxpayers!

Overdue fines on videos will remain $0.50 per day, so please return them on time.

Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss!

2008-03-02T03:39:00.000-08:00

While Dr. Suess (Theodore Seuss Geisel), author of many wonderful books for early readers, is no longer with us, we continue to celebrate his birthday with "Read Across America Day". This afternoon, representatives of Franklin County Library System are joining employees of the Chambersburg Target Store in commemorating Dr. Seuss by reading some of his wonderful books. You may be aware that Horton Hears a Who is being released as a feature film in theaters near us this month. Even those who do not know Dr. Seuss intimately may be aware that one of his most famous stories, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, has been in movie form for several years.

My personal favorite is Green Eggs and Ham, which I hope to read this afternoon between 1:00 and 3:00 pm. at Target. Hope to see you there. And don't forget to "Read Across America" today, and all week!

Expanded Hours at Grove Family Library, March 3

2008-02-20T08:15:00.000-08:00

We have been listening to you! Beginning Monday, March 3, Grove Family Library will be opening its doors at 9:00 a.m. The new schedule is Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 9:00-8:00, Wednesday and Friay 9:00-6:00, and Saturday 9:00-4:00. The increased hours were enabled by the 2008 increase in county library tax. Thank you, taxpayers! Thank you, County Commisioners!

Writers and Artists of All Ages Wanted

2008-02-20T08:01:00.000-08:00

Like to write poetry? Like to create posters? Want to tell what the library has done for you? Franklin County Library System is holding its first Poetry, Essay, and Poster Contest now! Preschoolers can enter a coloring and naming contest for the future Preschool Bookmobile. The deadline for entries is March 15. Prizes will be awarded at your local library and county level. Winners will be announced April 12 at during the Books2Eat exhibit at Grove Family Library. Stop at your local public library for contest rules and your entry blank. You can make this a special time of celebrating libraries. The Books2Eat exhibit will usher in the other festivities of National Library Week.

Library Ideas

2008-02-09T11:39:00.000-08:00

Female Detective Book Club?

I have been thinking about starting a book discussion group at St. Thomas Library featuring women sleuths like Stephanie Plum (Janet Evanovich), Kay Scarpetta (Patricia Cornwell), Joanna Brady andAli Reynolds (J.A. Jance), Alexandra Cooper (Linda Fairstein), Temperance Brennan (Kathy Reichs), Maura Isles (Tess Gerritsen), Tess Monaghan (Laura Lippman), Anna Pigeon (Nevada Barr), Sharon McCone (Marcia Muller), Kinsey Millhone (Sue Grafton), Irene Kelly (Jan Burke), and the Women's Murder Club (James Patterson, et al.). Would anyone be interested? I could probably hold it on a Monday or Thursday afternoon or evening or on a Saturday morning or afternoon per month. We would generally use paperback copies to keep the price down for participants. So most months would cost less than $4.00 per book. Some copies of each title would be available as free loans form the library system. The group would select the author/series/title for each session. We could start with suggestions made here. Please let me know if other libraries along the Route 30 corridor or other days and times would be preferred. I will try to be flexible to respond to the greatest interest.

Library News

2008-02-09T09:55:00.000-08:00

Did you know that:

Grove Family Library will be open more hours starting March 3?
Besore Memorial Library's new director Laura Greenlee is taking up her post when Barb Schuit leaves on February 22?
Coyle Free Library is offering Spanish for English-speakers on Fridays at 1:00 p.m? Class size is limited, so contact Raphael at 263-1054 to register.
Alexander Hamilton Library recently hired a new children's librarian, Emily Sharp
Plans for a new preschool bookmobile are under way with financial help from our friends at T.B. Woods, Altra Industrial Motion, Genstar, and the Rotary Clubs of Franklin County?
Governor Rendell released his 2008-2009 budget recommendation with a modest increase for public libraries, still not enough to earn Franklin County public libraries the State Aid increase to match the recent increase by the County Commissioners?