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April is the coolest month: Poetry Month events (including three in Altadena!)

 

Phoebe Snow singing "Poetry Man" -- forgive some Boomer indulgence!

from the Altadena Library District

This April as National Poetry Month offers lots of poetry events to choose from.  Three programs will be sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library including two poetry workshops (April 20 and 23) plus the annual Poetry and Cookies Celebration (April 27).  These events are in turn part of the month-long San Gabriel Valley Poetry Festival. 

This coming Saturday, April 6 at 3 PM is the “kickoff” event for the festival and features a free raffle and  prizes for all readers! The reading is hosted by Rina Rose and Mary Torregrossa inside the backroom of the Santa Catalina Branch of the Pasadena Public Library on 999 East Washington Blvd. So dust off that poem you have hidden in your drawer and get ready to read, write or listen to some great poetry.  See below for a schedule of all of the events in the festival. 

Saturday, April 6, 3 to 5 PM - FESTIVAL KICKOFF open poetry reading (with free raffle, prizes for all readers) hosted by Rina Rose and Mary Torregrossa inside the backroom of the Santa Catalina Branch of the Pasadena Public Library on 999 E. Washington Blvd.

Tuesday, April 9, 7 to 10 PM - ZZyZx WriterZ MEETING & READING hosted by Kimberly Cobian, backroom of Garfono's Pizza, 5468 Valley Blvd. El Sereno near Cal State L.A. (Casual reading and networking with fellow writers and artists.  Bring some writing or art to share.)

Wednesday, April 10, 7:30 to 10 PM - SHOUT! Open mic hosted by Eric Morago featuring Andres Bermejo, Xochitl Julisa-Bermejo, & TBA ,Half Off Books on 6708 Greenleaf Ave. Whittier.

Saturday, April 13, 3 to 5 PM - THE DEAD & THE LIVING open poetry reading (each reader reads poems from dead and living poets) hosted by CaLokie inside the backroom of the Santa Catalina Branch of the Pasadena Public Library on 999 E. Washington Blvd.

Wednesday, April 17, 7:30 PM -  Haiku Open Mic at Bean Town Coffee Bar 45 N Baldwin Ave Sierra Madre, CA 91024 hosted by Debbie Kolodji.  National Haiku Day (17 for 17 syllables)

Bob Lucas Library to offer bilingual parent health workshop April 16

LThe Bob Lucas Branch Library will hold a special parent workshop on Tues., April 16, at 2 PM on how to access community health resources.

The program, in English and Spanish, is provided by the Altadena Library District and Young & Healthy as part of National Library Week.

Parents will receive free parent notebooks, discover local health care resources, learn how to be the family's health care advocate, and learn what to do in an amergency.  Refreshments will be provided.

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

 

"Wreck It Ralph" is the Library's Friday fun flick March 22

The Altadena Library's "Fun Flick Friday" on March 22 is "Wreck-It Ralph."

Wreck-It Ralph longs to be as beloved as his game's perfect Good Guy, FIx-It Felix.  Problem is, nobody loves a bad guy!

Rated PG, the movie starts at 3:30 PM at the Community Room of the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St.. Admission is free.

 

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Kres Mersky returns to the Library with "Isadora Duncan"

WRECK-IT RALPH Director Rich Moore Talks about More Ideas for the Sequel

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Teen graphic novel club meets at the Library March 28

from the Altadena Library

The Altadena Library's Teen Graphic Novel Book club meets on Thurs., March 28, at the Community Room of the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. 

The club, open to all teens ages 13-17, is currently reading Full Metal Alchemist Vol. 1 and Neil Gaiman's Death: The High Cost of Living.

To learn more, stop by the Youth Reference Desk.  It's fun, FREE, and easy.  Space is limited, so sign up today.

 

NASA4Girls at the Library March 19

Celebrate women in science with Shari Asplund of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in a celebration of women in science at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., on March 19.

NASA Science4Girls and their families uses, videos, hands-on activities, and other resources to help the community explore the wonders of our solar system.  (Oh, and you don't have to be a girl to attend!)

The program starts a 3:30 PM.

 

Knitters and crocheters wanted at the Library March 16

Did you know March is National Craft Month! (Now we're informed!)

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, March 16, at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. 

There will be great knitting and crochet books to check out, all levels of skills welcome (bring your own materials(, and you could win a gift card to Michael's or your local yarn store.

The hangout starts at 1 PM.

 

Lego Club at the Library Saturday

The Lego Club at the Altadena Library meets this Satuday, March 9, from 11 AM-12:30 PM.

Open to children ages 2-13, Legos and Duplos are provided -- just bring your imgination.

Lego Club meets at the Altadena Main Library Community Room, 600 E. Mariposa St.  

Related articles

Kres Mersky returns to the Library with "Isadora Duncan"

"Hotel Transylvania" on Fun Flick Friday Feb. 22

Library holds bookmark contest for summer reading program

"A Tree Grows" staged reading at the Library Feb. 2

Library hosts multi-media "Impressions of China" Feb. 9

Fun & Games Friday at the Library March 8

It's Fun and Games Friday coming up this week 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 Friday, March 8, at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. 

 

Kres Mersky returns to the Library with "Isadora Duncan"

From the Altadena Library

 

Kres Mersky as Isadora Duncan

A free night at the theater! A free date night!  With youth middle school and above it’s a free family night! A great way to Celebrate Women’s History Month!  Whatever you call it, just be sure to see Kres Mersky’s new one-woman-play "Isadora Duncan: a Unique Recital" coming soon to Altadena Library.

 

Some of you may remember the actress/playwright for her superb one woman show, "A. Einstein" hosted by the library a few years ago.  Suffice it to say she was terrific!  Much in demand throughout the West Coast and Canada, tickets to her performances generally run $20 but you can see her new show for free on Friday, March 15 at 7 PM. in the Altadena Library Community Room.

This production, celebrating the life of one of the most flamboyant and creative women of the 20th century, is adapted from Isadora’s own writings and provides a multi-dimensional portrait of a woman whose views on the arts, education, and women’s rights continue to inspire many today. A review in the Los Angeles Times called Mersky’s portrayal “Pure poetry…an excellent performance.” Another review called her portrayal “absolutely memorable…nuanced, touching, humorous and engaging.”

Kres says she is “thrilled to return to my wonderful home town of Altadena and to Altadena Library, that special place I will always love and revere.”  An actress and writer of enormous range, humor and sensitivity, her full-length plays have had productions in New York and Los Angeles. She has appeared regularly on the stage and in numerous films and television shows and has been nominated by The Mark Taper Forum for The Susan Smith Blackburn Prize in playwriting.

This free approximately one-hour performance is co-sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library and Poets & Writers, Inc. and directed by Paul Gersten. Following the event there will be a question & answer session with the star and author. Seating for this program is on a first come, first served basis. 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.

 

March library artist: Henia Flynn

The Altadena Library's artist of the month for March is Henia Flynn.

The Altadena Library Community Room Presents: “Impressions”, Paintings by Henia Flynn

Henia’s work focuses on expressive figurative and architectural content; finding her outlet in color and light, conveying moods and capturing the essence of the world around her.

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

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

 

Fun Flick Friday today: "Hotel Transylvania"

Just a reminder that the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., is having its monthly Friday Fun Flick this afternoon: "Hotel Transylvania," rated PG, at the Main Library Community Room.  Free popcorn and drinks and spooky fun!  Starts at 3:30 PM.

 

Library moves "Brown vs. Board of Education" film to Senior Center

by Timothy Rutt

Due to public response, the Altadena Library will move its Feb. 23 program, "Separate is NOT Equal," to the Altadena Senior Center, 560 E. Mariposa St.  The program starts at 2 PM.

The program is a filmed re-enactment of the arguments in the Brown v. Board of Education case before the Supreme Court.   The decision in the 1954 case declared state laws establishing separate public schools for black and white students unconstitutional.

The Honorable Terry J. Hatter, Jr., Senior United States District Judge (Chief Judge Emeritus) Central District of California, will appear in person to introduce this important event.  In the video Hatter presents his views of the case and its effect on his own life and the schools in Pasadena.  Other speakers in the film include Cheryl Brown Henderson, daughter of Oliver Brown, the named plaintiff, and Dean Erwin Chemerinsky, Irvine School of Law, who gives a background of the case and its aftermath.

This free program is sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library and the Altadena Senior Center. For more information please call 626-798-0833 or visit the library on the web at http://www.altadenalibrary.org.

 

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Separate is not equal: Library looks at Brown v. Board of Education in re-enactment

from the Altadena Library District

You are invited to see a filmed reenactment of the oral arguments for Brown v. Board of Education at a program at Altadena Library on Saturday, February 23 beginning at 2 PM.  The Honorable Terry J. Hatter, Jr., Senior United States District Judge (Chief Judge Emeritus) Central District of California, will appear in person to introduce this important event.  In the video Hatter presents his views of the case and its effect on his own life.  Other speakers in the film include Cheryl Brown Henderson, who describes how her father, Oliver Brown, became the named plaintiff, and Dean Erwin Chemerinsky, Irvine School of Law, who gives a background of the events leading up to the case and its aftermath.

Brown v. Board of Education was a United States Supreme Court Case (1954) in which the Court declared state laws of separate public schools for black and white students unconstitutional and overturned the Plessy v. Ferguson decision of 1896 which allowed state-sponsored segregation with its standard of “separate but equal.” 

This riveting presentation which features actual lawyers and judges arguing the case was originally given in 2011 as part of the Justice John G. Gabbert Historical Oral Argument and Lecture series presided by Justice Manuel A. Ramirez, Court of Appeal, Fourth Appellate District, Division Two.

Speaking about this historic reenactment Justice Hatter had this to say, “Brown v. Board was the jumping off point of the civil rights movement." Hatter added the Brown ruling, in terms of jurisprudence, was not Warren's best-written decision. "But in terms of moral responsibility for this nation, it has no match."

Judge Hatter, a third generation lawyer, is a graduate of the University of Chicago Law School; his undergraduate degree is from Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut. He has served as a United States District Judge for the Central District of California since his appointment in December, 1979. On March l, 1998, he became the Chief Judge of the Central District, which is the largest federal district in the nation, serving some 18 million people. Prior to his appointment to the federal bench, Judge Hatter sat on the California Superior Court for Los Angeles County. He served as a Special Assistant and Executive Assistant to Mayor Tom Bradley, directing Urban Development and Criminal Justice Planning for the City of Los Angeles. He has been a professor of law at Loyola Law School and at the University of Southern California Law School and has served as the Executive Director of the Western Center on Law and Poverty.

This free program is sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library. 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 hosts multi-media "Impressions of China" Feb. 9

from the Altadena Library District

Be ready to use all of your senses when Altadena library serves up Impressions of China, a feast of film, art, music, poetry, and discussion with artist Susan Dobay on Saturday, February 9, from 2-5 PM.

See: a display of artist Susan Dobay's most recent work, Impressions of China, a series of digital collages mixing paintings and photographs from a recent trip to this changing country.

Watch: A film by Lance Mungia on this amazing woman, her art, and personal views on China.

Listen: After the film Susan will share more of her insights of this fascinating country. Poets on Site will perform poems inspired by the images. Rick Wilson will accompany the poets on xiao, a traditional Chinese bamboo flute.

Taste:  Refreshments will be served.

 

Artist Susan Dobay

The art of Susan Dobay can be seen around the world. She is the owner of the Scenic Drive Gallery in Monrovia. Thedocumentary film Interview with Susan Dobay by Lance Mungia was part of Monrovia’s 2012 Film Festival.

 

Kathabela Wilson is the creator and leader of the band of “Poets on Site,” a poetry performance group where poets collaborate with dancers, artists and scientists to perform on site of their inspirations. Poets on Site has produced 14 books and performances at museums, galleries and gardens in Southern California.

This free program is sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library. The main Altadena Library is located at 600 East Mariposa Street, Altadena, CA 91011. For more information please call 626-798-0833 or visit the library on the web at http://www.altadenalibrary.org.

 

 

 

 

Library's Fun Flick is "Ice Age 4: Continental Drift" Jan. 25

This month's Altadena Library Friday Fun Flick is "Ice Age 4: Continental Drift."

Rated PG, the 88 minute animated feature starts at 3:30 PM on Jan. 25 at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. 

Popcorn and drinks are provided, and admission is free.

 

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"A Tree Grows" staged reading at the Library Feb. 2

from the Altadena Library District

The theatrical debut of A Tree Grows by local author Cliff Moore will take place in the Community Room of the main Altadena Library in a staged reading on Saturday, February 2, at 2 PM. This heartwarming story tells the tale of a small town during the 60’s and its heroic tree. Laugh and cry (mostly laugh) your way through this moving tribute to a town, its tree, and a decade that affected so many.

Immediately after the approximately thirty-minute performance there will be an audience discussion with the author. Then, following a short intermission, anyone interested is invited to stay to write about and share experiences of the 60’s or another time important in their life in a writing exercise led by creative writing instructor and poet Don Kingfisher Campbell. This part of the program will be from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. that day.

Cliff is an award winning author and poet with numerous completed feature-length screenplays to his credit so he knows how to tell a good story. This free presentation rated PG (for language) is sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library. The main Altadena Library is located at 600 East Mariposa Street, Altadena. For more information please call 626-798-0833 ex. 115, or emailpdutton@altadenalibrary.org.

Library artist for January is Burma Brown

The Altadena Library Community Room Presents: paintings by Burma Brown

Burma’s artwork reflects the things in life he loves the most; music, the ocean and freedom. Through his art he has found a voice to speak to the world and say “I am here!”

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

For more information: 626-798-4033

 

Library looking for performers for "A Tree Grows" staged reading

by Timothy Rutt

 

Author Cliff Moore's play, "A Tree Grows," is looking for performers.

The Altadena Library is looking for six actors and a musician for a staged reading of a new play.

 

"A Tree Grows" by author Cliff Moore tells the tale of a small town and its heroic tree during the 60’s. Moore is an award-winning author and poet with numerous completed feature-length screenplays to his credit so he knows how to tell a good story.

The reading will take place Saturday, February 2, at 2 PM at the Community Room of the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. There will be an audience discussion following the 30 minute performance, 

Performers are needed to read the parts of six characters. Visual suggestions for the characters follow.  Those who read well who do not fall into these categories will also be considered. If you think you would enjoy doing this please apply.

• 12-18 y.o. Male (White or Black) outdoorsy
• 30-45 y.o. Female (W) attractive, but not too
• 20-30 y.o. Male (W) preferably in uniform
• 35+ y.o. Female (B) esoteric teacher’s look
• 20-35 y.o. Female (H) the hippy type with long straight hair
• 20-30 y.o. Male (B) medium build, handyman look

Also needed is a guitarist to play a few riffs from the 1960’s including some folk and popular rock & roll at intervals during the reading.   

Tryouts will take place on Saturday, January 5, from 10 AM -12 PM in the Community Room of the Altadena Library.

 For more information please call 626-798-0833 ex. 115, or email pdutton@altadenalibrary.org.

 

 

Olympic bell ringers at the Library tonight

 

The Mark Twain Middle School Bell Ringers of Los Angeles are chiming tonight in the Altadena Main Library's annual holiday concert, tonight at 7 PM.

The bell choir has performed five times in London during the Summer Olympics, including the opening of the games.  

This free program is sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library and is sure to be delightful evening for all ages.  The Altadena Main Library is located at 600 East Mariposa Street.  For more information, visit www.altadenalibrary.org or call 626-798-0833.

 

Starting your own home-based business workshop at the Library Jan. 5

from the Altadena Library

 

Nancy Miller

Are you concerned about job security and today’s job market?  Are looking for ways to earn more after-tax dollars, or dreamed of starting your own business? If so, a home business might make sense for you either on the side or as your main livelihood. 

 

Or perhaps you already work out of your home, and could use some tips on improving maximizing sales. Then this class could be just what you need. With very little money and the suggestions you will learn from this class, you can build a successful business and determine your own job security.

To help you on your way to your dreams, the Altadena Library is offering a free class on how to start your own home-based business.  This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library and will be presented by entrepreneur Nancy Miller on Saturday, January 5 from 2 – 5 pm in the Community Room of the Main Altadena Library.

"Hobbit Hoopla" at the Library Dec. 15

by Timothy Rutt

Teens and tweens (ages 11-17) are invited to join the celebration at the Altadena Main Library on Dec. 15 starting at 2 PM to celebrate JRR Tolkien and the new movie "The Hobbit."

Come in your hobbit clothes and join in on the fun with raffles, games, crafts, snacks, and your own photobooth.

Prizes include "The Hobbit" movie tickets and JRR Tolkien books.

For more information, check out http://aldteenscene.blogspot.com/

 

Santa is coming to the Altadena Libraries Dec. 19

The one and only Santa Claus is coming to the Altadena Libraries on Wed., Dec. 19.

Santa will take time out of his busy schedule to talk to kids and pose for pictures at 11 AM at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., and at 12 noon at the Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Ave. 

 

Library's Friday Fun Flick: "Arthur Christmas" Dec. 14

Fun Flick Friday at the Altadena Library takes on the holiday spirit with "Arthur Christmas" (rated PG) on Fri., Dec. 14 at 3:30 PM.

Free admission, popcorn, and drinks as you watch this family film about Arthur's mission to be completed before Christmas morning.

Fun Flick Friday is at the Altadena Main Library Community Room, 600 E. Mariposa St.

Olympic bell ringers to perform holiday concert at Library Dec. 11

from the Altadena Library

Not many bell ringers ever get to show their stuff at the Olympics, but the Mark Twain Middle School Bell Ringers performed not once but five times in London as part of a national bell-ringing extravaganza that opened last summer’s games and gave four other Olympic performances as well.  They returned home to even further acclaim when the Los Angeles City Council proclaimed October 4 as Mark Twain Bell Ringer Day. 

Twain Music Director Ron Theile says of all their accomplishments, “Hard work pays off…I am the one who's supposed to coach them in that direction. They know what they want to sound like… And they've never been wrong."

You are invited to hear these young performers who are in such great demand in all their bell-ringing glory at the Altadena Library’s holiday concert on Tuesday, December 11 at 7 PM This free program is sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library and is sure to be delightful evening for all ages.  The Altadena Main Library is located at 600 East Mariposa Street.  For more information, visit www.altadenalibrary.org or call 626-798-0833.

 

Family fun at the Library: decorate a graham cracker gingerbread house Dec. 4

The Library kicks off a month of holiday fun with an activity for the whole family:  a "gingerbread" house decorating party on Tues., Dec. 4.

It's not really gingerbread -- it's graham crackers, which you can assemble using frosting and candy into the holiday house of your dreams.

Sponsored by Friends of the Library, it starts at 6:30 PM at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. 

 

Teen graphic novel club tackles "The Runaways" Nov. 29

The teen graphic novel club at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., meets Friday, Nov. 29, at 4 PM in the Comunity Room.  Currently, the book club is reading "The Runaways Vol. I: Pride and Joy."

The club is open to all teens ages 13 to 17, meeting once a month.  To learn more stop by the youth reference desk.  It's free, but space is limited.

 

Library's Fun Flick Friday: "Brave," Nov. 16

The Altadena Main Library's Friday Fun Flick this month is the new Disney/Pixar film, "Brave."

Determined to carve her own path in life, the skilled archer Princess Merida defies an age-old custom sacred to the unruly and uproarious lords of the land. The ensuing peril forces Merida to harness all of her skills and resources to undo a beastly curse before it’s too late, discovering the meaning of true bravery. Rated PG, 100 minutes.

Admission is free -- popcorn and drinks available.

"Brave" will be at the Altadena Main Library Community Room, 600 E. Mariposa St. , at 3:30 PM Friday, Nov. 16.  

 

Library events celebrate new "Wimpy Kid" book

The Altadena Main Library and Bob Lucas Branch Library celebrate Wimpy Kids with some special activities this week:

Tues., Nov. 13: Diary of a Wimpy Kid Book Party: The Altadena Library invites kids ages 9-12 to come to the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. at 4:30 PM for some Wimpy Kid fun! Join us for snacks, and activities based on Jeff Kinney’s popular Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. We’ll be raffling off a couple of copies of the 7th book The Third Wheel! 

Wed., Nov. 14: Decorate Your Own Wimpy Kid Diary Celebrate the release of the latest book in the Wimpy Kid series by creating your own Wimpy Kid Diary. All supplies will be provided. Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Ave. , starting at 3:30 PM.

eBooks everywhere: learn how they work at the Library next Tuesday

by Timothy Rutt

Ken Gruberman, "The Tech Daddy," and Kevin Coon, Overdrive eBook specialist, will talk about the whole ebook phenomenon next Tues., Oct. 23, at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. , starting at 7 PM.

If you have an ebook reader -- Kindle, iPad, Nook, or any other kind of reader -- learn how you can maximize its utility from a couple of experts.  You can also learn how to get ebooks for free.

The first half hour will be an overview of ebooks, with live demonstrations, followed by individual instruction on your particular ebook.

The workshop will be held at the library's Community Room.

 

The Libraries celebrate Halloween with Dia de los Muertos and haunted gingerbread houses

The Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. , will host its annual family Halloween and Día de los Muertos Celebration on Tues., Oct. 30, at 4 PM at 

Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead is a traditional Mexican holiday when family and friends gather to honor and remember loved ones. Halloween and Day of the Dead activities include construction paper jack o’ lanterns, puppets, Mexican paper flowers, and sugar-skull decorating. Fun for the whole family.  Admission is free.

Meanwhile, the Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Ave. , will have a Halloween day activity:  make your own haunted gingerbread house using graham cracker, icing, candy, and your imagination.  That will be Wednesday, Oct. 31, starting at 3:30 PM.

 

Romantic comedy "Later Life" at the Library Oct. 21

from the Altadena Library

Looking for some really fun entertainment? Tired of the high prices most movie theaters charge nowadays? How would you like to see some professional actors in a hilarious live production for less than the cost of watching the latest not so great film and also help a good cause?  Well, you can, and you won’t have to drive far either because a staged reading of the romantic comedy "Later Life" by A. R. Gurney is coming Sunday, Oct.  21, 2 PM and 5:30 PM to the Altadena Library.

The Moveable Theatre Company by Special Arrangement with Dramatists Play, Service, Inc. is producing a staged reading of the play to benefit the Friends of the Altadena Library.  John Balma and Debra Lee, whom many may recognize from their many appearances in film and television, star in this production.

David Berkus, associate of The Moveable Theatre Company, who has had privy to recent rehearsals, has this to say: “The comic actors add so much to the humor of the play. The lines are hysterical the way these professional actors interpret them. I know your ticket buyers will be very entertained."

For tickets and more info:www.altadenalibrary.org; www.moveabletheatrecompany.org; or 626-798-0833.  The main Altadena Library is located at 600 E. Mariposa Street, 91001.

Library's Cover to Cover In-N-Out program Oct. 4-Nov.17

by Timothy Rutt

Read books and get a free burger -- what could be better?

The Altadena Library's annual In-N-Out Cover to Cover Reading Program starts Sat., Oct. 6, and runs through Sat., Nov. 17.  Children ages 4-12 who check out and read five library books during that period will receie a certificate for a free hamburger, cheeseburger, or grilled cheese sandwich at In-N-Out Burger.

Sign up at the Youth Services Desk at either the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. , or Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Ave. .

The Tech Daddy looks at the Amazing iPad Oct. 6 at the Library

by Timothy Rutt

Ken Gruberman, "The Tech Daddy," returns to the Altadena Main Library on Sat., Oct. 6, to introduce you to the iPad.

Tablet computing is the next big thing, and the iPad sets the standard.  Gruberman, who writes on technology for AARP Magazine and the Huffington Post,  will look at "The Incredible IPad" to show the things you can do with the newest models.

The presentation will be at 2 PM on Sat., Oct. 6, at the Community Room of the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. .

 

Voter Registration Day at the Library Tuesday

Tuesday, Sept. 25, is National Voter Registration Day, and the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., is the local location to make sure you're ready for November's election.

National Voter Registration Day is a national non-partisan effort involving major technology companies, retailers, voter registration and activation groups, and nonprofits including the YWCA, Tumblr, Patagonia, the League of Women Voters, the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Univision, and over 700 other national an dlocal organizations.  The Altadena Library District is a National Voter Registration Day partner, and will hold registration in the library's Community Room from 10 AM-8:30 PM.

 

Library offers patrons Google Chromebooks in pilot project

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Library is a testbed in a state pilot project to make internet access available to more people through the public libraries.

According to Principal Librarian Pauli Dutton, the Altadena Libraries will be among 40 libraries around the state  participating in the California Public Libraries Google Chromebook Pilot Project. "Chromebooks are a new type of computer which is lightweight with built-in security and so speedy they boot up in eight seconds," Dutton writes us.  "With a Chromebook you have one-click-access to a world of apps and the web ... You can edit photos, create documents, spreadsheets, presentations and drawings using apps like Google Docs or ZohoWriter. You won’t need a disk to save your work because it all goes on the Cloud retrievable from any computer anytime.  Although you can log in as guest, if you use your Google account, the computer will sign you into the services you usually use with access to your bookmarks, settings, and apps. "

The library will receive 15 Chromebooks, with 13 going to the main library and two to the Bob Lucas Branch Library.  Checkout begins on Oct. 1.  Patrons will need an Altadena Library card, a photo ID, and a signed agreement to use them in the library for up to three hours at a time.  Those 14 years of age and older must have the above and in addition their Chrome and Internet agreement must also be signed by a parent or guardian .

The project's intent is to see about creating more internet access points in public libraries on easy-to-use devices that don't require large amounts of staff time. "All we need to do in return is have you try them out and give us your opinion on them," Dutton said.  The program will last for one year and will be evaluated for best practices at six months and one year.

 

 

Moveable Theatre Co. presents "Later Life" fundraiser for Friends of the Library

by Timothy Rutt

 

Debra Lee and John Balma star in "Later Life" at the Altadena Library Oct. 21

The Altadena Library's modernist sunken reading room will turn into a stage as The Moveable Theatre Company performs "Later Life," a play by A. R. Gurney ("Love Letters")  as a benefit for the Altadena Friends of the Library on Sun., Oct. 21.

 

The production, starring Debra Lee and John Balma, will be in a matinee and evening performance at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. 

A bittersweet comedy, "Later Life" will be The Moveable Theatre Company’s theatrical production for this fall. Not community theater, The Moveable Theatre Company (TMTC) allows nonprofits the opportunity to use a play like "Later Life" to be a fundraiser by selling tickets and/or promoting their memberships. TMTC uses an enthusiastic volunteer corps of well-seasoned professional actors from theater, movies and TV. This theater company has no theater facility. The company performs where the patrons want it done.

In this case, the performance space will be the library's reading room.  “Being portable forces you to get creative,” said Holly Witham, TMTC’s founder and production director. “We have to accommodate any grandiose ideas for production that we have. This means improvising, fitting, moving and getting very creative – often in a few minutes – to make it work in the space and parameters that exist. …Since we are moving anyway, why not make the space a character in the play. By doing the shows in appropriate spaces, the space coordinates and becomes part of the experience,” Witham said. 

Jo Mann is the Library's artist for September

Jo Mann is the Altadena Library District's artist for September, with her show, "Silence in Company."

Jo’s work reflects the need and balance in one’s lives, the elimination of the unnecessary, and the goal of simplicity with substance. Jo believes art should be didactic and conveying and that her pieces help people to think freely and project their connections into the artwork. Jo incorporates the urban reality of found materials to express the underlying but ever-present clutter and cacophony of contemporary life.

The reduction of form and harmonious color palette speaks to the balance we seek.

Mann's work will be on display in the Community Room of the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., thru the month of September.

For questions or information regarding art exhibits and event, contact:Tina Wallin ,626-798-0833 (x110), or email:twallin@altadenalibrary.org,sbowman@altadenalibrary.org

Library activities this week: it's all about wild animals

The Altadena Library's summer activites this week:

Wild Wonders—Imaginations Gone Wild! on Tues., July 17, 2 PM at the main library and 4 PM at the Bob Lucas Branch Library.  Meet extraordinary, imaginary animals come to life! These creatures from our dreams have real live jobs in nature. Meet a binturong, armadillo, gliding phalanger, and more!

And on Friday at 3:30 PM the Summer Movie Extravaganza presents "Big Miracle," the true story of how three whales were rescued from the ice in 1988.  Rated PG, the film starts at 3:30 in the main library Community Room.

The Altadena Main Library is at 600 E. Mariposa St., and the Bob Lucas Branch Library is at 2659 N. Lincoln Ave. 

 

"Drawing Secrets" children's program at the Libraries Tuesday

The Altadena Libraries present "Drawing Secrets Revealed with Kyle Tiernan" on Tues., July 10. 

Kids learn how to draw, during this interactive, draw-along program. Children will complete three illustrations they can take home and show mom and dad. All supplies (pencils/paper) included.

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

 

Library starts summer Friday Film Festival this week

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St., is offering family-friendly movies every Friday all summer long.  Admission is free.

July 6: "The Muppets" (are you a man, or a Muppet?)

July 13: The Teen's Choice Movie, picked by participants in the summer reading program:  will it be "The Birds," "Young Frankenstein," "Coraline," or "Back to the Future Part I"?  Come on in and find out.

July 20:  "Big Miracle," a whale of a true tale.

July 27: "Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2: Roderick Rules": wimpy is the new hipster.

All movies start at 3 PM, and are rated PG. 

 

 

Universal Dance Expressions at the Altadena Libraries June 26

Join Dino Mayorga and Lamonte Tales Goode for an interactive dance experience exploring a variety of street dance styles including classic hip hop, b-boying (break dancing), house, and free style as Universal Dance Expressions invades the Altadena Library on Tues., June 26.

Performances will be at 2 PM at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. , and 4 PM at Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Ave. 

Fun Flick Friday: "The Mysterious Island" June 29

Fun Flick Fridays for summer kick off with "Journey 2 – the Mysterious Island" at the Altadena Main Library on June 29.

Rated PG and starring Duane Johnson, watch the new journey to a place of strange life forms, mountains of gold, deadly volcanos, and more than one astonishing secret.  

The film is free, and starts at 3 PM at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. 

 

Library summer reading program kicks off with donuts June 15

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Libraries kick off their summer reading program on Fri., June 15, with a "donut drop" from 10-11 AM (but don't drop your donuts!)

There will be weekly prizes, events, movies and more for children and teens, whether your taste runs to wimpy kids, Goosebumps, vampires, or Hunger Games.

Sign up at the Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa St. , or Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Ave. 

 

"Helen of Pasadena" comes to Altadena June 4

from the Altadena Library

Lian Dolan, writer, producer, talk show host, podcast pioneer and author of the witty and entertaining tale, Helen of Pasadena, will speak at a free program presented by the Friends of the Altadena Library on Monday, June 4 at 7 PM.  

Helen of Pasadena, a Los Angeles Times Bestseller for over a year, was nominated for Best Fiction by the Southern California Independent Booksellers and is now being developed for television.  This romantic comedy, set in the familiar environs of Pasadena, tells the story of the likeable Helen who is leading a charmed existence among the roses and rose queens, loses it all, and suddenly has to reinvent herself. Her new life includes working with an excavator of Troy and solving ancient mysteries while dealing with neutron moms, c-list gossip columnists, and old and new money. 

Dolan is also the creator and producer of The Chaos Chronicles, a humor blog and podcast about modern motherhood which was developed as a half-hour sitcom for Nickelodeon.  Dolan co-wrote the pilot script.   

What:  HELEN OF PASADENA COMES TO ALTADENA!  Best-selling author Lian Dolan will speak at Altadena Library on Monday, June 4 at 7 p.m.

When:  June 4, @ 7 pm

Where: Altadena Library Community Room

             600 East Mariposa Street

             Altadena, CA 91001

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

Cost:  Free

 

Friends of the Library's annual book sale May 19, pre-sale May 18

by Timothy Rutt

The Friends of the Altadena Library are holding their annual book sale on Sat., May 19, from 10 AM-4 PM and Sun., May 20, from 1-4 PM at the library parking lot and community room.

And if you 'd like to see what a pack of ravening wolves looks like, you can join the "pre-sale" for Friends members (which includes more than a few book dealers) on Fri., May 18, from 3-7 PM (we've been there, and we used to be a book dealer and can tell you it's definitely not for the faint of heart!)

Hard and soft-cover books in all categories will be available at bargain prices.  as well as records, videos, CDs, music cassettes, and even used furniture.

Proceeds will be used for materials and programs for both the main library and the Bob Lucas Memorial Branch Library and Literacy Center.

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

 

 

Linda Dove is Altadena's new poet laureate

The Altadena Library is pleased to announce the new Poet Laureate for the Altadena Library District will be Linda Dove. 

The official passing of the laurels will take place on Sat.,  April 21 at 2 PM at the library’s annual Friends sponsored program, "Poetry and Cookies."   

Dove holds a Ph.D. in Renaissance literature and most recently taught at Yavapai College in Arizona where she directed the creative writing program.  She is the author of In Defense of Objects (Bear Star Press, winner of the Dorothy Brunsman Poetry Award, 2009) and O Dear Deer, (Squall Publishing, winner of the Eudaimonia Poetry Review Chapbook Prize, 2011). Poems have been nominated for a Pushcart Prize and were a finalist for the Robert H. Winner Award from the Poetry Society of America. She lives in Altadena, California, with her husband, daughter, and two Jack Russell terriers, and has been active in local organizations, such as the Altadena garden co-op RIPE, the community food bank, and with an Altadena-based Girl Scouts troop.

This event is free and will take place at Altadena Senior Center located at 560 East Mariposa Street, just west of the main Altadena Library. For more information please call 626 798 0833 or check the library’s website athttp://altadenalibrary.org.

 

Bob Lucas Branch Library open house celebrates 20th anniversary, renovations

by Timothy Rutt

After being closed for renovations and upgrades, the Bob Lucas Branch Library, 2659 N. Lincoln Ave., will have an open house and celebration of its 20th anniversary on Sun., April 29, from 1-3 PM.

 

It's almost here: Library celebrates Poetry & Cookies April 21

Celebrate Earth Day April 21 with Poetry & Cookies, the Altadena Library's annual poetry program.

The program, which starts at 2 PM at the Altadena Senior Center, 560 E. Mariposa,  offers an afternoon of poetry readings, the inauguration of the library's new poet laureate, cookies (of course) and free raffles for great prizes.

The library’s 2012 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

This free event is sponsored by the Friends of the Altadena Library. For more information, please call 626-798-0833 x 115 or check the library’s website athttp://www.altadenalibrary.org.

 

 

 

Fr. Gregory Boyle will be Library speaker May 1 at Senior Center

from the Altadena Library

Father Gregory Boyle, author of the inspirational memoir Tattoos on the Heart: the Power of Boundless Compassion, will speak at a program presented by the Friends of the Altadena Library at 7 PM, Tuesday May 1 at the Altadena Senior Center.   A Los Angeles Timesbest-seller for over a year, this award-winning book is filled with life-changing, uplifting stories of faith and redemption.  His cure for what he sees as a “global sense of failure” is as radical as it is simple: boundless restorative love. 

Father Greg is founder of Homeboy Industries, the largest gang intervention and   re-entry program in the country.  This non-profit offers jobs, legal help, mental health services, tattoo removal, and other free programs to thousands each year.  Other enterprises include Homeboy Bakery and Homegirl Cafe and Catering.  

Learn more about this phenomenal man and how his philosophy could make a difference in your life, too, by attending this free program.

The address of the Altadena Senior Center is 560 East Mariposa Street, 91001.  For more information, visit www.altadenalibrary.org or call 626-798-0833.

 

Kristine Schomaker is Library's artist for April/May

The Altadena Library Community Room Presents: “Don’t Blink” :paintings by Kristine Schomaker.

Kristine’s paintings are founded upon an ongoing investigation into the transforming the modern abstract expressionist mark into the postmodern vocabulary. In her current paintings she uses the pour and drip as a trope by changing them into a language influenced by graphic design, pop art, virtual reality and animation. They become a hybridization of these elements.

Work will be on display in the Community Room for the month of April and May 2012

For Questions or information regarding Art Exhibits and Events, contact  Tina Wallin,  626-798-0833 (x116) or email: twallin@altadenalibrary.org.