The Ab Lib from Fall 2007 Vol. 6, No. 3
 From our Director
You’re looking at a photo of the cutest dog in America. Our family is the lucky owner of Daisy, the wonder mutt. She’s not well behaved, she jumps on people, she was not a stellar student at obedience school, and she smells beyond terrible when wet. But we love her and, in our eyes, she is just perfect. Those
of you who are dog owners know exactly what I mean. All the expense and aggravation are nothing compared to what a dog does to enhance your life. I am a total convert and reformed cat owner – I hope our home is never without a dog again (cat lovers, be gentle).
The therapy dogs that have been visiting the Library are much better behaved than Daisy. They are amazingly gentle animals that love nothing more than to listen to children read them stories in our “Doggone Good Readers” program. We partnered with Abington Memorial Hospital and the therapy dog owners bring us Niji, who is so relaxed by the children reading she lies on her back and nods off with her legs in the air, Mr. T, who gets along just fine on his three legs,
Thunder, a large German Shepard, who is as gentle as his name is ominous and many, many other wonderful dogs, some of which are rescue animals.
I encourage you to bring your six- to nine-year old children in to read to the world’s best listener – a certified therapy dog! Bring your own book or use one we’ll provide. And parents – prepare to be delighted by the priceless sight of your child holding a doggy completely rapt. Unless you get Niji, who will probably be conked
out with her legs in the air.
Beautiful Book of the Month: Indian Painting: the Great Mural Tradition by Mira Seth. A groundbreaking look at Indian wall painting.
Useless (for my family, but maybe not yours) Book of the Month: The Loved Dog by Tamar Geller. Ms. Geller is a former Israeli intelligence officer whose techniques failed to whip our Daisy into shape. However, she claims that learning can be a positive experience that dogs enjoy and look forward to. She has lots of Hollywood clients, so she’s doing something right!
- Nancy Hammeke Marshall
 Volunteer Spotlight – Doris Lufkin
We often reiterate in these columns how important our volunteers are to us and Doris Lufkin is a shining example of why. Doris has been a volunteer at the Abington Free Library for 36 years, since the day we opened our doors.
The library was much smaller then, a small room upstairs (now the Ruth Abel/New Books section) and a small children’s department downstairs were all we had. Books were checked out using an old metal-plated library card and a chunk-a-chunk machine. Book cards were filed alphabetically and by date due and had to be resorted every day. Overdues were kept in a Rolodex that had to be checked by hand before anybody could check out a book. Doris remembers clearly being left in charge of the library for half an hour one day, while the rest of the staff took a colleague out to lunch for her birthday. She says it was a long half hour, but we’re sure the librarian was right to have faith in her.
Another job Doris had here was typing up cards for the old card catalog. She remembers both the job and the card catalog fondly. She also recalls that it used to be possible to see if you’d already read a book or not simpl by looking on the book card for your library card number. She is particularly proud that she had one
of the first library cards Abington Library ever issued.
Doris was instrumental in helping thousands of our patrons sign up for new library cards when we automated in 1999. She sat by the door for weeks and asked every patron who came in the door, “Are you an Abington resident?” and “Have you registered for a new card yet?” Needless to say, it was not an easy job and she really didn’t enjoy it, but she did it for us nonetheless, which is Doris all the way.
Most recently, she has been coming in once a week to help keep the shelves in proper Dewey Decimal order.
Doris was born and raised in Philadelphia. She attended Germantown High School and Temple University’s Secretarial School. She worked as a secretary for seven years before settling down to raise a family. She met her husband, Walter (called “Bob”) while she was busy flirting with one of his friends. Together they have 3 children and nine grandchildren. They have been residents of Abington since 1955. Lucky for us!
- Lois Odabas
 Staff Spotlight – Rebecca Ritts
Rebecca is one of the four full-time librarians who make up our Reference Department – and she is our angel. She is kind and gentle and worries about the rest of us being overworked if she is home sick. She is always patient and helpful to those who come to
the Reference Desk asking for assistance.
It was the fall of 1989 when Rebecca started working part-time here at the Abington Free Library at the Circulation Desk. In 1991 she became full-time and also spent part of her time in the Technical Services Department, where our materials are prepared with cataloging numbers, covers, and added to our database. She was trained and received her certification as a cataloger.
Rebecca may be an angel but she is also ambitious. She decided she wanted to be a reference librarian. She went back to school, Clarion University, to earn her masters degree via online classes and at the same time worked at our Reference Desk. She was awarded
that degree in 2004. In addition to working at the Reference Desk, Rebecca orders and cares for audio books-on-CD and the books on religion, social sciences, art and sports.
She and her husband, a Methodist minister, live in Upper Moreland. They have two married  children who live close by and have blessed them with two grandchildren plus another coming soon. They love to spend time at their farmhouse getaway in Sullivan County, Pennsylvania, with all the children. Of course, Rebecca also loves to read. She is now reading One True Thing by Anna Quindlen and listening to Pearl Buck’s The Good Earth on audio book.
Rebecca says the best part of working at the Library is
the variety: helping people and learning something new every day. She is a valuable member of our reference team. She will be happy to help you the next time you visit our Library.
- Deanna Collins
Reference Department News
For more information call 215-885-5180, ext. 13 or abingtonfreelibrary.org
Here are highlights from Reference and Information!
We have updated our collection with the following new reference sources:
- Encyclopedia of North American railroads. Bloomington, Ind.; Indiana University Press (2007)
- The Oxford encyclopedia of Latinos and Latinas in the United States. Oxford; New York; Oxford University Press (2005)
- Slavery in the United States: a social, political, and historical encyclopedia. Santa Barbara, Calif.; ABC-CLIO, (2007)
This fall Computer Classes will be offered late September through November. We will schedule classes on the Internet, Word and Excel.
Please contact the Information Desk to register, by calling 215-885-5180 and then press 5.
We are offering two programs this fall - please check under Adult Program listings for Dessert and Data and for Science Online and Internet Resources.
Please stop by and visit us soon at the Information Desk!
- Mimi Satterthwaite, Head of Reference |
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New Web Photo Albums!
Did we snap a photo of your child at a Library event?
Go to abingtonfreelibrary.org and click on “photos.”
There you can easily see snapshots or slide shows, copy or download pictures!
Miss Ellanie – Held and Breathlessly Waiting
 I know bragging isn’t nice, but I have to say that we’re very effective and diligent. We’ve been very diligent about telling you that you can request items through the online catalog. So diligent and effective that books, CDs, DVDs, books-on-CDs, etc. are streaming in from all points, waiting for us to call to tell you they’re in.
So effective that we ran out of
space and had to move them to the shelves across from the Circulation Desk. Your requested items will wait for you there, wrapped in light blue paper (like they’re from Tiffany’s) filed under the first two letters of your last name and the last four digits of your phone number. Remember to check them out at the Circulation Desk!
This stream of books has inundated us. We can’t make the calls fast enough, but you have the power to speed up this process. If you fill out an email notification form, an email can be sent to you about your reserve as soon as we check it in. Next time you’re in, ask for the form at the Circulation Desk.
Did you know that you can see your reserve status online? Go to “Your Account” at abingtonfreelibrary.org. From there you can renew anything that’s renewable, see due dates, set up a reading
history, and so much more.
 Did you also know that you can set your password yourself from abingtonfreelibrary.org? Or, when you register for a library card in the library, staff can add your password if you want to reserve books online or use the wireless Internet right away. If you forget your password, call or stop by the library and we’ll help you reset your account.
Why do we wrap books, put your information in code, add passwords to accounts and need permission to email you? Privacy. What you take out is your business. We’re diligent and effective when it comes to your privacy, too.
- Miss Ellanie (as told to Karen Burnham)
News & Views of The Friends of Abington Libraries
Learn about our activities: Call 215-885-5180, ext. 36, or read about us at abingtonfreelibrary.org
NEW BOOKS COME IN EVERY DAY TO OUR BOOKCELLAR – You are invited to browse our selection. We are located in the lower level of Abington Free Library, 1030 Old York Road, next to the Children's Department. All books, movies and music are available for sale at very reasonable prices!
Hours: Monday, noon-8 p.m.;
Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, noon-4 p.m.; Wednesday, noon-8:30 p.m.;
Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
NEW MEMBERS/BOOKCELLAR VOLUNTEERS ARE URGENTLY NEEDED - Support your Library by joining a very sociable group and enjoy the comradery and satisfaction of being a part of your Library's growth!
Remember, all funds from the Friends activities go to support your Library.
Get engaged now!
- W. O. Bill Tinsman, President, The Friends of Abington Township Public Libraries
 RAU ANIMAL HOSPITAL PRESENTATIONS
- Sept 5 - Do Felines have Canines? Dental care for your pets. Speaker: Vickie Byard, CVT, VTS
- Oct 3 - Disaster Preparedness for Your Pets: Speaker. Mark Fox, VMD, et al.
- Nov 7 - Fluffy's Golden Years. Speaker: Mark Fox, VMD
These free library programs
start at 7 p.m.
Register at the Abington Free Library Office, call 215-885-5180, ext. 15 or go to abingtonfreelibrary.org
Roslyn Branch Library
For information and to register for these programs, call 215-886-9818, go to abingtonfreelibrary.org or visit the Roslyn Branch Library, 2412 Avondale Avenue, Roslyn, PA 19001.
PAJAMA PARTIES FOR AGES 3-6
Sept 10, Oct 15, Nov 12, Dec 10
6:30-7 p.m.
Please register for each program separately.
Stories + songs + fingerplays + crafts
Children are invited to wear their pajamas and
bring a stuffed animal to cuddle.
FALL STORY TIMES
Ages 3-6 will be on Mondays at 1:30 p.m.
Oct 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Nov 5, 12
Ages 2-3 will be on Thursdays at 11 a.m.
Oct 4, 11, 18, 25, Nov 1, 8, 15
Registration begins Sept 10.
STRESSBALL SALLY AND FRIENDS
Oct 8
6:30 p.m.
A movie about bullying will be shown and
techniques on how to reduce stress will
be taught. This program is geared to families
with children in pre-K through grade 6.
Registration begins Sept 10.
KINDERGARTEN OPEN HOUSE
Oct 22
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Registration begins Oct 1.
Listen to stories & Make a craft
Tour the library & Apply for a library card
HALLOWEEN PARTY
Wear a costume and join the fun!!
Oct 29
6-6:30 p.m. Ages 2-5
7-8 p.m. Ages 6-12
Stories, songs, games,
crafts, and refreshments!
Registration begins October 8.
BABY DAYS
Nov 6, 13, 20, 27 Dec 4 & 11
11 a.m.
Babies ages 8 months-2 years.
and caregivers will sing songs, read
stories, and do finger plays.
Registration begins Oct 15.
Children's Department at Abington Free Library
For information or to register for these programs, call 215-885-5180, ext. 28, go to abingtonfreelibrary.org or visit the Children’s Department.
Why bring your child to story time?
Library story times are a wonderful way to introduce books and reading to your child. Through age-appropriate stories, rhymes and songs, your child will develop valuable pre-reading skills while learning that reading can be enjoyable, too. Take advantage of the FREE programs listed to help your child discover the joys of reading.
PRESCHOOL STORY TIMES
Fall Session #1 Story times begin the week of Sept 10 and continue through the week of Oct 15.
Fall Session #2 Story times resume the week of Nov 5 and continue through the week of Dec 10.
(No four- and five-year-old session on Nov 22)
TWO-YEAR-OLDS
Tuesdays, 10-10:45 a.m.
Parents/caregivers attend this lap sit program with
their children. Advance registration is required.
Registration for Fall Session #1 begins Aug 27.
Registration for Fall Session #2 begins Oct 22.
THREE-YEAR-OLDS
Mondays, 10:30-11 a.m.
Children may attend independently or with parents/caregivers. No advance registration is required.
FOUR- AND FIVE-YEAR-OLDS
Thursdays, 2-2:30 p.m.
Children are encouraged to attend independently.
No advance registration is required.
LITTLE CRAWLER STORY TIMES
For ages 6 months and up who are not yet walking
Three Wednesdays:
Sept 19, 26 and Oct 3, 10:30-11 a.m.
Registration for
Abington Township residents begins Sept 10;
out-of-township residents, Sept 14.
These programs are designed for one-on-one interaction between parent/caregiver and child. Please arrange for care of siblings during this time.
DOGGONE GOOD READERS (ages 6-10)
Three Saturdays: Oct 6, Nov 3 & Dec 1
10:15-10:45 a.m. OR 11-11:30 a.m.
Calling young dog lovers! Read to a dog and have loads of fun! Registration begins Monday, September 17. Children do not have to attend all three Saturdays.
KINDERGARTEN OPEN HOUSE
estive fall event for new
kindergartners and their parents
Thursday, Oct 11, 6:30-8 p.m. OR
Saturday, Oct 13, 10:30 a.m.-noon
Join us for stories, crafts, entertainment,
and workshops on how to enhance your child’s kindergarten experience. Register for either the Thursday evening or Saturday morning
session starting Monday, October 1.
HALLOWEEN ART CLASSES
Thursday, Oct 18
Make a Mask You Can Wear (ages 5-6): 6-6:30 p.m.
Build Your Own Haunted House (ages 7-10): 7-8:15 p.m.
Feeling “crafty”? Get in the Halloween spirit with experienced art instructor
Jill Appleman. Registration for both programs begins Monday, October 8.
TODDLER STORY TIMES
For children aged 12-23 months & their parents/caregivers
Four Wednesdays: Oct 31, Nov 7, 21, 28, 10:30-11 a.m.
(No session on Nov 14)
Registration for Abington Township residents
begins Oct 22; out-of-township residents, Oct 26.
All children registered must be walking independently. These programs are designed for one-on-one
interaction between parent/caregiver and child.
Please arrange for care of siblings during this time.
DROP-IN STORY TIMES (all ages)
Weekly story times for parents and caregivers led by members of the Jenkintown Kiwanis Club.
Dates and times to be announced
— check library website for updates
Young Adult/Teens at Abington Free Library
REGISTER for these programs or get more information @ Information Desk, abingtonfreelibrary.org or 215-885-5180, ext. 13.
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 Research class in the
Library’s Science Online Database and Internet Resources.
Sept 29 and Oct 13
from 11-noon
in the Staff Lounge
Bring your laptop with wireless access and library card. Learn how to access online resources with your library card. Research your Science Fair project.
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Express Yourself
Grades 6-12.
Oct 15 – Nov 19
from 6:30-8 p.m.
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.
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A workshop for
high school students
and parents …
Oct 8
from 7 - 8 p.m.
High Level and Ivy League College Admissions:
How to Successfully Navigate the Admissions Process
REGISTER for these programs or get more information @ Information Desk, abingtonfreelibrary.org or 215-885-5180, ext. 13. |
Adult Programs at Abington Free Library
REGISTER in the Library Office or call 215-885-5180, ext. 15. abingtonfreelibrary.org.
RAU ANIMAL HOSPITAL PRESENTATIONS
These free library programs start at 7 p.m.
Sept 5 - Do Felines have Canines? Pet dental care. Speaker: Vickie Byard, CVT, VTS
Oct 3 - Disaster Preparedness for Your Pets. Speaker: Mark Fox, VMD, et al.
Nov 7 - Fluffy's Golden Years.
Speaker: Mark Fox, VMD
GUITAR WORKSHOP SERIES
Seven Lesson Course, Wednesdays at 7 p.m.
Sept 19, 26, Oct 17, 29, Nov 21, Dec 5, & 19
Play Folk Guitar!
THE ART OF LOOKING AT ART
Thursday, Sept 20 from 7 - 8:30 p.m.
Sheldon Weintraub will discuss:
"Is She Nude or Is She Naked?"
DROP IN FOR DESSERT AND DATA
Sept 25 and Oct 23 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Mimi Satterthwaite leads a discussion of the library's online databases. Register at Information Desk, 215-885-5180, ext. 13 or online at abingtonfreelibrary.org
Commonwealth Speaker, and three-time Emmy Winner,
BILL WINE, Film Critic, KYW Newsradio;
Sept 27, from 7-8:30 p.m. AFL
Pitfalls and perks of seeing and reporting on virtually every new movie.
To register for this free program, which is sponsored by the Pennsylvania Humanities Council,
call 215-886-9818, go to abingtonfreelibrary.org
or visit the Roslyn Branch Library.
PROF. BURTON KLEIN SPEAKS ABOUT ...
Thursdays from 10 - 11 a.m.; Shorday Room.
Oct 4 - Restaurants: An Opinionated View ...
Oct 11 - When the Good Guys Used to Win ...
Oct 18 - Women's Rights: One Man's Perspective ...
Oct 25 - Leadership Styles: A Look-See ...
Nov 1 - Writing with Pizazz ...
DAYTIME BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP
Every first Thursday at 1 p.m.
Oct 4 - Suite Francaise by Irene Nemirovsky
Nov 1 - Infidel by Ayaan Hirsi Ali
Dec 6 - The Worst Hard Time : The Untold Story of Those Who Survived the Great American Dust Bowl by Timothy Egan
No registration required. Walk-ins welcome!
ADULT LITERACY EVENTS - 215-885-5183
Oct 9 - 7 p.m. Tutor Support Meeting
Nov 14- 7 p.m. Tutor Support Meeting
Dec 10 - 7 p.m. Tutor Support Meeting
WWII LECTURE SERIES
Every third Tuesday at 3 and 7 p.m.
Oct 16 - 6–9 p.m. 10th Anniversary Celebration
at Williamson Restaurant
Nov 20, 3 p.m. - German Luftwaffe Pilot & POW
Nov 20, 7 p.m. - P-47 Fighter Pilot 9th Airforce
Dec 18 - Pearl Harbor and 9/11 Attacks
SOCRATES CAFÉ
Every second Wednesday from 10:30 - noon
Every fourth Friday from 7 - 8:30 p.m.
Giving Philosophy Back to the People.
OLD YORK ROAD GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
Every second Tuesday from 7-8:45 p.m.
See flyer or go to abingtonfreelibrary.org for details
These library programs are FREE and take place in the Library’s Community Room on the Lower Level unless another location is specified. REGISTER in the Library Office, call
215-885-5180, ext. 15 or go online at abingtonfreelibrary.org. |
