Local author Pischke to discuss "The Women of Block 12"

Join us Thursday July 28, from 7:00pm-8pm as we welcome social worker and freelance writer Linda Pischke to the library. Mrs Pischke is the author of the book, The Women of Block 12: Voices From a Jail Ministry. A resident of Mukwonago, Mrs. Pischke will discuss her experiences working with the Dismas Jail Ministry, an outreach organization serving inmates and those affected by crime. In her book, The Women of Block 12, Mrs. Pischke not only tells of her time working with incarcerated women awaiting trial, but she lets the women tell their own stories. The stories they tell of broken childhoods, heartbreak, and shattered dreams are also stories of growth, courage, the resilience of the human spirit, and the power of faith. For more information, stop by the Reference Desk, call (262) 363-6456, or write us at mukref@gmail.com

Technology Tip of the Week Part 1

So I have been mulling over some ideas for a weekly blog segment. There have been some neat blog posts in the past including, BBB (Big, Beautiful, Books) and the Construction Updates on the expansion are awesome! But I wanted something where people could come and learn a little tidbit of information. Since a lot of patrons come to the library to use technology and learn about it, I thought our virtual presence should offer the same services. So welcome to the new weekly blog addition, Technology Tips!

Tips for Week #1: SHORTCUT KEYS

Using the mouse for some people can be difficult, and take a lot of time. A way to make that easier (especially for seniors) is to utilize shortcut keys. Shortcut keys are certain buttons or combination of buttons (pressed at the same time) on the keyboard that will make actions happen. It is often nice because instead of clicking three things to get to that command, you can press these button combinations to make it easier. There are oodles of them, these are just some of the simpler ones I use on a daily basis. Try the web browsing tips NOW! :)

Dial 6411

Instead of paying for information when you call "411". Dial your local library at 262-363-6"411".

Besides what you pay for your own phone bill, there is no charge and we can look up information for you! Here are a couple of popular reference questions that we answer for you in a jiffy if you call...

-Find the address or telephone number for a person or business.

-Directions if you are lost.

-Looking for dates and information about local events.

-Simple recipes.

-Find out what programs are going on at the library.

-Check a stock or market value.

For more complex questions we may take a few minutes, or have to call you back. But we are here. Don't forget you can always e-mail us at mukref@gmail.com. If we are closed we also offer the 24/7 chat with a librarian with our AskAway service. Call us if you want to know more about it :).

Writers' Group Meetings

Most of our patrons come to the library because they enjoy reading. There are a select few who come here on the last Wednesday of every month because they enjoy writing. Writing is a great way to exercise your creativity, release stress, and share with others. So capture your thoughts, ideas, and emotions on paper and then let a friendly group of fellow writers help you craft it. Everyone takes turn reading their piece for 5 minutes, and then receives feedback from the rest of the group. Come and join the Wonago Word Weavers Wednesday of every month, from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Please note that some meeting times may change.

July 27th, August 31st, September 28th, October 26th, November 30th, and December 28th.

If you are a novice writer and want some materials to help you get started, the reference desk at the Mukwonago Community Library is a good place to stop at. We may suggest the super cool The Writer magazine that is available for checkout. Or you may be interested in an e-book Grammar Girl's Quick and Dirty Tips For Better Writing. For our teens and young adults we have a book for you called Seize the Story.

No matter what your ink, we can make you think!

Construction Photos: Ten

What a difference a bunch of dirt makes! If you haven't driven by the construction site recently, I urge you to do so-- it's really looking good. All of the big holes have been filled in, the basement is fully enclosed and the structural steel support structure is mostly in place. You can really get a sense of the size of the place now-- and it is big! Here are some shots from today:

A view from the west looking down what will be the main entry way for the new library. The lobby and entrance will be located just past the elevator shaft structure.

A view from the south at the portion that is above the new basement area. Most of this space will be staff work areas, with the community room way down on the far north end.

This shot is from the north, looking back at where the new building will merge with the existing. The outline of the huge western bow window can be seen well in this shot.

One final shot of the elevator shaft, with the framework for the expansion on the north visible behind it.

Easy Meals for the Entire Week

I can be honest when I say I have not been using my youth to develop my cooking skills. I pass through life on deli sandwiches and spaghetti. Through a little luck and the lazy days of summer I found a little spare time to start cooking. For months I have been complaining..."Why can't I find a easy and affordable shopping list that is coupled with recipes for meals for the entire week...grumble...grumble?".

I found one!

The magazine Everyday with Rachel Ray has a leaflet that has a shopping list and the recipes! I went shopping last night and for $77.00 I got 7 interesting, inspiring, and delicious meals. I also have to be honest that I ended up purchasing some items I have never used or eaten in my life. My step-dad is a chef so that is a pretty embarrassing revelation. I found out that kale is a green lettuce type item, and that bow-tie noodles have an entirely different name on the box.

My first recipe was a smash! I made a homemade pizza with hot sausage, rosemary flavored red pepper and onion, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan sprinklings! For the first time in a long time my leftovers weren't boring!

Now if you have a fancy cell phone like a Android or a Smart Phone they also have apps where you can photograph a section of the magazine and it will download the recipes and shopping list to your cell phone. How cool!

Now enough about Rachel Ray, have you ever tried Cooks Illustrated? This is one of the most trusted and traditional cooking magazines that cooks have trusted for years. My aunt swears by a pie crust recipe with vodka....and it really is awesome.

A long story short, we have a lot of great items at the library that can help make your life a little more exciting....even in the small tasty ways.

Energy Presentation

Local energy expert Arley Uhrig came and gave a presentation on Global Warming/Climate Change last month. Come see part II of his series where he will help you understand how you can conserve energy in your home around you. Besides talking about energy conservation and efficiency he is extremely knowledgeable about how it works.

Come and listen to his presentation and bring your energy questions. There is also a little display of books and resources in the library if you need something to get your noodle going!

Presentation II will be tomorrow (Thursday) July 7th at 6:3o pm.

See you there!

Construction Photos: Nine

Things are really moving at the construction site now that the weather has started to cooperate a little bit. We're back on schedule! So keep your fingers crossed that things keep moving smoothly and we can be moved back into our wonderful new home by the end of the year. Here are some shots of the progress:

Here we see an excavator clearing away the soil around the foundation of the existing building so that the waterproofing on the new and old portions can be integrated.

The purple stuff helps keep the waterproofing in place and also provides some insulation. Soon these canyons will be filled up with all the dirt piled around the perimeter of the site.

A shot from the inside, showing where the demolition on the north end roof has been marked off by the big blue tarp.

A view from the west as one of the workers finishes demolishing the northwest corner of the old library building (Yikes! I hope they put things back together as well as they've ripped them apart).

A close up of the roof area after demolition.

Construction Photos: Eight

Okay, it's been a little while since we posted one of these and some significant progress has been made in the interim. Check out what's been happening at the construction site:

Here we can see that the basement is now fully enclosed-- walls and ceiling. Yay! Plus, you can see a little of the structural steel that will hold up ceiling trusses once they are installed in July.

This shot shows the basement relative to the existing building. The piles of dirt will be used to fill in around the basement walls after the 4th of July.

A shot from the north, showing the structural steel work a little more clearly.

Happy Independence Day!

Just a quick reminder that the library will be closed on the Fourth of July in honor of Independence Day.

Though we won't be open that day, doesn't mean we can't help you celebrate!
We have music to play at your BBQ, some suggested CDs you may find are Now that's What I Call the USA: The Patriotic Country Collection, God Bless America, America: A Tribute to Heroes, and more! We also have some great cooking magazines that could help you whip up the prize winning dish at your get together, may I suggest reading Midwest Living they had some sweet corn recipes with pictures that are making my mouth water. We also have lots of other great material.

If you miss the fireworks, don't fret, relive the experience through this free little online game...it takes a few minutes to load, but it is fun and pretty!

Edible Book Contest

We have an Edible Book Contest coming up on Wednesday, July 13th at 6:00 pm. You should come and check it out, or enter to win prizes. The details are below!



Mukwonago Community Library
Edible Book Contest Rules

1. All entries must be turned in between Friday, July 8th at 9 am and Wednesday, July 13th at 10 am. (We do not accept earlier drop offs because of the chances of entries spoiling).
2. Entries do not have to look like a book. They just have to be a food creation that is based off of a book title, cover or character.
3. Items that need to be refrigerated should be no larger than 1’ by 1’.
4. Items that do not need to be refrigerated may be any size.
5. To be eligible to win the contestant must turn in the entry with a completely filled out entry form.
6. Participation in this contest is giving your permission to publish images of the entry and contestant’s name for library promotion. You also understand that your entry will be eaten. 
7. Grand prize winner receives:

• 10 free entries for SLP grand prizes
• A SLP cooking apron
• 5 free books from the SLP collection

All contestants will received:

• 1 free entry for the SLP grand prize
• 1 free book from SLP collection (up to first 10 contestants)

8. The prize will be judged by library staff and the winner announced at 6 pm on Wednesday, July 13th. The winner does not have to be present to participate.
9. All entries will then be offered to library staff and patrons to eat during the book contest party on Wednesday, July 13th 6pm-8:30 pm.
10. Any dishes/plates or other devices used to transport the entry must have you name and phone number clearly labeled on it. (We want to make sure you get your items back.)

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Contestant Name: ______________________________________________________________________

Phone Number: _________________________ Email: ________________________________________

This portion will get displayed with your entry. Please write clearly.
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Book/Character Entry is Based On:

Description of Entry/Ingredients:







Entry Contains:  Eggs  Milk  Nuts  Gluten Low Sodium

22nd Annual Energy Fair

22ND ANNUAL ENERGY FAIR JUNE 17-19, 2011

Each year the MREA Energy Fair transforms rural Central Wisconsin into the global hot spot for renewable energy education. The Energy Fair brings over 20,000 people from nearly every state in the U.S. and several countries around the world to learn, connect with others and ready them for action at home. The Energy Fair is the nation's longest running energy education event of its kind.

The Energy Fair features:

• Over 275 exhibitors - featuring sustainable living and clean energy products
• Over 200 workshops - including introductory level to advanced hands-on education: solar, wind, green building, local sustainable food, and more
• Clean Energy Car Show - featuring demonstration vehicles and exhibitors
• Green Home Pavilion - emphasizing building and remodeling in a sustainable way
• Green Building Demos - displaying sustainable building techniques in action
• Sustainable Tables - including workshops, chef demos, and a farmers' market to bring sustainability to your dinner table
• Inspirational keynotes, lively entertainment, great food, and local beer

Join us for the 22nd Annual Energy Fair, June 17-19, 2011

Local Author Visits...and a Mystery!

Author Jerry Peterson and Maddy Hunter recently visited us to tell us all about their great books!

Jerry's book Early's Fall takes place in the 1940s is Riley County Kansas. Sheriff James Early's job becomes personal when some locals turn up butchered. The Sheriff does his share of sleuthing with his great sidekicks while trying to solve the mystery. Great dialog and intelligently written. If you want a taste of Jerry's writing you can read the first three chapters of his book on his website, or check the book out from the library.

Maddy Hunter writes a series called Passport to Peril. This hilarious series follows a troupe of senior citizens while they vacation all over the world. While on these vacations they become the center of wild murders, crimes, and other antics. Laugh along with these cozy mysteries and get your copy from the library, or check them out at her website.

Now you great people who read the blog. I am going to clue you on a little mystery of my own. Maddy Hunter left us a few "mystery items" to give to our valued patrons. If you want to know what she left, and how you may get one...check out the Adult Services Facebook Page...and good luck!

Wonderful Wednesdays!

Today was the first Wonderful Wednesday event that took place at the Village Hall! Miss Jane, our Children's Librarian reported we had over 100 attendees to see the Juggling Extravaganza by Doug the Jug. Check out this line up!

SERIES PROGRAMS:

WONDERFUL WEDNESDAYS
For families of all ages. No registration necessary.

These events will be held in the lower level at the Mukwonago Village Hall, 440 River Crest Court.

June 15, 10:00 AM
Doug the Jug: "Juggling Extravanganza."

June 22, 10:00 AM
Jerry Falkenstein, Storyteller: "Circle the Globe with Storytelling."

June 29, 10:00 AM
Fox & Branch, Musicians: "Family Folk Music"

July 6, 10:00 AM
David HB Drake, Musician: "What a Wonderful World"

July 13, 10:00 AM
Jim Mitchell, Magician: "One World, Many Stories"

July 20, 10:00 AM
Nature in the Parks: "One Butterfly, Three Countries"

July 27, 10:00 AM
Tom Kastle, Musician: "Maritime Music"

August 3, 10:00 AM
Puppet Story Theater: "Puppet Travels"

Wednesday Come Get Free Sundaes and Chat with Authors!

Wednesday, June 15th 6:30 pm - Ice Cream Social with Local Authors
Share a sundae with local authors Jerry Peterson and Maddy Hunter as you listen to them speak about their books and the process of writing. Even ask questions and get your copy of the book signed. Jerry Peterson is known for his novel Early's Fall and Maddy Hunter is the author of the series Passport to Peril.

Construction Photos: Seven

These truck mounted cranes are pretty terrific. Though they are small (as far as some cranes go) they can still hoist as much as 14 tons. Incredible!

Gang planks weigh between 10 & 15 pounds per square foot. These premolded pieces will help create the structure of the basement concrete walls.

These gang planks are held into place by the forms. There has also been in ground plumbing finished on the completed basement area of the library...OoOoO.

This is a shot of the current dividing door between the completed section of basement and the addition basement. A good place to store valuables or relocate the Director's Office :P

Check in with us next time to see how things progress!

Come Sign up for the Summer Library Program

Before you get your summer all planned come and see what events the library is having for the Summer Library Program. We have Appalachian story tellers, Jugglers, author visits, contests, prizes, games, and more! Come on in! When you walk in the door there will be a table with friendly volunteers who can help you sign up and answer all of your questions.

The best part...participation is FREE! We all need that price these days. Or if you can't make it to the library and still want to know how to participate give us a call at (262) 363-6411, or check out our website or Adults Facebook, Teen Facebook.

Thank you volunteers! We couldn't do this without you!

Pathfinder: Learning About Dogs

Doggonit! If your reading this, then I can assume you want to know a little bit more about our canine pals. You may be looking at options for training, optimal diet and exercise, what breed is best for you, or just reading up. Whatever your need the library has a surprising amount of material, suggestions, and experiences to help you become more familiar with Man's Best Friends. Let's have a look!

Events:
We have Paws to Read, which is a reading activity geared for our younger readers. Visit the library and read a poem, picture book, or book chapter to our Therapy Dogs. This is a drop in event with no registration necessary. The intent of this program is to help youth connect with reading, it is also an opportunity for them to connect with dogs. We have Navarre the Samoyed, Zeus the American Bulldog mix, B.J. the Rottweiller, and a new welcome to Marcie the Border Collie. If you don't feel like reading you can always come visit these friendly dogs, or give your younger family members a memorable experience with dogs first hand! For more information about these events check the Youth Services Page.

Local Resources:

Dog Exercise Areas
Dog are welcome in any Waukesha County park, given they are properly licenced and leashed. If you want to let your dog off leash and exercise them Waukesha County has two areas. It is a nice perk because there is no extra charge for using these areas (Milwaukee County charges). For more information check out the Waukesha County Park System website.

Speciality Business
There are a lot of local businesses dedicated to dogs. End of the Leash is one such business that offers a ton of services, products, and events. I will let their blog do the talking for them.

Books:
Here are some of our newer book on:

Training
Cesar's Rules: Your Way to Train a Well-Behaved Dog (2010)

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Positive Dog Training, by Pamela Dennison (2011)

The 50+ Dog Owner: Complete Dog Parenting for Baby Boomers and Beyond, by Mary Jane Checchi (2011)

Dog Sense: How the New Science of Dog Behavior Can Make You a Better Friend To Your Pet (2010)

Careers
Careers with Dogs: The Comprehensive Guide to Finding Your Dream Job, by Kim Thorton (2010)

How to Start a Home-Based Pet-Sitting and Dog-Walking Business, by Cathy Vaughan (2011)

Dog Stories:

The Lost Dogs: Michael Vick's Dogs and Their Tale of Rescue and Redemption, by Jim Gorant (2010)

One Dog at a Time: Saving the Strays of Afghanistan, by Pen Farthing (2010)

A Famous Dog's Life: The Story of Gidget, America's Most Beloved Chihuahua, by Sue Chipperton (2011)

Chicken Soup for the Sould: My Dog's Life: 1010 Stories About All the Ages and Stages Of Our Canine Companians (2011)

Oogy: The Dog Only A Family Could Love, by Larry Levin (2010)

You Had Me At Woof: How Dogs Taught Me the Secrets of Happiness, by Julie Klam (2010)

Activities

Knit Your Own Dog: Easy-To-Follow Patterns for 25 Pedigree Pooches by Sally Muir (2011)

Magazines

Dog Fancy ~ 2008 thru current year

Dog World ~ 2006 thru current year

AKC Family Dog ~ 2009 thru current year

Dog Watch ~ 2009 thru current year

Movies:
Dogs 101 (2010)
Caution! Show Dogs! A Dogumentary (2010)
Home School. Children and dogs. Volume 1 (2009)
Dog Tails: History, Genealogy, Traits (2010)
Dog Whisperer with Cesar Milan. Season 4, Volume 2 (2010)
Dog Whisperer with Cesar Milan. Season 4, Volume 1 (2010)
Dog Whisperer with Cesar Milan. Completed Third Season (2008)
Dogs for Dummies (2004)

Those are only some of our selection? Do you have any resources or websites that you would suggest?

Come Sign Up for the Summer Library Program

It doesn't start until June 13th, but you can come sign up now. We have some great volunteers that can help you get started as soon as you walk in the door. Also, don't be worried about being bored this summer, look at all the awesome things we have planned for you and yours!

2011 SUMMER LIBRARY PROGRAM:
June 13th-August 3rd

Children's Programs

SPECIAL EVENTS:

ONE WORLD, MANY STORIES
Summer Reading Challenge
June 13-August 6
Open to newborn-grade 6

Children are invited to "Read to Feed" and help provide animals to families around the world. These animals will include a flock of chicks, a flock of ducks and geese, a hive of honeybees, a trio of rabbits, and even a water buffalo.

Part of the Heifer International summer reading program. Sponsored and funded by the Friends of the Mukwonago Community Library.

CAMP RUN-A-MUK
Thursday, June 16 at 2:00 PM
Grades 4-6

Share ghastly ghost stories, sing silly camp songs, play goofy games, adn stuff your face with marshmallows.

THE TROUBLE WITH TROLLS
Thursday, June 23 at 2:00 PM
Grades 1-3

Enjoy the classic story of the Three Biily Goats Gruff and one of its twisted variations, re-enact the story in a Reader's Theater, and test your skill at a Troll Toss.

LULLABIES FOR LITTLE ONES:
an Evening Lapsit Storytime
Tuesday, June 28 at 6:30 PM

This program is designed for children and their caregivers to enjoy together. It features Mother Goose, books, songs, bouncy rhymes, fingerplays, and lots of fun for little ones and their caregivers. (Older children are invited to attend Bedtime Buddies.) Recommended for families with children ages newborn-36 months.

BEDTIME BUDDIES
Tuesday, July 12 at 6:30 PM

Wear your pajamas, bring a "bedtime buddy," and come to the library for an evening filled with books and fun. Recommended for families with children ages 3-8.

POETRY ALIVE! Poetry Performance Like Nothing Else!
Tuesday, July 17, 7:00 PM

Enjoy poetry performances of many of your favorite poetry classics. Shows have lots of audience participantion so get ready to join Poetry Alive! on stage. Yoy'll never see poetry in the same way again. Sponsored by the Waukesha County Federated Library System.

FAMILY FILM NIGHT
Stay tuned.

Wear your jammies and bring a pillow and blanket to snuggle into. Popcorn will be served. Call the Library for titles. For families of all ages.

CONTESTS:

SSSNAKE STORY WRITING CONTEST
Open to grades K-12

In 100 words or less, write a story about an explorer, a tiara, and a giant snake. The story must include all three elements! One winner will be chosen in each of three age categories: grades K-3, 4-6, and 7-12. The winners will each receive a trophy plush giant snake. Contest ends Saturday, August 6. Pick up your official entry form at the Library beginning Monday, June 13.

MAGICAL RIDE DRAWING EVENT
Open to children of all ages.

Imagine you are taking a magical ride around the world. Show us how you would get there. All entries will receive a coupon for a cool, custardy treat. Contest ends Saturday, August 6. Pick up your official entry form at the Library beginning Monday, June 13.

GUESS HOW MANY FEATHERS!
Open to grades K-12.

Guess how many many are in our container and you could win a plush blue Macaw. To be eligible, be the closets without going over. Contest ends Saturday, August 6.

SKATEBOARD DESIGN CONTEST
Open to grades 7-12.

Create the artwork for a skateboard deck and earn a chance to win a skateboard from Won-A-Go Biking. Your design should be two-dimentional and approximately 8 x 32 inches. Contest ends Saturday, August 6.

SERIES PROGRAMS:

WONDERFUL WEDNESDAYS
For families of all ages. No registration necessary.

These events will be held in the lower level at the Mukwonago Village Hall, 440 River Crest Court.

June 15, 10:00 AM
Doug the Jug: "Juggling Extravanganza."

June 22, 10:00 AM
Jerry Falkenstein, Storyteller: "Circle the Globe with Storytelling."

June 29, 10:00 AM
Fox & Branch, Musicians: "Family Folk Music"

July 6, 10:00 AM
David HB Drake, Musician: "What a Wonderful World"

July 13, 10:00 AM
Jim Mitchell, Magician: "One World, Many Stories"

July 20, 10:00 AM
Nature in the Parks: "One Butterfly, Three Countries"

July 27, 10:00 AM
Tom Kastle, Musician: "Maritime Music"

August 3, 10:00 AM
Puppet Story Theater: "Puppet Travels"


LAPSIT STORYTIME
For ages newborn to 36 months
Thursdays at 10:00 AM

June 16-August 4

This program is designed for children and their caregivers to enjoy together. It features Mother Goose, books, songs, bouncy rhymes, fingerplays, and lots of fun for little ones and their caregivers. (Older children are invited to attend our Wonderful Wednesdays Series.) No registration is necessary.

PAWS TO READ
For readers of all ages

Visit the library and read a poem, picture book, or book chapter to Navarre, B.J., or Zeus the Therapy Dogs. Drop in; no registration necessary.

Navarre the Samoyed
Tuesdays, 1:30 PM
June 14
July 5, 12, 19, 23

Zeus the American Bulldog mix
Wednesdays, 7:00 PM
June 15, 22, 29
July 6, 13, 20

B.J. the Rottweiller
Fridays, 10:00 AM
June 17, 24
July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
August 5

Here it Comes.... the Summer Library Program!!

The Summer Library Program is gearing up to start soon. We are ready to tell you all about the Adult Summer Library Program.

The program officially begins on Monday, June 13th. But you can start signing up for events on Tuesday, May 31st. The theme is "A Novel Destination". We want you to travel on your mind's edge through the Antartic expanse, dwell on riveting tales of Appalachian storyteller, and meet local mystery authors! Check out our Facebook Page to see the events or to RSVP for them.
We have brochures with all this good information available at the Mukwonago Community Library too.

Soon we will be announcing all the details for the Children and YA SLP too. Watch out!

Pathfinder: Locavore...what?!

Locavore is defined as a person who typically eats food grown or produced within a certain radius of their home, or within a certain region. The Library Journal had a article in their April 2011 edition discussing the rise of the Locavore movement and discussing some excellent titles and resources if you are interested in the topic. I was impressed with the amount of titles we had available within our system that the article mentioned. Here is what we have availble:

Cooking

Food Matters: A Guide to Conscious Eating Eating with More than 75 Recipes By Mark Bittman (2008)

American Terroir: Savoring the Flavors of Our Woods, Waters, and Fields

By Rowan Jacobsen (2010)

Farm to Fork: Cooking Local, Cooking Fresh By Emeril Lagasse (2010)

Local Flavors: Cooking and Eating from America's Farmers' Markets By Deobrah Madison (2008)

Cooks' House: The Art and Soul of Local, Sustainable Cuisine By Eric Patterson and Jennifer Blakeslee (2010)

In the Green Kitchen: Techniques to Learn By Heart By Alice Waters (2010)

The Conscious Kitchen: The New Way To Buy and Cook Food - To Protect the Earth, Improve Your Health, and Eat Deliciously By Alexandra Zissu (2010)

Food Politics

Eating Animals By Jonathan Safran Foer (2009)

In Defense of Food: An Eater's Manifesto By Michael Pollan (2008)

The Omnivore's Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals By Michael Pollan (2006)

Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal By Eric Schlosser (2001)

How To

The Joy of Keeping Farm Animals: Raising Chickens, Goats, Pigs, Sheep, and Cows By Laura Childs (2010)

The Locavore Way: Discover and Enjoy the Pleasures of Locally Grown Food By Amy Cotler (2009)

The Urban Homestead: Your Guide to Sel-Sufficient Living in the Heart of the City By Kelly Coyne and Erik Knutzen (2010)

Homemade Living: Canning & Preserving with Ashley English: All You Need To Know To Make Jams, Jellies, Pickles, Chutneys, & More By Ashley English (2010)

Homemade Living: Kepping Chickens with Ashley English: All You Need To Know To Care for a Happy Healthy Flock By Ahsley English (2010)

Homesteading: A Backyard Guide to Growing Your Own Food, Canning, Keeping Chickens, Generating Your Own Energey, Crafting, Herbal Medicine, and More. By Norton (2009)

Food Rules: An Eater's Manual By Michael Pollan (2009)

Ripe From Around Here: A Vegan Guide to Local and Sustainable Eating (No Matter Where You Live) By Jae Steele (2010)

There was also a video not listed by Library Journal that we have in the system:
Locavore: local diet, healthy planet (2009)

Websites

Eating Well Guide - Find farms, markets, resaurants, and more in the US and Canada.

Eco-Friendly Guide - A guide to green living and green companies for a variety of products.

Sustainable Table - An excellent resource for educating yourself about the benefits of eating local, sustainable food.

Be BIG Contest

Clifford the Big Red Dog promotes through Scholastic the Be BIG Contest. It is a national compaign that invites everyone, big and small, to take action and raise awareness for how CLIFFORD'S BIG IDEAS can make the world a better place. The mission of the BE BIG is to recognize and reward others for their BE BIG actions, to catalyze change in local communities and to provide resources for everyone to share Big Ideas!


Anyone can enter by June 17, 2011 and the grand prize winner will receive a $25,000 community grant to put towards their BIG IDEA. First prize honorees will get a $2,500 community grant, and second prize honorees will get $1,315.79. So what can you change?


My BIG IDEA was special funding for local children who are in foster care, hospitalization, or other circumstance. I want them to be able to have a selection of books available that they can keep. I believe that reading is a way for people to escape problems and to help identify themselves. So what is your BIG IDEA?

Mmmmm...I love New Documentaries!

Did you ever notice that watching or reading something that is popular gives you something to talk about with people? I hear on a constant basis..."Did you catch the latest American Idol performance"...or "Have you read this Stephen King book?".

I love having something to be able to talk about with people. I also like to start a conversation, which is why I am a documentary junkie. I'll be honest when I say I get a lot of my movies from Netflix because my home television is my computer. But working at the library gives me a lot of great ideas on what documentaries to watch or even checkout.

Time Out New York really did an excellent job pulling together some controversial and educational material. Check out their top 50 documentaries of all time here.

Otherwise here are some new titles available from the Mukwonago Community Library! If you click on the title it will take you to a trailer about the documentary! Enjoy!

Ronald Regan: An American Journey

Experience the astonishing political career of one of the most influential and popular political figures of the past three decades with this in-depth look at Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the United States. This remarkable, feature-length look at Reagan's achievements is packed with incredible archival footage including highlights and news coverage from his groundbreaking speeches and debates as well as the major world events he faced in office. I think Mr. Regan can speak for himself about an exciting documentary!

Superbowl XLV Champions: The Packers (sorry no legal trailer).

Celebrate the champions of Super Bowl XLV, the Green Bay Packers, and follow the team from their first snap to the final gun of Super Bowl XLV. See the most anticipated and watched sporting event of the year. Complete with highlights from the regular season, playoffs, and the big game itself. Contains hours of Super Bowl coverage and behind-the-scenes action. If you are going through football withdrawals, check this one out!

"Waiting for Superman"

Provided is an engaging and inspiring look at public education in the United States. This documentary has helped launch a movement to achieve a real and lasting change through the compelling stories of five unforgettable students such as Emily, a Silicon Valley eighth-grader who is afraid of being labeled as unfit for college, and Francisco, a Bronx first-grader whose mom will do anything to give him a shot at a better life. Included are featurettes, and commentary. This is a powerful documentary especially during our own states conversation about the importance of teachers and education. Hard to get title, so place a hold!

Into the Universe with Stephen Hawking

British physicist Stephen Hawking explores the mysteries of the universe, discussing the possibility of aliens, time travel, and how the universe began. Seriously...if you like Star Trek...you might like this.

The Tillman Story

Pat Tillman chose to walk away from a multimillion-dollar football contract and join the military for no other reason than he felt it was the right thing to do. Documented are the facts surrounding the way the military manipulated his tragic death in the line of duty into a propaganda tool. If in addition to watching this documentary read up on Wiki Leaks, and you can have some interesting conversation about censorship.

Construction Photos: Six

The outline of the new library is taking shape! I just hope these guys are as good at putting things together as they have been at taking things apart.

Here you can see the concrete footings for the expansion area. Not that exciting looking, but pretty important in terms of making the floor slab work right.

Ooooo... our new electrical transformer. So shiny, so... green!

And here's the new electrical service panel that the transformer feeds. More power!

Some of the... well, I don't know the technical term, but the metal forms they use to set the concrete mold shapes for the wall foundations.

Those metal forms from the previous picture are in use in this picture, showing how the concrete will look for the bay window, once it is poured.

Final shot-- the whole east side excavated. The new basement will run under this entire stretch of building.

Angry Birds

Angry Birds is a free fun game that is available for most internet compatible devices. Most Apple fans and those with fancy cell phones have wasted several hours playing the addicting game. While a special treat for you my blog readers. Anyone who uses the Google Chrome internet browser can now play it for free online! There are even special created Chrome levels! Enjoy!

It's Raining It's Pouring

It's raining, it's pouring.....but there is no old man snoring. Keep your family protected by listening to weather warnings and following these few safety tips:

1. Listen for warnings and alarms!
If the weather looks questionable turn on a local radio station and listen for warnings. You can also sign up for e-mail warnings and Facebook updates for emergencies at the Emergency and E-mail and Wireless Network. (Click the link to sign up for alerts for Waukesha County.)

2. For severe weather and emergencies seek shelter!
Anytime there is severe weather or emergencies there are shelter and services available to those in need in Waukesha County. Those seeking shelter should dial 2-1-1. This service will provide local information on available lodging. Your call to 2-1-1 is free and confidential, and is available throughout Wisconsin. 2-1-1 service is available 24 hours 7 days per week. If your cellular provider does not allow calls to 2-1-1, please call (877) 947-2211 or (262) 547-3388.
Program it in your phones right now.

3. Have a plan!
It has been said that the Japanese suffered less fatalities during the earthquake disasters because they were prepared. Take their example and talk to your family. If phones are down how will you find each other? Locate a shelter or safe place near your home as a designated meeting area. Or just talk to them about what to do in case of an emergency.

The best plan of all...is to have one! Stay safe...and if you need more ideas please stop by the Mukwonago Community Library and we can help you find some planning materials!

National Salvation Army Week

These bell ringers help thousands of people across the nation celebrate their holidays better by organizing and collectiong donations. To help celebrate this organization the National Salvation Army Week falls from May 8th through the 15th. When the United States entered World War I the Salvation Army was ready to help. The Salvation Army established a War Board and began programs in US Army camps and canteens across the country.

Come over to the library to read up on World War I and the history of the Salvation Army. We also have a great collection of educational World War I DVDs. Otherwise donate or volunteer at your local Salvation Army.

Construction Photos: Five

Wow! They are really going to town over at the expansion site. Here's some new shots from Tuesday, May 3. First the inside:

In the following photos you can see the foundations being prepared for the pouring of the concrete:

It's quite cool to be able to see where the new walls are actually going to go-- including that gorgeous West side bow window. The second of the two photos shows the inspection of the foundation layout. The front loader moving topsoil in the background was busy taking dirt from the east side and dumping it on the west side in preparation for the pouring of the foundations and the grading of the new parking area.

Finally, a shot of the We Energies guys hooking up our new electrical service:

JoAnn Early Macken helps the Library celebrate Children's Book Week

One little guy gets up close and personal with author JoAnn Early Macken as she shares her new book Baby Says Moo!

Special thanks go out to the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators for bringing the author to our library.

Hey You! The One With the E-mail!

Most of our patrons already take advantage of our library e-mail notifications. They get e-mails that let them know when holds are available, a first past due notice, and upcoming due date reminders. These quick and easy reminders could save you time and money! If you are worried about privacy or getting spam...NO WORRIES 'MON. We won't sell your e-mail address, and you only receive library notifications

You can sign up right now! Click on the picture!

Another quick reminder…the library has FREE notary services available in the evening. Most Monday thru Thursdays from 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm...ask for Tristan!

Magazines for Everyone in the Family

Where do you see yourself this summer?

Just imagine yourself now...warm sand between your toes and a fresh copy of Good Housekeeping in your hot little hands.

Or maybe you are finally buying that new gas grill you wanted to barbecue with this summer and you feel wise making an information decision with a copy of Consumer Digest while you are in the store.

Or maybe you are just learning to read and Mom is reading you the newest edition of Ladybug. Or you are browsing through a Scooby Doo magazine.

Or maybe it is finally time to get in shape and you are learning new exercises with Shape and learning to cook stellar healthy meals with Eating Well.

Wherever you see yourself this summer...I bet a magazine from the Mukwonago Community Library will fit in with you. We have lots of title for all ages! Check out our catalog (*tip* browse our catalog for item types then you can search for all the titles available for magazines and reserve your copy online). We are also looking at adding more titles, so we would be happy to have your recommendation.

See you (and your magazines) this summer.

Congratulation Madelyn K., our Poetry Month Bingo contest winner!

Congratulations to our Poetry Month Bingo contest winner Madelyn K., grade 6. She wins a copy of Shel Silverstein's Where the Sidewalk Ends.

Here is a haiku Madelyn wrote:

Haircut

Snip, snip, cut, fall, fall
Hair falling, on the clean floor
Snip, cut, fall, perfect.

Well done Madelyn!

Construction Photos: Four

The wet weather hasn't helped the project any, but things are still moving along. Here you can see the entire North wall stripped of its bricks:

While this is the eastern exposure, likewise missing almost all of its bricks:

Here you can see the huge mound of topsoil that has been created onsite by the excavating and grading occurring on the east side of the lot, where the parking will be going:

Wisconsin in the Movies

I don't know about you...but I have been reading about Wisconsin in the news everywhere the last few months. Every national or trade magazine is talking about politics....well let's try something lighter on for size this evening!

I came across this older OnMilwaukee.com article about movies filmed in Wisconsin. Did you know that a section of the Blues Brothers movie was filmed on 794? Check out this brief article to get some ideas about your next flick...then you can point and say "hey that's us!"

The author doesn't mention television like That Seventies Show or Happy Days!

Enjoy!

Celebrate Children's Book Week: meet author JoAnn Early Macken

Celebrate Children's Book Week by meeting author JoAnn Early Macken as she shares her new book Baby Says Moo! on Wednesday, May 4 at 10:00 AM. This is a storytime for families with young children. Jane D.

At the Car Wash....♫♫♫♫

Well....you could be at the car wash getting your car washed for FREE if you come enter for a chance to win at the library. You might be asking yourself how does one win this fabulous prize?

Step 1: Come to the library.
Step 2: Pick out any item in the library to check out (we have DVDs, books, music, video games)
Step 3: Go up to the self-check out machine near the entrance/exit, and check out.
Step 4: Rip off the top of your receipt and put it in the entry bin to the left of the machine.

Voila! Every time you do that you enter to win a weekly prize of a free car wash. We have 3 more full weeks of this wonderful promotion. So get your car washed....at the car wash ♫ ♫ at Amato Ford.

Attention Kindle Users!

Amazon has announced that later this year they will be launching the Kindle Lending Library. If you have a Kindle or you are thinking about getting one....this is great news for you! It means you will have the opportunity to borrow e-books for free from over 11,000 public libraries, including those here in Waukesha County.

If you don't have a Kindle...don't feel left out! You can borrow one from the Mukwonago Community Library. It is a browsing item so you won't be able to put it on hold, but for more questions give the library a ring at (262) 363-6411. Or if you find yourself insatiable for more new about this awesome new Kindle feature check out the Amazon press release.