Bookish Websites:

Wiki Summaries
www.wikisummaries.org

WikiSummaries and its contributors have the goal of writing summaries for popular and classic books. Anyone can join and write summaries. Check out the 307 summaries available.

LibraryThing
www.librarything.com

Enter what you are reading, rate the book and write a review. Sign up for free books to review each month; your name goes into a drawing. Keep a list of what you have read and you can see what other people are reading. See what is hot this month and read reviews by other members. You can join a group, form your own group or talk about the books you have read.

Good Reads
www.goodreads.com

Get book recommendations, keep a record of what you've read and keep a list of what you'd like to read, and write book reviews. Online book clubs are available.

Crunch!

In honor of TV Turn Off Week, the library hosted the 2nd Annual TV Toss. Students in grades 4-6 were encouraged to write an essay, "Why Books are Better than TV," with the writer of the best essay winning a chance to ride up in the city bucket truck and throw out a TV filled with candy and prizes. This year's winner was Travis Balstad, a 5th grade student at Lincoln School.

The Literacy Action Center was also in attendence to give away free books. After the TV was destroyed and all prizes claimed, families were encouraged to come inside the library to play games and check out books.

New Movies at the Library!

Check out a DVD or Video Cassette today and keep them until Monday.
Current favorites:
· Marley & Me
· Twilight
· The Reader
· The Tale of Despereaux

If you liked the movie, you may want to read or listen to the books.

• Marley & Me by John Grogan Compact Disc 636.752 GROGA
• Twilight by Stephenie Meyer. First book in the Twilight Saga. Young Adult MEYER. Also available for download or j Compact Disc TWILIGHT
• The Reader by Bernard Schlink. Fiction SCHLI also available for download.
• The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo J Fiction DICAM or j Compact Disc TALE

Free Downloads and Services from PC World

PC World recently published an article on “101 Undiscovered freebies: The List.” www.pcworld.com/article/161674/101_undiscovered_freebies_the_list
A few sites worth taking a look at are listed below or check out the entire list!
www.5min.com
A list of 5 minute instructional videos and DIY projects.
www.openoffice.org
Open-source office software suitable for word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, graphics, databases and more. It can be downloaded and used completely free of charge for any purpose.
www.evernote.com
Capture information in any environment using whatever device or platform you find most convenient, and makes this information accessible and searchable at any time, from anywhere.

Check out PC World magazine at Hibbing Public Library. Magazines check out for 2 weeks at a time.

Artists of the North Country 3rd Annual Art Exhibit

The Lake Superior Watercolor Society will be holding their 3rd annual art exhibit at the Hibbing Public Library, May 1st through June 1st. All works have been inspired by the life and lyrics of Bob Dylan. Art will be for sale and a portion of the proceeds will go to the Friends of the Hibbing Public Library.

A reception for the participating artists will be held on Dylan’s birthday, Thursday, May 21st from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. Meet and talk with some of the artists and enjoy Dylan inspired refreshments.The Lake Superior Watercolor Society will be holding their 3rd annual art exhibit at the Hibbing Public Library, May 1st through June 1st. All works have been inspired by the life and lyrics of Bob Dylan. Art will be for sale and a portion of the proceeds will go to the Friends of the Hibbing Public Library.

A reception for the participating artists will be held on Dylan’s birthday, Thursday, May 21st from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. Meet and talk with some of the artists and enjoy Dylan inspired refreshments.

New in tween fiction: Talia Talk by Christine Hurley Deriso

SO YOU THINK your mom is embarrassing? You won’t after you meet mine. She’s the co-host of a morning television show and her host chat has covered everything I’ve done from puking on my piano teacher’s shoes to gluing antlers on my head.

But I’ve got the microphone now and I’m doing weekly commentaries on my school’s broadcast/podcast. Don’t get me wrong—mom’s awesome, and I’d never really want to freak her out. But if viewers get to hear about my private life, why can’t I dish about Mom’s new boyfriend, or how dorky she is as a school volunteer? Did I mention my friendships with my loud, bossy BFF and former BFFs are in total flux? And what is this thing called middle school? Definitely stay tuned.

From the Hardcover edition.

Social Networks: Twitter

If you haven’t tried a social network site yet, Twitter is a great place to start.
Stay in contact with family and friends or people with similar interests by stating what you are doing in 140 characters or less. You can follow people with similar hobbies and interests, news stations like BBC, CNN and Fox News. If your interest in golf – look for golfers on Twitter. Follow the Hibbing Public Library’s twitter account: hibbinglibrary. Sign up and tell people what you are doing or post a link and tell people what you are reading: www.twitter.com

Website of the Week: Nevada Barr, author

http://www.nevadabarr.com/
Nevada Barr is one of many authors who has a website to promote their books. Her main character, Anna Pigeon, Park Ranger, solves mysteries in each of the national parks where she is stationed.
In her latest book, Borderline, in the Anna Pigeon Series, Anna and her husband travel to Big Bend National Park for a rafting trip.
Part of the appeal of Nevada Barr’s books – beside the mystery – is that Anna is stationed in a different national park with each book: Isle Royale National Park, Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Lassen Volcanic National Park, and Yosemite National Park, to name a few.
Like most author websites, you can view her biography, her book lists with a link to purchase books, and her tour schedule. She also has a link to the National Park Website. You can even sign up for her mailing list.
On the Nevada Barr Blog, when asked how Nevada came up with the name “Pigeon” for Anna, this was her answer:
“When I lived in Minneapolis there was, across the river, in St. Paul, a fine children’s ‘touch and see’ museum. The woman running it was tall and beautiful and moved like a ghost. She had a square, strong face and shining brown hair to her waist. I was besotted. Her name was Anna Pidgeon. Years later, when I began the series, I thought of her and, would you believe it, misspelled her name.”

Attention Fans of the Betsy-Tacy Series

Fans of the beloved Minnesota author Maud Hart Lovelace and her somewhat-autobiographical books, the Betsy-Tacy series, plan to converge on Mankato, Minnesota for a convention taking place July 17-20, 2009 at the Alltel Center.

There will be a re-creation of Heinz's Ice Cream Parlor, a traditionnal Ray family breakfast, tours of Betsy's and Tacy's houses which have been preserved and restored, a Betsy-Tacy traditional picnic, games, storytellers, food, 5 k walk/run, walking tours, and much more.

Popular and prolific author Meg Cabot (The Princess Diaries) will discuss her love of Betsy and Tacy as the keynote speaker of the convention. The Maud Hart Lovelace Society is also planning a post-convention Twin Cities Tour of Maud/Betsy sites.

For more information on this exciting event and registration forms go to the Betsy-Tacy Convention site.

Shmoop for Education

Try Shmoop, a new educational website for teachers and high school and college students. A bunch of Ph.D. and Masters students from Stanford and Berkeley have worked on this site for the past year-and-change. They recently posted the site for the public. Check out Shmoop: http://www.shmoop.com

They would welcome any feedback or suggestions for improvement.

Book Review:The Lost City of Z: a Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon by David Grann

British explorer Percy Harrison Fawcett disappears on his last search for the Lost City of Z which becomes the “Atlantis” of the Amazon region. David Grann, along with countless others in the last 80 years, goes on a quest to find out what happened to Colonel Fawcett, his son, Jack and friend Raleigh Rimell after their disappearance in the Amazon in 1925.
Fawcett, an intrepid explorer, had made countless trips to the Amazon under the funding of the Royal Geographical Society. He was the last of the great explorers and his exploits captured society’s imagination. While surviving hostile natives, insects, disease, and wild animals, Fawcett managed to map regions no white man had explored and he did it at such a rapid pace, he often left his fellow adventurers behind. He had little patience for physical ailments often suffered by others on his expeditions as he remained in remarkable health under the worst conditions.
David Grann interviewed Fawcett’s granddaughter and great-granddaughter and was allowed access to Fawcett’s diaries, letters and photographs. After extensive research, David Grann, with the help of guide Paolo Pinage, travelled into the area of the Amazon where Fawcett and companions were last seen and what he found was remarkable.
For more information about Percy Harrison Fawcett, see the extensive bibliography and one of many websites: www.colonelfawcett.net
For more information about David Grann, see: www.davidgrann.com

New Fiction at the Library

One Second After by William R. Forstchen
When an EMP or Electromagnetic pulse weapon is used to short circuit every electronic device in America, retired army colonel, John Matherson, is first puzzled then astounded when first the ceiling fan, the computer, the home security and then fire alarm system shut down. With a foreword by Newt Gingrich, the EMP weapon is all too technically possible.

A Knife Edge by David Rollins
Ex-Air Force special investigator Vin Cooper checks out the death of a scientist by white shark. Aboard a military research ship, Cooper soon realizes that this isn’t an accident but murder.

The Long Fall by Walter Mosley
First in a new series, Leonid McGill is a private investigator in Manhattan who after a life of working for mob bosses, decides to take a stab at redemption. He is a hardboiled detective stuck between the mob and a police lieutenant who is out to get him. Walter Mosley is best known for his Easy Rawlins series.

Smash it up!

Ever wanted to throw your TV out the window? Now is your chance!

April 20-24, 2009 is National TV Turn Off Week. During that week, the Hibbing Public Library wants you to switch off the TV and find other interesting things to do. Like come to the library! And read a book!

The library is having a big family event on Wednesday, April 22, from 3:30-7pm. We’ll be closing off 21st St. between 5th and 6th Avenues for a block party, complete with activities and concessions. But the best part is that someone will get the chance to ride up in the cherry picker and throw a TV out! How cool is that?

How do you get the chance to throw the TV? First, be a student in grades 4-6. Second, write a one-page essay on “Why Books are Better than TV” and bring to the Hibbing Public Library. We’ll pick the best essay and give the winner a call to let them know they won. At 4:30 on April 22nd, the winner goes up and throws the TV!

April 13-17 is National Library Week. The essays are due by 5pm, Thursday April 16 at the Hibbing Public Library, so don’t delay! Don’t miss your chance to brag to your friends that you got to smash a TV!

Not only will there be a TV sailing to its demise, but we plan plenty of other activities inside starting at 5pm and going till 7pm.

Local groups are encouraged to set up a booth outside from 3:30-5pm to promote their activities and maybe sell concessions to promote a picnic atmosphere.

Parents: Do you belong to an organization that wants to set up a booth, put on a demonstration or sell concessions at this event? Call Chuck at the Hibbing Public Library to sign up. He can be reached at 362-5959 or by e-mail, chuckbell@arrowhead.lib.mn.us

After 5pm, we’ll be moving inside the library for more fun! Puppet show, stories, games, crafts and more will be available for family fun! Groups are encouraged to participate inside as well. Call Chuck at 362-5959 to sign up!

The Hibbing Literacy Action Center will be giving away kid’s books as well. Get yours before they are gone!

Minnesota Author to Visit Ironworld

Minnesota Book Award winner William Kent Krueger will visit Ironworld
Saturday, April 18 and present "For Love or Money: Six Reasons to
Write." Krueger is the author of the acclaimed "Cork O'Connor"
mystery series set in northeastern Minnesota. His 2 p.m. presentation will
cover why he became a writer and the compelling reasons for writing
about this region. General admission applies; Ironworld members
admitted free. Call 800-372-6437 for details.

America Through Native Eyes

PBS and American Experience present America through Native Eyes, We Shall Remain. This is a provocative multi-media project that establishes Native history as an essential part of American history.

Programming will begin on Mondays starting on April 13th at 8:00 p.m.

For more information go to www.pbs.org/weshallremain

New Audio Books

Check out or sign up for new audio books:
Divine Justice by David Baldacci
John Carr, alias Oliver Stone is on the run and the Camel Club members are risking everything to save him.
Arctic Drift by Clive and Dirk Cussler
Dirk Pitt and his children return to carry out a mission to find the Northwest Passage where a clue to reverse global warning may be hidden.
Cross Country by James Patterson
Detective Alex Cross must survive and catch a warlord known as the Tiger who takes him from the African underworld of Washington, D. C. to Nigeria.

Audio books check out for 28 days.

Vote for Minnesota's Top Book

Help pick the Minnesota Book Awards "Readers' Choice Award". Vote anytime before April 10, 2009. Choose your favorite from 32 award finalists.

To see the list and vote go to:

www.TwinCities.com
Click on the Minnesota Book Awards icon.

All voting for the Readers' Choice takes place online. The winner will be announced at the Minnesota Book Awards gala on Saturday, April 25, 2009. The Minnesota Book Awards is a project of The Friends of the St. Paul Public Library, with the Mayor's Office of the City of St. Paul and the St. Paul Public Library.

Book Review: Starvation Lake by Bryan Gruley

Gus Carpenter, returns to Starvation Lake from the newspaper business in Detroit, and becomes the editor of the local paper, The Pilot.
Ten years earlier, legendary Coach Blackburn, deeply mourned by the town, drowned in an accident when his snowmobile went through the ice.
Starvation Lake, in northern Michigan, is a small resort town barely surviving, where people relive the glory years and the jarring defeat of their one chance of winning the state hockey tournament with Coach Blackburn who raised young players to be great hockey players.
Within days of Gus’ return, parts of the coach’s snowmobile has surfaced, but not on the lake where the accident occurred. The accident turns into an investigation of murder when a bullet hole is found in the snowmobile.
Gus relives the past as he becomes reacquainted with the present town and people. He wonders what happened to his old coach during the years he was gone. Suspenseful with fully formed quirky characters often found in small towns and the violent action during the hockey games provide punch to the twist at the end.
First book in the Starvation Lake series by author, Bryan Gruley; visit the following websites for further information: http://www.bryangruley.com/ and http://www.starvationlake.com/

Bob Dylan & the Poetry of the Blues: An Evening with Writer Michael Gray

Author and Dylan expert, Michael Gray is coming back to Hibbing Public Library. His program will be a part of the annual Dylan Days celebration in May. Put the following date and time on your calendar and watch for more details:

Thursday, May 21, 2009
6:00 p.m.
Hibbing Public Library Auditorium

Events this Weekend at Ironworld

At a loss because it's snowing and you can't do yardwork?
Go to Ironworld and take in the exhibit:
Apron Chronicles: A Patchwork of American Recollections is a traveling exhibit comprised of photos, text in story form and 155 vintage aprons.

Also on Saturday from 2-3 pm, Frank Ongaro, Executive Director of MiningMinnesota, will present "The Next Generation of Mining: Opportunities, economic benefits, and challenges facing non-ferrous mining in Minnesota" in the Ironworld Theater.

Go to www.ironworld.com for information about admission prices and hours for the restaurant.

Mystery Series Website: Stop! You’re Killing Me!

Need help finding which book comes next in a mystery series? Know the name of a character but can’t remember the author? Then Stop! You’re Killing Me website is for you.
Go to: http://www.stopyourekillingme.com/
Look books up by author or character in a series. The books are listed by series and in order of date published. Subscribe to the newsletter, which is published twice a month and includes new authors and characters added to the website as well as announcements of new hardcover and paperback books.

New Movies at the Library!

Check out the new DVDs and Video Cassettes at Hibbing Public Library.

Video Cassettes by Disney include: Aladdin, Alice in Wonderland, Melody Time, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White and Oliver and Co.

New DVDs include: The Final Season, Journey to the Center of the Earth, Get Smart and Mamma Mia. Check them out on Thursday or Friday and keep them until Monday.

Ann Bancroft Event Rescheduled

No Horizon is So Far
Meet Ann Bancroft
Explorer - Teacher - Author
The first woman to cross both North and South Poles

Monday, March 23, 2009
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Hibbing Community College Commons
(Please use the North Entrance)

This event is free of charge.

Showing historic still and video footage, Ann Bancroft tells her inspirational and motivational story - beginning with a childhood dream and culminating as she became the first woman in history to ski across Antarctica's landmass.

For more information call 218-322-2436

Website of the Week

Books arrive in serial form into your email. According to DailyLit, the idea came after the New York Times serialized a few classic works in special supplements a few summers ago. By adding books to email, a person can read a short section of a book every day in 5 minutes or less. In the 19th Century, Charles Dickens, Wilkie Collins and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle often wrote in serials for popular magazines. The Internet encourages readers and writers return to the serial format.
Go to the website: http://www.dailylit.com/
Find a book you want to read, enter your email address and click to subscribe. It’s that easy.

Teen Tech Week and Battle of the Bands

Battle of the Bands
Tuesday, March 10th through Friday, March 13th
3:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Library Auditorium

Local teens will be able to tune in at the Hibbing Public Library and celebrate the second annual Teen Tech Week March 8-14, 2009.

Get some friends together and come to the library for “Battle of the Bands” as part of Teen Tech Week. Rock Band for the Wii will be available Tuesday, March 10 through Friday, March 13th from 3-5pm. This program is free but it will be on a first come, first served basis. Each “group” will be allowed 30 minutes to play.

Website of the Week

Check out the following website www.metacritic.com for reviews on film, dvds, music, television shows, books and games. Since 2001, Metacritic’s objective is “ to help you make an informed decision about how to spend your money on entertainment. “
Book reviews can be found by clicking in the search area, selecting the book category, and typing in the title of the book you are interested in.
Hibbing Public Library has video cassettes, dvds, music and books that you can check out for free using a library card.

Governor Pawlenty in Hibbing

Governor Pawlenty will be in Hibbing to discuss the state budget with you and other business leaders on Tuesday, March 17 at 10:00 AM at the Advantage Billing Concepts Building. (located at 3920 13th Ave East on the Beltline across the street from Hibbing Chrysler Center) Seating is limited so RSVP's are required.
Call 218-262-3895 for a reservation.

New Large Print Books

We have recently added several titles to our large print collection. Come in and check out: Fern Michael's Collateral Damage, Diana Palmer's Fearless, Lauren Weisberger's Chasing Harry Winston, and W.E.B. Griffin's The Shooters. New Large Print Books circulate for 28 days and we have many more new titles available for checkout.

Author Lorna Landvik in Floodwood

Enjoy an evening of fine wine, fabulous food, relaxing spa treatments, limo rides and ladies only shopping. This event also will be featuring a live performance by comedian and author, LORNA LANDVIK, author of Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons and Patty Jane's House of Curl.

It all takes place:

March 27, 2009
6:30 p.m.
Rich Cuisine Event Center
201 West 7th Ave.
Floodwood, MN

For more information and tickets visit:
www.richcatering.com

DTV Answers

If you still have questions about DTV or installing that pesky converter box go to "DTV Answers" at http://www.dtvanswers.com/.

There is a great, very easy to follow, installation video along with answers to some of your other questions about the new move to digital programming.

Make Your Favorite Family Recipes Worth Keeping

Jill Aubin and Preserving Family Recipes
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Library Auditorium
Area photographer, Jill Aubin will be conducting a workshop on preserving family recipes, photographs, and memories. Everyone that participates will be asked to bring a family recipe and a photograph of the person or an event that that brings back memories connected with the recipe. All other items will be supplied. Jill will help you construct a journal including both items and your written memories. She will also talk about the importance of archiving photographs and written items. All ages are welcome.

Past, Present, and Future of the Iron Range

Aaron Brown Lecture/Discussion
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Library Auditorium
6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Local author, Aaron Brown will be discussing is most recent book “Overburden: Modern Life on the Iron Range”. According to the synopsis, “Brown delves into the history and mystery surrounding the Iron Range to explore the region's mystique and create a stunning and often hilarious biography of a people and a place he has called home nearly his entire life.”

New! Small Engine Repair Database

Now available from both the library and your home computer with a borrower ID is Ebsco’s Small Engine Repair Database.

Detailed repair information and facts are included for ATVs, boat motors, motorcycles, snow machines, tractors, outdoor power equipment, personal water craft, generators, and other small engines.

Go to www.hibbing.lib.mn.us
Click on "Databases and Search Engines"
Click on "Consumer" on the right side of the screen
Click on "Small Engine Repair

Try it today.

Download Books to Your iPod

Electronic books can now be downloaded for listening to your iPod. The library has added more than 250 titles that are compatible with the iPod. Go to the library’s main page and click on the “Download Audio Books” icon for more information.

Story Time Starts Again in February!

Story time at the library will be on Tuesday mornings at 10:00 am starting on February 3, 2009. Toddle Time at the library will be held on Thursday mornings at 10:00am starting on February 5, 2009.

The library will discontinue Wednesday pre-school story times for the spring. However, Mr. Bell is available to come to you on Wednesday mornings! Give him a call at 218-362-5959 to schedule a pre-school story time or toddle time.

Gerbils at the Library!

Come Meet the New Library Pets!

Thanks to the Friends of the library, the library now has two new library pets. They are two male gerbils who have settled in the children's room. Come down and meet the new guys, then submit an idea for names.

The winner of the naming contest will be announced on February 3, 2009, and will receive a prize!

Iron Range Reads or Hot Reads for Cold Nights

The second annual Iron Range Reads program will take place in February. Arrowhead libraries and Ironworld are cooperating to bring programs and exhibits to everyone during the month. It will be all about collecting and sharing memories.

The book offering this year is Bill Bryson’s “The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid”. The library will have multiple copies available. Anyone who reads the book and leaves a comment on our reading board will be entered into the weekly drawings for the 2009 hot reads mugs. You can also leave recommendations for other titles on the board.

Local author, Aaron Brown, will be at the library on Wednesday, February 18th, at 6:30 p.m. His most recent book is “Overburden: Modern Life on the Iron Range”. According to the synopsis, “Brown delves into the history and mystery surrounding the Iron Range to explore the region's mystique and create a stunning and often hilarious biography of a people and a place he has called home nearly his entire life.”

Wednesday, February 25th at 6:30 p.m., area photographer, Jill Aubin will be having a workshop. Everyone that participates will be asked to bring a family recipe and a photograph of the person or an event that that brings back memories connected with the recipe. All other items will be supplied. Jill will help you construct a journal including both items and your written memories. She will also talk about the importance of archiving photographs and written items.
The library will also have displays on quilting, scrapbooking and other ways to capture your memories for the future.
The Apron Chronicles: A Patchwork of American Recollections will be on exhibit at Ironworld from January 31st through April 30th. See 155 unique aprons, images of the people who wore them, and read their stories.

Minnesota Illustrator Stephanie Mirocha at Library

Minnesota Illustrator Stephanie Mirocha at Library
Saturday, January 17th 9:30 a.m.

Discover the delightful world of manatees as seen in the picture book, My Little Book of Manatees. Minnesota illustrator Stephanie Mirocha will share her knowledge of these gentle sea creatures along with her experiences in illustrating the book.

Much beloved by many people, the endangered manatees live in an interesting sea habitat. Stephanie will talk about the story manatees have to tell, including the rhythms of their lives from birth to the mother manatee teaching her calf what to eat and how to fend for itself.

Stephanie will also take you behind the scenes into the fascinating world of book illustration. From the initial text she received in the mail, through creating the storyboard and on through editing she will show examples of her work at various stages of the process. She will also read the book aloud.

Geared for preschool through adult audiences, the program lasts about half an hour, with a book signing to follow. There will also be a drawing for a free book, and a signed sea life print. Books cost $7.95.

Slide into a good Book

A Winter Reading Program for Kids

Children of all ages can sign up to read books and win prizes. The Winter Reading Program runs from January 5th through January 31st. Read on your own or have someone read to you. Stop by the library circulation desk for details.

Great Website for Young Families

A free website has been developed for families to easily access information about child growth and development. It has links to creditable state and national organizations who address growth and development of very young children, typical and atypical. This website also offers free parent materials to download and allows participation on a Discussion Board to get your questions answered about your children. “Look At Me Grow! Don't Miss Anything” website includes listings of all county ECFE programs and schedules in our area, information about the partners in this project, the services they provide, information on developmental disorders, a developmental milestones checklist and answers to top questions. Topics covered include but are not limited to attachment, feeding, hearing and vision, sleep, post partum depression and activities to do with your baby.

Look At Me Grow! Project is an Early Identification Grant funded through the Minnesota Department of Education. Northern Lights Special Education Cooperative is partnering with local Early Childhood Family Education, Carlton County Public Health and local Head Start for this project. To access this free valuable resource for families with young children go to http://www.LookAtMeGrow.org .

Still A Few Days Left To Vote!

Check out the art created by area adults with disabilities and vote for your favorite before December 26th. Copies of the art works along with the voting box are at the library’s front desk. The winning art will be made into 300 buttons which will be sold to help support “Hearts for Hospice”.

Focus on India

With more than one billion people, India is the second most populous country in the world accounting for 17% of the world’s population. The country has recently become one of the world’s fastest growing economies with an average growth rate of eight percent over the past three years.

It has emerged as a global player in several areas, including information technology, business process outsourcing, telecommunications, and pharmaceuticals. The demographic profile of India is changing with an ageing population. The subcontinent is characterized by large diversities in geographical regions, sociocultural groups, and health needs.

For more information about India visit the World Health Organization website at:
http://www.who.int/countries/ind/en/

Or attend the Focus on India event on Thursday, December 11, 2008

Increasing global trade opportunities are creating an exciting economic environment in Northern Minnesota. A coalition of area businesses, educational institutions and nonprofit organizations are kicking of the first in a series of workshops aimed at introducing citizens and businesses to global trade and cultural opportunities.

The first event of the “Global Understanding Series” will focus on India. The event will include:

• Panel discussions
• Expert presentations
• Cultural showcase
• Ethnic food

Conference registration is $75. Includes lunch, reception, program materials, and evening performance by Ragamala Dance Troupe. Space is limited.

For more information and to register visit www.hibbing.edu/focusonindia. It promises to be fun and educational. Please plan to join us on December 11, 2008 as we Focus on India.

Global Understanding Series Focus On India Press Release

Tech Toy Workshops

Monday, December 15th in the Conference Room

This is a great hands-on experience for parents and grandparents! Learn how to use some of the new technology toys and how the internet can be used to share photos, video, and books. Registration is required for these one hour workshops so call the library (218-362-5959) and sign up early. Come to one or sign up for all of them.

9:00 a.m. Digital Cameras & Picasa/Flickr
11:00 a.m. Video Cameras & Youtube
1:00 p.m. Wii setting up & getting started / sports, games, & rock band
3:00 p.m. MP3 players & OverDrive

Computer Classe

The following classes are coming up in December:

Internet Safety I
Thursday, December 4th @ 3:00 p.m.
Learn how to protect your computer using passwords, patches, firewalls, anti-virus software, spyware, and pop-up blockers.

Internet Safety II
Thursday, December 11th @ 3:00 p.m.
A lesson on protecting yourself online. The class will cover using email, chat, shopping online, and identity theft.

Attention All Seniors on Medicare

AEOA SIAP (Senior Insurance Advocacy Program) department will be available at the Hibbing Public Library as a service to seniors for open enrollment for Medicare healthcare coverage. Seniors should be aware that there have been some changes with the area healthcare providers as to the Medicare Advantage Plans that they will accept.

Representatives from AEOA will be in the library’s computer lab the following days:
Wednesday, December 10th from 9:00 until 5:00
Thursday, December 17th from 9:00 until 5:00

Please call AEOA at one of the following numbers to schedule an appointment:
218-748-7301 or 800-662-5711 ext. 201.

Keetac Mine Expansion

The “Final Scoping Decision Document”, public comment letters, a summary of public comments and responses to comments received during a 30-day comment period for the proposed Keetac Mine Expansion Project are now available to the public.

The Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have prepared these documents to guide analyses to include in an Environmental Impact Statement for U.S. Steel’s proposal to expand an existing mine pit and re-start an idle iron ore processing line.

Documents are available at the Hibbing Public Library front desk.

New Online Book Club!

Every other week your heart will pound as adrenaline rushes through your body and you'll be on the edge of your seat when you sample our new THRILLER Book Club!

In cooperation with authors from the International Thriller Writers Association a new Thriller Book Club will replace the Horror Book Club in our online offerings, beginning November 3rd, 2008.

Go to the library’s web site at www.hibbing.lib.mn.us , click on the Online Book Clubs icon. Join the new thriller book club and get ready for action and suspense stories that take you on high speed adventures in which tough, resourceful, but essentially ordinary heroes are pitted against villains determined to destroy them, their country, or the stability of the free world.

Services for Book Clubs

The library has multiple copies of several outstanding titles that can be checked out by book club members. Check the library’s web site, www.hibbing.lib.mn.us, for a listing of the titles or pick up a flyer at the library.

Book Clubs can also request background information on authors, reviews for specific titles, and discussion guides. Just call the library at 362-5959 and ask for reference. We will create a packet of information for any author and title.

Audio guides for titles that were part of the Big Read program are now available for check out. These CDs feature readings from the novel along with commentary from renowned artists, educators, and public figures such as Robert Redford, Colin Powell, and Mary-Louise Parker, and Big Read authors such as Amy Tan and Ray Bradbury.

Book Club members may also be interested in the library’s “Book News” newsletters. Get “Book News” delivered to your email or read it online at the library’s web site. “Book Club Picks” is just one of the categories available.

Law Library for the Public

St. Louis County maintains a small law library that can be used by the public in the Hibbing County Courthouse. It is open to all residents and there is no charge for using it. The library contains information on Minnesota Court of Appeals and Supreme Court cases. There is also Minnesota and Federal statutes and related cases, legal textbooks and treatises. The library services also include the use of the Westlaw on-line computer service. For information about the library and services, contact: Michele Des Rosier at 1-800-450-9777 or email her at desrosierm@co.st-louis.mn.us.

Kill A Watt Electric Usage Monitors

The library has the “Kill A Watt” electric usage monitors available for check out. These devices use a regular U.S. two or three (grounded) 125V pronged power cord to measure electric usage home appliances. Instructions include how to use the monitor, average electrical energy usage of typical 120-volt household appliances, and easy ways to reduce energy use in the home.

Monitors are available at the front desk.

Pumpkin Carving Contest

Wednesday, October 29th at 6:00 p.m. -

Bring your own pumpkin and show us your best design.

Prizes for several categories.

Puppet Show at the Library

Saturday, October 18th - Enjoy some great stories and watch Hilda Hippo eat her ABC's. A 30 minute program at 10:30 a.m. and repeated at 1:30 p.m.

Check Out the New Electronic Databases

New databases have been added to the Electronic Library for Minnesota. All of them can be used from either library computers or your home computer. They are great sources for information for both adults and children for reports and projects. Just go to the library’s home page (www.hibbing.lib.mn.us) click on “Databases and Search Engines” and then click on “Education”. The databases are alphabetical in this listing.

Student Resource Center Gold - Student Resource Center provides thousands of periodicals and newspapers, primary documents, creative works, video and audio clips and podcasts. Including hundreds of plays and poems, more than 63,000 topic overviews, biographies, and pieces of literary criticism, and more 1,700 study guide questions.

Expanded Academic ASAP - This premier database of more than 2,500 titles offers balanced coverage of every academic concentration including: social science journals, humanities journals, science and technology journals, national news periodicals, general interest magazines, newswires, and many others.

Educator's Reference Complete - This powerful database covers multiple levels of education from preschool to college and includes every educational specialty, such as bilingual studies, health, technology and testing. Also included are resources on issues related to administration, funding and policy in education.

General Science Collection - A well rounded science collection offering in-depth information for scientific research consisting of over 200 journals encompassing the most popular scientific titles such as Scientific American, Archeology, Physics Today, Info Today, Mathematics Magazine and many more.

If you want a quick introduction on how to use these databases just ask for reference help at the front desk.

Join the Friends of the Library - New Members Needed!

Everyone is invited to attend the annual meeting of the Friends of the Hibbing Public Library. The organization needs new members with ideas, talent, and energy. Throughout the year this group sponsors the Yuletide Festival, both adult and children’s reading programs, Cool Evening at the Library, Annual Book Sale, and other events. Fundraising for special projects and helping to supplement the book budget are also part of the Friends agenda.

Membership forms are also available at the front desk of the library. If you cannot attend the meeting, please take a few forms and share them with your friends so they can become our Friends too.

Annual Meeting
Thursday
October 23, 2008
6:30 p.m.
Library Auditorium

Minnesota Museum of Mining Adds Photographs to Minnesota Reflections

Minnesota Reflections is a digital library of more than 20,000 photos, maps, and documents that depict the history of Minnesota before 1950. New to the collection the past year are historical photographs from the Minnesota Mining Museum in Chisholm.

The Minnesota Museum of Mining in Chisholm was established in 1953 on 15 acres within a walled sports complex built as a 1930s WPA project. The museum houses a steam locomotive and shovel, large pieces of mining equipment, haul trucks, fire trucks, a replica underground mine drift, a steam railroad diorama by artist F. Lee Jaques, and exhibits from early life in a mining town. The images contributed to "Minnesota Reflections" illustrate miners and their equipment, mine safety, lowering a mule into an underground mine, and construction of the WPA-era sports complex.

View these historical pictures by going to: http://reflections.mndigital.org/
Choose “Search by Collection” and click on “Minnesota Museum of Mining”.

Banned Book Week

September 27th – October 4th

Celebrate your freedom to read by reading a banned book during Banned Books Week. This year marks the 27th annual celebration of the freedom to read. The Office of Intellectual Freedom tracks hundreds of reports of challenged items each year. There were 420 known attempts nationally to remove books from public and school libraries in 2007.

The Hibbing Public Library along with the American Library Association wants everyone to think about the importance of intellectual freedom. It is the right of an individual to choose what materials are suitable for themselves and their families.

Read a book from the “banned book display” during the week and exercise your freedom to choose.

More information and for lists of banned or challenged books.

Have you read a banned book?

My Health Minnesota - Go Local Celebrates One Year!

My Health Minnesota -> Go Local, a free database of health services throughout Minnesota, recently celebrated its first birthday! The project is sponsored by the University of Minnesota Health Sciences Libraries, the Mayo Clinic Libraries, and the MINITEX Library Information Network, in collaboration with the National Library of Medicine.

Minnesota citizens can use Go Local to find more than 5,000 hospitals, nursing homes, physicians, support groups, pharmacists, libraries, rehabilitation programs, and other health services in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, plus reliable health information about a multitude of diseases and conditions from MedlinePlus. The database is searchable by location, diseases/health issues, and providers/facilities/health services. My Health Minnesota -> Go Local continues to grow daily as resources are added throughout the state.

In its first year, My Health Minnesota -> Go Local has been used by people all over Minnesota, plus across the United States and in other parts of the world. This resource is available from the library’s web site. Go to: www.hibbing.lib.mn.us and click on “Databases & Search Engines” and then click on “Medical” and then click on “My Health Minnesota – Go Local”.

Friends of the Library Annual Book Sale

The annual books sale is one of the Friends’ major fundraising projects. Books and media withdrawn from the library collection and materials donated by area residents will be for sale at very reasonable prices.

Money raised by the Friends supplements library programming and the adult and children’s book budgets.

Hibbing Public Library Auditorium
Friday, October 10th, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 11th, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Fall Computer Classes

Computer classes are offered in the computer lab located in the lower level of the library. Sessions are free and about 90 minutes long. Space is limited so registration is required. Reservations can be made in person, online, or by calling the library at 362-5959.

For a complete list of classes go to: Library Computer Classes

A Cool Evening at the Library

The second annual Cool Evening will be held on Thursday, September 18th, 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. The main events will include music by the Hibbing City Band, the Amazing Charles with his all-new balloon animal act, and a book give away sponsored by the Literacy Action Center.

Keetac Mine Expansion

The environmental Impact Statement and other documents for the Keetac Mine Expansion Project is available at the front desk for public review from September 8th until October 8th, 2008.

The public meeting will be on Wednesday, October 1, 2008 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Nashwauk Keewatin High School in Nashwauk.

The Hibbing Public Library hours are Monday - Thursday - 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. and Friday & Saturday - 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Library Open on Saturday

The library will be open on Saturday, beginning September 6th. The fall and winter schedule is:
Monday through Thursday - 9:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.
Friday and Saturday - 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Bucks Buy Books in September

The Library Board's annual Bucks Buy Books program will be held during the month of September. Created by the Library Board of Trustees to supplement budget cuts imposed by the city in 2005, Bucks Buy Books encourages donors — principally through donations added to Hibbing Public Utilities (HPU) bills — to contribute monies to the new books budget of the library.

Over the years the progam has collected over $28000.00 and the library has been able to purchase more than 1100 additional books. Donations were used to buy added copies of very popular bestsellers, children’s books, and other popular fiction and nonfiction titles. Watch for more information and updates about the Bucks Buy Books campaign.

Fall Story Time Schedule

The Fall Story Time schedule will start September 9 and go through December 12.

Story Time - Programs are offered Tuesday and Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. for 20 - 60 minutes
A 30 - 60 minute program for pre-schoolers with books, songs and the "Letter of the Week". Open play if time permits. Volunteers are needed for craft projects.

Toddler Time - Program is offered Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. for 20 - 60 minutes.
A program for toddlers aged 2-3 years with books, songs, and finger plays. Open play if time permits.

Environmental Impact Statement For Mesabi Nugget Phase II Project

The Scoping Environmental Assessment Worksheet and Draft Scoping Decision Document for the Mesabi Nugget Phase II Project is now available for review at the library. The DNR and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have prepared this information to assist in identifying the issues and analyses to include in an Environmental Impact Statement for Mesabi Nugget’s proposal to reactivate the former LTV Steel Mining Company mine.

The comment period for these documents ends on September 10, 2008. All comments can be directed to the address listed in the documents. In addition the DNR will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, September 3, 2008, beginning at 6:00 p.m., at the Aurora Community Center in Aurora, Minnesota.

Ask at the front desk for the Mesabi Nugget Project documents.

Friends of the Library

Thank you to everyone that renewed or became members of the Friends group for the first time during the July membership drive. Anyone that missed the annual drive can still join this important group. Membership forms are available at the front desk of the library.

All community members that care about libraries and what they represent should consider joining. The Hibbing Friends raise money for library materials and equipment and receive gifts, memorials and bequests for library improvements. The Friends of the library sponsor the annual used book sale, the family Yuletide Festival and many other special programs for the community. If you are interested in fostering awareness of the library and its many services please consider becoming a member of the Friends of the Library.

Nonfiction Online Book Club

Join the Nonfiction Online Book Club and start receiving weekly title suggestions in your email. Monday through Friday you will receive a 5-minute selection in your email every day. By the end of the week you will have read the first 2 to 3 chapters. If you like the story and want to finish, just pick the book up at the library.

Just go to the library’s home page, click on the “Online Book Clubs” icon and sign up for the Nonfiction Club.

Zoomobile!

The Zoomobile is on the road and will be stopping at the Hibbing Public Library on Wednesday, August 6th at 10:00 a.m. The Minnesota Zoomobile and its team of trained naturalists travel to schools and community events throughout the state of Minnesota and beyond, providing an educational and entertaining environmental experience to a variety of audiences. Zoomobile naturalists use live animals, biological artifacts, theater techniques, storytelling, and audience participation to create a dynamic, personal, and fun program for all ages. Some of the animals you might meet include a great horned owl, boa constrictor, opossum, tarantula, and bugs from the rainforest!

Join us on August 6th!

Summer Reading Program - July 28 - August 1

Story time for preschoolers is on Tuesday and Wednesday, July 29th and 30th at 10:00 a.m. This week’s stories are “What? Cried Grammy” by Kate Lum and “Tacky the Penguin” written by Helen Lester. Each program will also include songs and the “Letter of the Week”.

The Chocolate Fest will be Thursday, July 31st at 2:00 p.m. Pre-registration was required for this event.

This is the last week to receive prizes for the Summer Reading Program and Read and Win tickets to the St. Louis County Fair.

Online Book Club for Teens

The Teen Club is one of the many book clubs offered online by the library. Sign up and Monday through Friday you will receive a 5-minute selection in your email every day. By the end of the week you will have read the first 2 to 3 chapters. Each week a special guest hosts this book club and selected teens from all over the world share their insights. If you like the story and want to finish, just pick the book up at the library.

“Picture Perfect” by D. Anne Love is a Teen Book Club selection. Phoebe Trask's story begins with the hot Texas summer before her freshman year in high school. A self-proclaimed daddy's girl, still Phoebe struggles when her mother becomes a traveling spokeswoman for a cosmetics company, virtually abandoning the family. Phoebe's sister is away at college; her best friend recently moved; and her father, a judge, is always busy, so she and her brother often find themselves on their own. Then a new next-door neighbor shakes things up: Beverly Grace, a lonely writer recently returned from Italy, strikes up a friendship with the judge. As Phoebe worries about events like her first kiss and her first dance, she also worries that her family won't survive her parents' separation. When her mother finally comes home for good, it is because she has been diagnosed with cancer.

Start reading gripping mysteries, wildly hilarious comedies, true adventures, mystical science fiction, and romance in your email. Just go to the library’s home page, click on the “Online Book Clubs” icon and sign up for the Teen Club.

What Should I Read Next?

The NoveList database is your guide to fiction. You can look up your favorite book, click the “Find Similar Books” button and be introduced to great new authors. Search by genre, series title and more.

The database also provides award winners, author read alikes, feature articles, book discussion guides, and direct links to web sites with information about the author and upcoming titles. NoveList is available from the library’s web site.

Summer Reading Program - July 21-25

Story time for preschoolers is on Tuesday and Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. This week “The Very Ugly Bug” by Liz Pichon tells the story about a bug that is so ugly it scares away the bird that is about to devour it. Rosemary Wells gives a math lesson in “Max’s Bunny Money”. Max and Ruby go shopping for a birthday gift for Grandma. Max wastes some of the money and then the dream gift costs too much. Come to story time to find out just what Grandma does get for her birthday.

Jeff Smith and his Creepy Crawlies will be in the library auditorium on Thursday, July 24th at 10:00 a.m. Check out the lizards, amphibians, and insects and join in on the hour of creepy fun and learning.

The last day to sign up for the summer reading program will be Friday, July 25th. All prizes need to be collected by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 1st.

A Sponge-tastic Birthday!

According to reliable sources, July 14 is Spongebob's birthday. So we decided to throw him a birthday party at the Hibbing Public Library. There was cake, punch and prizes for everyone who sang "Happy Birthday" to everyone's favorite sponge.

Summer Reading Program - July 14 - 18

Story time for preschoolers is on Tuesday and Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. Each program will include stories, songs, and the “Letter of the Week”. This week’s books will be “No More Kissing” by Emma Clark and “Dog Breath” by Dave Pilkey.

The Kid’s Cookery program will be on Thursday, July 17th at 11:00 a.m. Everyone will have a chance to learn easy recipes that they can take home. This program is free, but registration is required.

Summer Reading Program - July 7th - 11th

Story time for preschoolers is on Tuesday and Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. Each program will include stories, songs, and the “Letter of the Week”.

This week’s stories include “Froggy Eats Out” by Jonathan London and “Colliding Chris” by Dan Harder. In the first, Froggy learns a lesson after he misbehaves at a fancy restaurant. His parents take him to the fast flies restaurant on their next outing. Harder’s story allows everyone to share the wild experience of Chris’s first ride on a bicycle with hand brakes.

Kids of all ages will enjoy the comic and juggling antics of Sparky the Clown on Friday, July 11th at 1:00 p.m.

Read & Win

Hibbing Public Library and the St. Louis County Fair Board are crowing about their one month reading program—Read and Win. From July 1st through August 1st, children entering first through seventh grades in the fall of 2008 may earn coupons for reading books, to redeem at the St. Louis County Fair.

Pick up a separate Read and Win book log starting July 1st at the Hibbing Public Library.

10 books or 250 pages earn a coupon for a Coca-Cola product at the Schweiby’s food booth.
20 books or 500 pages earns a coupon for a Fraboni hot dog at the Schweiby’s food booth
30 books or 750 pages earn a free child’s pass to the St. Louis County Fair.
40 books or 1,000 pages earns a coupon for a free Mighty Bluegrass Show ride

Thanks go to Bettie Valley for coordinating this program that is supported by the St. Louis County Fair Board and Schweiby.

See you at the St. Louis County Fair!

Friends of the Hibbing Public Library Membership Drive

The Hibbing Friends are currently conducting their annual membership drive. During the year this group hosts fundraising projects. The proceeds purchase equipment and materials for the library. The Friends also sponsor literary programs and events such as the reading programs for both adults and children and the annual Yuletide Festival.

The Friends group is instrumental in raising funds for building improvements. The air conditioning project was a huge undertaking but it is time to begin planning for future projects. Having reached 50 years old, the library building needs more attention. A new roof, flooring, energy efficient windows, and improved lighting are the next projects.

Anyone interested in joining the Friends organization can pick up an application form at the front desk of the library. Remember, good libraries need good friends.

Summer Reading Program Week of June 30th

Story time for preschoolers is on Tuesday and Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. Each program will include stories, songs, and the “Letter of the Week”. This week’s stories include “Fourth of July Mice” by Bethany Roberts, “The Dragon Snatcher” by M.P. Robertson, and “Five Little Monkeys” by Eileen Christelow.

Fair Fun Day will be at the St. Louis County Fairgrounds by Ironworld on Monday, June 30th from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. The Amazing Charles will be on hand along with a variety of live animals. You will also be able to play games with the area’s children’s librarians.

The children’s librarian will present a puppet show on Thursday, July 3rd. Catch the 45 minute program at either 10:00 a.m. or 1:30 p.m.

Internet Safety Month

Did you know that June is national Internet Safety month?

Read the congressional proclamation and learn some surprising statistics.

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has great information for protecting our children and ourselves online. It also has a great section for kids to explore and learn about using the internet safely. Visit their website at: http://www.missingkids.com/.

Pre-Overdue Notices

Need a reminder a day or two before your library items are due? The email pre-overdue notice is for you. Next time you are in the library ask to have your borrower record updated to receive email notices. In addition to all the regular hold and overdue notices you will receive a courtesy notice reminding you when items are due.

Summer Reading Program for the week of June 23rd

Summer reading program prizes are now available. Bring your book logs to the front desk.

Story time for preschoolers is on Tuesday and Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. Each program will include stories, songs, and the “Letter of the Week”.

Casey Aro will be entertaining at the library on Thursday, June 26th at 11:00 a.m. His song and dance show will delight all ages.

Hugh Reynolds' Painting

Area artist, Hugh Reynolds, has a new painting on display at the library. It is a wintery evening picture of the Hibbing High School. Stop in to see it during the next two weeks.

Summer Reading Program

There is still time to sign up for the Summer Reading Program, “Look What’s Cookin’ @ Your Library”. Pick up a reading record, check out some books, and start reading for prizes.

At storytime this week the books read will be “Skippyjon Jones” by Judy Schachner, “The Day the Babies Crawled Away” by Peggy Rathman, and “Bear Feels Sick” by Karma Wilson.

The Underwater World Aquarium from the Mall of America will be presenting Underwater Adventures on Thursday, June 19th at 11:00 a.m. Learn about our friends who live in the water. This program is free but registration is required. Call the library or register at the front desk.

Week 2 - Summer Reading Program

The Summer Reading Program had a strong start last week with nearly 200 people signed up for the program!

Story time for preschoolers is on Tuesday and Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. Each program will include stories, songs, and the “Letter of the Week”.

Books this week will be “There’s a Nightmare in my Closet” by Mercer Mayer, “Bunny Cakes” by Rosemary Wells, and “Porcupining” by Lisa Wheeler.

Acclaimed picture book author, Debra Frasier will present “Picture Book Magic” on Wednesday, June 11th at 1:15 p.m. Come and find out how picture books are made and maybe win one signed by Ms. Frasier!

The Underwater World Aquarium from the Mall of America will be presenting Underwater Adventures on Thursday, June 19th at 11:00 a.m. Learn about our friends who live in the water. This program is free but registration is required. Call the library or register at the front desk.

"Highway Bob" Poster Donated to Library Collection

Carol Bertolotti has generously donated a poster of her painting, "Highway Bob" to the library. The poster will be included in one of the Dylan displays.

It has been posted with permission by the artist on the "Expecting Rain" website on The Bob Dylan Exhibition page. This section consists of art, drawings etc.by Dylan fans on the Net.

Summer Reading Program

Registration begins June 2, 2008!

The Hibbing Public Library has lined up an exciting eight week summer reading program. There will be prizes to earn for reading books, programs to attend and fun to be had.

We encourage you to sign up during the first week, but registration remains open through July 25th. The last day of the Summer Reading program is August 1st.

Pre-School Storytime will be held every Tuesday and Wenesday at 10:00 a.m.

The first program will be a Tie Dye Kick-Off
Thursday, June 5th at 1:00 p.m.

Bring a light colored shirt to tie dye your favorite summer colors! Library will provide supplies and instruction, you supply the shirt.

Did you tie dye a shirt last year? If you did, wear it to this years event for a colorful display of your work!

Bob Dylan Walking Tour

This tour takes you along a path that was once walked by Bob Dylan as he grew up in Hibbing, Minnesota.

The walk starts at the building that was Zimmerman Electric and ends at the Androy, the site of Bob’s Bar Mitzvah celebration.

Walking Tour Map
Podcast of Tour

Great Lakes Counties Report

The draft of "Selected Information on Chemical Releases Within Great Lakes Counties Containing Areas of Concern" is available for view at the library front desk. This document, dated April 30, 2008, was prepared by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.

All comments concerning the evaluation of public health issues must be submitted in writing by June 30, 2008.

Stop in during normal hours to read the report and prepare comments.

Painters of the North Country

The 2nd Annual BOB DYLAN EXHIBIT by the Lake Superior Watercolor Society is now in the library auditorium until May 31st. It features framed watercolor and water-media paintings inspired by the life and lyrics of Bob Dylan. These paintings are for sale and a portion of the proceeds from sales will be donated to the Friends of the Hibbing Public Library.

A reception for participating artists and the public is scheduled for Thursday, May 22, from 1-4 PM in the library auditorium.

Stop by for a Dylan-inspired afternoon: Listen to Dylan's music as you view the LSWS exhibit of paintings, indulge in or resist Beatty Zimmerman’s chocolate chip banana bread. Enjoy spending time with friends, artists, and Dylan fans.

New Features - New Technology!

RSS Feeds - Allow you to read new entries on our blog without having to visit our blog. Using RSS feeds new entries are sent to you in your "reader" or into the Internet Explorer RSS options. For more information about how RSS works visit http://rssday.org/.

Another fun feature we have added is a listing of the Hibbing Public Library "Twitter" entries. Twitter is designed to allow people to make short entries about what they are doing at any given time. The Library is using it to talk about resources and events at the library.

Both of these options are available in the right hand column of this blog.

If you have questions or would like to learn more about either of these new tools send an email to Chris.

Smashing Good Time!

Congratulations to Summer Campbell, a 6th grader at Lincoln Elementary, who got to ride 65 feet up in the basket a toss out a TV filled with candy and toys. Hers was the winning essay in the "Why Books are Better than TV" contest in honor of TV Turn-Off Week. An estimated 60 kids and adults were on hand at the Hibbing Public Library to see the TV explode and run for goodies!

Did you turn your TV off this week? What did you do instead?

Painters of the North Country - 2nd Annual Bob Dylan Exhibit

The Hibbing Public Library will host the second annual exhibit of paintings by members of the Lake Superior Watercolor Society (LSWS).

The exhibit will feature more than 30 new, framed watercolor and water-media paintings inspired by the life and lyrics of Bob Dylan. The exhibit will coincide with Dylan Days. Opening on May 1 and running through June 5, 2008.

A reception for participating artists and the public is scheduled for Thursday, May 22, from 1-4 PM in the library auditorium. Stop by for a Dylan-inspired afternoon: Listen to Dylan's music, view the exhibit, indulge in Beatty Zimmerman’s chocolate chip banana bread and spend time with friends, artists, and Dylan fans.

Paintings will be for sale through the Friends of the Hibbing Public Library who will receive a commission on each painting sold. For more information email Louise Lundin or visit the Hibbing Public Library website.

Stop in and see the display during normal library hours. Did you see last year's display?

Magician Star at the Library

Magician Star was at the library on Wednesday, April 9th, promoting reading with magic.

TV Turn Off Week

TV Turn Off Week is an event that was started in 1994 by the Center for Screen Time Awareness, as a way to promote activities that involved anything but the television. This year the Hibbing Public Library supported by the other departments of the City of Hibbing are planning an event will let people know that there are things to do besides watching TV after school and work.

An essay contest will be held. All kids in grades 3-6 can write a one page essay on "Why Books are Better than TV." Essays must be turned in to the Hibbing Public Library by 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 17th. Library staff will read the essays and pick the winner, who will be notified by phone and get to go up in a cherry picker and throw a TV at a target drawn on the street.

Library events on April 23rd will include:

• Closing 21st Ave. between 4th and 5th East will be closed to traffic from 3:30-5pm.
• Local groups are invited to set up a table or booth to promote their organization, especially if it gives kids and families the opportunity to get out and away from the TV. We are also encouraging groups to sell concessions to raise money for themselves and promote a picnic atmosphere.
• At 4:30, the winner of an essay contest will go up 10 feet in a cherry picker and toss a TV at a target drawn on the street. The TV will be filled with treats and small toys.
• At 5pm, family programs including puppet shows, games, crafts and other performances and demonstrations by other organizations will begin in the library and run till 8pm.

If you would like more information or to participate in this event, please email Chuck Bell or call 362-5959.

Online Book Clubs

So many books, so little time. For all those busy people, the Hibbing Public Library has a new service: an Online Book Club that delivers books electronically.

Each day, Monday through Friday, the library emails subscribers a portion of a book that takes about 5-minutes to read. They're able to read two or three chapters from a book during the week. If they like a book, they can check it out of the library. Each week the library features new books.

With 11 book clubs to choose from, there's something for everyone. Patrons can read Fiction, Non Fiction, Romance, Business, Good News, Horror, Teen, Mystery, Pre-Publication, and Science Fiction.

They can also listen to Audio Books in their email and there's even a Pre-Publication Club. You can start reading books in your email before they're even published.

The Book Forum is your chance to be the reviewer. What do you think about this week's book so far? Do you plan on finishing the book? Is it going to make your personal reading list? If you've already found out "who done it" or "did she get the guy," don't give away the ending. But do tell me what you think.

Sign up now.

Magician Star at the Library

Come to a free magic show on Wednesday April 9, 2008, 10:00 AM in the auditorium at the Hibbing Public Library .

Cotton native Magician Star will perform her high energy, audience participation show. Not only is it great fun, but it gets your kids fired up about reading!

This show will take the place of the regularly scheduled Story Time.

For more information email or call 218-362-5959.

Click on "comments" below to tell us about the last magician you saw.

Community Wide Survey

Take the survey now.

Hibbing has partnered with North Star Destination Strategies to develop a community “Brand” for marketing the city to visitors, residents and businesses in the year 2008 and beyond.

North Star customized a Communitywide Online Survey which has been carefully crafted to determine the city’s strengths, weaknesses, challenges and opportunities. All residents are invited and encouraged to participate in this important community-wide initiative.

“We have partnered with more than 90 cities in more than 20 states nationwide and I can’t emphasize enough the importance of insights gleaned from community members,” stressed McEachern. “To learn what makes a city special, you have to go to the people who spend more than just their money and time there. You have to go to the people who spend their lives there.”

If you are interested in learning more about Hibbing ’s branding initiative, contact Duane Northagen or Miriam Kero at the City of Hibbing Economic Development Office at City Hall. To learn more about North Star Destination Strategies, go to www.northstarideas.com.

Online Help for the College Bound

The 2008, six volume, College Blue Book” and the 2008 Scholarships, Fellowships and Loans are available online via the library’s website. Both of these items are a part of the “Gale Virtual Reference Library”. I can be accessed from both library and home computers. Just visit the library’s web site http://www.hibbing.lib.mn.us, click on Databases and Search Engines, click on Education, and then click on “Gale Virtual Reference Library”.

The College Blue Book covers thousands of 2- and 4-year schools in the U.S. and Canada, their programs, degrees, and financial aid sources.

Scholarships, Fellowships and Loans provides sources of scholarships, fellowships, loans, internships, work study, and other education-related financial aid at all levels of study. Included is a summary of programs sponsored by the federal government and a state-by-state listing of agencies that users can contact in their home state.

We Have a New Phone Number!

The Library is moving to a new telephone system and our phone number has changed. Please note that our new numbers are:

Main number: 218-362-5959
TTY/TTD: 218-362-5956
Fax: 218-312-9779

Downloadable Audio Books

The downloadable audio books will be unavailable on Saturday, March 22nd, from 5:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. OverDrive will be installing upgrades and performing maintenance tasks during this time period.

Please plan ahead and if you need electronic books for the weekend; do your downloads on Friday.

Some FAQs for those who are not familiar with this service:

What are Digital Audio Books?

A digital audio book is the downloadable version of a book on tape or CD. Digital audio books can be transferred to a portable device, and select titles can even be burned to a CD. Digital media is automatically returned so there are never late fees or trips to the library.

What you will need:

Digital audio books are available for the OverDrive Media Console, which relies on Windows Media Technology. Most Windows computers with Windows Media Player 9 (or higher) and the OverDrive software installed will work.

To access digital media, you will need:

A valid library card from an Arrowhead Library System Library or the Duluth Public Library.
Access to the internet. At this time, we are unable to download digital media to public library computers. If you connect to the internet with a dial up connection it is recommended that you only download one "part" of digital media at a time.
Free OverDrive software.
Transferring digital media:

Once digital media is downloaded onto your computer it may be transferred to other portable devices. See the OverDrive website for a list of compatible devices and directions for testing your device for compatibility.

Some items may be burned to CD's. Review the "Digital Rights Information" to see how many times an item can be transferred to other devices and if it may be burned to a CD. Note that each "part" of a digital item will require a separate CD.

Go to the library's home page, click on "Download Audiobooks" and try one!