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February 29, 2008

We Welcome the Return of Spring...and Jordon!

Spring Book Discussion Begins!

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Jordon Pecile

It may be spring...but it's an election year, which means that politics is always in season.

THE POLITICAL LIFE IN THE MODERN NOVEL is our theme for Spring 2008. We're going to discuss the ways in which the political life affects the family and we'll talk about the compromises made by those who pursue politics. Professor Jordon Pecile will lead the discussions. We'll begin on March 16 and meet for 4 Sundays throughout the spring...at 2:30 p.m., downstairs in the Program Room.

We know you'll want to get started reading right away, so without further delay, here's the discussion schedule:

March 16 - 2:30 p.m.
the senators wife.jpg
The Senator's Wife
by Sue Miller

April 6 - 2:30 p.m.
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All the King's Men
by Robert Penn Warren

April 27 - 2:30 p.m.
the race.jpg
The Race
by Richard North Patterson

May 18 - 2:30 p.m.
the ghost.jpg
The Ghost
by Robert Harris

On your mark. Get set. Read!


Posted by BarbaraT at 10:40 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

February 28, 2008

Thursday Night Special

The caffeine and sugar buzz from the Starbucks coffee and desserts has worn off, but not the delight of having been present for Michael Gates Gill's talk tonight. Michael was here to talk about his inspirational memoir, How Starbucks Saved My Life: A Son of Privilege Learns to Live Like Everyone Else. He gave a fabulous presentation, answered questions, chatted with the audience, and signed copies of his book (and one Starbucks cup!). He was a hit with the crowd and we are so happy that he came to our Library to share his story. Here are some pictures from this special evening.

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Posted by BarbaraT at 10:48 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

This Week at the Library 02/28/08 to 03/06/08

COMING NEXT WEEK:

Friday Film Series:

The 2008 Friday Film Series began on Friday, February 8th and runs through April 25th. Films are shown in the Program Room. Films begin at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. Admission is free.

March 7 – The Brave One

March 14 – In the Shadow of the Moon (Please note schedule change.)

March 21 – Dan in Real Life (Please note schedule change.)

March 28 – FRIDAY FILM VOTE!

April 4 – Resurrecting the Champ

April 11 – Things We Lost in the Fire

April 18 – King of California

April 25 – FRIDAY FILM VOTE!


Books (publication date March 11)

Another Thing to Fall by Laura Lippman

Dreamers of the Day by Mary Doria Russell

Killer Heat by Linda Fairstein


DVDs (release date March 11)

August Rush

Bee Movie

Dan in Real Life

Nancy Drew

No Country for Old Men

Library Display Case:

The “last untold story of Watergate” is finally being told. Ed Gray, who co-wrote a brand new book, In Nixon’s Web: A Year in the Crosshairs of Watergate, with his father, the late L. Patrick Gray III will be speaking at Darien Library on Sunday, March 9 at 5:30 p.m. The elder Gray was Acting Director of the FBI during the Watergate scandal, which ultimately cost him nearly everything. Darien Library is proud to launch Ed Gray’s book tour, and our display case features detailed information about the book, historic newspaper headlines and photos, and memories of the Watergate era.

Spring Book Discussion Series:

“The Political Life in the Modern Novel,” the spring book discussion series at Darien Library, will be led by Jordon Pecile, Professor Emeritus at the United States Coast Guard Academy, and will be held in four sessions starting March 16th at 2:30 p.m.

This season, the four novels selected for discussion explore the ways in which the political life affects the family and questions the compromises made by those who pursue politics. The series consists of The Senator’s Wife by Sue Miller on March 16, All the King’s Men by Robert Penn Warren on April 6, The Race by Richard North Patterson on April 27, and The Ghost by Robert Harris on May 18.

Professor Pecile served as literary advisor for the PBS series “The American Short Story” and for the television program on the life of Eugene O’Neill, “Journey to Genius.” He also wrote the critical portrait of Katharine Anne Porter, “The Eye of Memory,” for the American Masters series aired on public television and has published several short stories. Professor Pecile is a graduate of Cornell University and the Writing Seminars of the University of Iowa.

ART EXHIBIT:

“Landscapes” from the Silvermine Art School will be on display in the Library’s Main Reading Room through March 20th.

CHILDREN’S ROOM:

Children’s Author at the Library:

Lauren Tarshis, a Connecticut children’s book author, will be at the Darien Library on Monday, March 10th at 4:30 p.m. for students in grades 4 to 6.

Ms. Tarshis’ book, “Emma-Jean Lazarus Fell Out of a Tree,” stars a seventh grade girl who grows into her own with the help of her classmates. The title was a Publishers Weekly Best Book of 2007 as well as a School Library Journal Best Book of 2007, and received rave reviews from critics around the country. The Library has multiple copies for check-out.

Those who wish to participate are asked to register by calling the Children’s Room, 655-1234 x117, or in person.
Children, teens, and adult programs are funded by contributions to the Annual Campaign for the Darien Library. Please contact the Children’s Room at 655-1234 x117, or visit the Library’s website at www.darienlibrary.org/children for more information.

Windy Wednesday Kitemaking:

The Darien Library is pleased to offer a “Windy Wednesday Kitemaking” workshop on Wednesday, March 19th at 4 p.m. for grades 2 to 5.

Students will make their own diamond-shaped kites, learn about kite history, how to fly a kite, and kite safety. All materials will be provided. Register in the Children’s Room.

The Darien Library programs for children, teens, and adults are funded by contributions made to the Annual Campaign for the Darien Library. Contact the Children’s Room at 655-1234 x117, or visit the Library’s website at www.darienlibrary.org, for more information.

Teens – What do you think?

Teens: Be the boss of us. What do you think of the Darien Library? Do you love it? Hate it? Not bother going? Visit us on March 18th at 7 p.m. and tell us what you think about the Library and what you might like to see changed. We’ll have pizza. Call the Children’s Room at 655-1234 x117, or email crstaff@darienlibrary.org if you want to attend, and be between the ages of 12 and 18.


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 11:21 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

February 27, 2008

Shades of Gray = (Now) Black & White

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Ed Gray

On Sunday, March 9th at 5:30 p.m., we'll welcome the author Ed Gray, who co-authored In Nixon's Web: A Year in the Crosshairs of Watergate with his father L. Patrick Gray III, Acting Director of the FBI during the height of the Watergate scandal. It's a first-person account, and it offers a unique view into the scandal -- including revelatory tape transcripts, third-party accounts, and excerpts from previously secret documents.

In Nixon's Web: A Year in the Crosshairs of Watergate comes out next Tuesday, March 4th, and we, in fact, are the first stop on Ed Gray's book tour! (Excuse us while we preen.)

Janet and I had the opportunity to speak with Ed earlier today, and our interview with him is now available as a podcast, right here. Please, have a listen, and then, don't forget to join us here on the 9th! It's going to be a great program!

Posted by BarbaraT at 02:17 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

It's Not All About the Cawfee. (Is my Brooklyn showing?)

Well, sometimes it is all about the coffee....like yesterday, when every Starbucks throughout the country closed for several hours for re-training of its more than 135,000 partners (employees) for re-education to Perfect the Art of Espresso.

Tomorrow, at 7 p.m., right here at the Library, we'll have as our speaker, author Michael Gates Gill, who wrote How Starbucks Saved My Life: A Son of Privilege Learns to Live Like Everyone Else. It's a very personal and reflective memoir and we feel privileged that he's agreed to share his story with all of us.
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There will be refreshments -- Darien Starbucks is providing the coffee(!), and Erica and I have selected some delicious Starbucks goodies to serve. Before heading right for the refreshments, please make sure to get a ticket, as there will be a drawing for prizes, too! Take a look at the great prizes available:


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Janet and I interviewed Michael a few weeks ago and he was engaging, entertaining, and eager to come speak at our Library. We can't wait to meet him. Click here to listen to that interview.

We know it's going to be a great evening --coffee and drawings aside, the biggest draw, of course, is Michael Gates Gill. He's such an interesting man with such an interesting story...and luckily he's chosen to take his coffee break with us!

Posted by BarbaraT at 08:00 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

February 22, 2008

Michael Clayton may be known as "The Fixer," but he can't fix the weather!

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Due to the inclement weather, our film for tonight is canceled. We will include Michael Clayton as one of the choices for our April film vote. We hope to see you next Friday night, the 29th, for Elizabeth: The Golden Age.

Posted by BarbaraT at 12:51 PM | Comments (0)

February 21, 2008

This Week at the Library 02/21/08 to 02/28/08

COMING NEXT WEEK:

Friday Film Series:

The 2008 Friday Film Series began on Friday, February 8th and runs through April 25th. Films are shown in the Program Room. Films begin at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. Admission is free.

February 29 – Elizabeth: The Golden Age (Please note schedule change.)

March 7 – The Brave One

March 14 – In the Shadow of the Moon (Please note schedule change.)

March 21 – Dan in Real Life (Please note schedule change.)

March 28 – FRIDAY FILM VOTE!

April 4 – Resurrecting the Champ

April 11 – Things We Lost in the Fire

April 18 – King of California

April 25 – FRIDAY FILM VOTE!

Books (publication date March 4)

Change of Heart: A Novel by Jodi Picoult

Christ the Lord: The Road to Cana by Anne Rice

Dead Time by Stephen R. White

Lush Life by Richard Price

A Prisoner by Birth by Jeffrey Archer

The Silver Swan: A Novel by Benjamin Black

DVDs (release date March 4)

Awake

Into the Wild

Things We Lost in the Fire

Starbucks Author to Speak:

Darien Library introduces its “Outside the Box” Meet the Author Series with the first of two author talks. Michael Gates Gill, author of How Starbucks Saved My Life: A Son of Privilege Learns to Live Like Everyone Else, will be the featured speaker at the Library on Thursday, February 28th at 7 p.m.

Michael Gates Gill was the son of wealth and privilege. At the age of 63, he lost it all – his job, his family, his home, and his health. Dejected and desperate, he accepted an entry level job at a local Starbucks and embarked on a journey that reached across race, class, and age to transform his life. In the book, an instant bestseller, Gill shares what he’s learned about hard work, respect, camaraderie, and humanity with thoughtfulness, humor, honesty, and dignity.

Copies of the book will be available for purchase. A book signing will follow the presentation and there will be a drawing for prizes. Refreshments will be served (coffee courtesy of Darien Starbucks).

For more information about the “Outside the Box” Meet the Author Series, visit http://www.darienlibrary.org/connections/feature/. A podcast interview with the author is available on the Library’s website at http://www.darienlibrary.org/connections/events/archives/podcasts/.

This series is funded by contributions made to the Annual Campaign.

Art Exhibit:

Silvermine’s Studio 25 Presents “Landscapes”:

“Landscapes,” an art exhibit by Studio 25 of the Silvermine School of Art, is currently on display in the Main Reading Room at Darien Library. The exhibit will run through March 20th. The group of artists, from Fairfield and Westchester counties, represent past and present students of the Silvermine School of Art, all of whom have studied with the nationally renowned David Dunlop. The majority of the artists, accomplished plein air painters, have exhibited extensively. “Landscapes” allows them to gather and present their landscape interpretations of familiar locations.

There will be an artist’s reception at the Library on Friday, February 29th, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served.

CHILDREN’S ROOM:

Teen Nutmeg Book Group:

The Darien Library is pleased to continue the “Teen Nutmeg Book Group” book discussion for students in grades 6 and up. Enjoy a light dinner and then participate in a book discussion of this year’s contenders.

The book discussion series celebrates Connecticut’s 2009 Nutmeg Book Award Teen nominees. The Nutmeg Book Award encourages children in grades 4 to 6 and 7 to 8 to read quality literature and to choose their favorite from a list of 10 nominated titles selected each year by Connecticut librarians, school media specialists, and teachers.

The meeting is Thursday, March 6th from 6 to 7 p.m. The chosen book is “The Schwa Was Here” by Neal Shusterman. When Antsy Bonano and his friends discover that fellow 8th grade classmate Calvin Schwa can become invisible, they use the knowledge to hatch a money-making plot. What begins as a surefire scheme turns into something else, as you weave through this funny, yet thought-provoking journey with Cal, Antsy, and Lexie.

The Darien Library programs for children, teens, and adults are funded by contributions to the Annual Campaign for the Darien Library. To register, 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 04:42 PM | Comments (0)

Real life intrudes upon "Dan in Real Life"

In other words...Take three!!

The release date for next Friday's film, Dan in Real Life has changed. This leaves us with another change in our Friday Film Series schedule. So, here's what we're going to do...we'll switch the show dates of "Dan..." with Elizabeth: The Golden Age.

Therefore, this is what our schedule looks like now (Please! No more surprises!):

February 8
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February 15
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February 22
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February 29
elizabeth the golden age.jpg


March 7
thebraveone12.jpg

March 14
intheshadowofthemoon12.jpg

March 21
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March 28
FRIDAY FILM VOTE!


April 4
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April 11
thingswelostinthefire12.jpg

April 18
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April 25
FRIDAY FILM VOTE!

Posted by BarbaraT at 06:39 AM | Comments (1)

February 14, 2008

This Week at the Library 02/14/08 to 02/21/08

COMING NEXT WEEK:

Friday Film Series:

The 2008 Friday Film Series began on Friday, February 8th and runs through April 25th. Films are shown in the Program Room. Films begin at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. Admission is free.

February 22 – Michael Clayton (Please note schedule change.)

February 29 – Dan in Real Life

March 7 – The Brave One

March 14 – In the Shadow of the Moon (Please note schedule change.)

March 21 – Elizabeth: The Golden Age

March 28 – FRIDAY FILM VOTE!

April 4 – Resurrecting the Champ

April 11 – Things We Lost in the Fire

April 18 – King of California

April 25 – FRIDAY FILM VOTE!


Books (publication date February 26)

“Betrayal” by John Lescroart

“Friend of the Devil” by Peter Robinson

“Honor Thyself” by Danielle Steel

“Outlaw Demon Wails” by Kim Harrison

“Remember Me?” by Sophie Kinsella

DVDs (release date February 26)

30 Days of Night

Beowolf

The Darjeeling Limited

Death at a Funeral

Goya’s Ghosts

Short Story Discussion:

“Short Stories for a Short Month,” a short story discussion group, will meet on Tuesdays throughout the month of February. Beginning on February 5th, the group will meet from 3 to 4 p.m. in the Library’s Magazine Room by the fireplace. The discussion leader will be Darien resident Carroll Stenson, who has established other similar and popular programs in the community. Classic short stories and some stories by contemporary authors will be discussed – focusing on content and themes, on characters and how they relate to our own experiences.
Copies of the short stories to be discussed will be provided. Refreshments will be served.
For more information, visit www.darienlibrary.org.

CHILDREN’S ROOM:

Nutmeg Book Groups:

The Darien Library will conduct “Nutmeg Book Groups,” a book discussion series for children in grades 4 to 6. Enjoy a light dinner and then participate in a book discussion of this year’s newest contenders, just announced statewide.

The book discussion series celebrates Connecticut’s 2009 Nutmeg Book Award Intermediate nominees. The Nutmeg Book Award encourages children in grades 4 to 6 to read quality literature and to choose their favorite from a list of 10 nominated titles selected each year by Connecticut librarians, school media specialists, and teachers.
The first meeting is Wednesday, February 27th from 6 to 7 p.m. The chosen book is “Golden and Grey” by Louise Arnold in which Tom escapes the school bullies by teaming up with an invisible ghost.
Upcoming Nutmeg Book Groups will also occur from 6 to 7 p.m.

Wednesday, March 26: “Shakespeare’s Secret” by Elise Broach
Thursday, April 24: “The Homework Machine” by Dan Gutman

The Darien Library programs for children, teens, and adults are funded by contributions to the Annual Campaign for the Darien Library. Contact the Children’s Room at 655-1234 x117, or visit the Library’s website at www.darienlibrary.org for more information. For complete information regarding Nutmeg Book Award’s Intermediate and Teen Nominees, contact www.nutmegaward.org

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 | Comments (0)

February 13, 2008

Take Two! (Change in Friday Film Schedule)

We've had to adjust the schedule for our Friday Film Series. Here's the revised schedule:











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February 8

THE JANE AUSTEN BOOK CLUB

Kathy Baker, Maria Bello, Marc Blucas, Emily Blunt,
Amy Brenneman, Hugh Dancy, Jimmy Smits

Rated PG-13
106 minutes
(2007)


A group of book club members examine six books from Jane Austen, and their lives and relationships begin to mirror the novels they are engrossed in. The film intertwines the members’ problems with the problems faced by Austen’s heroines.


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February 15

NO RESERVATIONS

Catherine Zeta-Jones, Aaron Eckhart,
Abigail Breslin

Rated PG
119 minutes
(2007)


Kate is a top notch but emotionless chef who has her perfectly ordered life turned upside-down when she must care for her niece after her sister is killed. She must adapt to this new person in her life and a new love interest at her job in this sensitive film.


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*** PLEASE NOTE SCHEDULE CHANGE! ***

February 22

MICHAEL CLAYTON

George Clooney, Tom Wilkinson, Tilda Swinton
Rated R
120 minutes
(2007)

Michael Clayton is the in-house "fixer" at one of the largest corporate law firms in New York. Clayton is burned out and getting divorced, but his mounting debt ties him to the firm. Clayton faces the biggest challenge of his career when a firm attorney sabotages his multi-million dollar class action suit.

daninreallife12.jpg

February 29

DAN IN REAL LIFE

Steve Carell, Dane Cook,
Juliette Binoche

Rated PG-13
98 minutes
(2007)

Dan Burns is a column writer for a local newspaper who goes to a family reunion on the Jersey shore, where he meets a woman he takes a liking to. Upon returning home, he finds out that the woman is his brother’s girlfriend. He then tries desperately not to fall in love with her while not breaking rules he has set up for himself and his daughters in this romantic comedy.

thebraveone12.jpg

March 7

THE BRAVE ONE

Jodie Foster, Terrence Howard
Rated R
119 minutes
(2007)

Erica Bain has a life and fiance that she loves. A brutal attack takes all that away from her and, unable to move past it, Erica begins to stalk those whom she holds responsible. Her dark pursuit catches the public’s attention and she must decide whether her pursuit is for justice or if she is becoming the very thing she is trying to stop.

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*** PLEASE NOTE SCHEDULE CHANGE! ***

March 14

IN THE SHADOW OF THE MOON

Documentary feature
Rated PG
100 minutes
(2007)

This documentary explores the Apollo space program, which literally took the aspirations of a nation to another world. Incredible footage and candid interviews with the surviving members from each Apollo mission who visited the moon provide a unique perspective on the precious state of our planet.

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March 21

ELIZABETH: THE GOLDEN AGE

Cate Blanchett, Geoffrey Rush,
Clive Owen

Rated PG-13
114 minutes
(2007)

A sequel to the acclaimed film “Elizabeth,” this stunning historical thriller finds the controversial queen at a time of political and religious turmoil. As Elizabeth is being openly challenged by the Spanish King, she finds a newfound temptation in the dashing Sir Walter Raleigh.

March 28 FRIDAY FILM VOTE! There are so many great new films from which to choose that we want you to have a chance to be heard! Twice during our weekly series, you’ll have the opportunity to vote for your favorite of three new films. Voters will be directed to the Friday Film Vote section of our Events blog, where they will be able to read about the choices, watch film trailers, and vote for their selection. The films to be voted upon will be announced at least two weeks prior to showing.



resurrectingthechamp12.jpg

April 4
RESURRECTING THE CHAMP

Samuel L. Jackson, Josh Hartnett,
Alan Alda

Rated PG-13
111 minutes
(2007)

Up-and-coming sports reporter rescues a homeless man (“Champ”) only to discover that he is, in fact, a boxing legend believed to have passed away. What begins as an opportunity to resurrect Champ’s story and escape the shadow of his father’s success becomes a personal journey, as the ambitious reporter reexamines his own life and his relationship with his family.

thingswelostinthefire12.jpg

April 11

THINGS WE LOST IN THE FIRE

Halle Berry, Benicio Del Toro,
David Duchovny

Rated R
119 minutes
(2007)

When Audrey loses her husband in a random act of violence, she forges an unlikely friendship with Jerry, her husband’s best friend. Jerry is a heroin user whose addiction has destroyed everything in his life, but Audrey discovers that Jerry is the only person who can help her survive her loss and likewise, she is the only one who can help him overcome his problems.

kingofcalifornia12.jpg

April 18

KING OF CALIFORNIA

Michael Douglas, Evan Rachel Wood
Rated PG-13
93 minutes
(2007)

A man is reunited with his teenage daughter after spending years in a mental institution. When he becomes convinced that ancient treasure is buried beneath the local Costco™, his daughter decides to go along with his antics.


April 25
FRIDAY FILM VOTE!
There are so many great new films from which to choose that we want you to have a chance to be heard! Twice during our weekly series, you’ll have the opportunity to vote for your favorite of three new films. Voters will be directed to the Friday Film Vote section of our Events blog, where they will be able to read about the choices, watch film trailers, and vote for their selection. The films to be voted upon will be announced at least two weeks prior to showing.


Posted by BarbaraT at 05:14 PM | Comments (0)

February 11, 2008

"Welcome to the Youniverse."

That's a term from Lee Siegel's new book Against the Machine: Being Human in the Age of the Electronic Mob. Yes, it's a pun, but it's not meant to be cute or funny. It reflects his opinion that the internet isolates, devalues knowledge into information, is the enemy of originality where private and public fuse, where every cultural experience is about "you." Hence, the "Youniverse."

leesiegel1.jpg against the machine cover art.jpg
Lee Siegel

One of the authors in our Outside the Box series, Lee's going to be here on Thursday, March 6th at 7 p.m. to talk about this provocative new book. It really is a must-read. Trust me. He will make you think. And think. And think about this issue we must.

Janet and I talked for over four hours yesterday about this book, and we chatted with Lee today for a brief interview. He was smart and thoughtful in his remarks; interesting and engaging and oh, so nice. We can hardly wait for his IRL* appearance. Click here to listen to the podcast of that interview.

We still have lots of questions to ask. Luckily, we'll all have the chance to listen to him speak, and ask questions when he's here next month.

(* In Real Life)


Posted by BarbaraT at 05:02 PM | Comments (1)

February 08, 2008

This Week at the Library 02/07/08 to 02/14/08

COMING NEXT WEEK:

Friday Film Series:

The 2008 Friday Film Series begins on Friday, February 8th and runs through April 25th. Films are shown in the Program Room. Films begin at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. Admission is free.

February 15 – No Reservations

February 22 – In the Shadow of the Moon

February 29 – Dan in Real Life

March 7 – The Brave One

March 14 – 2 Days in Paris

March 21 – Elizabeth: The Golden Age

March 28 – FRIDAY FILM VOTE!

April 4 – Resurrecting the Champ

April 11 – Things We Lost in the Fire

April 18 – King of California

April 25 – FRIDAY FILM VOTE!

Books (publication date February 19)

“The First Patient” by Michael Palmer

“An Incomplete Revenge: A Maisie Dobbs Novel” by Jacqueline Winspear

“Lady Killer” by Lisa Scottoline

“Strangers in Death” by Nora Roberts, writing as J. D. Robb

DVDs (release date February 19)

American Gangster

Angels in the Dust

In the Valley of Elah

Margot at the Wedding

Michael Clayton

Rendition

Short Story Discussion:

“Short Stories for a Short Month,” a short story discussion group, will meet on Tuesdays throughout the month of February. Beginning on February 5th, the group will meet from 3 to 4 p.m. in the Library’s Magazine Room by the fireplace. The discussion leader will be Darien resident Carroll Stenson, who has established other similar and popular programs in the community. Classic short stories and some stories by contemporary authors will be discussed – focusing on content and themes, on characters and how they relate to our own experiences.
Copies of the short stories to be discussed will be provided. Refreshments will be served.
For more information, visit www.darienlibrary.org.


CHILDREN’S ROOM:

Nutmeg Book Groups:

The Darien Library will conduct “Nutmeg Book Groups,” a book discussion series for children in grades 4 to 6. Enjoy a light dinner and then participate in a book discussion of this year’s newest contenders, just announced statewide.

The book discussion series celebrates Connecticut’s 2009 Nutmeg Book Award Intermediate nominees. The Nutmeg Book Award encourages children in grades 4 to 6 to read quality literature and to choose their favorite from a list of 10 nominated titles selected each year by Connecticut librarians, school media specialists, and teachers.
The first meeting is Wednesday, February 27th from 6 to 7 p.m. The chosen book is “Golden and Grey” by Louise Arnold in which Tom escapes the school bullies by teaming up with an invisible ghost.
Upcoming Nutmeg Book Groups will also occur from 6 to 7 p.m.
Wednesday, March 26: “Shakespeare’s Secret” by Elise Broach
Thursday, April 24: “The Homework Machine” by Dan Gutman

The Darien Library programs for children, teens, and adults are funded by contributions to the Annual Campaign for the Darien Library. Contact the Children’s Room at 655-1234 x117, or visit the Library’s website at www.darienlibrary.org for more information. For complete information regarding Nutmeg Book Award’s Intermediate and Teen Nominees, contact www.nutmegaward.org

Dance Dance Revolution:

The Darien Library is pleased to offer a “DDR Tournament” (Dance Dance Revolution) for grades 5 and up on Wednesday, February 20th from 3 to 5 p.m. Register in the Children’s Room.

DDR is a popular video dance game. Practice on our big screen, then compete while stomping to music beats on a dance pad. Prizes will be awarded! Socks are required.

The programs for children, teens, and adults are funded by contributions made to the Annual Campaign for the Darien Library. Contact the Children’s Room at 655-1234 x117, or visit the Library’s website at www.darienlibrary.org, for more information.

Vacation Movie:

The Darien Library is offering “Vacation Movies” for preschool and elementary school children in February. “Antarctic Antics” will be shown on Wednesday, February 20th at 10 a.m. Penguins dance, sing, and perform poetry in this film based on the picture book by Judy Sierra. The film is 30 minutes in length and is for children ages 3 and up. Caregivers are to remain in the Library.

“The Last Mimzy” will be shown on Tuesday, February 19th at 2:30 p.m. Emma and Noah find a box containing a stuffed rabbit named Mimzy, who takes them on an adventure through time and space. The film is 97 minutes in length and is for children ages 5 and up. It is rated PG for some thematic elements, mild peril, and language. Caregivers are to remain in the Library.

Free tickets will be distributed in the Children’s Room prior to showings. All Library children’s programs are funded by contributions to the Annual Campaign for 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.

Scrapbooking Workshop:

The Darien Library is pleased to offer a “Scrapbooking Workshop” on Thursday, February 21st at 2 p.m. for grades 3 to 5.

Students are asked to bring photos focusing on a family theme. All other materials will be provided. Register in the Children’s Room.

The Darien Library programs for children, teens, and adults are funded by contributions made to the Annual Campaign for the Darien Library. Contact the Children’s Room at 655-1234 x117, or visit the Library’s website at www.darienlibrary.org, for more information.

2008 Storytimes:

The Darien Library welcomes children ages 3 to 5 to join us for two drop-in storytimes this winter.

“Sleepytime Stories” will occur on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 7 p.m., from January 29th to April 1st. Enjoy stories, songs, and activities all while wearing your pajamas!

“Friday Stories” will occur on Fridays from 1:15 to 1:45 p.m., from February 1st to April 4th. Preschoolers can grow in self-esteem and independence by engaging in stories, act-outs, and songs.

Registration is not necessary. Caregivers and parents are to remain in the building. Storytimes will be suspended during Darien Schools’ February vacation (February 18th to 22nd) and Good Friday (March 21st).

Children, teens, and adult programs are funded by contributions to the Annual Campaign for the 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 10:45 AM | Comments (0)

February 07, 2008

A True Gentleman

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Michael Gates Gill

On Tuesday, Janet and I interviewed author Michael Gates Gill, author of How Starbucks Saved My Life: A Son of Privilege Learns to Live Like Everyone Else. In my introduction, I said that he'd attended Harvard. I was mistaken. He went to Yale. Oops.

He did not correct me. He did not break into an impromptu refrain of Boola Boola, nor did he bestow upon me a Skull & Bones-type nickname. He ignored my gaffe. He was a true gentleman and I thank him for that. (We like him already!)

How Starbucks Saved My Life... is such an interesting and inspirational read; I'm glad that you'll have the time to read it before Gill comes here to talk about his book on February 28th at 7 p.m. in the first of two Outside the Box author talks. His talk is sure to be a good one. If you need proof, you can listen to a podcast of our interview by clicking right here.

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Copies of the book will be available for purchase.

A book signing will follow the presentation and there will be a drawing for prizes.
Refreshments will be served.

Coffee courtesy of Darien Starbucks.

Posted by BarbaraT at 12:55 PM | Comments (1)