Author Archives: Brad Glover

Library fundraiser Saturday features stories and music

We hope you will attend a special fundraiser this Saturday, September 10 at 6 p.m. for your library at the PLPOA Clubhouse at 230 Port Avenue that will feature professional storytelling and music.  Proceeds from this event will benefit the Ruby Sisson Library Foundation’s campaign to expand and renovate your library.    

Tickets are $40 in advance and $45 at the door.  They can be purchased by credit card at pagosalibrary.org/library-foundation/navigating-the-world-with-stories/.    You also may purchase tickets with cash or a check in person at the library.  
Featured in this unique program will be two talented performers.  Kathy Santopietro is an award-winning adult educator who has shared her storytelling skills with adult audiences for almost 30 years.  With the theme of  “Navigating the World With Stories,” she will unpack a bundle of stories as she takes us on a journey around the world.  Sharing the stage will be Pagosa’s own Sally Neel, a gifted musician well known to local audiences for her piano, organ and conducting skills at St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church and with Curtains Up Pagosa.

Doors open at 6 p.m. with a cash bar.  Stories begin at 7 p.m.  After the entertainment the cash bar will reopen, accompanied by light hors d’oeuvres.

This is an adult fundraiser is aimed at ages 16 and up.  Earlier in the day, on September 10 from 1:30-2 p.m., Kathy will offer a free storytelling program at the library for youngsters in grades four and up while Josie will host a program for younger children. 

Library Speakers Consortium today

There are three events this month in our free online Library Speakers Consortium virtual series featuring New York Times bestselling fiction and nonfiction authors giving live, professionally moderated book discussions you can view on your computer, tablet or smartphone with internet access.  You also have an opportunity to ask questions.

Today, Thursday, September 8, at noon we will hear from Dr. Michele Borba, author of “Raising Thrivers: Parenting Tips and Tools.”  She is an internationally renowned educator, award-winning author and parenting child expert recognized for her solution-based strategies to strengthen children’s empathy, social-emotional intelligence and character, and her efforts to reduce peer cruelty.

September 20 at noon features prolific New York Times bestselling British-American author and journalist Simon Winchester.  In his career at The Guardian newspaper, Winchester covered numerous significant events including Bloody Sunday and the Watergate scandal. He also has written or contributed to more than a dozen nonfiction books, written one novel, contributed to multiple travel magazines and taken his readers on amazing adventures around the world.

September 27 at 2 p.m. we’ll hear from Pulitzer Prize finalist Hernan Diaz.  He has written two novels which have been published in more than 20 languages, plus many  essays and short stories.  He also is the associate director of the Hispanic Institute for Latin American and Iberian Cultures at Columbia University.  He is known as a dynamic speaker who captivates audiences with witty conversations about foreignness, his theory of genre, literary history and what it means to do research for a novel.

Legal clinic tomorrow

The free legal clinic this month is happening by appointment tomorrow, Friday, September 9 from 2 – 3 p.m.  Come into the library to meet privately via Zoom with our volunteer attorney who will answer your questions, show you legal documents and help you fill out the necessary forms.  To schedule an appointment, at the beginning of the month send an email titled “Sign-up for Free Legal Clinic,” with your first name and phone number to ruby@pagosalibrary.org, or phone 970-264-2209 or stop by the library. The volunteer attorney’s time is limited so it’s first-come first-served.  This clinic takes place on the second Friday of every month.

Children’s Spanish class tomorrow

Join us Friday, September  9 from 2-3 p.m. for a Spanish class for kids aged six to 11.  Miss Josie and Miss Ruby will help you learn and improve your Spanish.

Gaming tomorrow

Enjoy free all-ages video gaming on the X-box 360 Kinect tomorrow, Friday, August 19 from 3-4 p.m.

LEGO Club on Saturday

Kids aged six and up are invited to bring your imaginations – LEGOs are provided – on Saturday, September 10 from 11 a.m.-noon for the free LEGO Club.  LEGO challenges also are posted on Facebook if you can’t make it to the library.

Adult book club next Tuesday

Ruby’s Book Club meets in person from 2-3 p.m. on Tuesday, September 13 to discuss “Furious Hours” by Casey Cap.  Copies are available at your library.  This book club is held the second Tuesday of each month, alternating between fiction and nonfiction titles.  Anyone is welcome to attend.

Spanish conversation

Next Tuesday, September 13 from 4:30-5:30 p.m., we will gather at the library to practice speaking and listening skills together at this free session.  No minimum skill level is required to attend.   You also can learn Spanish and many other languages using the Transparent Language Learning database available at https:pagosalibrary.org/online-resources/

Teen gaming

Free teen gaming happens on Wednesday, September 14 from 4–5:30 p.m. for teens in the 6^th-12^th grades.  Enjoy X-box 360 Kinect, Wii and snacks.

PALS/GED adult education

In response to popular demand, Mark has doubled the number of his free PALS sessions to Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 – 8 p.m. to help with high school equivalency, GED, college prep, financial aid, tutoring and more.  No registration required.  This service is in great demand and is used by many people, so we are very happy to make it more available.  Note: No PALS today, September 8, or September 13, 20 and 22.

Tech Time

Free in-person slots are available from 10 a.m.-noon Tuesdays and 2-4 p.m. Thursdays.  Judy will help you with basic questions relating to computers, smartphones and tablets and also provide assistance in accessing any of the library’s online resources.  You do not need an appointment for these drop-in sessions.

Writing challenge

A new all-ages writing challenge will be posted September 12 on the library’s Facebook page.  We hope you will challenge your creativity by participating in this free activity.

Family storytime

Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. join us for free in-person children’s stories, games and plenty of reasons to get up and move.  

ESL classes

Free in-person evening classes take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays with 4-5 p.m. reserved for beginners and 5-7 p.m. for both intermediate and advanced students.  Please help us spread the word about these classes to others in our community who would be interested, and contact us by phone or email if you have any questions.  

Las clases de ESL

Las clases nocturnas gratuitas en persona se llevan a cabo los martes y jueves de 4 a 7 p.m. Los estudiantes principiantes asisten de 4 a 5 p.m., estudiantes intermedios de 5-6 p.m. y estudiantes avanzados de 7-8 p.m. Por favor, ayúdenos a correr la voz sobre estas clases a otras personas en nuestra comunidad que estén interesadas, y contáctenos por teléfono o correo electrónico si tiene alguna pregunta. 

Library hours

Most of our programs happen in person and curbside service continues. Also, our hours are back to pre-COVID levels – and even more on weekdays:

• Monday, Wednesday and Friday open 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Tuesdays and Thursdays open 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturdays open 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Downloadable books 

CloudLibrary has a wide variety of downloadable e-books and audiobooks for all ages and accessing this free digital collection has never been easier. You just need to download the cloudLibrary app, answer a few simple questions, select AspenCat Union Catalog for the name of your library, then enter your library card number and 4-digit PIN. You are now ready to browse, borrow and read e-books and audiobooks using cloudLibrary. Library staff are happy to help you set up your device if you need assistance.

Novels

“Dark Secret, Silent Promise” and “An Honorable Anger” are books two and three in the Woodbridge trilogy.       

Donations  

We are grateful to Christine Bemish and our anonymous donors for their materials donations.  Material donations are accepted for the Friends of the Library at the front desk (not down the outside returns slot at the library or the dropbox at  City Market, please) when we are open. The Friends take fiction published in 2012 or newer and nonfiction that is 2017 or newer. Limited workroom space means we can only accept one or two small boxes at a time. 

Quotable Quote

“… celebrity book clubs still have the power to move books en masse. In 2021, 10 of the 15 debut novels on The New York Times’s bestseller list were book club selections by Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, Jenna Bush Hager or Good Morning America.” – “How to Get Published,” an article in The New York Times, August 25, 2022.

Friends of the Library book sale starts tonight at new location

This year’s Friends of the Library three-day book sale starts this evening,  Thursday, June 23 at 6 p.m. for members (memberships are available at the door), and then opens to the public on Friday and Saturday June 24-25.  This event always is one of the highlights of the summer for locals and visitors alike.

It takes place in a new location – in the Fellowship Hall at the United Methodist Church in downtown Pagosa.  And it’s a new time of year as well, moving to June to avoid the month of August which is so busy with community events including the Archuleta County Fair.

A single Friends membership is $15 a year and a family membership is $25 a year.  A lifetime membership is $100 per person.

The Friends book sale is an ideal venue for finding treasures for yourself and gifts for family and friends.  You’ll find lots more than books to buy at great bargain prices – there are audio books, DVDs, puzzles and games  as well.  While you enjoy these treats, you’ll be contributing to the health of your library.

Every year the proceeds from the book sale are gratefully received by your library to ensure ongoing excellence of our collection, our facilities and our service to you.  Last year in two and a half days the Friends’ book sale raised more than $2,000.

The Friends always need help sorting through donations to find the ones appropriate for the annual sale.  If you would like to volunteer with the Friends, please contact Wennona Brown  at wennona@centurylink.net. 

If you can’t volunteer, we’d love to have you join the Friends or just come to the book sale as a welcomed guest. 

Summer Reading Program underway

If you haven’t already done so, we hope you will sign up at your library or register online for this year’s Summer Reading Program, which is underway now with the theme “Oceans of Possibilities.”  Pick up a bingo card because participants get a small prize every time you complete a bingo sheet. 

The Summer Reading Program includes activities for all ages that are fun, free and educational.  And it encourages learning and new opportunities for everyone from toddlers to seniors.

Watch for details of special Summer Reading events in this and future Library News columns all summer.  And pick up a copy of the events calendar each month at your library to be sure you and your family don’t miss any of the fun.  There are three versions – children, teens and adults.

Summer Reading Club for kids today

Our Summer Reading Club for kids K-5^th grade takes place today, Thursday, June 23, from 10 – 11:30 p.m. when we’ll celebrate the world of ocean animals through crafts, games and more.  Note no Summer Reading Club on June 30.

Dungeons & Dragons virtually and in person

Today, Thursday, June 23 from 3-5 p.m., is our ongoing virtual Dungeons & Dragons game free for teens and young adults every other Thursday on Discord.  Then join us next Tuesday, June 28 from 4-6 p.m. for our ongoing in-person Dungeons & Dragons game.  Contact claire@pagosalibrary.org to learn how to join either or both games.  Free in-person sessions take place at your library on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month.

Interactive Finding Nemo tomorrow

Tomorrow,Friday, June 24, from 4-6 p.m., we’ll watch the “Finding Nemo” movie while singing, moving and playing along with the screen.

Gaming tomorrow

Enjoy free all-ages video gaming on the X-box 360 Kinect on Friday, June 24  from 2:30 – 3:45 p.m.  

LEGO Club on Saturday

Kids aged six and up are invited to bring your imaginations – LEGOs are provided – on Saturday, June 25 from 11 a.m.-noon for the free LEGO Club.  LEGO challenges also are posted on Facebook if you can’t make it to the library.

Adult DIY next Tuesday

At the in-person adult DIY next Tuesday, June 28 from 1-2 p.m., we will use lengths of rope and simple instructions to create decorative works of art using a variety of knots.  We’ll also learn the basics of several practical knots that you can use in a variety of situations.

Paper airplane obstacle course

Fourth-12^th graders are invited to see how far you can make your paper airplanes fly on Wednesday, June 29 from 3-4:30 p.m.  You can test different models to see which flies best.

Writing challenge

A new all-ages writing challenge will be June 27 on the library’s Facebook page.  We hope you will challenge your creativity by participating in this free activity.

StoryWalk in new location

Our very popular StoryWalk has resumed at a new location.  We are pleased to partner with the Town of Pagosa Springs to bring the StoryWalk to the River Walk downtown.  It starts at the Community Center and heads north toward the green houses.  The June 13-30 featured book is “Wonder Walkers” by Micha Archer.  

Special family storytime

Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. join us for free in-person children’s stories, games and plenty of reasons to get up and move.  June 29 is a free play session.

ESL classes

Free in-person evening classes take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays with 4-5 p.m. reserved for beginners and 5-7 p.m. for both intermediate and advanced students.  Please help us spread the word about these classes to others in our community who would be interested, and contact us by phone or email if you have any questions.  

Las clases de ESL

Las clases nocturnas gratuitas en persona se llevan a cabo los martes y jueves de 4 a 7 p.m. Los estudiantes principiantes asisten de 4 a 5 p.m., estudiantes intermedios de 5-6 p.m. y estudiantes avanzados de 7-8 p.m. Por favor, ayúdenos a correr la voz sobre estas clases a otras personas en nuestra comunidad que estén interesadas, y contáctenos por teléfono o correo electrónico si tiene alguna pregunta. 

Tech Time

Free in-person slots are available from 10 a.m.-noon Tuesdays and 2-4 p.m. Thursdays.   Brad will help you resolve issues with your computer, smartphone, tablet and other electronic devices. 

Adult education

Our free PALS (Pagosa Adult Learning Services) session take place on Thursdays  from 5:30-8 p.m. when Mark helps with high school equivalency, GED, college prep, financial aid, tutoring and more.  No registration required.  

Library hours

Most of our programs happen in person and curbside service continues. Also, our hours are back to pre-COVID levels – and even more on weekdays:

• Monday, Wednesday and Friday open 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Tuesdays and Thursdays open 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturdays open 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Activities calendars available

To be sure you don’t miss any of the free library activities available to you and your family, we encourage you to pick up a copy of the events calendar each month.  There are three versions – children, teens and adults.

Downloadable books 

CloudLibrary has a wide variety of downloadable e-books and audiobooks for all ages. Accessing your library’s free digital collection has never been easier. You just need to download the cloudLibrary app, answer a few simple questions, select AspenCat Union Catalog for the name of your library, then enter your library card number and 4-digit PIN. You are now ready to browse, borrow and read e-books and audiobooks using cloudLibrary. Library staff are happy to help you set up your device if you need assistance. 

Large print

“The Baxters: A Prequel” by Karen Kingsbury takes readers back to happenings before the first book in the Baxter Family series.  “The Investigator” by John Sandford is the first in a new Letty Davenport thriller series.  “Country Born” by Linda Lael Miller is book three in the Painted Pony Creek western romance series.  “Three Debts Paid” by Anne Perry is book five in the Daniel Pitt mystery series.  “Book Lovers” by Emily Henry is a romance involving an editor and literary agent.  “In Bloom” contains novellas by Fern Michaels, Lori Foster and Carolyn Brown.  “Killing the Killers: The Secret War Against Terrorists” by Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard is the 11th book in the authors’ Killing series.  “Robert B Parker’s Revenge Tour” by Mike Lupica is a Sunny Randall mystery.

Nonfiction essays

“Embrace Fearlessly the Burning World” is a collection of essays by Barry Lopez, the National Book Award-winning author who inspired generations or writers and activists.

Mysteries and thrillers

“The Lioness” by Chris Bohjalian is an historical thriller featuring Hollywood stars on a luxurious African safari that turns deadly.

Other novels

“By the Book” by Jasmine Guillory follows a Black publishing house employee trying to encourage a reluctant author to finish his memoir.  “West with Giraffes” by Lynda Rutledge is inspired by the story of two giraffes who made headlines and won hearts in Depression-era America.

How-to and self-help

“Complete Book of Framing” by Scot Simpson is an updated version of this guide for residential construction.  “Framing Floors, Walls & Ceilings” is a new edition by the authors and editors of Fine Homebuilding magazine.  “How to be Perfect” by Michael Schur offers a guide to living an ethical life from easy to complex issues.

Memoirs

“A Sacred Oath” by Mark T. Esper is the memoir of the Secretary of Defense in the Trump administration.  “Easy Beauty” by award-winning author Chloe Cooper Jones is a memoir of a disabled woman with a rare congenital condition.  “Back to the Prairie” by Melissa Gilbert is a memoir by this author and star of “Little House on the Prairie.”

Western books on CD

“American Odyssey” by Max McCoy is a Ghost Rifle western.  “Prairie Fire” by William W. and J.A. Johnstone is the ninth book in the Luke Jensen Bounty Hunter series.  “The Crimson Trail” by Eric Red is a Joe Noose western.

Donations  

We are grateful to Susan and Terry Arrington for their generous monetary contribution and to our anonymous donors for their materials donations.  Please put your materials donations into the dropbox at the library – not at City Market, which is reserved for returns.  

Library foundation

Please consider a tax-deductible donation to the Ruby M. Sisson Memorial Library Foundation. To respond to the evolving needs of our community, we are now working on a $4 million project to expand our building so that we can provide private study rooms, an intergenerational hands-on learning space, easy access to self-checkout and drop-off, a beautiful outdoor reading garden and an endowment for the future.  Mail checks to P.O. Box 2045, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 or call Cindi Galabota at 970-264-2209.

Quotable Quote

“If you love what you do and are willing to do what it takes, it’s within your reach.  And it’ll be worth every minute you spend alone at night, thinking about what it is you want to design or build.” – Steve Wozniak, philanthropist, inventor, technology entrepreneur and co-founder of Apple with Steve Jobs.

DIYs feature master herbalist for adults and sea creature art  for teens

Join us next Tuesday, June 21 from 5-6 p.m. for a special adult DIY event when master herbalist Shalina Luna will show you how to make common household cleaners without using harsh chemicals.  Shalina has 15 years of experience teaching and using these techniques, as she strives to provide up-to-date education and resources for a more sustainable lifestyle.

Then fourth – 12^th graders are invited to a free in-person teen DIY session next Wednesday, June 22 from 4-5 p.m. when you’ll make some fun sea creatures and add to our coral reef display.

Library closure

Your library will be closed on Monday, June 20 for the Juneteenth holiday, which is now a Colorado and federal holiday.  Also known as Emancipation day, Freedom Day and Black Independence Day, Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and celebrates Black culture.  It has been celebrated annually in various parts of the United States since 1865.  The day was recognized  as a federal holiday in June 2021 and a Colorado holiday in May 2022.

Summer Reading Program underway

If you haven’t already done so, we hope you will sign up now at your library or register online for this year’s Summer Reading Program, which began June 6 with the theme “Oceans of Possibilities.”  Pick up a bingo card because participants get a small prize every time you complete a bingo sheet. 

The Summer Reading Program includes activities for all ages that are fun, free and educational.  And it encourages learning and new opportunities for everyone from toddlers to seniors.

Watch for details of special Summer Reading events in this and future Library News columns all summer.  And pick up a copy of the events calendar each month at your library to be sure you and your family don’t miss any of the fun.  There are three versions – children, teens and adults.

Save the date for book sale

This year’s Friends of the Library book sale will open on Thursday evening, June 23 at 6 p.m. for members (memberships are available at the door), and then open to the public on Friday and Saturday June 24-25.  It will be in a new location – in the Fellowship Hall at the United Methodist Church in downtown Pagosa.  And it’s a new time of year as well, moving to June to avoid the month of August which is so busy with community events including the Archuleta County Fair.

You’ll find lots more than books to buy at great bargain prices – there are audio books, DVDs, puzzles and games  as well.  While you enjoy these treats, you’ll be contributing to the health of your library. Last year the Friends’ book sale raised more than $2,000.

The Friends always need help sorting, boxing and preparing for the sale.  As well, year-round our volunteers go to the library to sort through donations to find the ones appropriate for the annual sale.  If you would like to volunteer with the Friends, please contact Wennona Brown  at wennona@centurylink.net.  And we hope you’ll put the Friends book sale dates on your calendar for a fun summer outing.

Interactive Finding Nemo

Save the date of next Friday, June 24 from 4-6 p.m. when we’ll watch the “Finding Nemo” movie while singing, moving and playing along with the screen.

Summer Reading Club for kids today

Join our Summer Reading Club for kids K-5^th grade today, Thursday, June 16, from 10 – 11:30 p.m. when we’ll explore the world of ships and sailors and you can build a boat of your own.  Next week’s club on June 23 focuses on ocean animals. 

Virtual teen advisory board today

Today, Thursday, June 16,  the teen advisory board meets from 4-5 p.m. on GoogleMeet.  Fourth-12^th graders are invited to bring your fun and innovative ideas to help us plan teen programs.   Video call link:  https://meet.google.com/jav-wcht-szx

Looking for a D&D group?

Ages 10 and up are invited to the library tomorrow, Friday, June 17, from 4-6 p.m. to meet other Dungeons & Dragons players and dungeon masters.  We’ll play mini-games, hang out and talk about role-playing games.

Gaming tomorrow

Enjoy free all-ages video gaming on the X-box 360 Kinect on Friday, June 17 and 24 from 2:30 – 3:45 p.m.  

Makerspace Saturday

Kids, tweens and teens are invited to a free Makerspace session on Saturday, June 18 from 11 a.m. to noon when we’ll provide the materials so you can build, design and create.

Teen writers next Tuesday

Teen writers from 4^th-12^th grade are invited to your library on Tuesday, June 21 from 4 – 5 p.m.  Stories, poetry, graphic novels, fan fiction – it’s all welcome.

Writing challenge

A new all-ages writing challenge was posted June 13 on the library’s Facebook page.  We hope you will challenge your creativity by participating in this free activity.

StoryWalk in new location

Our very popular StoryWalk has resumed at a new location.  We are pleased to partner with the Town of Pagosa Springs to bring the StoryWalk to the River Walk downtown.  It starts at the Community Center and heads north toward the green houses.  The June 13-30 featured book is “Wonder Walkers” by Micha Archer.  

Special family storytime

Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. join us for free in-person children’s stories, games and plenty of reasons to get up and move. Special guest Lori Lucero from the Wildlife Park will teach us about some super cool animals on June 22.   

Virtual Dungeons & Dragons

Join us next Thursday, June 23 from 3-5 p.m. for our ongoing virtual Dungeons & Dragons game free for teens and young adults every other Thursday on Discord.  Contact claire@pagosalibrary.org to learn how to join. 

ESL classes

Free in-person evening classes take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays with 4-5 p.m. reserved for beginners and 5-7 p.m. for both intermediate and advanced students.  Please help us spread the word about these classes to others in our community who would be interested, and contact us by phone or email if you have any questions.  

Las clases de ESL

Las clases nocturnas gratuitas en persona se llevan a cabo los martes y jueves de 4 a 7 p.m. Los estudiantes principiantes asisten de 4 a 5 p.m., estudiantes intermedios de 5-6 p.m. y estudiantes avanzados de 7-8 p.m. Por favor, ayúdenos a correr la voz sobre estas clases a otras personas en nuestra comunidad que estén interesadas, y contáctenos por teléfono o correo electrónico si tiene alguna pregunta. 

Tech Time

Free in-person slots are available from 10 a.m.-noon Tuesdays and 2-4 p.m. Thursdays.   Brad will help you resolve issues with your computer, smartphone, tablet and other electronic devices. 

Adult education

Our free PALS (Pagosa Adult Learning Services) session take place on Thursdays  from 5:30-8 p.m. when Mark helps with high school equivalency, GED, college prep, financial aid, tutoring and more.  No registration required.  

Library hours

Most of our programs are happening in person and curbside service continues. Also, our hours are back to pre-COVID levels – and even more on weekdays:

• Monday, Wednesday and Friday open 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Tuesdays and Thursdays open 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturdays open 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Activities calendars available

To be sure you don’t miss any of the free library activities available to you and your family, we encourage you to pick up a copy of the events calendar each month.  There are three versions – children, teens and adults.

Downloadable books 

CloudLibrary has a wide variety of downloadable e-books and audiobooks for all ages. Accessing your library’s free digital collection has never been easier. You just need to download the cloudLibrary app, answer a few simple questions, select AspenCat Union Catalog for the name of your library, then enter your library card number and 4-digit PIN. You are now ready to browse, borrow and read e-books and audiobooks using cloudLibrary. Library staff are happy to help you set up your device if you need assistance. 

Local author

“Hats: A Bible Study Handbook” by Andrea Downing and Lynn Moffett is a guide to help you find your purpose in life.  “A Book of Remembrance” compiled by Lynn Moffett is a collection of everyday miracles that changed lives and our concept of God.  “Lawless Revealed” and “Rule of Tolerance,” also by Lynn Moffett, are part of her Incursion series.  She is a member of the Wolf Creek Christian Writers Network.

How-to and self-help

“Liver Cure” by Dr. Russell L. Blaylock provides information to ensure optimal liver function to help keep you healthy and strong.  “Bittersweet” by Susan Cain explores why we experience sorrow and longing and how to embrace bittersweetness.  “Things That Matter” by Joshua Becker helps you identify obstacles to focusing on what matters most. 

Other nonfiction

“Finding Me” by Viola Davis is a memoir about the life and hard work this Academy Award-winning actress put in to build her career.   “Burn the Page” by Danica Roem explains in revealing, humorous prose how the nation’s first transgender state legislator worked to rewrite her future. 

Mysteries and thrillers

“The Lamplighters” by Emma Stonex explores the mysterious disappearance of three lighthouse keepers.   “When She Dreams” by Amanda Quick is set in a glamorous seaside playground in California.  “Breathless” by Amy McCulloch features murders of climbers on the eighth highest peak in the world.  “The Hacienda” by Isabel Canas is a supernatural suspense story set in Mexico. 

Other novels

“When Women Were Dragons” by Kelly Barnhill is a feminist historical fantasy set in 1950s America.   

Donations  

We are grateful to our anonymous donors for their materials donations.  Please put your materials donations into the dropbox at the library – not at City Market, which is reserved for returns.  

Library foundation

Please consider a tax-deductible donation to the Ruby M. Sisson Memorial Library Foundation. To respond to the evolving needs of our community, we are now working on a $4 million project to expand our building so that we can provide private study rooms, an intergenerational hands-on learning space, easy access to self-checkout and drop-off, a beautiful outdoor reading garden and an endowment for the future.  Mail checks to P.O. Box 2045, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 or call Cindi Galabota at 970-264-2209.

Quotable Quote

“The farther back you can look, the farther forward you are likely to see.” – Winston Churchill (1874-1965), British statesman and writer best remembered for successfully leading Britain through World War II and for his inspiring speeches.

Summer Reading Program offers myriad activities for all ages

If you haven’t already done so, we hope you will sign up now at your library or register online for this year’s Summer Reading Program, which began June 6 with the theme “Oceans of Possibilities.”  Pick up a bingo card because participants get a small prize every time you complete a bingo sheet. 

The Summer Reading Program is one of our most popular events of the year.  It includes activities for all ages that are fun, free and educational.  And it encourages learning and new opportunities for everyone from toddlers to seniors.

Watch for details of special Summer Reading events in this and future Library News columns all summer.  And pick up a copy of the events calendar each month at your library to be sure you and your family don’t miss any of the fun.  There are three versions – children, teens and adults.

Save the date for book sale

This year’s Friends of the Library book sale will open on Thursday evening, June 23 at 6 p.m. for members (memberships are available at the door), and then open to the public on Friday and Saturday June 24-25.  It will be in a new location – in the Fellowship Hall at the United Methodist Church in downtown Pagosa.  And it’s a new time of year as well, moving to June to avoid the month of August which is so busy with community events including the Archuleta County Fair.

You’ll find lots more than books to buy at great bargain prices – there are audio books, DVDs, puzzles and games  as well.  While you enjoy these treats, you’ll be contributing to the health of your library. Last year the Friends’ book sale raised more than $2,000.

The Friends always need help sorting, boxing and preparing for the sale.  As well, year-round our volunteers go to the library to sort through donations to find the ones appropriate for the annual sale.  If you would like to volunteer with the Friends, please contact Wennona Brown  at wennona@centurylink.net.  And we hope you’ll put the Friends book sale dates on your calendar for a fun summer outing.

Legal clinic tomorrow

The free legal clinic this month is happening by appointment tomorrow, Friday, June 10 from 2 – 3 p.m.  Please come into the library to meet privately via Zoom with our volunteer attorney who will answer your questions, show you legal documents and help you fill out the necessary forms.  To schedule an appointment, at the beginning of the month send an email titled “Sign-up for Free Legal Clinic,” with your first name and phone number to ruby@pagosalibrary.org, or phone 970-264-2209 or stop by the library. The volunteer attorney’s time is limited so it’s first-come first-served.  This clinic takes place on the second Friday of every month.

Paws to Read Friday

Friday, June 10 from 2:30 – 3:30 p.m., youngsters from K-fifth grades are invited to share their favorite books with Muppet, a therapy dog who loves listening to stories, at a free Paws to Read session.  This is a great way for beginning readers to build confidence.

LEGO Club Saturday

Kids aged six and up are invited to bring your imaginations – LEGOs are provided – on Saturday, June 11 from 11 a.m. – noon for the free LEGO Club.  LEGO challenges also are posted on Facebook if you can’t make it to the library.

Writing challenge

A new all-ages writing challenge will be posted June 13 on the library’s Facebook page.  We hope you will challenge your creativity by participating in this free activity.

Adult gaming

Enjoy free video gaming on the X-box 360 Kinect on Monday, June 13 from 4-5:30 p.m.

Adult book club next Tuesday

Ruby’s Book Club meets in person from 2-3 p.m. on Tuesday, June 14 to discuss “Finding Dorothy” by Elizabeth Letts.  Copies are available at your library.  This book club is held the second Tuesday of each month, alternating between fiction and nonfiction titles.  Anyone is welcome to attend.

In-person Dungeons & Dragons   

Join us next Tuesday, June 14 from 4-6 p.m. for our ongoing in-person Dungeons & Dragons game for teens and young adults.  Contact claire@pagosalibrary.org to learn how to join.  Free sessions take place at your library on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month.

Spanish conversation

Next Wednesday, June 15 from 4-5 p.m., we will gather in person at the library to practice speaking and listening skills together for this free session.  There is no minimum skill level required to attend.   You also can learn Spanish and many other languages using the Transparent Language Learning database available at https:pagosalibrary.org/online-resources/

Board games fun

Fourth-12^th graders are invited to a free board games session next Wednesday, June 15 from 3:30-5:30 p.m.  Join us to play a variety of board and tabletop games.

Summer Reading Club for kids

Join our Summer Reading Club for kids K-5^th grade next Thursday, June 16 from 10 – 11:30 p.m. when we’ll explore the world of ships and sailors and you can build a boat of your own.

Virtual teen advisory board

Next Thursday, June 16 the teen advisory board meets from 4-5 p.m. on GoogleMeet.  Fourth-12^th graders are invited to bring your fun and innovative ideas to help us plan teen programs.   Video call link:  https://meet.google.com/jav-wcht-szx

StoryWalk in new location

Our very popular StoryWalk has resumed at a new location.  We are pleased to partner with the Town of Pagosa Springs to bring the StoryWalk to the River Walk downtown.  It starts at the Community Center and heads north toward the green houses.  The June 1-12 featured book is “Hey Water” by Antoinette Portis.  The June 13-30 book is “Wonder Walkers” by Micha Archer.  

Special family storytime

Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. join us for free in-person children’s stories, games and plenty of reasons to get up and move. Special guests Lisa Baker and her friend Fluffy Dog will provide puppets, storytelling and silly fun on June 15.   

ESL classes

Free in-person evening classes take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays with 4-5 p.m. reserved for beginners and 5-7 p.m. for both intermediate and advanced students.  Please help us spread the word about these classes to others in our community who would be interested, and contact us by phone or email if you have any questions.  

Las clases de ESL

Las clases nocturnas gratuitas en persona se llevan a cabo los martes y jueves de 4 a 7 p.m. Los estudiantes principiantes asisten de 4 a 5 p.m., estudiantes intermedios de 5-6 p.m. y estudiantes avanzados de 7-8 p.m. Por favor, ayúdenos a correr la voz sobre estas clases a otras personas en nuestra comunidad que estén interesadas, y contáctenos por teléfono o correo electrónico si tiene alguna pregunta. 

Tech Time

Free in-person slots are available from 10 a.m.-noon Tuesdays and 2-4 p.m. Thursdays.   Brad will help you resolve issues with your computer, smartphone, tablet and other electronic devices. 

Adult education

Our free PALS (Pagosa Adult Learning Services) session take place on Thursdays  from 5:30-8 p.m. when Mark helps with high school equivalency, GED, college prep, financial aid, tutoring and more.  No registration required.  

Library hours

Most of our programs are happening in person and curbside service continues. Also, our hours are back to pre-COVID levels – and even more on weekdays:

• Monday, Wednesday and Friday open 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Tuesdays and Thursdays open 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturdays open 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Activities calendars available

To be sure you don’t miss any of the free library activities available to you and your family, we encourage you to pick up a copy of the events calendar each month.  There are three versions – children, teens and adults.

Downloadable books 

CloudLibrary has a wide variety of downloadable e-books and audiobooks for all ages. Accessing your library’s free digital collection has never been easier. You just need to download the cloudLibrary app, answer a few simple questions, select AspenCat Union Catalog for the name of your library, then enter your library card number and 4-digit PIN. You are now ready to browse, borrow and read e-books and audiobooks using cloudLibrary. Library staff are happy to help you set up your device if you need assistance. 

DVDs

“The Batman” includes a special feature on Gotham’s villains and heroes.  “Uncharted”  is a buddy-movie adventure.  “Tyson’s Run” features an autistic teen who wants to run a marathon.  “Abraham Lincoln” is the three-part History Channel presentation. 

Nonfiction

“Arrival Stories” is a collection of essays about becoming a mother by 23 women including Serena Williams, Alysia Montano, Shilpa Shah and Amy Schumer.  “I Guess I Haven’t Learned That Yet” by Shauna Niequist shares her experiences during a time of chaos, change and loss just after her 40^th birthday.  “The Upgrade” by Dr. Louann Brizendine provides a roadmap to a healthy menopausal and post-menopausal life for women.  “Constructing a Nervous System” by Margo Jefferson is a memoir by the Pulitzer Prize-winner and New York Times Theatre critic.  “The Trayvon Generation” by Elizabeth Alexander looks at the power of art and culture to illuminate America’s unresolved problems with race. 

Books on CD

“E-Day III Dark Moon” by Nicholas Sansbury Smith is book three in the sci-fi series.  “The Book Woman’s Daughter” by Kim Michele Richardson follows a trailblazing woman in Kentucky’s Appalachian Mountains.  “22 Seconds” by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro is a Women’s Murder Club mystery.  “The Ravaged” by Norman Reedus tells of a man who discovers a secret past.  “When She Dreams” by Amanda Quick is a historical romance set in 1930’s California.  “Robert B. Parker’s Revenge Tour” is a PI Sunny Randall mystery.

Mysteries and thrillers

“City on Fire” by Don Winslow features two criminal empires about to be broken up by a modern-day Helen of Troy.  “Magpie” by Elizabeth Day follows a couple whose lives are upended by a new roommate.  “Trust” by Hernan Diaz tells of a powerful wealthy couple whose source of wealth is a mystery.

Other novels

“Summer Love” by Nancy Thayer takes place at a reunion in Nantucket.  “The Book Woman’s Daughter” by Kim Michele Richardson follows a trailblazing woman in Kentucky’s Appalachian Mountains.  “The Good Left Undone” by Adriana Trigiani explores the lives of an Italian nurse, her daughter and granddaughter.   “Flint of Mirror” by John Crowley is a story of history and magic in Ireland. 

Donations  

We are grateful to Maureen Collins for her generous monetary donation and to our anonymous donors for their materials donations.  Please put your materials donations into the dropbox at the library – not at City Market, which is reserved for returns.  

Library foundation

Please consider a tax-deductible donation to the Ruby M. Sisson Memorial Library Foundation. To respond to the evolving needs of our community, we are now working on a $4 million project to expand our building so that we can provide private study rooms, an intergenerational hands-on learning space, easy access to self-checkout and drop-off, a beautiful outdoor reading garden and an endowment for the future.  Mail checks to P.O. Box 2045, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 or call Cindi Galabota at 970-264-2209.

Quotable Quote

“The body is like a car: the older you become, the more care you have to take of it – and you don’t leave a Ferrari out in the sun.” – Joan Collins, award-winning English actress and recipient of a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Pagosa Weather presentation today plus Summer Reading Program

Join us this evening, Thursday, May 26, from 6-7 p.m. for a fun, free and educational presentation by Pagosa Weather about our local weather and why it is important for you to stay informed about it. 

Mark Langford with Arleen and Shawn Pro contribute to pagosaweather.org, a website dedicated to informing the public about local weather conditions and forecasts.  Their website also provides authoritative analysis about weather events that affect the Pagosa area.  This analysis is especially important because our local area is not given much attention by meteorologists in Denver, Albuquerque or Grand Junction.

Meet the weather team at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XjMyN-tBV7M.

Summer Reading begins June 6  

Sign up now at your library or register online for this year’s Summer Reading Program, which begins June 6 with the theme “Oceans of Possibilities.”  Pick up a bingo card because participants get a small prize every time you complete a bingo sheet. 

The Summer Reading Program is one of our most popular events of the year.  It includes activities for all ages that are fun, free and educational.  And it encourages learning and new opportunities for everyone from toddlers to seniors.

Watch for details of special Summer Reading events in this and future Library News columns all summer.  And pick up a copy of the events calendar each month at your library to be sure you and your family don’t miss any of the fun.  There are three versions – children, teens and adults.

Note re this column

Please note that this column covers library events and activities for the next two weeks.  The next column will appear on June 9.

Library closure

Your library will be closed on Monday, May 30 for Memorial Day.

Save the date for book sale

This year’s Friends of the Library book sale will open on Thursday evening, June 23 at 6 p.m. for members (memberships are available at the door), and then open to the public on Friday and Saturday June 24-25.  It will be in a new location – in the Fellowship Hall at the United Methodist Church in downtown Pagosa.  And it’s a new time of year as well, moving to June to avoid the month of August which is so busy with community events including the Archuleta County Fair.

You’ll find lots more than books to buy at great bargain prices – there are audio books, DVDs, puzzles and games  as well.  While you enjoy these treats, you’ll be contributing to the health of your library. Last year the Friends’ book sale raised more than $2,000.

The Friends always need help sorting, boxing and preparing for the sale.  As well, year-round our volunteers go to the library to sort through donations to find the ones appropriate for the annual sale.  If you would like to volunteer with the Friends, please contact Wennona Brown  at wennona@centurylink.net.  And we hope you’ll put the Friends book sale dates on your calendar for a fun summer outing.

Makerspace debuts June 4

Kids, tweens and teens are invited to a free Makerspace session on Saturday, June 4 from 11 a.m. to noon when we’ll provide the materials so you can build, design and create.

Computer basics class

Join us Tuesday, June 7 from 1-2 p.m. for a free computer class on saving and finding files.  You will learn how your computer is organized, including files and folders, and how to find what you’re looking for.

Therapy dog visit

Wednesday, June 8 from 11 – 11:45 a.m. you are invited to come to the library for a free visit with a certified therapy dog.  It’s a great way to relax or boost your day.  The visits will be limited to 10-15 minutes – just the right amount of time to pet the dog, read to the dog or just say “Hi.”  This activity is for all ages. 

Summer Reading Club debuts

Join our first Summer Reading Club session for kids K-5^th grade on Thursday, June 9 when we’ll learn how our river can impact the ocean and what we can do to protect it.  We’ll enjoy interactive activities and experiments.

LEGO Club on Saturday

Kids aged six and up are invited to bring your imaginations – LEGOs are provided – on Saturday, May 28 from 11 a.m. – noon for the free LEGO Club.  LEGO challenges also are posted on Facebook if you can’t make it to the library.

Teen gaming

Free teen gaming happens on Wednesday, June 1 from 4–5:30 p.m. for teens in the 6^th-12^th grades.  Enjoy X-box 360 Kinect, Wii and snacks.

Virtual Dungeons & Dragons

Join us Thursday, June 2 from 3-5 p.m. for our ongoing Dungeons & Dragons game free for teens and young adults every other Thursday on Discord.  Contact claire@pagosalibrary.org to learn how to join. 

StoryWalk in new location

Our very popular StoryWalk has resumed at a new location.  We are pleased to partner with the Town of Pagosa Springs to bring the StoryWalk to the River Walk downtown.  It starts at the Community Center and heads north toward the green houses.  The May 15-31 featured book is “Hike” by Pete Oswald.  The June 1-12 featured book is “Hey Water” by Antoinette Portis.”  

Family storytimes

Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. join us for free in-person children’s stories, games and plenty of reasons to get up and move.  June 8 is Hora de Cuentos when you can practice your Spanish with books, songs and games.  

ESL classes

Free in-person evening classes take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays with 4-5 p.m. reserved for beginners and 5-7 p.m. for both intermediate and advanced students.  Please help us spread the word about these classes to others in our community who would be interested, and contact us by phone or email if you have any questions.  

Las clases de ESL

Las clases nocturnas gratuitas en persona se llevan a cabo los martes y jueves de 4 a 7 p.m. Los estudiantes principiantes asisten de 4 a 5 p.m., estudiantes intermedios de 5-6 p.m. y estudiantes avanzados de 7-8 p.m. Por favor, ayúdenos a correr la voz sobre estas clases a otras personas en nuestra comunidad que estén interesadas, y contáctenos por teléfono o correo electrónico si tiene alguna pregunta. 

Tech Time

Free in-person slots are available from 10 a.m.-noon Tuesdays and 2-4 p.m. Thursdays.   Brad will help you resolve issues with your computer, smartphone, tablet and other electronic devices. 

Adult education

Our free PALS (Pagosa Adult Learning Services) session take place on Thursdays  from 5:30-8 p.m. when Mark helps with high school equivalency, GED, college prep, financial aid, tutoring and more.  No registration required.  Note no PALS June 9.

In-person gaming

Enjoy free all-ages video gaming on the X-box 360 Kinect on Fridays from 2:30 – 3:45 p.m.  

Library hours

Most of our programs are happening in person and curbside service continues. Also, our hours are back to pre-COVID levels – and even more on weekdays:

• Monday, Wednesday and Friday open 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Tuesdays and Thursdays open 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturdays open 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Activities calendars available

To be sure you don’t miss any of the free library activities available to you and your family, we encourage you to pick up a copy of the events calendar each month.  There are three versions – children, teens and adults.

Downloadable books 

CloudLibrary has a wide variety of downloadable e-books and audiobooks for all ages. Accessing your library’s free digital collection has never been easier. You just need to download the cloudLibrary app, answer a few simple questions, select AspenCat Union Catalog for the name of your library, then enter your library card number and 4-digit PIN. You are now ready to browse, borrow and read e-books and audiobooks using cloudLibrary. Library staff are happy to help you set up your device if you need assistance. 

Mysteries and thrillers

“The Lifeguards” by Amanda Eyre Ward is told from alternating mothers’ point of view after their sons arrive from with a disrupting discovery.  “Death of the Black Widow” by James Patterson and J.D. Parker features a seductive female killer.

Other novels

“Probably Ruby” by Lisa Bird-Wilson follows the life of a young Metis woman who was adopted by a white couple.  “The Pages” by Hugo Hamilton is set in Berlin and told through the voice of a hand-drawn map. 

How-to and self-help

“Outdoor Kids in an Inside World” by Steven Rinella offers practical advice to families to get help kids engaged with nature and find beauty, meaning and connection.  “You Will Get Through This Night” by psychologist Daniel Howell is a guide to handling mental health issues like depression and anxiety.  “Pay Up: The Future of Women and Work (And Why It’s Different Than You Think)” by Reshma Saujani presents a plan to address the burnout and inequity harming America’s working women today.  “How to be a Successful Nut” by Sue Ellen Haning provides suggestions for getting yourself out of your rut so you can really live.  “Plan Your Estate/16^th edition” is a NOLO guide to help you protect your family. “Good Kills” by David Engelhardt explores biblical and cultural issues related to justice, goodness and darker elements to help you find your way back to life.  

Other nonfiction

 “The Fighting Soul” by Ari Rabin-Havt is a chronicle of Bernie Sanders’ presidential campaign written by his campaign manager.  “Into the Inferno” by Stuart Palley is a memoir of a photographer’s experiences on the frontlines of California forest fires. 

Donations  

We are grateful to our anonymous donors for their materials donations.  Please put your materials donations into the dropbox at the library – not at City Market, which is reserved for returns.  

Library foundation

Please consider a tax-deductible donation to the Ruby M. Sisson Memorial Library Foundation. To respond to the evolving needs of our community, we are now working on a $4 million project to expand our building so that we can provide private study rooms, an intergenerational hands-on learning space, easy access to self-checkout and drop-off, a beautiful outdoor reading garden and an endowment for the future.  Mail checks to P.O. Box 2045, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 or call Cindi Galabota at 970-264-2209.

Quotable Quote

“Start where you are.  Use what you have.  Do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe (1943-1993), American professional tennis player.  He won three Grand Slam singles titles and was the first black player selected to the U.S. Davis Cup team.

Sign up now for free, all-ages Summer Reading Program

You can sign up now at your library or register online for this year’s Summer Reading Program, which begins June 6 with the theme “Oceans of Possibilities.”  Pick up a bingo card because participants get a small prize every time you complete a bingo sheet. 

The Summer Reading Program is one of our most popular events of the year.  It includes activities for all ages that are fun, free and educational.  And it encourages learning and new opportunities for everyone from toddlers to seniors.

Watch for details of more special Summer Reading events in future Library News columns.

CD player to borrow

Do you need a CD player?  We have one you can check out.  Ask at the front desk.

S.T.E.A.M enrichment kits

Participants in this free enrichment program for youngsters aged five and up receive a kit guiding you through science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (S.T.E.A.M.) projects.  The kits are available all month but registration is required by calling your library at 970-264-2209. 

Spanish conversation today

Today, Thursday, May 19, from 6-7 p.m., we will gather in person at the library to practice speaking and listening skills together.   There is no minimum skill level required to attend.   You also can learn Spanish and many other languages using the Transparent Language Learning database available at https:pagosalibrary.org/online-resources/

Dungeons & Dragons – virtual and in person    

Join us today, Thursday, May 19, from 3-5 p.m. for our ongoing Dungeons & Dragons game free for teens and young adults every other Thursday on Discord.  Contact claire@pagosalibrary.org to learn how to join. 

Then join us next Tuesday, May 24 from 4-6 p.m. for our ongoing in-person Dungeons & Dragons game for teens and young adults.  Contact claire@pagosalibrary.org to learn how to join.  Free sessions take place at your library on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month.

Teen writers next Wednesday

Teen writers from 4^th-12^th grade are invited to your library on Wednesday, May 25 from 4 – 5 p.m.  Stories, poetry, graphic novels, fan fiction – it’s all welcome.

StoryWalk in new location

Our very popular StoryWalk has resumed at a new location.  We are pleased to partner with the Town of Pagosa Springs to bring the StoryWalk to the River Walk downtown.  It starts at the Community Center and heads north toward the green houses.  The May 15-31 featured book is “Hike” by Pete Oswald.

Family storytime

Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. join us for free in-person children’s stories, games and plenty of reasons to get up and move.

Discovery Time

All-ages Discovery Times continue on Facebook at 2:30 p.m. on the first and third Saturdays of the month with games, art ideas, science experiments, history and more.  The next Discovery Time is this Saturday, May 21. 

ESL classes

Free in-person evening classes take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays with 4-5 p.m. reserved for beginners and 5-7 p.m. for both intermediate and advanced students.  Please help us spread the word about these classes to others in our community who would be interested, and contact us by phone or email if you have any questions.  

Las clases de ESL

Las clases nocturnas gratuitas en persona se llevan a cabo los martes y jueves de 4 a 7 p.m. Los estudiantes principiantes asisten de 4 a 5 p.m., estudiantes intermedios de 5-6 p.m. y estudiantes avanzados de 7-8 p.m. Por favor, ayúdenos a correr la voz sobre estas clases a otras personas en nuestra comunidad que estén interesadas, y contáctenos por teléfono o correo electrónico si tiene alguna pregunta. 

Tech Time

Free in-person slots are available from 10 a.m.-noon Tuesdays and 2-4 p.m. Thursdays.   Brad will help you resolve issues with your computer, smartphone, tablet and other electronic devices. 

Adult education

Our free PALS (Pagosa Adult Learning Services) session take place on Thursdays  from 5:30-8 p.m. when Mark helps with high school equivalency, GED, college prep, financial aid, tutoring and more.  No registration required.  Note no PALS today, May 19.

In-person gaming

Enjoy free all-ages video gaming on the X-box 360 Kinect on Fridays from 2:30 – 3:45 p.m.  

Writing challenge

A new all-ages writing challenge will be posted May 23 on the library’s Facebook page.  We hope you will challenge your creativity by participating in this free all-ages activity.

Library hours

Most of our programs are happening in person and curbside service continues. Also, our hours are back to pre-COVID levels – and even more on weekdays:

• Monday, Wednesday and Friday open 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Tuesdays and Thursdays open 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturdays open 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.    

Activities calendars available

To be sure you don’t miss any of the free library activities available to you and your family, we encourage you to pick up a copy of the events calendar each month.  There are three versions – children, teens and adults.

Downloadable books 

CloudLibrary has a wide variety of downloadable e-books and audiobooks for all ages. Accessing your library’s free digital collection has never been easier. You just need to download the cloudLibrary app, answer a few simple questions, select AspenCat Union Catalog for the name of your library, then enter your library card number and 4-digit PIN. You are now ready to browse, borrow and read e-books and audiobooks using cloudLibrary. Library staff are happy to help you set up your device if you need assistance. 

Nonfiction

“This Will Not Pass: Trump, Biden, and the Battle for America’s Future” by New York Times reporters Jonathan Martin and Alexander Burns chronicles U.S. politics from the start of the coronavirus pandemic while Trump was president through the first year of the Biden presidency.  “Riverman: An American Odyssey” by Ben McGrath is the biography of Dick Conant, who canoed solo on thousands of miles of American rivers and then disappeared near the Outer Banks.  “The Nineties” by Chuck Klosterman reviews the wholesale shifts in society in the 1990s in films, music, sports, TV, politics and more.  “On the Trail of the Jackalope” by Michael P. Branch explores how a legend captured the world’s imagination and helped us cure cancer.

Mysteries and thrillers

“The Younger Wife” by Sally Hepworth is a domestic suspense story involving the family of a man who wants to remarry. 

Other novels

“Shadows of Berlin” by David R. Gillham follows a woman from Berlin with a new American husbanddealing with difficult memories.  “Very Cold People” by Sarah Manguso explores secrets in an elite Massachusetts town now being peopled by immigrants.  “Beautiful” by Danielle Steel centers on a supermodel whose life is uprooted by a terrorist attack.

Donations  

We are grateful to Susan and Terry Arrington for their generous monetary donation and to our anonymous donors for their materials donations.  Please put your materials donations into the dropbox at the library – not at City Market, which is reserved for returns.  

Library foundation

Please consider a tax-deductible donation to the Ruby M. Sisson Memorial Library Foundation. To respond to the evolving needs of our community, we are now working on a $4 million project to expand our building so that we can provide private study rooms, an intergenerational hands-on learning space, easy access to self-checkout and drop-off, a beautiful outdoor reading garden and an endowment for the future.  Mail checks to P.O. Box 2045, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 or call Cindi Galabota at 970-264-2209.

Quotable Quote

“At the end of your life, you will never regret not having passed one more test, winning one more verdict or closing one more deal.  You will regret time not spent with a husband, a child, a friend or a parent.” – Barbara Bush (1925-2018), former First Lady of the U.S. and founder of the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy.

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten an ideal literacy program for babies and toddlers

One of the greatest gifts you can give your babies and toddlers is to sign them up for a free early literacy reading program called “1,000 Books before Kindergarten” for children from birth to five years old. 

You can sign up any time at your library.  You will receive a folder with bubbles to keep track of the books you read to your child.  The concept is simple:  Read 1,000 books to your newborn, infant or toddler – yes, you can repeat books – before your precious one starts kindergarten.  You’ll get a free book each time your child completes 100 books.

One thousand may sound like a huge number of books, but it’s not really. If you read just one book a night, you will have read 365 books in a year. That is 730 books in two years and 1,095 books in three years. If you consider that most children start kindergarten at around five years of age, you have more time than you may think.

Legal clinic tomorrow

The free legal clinic this month is happening by appointment tomorrow, Friday, May 13 from 2 – 3 p.m.  Please come into the library to meet privately via Zoom with our volunteer attorney who will answer your questions, show you legal documents and help you fill out the necessary forms.  To schedule an appointment, at the beginning of the month send an email titled “Sign-up for Free Legal Clinic,” with your first name and phone number to ruby@pagosalibrary.org, or phone 970-264-2209 or stop by the library. The volunteer attorney’s time is limited so it’s first-come first-served.  This clinic takes place on the second Friday of every month.  

New StoryWalk next Monday

Our very popular StoryWalk has resumed at a new location.  We are pleased to partner with the Town of Pagosa Springs to bring the StoryWalk to the River Walk downtown.  It starts at the Community Center and heads north toward the green houses.  The May 15-31 featured book is “Hike” by Pete Oswald.

Adult DIY next Tuesday

At the in-person adult DIY next Tuesday, May 17 from 1-2 p.m., we will use a variety of DIY supplies from previous months to give you the opportunity to create something useful or decorative. 

LEGO Club on Saturday

Kids aged six and up are invited to bring your imaginations – LEGOs are provided – on Saturday, May 14 from 11 a.m. – noon for the free LEGO Club.  LEGO challenges also are posted on Facebook if you can’t make it to the library.

Virtual teen advisory board

Next Wednesday, May 18 the teen advisory board meets from 4-5 p.m. on GoogleMeet.  Fourth-12^th graders are invited to bring your fun and innovative ideas to help us plan teen programs.   Video call link:  https://meet.google.com/jav-wcht-szx

Special family storytime

Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. join us for free in-person children’s stories, games and plenty of reasons to get up and move. Special guests Lisa Baker and her friend Fluffy Dog will provide puppets, storytelling and silly fun on May 18.   

Dungeons & Dragons   

Join us next Thursday, May 19 from 3-5 p.m. for our ongoing Dungeons & Dragons game free for teens and young adults every other Thursday on Discord.  Contact claire@pagosalibrary.org to learn how to join.  Free in-person sessions take place at your library on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month from 4-6 p.m.

Spanish conversation next Thursday

Next Thursday, May 19 from 6-7 p.m., we will gather in person at the library to practice speaking and listening skills together.   There is no minimum skill level required to attend.   You also can learn Spanish and many other languages using the Transparent Language Learning database available at https:pagosalibrary.org/online-resources/

Discovery Time

All-ages Discovery Times continue on Facebook at 2:30 p.m. on the first and third Saturdays of the month with games, art ideas, science experiments, history and more.  The next Discovery Time is on May 21. 

ESL classes

Free in-person evening classes take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays with 4-5 p.m. reserved for beginners and 5-7 p.m. for both intermediate and advanced students.  Please help us spread the word about these classes to others in our community who would be interested, and contact us by phone or email if you have any questions.  

Las clases de ESL

Las clases nocturnas gratuitas en persona se llevan a cabo los martes y jueves de 4 a 7 p.m. Los estudiantes principiantes asisten de 4 a 5 p.m., estudiantes intermedios de 5-6 p.m. y estudiantes avanzados de 7-8 p.m. Por favor, ayúdenos a correr la voz sobre estas clases a otras personas en nuestra comunidad que estén interesadas, y contáctenos por teléfono o correo electrónico si tiene alguna pregunta. 

Tech Time

Free in-person slots are available from 10 a.m.-noon Tuesdays and 2-4 p.m. Thursdays.   Brad will help you resolve issues with your computer, smartphone, tablet and other electronic devices. 

Adult education

Our free PALS (Pagosa Adult Learning Services) session take place on Thursdays  from 5:30-8 p.m. when Mark helps with high school equivalency, GED, college prep, financial aid, tutoring and more.  Note no PALS May 19.

In-person gaming

Enjoy free all-ages video gaming on the X-box 360 Kinect on Fridays from 2:30 – 3:45 p.m.  

Writing challenge

A new all-ages writing challenge was posted May 9 on the library’s Facebook page.  We hope you will challenge your creativity by participating in this free all-ages activity.

Library hours

Most of our programs are happening in person and curbside service continues. Also, our hours are back to pre-COVID levels – and even more on weekdays:

• Monday, Wednesday and Friday open 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Tuesdays and Thursdays open 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturdays open 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.    

Activities calendars available

To be sure you don’t miss any of the free library activities available to you and your family, we encourage you to pick up a copy of the events calendar each month.  There are three versions – children, teens and adults.

Downloadable books 

CloudLibrary has a wide variety of downloadable e-books and audiobooks for all ages. Accessing your library’s free digital collection has never been easier. You just need to download the cloudLibrary app, answer a few simple questions, select AspenCat Union Catalog for the name of your library, then enter your library card number and 4-digit PIN. You are now ready to browse, borrow and read e-books and audiobooks using cloudLibrary. Library staff are happy to help you set up your device if you need assistance. 

Large print

“Silver Grass” by John D. Nesbitt is a western set on a ranch in Wyoming.  “Ralph Compton Blood on the Prairie” by Tony Healey is a western in the Gunfighter series.  “A Family Affair” by Robyn Carr features a woman whose life falls apart when her husband dies.  “A Safe House” by Stuart Woods is a Stone Barrington mystery.   “Sister Stardust” by Jane Green follows a small-town English girl who moves to Morocco. 

Mysteries and thrillers

“High Road” by Jeff Carson is the latest David Wolf mystery set in southwest Colorado.  “Our American Friend” by Anna Pitoniak tells of a journalist writing the biography of a mysterious First Lady.

Other novels 

“The House Between Earth and the Moon” by Rebecca Scherm is a futuristic sci-fi story set on a billionaire-funded space station to deal with climate change on earth.  “Wildcat” by Amelia Morris features a woman’s journey through motherhood and female friendship.  “Take My Hand” by Dolen Perkins-Valdez is the story of a young Black nurse’s quest for justice in post-segregation Alabama.  “Shadow Fallen” by Sherrilyn Kenyon is a Dream-Hunter historical fantasy novel.

Nonfiction

“Rewilding” by Paul Jepson and Cain Blythe describes this new approach to restoring ecosystems.  “Bigger Than Tiny” by Sheri Koones is an illustrated guide to building smaller environmentally friendly homes.  “The Beauty of Dusk” by Frank Bruni tells of the author’s recovery from a stroke that affected his eyesight.  “The Palace Papers” by longtime British royals watcher Tina Brown covers the lives of Queen Elizabeth and her family over the last 25 years.  “Wagon Boss: A True Cowboy Story” by Ed Ashurst follows the life of an Arizona cowboy.   “50 States 500 Campgrounds” is a guide to campgrounds across the U.S. and Canada.

Spanish-language books

“Amor y Respecto” (“Love & Respect”) by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs is a faith-centered, self-help book with advice on how spouses can deal with conflict quickly, easily and biblically.  “El Hotel de Cristal” (“The Glass Hotel”) by Emily St. John Mandel is a novel set at the intersection of two seemingly disparate events – the exposure of a massive criminal enterprise and the disappearance of a woman at sea.

DVDs

“Spider-Man No Way Home” reveals the hero’s identity for the first time.  “Death on the Nile” is the new film version of the classic Agatha Christie novel.  “Cyrano” also is the new film version of the classic novel “Cyrano de Bergerac.”

Books on CD

“One of Us is Dead” by Jeneva Rose is a thriller set in Atlanta.  “City on Fire” by Don Winslow is the first book in a new trilogy about two criminal empires at war.  “Death of the Black Widow” by James Patterson and J.D. Parker follows a woman who escaped from police custody.  “Dream Town” by David Baldacci is an Aloysious Aracher thriller.  “Glimpse into Evil” by Lynn Moffett is book three in the Incursion series about mercenaries rounding up Christians in a small Colorado town.       

Donations  

We are grateful to our anonymous donors for their materials donations.  Please put your materials donations into the dropbox at the library – not at City Market, which is reserved for returns.  

Library foundation

Please consider a tax-deductible donation to the Ruby M. Sisson Memorial Library Foundation. To respond to the evolving needs of our community, we are now working on a $4 million project to expand our building so that we can provide private study rooms, an intergenerational hands-on learning space, easy access to self-checkout and drop-off, a beautiful outdoor reading garden and an endowment for the future.  Mail checks to P.O. Box 2045, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 or call Cindi Galabota at 970-264-2209.

Quotable Quote

“Youthfulness is connected to the ability to see things new for the first time.  So if your eyes still look at life with wonder, then you will seem young, even though you may not be chronologically young.” – Goldie Hawn, actress, dancer, producer and singer.

Free downloadable e-books and audio books available in cloudLibrary

If you haven’t tried accessing and taking advantage of cloudLibrary, you may want to do so to greatly expand the list of free e-books and audio books available to you and your family for your reading pleasure.

This downloadable service offers e-books and audio books for all ages – children, tweens, teens and adults.  The items in cloudLibrary are purchased separately from physical items, so the books available are different – and it continues to use the AspenCat consortium’s contributions as well as those that we bought.   A wide variety of classic titles and popular books of all genres is available. 

Go to the library website at https://pagosalibrary.org. and click on the Downloadable Content box.  Then click on cloudLibrary and follow the instructions to set up this service on your computer or device.  

If you need assistance, all library staff are happy to help you set up your electronic device and answer any questions.   

Therapy dog visit tomorrow

Tomorrow, Friday, May 6, from 1:30 – 2:15 p.m. you are invited to come to the library for a free visit with a certified therapy dog.  It’s a great way to relax or boost your day.  The visits will be limited to 10-15 minutes – just the right amount of time to pet the dog, read to the dog or just say “Hi.”  This activity is for all ages.  

Adult book club next Tuesday

Ruby’s Book Club meets in person from 2-3 p.m. on Tuesday, May 10 to discuss “Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law” by Mary Roach.  Copies are available at your library.  This book club is held the second Tuesday of each month, alternating between fiction and nonfiction titles.  Anyone is welcome to attend.

Teen gaming next Wednesday

Free teen gaming happens on Wednesday, May 11 from 4–5:30 p.m. for teens in the 6^th-12^th grades.  Enjoy X-box 360 Kinect, Wii and snacks. 

Dungeons & Dragons   

Join us next Tuesday, May 10 from 4-6 p.m. for our ongoing in-person Dungeons & Dragons game for teens and young adults.  Contact claire@pagosalibrary.org to learn how to join.  Free sessions take place at your library on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. 

Special family storytime

Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. join us for free in-person children’s stories, games and plenty of reasons to get up and move. Special guest Miss Diane  will share some food stories and maybe even a taste testing on May 11.   

Discovery Time

All-ages Discovery Times continue on Facebook at 2:30 p.m. on the first and third Saturdays of the month with games, art ideas, science experiments, history and more.  This month’s Discovery Times are on May 7 and 21.  

ESL classes

Free in-person evening classes take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays with 4-5 p.m. reserved for beginners and 5-7 p.m. for both intermediate and advanced students.  Please help us spread the word about these classes to others in our community who would be interested, and contact us by phone or email if you have any questions.  

Las clases de ESL

Las clases nocturnas gratuitas en persona se llevan a cabo los martes y jueves de 4 a 7 p.m. Los estudiantes principiantes asisten de 4 a 5 p.m., estudiantes intermedios de 5-6 p.m. y estudiantes avanzados de 7-8 p.m. Por favor, ayúdenos a correr la voz sobre estas clases a otras personas en nuestra comunidad que estén interesadas, y contáctenos por teléfono o correo electrónico si tiene alguna pregunta. 

Tech Time 

Free in-person slots are available from 10 a.m.-noon Tuesdays and 2-4 p.m. Thursdays.   Brad will help you resolve issues with your computer, smartphone, tablet and other electronic devices.  

Adult education 

Our free PALS (Pagosa Adult Learning Services) session take place on Thursdays  from 5:30-8 p.m. when Mark helps with high school equivalency, GED, college prep, financial aid, tutoring and more.

In-person gaming

Enjoy free all-ages video gaming on the X-box 360 Kinect on Fridays from 2:30 – 3:45 p.m.  

Writing challenge 

A new all-ages writing challenge will be posted May 9 on the library’s Facebook page.  We hope you will challenge your creativity by participating in this free all-ages activity.

S.T.E.A.M enrichment kits

Participants in this free enrichment program for youngsters aged five and up receive a kit guiding you through science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (S.T.E.A.M.) projects.  The kits are available all month but registration is required by calling your library at 970-264-2209.  

CD player to borrow

Do you need a CD player?  We have one you can check out.  Ask at the front desk.

Library hours

Most of our programs are happening in person and curbside service continues. Also, our hours are back to pre-COVID levels – and even more on weekdays:

• Monday, Wednesday and Friday open 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. 
• Tuesdays and Thursdays open 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturdays open 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. 

Activities calendars available

To be sure you don’t miss any of the free library activities available to you and your family, we encourage you to pick up a copy of the events calendar each month.  There are three versions – children, teens and adults.

Spanish language self-help books

“El Actor: Como Alcanzar la Autenticidad” by Don Miguel Ruiz is a guide to mastering the art of life.  “Eros: Retorno al Amor Uncondicional,” also by Don Miguel Ruiz, is a guide to finding and purer and more generous love.  “Autentica y Unica” by Joyce Meyer is a guide to using the abilities God gave you to fulfill His purpose for your life.  “Vive Confiado en un Mundo Caotico” by Dr. David Jeremiah offers practical Bible-based instructions for living in a world of chaos and crisis.    

Nonfiction 

“The Only Investment Guide You’ll Ever Need” by Andrew Tobias is the revised and updated version.  “In Love” by Amy Bloom is a memoir of a couple facing end-of-life decisions when the husband is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.  “Real Cowboys Grand  Canyon to Mexico” by Ed Ashurst is a tribute to men and women working cattle in the West.    

Mysteries and thrillers

“The End of Getting Lost” by Robin Kirman follows a couple on their honeymoon in Europe in 1996, before cell phones.  “The Sacred Bridge” by Anne Hillerman is a Leaphorn, Chee and Manuelio book in the Navajo Nation series.  “Such a Pretty Smile” by Kristi DeMeester focuses on a killer whose victims are young trouble-maker girls.  “Crimson Summer” by Heather Graham is about an apocalypse cult in Florida.  “Kingdom of Bones” by James Rollins is a Sigma Force thriller.     

Other novels  

“Sea of Tranquility” by Emily St. John Mandel is a story of time travel set on Vancouver Island and a dark colony on the moon.  “Brown Girls” by Daphne Palasi Andreades follows the lives of five immigrant young ladies living in Queens, New York.  “What the Fireflies Knew” by Kai Harris is a coming-of-age story told by a young black girl.  “No Land to Light On” by Yara Zgheib is about a young Syrian couple separated by the travel ban.  “City of Shadows” by Victoria Thompson focuses on the negative effects on a widow of an unscrupulous medium.  “Incursion” and “Conspiracy” by Lynn Moffett are books one and two of a series about mercenaries rounding up Christians in a small Colorado town.         

Books on CD

“The Investigator” by John Sandford is a Letty Davenport mystery.  “Kingdom of Bones” by James Rollins is a Sigma Force thriller.  

Large print

“Robert Ludlum’s The Treadstone Transgression” by Joshua Hood is book three in the Treadstone series.  “Daughter of the Morning Star” by Craig Johnson is a Walt Longmire mystery.  “Give Unto Others” by Donna Leon is a Commissario Guido Brunetti mystery.  “What Happened to the Bennetts” by Lisa Scottoline begins with a carjacking.

Donations  

We are grateful to Richard Moore for his generous monetary donation, and to Alan Saltzstein and our anonymous donors for their materials donations.  Please put your materials donations into the dropbox at the library – not at City Market, which is reserved for returns.  

Library foundation

Please consider a tax-deductible donation to the Ruby M. Sisson Memorial Library Foundation. To respond to the evolving needs of our community, we are now working on a $4 million project to expand our building so that we can provide private study rooms, an intergenerational hands-on learning space, easy access to self-checkout and drop-off, a beautiful outdoor reading garden and an endowment for the future.  Mail checks to P.O. Box 2045, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 or call Cindi Galabota at 970-264-2209.

Quotable Quote

“Don’t let perfect be the enemy of the good.  Gardens are living, breathing organisms just like us, imperfect and flawed.” – Linda Vater, self-described “gardening evangelist” and YouTube instructor known for her fresh, unstuffy take on traditional English gardens.

StoryWalk resumes in new downtown River Walk location

Our very popular StoryWalk resumes next Monday, May 2 at a new location.  We are pleased to partner with the Town of Pagosa Springs to bring the StoryWalk to the River Walk downtown.  It starts at the Community Center and heads north toward the green houses.

The May 1-14 feature is “Bird Watch,” a seek-and-fine picture book by Christie Matheson.  This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the birds that live around us – and look for them, too.

Resume and cover letter session

Learn how to use Microsoft Word to create a professional looking resume using basic and advanced formatting tools next Tuesday, May 3 from 1-2 p.m.  Brad will also go over the basics of creating an effective cover letter.

Teen DIY next Wednesday

Fourth – 12^th graders are invited to a free in-person teen DIY session on Wednesday, May 4 from 4-5 p.m.  We hope you’ll join us to get creative and see what you can make.

Therapy dog visit next Friday

Next Friday, May 6  from 1:30 – 2:15 p.m. you are invited to come to the library for a free visit with a certified therapy dog.  The visits will be limited to 10-15 minutes – just the right amount of time to pet the dog, read to the dog or just say “Hi.”  This activity is for all ages. 

Dungeons & Dragons   

Join us next Thursday, May 5 from 3-5 p.m. for our ongoing Dungeons & Dragons game free for teens and young adults every other Thursday on Discord.  Contact claire@pagosalibrary.org to learn how to join.  Free in-person sessions take place at your library on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month from 4-6 p.m.

Special family storytime and Discovery Time

Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. join us for free in-person children’s stories, games and plenty of reasons to get up and move. On May 4 special guest Melanie Milburn will join us from Durango to share great original music and stories.  All-ages Discovery Times continue on Facebook at 2:30 p.m. on the first and third Saturdays of the month with games, art ideas, science experiments, history and more.   This month’s Discovery Times are on April 2 and 16.

ESL classes

Free in-person evening classes take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays with 4-5 p.m. reserved for beginners and 5-7 p.m. for both intermediate and advanced students.  Please help us spread the word about these classes to others in our community who would be interested, and contact us by phone or email if you have any questions.  

Las clases de ESL

Las clases nocturnas gratuitas en persona se llevan a cabo los martes y jueves de 4 a 7 p.m. Los estudiantes principiantes asisten de 4 a 5 p.m., estudiantes intermedios de 5-6 p.m. y estudiantes avanzados de 7-8 p.m. Por favor, ayúdenos a correr la voz sobre estas clases a otras personas en nuestra comunidad que estén interesadas, y contáctenos por teléfono o correo electrónico si tiene alguna pregunta. 

Tech Time

Free in-person slots are available from 10 a.m.-noon Tuesdays and 2-4 p.m. Thursdays.   Brad will help you resolve issues with your computer, smartphone, tablet and other electronic devices. 

Adult education

Our free PALS (Pagosa Adult Learning Services) session take place on Thursdays  from 5:30-8 p.m. when Mark helps with high school equivalency, GED, college prep, financial aid, tutoring and more.

In-person gaming

Enjoy free all-ages video gaming on the X-box 360 Kinect on Fridays from 2:30 – 3:45 p.m.  

Writing challenge

A new all-ages writing challenge was posted April 25 on the library’s Facebook page.  We hope you will challenge your creativity by participating in this free all-ages activity.

S.T.E.A.M enrichment kits

Participants in this free enrichment program for youngsters aged five and up receive a kit guiding you through science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (S.T.E.A.M.) projects.  The kits are available all month but registration is required by calling your library at 970-264-2209.

CD player to borrow

Do you need a CD player?  We have one you can check out.  Ask at the front desk.

Library hours

Most of our programs are happening in person and curbside service continues. Also, our hours are back to pre-COVID levels – and even more on weekdays:

• Monday, Wednesday and Friday open 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Tuesdays and Thursdays open 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturdays open 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Activities calendars available

To be sure you don’t miss any of the free library activities available to you and your family, we encourage you to pick up a copy of the events calendar each month.  There are three versions – children, teens and adults.

Large print

“A Relative Murder” by Jude Deveraux is book four of the Medlar Mystery series.  “The Atlas Six” by Olivie Blake focuses on six new initiates to a secret society of magical  academicians.  “Calder Grit” by Janet Dailey is book two of the Calder Brand America West romance series. 

Mysteries and thrillers

“A Game of Fear” by Charles Todd is an Inspector Ian Rutledge mystery.  “Creatures of Charm and Hunger” by Molly Tanzer is set in a library in England that houses all the occult knowledge of an international association of diabolists.  “Violence” by Delilah S. Dawson focuses on a mysterious epidemic of violence sweeping the nation.   “Dream Town” by David Baldacci is an Archer thriller.  “Kingdom of Bones” by James Rollins is a Sigma Force thriller.  “Good Rich People” by Eliza Jane Brazier is a psychological thriller. 

Other novels 

“Dawnshard” by Brandon Sanderson is a novella from the Stormlight Archive fantasy series.  “Free Love” by Tessa Hadley follows a happily married woman who awakens to the sexual revolution in 1960s’ London.  “Eternal” by Lisa Scottoline is an historical novel set in pre-World War II Italy.  “Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus features a chemist who is the reluctant star of a cooking show.  “The Candy House” by Pulitzer Prize winning author Jennifer Egan explores the quest for authenticity in a world where memories and identities are no longer our own.  “The End of Getting Lost” by Robin Kirman  

Books on CD

“Listening Still” by Anne Griffin features a woman in Ireland who can communicate with the recently departed.   “Robert Ludlum’s The Treadstone Transgression” by Joshua Hood is a thriller about a CIA source in the Haitian National Bank.  “Beautiful” by Danielle Steel centers on a supermodel whose life is uprooted by a terrorist attack.  “Freezing Order” by Bill Browder is a true story of money laundering, murder and surviving Putin’s wrath.  “Young Mundo” by Douglas Stuart portrays the lives of two gay men in working-class families.  “The Candy House” by Pulitzer Prize winning author Jennifer Egan explores the quest for authenticity in a world where memories and identities are no longer our own.   

Nonfiction

“Woke Racism” by John McWhorter explores the author’s belief that our current obsession with cancel culture and the woke culture is hurting Black America.  “The Invisible Kingdom” by Meghan O’Rourke investigates the effects of chronic illnesses like autoimmune diseases, post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome and long COVID.  “The Bald Eagle” by Pulitzer Prize winning historian Jack E. Davis looks at five centuries of history of our national bird.  “Ways and Means” by Roger Lowenstein is the story of how Lincoln and his cabinet financed the Civil War. 

DVDs

“The Magnificent Seven” is a modern version of the classic story.  “The Hitman’s Bodyguard” is a comedic action film.  “Queen of Katwe” is a Disney film based on a true story of a Ugandan girl.  “Scientific Secrets for a Powerful Memory” contains six 30-minute lectures in the Great Courses series.

Downloadable books 

CloudLibrary has a wide variety of downloadable e-books and audiobooks for all ages. Accessing your library’s free digital collection has never been easier. You just need to download the cloudLibrary app, answer a few simple questions, select AspenCat Union Catalog for the name of your library, then enter your library card number and 4-digit PIN. You are now ready to browse, borrow and read e-books and audiobooks using cloudLibrary. Library staff are happy to help you set up your device if you need assistance. 

Donations  

We are grateful to Susan and Terry Arrington for their generous monetary donation, and to Joanne Ferko, Rosalea Connor and our anonymous donors for their materials donations.  Please put your materials donations into the dropbox at the library – not at City Market, which is reserved for returns. 

Library foundation

Please consider a tax-deductible donation to the Ruby M. Sisson Memorial Library Foundation. To respond to the evolving needs of our community, we are now working on a $4 million project to expand our building so that we can provide private study rooms, an intergenerational hands-on learning space, easy access to self-checkout and drop-off, a beautiful outdoor reading garden and an endowment for the future.  Mail checks to P.O. Box 2045, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 or call Cindi Galabota at 970-264-2209.

Quotable Quote

“Asking for help doesn’t make you weak – it makes you smart.” – Martina Navratilova, Czechoslovakian and American former tennis player and coach.  She is considered among the greatest tennis players of all time as the winner of 59 titles and a record nine wins at Wimbledon.

Celebrate Earth Day with free takeaway kit for all ages

On April 22, 1970, Americans marched and demonstrated in the streets for a healthy, sustainable environment in massive rallies across the U.S. on our country’s first Earth Day. An estimated 20 million people from 10,000 elementary and high schools, 2,000 colleges, and more than 1,000 communities participated that day. (It was rumored that the date of April 22 was chosen because it fell between colleges’ spring breaks and final exams.)

Not only did the first Earth Day result in an impressive turnout, it also achieved an unusual political alignment. Republicans and Democrats and people from all demographics – students, union members, farmers, scientists, community leaders and politicians – all came together to support the environment.

This accomplishment is even more remarkable when you consider that all of the organizing and communicating was done without emails, cell phones, the internet, social media or even fax machines.

The first Earth Day gave environmental issues national and political attention. It also influenced the creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and numerous laws that protect our environment. 

In 1990 Earth Day went global, mobilizing more than 200 million people in 141 countries. This event put environmental issues on the world stage, paving the way for the 1992 United Nations Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. Ten years later, Earth Day 2000 focused on climate change and clean energy. Approximately 5,000 environmental groups and 184 countries participated, reaching hundreds of millions of people.

Now more than a billion people around the world participate in various Earth Day activities and events each April 22. 

We invite you to participate in Earth Day by stopping by your library on April 22 to pick up your free pollinator-themed takeaway kit, while supplies last.

Local author

“Pearls of Winter” by Lisa J. Jisa is the story of a woman who moves from the American Midwest to Uganda on a whim, searching for a fresh start.  The author, who recently moved to Pagosa from Wisconsin, donated a copy to the library for your reading pleasure.

CD player to borrow

Do you need a CD player?  We have one you can check out.  Ask at the front desk.

LEGO Club on Saturday

Kids aged six and up are invited to bring your imaginations – LEGOs are provided – on Saturday, April 23 from 11 a.m.-noon for the free LEGO Club.  LEGO challenges also are posted on Facebook if you can’t make it to the library.

Teen writers next Wednesday

Teen writers from 4^th-12^th grade are invited to your library on Wednesday, April 27 from 4 – 5 p.m.  Stories, poetry, graphic novels, fan fiction – it’s all welcome.

Spanish conversation next Thursday

Next Thursday, April 22 from 6-7 p.m., we will gather in person at the library to practice speaking and listening skills together.   There is no minimum skill level required to attend.   As an alternative, you can learn Spanish and many other languages using the Transparent Language Learning database available at https:pagosalibrary.org/online-resources/

Dungeons & Dragons   

Join us next Tuesday, April 26 from 3-5 p.m. for our ongoing in-person Dungeons & Dragons game for teens and young adults.  Contact claire@pagosalibrary.org to learn how to join.  Free sessions take place at your library on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month from 4-6 p.m.

Special family storytime

Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. join us for free in-person children’s stories, games and plenty of reasons to get up and move. Special guests Lisa Baker and her friend Fluffy Dog will provide puppets and storytelling on April 27.   

ESL classes

Free in-person evening classes take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays with 4-5 p.m. reserved for beginners and 5-7 p.m. for both intermediate and advanced students.  Please help us spread the word about these classes to others in our community who would be interested, and contact us by phone or email if you have any questions.  

Las clases de ESL

Las clases nocturnas gratuitas en persona se llevan a cabo los martes y jueves de 4 a 7 p.m. Los estudiantes principiantes asisten de 4 a 5 p.m., estudiantes intermedios de 5-6 p.m. y estudiantes avanzados de 7-8 p.m. Por favor, ayúdenos a correr la voz sobre estas clases a otras personas en nuestra comunidad que estén interesadas, y contáctenos por teléfono o correo electrónico si tiene alguna pregunta. 

Tech Time

Free in-person slots are available from 10 a.m.-noon Tuesdays and 2-4 p.m. Thursdays.   Brad will help you resolve issues with your computer, smartphone, tablet and other electronic devices. 

Adult education

Our free PALS (Pagosa Adult Learning Services) session take place on Thursdays  from 5:30-8 p.m. when Mark helps with high school equivalency, GED, college prep, financial aid, tutoring and more.

In-person gaming

Enjoy free all-ages video gaming on the X-box 360 Kinect on Fridays from 2:30 – 3:45 p.m.  

Writing challenge

A new all-ages writing challenge will be posted April 25 on the library’s Facebook page.  We hope you will challenge your creativity by participating in this free all-ages activity.

S.T.E.A.M enrichment kits

Participants in this free enrichment program for youngsters aged five and up receive a kit guiding you through science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (S.T.E.A.M.) projects.  The kits are available all month but registration is required by calling your library at 970-264-2209. 

Library hours

Most of our programs are happening in person and curbside service continues. Also, our hours are back to pre-COVID levels – and even more on weekdays:

• Monday, Wednesday and Friday open 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Tuesdays and Thursdays open 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturdays open 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Activities calendars available

To be sure you don’t miss any of the free library activities available to you and your family, we encourage you to pick up a copy of the events calendar each month.  There are three versions – children, teens and adults.

Academy Award DVDs

“Summer of Soul” won best documentary for its portrayal of the Harlem Cultural Festival concert in 1969.  “The Eyes of Tammy Faye” won best actress for Jessica Chastain as well as best makeup and hairstyling.  “Belfast” was nominated for seven awards and won for best original screenplay.  “Attica” was a nominee for best documentary feature. 

Other DVDs

“Redeeming Love” is a love story set during the California Gold Rush of 1850.  “Sing 2” is an animated movie featuring singing and dancing.  “The Poison Squad” is a documentary featuring a government chemist whose work on dangerous food laid the groundwork for U.S. consumer protection laws and the creation of the FDA.  “Benjamin Franklin” is the PBS documentary film by Ken Burns. 

Large print

“Fear Thy Neighbor” by Fern Michaels is a mystery set on Palmetto Island.  “The Missing Piece” by John Lescroart is a Dismas Hardy mystery.  “The Golden Couple” by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen features a maverick therapist advising a married couple.  “The Recovery Agent” by Janet Evanovich starts a new adventure series featuring Gabriela Rose.  “The Coldest Case” by Martin Walker is a Bruno, chief of police, mystery.       

Books on CD

“The Missing Piece” by John Lescroart is a Dismas Hardy mystery.  “Safe House” by Stuart Woods is a Stone Barrington adventure.  “French Braid” by Pulitzer Prize-winner Anne Tyler follows a family from the 1950s to COVID.  “The Recovery Agent” by Janet Evanovich starts a new adventure series featuring Gabriela Rose.  “Run Rose Run” by Dolly Parton and James Patterson is a thriller featuring a country western singer-songwriter.    

Nonfiction

“You, Happier” by Dr. Daniel G Amen, a psychiatrist, explores seven neuroscience secrets of feeling good based on your brain type.  “All the White Friends I Couldn’t Keep” by Andre Henry offers a path for Blacks and people of color based on the history of nonviolent struggle.  “The Worth of Water” by Gary White and Matt Damon describes how a water expert and an actor came together to help more than 40 million people access water and better health.  “Diné” by Peter Iverson is a history of the Navajo people from their origins to the beginning of the 21^st century.  “The Emergency” by Thomas Fisher is the story of a dramatic year in the life of a Chicago ER doctor and a primer in the health care we all need.

Downloadable e-books and audiobooks 

We have a wide variety of downloadable e-books and audio books for all ages – children, tweens, teens and adults – in cloudLibrary.  The items in cloudLibrary are purchased separately from physical items, so the books available are different – and it continues to use the consortium’s contributions as well as those that we bought.  Select AspenCat Union Catalog when setting up cloudLibrary for use.  Email or phone us at 970-264-2209 if you need our help setting up this service on your device. 

Donations  

We are grateful to our anonymous donors for their materials donations.  Please put your materials donations into the dropbox at the library – not at City Market, which is reserved for returns. 

Library foundation

Please consider a tax-deductible donation to the Ruby M. Sisson Memorial Library Foundation. To respond to the evolving needs of our community, we are now working on a $4 million project to expand our building so that we can provide private study rooms, an intergenerational hands-on learning space, easy access to self-checkout and drop-off, a beautiful outdoor reading garden and an endowment for the future.  Mail checks to P.O. Box 2045, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 or call Cindi Galabota at 970-264-2209.

Quotable Quote

“Never give up. Always chase after your dreams.  I fight each and every day. Each and every day is a challenge. Each and every day presents its own different challenges for all of us. I wake up and start the fight all over again.” – Tiger Woods, playing April 7-10 in the Master tournament in serious pain after 14 months away from competitive golf as a result of a near-fatal car accident.