PACL Reference & Resources

We're Moving!

2009-02-12T11:55:00.000-08:00

This is the final post in the PACL Reference and Resources blog.

The Palo Alto City Library will now be offering the new, free, online BookLetters service in its place.

This PACL Reference and Resources blog will be replaced by “What's Going On at the Library”, our library enewsletter especially for adults.

The adventure isn’t over, just changing!

Tomorrow, February 13, 2009, e-mail subscribers will receive an e-mail invitation to our new BookLetters service. As current subscribers to this blog, e-mail subscribers will be automatically subscribed to its new version, “What's Going On at the Library.” You won’t have to do a thing to stay with us. If you’d prefer to unsubscribe, you can easily do so from a link at the bottom of the email you receive.

RSS feed subscribers can sign up for RSS feeds right from our BookLetters RSS page.

While you can subscribe to the “What's Going On @ the Library” enewsletter for adults, you’ll also have even more enewsletter options available for your subscription or simply for viewing from our website. Want to find out about the kind of books YOU like, whether they’re mysteries, science and nature titles, or science fiction & fantasy? Want to find books and library events for children or teens? With BookLetters, you’ll get to choose from a wide range of more than 20 free online newsletters and customized booklists geared to your particular interests.

Here are just a few examples of the treats in store for you:

check out bestseller and award lists

find fabulous book club choices

get a sneak preview of upcoming titles

see which books have been showcased on television and radio

listen to audiobook clips

BookLetters enewsletters make it easy for you to get your hands on the books you want through links directly into the Palo Alto City Library catalog.

Discover great new reads, keep up with exciting library programs, and learn about useful library resources through our regularly updated BookLetters sent to you by e-mail or RSS feed. Seize this opportunity to get even more from your library experience.

Thank you for following the PACL Reference and Resources blog!
Join us tomorrow at “What’s Going On @ the Library” and the full Palo Alto City Library BookLetters service!

Photo attribution: http://www.flickr.com/photos/bookglutton/1287984118/ (Flickr Creative Commons)

Local stories, local history

2009-02-09T15:52:00.000-08:00

Join us for another two free events in the Palo Alto City Library's Silicon Valley Reads 2009 Program. These two events focus on the history of Palo Alto and East Palo Alto as local residents share their experiences.

A Place to Call Home

Conversations and personal stories about what it was like making a home in East Palo Alto following World War II. Join historian Steve Staiger and local residents Erma Moore, Larry Bailey and Jimmie Lee as they share their stories.

Friday, February 13

7 pm

Main Library, 1213 Newell Rd.

FREE and open to the public

Entwined Heritage:

University AME Zion Church & Palo Alto

The University African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church was founded in 1918 by Palo Alto’s African-American families. It was the first African-American church between San Mateo and San Jose. The public is invited to come hear about the compelling history of the church and its community.

Sunday, February 22

3 pm

Palo Alto Art Center, 1313 Newell Rd.

FREE and open to the public

The Black History Show

2009-02-01T14:32:00.001-08:00

The community-wide celebration of Silicon Valley Reads 2009 at the Palo Alto City Library continues with the next in our series of free events:

The Black History Show

with Tabia, African-American Theatre Ensemble

date: Saturday, February 7
time: 7 pm
location: Mitchell Park Community Center, 3700 Middlefield Rd.
FREE and open to the public

The Black History Show entertains and educates through dance, singing, and spoken word featuring the contributions and culture of African Americans. The show is fun for the entire family.

Tabia African-American Theatre Ensemble is based in San Jose and is in its twentieth season of performances in the Bay Area. Tabia produces stage productions and performs as a traveling troupe, taking the Black History Show to schools, festivals, corporations, churches, and conferences throughout California.

The Friends of the Palo Alto Library has generously provided funding for the program.

Silicon Valley Reads is a Santa Clara county-wide program promoting reading and literacy, and building a sense of community through discussion among widely diverse readers.

Would you like to receive an e-mail reminder about this event?

Our library event calendar can do that!

Click on "Remind Me" for The Black History Show.

You can even download this event to a calendar, email this event to a friend, or ask to be notified about similar events!

cancelled: An Evening with Brian Copeland

2009-01-28T11:36:00.000-08:00

An Evening with Brian Copeland on Wednesday, January 28, has been cancelled due to illness.

The Palo Alto City Library will reschedule this event if possible.

We apologize for any inconvenience.

Read-Alikes

2009-01-22T18:16:00.000-08:00

Have you had an opportunity yet to join the community by reading this year's Silicon Valley Reads book: Brian Copeland's Not A Genuine Black Man?

Would you like to explore other books that are similar to Not A Genuine Black Man?

Well, you're in luck because the staff at the Palo Alto City Library has put together a display of books with similar themes, also known as "read-alikes." You can browse this display in person at the Main library, or you can visit the booklist online. The online booklist even links right into the library's catalog to connect you with any of the books you find interesting.

After I've read a book that has made an impression upon me, I love to discover similar books. The library is a great place for discovering these "read-alikes." We have many free resources to aid in finding your next good read.

Here are just a few of my favorites, with some ideas about how to use these resources to find "read-alikes" using the example of Not a Genuine Black Man:

If you enjoy browsing through books, explore the print resources available in the Reference collection for use inside the library. Try the "What Do I Read Next?" series, for example. You might browse through What Do I Read Next? Multicultural Literature for expert guidance in identifying other titles or authors of African American Literature, after reading about Brian Copeland's experiences as an African American.

Another wonderful book helps you find nonfiction recommendations: The Real Story: A Guide to Nonfiction Reading Interests. After reading Brian Copeland's autobiography, you might use The Real Story to find recommendations for other people's life stories or biographies.

The library also provides access to some great online resources for finding your next book. Check out our "Resources Online," in the library or at home, to get a listing of what's available to you with your library card.

My go-to online resource for finding fiction is Novelist. If you want to find fiction that ties into the themes of Not a Genuine Black Man, you might search for subjects like "Africans-Americans," "race relations," or "prejudice." If you particularly like historical fiction, you could narrow your results to only include those titles. You can find Novelist from the library's website under "Resources Online," listed within the subject "Literature, Reading & Music." Have your library card handy so you can access this powerful tool!

Last, but not least, you can come on in to the library in person and ask a librarian for recommendations. Check the Library Branches webpage for the location and hours of the branch most convenient for you.

Reading on the Rise

2009-01-12T11:26:00.000-08:00

Books are back!

On Monday the National Endowment for the Arts released a report, "Reading on the Rise," showing the first increase in adult fiction reading since 1982. According to the New York Times, this recent rise in reading is "not a school-based trend but a broader, community-wide phenomenon."

Read the full New York Times article for more information and a link to the NEA report:
Fiction Reading Increases for Adults
By MOTOKO RICH
January 12, 2009

While experts are speculating about the causes of this rise in reading, Dana Gioia, the chairman of the NEA, names community-wide reading programs as key components in reversing the decline in reading. The NEA started The Big Read program in 2006 to combat the accelerating decline in literary reading. The Big Read offers the opportunity for a community to come together by reading one book, discussing it together, and attending related events over the course of a month.

Here in the Palo Alto area we have our very own community-wide month-long reading program, Silicon Valley Reads, now in its seventh year. Participate in building community literacy by reading this year's book selection, Not a Genuine Black Man, and then join us for our kick-off event with the book's author:

An Evening With Brian Copeland

Wednesday, January 28
6:30 p.m.
Palo Alto High School Haymarket Theater

photo attribution:
"There Is Creative Reading"
http://www.flickr.com/photos/10565597@N00/2788065166

Silicon Valley Reads 2009

2009-01-07T11:06:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

The Palo Alto City Library is starting off 2009 with the excitement of the annual Silicon Valley Reads program.

Silicon Valley Reads is a Santa Clara county-wide reading program to promote literacy and build community in our area. Each year Silicon Valley Reads selects a book that appeals to diverse audiences and considers issues relevant to Silicon Valley. Everyone who lives, works, or learns in our area is invited to read the selected book and to participate in the accompanying series of cultural events designed to spark discussion about the book's themes.

This year's book selection is Not a Genuine Black Man by Bay Area media personality Brian Copeland.

In this book, Copeland shares with us his experiences growing up as an African American in what he calls the "lily white suburbs" of San Leandro, California in our very own Bay Area. He offers us all his thoughtful consideration of his attempt to claim his own identity in an environment of socially sanctioned racial discrimination. Copeland's writing provides both comedy and tragedy, causing readers to laugh through their tears. This is a powerful and fascinating book.

The Palo Alto City Library encourages everyone to start reading the book before the program events begin in late January. You can find Not a Genuine Black Man through the library catalog--we own more than 25 copies! Or, if you can't wait, try your local bookstore.

Then join us for free program events in January and February:

Not a Genuine Black Man: An Evening with Brian Copeland

date: Wednesday, January 28

time: 6:30 p.m.

location: Palo Alto High School Haymarket Theater, 50 Embarcadero Rd.

The Black History Show

date: Saturday, February 7

time: 7 p.m.

location: Mitchell Park Community Center, 3700 Middlefield Rd.

A Place to Call Home

date: Friday, February 13

time: 7 p.m.

location: Main Library, 1213 Newell Rd

Entwined Heritage: University AME Zion Church & Palo Alto

date: Sunday, February 22

time: 3 p.m.

location: Palo Alto Art Center, 1313 Newell Rd.

For more information, visit the library's website or call us at (650) 329-2436.

There will be more to come about Silicon Valley Reads 2009 right here on the blog, so stay tuned!

2008 Year-End Zeitgeist

2008-12-29T11:21:00.000-08:00

As we get to the end of the year, it's interesting to take a moment to reflect upon what people wanted to know about over the past year. Each year Google brings us a fascinating peek into the billions of searches performed through their search box in the past year. They publish the highlights as a glimpse into the zeitgeist, the spirit of the times.

2008 Year-End Google Zeitgeist

This end-of-year compilation offers a look at the fastest rising global searches--the most popular searches in 2008 based on their increase in frequency compared to 2007. Once you've looked at the global perspective, you can also see what's been most popular by country. While "sarah palin" and "beijing 2008" topped the global lists, people in the United States searched more frequently for information about "obama" and "facebook," with "palin" and "beijing 2008" coming in at #7 and #8 respectively.

Those of us who are interested in libraries are sure to be curious about the fastest rising U.S. Google Book Search list, in particular. Perhaps not surprisingly, the #1 book search of 2008 was the fourth and final book in the bestselling teen Twilight series, Breaking Dawn. You can get your hands on this highly popular book in either print or audio (CD or downloadable file for PC) format through the Palo Alto City Library catalog.

You might be wondering, what about more local interests? What's been hot in the Palo Alto City Library book collection? How do our local reading interests compare to national trends? We too can take a peek into the "spirit of the times" right here in our own community by looking back at the most circulated books in our collection:

Non-Fiction - The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch

Fiction - The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows

Mystery - The Miracle at Speedy Motors by Alexander McCall Smith

Science Fiction & Fantasy - The Host by Stephenie Meyer

Young Adult - Twilight by Stephenie Meyer

Want to keep up with what's hot in the collection as we head into 2009?

Click on the "Bestsellers and Other Lists" menu option across the top of the library catalog.
It's an easy way to find out about the latest additions to the library collection and the weekly San Francisco Chronicle Bay Area Bestsellers lists.
These are popular titles, so request early!

Save Money by Using the Library

2008-12-15T12:46:00.000-08:00

Feeling the economic pinch these days? Looking for ways to save money?

As this video from the NBC Nightly News shows, many Americans are turning to the free services offered by their public libraries.

MSNBC.com "Libraries offer free relief from tough times"

Your Palo Alto City Library offers free books, DVDs, CDs, computer and Internet access, family storytimes, and more!

At PACL you can:

Enjoy the entertainment at our community programs.
Find books, movies, and music through our catalog.
Read newspapers from around the world.
Get magazine articles.
Use a computer.
Learn a language online.
Download audiobooks.
Volunteer to serve your community.

How have you used the library to save money? Share your tips!

Get your library card and join us in person at any of our five branches conveniently located throughout Palo Alto, or online anytime!

Best Books of 2008

2008-12-05T12:25:00.001-08:00

Looking for the perfect gift? Or something to read over the holidays? This list of the top 100 2008 books is from the NY Times.

NOTE: get ready for the upcoming Silicon Valley Reads 2009 programs in Palo Alto by reading Not a Genuine Black Man before the author speaks on January 28, 2009 at Palo Alto High School's Haymarket Theater. Look for more information in the coming weeks.

Enjoy the holiday season!

If Fantasy is Your Thing

2008-11-19T16:11:00.000-08:00

The World Fantasy Awards have been announced, and here is a page with the nominees and winners. The book cover to the left is from one of the Life Time Achievement Award winners, Patricia McKillip.

If you see a title of interest, be sure to check our catalog for a copy. Enjoy!

Two Programs in November

2008-10-29T15:21:00.000-07:00

Two programs for adults are coming in November! Sign up now using the online calendar. Just locate the event by date and use the registration form at the bottom. After you register, you will be sent a reminder by email. Check it out!

Help Your Child Succeed in School - a demonstration of the numerous resources available to families to help get homework done, even if it is 10 o'clock at night.

November 12
10:30 a.m. to noon
Main Library

Search Your Roots @ the Library - learn how to search Ancestry.com (library edition) and Heritage Quest to find genealogical information.

November 19
10:30 a.m. to noon
Main Library

Banned Books Week

2008-10-02T14:14:00.000-07:00

Have you read The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn? Or, did you love Alice Walker's The Color Purple? How about Phillip Pullman's The Golden Compass? These are all titles that have been challenged in towns across the nation in 2007.

"Banned Books Week (BBW) celebrates the freedom to choose or the freedom to express one’s opinion even if that opinion might be considered unorthodox or unpopular..."

Explore a banned book today!

NPR Can Provide Answers

2008-10-01T12:50:00.000-07:00

This posting from The Librarian in Black blog provides readers with resources on the current financial crisis here and abroad. And remember that your local library can supply you with information on any topic, with just a call or email. You can always contact us!

New Browser from Google

2008-09-02T16:42:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of Chrome, the new web browser developed by Google? Here is a cartoon explanation of how it is different from the browsers that came before. If you wish to download Chrome, here is the link. And let us know what you think of it by commenting here.

Which MP3 Player?

2008-08-21T09:25:00.000-07:00

The Library offers a large number of audio books that you can download onto your computer or MP3 player. But which player works the best? Here is a review that may help you decide.

Sadly, most of the downloadable audio book providers do not work on Apple computers or IPods. Blame it on the Mac vs. PC wars.

College Terrace Library Temporary Closure

2008-08-13T19:42:00.000-07:00

College Terrace Library will be closed August 21-22 due to the removal of a diseased eucalyptus tree. You can read all the details here.

Libraries On the Road

2008-08-08T12:51:00.000-07:00

A story by Reuters News titled "Libraries Step Into the Age of IPod" is a wonderful promotion for the many downloadable book titles we offer. If you haven't see our list of full text resources, you might want to take a moment or two to do so. We offer Overdrive (mentioned in the article) and a number of other full text online resources.

One note, most companies that offer e-books have not made it to "the Age of IPod" in that they don't work with Apple products. We hope they catch up soon!

Unrelated, but certainly timely!

Official Olympics site
Palo Alto Library sets record on number of items checked out
San Mateo County Fair

2008-07-17T15:32:00.000-07:00

The Library is rolling out a new calendar that will help you locate the perfect event to attend. A small version is now on the side bar. Click on a date or the month to begin exploring.

Searching by location, audience or date range is easy, with two views available - as a list or as a calendar. With this new tool, it is easy to enjoy what the library offers!

Features include:

Having the event added to your Outlook calendar
Getting a reminder emailed to you closer to the event
Emailing the event information to a friend
Registering for programs if that is required

Be sure to provide us with feedback as we are all new to this product.

Learn a Language Online

2008-06-17T10:12:00.000-07:00

The library now offers a new product called "Tell Me More", which is a completely interactive online program for learning a second language.

Languages currently offered: English, German, Dutch, French, Spanish and Italian
Use of voice recording to ensure correct pronunciation
Grammar, phonetics, vocabulary, games and more!

To access "Tell Me More" from home, you will need a valid Palo Alto City Library card. You also need the proper equipment and software. There is a way to test your equipment after you sign in. Mac users, you can use the program but you will not be able to use the audio component. If you have trouble installing or using Tell Me More, try the FAQ.
Try it now!

Summer Reading Lists

2008-06-06T11:49:00.000-07:00

Every Spring, newspapers, magazines and radio shows offer lists of summer reading titles. Usually they are light in both weight and content to allow the reader to soak up the rays unencumbered. Here is a list of lists for you to enjoy.

Read International Papers Online

2008-05-29T14:18:00.000-07:00

The Library has added a new online resource called Library PressDisplay. This is a fantastic resource that allows you to read today's newspapers from around the world, many in the language of that country. Some of the newspapers are available in audio format, which enables you to have the paper read to you.

If you or a loved one want to keep abreast of events in a foreign country, this is the site for you! You need a Palo Alto library card to use this at home.

For the Baby Boomers Out There

2008-05-23T12:56:00.000-07:00

Survey Closed - thank you for your feedback, and look for some great programs in the fall of '08!

The Library is planning programs specifically designed for the baby boomers who live or work in our community. We need your input! If you have a moment or two, please consider taking our survey to help us get the best fit. Thank you!

Best Online Job Sites

2008-05-16T14:23:00.001-07:00

"The 30 Best Web Sites for Job Hunters" is a good place to start for a job search. The question of "which job site is best?" is one posed to the reference staff on a regular basis. Now we are armed with some answers.

If you love mysteries, you will love this list!

2008-05-08T12:42:00.001-07:00

The Mystery Writers of America just announced the winners of the 2008 Edgar Awards. The best novel award went to Down River by John Hart. Other categories include best young adult mystery, best screenplay and more. If you want to see all the nominees, check here.

You can check our catalog for titles you want to explore.

Websites You May Not Know Of

2008-05-06T15:54:00.000-07:00

The first contains video tutorials on how to search for congressional records on a bill, debate or hearing. The second offers full text of past issues of Sports Illustrated, including covers and images.

1. U.C. Berkeley Library Congressional Research Tutorials
2. The Sports Illustrated Vault

What Are You Free2 Be?

2008-04-22T17:05:00.000-07:00

We have joined other Bay Area libraries in a campaign to demonstrate how libraries are empowering our lives every day. Visit the Free2 web page to see short videos of real library customers giving their testimonials about what the library has added to their lives.

You can enter to win a prize by telling us what the library has made you Free2 do! The contest goes through May 15, 2008, and is simple to enter.

Feel free2 express your opinion on how you like the look of the new logo!

Short List of Best Books

2008-04-11T15:25:00.000-07:00

This short list of "Best Books" has some interesting titles. For example, would you put "A Year in Provence" on your top 110 book list? The comments that follow the list are entertaining as well.

FBI Report on Internet Scams

2008-04-07T19:44:00.000-07:00

Just reading the press release for the Internet Crime Report: The Top Scams of 2007 (PDF, 7.4MB) is educational. If you take the time to read the entire report, or just check out the graphs, you will be a safer and wiser web user.

Facilities Closed, But Service Continues

2008-04-04T15:30:00.000-07:00

All of the Palo Alto Library facilities will be closed on April 18th for a staff development day. But you can still access a number of great library services online, 24/7. Here is just a taste of what is available through the Resources Online page:

Download an audio book to listen to at home or in your car (Digital Books and Music)
Locate a great book based on what you just read (Novelist and Novelist K-8)
Read the entire New York Times for the day your grandparents were born (NY Times 1851-2004)
Find and read that interesting article you started at the dentist's office (General Reference Center Gold)
Share a picture book that reads to your child on the computer (TumbleBooks or BookFlix)

Enjoy these resources, and be sure to explore the many other subscriptions we offer with the use of your library card.

Computer Books Online

2008-03-14T11:55:00.000-07:00

The library is offering a new collection, Safari Online Books, that contains over 1,100 full text books on technology and computers. You can view these full texts at your home or office with a library card!

To view a listing of the Safari titles the Library offers, search the Library catalog with the words "Safari Books Online". Find a title you like, open it and click on the link in the record. You will need to provide a library card number to access remotely.

Safari Books Online is provided through the collection enrichment partnership between the Friends of the Palo Alto Library and the City of Palo Alto.

Why use ebooks? Here are 30 good reasons.

Health 2.0 Sites

2008-03-12T12:57:00.000-07:00

There are some interesting new health sites that use Web 2.0 features such as blogs that link people together who have common concerns, or a site that allows you to map your pain. This blog entry "Health 2.0 - Apps & Trends to Watch" lists just a few.

Demonstration of NY Times Archive

2008-03-06T10:51:00.000-08:00

Learn about the New York Times Online 1851-2004, a great historical resource. In this free demonstration you will learn how to:

search by topic
find the paper for a particular date
page through an entire issue
download and print specific articles
browse the classified ads

When: Wednesday, March 12
Where: Main Library, 1213 Newell Rd.
Time: 10:30 a.m. until noon

Please join us if you can! Registration is recommended
Note: You need a library card to access this resource from home.

Check Out the Library Newsletter

2008-02-28T11:23:00.000-08:00

The Reference Staff puts out a thematic newsletter "Hot Off the Shelf" to inform library lovers about what we offer and recommend. The current issue celebrates poetry, lists tax form web sites, and promotes the free series of demonstrations "Information You Can Use @ the Library".

If you enjoy this issue, you can sign up for email delivery. Check out the past issues on topics such as e-books, staying green and personal finance.

What Did Literary Ladies Read?

2008-02-13T17:52:00.000-08:00

Librarything.com, a free site that allows you to index your books, has some pages that you wouldn't think of, such as the book collection of Sylvia Plath. Click on See Catalog near the top of the listing to see her collection.

For more on this interesting idea, check out this explanation and investigate what was on the book shelves of some very interesting people.

Have You Joined the Celebration?

2008-02-11T14:46:00.000-08:00

This is a busy week for the celebration Silicon Valley Reads, 2008 The Distant Land of My Father. The Friends of the Palo Alto Library are sponsoring a number of events this week, all of which can be found on the Palo Alto Reads blog. There are book discussions, free events and a talk with the author, Bo Caldwell. If you haven't joined the celebration, now is your chance!

Census Maps Online & Free

2008-02-08T09:20:00.000-08:00

Wow, this is spectacular! If you need visual census information, go here first.

"We are pleased to present the complete content, in PDF format, of the recently published Census Atlas of the United States, the first comprehensive atlas of population and housing produced by the Census Bureau since the 1920s. The Census Atlas is a large-format publication about 300 pages long and containing almost 800 maps. Data from decennial censuses prior to 2000 support nearly 150 maps and figures, providing context and an historical perspective for many of the topics presented." (From the web site.)

Do You Love Trivia?

2008-02-06T14:31:00.000-08:00

Did you know that Massachusetts entered the Union as the 16th state on this day in 1788? Or that today is Zsa Zsa's birthday? No? Well, here is a resource you might be interested in.

The World Almanac (long held to be the reference book with the most answers per pound) offers an E-Newsletter that comes out once a month. In it you will find lists of historic facts, birthdays, events and more. They also have a blog to explore. Let us know what you think by commenting here.

The Atlantic Magazine Free Online

2008-01-25T12:52:00.000-08:00

You won't have to register to view The Atlantic Magazine online AND they are offering access to their past issues - read on:

"Now, in addition to such offerings as blogs, author dispatches, slideshows, interviews, and videos, readers can also browse issues going back to 1995, along with hundreds of articles dating as far back as 1857, the year The Atlantic was founded. " (from Note From the Editor)

Memories of Wartime Shanghai

2008-01-17T11:10:00.000-08:00

Kick-off event next week!

Amazing women tell amazing stories.

Historian Connie Young Yu is the author of "Chinatown, San Jose, USA", and has written extensively on Asian American history. Meimei Pan will share stories and memorabilia of her parents’ experiences in, and eventual escape from Shanghai. (The photo above is from her collection.)

When: Friday, January 25
Where: Main Library, 1213 Newell Rd
Time: 7:00pm
Cost: FREE!

Refreshments will be provided.

This event kicks off the month long series of events and book discussions inspired by "The Distant Land of My Father" by Bo Caldwell.

New Display at Main Library

2008-01-14T14:03:00.000-08:00

There is a wonderful display at the Main Library from the group "Growing Up Asian in America". You will find poetry, essays and drawings from children in the Bay Area that demonstrate a superhero in their lives. It is a fascinating display of talent and admiration. Come in and see it before it leaves the end of January.

Drawing by Martina Lo, Age 17 La Honda (San Mateo County) Summit Preparatory Charter High School - second place in the 9-12 grade category. See all the winners.

The display if part of the ongoing celebration for Silicon Valley Reads The Distant Land of My Father. Check out what Palo Alto City Library has to offer.

On Genealogy and Local History

2008-01-11T10:56:00.000-08:00

This just in - the Sutro Library is now open one Saturday a month. Now you can research your roots in one of the premiere genealogy collections on the West Coast even if you work during the week.

AND if you are interested in the history of Sunnyvale, check out this collection of stories available online on Silicon Valley history as told by residents.

Find the Perfect Book!

2008-01-08T14:31:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow the series "Information You Can Use" begins with an introduction to Novelist, a tool for finding fiction titles based on your preferences. It is a resource every book lover should be aware of!

Join us Wednesday, January 9 at 10:30am at the Main Library for this free demonstration. Walk-ins are welcome, or you can sign up here.

Check out the full listing of "Information You Can Use".

See you at the Library!

Stop the Presses!

2008-01-04T17:47:00.000-08:00

This just in!

One of our fantastic librarians shared this site - Newseum - where you can see the front page of newspapers throughout the country - and then, by clicking on the front page, blow it up full size so you can read it. Or you can go to the web page. Incredible!

Just the thing if you have tired of your usual news sources, or to keep track of what is going on elsewhere. Think elections...

Welcome the New Year With a Great Book!

2007-12-28T17:30:00.000-08:00

Have you read The Distant Land of My Father by Bo Caldwell yet? This is the book selection for Silicon Valley Reads 2008, and the Palo Alto City Library is presenting a series of programs and discussions inspired by this fascinating story of wartime Shanghai.

The web page has a listing of programs and more!

Cooking for the Holidays?

2007-12-18T16:04:00.000-08:00

Here is one of my favorite web sites for finding fabulous recipes - http://www.allrecipes.com/. The recipes are supplied for the most part by site users, and are reviewed by users as well. I have found fantastic and simple recipes here. Give it a try - you might find the next great family holiday recipe here!

Series of Programs Set to Begin

2007-12-06T10:19:00.000-08:00

Join the Library staff and guest speakers for a series of demonstrations "Information You Can Use @ the Library". Each month the staff or guest speakers will treat you to a topic that demonstrates the great variety and versatility of the free tools the Library offers: tools you can use everyday!

When: The 2ND Wednesday of every month through June, 2008
Time: 10:30am until noon
Where: Main Library
Cost: FREE!

Schedule of Classes:

January 9 - What Shall I Read? Using Novelist to find books to suit you.
February 13 - How to Help Your Child Succeed in School Using Library Tools.
March 12 - The Historic New York Times: Searching Over a Century of News.
April 9 - Health Matters: Online Tools When You Need Them
May 14 - Genealogy Resources @ the Library (back by popular demand).
June 11 - Traveling? Let the Staff Show You the Secrets of Researching Your Destination.

What's New in the Library?

2007-12-05T10:14:00.001-08:00

A new service called Wowbrary is a subscription service worth signing up for!

"Wowbrary is a non-profit service that sends you free weekly emails about your local library’s most recent acquisitions. We’ve found that users of Wowbrary emails are both awed and excited when they discover their local public library’s abundance of new books, DVDs, and CDs."

(From the Wowbrary web site.)

Amazing and FREE! We are thrilled with this service, created here in Palo Alto by library lovers.

For Those Who Use Google

2007-11-28T10:48:00.000-08:00

Here is an interesting article that contains six techniques for getting more results from online searching. Armed with this information, you will become a better searcher. Google is a wonderful source, but there are gems out there even they can't find.

I am fond of the last technique - go to the library!

The Death of Email?

2007-11-20T17:08:00.000-08:00

We are showing our age if we do most of our communication with email? The young have moved on and now use other Web 2.0 features to keep in touch. Just when I thought I was catching up! Read on...

On Norman Mailer

2007-11-13T14:03:00.000-08:00

Norman Mailer, born January 31, 1923, was an American novelist who won the Pulitzer Prize twice and National Book Award once. Read more about this great author who passed away November 10, 2007.

Veterans Day

2007-11-09T11:12:00.000-08:00

The Library will be closed both Sunday, November 11 and Monday, November 12 for Veterans Day.

Here are some things you can do while we are closed:

Attend a Veterans Day ceremony

Learn more about California veterans

Go to a parade (scroll down to see Veterans Day parade info)
Find out more about Veterans Day

If you need to do research, find an article or read a full text book while we are closed, visit the Resources Online page - open 24/7. Enjoy the weekend!

Library Newsletter on Web 2.0

2007-10-29T15:45:00.000-07:00

"Hot Off the Shelf" for Nov/Dec is on Web 2.0 - what it is, how we are using Web 2.0 features to reach out to you, an announcement about a program on the futures of libraries and more. Move your cursor over links within the newsletter to find more information.

The newsletter, created by the reference staff at Palo Alto City Library, comes out 6 times a year. It contains information on programs, events and library resources. You can sign up to have the newsletter delivered to you by email - it's simple!

This Just In!

2007-10-24T13:57:00.000-07:00

"Your Library's Future Has Changed: Technology, Content and Community" Attend this free talk on the future of libraries by Seattle based library technologist Michael Porter.

When: Thursday, November 8
Time: 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Where: Palo Alto City Hall, Council Chambers
Address: 250 Hamilton Ave., Palo Alto, CA 94301
Contact: 650.329.2436

Visit the speaker's blog.

Test Taking Made Easy!

2007-10-23T11:28:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow! Join us for a demonstration of Learning Express - a free resource that provides you with sample tests to take online, complete with the correct answers explained in full. Find everything from elementary school skills tests to the GRE to civil service tests.

When: October 24, 10:00 a.m.
Where: The Main Library
Free to all!

October and Beyond

2007-10-19T12:43:00.000-07:00

What are we up to now? Let me fill you in! We have:

A demonstration of Learning Express, a resource to practice tests of all sorts - online and at home! Oct. 24, 10:00a.m. at Main Library (flyer)

Hot Off the Shelf for Nov. and Dec. will be on Web 2.0 and what it means to us - and you! Includes a teaser on Silicon Valley Reads in 2008. Sign up to get your copy delivered to your email.

Displays currently at Main on October Birthday Authors and "Be Afraid, Be Very Afraid!" dvds and books on the frightening side.

Plenty of programs for kids and teens - just check their blogs!

See you at the Library!

Doris Lessing Wins Nobel Prize

2007-10-13T16:41:00.000-07:00

Have you heard that Doris Lessing has won the Nobel Prize for Literature? The 88 year old author was nonplussed by the whole affair.

"Lessing's fiction is deeply autobiographical, much of it emerging out of her experiences in Africa. Drawing upon her childhood memories and her serious engagement with politics and social concerns, Lessing has written about the clash of cultures, the gross injustices of racial inequality, the struggle among opposing elements within an individuals own personality, and the conflict between the individual conscience and the collective good." (excerpt from website)

Visit her web page for a listing of books, a full biography photos and more.

Then, check our catalog for books by her and about her. Enjoy this fabulous writer!

Preparing for a Test?

2007-10-12T15:55:00.000-07:00

Are you or someone you know preparing to take a test? Is it a civil service test, or the SAT, or the GRE, or a citizenship test? Or is it a 4th grader preparing for the CA competency test? Learning Express offers these and many other tests to practice.

If you need help practicing for a test, this free demonstration is for you. It's FREE and easy!

When: Wednesday, October 24 beginning at 10:00 am

Where: Main Library, 1213 Newell Rd. Palo Alto

Download the flyer.

Our Genealogy Resources Explained

2007-10-04T10:14:00.000-07:00

Come to a free demonstration of the resources the Library offers for researching your roots. We will demonstrate Ancestry.com (Library Edition) and Heritage Quest, as well as show the Palo Alto Historical Association files available online.

When: Thursday, October 11

10:00 a.m. to noon

Where: Mitchell Park Library

For more information, download the flyer.

Be sure to check out the other October demonstration on Learning Express, a practice test site.

Travel Sites You May Not Know

2007-10-03T16:57:00.000-07:00

Here is a list of some interesting travel sites that CNN put together that covers everything from finding the perfect seat to when to buy your tickets to get the best price. And remember that the Library has a good selection of travel guides for anywhere you want to go - even if your destination is an arm chair.

Green Program Tonight!

2007-09-27T16:30:00.000-07:00

Join author-expert Jennifer Roberts for a lively talk about building a beautiful, healthy and "green" home for you and your family. Whether you’re remodeling or building new you’ll learn techniques, products and materials that can help you reduce utility bills and maintenance costs, conserve resources, and improve the indoor air quality of your home.
Thursday, September 27
Main Library
7:00p.m.

For Agatha Christie Fans

2007-09-20T17:54:00.000-07:00

If you love Agatha Christie, or if you enjoy book cover art, this is a fun site to explore. There are covers of Christie books from other countries as well as U.S. and British. And the site includes plot descriptions of her books. Have fun with this one.

So Many Books, So Little Time

2007-09-18T14:17:00.000-07:00

Some people prefer to read a short book rather than a tome. Others don't have the time to read a lengthy book. Or, perhaps your teen needs to read a book by tomorrow. Here is a search tool that displays only books of 200 pages or less. It does not link to our catalog, but you can find a title there and search for them here! Enjoy this book searching tool.

What Do Librarians Read?

2007-09-14T15:12:00.000-07:00

PACL staff have just begun a LibraryThing collection of recommended titles . It is small, but look for it to grow over time. In the future, you can find the link to the recommendations in the right had side-bar. You don't know what you will find there!

We also offer a LibraryThing collection of children's or young adult titles recommended by our staff.

Free Fall Classes

2007-09-07T17:26:00.000-07:00

We have quite a line up of classes and programs for adults in September and October. See you at the library!

Search Like a Pro. Learn to "Search Like a Pro" by attending this demonstration of searching smart and an introduction to the hidden Internet. First time offered at Mitchell Park Library. September 12, 10:00a.m. to noon - Mitchell Park Library.

An Evening with Jennifer Roberts. Join author-expert Jennifer Roberts for a lively talk about building a beautiful, healthy and "green" home for you and your family. Whether you’re remodeling or building new you’ll learn techniques, products and materials that can help you reduce utility bills and maintenance costs, conserve resources, and improve the indoor air quality of your home. September 27, 7:00p.m. - Main Library

Genealogy @ PACL. Learn about our genealogy resources, including Heritage Quest, Ancestry.com Library Ed. and the Palo Alto Historical Association (PAHA) files. October 11, 10:00a.m. - Noon at Mitchell Park Library.
Learning Express @ PACL. Demonstration of Learning Express, a practice test resource that covers numerous tests, from the 4th grade proficiency test to the GRE. Includes civil service tests, citizenship and English proficiency tests, plus many more. October 24, 10:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. at Main Library.

To RSVP send an e-mail with information on the class of your choice to libraryreference@cityofpaloalto.org.

Learn to Use NetAdvantage

2007-08-10T11:48:00.000-07:00

We are now offering Standard & Poor's NetAdvantage. This powerful research tool can help you manage your portfolio of stocks, bonds and mutual funds, as well as provide full text publications such as Outlook. With a library card, you can have all this from home!

Come see a one hour demonstration - it's FREE!

Wednesday, August 22, 2007
6:30pm (note evening hours)
Main Library - 1213 Newell Rd.

To sign up, just drop us an e-mail with your contact information.