New & Noteworthy @ WHPLibrary

In today's economy, what's the one place you can go to get help with a resume (Career Library and Learning Express), learn new job skills (Career Cruising and Learning Express), connect to employers on the Internet, or find quiet study areas to prep for certification tests - all for free?

You can do all of that and more @ the West Hempstead Public Library. Our Communities Thrive @ your library. Call us for more information, 481-6591 or email the Reference Librarians: westhempsteadpl@yahoo.com.

Tax assistance will be available every Thursday, beginning Feb. 4 to April 15, from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. for West Hempstead residents only. *No tax assistance on Mar.11

We will be taking reservations in 1 hour blocks. Please call or visit the Reference Desk beginning Thursday, January 7th to schedule your appointment. Registration is ongoing until all spots are filled.

Please remember to bring all necessary paperwork (2008 tax return, W2 forms relating to your 2009 return, etc.)

This very popular class begins on January 4 for 3 Mondays 7-8:30 pm in January. You may sign up NOW! Don't miss a minute of this creative, exhilarating exercise!

You'll have to wait until January 4 to register for the second class to be held for 3 Mondays beginning February 1.

Even if you can't do-it-yourself, you can save yourself time and worry about your family's safety on the road and be prepared for your next trip to your auto mechanic.

Come to the library and check out our new auto maintenance database. ALLDATA Online contains an easy search tool for finding your car's make, model and engine type, with shortcuts to popular information to help both the novice owner and the shop technician.

Sections include:
- Maintenance
- Diagnostic Trouble Codes and Charts
- Technical Service Bulletins
- Specifications
- Diagrams and Diagnostic Aids
- Component Locations

This database is free for use only in the library, so come in and try it out!

Here are some important links to help you get your family through the flu season safely.

The Nassau County Health Department updates its website with local news on flu shot risks, priorities and locations. Check back frequently for changes, or call Seasonal Flu & H1N1 (Swine flu) Call Center, Monday - Friday, 9 am - 4 pm, 1-888-684-4271.

• Swine Flu Information


• Seasonal Flu Locator


• FLU SHOT HOTLINE 227-8967

Use our free Museum Pass to experience Garvies Point Museum's annual THANKSGIVING NATIVE AMERICAN FEAST. This celebration of northeastern Native American culture has been held the weekend before Thanksgiving for more than 25 years. It will take place, rain or shine, on Saturday and Sunday, November 21 & 22nd, 2009 from 10am to 4pm.

Hands-on activities during the weekend will be on-going. These will include pottery-making, primitive fire-building and on-site cooking (including their famous popcorn soup). Face painting with natural pigments, and use of the atlatl, a spear-throwing tool, will also be demonstrated.

Authentic Native American cuisine; artifacts and tool technology will be displayed. Movies celebrating Native American life will be shown. Activities are appropriate for all ages.

If you've never visited this Nassau County treasure, take this opportunity to view the museum's exhibition hall, which explores Long Island Native American culture and archeology, as well as New York State and Long Island geology.

Did you get a call from us? Those of you who have been lucky in the past know how exciting it is to hear that you have won the Museum Lottery that provides four free tickets to the New York Hall of Science in Queens.

West Hempstead library patrons who are 18 and over may enter the lottery once to be eligible for the remaining 4 drawings this season. Drawings are held in October, December, February, April, and June.

For more information, and to fill out an entry form, stop at the reference desk when you are in the library.

Every year we make changes in our Museum Program based on each museum's offerings, its fees, and the interest shown by our patrons. In 2009-2010 we are pleased to have 9 museums in our Family Pass Program. These museum passes may be reserved like a book and must be returned on time to be passed along to other patrons who have reserved them.

This year, to highlight the natural history of Long Island, we have added the Garvies Point Museum and Preserve in Glen Cove.

We are also introducing the Guggenheim Museum and bringing back the Museum of Modern Art, two world renowned cultural institutions in NYC. The Guggenheim Museum is famous for its spiral structure, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and its unique presentation space of modern paintings, sculpture and film. The Museum of Modern Art, with its incomparable collection of modern and contemporary art, is now in an elegant, remodeled building.

Here are links to help you plan your use of the Family Passes:

In addition to the Family Passes, we also offer a Museum Lottery for the very popular New York Hall of Science.

For information about our museum offerings, please contact the Reference Dept (516) 481-6591.

The West Hempstead Public Library is proud to be part of the Nassau Digital Doorway (NDD) service which provides online access to best-selling and classic audiobooks for your listening pleasure.
Download and listen to content from your home computer, transfer the digital media to your compatible MP3 player, or burn them onto a CD (when allowed by the publisher). Patrons may check out up to five titles at a time, and at the end of the seven day lending period, the audiobooks will expire from the PC and automatically be returned to the digital collection, so you never have to worry about late fees.

To access the West Hempstead Public Library digital audiobook collection you will need:
      1. A valid West Hempstead Public library card in good standing
      2. Access to the Internet (high-speed connection preferred)
      3. Free downloadable software that transfers audiobooks to your computer

Please note that digital downloads can be enjoyed at home, at work, or when you travel, but are generally not for use on the computers in your library.

Before you get started, be sure to read the Quickstart Guide and the Digital Help-FAQ found in the upper right corner of the Nassau Digital Doorway's homepage. If you have the time, and a high speed connection, view the Guided Tour for an easy introduction to this convenient new service!

The Library would like to thank

bageltown,
Fabio’s Pizza,
Tasty Bite Kosher Bakery
for making this year's Adult Summer Reading Raffle a success!

Author: Alice Hoffman
Title: Property of

“Alice Hoffman’s first novel about a girl who falls for a gang leader. A lifestyle & culture I cannot wrap my brain around. I found this book baffling, enraging & compelling all at once.” Review by Kelly M.

Alice Hoffman is a native Long Islander and has written 18 novels to date. Her novels have received mention as notable books of the year by The New York Times, Entertainment Weekly, The Los Angeles Times, Library Journal, and People Magazine. We own many of her books so why not check one out!

Author: Alexander McCall Smith
Title: 44 Scotland Street

“British/Scottish melodrama… A biting wit & charm.” Review by Andrea M.

Alexander McCall Smith has written more than 60 books & is best known for his internationally acclaimed No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series. Our library will be having a Book Chat on Wednesday July 22nd at 10:30 a.m. So, if you have not already tried an Alexander McCall Smith book, why not start now and join in our book discussion. Copies are available at the circulation desk and you may sign up at the reference desk or call 481-6591 to register.

Author: James Patterson
Title: The 8th Confession

“Excellent as all of the women’s murder mystery club books are.” Review by Linda D.

James Patterson has been dubbed "the man who can't miss" by Time magazine and has had 19 CONSECUTIVE #1 New York Times hardcover bestselling novels. If you are among the few who have not read a Patterson, maybe this summer is the time to do so!

You still have time to join our Adult Summer Reading Program and win a Booklover's Bag!

Christopher Petillo, attorney with the firm of Vincent J. Russo & Associates, will be here to help us explore ways to protect our assets as we age in these difficult economic times. He will talk to us in layman's language about the issues we will confront in the coming years, including the most practical ways to hold on to our homes while providing for our health care.

Call the Reference Desk at 481-6591 to register for this free program on Monday, July 27.

The ADULT SUMMER READING PROGRAM has officially started!

“Master the Art of Reading” this summer at the West Hempstead Public Library and explore the worlds of art, books, and more. Get in touch with your creative side!

Patrons can pick up their forms at the reference desk, at circulation, or on the Adult Program page of our website. Patrons must read or listen to 3 books and then fill out the form and insert it into the bright pink box located at the Reference Desk.

There will be a raffle at the end of the program that gives each participant the chance to win a "Booklover's Bag" filled with special surprises! For every additional 3 books read and reviewed, patrons may fill out another form.

If it's ok with you, we'll post your reviews in the blog to help other readers make their summer reading choices.

All instructions are on the forms. Any questions, please ask!

If you are facing foreclosure, not knowing your options could be your biggest mistake. Time is of the utmost importance. Don't worry and wait. Certified counselors are available free of charge to meet with homeowners and review alternatives to foreclosure.

Jerry Coppola, Coordinator for the Foreclosure Prevention Program, a service provided by the ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY COUNCIL OF SUFFOLK, INC. (a HUD certified agency) will present this informative program at the library on Wednesday, July 15, 2009 7 p.m.

Call the Reference Desk at 481-6591 to register for this free program.

Instructor Mr. William Feeley is scheduled to teach two Defensive Driving classes this summer and fall.

Please remember that the cost of the AARP driver safety class has changed.

Drivers 50 and older may sign up for one of the two AARP driving classes given by Mr. Charles Hlavenka this spring.
Please note that the cost of the AARP class has changed. Participants must present their AARP membership card at the time of registration to get the fee of $12. Non-members of AARP, or those without their AARP membership card will be charged $14.

(1) Course 1: Monday, April 27 and Wednesday, April 29 from 9:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m.
Registration for W.H. residents begins at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, April 13.
Non-residents may register, space permitting, beginning on Monday, April 20.
(2) Course 2: Mondays, June 22 and 29 from 9:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m.
Registration for W.H. residents begins at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, June 1.
Non-residents may register, space permitting, beginning on Monday, June 8.

Instructor Mr. William Feeley will teach two Defensive Driving class for all ages.
A $40 check, payable to Defensive Driving Course, Inc. is due at registration, which begins on Wednesday, April 1.

(1) Course 1: Wednesdays, April 22 and 29 from 6:45 p.m.- 9:45 p.m.
(2) Course 2: Wednesdays, June 17 and 24 from 6:45 p.m.- 9:45 p.m.

For all classes, each participant must bring his/her driver’s license and checkbook when registering and attend all parts of the course to receive credit. Classes are held on the lower level in the Community Room and begin promptly.

Borrow our Museum Family Pass to the New York Botanical Garden and get a preview of spring!

Since the 19th century, The New York Botanical Garden has provided New Yorkers with “the country in the city”—a serene and contemplative oasis in which to enjoy and learn about plants and nature. Don't miss these programs!

Please give blood, if you can...people can't live without it.
Did you know that the current severe economic downturn has also impacted donation levels with many traditional donor groups canceling, downsizing, or postponing their blood drives to another time of year?

"The health of our community depends on people scheduling a few minutes for blood donation, to prevent additional rationing and possible cancellation of surgery," said Dr. Robert L. Jones, New York Blood Center President & CEO.

Blood donors receive free mini-medical exams on site including information about their temperature, pulse rate, blood pressure and hemoglobin level. Eligible donors include those people at least age 16 with parental consent (in NY), who weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, are in good health and meet all Food & Drug Administration and NY State Department of Health donor criteria. People over 75 may donate with a doctor's note.

Please call the library (481-6591) to schedule an appointment for our Blood Drive on March 17 from 2:30 pm.- 8:00 pm The last appointment will be scheduled for 7:45 pm. Walk-ins are also welcome. You must bring an ID and know your Social Security number. Here's what to expect.

This exercise class will show you activities you can do for yourself to help relieve the pain and reduce the limitations caused by arthritis or fibromyalgia.

Our instructor, Marilyn Bunger, is an accomplished exercise instructor specially trained to work with people who have chronic arthritic conditions.

Classes will be held on Tuesdays, from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm on February 17, 24, March 17, 24, 31 at the cost of $10 for all five classes. Please make your check payable to the West Hempstead Public Library.

These classes have been very popular. We plan to continue them in the spring. Check back here or see the next Library Newsletter for the upcoming schedule.

The Long Island Reads Committee is pleased to announce that Doris Kearns Goodwin, author of the 2009 Long Island Reads pick, Wait Till Next Year will meet with us to discuss her book and answer questions on Wednesday, May 6 at 1 p.m. at the Brentwood Public Library.

To request your free tickets (limit of two per person) call the Nassau Library System (516) 292-8920 x236 starting on Wednesday, April 1. Ask for Roseanne: she will mail your tickets directly to your home.

We will be reading and discussing this book at our library in West Hempstead on Wednesday, March 25. Copies of the book will be available at the Circulation Desk beginning on February 23. Don't miss these exciting events!

Call us at 516-481-6591 for more information.

Come one, come all to celebrate the Wearin' O' the Green with the great one, Jimmy O' Moore and his legion of fans. You'll enjoy a wonderful afternoon of upbeat Irish fun that will get your Irish eyes smiling. After all, everybody's Irish on St. Paddy's Day!

Join us on Sunday, March 15 at 2:00 pm on the Lower Level of the West Hempstead Public Library.

Please be here at least 15 minutes before showtime.

Our programs are accessible by elevator and are free to both residents and non-residents.

Joe Cilmi is back with an extensive set of daytime classes, teaching Iyengar Yoga, which is a stye of Hatha Yoga.

17 Classes will be held on Tuesdays from 9:30-10:45 am and on Thursdays from 12-1:15 pm. Call the Reference Desk for more information, or check the Events Calendar for all class dates and times.

You will need a yoga sticky mat, yoga strap or karate belt, and a large towel or blanket. Be sure to dress in loose, comfortable clothing and bring a pair of sneakers.

A $51.00 check payable to the West Hempstead Public Library is due at registration.

Ten more West Hempstead families have won tickets to the New York Hall of Science. Here are the winners of the December 2008 drawing:

Robert Axel
Laureen Delay
Sharon S. Ellerton
Allison Fixler
Yael Ginsberg
Cindy Haynes
Joanna Marcia
Scott B. Moskowitz
Ellen Shanley
Uzma Wasti

If you haven't won yet, you still have time to enter. There will be three more lottery drawings for the 2008-2009 season coming up in February, April, and June 2009.

To be eligible for the Museum Lottery, you must be 18 or over and a member in good standing of the West Hempstead Public Library.

For over a century, from the first flights by frail biplanes on the Hempstead Plains, to man’s walking on the Moon, Long Island has been on the leading edge of America’s aviation and space adventure.

History will come alive when you see the exhibits at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City and experience the IMAX movies that open up the world of science to young people.

Borrow the library's newest Museum Family Pass and find out about the aviation history that took place right in our own backyard!

Got questions? Click through to our Live Librarian® service anytime, day or night, if you have basic reference questions and would like a private, one-on-one, CHAT session with a Reference Librarian.

The Live Librarian® Reference Librarians cannot provide legal, medical or tax advice, or computer technical support. What they will do is use a variety of online subscription products and the Internet to answer your questions and help you with your Internet searches.

When the question requires more in-depth research tools than are available online, the Live Librarian® may refer users to their home library. Find our Live Librarian® logo on the left side panel of our West Hempstead Public Library website, www.whplibrary.org/

We are pleased to announce that the Library is now a "Season Ticket" Holder to the Sports Museum of America.

Sports fans, coaches, and athletes will love the interactive exhibits, multimedia experiences, and more than 800 artifacts, 1,100 photos, and 20 original films within the 19 galleries representing a multitude of sports, from baseball to football, basketball to soccer, figure skating to extreme sports, and everything in between.

We have added the SmA to the Museum Family Passes that we lend, like a book, to our West Hempstead Public library patrons in good standing. This season we have a grand total of 8 museums in our family pass lineup and one that we offer by a lottery system.

Stop by at the reference desk to reserve a pass, or call 481-6591 for more information.

Are you a MORNING person? An EVENING person? It doesn’t matter - we aim to please all! Our next book discussion will be offered in two separate sessions.
The Book:
SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN
by Lisa See

Read this “achingly beautiful” historical novel and come to discuss the poignant friendship of Lily and Snow Flower as they live the regimented (and secretive) life of 19th century Chinese women.

The Date: Wednesday, October 29
The Times: 10:30 a.m. OR 7:00 p.m.

In a review from the Baltimore Sun, Victoria Brownworth says,

"...This haunting, beautiful and ineffably sad tale of longing so intense as to be taken beyond the grave, is written in See's characteristically strong prose. She has a keen ear for Lily's yearning, and manages to depict an era and place vastly different from our own Westernized world with grace, acumen and not a little humility..."

Please register for either time at the Reference Desk. Stop by, email, or call 481-6591 Ext. 22. Copies of the book are available at the Circulation Desk.

TO VOTE YOU MUST BE REGISTERED!!
You may pick up forms in the library or download them in Spanish or English.

DEADLINE TO REGISTER BY MAIL OR IN-PERSON IS OCTOBER 10, 2008:
Mail Registration: Application must be postmarked no later than Oct. 10th and received no later than Oct. 15th.
In-Person Registration: At the election board offices no later than Oct. 10th. If person became a naturalized citizen or was honorably discharged from the military since Oct. 10th, then last day to register in person is Oct. 24th.
Change of Address: If already registered, notify the board of change of address no later than Oct.15th.

DEADLINES FOR ABSENTEE BALLOTS:
OCTOBER 28th: Last day to postmark application or letter for absentee ballot.
NOVEMBER 3rd: Last day to apply for ballot in person. Also, last day to postmark ballot. Must be received by Board of Elections by Nov. 11th.
NOVEMBER 4th: Last day to deliver ballot in person to Board of Elections.

CLICK HERE for DEADLINES for MILITARY PERSONNEL.
CLICK HERE for QUALIFICATIONS To Register and HOW AND WHERE to Register.

For an easy way to check online if you are registered, request an absentee ballot, or check your polling information, try the VOTE FOR CHANGE website sponsored by the OBAMA campaign: http://www.voteforchange.com/index_obama.php

Those of you who have been lucky in the past know how exciting it is to get a phone call announcing that you have won the lottery!

This year, the prize will be single-use tickets that provide free entry for four people to the New York Hall of Science in Queens.

West Hempstead library patrons who are 18 and over may enter the lottery once to be eligible for all five drawings this season. Drawings will be held in October, December, February, April, and June.

For more information, and to fill out an entry form, stop at the reference desk when you are in the library.

We think that every one of our Adult Summer Reading Club participants is a winner, and we thank you all for sharing your summaries and recommendations with the rest of the West Hempstead reading community. We hope you all had fun and will join in other reading activities at the library.
The winners from this year's raffle are:

Amy Chiert
Denise Criollo
Linda DeGuglielmis
Anne Marie Fidis
Allison Fixler
Josephine McComber

Thank you Stop and Shop for your generous donation to this event!

Thanks to our Summer Reading Club for Grownups, we have more reading suggestions to pass on:

Everything's Eventual, by Stephen King. 5
DC: 14 short, scary, deep thinking stories. My favorite was "The Little Sisters of Eluria", a continuation of Stephen King's series of the Story of Roland the Gunslinger. This is great if you don't have time to read a novel.

Seeing Me Naked, by Liza Palmer. 5
AF: The story centers around the life of a pastry chef and her dysfunctional relationship with her famous author father and brother.... The author draws you into Elisabeth's life. I could not put it down.

Under the Tuscan Sun: at home in Italy, by Frances Mayes. 5
JM: It is a love story - but not between 2 people. It tells a story of being drawn to a beautiful area (Tuscany) and becoming a part of it.... I recommend this especially if you like reading about other countries and more importantly, food and cooking.

Play Dirty, by Sandra Brown. 4
AC: A football player with a gambling problem gets put in jail for throwing the final game before superbowl... I recommend this book - it is not really a football book.

DailyOM: Inspirational Thoughts for a Happy, Healthy, and Fulfilling Day, by Madisyn Taylor. 4
LD: 1-2 pages daily inspirational thoughts.

Friday Nights, by Joanna Trollope. 4
AF: A group of six women from very different lifestyles meet at one home on Friday nights and become good friends.....They all learn from and lean on each other over the years.... I recommend this book. There is a lot of character development and you begin to feel like part of the group.

The Third Angel, by Alice Hoffman. 3.5 - 4
JS: 3 seemingly unrelated storylines, suddenly connecting, and you find yourself flipping back to previous chapters to remind yourself who this character is. I had been looking forward to reading it, and had high expectations, which didn't seem as though they'd be met...until the third section of the book. At that point, I was so caught up, I hated to put it down, yet hated to have it end.

Read the recommendations submitted by the West Hempstead adult readers who are participating in our Summer Reading Club for Grownups. Don't forget - you still have time to post a review and win a prize! We will be extending the end-date to August 1.

Change of Heart, by Jodi Picoult. 5+
JS: I absolutely recommend this book to all readers, bookgoups and fans (or future fans) of Jodi Picoult's books. A compelling, thoughtfully written story dealing with a really tough subject matter, yet it does not go into graphic detail of the murder and deaths.

The Tenth Circle, by Jodi Picoult. 5
AF: Yes, I would recommend this book. It covers so many levels in relationships - between parents, parent and child - what one would do for the other.

My Sister's Keeper, by Jodi Picoult. 5
AF: So gripping I couldn't put it down.

Obsession, by Karen Robards. 4
JS: This was a very entertaining story - not very deep, but highly enjoyable. Also, you'll want to read right through, no pauses.

The Book of Old Houses (A Home Repair is Homicide Mystery), by Sarah Graves.
3
JS: I recommend this to "light" mystery fans, serial book fans, anyone looking for a quick read.

Chili con Corpses (A Supper Club Mystery), by J. B. Stanley. 3
AF: The book was somewhat predictable and did not include a lot of character or plot development. The included recipes look delicious. It is a good summer read.

The Saturday Wife, by Naomi Ragen. 1
AF: Not this one! I enjoyed all of Naomi Ragen's other books - They had substance. This was a farce and somewhat insulting.

We are pleased to announce that for fiscal year 2008-2009, NY Senator Kemp Hannon has secured a Special Legislative Grant of $5000 for our library. Last year's grant allowed us to purchase large print books and audio materials to help the visually impaired. This is the third year in a row that we have received a grant through his efforts and we appreciate very much his hard work on our behalf.

We will have the opportunity to thank his staff on Tuesday, July 22 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. when his Community Office Mobile Visit comes to our library. Drop by in the morning to pick up valuable reading materials and to discuss issues of concern with Senator Hannon's staff in the second floor conference room.

Back by popular demand!
Instructor Mr. William Feeley will teach two Defensive Driving class for all ages. Both classes will be taught in two sessions. A $40 check, payable to Defensive Driving Course, Inc. is due at the ongoing registration.
(1) The first class for drivers of all ages will be on Tuesdays, July 8 and 15 from 6:45 p.m. to 9:45 p.m.
(2) The second class for drivers of all ages will be on on Tuesdays, September 23 and Wednesday, September 24 from 6:45 p.m. to 9:45 p.m.
For information about similar courses offered in the community on different dates, contact the Automobile Club of America at (516) 873-2364 or call your local insurance company.

For all classes, each participant must bring his/her driver’s license and checkbook when registering and attend all parts of the course to receive credit. Classes are held on the lower level in the Community Room and begin promptly.

Drivers 50 and older can take the AARP driving course given by Mr. Charles Hlavenka. He is also offering two classes this summer. A $10 check, payable to AARP, is due at registration.
(1) The first class for 50+ drivers will be on Wednesdays, July 16 and 23 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Registration for W.H. residents begins at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 1. Non-residents may register on Tuesday, July 8.
(2) The second class for 50+ drivers will be on one day, Tuesday, August 19 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (including ½ hour for lunch.) West Hempstead residents may register at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, August 4 and non-residents may register on Monday, August 11.

For other locations and dates, call AARP at 1-888-227-7669 or go to AARP's Safety Search page. Many libraries offer these extremely popular, highly affordable ($10) classes, so be sure to call ahead!

Why should kids have all the fun?

Participate from Monday, July 7 through Friday, July 25 and you, too, might win a prize for reading!

Just read or listen to a library book. Fill out a review form (available in the library) or down load it here. Drop the completed form in a special box located at the Reference Desk. The more reviews you write, the more chances you’ll have to win the prizes given at the end of the program.

If permission is given, we may post some reviews on our website so you can see what others in West Hempstead have been reading. Maybe you will find some new titles or authors to read!

Here is an excellent opportunity to get help researching your family history.

Our workshop on Wednesday, April 9 from 10-11:30 am, will focus on the valuable resources your library provides to help you dig through the myriad records that exist scattered in bits and pieces in various hard-to-access records. The Ancestry Library Edition provides a wealth of information in one convenient place and is available only in the library.

Bring your genealogy questions and our experienced reference librarian will help you find the answers to help you identify your kin.

If you can't make it to the workshop, you might consider using our new Book-a-Librarian Service, which allows West Hempstead patrons to reserve a free 30-minute session with a professional librarian to focus on your research interests.

Call the library 481-6591 or email us for more information.

Author, Annie Dillard
In her review of The Maytrees in Bookpage, Linda White comments "If you have not been enthralled by the details of a moth flying into a candle flame in Holy the Firm, or enchanted by a silken string of spiderweb across a coffee mug in Pilgrim at Tinker Creek, then you should slow down and read carefully. For Dillard takes the most amazing facts and lays them bare for all to see."

So, what is this book about? Scott Simon, of National Public Radio, calls it "a quirky story of the Maytrees' fractured marriage" written in a short, simple, poetic style. Listen to the NPR interview and hear Annie Dillard read a passage from the novel.

Pick up a copy of The Maytrees, available now at the circulation desk. Register at the reference desk or call us at 481-6591 to let us know that you will join our discussion at 7 pm in the second floor Conference Room on May 1.

Check here for more reviews.

Join us for a May Day Book Chat on Thursday, May 1, 2008 at 7pm in the second floor conference room.

We will select the book for discussion based on feedback offered by the March 13 Book Chat participants during our Long Island Reads meeting, so stay tuned. We'll update our library blog and the website and post flyers in the library with the title of the book. Copies of the book will be available at the Circulation desk by April 1.

We also welcome book choices suggested by other readers in the community who plan to join our group in the future. Check our website for books we have read and discussed in the past. Please email or call the reference desk at (516) 481-6591 to register for a book discussion or to be added to our mailing list.

Will your TV still work after February 17, 2009?

That is the date when all full-power television stations will broadcast only in digital. This should not be a problem if all your TV sets are connected to cable, satellite or another pay service. However, consumers who use "rabbit ears" or a rooftop antenna with an analog television need to take some action before February 17, 2009 to continue receiving television broadcasts.

To help consumers with the DTV transition, the Government established the Digital-to-Analog Converter Box Coupon Program. Beginning on January 1, 2008, every U.S. household is eligible to receive up to two coupons, worth $40 each, toward the purchase of eligible digital-to-analog converter boxes. Manufacturers estimate that digital-to-analog converter boxes will sell from $50 to $70 each.

For more information, visit the Department of Commerce's website, or call 1-888-388-2009 (voice) or 1-877-530-2634 (TTY).

Every year the IRS supplies us with a limited supply of basic tax forms. This year they are located in a cart on the main floor of the library, near the entrance to the Children's Room.

Additional Federal forms and State forms are available online and may be downloaded at home or in the library.

Don't forget that this year you must make an appointment for assistance from our AARP Tax Aides. Call 481-6591 or stop at the Reference Desk to reserve a one hour block of time. Tax assistance will be available every Friday (except March 21), beginning February 8 to April 11, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

New York's Primary Date is February 5, 2008, but January 11 is the deadline for filing an application to be eligible to vote in the presidential primaries. You must file in person at the board of elections or mail an application postmarked no later than January 11. The application must be received by the deadline of January 16.

If you want to vote by absentee ballot, your request must be mailed to the board of elections no later than January 29. You may apply in person for a ballot as late as February 4. Ballots must be postmarked by February 4 and received by the board of elections by February 12.

We do! We love reading. We love books. We love our library!
If you do, too, consider a library career.

The library world is rapidly changing as a result of the Internet and the easy access it gives to information and social networks across the globe.

Our mission and our skills as librarians place us in the forefront as guides to the ever-challenging task of organizing, evaluating, and delivering the myriad volumes and forms of information that overwhelm us on a daily basis.

Read some librarian blogs to get insight into what we do in public libraries, school libraries, academic and corporate settings. Find out if librarianship is right for you!

Here is a little quiz to see if you know what librarians do!

Our first book discussion in the new library will be held in the second floor Board Room on February 7, 2008 at 7 pm.

Our selection, The Awakening by Kate Chopin, shocked the public and was harshly criticized when it was first published in 1899. It re-emerged from obscurity in the late 1960’s as social and cultural changes led to the recognition of Chopin as a classic writer who addresses many of contemporary women's concerns.

According to biographer, Emily Toth, "Kate Chopin anticipated so much: daytime dramas, women's pictures, The Feminine Mystique, open marriages, women's liberation, talk shows, Mars vs. Venus, self-help and consciousness raising. But in 1899, she was a lonely pioneer."

Here are some links to whet your appetite:
Editorial Reviews, courtesy of Amazon Books
The Kate Chopin International Society
PBS Program "Kate Chopin: A Re-Awakening"

Join us as we explore our own reactions and share insights on the themes of personal freedom, alienation and loneliness, public identity vs. private needs, and more.

Books will be available at the circulation desk in January. Please stop by the Reference Desk or call 481-6591 to register.

Have you found our Large Print books in the new library?

Look for them in the Fiction section on the ground floor, between the regular fiction and the mysteries.

For help, ask a librarian at the reference desk.

Here is a list of the latest arrivals.

Announcing the arrival of our newest database: Science Reference Center.

Science Reference Center is a comprehensive research database that provides easy access to 639 full-text science-specific titles. Designed to support the middle and high school curriculums, Science Reference Center encompasses all disciplines of science.

Biology, chemistry, earth, space, life, physical, and environmental sciences are covered as well as health and medicine, science in society, science as inquiry, history of science, technology, scientists, and wildlife. Sources include reference books, encyclopedias, periodicals, newspapers, biographies and images. (Source: EBSCO Support web site)

To access the Science Reference Center,

Go to: www.whplibrary.org/research
Click on E and then on EBSCOhost Web.
Enter your library barcode number.
Click on Science Reference Center.

Long Island Reads is scheduled to take place during the month of April in conjunction with National Library Week. This is our annual island-wide reading initiative when people throughout Nassau and Suffolk come together to read and discuss the same book and participate in library events.

The 2008 LI Reads Committee has chosen Aloft by Chang-rae Lee. This literary novel takes place in the Long Island suburbs and should appeal to both men and women.

The author is currently the Director of the Program in Creative Writing at Princeton University . Lee has been recognized with numerous literary awards for his two earlier novels, Native Speaker and A Gesture Life. Lee will be available to talk about his book during the month of April 2008.

Our Book Chat will take place on Thursday, March 13 in the Conference Room on the second floor of the new library. Please call the Reference Desk at 481-6591 to reserve a place. We welcome you to join our West Hempstead Book Chat to discuss this moving story about 21st century American life.

Let's help to keep our students safe. Join the AAA campaign to remind drivers to:

* Slow down when driving near schools, bus stops and playgrounds
* Take special care to obey lower speed limits in school zones
* Make sure to stop for school buses with flashing red lights
* Never use a handheld cell phone while driving - it's the law
* Drive carefully in bad weather

Parents should help children stay safe by identifying the "Best Route to School" and teaching children to follow AAA's pedestrian safety tips.

Presione Aqui para ver el documento "La Mejor Ruta Para Ir A La Escuela" en español.

Did you know that even without your library card, you can get access to high quality research, news and magazine articles? Just use your driver's license number to search for information 24/7 using New York State's online library. Go to the NOVELNY website to search for magazines and newspapers by title, or to browse the databases by subject area.

Students, educators, business people, health professionals, shoppers! We have something for everyone.

You may also access the contents of NovelNY using our research database page. Using your library card, you will find these resources listed separately by database name or grouped under the Gale Virtual Library and the EBSCO host links.

Questions? Ask a reference librarian, 481-6591

Constituents of the 6th senate district are invited to stop by the Community Room of the West Hempstead Public Library from 10 am-12 noon on Monday, August 6 to speak with representatives of NY State Senator Kemp Hannon.

The West Hempstead Public Library can help.

We have dozens of travel guides that you may borrow, including books from Fodor’s, Frommer’s, Insiders’ Guide, Eyewitness Travel, Moon Handbooks, Lonely Planet and Rick Steves. Also available are travel DVDs and videotapes to get you inspired and help you plan.

While traveling, why not check out one, two or three of our audiobooks? Choose among our many fiction and non-fiction selections. They will keep you entertained and stimulated for hours. Musical CDs are another great choice for relaxation or fun while driving or jogging or passing the time. We have selections for both children and adults.

Whether you’re traveling to New Jersey or to France, don’t forget to visit the West Hempstead Public Library before you go. Have a great trip!

New for 2007: We are pleased to add to our Family Pass Program, the American Museum of Natural History!
Instead of the lottery that we usually offer for this popular NYC cultural institution, WHPLibrary patrons may now borrow a Family Pass that provides complimentary general admission and special exhibition tickets for up to six people, including free admission to IMAX films and coat checking privileges.

We will also continue to offer Family Passes for:

For information about reserving these passes, please contact the Reference Dept (516) 481-6591.

The Nassau County Legislature is seeking its first Poet Laureate charged with the responsibility of “promoting and encouraging poetry within the county and giving two public readings within the county each year.”

To qualify for the position of Nassau County Poet Laureate (NCPL), a poet will be a resident of Nassau County, and remain a resident for the length of his/her poet laureate position, be eighteen years of age or older, submit a one page resume and submit up to three representative samples of poetry (not to exceed three pages, total), understand the NCPL term is two years, and understand, according to the Nassau County Poet Laureate Law (Title 59), “the poet laureate shall promote and encourage poetry within the county and shall give two public readings within the county each year.” (read the full flyer)

If you are interested in being considered for the position of Nassau County Poet Laureate (NCPL), please send your contact information (name, address, phone number, e-mail address), resume and poems, along with a brief statement that outlines why you think you are a good candidate for consideration, by MARCH 30, 2007, to Paula Camacho via e-mail at PaulaCamF@aol.com

You should have received your Spring 2007 newsletter in the mail. If not, or if it has somehow gone missing since it passed through your hands, you can now view it on our website or print it out on your home computer. A link to the full copy can be found on the adult page and age appropriate pages for young adults and for children can also be found on their respective webpages.

Did you know that only 2% of Long Islanders donate blood compared with 5% nationwide?
Your gift of blood could save 5 lives with just one donation.

Long Island Blood Services will be at the library from 4:00 pm- 8:00 pm on Thursday March 29.
If you have medical questions, please call 1-800-688-0900.

To make an appointment, call the Reference Desk at 481-6591. Walk-ins are also welcome.

"Which book have you enjoyed that makes you appreciate the freedom to read?"

Write your answer in one or two pages and send it with this entry form by April 9, 2007. You may win a Barnes & Noble gift card and be honored at a gala reception at the Carle Place store on Thursday April 26, 7:30 pm. The age categories are: 5-12 years old, 13-17 years old, 18+ years old.

If you have any questions, call Mr. Ludemann at 377-6112 ext.103 or email him.

This is the Third Annual Essay Contest sponsored by the Intellectual Freedom Committee of the Nassau County Library Association

AARP tax aide counselors are here on Fridays from 9 am -1 pm. The service is provided free of charge to low and middle-income taxpayers, with special attention to those aged 60 and older.

Please remember that the library is closed on Friday April 6. Don't wait until the last minute! The counselors can only see 8 people maximum per session in the time provided.