A prisoner re-entry program in place for a decade at the Long Branch public library is going statewide due to a nearly $630,000 federal grant received by the New Jersey State Library.

The Fresh Start @ Your Library program is designed to assist people who are released from prison transition back into society by having social workers available to help them find jobs, line up housing and complete other tasks such as getting a drivers license.

Re-entry centers are being added at the Atlantic City, Newark, Paterson and Trenton public libraries and the Cumberland County Library in Bridgeton. In the programs second year, it is expected to expand into Philadelphia.

J. Johndi Harrell, the program manager, said the program is a partnership between the State Library, Parole Board and Department of Labor and Workforce Development and works because the assessments of each persons needs are highly individualized.

Long Branch has been a model for that, Harrell said. We really believe that it cannot only be the model for the local libraries of New Jersey but across the country. This is a very dynamic concept.

Peggy Cadigan, deputy state librarian for innovation and strategic partnerships, said libraries are the perfect place to do this because they serve as a community anchor.

Libraries are providing this kind of service already. Weve been providing employment help and other social service help for people who need that assistance, Cadigan said.

Were a nonthreatening place. We welcome everyone, she said. And I think that theres no stigma attached with going into a local public library. So we think were the perfect place because were serving everybody from all walks of life.

Part of the grant funding will be used to pay for 50 people to complete GED programs, an alternative to a high school diploma.

Also, two social workers are being hired through the grant funding to offer one-on-one counseling sessions. One is Nicole Warren, who will work at the Newark and Paterson libraries.

Get to know them and what some of their goals are and their strengths are, and then from there were able to connect them with educational opportunities, job opportunities, help them with job readiness, Warren said. Anything they need to try to get that fresh start and to be able to contribute to their community.

Warren said former inmates returning citizens, in the parlance of the program already visit the public libraries to seek the type of help the program will offer, from librarians and library staff who are helpful though not really trained in that kind of work.

Its important for the social workers to be in the libraries because they have the training and experience to work with people who may have experienced trauma or some other difficulties in their life, Warren said.

Harrell, who served 25 years in federal prison, said a library is a good location for re-entry services.

Many folks who are coming home from prison are used to going to the library, Harrell said. In a prison setting, the library is the intellectual center of the prison, and folks are used to going there for whatever they need. So for them to come home and then go to the library and receive re-entry services is a natural extension of theyve already been doing.

The $628,774 grant supporting the program comes from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, a federal agency. The state is contributing $671,449 toward the program, primarily through in-kind contributions of staffers' time at the State Library and Parole Board and training offered by the labor department.

New Jersey: Decoded cuts through the cruft and gets to what matters in New Jersey news and politics. Follow on Facebook and Twitter.

Michael Symons is State House bureau chief for New Jersey 101.5 and the editor of New Jersey: Decoded. Follow @NJDecoded on Twitter and Facebook. Contact him at michael.symons@townsquaremedia.com

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Books, online access ... and prisoner re-entry at the library - New Jersey 101.5 FM Radio

Among the many smart writers I follow on Instagram is journalist Connie Schultzso Ive known for a while that her husband, Ohio senator Sherrod Brown, recently published a book, Desk 88: Eight Progressive Senators Who Changed America. As a former Ohioan, and a supporter of Brown, I am eager to read it. But the book is published by Macmillan and, much to my disappointment, is presumably subject to the companys e-book embargo.

With a few exceptions, elected officials dont write books to make money; they write to share their message with voters. So I find it troubling that Browna strong supporter of workers and public librariesis now associated with a publisher that is flouting a core public library value: equitable access.

I suspect that the good senator and othersincluding senators Amy Klobuchar, Bernie Sanders, and Elizabeth Warren, all of whom have also penned works published by Macmillanlikely dont know about the new restrictions their publisher is placing on digital readers at Americas public libraries. But I am now putting them and anyone else elected to or running for political office on notice: when you publish with Macmillan, youre disadvantaging those constituents who depend on the public library. Or, if you sign an exclusive audio deal with Amazons Audible division (fortunately, Brown has not), you are limiting access only to those with the means to purchase content. And the notion that any elected official would want their ideas available only to those Americans who can pay to read or listen to them flies in the face of our democratic ideals.

I recognize that I am beginning to sound very cranky about Macmillans embargo. But as I prepare for the 2020 ALA Midwinter Meeting, the future of digital content in libraries is very much in question. And I have come to the table again and again believing that Macmillan executives might sincerely listen to the library communitys concerns and join us in seeking viable solutions to whatever issues they believe justify such an extreme measure as an embargo. But at this point, I question whether Macmillan executives are acting in good faith. After numerous meetings with Macmillan CEO John Sargent over the years on behalf of ALA, I think Greg Behrendt and Liz Tuccillos 2004 bestseller best sums up Sargents position on the public library: Hes Just Not That into You.

I for one will not attend another meeting with the Macmillan team while the embargo is in place, even if it means I must resign my position as senior policy fellow for the ALAs Washington office. I feel demoralized by the idea of asking once more that this embargo be reversed. And I dont believe we can have a meaningful conversation about the future of libraries and e-books with Macmillan executives until they abandon their embargo. Unfortunately, I dont think that announcement is coming in Philadelphia.

I am not giving up the fight, however, and I urge all librarians to stay engaged and to continue to advocate for libraries as well. To lift my lagging spirits, Ive been envisioning thousands of librarians lining up at the Macmillan booth (1240) at this years Midwinter Meeting in a respectful act of solidarity so strong that it clogs the exhibit aisles. Now that would be advocacy to action!

I also have great respect for the members of the newly configured Joint Working Group on Digital Content, which will convene for the first time in its new iteration at this years Midwinter Meeting, and other groups who continue to work on this issue.

This is important work. I encourage every librarian who is passionate about equitable access to digital content to join any and all conversationsand to remain patient in knowing that our good work will eventually translate to impactful change.

E-book Program Highlights

ASGCLA Consortial eBooks Interest Group Meeting (Friday, 2:304 p.m., Marriott Hotel, Franklin rooms 5 & 6).

Ask Me Anything with Macmillan CEO John Sargent (Saturday, 8:3010 a.m., PCC room 108B).

Digital Content Working Group Meeting (Sunday, 8:3010 a.m., PCC room 103B).

#eBooksForAll Campaign Update (Sunday, 45 p.m., PCC room 122B).

PW columnist Sari Feldman is the former executive director of the Cuyahoga County Public Library in Cleveland and a past president of both the Public Library Association (20092010) and the American Library Association (20152016).

A version of this article appeared in the 12/16/2019 issue of Publishers Weekly under the headline: E-books at ALA

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ALA Midwinter 2020: On E-books, Librarians Must Hold the Line - Publishers Weekly

The Cochrane Public Library has launched their winter equipment library just in time for Cochrane's recent snowfall.

A variety of snow shoe sizes and hiking poles are all set to check out. The library installed a sizing chart for anyone curious about fit. All of the equipment is brand new and was purchased with the support of Cochrane Sport Chek and Bow RiversEdge Campground. The library will be adding avalanche kits and other items as they become available.

Program librarian Andrea Johnston said the library has been running several successful lending libraries. The library also loans out power tools, telescopes, gardening tools, life jackets, board games, puzzles and other items.

Since the snow gear launched Johnston says she's already had residents put equipment on hold leading up to the Christmas holidays.

For details on what winter equipment is available visit the Cochrane Public Library online: http://www.cochranepubliclibrary.ca/Special-Equipment/Winter-Equipment

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Library of things just got better - Cochrane Today

Public libraries embody the values of democracy by offering free access to knowledge. But the role of contemporary public libraries extends far beyond access to books. Libraries are places for learning and discovery, forums for debate, galleries for exhibitions and events, and spaces for work and pleasure. As cultural centres and community hubs, libraries bring people together.

With the rise of digital information early this century, the death of the library was predicted. Yet far from causing the demise of libraries, the digital revolution has led to libraries being reinvented and reinvigorated.

Library staff are experts in knowledge systems and adept at seizing the possibilities presented by these changes. This ability to innovate ensures public libraries remain relevant and vital.

Such innovation is evident throughout Melbournes State Library Victoria which reopened this week to reveal the final phase of its Vision 2020 transformation. The transformation of Australias oldest and now newest library is cultural, social, economic and architectural.

State Library Victoria already holds a prominent place in Melbournes cultural and urban fabric. It is now ready for the future.

Good civic architecture embodies the needs of the community it serves, amplifying and adapting to the activities and lived experiences in it. Australias first free public library, when it opened in 1856, State Library Victoria offered everyone access to knowledge for self-advancement.

Today, the revitalised heritage reading rooms remain majestic symbols with their large lofty ceiling and voluminous spaces with natural light . People may wish to linger in these hushed traditional spaces and return.

This major redevelopment was entrusted to Australian design studio Architectus in partnership with Danish firm Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects. Their work demonstrates great restraint and respect for the original building, coupled with the creation of new spaces, connections and opportunities relevant to libraries of now and the future with a thoughtful approach of less is more.

Fine design details skilfully juxtapose the old and the new. New stone covers the historic and slippery marble stairs that head up from the Swanston Street foyer, the original treads visible at each edge. Long admired murals above the stairs are conserved.

Entering from Swanston Street, The Quad is the contemporary centrepiece, beyond the foyer of the library. It provides a welcome zone that invites people of all ages, interests and backgrounds to enjoy the wonder of learning. This invitation can be simple: a place to charge your phone, to talk with friends, to escape the weather. Simple activities that make you stop and pause, and want to venture further and find out more.

Ideas Quarter offers shared work space for budding entrepreneurs. Conversation Quarter is a tech-rich destination for sharing, connecting and broadcasting ideas. Create Quarter includes recording, mixing and editing facilities. Childrens Quarter is a playful multi-level realm for family exploration with age-specific areas and programs.

In this sequence of spaces, knowledge is everywhere, yet books are few.

The Quad is not the hushed or book-filled library experience you might expect. But those calmer spaces are still there, undisturbed by all this new activity thanks to careful acoustic design: a balance between the traditional and the new.

In the beautiful Ian Potter Queens Hall, the visitor catches glimpses of decorative paintwork in the Classical Greek style, discovered under layers of paint during the restoration.

Curiosity thrives in libraries, and the curious will uncover more.

In an increasingly digital age, what can public libraries offer that our smartphones and computers cannot?

They offer community.

Many Victorian voices informed the Vision 2020 project: community groups, library users, local residents, business, school students, parents. These voices inspired the enriched diversity of services and experiences. The Library Board, state government, benefactors, and community fundraising made the vision possible.

The process was democracy in action.

Public, school and university libraries have all evolved to embrace a broader understanding of lifelong learning including and beyond what can be learnt from books. Libraries bring people together.

These institutions contribute to social capital by fostering new relationships, sustaining and advancing informed communities and offering equity to close the digital divide. New library spaces can elevate the human experience, and State Library Victoria proves public libraries have an exciting future.

Sarah Backhouse is a research fellow with the Learning Environments Applied Research Network at the University of Melbourne. Clare Newton is an associate professor in Learning Environments at the University of Melbourne.

This article first appeared on The Conversation.

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This library is showing the way for reading spaces in the digital age - Scroll.in

Northern New Jersey libraries are offering items to borrow beyond usual offerings from metal detectors to cake pans. Ricardo Kaulessar, Staff Writer, @RICARDOKAUL

The Bergen County Cooperative Library System is fighting back against a major publisher's embargo on its new e-book titles via a boycott.

BCCLS has put in apolicy of no longer purchasinge-book editions of new Macmillan or Macmillan imprint titles. The policy went into effect Nov. 20.

That means saying no to some of the system's most popular authors, including novelistLiane Moriarty, romance writerNora Roberts and mystery writers Lisa Scottoline and Louise Penny.

The move isin response toMacmillan Publishers' new policy of limiting public libraries to purchasing a single copy of new e-books for the first eight weeks of publication, which went into effect on Nov. 1. It has upset librarians in North Jersey and across the country.

The Bergenfield Public Library is one of 77 libraries in the BCCLS system whose patrons not only borrow physical books, but also e-books.(Photo: Ricardo Kaulessar/NorthJersey.com)

The boycott is not confined to North Jersey. Many library systems around the country, including in Des Moines, Sacramento, Nashville and Greenwich,Connecticut, have joined in.

BCCLS' boycott applies to acquisitions for itscentral collection, said BCCLS Executive Director Dave Hanson. That collectionhas 65,647 items and produces around 660,000 circulations a year. Macmillanrepresents about 12% of high-interest circulation for the consortium, Hanson said.

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He said the 77 member libraries in the consortium have yet to decide whether to purchase Macmillan e-books for their individuallibraries. He said they plan to vote on that at the BCCLS System Council meeting on Dec. 19.

But he said he is positive that the libraries will join in this boycott, based on discussions with library directors. It's a matter of principle.

"I just think it'sa reflective reaction from public libraries... we're very worried about the ability for public libraries to get access to materials to provide to patrons in a landscape that seems to beconstantly changing," Hanson said. "Publishers seem to not place the interests of the library patron very high."

E-books are borrowed like traditional books, in that one copy can be used byone user at a time. That means libraries purchase multiple copies of high-demand books so they are available to more patrons.

Macmillan representatives could not be reached for comment.

RicardoKaulessaris a local reporter for NorthJersey.com. For unlimited access to the most important news from your local community,please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

Email:kaulessar@northjersey.comTwitter:@ricardokaul

Read or Share this story: https://www.northjersey.com/story/news/bergen/2019/12/10/bccls-nj-boycott-macmillan-titles-fight-over-e-books/2633584001/

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BCCLS fires back in war over e-books by boycotting publisher - NorthJersey.com

Interested in the federal investigations into the Ku Klux Klan, the McCarthy hearings or the 9/11 Commission Report? All this and more can be found in Cal State Fullertons Pollak Library, a selective Federal Depository Library, giving campus members and the public access to important government publications.

The origins of the Federal Depository Library Program date back to 1813, when Congress ordered that publications be distributed outside of the federal government, explains Megan Graewingholt 06,09 (B.A. American studies and history, M.A. American studies), social sciences and government documents librarian at her alma mater. It became formalized through the Depository Library Act of 1962.

Q. Why is it important for the campus and community?

A. The U.S. government remains the largest publisher in the world, so providing access to this information and enabling public use cannot be understated. For our campus, this designation is especially significant as government documents are an important part of the librarys collection.

Personally, I think this is an especially valuable addition to our collection. Government information is useful for research and scholarship, and these materials do not impact the library budget. It also helps the library serve a vital civic role within Orange County.

Q. What types of materials do we have?

A. Our depository collection includes materials from the federal and California state government, as well as city, county and regional California government bodies.

Today more than 83,000 print and 51,000 electronic government documents titles are discoverable in the library catalog. The largest part of our depository collection is by far the Congressional material, which makes up about 48 percent of all the depository titles we collect and maintain.

Q. What do people most ask you about the depository?

A. Most patrons look for guidance locating specific information rather than a specific document. For example, they may need statistics on pollution in California, gang activity in Los Angeles County or nationwide trends in vital statistics.

Similarly, guidance on filing a Freedom of Information Act request or locating declassified government documents is a common ask. While filing a FOIA request is relatively straight-forward now online, declassified or top secret documents were never circulated among depository libraries. Although, this doesnt tend to stop me from searching for them! Searching the FBI Vault online, for instance, can provide a treasure trove of strange information, like the report on laboratory examinations of what was believed to be a fragment of Bigfoots hair from 1976 (spoiler alert, it was actually deer hair).

Q. Which documents get the most attention?

A. Congressional hearings are frequently a valuable primary source for research purposes, covering a wide variety of current and historical topics. Some notable content includes investigations into the Ku Klux Klan via Senate hearings in the early 1960s, the McCarthy hearings of the 1950s, the Martin Luther King Jr. House Select Committee on Assassinations in 1979 and the 9/11 Commission Report. Recently, the Report on the Investigation into Russian Interference in the 2016 Presidential Election (or the Mueller Report) arrived for inclusion in our depository collection.

As a library liaison to political science, I am particularly partial to the collection of Voter Guides held in our California documents collection. For students researching a particular candidate or ballot measure, they are able to see the actual voter guide that was mailed to constituents during the time that issue or politician was on the ballot. Presidential Papers are also a notable inclusion in our U.S. Documents collection, dating back to President Hoover in 1929.

Q. What do you enjoy about your role at Cal State Fullerton?

A. My favorite part of my role at Cal State Fullerton is the ability to assist students, faculty and the general public with their research. Frequently patrons are working on projects they are passionate about and that contribute significantly to scholarly fields of study. Working in the library and with unique materials like the government documents depository collection allows me to play a small role in that essential scholarship. Similar to the Government Publishing Office, this work, in turn, helps to keep America informed.

Q. How do these collections contribute to the educational experience of CSUFs students and faculty?

A. Exploring these types of collections contributes to the education experiences of Titan students and faculty because these documents represent a wide variety of valuable primary source research material for historical study as well as a number of contemporary issues faced by larger society. While a growing array of government resources are now born-digital, many historical documents and material requested to be printed by various government committees, agencies, and departments may only be available by exploring the physical print collections available at depository libraries like Cal State Fullertons Pollak Library. This collection also exposes students to a new category of valuable material they may wish to include as part of their research strategy. It can be a transformative element of experiential learning to work with these types of print documents in conjunction with the digital material now available online.

For more information on available government materials, contact Megan Graewingholt at 657-278-3094 or email mewagner@fullerton.edu.

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Titan Voice: Pollak Library librarian offers a glimpse of treasure trove of government information - OCRegister

AN OLD-FASHIONED CHRISTMAS EXHIBIT: daily through Jan. 1; exhibit of holiday traditions through the years complete with model trains, toys and more; Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., Cape May. 609-884-5404 or CapeMayMAC.org.

HOLIDAY LIGHT SHOW: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays through Jan. 5; 100 Christmas trees light up over Lake Meone; Historic Smithville, 615 E. Moss Mill Road, Galloway Township, free. 609-748-8999 or HistoricSmithville.com.

OC ARTS CENTER POTTERY & MOSAICS SALE: daily through Dec. 14; handmade items by local artists; Ocean City Arts Center, 1735 Simpson Ave., Ocean City. OceanCityArtsCenter.org.

COMMUNITY BINGO AND LUNCH: 11 a.m. to noon second Fridays, Brookdale Senior Living Cape May, 591 Route 9 South, Cape May Court House. 609-463-6344.

LIVING NATIVITY: 6 to 9 p.m.; hosted by Holy Trinity Parish; musical presentation by children from the parish, cookies, hot chocolate; St. James Church, Ventnor, free admission.

QUILTERS GROUP: noon to 3 p.m. Fridays; beginner and experienced quilters are welcome to join; Otto Bruyns Public Library of Northfield, 241 W. Mill Road, Northfield. 609-646-4476.

TECHNOLOGY ON FRIDAY: 10 to 11 a.m. Fridays; call for more details; Public Library, 2305 Atlantic Ave., Longport. 609-487-7403 or LongportPublicLibrary.org.

ABSECON VFW POST 9462 & AUXILIARY WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA: 10 to 10:30 a.m.; refreshments; United Methodist Church, 100 Pitney Road, Absecon. 609-335-6350.

CHECKMATES CHESS CLUB: noon to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays through Dec. 28; for all ages; play a friendly game of chess with others; Atlantic County Library, 6500 Atlantic Ave., Ventnor. 609-823-4614 or AtlanticLibrary.org.

COLORING AFTERNOON FOR STRESS RELIEF: 2 to 4 p.m. Saturdays through Dec. 21; open to adults; enjoy a relaxing afternoon coloring at the library; materials provided; Atlantic County Library, 801 Shore Road, Somers Point. 609-927-7113 or AtlanticLibrary.org.

DROP-IN TECH WORKSHOP: 1 to 2:30 p.m.; with Sean Farrell; for help with questions regarding your computer, phone, software, or an app; Public Library, 235 32nd St., Avalon. AvalonFreeLibrary.org.

GRACE LUTHERAN COOKIE WALK: 9 a.m. to noon; cookies are all homemade; $8 per pound; apple pies, crafts, holiday items and decadent hot chocolate for sale; Grace Lutheran Church, 11 E. Dawes Ave., Somers Point. 609-404-0257 or GraceLutheranSPNJ.org.

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Santa Claus, tour the museum, live music; The Museum of Cape May County, 504 N. Route 9, Cape May Court House. 609-465-3535 or CMCMuseum.org.

HOLIDAY TRAIN DISPLAY: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays through Dec. 31 (closed Christmas Day); O gauge model train layout with three trains and several winter themed operating items; Absecon City Hall, 500 Mill Road, Absecon. 609-442-1871.

HOLIDAY WEEKENDS IN HISTORIC SMITHVILLE: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 22; magical talking tree, train rides, story time with Mrs. Claus, shopping; Historic Smithville, 615 E. Moss Mill Road, Galloway Township, free. 609-748-8999 or HistoricSmithville.com.

LOWER TOWNSHIP ROTARY CHRISTMAS PARADE: 6 to 8:30 p.m.; floats, bands, community groups and fire trucks; Bayshore Road from Breakwater Road to Rosehill Parkway, North Cape May. 609-827-8771 or TownshipOfLower.org.

SHORELINE MODEL RAILROAD CLUB DISPLAY: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays through January; Lionel-style model train layout; Atlantic Christian School, 391 Zion Road, Egg Harbor Township. 609-822-3631.

BACK TO BETHLEHEM LIVING NATIVITY: 6 to 8 p.m.; follow the star to the stable where you will see Mary, Joseph, angels, shepherds, wise men and barnyard animals; hot chocolate and homemade cookies; Wesley United Methodist Church, 400 Route 610, Petersburg, free. 609-628-2224.

NICK FEDOROFF COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION: noon to 3 p.m.; join Santa, the City of Cape May Police Department, and the City of Cape May for free holiday fun; Cape May Convention Hall, 714 Beach Ave., Cape May. 609-884-9539.

3M MOVIE MARATHON: 3 to 7:30 p.m. third Mondays; for individuals who live with any type of disability and a guest; monthly movie viewing of two films; snacks and drinks provided; Atlantic Center for Indepdendent Living, 4 E. Jimmie Leeds Road, Suite 7, Galloway Township. 609-748-2253 or AtlanticCIL.org.

ACADEMY OF CULINARY ARTS CHOCOLATE INDULGENCE: 6 to 9 p.m.; indulge in the making of Chocolate Souffls, Chocolate Crme Brle, and a Chocolate Decadence Torte; Mays Landing Campus, 5100 E. Black Horse Pike, Mays landing, $75. 609-343-5655 or Altantic.edu/Workforce.

ATLANTIC COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY SWEET SALE: 3 to 6 p.m.; holiday home-baked cookies, breads, candies; sold by the pound; proceeds benefit the ACHS; Atlantic County Historical Society Museum, 907 Shore Road, Somers Point. 609-335-3313.

BETH EL MOVIE DAY: 3 to 5 p.m.; call for movie title; includes snacks, including popcorn and drinks; Beth El Synagogue, 500 N. Jerome Ave., Margate, $5. 609-823-2725 or BethElSynagogue.com.

BOOK CLUB MEETING: 1 to 2 p.m.; discuss this months read, The Book Charmer by Karen Hawkins; Public Library, 2305 Atlantic Ave., Longport. 609-487-7403 or LongportPublicLibrary.org.

BRIDGE: 1 to 3 p.m. Mondays through Dec. 30; weekly play challenges; Ocean County Library, 380 Bay Ave., Tuckerton. 609-296-1470 or TheOceanCountyLibrary.org.

DIY SOAP & BATH BOMBS: 5 to 6:15 p.m.; open to all families in Atlantic County; New Day Family Success Center, 622-624 S. New York Road, Galloway Township, pre-registration required. 609-652-0230 or NewDay-FSC.org.

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Mondays through March 20, 2020; receive instruction on the English language; Otto Bruyns Public Library of Northfield, 241 W. Mill Road, Northfield. 609-646-4476.

FREE (R) MOVIE: 6 to 8:30 p.m.; call for movie title; Ocean County Library, 380 Bay Ave., Tuckerton, registration required. 609-296-1470 or TheOceanCountyLibrary.org.

GINGERBREAD HOUSE WORKSHOP: 1 p.m. Dec. 16, 20, 22, Maria Moss, 301 Davis Ave., Linwood, $35. 609-926-7991, ext. 3 or LinwoodLibrary.com.

KNITTING: 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Mondays; meet and share knitting techniques; all levels of knitters are welcome; Public Library, 235 32nd St. Avalon. AvalonFreeLibrary.org.

LETS KNIT CLUB: 10 to 11:30 a.m. third and fourth Mondays; Lets Knit and Crochet Club for seniors age 60 and older; bring your own supplies and projects; Hammonton Senior Nutrition Site, 310 Bellevue Ave., Hammonton. 609-645-7700, ext. 6537.

LONGPORT NEEDLERS: 10 a.m. to noon Mondays through Dec. 21; bring your knitting, crochet, needlepoint, and other projects to work on at the library; Public Library, 2305 Atlantic Ave., Longport. 609-487-7403.

MAH-JONGG: 10 a.m. to noon Mondays; join a group of competitive Mahjongg players; Otto Bruyns Public Library of Northfield, 241 W. Mill Road, Northfield. 609-646-4476.

MOUSE-AROUND MONDAYS: 6 to 7 p.m. Mondays through Dec. 16; for adults; learn computer basics, such as mousing skills, creating Word documents, surfing the Internet; Atlantic County Library, 33 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Pleasantville, registration requested. 609-641-1778 or AtlanticLibrary.org.

MOVE AND DANCE CLASS: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Mondays; presented by Cathy Cashmere; learn to line dance; Wildwood Crest Library, 6300 Atlantic Ave., Wildwood Crest. 609-463-6386 or CCCInspire.com.

ORIGAMI CLASS: 4 to 5 p.m. Mondays through Dec. 28; open to all experience levels, beginners welcome; Public Library, 2305 Atlantic Ave., Longport, free. 609-487-7403 or LongportPublicLibrary.org.

ORNAMENT WORKSHOP: WRAPPED HOLIDAY DECORATIONS: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.; presented by Molly McKeefery; learn how to create a beautiful holiday ornaments using different materials such as ribbons, yarn, fabric, twine, and more; Public Library, 4800 Central Ave., Sea Isle City, registration and valid library card required. 609-463-6386 or Events.CMCLibrary.org.

SOUL LINE DANCE: 7 to 8:30 p.m. every other Monday through Dec. 16; learn how to soul line dance; Bloom Pavilion, 101 S. Huntington Ave., Margate. 609-822-2285.

WALK-IN ESL LAB: 1 to 3 p.m. Mondays through Dec. 30; self-directed session where participants can access the language-learning software Rosetta Stone, along with other library resources, to improve English skills; Public Library, 1 N. Tennessee Ave., Atlantic City. 609-345-2269 or ACFPL.org.

AARP MID ATLANTIC CHAPTER #4191 MEETINGS: 1 to 3 p.m. third Tuesdays except July and August, Galloway Senior Center, 621 W. Whitehorse Pike, Egg Harbor City. 609-804-3082.

CIVIC CLUB OF SEA ISLE CITY: noon to 3 p.m. Tuesdays; Bridge, Pinochle or Mahjongg; Community Lodge, Sea Isle City. 609-465-3251.

DROP-IN TECH WORKSHOP: 5:30 to 7 p.m.; with Cathy Zane; for help with questions regarding your computer, phone, iPad, software, or an app; Public Library, 235 32nd St., Avalon. AvalonFreeLibrary.org.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNING CLASSES: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays through April 14, 2020, St. Peters United Methodist Church, Room 101, 8th Street and Central Avenue, Ocean City. 609-231-9059 or MakingWaves.Church.

IMPROV ACTING WORKSHOPS: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays; improvisational acting workshops hosted by Unitys Theatre Troupe; for ages 18 and older; Dante Hall Theater, 14 N. Mississippi Ave., Atlantic City, free. 609-705-9007 or UnitysTheatreTroupe.com.

JOB CORPS ORIENTATION: 2 to 4 p.m. Tuesdays; learn about the Job Corps program, open to individuals 16-24 years old who need a high school diploma and/or hands-on training; Public Library, 1058 E. Landis Ave., Vineland, free. 856-305-7388 or VinelandLibrary.org.

LEH BOOK DISCUSSION: 1:30 to 3 p.m.; Karolinas Twins by Ronald. H. Balson; Ocean County Library, 380 Bay Ave., Tuckerton. 609-296-1470 or TheOceanCountyLibrary.org.

INTERACTIVE FAMILY MOVIE AND CRAFT NIGHT: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; watch a fun holiday movie and interact with the movie using props provided at the program; refreshments provided; Public Library, 1058 E. Landis Ave., Vineland, registration required. 856-794-4244, ext. 6 or VinelandLibrary.org.

SQUARE DANCE OPEN HOUSE: 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays; hosted by the Rainbow Squares Dance Club; for people interested in learning square dancing; Milmay Volunteer Fire Department, 225 Broad St., Buena Vista Township, first night free, $5 per night after. 856-825-1809 or 609-839-3796 or RainbowSquares.Club.

TRIVIA NIGHT: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.; stop by the library for 6 rounds of trivia; winning team will receive prizes; Public Library, 2305 Atlantic Ave., Longport. 609-487-7403 or LongportPublicLibrary.org.

TUESDAY EVENING DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAME: 6:30 to 10 p.m. Tuesdays through Dec. 31; duplicate bridge, all levels of players welcome; Our Lady of the Angels Church Hall, 35 E. Mechanic St., Cape May Court House. 609-442-0650 or CapeMayBridge.com.

YOUR LIBRARY 24/7 TIPS, TRICKS, AND THINGS TO TRY: 2 to 3 p.m.; for adults; Atlantic County Library, 33 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Pleasantville, registration required. 609-641-1778 or AtlanticLibrary.org.

ADULT CRAFT CLUB: 3 to 4 p.m. Nov. 20, Dec. 18; for ages 18 and older; learn how to make creative crafts in this fun and relaxed class; Public Library, 1 N. Tennessee Ave., Atlantic City, free. 609-345-2269, ext. 3075 or ACFPL.org.

ANCESTRY: 3 to 4 p.m.; learn how to use the database, get started on your genealogy research; Cumberland County Library, 800 E. Commerce St., Bridgeton. 856-453-2210 or CCLNJ.org.

BAKING WITH CHEF LINDA SCHWARTZ: 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.; Chef Linda Schwartz will demonstrate how to make a baked treat; Avalon Senior Center, 3100 Dune Drive, Avalon; registration required. 609-967-7155 or AvalonFreeLibrary.org.

FIND YOUR SPEAKING VOICE: 7 to 8:30 p.m. first and third Wednesdays; Boardwalk Toastmasters group; ACUA Recycling Center, 6700 Delilah Road, Egg Harbor Township. 609-290-8484 or Boardwalk.ToastmastersClubs.org.

FREE GED/HSE CLASSSES: 2 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Jan. 1, 2020; helps prepare for the GED/HSE exam; materials and lunch will be provided; Oceanside I Family Success Center, 201 Melrose Ave., Atlantic City. 609-236-8800 or oceanside1fsc.org.

GO GREEN GALLOWAY GENERAL MEETING: 6 to 7:30 p.m. third Wednesdays; join efforts to make Galloway a more environmentally friendly place to live; Atlantic County Library, 306 E Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway Township. 609-742-7076 or GoGreenGalloway.org.

MAH JONG AT THE LIBRARY: 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Dec. 18; bring your current year cards and tiles; Ocean County Library, 380 Bay Ave., Tuckerton. 609-296-1470 or TheOceanCountyLibrary.org.

NATIONAL ACTIVE AND RETIRED FEDERAL EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION: 1 to 3 p.m. third Wednesdays; meeting of South Jersey Shore Chapter 1664 of NARFE; current, retired and spouses of Federal Employees are invited to attend; Shore Diner, 6710 Tilton Road, Egg Harbor Township. 609-625-3605 or NARFE-NJChapter1664.org.

WORLD ABOVE WELCOMES THE JERSEY CAPE WRITERS: 7 to 9 p.m.; South Jersey Poets Collective welcomes the Jersey Cape Writers; open mic, participants read one poem that is less than two minutes long; Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University, 2200 Fairmount Ave., Atlantic City. 609-626-3463 or SJPoets.WordPress.com.

DROP-IN TECH WORKSHOP: 10 to 11:30 a.m.; with Sean Farrell; get help with questions regarding your computer, phone, software, or an app; Public Library, 235 32nd St., Avalon. AvalonFreeLibrary.org.

WARSAW GHETTO: A SHOWING AND DISCUSSION: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.; presented by Robert Holden; showing of A Film Unfinished; Public Library, 9516 Second Ave., Stone Harbor. 609-463-6386 or Events.CMCLibrary.org.

HOLIDAY ORNAMENT DROP-IN CRAFT: 2 to 4 p.m.; create a festive ornament to take home; Ocean County Library, 380 Bay Ave., Tuckerton. 609-296-1470.

MOVIE AND A SNACK: 10 a.m. to noon, Hammonton Family Success Center, 310 Bellevue Ave., Hammonton, registration requested. 609-567-2900.

CREATIVE WRITING: 10 a.m. to noon third Saturdays through January; with Melissa Palmer; receive tips and feedback on poetry, memoirs, short stories, articles, and books; record an audio version and share your story; Public Library, 235 32nd St., Avalon, registration requested. 609-967-7155 or AvalonFreeLibrary.org.

FREE PG MOVIE: 6 to 8 p.m.; call for movie title; Ocean County Library, 380 Bay Ave., Tuckerton, registration required. 609-296-1470 or TheOceanCountyLibrary.org.

MOVIE AND A SNACK: 10 a.m. to noon, Hammonton Family Success Center, 310 Bellevue Ave., Hammonton, registration requested. 609-567-2900.

SCRABBLE: 5:45 to 7:45 p.m. second and fourth Mondays, Public Library, 235 32nd St., Avalon. 609-967-7155 or AvalonFreeLibrary.org.

IRISH CEILI DANCE: 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. last Saturday of the month through June 2020; dancing to music by the South Jersey Ceili Band and songs by Joe McGonigle and Bob Galbraith, guest musicians; American Legion Hall Post #352, First and Pennsylvania avenues, Somers Point. 609-626-1576 or IACSSJ.org.

VETERANS ADVOCATE: 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. first Wednesdays; Wilmington VA Southern New Jersey Outreach Team provides information and enrollment for Veterans and their Veteran Affairs Healthcare; Hamilton Mall, 4403 Black Horse Pike, Mays Landing. 609-382-4727 or ShopHamilton.com.

CREATIVE WRITING: 4 to 6 p.m. first Thursdays through January, 2020; with Melissa Palmer; receive tips and feedback on poetry, memoirs, short stories, articles, and books; record an audio version and share your story; Public Library, 235 32nd St., Avalon, registration requested. 609-967-7155 or AvalonFreeLibrary.org.

JERSEY SHORE KNITTING GUILD: 7 p.m. first Thursdays, Ventnor Community Center, South Newport Avenue and Atlantic Avenue, Ventnor. 609-338-9305.

PINE STREET MOVIE MATINEE: 1 to 3 p.m. first Fridays; showing of Murder by Death; free popcorn; The Pine Street Recreation Building, 25 Pine St., Manahawkin. 609-597-1000, ext. 8583.

SOUTH VINELAND INDOOR/OUTDOOR YARD SALE: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. first Saturdays through March 2020, South Vineland United Methodist Church, 2724 South Main Road, corner of Sherman Avenue, Vineland. 856-696-1044.

ITALIAN CULTURE: 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. second Wednesdays; meet with others interested in learning more about Italian art, music, architecture, history, and lifestyles; Public Library, 235 32nd St., Avalon. AvalonFreeLibrary.org.

UPPER TOWNSHIP GREEN TEAM MEETING: 3 p.m. second Tuesdays; Township Hall Conference Room, Upper Township Municipal Building, Petersburg. UpperTwpGreenTeam@yahoo.com.

UPPER TOWNSHIP HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEETING: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays, Upper Cape Branch Library, 2050 Tuckahoe Road, Petersburg. UpperTwpHistory.org.

MIDDLE TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION STRATEGIC PLANNING INITIATIVE: 6:30 to 8 p.m.; Middle Township Public Schools will be developing a strategic plan to engage employees, parents, students, community members, business owners, and government leaders in the future planning of the school district; Middle Township Middle School, 300 E. Pacific Ave., Cape May Court House. 609-465-1800, ext. 3100.

VFW FRIDAY NIGHT DINNERS: 4:30 to 7 p.m.; baked ziti and sausage; Belleplain VFW Post, 556 Woodbine Ave., Belleplain, $10. 609-861-2298.

LUNCH & LEARN: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; hear talks on popular topics of history, culture and the arts over lunch; Cape May Lutheran Church, 509 Pittsburg Ave., Cape May, $20. 609-884-5404 or CapeMayMAC.org.

MAHJONG BRUNCHES: 10:30 a.m.; brunch spread and chance to meet other Mahjong and card players in the community; Milton & Betty Katz JCC, 501 N. Jerome Ave., Margate; up to one week before: $14 members, $18 guests; after one week before: $18 members, $22 guests. 609-822-1167 or JCCAtlantic.org.

COMMUNITY ADVISORY DINNER: 5 to 6:15 p.m.; open to all families living in Atlantic County; New Day Family Success Center, 622-624 S New York Road, Galloway Township, pre-registration required. 609-652-0230 or NewDay-FSC.org.

VFW FRIDAY NIGHT DINNERS: 4:30 to 7 p.m.; baked chicken dinner; Belleplain VFW Post, 556 Woodbine Ave., Belleplain, $10. 609-861-2298.

LUNCH AROUND TOWN: noon to 1:30 p.m.; enjoy a leisurely lunch with friends and neighbors while supporting our local restaurants; Downbeach Deli, 8 S. Essex Ave., Margate, attendees pay their own check. 609-822-1109 or JFSVillageByTheShore.org.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST: 8 to 11 a.m. fourth Saturdays; all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast; Ocean City Masonic Lodge, 940 Wesley Ave., Ocean City, $8 adults, $4 kids.

HOLIDAY TOY AND FOOD DRIVE: daily through Dec. 18; Teamsters Local 331 is collecting new toys, unexpired canned goods and other non-perishable items; drop off at 1 Philadelphia Ave., Egg Harbor City. 609-641-2331 or TeamstersLocal331.org.

MITTEN TREE: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays through Dec. 23; Longport Historical Society will sponsor their annual Mitten Tree in Borough Hall during the month of December; items requested are gloves, mittens, scarves, hats, and fun underwear for younger children; Longport Historical Society Museum, 2305 Atlantic Ave., Longport. 609-410-5939.

BEACON ANIMAL RESCUE DAY WITH SANTA PAWS: noon to 2 p.m.; bring one donation item for Beacon, and receive a $20 Fischer Flowers gift card and a free photo with Santa Paws and your pet; rain/snow date is Dec. 21; Fischer Flowers, 2322 Shore Road, Linwood. 609-390-7946.

ELECTRONICS RECYCLING FUNDRAISER: 9 a.m. to noon third Saturdays; drop off old electronics at the 4-H Center.; David C. Wood 4-H Center/Fairgrounds, 3210 Route 50, Mays Landing. 609-703-1549.

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: 10 to 10:45 a.m. Wednesdays through Dec. 18; preschoolers ages 2 1/2 5 and their caregivers are invited to Preschool Story Time; stories, songs and crafts; Public Library, 1058 E. Landis Ave., Vineland, registration requested. 856-794-4244, ext. 6 or VinelandLibrary.org/Childrens.

ST. MARYS CHURCH HOMEWORK HELP AND ENGLISH LEARNERS CLASS: 4:30 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays through June 2020; provided in partnership with Stockton State University; after-school program providing children in grades kindergarten through 6th grade with homework help; St. Marys Church, 118 Bayview Ave., Pleasantville. 609-686-0418 or StMarysPleasantville.org.

TOT TALES: 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays through Dec. 18; for ages 1-4; stories, songs, stickers, snacks and an easy craft; Atlantic County Library, 801 Shore Road, Somers Point. 609-927-7113 or AtlanticLibrary.org.

WEE READ: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays through Dec. 18; story time for 0-3 year olds; Cumberland County Library, 800 E. Commerce St., Bridgton. 856-453-2210 or CCLNJ.org.

YOUTH GREEK LANGUAGE SCHOOL: 5 to 7 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays through June 24, 2020, Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 7004 Ridge Ave., Egg Harbor Township, $250. 609-653-8092, ext. 5 or 609-653-8092, ext. 4 or HolyTrinityEggHarbor.com/Greek-School.

123 READ: 3 to 4 p.m. Thursdays through Dec. 12; for ages 1 1/2 to 3; Atlantic County Library, 306 E. Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway Township, registration requested. 609-652-2352 or AtlanticLibrary.org.

GIRLS BOOK CLUB: noon to 2 p.m. Thursdays through March 5, 2020; for girls in middle school and older; book talks, short stories, poetry and articles; Otto Bruyns Public Library of Northfield, 241 W. Mill Road, Northfield. 609-646-4476.

LEGO CLUB: 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. every other Thursday through Dec. 31, 2020; help us build Lego masterpieces after school every other Friday; Otto Bruyns Public Library of Northfield, 241 W. Mill Road, Northfield. 609-646-4476.

ROBOTICS CLUB: 6 to 7 p.m.; building robots for 9-11 year olds; Cumberland County Library, 800 E. Commerce St., Bridgeton. 856-453-2210 or CCLNJ.org.

CODE YOUR HERO: 3:15 to 4:15 p.m.; all skill levels are welcome, grades 2-8; celebrate Computer Science Education Week; Otto Bruyns Public Library of Northfield, 241 W. Mill Road, Northfield. 609-646-4476.

MAKERSPACE: 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. every other Friday through Dec. 31; code, tinker and explore; Otto Bruyns Public Library of Northfield, 241 W. Mill Road, Northfield. 609-646-4476.

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Upcoming events for the week of Dec. 12 | News - Press of Atlantic City

CALHOUN COUNTY, Miss. (WCBI) When is the last time you used your library card?

With the rise of digital media and e-books, some people have turned away from what was once the only place to find a wide variety of information.

Traditionally, libraries are known to be a good place to open a book and read.

While thats still true today, libraries are beginning to focus more on the people reading the books.

In todays world, public libraries are getting a second look as a valuable resource.

They are thriving. I know a lot of people think theyre not but there are those people that think the library is only about books, hardback books but its not like that anymore. Weve had to conform and we had to roll with the times, said branch manager Janice Vaughn.

On average, Jesse Yancy Memorial Library in Calhoun County has 40 visitors a day.

Vaughn said libraries are evolving into institutions that focus more on the quality of information, not only for longtime users, but also for their youngest patrons.

Several of our elementary classes come at the beginning of each school year. Kindergartens do a walkthrough just to make them familiar that the library is here for them. Fourth graders actually get their first library card and get to check out a book so thats neat we get to do that for them, said Vaughn.

Although libraries may be looked at as a powerhouse for all things books, they are now offering young adults real-world programs in college and career readiness and technology.

A lot of people come here to fill out job applications, everything is just about online now so they have to come, especially people who dont have computers at home or who dont know about a computer. They come here and help them access the applications and stuff. If they take online classes online, they can come here and we are able to proctor their test that they take, said Vaughn.

Vaughn said she and her staff are always here for their communitys needs.

We offer a lot of things besides just books, said Vaughn.

For more information on what services your local library has available, make the trip and check them out.

View original post here:
Public libraries are bringing in resources to fit community needs - WCBI

Tremain Jackson, Special to the Reporter-News Published 5:00 p.m. CT Nov. 17, 2019

In case you dont know, you can keep up with your Abilene Public Library on social media.

The library maintains a presenceon several of the most popular sites and can be accessed by visiting abilenetx.gov/apl. Look for the social media icons located at the bottom of the screen.

We first dived into social media in 2006 and weve gotten better with age. You can connect with your library on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, Tumblr, PodBeanand Instagram. If you have an active account on any of the sites were on, I invite you to connect with us and check out all we have to offer.

Facebook is by far the most popular site with over 1 billion users. We joined Facebook in 2009, and you can find us at facebook.com/AbilenePublicLibrary. Over 5,300 people actively follow our page. Use Facebook to connect with us and ask questions, view photos of our events, see videos, get inspired by daily facts and triviaand much more.

For those who like quick blasts of information, Twitter may be for you. Like with Facebook, we began tweeting in 2009. You can find us at twitter.com/AbileneLibrary and here youll get information about upcoming programs, see select photos of what were doing, learn about services and more. Best yet, you get all of that in 240-characters or less.

YouTube is another amazing social media site allowing people to upload videos for the world to see. Your Abilene Public Library has an extremely popular page where we provide a host of videos that have been viewed over 1.4 million times. Staff provides a ton of content to watch including some great craft shows as well as videos from many of the workshops and programs hosted at the library. If you want to check us out on YouTube, find us at youtube.com/APLibrary.

Pinterest is popular for pinning ideas to a bulletin board for others to search through and use. In no time, it has become a popular place for people to browse. Your library has multiple boards providing access to reading lists, craft ideas, book reviews, bestsellers, summer reading club ideasand more. More than 1,700 people are following us there, so join them and us at pinterest.com/APLibrary.

For those who enjoy listening to podcasts, we also host a weekly show from the library to talk about our programming, new releases to be on the lookout for at your library, issues relating to technology that impact us alland news stories about libraries, both local and national. These free, audio broadcasts are updated every Tuesday and you can give us a listen on the PodBean site at aplibrary.podbean.com, or find us by visiting your podcasting apps on your mobile devices and looking for the Abilene Public Librarys Squirrels and Shiny Things show. Dont you love that title?

Instagram, a site that lets you snap photos, add fun filtersand upload them for others to look at, is another option. We can be found online at instagram.com/AbilenePublicLibrary or through the popular application for mobile devices. With more than3,700followers, its a fun way to see a different side of your library.

The final place you can find us online is at Tumblr, which works very similar to Instagram. You can follow us there by downloading the Tumblr application on your mobile devices and searching for "Abilene Public Library."

Dont pass up the chance to check out what we have to offer you online through social mediaand feel free to follow us so youre alerted toupdates.

Read or Share this story: https://www.reporternews.com/story/life/columnists/2019/11/17/join-abilene-public-librarys-online-social-soiree/4184393002/

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Join the Abilene Public Library's online social soiree - Abilene Reporter-News

On Nov. 18, the Palo Alto City Council plans to add two years and $204,000 to its agreement with Townsend Public Affairs, which lobbies for the city in Sacramento. File photo by Veronica Weber.

In the latest Around Town column, find how what issues Palo Alto City Council members want the city's legislative advocate to focus on and a local nonprofit recently recognized by the Library of Congress.

CAPITAL PLANS ... Palo Alto's elected leaders have plenty of gripes when it comes to Sacramento, from desires to see more state funding for railroad improvements to concerns about housing bills that may diminish local control over land-use decisions. The job of communicating these concerns to state legislators falls to Niccolo De Luca, a legislative advocate with the lobbying firm Townsend Public Affairs. On Nov. 18, the City Council is scheduled to add two years and $204,000 to the city's agreement with Townsend, bringing the contract total to $799,000. Last Tuesday, De Luca came to Palo Alto to provide an update to the council's Policy and Services Committee and hear from local lawmakers about their Sacramento priorities. For Councilman Greg Tanaka, the overarching priority remains securing funding for grade separation, the redesign of railroad crossings so that rail tracks don't intersect with local roads. Last year, De Luca worked with Assemblyman Marc Berman on including some funding for design work in the state budget. The proposal didn't advance, though De Luca assured the committee that they made some headway on securing funding for grade separation. "Obviously we didn't get to the finish line," De Luca said. "If this was marathon, it would be mile 24." Tanaka suggested that by keeping the list of legislative demands small, the city may have better luck in getting the grade-separation funding. Tanaka noted that the downtown Palo Alto Caltrain station is the second busiest in the entire system. Councilwoman Lydia Kou lobbied for a more ambitious list of demands, including supporting legislation to audit major transportation agencies such as the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority, Caltrain and BART. The city has been working with Townsend since 2014. City Manager Ed Shikada made a case in a new report for retaining the relationship. While recognizing the "significant expenditures," Shikada argued that the discontinuation of the firm's services would make it "significantly more difficult to establish effective relationships when needed to respond to concerns with pending legislation, and similarly more difficult to advance the City's funding and policy initiatives."

THE POWER OF LITERACY ... Redwood City-based nonprofit Bring Me a Book is one of 15 organizations honored by the Library of Congress Literacy Awards Program for demonstrating the best practices in promoting literacy. The local organization was founded by Palo Alto resident Judy Koch, who recently received the award at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. with Michaelin Reamy, president of its affiliate organization in Franklin County, Florida. A former English teacher, Koch launched Bring Me a Book to provide books to underserved children. Its program includes BookBuddies, where volunteers read books aloud to preschool and kindergarten students; Book Cubbies, where parents and children team up to decorate a book cubby at school; and book giveaways.

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Follow the Palo Alto Weekly/Palo Alto Online on Twitter @PaloAltoWeekly and Facebook for breaking news, local events, photos, videos and more.

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Around Town: Capital plans; the power of literacy - Palo Alto Online