The Olympics -- fascinating to watch, a great conversation starter, and even better to read about. Believe it or not, not a large body of work exists on the Olympic games, which have been around since 1896. French educator, Baron Pierre de Coubertin, developed the idea for the Olympics as a way to share education and culture ideas, as well as to foster international relations. The first Olympic Games featured only 13 countries. Today the games represent more than 200 countries from five continents. If you're interested in finding out more about the Olympics, check out the following books and resource links.

You can also find Olympic sports information on our wiki, GRPLpedia.

( Photo by Zhang Gene)

Posted by Angela at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Mayor Heartwell read the first book of his Mayor's Book Club choices to the children at Westminster Child Development Center this morning. Sheep in a Jeep by Michigan author, Nancy Shaw, is the story of the misadventures of a group of sheep that go riding in a jeep. There are many more stories about the sheep too - try Sheep in a Shop, Sheep Take a Hike, and Sheep Out to Eat.

Want to know more about the Mayor's Book Club and find out what next month's book choice is? Check out the website at Mayor's Book Club.

Click on "download" to get your own reading list brochure to print. The October selection is For the Love of Autumn, the newest title by another Michigan author, Patricia Polacco. Read along with the Mayor!

Posted by Martin at 02:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Wondering what your neighbors are reading? Here are the top ten titles on hold for GRPL patrons as of August 1st:

1. Fearless Fourteen by Janet Evanovich
2. The Shack by William Young
3. Sail by James Patterson and Howard Roughan
4. Tribute by Nora Roberts
5. TailSpin : [an FBI thriller] by Catherine Coulter
6. Mistaken Identity: two families, one survivor, unwavering hope by Don Van Ryn
7. Twenty Wishes by Debbie Macomber
8. Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
9. The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch with Jeffrey Zaslow
10. Love the One You're With by Emily Giffin

Posted by Angela at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Our new Small Business Resource Center is thriving. During May approximately 118 patrons used this valuable community service -- and the user count continues to grow. If you've not visited the business center, but you have an idea for a business, come down to the Main Library and take a look around the center. If you'd like assistance just ask at the Reference desk. Best of all, these resources are totally free.

If you're somewhat experienced and are ready to take your business to the next level, why not consider a business mentor? A mentor may be the voice of experience you need to ramp up your bottom line. Check out these resources.

MicroMentor.org is an online nonprofit organization that allows you to search for established, experienced business owners who are willing to help budding entrepreneurs.

IdeaCrossing.org provides mentor/mentee match making services, as well as assist entrepreneurs in finding new venture capital.

IMantri.com (some services are free) is an online social network for mentors and mentees in multiple disciplines. Subject areas include, long-range planning, project management, corporate social skills, and time management.

Go Big Network.com (fee required) is an online marketplace which helps entrepreneurs find funding resources.

And don't miss these new business titles recently added to our collection:

Posted by Angela at 06:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Wondering what your neighbors are reading? Here are the top ten titles on hold for GRPL patrons as of June 1st:

1. The Appeal by John Grisham
2. Mistaken Identity: Two families, one survivor, unwavering hope by Don Van Ryn [et al.]
3. Where Are You Now? by Mary Higgins Clark
4. Sundays at Tiffany's by James Patterson and Gabrielle Charbonnet
5. The Front by Patricia Cornwell
6. Twenty Wishes by Debbie Macomber
7. Hold Tight by Harlan Coben
8. The Whole Truth by David Baldacci
9. Phantom Prey by John Sandford
10. 7th Heaven by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro

Posted by Angela at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Critical: What We Can Do About the Health-Care Crisis
by Tom Daschle

Barack Obama says, “The American health-care system is in crisis, and workable solutions have been blocked for years by deeply entrenched ideological divisions. Sen. Daschle brings fresh thinking to this problem, and his Federal Reserve for Health concept holds great promise for bridging this intellectual chasm and, at long last, giving this nation the health care it deserves.”

Available now: NEW 362.10973 D26c

I Am Not My Breast Cancer: Women Talk Openly about Love & Sex, Hair Loss & Weight Gain, Mothers & Daughters, and Being a Woman with Breast Cancer
by Ruth Peltason

Ruth ties together the community of women dealing with this disease, offering companionship, hope, and practical ways of meeting the demands of this challenging illness.

Available now: NEW 362.19699449 P368i

Having a Baby...When the Old-Fashioned Way Isn't Working: Hope and Help for Everyone Facing Infertility
by Cindy Margolis (Celebrity spokesperson for RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association)

Fertility issues are on the increase, with an estimated 9 million couples per year seeking medical help for conception, and Cindy helps readers navigate the world of infertility treatments and procedures with warmth and optimism. A good introductory book with many sources of information.

Available now: NEW 362.198178 M336h

The Purplebook Green: An Eco-friendly Online Shopping Guide
by Hillary Mendelsohn

The latest Purplebook online shopping book is a guide to the best eco-friendly stores on the web. Just browsing through this book opens up a lot of green possibilities in areas I hadn't even thought of. This is a fun and useful book for anyone who wants to change some online buying habits painlessly.

Available now: NEW 381.142 M522p

You Can Hear Me Now: How Microloans and Cell Phones are Connecting the World's Poor to the Global Economy
By Nicholas P. Sullivan

When Muhammad Yunus created Grameen Bank to generate microloans for the poor in Bangladesh, he started a revolutionary new way to empower the economically powerless. Nicholas Sullivan continues the story with GrameenPhone, a partnership between Norway's Telenor, and Grameen Bank.

Available now: NEW 384.535

The African Baobab
By Rupert Watson

I had not thought of Baobabs much since The Little Prince was read to me as a child, which contained a story of another planet that held a lazy man who neglected his Baobab, and the moral lesson to be learned thereof. This amazing book lets us in on the many secrets of the Baobab, its uses and its relatives. They are even more grand than I had imagined as a youngster.

Available now: NEW 583.68 W337a

The Táin : a new translation of the Táin bó Cúailnge
Translated and with an introduction by Ciaran Carson

A new translation of the oldest Irish epic, dating from the 8th century. It tells the tale of the legendary warrior Cú Chulainn in exploits and plot twists filled with heroism, magic, mayhem, and betrayal. The story is similar to The Aeneid and Beowulf.

Available now:NEW 398.2209415

Posted by Martin at 09:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Ever notice a call number that begins with "ABE..."? Well, here at the Main Branch we have a great resource known as the Adult Basic Education collection, aka ABE. Our ABE collection is geared towards helping adult learners brush up on basic subjects such as reading, writing, math and science. We also have plenty of GED materials available in both the ABE and general collections. To help you search our collection and also find other resources in the community, we've added a new wiki guide to GRPLpedia. Check it out.

Posted by Ben at 11:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Wild Ride: A Graphic Guide Adventure
Written by Liam O'Donnell and illustrated by Mike Deas

On a flight to visit their environmentalist parents who are working to stop a logging company from clear-cutting a remote valley, A plane crash strands Devin, Nadia, and Marcus. Soon the trio discover that they are stranded with the enemy and must rely on their survival skills.

Available now: NEW jGraphic Novel O'Donnell

The Willoughbys
Written by Lois Lowry

Abandoned by their parents, Tim, the twins, Barnaby A and Barnaby B, and their sister, Jane, attempt to fulfill their roles as good old-fashioned children. Then an unquestionably ruthless act sets in motion the transformations that lead to their salvation and to happy endings. This hilarious parody pays homage to classic works of children's literature.

Available now NEW jFiction Lowry

The Tooth Book: A Guide to Healthy Teeth and Gums
Written and illustrated by Edward Miller

Taking good care of your teeth and gums is an important part of maintaining overall health. After all, you need your pearly whites to eat, smile, and talk. But what should you expect when you go to the dentist? What should you do if you lose a tooth? Full of straightforward advice and animated, colorful art, as well as some bite-sized bits of history and lore, this guide provides accessible information about taking care of your teeth.

Available now: j617.601 M613t

Canned
Written by Alex Shearer

Fergal Bamfield is an oddball and his tin can collection is as strange as everything else about him. One day he finds a can without a label. What could be in it? Peaches, soup, perhaps spam? But instead it's something gruesome: a human finger. Then Fergal finds another can, this time containing a one-word message, HELP! Now Fergal and his friend Charlotte are knee-deep in an adventure, and they're about to learn something horrible: Everybody has an expiration date.

Available now: NEW jFiction Shearer

Arabella Miller's Tiny Caterpillar
Written and illustrated by Clare Jarrett

Arabella Miller finds a tiny caterpillar, brings him home and feeds till the caterpillar sheds his skin and disappears inside his chrysalis. Arabella misses her friend until he emerges and she is filled with wonder at the beautiful creature he has become. Clare Jarrett’s sweet story and vibrant illustrations weave details about a caterpillar’s transformation into this elaboration on the song Little Arabella Miller.

Available now: NEW Picture Book Jarrett

Continue reading "New Books for Children" »

Posted by Martin at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Kayla Chronicles
by Sherri Winston

“This just in... Kayla Dean, budding feminist and future journalist, is about to break the story of a lifetime. Egged on by her best friend, Kayla has decided to try out for her high school's notorious dance team, the Lady Lions, in order to expose their unfair selection process. But when she actually makes the team, the true investigation begins! Now a Lady Lion, Kayla is transformed into a dance diva. But does looking good and having fun mean turning her back on the cause? Soon Kayla is forced to challenge her views, coming to terms with who she is and what girl power really means."

Available now: NEW Teen Fiction Winston

Saving Juliet
by Suzanne Selfors

"Mimi Wallingford has a life most girls can only dream of - complete with the starring role in her family's production of Romeo and Juliet. But acting is not her dream, and she's fighting for the right to become a doctor. During the play's final performance, Mimi's wish to get away actually comes true when she and her costar are magically transported into Shakespeare's Verona. Now that she knows the real Juliet, Mimi doesn't want to stand by and allow the play to reach its tragic end. But if saving her new friend means changing the ending, will she and Troy ever make it back to Broadway?"

Available now: NEW Teen Fiction Selfors

Vampire Kisses 1: Blood Relatives
by Ellen Schreiber, Art by rem

"The absolute last thing goth-girl Raven and her vampire boyfriend, Alexander, need is another hitch in their nighttime-only romance - but dark trouble hovers on the horizon. When a crew of sketchy vampires takes up residence in Dullsville's lonely graveyard, Alexander finds this motley bunch led by his very own blood-sucking cousin, Claude Sterling. Claude and his creepy crew can only spell out more problems for the pair, especially when Raven finds them in daylight in the very last place she could ever imagine. What could Claude and his invaders be doing - or searching for - in Dullsville?"

Available now: NEW Teen Graphic Novel Schreiber

The American Muslim Teenager's Handbook
by Dilara Hafiz, Imran Hafiz, and Yasmine Hafiz

“What does it mean to be a Muslim? Ask ten people, and you'll probably receive ten different answers. The American Muslim Teenager's Handbook is a positive, informative guide to Islam in America. Timely and engaging, it conveys the basics of the fastest-growing, most stereotyped and misunderstood religion in America from a progressive, teen perspective. Whether struggling to define themselves as Muslims in American society or simply curious about Islam, teens will find much to love about this entertaining book.”

Available now: NEW Teen 297.570835 H119a

Bunker 10
by J. A. Henderson

"At eight o'clock in the evening, 24 December 2007, Pinewood Military Installation exploded. The blast ripped apart acres of forest and devastated the remote highland valley where the base was located. No official cause was given for the incident. Inside Pinewood were 185 male and female miliatary personnel - a mixture of scientists and soldiers. There were also seven teenagers. This is the story of their last day..."

Available now: NEW Teen Fiction Henderson

Posted by Martin at 12:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Wondering what your neighbors are reading? Here are the top ten titles on hold for GRPL patrons as of April 1st:

1. The Appeal by John Grisham
2. 7th Heaven by James Patterson
3. T is for Trespass by Sue Grafton
4. Plum Lucky by Janet Evanovich
5. Change of Heart by Jodi Picoult
6. Someday by Karen Kingsbury
7. Honor Thyself by Danielle Steel
8. Double Cross by James Patterson
9. Strangers in Death by J. D. Robb
10. Compulsion by Johnathan Kellerman

Posted by Angela at 12:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

In part one of my post on mystery fiction I told you about GRPL's newest selection of books with foreign settings. Each story is set on a different continent. I decided to save the longest list for last. These books all have Asian settings.

Eye of Jade
by Diane Wei Liang
Setting: China

Welcome to the world of Mei Wang, Beijing's first successful female detective (a career choice that is illegal in China). Wang has been hired to find a valuable Han dynasty jade seal that was looted from the Luoyang Museum during the Cultural Revolution, and is currently for sale on the black market. This is the first novel in what looks like a promising series.

Hidden Moon
by James Church
Setting: North Korea

This is the second Inspector O novel and it begins with a bank heist and snowballs into a conspiracy. I read the first book, A Corpse in the Koryo, and thought the author did an excellent job creating a sense of place. And while I've never been to North Korea, the characters and settings in the book were exactly how I imagined them to be from news reports I've read and photos I've seen.

Prayer of the Dragon
by Eliot Pattison
Setting: Tibet

Take two mutilated corpses, add one comatose Navajo stranger, stir in a Beijing investigator with two sidekick sleuthing monks, and you have a not-so-typical mystery. This is the fifth Investigator Shan novel, and the author has won the Edgar (the Oscar among mystery authors) for previous work.

Red Mandarin Dress
by Qiu Xiaolong
Setting: China

Shanghai is the setting for China's first serial killer in this fifth Inspector Chen novel in which the killer wraps his victims in a symbol of greed and decadence.

Tokyo Year Zero
by David Peace
Setting: Japan

As the bodies of young women turn up in post-WWII Tokyo, Inspector Minami must navigate among the bomb-ravaged city, its starving citizens, and not-so-kind occupiers to find the murderer. This is British author Peace's first mystery set in Japan.

The Wandering Ghost
by Martin Limon
Setting: South Korea

U.S. military investigative team George Sueno and Ernie Brascom have their work cut out for them in this mystery set in the Korean demilitarized zone. The inspectors must find a missing female MP who would have testified against two GIs involved in the accidental death of a Korean girl. This is the fifth book in a series.

Posted by Angela at 09:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It's that time of year again! Time for teens to vote for the book they think should receive Michigan's Thumbs Up! book award for excellence in teen and young adult fiction and non-fiction.

Books eligible for the Thumbs Up! award are determined by a committee of young adult librarians who read tons of teen titles, then meet throughout the year to discuss them and narrow down what they believe to be the top twenty. Teens are then able to choose what they believe is the best book from the top selections

If you've read the books you can get a voting ballot here. If you haven't read all of the books, check 'em out below and cast your vote soon! All votes must be received by May 30, 2008.

• The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
• Twisted by Laurie Halse Anderson
• Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
• Don't Call Me Ishmael by Michael Gerard Bauer
• Beauty Shop for Rent: ...fully equipped, inquire within by Laura Bowers
• Evolution, Me, and Other Freaks of Nature by Robin Brande
• Book of a Thousand Days by Shannon Hale
• The One Where the Kid Nearly Jumps to His Death and Lands in California by Mary Hershey
• Kissing the Bee by Kathe Koja
• Schooled by Gordon Korman

Continue reading "Thumbs Up! Book Award" »

Posted by Mary at 09:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Last week as I browsed among the new fiction section for something to get me through these cold winter weekends, I noticed a number of new mystery books that are written mostly by foreign authors and set in their native countries. I read the dust jacket summaries and found a few of them intriguing enough to share with you here.

The Betrayal Game
by David L. Robbins
Setting: Cuba

Is it possible that the American Mafia and FBI would plot together to kill Fidel Castro? Maybe, maybe not. You'll have to read this book to find the answer.

The Midnight Choir
by Gene Kerrigan
Setting: Ireland

The police (Gardai, as they're known in Ireland) have arrested a blood-soaked mad man. They think perhaps he's killed someone -- but who? Inspector Henry Synott will have to unravel the mystery. It's a "who's dead?" rather than a "who done it?"

A Grave in Gaza
by Matt Beynon Rees
Setting: Israel

Palestinian history teacher and United Nations member Omar Yussef has a strong sense of justice, and that's why crimes that need solving always seem to happen around him. Mix that fact with a bit of political corruption and rocket smuggling and you've got yourself a mystery of dynamite proportion.

Zugzwang
by Ronan Bennett
Setting: Russia

The title of this book means "paralysis" in the game of chess, a theme which runs throughout the book. Strategic chess-like moves are used to solve several murders in an early 20th century setting.

Salamander Cotton
by Richard Kunzmann
Setting: South Africa

Johannesburg detective Jacob Tshabalala is on the hunt for a person who killed an elderly victim by pouring gasoline down his throat and igniting him with fire. What a horrible way to go! Detective Tshabalala soon discovers that the victim had an unsavory secret and that his only child, a daughter, was also murdered -- and the two murders may be linked.

Kennedy's Brain
by Henning Mankell
Setting: Sweden

While solving her son's murder, archaeologist Louise Cantor discovers rather odd things about her Henrik (i.e., his files on JFK's missing brain, a large sum of money in his bank account, and a string of lovers from Spain to Africa).

Posted by Angela at 09:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

When I think of Scotland images of bagpipes, kilts, the loch ness monster, and Scotland Yard (yes, I know it's actually located in London but the name IS connected to Scotland.) come to mind.

More relevant things that come to mind about Scotland are the many things we use daily -- and probably take for granted -- that were invented by the Scots; like the decimal point, street lighting, telephone, television, bridges, lighthouses, and the fax machine. They even gave us basketball and golf? A truly creative bunch of folks those Scots!

To find out what I mean check out these books recently cited in The Wall Street Journal by Alex Salmond, First Minister of Scotland, as "works that reflect the spirit" of his native land.

• A Scots Quair (Sunset Song) by Louis Grassic Gibbon
  Set on a farm in northern Scotland, this classic novel, written in a Scottish dialect, chronicles the life of character Chris Guthrie from childhood to womanhood. (This book is a trilogy.)
• The Complete Works of Robert Burns A collection of poems written by the famous poet, lyricist, and farmer.


• How the Scots Invented the Modern World, by Arthur Herman, takes the reader on a journey through the cultural, social, intellectual and industrial development of the country during the 18th and 19th centuries and how the entire western world at large was impacted.


• The Wealth of Nations by Adam Smith
  Salmond refers to this book as "an economist's treasure trove." As the author so eloquently put it, "It is not from the benevolence of the butcher, the brewer, or the baker that we can expect our dinner, but from their regard to their own interest." Indeed, that sums up nicely what makes our world go round.

You'll also find fiction books set in Scotland or written by Scottish authors here. And Scottish book reviews are at Scottish Review of Books.

Posted by Angela at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

There is yet another challenge to a teen novel. John Green's Looking for Alaska is being called pornographic. A school in Buffalo, NY wants to teach the book in the 11th grade. Teachers and administrators sent a letter home to let parents know, and gave them a choice to opt THEIR children out and give them an alternative title. Well, some parents didn't want ANY students to read the book. Looking for Alaska is a mature read with mature themes; however, the school followed a good procedure.

John Green is a young author who won the Printz Award the first time out with this specific book. He talks very well about this on his blog, Sparks Fly Up. Take a look and if you've read the book let us know what you think.

Posted by Mary at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Slogging through the slush? Wondering if the car ahead of you is going to spin out of control? Tired of the even longer commute as you navigate Michigan roads? Make those "stopped in traffic moments" a little more palatable by bringing along an audio book.

For a little light listening check out The New Yorkers, a somewhat canine tale (no pun intended) about some quirky New York West-Siders and their dog companions.

Or get lucky with the newest Janet Evanovich offering, Plum Lucky. Stephanie Plum is up to new antics in Atlantic City with a gambling granny, a racehorse, and a guy named Diesel.

Want more? Remember Fractured Fairy Tales - the twisted side of happily ever after? They're back, updated and on CD ready to entertain you as wait at the traffic light.

For a little inspiration try A Sense of World: How a Blind Man Became History's Greatest Traveler. After losing his sight at the age of 25, James Holman (1786-1857) went on to experience the world, "hunting slavers in Africa, surviving captivity in Siberia, and hunting elephants in Ceylon." He traveled on his own using a walking stick and learning the language of the countries he visited as he went along.

And finally, if you're still feeling some trepidation out on the highway, there's 30 Days to Taming Your Stress. This should get you through February.

Stay safe and happy driving!

Posted by Martin at 08:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I'm more of a fantasy fiction reader rather than science fiction. Of course that doesn't mean I don't read the occasional science fiction book if someone recommends a particular author that they really like. I love to get reading recommendations, especially for authors whose storytelling skills I can appreciate in terms of creativity, plot, and characters. One such author is Ursula K. Le Guin. Le Guin's career has spanned more than 40 years and includes hundreds of titles, for adults and children, which cross several genres.

Here's a quick review of her book Always Coming Home courtesy of the Vancouver Public Library:

Posted by Angela at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Wondering what your neighbors are reading? Here are the top ten titles on hold for GRPL patrons as of February 1st:

The Appeal by John Grisham
T is for Trespass by Sue Grafton
Double Cross by James Patterson
Plum Lucky Janet Evanovich
Eat, Love, Pray: One woman's search for everything across Italy, India, and Indonesia by Elizabeth Gilbert
Stone Cold by David Baldacci
Book of the Dead by Patricia Cornwell
Playing for Pizza by John Grisham
A Free Life by Ha Jin
The Choiceby Nicholas sparks

Posted by Angela at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

While browsing among the Express shelves (where we display popular items) recently I discovered a reed-thin little red book confined between two 300-page tomes. About the height and width of my hand, I though perhaps it was a misplaced children's book. However, when I pulled it out to take a look I discovered How the Water Feels to the Fishes, a wonderful 60-page little gem with a journal-like binding filled with funny, silly, sad, yet descriptive passages written by Dave Eggers. And no, it's not a children's book.

I'd not heard of this title and it looked interesting enough that I read the entire book in one sitting. It's fiction, though not a single story, but rather a collection of short musings about life observations. There's something in it to make you laugh, cry, and think critically about life. Each passage is an enjoyable read. One of the shorter pieces that I particularly like is Once a Year, which simply reads: "Once a year, she remembers that she is insignificant. Then she forgets again, because more than she is insignificant, she is forgetful."

If you've read this book please let me know what you think.

Posted by Angela at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Every year I wait excitedly for the announcements of the winners of the big awards in children and teen literature. Some years I am surprised, others a bit disappointed, only because MY favorite may not have won. This year, there were a couple of surprises.

The Caldecott Medal, awarded for the best book illustrations, went to The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick, a novel for children. Granted, it is a novel in pictures and words, and it isn't always picture books that win, but this surprised me. I actually liked the illustrations more than the story, so it was a pleasant surprise.

The Newbery Medal, given for the best writing in children's literature, was for a non-fiction title this year, Good Masters! Sweet Ladies! Voices from a Medieval Village by Laura Amy Schlitz. I have to admit, this one ran under my radar, and of course now there is a waiting list for it!

The Michael L. Printz Award, given for the best teen book, went to White Darkness by Geraldine McCaughrean. I've seen this book and read about it; however, I haven't read it yet. Time to order that one, too!

Since I had no clear favorites this year, I'll have to wait to read the winners I haven't yet read to form my opinion.

Posted by Mary at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

In addition to a long list of items I've usually borrowed from the library, I also buy lots of books. Over the years I've managed to accumulate a collection that requires its own room. In our house we refer to it as the "library" but it's actually a spare bedroom. The books are kept on traditional bookcases but lately I've been trying to redesign the space and make it more contemporary. And I've discovered some awesome new designs for home book displays.

One is the Conceal Bookshelf designed by Umbra. It's an invisible floating book display which stacks books vertically, and makes a collection look as if it's suspended mid-wall. Or if I'd like to store them horizontally, the Flybrary is another cool design by the same company.

For something that combines both words and music I like the Storyline shelf by Dutch by Design. The shape mimics the lyrical forms that words make when read aloud. It's truly poetic.

Another cool option is the Equation Shelf designed by Estudio Breder. It displays a collection in mathematical order. I think this might make a good "library books only" shelf on which I could place items I've checked out in due date priority in order to avoid overdue fines. This one's definitely a conversation piece.

I decided to group the final two options together because I think they're too trendy for my tastes -- but I think they're fun and couldn't resist sharing them here. The Cave, designed by Sakura Adachi is a bookcase with a built-in padded seat. This one would be great for a child's room. Don't you think? (There's even a mini version for a pet.) The Bibliochase from Nobody and Co. is a wooden chair with a cushioned seat that also let's readers stay close to their books.

Well, this is going to be a tough decision but with a bit of help from the latest GRPL room design books I'm sure I'll get it right.

Posted by Angela at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Here are a few additions to our collection of art and architecture books:

Mediterranean Modern
by Dominic Bradbury

This beautiful book takes us on a journey around the Mediterranean to showcase masterpieces of modern architecture. From Casa CH in Spain to the B2 House in Turkey, this book is filled with stunning photos that take you to another world.

Available now: New 728.370918 B726m

Louis I. Kahn: Beyond Time and Style
by Carter Wiseman

Known for such works as the Kimbell Art Museum, Kahn's style and influence have defined late twentieth-century architecture. Here is an in-depth look at this stalwart architect.

Available now: New 720.92 K122 W7

Modernism Rediscovered
by Julius Shulman

Famous for capturing the image of California chic with his "Case Study House #22, Los Angeles, 1960. Pierre Koenig, Architect," Julius Shulman is a master architectural photographer. This three volume set, directed and produced by Benedikt Taschen himself, is absolutely gorgeous.

Available now: New Oversize 778.94 Sh92m v. 1, 2, and 3

Posted by Ben at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

This past Friday I moved. I was shocked by the sheer volume of stuff I have. Up until now I've been operating under the delusion that I have my participation in consumerism under control. The piles of boxes proved I couldn't have been more wrong.

It seems I've simply exchanged one form of consumption for another. About a year and a half ago I made a commitment to myself that I would not buy anything new that I could otherwise buy used. One could say I've been fairly successful. I thought it would help with my case of affluenza, but I was wrong.

To help me out with this conundrum, I'm doing what I always do -- turning to the library for help. Here are some books I've found:

Posted by Marianne at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The holidays are over, and if you're like me, you're regretting all the cookies, fudge and adorable chocolate Santas consumed in December. Now that the new year has begun, what better time to start eating healthy again? There are many quality websites to help. FruitsAndVeggiesMatter.gov may be one of the most creative ".gov" urls I've heard of. I really like the diagram showing what counts as a serving (1/2 or whole cup) of a fruit or vegetable. For more info on healthy eating, visit Nutrition.gov, which links you to the new food pyramid and the government's many trusted medical research sites like Medline Plus.

And stop by the library to check out the latest books on health and nutrition. Two of my favorites are Stealth Health: How to Sneak Nutrition Painlessly into Your Diet and Superfoods Rx: Fourteen Foods That Will Change Your Life. These books both have super easy recipes that taste great. Try the fabulous Patty's Pumpkin Pudding recipe in Superfoods Rx!

Posted by Lori at 04:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Along with the New Year, January brings us Calvin College's award winning January Series. This year, they've added remote webcasts at a dozen sites in the area to make it easier for everyone to experience these interesting speakers. This means that the same program being presented in the Calvin Fine Arts Center from 12:30 - 1:30 pm will be shown simultaneously on a big screen at a venue near you. One location is the Ladies Literary Club, 61 Sheldon Blvd SE, practically a stones throw away from our very own downtown location. The Ladies Literary Club auditorium holds over 400 people. There is no cost to attend, and reservations are not necessary.

For more information on the 2008 lineup of speakers and programs click here.

Check out some of the titles GRPL has to offer from these speakers:

• Bill McKibben
• Sonia Nazario
• Eleanor Clift
• Debra Rienstra
• Ishmael Beah
• Margaret Lowman

Posted by Martin at 08:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Here are the latest additions to our business collection:

World, Inc.
by Bruce Piasecki

With many people becoming increasingly frustrated with the inability of politics to solve the local and global problems facing us, Piasecki finds a solution in corporations. Businesses, he argues, are able to adapt to desired social changes more quickly than political institutions based on the premise that businesses need enthusiastic customers more than governments need enthusiastic citizens to survive.

Available now: NEW 338.5 P573w

Start Your Own Business
by Rieva Lesonsky

Get a jump start on a New Year's resolution and start that business you've been dreaming of for some time. Lesonsky and the staff of Entrepreneur Magazine breaks down every step along the way from pipe dream to grand opening. So whether it's pet sitting, baking cupcakes, or contracting multi-use buildings in renaissance zones that employ the standards of green architecture, this resource will explain how do get it done.

Available now: NEW 658.041 L5652s 2007

The 100 Best Stocks You Can Buy 2008
by John Slatter

Instead of reading up on stock advise on a theoretical or historical level, Slatter gives pertinent up-to-date information regarding investments that can start making money today. Within each section, individual stocks are discussed including past performances, company profiles, business structure and even potential shortcomings.

Available now: NEW 332.6322 On21 2008

Posted by Matt at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Once again popular mystery authors have released season-themed books. You can borrow them from GRPL and purchase them as holiday gifts for the mystery readers on your list.

Oh, and one I find particularly fun is The Black Lizard Big Book of Pulps, it's a cool collection of short pulp crime fiction from the 1930s, '40s, and 50s.

Posted by Angela at 03:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Tis the season for hot toddies -- mulled wine, buttered rum, spiced cider, eggnog -- and other kinds of yummy goodness to warm your tummy and curl your toes. But before you sit down to enjoy your drink make sure there's enough good food to accompany it. Here are a few resources, including our food wiki, which has a comprehensive list of all-things-food at GRPL. Enjoy!

Posted by Angela at 04:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Daily Life in Immigrant America, 1870-1920
by June Granatir Alexander

The author strives to give us a look at new immigrants' regular lives in the 50-year period that includes: the first transcontinental railroad completed (1869), President Willeam McKinley assassinated (1901), San Francisco earthquake (1906), Henry Ford introduces the Model T (1908), World War I (1914), and nationality-based quotas introduced into law for immigration (1921). During this time period 26 million immigrants came to American shores.

Available now: New 305.906912 AL27d

The Story of Measurement
by Andrew Robinson

What an unusual book! If you think of rulers or scales when you think of measurement, well, there's a whole universe to discover here. Part fascinating history, part cutting-edge science, this book delves into all aspects of measurement including earthquakes, music, social attitudes, galaxies, intelligence, weapons, and much more.

Available now: New 530.8 R56s

Weather World: Photographing the Global Spectacle
by Gordon Higgins

A visual celebration of the diversity and unpredictability of weather in all its forms. A must-read for weather buffs.

Available now: New 551.5 W378p

Dawn of the Dinosaurs: Life in the Triassic
by Nicholas Fraser

Douglas Henderson's illustrations are a beautiful compliment to the text about this mysterious time in our earth's history.

Available now: New 560.1762 F863d

Seashells: Jewels from the Ocean
by Budd Titlow

There's an undeniable attraction to seashells on a beach. Their mystery, their beauty, their endless fascination of shapes and colors contribute to our desire to possess them. If you can't get to a deserted shell beach, the next best thing is to read the author's book filled with information and photographs on the lives of these unique creatures.

Available now: New 594.1477 T535s

Posted by Lisa at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Book trailers, a fun marketing tool, have been making the rounds online for the last several years. These mini commercials, similar to movie trailers, can be found on most of the social networking sites, some author web sites, and they're even streamed to cell phones.

Book videos range from funny to tacky (subjective I'm sure). I've seen quite a few book teasers and some of them are actually pretty good. In fact, in 2006 The Book Video Awards was launched to recognize the best in book videos.

One of my favorite sites to view book teasers at is COS Productions (They claim to have invented the "book trailer" concept.). Others include Book Trailers.net, Romance Novel TV, and VidLit (for children).

You can also find interviews of some popular authors at Book Video TV and Book Shorts. I really love these!

Here's a clip of one of the 2006 book video award winners Stuart: A Life Backwards.

Posted by Angela at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Wondering what your neighbors are reading? Here are the top ten titles on hold for GRPL patrons as of December 1st:

Playing for Pizza by John Grisham
Double Cross by James Patterson
Book of the Dead by Patricia Cornwell
You've Been Warned by James Patterson
T is for Trespass by Sue Grafton
The Choice by Nicholas Sparks
Stone Cold by David Baldacci
Home to Holly Springs by Jan Karon
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
Between Sundays by Karen Kingsbury

Posted by Angela at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I'm intrigued by the cultural icons of Iran (Islamic Republic of Iran). From the striking colors used in Persian art, to the high arches that grace their architectural façades. I also love the intricate designs of hand woven Persian rugs -- which are highly sought after in the Western world. And if there's anything else I'd add to this list it would be the delicious food, rich with saffron, cinnamon, mint and an array of other exotic ingredients. Beyond these things, there's a lot more about Iranian culture, besides what you hear on the news. To find out what I mean check out these books recently cited in The Wall Street Journal as "masterly works on Iranian culture, politics, and life."

You can also find Persian-related materials at these links:

Posted by Angela at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

China is in the news a lot lately, from the multiple import of American goods to their ambition to be the first Asian country to put a man on the moon. As China grows in power and global influence, people want to know about its culture and people. Here is a list of books cited in The Wall Street Journal as the best to read for a firm grasp on Chinese culture, politics, and life in the largest populated country in the the world.

You can also browse the catalog for audiovisual material