Saturday, December 27, 2003

Outreach Opportunities

The library has been privileged to meet and work with several groups of new library users over the past months. It has been an opportunity to showcase the library and its services to children who might not otherwise have the chance to visit a library, attend a storytime or work with library resources.

Weekly, women and children from a local shelter have visited the library for storytime, crafts and songs. For some it has been their first opportunity to be in a library, for others it has provided a much-needed respite from their current situation. Children of all ages have enjoyed the program - from toddlers to teenagers.

Students from Harambee Preparatory School in northwest Pasadena have also visited the library for stories, songs and crafts. Their grade level visits provided them with an understanding of library services and environment. They will return for continued library training.

Each month, the Children's Librarian visits a local class with a special storytime. These students from the Recreation Department DayCare and Stoneman School's Special Day Class look forward to her visit.

The library staff is working to reach beyond the borders of the library and take our program to those who might otherwise not enjoy the wonders of the library.

DVDs a Success

The DVD collection continues to be a success at the library. The library now owns more than one hundred and seventy-five titles on DVD. So which titles are the most popular? Recently we checked the circulation statistics for the DVDs. The third most popular DVD is Stuart Little, which has been checked out 50 times. This film stars Michael J. Fox as Stuart the young mouse with human qualities who is adopted by the Little family based on the classic children's book by E.B. White.

The second most popular DVD is The World Is Not Enough, checked out 54 times.

Pierce Bronson stars in this recent James Bond action film. "Some men want to rule the world... Some women ask for the world... Some believe the world is theirs for the taking... But for one man, The World Is Not Enough!!!"

And the most popular DVD at the Library is Shanghai Noon, which has been checked out 66 times! The old west meets the Far East in the first kung fu western ever. Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson star as an unlikely duo who partner up to save a Chinese Princess (Lucy Lui) who has been kidnapped from the Forbidden City in China and brought to the United States.

Stop in and check out these or other titles from our DVD collection. DVDs cost $2 and you can keep them for 4 days. The fees help support the library. Don't see your favorites? Stop in, call, or email your suggestions for DVD titles you would like to see in the Library.

Finding Someone on the Internet

Have you ever wanted to locate someone using the Internet, but had no idea how to do it? Here are a few starting points to help you on your search.

First, try looking up him or her in the phone book. Many telephone directories have been digitized and put up on the Web. Try searching SuperPages.com [www.superpages.com] from Verizon. This site offers nationwide Yellow and White Pages searching, reverse look-up, map-based searching and "Global Directories", links to telephone books from around the world.

Want to search several telephone directory databases from a single interface? Try TheUltmates.com [theultimates.com]. Scott Martin of Brady, Texas constructed this Web site that offers twenty-five Internet services from one location.

What if the one you seek is not listed in the phone book? Try searching public records at KnowX [www.knowx.com]. Use their "Ultimate People Finder" to see in what city the person you are looking for owns property. Need more details? Pay from $2.95 to $19.95 to see the full public record entries.

If you need more help, please call the Reference Desk at the San Marino Public Library: (626) 300-0777.

Monday, December 22, 2003

Library to Close for Holidays

The Library will be closed on December 24 and 25 and again on December 31 and January 1 in observance of the holidays. Otherwise, the Library will be open regular hours.

Rose Pruning Workshop

On Saturday, January 17, 2004 at 9:30 AM, Ron Serven, of the San Marino Parks Department will conduct a free workshop on rose pruning in the San Marino Public Library's auditorium and patio. The Public Library (not to be confused with the Huntington Library) is located at 1890 Huntington Drive in San Marino. Reservations are not necessary. For more information, call (626) 300-0777.

Ron Serven of the San Marino Parks Department returns for the 11th annual rose pruning workshop. The popular program is free and will acquaint each attendee with everything one needs to know to prepare their roses for the optimum display in the spring and beyond. The workshop is held in the Public Library's auditorium and on the patio, weather permitting. Ron makes it interesting and easy, and he is great about answering questions about roses. Afterwards, those who attend will look forward to a morning or afternoon in the garden, and they will have confidence in their technique.

Reservations are not necessary, but those who arrive a bit early will get the best seats.

Friday, December 19, 2003

More Reading Fun!!!

How would you like to see Princess Classics presented by Disney on IceSM on opening night? Well the San Marino Public Library is giving children of all ages the opportunity to do just that. Stop by the library and pick up a reading requirement form. Bring the completed form back to the library on Saturday, December 20th between the hours of 12-4 p.m. and receive a voucher that can be redeemed for a free ticket to see Disney on Ice on opening night. For more information, please stop by the Children’s Reference Desk at the public library.

Holiday Fun at the Public Library

The San Marino Public Library will be hosting a “Holiday Movie and Craft Day” on Saturday, December 20th. Children of all ages are invited to drop by the library between the hours of 12-4p.m. to enjoy a special holiday movie presentation. There will also be craft tables set up so that children may make and take home some very special craft creations. For more information, please contact the Girls & Boys Department at 626-300-0777.

Saturday, November 15, 2003

Tolls Take First "Naming Opportunity" for New Library
Martha Tolles, Mayor Lin, Carolyn Crain, and Roy Tolles
Martha and Roy Tolles view a color rendering of the new San Marino Public Library along with Mayor Lin and Library Director Carolyn Crain.
Martha and Roy Tolles have made the first "Naming Oppportunity" gift of the Library Capital Campaign. The Tolles have selected to sponsor the new windowscape in the Children's room. The window, which will face West Drive, will feature the Beatrix Potter stained glass scenes embedded in the current Girls' and Boys' Room window.

Thursday, October 30, 2003

Rare Book Auction

A rare book auction will be held on Thursday, November 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the San Marino Public Library at 1890 Huntington Drive.

A special addition to this year's auction is a 1970 to 2000 collection of Zamorano keepsakes and limited editions. The portfolios will be available for inspection one hour prior to the auction.

Approximately 100 lots will be offered, including many editions autographed by well-known writers including Lyndon B. Johnson, William Jennings Bryan, Upton Sinclair, Maya Angelou, and Bob Hope.

A number of portfolio-size art, architecture, and photography books will be offered.

Books at auction are donations from San Marino and local area estates. All proceeds go to the Library. For further information, call the Library at (626) 300-0777.

Wednesday, October 22, 2003

Local Artist Supports San Marino Public Library Building Fund

Artist Margueriette and Betty Brown
Eva Margueriette and San Marino City Councilwoman Betty Brown hold a color rendering of the new San Marino Public Library.
Renowned local artist Eva Margueriette held a watercolor demonstration at her studio in San Marino on October 16 in support of the fund to build a new city library. Attending were residents Debbie Eggleston, Dana Marevitch, Carole Pennington, Lina Hatfield, Laurene Chang-Brockett, Barbara Millar, Carlye Cordner, Wendy Greenleaf, Lisa Sloan, and Jack MacLeod.

Friday, October 17, 2003

Meet author Janet Wong

Janet Wong, award-winning author and poet, will be at the San Marino Public Library on Saturday, November 15th at 3:30 pm. Ms. Wong has recently published two new books, Minn and Jake, a story about friendship, and Knock on Wood: Poems About Superstitions.

Ms. Wong is a native of Los Angeles who now lives in the Seattle area. She has appeared on the Oprah show, at the White House Easter Egg Roll and at the National Book Festival. A graduate of Yale Law School, she left her career as a lawyer to write for children and teens. Some of her award-winning books are, Buzz (an LA Times Best Book of the Year), Apple Pie 4th of July (Charlotte Zolotow Award), and Behind the Wheel: Poems About Driving (an ALA/YALSO Quick Pick for Reluctant YA Readers).

During her one-hour library program, Ms. Wong will talk about her two newest books, and she will also talk about writing for publication. The program is suitable for ages 5 and up. Ms. Wong will be available to autograph books after her presentation, and some of her books will be on sale at the library. Refreshments will be served after the program. So come join us at the library for a wonderful family event!

Thursday, October 16, 2003

City Leaders to Attend Oct. 28 Bond Meeting

The California Public Library Construction and Renovation Board will meet in Sacramento on Tuesday, October 28, 2003, to deliberate and make grant award decisions for the second cycle Library Bond Act applications. If San Marino's application is approved, the State will award nearly $7 million dollars toward the library building fund. The San Marino City Council, City Manager, School District Superintendent, Library Trustees and the City Librarian will all travel to Sacramento to attend the meeting.

Monday, October 13, 2003

Spooky Magic at the San Marino Public Library

Can't wait for Halloween? Well the San Marino Public library has something for you: A frightful night of "Spooky Magic" with magician Mark H. Wurst. Join us on Wednesday, October 22nd at 6:30 p.m. for an evening of creepy crawly tales and fearsome feats of magic. All ages are welcome to the free event sponsored by the Friends of the San Marino Public Library. Children may also wear their Halloween costume, if they dare!!! For information on this frightening program or any other activities in the Girls & Boys Department, please call (626) 300-0777.

Food for Thought Reading Program

Monday, October 13th marked the beginning of the In-N-Out "Food for Thought" reading program. This program will run through November 22nd and is designed to get children 2 through 12 into their local library to check out and read more books. For every 5 books read and recorded on a reading log, received from the public library, a child may earn an "Achievement Award". This award can be redeemed for a free hamburger or cheeseburger at In-N-Out. To participate, a child or a parent needs to come into the library to fill out a registration card and pick up a reading log. Children too young to read may participate by having a parent or guardian read to them. Each child may earn up to three award certificates during the program, while supplies last. For more information on this program, please contact the Girls and Boys Department at the San Marino Public Library.

Celebrate the New Artemis Fowl

The San Marino Public Library will be actively recruiting human intelligence agents for the Lower Elements Police (LEP), an elite band of Fairy police. New agents are urgently needed to keep a lookout for Artemis Fowl, the 12-year-old criminal mastermind and subject of a best-selling series of books by author Eoin Colfer.

Fowl's latest exploits are recounted in the best seller Artemis Fowl: The Eternity Code. In order to better understand his ruthless mind and monitor his actions in the San Marino area, we need many more aboveground intelligence agents. All recruits will participate in Fowl knowledge training, including Fairy code translation, and will be eligible to receive a grand prize which incorporates Fairy technology. Sign-ups will begin on October 27, and Recruitment Day will be on Tuesday November 4, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the San Marino Public Library.

Teen Advisory Board

On October 1, 1999 the San Marino Public Library's Teen Advisory Board was launched on a wing and a prayer. The task at hand for the fourteen attendees of that first meeting was to come up with an official name for the newly consolidated and upgraded Young Adult area, so that a neon sign could be fabricated in time for the dedication of the area two weeks later. This they did, and "The Corner" has been a focal point for the needs and interests of Middle School and High School students ever since.

When asked for suggestions, they came up with thirty different ideas, some workable-some not. At that first meeting it became clear that the main skill called for in running the board would be, to listen.

The current board, now in its 5th year of existence boasts 30 members. We still meet every other Friday in the library auditorium and, given their busy schedules, typically 15 to 18 young people attend any given meeting.

Four of the original attendees from 1999 are still active members, as well as younger brothers and sisters of several long time members. Many others are in their third year of service. Currently, there are 12 High School seniors, three 7th graders, and just about everything in between. Interests vary widely, but everyone has something to say.

In addition to recommending books, magazines, videos and DVDs to be purchased, board members plan and implement programs, and do special volunteer projects. In 2000-2001 they were able to take advantage of grant money available through the California State Library to fund a series of programs and to produce a brochure of Favorite Teen Books at the San Marino Public Library. They have written letters of support for the new building, drawn up plans for their "ideal' homework center, provided labor for Book Shoppe sales and patiently filled out innumerable surveys. They are bright, passionate, opinionated, and always good for a reality check before we commit to purchasing materials teens supposedly will like. Young adult circulation has continued to rise significantly each year since the board was founded.

From Print into Film

This fall, over a dozen new feature films will be released that are based on books available for check out at your San Marino Public Library.

September saw the premier of Under the Tuscan Sun, based on the book by Frances Mayes. Now Mystic River, from the novel by Dennis Lehane, is in theaters.

Before the end of the year, be sure to see Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World directed by Peter Weir, based on the Jack Aubrey stories by Patrick O'Brian. Girl With A Pearl Earring, taken from Tracy Chevalier's novel, is set for an autumn release as are films adapted from John Grisham's Runaway Jury, Cold Mountain by Charles Frasier, Timeline by Michael Crichton, House of Sand And Fog by Andre Dubus, and Big Fish by Daniel Wallace. Brian Moore's book The Statement will be released to the big screen soon as will adaptations of A Home at the End of the World by Michael Cunningham and The Human Stain by Philip Roth.

At Thanksgiving, feast on The Cat in the Hat based on the story by Dr. Seuss. And on December 17, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, the final film in Peter Jackson's epic dramatic trilogy based on the books by J.R.R. Tolkien, opens in theaters.

Visit the library today to read your favorite films!

Monday, September 15, 2003

Reading Days with UCLA

The San Marino Public Library has once again partnered up with the Metropolitan Cooperative Library System (MCLS) and the UCLA Athletic Department to offer children of all ages a chance to participate in another fantastic reading program, Reading Days with UCLA. To participate children need to come into the Public Library and pick up a reading log. The reading log will be used to keep track of the 10 books children need to read to complete the program. Once the reading log is completed, bring it back to the library and receive a pass, good up to 4 people, for a UCLA sporting event. Events include women and men's soccer and women's volleyball games. This reading program is designed to encourage good reading habits among children and will run from Monday, September 15th - Saturday, November 15th.

Get Your Life Stories Here!

The Library has a new electronic resource that can be used from home computers or inside the library. Current Biography Illustrated contains excellent biographical information about all kinds of well-known people, including politicians, writers, actors, scientists, sports stars, and other people in the news. Each entry is about 2 to 3 pages, and they are very readable, almost like a magazine article, and yet, very fact-filled. They cover the childhood and younger years of the person, and then describe important events and achievements in their adult life. There is often a brief interview that reveals a more personal side of the person, and there are usually one or more photos as well.

If you have Internet access, go to the San Marino Public Library's web site at sanmarinopl.org and click on "SMILES", then click on the button that says "Current Biography- Outside Library." Type in your library card barcode in the white box, and you're ready to go. When you are in the library building, you don't have to do this last step. You can search by the person's name, of course, but you can also search by birthday, profession, country of origin, gender, and other criteria. Get biographies of all of the people who were born on July 1, or biographies of famous mathematicians. The usual way to search is by an individual's name, such as Bill Gates or Katherine Hepburn. Just type the name in where it says "search for" and then click on "start." When you get your results, you can print the biography or email it anywhere in the world.

Current Biography Illustrated is a great resource for students and for adults. The biographies are very interesting, fun to read, and not just for scholars. This product is very easy to use, but should you need help, call or ask at the reference desk.

Reading LARGE

Back in February, a busted steam pipe flooded the library basement and forced us to shuffle our large print books in with the rest of the collection. That was terrible because if a person suffered from low eyesight, he or she could never find the odd large print book among the many regular ones.

Not to worry though, because that problem has been solved. During our closed week at the end of August, one of our tasks was to tease out those large print books from their hiding places and re-consolidate that collection.

Now, fans of 16-point type can gather along the back wall behind the fiction section to browse the large print collection once more. Both fiction and non-fiction large print books are there, together again, all in one place.

2003 Printz Award Winners Announced

Most people have heard of the Newbery Award for Best Children's Book, and the Caldecott Medal awarded to illustrators of picture books, but there is also the Michael L. Printz Award for Excellence in Young Adult Literature.

The Printz Award, established in 2000, is relatively new. It is awarded annually for a book that exemplifies literary excellence in young adult literature. Three books are given Honor Awards as well. The award is named for a Topeka, Kansas school librarian who was a long-time active member of the Young Adult Library Services Association and a tireless advocate of quality literature for teenagers.

This year's Printz Award Winner is Postcards from No Man's Land by Aidan Chambers. Postcards from No Man's Land tells the story of seventeen-year-old backpacker, Jacob Todd, who has come to Amsterdam as part of a trip to honor his grandfather, a soldier who died in a nearby town in World War II. He meets Geertrui, a Dutch woman who had cared for his wounded grandfather. Her teenage World War II story is interwoven with Jacob's own unfolding coming of age story. The alternating narratives of their two stories intertwine, merging into a memorable voyage of discovery.

The three Honor Award books named for 2003 are Hole in My Life by Jack Gantos, My Heartbeat by Garret Freymann-Weyr, and The House of the Scorpion by Nancy Farmer. All four of the titles mentioned are available in the Young Adult section of the library.

Thursday, August 21, 2003

Recycling Company Donates Profits to San Marino Public Library Building Fund
Magrdichian gives check
Campaign Co-Chair Nick Stonnington and Library Director Carolyn Crain accept check from Library Foundation donor Dennis Magrdichian.
Local businessman Dennis Magrdichian of Burrtec Waste Industries, Inc. [www.burrtec.com] has donated the proceeds from his company's recycling efforts at the City's July 4th celebration to the San Marino Public Library Capital Campaign. The funds raised will go toward the construction of a new library building, which is scheduled to begin in July 2004.

Monday, August 18, 2003

Summer Reading Program Wrap-Up

The Summer Reading Program was a huge success at the San Marino Public Library. Over 630 children registered for the summer reading program "It's a Jungle Out There...Swing Into Your Library". The YA program also had an astonishing number of participants, with over 150 teens signing up to "Get Wild...Read" The San Marino Public Library would like to congratulate all of the 188 children who read 20 books during the summer and completed the youth program. Those children who finished the program received a special reading award, a certificate from the Rainforest Café and a gift certificate from the San Marino Toy and Book Shoppe.

The annual summer program concluded on Saturday, August 2nd with a magic and puppet show performance by Wonderworld Puppets. The winners of various contests held throughout the summer including a poetry, drawing and name the rainforest bird and monkey, were also announced.

The staff at the San Marino Public Library would like to thank all the children and teens that participated in the San Marino Public Library Summer Reading Program. We would also like to thank all the "Ticktockers" from the National Charity League who donated a countless number of volunteer hours. We also want to thank all the businesses that helped support the Summer Reading Program through their donations of reading incentives and prizes. Your participation played a crucial role in the success of the San Marino Public Library's Summer Reading Program. Last but not least, we would like to especially thank the Friends of the San Marino Public Library. Their hard work and dedication make it possible to continue the Summer Reading Program every year.

Winning Kids

Name the Character:
Bird, "Mr. Peck": Jack Basalari
Monkey, "Macarena": Michelle Floyd

Poetry Contest:
Rachel Linton
Michelle Floyd
Chanica Veranunt

Drawing Contest:
Alec Chang
Ashley Chuck
Sasha Netchaev

Juice It Up Cup and Certificate:
Kate Benuska and Jonathan Shue

"It's a Jungle Out There" T-shirt:
Jacques Shih and Jack Basalari

Rainforest Stuffed Bird:
Andrew Liu

Hollywood Video Coupon:
Victoria Chung, Nate Glenn, Elizabeth Shelburne, Shane Fox, and Christian Lee

Pasadena Ice Skating Pass:
Jake Agajanian

Star Athletics, 1 Month of Free Classes:
Alya Lamba, Aaron Tran, Grace Zhung, Ben Hubsch, Larissa Phillips, Jennifer Binley, Matthew Lin, Kyle Ezold, Matthew Higdon, and Elizabeth Hannan

San Marino Toy & Book Gift Certificate:
Jacqueline Chang, Andrew Zong, and Megan Martinez

Shakey's Pizza Gift Certificate:
Hillary Santoso, Thomas Krimmel, and Jordan Agajanian

Bahama Lanes:
Sarah Higdon, Tasha Lam, Justin Lan, Jay Davis, Luke Benuska, Lindsay Saldebar, Britney Yip, Christopher Wa, Paul Thvedt, and Jonathan Lee

Magic Mountain Pass:
Leslie Yick
Teen Winners

CD Player:
Karen In

Jones Bicycle Certificate:
Nathaniel Yuan

Tower Records Gift Certificate:
Hannah Lu, Jody Sheu, Emily Liao, Cheryl Yeung, Rebecca Moreton, Carla Yee, Tiffany Liu, Caroline Liai, Sean Fisher, and Henry Fung

Aquarium of the Pacific Passes:
Alicia Kuch and Citlalli Sandoval

AMF Bowling, Extreme Bowling:
Samantha Basalari, Jonathan Wong, Sara McNight, and Meagan Brazil

Los Angeles Zoo Pass:
Michelle Lui and Melissa Dundas

Pacific Theatre Pass:
Stephanie Su, Alice Pan, Vicki Lau, Charles Lin, Jefferson Chen, Nathalie Barfield, and Christina Lin

Gene Autry Musuem Pass:
Eulanca Liu, Michael Schultheis, and Laura Adamzs

Vroman's Bookstore Gift Certificate:
Nicholas Hwang, Diana Zhang, Kimberly Chen, Valerie Yuan, and Philip Tyler

Rick's Drive-In Gift Certificate:
Tina Lertharakul, Taylor Greenleaf, and Coco Raaether

B-Man's Teriyaki & Burgers Gift Certificate:
Andrea Binley, Karen Lim, and Arianna French

AMF Bahama Lanes Bowling Certificate:
Chelsea Javier, Sagar Pujara, Emily Fisher, Brandon Tso, Ileana Borunda, Alison Chang, Chris Lau, Scott Tsangeos, Andrew Tsangeos, Stephanie Law, and Aphinaya Narayanan

Participants Who Completed the Children's Summer Reading Program:
Charlie Agajanian Jake Agajanian Jordan Agajanian
James Ang John Ang Noor Atighi
Leann Barth Jack Basalari Kate Benuska
Luke Benuska Jennifer Binley Rosemary Boutin
Sam Boutin Will Boutin Vanessa Chan
Alec Chang Christina Chang Jacqueline Chang
Michelle Chee Kelly Cheh Brandon Chen
Brenda Chen Connie Chen Janice Cheng
Ruyi Cheng William Cheng Elliott Chou
Victoria Chung Megan Cootauro Ariel Cristi
Erin Cristi Sabrina Cristi Curtis Cuccia
Sean Cuccia Chaz Davis Jay Davis
Emily DeLorimier Lauren Dietzel Matthew Dietzel
Anika Ezold Kyle Ezold Nicholas Farewell
Justin Farshidi Eden Faure Sean Fisher
Charmayne Floyd Michelle Floyd Katherine Flynn
Shane Fox Arianna French Michelle Gandawidjaja
Pippin Garet Joshua Gilmore Tyler Gilmore
Joey Glenn Nate Glenn Rachel Glenn
Mindy Gottschalk Cameron Grannis Annika Greenleaf
Olivia Greenleaf Tiffany Gu Victoria Gu
Megan Halkett Elizabeth Hannan Tommy Hannan
Matthew Higdon Sarah Higdon Maya Ho
Ben Hubsch Will Hubsch Alexander Hung
Anthony Hung Christopher Hung Bonnie Jin
Daphne Kan Jasper Kan Jessica Kemp
Michelle Ko Stephanie Ko Thomas Krimmel
Blake Kunitake Leigh Kunitake Paige Kunitake
Katherine Laco Fiona Lam Tasha Lam
Alya Lamba Nikita Lamba Justin Lan
Aaron Lee Christian Lee Grace Lee
Jonathan Lee June Wai Lee Justin Lee
Andrew Lin Ashley Lin Bill Lin
Christina Lin Keenwei Lin Matthew Lin
Andrew Liu Janice Liu Jonathan Liu
Thomas Liu Brandt Lukas Kara Lukas
Eric Ma Megan Martinez Chloe Mason
Jacquiline McGreal Michelle Miller Rebecca Morris
Ashley Muranaka Paul Myint Manu Navjeevano
Shirleen Ng David Olivar Jordan Olivar
Matthew Omori Maya Omori Sean Panajotovac
Avni Parikh Kristen Park Everett Philips
Larissa Phillips Danny Preston Steven Preston
Nicky Rayyis Cameron Roberts Evan Roberts
Brian Rogers Thomas Rogers Kimberly Rolan
Lindsay Saldebar Hillary Santoso Elizabeth Shelbourne
Jonathan Sheu Rebecca Shieh Jacques Shih
Kendall Smiley Carrie Smith Peter Smith
Jonathan Su Nanami Suzuki Andrew Tang
Justine Tang Eric Thvedt Paul Thvedt
Aaron Tran Tiffany Tran Andrew Tsangeos
Scott Tsangeos Freddy Tsao Natalie Tso
Amanda Ung Nicholas Ung Han Vi
June Wai Wai Andrew Wan Camille Wang
Sophia Wang Valerie Wang Devin Weakland
Tyler Weakland Bree Wernicke Christopher Wu
Esther Wu Wyatt Wu Brian Yao
Benjamin Yee Leslie Yick Britney Yip
Joycelyn Yip Vivian Yip Bethany You
Christopher Zaro Vincent Zhu 
Community Support

Each year local businesses donate goods, services, and cash, which the library uses to provide prizes and reading incentives for its Summer Reading Programs for both children and young adults. We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the following businesses for their generous support of this year's programs.

"Get Wild...Read"- Young Adult Reading Program Donors:
  • Jones Bicycles
  • Aquarium of the Pacific
  • AMF Bahama Bowling Lanes
  • The Los Angeles Zoo
  • The Autry Museum
  • Pacific Theatres
  • Vroman's Bookstore
  • Ricks Drive-In, Alhambra
  • B-Man's Teriyaki & Burgers
"It's a Jungle Out There...Swing Into Your Library"- Children's Reading Program Donors:
  • San Marino Book & Toy
  • Rainforest Café
  • Hollywood Video
  • Pasadena Ice Skating Rink
  • Shakey's Pizza
  • AMF Bahama Bowling Lanes
  • Magic Mountain
  • Juice It Up

A special "thanks" is extended to Metropolitan Cooperative Library System (MCLS) and the Friend's of the San Marino Public Library for their unwavering support of the summer reading program year after year.
Home Swell Home

Look around your home. Wouldn't it be fun to spruce it up a little? To add a dash of spice and style to the décor? Head on over to the library, because we have just purchased over thirty new books dealing with all aspects of interior decoration.

Explore the theory of design with Patterns of Home by Max Jacobson or 77 Habits of Highly Creative Decorators by Sarah Lynch. Or, get right down to brass tacks with Impatient Decorator by Glenna Morton or Lynnette Jennings Straight Talk on Decorating. Investigate color and texture with Annie Sloan's Color Schemes, The Paint Effects Bible by Kerry Skinner, or Chuck Fischer's Wallcoverings. Perhaps you will emulate the California Colonial or the Red Tile Style of America's Spanish revival architecture documented in books by Elizabeth Jean McMillian and Arrol Gellner.

Redoing the kitchen or the bath? We have Dream Kitchens by Wanda Janowski and The Bathroom Idea Book by Andrew Wromer, among others. How about some new curtains? Turn to The Encyclopedia of Window Fashions. Redecorate on a shoestring with Trade Secrets from Use What you Have Decorating by Lauri Ward, or go all out with Sheer Opulence by Nicholas Haslam.

Whatever your tastes and budget, the San Marino Public Library now has the interior decorating books for you!

Friday, August 15, 2003

New Dieting Books in the Library

Hey! Those holidays are on the way! Maybe you want to lose a few before those big feasts start piling on the pounds. We've recently bought some books to help you on your way. Chow down on some recent classics such as Sugar Busters!, and of course Dr. Atkins' Age-Defying Diet by that late great weight-loss guru.

For gals, there's Look Hot, Live Long by Christine Lydon, and Gary Heavin's Curves. We've got Dharma Singh Khalsa's Food as Medicine and The Everything Nutrition Book by Kimberly Tessmer for those who want to improve their health.

Weight Watchers weighs in with Weight Watchers Coach Approach: How to Motivate the "Thin" You. And finally, here's our favorite: The Little Book of Dirty Diet Tricks: 365 Ways to Lose Weight or Look Like You Did, Without Losing Your Mind Along the Way by Carole Bodger.

Tuesday, July 29, 2003

Local Luminaries Lobby for Library

On Tuesday, July 22, San Marino Mayor Matthew Lin, Councilmembers Emile Bayle and Betty Brown, Legislative Liaison Suzy Crowell, and City Manager Rob Wishner traveled to Sacramento to lobby state representatives to support the partial funding of a new library building. These state funds are available under the Library Bond Act of 2000 that was created by the passage of Proposition 14.

They met with Assembly representative Judy Chu and Library Bond Act Manager Richard Hall. Hall noted that competition for this second round of funding was stiff as applying libraries from around the state have asked for about five times the amount of funds available.

The San Marino contingent also met with members of the California Public Library Construction and Renovation Board or their deputies. They delivered over 100 letters of support for the new library written by San Marino citizens, along with an executive summary outlining the deficits of the current library building and plans for the new one.

The California Public Library Construction and Renovation Board will announce the winners of its Second Cycle Grant Awards in the fall. More information about the Library Bond Act of 2000 can be found on the Office of Library Construction web site: http://www.olc.library.ca.gov.

Wednesday, July 16, 2003

The Animal Guys Bring Rainforest Animals to the San Marino Public Library

On Saturday, July 12, 2003, two representatives from The Animal Guys, Andreana Wagner and Veronica Alonzo, brought a menagerie of animals from the world’s rainforest to a program to celebrate this year’s Summer Reading Program theme “It’s a Jungle Out There".

Animals displayed included an Emperor scorpion from Africa, a South American two-toed sloth, and an albino Burmese python.

Andi and Veronica wrestle an albino Burmese python

Monday, July 14, 2003

Sheriff Baca Visits the Library

On Friday, July 11, Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca toured the San Marino Public Library.

“It looks like a Rube Goldberg machine!" Baca exclaimed when he saw the mid-century air-conditioning system and the ancient boiler that provide climate control in the building. Mayor Matthew Lin presented Baca with a certificate of appreciation and showed him the plans for the new library building.

SHERIFF

New library supporters William and Barbara Steele, Marie and Paul Crowley, Mayor Matthew Lin, City Manager Rob Wisher, Ivy and Richard Sun, Lora Smith and Myra Frank surround Sheriff Baca and present him with a certificate of appreciation.

Internet Classes Continue

The Library’s Internet classes continue in the next couple of weeks. This Saturday (July 19) there will be a class on using search engines, such as Google and Yahoo. If you have used the Internet a bit, but you have trouble finding what you want, this is a good class for you. It starts at 9:00 AM and runs until 10:30 AM. If you can’t make it to this class, the same session will be offered on Saturday, August 2, again at 9:00 AM.

For beginners, there will be one more “Introduction to the Internet” class on Saturday, July 26 at 9:00 AM. This class is ideal for those who are not familiar with the Internet, or even computers. If you have dabbled a bit, but want to know more, this class may help you to put it all together.

Please call the Library to sign up for any of these classes. The phone number is (626) 300-0777.

Are You Fluent in Japanese?

The library has a small collection of books in Japanese, and in the past few years there have been several donations of additional books that may be of interest to Japanese readers. Since the Library does not have any Japanese staff members who speak Japanese, it has been difficult to process these newer books. If you are fluent in Japanese and can help the library staff select from these donations and also translate and transliterate titles into English, the Library could use your help. Volunteers are being sought to help get these books on the shelf for people to read. If you are interested, please call Rex at (626) 300-0776.

New Audio Books on CD

Summer is finally here, and if your vacation travel plans include driving, you’ll definitely want to visit the library to look over the new additions to our collection of audio books on CD. We have the latest non-fiction releases by best-selling authors Bill Bryson and Pat Conroy, as well as Devil in the White City by Eric Larsen, and Jarhead: A Marine’s Chronicle by Anthony Swofford. There are several new fiction choices as well, including Back Story by Robert B. Parker, Blessings by author and columnist Anna Quindlen, and King of Torts by perennial best-selling author John Grisham. So whether you’re driving across the country or just to the beach and back, our new audio books will help make the trip more enjoyable.

Thursday, July 10, 2003

More Summer Fun at the San Marino Public Library

Children of all ages are invited to drop by the public library on Tuesday, July 22nd anytime between 12-4p.m. to “make and take" rainforest themed crafts. Children will also be entertained by our feature presentation: “Tropical Rainforest: A Tribute to the Majesty of Rainforests".

The Los Angeles Zoo will be at the public library on Thursday, July 24th at 3:00 p.m. to present: “Rascal’s Recycling Show". Rascal is a raccoon and his job is to help teach children the importance of recycling. Join us for a fun filled afternoon as Rascal battles Max Meany, one of the craftiest litter- bug around. All ages are welcome and refreshment will be served.

Saturday, August 2nd marks the end of the summer reading program. To help celebrate the accomplishments of all the participants, the San Marino Public Library will host a “It’s a Jungle Out There" Final Party. All registered participants, who have read at least 5 books this summer, received an invitation to this special event.

The afternoon promises to be fun-filled, with entertainment being provided by Wonderworld Puppets. Ric Morton and his puppet friends will present: “Animal Tales of the Rainforest". This interactive puppet, comedy, and magic show will surely entertain as well as educate.

The winners of the contests, including the drawing, poetry and “name the character" will be announced. We will also be holding a raffle drawing for all the participants who successfully completed the reading program. And as a special bonus, every child who attends the Final Party will receive a surprise. So be sure to swing into the library on Saturday, August 2nd at 2:00p.m., because it’s a jungle out there.

Thursday, July 03, 2003

Recycle for the Library: Local Businessman Donates Profits to New Library Fund

Local businessman Dennis Magrdichian of Burrtec Waste Industries, Inc. [www.burrtec.com/] will donate will donate the proceeds from his company’s recycling efforts at the City’s July 4th celebration to the San Marino Public Library Capital Campaign. The funds raised will go toward the construction of a new library building, which is scheduled to begin in July 2004.

Friday, June 20, 2003

Assemblymember Judy Chu Shows Support for New Library

On Friday, June 20, State Assemblymember Judy Chu visited the San Marino Public Library. In this photo, she shows her support for plans for a new San Marino Public Library building. Former San Marino Mayor Emile Bayle, City Librarian Carolyn Crain, current Mayor Matthew Lin and Vice-Mayor Bob Twist look on.
Judy Chu shows support

Wednesday, June 18, 2003

ARE YOU READY???

Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix by J.K. Rowling promises to be the most spine-tingling book so far in the series. And it is arriving at the San Marino Public Library Saturday, June 21st. Will you be ready to join Harry on his next adventure? Do you need to brush up on your magic before you dive into Book #5. If so, stop by the public library and pick up a Readiness Review Form. This form will test your knowledge on the previous H.P. books and show if you are truly ready to take on Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix . Be one of the first ones to successfully answers all the questions on the form and receive a free Harry Potter sticker.

Summer Reading Program Kick-Off

Monday, June 16th was the first day of registration for the annual Summer Reading Program at the San Marino Public Library. To help get the reading program, "It's a Jungle Out There, Swing Into Your Library", off to a great start, the Public Library will hold an official kick-off party on Saturday, June 21st at 2:00 p.m. Entertainment for the day will include Rainforest, Recycling and Magic presented by magician, Mark H. Wurst.

Children of all ages and their parents will be delighted with an interactive comedy and magic show with a hilarious jungle theme. This spectacular show is full of audience participation and includes an important educational message. Space is limited so please come early.

This fun filled event promises to be an afternoon of fun, music, surprises and magical give-a-ways. This program is offered free to the public and is sponsored by the Friends of the San Marino Public Library.

Changes in the Chinese Books

A big change is underway with the Chinese books collection at the Library. In the past, the Chinese books have been separated into Fiction and Nonfiction, with no order within those two big categories. The library has hired a part-time cataloger, Dorothy Wong, to improve the situation by giving Dewey Decimal call numbers to the non fiction books, just as is done with the English books, and helping to re-arrange the fiction books so that all of the books by the same author are side by side on the shelves. These changes may seem like a simple matter, but the combination of strong bilingual skills and in-depth library know-how are essential to arrive at a consistent, usable system.

Dorothy Wong is just the right person for this job, having recently retired from working for many years at the Los Angeles Public Library. Much of her time was spent in the cataloging of books for that huge library system. As with many retirees, she is busier now than she was when she was employed fulltime. She has another part-time job, which consists of cataloging a large private collection of children's books. Dorothy works behind the scenes at the San Marino Public Library in the relocated processing room, and she has been a delightful person to work with.

Dorothy has cataloged most of the new Chinese books, and she is now in the process of giving new call numbers and subject headings to the books that were already in the collection. For at least a few months, there will be two Chinese book sections, those in the old arrangement, and those in the new system. Over the months, the new system will win out and the old arrangement will finally disappear. Meanwhile, new books will be added on an ongoing basis.

It should be noted that ten loyal volunteers have been helping to select books and they do a great deal of work to catalog the Chinese books, and they will continue to do so by helping Dorothy. Most of the new books on the shelf were purchased with funds from the Chinese Club of San Marino. Chinese readers should check out the new improved system and the new books. And please make suggestions for future purchases. And consider becoming a volunteer yourself! The library needs someone who can help translate from English to Chinese and has access to a word processor. If you're interested in helping, call (626) 300-0776 and ask for Rex.

Internet Classes Are Back!

You've wanted to learn about the Internet, but you've been putting it off. Well, now you're in luck! Learn about the Web in air-conditioned comfort this summer. We will be offering "Introduction to the Internet" classes on two Saturday mornings, July 12 and 26, and on Friday, July 11, from 9 a.m. to 10:30. Slightly more advanced students will want to sign up for our "Using Search Engines" class, offered on July 19 and August 2, also from 9:00 to 10:30. The classes are free and will be offered in the Library.

Sessions fill up quickly so be sure to call to reserve your spot today: 626 300-0777.

The San Marino Public Library’s Book Group for Adults

Here is a reminder about Club READ, the book discussion group that meets at the library on the second Monday of each month at 9:30 AM. The group has existed for some ten years now, and those who attend have enjoyed talking about books and being introduced to new reading ideas. Club READ offers a great chance to share your thoughts about the books you have been reading and to become friends with fellow readers. Participants get the chance to hear the reactions of others who may have a different perspective on a book, opening up new ideas. Learn about books you didn’t know about, and find out which ones you might want to avoid. They are a friendly bunch, and the meetings are informal. Call the Library at (626) 300-0777 for more information or to be contacted by one of the members.

Monday, May 19, 2003

URGENT: Book Shoppe Manager Wanted

Amy Stephens, who has devoted countless hours to the Book Shoppe, has given her six-month notice of resignation. Amy has been the cornerstone of our successful Shoppe. She is in the library basement at least twice a week sorting and pricing donated books. Then she participates in moving cartloads of these books upstairs and displays them on the shelves and tables in the auditorium-Book Shoppe.

We are so lucky to have her well-trained eye; she knows a first edition from a 15th edition and a classic from a remainder. However, Amy would like to add some new adventure into her life and would like to train someone else or even better, several other volunteers for this job. If you enjoy books, this is a rewarding job. And the Book Shoppe is essential to the Friends organization, as it brings in between $1200 and $1500 each month.

Please consider volunteering for this task. Amy will provide on-the- job training and the library staff will aid as necessary. Please call the library if you have questions.

Pre-Summer Reading

Now that income taxes are out of the way, perhaps you have a little more time for reading. Following are a trio of nonfiction titles that have been on the bestseller lists in recent weeks that might be worth a look. Queen Noor's Leap of Faith: Memoirs of an Unexpected Life is the fascinating story of the former Lisa Halaby, American-born woman who married Jordan's King Hussein in 1978. She served as Queen of Jordan until Hussein's death in 1999.

If you have seen her on the talk shows, you will know that she is an articulate, intelligent woman who understands both the Arab and American cultures. Her story has been compared to The King and I. Don't expect a lot of gossipy, lurid stories, but you will get a close look at her adjustment to instant royalty, and learn a great deal about King Hussein's efforts to find peace in the Middle East, not to mention a view of her own opinions on the search for peace. This book is highly recommended.

Pre-Summer Reading

Now that income taxes are out of the way, perhaps you have a little more time for reading. Following are a trio of nonfiction titles that have been on the bestseller lists in recent weeks that might be worth a look. Queen Noor's Leap of Faith: Memoirs of an Unexpected Life is the fascinating story of the former Lisa Halaby, American-born woman who married Jordan's King Hussein in 1978. She served as Queen of Jordan until Hussein's death in 1999.

If you have seen her on the talk shows, you will know that she is an articulate, intelligent woman who understands both the Arab and American cultures. Her story has been compared to The King and I. Don't expect a lot of gossipy, lurid stories, but you will get a close look at her adjustment to instant royalty, and learn a great deal about King Hussein's efforts to find peace in the Middle East, not to mention a view of her own opinions on the search for peace. This book is highly recommended.

Capital Campaign

The Capital Campaign to raise funds for the new library continues into the organizational phase. We are thrilled to report that Nick and Amanda Stonnington and Richard and Ivy Sun have an agreed to serve as the Co-chairs for the Capital Campaign. Guiding the Suns and Stonningtons is Bob Bason our fund raising consultant. Katharine Seibert is our Campaign Coordinator. Many of your friends and neighbors will be joining the campaign organization as we build the necessary committees to make this campaign a success.

If you want to participate, please contact Carolyn Crain at 626 300-0778.

Grant Application Update

On March 26, 2003 the City of San Marino delivered a second cycle application for a California Reading and Literacy Improvement and Public Library Construction and Renovation Grant to the California State Library, Office of Library Construction for funds to build a new San Marino Public Library. The schematic design plans are identical to the plans submitted in the first cycle application of June 2003. Estimated construction costs have increased only slightly from $5,385, 000 in the cycle one application to $5,522,000 in cycle two. The estimated total project cost in cycle one was $11,114,125; in the Cycle Two application the estimated total project cost is $11,486,405. If the city were to be awarded a grant in cycle two, the amount received would be $7,035.651. The major factor for the increase in estimated costs are the escalators required by the grant application.

The City Council has approved a contract with Fields Devereaux Architects and Engineers (FDAE) to proceed to the next level of design with the Design Development phase. City Council has also approved funds to support a Capital Campaign to raise funds necessary for the new library building. If the Library receives a grant the Campaign goal will be in about $3 million. If the City is not awarded a State grant, the Campaign goal will be $5.5 million. The City is looking forward to a public private partnership to engage the community and raise the necessary funds locally.

New Staff Selects Shelf The San Marino Public Library now has a shelf dedicated to "Staff Selects" in the Girls and Boys Room. Staff Selects are books, videos and audio books that members of the library staff have read or viewed and can recommend to our library patrons. The new Staff Selects shelf includes Picture Books, Beginning Reader, Juvenile Fiction, Young Adult and Non-Fiction titles. The library also continues to feature Staff Selects for adults in the Main Room, next to the New Books. These also cover a wide variety of subjects and genres that may be of interest to our readers.

Monday, April 14, 2003

A Bag for Two Bucks Here's a reminder about the upcoming Friends of the San Marino Public Library Patio Book Sale. The sale will be held on Saturday, May 3, and it starts and ends earlier this time around, so be sure to get a good night's sleep on Friday. The hours are 8:00 AM to noon, and you will find the best deals around on books of all kinds. "A bag for two bucks!" will be the cry of the volunteers who staff the sale. Only two dollars will cover the price for all the books you can jam into a shopping bag. You will not only take away plenty of good reading, but you will also be supplying the Library with vitally needed money for brand new books. Join the fun, but don't come too late. And stick around for the program on Chinese American History! For more information, call (626) 300-0777.
Chinese Immigrant History in Pictures and Words Here is some more background about the free upcoming program featuring Icy Smith, author of The Lonely Queue on Saturday, May 3 at 1:00 P.M. at the Library. Her slide presentation, as well as her book, shows scenes from local Southern California history and places them in context of the changes occurring in the United States. Early Chinese immigration to the United States was fueled by the need for labor in the massive task of building the Transcontinental Railroad in the 1860's. When the railroad was completed, there were great numbers of Chinese men who were competing for jobs in the United States. The Chinese Exclusionary Acts in the 1880's and the 1890's were attempts to limit the continued Chinese immigration, and the Chinese population actually dropped between 1890 and 1910. Locally, as described in Icy Smith's book, the Los Angeles Chinatown of the 1920's was located largely where today's Union Station and the Santa Ana Freeway are now situated, along Alameda Street. The thriving Chinese community was moved to its current location in the mid 1930's, and a new development, China City, was also constructed on the southern edge of New Chinatown. Built along the lines of a Hollywood-inspired tourist destination, China City was quite popular. Unfortunately, it was struck by two fires, and it was not rebuilt after the second fire. Learn more about the important role that Chinese immigrants have played in the Southland. This presentation is sponsored by the San Marino Public Library and by the Chinese Club of San Marino. Copies of the book will be available to purchase and have autographed by the author. The program is free, but please reserve a seat in advance. For reservations and information, call (626) 300-0777.
Donations Sought for Reading Program "Get Wild...READ!" is the rainforest related theme for this year's summer reading program for teens. The library is currently soliciting donations for the program. Over 175 local teens participated in last summer's program, reading an average of 16 books each. For every book read, participants receive a chance ticket that can be entered into a drawing for any one of a number of prizes. Prizes are provided through the generosity of the local business community. If your business or organization can help us by making a cash contribution, or by donating products, services, or gift certificates, please contact Lynda at the library, at (626) 300-0777. Prizes in the past have included CD players, music CDs, free hair products and services, books, theatre tickets, sports equipment, complimentary food, lessons, and amusement park admissions. All donors receive full credit on publicity materials.
Our Own Library Hero! The San Marino Public Library is proud to have a hero on our staff. He is Second Lieutenant Kenric Wu, a member of the 640th Military Intelligence Battalion of California Army National Guard. In his civilian life, Lt. Wu acts as Page Supervisor for the Library. Yet, when his Country needs him, he reports for duty to his post at the JFTB (Joint Forces Training Base) in Los Alamitos, California. Currently, Lt. Wu acts as Rear Detachment Commander for his battalion, the majority of which has been deployed to Kosovo. In May, Lt. Wu and his support platoon will travel to Germany to repair and maintenance army vehicles, many of which are returning from service in the Middle East. Lt. Wu is a native son, having graduated from San Marino High School in 1992. He received his bachelor's degree in Business and Public Administration from the University of California in 1998. He completed his Officer training courses last year and received his Federal Commission in the United States Army in August. The Library is pleased to support our troops, especially our own personal Second Lieutenant!
New Library Assistant Joins Staff The San Marino Public Library is pleased to announce the addition of Library Assistant Paula Vannucci to the staff. "When I was a kid, I fell in love with two things: movies and books," says Vannucci. Indeed, until recently, Vannucci worked as a film and television editor. "Looking way ahead, I realized that there were very few sixty-five year old television editors, so I decided to change my career path." Vannucci plans to enroll in the San Jose State University library program at Fullerton. "I love to work in a learning environment," she notes. Also, she says that she enjoys the change from the film industry: "It's nice now to help people and have them thank you." Vannucci hails from Whittier where she lives with her husband and two children.

Friday, March 21, 2003

National Library Week 2003: Celebrate @ your library April 6-12 is National Library Week, a time to "Celebrate@your library" and rediscover all that our nation's libraries and librarians have to offer. National Library Week 2003 marks the third year of The Campaign for America's Libraries, a multi-year public education campaign sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries across the country to speak loudly and clearly about the value of libraries and librarians in the 21st century. More than 10,000 libraries in all 50 states are being reached by @ your library, The Campaign for America's Libraries. National Library Week is a great time to see what's new at your library and how your librarians can direct you to the information you need when you need it. We encourage all of our community members to come check us out. For more information, including library hours, call (626) 300-0777 or see the library's Web site at sanmarinopl.org.
Books On Disc Collection Expanding The library, while continuing to add to its collection of Books on Disc for adults and children, is now starting to offer this increasingly popular format in the Young Adult area. Young Adult offerings will be geared toward classics and required reading for Middle School and High School age children. Some of the titles available are: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbit Whirligig by Paul Fleischman Night by Elie Weisel A Separate Peace by John Knowles Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

Thursday, February 20, 2003

Library Infrastructure Fails Again The San Marino Public Library was without water or Internet access on Wednesday, February 19 because of a broken water pipe that flooded the basement. On Tuesday evening, February 18, just before midnight, library janitors placed an emergency call to the San Marino Fire Department in response to water flowing into the basement from the crawlspace that runs under the first floor around the perimeter of the library. Firemen secured the situation by shutting off the water, unplugging the downstairs computers, and pumping most of the standing water off of the floor. In the morning, plumbers climbed into this small tunnel to clamp off two leaks in corroded, asbestos-coated water pipes. A "recovery" company arrived to dry the basement. When they plugged in their fans, the library circuit breakers tripped. Electricians had to be called in to rewire the basement to supply enough power for the recovery team to begin their work. On Thursday morning, the pressure valve on top of the library water boiler, a mid-century behemoth that supplies heat through steam pipes, burst, flooding the basement again. Repairmen arrived to reveal deep corrosion throughout the pipes within the boiler's heart. A replacement valve for the antique heating unit has been ordered from New York from the only vendor in the country that can still supply the part. Though the plumbing will be patched, expensive recovery work take longer to complete. Water that flowed from the crawlspace was contaminated with detritus from the last half-century, including animal fecal matter and remains. This effluent soaked into the carpet and under the asbestos floor tiles of the library basement, creating an environment ideal for the growth of deadly molds. Staff works in the basement every day to put new books on the shelves, so the tiles and carpets may need to be replaced in order to make that work area habitable again. The presence of asbestos in the floor tiles means that this repair work will have to conform to stringent abatement standards.

Heart of the library boiler is clogged with fifty years of corrosion.

Tuesday, February 18, 2003

Council Appropriates $427,000 for Library Building Project The library advocacy community is enthusiastic about Council support to move forward with the library building project. Specifically, Council agreed to provide $7000 for revisions required for the State Library Bond grant application; $245,000 to contract with the architectural firm of Fields Devereaux to complete the Design Development phase of the project; and $175,000 to continue the momentum of the Capital Campaign. Council requested a specific goal for the campaign and would consider requests for additional campaign funding if the library is able to raise $2 million by December 31, 2003. Library Director Carolyn Crain made a staff presentation which included a brief look at the attributes and benefits of the planned library: designated homework area, community meeting room, local history room and book shop space; a library designed specifically to meet the needs of this community. Myra Frank, President of the Library Board of Trustees, explained that the current facility is more than rundown, its systems and infrastructure are failing and in many cases unsafe. "The city of San Marino deserves a first class library and the city should move forward now because the expense of building a quality structure will not decrease". Diana Nixon, Friends of the Library member, recalled her visits to the San Marino Library as a child, where she was introduced to the joys and pleasures of reading. As a parent, she desires that her daughter find the library an attractive and joyful destination; however, she described the library now as shabbier and less spacious than the library she grew up with. She went on to describe some of the faults of the 52 year old current building; it was built to hold 50,000 books and now holds over 90,000 books plus computers and collections of new formats that take up more space. The tables and chairs, part of the original 1951 furnishings, are squeezed close together making it difficult for staff and patrons to traverse the library. Lora Smith, resident and library employee, handed Council petitions with over 500 names of library users who support a new library and she described the inadequate emergency escape from the Processing room located in the basement. Initial funding for the Capital Campaign was provided by the San Marino Public Library Foundation. The Foundation hired Bob Bason of Charitable Funding Services Inc. (CFS) to conduct a campaign assessment survey, which was completed in May of 2002, and to organize the campaign. The added funding will allow CFS to compose the case statement and assist in the continued organization and training of volunteers to who will assume the actual tasks of the campaign. A Campaign Coordinator will be brought into the picture to direct the day-to day activities of the campaign. Council is providing funding for revisions to the State Bond grant application in order to apply in the second cycle and for the design development phase of the building project.
Queen and Princess Visit the Public Library On Saturday, February 8th the San Marino Public Library was honored to host a special Royal Tea Storytime which included a visit by representatives of the Tournament of Roses Queen Alexandra Wucetich and Princess Katherine Berber were on hand to read princess stories to the captivating audience. These stories included, "The Witch Who Wanted to be a Princess" by Lois G. Grambling and "The Princess and the Pea" by Alain Vaes. Afterward, the royal representatives answered questions and posed for photographs with those in attendance. Each child in attendance was presented with a special gift of a royal crown or tiara as a memento of this special occasion. The afternoon ended with refreshments being served on the patio, while Queen Alexandra and Princess Katherine mingled with the attendees. An enchanting conclusion to a Royal Event!
Rose Princess Berber and Queen Wucetich
Rose Princess Katherine Berber, left, reads while Queen Alexandra Wucetich listens at the Princess Storytime at the San Marino Public Library
Not Enough Harrys? Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix will be arriving soon. The fifth installment of J.K. Rowlings popular series will be available at the San Marino Public Library Saturday, June 21st. The library is requesting the public's assistance in deciding on how many copies we should purchase. 5, 10, 20, or more??? We would love to hear your opinions. Email us at smpl@ci.san-marino.ca.us and tell us what you think.
Get Your Fridge Magnets Here! Which days is the library open late again? What is their web page address? If you find it difficult to remember these details, come on into the library and buy a San Marino Public Library refrigerator magnet. For only fifty cents, you can have this information, along with the library phone number, stuck right to the face of the fridge. Buy a pad of library sticky notes for the same price. Both items are available at the Circulation Desk.

Monday, January 20, 2003

Tax Forms Now Available at the Library It is that time of year again. The San Marino Public Library is here to help you by distributing tax forms both federal and state. Whatever tax material the government sends us, we display just inside our front doors. Still, we may not have everything you need. What about that obscure Form 8863 that allows you to file for an education credit? Or maybe we ran out of that popular Schedule A. What would you do then? Turn to the Web, of course. Here are some sites to help you get those taxes done in a hurry. IRS Forms and Publications [http://www.irs.gov/formspubs/index.html] Can't find that federal tax form you need? Forget going to the library for copies. Go online and download your forms in PDF format. California Franchise Tax Board: Forms, Booklets, and Instructions [