Reading in Colfax

Book Club

2012-01-30T15:52:00.000-08:00

Need to get out of the house and have some adult conversation? Like or should we say love to read? Then why not come down to the library and check the book club out?

We meet every third Thursday of the month at 5pm here at the library. We are a friendly bunch of fellow readers and would love to have a fresh voice to discuss books with.

We just finished reading "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot and the next book we will be reading is "Me Talk Pretty One Day" by David Sedaris.

So come join us for some adult lively conversation.

If you have question, please call us here at the Colfax Public Library and speak with us.

Galloping Into Story Time

2012-01-26T13:12:00.000-08:00

Wednesday mornings always bring lively kids and big, bright picture books here to the Colfax Library. We have a great time reading stories and flexing our creative muscles doing crafts of all kinds. Some of our recent masterpieces have included marshmallow snowmen, paper plate angel Christmas tree toppers, dream catchers, and this little equine. Each Wednesday we follow a theme, and last Wednesday it was all about horses. Families with small children are welcome to join us - we start at 10 a.m. and we'd love to have you join us!

Food For Fines

2011-11-16T04:59:00.000-08:00

November 1 - December 1, 2011

During the entire month of November, a library customers can have their library fines waived by donating one non-perishable food item for every one dollar in fines.

Please consider taking part of this wonderful program. Food will be donated to the Caring Ministries of Colfax.

Thank you to the Colfax Elementary School 5th Graders for making this wonderful 3-D poster!

Full House

2011-10-31T12:41:00.000-07:00

We had a full house for our Halloween party last Thursday night, 27 children and 12 parents. All the little children came in costume. I especially liked the little lady bug!

Can you guess what this little boy came dressed as? How about a tornado!!!! Mom made sure to incorporate a few items that got caught up in the storm! This little boy's mom is actually our new Youth Services Librarian......very original costume Charis!

Oh my, and I must not forget to mention our volunteer, "June Cleaver" who helped put this program together for our library. Thanks Kristi for all your help.....now back to ironing and baking those yummy brownies!!!!!

Kids Halloween Program

2011-10-05T14:14:00.000-07:00

Thursday October 27th @ 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Children ages 3 -8 years old are welcome to attend a Halloween program just for kids! Come and enjoy story book readings about Halloween tales, make fun craft projects and even make an edible project to eat that night or take home! Kids are encouraged to attend in costume. No registration necessary and this program is FREE.

Not Closing......

2011-09-15T15:04:00.000-07:00

New Update: The library will be open next week due to the general contractor's work schedule. At the last minute, it was decided not to take out the large east library window since the new windows have not arrived. The new windows are not expected until mid October....yikes! Honestly, this is making me nervous since we had 32 degrees this morning. Let's hope the cold weather doesn't settle in early, otherwise the library will have some chilly days in mid October. If anything changes again, I'll be posting!!!

Lisa

Under Construction Again

2011-09-12T12:05:00.000-07:00

The Colfax Public Library will be closed September 19-23, 2011 due to asbesto abatement and new windows. There is a possiblity of re-opening sooner in the week, so please check our blog, webpage or Facebook for daily updates.

Shelves Are Done

2011-08-30T13:54:00.000-07:00

The shelving project was completed last Friday, and the library staff was ready to put all the juvenile books back on the new shelves. It truly was an exciting moment for all of us here at the Colfax library.

First thing we realized was, yikes, we have more book space! After getting all the books back on the shelves, we ended up moving and re-moving the books around to even out the shelf space. You know, the wood stain blends in so well with the existing wood that most people who come in to the library don't even realized we replaced the shelves! Don't you think they would notice the strong varnish smell??? Well, we librarians notice it every day! Can't wait until the smell subsides.

Happy books, happy librarians.....that sums it all up!

They Finally Arrived

2011-08-24T11:40:00.000-07:00

The shelves arrived this morning, 7 am! This is the first time I've gotten to see the new shelves. Wow.....so nice and the wood grain is beautiful! It took about an hour to move all all six shelving units into the library. Our carpenter (and his wife) did a great job slowly moving the units into the building, one by one.

I couldn't stand to look at that bare wall yesterday, so I'm very happy today to see all the richness of the wood return. Honestly, there is no comparison of metal shelves verses wood shelves. Wood is number one with me, and has always been the theme for our historic Colfax Public Library.

Luckily, we were able to move the Internet computers about 12 inches so our carpenter had plenty of room to work without bumping into customers. If customers don't mind the mess and noise, they are welcome to come in and use the public computers. Not the most ideal situation, but it works for now.

This is just phase one of our changes happening here at our library. The electricans started upgrading the electrical in our entire building this week. The windows on the third floor level will soon be uncovered and the windows will be reglazed, with storm windows added. Our library will also have the front (east) window totally replaced and the side windows (south) will all be reglazed, asbetos removed and storm windows added. No more cold winter drafts for the librarians to deal with! I'm also hoping the new window work will solve the problem with lots of wasps that find their way into our library in the fall and spring.

Lastly, the building will receive a new roof, which will help with water leakage during the winter/spring. Old buildings are wonderful, but they also come with lots of problems!

Construction Has Begun!

2011-08-23T13:24:00.001-07:00

Good-bye old ugly radiators!!!!! On Monday, the plumbers came and removed all four radiators from our library. Now that we have a new heating system, we no longer need the silver radiators. I waved good-bye and said "hello" to the 21 century!

By Monday afternoon, the local carpenter came in to begin his construction project that involved taking down the entire south wall of the juvenile shelving.....juvenile fiction and non-fiction collections. Wow, the wall looks so spacious after removing 2,000 books!

So where did all that old wood go? Awwwwh that's me, the little library director, hauling loads of wood downstairs in the municipal basement. I got my exercise for the day....and mighty dirty too. Really glad I had that extra pair of running shoes in the closet!

After the entire wall was stripped yesterday, the new shelves will go up beginning tomorrow, Wednesday. I am so excited to see the brand new custom built oak shelves.....should be amazing.

Besides the carpenter work (which is funded by the library), our municipal building is also in the first stage of a large federal grant to restore and upgrade the windows, electrical and much more. Construction started today and will continue through the month of October. Nothing will be normal for several months, but we've prepared ourselves.

No access to the juvenile books.....sorry kids, but all this mess will be worth it in the end. Stay tuned, I'll be documenting all the changes. With all the stress of construction, the librarians would appreciate some treats from the public.....chocolate chip cookies would be nice......maybe some brownies!!!!

Caution!

2011-08-18T12:51:00.000-07:00

The Internet computers will be unavailable the week of August 22 - 25 due to a construction project in the library. The library will remain open, however, we are asking library customers to please keep their library visit short in order for our construction project to proceed quickly and smoothly.

Thanks for your patience!

Colfax Public Library Staff

"Be a Smart Cookie....READ!"

2011-08-15T17:11:00.001-07:00

Story time kids can participate in our promotional reading program...."Be a Smart Cookie, READ!" How it works.....

Kids get a chart on which to write books down that they have read.

For every book read, a "cookie" will be added to a giant cookie jar on the wall in the kids area.

When we read 100 books collectively, we will have a party and eat cookies and other munchies while we watch a short movie!

To get a reading record, attend story time at the Colfax Public Library, on Wednesday mornings at 10:00am, starting September 7th.

Guilt Free Reads

2011-08-01T17:06:00.000-07:00

Once in a while it is fun to highlight staff "reads." This stack happened to be waiting for me today at the library. I spent some time last week, on my day off, browsing through a local bookstore that is going out of business. Of course, I found plenty of books I would have loved to purchase and initially I did have a giant stack in my arms, but the tightness of my pocketbook won out and I ended up putting all but a few favorites back on the shelf.

As I was working online that evening at home, I thought....huh, I bet the MORE will have those titles I wanted to read. Sure enough, I found every single one! I added them all to my online book cart and requested to my heart's content.....guilt free.

I did a little figuring. I took the number of books I read last year (around 150 books, both fiction and nonfiction titles), times an average price of $20.00 per book (the middle ground of a hardback and softcover) and found that I would have had to spend, conservatively, around $3,000 dollars to purchase all those books. I am SO thankful for the library. Otherwise, I would be broke simply feeding my reading need.

If you are an avid reader and library user, let your library know how thankful you are for them!

Jenny

Youth Services Librarian

Summer Reading Week 4

2011-07-27T13:50:00.000-07:00

A usual part of our summer reading program is of course.....READING! We started out our time this morning by reading books about how kids and their families celebrate birthdays in China, Africa and Mexico. After reading about birthday celebrations we had to have one of our own.

Every celebration has games right? We played several games: pin the tail on the donkey, jacks and a chopstick relay race. It is harder than it looks to pick up cotton balls with chopsticks!

We also enjoyed some fun with a pinata!

Of course every good party has good food! We ended our time with yummy cake and pizza and handing out the final prizes for reading goals that were met. Every child went past or met their reading goal for the program. Way to go kids!!!!

Summer Reading Week 3

2011-07-20T12:41:00.001-07:00

This week for summer reading we had a guest performer - Kevin McMullin. Kevin is a talented, friendly guy who gave a great performance with stories from around the world, that he told with a personal accompaniment of several different instruments. The kids responded well to the tales, with participation and had a lot of fun giggling at Kevin's expressions and actions that fit the stories so well. I would highly recommend Kevin for a performer for a library or school program.

Usually, we do our programs outside in the park right next to the library. We have a small indoor space, but with the heat we decided to move indoors today. We were a bit cramped especially when it came time for making the paper plate tambourine craft, but we managed and the kids all went away smiling.

I reminded the kids today that music can tell a story too, just like a book. I planned ahead a had a selection of music Cd's on hand from around the world for the kids to check out today. If they checked one out they got to take home some fun stickers.

For our reading program, kids make their own goals, get it back to me and I make up personalized reading goal sheets for each child. The goal sheet is divided by the number of weeks our program runs. Each week, if a child has met her/his goal, accompanied by a parent signature, they can earn a prize. The kids have really responded well to this and it has been a great way to encourage children to read at their own level.

Only one more week for the summer reading program. Next time we'll Party Around the World!

Summer Reading Week 2

2011-07-14T11:20:00.000-07:00

I'd have to say this candy sushi was a big hit yesterday at our second Summer Reading program. Krissy, our Circulation Librarian, kindly made two batches of sushi for the kids. The candy sushi was so colorful and so pretty. The kids kept coming back for more sushi!

Jenny did a great job presenting a theme on Africa and Japan. She taught the kids an Africian word game....all the kids participated too. Just lots of fun yesterday, and I have to say we have a really good batch of well-behaved kids this year. We librarians really appreciate GOOD kids!

We also set up a "Japan" table with authentic tea sets, a sake set, a beautiful cooper tea pot used in a tea ceremony, Japanese dolls & tea. All the authentic Japanese items were brought in by me, since my hubby was stationed in Japan twice when he was in the Marine Corps. I was glad I could bring in these items to share with the children.

The weather was beautiful....65 degrees and sunny. Since we do our Summer Reading program outside in July, we always count on good weather.

Be sure to check us out on Facebook for more photographs of the Summer Reading program.

Lisa

Puppets Are So Fun

2011-07-07T16:23:00.000-07:00

The Wonder Weavers came on July 6th to kick-off our first Summer Reading program. What a great team! The ladies told lots of fun and interesting stories from around the world. I especially love their variety of puppets. We highly recommend the Wonder Weavers for any kids or family program.

To see more photos from the Summer Reading program, check out our Facebook page.

Fresh Look To Our Book Sale

2011-06-22T14:45:00.000-07:00

Our local video store just went out of business this week, so we acquired a nice red cart for our ongoing book sale. The cart is taller and higher, so I think it will be nicer for browsing through the book sale.

Our ongoing book sale is out in the municipal hallway near the library entrance. Hardcovers sell for 50 cents and ALL soft covers and paperbacks sell for 25 cents.....all movies are $1.00 each.

Want to donate books to the library? We will take adult and children's books (only clean books, not soiled or mildewed books). Come check out the books.

Don't Forget About Summer Reading

2011-06-17T09:55:00.000-07:00

Hey kids, don't forget to come in and sign up for the Summer Reading program. Registration ends June 30th and the Summer Reading program starts Wednesday July 6th @ 10 am. Fun, fun fun!!!!

Book Review - Leviathan

2011-06-15T08:39:00.000-07:00

Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld is a new young adult novel. I thought it would be great if one of our young adult patrons wrote up a review for us. This review is from Korbyn age 14.

The book Leviathan was more or less a fictional story about the events leading up to and the fighting of WWI. Even though some parts of the story were true, the feeling of the story leans more to the fictional side.

To start off, the book began with the introduction to two different characters across Europe where the start of WWI originated. One of the characters was Aleksander the son of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria Hungary. As you should know, WWI started with the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. When Alek’s father dies, he is forced to go into hiding or face his death by the assassins of his father.

The other character is Deryn who is in the Darwinist (British) air force. She snuck her way into the air force by pretending to be a boy under the name of Dylan. She goes up in a Huxly (a flying beasty) that gets caught in a storm and is rescued by a huge airship called the Leviathan. It is a beast made up of many beasts and is on a mission. While flying, the Leviathan gets attacked by a group of German ,Clanker (Middle Europe and Russia) airships. They sustain heavy damage and go crashing into a glacier.

Meanwhile, Alek and his escapes are witnessing the crash from a castle not far away from the damaged Leviathan. Alek devised an ingenious scheme, or so he thought, to help the Darwinists. He carried some medical supplies down to the ship. It turns out that he gets arrested, but is then set free to help the Darwinists escape the Glacier and the Germans. The Germans attack the ship but the ship miraculously survives. The downside is that the engines on the ship were shot and unusable after the attack. It so happens that Alek and his escapes had a walker that was heavily damaged, but the engine was still operational. They eventually got the engine on, and narrowly escaped the oncoming German assault that was just moments away from blowing them out of the sky.

I personally thought that the book was a huge success. I love the huge war machines and fictional beasts/animals that were so extravagantly detailed. The plot and overall story was a hit and the characters were dynamic. All in all, the book was a huge success for me and if you have a passion for enormous war machines or like a fictional twist on historical events with adventure, this is a book for you.

The Joy of Being a Control Freak

2011-06-02T12:09:00.000-07:00

The Joy of Being a Control Freak by Mary Berg

Thursday June 9, 2011

6:30 -7:30 pm

Be sure to attend our author program and learn how to organize your life in order to stay happy and stress free! Mary Berg is no stranger to Wisconsin. After graduating from UW-River Falls with a BS degree, Mary then married and settled down with her husband in Franconia Township, near the beautiful St. Croix River in Minnesota. Mary's family still lives in Wisconsin and her parents (Dale & Vickie Hendricks) live on a an old Norwegian homestead near Tainter Lake.

Mary has gained experience in many different professions including, real estate investor and contractor, retail shop owner, political consultant, antiques dealer, personal property appraiser, professional organizer, and now, author!

Come and enjoy our first outdoor author program in the gazebo park next to the library. Refreshments will be served. Like always, this event is FREE.

New Sign

2011-04-27T11:31:00.000-07:00

This is the beautiful painting on our new library sign. (You can see the sign at the top right of our blog.)

This kind of painting is called rosemaling and literally means "decorative painting," in Norwegian. Since Colfax is located in an historically Norwegian community, we thought it fitting that our library sign displayed a beautiful symbol of the Norwegian culture.

The sign is also mostly red,the color of our school sports team. The Colfax community is a big supporter of our local school sports. Go Vikings!!!

We are still waiting for our sign to go up yet, hopefully it will be soon. Maybe the warmer weather will inspire our work crew.

Author Talk & Book Signing

2011-04-04T13:06:00.000-07:00

Celebrating National Library Week

Author Talk & Book Signing – April 14, 2011 @ 6:30 pm.

The Colfax Public Library is happy to announce a new young adult novel “Shooting Two” written by former Colfax resident, Jeanne Foley (PhD). Foley is currently an associate professor in the math department at University of Wisconsin-Stout.

A graduate of Le Sueur High School in 1971, Foley recalls there was no girls basketball program, however, girls could play with the Girls Athletic Association. Foley continued her love of basketball and pursued her basketball interest at St. Olaf College, where she received a degree in both math and physics. Throughout Foley’s academic career, she coached women’s basketball at Michigan Tech, Michigan State, the University of Michigan and Princeton University.

Foley followed her dream and wrote her first fictional novel about a small-town girls basketball team, set back in the 1980’s. The book centers on high school girls, their friendships and a team’s passion of winning the state championship.

The Colfax Public Library has invited Jeanne Foley to come and speak about her new book and what challenged her to begin writing. The Colfax Public Library will hold a books signing that night and books will be available for purchase.

For more information about the author talk and signing, please call 715-962-4334, or email: cocirc@colfaxpubliclibrary.org The program is free and open to anyone.

Book Review - The Red Garden

2011-03-28T17:18:00.000-07:00

The Red Garden by Alice Hoffman caught my eye in the Bookpage news, that our library subscribes to, to circulate to our patrons. I have never read any other books by Alice Hoffman, so I have nothing to base my inclinations on other than feeling.

The story follows a linear gathering of characters from the mid 1760's till the present day in an area around the small town of Blackwell, MA. A rich tapestry of players enter the stage, from Hallie, a simple colonial girl searching for something more, to a contemporary girl that has her life planned out, only to be interrupted by the tenderness of a secluded poet.

Each chapter represents differing stories that are faintly connected through geographical location, sentiment or family heritage. I found this format to be on one hand, a fresh idea in a book, but on the other, it left me with a bit of a disjointed feeling. One thing that does tie the character's stories together is a liberal dose of mystery, that includes a ghost of a drowned girl, an apple tree that blossomed and provided fruit to the town of Blackwell in the year without a summer, a supposed mermaid, and of course a garden where everything that is grown is red.

Some chapter stories were painted more rich and bold by the author and some held more of an impressionist style that had me trying to read between the lines for thoughts on how all the pieces fit together and left me wondering what the characters lives were like in the future.

Over all, I found the book to be interesting, drawing me in with the layered time periods and characters that form around an area that comes to be known as the Red Garden.

They Are Blooming

2011-03-03T14:00:00.000-08:00

This is the time of the year when our Amaryllis plants start to bloom. Four weeks ago we had a beautiful peach colored flower bloom from the larger plant, and now the baby plant sprouted two more beautiful light colored flowers. The Amaryllis plants belong to my hubby and we started bringing the plants into the library years ago, mainly because our library has these really large and high windows, so that makes for perfect light and growing conditions. Also, as the Amaryllis plant ages, it grows higher and higher and has now outgrown our bay windows at home

Every year some of my faithful library patrons wait and watch for the Amaryllis to bloom. I believe it has actually become a ritual at the Colfax Public Library. In the early summer, I will transfer the plants back home for a nice summer break outdoors, and then the plants return to the library in the fall before the weather turns bitterly cold. Who would ever think plants get such royal treatment? Maybe that's the key to keeping your plants happy, health and blooming!

Lisa

Library Is Closed...Monday February 21, 2011

2011-02-20T18:58:00.000-08:00

Since "old man winter" has returned with a vengeance.....and over 12 inches of snow, the Colfax Public Library will be closed today, February 21, 2011. We will re-open Tuesday February 22 @ 10 am.

It's Growing in Popularity

2011-02-06T18:37:00.000-08:00

I finally decided I needed to figure out this Kindle thing. Is it a book? Or, is it a gadget? People swear by this little machine.....they say they love it!

I checked out this Kindle from Menomonie Public Library. With 17 Kindles to loan out, you have a good chance of checking one out for two weeks. I'm not totally convinced I like the Kindle, but I'm giving it a try.

I will be talking to the Library Board about Kindles and their popularity and what it means for our library. Should we jump on the bus and join the Kindle phenomenon? What do you think?

Lisa

Double Delicious

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

This is the time of the year when I can experiment with new recipes, so I was very excited when I discovered this new cookbook called "Double Delicious." I requested the book off our library catalog (MORE). The claim to fame on this cookbook is that the author, Jessica Seinfeld uses pureed vegetables to sneak in more fiber and more nutrients. Seinfeld also makes her recipes low-fat!

I only had a two week span of time to get busy cooking and baking, since this cookbook has multiple holds and other customers are waiting to receive the book as well. My first recipe I made were these delicious whoopie pies. These wonderfully chocolate, moist treats call for spinach puree in the batter! How cool is that? I also made a pot of creamy chicken & rice soup that used both carrot and cauliflower purees.

I then found time to make the three-berry cobbler recipes that called for carrot puree in the cobbler batter....turned out so yummy. I continued on to make the chocolate yogurt cheesecake, which called for using greek yogurt, sour cream, brown sugar, carrot puree and whipped egg whites. The recipe also called for making a graham cracker/nut crust. I gave that dessert an A+

Lastly, I chose to cook up a broccoli & orange soy sauce dish and served it with rice. Another very tasty recipe that also used carrot puree. I had so much fun with this new cookbook. And where did all the food go you ask? Of course I shared with my co-workers....and my hubby was a food taster as well. Oh, did I mention I'm on a diet, hee, hee!

Our 15 Seconds of Fame!

2011-01-12T14:34:00.000-08:00

Rural Libraries Deal With Huge User Increase

So Amelia Cerling, News Anchor and Reporter from WEAU 13 News, called me yesterday morning and asked if I would be willing to do an interview about how public libraries are dealing with higher usage and shrinking budgets. Her first stop would be the Bloomer Public Library and then she would hop on over to little Colfax to speak with me. I basically had one hours to pull my thoughts together on what I would say about our economic situation concerning increasing library usage and our operating budget.

I'm guessing about 15 minutes of video footage was shoot during my interview in the morning, but I think they only took about 15 seconds of my actual interview and aired that on TV.

I was very excited that WEAU finally decided to call upon the "small" public libraries in the area. So many times the larger city libraries are featured, and the small rural libraries become forgotten. Yes, our budgets are small, but we still have the same impact in our communities like larger public libraries. We are all feeling the pinch.

By the way, in 2009 our Internet usage rose 88% and for 2010, it rose another 29 %......I think that speaks for itself! It's not hard to understand the economic impact here. When the economy hurts, public libraries see their patron usage rise. I sure hope our Wisconsin Legislators will understand how important public libraries are in their communities.

Click here to see the WEAU video clip and article from yesterday's news report.

Winter Wellness With Herbs

2011-01-07T10:26:00.000-08:00

The Colfax Public Library will be hosting a Winter Wellness With Herbs program on Thursday January 13th, with herbalist Lisa Yakish.

Get informed abut what herbs will help keep you and your family healthy throughout this winter season.

The program starts at 6:30 and is open to the public, no registration is required.

Questions? Email us at cocirc@colfaxpubliclibrary.org or call 715-962-4334 for more information.

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-23T13:26:00.000-08:00

Wishing all our patrons a very Merry Christmas and a Happy new year!

The library will be closed December 24th and January 3rd in observance of the Holidays.

Digitized Tornado Photos

2010-12-09T13:45:00.000-08:00

1958 Colfax Tornado

As part of a Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the Colfax Public Library has digitized the collection of the 1958 tornado photographs taken my professional photographer, Ron A. Blakeley. These items are now part of the University of Wisconsin Digital Collections’ (UWDC) State of Wisconsin Collection and are freely available online. The ability to keyword search the text and images is a great new tool for local history research. In addition, having digital copies of the 1958 Colfax tornado pictures preserves it for future generations.

The Colfax 1958 tornado photographs are part of a larger regional collection entitled Chippewa, Dunn, Eau Claire, Pepin, St. Croix, and Rusk Counties: Local History Collections. This collection showcases selections from the local history collections of the Baldwin Public Library, Chippewa Falls Public Library, L.E. Phillips Memorial Library in Eau Claire, Rusk County Community Library in Ladysmith, Pepin Public Library, Somerset Public Library, Menomonie Public Library, Colfax Public Library, Durand Community Library, Woodville Community Library, and Carleton A. Friday Memorial Library in New Richmond. These libraries, and several other Indianhead Federated Library System members, serve as repositories for important local history documents. The Indianhead Federated Library System is comprised of 53 member public libraries in West-Central and Northwestern Wisconsin.

The Chippewa, Dunn, Eau Claire, Pepin, St. Croix, and Rusk Counties: Local History Collection was funded, in part, through a 2010 Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant. These grants provide financial support for public libraries to digitize and make available online, their local library resources. For more information about LSTA grants in Wisconsin, contact the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) Division for Libraries, Technology, and Community Learning or visit the LSTA grant Web site at http://www.dpi.state.wi.us/dpi/dltcl/pld/lsta.html.

To access the 1958 Colfax tornado photographs, go to http://digital.library.wisc.edu/1711.dl/WI.IndianheadLocHist. There are many other valuable Wisconsin resources on the UWDC site. If you need assistance, please call the Colfax Public Library @ 715-962-4334, or stop by for more information.

Favorite Picture Books for Christmas Season

2010-12-06T16:35:00.000-08:00

In The Christmas Alphabet kid's can follow the holiday season from A to Z in this lovely alphabet book. As each lettered door is opened a fantastically wrought paper pop-out appears depicting images of Christmas time.

Minerva Louise is definitely my favorite chicken. I bet some giggles will break out when this book is read, especially when Minerva thinks the chicken (angel) on top of the Christmas tree has laid some pretty colored eggs in the branches.

Eric Carle's Dream Snow is a gem filled with collage images of a farmer dreaming of snow. Clear pages with snowy blobs add the illusion of Mr. Farmer and the animals covered in snow. Mr. farmer awakes to find real snow covering the ground and realizes he better hurry and get some surprises set out for his animals.

In the book, The Snow Tree, the animals of the forest find a way, in the white of winter, to remember the colors of the year. Each animal brings something of a different color to decorate a special snow tree.

Kids will enjoy feeling the embossed pages and looking at the colorful animal images along with hearing the story of friendship, peace and the glory of nature.

Share one of these books with a child in your life. Reading to and with children really does help children develop so many learning skills, plus it is time well spent with someone you love.

Happy Reading!

Click on the title links to take you directly to the MORE to request a copy of these books.

Favorite Picture Books for the Thanksgiving Holiday

2010-11-15T16:32:00.000-08:00

Here are a few of my favorite titles to read with children in this Thankful season.

My first Thanksgiving, by Tomie dePola gives a short history of Thanksgiving and how families currently celebrate this holiday. The text is very simple and perfect for a preschooler.

I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Pie, by Allison Jackson is a remake of the classic rhyme - I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly. Kids will get a kick out of the silly text and pictures about an overzealous Thanksgiving guest.

This Plump and Perky Turkey outsmarts a whole village whose soul aim is to have a perfect Thanksgiving turkey for their holiday meal.

Preschool and Grade school children will giggle over this cleaver tale.

In Setting the Turkeys Free, the story follows a group of "hand" turkeys that escape from a sly old fox. This book might spur a creative urge to make some hand turkeys of your own.

Share some of these great Thanksgiving themed books with a child in your life!

Click on the titles to go the MORE page to request a copy.

Veterans Day Closing

2010-11-08T14:18:00.000-08:00

The Colfax Public Library will be closed Thursday November 11th in honor of Veterans Day.

Thank you for your service Veterans!

Teen Movie Night

2010-11-04T12:36:00.000-07:00

Teens are welcome to attend teen movie night, Tuesday November 9th at 5:00pm - 8:00pm.

Free pizza and pop will be served.

We will be showing The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring.

Happy Halloween

2010-10-28T12:40:00.000-07:00

Wishing all our patrons a safe and happy Halloween!

Family Fun

2010-10-19T11:48:00.000-07:00

"Madame Lanita"

Madame Lanita (a.k.a. Kris Winter) entertained the children October 18th at the Colfax Public Library. Her gypsy storytelling caught the attention and imagination of our youngest patrons!

Who can resist dressing up and learning a new dance?

Even the youngest dancer enjoyed the song and dance, while decked out in pretty jewels. Whoever said the library has to be a quiet place???

October Picture Book Picks

2010-10-13T11:27:00.000-07:00

Here are some favorite pumpkin and Halloween themed books from storytime. Share them with a child in your life! Click on the links to take you to the MORE to request a book.

Boo To You, by Lois Ehlert is a fun book where mice take on the scary role.

It's Pumpkin Time, by Zoe Hall is a classic book with bright illustrations and simple text that takes kids through the life of a pumpkin from planting time to harvest.

The Fierce Yellow Pumpkin by Margret Wise Brown, tells the tale of a little pumpkin who has big dreams of how big and scary he'll be someday.

Pumpkin Shivaeree by Rick Agran tells the story of a pumkin's life in poem form from seed to jack-o-lantern.

Happy Halloween and happy reading!

An Evening of Food & Fun

2010-10-06T10:44:00.000-07:00

Thursday October 21, 2010 @ 6:30 pm.

Come and join us for a fun evening with Karen Burrell, author of, "The Spirit Within." After working on her cookbook for ten years, Karen is excited to be introducing her new book. Filled with lots of yummy recipes, Karen's book will be available for purchase the night of her program. Samples will also be available, so don't miss this delicious evening of food and fun.

For more information about Karen Burrell, visit her webpage. For questions about the book talk, please call the library @ 715-962-4334.

Social Security Online Services @ the Colfax Public Library

2010-09-16T13:05:00.000-07:00

Social Security Program @ the Colfax Public Library, Thursday September 30, 2010 @ 6:30 pm.

The local Social Security office staff from Eau Claire will be hosting a program at the Colfax Public Library to bring awareness to using their online services. By logging on to the Social Security Administration website (www.socialsecurity.gov), you now have access to checking your status of a recent application, earning statements, estimated retirement benefits, reporting fraud and locating a local Social Security office in your area. You will also have access to a variety of forms and publications, which can be printed out from the website.

Need to ask a Social Security question? Go online and type your question and receive your answer. No need to call your local office!

Attend this program and learn how to use the Social Security online services, plus much more. For more information, call the library @ 715-962-4334, or email: colfaxpl@ifls.lib.wi.us . This program is free to the public.

Picture Book Picks of the Month

2010-09-08T13:51:00.000-07:00

Fall is a great time for kids, with so many fun things to do outside from jumping in leaf piles to looking for animal tracks and just enjoying the cooler weather and beautiful autumn colors. But when it is time to come in and rest from all that fun, there is no better way to relax than with a good book. Here are some of my favorite picture books that I love to share with children.

Fall Leaves Fall by Zoe Hall has wonderfully bright illustrations and easy text that younger children will love. This is a great pick for a short simple read.

Leaf Man by Lois Ehlert (a Wisconsin author) is fantastically imaginative and will take you on an autumn tour with illustrations constructed out of real leaves. This book will encourage you and your children to get creative with the things of nature.

By the Light of the Harvest Moon by Harriet Ziefert is a new favorite that encompasses a tale of leaf men that come to life by the light of the harvest moon. The bright fun pictures are a joy to look at.

Ten Red Apples by Pat Hutchins starts as a countdown of apples from ten. Various farm animals help Mr. Farmer pick the apples from his tree as you help count. Kids will have fun with the counting theme and the great illustrations.

Count Down to Fall by Fran Hawk is full of fall counting fun with wonderful lifelike illustrations that inspire you to go explore the Autumn outdoors.

To request a copy of any of these books just click on the title links and they will take you to the request page on the MORE.

Happy Reading.

Jenny

Story Time Begins - Yippee!

2010-08-19T11:58:00.000-07:00

Our Story Time for preschoolers resumes again in September. Story Time will run every Wednesday @ 10 am through mid December. No registration is necessary.

Sept. 1 - Oceans - Come make a splash with some great ocean tales and make a flying fish!

Sept. 8 - Pets - Listen to fun stories about lots of different kinds of pets and make your own pet.

Sept. 15 - Shapes - Explore the world with shapes. We'll look at books that help tell a tale with shapes and make a picture using different shapes.

Sept. 22 - Farm Animals - We'll read some wacky tales about animals you'd find on the farm and decorate a rooster picture.

Sept. 29 - Fall Leaves - Celebrate the colorful fall season with some great stories and a fun fall tree craft.

Be sure to come and enjoy the fun!

Two Good Reads

2010-08-05T16:54:00.000-07:00

I've seen this book being requested and checked out quite a bit so I thought I would give it a try and read it. I like history and a good story and this was both.

The book follows the life of Rachel, a young Hawaiian native, around the turn of the century. Her life is tainted by leprosy, the lost of loved ones to that disease, plus the eventual contact of it herself. As a young child Rachel is shipped off to Molokai, the Hawaiian island set aside as a leper colony.

I was intrigued as the story unfolds of how Rachel survives despite her limitations and leads a life among the lepers of Hawaii.

I highly recommend this as a good read, it's the kind of book that would make a great movie.

Another title I ran across lately is the 13th Tale by Diane Setterfield. I simply loved this book. It has the essentials I like to see in a good story, a bit of history, love, and mystery all well told and wrapped in a Victorian setting without the smothering vernacular. The story enfolds the past and the present as a writer struggles to leave her last tale amidst the living...a tale of deception, love and mystery. It is the 13th tale.

Hope you give these books a try!

Jenny

How Libraries Stack Up!

2010-07-30T14:33:00.000-07:00

Just the other day, our system's Library Director (Indianhead Federated Library System) sent out a really interesting link about comparisons in relations to public libraries through out the United States. The nicely created graphics, plus the statistical information makes this link an eye-opener for all librarians working hard at their library facilities. We should be proud of our efforts to bring good quality service to our patrons.

You will find the link here: "How Libraries Stack Up for 2010" Created by OCLC.org

Summer Reading Kick-Off

2010-06-30T11:00:00.000-07:00

Today was our kick-off to Summer Reading...."Make a Splash." Of course you have to start with story book reading. The children love to be read to, along with reading themselves!

Our Children's Librarian ran the whole show today, with assistance from me (Director) and one volunteer. Many of our children registered, were still attending our school district's summer school program this week, so a lot of those children were not present today. Too bad because they missed out on a nice selection of fun water experiments. We also let the children blow bubbles.....lots of bubbles. Today was a nice start to the entire summer reading adventure. I'm guessing we will have triple the attendance next Wednesday. Let's hope for good weather since we will be outdoors again.

Kids Can Fiddle @ the Colfax Public Library

2010-06-28T10:21:00.000-07:00

Come and join us for an afternoon of bluegrass music with, Dale Martell, bluegrass musician on Thursday July 8 @ 5-6 pm. in the Colfax Tower Park (613 Main Street).

All ages of children are welcome to come and listen to an overview of American country music and bluegrass tunes. Kids can learn advice on playing the mandolin, fiddle & guitar!

For more information call the library @ 715-962-4334 or email: colfaxpl@ifls.lib.wi.us. No registration is necessary and event is free.

A Start on Summer Reading

2010-04-29T13:26:00.000-07:00

Where can kids explore the wonders of water, learn about freshwater boating, have adventure on the high seas, and see the colors of the sea....at the Colfax Public Library Summer Reading Program!

Check out specifics on our kids programs page.

We Had Visitors Tonight

2010-04-22T17:45:00.000-07:00

Boy Scout Troop Pack 42

Gave a library tour tonight to 5 active Boy Scouts! Wow, they had lots of energy, but were very eager to learn everything there was to know about the library. They even wanted to know about the Dewey Decimal numbers! Good job boys.

Lisa

Yes....It Was Very Tasty

2010-04-14T13:54:00.000-07:00

Ahhhhh, chocolate sheet cake! Every year for National Library Week, I always order a decorated sheet cake to feed our hungry library customers. This year, the customers are slim & far between....must be the weather. Oh well, cake is leftover for the hungry municipal employees!

Lisa

International Day of Laughter - April 13, 2010

2010-04-13T10:28:00.000-07:00

The second day celebrating National Library Week (I forgot to post yesterday....sorry). Who can resist a joke right? I made a tri-fold display of "clean" jokes for all ages and placed it right across from the circulation desk.

Hot diggity dog.....bring on the cinnamon rolls baby! The gals at the Colfax Public Library know how to treat their loyal customers. Actually, the cinnamon rolls were baked this morning by the Grain Bin Bakery & Market near Wheeler, WI (right off of State highway 25 north of Wheeler). They make the best cinnamon rolls, plus on the weekends they bake my favorite rolls....caramel pecan. Trust me, it's worth the drive north of little Wheeler, Wisconsin!

Who says you can't enjoy treats in the library?

Lisa

Look Whooooo's Coming

2010-03-30T11:40:00.000-07:00

Hoo Who Cools For You?

Thursday April 15, 2010 @ 6:30 pm

Join Beaver Creek Reserve Naturalist Ruth Forsgren as she explores the world of owls. Learn what adaptations these birds have that make them successful nocturnal hunters. Determine which owl may be living in your back yard and find out which "facts" you have learned about owls that are actually myths.

Come and meet Ebeneezer, Beaver Creek's resident educational owl. This program is free to the public. For more information, call the library at 715-962-4334.

Hobbies & Crafts Reference Center

2010-03-25T16:53:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered how to crochet, knit, decorate cakes, brew beer, make wine, how to raise tropical fish? Well now you have access to a handy dandy resource database through the Colfax Public Library. This database can be accessed at the library or at home using your library card.

The Hobbies & Craft Resource Center, an EBSCO database funded through Indianhead Federated Library System for all their member libraries, can now provide you with electronic access to over 250,000 documents supporting full-text articles, patterns for projects, and how-to videos.

In our economic time of many financial cuts everywhere, the public libraries keep offering more and more resources to help you enjoy your daily life. Aren't public libraries wonderful?

Call the library (715-962-4334) if you need help accessing Hobbies & Crafts Reference Center.

We Have a New Library Database

2010-03-18T14:52:00.000-07:00

LearningExpress - Job & Career Accelerator

Wow, I just checked out the new library database that our library system purchase for all the IFLS libraries. I absolutely love, love, love this new database. There's like over 700 practice exams that you can take such as, the GED, SAT, ACT, Civil Service etc. There's also useful information for job skills like mastering job interviews, writing cover letters and resumes.

My favorite part of this database is the section on computer skills. Oh my......you can view tutorials for Adobe programs and Microsoft program. I was sooooo excited when I saw all the computer programs. I've been telling myself for years that I need to learn Photoshop, and guess what program is listed on this database? Yup, Photoshop!!!!!! There's also Adobe Illustrator, which is another program I want to learn for my library & personal blog.

Thank you Indianhead Federated Library System........I approve and my library customers will benefit as well.

The Barnyard Banshees....the Langby Family

2010-03-12T11:09:00.000-08:00

(Leah plays both the flute & tin whistle, while Oliva play fiddle)

What a great foot stomping, fingers tapping kind of night it was at the Colfax Public Library. The Barnyard Banshees performed last night for one hour! Their specialty is Celtic music....ballads, waltzes, jigs, reels and a slip jig!!! A slip jig is a style of Irish dance and music.

Alice is playing the Irish Bodhran.....she did an excellent job, plus Alice did quite a bit of solo singing for the group. What young talent.

Dean (on the right) plays the Cello & the fiddle, while Ralph (on the left) plays guitar.

Our space was limited at the library, but the acoustics sounded wonderful. It was such a treat to have this talented family (and one friend) come and perform for the library. Our audience was small last night, but that's usually how it is for us here in rural Wisconsin.

What Makes Your Library Special?

2010-03-04T14:03:00.000-08:00

What do you like about your local library, or what makes your library special? If you feel compassionate about your local library, consider entering the Woman's Day essay contest. In 700 words or less, tell your story about your favorite library in your community and what makes it special. Hurry, deadline is May 9, 2010.

To see full details and official rules go to Woman's Day

It's Time To Celebrate a Little Celtic Music

2010-02-26T09:04:00.000-08:00

Barnyard Banshees

Left to right: Ralph Suechting (guitar), Dean Langby (cello and fiddle), Alice Langby (bodhran and vocals), Leah Langby (flute and whistle), Olivia Langby (fiddle and vocals). Romeo the llama....... he hums!

~Special Performance~

@ the Colfax Public Library
Thursday March 11, 2010 @ 6:30-7:30 pm

Come join us and take pleasure in a night of Celtic and old-time fiddle tunes. This family ensemble guarantees to get your toes tapping to their upbeat Celtic jigs.

The family group includes eleven year old Alice, who plays the bodhran (Irish drum) and also sings. Her older sister Olivia, the fiddle champ, will blow your socks off with her fine fiddle talents. The adults in the band fill in with fiddle, flute, whistle, cello and guitar. It’s guaranteed to be a fun night of music.

No registration required and the event is free. For more information call the library @ 962-4334 or email: cocirc@ifls.lib.wi.us

A Must Read

2010-02-08T15:52:00.000-08:00

Hi, Jenny here....I guess it has been awhile since my last book review, not that I haven't been reading some great books, just haven't taken the time to write down my thoughts. Out of all the books I've read these past months, Bloodroot was the best and I highly recommend it as a must read for 2010.

If you are looking for a book that will stick with you, this is the one. First time novelist Amy Greene weaves a fascinating story of one Appalachian family that spans decades. The book unfolds like a living scrapbook, penned all in first person using the voices of each different character to write on the hearts of readers the ethereal joys, sorrows and intimate decisions of each person.

I am intrigued with the authors ability to breathe life into each character and give them their own distinctive voice. The story language of this book is like a slow brewed and savored drink that once drunk, becomes a part of you.

Click here to reserve your copy.

"Named for a flower whose blood-red sap possesses the power both to heal and poison, Bloodroot is a stunning fiction debut about legacies - of magic and madness, faith and secrets, passion and loss - that haunt one family across the generations, from the Great Depression to today." (taken from the publishers description)

They Claim It's Easy To Use

2010-02-02T14:08:00.000-08:00

The library is considering purchasing a Digital Camcorder, however, I've been hearing a lot of good things about this Flip Cam. Supposedly, this little video device is simple and easy to use.

After doing a Google search, the Flip Cam is available in 60 or 120 minutes of recording time. Prices range from $149.99 to $299.

Does anyone currently own a Flip Cam? Is it really that easy to use?

Lisa

Victoria Houston - Program & Book Signing

2010-01-11T14:15:00.000-08:00

Author Program & Book Signing

Colfax Public Library

Thursday January 21, 2010 @ 6:30 pm

Please be sure to come and join us January 21st to welcome Victoria Houston, author of the poplular series, "Loon Lake Fishing" mysteries. Houston just released her 10th book in the series called "Dead Renegade." As of today when I checked the MORE system, there were already 40 holds on her new book!

We are all excited to meet Victoria and learn more about her, so please stop by Thursday night. Any questions about the author program, give us a call 962-4334, or email: colfaxpl@ifls.lib.wi.us Hope to see you there.

Lisa

It's me, Kris!

2010-01-07T16:31:00.000-08:00

I know, I know! It's been a long long time since I have been here. I have been reading a lot of book but it seems that a lot of them have been real duds!

I just read Sandra Brown's Rainwater. It was not her normal style of book. It was OK. I liked that the characters were not the normal ones she has. David was not super macho but still a man of quite strength. Sandra did a good job ( I think ) of developing them. And they did not "hop" into bed on the first page!

But I did not like Sandra Brown's Smash Cut. I can't put my finger on it but I found it dull.

I just read Julie Garwood's Sizzle. I found that I had to force myself to read it. Dull. I feel that Brown was trying too hard to make the funny parts funny, the sexy parts sexy and the tense parts tense. Remember, this is just IMHO.

I also read Dean Koontz Breathless. I got to chapter 5 and put the book down. This pains me as I am a big Koontz fan. But the book left me cold. You know how he has some dry, sharp humor in his writing? Well it was too dry and too sharp. I felt that Koontz was just trying to make a deadline. I want him to write another book like " From the corner of his eye" or "One door away from heaven" and many more. I know he has it in him to do another great one.

Well, that's enough book bashing for now.

Snow Blizzard....Colfax Public Library is Closed Wednesday December 9, 2009

2009-12-09T05:33:00.000-08:00

The Colfax Public Library is Closed Wednesday December 9th Due to the Snow Storm.

Courier Delivery Will Resume Friday December 11th.

Teen Advisory Board (TAB) Gaming Night

2009-12-01T09:25:00.000-08:00

Wii Gaming Night - November 30, 2009

The YA area in our library is quite small, so the teens had to hold their gaming event in the Children's area. Luckily only one small child came in last night to look for books, but it didn't seem to phase him with the teen event going on!

Those bean bag chairs were the best purchase! Teens and small children use them constantly.

Of course you can't have a teen event without FOOD!

Meeting Ree!

2009-11-23T13:06:00.000-08:00

Saturday November 21st. was a super day. One of my co-workers and I got the chance to meet Ree Drummond (a.k.a. Pioneer Woman), who happens to be a very popular blogger in the the blogger world. Be sure to check out her blog, Pioneer Woman.

Ree & Me

We happen to get to the MOA early in the morning, so luckily we were within the first 150 people to be near the front of the line. It still took us about 3 hours to finally get the chance to sit down and met Ree. It was a quick 1 minute chit chat and a quick snap of the digital camera....wow, all for 3 hours. It was really fun talking with Ree and seeing all the people in line.

By the way, The Pioneer Woman Cooks cookbook is awesome. She did all the photography herself, which makes the cookbook very visual just like her blog. After some questions and answers, Ree went right into signing books. The crowd became excited when Ree's husband (a.k.a Marlboro Man) showed up and randomly started signing his name to his picture, which is featured in her cookbook.

Be sure to request her new cookbook online (http://www.more.lib.wi.us/).

Lisa

Teen's Top Ten

2009-11-19T12:03:00.000-08:00

Paper Towns by John Green

More than 11,000 teen voters chose Paper Towns as their favorite book in the 2009 Teen's Top Ten contest during Teen Read Week in October. Here's the whole list of winners....if you haven't heard of these titles, you may want to request through the M.O.R. E system. Let us know what you've read recently and tell us if you liked the book (s).

1. Paper Towns by John Green

2. Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer

3. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

4. City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

5. Identical by Ellen Hopkins

6. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

7. Wake by Lisa McMann

8. Untamed by P.C. and Kristin Cast

9. The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart

10. Graceling by Kristin Cashore

Happy reading!

Lisa

Calling Teens for TAB

2009-09-14T16:36:00.000-07:00

T.A.B.

What is TAB you say? Well, TAB stands for Teen Advisory Board. This group of teens help us at the library in many different areas....

*selecting materials teens would enjoy

*planning and hosting events for teens

*promoting library use to their peers

*organizing fundraisers to purchase some

extra items for the teen area

*volunteering at the library

If you are a teen and might be interested in being in TAB, head on over to the library on Sept. 28th after school for a planning meeting and free food!

Here is what some TAB teens say they like about TAB.......

"Because it's good to try new things and be active."

"T.A.B is a good thing to get into because you get to meet new people."

"Free food! Kidding...I like finding a good way to be helpful and involved in my community. It also looks good on college applications!"

"Because I would like to help out and try to raise money and find out what kids like to read."

"I love reading and the library so much. Books got me through some really tough times and I want others to be able to have that support."

Come join us for some fun!

2009-09-02T10:52:00.000-07:00

Story Time @ the Colfax Public Library

I just wanted to remind parents that Story Time has begun again at the Colfax Public Library. Every Wednesday at 10:00 am, we hold story time for toddlers & preschool-age children. There is no registration, so just come and enjoy. Our Children's Librarian reads stories to the children, as well as sings songs and offers a fun and easy craft activity for the children. Parents or guardians are asked to remain in the library with their child during story time. For more information call the Colfax Public Library @ 962-4334, or email: cocirc@ifls.lib.wi.us

Lisa

Our Last Summer Reading Wednesday

2009-08-05T11:26:00.000-07:00

Kevin McMullin was here to entertain with children with music and stories. Lots of participation took place with the children. The children had a lot of fun. We ended our last Summer Reading day with a pizza party!

You can find out more about Kevin by visiting his webpage.

Summer Reading Guest

2009-07-22T12:59:00.000-07:00

This week for our Summer Reading Program we had author/illustrator David La Rochelle come and do a presentation for the kids. David told and illustrated a story with participation from the kids. Everyone listened attentively and really enjoyed David's tale about a king who loved to eat spinach, a troll who wanted the king's spinach and the knight who vanquished the troll from the kingdom.

David also read to the kids from his book, The Best Pet of All. It is a great story of a boy and a dragon who work together to get the best pet of all for the boy. You'll have to read the book to find out what the best pet is.

David signed bookmarks for the kids and answered questions about being an author and illustrating books. We also got a sneak peek at David's next picture book, a funny tale that partners with the illustrations to tell the story of a cow on a ride.

We enjoyed having David for a presenter and would recommend him to any school or library that would like to have an author/illustrator come.

Media Review: The House of Eliott

2009-07-15T13:07:00.001-07:00

A friend suggested I might like to watch The House of Eliott series put out by the BBC. I enjoyed it very much and thought I would leave a short review about this 3 season series.

The House of Eliott is the name of a fashion house in London in the early 1900's. Two sheltered sisters find themselves alone in the world with little or no skills accept the dressmaking abilities they acquired by making their own clothes. Their Father's passing left a load of debts and a few skeletons in the closet.

The elder sister starts work as a photographers assistant and wealthy clients start to notice her well designed clothes. With the help of her younger sister Evangeline, Miss Eliott starts producing clothing designs for London's upper crust. Love interests wane and bloom but the sister's commitment to their new found business will not be overshadowed.

Despite an unscrupulous cousin who is managing their money, the two sisters forage through a forest of obstacles to forge a business of their own and a name for themselves in The House of Eliott.

I have really enjoyed watching this production and recommend it to those who are interested in the fashion industry and the working woman.

You will not find this series offered in the MORE consortium but you can search WISCAT, our inter-library loaning system. Click on the season you want and print out the sheet. Bring it to your local MORE Library and a librarian will be happy to reserve a copy for you through WISCAT. If you have any troubles searching WISCAT for this series of shows, just ask a librarian at your library and I am sure they will assist you in finding it.

Happy Viewing!

Jenny

The Wonder Weavers

2009-07-01T11:10:00.000-07:00

Today was the beginning of our Summer Reading program. Performing for us this morning was the female duo, the Wonder Weavers Storytellers (Tina Rohde and Colleen Shaskin) from Eden Prairie, Minnesota. The Wonder Weavers had a great collection of international stories that they told, while using puppets to help them tell the stories.

One of the activities they did with the children was to use the colored parachute. As you can see the kids had a lot of fun.

The best part was to flip the parachute high and then hide underneath! Luckily the weather held out for us and didn't rain this morning. It's hard to believe it's July 1 and the temperature outside was only in the upper fifties. I guess that's better than having little children sitting outside in 90 degree heat!!!

For more information about the Wonder Weavers, go to their webpage.

New Job Seekers Books Are Available

2009-06-26T13:27:00.000-07:00

Since January, we've seen an increase in people coming in to the library looking for job information, or basically just wanting to use the Internet computers for job searching. Recently, our library was part of a Job Seekers grant, which allowed us to buy about $350 worth of resource books on job searching and resume building. I snapped a photo of our new books on display to the public.

By August or September, our library hopes to be offering computer classes for adults that are job searching and needing to brush up on their computer skills. We will advertise locally when the computer classes will begin. My staff members and I are excited to be able to teach computer skills to individuals who need help finding a job.

The resource books and funding for teaching computer classes is all part of a Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant. Thanks to Indianhead Federated Library System and Leah Langby (Library Development and Youth Services Coordinator) for writing and obtaining the grant.

Lisa

Hey Kids.....Sign Up For Summer Reading

2009-06-12T13:52:00.000-07:00

Be Creative @ Your Library – Summer Reading Program

July 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29
10:30 – Noon
Kids entering K – 4th grade
Registration is required

Hey Kids, what a great way to spend your summer! Come and sign up for the Summer Reading program and have fun doing lots of exciting activities and reading lots of great books.

We also have two performers scheduled to come and visit during July, the Wonder Weavers Storytellers (July 1), and musician, Kevin McMullin (July 29). That’s not all, we’ve also invited author/illustrator, David LaRochelle (July 22), to come and talk about how he illustrates children’s books. Don’t miss out on all the fun activities here at the Colfax Public Library. Stop by the library during open hours to register and to receive your reading log.

Library Hours
Monday & Thursday 1-8 pm
Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 10 am – 5 pm
MORE (online catalog): http://www.more.lib.wi.us/
Library Email: cocirc@ifls.lib.wi.us
Library Webpage: http://www.colfaxpubliclibrary.org/
Library Blog: http://www.readingincolfax.blogspot.com/
Phone: 715-962-4334

What Is That White Stuff?

2009-06-11T14:43:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you are wondering what the heck is that white stuff! Well, when I came to the library today, it looked like it was snowing outside. Really. You didn't dare have your mouth open or you could accidentally swallow the fluffy stuff. I can't remember the name of this tree.

Does anyone know the name of the tree? Guess I'll just have to do a little investigation in the tree identification books (582.16).

Ever since the elementary and high school kids finished their classes, the library is now buzzing with children and parents. Since our library partners with the school district on the Accelerated Reading program, all these kids will be coming to the Colfax Public Library during the summer to check out AR books. The kids will also be taking their quizzes here since they are not allowed to take the quiz on their home computers. It's a win, win situation for the kids and the library.

We are happy to see kids coming into the library all excited about checking out books for their summer enjoyment.

A Beautiful Evening In Little Colfax!

2009-05-28T16:49:00.000-07:00

On Thursday May 28, our library hosted Mary Logue, a local Wisconsin author. Mary has not visited our neck-of-the-woods before, so it was nice she could come and experience a real small-town public library.

Since the weather finally cleared off this morning and everything dried out from yesterday's rain, I decided we should have our speaker program outside in the park next to the municipal building. The outdoor setting is perfect for us since our library is very small. We had about 16 people that attended tonight. The temperature is perfect tonight, and it's still too early in the summer for bugs!

The Colfax Book Club helped sponsor the program tonight, which is really nice. In past years I did not have anyone to help me set up for speaker programs so by the end of the night I was always tired and cranky (oops.... yes, librarians do get cranky and sometimes sleepy by the end of the day or night).

Thanks to all the book club members for coming tonight, and a big thank you to the members who baked treats for our program. How special is that?

To read more about Mary Logue go to her webpage and read her bio. If any other public library is interested in booking Mary, her contact information is on her webpage. I can't say enough good things about Mary...she is a delight to meet.

Lisa

Friday's Visitor

2009-05-22T10:13:00.000-07:00

You just never know who's going to come and visit at the public library!

This poor little squirrel been crying all morning, so I finally went up the stairs in our building to investigate where the noise was coming from. This is what I discovered! We aren't sure how this little guy got into our building, but now I just have to figure out how to get him back outside to his momma. Oh gosh, the life of a librarian!!!!

Lisa

PS. Update: We love our courier driver (Wayne)! At 12:30 pm Wayne delivered our library boxes and then helped rescue the baby squirrel. The little squirrel jumped on Wayne's leg (I'm not kidding) and Wayne was able to grab him and take him outside. Guess who was waiting outside near the gazebo? Yup, momma squirrel. How awesome is that???????

A Nice Way To Relax

2009-05-21T15:29:00.000-07:00

One of the nice advantages of having our library next to the municipal park, is that you can take your book or your lunch outside and sit in the gazebo on a warm summer day. I use the gazebo a lot during the summer when I want to go outside and take a lunch break.

There are also other benches and tables you can sit at, so it's a handy little park that many people utilized here in Colfax.

I invite everyone to come to the Colfax Public Library and see what we have to offer for families and individuals. Why not take advantage our our free services. Getting a library card is very easy, plus there is no fee. Just remember to bring a Wisconsin Driver's license to verify residency for yourself and your children. Any questions, give us a call @ 715-962-4334.

Lisa

It's Kris with a book review.

2009-05-07T15:20:00.000-07:00

O.K. Maybe not a book review. The Colfax book club that I belong to is reading " Blood Country" by Mary Logue. Mary is a Wisconsin author. I have not finished the book. That's why I can't review it yet.

Colfax is hosting Mary Logue at the Colfax Public Library on Thursday May 28 2009 at 6.30pm.

I'm excited about meeting her. She will be with us while the book club discusses her book. It will be a treat to ask an author "why?" So many times I want to know why or what was the author thinking when they had the character do what the did. If you live in the area and want to come and check it out. Feel welcomed too. We would love to see you here.

Book Review - The Help

2009-04-20T17:17:00.000-07:00

I found The Help on Book Page, a monthly release of book reviews and new books. It was a good thick read, spread with wonderful character sketches and peppered with moral and civil issues.

The story's meat is based on the lives of several African American maids in the 60's. A young budding, white journalist takes on the task of writing the story of the maids. They meet in secret to share their lives as hired help. They feel the real threat of segregation laws and the hands of those who have the power to destroy their lives. Stories sad, sweet and demeaning are shared as Miss Skeeter, the journalist, types away filling page after page with the lives of The Help.

This first novel by Kathryn Stockett was wonderfully descriptive and left me feeling like I had a filling southern meal heaped with bitter truths.

Jenny

How To Build a Rain Garden Library Program

2009-04-01T12:00:00.000-07:00

How To Build a Rain Garden

Thursday April 16th @ 6:30 pm

The Colfax Public Library will be hosting a program on "how to build a rain garden" in your own yard. The program host, Susan Frame, a Horticulturalist from CVTC, will be presenting on how to plan and set up a rain garden for homeowners and businesses that want to take advantage of rain run-off. Click HERE to go to the Wisconsin DNR website on Rain Garden projects and further information. The library program is free to the public and no registration is required. For more information about the library program, call the library during open business hours (715-962-4334).

The Colfax Daisy's Service Project

2009-03-19T15:20:00.000-07:00

Wow, great job girls! The little Daisy's completed a service project, which consisted of making colorful bookmarks for the library patrons at the Colfax Public Library. The girls also requested that we had out a bookmarks to all the little children that attend our weekly Story Time program.

As you can see by their faces, the girls were very proud of their crafty project.

It's Kris

2009-03-05T16:30:00.000-08:00

WOW! It has been a long time since I have updated you all on what I'm reading. I have read tons of books but nothing really jumped out at me that needed to be blogged about.

I did join the Colfax Public Library Book Club. I believe that there are about 12 of us in the club. I have not met them yet. A book was pick by the group before I joined and the book is Rhett Butlers People by Donald McCaig. ( The link will take you to the M.O.R.E. site where you can request the book )

What did I think about the book? Well, at first I thought that it was slow. I never read Gone With the Wind but saw the movie. I kept thinking that this book should be like that book. And it wasn't.
By the 4th chapter I was enjoying the book for the book its self. It was interesting to see how Rhett became the man that he was.

This booked started before the civil war and took us through the war, showing how it affected Rhett and Scarlett and why both made the choices that they made. It made me want to slap Scarlett and kick Rhett in the rear end!

Would I recommend this book? Yes, I would. It was a solid good read.

A Single Thread

2009-02-16T17:19:00.000-08:00

It's Jenny again. I recently read A Single Thread by Marie Bostwick and really liked it, so I thought I would give a brief overview of the storyline to maybe spur some interest in this well written and heartwarming tale.

The story is based around two middle aged female characters named Evelyn and Abigail. Evelyn is recently divorced and trying to forge a new life for herself in a quaint New England town. A spark of a dream encourages Evelyn to take a risk and step out into the business of owning a quilting store. A quilter for years herself, Evelyn stitches life not only into her business and community but also a network of friends that help each other through the rough seams of life.

Multi-millionaire Abigail, is thrown for a loop when her niece is sentenced to live with her for a year. Family grudges are exhumed and new bonds are formed through the simple task of living and quilting. Abigail grows, changes and softens to become a seasoned women who not only has good taste and style but has a warm heart as well.

I am not a quilter (yet) but really enjoyed this story and it inspired me to work at putting a little more community into my life and to be thankful for the influence of a good friend.

Traces WWII Traveling Bus Tour

2009-02-04T13:01:00.000-08:00

~Coming Soon~

"Held In The Heartland"

Traces WWII Traveling Bus Tour
Monday March 2, 2009
3-6 pm.
@ the Colfax Public Library

During WWII the Midwest was home to approximately 250 prisoner of war camps. Tens of thousands of the 380,000 Germans imprisoned across the U.S. during WWII were held in the Midwest, part of the millions of Axis and Allied prisoners held across the world. These prisoners embody ageless and timely themes of war and peace, justice during times of war, human rights, international reconciliation and potential lessons for avoiding furture conflicts.

"Held In the Heartland" is housed in a bus made into a mobile museum with a 21-seat theather. This bus tour will illustrates the unknown story through narrative texts, artifacts & media.

Any questions call the library @ 715-962-4334, or email: cocirc@ifls.lib.wi.us For more website information click here.

It's Jenny

2009-02-02T16:33:00.000-08:00

Hi, this is my first post on our blog. I'm finally getting around to doing a book review. Recently out, The Little Giant of Aberdeen County, is a book that revolves around the female character Truly. Truly is somewhat of an enigma. She has a pituitary gland disorder that causes her to continue to grow. Her growing up years and family life are riddled with difficulties. Truly finds herself connected to the Doctor of the town through circumstances not altogether to her liking. A bit of a treasure hunt ensues as she embarks to discover a secret from the past that she will use to deeply effect her and those around her.

This book is a well written first novel by author Tiffany Baker. I enjoyed the characters as she brought them to life. You almost feel as if you could really see through their eyes. This work of fiction however, raises some ethical questions that are not easily answered. I was disappointed in the way the author handles these issues and would hesitate to read her second novel because of that.

The Little Giant of Aberdeen County has original characters, small town feel, real feelings and some heavy questions. Click here to reserve your copy.

It's Kris

2009-01-26T15:43:00.000-08:00

Sorry, I know that it's been a long time for my post about "The Voyage Long and Strange" I did finish it. It was a good book. A "eye opener" if I do say so myself.
I am like most Americans and have only the knowledge about early America that I learned back in grade school. The book taught me a lot! Did you know that Columbus never ever really set foot on American soil? And that before the Puritans came there where explorers that got as far as what we now call Kansas?! They went up the Mississippi and then explored that area. They didn't leave any settlements so that may be why they aren't talked about. Also I had a naive view of the puritans. I know that they came over to have religious freedom. England was Catholic at time and the Puritans did now want to be under Papist rule. That's why they came over. BUT they wanted everybody to be Puritans! The did not want religious freedom for others, just for themselves!

Going Green!

2009-01-20T13:31:00.000-08:00

I recently read a book called "Gorgeously Green" by Sophie Uliano. Now by looking at the cover, it should be a dead giveaway that the book was written for the female audience! I thought it was an good book, but let me warn you that she goes real heavy into womanly products meant for the skin, hair, or any personal type products that we females like to buy for ourselves.

Uliano stresses that "going green" doesn't have to mean boring or giving up loved products or items. She stresses that going green isn't a fad, but rather, a way of life we all need to adapt to in order to help ourselves and help the environment.

I especially found the chapter on food (Every Last Bite chapter 6) to be the most useful or interesting to me. Uliano talks about a movement that started in Italy called SLOW:

S - seasonal foods

L - local foods

O - organic foods

W - whole foods

SLOW is a simple reminder to ourselves on how to slow down our thinking about food and what we put into our bodies daily. Each of the subcategories go into detail about how to change our ways and how to shop for food items. After reading her book, I've decided that I will make it a priority to eat fresh organic vegetables whenever possible. Uliano list all the fruits and vegetable to buy or eat organically and which ones not to worry about. It's all about the chemicals, waxes and how many miles fruits and vegetables travel to be placed on the grocery store shelves for customers to purchase. After reading her book, it really changed my thinking about buying food and making wholesome meals. The cosmetic & body products in her book....well, that was a big waste of my time!!!!!!

Even though it's a fluffy womanly book, written for mostly WOMEN, you can get a lot of good information, plus websites to research for further information. Checkout the web link to the bibilography record on MORE if you want to request it.

Lisa

Kris again

2009-01-19T17:42:00.000-08:00

I hate to say it but I'm still not done with " A voyage long and strange" I do like the book it's just that other books get in the way! Over the weekend I read and finished " The Heretics daughter" by Kathleen Kent. This was a good book! I would highly recommend it!
The story takes place is the late 1600s during the Salem Witch trials. The story is about Sarah Carrier and it's about her life growing up and the main story line is that her mother was hanged as a witch. (In real life this happened) The author is a decedent of Martha Carrier and spent 5 years researching the trials and such.

I am almost done with "A voyage long and Strange" Maybe by tomorrow I will have it done.

It's me,Kris

2009-01-12T17:15:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm not done with "A Voyage Long and Strange" I got sidetracked over the weekend with
the following books.

Because They Hate by Brigitte Gabriel. This was a very good book. An "eye opener" on why we have problems in the middle east. If you want or need more clarification on why there is strife in the middle east, then I would say that you need to read this book.

Outlander by Gil Anderson. I liked this book. It was about a young woman that's a little mental, ends up killing her husband and then is on the run as her two brother in-laws are tracking her down. I would recommend this book.

I will get back to "A Voyage Long and Strange" tonight (I hope!) So far I'm enjoying it. I think that the U.S.A. school system may need to start teaching more about how America was really discovered!

That's all for now.

New Book

2009-01-08T17:43:00.000-08:00

Hi to you all.

It's me Kris with another book that I have started. I'm now on chapter 3 of
" A Voyage Long and Strange" by Tony Horwitz. So far I'm enjoying this book. When done I will come back and let you know what I thought about it.

Chill Factor

2009-01-06T12:23:00.000-08:00

Hello all out there in blog land.
It's me, Kris again with another book that I have read and that I'm letting you know what I thought about it.

Chill Factor by Sandra Brown.

I have read a lot of her books and most of them I have liked. I found this one to be boring.
It might have been that I found problems with the story line. One of the problems was that
they were stuck in a cabin in a severe winter storm. They were worried that the water pipes were going to freeze so they filled up all the containers that they had with water, and yep, the pipes froze, they had no running water but they were able to flush the toilet for 3 days?! How's that possible? Also when they talked about how cold it was? It was -2 with the wind chill. That's not that cold! Unless you're from the south.

Have you read it? Do you like Sandra Brown? Any books out there that you think I should read?
Let me know and I will read it.

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle

2009-01-05T16:28:00.000-08:00

Well, I finished the book. I would love to give this book a huge recommendation but I can't!
It read smoothly, but it left me with so many questions!

There were several plots, I thought, that never got ended. Why did Claude hate his brother? Why in the very beginning did he buy poison? What was it about him that made him this way?
Why did the family breed the dogs the way they did? Why did Essay, the dog go? Where did she go? Why did it end the way it did?

So, it was not a bad book, but I was glad that the book ended and I done with it.

What did you think about the book?

Ask Us About Our Library Card Holders...They Are Free!

2009-01-02T11:54:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year's everyone. I wanted to let all of our library customers know that we appreciate all the reading you are all doing...wow. We are really happy that we can provide library materials for you in a timely manner, and it's all free! Why buy a book when you can check-it out at your local library, right?

We have a special freebie for our library customers. Recently we purchased these handy little plastic library hard holders. If you'd like one, just stop by the library and ask for one. Quanties are limited so ask quickly.

Let us know what you are reading or maybe a good movie that you just saw. We love to hear from our library customers. Enjoy

Lisa

What Kris is reading.

2008-12-29T16:18:00.000-08:00

Hi to all of you out there in blog land.

I'm Kristina and here's a little information about me.
I currently work here at the Colfax Public Library and I read a lot. When I say a lot I mean about 4 to 5 books a week! If I'm lucky I will be able to get another book or two in there.
I like to read all types of books.

I just got " The Story Of EDGAR SAWTELLE " by Davis Wroblewski.

When I'm done I will let you know what I thought about it and if I think that it's worth the read.

So check back here in a day or two and I will let you know what I think.

Got a book that you think I should read? Well then just post a comment and tell me why you think I should and I will check it out. Let me know what you liked or didn't like.