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November 30, 2006
A Most Unusual Event
The Library will close for the day on Wednesday, December 6th.
We're sorry that we have to close the Library, but behind-the-scenes becomes front-and-center in our need to provide better, uninterrupted service. We will be making major upgrades to our network and computer systems so that patrons can get better service when they use the Library's technology.You would be correct to assume that the decision to close was difficult but necessary...it's a "must." Note that access to our web site will also be intermittent during that day, and possibly the next. We apologize for any inconvenience while we make our technology easier to use. As always, we look forward to providing you the best service possible.
Posted by BarbaraT at 04:52 PM
This Week at the Library 11/30/06 to 12/06/06
New Art Exhibit at Darien Library:
The Darien Library is pleased to welcome artist Susan Crawford for a show of recent works. Her artwork will be on display in the Main Reading Room from December 5 until January 8, 2007. An opening reception with the artist will be held on Friday, December 8, 6:30-8 p.m.
Susan Crawford’s mixed-media paintings cause people to stop, look, and smile…and then look again. Her delightful artwork is immediately recognized by its dramatic color and detail. Enhancing these imaginative and intriguing creations, Crawford incorporates multiple planes and three-dimensional elements, resulting in works of art that are unique and utterly irresistible, while breaking free of convention and traditional picture making.
Susan holds a BA from the University of Montana and has completed post-graduate study in painting and art history at the University of Hawaii in Honolulu and Manhattanville College in Purchase, New York. In addition, Crawford trained at the Honolulu Academy of Arts in Honolulu, and worked as a volunteer docent in the Children’s Art Education Program at the Academy. Susan is an exhibiting member of the Rowayton Art Center in Rowayton, Connecticut, and was awarded first prize-mixed media in the juried Mavis Fenner Memorial Art Show in 2003. She has also created award-winning sculptures and large-scale animated pieces for promotion and display. Her work has shown in Honolulu and Kailua, Hawaii, Montana, and Connecticut and is on rotating exhibit at the Stamford Center for Therapy and Consulting in Stamford, Connecticut.
Annual Campaign:
Darien Library asks, “Are You the Missing Piece?”
The Friends of the Library Annual Campaign has just begun and the Darien Library is eager to meet its goal of $450,000.00. Contribution totals will be recorded on the heron puzzle in the lobby of the Library. So far, over $100,000 has been donated, resulting in the placement of five puzzle pieces on the heron.
The money raised will be used to purchase all the books, movies, and music for the Library in the upcoming year. All programs and services are also funded entirely by the Annual Campaign.
Last year, Darien Library welcomed 432,267 visitors and circulated more than 750,000 items.
To make a contribution, visit www.darienlibrary.org.
Knit-a-Thon a Success:
On October 20, Darien Library launched a month-long effort to collect handmade hats and scarves to be distributed to the shelters run by the Domestic Violence Crisis Center. The collection of donations ended on November 17. The initiative began with a Knit-a-Thon held at the Library, providing supplies and patterns to interested participants. Staff members and many adults and children from the community participated, resulting in 35 scarves and 37 hats being contributed to the cause. Barbara Thomas, Library staff member and co-chair of the Darien Domestic Violence Task Force, said, “The interest and enthusiasm for this endeavor has been exciting, inspiring, and heartwarming. Thanks to the generous Darien community for embracing this project and for the outpouring of support.”
Foreign Film Series at Darien Library Continues:
The Darien Library’s annual Foreign Film Series began on Friday, October 20 at 7:30 p.m. The Library is pleased to announce that the number of films to be shown for the Series has been increased this year from five films to seven films, continuing on consecutive Fridays through December 1. “Our Film Series are perennial favorites that have our audiences asking about them all year round,” said Barbara Thomas, coordinator of the Library Film Series. “Not only have we expanded the number of films for the Foreign Film Series, our Friday Film Series, but which will begin in February, will run for 12 instead of the usual 10 weeks. We are also excited about the addition of a new eight-week Summer Film Series.”
An additional change to the Series is a new show time. According to the Library, as a result of numerous requests, the films will begin at 7:30 p.m. Doors will open at 7 p.m. Admission is free.
Children’s Room:
The Darien Library will host a Read-a-thon on Friday, January 5th from 7 to 10 p.m. for students in grades 6 through 12. The money raised will fund materials and books in the Teen Center of the new Darien Library on Hecker Avenue, to be completed in Fall 2008.
This year’s American Library Association’s Teen Read Week theme was “Get Active @ Your Library.” Students can “get active” philanthropically by registering for the Read-a-thon in the Children’s Room between Friday, December 1, 2006 and Wednesday, January 3, 2007. Upon registering, teens will receive a donor sheet to keep track of their friends’ and family’s donations, and a detail sheet outlining the night’s events. They may read any fiction, non-fiction book, or graphic novel of their choosing. Snacks will be provided.
In appreciation, teens will receive a $25 punchcard to reduce current and future Darien Library fines. A special thank you to the Read-a-thoners will also be displayed in the new Darien Library.
Contact the Children’s Room at 655-1234 x117, or visit the Library’s website at www.darienlibrary.org for more information.
HOURS:
Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
World Wide Web: darienlibrary.org
Posted by Cathy at 02:58 PM
November 29, 2006
Au revoir, already?
It feels as if our Foreign Film Series just began, and here I am announcing its conclusion. This Friday, December 1st, we'll present our final film of the series, Joyeux Noel. This film is based on the true story of three armies in the bloody trenches of World War I, and a miraculous Christmas Eve.
On Christmas Eve 1914, soldiers put down their weapons in a spontaneous, albeit temporary truce between German, British and French troops as wishes of “Merry Christmas” crossed the frontlines.
This is a great film with a fine cast, including Daniel Bruhl (pictured above), who we loved so much in Good Bye Lenin! and The Edukators.
In French, German, and English with English subtitles, this film is rated PG-13. Running time is 116 minutes.
We hope to see you on Friday!
Show time is 7:30 p.m.
Doors open at 7:00
Admission is free
Posted by BarbaraT at 05:02 PM
November 22, 2006
Reality Television, Norwegian Style
Buddy will be our movie on Friday when we continue our Foreign Film Series.
I really like this movie about a video diary that becomes a popular television show. It's a timely story about love and friendship with lots of humor and heartwarming moments. Join us for this contemporary film from Norway.
In Norwegian with English subtitles, this film is not rated. Running time is 100 minutes.
Showtime is at 7:30
Doors open at 7:00
Admission is free
Posted by BarbaraT at 12:10 PM
Our Hearts are Warmed
Look at the results of our Knit-a-Thon!
Kim Gabert, Caitlin Augusta, Barbara Thomas, Emily Weiss, Judy Sgammato, and Joan Swerdloff
On October 20th, we launched a month-long effort to collect handmade hats and scarves to be distributed to shelters run by the Domestic Violence Crisis Center (DVCC). Staff members (some first-time knitters!) and adults and children from the community joined together in this creative endeavor and the results are awe-inspiring (not to mention, gorgeous)! The initiative began with a Knit-a-Thon held at the Library. Our collection ended on November 17th...donated throughout the month were 35 scarves and 37 hats! I delivered these items to DVCC on Monday to many smiles and much thanks.
Now it's our turn to say thank you to all of those who participated! The overwhelming gererosity truly does warm our hearts. Thank you.
(Keep those knitting needles handy...we're already thinking about another project!)
Posted by BarbaraT at 11:32 AM | Comments (1)
November 21, 2006
The Holiday Spirit Visits
IN HARMONY FOR THE HOLIDAYS!
Our Holiday Program will be on Sunday, December 3rd at 5:30 p.m.
The featured perfomers will be the entertaining and popular a capella group, Acabella.
Acabella
Acabella is an extremely talented vocal group made up of 16 young women from lower Fairfield County. Janet and I found out this morning, just how engaging they are when two of their members stopped in for a bit to chat with us. Heather Raker and Carolyn Woodberry delighted us with an interview and we're fortunate to be able to share that interview with you. Click here to listen.
Treat yourself and join us on the 3rd for this festive and fun event!
Check back here next week for an Acabella preview when we'll be adding a couple of their musical numbers to our podcast blog!
Posted by BarbaraT at 07:02 PM
November 16, 2006
This Week at the Library 11/16/06 to 11/23/06
Holiday Program:
Sunday, December 3rd at 5:30 p.m.
Darien Library is pleased to present Acabella, a celebrated and accomplished a cappella group. Acabella is an all-female vocal group featuring 16 young women from lower Fairfield County. This gifted and committed auditioned group is popular in the area for its talent and wide-ranging repertoire. There will be a reception with light refreshments after the performance.
This holiday program is funded entirely by contributions made to the Annual Campaign.
We’re Happy about HAPLR:
Darien Library has been ranked as one of the Top Ten libraries in its population category by the HAPLR Index, making it one of the Top 100 libraries in the United States. This year, as in most years, no other Connecticut library was ranked.
Hennen’s American Public Library Rankings (HAPLR) evaluate objective federal government statistics for more than 9,000 US public libraries -- determining ranking on measures of use, circulation, efficiency, and funding. The HAPLR Rankings have been published for seven years, and Darien Library has ranked as one of the Top Ten libraries in its class each year.
Louise Berry, Director, said, “We’re pleased to be recognized once again by the HAPLR Ratings, especially since it is a recognition of the hard work of our staff and Library Board. What interests us is that HAPLR does not evaluate either customer service or technology, two areas where Darien Library is very strong -- so to gain recognition for the other aspects of our performance is gratifying, to say the least.”
Annual Campaign:
Darien Library asks, “Are You the Missing Piece?”
The Friends of the Library Annual Campaign has just begun and the Darien Library is eager to meet its goal of $450,000.00. Contribution totals will be recorded on the heron puzzle in the lobby of the Library. So far, over $100,000 has been donated, resulting in the placement of five puzzle pieces on the heron.
The money raised will be used to purchase all the books, movies, and music for the Library in the upcoming year. All programs and services are also funded entirely by the Annual Campaign.
Last year, Darien Library welcomed 432,267 visitors and circulated more than 750,000 items.
To make a contribution, visit www.darienlibrary.org.
Photography Exhibit at Darien Library:
“Grasslands of Eastern Tibet: Nomads, Festivals, Monasteries,” a photography exhibit by Barbara Paul, will be on display at Darien Library October 31st through December 4th, 2006. Paul, a resident of Westport, photographs people living in remote regions of Asia and Africa, where few travelers visit
This exhibit features the unique costumes and lifestyle of Amdo, nomads of Eastern Tibet, and the high landscape of the Tibetan Plateau, where they live.
For information, visit www.darienlibrary.org or call 655-1234.
Foreign Film Series at Darien Library:
The Darien Library’s annual Foreign Film Series began on Friday, October 20th at 7:30 p.m. The Library is pleased to announce that the number of films to be shown for the Series has been increased this year from five films to seven films, continuing on consecutive Fridays through December 1. “Our Film Series are perennial favorites that have our audiences asking about them all year round,” said Barbara Thomas, coordinator of the Library Film Series. “Not only have we expanded the number of films for the Foreign Film Series, our Friday Film Series, which will begin in February, will run for 12 instead of the usual 10 weeks. We are also excited about the addition of a new eight-week Summer Film Series.”
An additional change to the Series is a new show time. According to the Library, as a result of numerous requests, the films will begin at 7:30 p.m. Doors will open at 7 p.m. Admission is free.
Children’s Room:
Predict Award-Winning Books:
This winter, the Darien Library will offer book groups that predict this year’s award-winning children’s and teens’ books. Enjoy a light dinner and be a part of the mock committees to choose the winners of this year’s Caldecott, Newbery, or Printz Awards. Registration begins November 1st for the Printz Award and November 13th for the Caldecott and Newbery Awards.
“Caldecott Kids” for grades 2 to 3 meets four Wednesdays: November 29th, December 20th, January 10th, and January 31st from 4:30 to 6 p.m. With the other members of their committee, kids will discuss, recommend, and decide 2006’s best children’s books for American illustration, similar to the process the American Library Association undertakes each January for the Caldecott Award.
“Newbery Visionaries” for grades 4 to 5 meets four Tuesdays: November 28th, December 19th, January 9th, and January 30th from 4:30 to 6 p.m. With the other members of their committee, kids will discuss, recommend, and decide 2006’s best children’s books for American literature, similar to the process the American Library Association undertakes each January for the Newbery Award.
“Predicting the Printz” for grades 6 to 12 meets two Tuesdays: November 21st and December 12th from 5 to 6:30 p.m. With the other members of their committee, teens will discuss, recommend, and decide 2006’s best young adult books for ages 12 to 18, similar to the process the American Library Association undertakes each January for the Printz Award.
Children’s book discussion programs and storytimes are funded entirely by contributions made to the Annual Campaign. Please contact the Children’s Room at 655-1234 x117, or visit the Library’s website at www.darienlibrary.org for more information.
HOURS:
Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
World Wide Web: darienlibrary.org
Posted by Cathy at 12:45 PM
November 15, 2006
Irresistible Road Trip
Our Foreign Film Series hits the road for San Julian in Intimate Stories.
Three people set off on separate journeys on the same road to San Julian. An old man hitchhikes to search for "Badface," his runaway dog, a lonely traveling salesman embarks on an amusing quest to create the perfect cake which he hopes will win the heart of a woman, and a poor mother travels with her baby to appear on a (really cheesy) game show, hoping to win the grand prize of a "multiprocessor!" This film is a real charmer.
Searching for "Badface."
In Spanish with English subtitles, this film is not rated. Running time is 94 minutes.
Show time is at 7:30 p.m.
Doors open at 7
Admission is free
Posted by BarbaraT at 09:22 AM
November 08, 2006
"Gloomy Sunday" This Friday
Have you ever watched a foreign film and when recalling it, can't remember that it was a subtitled film? To me, that's the sign of a great foreign film. Gloomy Sunday is just such a film, and it'll be playing here this Friday as part of our Foreign Film Series.
This film is so richly textured and well-acted; with a compelling story, and haunting scenes and music. Set in Budapest in the 1930's this cinematically beautiful film has a love triangle at its center. Does the haunting and popular melody, "Gloomy Sunday" drive hundreds to commit suicide?
Joseph Addison referred to November as "The gloomy month...when the people of England hang and drown themselves." With a title now seeming all the more appropriate...and showing here in the "gloomy month" of November...this film just made the must-list.
Click on any of the photos above to learn more about the film and to watch the film trailers.
In German with English subtitles, this film is not rated (intended for mature audiences). Running time is 114 minutes.
Here's a reminder:
Show time is at 7:30 p.m.
Doors open at 7
Admission is free
Posted by BarbaraT at 01:37 PM
November 03, 2006
Evidence of a Wonderful Evening
Our Annual Meeting was this past Sunday. The photographs below offer confirmation as to what a great evening it was. We extended tremendous thanks to departing Trustees and we welcomed new. We heard from (outgoing) Board President George Wyper and from Louise, and had the prodigious pleasure of hearing our featured speaker, Bob Spitz, author of The Beatles: The Biography share some great stories and a wealth of information. (Janet and I had the added thrill of Bob inviting us to the podium to interview him (as we'd done last Friday; click here to listen) in front of the crowd!)
If you missed the meeting, you're in luck! We've recorded this, too and it's available as a three-part podcast:
Annual Meeting, October 29, 2006 Part I: Business
Annual Meeting, October 29, 2006 Part II: Speaker, Bob Spitz (part 1)
Annual Meeting, October 29, 2006 Part III: Speaker, Bob Spitz (part 2)
Posted by BarbaraT at 05:00 PM
This Week at the Library 11/2/06 to 11/9/06
Display Case:
Open space is a vanishing commodity, and the Darien Land Trust seeks to protect and preserve local natural resources through education and permanent conservation. The Darien Library’s display case features recommended reading, information about Darien Land Trust’s Annual Meeting, a topographical map of Darien showing open spaces, and beautiful photographs of local natural habitats.
Fall Book Discussion Series at Darien Library
“The Way We Live Now,” the Fall Book Discussion Series at Darien Library concludes on Sunday, November 12. The discussion will begin at 2:30 p.m. The fourth and final book for discussion will be “Mayflower, a Story of Courage, Community, and War” by Nathaniel Philbrick. Philbrick is considered to be one of the most acclaimed and readable historians. In this discussion book the author reconstructs the first Thanksgiving Feast celebrated in this land by the Mayflower voyagers over 375 years ago and he narrates the unsparing history and tragedy of the events that followed.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month Update:
Throughout the month of October, in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Darien Library accepted donations of children’s and family DVDs and videotapes. More than 100 items were collected and will be distributed to the Domestic Violence Crisis Center Shelters.
The Domestic Violence Crisis Center (DVCC) has offices in Stamford and Norwalk. The agency provides counseling, advocacy, shelter, and safe housing to victims of domestic violence, and also promotes community education and public awareness. Last year, DVCC sheltered 84 women and 98 children.
Annual Campaign:
Darien Library asks, “Are You the Missing Piece?”
The Friends of the Library Annual Campaign has just begun and the Darien Library is eager to meet its goal of $450,000.00. Contribution totals will be recorded on the heron puzzle in the lobby of the Library. So far, $43,000.00 has been donated, resulting in the placement of two puzzle pieces on the heron.
The money raised will be used to purchase all the books, movies, and music for the Library in the upcoming year. All programs and services are also funded entirely by the Annual Campaign.
Last year, Darien Library welcomed 432,267 visitors and circulated more than 750,000 items.
To make a contribution, visit www.darienlibrary.org.
Photography Exhibit at Darien Library
“Grasslands of Eastern Tibet: Nomads, Festivals, Monasteries”, a photography exhibit by Barbara Paul, will be on display at Darien Library October 31st through December 4th, 2006. All are invited to the festive reception on Friday, November 3, from 6:30 to 8PM.
Paul, a resident of Westport, CT, photographs people living in remote regions of Asia and Africa, where few travelers visit
This exhibit features the unique costumes and lifestyle of Amdo, nomads of Eastern Tibet, and the high landscape of the Tibetan Plateau where they live.
For information, visit www.darienlibrary.org or call 655-1234.
Foreign Film Series at Darien Library:
The Darien Library’s annual Foreign Film Series began on Friday, October 20th at 7:30 p.m. The Library is pleased to announce that the number of films to be shown for the Series has been increased this year from five films to seven films, continuing on consecutive Fridays through December 1. “Our Film Series are perennial favorites that have our audiences asking about them all year round.” said Barbara Thomas, coordinator of the Library Film Series. “Not only have we expanded the number of films for the Foreign Film Series, our Friday Film Series, which will begin in February, will run for 12 instead of the usual 10 weeks. We are also excited about the addition of a new eight-week Summer Film Series.”
An additional change to the Series is a new show time. According to the Library, as a result of numerous requests, the films will begin at 7:30 p.m. Doors will open at 7:00 p.m. Admission is free.
Knit-athon Update:
More than a dozen knitters of all ages recently met at the Darien Library for a Knit-athon to make hats and scarves for children at the shelters run by the Domestic Violence Crisis Center. Knitted items will be collected at the Library through Friday, November 17.
Children’s Room:
Predict Award-Winning Books:
This winter, the Darien Library will offer book groups that predict this year’s award-winning children’s and teens’ books. Enjoy a light dinner and be a part of the mock committees to choose the winners of this year’s Caldecott, Newbery, or Printz Awards. Registration begins November 1st for the Printz Award and November 13th for the Caldecott and Newbery Awards.
“Caldecott Kids” for grades 2 to 3 meets four Wednesdays: November 29th, December 20th, January 10th, and January 31st from 4:30 to 6 p.m. With the other members of their committee, kids will discuss, recommend, and decide 2006’s best children’s books for American illustration, similar to the process the American Library Association undertakes each January for the Caldecott Award.
“Newbery Visionaries” for grades 4 to 5 meets four Tuesdays: November 28th, December 19th, January 9th, and January 30th from 4:30 to 6 p.m. With the other members of their committee, kids will discuss, recommend, and decide 2006’s best children’s books for American literature, similar to the process the American Library Association undertakes each January for the Newbery Award.
“Predicting the Printz” for grades 6 to 12 meets two Tuesdays: November 21st and December 12th from 5 to 6:30 p.m. With the other members of their committee, teens will discuss, recommend, and decide 2006’s best young adult books for ages 12 to 18, similar to the process the American Library Association undertakes each January for the Printz Award.
Children’s book discussion programs and storytimes are funded by the Friends of the Darien Library. Please contact the Children’s Room at 655-1234 x117, or visit the Library’s website at www.darienlibrary.org for more information.
HOURS:
Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
World Wide Web: darienlibrary.org
Posted by Cathy at 04:10 PM
November 02, 2006
Thank you, Darien!
Throughout the month of October (Domestic Violence Awareness Month), we held a dvd/video drive here at the Library and accepted donations of children's and family movies to be distributed to Domestic Violence Crisis Center Shelters. The response from the community was tremendous; this morning Emily and I counted more than 100 contributions! How nice that we can deliver some comfort and joy before the holiday season officially begins!
Thank you!
Posted by BarbaraT at 11:39 AM
Interview with Bob Spitz
How fitting that our first podcast should be of an interview with Bob Spitz about one of the seminal bands in the history of rock-and-roll!
The Annual Meeting of the Friends of the Darien Library took place last Sunday night, and Mr. Spitz, the author of The Beatles: The Biography, was our guest speaker. We enjoyed a blast from the past, and got to see the interview in action.
Listen to the interview: Janet and Barbara interview Bob Spitz (25 minutes, 22 MB).
Posted by Kim at 10:47 AM