Hancock Town Library

2012-01-12T16:07:00.002-05:00

SUGAR CUBE CASTLES are back…
Create a winter wonderland, build a magical castle out of sugar cubes and sweet treats. Recommended for elementary students. Registration required.
THIS PROGRAM HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED TO FRIDAY, JANUARY 20TH AT 3:15PM
Please call the library at 525-4411 or email hancockkidlib@comcast.net to confirm your reservation.

Inclement Weather

2012-01-11T16:07:00.002-05:00

In the event of inclement weather and the cancellation of the Conval schools, all scheduled children's programs will be either cancelled or re-scheduled.

We will re-schedule Sugar Cube Castles if school cancelled on Thursday January 12th.

For more information please call or email Rennie Timm at hancockkidlib@comcast.net.

Books to look forward to in 2012

2011-12-29T14:05:00.001-05:00

Great piece in the Atlantic - 15 Books to Look Forward to in 2012. Read the whole thing here.

Library Events for January 2012

2011-12-29T12:06:00.002-05:00

From the Library…

Mondays, January 9, 16, 23, 30, Feb. 6 & 13
7:30 – 9:00 pm
Jujitsu – Adult Mix Class

This is a beginning class for men and women. You will learn basic, simple techniques of jujitsu in order to overcome an attacker with very little effort. Open to men and women age 15 and up. The class will be taught by Sensei Marc Mosher who has trained in jujitsu since 1980. Mosher has studied with Steven Seagal and owned a school in Henniker, NH. He is currently a 5th degree black belt and resides in Hancock. Fee is $45 for a six week session. For more information or to register for the class, call Marc at 603-313-1576. Visit Sensei Mosher’s website at www.strongtiger.webs.com

Thursdays, January 12, 19, 26, Feb. 2, 9 & 16
7:30 – 9:00 pm
Women’s Streetwise Safety

Women (15 and up) will learn basic techniques to stay physically safe. This class builds self-confidence in handling physically stressful or dangerous situations. Taught by Sensei Marc Mosher. Fee is $45 for a six-week session. Please call Marc at 603-313-1576 for more information and to register for the class. Visit Sensei Mosher’s website at www.strongtiger.webs.com

Thursdays, January 5th and ongoing, from 3:00 – 4:15 pm
Kripalu Yoga with Margaret Gurney

Join us for beginning yoga with Margaret Gurney. Gentle, relaxing class – you’ll feel better afterward! Wear comfortable clothes and bring a yoga mat and a blanket. Cost is $10 per session. Register by calling the library at 525-4411.

Friday January 20th at 7:00 pm
Since Otar Left - Foreign Film Series

Join us for our Foreign Film Series on the third Friday of every month. This month’s movie is Since Otar Left, a film produced by companies in France and Belgium but set in the former Soviet republic of Georgia. A family is forced into deception for the sake of their matriarch in this poignant drama. Three generations of women share a tiny apartment in Tbilisi, a Georgia city that has been devastated by war, political instability, and a ruined economy. Eka (Esther Gorintin) is an elderly woman whose health is failing, but her will remains strong and she holds sway over the household. Eka's daughter, Marina (Nino Khomassouridze), is a middle-aged woman who is still dealing with the devastating circumstances of her childhood and the death of her husband. And Marina's daughter, Ada (Dinara Droukarova), is a college student who feels trapped by her circumstances and abraded by her lack of privacy; she has a lover, but since she must share a bed with her mother, they can only make love in his car. The light of Eka's life is her son, Otar, who has fled Tbilisi and lives in Paris. Otar writes frequently and sends money as often as he can, and while Marina resents her mother's obvious favoritism toward her brother, she and Ada realize how important his letters are to her. While Eka is visiting friends, Marina and Ada receive devastating news -- Otar has died in Paris, and since he wasn't carrying his visa when his body was found, he's been buried in an unmarked pauper's grave. Afraid this news would be a severe blow to Eka's poor health, Marina doesn't tell her mother what has happened, and Ada begins writing letters as Otar to maintain the illusion that he's alive. The ruse works well enough until Eka announces she's raised enough money by selling her possessions to visit her son in France. Depuis Qu'Otar Est Parti... (aka Since Otar Left) is the first feature film from director Julie Bertuccelli; it received an enthusiastic reception when it was screened at the 2003 Cannes Film Festival. Free admission and popcorn thanks to the Friends of the Library.

Wednesday January 25th at 6:30 pm (Snow date of February 1st)
Star Party with Scott McCartney

Come take a look at the winter sky out behind the library! Hancock resident and amateur astronomist Scott McCartney will bring his telescope and teach us a bit about the planets and stars we can see. Appropriate for elementary school aged children and up. Free and open to all! Dress warmly as we’ll be outside.

Friday January 27th at 7:00 pm
The Two Weeks by Larry Duberstein

We are fortunate to host novelist Larry Duberstein who will read from his latest book, The Two Weeks. “A novel of love and lust, memory and desire. Duberstein’s narrative technique allows him to approach The Two Weeks indirectly, 30 years after the event. This chronological dislocation allows the characters to match the reality of their lived experience against the distortion of memory. Duberstein writes vividly and explores the space between life as we live it and as we wish we could.” –Kirkus Reviews And the New York Journal of Books has this to say: “A sensitive...story that is assured in what it wants to say. The Two Weeks is written by a veteran author who is not trying to dazzle with literary showmanship but with intimate storytelling.” Mr. Duberstein, a native of Brooklyn, New York, was an undergraduate at Wesleyan University and a graduate student at Harvard University. He now resides mostly in Hancock, sometimes in Cambridge. This event is free and open to all.

From the Children's Room
Rennie Timm, Children’s Librarian

Thursdays, January 5,12,19,26 at 10:30am
LAPTOP TODDLER STORYTIME & SIMPLE CRAFTS

Walking and talking, this toddler story time is an interactive program for all pre-schoolers and their parents or care providers. We’ll share books, rhymes, songs, finger play & movement. Our goal is to foster an early love of books and literacy. At the end of the program, there will be playtime for parents and caregivers to share books, puzzles, or other literacy activities with their toddler. Dress comfortably as we will be sitting on the floor in the Children’s Room. No registration required, feel free to drop in anytime.

Tuesday, January 3 at 3:15–4:15pm
BLOCK PARTY: LEGO® Fun for First and Second graders

Join us for an afternoon snack and let your imagination run wild. Hands on learning opportunity to explore how things work. LEGO® bricks are provided by the library. This session is for early elementary children. Registration recommended, please sign up in Children's Room.

Thursday, January 12 at 3:15-4:15pm
SUGAR CUBE CASTLES are back…

Create a winter wonderland, build a magical castle out of sugar cubes and sweet treats. Recommended for elementary students. Registration required, sign up in Children’s Room, call the library at 525-4411 or email hancockkidlib@comcast.net

Tuesday, January 17 at 3:15–4:15pm
BLOCK PARTY: LEGO® Fun for Third and Fourth graders

Join us for an afternoon snack and let your imagination run wild. Hands on learning opportunity to explore how things work. LEGO® bricks are provided by the library. Middle School students welcome. Registration recommended, please sign up in Children's Room.
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Wednesday, January 25 at 2:45-4:30pm
DUCT TAPE DESIGNS

Middle school students come join us for an afternoon of duct tape creations. We will start simple, making wallets. Duct tape diva, Mackenzie Wetherill will lead the session. Tape will be supplied by the library, but feel free to bring your own supplies. Registration recommended. Please email hancockkidlib@comcast.net

Tuesday, January 31 at 3:30-5pm
WINTER BIRD FEAST

Join Harris Center Naturalist Susie Spikol Faber and Children’s Librarian Rennie Timm for an afternoon of finding out about New Hampshire’s Winter Birds. We’ll discover which birds stay in NH during these cold months. And we’ll make them tasty bird treats to hang outside the library. Bird legends and stories will fill your imagination with these feathery friends and you’ll get to make and take your own bird field guide and bird feeding treat. Elementary aged children, come join us for this special tweet. Registration required, sign up in Children’s Room, call the library at 525-4411 or email hancockkidlib@comcast.net. Co-sponsored with the Harris Center. Free

A special thank you to the McGuiness family and Beth Grosjean for their generous donation of puzzles to the Children’s room. The toddlers are excited to have new puzzles to play with.

I would also like to recognize the middle schoolers who helped with our Holiday craft workshop, Veronica R., Skye C., Hannah P., Lily D., Mackenzie W., and Isabelle R. You were all a great help. –Rennie Timm

Holiday Hours

2011-12-21T17:38:00.001-05:00

The library will be open on Saturday December 24th and Saturday December 31st from 10 am til 1 pm.

The library will be closed Monday December 26th and Monday January 2nd.

Have a safe and happy holiday!

The Value of Pie

2011-12-15T10:25:00.003-05:00

Mel Graykin of the Philbrick-James Library in Deerfield, NH has written a wonderful piece for the Concord Monitor about fundraising for libraries, public schools, and other community institutions. Below is an excerpt but you can read the entire article here.

"They started coming in just before closing time, and soon the Children's Room was filling with the fragrance of baked apples and cinnamon. It was the night before the annual Friends of the Library Pie Sale.

It's not just pies. Mary County's yeast rolls were already sold, and folks pay ahead of time to be sure they get one of Sara Kjendal's coffee cakes. The traditional turkey cookies, made from Oreos and candy corn, were always provided by Judy Hartgen, but she passed away last year. So Bob Mann stepped up and made a tray full.

Pie sales are a statewide tradition. In Deerfield, it's always the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Orford, which has two libraries, does one for Thanksgiving and one on Memorial day. In Temple, the pie sale is part of the town Harvest Festival, and Washington holds its on Columbus Day Weekend. In Thornton, they hold a bake sale every month. In Kensington, the Friends of the Library do a big book/bake/plant sale in May, the day before Mothers Day. Bartlett does a bake sale in conjunction with its Fourth of July book sale, and Chesterfield sells pies in conjunction with the firemen's annual corn roast. Gilford carries on the tradition of selling pie by the slice with ice cream on Old Home Day. Tuftonboro offers local berry cordials with its pies and even bread in the shape of a lobster."

Amazon's Jungle Logic by Richard Russo

2011-12-13T09:17:00.003-05:00

Richard Russo wrote an interesting article about Amazon in today's New York Times. Apparently Amazon is encouraging its customers to go into brick-and-mortar bookstores and use its "price-check app" to see if they can get a better deal online. Russo then polled other authors about this practice. Dennis LeHane and Andre Dubus III were two authors who had something to say about this: “Scorched-earth capitalism” is how Dennis described it. “They don’t win unless they destroy their competition and then rub their noses in it.” Andre was outraged by Amazon’s attempt to turn its customers into “Droid-packing” spies. Like Dennis, he saw the move as an unsubtle attempt to monopolize the market, the effect of which would ultimately be to “further devalue, as a cultural and human necessity, the book” itself." Read the full article here.

2011-12-06T16:10:00.002-05:00

From the Library…

Have you been wondering about what it’s like to read an ebook? Well, wonder no more! The library’s Nook is up and running and ready to be checked out. It’s the very basic Nook but it will give you a chance to see how it feels to you. You might also want to check out three articles posted on our website here. Each article compares the various tablets out there: Kindle Fire, Nook Tablet, iPad, etc. And don’t forget that the Hancock Town Library is on Facebook – please visit our page and “like” it!

Friday December 16th at 7:00 pm
Friday Foreign Film Fest!
Les Gout des Autres (The Taste of Others)

Agnes Jaoui co-writes and directs this romantic comedy of manners set in France's rustic Provence. Unpolished and ultra-pragmatic industrialist Jean-Jacques Castella (co-scripter Jean-Pierre Bacri) reluctantly attends Racine's tragedy "Berenice" in order to see his niece play a bit part. He is taken with the play's strangely familiar-looking leading lady Clara Devaux (Anne Alvaro). During the course of the show, Castella soon remembers that he once hired and then promptly fired the actress as an English language tutor. He immediately goes out and signs up for language lessons. Thinking that he is nothing but an ill-tempered philistine with bad taste, Clara rejects him until Castella charms her off her feet. As the Washington Post wrote, “The Taste of Others [is] a worldly-wise, compassionate and charmingly acted Gallic comedy...” Free admission & popcorn thanks to Friends of the Library!

From the Children's Room
Rennie Timm, Children’s Librarian

Thursdays, December 1st and 8th at 10:30am
LAPTOP TODDLER STORYTIME & SIMPLE CRAFTS

Walking and talking, this toddler story time is an interactive program for all pre-schoolers and their parents or care providers. We’ll share books, rhymes, songs, finger play & movement. Our goal is to foster an early love of books and literacy. At the end of the program, there will be playtime for parents and caregivers to share books, puzzles, or other literacy activities with their toddler. Dress comfortably as we will be sitting on the floor in the Children’s Room. No registration required, feel free to drop in anytime.

Tuesday, December 6th at 3:15 - 4pm
BLOCK PARTY: LEGO® Fun

Join us for an afternoon snack and let your imagination run wild. Hands on learning opportunity to explore how things work. LEGO® bricks are provided by the library. Recommended for Elementary School students to Adults.. Registration recommended, please sign up in Children's Room.

Wednesday, December 14th at 3:15 - 4pm
HOLIDAY CRAFTS

Fun holiday crafts for all ages. Enjoy a snack while listening to holiday MUSIC and embrace the spirit of the season. Recommended for elementary and middle school students. Parents are encouraged to join in the fun with younger children. Registration at Children's Room desk. Last minute drop-ins welcome.

The library would like to request donations of gently used puppets, wooden puzzles, board games, or toys for toddlers. Please drop items off in the Children’s Room. Thank you!

Library Trustee Minutes November 23, 2011

2011-12-06T16:09:00.002-05:00

Hancock Library Board of Trustees
Minutes November 23, 2011

Present: Laurie Bryan, Mary Garland, Amy Markus, Peter Ryner

Secretary's Report: The October Minutes were approved.

Treasurer's Report: The Treasurer's Report was approved.

Director's Report: Amy and Mary were thanked for the color chosen for the recently painted library wall. Amy's suggestion that an additional wall be painted the same color was encouraged. There was discussion of when to replace the Library's carpet as part of the Town's capital improvement program. It was concluded that to minimize expenses, that only the heavily worn stairway carpet would be replaced in 2012, and that some alternative flooring surface should be used for the Daniel's room, where spills appear to be unavoidable.

It was agreed that the Trustees would conduct a performance review of Amy's work in December.

The Board agreed to meet on December 28 at 1pm.

Submitted by Peter Ryner

Interesting article on the NY Public Library

2011-12-05T21:26:00.002-05:00

"These are arduous times for public library systems. More people are using libraries during the economic downturn, but state and local legislators are steadily cutting their budgets. The American Library Association notes that since 2008, “more than half the states have reported a decrease in funding, with cumulative cuts averaging greater than ten percent.” Library systems of all sizes are under pressure. The Los Angeles County public library system, which serves 3.7 million citizens, faces a structural deficit of $22 million a year for the next decade. Budget cuts have forced the Seattle Public Library, one of the nation’s finest, to shut down for a week in late summer. Thomas Galante, CEO of the bustling Queens Library, which serves hundreds of thousands of immigrants in New York City, spoke reverently about one healthy and outstanding public library—in Toronto." Read the full article here.

Thursday November 17th at 7:00 pm

2011-11-16T15:40:00.002-05:00

Are You Talking to Me?
The Language of Cats & Dogs
with Dr. Michelle Posage

Have you ever wondered what your pet was trying to say to you? Dog and cats are talking to us all the time, but unfortunately their message often is lost in translation. Miscommunication leads to poor training, behavior problems like aggressive behavior, and fatal blows to the human-animal bond. This review of canine and feline communication will discuss how dogs an cats use scent, vocalization, and body language relate to each other and to us. Dr. Michelle Posage enjoys talking about dogs and cats almost as much as she loves being around them. She holds a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Michigan State University, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology with concentrations in neurobiology and animal behavior, also from MSU. She teaches small animal behavior in the Applied Animal Science department at Thompson School and is a practicing veterinary behaviorist at the Animal Medical Center of New England where she accepts referrals from other veterinarians and animal professionals to treat serious behavior issues in dogs and cats. Dr. Posage has published her research on animal shelter adoptions in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association and is a contributing author for the books, Shelter Medicine for Veterinarians and Staff and Mental Health and Well-being in Animals. Subscribers enjoy her monthly Pet Column in the Nashua Telegraph. Free and open to all.

Wednesday November 16th @ 7:00 pm

2011-11-15T14:34:00.003-05:00

A Piano in Every Room with Rosamond van der Linde

Rosamond van der Linde co-founded a music school unlike any other, blending love of music, love of people and a passionate commitment to education, and community service. “A Piano In Every Room” tells the astonishing tale of a family living in 42-room house with 34 pianos. The story includes Rosamond’s victory over childhood polio, while her husband, Rein van der Linde, survived the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam. Their sheer courage created their destiny. Later, raising a remarkable musical family of seven pianists the parents shaped their own children’s lives, embraced their community, and grew into a cultural treasure for America, and friends around the world.

For close to forty years the entire family has been involved in teaching piano, building the music school, summer and adult camps all of which have been written up in books, magazines, The New York Times, Forbes Magazine, and profiled on PBS, New England Channel News, and CNN News. This has generated hundreds of questions as to how it all came about and how the van der Lindes did it. This book provides the answers by the founder herself. The story is about a dynamic family that created a music enterprise and thrived within it. The tale reveals a passion for piano, a delightful family story, and a unique learning experience.

Rosamond will make available for those who attend her readings to have an opportunity to participate in a free drawing for one of her new books “A Piano In Every Room”.

The event is free and open to the public.

Tablet decisions! Help is here...

2011-11-08T12:52:00.002-05:00

Thinking about purchasing a tablet this holiday season but aren't sure which one to buy? Here are several helpful articles on the various tablets out there: Nook Tablet, Kindle Fire, iPad 2, or the Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9.

This article from mashable.com has a handy chart comparing the various tablets.

This article from geek.com covers just the Kindle Fire vs. the Nook Tablet.

Another comparison chart in this article from verge.com.

Many thanks to Bobbi Slossar, the NH State Library's Tech Goddess, for sharing these articles.

Genealogy Workshop Thursday Nov. 3rd

2011-11-03T11:35:00.002-05:00

Thursday Nov. 3rd at 7:00 pm
An Introduction to Genealogy with Diane Gravel

Certified Genealogist Diane Gravel will teach effective methods of genealogical research. Having worked in the legal field for twenty years before becoming a full-time professional genealogist, Diane is no stranger to courthouse and government records. She has given lectures on a variety of topics for genealogical societies at the local, state and national level. She graduated with honors from the NGS home-study course, American Genealogy: A Basic Course. She also successfully completed courses in Military Records and Advanced Research and Methodology at the Institute for Genealogical and Historical Research (IGHR) at Samford University in Birmingham. She is also a graduate of the National Institute on Genealogical Research (NIGR). Diane is currently working on the "1790 Families Project" for the New Hampshire Society of Genealogists. If you’re new to genealogy or well into it and have questions about further research please join us! Free and open to all.

Wonderful Mystery in Scotland's Libraries

2011-11-01T11:17:00.003-05:00

This is a rather wonderful story, sent to me by my sister, a librarian in Vermont. Take a few moments and read it here.

October Minutes - Library Trustees

2011-10-27T09:12:00.002-05:00

Minutes of October 26, 2011

Library Trustees

Minutes from September 28, 2011 – approved

Treasurers report – not available

Director’s report:

Sand bucket will stay where it is for winter and move out of sight in warm weather.

Back lawn – Amy proposal is to plant pumpkins with Cornupcopia, HES and library collaboration. She’ll send a letter to selectboard to let them know.

Time to review personnel policies.

Amy’s review will be in November-
- What’s going well
- What are the challenges
- What are goals for the year

Reviewed upcoming programs.

Meeting adjourned at 1: 44 pm

Submitted by Laurie Bryan

Library Events for November 2011

2011-10-25T12:54:00.006-05:00

Tuesday November 1st at 7:00 pm
First Tuesday Book Club

Join our discussion of Mudbound by Hillary Jordan. Next month’s book is Midwives by Chris Bohjalian. Visit the book club any month you’re able. We’re open to all, we’re free, we’re friendly, and we read an eclectic mix of books. Join us!

Thursday November 3rd at 7:00 pm
An Introduction to Genealogy with Diane Gravel

Certified Genealogist Diane Gravel will teach effective methods of genealogical research. Having worked in the legal field for twenty years before becoming a full-time professional genealogist, Diane is no stranger to courthouse and government records. She has given lectures on a variety of topics for genealogical societies at the local, state and national level. She graduated with honors from the NGS home-study course, American Genealogy: A Basic Course. She also successfully completed courses in Military Records and Advanced Research and Methodology at the Institute for Genealogical and Historical Research (IGHR) at Samford University in Birmingham. She is also a graduate of the National Institute on Genealogical Research (NIGR). Diane is currently working on the "1790 Families Project" for the New Hampshire Society of Genealogists. If you’re new to genealogy or well into it and have questions about further research please join us! Free and open to all.

Wednesday November 16th at 7:00 pm
A Piano in Every Room with Rosamond van der Linde

Rosamond van der Linde will be reading excerpts of her new book A Piano In Every Room. Rosamond van der Linde co-founded a music school unlike any other, blending love of music, love of people and a passionate commitment to education, and community service. A Piano In Every Room tells the astonishing tale of a family living in 42-room house with 34 pianos. The story includes Rosamond’s victory over childhood polio, while her husband, Rein van der Linde, survived the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam. Their sheer courage created their destiny. Later, raising a remarkable musical family of seven pianists the parents shaped their own children’s lives, embraced their community, and grew into a cultural treasure for America, and friends around the world. For close to forty years the entire family has been involved in teaching piano, building the music school, and summer and adult camps, all of which have been covered by The New York Times and Forbes Magazine, as well as profiled on PBS and CNN News. The event is free and open to the public. For further details 603-525-4411.

Thursday November 17th at 7:00 pm
Are You Talking to Me? The Language of Cats & Dogs with Dr. Michelle Posage

Have you ever wondered what your pet was trying to say to you? Dog and cats are talking to us all the time, but unfortunately their message often is lost in translation. Miscommunication leads to poor training, behavior problems like aggressive behavior, and fatal blows to the human-animal bond. This review of canine and feline communication will discuss how dogs an cats use scent, vocalization, and body language relate to each other and to us. Dr. Michelle Posage enjoys talking about dogs and cats almost as much as she loves being around them. She holds a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Michigan State University, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology with concentrations in neurobiology and animal behavior, also from MSU. She teaches small animal behavior in the Applied Animal Science department at Thompson School and is a practicing veterinary behaviorist at the Animal Medical Center of New England where she accepts referrals from other veterinarians and animal professionals to treat serious behavior issues in dogs and cats. Dr. Posage has published her research on animal shelter adoptions in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association and is a contributing author for the books, Shelter Medicine for Veterinarians and Staff and Mental Health and Well-being in Animals. Subscribers enjoy her monthly Pet Column in the Nashua Telegraph. Free and open to all.

From the Children's Room…
Rennie Timm, Children’s Librarian

Tuesday, November 1 at 3:15 - 4pm
BLOCK PARTY: LEGO® Fun

Join us for an afternoon snack and let your imagination run wild. Hands on learning opportunity to explore how things work. LEGO® bricks are provided by the library. Recommended for Elementary School students to Adults. This program will run through December 6, on the first Tuesday of every month. Registration recommended, please sign up in Children's Room at desk.

Thursdays, November 3,10 &17 at 10:30am
LAPTOP TODDLER STORYTIME & SIMPLE CRAFTS

Walking and talking, this toddler story time is an interactive program for all pre-schoolers and their parents or care providers. We’ll share books, rhymes, songs, finger play & movement. Our goal is to foster an early love of books and literacy. At the end of the program, there will be playtime for parents and caregivers to share books, puzzles, or other literacy activities with their toddler. Dress comfortably as we will be sitting on the floor in the Children’s Room. This program will run through December 1, every Thursday morning. No registration required, feel free to drop in anytime.

Tuesday, November 15th – After school from 3-4 pm
Recruiting MIDDLE SCHOOL ADVISORY GROUP

Calling all Middle Schoolers!!! Looking for a place to meet with your friends? Looking for fun activities to do with your friends? Would you like a voice in what happens at the Library for Young Adults? Then join us for PIZZA and conversation to brainstorm upcoming activities and events for pre-teens and teens. Recommended for grades 5-8. . Registration at Children's Room desk or email hancockkidlib@comcast.net Last minute drop-ins welcome.

Edie Clark - Thursday October 20th at 7:00

2011-10-17T16:32:00.002-05:00

Yankee Magazine columnist Edie Clark will read from States of Grace: Encounters with Real Yankees at the Hancock Town Library on Thursday October 20th at 7:00 pm.

States of Grace: Encounters with Real Yankees, a finalist for best nonfiction book from the NH Writer's Project, includes more than thirty profiles of the known (Granny D, Carolyn Chute, Dennis Littky, Roxanne Quimby, David Carroll) as well as the unknown:

· A woman who’d never made a quilt before but who dreamed a pattern one night and spent the next six months stitching together her dream pattern, the first of many she has created entirely by hand and then has given away, with love.

· A man who took photographs of his hometown, Hartford, Ct., for most of his life using a Brownie reflex camera and creating what amounted to a complete architectural history of his beloved city. The photos are now in the permanent collection at the Hartford Public Library.

· A man who, in 1935, bought a house and five acres of hayfield in central Maine and promised his wife they would someday have “gardens we can walk through.” Both of them are gone now but his extensive gardens have been saved as a national treasure that thousands walk through each summer.

· A Rhode Island man who conquered his retirement boredom by creating an entire miniature village out of discarded aluminum cans. The village (every house is furnished inside) is now in a museum of historic preservation in Newport.

· An eighty-nine-year-old lobsterwoman and shepherdess who kept her sheep on an island and her heart in a lighthouse.

· A group of young people who followed a Cuban psychologist into a magical future.

· A man in love with grass.

Of these people, Clark says in her introduction: “(these are) all ostensibly ordinary people but who had one central passion that drove their lives. Eventually, I realized that they were, each of them, living in a state of grace: there was one deep and abiding passion at the center of their lives which endowed them with an elegance and guided them with generosity and good will.”

Each story, many of which were originally published in Yankee magazine, is augmented with an update at the end of the piece.

Edie Clark has written extensively about New England in award-winning feature stories for Yankee magazine for more than thirty years. She is Contributing Editor for Yankee. She has been a Fellow at The MacDowell Colony and Visiting Writer at Northern Michigan University. She has taught writing and journalism in the MFA program at Emerson College and is currently teaching at Franklin Pierce University. Her column, Mary's Farm, has been a popular feature in Yankee since 1990. Among her works are The View from Mary's Farm (2005), a collection of essays from the column; Saturday Beans and Sunday Suppers: Kitchen Stories from Mary's Farm (2007), which features essays about favorite foods along with recipes; and her memoir, The Place He Made (1995), which was reissued in a new edition in 2009.

This program is free and open to all. For more information, call the library at 525-4411.

Minutes for the September 2011 Library Trustee Meeting

2011-10-17T16:31:00.001-05:00

Hancock Library Board of Trustees
Minutes September 28, 2011

Present: Laurie Bryan, Mary Garland, Amy Markus, Peter Ryner

Secretary's Report: The minutes of the July 27, 2011 meeting were approved.

Treasurer's Report: Approved.

Director's Report: There was some discussion of the roof replacement project. Amy reported that the work should be done by the end of October. The Board formally accepted an additional gift of $739.36 from the Gardner estate. It was agreed that in the future only one person would be paid for cleaning the library.

The meeting ended at 12:10pm.

Submitted by Peter Ryner

Yoga Class Starts Thursday October 13 - SIGN UP TODAY!!!

2011-10-06T17:51:00.003-05:00

Yoga for Health Series with Margaret Gurney

Yoga is designed to bring you present in the moment. Its focus is on developing nonjudgmental awareness, opening oneself to inner stillness in yoga practice, meditation, and daily life. By coordinating breath with postures, and focusing attention, we come to deeper states of balance and harmony. Come to stretch, quiet down, and ultimately relax.

Please bring your own yoga mat and blanket, wear loose clothing, and don’t have just eaten. $60 for 6 sessions, payable to Ms. Gurney. Register at the front desk at the library or by calling 525-4411.

Margaret Gurney has been studying yoga all her adult life, and intensively for the last 10 years. She was certified at Kripalu a year ago, and has been teaching beginner levels ever since.

100 Banned Books

2011-09-27T17:06:00.001-05:00

This is clever. Watch here.

Library Events for October 2011

2011-09-22T17:38:00.004-05:00

Saturday October 1st 4:00 – 6:00 pm
Reception for Artists Ann Eldridge and Bill Duffy

A Photographer and a Printmaker Walked into the Woods…

The next exhibit in the Daniels Room will feature the works of photographer Bill Duffy and printmaker J. Ann Eldridge, both of Bradford, New Hampshire. During October of 2010, Eldridge and Duffy (and their dog) spent two weeks in a remote cabin on the shore of the Haskell Deadwater - a slow-moving section of the East Branch of Penobscot River in northern Maine. The cabin was without electricity or running water but came with a full complement of mice.

The isolated location and lack of distractions allowed both artists to concentrate on their work but also altered their usual methods of image-making. Eldridge, who is known for intricately drawn nature studies in the medium of intaglio (etching and aquatint), was compelled to work more rapidly with pencil and charcoal as the light faded in the autumn sky or a morning rain shower cut short a drawing session along the river.

Duffy, who uses a full-frame digital camera for his photography, was accustomed to reviewing a day’s photographs on his computer monitor each evening. Instead, he was forced to wait until the two week sojourn had ended before he could see the results of his efforts. “It was like I was shooting with film again!” he said in mock horror.

Both artists also had to develop resourceful methods to carry their tools to remote locations only accessible by foot.

The exhibit runs from October 1st to November 3rd during normal library hours

Tuesday October 4th at 7:00 pm
First Tuesday Book Club

Join the group in a discussion of Thomas Steinbeck’s novel In the Shadow of the Cypress. November’s book will be Mudbound by Hillary Jordan (copies will be available at the front desk). Here’s an excerpt from the Amazon review of Mudbound: “Jordan won the 2006 Bellwether Prize for Mudbound, her first novel. The prize was founded by Barbara Kingsolver to reward books of conscience, social responsibility, and literary merit. In addition to meeting all of the above qualifications, Jordan has written a story filled with characters as real and compelling as anyone we know.”

Thursdays: October 13th through November 17th 3:00-4:15 pm
Yoga for Health Series with Margaret Gurney

Yoga is designed to bring you present in the moment. Its focus is on developing nonjudgmental awareness, opening oneself to inner stillness in yoga practice, meditation, and daily life. By coordinating breath with postures, and focusing attention, we come to deeper states of balance and harmony. Come to stretch, quiet down, and ultimately relax.

Please bring your own yoga mat and blanket, wear loose clothing, and don’t have just eaten. $60 for 6 sessions, payable to Ms. Gurney. Register at the front desk at the library or by calling 525-4411.

Margaret Gurney has been studying yoga all her adult life, and intensively for the last 10 years. She was certified at Kripalu a year ago, and has been teaching beginner levels ever since.

Wednesdays: October 19th and 26th at 7:00 pm
Learn about Linux with Jon GrosJean

Are you having problems with your old computer like a slow boot-up, viruses and an Office program which will not open the latest .docx and .xlsx files? Confused by the Windows 7 operation and the directory structure? Don't want to spend a fortune for a Mac? Then, Linux may be for you. There are many versions, each with its unique advantages, but some like Ubuntu and Mint Linux have tried to make the user interface like the desktop you are accustomed to and offer hundreds of free software programs. Another called Puppy Linux is very small and can even be run from a USB stick. No more illegal copying of licensed software. All the programs are free and can be copied as many times as you want. Open Office and Libre Office are also available (for Windows also) and are as good or better than the very expensive office programs. They also offer features like PDF printing and will open the latest Microsoft Office formats.

The first session will show how a computer can boot up with either Windows or Linux and some of the unique features of Ubuntu Linux. If there is enough interest, in the next meeting, we can set up Linux on your computer and go through more of the features. You may want to bring in a notebook in case you want to experiment at home. We can also create Ubuntu or Mint Linux installation disks.

Thursday October 20th at 7:00 pm
Yankee Magazine Columnist Edie Clark

Edie Clark has been writing and editing from her home in New Hampshire for the past thirty years. She has written extensively about New England in feature stories for Yankee magazine, where she served as Senior Editor for ten years and then Senior Writer and Fiction Editor for another fourteen years. Her multiple part series on topics such as land development, water pollution, the Christian Science church and the Connecticut River have gained widespread attention. In her hundreds of articles published by Yankee, she has established her reputation as one who writes about ordinary lives changed by one extraordinary act or circumstance. If you’ve never heard Edie read her work, you’re in for a treat. If you have heard Edie read, we know you’ll be here. This program is free and open to all thanks to the generosity of the Friends of the Hancock Town Library.

From the Children’s Room (Rennie Timm, Children’s Librarian)…

Tuesday, October 4 at 3:15 - 4pm
BLOCK PARTY: LEGO® Fun

Join us for an afternoon snack and let your imagination run wild. Hands on learning opportunity to explore how things works. LEGO® bricks are provided by the library. Recommended for Elementary School students to Adults. This program will run through December 6, on the first Tuesday of every month. Registration recommended, please sign up in Children's Room at desk.

Thursday, October 6 & October 20 at 10:30am
LAPTOP TODDLER STORYTIME

Walking and talking, this toddler storytime is an interactive program for children 24 months to 36 months and their parents or care providers. We'll share books, rhymes, songs, finger play & movement. Our goal is to foster an early love of books and literacy. At the end of the program, there will be playtime for parents and caregivers to share books, puzzles, or other literacy activities with their toddler. Dress comfortably as we will be sitting on the floor in the Children's Room. This program will run through December 1, on the first and third Thursday of the month. No registration required, feel free to drop in anytime.

Wednesday, October 12 at 3:15 - 4pm
APPLES, APPLES, APPLES

Printmaking and craft fun with Apples. Create a decorative picture frame to hold your favorite photo, poem or painting. Design notecards to share with family and friends. Recommended for elementary and middle school students. Parents are encouraged to join in the fun with younger children. Registration at Children's Room desk. Last minute drop-ins welcome.

Wednesday, October 26 at 3-5pm
HALLOWEEN BAKE OFF!

Young adults learn the art of baking. Create edible treats-cookies, cupcakes and candy/caramel apples for our ONCE UPON A HALLOWEEN! program on Friday evening. No experience needed. We will meet at library and than walk over to the vestry for our cooking class. Recommended for Middle & High School students. Registration at Children's Room desk or email hancockkidlib@comcast.net

Thursday, October 27 at 3:15-4pm
PUMPKIN & SPOOKY GHOSTS CRAFTS & STORYTIME

Fun holiday crafts for all ages. Enjoy a snack while listening to a holiday story, create a craft or decorate/carve a pumpkin. Parents are encouraged to join in the fun. Recommended for ages 6 to adult. Registration required, sign up in Children's Room.

Friday, October 28 at 7pm
ONCE UPON A HALLOWEEN!

Storyteller and performer Diane Edgecomb enchants us with her spine-tingling tales for the spookiest time of the year. Once Upon A Halloween is a fun-filled, Halloween event-complete with a huge cauldron bubbling over with fog for the last dramatic story! This family program contains some old chestnuts as well as great new Halloween stories full of surprises. Come in costume and join us for Spooky Treats at the end of the performance. This is a family program especially fun and appropriate for ages 5 on up.

Reports of library's death have been greatly exaggerated!

2011-09-20T10:47:00.002-05:00

Wonderful article in today's Concord Monitor about public libraries.

"That's the point, you see. Community. When times get tough, we need it more than ever. The public library is there for us. And it has librarians, with human faces, who will smile and say, "Can I help you?" And they mean it."

Read the full article here.

Save Wednesday & Thursday Nights This Week!

2011-09-19T16:17:00.001-05:00

Wednesday September 21st at 7:00 pm
LinkedIn with Chris Halvorson

Christine Halvorson of Hancock will present an overview of the professional social networking site LinkedIn. LinkedIn is an important business tool and is especially valuable for job seekers, entrepreneurs and anyone who can benefit from networking. It’s been called “Facebook for grown-ups” and currently has about 120 million users worldwide. The presentation will include how to get started, how to begin building your connections, how to present a professional, effective site for yourself, and how to use it to look for jobs and research companies. Halvorson runs Halvorson New Media, a consulting firm that provides social media content, training and strategies to businesses and nonprofits.

Thursday September 22nd at 7:00 pm
Preserving Your Memories on Digital Video with Dan Pickering

Old photos, recordings, and home videos are a treasure chest of stories and memories. But often they are scattered about in various boxes, drawers, and albums. And, in so many formats: prints, slides, vinyl records, audio tapes, memorabilia, 8mm movies, videotape, and now---digital media. This presentation will explore options for organizing, preserving, & creating a digital legacy that can be shared with friends and loved ones, now and in the future. Dan taught computer education, broadcasting, and video projects in the Michigan public schools for 31 years and continues his hobby/part-time occupation of video production at home in Hancock. He moved here with his wife, Sandra, in 2005 and they enjoy a quiet New England lifestyle of gardening, hiking, canoeing, and observing local wildlife near Willard Pond.

Paul Hertneky - Tonight at 7:00 pm!

2011-09-15T12:21:00.002-05:00

Paul Hertnecky will read from his book Rust Belt Boy tonight. This one's not to be missed!

A "Branch" Library??

2011-09-14T09:41:00.002-05:00

From The Utne Reader:

Andrew Carnegie built an impressive 2,509 libraries around the turn of the 20th century. Now Rick Brooks and Todd Bol are on a mission to top his total with their two-foot by two-foot Little Free Libraries, reports Michael Kelley in Library Journal.

Read more here! It's a great idea. And if we put one in a tree in town it could be our "branch" library!

Way cool site for free audio and ebooks

2011-09-08T12:31:00.001-05:00

http://www.openculture.com/freeaudiobooks

Rust Belt Boy

2011-09-08T10:42:00.003-05:00

We are pleased to host Hancock author Paul Hertneky next Thursday evening at 7:00 pm. Paul will read selections from his book RUST BELT BOY: Life in a Land of Visionaries. To get a sneak preview please visit the Rust Belt Boy website: http://paulhertneky.wordpress.com/

Banned Books Week: September 24 - October 1, 2011

2011-09-08T10:24:00.002-05:00

Banned Books Week is an annual event celebrating the freedom to read and the importance of the First Amendment. Held during the last week of September, Banned Books Week highlights the benefits of free and open access to information while drawing attention to the harms of censorship by spotlighting actual or attempted bannings of books across the United States.

See 50 books that were banned here.

More information about Banned Books Week here.

Library Events for September 2011

2011-09-06T17:20:00.001-05:00

Tuesday September 6th at 7:00 pm
First Tuesday Book Club

Start a new season of reading with our first book of the year: Nine Parts of Desire: The Hidden World of Islamic Women by Geraldine Brooks. Books are still available at the front desk and all are welcome to join at any time.

Thursday September 15th at 7:00 pm
Rust Belt Boy – Readings by Paul Hertneky

Paul Hertneky will read new work from Rust Belt Boy -- true stories of a pivotal plateau on the colonial frontier, site of America's most prosperous Utopian community and a powerful company town, offering a personal escort into its steaming ethnic kitchens, raucous bars, and murderous steel mills. His narrative weaves an account of three centuries of visionaries exercising their will in a single place with the story of a child among immigrants, lavished with love, destined for the mills and torn between allegiance and adventure. As a freelance writer, Paul Hertneky has covered the US Culinary Olympic team, and written about food, culture, travel, the environment and the food industry for magazines, radio, television and the web. His work has appeared in anthologies, including Where the Mountain Stands Alone (edited by Howard Mansfield) and Best Travel Writing 2008, has won two James Beard Award nominations and a Solas Award for travel writing. Residing in Hancock for 18 years but originally from Pittsburgh, he has recently finished his first book-length work -- Rust Belt Boy -- a braided history and memoir of an industrial emigre.

Wednesday September 21st at 7:00 pm
LinkedIn with Chris Halvorson

Learn how to navigate and use LinkedIn to your benefit with Hancock’s Social Media Diva, Chris Halvorson of Halvorson New Media. LinkedIn is a business-related social networking site that reports more than 120 million registered users in 200 countries worldwide. Christine Halvorson turned a successful 25-year career as a professional writer into a career as one of the first professional bloggers in the country, and then as a social media consultant.

Thursday September 22nd at 7:00 pm
Preserving Your Memories on Digital Video with Dan Pickering

Old photos, recordings, and home videos are a treasure chest of stories and memories. But often they are scattered about in various boxes, drawers, and albums. And, in so many formats: prints, slides, vinyl records, audio tapes, memorabilia, 8mm movies, videotape, and now---digital media. This presentation will explore options for organizing, preserving, & creating a digital legacy that can be shared with friends and loved ones, now and in the future. Dan taught computer education, broadcasting, and video projects in the Michigan public schools for 31 years and continues his hobby/part-time occupation of video production at home in Hancock. He moved here with his wife, Sandra, in 2005 and they enjoy a quiet New England lifestyle of gardening, hiking, canoeing, and observing local wildlife near Willard Pond.

The Librarian

2011-09-01T15:38:00.002-05:00

Thinking about becoming a librarian? Here's some information you might (or might not!) find useful! (Thanks to Diane Mayr at the Nesmith Library in Windham, NH for this gem.)

Library Events for September 2011

2011-08-29T14:48:00.002-05:00

Please stop by the library to welcome our new children’s librarian, Rennie Timm. Rennie will be here and available to help you on Mondays and Wednesdays from 2-6 pm and Tuesdays & Thursdays from 10 am to 5 pm. She’d especially love feedback from parents of preschoolers about the best new time for Story & Craft Time. Finally, if you are the parent of a student in Hancock, we’d love your email address so that we can contact you about upcoming events for the children and teens of Hancock. Sign up at the front desk or email Rennie directly at hancockkidlib@comcast.net. Thank you!

Tuesday September 6th at 7:00 pm
First Tuesday Book Club

Start a new season of reading with our first book of the year: Nine Parts of Desire: The Hidden World of Islamic Women by Geraldine Brooks. Books are still available at the front desk and all are welcome to join at any time.

Thursday September 15th at 7:00 pm
Rust Belt Boy – Readings by Paul Hertneky

Paul Hertneky will read new work from Rust Belt Boy -- true stories of a pivotal plateau on the colonial frontier, site of America's most prosperous Utopian community and a powerful company town, offering a personal escort into its steaming ethnic kitchens, raucous bars, and murderous steel mills. His narrative weaves an account of three centuries of visionaries exercising their will in a single place with the story of a child among immigrants, lavished with love, destined for the mills and torn between allegiance and adventure. As a freelance writer, Paul Hertneky has covered the US Culinary Olympic team, and written about food, culture, travel, the environment and the food industry for magazines, radio, television and the web. His work has appeared in anthologies, including Where the Mountain Stands Alone (edited by Howard Mansfield) and Best Travel Writing 2008, has won two James Beard Award nominations and a Solas Award for travel writing. Residing in Hancock for 18 years but originally from Pittsburgh, he has recently finished his first book-length work -- Rust Belt Boy -- a braided history and memoir of an industrial emigre.

Wednesday September 21st at 7:00 pm
LinkedIn with Chris Halvorson

Learn how to navigate and use LinkedIn to your benefit with Hancock’s Social Media Diva, Chris Halvorson of Halvorson New Media. LinkedIn is a business-related social networking site that reports more than 120 million registered users in 200 countries worldwide. Christine Halvorson turned a successful 25-year career as a professional writer into a career as one of the first professional bloggers in the country, and then as a social media consultant.

Thursday September 22nd at 7:00 pm
Preserving Your Memories on Digital Video with Dan Pickering

Old photos, recordings, and home videos are a treasure chest of stories and memories. But often they are scattered about in various boxes, drawers, and albums. And, in so many formats: prints, slides, vinyl records, audio tapes, memorabilia, 8mm movies, videotape, and now---digital media. This presentation will explore options for organizing, preserving, & creating a digital legacy that can be shared with friends and loved ones, now and in the future. Dan taught computer education, broadcasting, and video projects in the Michigan public schools for 31 years and continues his hobby/part-time occupation of video production at home in Hancock. He moved here with his wife, Sandra, in 2005 and they enjoy a quiet New England lifestyle of gardening, hiking, canoeing, and observing local wildlife near Willard Pond.

Winner of the Giant Jar of Candy is......

2011-08-22T16:40:00.002-05:00

.....(drumroll please!)....Peter Ryner of Hancock, NH!!! Mr. Ryner guessed that there were 207 candies in our jar and there were actually 208. Congratulations! Watch out for that sugar coma coming your way!

Book Sale Continues Through Thursday!

2011-08-22T15:38:00.003-05:00

Stop by and browse our book sale this week during library hours. Lots of great titles still left and books are a steal - priced from .50 to $2.00 OR $5.00 per bag. Such a deal!! Book sale ends at 5:00 pm on Thursday August 25th.

Book Sale!

2011-08-16T12:32:00.003-05:00

Our annual book sale is coming up! The Early Bird Sale is this Friday night, August 19th, from 5:30 - 8:30. Admission is $10 but free to Friends of the Hancock Town Library. Free admission on Saturday August 20th from 9 am - 4 pm. The book sale will continue for one week during library hours because we have more books than ever this year. There's something for everyone and the price is right - most books .50 to $2.00!! Stop by and support your local library!

Summer Reading Program Winners!

2011-08-12T16:14:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Brianna DeBanico who won the great white tiger and a book about endangered species and to Anna McGuiness who won the Nook eReader! Weekly winners of smaller prizes were: Mackenzie Wetherill, Gabrielle Ramsden, Tyler Fernands, Rylee Blanchette, Kelly Akerley, Nile Hertzler, Veronika Raczek, and Anna McGuiness.

We had 54 participants for the Summer Reading Program this year and 518 books were read. Not enough to get the director to slide into that pool of Jello (600 books were needed) but a respectable showing. Anna McGuiness read the most books at 36!

Thanks for everyone's help and participation this year. We couldn't do it without the financial support of the Hancock Woman's Club and the Friends of the Library, who fund so many of our programs.

Aladdin - tonight at 7!!

2011-08-09T09:53:00.002-05:00

Downloadable Audio & ebooks!

2011-08-08T13:52:00.004-05:00

More and more patrons of the Hancock Town Library are downloading books (for free!)to their MP3 players, iPods, Nooks, and other assorted devices. If you would like more information about our downloadable books, including trouble-shooting and compatibility issues, please check out the state library's oh-so-helpful website here. Or give us a call at the library (525-4411) - we'll see if we can help!

Almost there!!!

2011-08-04T11:53:00.002-05:00

Only 200 more books to read by Tuesday night! Can the children and teens of Hancock do it?

New Movies Based on Books!

2011-07-16T19:16:00.002-05:00

Lots of new movies coming out that are based on popular books.
Here are a few:

Monte Carlo
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan
Winnie the Pooh
Captain America: The First Avenger
Sarah's Key
Cowboys & Aliens
Horrid Henry The Movie
The Devil's Double
The Help
One Day
I Don't Know How She Does It
Moneyball

Minutes from June 2011 Trustees Meeting

2011-07-14T16:12:00.001-05:00

Hancock Library Board of Trustees
Minutes
June 22, 2011

Present: Laurie Bryan, Amy Markus, Mary Garland, Peter Ryner

The meeting began at 1:30 pm.
The Minutes of May 25, 2011 were approved.
The financial report was approved.

Amy had advised the Board that Britton has given notice. Amy was now seeking guidance from the Board as to whether or not to advertise the position, since she already has a top candidate who had previously been offered the job at the time when Britton was hired. After some discussion, the Board was unanimous in suggesting that Amy not advertise. If Amy knows who she wants to hire, if that person is qualified, and if that person was previously selected for the job through an advertised search, then to advertise now would just waste considerable time and raise false hopes to those who apply.

Amy reviewed pending July events and indicated that painting, as previously approved by the Board, would commence in the near future. Mary indicated that she would work with Amy on a final selection of colors for the interior work.

It was agreed that unless some special need arises, the Board will not meet in August, and that the next meeting would be on July 27th at 1:00 pm.

At 2:00 pm, the Board voted to go into executive session to discuss personnel matters. At 2:07 the Board voted to come out of executive session and to retain the minutes in executive session.

The meeting ended at 2:10 pm

Submitted by Peter Ryner

Magic with Scott Jameson ~ Friday July 8th at 7:00

2011-07-07T15:43:00.003-05:00

Watch a little preview of the show here. You won't want to miss this! Great for all ages and it's free, free, free and open to all. You don't need to live in Hancock to attend.

Library Events for July 2011

2011-07-07T14:50:00.001-05:00

Book Donations Wanted!

Book donations are now being accepted for the Old Home Day Book Sale on Friday, August 19 and Saturday, August 20. The Friends of the Hancock Town Library are looking for all kinds of books (fiction, non-fiction, cookbooks, and children’s) as well as DVDs and CDs in good condition. No textbooks, Readers Digest Condensed Books, magazines, or musty items, please. Really. Please check your books for mustiness. If they’re musty they need to go to the dump and we’d rather not be the conduit! Book donations may be dropped off at the library anytime we’re open (please don’t leave them on our doorstep) or call Nancy at 525-3531 or Amy at 525-4411 to arrange pickup.

Summer Reading Program 2011

It’s time once again for the Hancock Town Library’s Summer Reading Program for children and teens. This year’s theme is “One World, Many Stories.” We’ll have lots of fun prizes again this year so be sure to sign up at our kick-off program on Friday July 8th. The Summer Reading Program will begin July 8th and end with our final program on August 9th. The kids will have just about one month to read books so the challenge this year is to read 650 books in that amount of time. If they can reach that goal then the library director will slide down a slide into a kiddie pool filled with Jello. The child who reads the most books gets to choose what color of Jello! (By the way, note to the grown-ups, we’ll need A LOT of help making enough Jello…let us know if you’re willing to help out!)

Tuesdays at 10:00 am (July 5th – August 2nd)
Summer Story Time

Tales from around the world. Join us!

Tuesdays at 2:00 pm (July 5th – August 2nd)
Kids’ Summer Film Fest

Great movies, air-conditioning & free popcorn!

Friday July 8th at 7:00 pm
Summer Reading Program Kick-Off!
Magic with Scott Jameson

Umbrellas will be plucked from thin air, a drawing will come to life, basketballs will be juggled, and an audience member will unlock telekinetic abilities! Join us as Scott Jameson dazzles us with his amazing magic tricks. For all ages. Sign up for the Summer Reading Program! Refreshments.

Thursday July 14th at 2:00 pm
Tote Bag Decorating

Decorate your own bag to use all summer long! Miss Britton has lots of decorations lined up – unleash your inner designer. Space is limited so call or stop by to sign up.

Thursday July 28th at 2:00 pm
Princess Party

Hear a variety of princess tales from around the world and enjoy a special treat fit for a princess!

Thursday August 4th at 2:00 pm
Float Your Boat

Make a boat using a wide variety of materials supplied by the library. Sign up today for this favorite activity!

Tuesday August 9th at 7:00 pm
Aladdin with the Hampstead Stage Company

Join us for our Summer Reading Program Grand Finale with the Hampstead Stage Company’s production of Aladdin. The Hampstead Stage Company’s mission is to educate youth audiences throughout the country by bringing classic literature to life through live theatre, thus sparking an interest in reading the classics, instilling a love and appreciation of the arts, and preserving theatre for future generations. This year marks their 28th season. Free and open to all. Refreshments!

Eva Gabrielsson's Memoir of Her Life With Stieg Larsson

2011-06-26T12:35:00.004-05:00

Interesting article for fans of Stieg Larsson's books in today's New York Times. Click here to read the entire article.http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

Hancock author Phil Jones' Novel Reviewed in Keene Sentinel

2011-06-19T11:03:00.002-05:00

Hancock resident Phil Jones' novel, When Cuba Was Lost, was reviewed in the Keene Sentinel today. Click here to read the review. The Hancock Town Library, of course, has a copy of the book but reserve it today because it's been circulating often. Can't seem to keep it on the shelf! Congratulations Phil!

Words of Wisdom

2011-06-12T17:20:00.001-05:00

From Sunday's New York Times, Hancock author Sy Montgomery shares words of wisdom to graduates of Franklin Pierce University. See the entire article here.

Sy Montgomery
Naturalist, author
Franklin Pierce University

Don’t buy the lie that the “real” world is all about staying safe and secure, accumulating money, piling up possessions. The real world — the world we love — is a green, living world, full of real dangers and stunning beauty and breathtaking surprises.

There is a Buddhist koan I want to share with you that goes like this: When the student is ready, the teacher will appear. The teachers don’t always look like the professors in the classroom. I’ve found my teachers sometimes have fur and scales or hooves and tusks. One of the best had a curly tail and a flexible nose disk.

Visit Iran on Thursday June 9th!

2011-06-07T10:27:00.002-05:00

Join retired pediatrician Jean Rosenthal as she takes us on a journey to Iran. Her March 2011 trip to Iran brought many surprises. The country was physically gorgeous, its cities filled with magnificent Islamic architecture with fabled archaeological sites such as Persepolis nearby. These will be briefly illustrated in a slide show. But five months of study for the trip left her unprepared for the people, their openness and outspoken opinions. A true eye-opener! Jean Rosenthal is a retired scientist and pediatrician, who has traveled extensively, including many medical missions in Asia and Latin America. The ancient Silk Road has been a passion, starting with a trip over the Kharakoram into Xinkiang more than 20 years ago. She lives in Harrisville (but is a card carrying member of the Hancock Library!).

Summer Reading Program 2011

2011-06-02T15:29:00.002-05:00

Friday, July 8th at 7:00 pm
Magic by Scott Jameson

Umbrellas will be plucked from thin air, a drawing will come to life, basketballs will be juggled, and an audience member will unlock telekinetic abilities!

~ Sign up for the library’s summer reading program

~ Refreshments!

Thursday, July 14th at 2:00 pm
Tote Bag Decorating

~ Decorate your own bag to use all summer long!
~ Space is limited. Call to sign up.

Thursday, July 28th at 2:00 pm
Princess Party

~ Hear a variety of princess tales from around the world

~ Enjoy a special treat fit for a princess!

Thursday, August 4th at 2:00 pm
Float Your Boat

~ Materials will be provided for boat-building.

Tuesday, August 9th at 7:00 pm
Hampstead Stage Company’s Aladdin

~ Refreshments!

Tuesdays at 10:00 am
Summer Story Time
(July 5th – August 2nd)

~Tales from around the world

Tuesdays at 2:00 pm
Kids’ Summer Film Fest
(July 5th – August 2nd)

~ Free popcorn!

Library Events for June 2011

2011-06-02T15:26:00.001-05:00

June is International Month at the Hancock Town Library! We’ve got programs about Iran, Australia, and the Antarctic, not to mention a FREE belly dancing workshop on June 11th (thanks to the Friends of the Library). You won’t want to miss any of it so mark your calendars!

Tuesday June 7th at 7:00 pm
First Tuesday Book Club

We’ll be discussing Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye at the last book club meeting of the season. We’ll take the summer off to read at the beach – see you in September for more fabulous reads!

Thursday June 9th at 7:00 pm
Travel to Iran with Jean Rosenthal

Join retired pediatrician Jean Rosenthal as she takes us on a journey to Iran. Her March 2011 trip to Iran brought many surprises. The country was physically gorgeous, its cities filled with magnificent Islamic architecture with fabled archaeological sites such as Persepolis nearby. These will be briefly illustrated in a slide show. But five months of study for the trip left her unprepared for the people, their openness and outspoken opinions. A true eye-opener! Jean Rosenthal is a retired scientist and pediatrician, who has traveled extensively, including many medical missions in Asia and Latin America. The ancient Silk Road has been a passion, starting with a trip over the Kharakoram into Xinkiang more than 20 years ago. She lives in Harrisville (but is a card carrying member of the Hancock Library!).

****Saturday June 11th at 3:00 pm****
****Belly Dancing Workshop!!*******

Join Evelyn Monks for an oriental dance class on Saturday June 11th at 3:00 pm. All ages and attitudes are welcome. The class will provide some cultural history regarding the dance as you sample its variety of movement. Dress in comfortable, low-waist pants or long skirt. Clothing should allow for stretches. Any fabulous gypsy or cabaret-style adornment is encouraged. Following the class will be an open dance party with a performance by Evelyn. Attendees are encouraged to bring along middle eastern food to share as well as a song they just can't resist dancing to on cd or their ipod. Evelyn Monks has been a professional dancer for over 15 years; she has performed for Afghan warlords, elementary school kids, diamond dealers, and bewildered dinner guests. As artistic director of The Turkish Delights, she merged feminism with barroom belly dance. Her extensive training includes: American Cabaret, Modern Egyptian, Turkish, the Bharatanatyam of India, and Tribal Fusion. She has given lectures on the history of oriental dance and has been a private and group instructor for over ten years. More information can be found on her website: www.evelynmonks.com.

Thursday June 16th at 7:00 pm
Exploring Australia with Allison Kerwin & Steve Pope

Come along on a year-long adventure up and down and across Australia with Hancock residents Allison Kerwin and Steve Pope. Allison and Steve took thousands of amazing photographs – and we get to see the best! You won’t want to miss this personal look at the land down under.

Tuesday June 21st at 7:00 pm
Life in the Antarctic with Molly Anderson

Each October, Hancock native Molly Anderson of Hancock makes a southward migration to a sunnier (but colder) climate - in Antarctica. For the last three years, she has worked during the austral summer season at Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station, the American-run scientific research base. Through her work in science support, she helps the researchers at the station with the logistical challenges of working in one of the coldest and most remote places on Earth. Join us to see pictures and hear tales of life at the bottom of the world.

From the Children’s Room…

Tuesday June 7th from 3:15 – 4:15 pm
LEGO Club

Join us for the last meeting of the school year! Snack is provided.

Saturday June 11th from 10:00 – 11:30 am
Second Saturday Arts ~ Felting

All 5 – 12 year olds are invited to come and enjoy a creative morning with Melody Zahn Russell. This month’s project is felting. Call 525-4103 or stop by the library to register for this class in advance. $15 fee.

Tuesday June 28th at 2:30 pm
Story & Craft Time for Preschoolers & Kindergartners

Join Miss Britton in the Children’s Room for some favorite stories and a simple art project.

Minutes for May

2011-06-02T15:23:00.000-05:00

Hancock Library Board of Trustees
Minutes
May 25, 2011

Present: Laurie Bryan, Amy Markus, Peter Ryner

The meeting began at 1 pm.
The Minutes of April 27, 2011 were approved.
There was no financial report

The Board requested that Amy post a public notice for a public hearing to be held at 1 pm on June 22 to receive a donation from the estate of Duckie Gardner. The Board accepted a gift from Janet Schaefer for $500. The Board also accepted a gift of $50 from Elizabeth Tobey. These funds will be deposited in the Library Trustee account which is presently held by the Bank of America.

The Board voted to not accept the offer of the Town Hall generator which is being replaced. This decision was based primarily upon the substantial cost that would be required to prepare a site for the generator and the cost of modifying the existing Library electrical system. The Board also was concerned that the generator was too large for the available site and would produce a substantial amount of noise. Amy reported that the Public Works Director had suggested that a much smaller house-hold type generator might be sufficient for the Library.

Amy provided samples of roof shingles. The Board went outside to better judge which shingle to use, and concluded that a charcoal gray architectural shingle would be most suitable.

Amy then reviewed a series of events scheduled for June.

The meeting ended at 2:00 pm.

Submitted by Peter Ryner

Thursday May 26th at 7 pm ~ Steve Taylor on the NH Grange Movement

2011-05-21T13:56:00.002-05:00

New Hampshire’s Grange Movement: Its Rise, Triumphs and Decline

Much of rural New Hampshire in the late 19th century was locked in a downward spiral of population decline, abandonment of farms, reversion of cleared land to forest and shrinking of villages, all of which contributed to widespread feelings of melancholy and loss among its residents. The development of the Grange movement in the state in the 1880s and 1890s was aided greatly by people’s hunger for a new vehicle to draw communities together for social interaction, entertainment and mutual support. As the Grange rapidly established chapters throughout the state its influence in public affairs expanded greatly as well, such that by 1910 it had become a major force in policymaking in Concord, while many of its members had risen to important leadership positions, including that of governor. The Grange brought an agenda that aligned closely with the Progressive wave that swept New Hampshire politics in the early 20th century and many of the initiatives it advocated became law, placing the state at the leading edge in a number of areas of reform. This lecture will address the rise, the triumphs and the eventual decline of the Grange movement in New Hampshire. Steve Taylor is an independent scholar, farmer, journalist and longtime public official. Taylor operates a dairy and maple farm in Meriden Village, New Hampshire and served a quarter century as NH's Commissioner of Agriculture. He has been a newspaper reporter and editor. He was also the first Executive Director of the NH Humanities Council and is a lifelong student the state's rural culture. This program is co-sponsored by the Hancock Historical Society and is made possible by a grant from the NH Humanities Council. Free and open to the public.

TONIGHT! 7:00 pm

2011-05-19T09:47:00.002-05:00

A Few More Miles with Ben Slavin
From Hooksett, NH to Ushuaia, Argentina on a Motorcycle!

In October 2009, Ben Slavin left his home in Hooksett, NH in search of adventure. Over the course of 6 months he rode his motorcycle 23,000 miles through 15 countries until he reached the southernmost city in the world - Ushuaia, Argentina. Ben recently returned home from another 6 week ride south of the border, where he was filming an educational and inspirational how-to-guide for motorcycling in Mexico. Join Ben as he shares photos and stories from his amazing ride through Latin America. All are welcome!

Library Events for May 2011

2011-05-04T10:47:00.002-05:00

Thursday May 5th at 7:00 pm
Arms and the Man by George Bernard Shaw

The Hourglass Readers will present a reading of Shaw’s Arms and the Man. This play, which Shaw called “An Anti-Romantic Comedy,” was written in 1894 and was first performed at the Avenue Theatre in London in the same year. It was perhaps Shaw’s first successful play and was taken to America by actor-manager Richard Mansfield in late 1894. Catherine Behrens will direct a cast that includes Melody Actouka, Dakota Benedetto, Marganna Ekkens, Peter Eisenstadter, Jonathan Flower, Bert Torsey and Robert Wellington. The Hourglass Readers is dedicated to performing readings of classical works in abridged format, allowing both actors and audiences to explore works not often performed. All performances are free and open to the public.

Saturday May 7th from 9:00 am til Noon
The Door to Imagination: How to Awaken Your Inner Storyteller
with Odds Bodkin

This three-hour workshop is based on Odds Bodkin’s graduate level courses and is appropriate for high school students, teachers and any adult interested in storytelling. It’s exhilarating, educational and fun! There is no memorizing. You will learn how to tell a story in your own words, trusting your own imagination. Three hours of discovering and strengthening your Inner Storyteller by training your Mind’s Eye. During this three-hour workshop you will learn: story structure, the five imaginations, from imagery to voice, character, and personal story and classic story. Tuition fee is $35. To reserve a space please contact Miguelina Bodkin at 938-5120 or rivertree@mcttelecom.com.

Thursday May 12th at 7:00 pm
Why I Left the Amish with Saloma Miller Furlong

Saloma Miller Furlong’s new book, Why I Left the Amish: A Memoir, came out in January of this year and we are fortunate to have her speak to us here in Hancock. Furlong, who works at Amherst College, recalls her experiences as a child growing up within the Amish community and how over time she came to leave it. Compelling and provocative, riveting and insightful, Why I Left the Amish offers a rare look behind the organdy curtain that separates the Amish from the outside world. Saloma Miller Furlong was born and raised in an Amish community in Ohio, which she left in her quest for freedom and a formal education. She graduated from Smith College in 2007 and currently works in the German Department and European Studies Program at Amherst College. This program is free and open to the public.

Thursday May 19th at 7:00 pm
A Few More Miles with Ben Slavin
From Hooksett, NH to Ushuaia, Argentina on a Motorcycle!

In October 2009, Ben Slavin left his home in Hooksett, NH in search of adventure. Over the course of 6 months he rode his motorcycle 23,000 miles through 15 countries until he reached the southernmost city in the world - Ushuaia, Argentina. Ben recently returned home from another 6 week ride south of the border, where he was filming an educational and inspirational how-to-guide for motorcycling in Mexico. Join Ben as he shares photos and stories from his amazing ride through Latin America. Free and open to the public.

Thursday May 26th at 7:00 pm
New Hampshire’s Grange Movement: Its Rise, Triumphs and Decline

Much of rural New Hampshire in the late 19th century was locked in a downward spiral of population decline, abandonment of farms, reversion of cleared land to forest and shrinking of villages, all of which contributed to widespread feelings of melancholy and loss among its residents. The development of the Grange movement in the state in the 1880s and 1890s was aided greatly by people’s hunger for a new vehicle to draw communities together for social interaction, entertainment and mutual support. As the Grange rapidly established chapters throughout the state its influence in public affairs expanded greatly as well, such that by 1910 it had become a major force in policymaking in Concord, while many of its members had risen to important leadership positions, including that of governor. The Grange brought an agenda that aligned closely with the Progressive wave that swept New Hampshire politics in the early 20th century and many of the initiatives it advocated became law, placing the state at the leading edge in a number of areas of reform. This lecture will address the rise, the triumphs and the eventual decline of the Grange movement in New Hampshire. Steve Taylor is an independent scholar, farmer, journalist and longtime public official. Taylor operates a dairy and maple farm in Meriden Village, New Hampshire and served a quarter century as NH's Commissioner of Agriculture. He has been a newspaper reporter and editor. He was also the first Executive Director of the NH Humanities Council and is a lifelong student the state's rural culture. This program is co-sponsored by the Hancock Historical Society and is made possible by a grant from the NH Humanities Council. Free and open to the public.

From the Children’s Room…

Tuesday, May 3rd from 3:15 - 4:00
Lego Club for Elementary School Students

Drop by and build something! A snack will be provided.

Thursday, May 12th from 3:30-4:30
Origami Storytelling with Michael Sullivan

Master storyteller Michael Sullivan returns to the library to share some favorite tales, accompanied by an origami lesson. For students in grades 1-5. Please call the library to sign up as this will fill up fast! 525-4411

Tuesday, May 31st at 2:30
Story and Craft Time

Join Britton in the Children's Room for some fun stories and a simple art project. For preschoolers and kindergartners. Bring a friend!

Library Trustee Minutes 4.27.11

2011-04-29T11:49:00.000-05:00

Hancock Library Board of Trustees
Minutes
April 27, 2011

Present: Laurie Bryan, Amy Markus, Mary Garland, Peter Ryner

The meeting began at 10:30 am.
The Minutes of March 23, 2011 were approved.
The Financial Report was approved.

Director's Report .
Amy requested that the Board identify a location for the Duckie Gardner granite bench so that her family could proceed to have it made.

Amy also reported that the Director of Public Works has offered to give the Library an emergency backup generator that is presently connected to the Town Hall building, since a grant has provided the opportunity to obtain a new one for Town Hall. This led to a discussion of various considerations such as how to minimize noise disturbance of adjacent properties (and to minimize disruption of the use of the Library), the importance of having an automatic connection so that library staff does not have to operate it, the need to have the generator operated briefly every month, the importance of having this equipment carefully inspected to make sure that it is in good operational condition, and the probable need to pour a concrete pad for the generator. It was also recognized that this will increase the Library's annual operating expenses and will need to be incorporated into future annual budgets.

Amy then provided a brief review of upcoming library activities for April and May.

The Trustees and Amy then conducted an inspection of the Library building and grounds. A site for the bench was identified, and the Trustees concluded that there was no more room for benches once the Gardner bench is installed. It was agreed that at future meetings the Trustees will further develop the concept of a memorial plaque to acknowledge major gifts such as that received from Duckie Gardner.

The Trustees concluded that the best location for the generator would be at the rear of the library, by the back parking lot. This is the least disruptive site in terms of noise and allows access for maintenance. It was suggested that some screening should be included and that neighboring property owners should be notified before it is installed. It was suggested that Amy should use the same contractor who is being used by Public Works to install the new generator at Town Hall.

The Trustees also requested that Amy obtain a price estimate for repainting the south exterior of the Library, scraping and painting a bulkhead door along the north face of the building (color to be a dark gray. The estimate should also include making some sort of repairs to the bottom insulating panels, painting the street-side metal railings a rust-proof black, and relocating the flag holder to the other side of the door. Amy was also requested to look into the cost of cleaning the street-side brick wall, especially where white paint has leached from window trim, and either repair or replacement of the street-side Hancock Library sign.

The Trustees also agreed with Amy that the main entrance way and the wall behind the front desk should be more colorful, and Mary offered to work with Amy on selecting appropriate colors for the walls and trim. The meeting adjourned at noon. Submitted by Peter Ryner

Twitter Workshop on April 28th @ 7:00 pm

2011-04-24T09:32:00.003-05:00

Want to know more about Twitter? What is it? What's it good for? Should you have a Twitter account? Hancock's esteemed social media expert, Christine Halvorson, will explain all. If you've never been to one of Chris' workshops, you're in for a tweet...er, treat! See you Thursday night!!

Bunny in the Snow!

2011-04-24T09:30:00.001-05:00

Some pansies and a bunny arrived the other day...seemed to survive the snow just fine!

April 12th ~ Snapshot Day for NH Libraries!

2011-04-11T14:47:00.002-05:00

On Tuesday April 12th libraries across New Hampshire are participating in Library Snapshot Day by collecting information, comments, and photographs from events in a typical library day. The results will exemplify the invaluable services and benefits of libraries in new Hampshire communities. Please help us record how important our library is to the community. Stop by the library and fill out a comment sheet tomorrow! For more information, call us at 525-4411.

Kimberly Kersey Asbury to Exhibit in Daniels Room

2011-03-28T10:55:00.002-05:00

LOOKING: Figurative Paintings by artist Kimberly Kersey Asbury

This exhibition in the Daniels Room at the Hancock Town Library will showcase Kimberly Kersey Asbury’s figurative work with highlights taken from various series. Subjects include safari-goers in Africa, recent portraits of her children and large-scale figurative examples from her Room Series. Kimberly Kersey Asbury is an artist with many interests, ranging from drawing and painting from life to working with mixed media, wax clay, book forms, installation, photography and printmaking. She is Assistant Professor of Fine Arts at Saint Anselm College in Manchester, NH and is currently teaching painting and printmaking. Kersy Asbury received a BFA in Painting from the Kansas City Art Institute, an MFA in Painting, Boston University College of Fine Arts and attended The Graduate Institute at Saint John's College as well as the Vermont Studio Center. She received a Fulbright Research Grant for painting in Botswana in 1998. She has shown in New Hampshire, Boston, New York City, Morocco, Botswana and the Midwest. She resides in Greenfield, NH with her husband and two children.The show opens to the public (during library hours) Monday, April 4th running through Wednesday, May 12th. An artist reception will be held Saturday, April 30th, 11am-1pm. Please call the library at 525-4411 before coming to view the show as the Daniels Room is often booked with programs.

Library Events for April 2011

2011-03-28T09:32:00.002-05:00

Monday April 4th at 7:00 pm
Keeping Backyard Chickens with Lily Plasse

Learn more about Keeping Backyard Chickens. Join Lily Plasse and a few of her chickens to learn more about keeping your own flock for eggs, meat, pets and show. Discussion will include getting started with chickens, choosing breeds, housing, feeding, costs & care, as well as recommended websites and reading. Lily Plasse of Othala Acres Heritage Poultry has been raising rare chickens and turkeys for almost 10 years for preservation, show, eggs & meat. Lily is a member of several poultry clubs, as well as the New Hampshire Youth Leader for the APA-ABA Youth Poultry Club. This program is free and open to the public.

Tuesday April 5th at 7:00 pm
First Tuesday Book Club

Join us as we discuss A Homemade Life – Stories & Recipes From My Kitchen Table by Molly Wizenberg. All are welcome!

Thursday April 7th at 7:00 pm
A Night of Music with Two Old Friends
A NH Humanities Council Program

Over the centuries, immigrants from the British Isles have come to the Americas, bringing with them their musical styles, tastes, and instruments. Using the concertina, bodhran, mandolin, octave mandolin, guitar and banjo in their performances, Two Old Friends sing and play traditional Irish songs and tunes. They perform American country music the way it was conceived in the early 20th century and demonstrate how these tunes are often derived from the songs of the Irish, but have been influenced by other cultural and ethnic groups (particularly African American) to create an original American sound. Two Old Friends, Mac McHale and Emery Hutchins, are music preservationists and performers; founders of Irish folk band Northeast Winds; Mac later formed The Old Time Radio Gang and Emery was part of the Celtic group Angel Band. They have performed locally and internationally for 40 years. This program is free and open to the public and made possible by the NH Humanities Council. The NHHC nurtures the job of learning and inspires community engagement by bringing life-enhancing ideas from the humanities to the people of New Hampshire. This program is co-sponsored by the Hancock Historical Society.

Wednesday April 20th at 7:00 pm
Diving In –An In-Depth Peek into the Common Loon's Fascinating Behaviors

Learn about the life cycle of these magnificent waterbirds in this spectacular and entertaining multi-media nature slideshow. Featuring a very special and endearing young loon named GRAPENUT, who is the star of the show. John Rockwood, The Loon Man NH, is a Common Loon educator, author, naturalist, and professional nature photographer. He has been observing and studying loons for 26 years. Grapenut is a loon chick/juvenile who adopted John into his loon family and shared his growing stages for two seasons. Learning to fly, catching prey, playing hide and seek and riding on his parents’ backs are just some of the loon behaviors young Grapenut displayed to John from the time he was 4 days old until the time he fledged in late fall, as a juvenile. John Rockwood is dedicated to helping protect loons and collaborates closely with the staff at the Loon Preservation Committee as a volunteer to support their mission. Free and open to all.

Thursday April 28th at 7:00 pm
Twitter: What is it? Should you care?

Hancock's own social media expert, Christine Halvorson, will give an overview of how to use this social media tool that some people wish would just go away. It's often dismissed as a waste of time, yet "citizen journalists" are reporting breaking news on it and revolutions are being organized with it. Come find out if you can find something valuable in using this online tool that has some people all a-twitter. It's becoming today's version of the old news wire. Learn how it works, how to find people to "follow" and how to share your own news on it if you so choose. Free and open to all.

From the Children’s Room…

Tuesday April 5th from 3:15 – 4:00
LEGO CLUB!

Join us after school for some fun with LEGOs. This month we have a special presentation from a middle-school team who built a robot with LEGOs. Wapack Youth Robotics will demonstrate both LEGO robots and their mid size FTC robot. Wapack Youth Robotics is a local non-profit 4-H Club with a mission of making FIRST robotics more accessible to more area youth. FIRST 's mission is to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders, by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, engineering and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership. All are welcome.

Tuesday April 12th from 3:15 – 4:00
Poetry Illustrations for Students in Grades 1-5

To celebrate National Poetry Month, we'll explore a variety of poems from the library's collection and choose one to illustrate and display in the Children's Room. Space is limited; please call the library to sign up. 525-4411

Library Trustee Minutes 3.23.11

2011-03-28T09:30:00.001-05:00

Hancock Library Board of Trustees
Minutes
March 23, 2011
Present: Laurie Bryan Amy Markus, Peter Ryner

The meeting began at 1:10 p.m.
The Minutes of February 22, 2011, as corrected, were approved.
The Financial Report was approved.

Director's Report At the February 22 meeting there had been a discussion of providing additional handicapped parking spaces. As requested by the Board, Amy had discussed this issue with the Public Works Director. Kurt had pointed out that the Library could not just install a handicapped parking sign; there needs to be an accessible pathway from the signed parking space(s) to the Library building, and then entranceways that comply with handicapped guidelines. Using the existing handicapped space is not only the best, but also the only option presently available. There was some discussion about providing stickers to Library customers who may not be handicapped but who , due to age or other issue should be allowed to use that signed parking space.

There was a review of upcoming Library events, and Amy reported that she has been notified that the Library will receive an unspecified amount of money from the estate of Ducky Gardner.
Amy stated that her family also very much wants to contribute a granite bench for the Library grounds. Amy suggested that the Board may wish to give some further thought to this issue. There are already several benches which have been donated to the Library. They are made of different materials and have different designs. There are no guidelines as to how many benches the Library will accept, what they should look like so as to be harmonious with the Library setting, and what they should be made of, taking into account maintenance and safety issues as well as visual scale and character. It was agreed that it is now necessary to give this issue further, formal attention. It was agreed that it is wonderful that several people appreciate the quiet beauty of the Library and its grounds, and this seems to be an important opportunity if it can be properly sorted out.

There was some discussion of the upcoming Library Trustees annual meeting and Amy and Peter indicated that they would attend.

It was agreed that if the Library's bank liaison wished to meet with the Board, that he should do so at the Board's regular April 27 meeting. The meeting adjourned at 3:00 p.m.

Submitted by Peter Ryner

Ebooks & Libraries...

2011-03-15T08:31:00.002-05:00

Today's New York Times has an interesting article about ebooks in libraries. Read it here.

Ten Library Books Most Frequently Read

2011-03-07T21:56:00.002-05:00

Interesting. See the list here.

Cabin Fever Trivia Night - Saturday March 5th @ 7 pm

2011-03-03T16:03:00.001-05:00

You don't have to be brilliant to join us for Cabin Fever Trivia Night here at the library! Charlie Ingalls is our affable emcee with some fun and funny questions for us all. Come alone or with a team. Hope to see you there!

Family Game Night March 4th at 6:30 pm

2011-03-03T15:46:00.002-05:00

Family Game Night will be held this Friday March 4th at 6:30. Bring your favorite game and your favorite family members and have some fun!

Winners of Winter Reading Program

2011-03-03T15:19:00.004-05:00

Winners of the first annual Winter Reading Program for Grown-ups are...

Diane Cherwin (dinner for two at the Hancock Inn)

Billy Horton (massage from New-Life Massage & Bodywork)

Beth GrosJean (gift certificate to Fiddleheads Cafe)

Congratulations to our winners!

There were 278 entries for the raffle from 70 participants. A total of 875 adult books and audios circulated during February - up from 753 during the same period last year.

Thanks so much to everyone for participating - we'll definitely do it again next year!

Catching up on Library Trustee Minutes

2011-03-03T15:16:00.001-05:00

MINUTES
HANCOCK LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
FEBRUARY 22, 2011

Present: Mary Garland, Amy Marcus, Laurie Bryan, Peter Ryner

The meeting was called to order at 1:00 pm.
There was a brief discussion of the scope of work for the roof replacement project, and Amy was asked to prepare a new written scope.

The minutes of January 26 & 28, 2011 were approved.
The Financial report was approved.

Amy distributed a proposed 2011 budget, which was approved.

There was a discussion of whether or not to formally designate handicapped parking in the back lot in addition to the space provided by the side entrance. It was suggested that Amy consider providing some form of portable handicapped parking sign that could be located in the back lot for special occasions. It was felt that at present there was very little demand for more than the one existing space and that it was at this time not appropriate to encumber one of the heavily used back lot spaces on a permanent basis.

The next meeting of the Board is scheduled for March 23 at 1:00 pm

Submitted by Peter Ryner

Minutes of Special Meeting
Library Board of Trustees
January 28, 2011

Present: Laurie Bryan, Amy Markus, Mary Garland, Peter Ryner

The meeting began at 2:00 pm. Board members discussed each of the proposals. It was decided that some of the proposals failed to provide adequate information. It was also determined that additional information would be needed from at least one of the contractors.

Based on the various proposals, it appeared that the scope of work might need to be adjusted; that there should be clarification as to exactly when the work would be started and when it would be completed, and that Amy should investigate whether the Town's insurance policy would cover the repair of this new roof if it were to be damaged by high wind, ice, sleet or other natural hazards.

There was also further discussion regarding the other roof. Peter reported that as part of reviewing the proposals he had taken another look at the 1988 roof and noticed that the fascia on the slate roof were rotting in several locations and questioned whether that should be addressed as part of this project. After some discussion it was agreed that this should be treated as a separate project, and that while it needs to be addressed, it can wait for now.

Amy was asked to obtain some additional information and the Board agreed that they would attempt to make a decision within the next week or so, and would attempt to complete the review via e-mail.

The meeting ended at 3:00 pm.

Submitted by Peter Ryner

Minutes Hancock Library Board of Trustees
January 26, 2011

Present: Mary Garland, Laurie Bryan, Amy Markus, Peter Ryner

The minutes as amended, of the December 22, 2010 meeting were approved.
The Treasure's report was approved.

Director's Report
There was a discussion of the Board's Annual Report and Peter agreed to write a first draft which would then be reviewed and finalized by the other Board members.

Amy then reviewed upcoming events for February.

Opening of Proposals for Replacement of Roof
The Board of Trustees had previously determined that proposals rather than bids would be most appropriate for this project, since there might be issues that could not be specified by the Board in a bid package. At the Boards'
request, Amy had prepared a request for proposals (RFP). While price would be an important consideration the Board wanted to be sure that the selected contractor did in fact understand what was needed, that the new roof would last for approximately 30 years, and that the job would be done so as to not disrupt library operations. The RFP stated that “the contractor that meets all requirements and demonstrates the ability to perform and complete the task will be chosen. Past associations with the Hancock Town Library will be considered in evaluating the proposals.” The RFP further stated that “the Trustees of the Hancock Town Library reserve the right to reject any and all Proposals, to choose the proposal that best suits the needs of the Library, and to waive irregularities and informality in the submittal and evaluation process....Errors and omissions may be cause for disqualification.”

At 1:35 Proposals for the replacement of the roof of the 1988 addition were opened. There were five proposals from Neven Cassidy, John Norton, CK Landmark Construction, Cutter Construction, and Target New England. The proposed cost ranged from $18, 550 to $9,670.

After an initial review of the proposals it became evident that the Board would need time to properly evaluate the proposals, and a special meeting was set for Friday, January 28 at 2:00 pm in the Daniels room. The meeting adjourned at 2:00 pm and the next regular meeting of the Board was set for 1:00 pm on February 22.

Submitted by Peter Ryner

Game Night Cancelled Due to Snow

2011-02-25T15:09:00.001-05:00

Sorry folks, we're cancelling Family Game Night tonight (Friday February 25th) due to the snow. We've re-scheduled for Friday March 4th at 6:30 pm. Hope to see you then!

Library Events for March 2011

2011-02-24T20:27:00.002-05:00

Now exhibiting watercolors in the Daniels Room are students from Jan Caskey’s art class. Through April 4th. Please make a point of coming in to view these beautiful works but do call ahead (525-4411) to make sure the room is open. The Daniels Room is often booked for meetings or classes.

Tuesday March 1st at 7:00 pm
First Tuesday Book Club

Join us as we discuss Lisa Genova’s moving novel, Still Alice, about a middle-aged Harvard professor with early-onset Alzheimer’s. Copies of the book are still available at the front desk; it’s a quick read so you could still get it read by March 1st! All are welcome.

Saturday March 5th at 7:00 pm
Kabin Fever Trivia Night with Charlie Ingalls

You don’t have to be Einstein to join us for another fun evening of trivia. Last November’s Trivia Night was so much fun we thought we’d try it again to perk up a March evening. Come alone and form an ad hoc team here or come with a group as a team. Tell your friends! Bring family members! Win fabulous prizes! Do us a favor – drop in the library or call to register so that we know how many to expect: 525-4411. Best suited for the grown-ups in your family! Snacks & drinks provided to help keep your mental abilities sharp. Free to all.

Thursday March 10th from 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Much Ado About Nothing

The Shakespeare for Snowy Days group invites everyone to join them for the movie version of Much Ado About Nothing starring Emma Thompson, Kenneth Branagh, and Denzel Washington (looking fine in his leather pants). All are welcome!

Wednesday March 23rd at 7:00 pm
Taming Your Town Website with Nahida Sherman

Our town webmaster will present a one-hour (or as long as needed) working session on Taming Your Town Website. A few Hancock cybernauts have expressed an interest in gaining mastery over the Town website. It can be a bit confusing to navigate around its many links, but much could be clarified by a quick session AND suggestions and feedback on how to make the site more user-friendly. It is your site. The Library has wireless access so if you would like hands-on learning, bring your laptop! All are welcome. If you are interested in attending, please email webmaster@hancocknh.org.

From the Children’s Room:

Tuesday, March 1st from 3:15 - 4:00
Lego Club for Elementary School Students

Drop by and build something! A snack is provided.

Saturday March 12th from 10:00 – 11:30 am
Second Saturday Arts with Melody Russell

Come and enjoy a creative morning! Puppetry is this month’s project. Call (525-4411 or 525-4103) or stop by the library to register in advance. $15 fee. For ages 5-12.

Tuesday, March 22nd at 2:30
Springtime Storytime for Preschoolers and Kindergartners

Celebrate the arrival of spring with some springtime stories in the Children's Room. Afterward, we'll plant some seeds to take home!

Library Closing Wednesday February 2nd

2011-02-01T17:14:00.001-05:00

Due to the upcoming snopocalypse, the Hancock Town Library will be closed on Wednesday February 2nd. See you on Thursday at 10 am!

Library Trustees Special Meeting

2011-01-27T14:37:00.002-05:00

The Hancock Town Library Trustees will hold a special meeting on Friday January 28th at 2:00 pm in the Daniels Room to evaluate the roof repair proposals. This is meeting is open to the public. For more information, call 525-4411.

14-year-old Designs Hottest iPhone App...Learned How at Local Library!

2011-01-26T16:29:00.002-05:00

Check it out here.

Library Events for February 2011

2011-01-21T11:31:00.001-05:00

Winter Reading Program for the Grown-ups!

The children get their reading program in the summer, now it’s time for the grown-ups to have a turn. So here’s a little motivation to keep that winter reading going! Fill out a raffle ticket for every Hancock Town Library book you (adults over 18) check out and read during the month of February. (Books must be at least 100 pages and yes, audio books count.) The more books you read/listen to, the better your chance of winning our fabulous prizes! Prizes include gift certificates to the following local businesses: the Hancock Inn, Fiddleheads, and Dottie Cullinane’s New-Life Massage & Bodywork. Drawing will be Monday February 28th. In February of 2010, 783 copies of non-juvenile books/audio books circulated. Think we can reach 1,000 this February? Perhaps the library director’s hair will turn another color if we reach that goal!

Tuesday February 1st at 7:00 pm
First Tuesday Book Club

Join us in our discussion of the book Three Weeks with My Brother by Nicholas & Micah Sparks. Feel free to join the First Tuesday Book Club at anytime – just show up! Books are always available at the front desk. For more information, call us at 525-4411.

Wednesday February 9th at 7:00 pm
Hiking the Appalachian Trail with Jeannette Baker

In April 2010, Jeannette Baker laced up her sneakers, shouldered a backpack, and embarked on a five-month hike of the Appalachian Trail, from Georgia to Maine. Along the way she encountered ever-changing terrain, weather, fellow hikers, and creatures of the wild. Please note that since Jeannette did not carry a camera with her, there are no photographs to accompany this presentation. Join us to hear stories of her adventures, including how she planned and prepared for her journey. Bring your questions! As always, free and open to all.

Thursdays February 3rd through March 10th, 2-4 pm
Shakespeare for Snowy Days with Tibby Tobey

Please join us as we finish up Romeo & Juliet on February 3rd. Then on February 10th we’ll begin Much Ado About Nothing and two weeks later finish up with Antony and Cleopatra. If you need a title, please order the Folger edition from the Toadstool. All are welcome ~ please join us! For more information, call Tibby Tobey at 525-9449.

From the Children’s Room…

Tuesday February 1st 3:15-4:00
Lego Club for elementary school students

Drop by and build something! A snack is provided.

Tuesday February 15th 3:15-4:00
Sugar Cube Castles for elementary school students

Create your own castle out of sugar cubes!
Space is limited, so please call the library to sign up.

Friday February 25th from 6:30-7:30
Family Game Night

Join us in the Daniels Room for an evening of fun and games.
All ages are welcome!
Bring your favorite board game and your favorite family members!

Library Trustee Minutes 12.22.19

2011-01-21T10:51:00.001-05:00

Minutes Hancock Library Board of Trustees
December 22, 2010

Present: Amy Markus, Mary Garland, Laurie Bryan,Roberta LaPlante, Peter Ryner

The minutes of the November meeting were approved.
The Treasurer's report was approved.

Director's Report
Amy reviewed a number of Library-sponsored programs that will take place in January.

Amy reported that the Library now has an e-book reader. People will be able to request one of many free books available on various internet sites. The Library will download the requested book onto the reader, which can then be taken out similar to a book or a dvd.

There was a discussion about replacing the roof. The Board of Selectmen has reviewed the Library's request that the Town provide half the cost of this replacement, with the Library providing the other half from its capital reserves. Roberta reported that the Selectmen support this request and expect it to be included as a warrant article.

The Board then discussed the bid process, and it was agreed that Amy will attempt to get requests for bids into the newspaper in time to be able to open bids at the beginning of the Library Board's January 26 meeting.

Amy pointed out that the Library now has three new computers. The Trustees agreed with her suggestion that at least one of the old computers may be retained for use by people who use the computer for simple tasks such as reading e-mail, and do not need the more powerful features of the new machines.

The Board reviewed Library volunteer policies, with a focus on patron privacy. It was agreed that existing policies and practices are for the most part adequate, although volunteers must now be at least 17 years old?

The next Board of Trustee meeting will be on January 26 at 1pm..

Submitted by Peter Ryner

Library Closed Today - Tuesday January 18, 2011

2011-01-18T11:01:00.002-05:00

Due to the weather conditions and a stomach bug that the librarian caught over the holiday weekend, the Hancock Town Library will be closed today. Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. We will re-open tomorrow, Wednesday January 19th, for our regular hours: 2-6 pm. Stay warm & safe everyone. And wash your hands. Often.

Thursday January 13th at 7:00 pm

2011-01-12T15:21:00.001-05:00

The Rebirth of Cambodian Dance with Eleanor Briggs

After almost all dancers were killed during the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia, classical Cambodian dance and the Royal Dance Troupe were reborn through the efforts of surviving dancers. Hancock photographer, Eleanor Briggs, tells this inspiring story and illustrates it with her photographs of the International Ramayana Dance Festival at Angkor Wat in 1995. Ms. Briggs has been working with conservation organizations in Southeast Asia and South America for the past 20 years. She spends months in the field with scientists and local people photographing staff at work, habitat and sometimes wildlife. Her studio is in the Cheshire Mill Complex in Harrisville where she also has a small gallery showing her latest work. Free and open to all.

POD (Poem of the Day) from the Writer's Almanac

2011-01-10T08:15:00.002-05:00

Click here for the link to the Writer's Almanac...

Library Events for January 2011

2010-12-22T17:16:00.002-05:00

Thanks to the Friends of the Hancock Town Library, the library now owns a Nook e-Reader. Beginning in mid-January you will be able to tell us what book you’d like downloaded onto the Nook and then check it out for two weeks at a time. eBooks are available for free from the same website where you get free audiobooks: http://nh.lib.overdrive.com.

There will be no First Tuesday Book Club in January. However, copies of February’s book, Three Weeks with My Brother by Nicholas and Micah Sparks will be available beginning January 8th.

Thursday January 13th from 2:00-4:00 pm
Shakespeare for Snowy Days with Tibby Tobey

Shakespeare for Snowy Days has space for new members so if you’ve been thinking that you’d like to enjoy some Shakespeare, now is your chance! How about Shakespeare and Love? Taming of the Shrew, Romeo and Juliet, Much Ado About Nothing, Antony and Cleopatra. Check your bookshelves. If you need a title, please order the Folger edition from the Toadstool. Please sign up for this class with the library (525-4411) and don’t be shy – join us!

Thursday January 13th at 7:00 pm
The Rebirth of Cambodian Dance with Eleanor Briggs

After almost all dancers were killed during the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia, classical Cambodian dance and the Royal Dance Troupe were reborn through the efforts of surviving dancers. Hancock photographer, Eleanor Briggs, tells this inspiring story and illustrates it with her photographs of the International Ramayana Dance Festival at Angkor Wat in 1995. Ms. Briggs has been working with conservation organizations in Southeast Asia and South America for the past 20 years. She spends months in the field with scientists and local people photographing staff at work, habitat and sometimes wildlife. Her studio is in the Cheshire Mill Complex in Harrisville where she also has a small gallery showing her latest work. Free and open to all. For more information call the library at 525-4411.

Mondays beginning January 17th from 2:00-4:00
Great Decisions Discussion Group

A Great Decisions Discussion Group is composed of interested individuals who want an opportunity to learn and participate in the foreign policy decision-making process. Join leader Jane Richards-Jones for this 8-week program at the library. Topics this year include Rebuilding Haiti, US National Security, Horn of Africa, Responding to the Financial Crisis, and more. You can read about the topics at http://www.fpa.org/pubs_inventory2416/pubs_inventory_show.htm?doc_id=1367796. Please contact Jane at 525-4485 if you are interested in joining the group.

Saturday January 29th, 10:00 – 4:00
Christine Destrempes’ River of Words Project

Water is the channel through which the earth communicates, bringing the skies in touch with seas and sustaining all of us along the way. Art for Water’s current project, River of Words, asks the question: If the earth uses water to communicate and we use words, how are words like water? Following Destrempes’ widely acclaimed 13,699, Art for Water’s current community art installation, River of Words, uses the power of many voices to speak for the millions struggling to live without clean, safe water. The project gives each of us the opportunity to contribute – by making art – to extend compassion and raise awareness in a stunning, massive, and unique way.

Everyone who comes to Hancock is invited to be a part of this project. Here’s what you’ll do: take a fragment of beautiful paper (generously donated by Monadnock Paper Mills, Neenah Paper, Inc., and Mohawk Fine Papers), and on it write whatever you would like about water ––thoughts, feelings, experience, knowledge, quotes, or poetry. Your serpentine fragment of paper – carrying your words – is then attached to hundreds of others to create a giant river. That’s the River of Words. River of Words will be installed at the Sharon Arts Exhibition Gallery in Peterborough beginning March 4, 2011, and run through May 1st. Selected contributions will be compiled into a documentary video. Special celebrations will be held March 22, 2011 – World Water Day, as well as throughout the exhibit.

In the Monadnock Region, we enjoy bountiful lakes, rivers, streams and an abundant water supply. Too often, we take water for granted, largely unaware of the effects of climate change and pollution on the scarcity of clean water throughout the world. Did you know that five million people die every year from preventable, water-related diseases because they do not have access to clean water? Art for Water’s River of Words raises awareness, by raising voices, about the importance, and the dwindling availability, of clean water. Art for Water works through the creativity and dialogue of public participation art.

River of Words’ goal is to get as many people as possible to write their thoughts and create the River. Students at Franklin Pierce University and Antioch are at work already. Outside our Region, Pingree School and King’s Chapel are participants. Destrempes’ hope is to engage schools, congregations, towns, and conservation organizations - all raising awareness of the importance of our water resources by writing their wordsChristine Destrempes, principal of Art for Water, will make a presentation about River of Words at the Hancock Library on January 29 at 11:00 and again at 2:00. Please stop by anytime between 10am and 4pm to make your voice heard. It can take as little as 5 minutes or as long as you’d like. Light refreshments will be provided. We look forward to seeing you. For more information or if you’d like to volunteer for River of Words, please call Christine at 827-3744.

From the Children’s Room…

Tuesdays at 10:30
Children's Storytime

Join Britton in the Children's Room for some favorite stories and a simple art project.

Tuesday, January 4th from 3:15 - 4:00
Lego Club for Elementary School Students

Drop by and build something! A snack is provided.

Saturday January 8th from 10:00-11:30 am
Second Saturday Arts with Melody Zahn Russell

Come and enjoy a creative morning of watercolor painting! For ages 5-12. All classes are $15 with materials provided. Please register today at the library or by calling us at 525-4411.

Coming in February...Back by popular demand!

Tuesday, February 15th from 3:15 - 4:00
Sugar Cube Castles for Elementary School Students

Build your own castle out of sugar cubes! All materials and a snack are provided. Space is limited, so please call the library to sign up. 525-4411

Library Girl

2010-12-22T17:15:00.001-05:00

Listen to Library Girl here.

Library Trustee Minutes 11.10.10

2010-12-07T14:07:00.001-05:00

Minutes Hancock Library Board of Trustees
November 10, 2010

Present: Amy Markus, Mary Garland, Laurie Bryan, Peter Ryner

The minutes of the October 27, 2010 meeting were approved.
The Treasurer's report was approved.

Daniels Room Policy: After some discussion it was unanimously voted to approve the serving of alcohol at Library-sponsored functions.

Capital Improvements: It was agreed that the roof should be replaced in 2011, and that the Library should submit a request for partial funding to the Town as a Warrant Article.

It was agreed that hand written thank you letters will be sent to anyone contributing $500 or more to the Library's capital fund.

Amy indicated that she has received information from the State which relates to best practices for volunteers. A central issue is to assure that volunteers do not undertake work that should be performed by Library employees. Unlike most libraries, Hancock uses volunteers for tasks such as checking out books; a task often performed by paid employees.

Amy pointed out that this could have a major impact on the Library's budget. Trustees asked if these guidelines were suggestions or whether they were “legal” standards. Amy thought that the information was a combination of Federal Law, common sense, and policies that various libraries have adopted. Laurie and Peter volunteered to review this information.

The next meeting will be on December 22 at 1 pm.

Submitted by Peter Ryner

Author William Martin Here Tuesday December 7th

2010-12-06T17:56:00.000-05:00

Tuesday December 7th at 7:00 pm
Author William Martin Joins the First Tuesday Book Club

We are delighted that William Martin, author of Back Bay, Cape Cod, Harvard Yard, and The Lost Constitution, will join our monthly book club to talk about his latest book, City of Dreams. Mr. Martin is best known for his New York Times bestselling historical fiction, but he has also written an award-winning PBS documentary and one of the cheesiest horror movies ever made. Nevertheless, he was the recipient of the 2005 New England Book Award, given to “an author whose body of work stands as a significant contribution to the culture of the region.” There are over three million copies of his books in print. Please join us for this special occasion. Free and open to all.

Library Events for December 2010

2010-11-30T17:34:00.002-05:00

Sunday December 5th at 2:00 pm
The Hourglass Readers Present: The Comedy of Errors by William Shakespeare

This classic mistaken-identity tale of identical twins is based on an ancient Roman comedy by Plautus and has been keeping people laughing now for two millennia.Catherine Behrens will direct a cast that includes Melody Actouka, Wendy Almeida, Mary Armstrong, Jazmine Carroll, Peter Eisenstadter, Sarah Ellsworth, Scott Gardner, Lori Goldring, Sandy Littell, Jonathan Ray, Eric Snare, Katrina Spenceman, and Larry Sportello. The Hourglass Readers is dedicated to performing readings of classical works in abridged format, allowing both actors and audiences to explore works not often performed. For more information, call Catherine Behrens at (603) 352-2699. This program is free and open to all.

Tuesday December 7th at 7:00 pm
Author William Martin Joins the First Tuesday Book Club

We are delighted that William Martin, author of Back Bay, Cape Cod, Harvard Yard, and The Lost Constitution, will join our monthly book club to talk about his latest book, City of Dreams. Mr. Martin is best known for his New York Times bestselling historical fiction, but he has also written an award-winning PBS documentary and one of the cheesiest horror movies ever made. Nevertheless, he was the recipient of the 2005 New England Book Award, given to “an author whose body of work stands as a significant contribution to the culture of the region.” There are over three million copies of his books in print. Please join us for this special occasion. Free and open to all.

Coming in January – Sign up today!

Thursdays from January 13 – March 10 from 2 – 4 pm
Shakespeare for Snowy Days

Shakespeare for Snowy Days has space for new members so if you’ve been thinking that you’d like to enjoy some Shakespeare, now is your chance! How about Shakespeare and Love? Taming of the Shrew, Romeo and Juliet, Much Ado About Nothing, Antony and Cleopatra. Check your bookshelves. If you need a title, please order the Folger edition from the Toadstool in early December to give them time to fill your order around the holiday rush. Please sign up for this class with the library (525-4411) and don’t be shy – join us!

From the Children’s Room…

Tuesdays at 10:30 am
Children's Storytime

Little ones are invited to join Britton in the Children's Room for some favorite stories and a simple craft or art project.

Tuesday, December 7th from 3:15 - 4:00
Lego Club for Elementary School Students

Drop by and build something! A snack is provided.

Friday, December 10th at 7:00 pm
Holiday Family Film Night

Please join us in the Daniels Room for How the Grinch Stole Christmas (the animated version). Free popcorn!

Saturday December 11th 10:00 – 11:30 am
Elves Workshop with Melody Zahn Russell

Join Melody on Saturday December 11th to create one-of-a-kind, handcrafted gifts. Melody will provide the materials for two or three gifts, you supply the creative genius! Suitable for children ages 5-12. Cost is $25.00 per child. Please call the library to register (525-4411). This program is a favorite and fills up quickly every year so register today!

Trivia Night a Great Success!

2010-11-17T17:35:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to the Trivia Night Team "MacCass" for winning the evening's grand prize with their top score. "MacCass" consisted of Neal Cass, Lexy Heatley, Patricia MacFarlane and Scott MacFarlane. All four teams competing (and the two observers) agreed that it was a wonderful time. So much so that we'll do it again Saturday March 5th - save the date! We're calling it Kabin Fever Trivia and you don't have to know a lot (see, you don't even have to spell cabin correctly!) to come and have fun - this time free of charge!

Special thanks to Dottie Cullinane and the Hancock Inn for donating gift certificates, Charlie Ingalls for being the perfect emcee, Larry Schwartz for adding a bit of spice to the evening with his very difficult questions and appealing monetary incentive, to Cindy Amidon and Jim Meltzer for local Hancock trivia, and to the 150th Library Birthday Committee for all their help: Kim Brady, Kim Cunningham, Mary Garland, Paul Hertneky, Jim Howard, and Hollis Wilson. Thank you all so much!

Thank you!

2010-11-17T17:30:00.002-05:00

Thanks to everyone who dropped off cookies, other food items (including lots & lots of maple syrup - thank you Bill Eva!), and toiletries to be sent to soldiers in Afghanistan. We'll do this again - every time the American Legion in Jaffrey has a packing party - so stay tuned!

Veterans Day Offer from Ancestry.com

2010-11-12T15:17:00.001-05:00

In honor of Veterans Day, Ancestry.com is offering free access to its
military records collection through Sunday:

http://www.ancestry.com/militaryrecords

Records span from the Revolutionary War through Vietnam.

Thursday November 11, 2010

2010-11-11T07:53:00.001-05:00

The Library will be closed today for Veterans Day. Please bake your cookies for the troops today and drop them at the library tomorrow, Friday November 12th, between 5:30 & 7:30 pm. Thank you!

Donate to the Troops - Friday Nov. 12th 5:30-7:30 pm

2010-11-10T16:59:00.001-05:00

Calling all Hancock residents! Josh Moreen is a Hancock native currently serving in Afghanistan. Let’s send Josh and other soldiers care packages to help them through the holidays. Bring the following items to the library on Friday November 12th between 5:30 & 7:30 pm and we will make sure they get sent on to Afghanistan (thanks to the American Legion Post 11 in Jaffrey who will be packaging these items on Sat. Nov. 13th). Items needed: HOME MADE BAKED GOODS (ie cookies)! The American Legion will put them in vacuum-sealed packaging so that they arrive in good shape. Also needed: pocket-sized Gold Bond Powder, foot creams, dental floss, individual Kleenex packets, chapstick, disposable razors, toothpaste & toothbrushes, sunblock, deodorant, Q-tips, eye drops & saline nasal spray. Food donations may also include: high protein snacks and power bars, beef jerky, sardines, dried/canned/foil vegetables & fruits, hard candy, canned/foil tuna and chicken. For a more complete list please visit the library. And consider a cash donation to help pay to ship all these items – we have a donation can at the library. Please help spread the word! For more information, call Amy at the library: 525-4411.

Library Trustee Minutes 10.27.10

2010-11-10T15:09:00.004-05:00

The Library Trustees meet the fourth Wednesday of the month at 1:00 pm in the Daniels Room.

Present: Mary Garland, Laurie Bryan, Amy Markus

Secretary’s report of September approved

Treasurer’s report for August, 2010 was approved. Amy will follow up with Chuck – questions about year to date line

Director’s Report:
- Trivia night planned as fund raiser. Local Gov Center says OK to serve alcohol. $15/person, $50 for four people. Nov. 13.
- Daniels Room policy will be changed to read: Alcohol may be served at library sponsored functions in the Daniels Room. Proposed wording will be voted on at the November 10 meeting.
- Gifts for 150th will be put into account under designated to 150th building fund. We want to maintain donor list. Amy will keep excel sheet and Mary will help with acknowledgements.
- Saturday night in the stacks was a terrific event with large attendance. Trustees will get back to a patron by mail about concerns.

Selectboard – warrant article – roof. This will be reviewed at November meeting.

We need to review best practices for volunteers. This will be done at November meeting.

Next meeting will be at 1 pm.

Meeting adjourned at 2:05 pm.

Library Events for November 2010

2010-11-03T14:37:00.001-05:00

From the Library…

Monday November 1st at 7:00 pm
Composing a Further Life: The Age of Active Wisdom with Mary Catherine Bateson

Hancock resident Mary Catherine Bateson will talk about her new book, Composing a Further Life: The Age of Active Wisdom. Bateson has long argued that increased longevity is not a matter of addition but of multiplication, so increases in life expectancy involve changes in the entire life cycle. One fundamental change is that we have shifted from a three generation society to a four generation society, one with lots of active grandparents who are mobile and active, while the pattern of "long memories and short walks" has shifted to the great grandparents, present in large number for the first time in history. Bateson has coined the term "active wisdom" to describe the potential of older adults. She has argued that a new era of consciousness-raising is needed as older adults rid themselves of out of date stereotypes of aging and discover the kinds of engagement that will complete the composition of their lives. Mary Catherine Bateson is a writer and cultural anthropologist who divides her time between New Hampshire and Massachusetts. She has written and co-authored many books and articles, and lectures across the country and abroad and has taught at Harvard, Northeastern University, Amherst College, Spelman College and abroad in the Philippines and in Iran. This program is free and open to all.

Tuesday November 2nd at 7:00 pm
First Tuesday Book Club

Join us as we discuss the book What Are Old People For? How Elders Will Save the World by William H. Thomas, M.D. All are welcome.

Thursday November 4th at 7:00 pm
Local Dublin Author Walt Schnabel

Local Dublin, NH author Walt Schnabel will discuss his book Blood Club, a supernatural thriller that employs the mythological structure defined by Joseph Campbell in his book “Hero With A Thousand Faces”. Campbell studied the storytelling traditions of indigenous people from around the world and identified elements that all of these stories have in common. These constantly repeating characters, who appear in dreams and the myths of all cultures are referred to as “archetypes”, a term coined by psychologist Carl Jung, who believed the human race shares a belief system that is embedded in the human psyche known as the collective unconscious. Stories constructed using this mythological structure are psychologically valid and resonate with humans on a deeper level. Blood Club is a modern day myth or hero’s journey that has the main character, with the help of a Native American medicine man, battling the forces of darkness –without and within.
Walt Schnabel graduated from Glassboro State College with a degree in education. He has taught English to regular class and learning disabled students. His lifelong passion for horror cinema and literature has been incorporated into his writing.

Friday November 12th from 5:30 – 7:30 pm
Drop off donations for our military personnel in Afghanistan at the Hancock Town Library!

Calling all Hancock residents! Josh Moreen is a Hancock native currently serving in Afghanistan. Let’s send Josh and other soldiers care packages to help them through the holidays. Bring the following items to the library on Friday November 12th between 5:30 & 7:30 pm and we will make sure they get sent on to Afghanistan (thanks to the American Legion Post 11 in Jaffrey who will be packaging these items on Sat. Nov. 13th). Items needed: HOME MADE BAKED GOODS (ie cookies)! The American Legion will put them in vacuum-sealed packaging so that they arrive in good shape. Also needed: pocket-sized Gold Bond Powder, foot creams, dental floss, individual Kleenex packets, chapstick, disposable razors, toothpaste & toothbrushes, sunblock, deodorant, Q-tips, eye drops & saline nasal spray. Food donations may also include: high protein snacks and power bars, beef jerky, sardines, dried/canned/foil vegetables & fruits, hard candy, canned/foil tuna and chicken. For a more complete list please visit the library. And consider a cash donation to help pay to ship all these items – we have a donation can at the library. Please help spread the word! For more information, call Amy at the library: 525-4411.

Saturday November 13th at 7:00 pm
TRIVIA NIGHT for Grown-ups!

Help us celebrate our 150th birthday by joining us for Trivia Night at the library! Get a team of four (max) together for a fabulous evening of local and international trivia! Win valuable prizes!! Test your knowledge of our special categories: local lore, literature, love & death, losers & winners, and more! Entry fee is $15 per person or $50 per team of four. Bring extra cash to back up your brilliance with bonus questions for bonus points! We’ll have drinks and snacks and Charlie Ingalls as our Trivia Guru and Emcee Extraordinaire. Don’t miss this evening of fun at the library! Sign up today by visiting or calling the library (525-4411). Or email us at hancocklibrary@comcast.net. This program is appropriate for the grown-ups in your family!

Coming this winter…

Shakespeare for Snowy Days ~
Thursdays from January 13 – March 10 from 1:30 – 4 pm

Autumn again, and as the leaves fall it is time to be thinking of Shakespeare. The past two years we have worked our way through English History, from the Plantagenets to the Tudors. It is time for a change. How about Shakespeare and Love? Taming of the Shrew, Romeo and Juliet, Much Ado About Nothing, Antony and Cleopatra.
Check your bookshelves. If you need a title, please order the Folger edition from the Toadstool. Do this in early December or earlier to give them time to fill your order around the Christmas rush. As always, space is limited, so please sign up for this class with the library (525-4411).

From the Children’s Room…

Friday, October 29 at 7 pm
Spooky Stories Night with Gregory Pratt

Gregory Pratt will return this year for our annual evening around the campfire! With a catalog of thousands of tales, most of which are his own invention, Greg has established a reputation as a master storyteller and has proven adept at telling stories to crowds of all ages. Come if you dare! Rain or shine.

Every Tuesday at 1:30
Story & Craft Time for Preschoolers and Kindergartners (Note new day and time!)

Join Britton in the Children's Room for some favorite stories and a simple art project or craft.

Tuesday November 2 from 3:15 to 4:00
Lego Club for Elementary School Students

Drop by and build something! A snack is provided.

Wednesday, November 3 from 3 to 4 pm
Little Baby Hour

Babies and their caregivers are invited to the Children's Room for social time. Drop in to play with toys, browse new books, and meet other babies in town.

Saturday November 13th 10-11:30 am
Second Saturday Arts with Melody Zahn Russell

This month’s project will be potato printing! As always, space is limited so please sign up at the library. Cost is $15.

Spooky Stories Night with Gregory Pratt

2010-10-20T08:53:00.000-05:00

Friday October 29 at 7 pm
Spooky Stories Night with Gregory Pratt

Gregory Pratt will return this year for our annual evening around the campfire! With a catalog of thousands of tales, most of which are his own invention, Greg has established a reputation as a master storyteller and has proven adept at telling stories to crowds of all ages. Come if you dare! Meet behind the library. If there’s rain we’ll move inside.

Tuesday October 19th at 7:00 pm

2010-10-18T15:47:00.000-05:00

A Fine High Gleefulness: The Art of Shirley Jackson with Ann Robinson, Lecturer

Shirley Jackson, who published from the late 1940's through the early 1960's, earned her living as a commercial writer of domestic comedy, sophisticated ghost tales, gothic horror and psychological drama. Sadly, she is one of the most neglected figures in 20th-century American literature. Her novels We Have Always Lived In This Castle and The Haunting of Hill House remain two of her most popular works, while her landmark short story, The Lottery, originally published in The New Yorker, continues to intrigue readers of all ages. This lecture emphasizes the impact of Jackson's personal life on her art. Rather than have her artistic impulse stifled by the social constraints of the 1950's, she remained prolific for most of her adult life. Her best work reflects her unique personality and her intense interest in the occult. Jackson was considered an oddity and an outsider by the community of Bennington,VT, where she lived for some years with her scholar husband, Stanley Edgar Hyman, and their four children. Undaunted, she used her feelings of isolation as a foundation for some of her most intriguing works. Ann Robinson received a B.A. in English from Connecticut College and an M.F.A. in Writing from Vermont College. Since 1967 she has lived in southwestern NH where she wrote and produced award-winning radio commercials and published feature articles in newspapers and magazines. Initially presented through the NH Humanities Council’s Traveling Scholars program, this hour-length presentation appeals to adult audiences. Free and open to all.

Library Closed Monday October 11, 2010

2010-10-08T19:25:00.001-05:00

In observance of Columbus Day the Hancock Town Library will be closed on Monday October 11, 2010. See you Tuesday!!

Picture Books Languish

2010-10-08T18:08:00.002-05:00

An article in the New York Times states that sales of picture books are languishing as parents push their children to read chapter books at an earlier age. Hey, I still enjoy a good picture book now and then. And I'm old! Don't forget to take a look at the gorgeous picture books we have in the Children's Room at the library. And to read the NYT article, click here.

Library Trustee Minutes 9.22.10

2010-10-07T15:19:00.001-05:00

Hancock Library Trustees Minutes
September 22, 2010

Present: Mary Garland, Laurie Bryan, Amy Markus

Treasurer’s report was approved.

Director’s Report:
- Reviewed 150th fund raising letter
- Update on 150th celebration
- Volunteer lunch will be October 15 at the Harris Center

Next meeting will be October 20 at 1 pm.

Meeting adjourned at 1:55 pm.

Hancock Resident Judith Oksner on YouTube!

2010-10-07T10:00:00.002-05:00

Judith Oksner's paintings have been exhibited many places, including the Hancock Town Library and Smith College. Here's an interview with Judith about her time at Smith, her junior year abroad in Paris, and her whimsical and lovely paintings. Click here to watch!

Poetry Reading Thursday 10/7/10 at 7 pm

2010-10-06T17:19:00.001-05:00

Please join us! This poetry reading participates in the ancient and beloved Palestinian and Israeli tradition of reading poems aloud. In line with that tradition, Ruth Siegel and James Smart (two retired college professors) will be presenting poetry of the two most beloved poets of Palestine and Israel, Mahmoud Darwish and Yehuda Amichai, both recently deceased. Their selections cover a wide range of topics & perspectives, from love poems to poems about exile. Free and open to all.

Changes to our Children's Programs

2010-09-30T16:22:00.002-05:00

Just a couple of changes to our schedule...

Story & Craft Time for preschoolers and kindergartners will now take place at 1:30 on Tuesdays.

Little Baby Hour will now be from 3:00 to 4:00 on the first Wednesday of every month.

Fantastic Website for Book Lovers!

2010-09-28T17:27:00.001-05:00

Flashlight Worthy Books

Broadband Internet Forums

2010-09-28T16:06:00.002-05:00

DURHAM, N.H. -- The New Hampshire Broadband Mapping Project (NHBMP), which is managed by the University of New Hampshire's Geographically Referenced Analysis and Information Transfer (NH GRANIT) project, will host a series of public forums around the state beginning September 28 through mid-November. The informational meetings will familiarize participants with the NHBMP’s ongoing efforts to inventory and map broadband coverage available across New Hampshire, and collect important input from residents, businesses, and institutions on where broadband is and is not currently available.

The NHBMP is a coordinated, multi-agency initiative funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), and is part of a national effort to expand high-speed Internet access and adoption through improved data collection and broadband planning.

GRANIT, which is housed at the UNH Institute for the Study of Earth, Oceans, and Space (EOS), serves as the statewide geographic information system (GIS) clearinghouse. In January, the U.S. Department of Commerce awarded GRANIT approximately $1.7 million to manage NHBMP, which will inventory and map current and planned broadband coverage available to the state's businesses, educators, and citizens.

"The results of the mapping activity will be an important determinant in planning for future broadband access across the state, and that access is vital for all citizens in terms of economic development, education, health care, public health and safety, and quality of life issues," says GRANIT director Fay Rubin of the Complex Systems Research Center at EOS. She adds, “We encourage citizens to join the NHBMP and provide input to this important mapping project.”

Sessions will be co-hosted by UNH, the nine regional planning commissions, and the NH Department of Resources and Economic Development. Alphabetically by town/city, they are scheduled as follows for our area:

Peterborough Monday, October 4th, 6:30-8:30 PM

Peterborough Town House
1 Grove St., Peterborough, NH 03458
Contact Michael Blair at the Southwest Region Planning
Commission (mblair@swrpc.org) for further information.

Keene Tuesday, October 12th, 6:30-8:30 PM

Heberton Hall/Keene Public Library
60 Winter St., Keene NH 03431
Contact Michael Blair at the Southwest Region Planning
Commission (mblair@swrpc.org) for further information.

Fight for libraries as you do freedom

2010-09-28T15:11:00.002-05:00

Novelist Karin Slaughter has written a beautiful piece about the importance of libraries in our communities. Not just because a library is the heart of the community, but because there is a direct correlation between the rate of literacy in a nation and its success. The full article isn't long and it's worth a read.

Libraries Will Survive!

2010-09-25T11:55:00.001-05:00

This is quite funny!