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The Ab Lib from Fall 2005 Vol. 4, No. 3 
From our Director - Fall 2005
My family is gearing up for a kitchen remodel. It’s going to be a total “gut-job,” and you have no idea how much I am dreading being without cooking facilities for weeks upon weeks. I have two young sons who are bottomless pits. How will I keep them fed -- and, as night follows day, happy? We always have the staff holiday party at our house, but not this year. Really, it might be easier to move.
What does the above rant have to do with libraries? A great deal, because good libraries are as integral to a happy life as good food. Libraries may not be the staff of life, but they provide the stuff that makes life worth living.
One of our employees recently moved to a city (which shall remain nameless) without a decent public library. Her frequent emails bewail her frustration and, given the high cost of living there, anger at not having an adequate source for her reading and viewing needs. She said she had no idea how much she depended on this library providing just about anything she wanted. She now depends on bookstores and NetFlix. And, since she is buying what she used to obtain for free, she eats out much less, subjecting herself and her family to her cooking J . For lack of a good library, her quality of life has diminished in several ways.
We are so fortunate to have the Abington Libraries available to us. A great book, a good movie, all the information sources we could possibly want or need are right here! The library never leaves me sated – the more I use it the more I need it. It is as central to our lives as our kitchens are to our homes.
- Nancy Hammeke Marshall
For photos of our staff at play go to http://abg.mclinc.org/photopages_index/PhotosStaff.htm.
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Fall 2005
Volunteer Spotlight – Brandon Traister |
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Brandon Traister is the All - American Male. He was the Cherokee High School running back pictured in his New Jersey hometown newspaper. He enjoys microbrewery products with his many devoted, fun - loving friends. He has a close bond with his relatives. He has a facility with computers, electronics, sports and music. He's going for his BA in American history at Temple . What he writes - you can’t put it down. He is ever ready to help out his mother's interior design business. He's marrying his high school sweetheart, Alicia Smith, a nurse in training.
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Brandon reads "guy" books: Brave Men by Ernie Pyle, Ghost Soldiers by Hampton Sides, On the Road by Jack Kerouac, books on Robert Capa, among others. He sees "guy" flicks: Crash, Fight Club, The Hunt for Red October, among others.
There's more. So a connection to living history would not be lost, he has taped over 300 WWII veterans’ interviews so far. Interviewees become his friends. One vet couldn't leave his farm so Brandon went there to get his story. He soon became a regular visitor and even helped around the place. At Abington Library, he has been an asset to Don Lee’s WWII lecture series. He created their website wwiilectureinstitute.com, found vets to present their stories for the series and shared interviewing techniques, etc. He volunteers for the Hospice of Philadelphia and as an EMT in Camden County. |
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Brandon joined the NJ National Guard knowing that he would be needed in Iraq . He first served with the Multinational Force & Observers in Sinai, Egypt as a specialist first class.
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Now in Iraq, he is Sgt. Brandon Traister
3272, C Co.
1 - 110th Infantry,
2nd Brigade Combat Team,
Camp Habbaniyah.
Brandon wrote, "Getting mail from back home is like opening presents on Christmas morning." |
This article offers just a glimmer of his many fine qualities, his compassion, his sense of duty. He is also fun, hardworking and intelligent, though he will shyly slant his head, blush and argue that last epithet and probably all the others. Yet there’s so much more to this exceptional man. Brandon shows us by quiet example how much we can do with our lives.
- Karen Burnham
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“Most of last month I spent as a gunner and commander aboard a Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle patrolling Habbaniyah during the night with Abram Tanks from C Co, 1-103rd Armored. This month I have been going out with the Marines and the Iraqi Army on foot patrols during the day. From my experiences the Iraqi Army has very good soldiers and will do a good job when they eventually replace the coalition forces. As much as I miss home, I am glad to be going through this experience.”
– Sgt. Brandon Traister |
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Fall 2005
Staff Spotlight – Pearl Wilensky
Our Pearl of the month is our very own Pearl Wilensky. She is our longest running star, having been here for 32 years.
Pearl hails from New York City, where she was born in Queens and raised in Brooklyn . Her first encounter with a library is one few of us can imagine: At the age of 8, she rode the subway all by herself to the New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, for story time.
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She attended New Utrecht High School and although she claims she never really learned the secretarial skills expected of young women at the time, she had no trouble finding work with the government during WWII. She started out working for the Quartermaster’s Office in Washington D.C. and was transferred twice, once to Detroit and then, fatefully, to Philadelphia . Many parents of her day would have been horrified at their daughters’ moving about so, but Pearl ’s mother was thrilled for her.
After the war, she continued her working at the Navy Yard in Philadelphia, in the Submarine Supply Office.
A trip in 1949 to Camp Tamiment, a “singles” resort in the Poconos, changed her life. There she met Morris Wilensky, a young CPA, who soon married her. Three children followed, Leonard, Charlie and Roy. For many years, Pearl was a stay-at-home mom, volunteering in the McKinley School Library.
When her youngest son was bar mitzvahed in 1973, she knew it was time to get back to work. And so she came to the Abington Free Library, when it was only two years old.
Pearl started out working at the circulation desk, at a time when books were still checked out using the little pink card with the metal plate and the cachunk-cachunk-cachunk machine. She soon realized the library had no method in place for retrieving long overdue books so she set up her own program.
Today, Pearl collects more than her salary in fees for lost and damaged books. She’s not necessarily anybody you want to answer to, but she’s worth her weight in, well, pearls, to the library.
Of all the changes Pearl has seen, the advent of computers is obviously the biggest one. Computers have enabled all of the other changes: the MCLINC consortium, reserves, ACCESS PA, how much busier the library has become. She doesn’t like computers, but no one who has worked with Pearl over the past six years can be anything but awestruck at how much she has learned about these machines.
Pearl is our enforcer and our institutional memory, or data bank, as we would say now. She is also a good friend to all and a pleasure to work with. She is our Pearl .
- Lois Odabas |
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Coming this Fall: Children’s Graphic Novels |
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For information please call 215-885-5180, ext. 28. http://abg.mclinc.org/childrens/index.htm
The Abington Free Library Children’s Department is expanding its children’s collection to include graphic novels for the elementary grades. According to Getting Graphic! by Michele Gorman, a graphic novel is “an original book-length story, either fiction or non-fiction books, published in a comic book style … or a collection of stories that have been published previously as comic books.”
Graphic novels stimulate children’s imaginations through exciting combinations of pictures and text. They engage reluctant readers and boost the confidence of children who are ESL students or reading below their grade level. They are popular with kids and great fun to read.
Children’s graphic novels will be available downstairs later this fall. Look for them in the bookcase next to the magazine section.
- Carolyn DuBois |
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Miss Ellanie
For more information, http://abg.mclinc.org
A favorite library service is our free Internet access computers. With a library card, you can check your email, apply online for a job, and research anything the World Wide Web has to offer. And you can take what you find with you. Print out a page for 15¢ in black and white or for 50¢ in color. Pick up and pay for them at the Information Desk.
Here are some tips to make printing from computers easier. |
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You can view what will be printed before you print. Up on the menu bar, click "File," then "Print Preview." You'll be able to see whether you're printing what you want. Sometimes when you hit "print" when viewing a webpage or your email, it will print only the outside "frame," and not what you intended.
Some email services provide a print button on the screen labeled “print view.” Clicking on this button will print your email and not all the advertisements and email service information. Printing via “Print View” will also reduce the number of pages printed.
You can print just a portion of a page: First, "select" the section you'd like to print. To do this, click the left mouse button at one end of the section. Now, without letting go of the button, drag the mouse to the other end of what you want to print. This will highlight, or show a negative image, of what is selected. Next, up on the menu bar, click "File" then "Print Preview." If what you see is what you want, go ahead and print. You can also click on "File," then "Print," choose "Print Selection" and then "Print."
Don’t hit the print button or command more than once: Your print outs will be at the Information Desk. Please check for your printouts before you print a second time. Remember that you can always say “no” to the print command or choose “Don’t print.”
Remember, you are responsible for all the pages you print. Your account is tallied by our software. You must pay for all the pages you print - not just the pages you intended to print. Ask for assistance at the Information Desk if you have any questions.
- Miss Ellanie (as told to Karen Burnham and Mimi Satterthwaite this time)
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Fall 2005
Friends of Abington Library /News and Views
Find out about the various activities call 215 - 885 - 5180 ext. 36, http://abg.mclinc.org/friends/index.htm
ENTERTAINMENT BOOKS are on sale now for $25 at the Circulation Desk at AFL.
The Friends are planning a SILENT AUCTION featuring jewelry and small accessories during November.
We are now accepting donations. Thank you!
VISIT OUR BOOKCELLAR … for our selection of fine pre - owned books, video/audio tapes, CDs, DVDs. Located on the lower level of the library. Hours: Mon - Fri noon - 4 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Call 215 - 885 - 5180, ext. 36 for Sunday hours.
YOU ARE INVITED TO BECOME A VOLUNTEER FRIEND!
- Friends of Abington Library, Bill Tinsman, president
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Please Note - These events occurred in the fall of 2005.
Fall 2005
From the Roslyn Branch Library
For information: 215 - 886-9818 or http://abg.mclinc.org/roslyn/index.htm
If you are unable to attend one or more sessions, kindly call the library in advance. This will allow others on the waiting list to attend the program as well as prevent waste of craft materials .
ROSLYN BOOK SALE! Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. All books 25¢. Ongoing throughout the fall.
PAJAMA PARTIES FOR AGES 3-6
Mondays from 6:30-7 p.m. , Sept 19, Nov 14, Dec 5 & 12
Registration begins Sept 6.
STORIES & SONGS + FINGERPLAYS A CRAFTS
Children are invited to wear their pajamas and bring a stuffed animal to cuddle.
If you are unable to attend one or more sessions, kindly call the library in advance. This will allow others on the waiting list to attend the program as well as prevent waste of craft materials.
FALL STORY TIMES
begin Sept 19 and continue through Nov 10. Registration begins Sept 6
Ages 3-6 meet Mondays at 1:30 p.m. : Sept 19, 26, Oct 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Nov 7
Ages 2-3 meet Thursdays at 11 a.m. : Sept 22, 29, Oct 6, 20, 27, Nov 3, 10
No story time on Oct 13.
Noble knights and ladies in waiting are invited to a
MEDIEVAL FAIR.
Make your own sword! Create a princess, king or jester hat! Design your own guild sign. Color and decorate a bookmark. Get your fortune told and be entertained by the strolling jester. Enjoy a medieval feast! Fair maidens may wear long skirts and young men may wear capes. (optional)
Sept 26 from 7-8 p.m. Ages 4-12. Registration begins Sept 6.
Basement Productions is looking for creative children ages 8-12 to participate in the
WRITING AND PRODUCING OF A SKIT.
All ideas based on your own imaginations! This workshop will be in two parts:
7-7:30 p.m. , Oct 10. The concept of drama will be introduced and ideas for a skit elicited.
7-8 p.m. , Oct 17. The ideas from the previous week will have been drafted into a script by the young adults of Basement Productions. At the end of the evening, after rehearsing the script, the children will perform the skit for their parents.
Limited to ten children. Registration begins Sept 19.
HALLOWEEN PARTY
Wear a costume and join the fun!
Monday, Oct 31. 6-6:30 p.m. Ages 2-5 7-8 p.m. Ages 6-12
Stories, songs, games, crafts and refreshments!
Registration begins Oct 10.
BABY DAYS
Tuesdays at 11 a.m.
Nov 15, 22, 29, Dec 6, 13.
Babies and caregivers will sing songs, read stories, and do finger plays.
Babies ages 8 months - 2 years.
Registration begins Oct 31.
In honor of Children’s Book Week (November 14-20), the Abington Township Public Libraries and Twilight Productions Inc. present:
HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE
Relive Harry Potter’s first year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry through this exciting dramatic presentation led by Mr. Malcolm. Play the part of your favorite character!
Two FREE shows:
Monday, Nov 14, 7 p.m. -ROSLYN BRANCH LIBRARY, 2412 Avondale Avenue , Roslyn
Registration begins Oct 31. Call 215 -886-9818.
Thursday, Nov 17, 7 p.m. * -ABINGTON FREE LIBRARY, 1030 Old York Road , Abington
Registration begins Nov 7. Call 215 -885-5180, ext. 28.
RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN AGES 7 & UP
*Children will attend the Abington show independently to enable more students to participate.
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Please Note - These events occurred in the fall of 2005.
Fall 2005
Children's Department at Abington Free Library
For information please call 215-885-5180, ext. 28. http://abg.mclinc.org/childrens/index.htm
LITTLE CRAWLER STORY TIMES
For children ages 6 months & up who are not yet walking. (Community Room)
Join us on three Wednesdays: Sept 21, 28 & Oct 5 from 10:30 - 11 a.m.
To register: call 215 - 885 - 5180, ext. 28, or stop by Children’s on these dates:
Abington Township residents only: Sept 12 - 15. Open registration starts Sept 16.
These FREE programs are designed for one - on - one interaction between parent/caregiver and child. Please arrange for care of all siblings during this time.
The Children’s Department at Abington Free Library and the Jenkintown Kiwanis Club are pleased to offer
DROP - IN STORY TIMES FOR CAREGIVERS AND CHILDREN
Join us in the Community Room every Tuesday, 11 - 11:30 a.m.
Starting Oct 4 and continuing through May 23, 2006
These informal story times will be led by members of the Jenkintown
Kiwanis Club in cooperation with the Children’s Department staff.
Come discover new stories and enjoy old favorites.
No pre - registration is required. All ages are welcome. Parents/caregivers must attend with their children.
STORY TIMES For Children Ages 12 - 23 Months
Songs, flannel board stories, finger plays and fun for toddlers & their caregivers!
Join us on three Wednesdays: Oct 19, 26 and Nov 2
10:15 - 10:45 a.m. OR 11 - 11:30 a.m. Community Room
Please call 215 - 885 - 5180, extension 28, or register in the Children’s Department on these dates:
Abington Township residents only: Oct 10 - 13
Open registration (first - come, first - served) starts Oct 14.
All children registered must be walking independently. This program is designed for one - on - one interaction between parent/caregiver and child. Please arrange for care of younger and older siblings during this time.
HAUNTED TALES TO CHILL YOUR SPINE - GRADES 5 - 8
Thursday, Oct 27, 7 - 8 p.m. Community Room
Actress Kristin Pedemonti presents “true” tales of the ghastly, ghostly and eerily unexplained. Join her for an evening you won’t soon forget! Enjoy ghoulishly good refreshments after the show. REGISTRATION BEGINS MONDAY, OCT 10. Please stop by the Adult Reference Desk or call 215 - 885 - 5180, ext. 13.
PARENT WORKSHOP: "Advocacy and You: How to Make It Work for You and Your Family"
Thursday, Nov 3 from 7 - 8 p.m.
Presented by Donna Randolph, M.Ed., and Andrea Trainer, education consultants. This workshop will explore special education, discipline, tracking and other education - related issues affecting today’s children. Registration begins Monday, October 17. Call 215 - 885 - 5180, ext. 28.
In honor of Children’s Book Week (November 14 - 20), the Abington Township Public Libraries and Twilight Productions Inc. present:
HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE
Relive Harry Potter’s first year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry through this exciting dramatic presentation led by Mr. Malcolm. Play the part of your favorite character!
Two FREE shows:
Monday, Nov 14, 7 p.m. - ROSLYN BRANCH LIBRARY, 2412 Avondale Avenue , Roslyn
Registration begins Oct 31. Call 215 - 886 - 9818.
Thursday, Nov 17, 7 p.m. * - ABINGTON FREE LIBRARY, 1030 Old York Road , Abington
Registration begins Nov 7. Call 215 - 885 - 5180, ext. 28.
RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN AGES 7 & UP
*Children will attend the Abington show independently to enable more students to participate.
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Please Note - These events occurred in the fall of 2005.
Fall 2005
Young Adult/Teens at Abington Free Library
For information: Linda Jones, Young Adult Librarian, 215-885-5180 ext. 13, http://abg.mclinc.org/teen_website/index.htm and The Adult Information Desk
READING OLYMPICS BOOK CLUB – Junior High School
Oct 6, 7-8 p.m. PROM by Laurie Halse Anderson. Discussion, food and drink.
The Abington Free Library is hosting a Young Adult Book Club focusing on titles
from the 2006 Reading Olympics book list. REGISTRATION BEGINS OCT 1.
Haunted Tales to Chill Your Spine - GRADES 5-8
Oct 27, 7-8 p.m. Community Room. Actress Kristin Pedemonti presents “true” tales of the ghastly, ghostly and eerily unexplained. Join her for an evening you won’t soon forget! Enjoy ghoulishly good refreshments after the show. REGISTRATION BEGINS OCT 10.
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Please Note - These events occurred in the fall of 2005.
Fall 2005
Adult Programs at Abington Free Library
For information contact Library Office 215-885-5180, ext. 15, http://abg.mclinc.org/calendar/AdultPrograms.htm
CONSCIOUS GLOBALISM – by David A. Schwerin, Ph.D. Presentation by the author at 7:30 p.m.
Sept 21 – Bold new book examines modern globalism and lays framework for positive change.
DAYTIME BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP – Every 1st Thursday at 1 p.m.
Oct 6 – The Quiet American by Graham Greene
Nov 3 – How the Garci ́ a Girls Lost Their Accents by Julia Alvarez
Dec 1 – Without Reservations : the Travels of an Independent Woman by Alice Steinbach
OLD YORK ROAD GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY – Every 2nd Tuesday at 7 p.m.
Oct 11, Nov 8, Dec 13
SOCRATES CAFÉ – Every 2nd Wednesday from 10:30 – noon .
Oct 12, Nov 9, Dec 14 – Giving Philosophy Back to the People. Open discussion.
WORLD WAR II LECTURE SERIES – Every 3rd Tuesday at 3 & 7 p.m.
Oct 18 – 28th Infantry Division in WWII & Today by Major General Wesley Craig
Nov 15 – The WWII Years - Vol. 3 of Pennsylvania Heartland Series by author Susan Wert Vogt
Dec 20 – The 422 nd Regimental Combat Team at St. Vith , Belgium , Samuel Fineberg
ME? A POWER SPEAKER? – Prof. Burton Klein at 10 a.m.
Oct 20, 27, Nov 3 – Yes, really; one can learn to command an audience’s attention by attending these three power - laden sessions.
THE RUTH R. ABEL MEMORIAL SEMINAR at 7 p.m. in the Shorday Room.
Dr. Richard Tyre is our discussion leader.
Registration is a must! Call 215 - 885 - 5180, ext. 15
Oct 5 – Proof: A Play by David Auburn. The 2001 Pulitzer Prize for Drama Winner
Nov 16 – The Blue Flower by Penelope Fitzgerald. The 1997 National Book Critics Circle Award Winner
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Please Note - These events occurred in the fall of 2005.
Fall 2005
Adult and Family Literacy at Abington Free Library
For information 215-885-5183 or http://abg.mclinc.org/adult_literacy/index.htm
TUTOR SUPPORT MEETINGS Oct 10, Nov 8, Dec 6 at 7 p.m. |
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