Somebody in Hollywood really needs to write a sitcom set in a public library. With over 1,200 people walking through the door every day, weird things happen all the time. There was the time I came upon two people unwrapping their McDonald’s dinners, complete with fries. When I asked them to put it all away they looked at me as if I were crazy. There was the person who wanted to mallwalk the library perimeter in the morning, the elderly man who came here every day and finally quietly passed away reading a magazine, the lady who pitched a fit at the circ desk, tore up her paperwork and threw it at the staff, screaming four-letter words at the top of her lungs. Or the lady who wondered that since we had a typewriter for the public to use, why didn’t we have a sewing machine? When people first hear that I work in a library, they always say (and I mean always), “Oh, you’re so lucky, you get to sit and read all day. And it must be so peaceful.” HA! It’s gotten to where I just smile and say, yes, well….

I read all I can, but it’s never enough. Working here can be pure torture, because every week I see dozens of books that I want to read. And the magazines! We subscribe to over 300, and I read as many as I possibly can from People, to Newsweek, to the National Review, Fine Homebuilding, Vanity Fair and Yoga Journal. Here’s some advice: If you want to win in Trivial Pursuit, get a librarian on your team!

No, it is never dull in this building, and that’s just the way we like it. Over the next month or so you may see the staff, better known as the great Abington Book Cart Drill Team, preparing for our next appearance at Glenside ’s Fourth of July Parade. And then there was the patron who saw the Drill Team practicing and asked if they were protesting something….

Beautiful Book of the Month   The Art of Maurice Sendak:  1980 to the Present, by Tony Kushner.  Mr. Kushner, author of Angels in America, reveals that  Where the Wild Things Are is just the tip of the iceberg.  

For more information/Become a volunteer: 215-885-5180, ext. 11 or abg.mclinc.org

"Joan does it all!" says Joy Fine, summing up her appreciation for Joan Gross, who has volunteered at Abington Free Library for the past 6 1/2 years. After her husband passed away in 1998, Joan needed something to do. An avid reader and ABG library user, one day Joan noticed a sign asking for volunteers. She inquired and signed up. Her first job was on Rebecca Ritts’ team of barcoders, applying “smart” barcodes to books as part of the MCLINC automation project.

“It was backbreaking work,” she recalls. Then Barbara Wengert, the head of Technical Services at the time, asked her if she was willing to continue volunteering in another capacity. After receiving an affirmative reply, Barb assigned Joan to work with Andy Simpson on physically preparing new books for use by our borrowers. Over the years, Joan has mastered almost all the intricacies of “end processing” -- including the dreaded laminating!

Trained as a registered nurse at Fitzgerald Mercy Hospital , Joan first worked at Germantown Hospital and then became nurse manager for the Red Cross Blood Center in Center City , a position she held for 27 years. In addition to her love of reading, Joan works out at the gym three times a week and is fond of ballroom dancing. She particularly enjoys lunch and shore outings with her friends from high school and nursing school, and is starting to explore the joys of travel with her special friend, Bob, whom she met at a ballroom dancing class!

Joan remains one of the most devoted of the many volunteers who grace our library. Joy and the rest of us in Technical Services are extremely grateful every Wednesday morning when our pal, Joan, arrives to help us deliver a fresh supply of new books to our readers.

Library Office: 215-885-5180, ext. 15 http://abg.mclinc.org

People say that nobody is indispensable, but I would beg to differ. Karen Burnham is completely indispensable to this library. Karen has worked here since September of 1991 and during that time she has created a position for herself – Graphic Specialist. When I asked her to describe her job she said, “I try to promote the library in the most attractive way I can.” Karen produces this newsletter, she’s our webmaster, she creates flyers, posters and signs, and she does all the mailings for the library, and helps the Friends and the World War II program. She says, “Basically, when somebody asks me to do something I always say yes.” And anybody who has had any contact with Karen knows that that ready “yes” is always accompanied by a smile.

Karen grew up in Bryn Athyn and attended kindergarten through college there. She discovered Shakespeare at age 11 and National Public Radio even earlier, when she heard Mary Stewart’s The Crystal Cave read on the air. Karen avidly reads about art, shelter, ecology and history. She also enjoys short stories and poetry, including haiku and works by Billy Collins, e. e. cummings, Robert Frost, Emily Dickinson and Anne Bradstreet. She reads more classic than popular fiction but she recently got addicted to reading Elizabeth George and Anne Tyler (she’s also open to suggestions from friends).  She is a doting aunt to Nathan, Jordan and Kylie and a proud stepmom to Craig and Ryan. And Karen loves her sleep, but can never get enough!

I asked Karen what she likes best about working here, and her answer reveals the caliber of her character and her commitment: “When I first started working here, I used to walk through the stacks and marvel at everything the Library has to offer anybody who wants to walk through our front door. I can give 100% of my effort and talents to such a wonderful organization.” Karen, it is people like you who make this library a wonderful organization.

– Nancy Hammeke Marshall

Please Note - These events occurred in the summer of 2004.

Watch for the 2nd Annual Abington Book Cart Drill Team Extravaganza in Glenside’s 4th of July Parade!

Please Note - These events occurred in the summer of 2004.

From the Friends Summer 2004

For all Friends activities call: 215-885-5180, ext. 36 or abg.mclinc.org

HANDKNIT SCARVES FOR SALE at the Circulation Desk.

SILENT AUCTION IN DISPLAY CASE Jun 1-30. Assorted items.

 BOOKCELLAR - PRE-OWNED BOOKS, VIDEO & AUDIO TAPES, CDs, DVDs, BOOKMARKS
(also on sale at the Circulation and Children’s Desks) FOR SALE on the lower level of the library!
Mon-Fri, noon-4 p.m., Sat, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun – call 215-885-5180, ext. 36 for hours.
DONATIONS OF ALL OF THE ABOVE GRATEFULLY ACCEPTED!

VOLUNTEER AT THE BOOKCELLAR! Looking for a way to support your library? You can donate books, etc. (donations are tax-deductible), sort, price and shelve items, staff sales, or purchase from our wide selection. Volunteers needed to sell books. Call 215-885-5180, ext. 36.

LIBRARY BOOK BAGS LARGE TOTE BAG - $10, TOM THUMB TOTE - $6

Thank you!

Items may be purchased through the Friends at the Circulation Desk, Children’s Department or in the Bookcellar. All proceeds benefit Abington Township Public Libraries.

Please Note - These events occurred in the summer of 2004.

From the Roslyn Branch Library Summer 2004

For more information: 215-886-9818 or http://abg.mclinc.org

Would you like to help young children (K-3rd grade) practice their reading skills over the summer? Roslyn Branch is seeking young adult volunteers (ages 12-17) to help in this worthwhile endeavor. Earn Service Learning Hours! Certificates will be awarded.

Required Training Session : Join us at Abington Free Library on Jun 17 from 6-8 p.m. for a workshop presented by Philadelphia READS on read-aloud techniques. Sign-up and registration begins May 24.

Program dates: Mondays, Jun 21 – Aug 2 1:30-2:30 p.m. OR 6:30-7:30 p.m. * *except Jul 26 evening session will be from 6-7 p.m.

WELCOME TO OUR SUMMER READING CLUB!
Children of all ages may participate by reading independently, reading with others, or being read to by a friend or family member. Children read for at least 20 minutes a day and record the titles in a special log. Bring your children in to register starting June 11. Each child will receive a free book upon completion of the program. Children must be Abington Township residents and have a current Abington Library card.

SUMMER PAJAMA PARTY FOR AGES 3-6- 6 :30-7 p.m. Jun 7, Jul 26, Aug 23
Children are invited to wear their pajamas and bring a stuffed animal to cuddle.

RAGGEDY ANN for ages 2-7 on Friday Jun 25 2 p.m.
courtesy of Barnes & Noble Booksellers. S tories, songs and fingerplays. Bring your camera and take a picture of your child with Raggedy Ann.

SUMMER STORY TIMES
Jun 29-Aug 5.
ages 3-6 Tuesdays 10:30 . a.m.
ages 2-3 Thursdays 10:30 . a.m.
Registration begins June 1.

BOOK DISCUSSIONS on Wednesdays from 11:30-12:30 .
You will get a copy of the book when you register.
Entering 3rd & 4th grades:
- Buster Baxter, Cat Saver by Stephen Krensky on Jul 7. Registration begins Jun 21.
- Song Lee and the “I Hate You” Notes by Suzy Kline on Jul 21. Registration begins Jul 5.
Entering 5th & 6th grades:
- Music of Dolphins by Karen Hesse on Jul 14. Registration begins Jun 28.
- View From the Cherry Tree by Willo Davis Roberts on Jul 28. Registration begins Jul 12.
You bring lunch--beverage and dessert will be provided.

FAMILY FUN DAYS FOR AGES 3 & UP at 10 a.m. Registration begins Jun 21.

The Roslyn Branch Library, courtesy of Barnes & Noble Booksellers, presents:
SPOT THE DOG
Spot and storytelling friend will be arriving on Aug 27 at 2 p.m. to read stories, sing songs, and do fingerplays. Bring your camera and take a photograph of your child with Spot. Registration begins Aug 2.

Please Note - These events occurred in the summer of 2004.

From the Children's Department Summer 2004

PARENT BOOK DISCUSSION/PREVIEW GROUP Mon 10:15-11:15 a.m.
Jul 26 - Topic: Raising children’s self-esteem and building confidence. Book: Liberated Parents, Liberated Children by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish. Registration begins Mon, Jul 12
Aug 2 - Topic: Parenting intense, energetic and sensitive children. Book: Raising Your Spirited Child by Mary Sheedy Kurcinka. Registration begins Mon, Jul 19.
No advance reading or book purchases required.

  SUMMER READING CLUBS!

Children of all ages may participate by reading independently, reading with others, or being read to by a friend or family member. Children read for at least 20 minutes a day and record the titles in a special log. Bring your children in to register starting June 11. Each child will receive a free book upon completion of the program. Children must have a current Abington Library card. See flyers or website for more about programs and book discussion groups.

FAMILY FUN NIGHTS FOR AGES 3 AND UP
Wednesdays, Jul 7-Aug 11, 7 p.m. Please see flyers or website for details.

SUMMER STORY TIMES FOR AGES 3-6
Wednesdays, 10:30-11 a.m. , Jul 7-Aug 25. Enjoy favorite stories with retired teacher Karen Udell.
All children must be at least 3 years of age. No advance registration is required.

READING FOR RASCALS FOR AGES 6-9
Wednesdays, 1:30-3 p.m. Entirely created and led by teens, these workshops will use stories, skits, crafts and even a live tae kwon do demonstration to explore traditional and modern fairy tales and their meanings.
Jul 7 - Fractured Fairy Tales – Registration begins Jun 28.
Jul 14 - Monsters – Registration begins Jul 5.
Jul 21 - Princes and Princesses – Registration begins Jul 12.
Jul 28 - Brains vs. Brawn – Registration begins Jul 19. **Meet at 1:15 **

3rd ANNUAL “BE A STAR @ YOUR LIBRARY” TALENT SHOW
Wed, Jul 28, 7-8 p.m.
A fun-filled hour starring YOU! Performers of all ages welcome.
See flyer and website for details.
Registration to PARTICIPATE in show begins Mon, Jun 21.
Registration to ATTEND show begins Mon, Jul 19.

Please Note - These events occurred in the summer of 2004. Young Adult/Teens at Abington Summer 2004 GET LOST @ YOUR LIBRARY IN A GREAT BOOK! Young Adults ages 12-18. Pick up book when you register. Join us for snacks and talk about books you are reading. Jun 22, 2-4 p.m. Movie & Book Discussion - Watch the movie DRAGONHEART and discuss favorite books about dragons. Pick up a Here Be Dragons booklist in YA Area. Jul 27, 2-3:30 p.m. Hoot by Carl Hiaasen Aug 10 2-3:30 p.m. Things Not Seen by Andrew Clements

SOON! Teen webpage upgrade thanks to Matthew Cohen! [news update - he did!]

Abington READS! Teens and young readers spend an hour each week reading together. Young readers, who have finished kindergarten through 2nd grade, practice their reading skills coached by a junior/ senior high school student. Young adults earn service hours while they inspire a younger reader and enjoy great children’s books.
Young Adults, ages 12-17: REQUIRED TRAINING SESSION: Thu, Jun 17, 6–8 pm .
Reading Sessions: Mondays @ 6-7 p.m. Thursdays @ 10-11 a.m.
Mondays @ 7-8 p.m. Thursdays @ 11-noon
Program begins Mon, Jun 21 and finishes Thu, Aug 12. Signup begins: May 24.

WITH ART AND JOURNALING - Young Adults – ages 13–18.
Jul 7, 14, 21, 28. 6:30 p.m. Registration begins: Jun 14.
Join Diana Trout (artist and journaling enthusiast) for creative journaling. Use art, poetry and writing to put your thoughts on paper. Bring your own journal or notebook, other supplies provided.

Register for all programs at the ADULT INFORMATION DESK or call 215-885-5180 ext. 13.

Please Note - These events occurred in the summer of 2004.

Calendar of Events for Adults Summer 2004 For more information: 215-885-5180, ext. 15 DAYTIME BOOK DISCUSSION SERIES – Meets every first Thursday at 1 p.m. Jul 1 - The Dive from Clausen's Pier by Ann Packer Aug 5 - Meeting to select books for next year – Come and VOTE! Sep 2 - Wild Decembers by Edna O'Brien

Brandon Traister helps run the WWII Lecture Series even from Sinai, Egypt where he’s stationed. Come back safe and soon, Brandon. [news update:- he did!] [news update summer 2005 - He's stationed in Iraq. Please come back safe and soon, Brandon]

OLD YORK ROAD GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY - Meets every second Tuesday at 7 p.m.
Jun 8 - Jefferson Moak, will untangle districts, townships and boroughs of Philadelphia.
Jul 13 - Larry Eastwood will tell stories of trainwrecks in the Morelands and Old York Road region.
Aug 11 - The Annual Computer Genealogy Update by our cyberworld denizen, Case Zwart.
Sep 14 - Perspectives and sources for writing a biography of an ancestor or relative. Panel.

WORLD WAR II LECTURE SERIES - Meets every third Tuesday at 3 and 7 p.m.
Jun 15 - Bernard Fineman, U.S. Army Aircorp, 12th Airforce shot down three times and wounded.
Jul 20 - Lt. Joseph Barrett, American ex-prisoner of war U.S. Army, 36th Infantry Division.
Aug 17 - Albert Pincus, author of "From Brooklyn to Tokyo ," U.S. Navy, LSM 472.

WIN WITH ARISTOTLE! – 10-11 a.m. in the Shorday Room. Burton Klein will show us how to win life’s arguments with Aristotle’s teachings. Sep 9, 23, Oct 14, 28 and Nov 11.