Friday, October 28, 2011

News from DCL

It's been two weeks since I've written about the library.  I came down with a nasty case of bronchitis and I'm finally feeling much better.  So, let's catch up.

I want to introduce you to a new Dubuque County Library staff member.  Maggie Chilsen joined our team on October 11th.  Maggie is a native of Madison, Wisconsin who earned her social work degree from Loras College.  After a stint in Chicago, Maggie moved back to Dubuque and is working for AmeriCorps at the Multicultural Family Center.  She is teaching conservation skills to children at the Mines of Spain.  Maggie is working part-time for us and you can meet her when you stop by the Farley branch library. 

As you might have read in the Telegraph Herald, the library is affected by the recent layoff in the county treasurer's office.  We had to lay off our least senior librarian.  As a result of these staff changes, we may experience some temporary closings.  This Saturday, Holy Cross library branch, will be closed because we are short of staff. 

On the bright side, Epworth branch will be open this Saturday.  It is still difficult to drive into the library parking lot.  As of today, you can park in the cornfield and walk down to the library.  We hope that Bierman Road will be open in the next few days.  We apologize for the inconvenience.  Please check out our website for the latest information.

Last Tuesday evening, the library sponsored an author event at our NICC/Peosta library branch.  Dr. Richard Barker shared with us his new book "Dubuque's Haunted History."  Dr. Barker is a certified paranormal investigator and the President of the Dubuque County Library Board of Trustees.  "Dubuque's Haunted History" tells the tales of haunted places all around the tri-state region from ancient Native American stories to recent creepy sightings.  We had a really good time discussing paranormal research while sitting around the library fireplace followed by cookies and tea.  "Dubuque's Haunted History" is available at the Dubuque County Library as well as on sale at River Lights Bookstore and amazon.com.

This weekend should be perfect for Halloween.  There is a crispness in the air and just the right amount of spooky for trick or treaters.  Have a safe and happy Halloween.  Boo!!

Friday, October 7, 2011

Halloween is Approaching

It's been a busy week at my house.  We really celebrate Halloween.  Tombstones have appeared outside near the front steps.  A bat glows from the window.  A lovely, skeletal bridal couple will greet you on the porch and we have installed the seasonal "screaming" doormat.  Since we are new to town, we are waiting anxiously to see if we will have a bumper crop of trick or treaters in our neighborhood.  It's all in good fun.

Speaking of fun.  Now is the time to register for Dubuque County Library Halloween parties.  Kids will have a spooky good time with a skeleton scavenger hunt, listening to Halloween stories and making their own Halloween treat.  Here's when the fun begins:

NICC/Peosta on October 20th from 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Holy Cross on October 22nd from 10-11 a.m.
Farely on October 27th from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.   and
Asbury on October 29th from 10-11 a.m.

To register please call or visit your local branch.  Here are the phone numbers:

Asbury - 582-0008
NICC/Peosta - 556-5110 ext. 224
Farley - 744-3577
Holy Cross - 870-2082

If you are looking for the perfect, read-aloud Halloween book, I recommend Ray Bradbury's "Dandelion Wine."  It takes you on a worldwind tour of the history of Halloween as you follow the exploits of a young, small town boy on All Hallows Eve.  It's the best!

A word to everyone about Epworth branch.  Construction on Bierman Road is in high gear.  As a precaution, we are monitoring access to the library on a day-by-day basis.  We don't want anyone getting hurt either driving or walking into our parking lot.  If you need something, call the Asbury branch at 582-0008 and we will retrieve items for you.  If you wish to use the library, please call ahead to see if we are able to be open.  The number is 876-3388.  We will continue to empty the book drop and let you know if your hold has arrived.  The construction is supposed to be completed in a couple of weeks.  We will keep you posted.

It's supposed to be a great weekend.  My family is going to a pumpkin patch and pick out pumpkins.  Maybe we will even go on a hayrack ride.  Don't you love fall in the Midwest? 

Please let us know if you have questions or concerns.  I still would like to hear from other book readers about forming a book group.  I know you are out there.  Give me a call at 582-0008 or email at dawnh@dubcolib.lib.ia.us.  Thanks, Dawn.