altadenablog

ALTA-L.A. poetry returns with Suzanne Lummis, Neil Aitken Jan. 16

by TImothy Rutt

 

Suzanne Lummis

ALTA-L.A., the Altadena Library's poetry series, returns on Jan. 16 with poets Suzanne Lummis and Neil Aitken.

 

Suzanne Lummis was recently identified by CBS News as one of the five best poets working in L.A. Neil Aitken is the winner of the 2007 Philip Levine Prize and the founding editor of Boxcar Poetry Review. 

Although the library officially closes at 6 PM, it will re-open for the program from 7-8:30 PM.  Get there early -- the most recent ALTA-L.A. event drew 90 people.

 

Neil Aitken

There will also be an open mic.

 

This free series is sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library District.  These events are supported by Poets & Writers, Inc. through a grant it has received from the James Irvine Foundation.

The main Altadena Library is located at 600 East Mariposa Street, Altadena, CA 91001. For more information please call 626-798-0833 or visit the library on the web at http://www.altadenalibrary.org.

 

Library accepting submissions for April's "Poetry & Cookies" until Jan. 18

from the Altadena Public Library

For the past twelve years, during April the library has celebrated National Poetry Month with a reading and published anthology of poems by local writers.  Poets who wish to submit for the 12th edition of Poetry & Cookies should be available to read their poetry on Sunday April 27 at 2 PM.  

This year’s event will include prizes for the best poems in the following areas: humor, inspirational, children/youth, family/personal, nature, and special form poems such as sonnet, etc. and the inauguration of the new Poet Laureate for Altadena Library for 2014 – 2016. Linda Dove is the library’s current Poet Laureate.   

For guidelines and more information please check the library website at http://www.altadenalibrary.org or email cchiu@altadenalibrary.org.  Deadline is Jan. 18

 

Help the Library become a World Book Night "hub"

The Altadena Library District Bob Lucas Memorial Branch Library & Literacy Center is proud to serve as a local distribution “hub” for World Book Night. In early April, the World Book Night organization will match “book givers” with local book distribution hubs. Volunteers will pick up their 20 free, give-away copies from their designated hub between April 16-23.

If you'd like to be a "book giver" for the Altadena Library, please contact Roberta Lauderdale at 626.798.8338 or rlauderdale@altadenalibrary.org.  by Jan. 5. For more information on World Book Night, visit www.us.worldbooknight.org.

Get ready: Poetry & Cookies deadline Jan. 18, 2014

by Timothy Rutt

 

Current poet laureate Linda Dove will pass on her crown at the April 27 Poetry & Cookies event.

The Altadena Public Library's annual Poetry & Cookies event will be held Sunday, April 27, from 2-4 PM.  There will be poetry readings, a chance to buy poetry books by local poets, and the crowning  of Altadena's new Poet Laureate.

 

But before then, you have a chance to appear in the Library's Poetry & Cookies anthology.  Deadline to submit is January 18.

Send poems in body of an email to: PoetryCookies2014@gmail.com, subject: Your Last Name, “Poems”

Or send hard copy to: Altadena Library 600 East Mariposa Street, Altadena, CA 9100; Attn: C Chiu

Complete guidelines and application information is here, but include:

• Poets who live in Altadena or the surrounding area are eligible

• Priority is given to unpublished poets who live or work in Altadena

• Poets must be available to read on Sunday April 27, 2 - 4 pm

• Poets must submit by deadline to be considered for publication

• G-rated poems (assume children are in the audience)

Poet Laureate Application is here.

Questions? Email cchiu@altadenalibrary.org

Libraries close for Barbara Pearson memorial

  The Altadena Main Library and Bob Lucas Branch Library will be closed Friday, Dec. 27, so staff can attend a memorial service for Library Director Barbara J. Pearson, who died Dec. 14. Memorial service will be held at 2 PM Friday at Our Lady of the Assumption, 436 N. Berkeley Avenue, Claremont.

 

Obituary: Barbara J. Pearson, Altadena Library District Director

from Pauli Dutton, Principal Librarian
Altadena Library District 

On Saturday, December 14, at 10 PM., Barbara J. Pearson, Director of the Altadena Library District for the previous nine years, passed away.  She had been at Pomona Valley Hospital recuperating from pneumonia.

 

Barbara J. Pearson

While at Altadena Library, Ms. Pearson updated its integrated library system, modernized the interior of both main and branch libraries, and renovated the infrastructure with new wiring to expand the library’s public computers from ten to 40. She began the library’s Art on Millionaire’s Row annual arts and crafts fair and salon. She had also worked hard on planning and raising funds to update the main library facility to bring it into ADA compliancy but passed before this goal could come to fruition.

 

Previous to her position at Altadena Ms. Pearson also served as chief librarian for the city of Burbank Public Library.  While there, she oversaw the construction of Buena Vista Library Branch which was labeled a high-tech yet homey example of excellent library design and quickly became a popular destination for its community and librarians throughout California. Before this time she served as the library director for the city of El Segundo for ten years where she was credited with leading a library renovation and expansion project.

Town council denies group home expansion, hears of library director's death

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Town Council turned down a request to expand a group home from six to ten beds Tuesday night in the final council meeting of the year.

An almost-complete council* voted to recommend denying a conditional use permit for the home at 3085 Ridgeview Drive to the county planning commission.  The town council land use committee had earlier also recommended denial.

(*Councilmember Bernardean Broadous of CT 4610, who has not attended a meeting since August,  and Gretchen Seger were absent (thx Monica Hubbard for the correction!)

Also during the meeting:

Thanksgiving crafts at Bob Lucas Library Nov. 26

by TImothy Rutt

The Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Avenue, celebrates Thanksgiving early with a special afternoon of crafts Nov. 26.

Activities include making a turkey centepiece, fall weaving placemats, and a "give thanks" charm bracelet.  All supplies will be provided.  The activities start at 3:30 PM.

Pasadena City College town hall at Altadena Library Nov. 19

by TImothy Rutt

The Altadena Library will host a town hall event on Nov. 19, presented by faculty of Pasadena CIty College.

The event will be a chance to find out about our local community college, available aid, credit transfers, and other topics, as well as a chance to ask questions.  PCC students, faculty, staff, and board members will be there to answer questions.

The town hall will be on Tuesday, Nov. 19, from 7-8:30 PM at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa Street.  Spanish translation is available.

 

Guitar prodigy to perform at Library's "Taste of Spain" Nov. 1

from the Altadena Library

Although only thirteen years old, classical Spanish guitarist Olivia Chang has already received several awards including one from the White House! What’s her secret?  Well, her father, James Chiang, is also a classical guitarist and instructor and has been tutoring her since she was seven.  Olivia has performed at several venues throughout the Southland.  On November 1 at 7 p.m. she will play several Spanish favorites as part of Altadena Library’s celebration “A Taste of Spain.”  This event will also include flamenco dance by Jessica Pacheco and a talk by restaurant critic and food historian Richard Foss on the history of traditional food of Spain. This program is suitable for families with older children.  Light Spanish refreshments will be served.

Olivia has performed in a Cadet Band at Winter Wassail Concert at Walnut High School from Suzanne Middle High School where she is a straight A student and received the President’s Education Award from the White House from President Obama. Olivia participated in a Classical Guitar Masterclass with Christopher Parkening in 2010 and Rolan Dyens in 2011. She is also a finalist in the  National Solo Competition of American Strings Teachers Association, 2013 and the third place winner of Sierra Nevada Guitar Competition, 2011. She has been performing at 7^th Annual LMU Guitar Festival, Yorba Linda Public Library, American Guitar Society, Guitar Solo International (GSI), Orange County Guitar Circle and The Fret House. Under the teaching of her father, she has passed the Grade 8 Exam and is a qualified applicant for the Music Diploma from The Associate Board of Royal School of Music (ABRSM), London, England. More information on James Chiang can be found at https://www.facebook.com/james.chiang.399041.

This free event sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library will take place at the main Altadena Library located at 600 E. Mariposa Street.  For more information please call 626-798-0833 or visit http://www.altadenalibrary.org

 

Library's November artist is Katy Unger

"We Dream in Color" by Katy Unger is the Altadena Library's art exhibit for November.

The exhibit is a collection of intimate ink portraits on the cusp between fantasy and reality.

 

Celebrate National Food Day!

by TImothy Rutt

Who knew Oct. 24 was National Food Day? (Not to be confused with World Food Day, which was Oct. 16.  We keep the decorations up all year, like a trailer park Christmas, )  But what better place to celebrate than in Altadena, the Food Capital of the San Gabriel Valley?

Here's a few food-related things worth checking out:

• AAAltaEats:Westways, the Auto Club magazine, has just published a Jean T. Barrett review of Altadena's most famous unsigned restaurant, AltaEats.  She seems to get it right ("modernist box" interior, check; "savvy and helpful" staff, check; Chef Paul Ragan's unfussy cooking, check.  Altadena as an "up-and-coming foodie community," double-check).  All we can say is, uh, check it out.
• Back at the ranch:  The Pasadena Public Health Department is hosting a community-wide celebration at its headquarters today, 1845 N. Fair Oaks Avenue,  Pasadena, from 10 AM-2 PM today.  Featured is produce grown by John Muir High School's Muir Ranch, as well as other regional farms.  Purchase fresh, low-price, and locally-grown California produce.  The event includes healthy food demonstrations, free nutrition resources, prizes, games, and healthy holiday beverages.  All proceeds go to Muir Ranch, a three-acre working farm on the school grounds that teaches students practical farming and entrepreneurial skills.
• Taste of Spain:  OK, it's on Nov. 1, but you can clear your calendar for it:  The Friends of the Altadena Library present RIchard Foss at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. , at 7 PM.  Foss is the head of the Culinary Historians of Southern California, restaurant critic, food writer, and teacher of culinary history at Osher Institute of UCLA.  He's also a journalist, a food event organizer, and author of a recently published book on rum.  (He's also a science fiction writer, Elizabethan history instructor, theater director, and graphic designer.) At the library, he will talk about the history of Spanish food (and some light Spanish fare will be served), and will be signing his book Rum: A Global History.  Along the way, there'll be Olivia Chiang's Spanish guitar and Jessica Pacheco's flamenco dancing. Food Day is every day, really. Olé!

Enjoy "A Taste of Spain" at the Library Nov. 1

by Timothy Rutt

 The Altadena Friends of the Library presents "A Taste of Spain" on Friday, Nov. 1, starting at 7 PM.

Learn about  traditional Spanish cuisine with food writer RIchard Foss, and enjoy Spanish guitar by Olivia Chiang and a flamenco performance by Jessica Pacheco.

Light Spanish refreshments will be served!

The event will be at the Altadena Main Library Community Room, 600 E. Mariposa St. 

 

Meet the Library Trustee Candidates, Part 2: Meredith McKenzie

The Altadena Library District election is Tuesday, November 5.  There are three candidates vying for two seats on the Board of Trustees, and Altadenablog is presenting profiles of the candidates in their own words.  Part I , Steven S. Lamb, is here.  Part 3, David Tuck, will appear Friday. 

 Find your polling place by going to lavote.net.

Candidate: Meredith McKenzie, 60, College Professor, Cal Poly Pomona  & Realtor, Podley Properties

Years Altadena Resident: Three years

What are the challenges that the library district will face in the coming years?

The Altadena Library District faces three major challenges in the years ahead:  sustained revenue flow and financial management for sound fiscal accountability, disability accessibility to Library facilities to ensure access for all, and expansion of Library services to meet the changing needs of our community, especially in the areas of technology.

What do you bring to the table to meet those challenges?

As a newer Altadena resident, I bring ‘fresh eyes’ in looking at Library issues and strategic planning.  I have significant community and non-profit leadership experience, having served as Secretary of the Arroyo Seco Neighborhood Council and as a Trustee on the Pasadena Community Access Corporation Board, among others. (PCAC televises the Altadena Town Council Meetings.) 

As a Cal Poly urban planning professor, I have been very active in local Altadena environmental efforts, especially related to Arroyo Seco stream restoration and water conservation projects and, as a local Realtor, I have helped many new families make Altadena their home.  I am also a local equestrian and can often be seen riding my buckskin, Lobo, down Loma Alta Drive. These activities inform my broad perspective on Altadena community concerns. I have excellent communication skills and interact regularly with Altadena’s terrific, diverse population.

I am known as a positive collaborator who is able to bring a diverse coalition of stakeholders to consensus on issues facing our community.  Most importantly, I have an excellent track record in organizational fund development, including successful grant-writing, event planning, and donor/membership campaigns. I believe these are critical skills that will help our Library in this time of economic uncertainty.

I look forward to having the opportunity to serve our community as an elected Altadena Library District Board Trustee.

Library's ALTA-LA features Latina poets Oct.17

from the Altadena Library

Three Latinas—performance poet, writer, and artist Vibiana Aparicio-Chamberlin; poet, author, curator, and columnist for Pasadena SGV Journal, Gerda Govine Ituarte; and author, poet, editor, and writing consultant, Thelma T. Reyna—will read their poetry (some in Spanish) at Altadena Library on Thursday, October 17 at 7 PM in the Library Community Room.

This event is the second of the ALTA-L.A. Third Thursday Poetry Series hosted by Linda Dove, the library’s Poet Laureate. This free series is sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library. Open mic readers may perform their poems in either Spanish or English. This event is supported by Poets & Writers, Inc. through a grant it has received from the James Irvine Foundation.

• Vibiana Aparicio-Chamberlin is a prize-winning performance poet and artist. She has received awards from the cities of Pasadena, Duarte and Los Angeles; the State Assembly and Senate; Pasadena Councilman Victor Gordo; Mayor William Bogaard of Pasadena; and three City proclamations from Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. Excerpts from her memoirs have been published in the Pasadena Weekly. Her poetry has been published in Inscape Literary Magazine, Pasadena City College; Poetry & Cookies Anthology, in 2010, 2011, and 2012, 2013, published by the Altadena Library; and Dismantle: Anthology of Writers of Color, Berkeley. Vibi has also written for the Huntington Gardens journal,The Tattler, and served as editorial writer for the Pasadena Eagle. She has been interviewed on KPFK’s Pocho Hour of Power, performed in the films El Otro Mexico and Language of Passion, Mexico City. A playlet based on her political life was performed at Plaza de la Raza, L.A., in 2012. website: artediosa.com; blog: bluemilagro.wordpress.com
• Dr. Gerda Govine Ituarte  is a poet, author, curator, and columnist for the Pasadena SGV Journal and Frontera Esquina, a poetry magazine published in Mexico. Her Oh, Where is My Candle Hat? is a poetry art book in English and Spanish with translation and artwork by her husband, Luis Ituarte. A special feature includes a CD of poems by poet and artist in both languages. Gerda also serves as a consultant for the California Fair Employment and Housing Administration and is an appointed member of the of LA County Commission for Women. She is also CEO of G. GovineConsulting, which provides expert witness, litigation consultation, training, writing and public speaking in the area of human resources, with an emphasis on diversity and inclusion. She was born in the Virgin Islands and lives with her husband in Pasadena and Tijuana. At the library event Gerda will read her poems in English and Luis will read them in Spanish. http://www.govineconsults.com/
• Dr. Thelma T. Reyna an is an author, poet, editor, and writing consultant. Her stories, poems, essays, book reviews, and other nonfiction have been published in literary and academic journals, textbooks, anthologies, blogs, and in regional media for over 30 years. Her first book, The Heavens Weep for Us and Other Stories (2009) received four national honors. Her first poetry chapbook, Breath & Bone (2011), was a Semi-Finalist in the 2010 National Poetry Chapbook Competition by Finishing Line Press, as was her second poetry book, Hearts in Common (2013) in the 2012 competition. Dr. Reyna writes the blogs “American Latina/o Writers Today” (http://www.LatinoWritersToday.blogspot.com ) and “The Literary Self” (http://www.TheLiterarySelf.blogspot.com ). She is a guest blooger on two other blogs and writes a series of book reviews for the blog, Lagtinopia.com. Thelma is also an editor, ghost writer, and writing consultant with her business, The Writing Pros, based in Pasadena, CA (http://TheWritingPros.com).

"Read for the Record" today at the libraries, Perry's Joint

by Timothy Rutt

Today is "Read for the Record" day, where young readers in schools, daycares, and elsewhere gather to set the record on how many people can read the same book on the same day, to celebrate literacy.

This year's book is "Otis" by Loren Long. 

Local readathons take place at  

• The Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. at 11 AM
• Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Ave. , 3:30 PM
• Perry's Joint, 2051 Lincoln Avenue in Pasadena, 10:30 AM and 3:30 PM.

Free copies of Otis will be available at all locations as long as supplies last. (The Perry's Joint readings include free ice cream for those 16 and under, as an added incentive!)

For information on other locations, call the library at 626-798-8338.

 

Friday Fun Flick: "Epic," at the Library Sept. 27

Beyonce Knowles and Amanda Seyfried lend their voices to Friday's Fun Flick, Epic, on Fri., Sept. 27 at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. 

From the creators of Ice Age, enjoy the year's funniest and most entertaining animated adventure.  Rated PG, the film starts at 3:30 PM in the Community Room, and admission is free.

 

Gustavo Arellano takes a tour of Mexican food at the Library Sept. 30

by TImothy Rutt  

Best-selling author and columnist Gustavo Arellano (Ask a Mexican) hosts an entertaining tour through the history and culture of Mexican food in the United States at the Altadena Library on Sept. 30.

Arellano's new book, Taco USA, looks at the history of Mexican food in the U.S. with a serving of cultural criticism and personal anecdotes.  Arellanno will also sign his books.  And yes, there will be snacks, from Mota's Mexican Restaurant.

"An Evening with Gustavo Arellano" starts at 7 PM Monday, Sept. 30, at the Altadena Main Library Community Room, 600 E. Mariposa St. 

 

Library comes clean about making your own natural soaps Sept. 21

Local soap-maker Anne Louise Bannon will lead a workshop at Altadena Library on how to make your own healthy, luxurious, and soothing soaps using all natural ingredients at a program sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library.  This free event will take place on Saturday, September 21, from 2-4 PM in the Library Community Room.

The first 30 people to arrive will have a hands-on experience and must be 14 years of age or over to handle the soap ingredients. Others will be able to watch and learn. Everyone will receive a packet of recipes and a free sample. Soaps made by Anne Louise will also be available to purchase.

The main Altadena Library is located at600 E. Mariposa St. Altadena. For more information please call 626-798-0833 or check the library’s website athttp://www.altadenalibrary.org.

 

 

Grover Bravo to present Spanish-language talk at Lucas Library Sept. 10

Author and host Grover Bravo will present a program at the Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Ave., on Tuesday, Sept. 10.

Bravo will discuss health and effective communication between parents and the children in a Spanish-language presentation from 10-11 AM.

 

"Escape from Planet Earth" at the Library today

from the Friends of the Altadena Library

Join us for our annual Summer Movie Extravaganza! From June 14 to July 26, every Friday at 3:00pm, the Altadena Library Youth Services will screen an exciting summer movie. It's like Fun Flick Friday, every Friday in the summer! 

Escape from Planet Earth (Rated PG; 90 minutes)

On the planet Baab, admired astronaut Scorch Supernova is a master of daring rescues with the aid of his by-the-rules brother, Gary. When the brothers are informed of an SOS from a notoriously dangerous planet, Scorch rejects Gary's warnings and bounds off for yet another exciting mission. But when Scorch finds himself caught in a fiendish trap set by the evil Shanker, it's up to Gary to do the real rescuing. 

The movie is free, refreshments are provided, and it starts at 3 PM today at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. 

A musical feast from Craig Newton at the Libraries July 16

Join musician Craig Newton for a musical feast at the Altadena libraries on Tuesday, July 16.

Multi-instrumentalist Newton will entertain with tasty tunes played on a variety of instruments.

Part of the library's Summer Reading Program, Newton will appear at 2 PM at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. ; and at 4 PM at Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Ave. 

Kyle Tiernan and "The Magic of Drawing" at the Libraries Tuesday

The Friends of the Altadena Library's summer reading program presents Kyle Tiernan in "The Magic of Drawing" on Tuesday, July 9.

In this fun and interactive program, children ages 5-10 will illustrate three refrigerator-ready drawings during this one-of-a-king, draw-along program.

The program starts at 2 PM at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. , and 4 PM at the Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Ave.

 

Best Bubble Show at the Libraries June 25

Discover the fun of science through the world of soap bubbles at the Altadena libraries on Tuesday, June 25.

Best Bubble Show will perform at 2 PM at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. , and at 4 PM at the Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Avenue. 

Reminder: libraries closed today

Just a reminder: the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., and Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Avenue, will both be closed today for computer server upgrades.  The libraries are scheduled to resume regular service Friday.

 

Libraries closed June 13

The Altadena Library District will be closed Thursday, June 13th for installation of a new server. We apologize for the inconvenience.

For more information please call either the Main Branch (626) 798-0833 or the Bob Lucas Branch (626) 798-8338 or visit http://www.altadenalibrary.org.

Doughnut drop-in kicks off library's summer reading program

by TImothy Rutt

The Altadena Library kicks off its 2013 summer reading program on Tuesday, June 11 with a "Doughnut Drop-In Kick-off" from 10-11 AM.

Kids and teens sign up for this year's "Reading is Delicious" summer reading program, get a free doughnut, and get started.

The summer reading program is free.  The Altadena Main Library is at 600 E. Mariposa St.

Library's ready for summer with Friday afternoon movies

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., has announced the first fils in its summer Friday film extravaganza.

Movies are free and start at 3 PM in the library's Community Room.

June 14: Rise of the Guardians (PG)

June 21: Oz, the Great and Powerful (PG)

June 28: Jack the Giant Slayer (PG-13)

July 5: Despicable Me (PG)

 

Library closes at 2 Friday for Art on Millionaire's Row reception

The Altadena Main Library at 600 East Mariposa will close on Friday, June 7, at 2 PM to prepare for the Art on Millionaire's Row salon reception, which will run from 6-9 PM.

The main library will be open during the arts and crafts fair from 10 AM-6 PM Saturday -- parking will be on the street, as the fair will occupy the parking lot.  

The Bob Lucas Branch Library will be unaffected by the weekend's schedule.

"Volcanoes I Have Known" at the Library June 17

from the Altadena Library District

You are invited to be amazed by JPL volcanologist Rosaly Lopes’ multi-media presentation “Volcanoes I Have Known.” The event will feature slides and live shots showing the power and beauty of erupting volcanic sites and lava flow both on earth and on other planets! Dr. Lopes is a prominent planetary geologist, volcanologist, author of numerous scientific papers and several books, as well as a great proponent of education.

This exciting free program, appropriate for both children and adults, is sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library District and will take place in the library's Community Room on Monday, June 17, at 7 PM.

 

Library: "Reading is Delicious" this summer

from the Altadena Library District

The Altadena Library District is pleased to presents the “Reading is So Delicious” summer reading program. Children and teens are invited to join us for awesome books, weekly events, and cool prizes. This year’s Summer Reading Program will run from June 11 through July 23. Free registration begins June 11 and continues through July 16. Visit the library’s website at www.altadenalibrary.org for a complete listing of events.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Library, the purpose of these programs is to encourage children and teens to get in the habit of reading every day and to spark in them a life-long love of reading and learning. Participation may also help children and teens retain their language skills through the summer.

The award winning Main Library is located at 600 E. Mariposa Street. The Bob Lucas Memorial Branch Library is at 2659 North Lincoln Avenue. The libraries offer many services including programs for children, teens and adults, a book club, teen advisory board, literacy classes, online tutoring, internet tutoring, passports, public computers and wireless access.  To find out more call 626-798-0833 for the main, 626-798-8338 for the branch, or visit the library’s website at http://altadenalibrary.org.

Release the hounds .....

• 
• 
• 
• 

 

1. The calm before the storm: the library's Community Room awaits buyers before the sale begins. 2. Earlybird buyers wait impatiently outside for the 3 PM opening. 3-4. And they're off!  Buyers filled boxes, bags, backpacks, and their arms as fast as they could to get the low-hanging good stuff.

 

by Timothy Rutt

The bookhounds, that is, as the Altadena Library opened up its annual book sale to earlybird buyers Friday afternoon. Members of Friends of the Altadena Library could get into the sale early, and hard-core readers (and several used book dealers) ran inside when the doors opened to pick the sweetest fruit.  Have no fear, there are plenty of books left.  The sale continues Saturday from 10 AM-4 PM and Sunday from 1-4 PM.

"Art on Millionaires' Row" vendor deadline extended thru May 17

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Library has extended the deadline for arts and crafts vendors to participate in the "Art on Millionaire's Row" festival.

Anyone wishing to display their wres has until Friday, May 17, to submit an application.

"Art on Millionaire's Row" will take place Saturday, June 8, from 10 AM-6 PM in the parking lot of the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa Street.

Applications and information are available on the library’s website at http://www.altadenalibrary.org. For questions, please call (626) 798-0833 or email MHolden@altadenalibrary.org.

Fun and Games Friday today at the Library

It's Fun and Games Friday today at the Altadena Library for ages 11-17.

Come play games (bring your own if you like), enjoy some snacks, and hang out gaming.  Therell be a Wii and RockBand available.

It starts at 4 PM at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. 

Library: Last Lego Club before hiatus Saturday

It's the last Lego Club at the Altadena Main Library before it goes on summer break, so time to get your brick on!

Lego Club runs from 11 AM-12:30 PM on Saturday, May 11, at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. 

Legos are provided (just bring your imagination), and Duplo blocks will be available for children under four years of age.

 

Library, MonteCedro want to improve your memory May 14

from the Altadena Public Library

 

Rebecca Gruett, Director of Life Enrichment at MonteCedro

 “Where are my keys?” “Where did I put that…” “Why did I come into this room?” If you have been having a few memory lapses lately, be sure to attend a presentation on "Neurobics"  the Altadena Library will be offering on Tuesday, May 14 from 10-11:30 AM. Find out how you can improve your memory with a few key exercises and awareness tips that may help you feel back on track with Rebecca Gruett, Director of Life Enrichment at MonteCedro.

 

Come share some of your personal experiences, play a brain “game” and receive copies of the lecture materials along with a chance to win some memory enhancement prizes.  Refreshments will be served.

This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library and will be presented by MonteCedro, a planned Episcopal Community Services Continuing Care Retirement Community located in Altadena, CA.  All ages are welcome to this event which will take place at the Main Altadena Library in the Community Room. The Main Altadena Library is located at 600 East Mariposa Street.  More information:  626-798-0833 orhttp://www.altadenalibrary.org or www.montecedro.com/info.

Looking at extreme weather at the Library Monday, May 13

Friends of the Altadena Library present: “Extreme Weather: Are You Ready for More?” presented by JPL Engineer, Robert Haw.

 

Find out about the strange weather events in the U.S. and throughout the world. Why do we have it? What can we do?

 

Robert Haw is the founder of the Climate Change Symposium, an annual event that brings together JPL scientists and policy experts

 

When:  Monday, May 13, 7:00 pm

 

Where: Altadena Library Community Room

             600 East Mariposa Street

             Altadena, CA 91001

 

Information:  (626) 798-0833; www.altadenalibrary.org

Cost:  Free

Make a Mother's Day bouquet at the Bob Lucas Library May 9

Be nice to your Mommy this week, as the Bob Lucas Branch Library spends a crafty afternoon with paper flower bouquets.

Join the library for this special craft on Thursday, May 9, at 3:30 PM.

The Bob Lucas Branch Library is at 2659 N. Lincoln Ave. 

Library's used book sale is coming May 18-19

 

Bookworms pour over the choices at the 2011 library book sale.

by Timothy Rutt

The Friends of the Altadena Library will be holding their annual book sale on Saturday, May 18, and Sunday, May 19 at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. .

 

Thousands of books, which have been donated to the library over the past year, will be available for purchase. Proceeds go to fund the Friends of the Library programs, including children's activities, concerts, guest speakers, and much more.

Members of the Friends of the Library can attend the special presale on Friday, May 17 from 3-7 PM.

The sale will take place on Saturday, May 18, from 10 AM to 4 PM,  and Sunday, May 19, from one-4 PM.

The "Mariachi Magicians" Friday at the Bob Lucas Library

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo a couple of days early as the  Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Avenue, presents Rafael & Katia, "The Mariachi Magicians," on Friday, May 3 at 3:30 PM.

Rafael & Katia bring their bilingual magic show to Altadena.  The duo has been featured on over 30 network TV shows, including America's Got Talent.  Don't miss this exciting performance.

 

"Evenings with the Boys in the Backroom" premieres as Library fundraiser Sunday

"Evenings with the Boys in the Backroom" is a world premiere staged reading Sunday, May 5, benefitting the Friends of the Altadena Library.

The Movable Theater Company presents the play by Peter Adum & Joyce Fante at 3 PM at the Altadena Main Library Community Room, 600 E. Mariposa Street. Tickets are $20, and available at the main library circulation desk.

Based on actual conversations that occurred between 1938 and 1940 in Stanley Rose’s Hollywood book shop, the play chronicles the friendships between Rose (J. Todd Howell) and some of his book store customers:  John Fante (Joe Estavez), William Saroyan (Shaun Duke Moosekian), Nathanael West (David Datz) and Carey McWilliams (Bruce Nehlsen).  In the back of the shop was a room where Rose and his friends drank, played cards, read the racing forms, argued, discussed ideas, gossiped and found the inspiration for many of their most famous works.  This was pure Hollywood during the “Golden Age” of studios, movies, glamour, big deals and even bigger dreams in the middle of the Depression. Also featuring Karen M. Louis and Evelyn Ortiz.

"Evenings with the Boys in the Backroom" deals with adult themes.

 

Are you ready for extreme weather? Library program takes a look

from Friends of the Altadena Library

Friends of the Altadena Library present: “Extreme Weather: Are You Ready for More?”  presented by JPL Engineer, Robert Haw.

Find out about the strange weather events in the U.S. and throughout the world. Why do we have it? What can we do?

Robert Haw is the founder of the Climate Change Symposium, an annual event that brings together JPL scientists and policy experts

When:  Monday, May 13, 7:00 pm

Where: Altadena Library Community Room

             600 East Mariposa Street

             Altadena, CA 91001

Information:  (626) 798-0833; www.altadenalibrary.org

 

Robert Sherwin: "Who Am I" linocuts for Library's May artist

The Altadena Library Community Room Presents: “Who Am I”, linocut prints by Robert Sherwin.  Sherwin's work focuses on historical people and their accomplishments, which have also had a positive impact on us. This series is designed to be both artistic and educational.

Artwork will be on display in the Community Room for the month of May 2013.

The Altadena Main Library is at 600 E. Mariposa St. 

 

Teen/tween knitters and crocheters hang out at the Library April 27

Teens and tweens have a chance to be crafty with an informal hangout for knitters and crocheters and yarn artists off all kinds on Saturday, April 27, at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. 

Open to all teens and tweens age 11-17, there will be great knitting and crochet books to check out, all levels of skills welcome (bring your own materials).

"Writing Under the Influence" workshop at the Library Tues. April 23

The Friends of the Altadena Library District Present WRITING “UNDER THE INFLUENCE” (of music):  a poetry and prose workshop by Mira N. Mataric on April 23 from 6 - 8 PM.

Bring pen, paper and the readiness to explore new ways to contact your muse

Dr. Mira Mataric is an internationally known and award-winning poet who helps writers at all levels with pose prose and poetry.

Mataric has published 34 books of poetry, short stories, novels and translations.  She Teaches creative writing and organizes public poetry readings. She has received over 20 international awards.

Altadena Library Community Room

600 East Mariposa Street

Altadena, CA 91001(626) 798-0833 ● http://www.altadenalibrary.org

Library offers a spring and summer of entertainment and education

The Friends of the Altadena Library have announced their spring and summer program of performances and programs:

• Celebrate national poetry month in April with award-winning poet and poetry coach Mary Torregrossa on April 20 with "Essence and Essentials for Writing Poetry: go where it takes you but take only what you need." The program is Saturday, April 20 from 4 to 6 PM.
• Award-winning author, poet, and writing teacher Dr. Mira Mataric will hold a poetry and prose workshop, "Writing Under the Influence (of music.)" Bring pen, paper, and readiness to explore new ways to contact your muse. The workshop will be on Thursday, April 23. from 6 to 8 PM at the library.
• On Saturday, April 27, the LIbrary's annual Poetry and Cookies festival will be held at the Altadena Senior Center, 560 E. Mariposa Street, starting at 2 PM. The event is a chance for poets and poetry fans to get together, purchase poetry books, and enjoy the poetic muse (with cookies, of course).  There will also be a short open mic.
• May opens with a world premiere staging of "Evenings with the Boys in the Backroom," a play by Peter Adum & Joyce Fante.  The Moveable Theatre Co. production is produced and directed by Holly J. Witham and features David Datz, Joe Estevez, J. Todd Howell, Karen Louis, Shaun Duke Moosekian, Bruce Nehlsen, and Evelyn Ortiz.  A Q&A with playwright Adum and reception follow the performance.  Admission is a $20 donation to the Friends of the Library for the Sunday May 5 performance, at 3 PM at the library.
• On Monday, May 13, JPL engineer Rober Haw will look at "Extreme Weather."  Haw, a founder of JPL's Climate Change Symposium, will talk about the strange weather events in the U.S. and throughout the world.
• On Tuesday, May 14, MonteCedro will present a program on "Neurobics: Memory Enhancement" from 10 AM-noon.  Learn about the brain and exercises you can do to keep it young.  There will be hand-outs and a free drawing for memory enhancement prizes.
• On Monday, June 17, after a short Friends meeting at 7 PM, JPL volcanologist Dr. Rosaly Lopes will amaze with a multi-media presentation, "Volcanoes I Have Known."  Thrill to erupting volcano sites, lave flows, and their power and beauty, both on earth and on other planets.
• And on Saturday, June 22, author Amanda Winn Lee will talk about her e-book, "The Noodle Chronicles: Everthing I Know About Cheating Death I Learned From My Kid." Come take a stroll through her consciousness as she navigates the arduous, and sometimes surprisingly hilarious, journey of her family's battles with cancer (and don't worry, the kid lives).

Programs, except for Poetry and Cookies, are held in the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., and all events (except the May 5 fundraiser) are free.

Polish your poetry with Mary Torregrossa on Saturday at the Library

The Altadena Library continues its celebration of poetry month with a free workshop from Mary Torregrossa on Saturday, April 20.

Torregrossa is a founding member of the Emerging Urban Poets in Pasadena, dedicated to the open and welcoming free public space for writers and readers of all ages. She has taught poetry workshops to children, youth, and adults, to immigrants and individuals.

The Los Angeles poetry Festival selected Mary as a 2009 Newer Poet of LA. Mary has been profiled in the Los Angeles Times and in the Pasadena Journal, and has read her poems on Pacific Radio station KPFK. Mary's work is published in several anthologies, journals, and online.  

The workshop, "Essence and Essential's for Writing Poetry: go where it takes you but take only what you need," is from 4 to 6 PM at the Altadena Library Community Room, 600 East Mariposa St.

 

Graphic novel club meets at Library April 25

The Altadena Library's Teen Graphic Novel Book club meets on Thurs., April 25, at the Community Room of the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. 

The club, open to all teens ages 13-17, starts at 4 PM.  To learn more, stop by the Youth Reference Desk.  It's fun, FREE, and easy.  Space is limited, so sign up today.

 

Library: It's Poetry & Cookies time at the Senior Center April 27

from the Altadena Library District

Enjoy a delightful afternoon at Poetry and Cookies, the Altadena Library’s annual poetry program, which will feature poems by Linda Dove, the library’s laureate, readings by local poets, cookies, and free raffles for great prizes.

This free event sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library will take place on Saturday, April 27 at 2 PM. at the Altadena Senior Center. 

The library’s 2013 edition of Poetry and Cookies, a compilation of the poems read that day, will also be available for sale. Following the program there will also be a short open mic.

The Altadena Senior Center is located at 560 East Mariposa Street, just west of the main Altadena Library.  For more information, please call 626-798-0833 x 115 or check the library’s website at http://www.altadenalibrary.org.

 

Still time to submit pieces to Library's "Art on Millionaires' Row" June 7-8

Call for artists: the Altadena Library's annual Art on Millionaires' Row show and festival is  accepting applications for local artists for both the festival and the salon shows.

Application fee to the festival (outside in the parking lot) is $50, and to the juried salon is $25 (can submit up to three pieces).  Deadline for submission is Friday, April 26.

The Art on Millionaire's Row Salon Fine Art Reception will be held Friday, June 7 at 6 PM and the festival will be Sat., June 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa Street. .Applications and information are available on the library’s website at http://www.altadenalibrary.org. For questions, please call(626) 798-0833 or email MHolden@altadenalibrary.org.