Behind the Cover

Behind the Cover

The Monthly Newsletter of Bemis Public Library

City of Littleton

January, 2009 Volume 13, Issue 1

January Movie: Horton Hears a Who

Watch the animated movie based on the beloved Dr. Seuss book, Horton Hears a Who, featuring the voice of Jim Carrey as Horton on Friday, January 2 at 2:00 p.m. You’ll also recognize the voice talents of comedians Steve Carell and Carol Burnett. Snacks will be served. For families with children of all ages. Rated G. Running time: 87 minutes.

Saturday Movie Matinee: Mamma Mia!

View the popular, Golden Globe nominated film, Mamma Mia!, on the library’s big screen, Saturday, January 10, 2:00-4:00 p.m. Set on a colorful Greek island, the plot serves as a background for a wealth of great songs by the popular 1970s singing group, ABBA. A young woman about to be married discovers that any one of three men could be her father. She invites all three to the wedding without telling her mother, Donna, who was once the lead singer of Donna and the Dynamos. The movie stars Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan. Free refreshments will be provided.

Speck: The Life & Times of Spencer Penrose

Hear the amazing story of one of Colorado’s most intriguing and successful entrepreneurs, Spencer Penrose, Tuesday, January 13, 7:00-8:30 p.m. Bestselling author and artist Robert C. Olson will talk about the rise of Penrose from a rich and shiftless son of the privileged class to a self-made prince of industry, society, and philanthropy. Penrose made millions in real estate and mining during the boom days of Cripple Creek and drew some of the wealthiest people in the world to Colorado with the creation of The Broadmoor resort in Colorado Springs. Copies of Olson’s fascinating biography will be available for purchase.

Papa’s Girl: The Fascinating World of Helen Bonfils

The colorful and free-spirited life of Helen Bonfils, daughter of the famous Denver Post owner Frederick Bonfils, is the focus of this entertaining talk by journalist Eva Hodges Watt, Tuesday, January 20, 7:00-8:00 p.m. Helen was a controversial and philanthropic woman who inherited the Post from her father. Watt will talk about the lavish lifestyle of the Bonfils family during the early 1900s, Denver society and the Denver Post during that time, and Bonfils’ two marriages—one to a gay theater director and producer, and the other to her chauffeur, a high school dropout half her age who later made a fortune in oil. Watt was a reporter and editor for The Denver Post for forty years. She knew and interviewed Helen Bonfils. Watt began interviewing "Miss Helen's" friends, associates and employees after her retirement from The Denver Post in 1985.

Musical Moments @ Sophie’s Place

Relax while listening to music in Sophie’s Place. Monthly performances feature a variety of musical talent from Littleton and the Denver metro area.

The Rootin’ Tootins’ Dixieland Jazz Band, featuring seven musicians, will entertain you with lively jazz favorites on Saturday, January 24, 2:00-3:00 p.m.

How to Be Happy

Author Andy Feld will share secrets and techniques that make living a life of happiness and freedom a reality, Monday, January 26, 2:00 p.m. His message is that happiness can indeed be learned and practiced in spite of a constant barrage of negative news. Feld’s talk is fun, fast-paced and interactive. He has been studying the subject of happiness for over twenty years and is the author of the book, Simple Happy: Finally Learning to Listen to Yourself. Feld has appeared on TV and radio programs around the United States. Copies of his book will be available for purchase.

A Cowboy’s Tail presented by Merry-Andrew Afoot

He’s long and strong, smart and sassy — and very, very classy. He’s the best cowboy in the West … except for his tail! Join Leroy Leonard in a one-person play filled with cowboy poetry, guacamole and (gulp) rattlesnakes on Saturday, January 31 at 2:00 p.m. This program is for children of all ages.

Russian Language & Literature Group

If you would like to learn Russian or practice speaking Russian, come to the Russian Language & Literature Group. We meet each month at the library from 7:00-8:30 p.m. on the following days:

first Wednesday for beginning Russian speakers
second Thursday for intermediate Russian speakers.

In addition to improving language skills and learning about Russian culture, the group reads and discusses a book about Russia each month. For additional information, call Zoya Doennebrink at the library, 303-795-3961.

English as a Second Language Classes

Learn English at the library! The spring session of English as a Second Language (ESL) will begin on Monday, January 5. Beginning English classes will be held from 9:00-10:30 a.m., Monday-Thursday and 5:30-6:50 p.m., Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Intermediate English classes will take place from 10:30 a.m.-Noon, Monday-Thursday, and 7:00-8:30 p.m., Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. These classes are open to teens age seventeen and over and adults who want to learn English or improve their English. There is a registration fee of $25.00 each semester for adults 21 and older and a $20.00 charge for a textbook the first semester. You may register for the classes at the library’s main floor Information Desk anytime during the year. The ESL classes are held in conjunction with Littleton School District Six and an instructor is provided by the District. For more information call Phyllis Larison or Dawn Munson, ESL instructor, at the library, 303-795-3961.

Book Groups at Bemis

We have a variety of Book Groups that meet throughout the month. Choose a group that suits your interests and schedule. Then, join us for some stimulating discussions.

Senior Book Club

Meets the first Monday of each month at 2:00 p.m.

Jan. 5: The Piano Tuner by Daniel Mason

In 1886, piano tuner Edgar Drake leaves London for the jungles of Burma, where he has been asked to repair a grand piano belonging to a British army officer who uses the piano and music to help keep the peace among warring local Burmese princes.

Feb. 2: Blink: the Power of Thinking without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell

Drawing on cutting-edge neuroscience and psychology, the author reveals that great decision makers aren't those who process the most information or spend the most time deliberating, but those who have perfected the art of filtering the very few factors that matter from an overwhelming number of variables.

Mar. 2: Saving Fish From Drowning by Amy Tan

On an ill-fated art expedition, 11 Americans find themselves deep in the Burmese jungle, where they encounter a tribe awaiting a leader and the mystical book of wisdom that will protect them from the Myanmar military regime.

Monday Evening Book Discussion Group

Meets the third Monday of each month from 7-8 p.m. Join us for:

· Jan. 26*: Arlington Park by Rachel Cusk

Set over a single day, the novel follows a group of young mothers who feel both anger at the husbands who seemingly imprisoned them in a world of minivans and coffee klatches, and resignation about the fates they seem destined to fulfill.

* We will meet on the fourth Monday in January due to the MLK holiday.

· Feb. 23: The Red Queen by Margaret Drabble

After reading the two-hundred-year-old memoir of a Korean crown princess, an Oxford student becomes obsessed with the story and goes to Seoul where she has several love affairs.

· Mar. 16: Falling Man by Don DeLillo

DeLillo traces the way the events of 9/11 kindled or rekindled relationships and reconfigured America’s perceptions of the world.

· Apr. 20: A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

Teen Central

For more information, call teen/outreach librarian Mark Decker at the library, 303-795-3961 or check the Bemis teen blog site online at http://bemisteen.blogspot.com. Join other teens for the following activities:

Anime Club - First Sat. of the month @ Noon

Jan. 3: Death Note

Light Yagami is a brilliant but bored high school student whose life is changed when he finds the Death Note, a notebook dropped by a rogue Shinigami, or god of death, named Ryuk. When Light discovers that any human whose name is written in the book dies, he vows to use its power to rid the world of evil. But Light soon finds himself in a life or death battle of wits with the mysterious genius detective called L.

Feb. 7: Full Metal Alchemist

As young boys, Edward & Alphonse Elric once dabbled in the forbidden art of human alchemy to try to resurrect their dead mother. As a result, Ed lost one arm and one leg, while Al lost his entire body and had his spirit sealed inside a suit of armor. Now, both boys are searching for the fabled Philosopher's Stone to restore what they've lost.

Wii - Third Thursdays @ 3:30 p.m.

Enjoy this popular interactive video game featuring a different game each month.

Jan. 15: Naruto: Clash of Ninja Revolution
Feb. 19: Rock Band

Teen Advisory Group (TAG) - Fridays @ 3:30 p.m.

Jan. 23: Open Agenda
Feb. 27: Summer Reading Planning

Special Teen Event: Express Yourself Photography Class & Contest

Learn the basics of digital photography from the professional photographers at Sgt. Pepper’s Photography Studio in a one-hour class on Sat., Feb. 21, 1:00 p.m. Then put your newly acquired skills to work and submit your best photograph that shows the theme “Express Yourself” by Sat., March 7. The winning photo will be published on a library bookmark to be given out for the teen summer reading program. Please call the library at 303-795-3961 to register for this event.

Children’s Programs

Special Children’s Programs

· January Movie: Horton Hears a Who

Watch the movie based on the beloved Dr. Seuss book, Horton Hears a Who, featuring the voice of Jim Carrey as Horton on Fri., Jan. 2, 2:00 p.m. Snacks will be provided. For families with children of all ages. Rated G. Length: 87 minutes

· A Cowboy’s Tail presented by Merry-Andrew Afoot

· Winter Weather Reading

Snuggle up with a great book this winter and perhaps you’ll uncover a prize-winning story. Through January 25^th in the Children’s Room, we will display books published in 2008 that are contenders for literary awards. This year Denver will host the American Library Association’s winter conference, attracting librarians from across the country. One conference highlight is the selection of books for the Caldecott Medal (best illustrated book by an American) and the Newbery Medal (best story/novel by an American.) We want to share our list of contenders with you. You’ll also be able vote for your favorites. Visit the Children’s Room for more details.

Story Times and Ongoing Activities

Story Times resume January 6.

· Story Box

Ages infant-36 months

Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 9:30 & 10:30 am.

A thirty minute session for children and a caring adult to introduce the joy of rhythm and reading. Space is limited; free tickets are available one week in advance.

· Preschool Story Time

Ages 3-Kindergarten

Thursdays at 10:30 am & 1:30 pm.

Fridays at 10:30 am.

Thirty minutes of stories, songs, and activities with a puppet show the first week of the month.

· Saturday Stories

Ages 3-Kingergarten

Saturdays, January 10 & 24 at 10:30 a.m.

Thirty minutes of stories, songs and other fun stuff on the 2^nd and 4^th Saturdays of the month. Older siblings and parents are welcome too.

Paws to Read:

For readers in grades 1-5.

Saturday, January 17 from 10 a.m. - noon

Kids in grades 1-5 are able to practice reading to a visiting pet pal. Please call 303-795-3961 to register for a twenty-minute spot. Presented by R.E.A.D. Reading Education Assistance Dogs & Denver Pet Partners.

An Artist Showcase:

In January, artwork by students from Goddard School for Early Childhood Development will be on display in the Children’s Room.

Every Child Ready to Read @ Your Library

It is never too early to prepare children for reading. Parents and caregivers are the most constant influence in a young child’s life. The Public Library Association (PLA) has developed an early literacy program to assist parents and caregivers with reading readiness for children. Six simple steps that you incorporate into everyday reading help children to be reading ready. This is not a “teach your child to read” program but an easy method to use during a story that will build their brains for reading when they are older. Start with infants. Don’t ever stop reading to your children.

Following are six basic skills to use when reading to your child. You do not need to try to use all six at once; just try to use at least one during your reading time. Many of the ideas you may already be practicing as you read daily with your child.

Print Motivation includes being interested in and enjoying books. A very important skill for your child is to start listening from Day 1. Project your love for books to your child. Have fun! Choose books you love and read them aloud.
Print Awareness includes noticing print, knowing how to handle a book and knowing how to follow the written word on the page. It is important to know words and to notice words everywhere. Highlight with your finger a keyword used throughout the book, for example MAISY if you are reading a Maisy book.
Letter Knowledge includes knowing that letters are different from each other, knowing letter names and sounds, and recognizing letters everywhere. Repeat the starting letter of the child’s name, an object in the room or in the story. Show words are made up of small things, individual letters, ex. mouse is m o u s e. Point out different shapes in books. Shape recognition will build skills for letter differentiation.
Phonological Awareness includes hearing and playing with the smaller sounds or words and recognizing that words are made up of a number of different sounds. Hear and play with smaller sounds, ex. baseball point out the two words base and ball. Say letter sounds. Use of song, rhyme and musical instruments helps children listen and become aware of similar and different sounds. Nursery rhymes are a perfect tool for using this skill.
Vocabulary includes knowing the names of things. If you have heard and know the word for something, it is easier to recognize and read it later! Explain familiar words even during the story. The more words one puts into a child’s head the more they will remember. Talk, talk, talk to your kids.
Narrative Skills includes describing things and events, telling stories, knowing the order of events and making predictions. Tell stories with a beginning, middle and end. Get out of the routine of only reading the book. Try telling the story after reading it with your child’s input.

Early literacy is kids knowing about reading and writing before they can “read and write.” Nurturing a child with words, books, rhymes, music and song will help them to be reading ready.

We Can Meet Your Computer & Internet Needs

Bemis has 22 Internet access computers on the lower level of the library, plus another six located in the Children’s Room for use by our patrons in 5th grade and younger. Also, wireless Internet access is available in Sophie’s Place for patrons with wireless-enabled laptop computers.

Our computers use Microsoft operating systems and software that includes Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint. All of our PCs are linked to printers. Printing costs are $0.10 a page for black only or $0.25 a page for color. Our computer lab has 12 PCs and may be scheduled for group use. We are happy to assist patrons individually at any time if you need help using the computers or the Internet.

We also offer free computer and Internet classes on a regular basis. To find out about group use of our computer lab, upcoming classes, or to place your name on a call list for notification when future classes are scheduled, call the library at 303-795-3961 or stop by the Information Desk.

Currently, space is available in the following classes:

· Computer Comfort

Wednesday, February 4, 9:00-10:30 a.m.

· How to Search on the Internet

Saturday, February 14, 9:00-10:30 a.m.

· Introduction to Microsoft Excel

Saturday, January 10, 9:00-11:00 a.m.

· Introduction to Microsoft Publisher

Saturday, February 21, 9:00-11:00 a.m.

· Introduction to Microsoft Word

Saturday, January 3, 9:00-11:00 a.m.

· Learn Internet Explorer

Wednesday, January 7, 9:00-10:30 a.m.

· Yahoo Email Basics

Wednesday, February 11, 9:00-10:30 a.m.

Class Descriptions:

Computer Comfort - Focuses on basic computer information necessary to operate a computer. Topics covered include a description of the parts of a computer, how a computer functions, and how to use a keyboard and mouse.
How to Search on the Internet - Learn how to search for information on the Internet using search engines and subscription databases.
Introduction to Microsoft Excel - Learn how to create, edit and format basic worksheets and charts.
Introduction to Microsoft Publisher

Learn how to compile and customize fliers, newsletters and brochures as well as use Publisher wizards to create other desktop publishing products like calendars and greeting cards.

Introduction to Microsoft Word - Learn to write, edit and save documents using this word processing program.
Learn Internet Explorer - Reviews Internet Explorer, the browser used at the library to search the Internet. Topics include commonly used menu items, toolbars and printing. Participants are expected to be able to use a mouse and locate keys on the keyboard.
Yahoo Email Basics

Learn how to set up a free Yahoo email account.

Check It Out . . .Yourself!

Bemis patrons can now check out library materials themselves at our new self-check machine. “Early reaction to the self-check station from staff and patrons has been very positive with many comments about how easy the machine is to use,” said Margery Smith, Library Director. Books and media can be checked out at the machine. Staff is available at the Checkout Desk to assist patrons if they prefer manual check out.

Share Memories with Bi-Folkal Remembering Kits

Discover a valuable new resource available for checkout at the library! Bi-Folkal Remembering Kits are a whole series of programs in a bag designed to stimulate memories on a particular time or topic. Each Bi-Folkal Remembering Kit encourages seniors to share their experiences and memories by unlocking remarkable stories, humorous anecdotes, and first-person accounts of history, experience and life. The kits contain slides, videos or both, cassette tapes, large print booklets of sing-along songs, poetry and photographs, activities, skits, textures, scents, and objects, all reminiscent of a selected theme. The kits are shelved near the Large Print book collection on the main level of the library. The kits may be checked out for three weeks. If you would like a demonstration or need additional information about the Bi-Folkal Remembering Kits, stop by the Information Desk.

Free Medical Services Offered

If you do not have medical insurance and need to see a doctor, take advantage of the free medical services being offered by Adventist Community Services (ACS) and Littleton Adventist Hospital. ACS is providing a van equipped as a medical office and staffed with a medical doctor and a nurse. It will be in the Bemis parking lot on Mondays from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Services offered include exams, checkups, screenings, and treatment of chronic conditions. Arrangements for this service were negotiated by the Health Care Committee of the Littleton Immigrant Integration Initiative. For more information, please call ACS at 303-935-7389.

Bemis Knitting Group

Knitters of all ages are invited to the library’s knitting group which meets on Friday afternoons at 2:00 p.m. in Sophie’s Place. Bring a pair of needles and a skein of yarn and get ready to knit! Beginners will learn skills such as casting on, knitting, purling, and casting off, while experienced knitters will get project ideas and provide hints and tips for the rest of the group. The group is working on creating gloves, scarves and hats for people who use the free medical van services at the library.

Homebound Delivery Service

Bemis offers a free delivery service to City of Littleton residents who are unable to visit the library due to physical limitations. If you are temporarily or permanently confined to your home because of illness, age or physical disability, we will deliver library materials to you. Available materials include books (even Braille), magazines, CDs, audio books, and videos. If you are interested in this service, please contact librarian Pam Child at 303-795-3961 and let us know what materials you are interested in having delivered to your home once a month by library staff or a wonderful volunteer. Volunteers are needed for this program. Call the library at 303-795-3961 to volunteer.

Volunteer at Bemis!

Bemis is seeking volunteers who are willing to make a three hour per week commitment for at least three months. We have openings for volunteers to perform the following tasks: shelving, delivering books to homebound patrons, processing materials, mending, and assisting with programs for both Adult and Children’s Services. Training will be provided. Please call the library at 303-795-3961 for more details.

Upcoming Programs at Bemis

Mark your calendars now for these library events coming next month:

Orphan Train, A Dramatic Presentation, Wednesday, February 4, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Musical Moments @ Sophie’s Place with musician Tim Hanauer, Sat., Feb. 14, 2-3:00 p.m.
Theater Night: An Evening of One-Act Plays About Relationships, Tues., Feb. 17, 7-8:30 p.m.
Express Yourself Teen Photography Class & Contest, Saturday, February 21, 1:00 p.m.
George Washington at Mount Vernon, Monday, February 23, 2:00 p.m.

Schedule of Library Events

Jan. Art Exhibit Littleton Public Schools Elementary Art Show

Thursday, Jan. 1 New Year’s Day - LIBRARY CLOSED

Friday, Jan. 2 Family Film Event: Horton Hears a Who (G), 2:00 p.m.

Bemis Knitting Group, 2:00 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 3 Introduction to Microsoft Word, Space Available, 9:00-11:00 a.m.

Teen Anime Club, 12:00 noon

Monday, Jan. 5 Senior Book Club, 2:00 p.m.

Free Medical Services Van, Bemis Parking Lot, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 6 Story Box, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 7 Learn Internet Explorer, Space Available, 9:00-10:30 a.m.

Story Box, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Beginner Russian Language & Literature Group, 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Library Board Meeting. 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 8 Preschool Story Time, 10:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.

Intermediate Russian Language & Literature Group, 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Friday, Jan.9 Preschool Story Time, 10:30 a.m.

Bemis Knitting Group, 2:00 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 10 Introduction to Microsoft Excel, Space Available, 9:00-11:00 a.m.

Saturday Stories, 10:30 a.m.

Saturday Movie Matinee: Mamma Mia! 2:00-4:00 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 12 Free Medical Services Van, Bemis Parking Lot, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 13 Story Box, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Speck: The Life & Times of Spencer Penrose, 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 14 Story Box, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Thursday, Jan. 15 Preschool Story Time, 10:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.

Teen Games: Wii, 3:30 p.m.

Friday, Jan.16 Preschool Story Time, 10:30 a.m.

Bemis Knitting Group, 2:00 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 17 Paws to Read, 10:00 a.m.-noon

Monday, Jan. 19 Martin Luther King Day - LIBRARY CLOSED

Tuesday, Jan. 20 Story Box, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Papa’s Girl: The Fascinating World of Helen Bonfils, 7:00-8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 21 Story Box, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Thursday, Jan. 22 Preschool Story Time, 10:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 23 Preschool Story Time, 10:30 a.m.

Bemis Knitting Group, 2:00 p.m.

Teen Advisory Group, 3:30 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 24 Saturday Stories, 10:30 a.m.

Musical Moments @ Sophie’s Place, 2:00-3:00 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 26 How to Be Happy, 2:00 p.m.

Free Medical Services Van, Bemis Parking Lot, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Monday Evening Book Group, 7:00-8:00 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 27 Story Box, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 28 Story Box, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Thursday, Jan. 29 Preschool Story Time, 10:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 30 Preschool Story Time, 10:30 a.m.

Bemis Knitting Group, 2:00 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 31 A Cowboy’s Tale, 2:00 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 2 Senior Book Club, 2:00 p.m.

Free Medical Services Van, Bemis Parking Lot, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 3 Story Box, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 4 Computer Comfort, Space Available, 9:00-10:30 a.m.

Story Box, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Beginner Russian Language & Literature Group, 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Library Board Meeting. 7:00 p.m.

Orphan Train, A Dramatic Presentation, 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Find specific program details elsewhere in this newsletter.

Bemis Public Library

City of Littleton

6014 South Datura Street

Littleton, CO 80120

Phone: 303-795-3961

Fax: 303-795-3996

TDD: 303-795-3913

E-Mail: bemislib@earthlink.net

Web Site: http://www.littletongov.org/bemis/default.asp

Online Catalog:

http://bemis.sirsi.net

Phone Renewal: 303-797-0566

Dial-a-Story: 303-795-3960

LIBRARY HOURS: M-Th 9-9; F-Sa 9-5; Su 1-5

If you are disabled and seeking an accommodation

to participate in a Library program, please notify the Library

one week in advance in writing or by calling 303-795-3961 or TDD 303-795-3913.

Behind the Cover is published monthly by Bemis Public Library.

Behind the Cover Designer/Editor: Julie Clark Kingery

Contributors: Bemis Library Staff