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.

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.