Thursday, December 31, 2009

Meryl Streep and Fossil Fred - Highlight January Programming

Come in from the January cold and enjoy free entertainment and educational opportunities at your library! Below is a list of some of our upcoming adult programs, and remember to check our events calendar or sign up for email notifications to learn about more free events at the library.

  • Thursday, January 7th at 6:00 PM - Movie Night:

    Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon-Levitt star in a critically acclaimed romantic comedy.

    Popcorn and beverages will be served.

  • Saturday, January 16th at 2:00 PM - Movie Matinee:

    Please join us for a special movie presentation of a newly released DVD starring Meryl Streep and Amy Adams. Based on the best selling book about a woman following in the footsteps of Julia Child. Rated PG-13.

    Popcorn and beverages will be served.

  • Saturday, January 23rd at 2:30 PM - Connecting With Fossils

    Come and connect on the subject of fossils. You do not need to be a scientist.

    Connecting with fossils has many dimensions – including artistic inspiration and personal wonderment. No prior experience is necessary. Interest is sufficient.

    Known to many young students as Fossil Fred, Dr. Hotchkiss will bring an assortment of the fossils he takes to Vineyard classrooms. He hopes to engage you using these materials. Please feel free to bring fossils that you would like to show or to ask about.

    This MPRI lecture is funded in part by a grant from the Martha’s Vineyard Cultural Council in collaboration with the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Libraries Offer New Language Learning Service

Did you know that you can use your Oak Bluffs Public Library card, a computer and Internet connection to start learning a new language at home or at the library?

The service is called Mango and it can be accessed from the library's homepage (www.oakbluffslibrary.org). Just scroll down the page and click on the Mango link or picture to get started.


Read an article published in the Cape Cod Times about this exciting new service:

http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20091229/NEWS/912290309&emailAFriend=1

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Holiday Hours At Your Island Libraries

Here is a list of the holiday hours at your Island libraries:

Edgartown: Dec. 24 - Closing at 2pm, Dec. 25 & 26 - Closed, Dec. 31 - Closing at 5pm, Jan. 1 – Closed, Jan. 2 – Open (Regular Hours). Call – 508-627-4221 for information.

Vineyard Haven: Dec. 24 - Closing at 1pm, Dec. 25 - Closed, Dec. 26 – Open (Regular Hours), Dec. 31 - Closing at 1pm, Jan. 1 – Closed, Jan. 2 – Open (Regular Hours). Call 508-696-4211 for information.

Oak Bluffs: Dec. 24 - Closing at 3pm, Dec. 25 & 26 - Closed, Dec. 31 - Closing at 3pm, Jan. 1 – Closed, Jan. 2 – Open (Regular Hours). Call – 508-693-9433 for information.

West Tisbury: Dec. 24 - Closing at 3pm, Dec. 25 & 26 - Closed, Dec. 31 - Closing at 3pm, Jan. 1 - Closed, Jan. 2 - Open (Regular Hours). Call 508-693-3366 for information.

Chilmark: Dec. 24 & Dec. 25 Closed, Dec. 26 Open (Regular Hours), Dec. 31 & Jan. 1 & Jan. 2 - Closed. Call 508-645-3360 for information.

Aquinnah: Dec. 24 & Dec. 25 - Closed, Dec. 26 - Open (Regular Hours), Dec. 31 - To Be Announced, Jan. 1 - Closed, Jan. 2 - Open (Regular Hours). Call 508-645-2314 for information.

Tuesday, December 08, 2009

MV Libraries Support The Island Food Pantry

During the month of December the Martha’s Vineyard Library Association is promoting a fine amnesty program to support the Island Food Pantry.

The Oak Bluffs Public Library will be offering fine amnesty between the dates of Tuesday, December 15 and Saturday, December 19. During this time, library patrons may bring a donation of a non-perishable food items to the library, along with any library materials that are overdue. We will waive the fines on these materials for making a donation to the Island Food Pantry.

Each Island library will be offering fine amnesty differently. Please call your local library for full details. Thank you for helping us support Island community members in need.


Tuesday, December 01, 2009

Holiday Party, Polly Hill Arboretum & Movies - Highlight December Programming

Enjoy a variety of free programming at your library during the month of December. A few of the highlights include:

Thursday, December 10 at 6:00 PM - Tom Clark, Collections and Grounds Manager at the Polly Hill Arboretum will talk on the topic of, "The Seasons of the Polly Hill Arboretum".


Friday, December 11, from 1 PM - 4 PM, the annual holiday party sponsored by the Library Friends. The party features food, music and good cheer. There will be entertainment for all ages, don't miss out on the festivities!

Saturday, December 12, at 2 PM - An afternoon movie starring Meryl Streep and Amy Adams. Based on the best selling book about a woman following in the footsteps of Julia Child. Rated PG-13. Popcorn and beverages will be served.

Visit our events calendar for information about more upcoming programs.






Wednesday, November 25, 2009

The Perfect Gift Idea - "Savor The Moment" Calendars

Are you still looking for the ideal present for a friend or family member during this holiday season?


The picturesque 2010 "Savor The Moment" calendar is available for purchase at the library. Supplies are limited, so beat the holiday rush and buy your copies today! All proceeds from calendar sales will support the library.

About the "Savor The Moment" Calendar:

The annual DELLA HARDMAN DAY, a celebration of the arts established by the Town of Oak Bluffs in 2005, was inspired by the life of Della B. Hardman, PhD (1922-2005), Vineyard activist, civic activist & writer who chronicled cultural and social events in Oak Bluffs for the Vineyard Gazette for nearly a decade. A former library trustee, lifelong learning advocate, and photographer, Dr. Hardman ended each column with her credo, "Savor the Moment," and inspired others to fully embrace each day. (www.dellahardmanday.com)

During the Spring and Summer of 2009, the Oak Bluffs Public Library, in conjunction with the annual Della Hardman Day celebration, sponsored a second annual photography contest to select images featuring Martha's Vineyard that reflect the "savor the moment" theme.

The winning entries are published in this beautiful local calendar that is the perfect holiday gift!

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Library Receives 3 Star Rating From Library Journal

Library Journal released the latest LJ Index of Library Services rankings and as you may have read in the MV Times, "Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven received three star ratings, joining only 256 other libraries to be top-rated nationally for excellent service".

The ranking is based on the circulation of materials, visits to the library, public computer usage and attendance at library programs. Congratulations to the Oak Bluffs community, the library trustees, friends, staff and volunteers for receiving this award.

Click here to read the Library Journal Article.

Saturday, November 07, 2009

Poetry Reading & Undersea Slideshow Highlight November Events

Thursday, November 12 at 6:00 PM, Former West Tisbury Poet Laureate, Dan Waters, will read selections from several of his published books, recent work and his unpublished poems.

Mr. Waters' poetry has appeared in the Martha's Vineyard Gazette, Yankee Magazine, chapbooks and other publications. His recorded verses have also been played on the Cape & Islands NPR station.

To learn more about the poet please visit: www.indianhillpress.com

Thursday, November 19 at 6:00 PM, Michael Wooley will narrate a free slideshow and short film presentation showing the mysteries and fascinating undersea life of Earth's two largest barrier reefs.

Mr. Wooley is a local artist and swim instructor, and an underwater diving enthusiast. He will share his knowledge and thoughts about some of the most interesting creatures of Central America and Australia. Special guests like the many different shark species, eels, sea dragons, lionfish, and much more will be on hand.

To learn about more free entertainment and educational opportunities at your library please visit the library events calendar.

We Invite YOU To Be A Volunteer!

Are you looking for a good cause to donate your time and energy to? Do you have a skill that you want to share with other community members? Do you need to fulfill your school community service requirements or improve your resume for going to college or for a career change?


The library is seeking volunteers to help with shelving children’s books, community programs and events, computer training and other activities. Please speak to a library staff member today and fill out a volunteer survey. We will compare your background and skills with the library’s needs and try to create a rewarding volunteer opportunity for YOU at your local library.


Veterans' Day Display

Please come to the library and see our book displays that have been created in honor of Veterans' Day. The displays include information about the Veterans' History Project, an effort to collect first-hand accounts by United States Veterans from the following wars: World War I, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Persian Gulf War and the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The project was created by the United States Congress:
http://www.loc.gov/vets/vets-home.html


Just a reminder, on Wednesday, November 11 the library will be closed in observance of Veterans' Day.

Thursday, November 05, 2009

A Message From The Library Director

Summer is behind us and what a summer it was! The use of the library increased again this year. During July and August more than twenty two thousand people visited the library, and 27,836 books, movies, music and other library materials were borrowed, or about 80 items per hour. Close to two thousand attended programs for children and adults at the library. Public computers, as well as Wi-Fi were also very popular.

The staff was very busy, and we could not have managed without the help from our volunteers. A big “thank you” to them for all the work they do to support their library. We are grateful to many individuals and organizations, such as Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Polar Bears, Black Dog Kids, Inc., the Pequot Hotel, who donated funds for library programs and materials. Community support for the library is very important as we strive to overcome the current economic challenges and continue to meet the community’s needs.

We are looking forward to your next visit. Many programs for all ages are planned, and the library offers a variety of valuable resources to help you save time and money. You can visit www.masslib.org/value-new/calculator and use the “library calculator” to learn how much you can save by using your library.

Danguole Budris,
Library Director

Please read the fall edition of Books & Beyond, our library newsletter -
Fall 2009 - Volume 1, Issue 4

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Thursday Night Movie @ The Library!

Need something fun to do to break up the week. Come to the library and see a popular musical-documentary on our big screen. It is just like being at the movies!

This Thursday, October 29 at 6:00 PM, we will show a hilarious and inspiring documentary about a senior citizen's choir from Western Massachusetts.

Rated PG

Refreshments will be served.

Please call the library to learn the movie's title.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Fall Newsletter - Now Available!

Learn about new library services, events and news by reading our fall newsletter - Books & Beyond.

The most recent issue is now available for your reading pleasure. Pick up a copy at the library today or view it online - Fall 2009 - Volume 1, Issue 4

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Library Announces New Hours

Beginning November 3, Oak Bluffs Public Library will be open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Thursday 10:00AM - 8:00PM; and Saturday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM.

Proposed by the town as a cost saving measure, the new hours have been approved by the Library Board of Trustees. Shorter by one hour, the new schedule streamlines staffing and provides two additional evenings of library access.

Call 508-693-9433 for more information.

Tuesday, October 06, 2009

Upcoming Author Visits, Movies and Lectures @ Your Library

A wide variety of community programs are being planned for the fall months and it is all because of your feedback! A recent library survey revealed a strong community interest in health & wellness, home & gardening, local history, cooking, author visits, arts & crafts and computers. The library’s future programs will attempt to meet these areas of community interest.


Please visit our website www.oakbluffslibrary.org to learn about events and signup to receive email updates for upcoming programs.


Coming Soon to the Oak Bluffs Public Library:


Thursday, October 15 at 6:30 PM - Author Visit by John Hough Jr.

Read a review of his latest book, Seen The Glory: A Novel of the Battle of Gettysburg



Thursday, October 22 at 6:00 PM - "The Flu and You" by Nicole Barlett


Thursday, November 3 at 6:00 PM - Movie Night (Documentary / Musical & Performance)


Thursday, November 12 at 6:00 PM - Poetry Reading by Dan Waters

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Free Grant Funding Workshop - How to Approach a Foundation

Attention grant seekers:

On Thursday, September 10 at 6:00 PM a free grant funding workshop will be taking place at the Oak Bluffs Public Library. “How to Approach a Foundation”, is a workshop for grant seekers that have identified potential funding organizations and want to learn how to effectively approach and communicate with foundations. Space is limited and sign up is required. Please call the library at 508-693-9433 to sign up and for additional information.

This workshop is a part of the Grant Resource Network: Martha’s Vineyard, made possible by the collaboration of Associated Grant Makers of Massachusetts (AGM), The Oak Bluffs Public Library (OBPL), and the Martha’s Vineyard Donor Collaborative (MVDC), and a grant from the Peter and Elizabeth C. Tower Foundation. Learn more about the grant seeking resources available through the Grant Resource Network: Martha’s Vineyard by contacting the MVDC or OBPL, or by visiting:Grant Resource Network: Martha's Vineyard.

Workshop presented by Judith Margolin, Vice President for Planning and Evaluation at the Foundation Center.

Judith Margolin's Bio:
Judith Margolin is Vice President for Planning and Evaluation at the Foundation Center, the nation’s leading authority on philanthropy. She has devoted most of her career to foundations and philanthropy. She is the author of several books, including The Individual’s Guide to Grants and Financing a College Education and has served as editor of multiple editions of the Center’s monographs, including Foundation Fundamentals, Guide to Proposal Writing, and The Grantseeker’s Guide to Winning Proposals.

Friday, August 14, 2009

Article Lists 100 Best Beach Books EVER!

Need some great reading ideas for the beach? Try a selection from this NPR article listing the "best beach books ever", as voted on by NPR readers:

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=106983620

Saturday, August 08, 2009

Save Money - Use Your Local Library

Want to see how much money you can save by using your local library? Try using this Value of Library Service Calculator to add up your savings!

Remember...at the library you can:
Borrow the most popular DVDs, Music CDs, audiobooks, novels, non-fiction books.

Enjoy FREE entertaining and educational library programs (for all ages)!

Receive homework and research assistance.

Learn a new language.

Research your family's genealogy.

Learn about local history.

Use and borrow lifelong learning resources.

Download books and music to your MP3 Player.

Use the public computers or your personal laptop to surf the Web.

Research grants for individuals or organizations.

And much more...

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

New Books, DVDs, Audiobooks and More for Lifelong Learners!

Do you want to learn a new skill or hobby? Are you interested in learning more about an important life issue such as health & wellness, finances, or finding jobs & volunteer opportunities? Or do you want to borrow the newest DVDs, Audiobooks, and Large Print materials?

If you answered yes to any of these questions then come to the library to see a display of the latest library materials for lifelong learners! A list of the materials will soon be added to the library's lifelong learners web page.

Many of these new library materials were purchased using grant funding through the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners with funds from LSTA (Library Services and Technology Act), a Federal source of library funding provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Friday, July 24, 2009

Author Visits, Guest Speakers, Presentations and Art Exhibits!

The library offers a variety of interesting events for all ages. Please join us for a program soon! You can learn about upcoming library events and programs by reading the library's online events calendar.

See pictures of recent events that have been happening at your library by visiting the library's flickr account!

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Della Hardman Day 2009 Events!

Fri, July 24 - Sunset Concert, The Spirituals Choir, Jim Thomas, director, East Chop Lighthouse 7 p.m.
Fri, July 24 - 'Savor the Moment' High School Essay Contest Winners announced
Sat, July 25 - 'Savor the Moment' Photo Exhibit & Reception, Oak Bluffs Public Library, 2 p.m.
Sat, July 25 - 'Savor the Moment' 2010 Calendar published by Oak Bluffs Public Library
Sat, July 25 - A Jazz Tribute to President Obama, Ocean Park, 4 p.m.
Mon, Aug 3 - 'Savor the Moment' Della Hardman Day Prize, All Island Art Show, The Tabernacle

ALL EVENTS ARE FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

Don't miss....A JAZZ TRIBUTE TO PRESIDENT OBAMA! Words & Music by Columbia Law School professor PATRICIA WILLIAMS, columnist, The Nation, & saxophonist OLIVER LAKE, composer and painter. Saturday, July 25, Ocean Park at 4 p.m.

More information about Della Hardman Day:
This is the fifth annual Della Hardman Day, a festival celebrating the arts, diversity and a zest for living on the magical island of Martha's Vineyard. Della Hardman (1922-2005), an artist, educator and writer, began visiting the Vineyard at age 3 and was a year round resident from 1986. She loved the island and its people and became a community activist and Vineyard Gazette columnist who encouraged everyone to 'savor the moment!'

The event, sponsored by the the Town of Oak Bluffs, began in 2005 when Dr. Della Hardman’s former West Virginia State U. students honored her with a weekend tribute.

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Vote in our new lifelong learners poll today!

Have you visited our Lifelong Learners webpage yet? It is a great resource for finding information about Finances, Health, Technology, Home & Garden, Work & Activism, and Local History.

You can even change the text size on the web page for an easier reading experience!

While you are there, vote in the lifelong learning resource center poll and take our survey to help us provide a high level of service to lifelong learners in the community.

Thursday, July 09, 2009

Summer Newsletter Available - Online or in Print

Stay informed about library events, services and resources by reading the latest issue of our new library newsletter - Books & Beyond!

Print copies are available at the library or you can be green and read it online. Ask a friendly library staff member for a copy today!

Past issues of Books & Beyond can be found at the About the Library webpage of the library's website.

Wednesday, July 08, 2009

Savor the Moment—Art Exhibition & Celebration

Please join us on Saturday, July 25th at 2 PM, for the Opening and Artists’ Reception for the “Savor the Moment” photography exhibit.


This is the second year that the library has held a contest to select images for the “Savor the Moment” calendar. Contest judges were photographers Alison Shaw and Donalexander Goss; and Francine Kelly, Director of Featherstone Center for the Arts. Photographs were judged on the artful representation of the “Savor the Moment” theme during all four seasons on the Island. The calendar is published to honor Della Hardman, a former library trustee, in conjunction with the 5th Annual Della Hardman Day, which is celebrated in Oak Bluffs on the last Saturday in July. Please visit www.dellahardmanday.com for more information about Della Hardman Day events.


The photography show will be at the library through August 8th. Copies of the calendar will be available for sale at the library.

Friday, July 03, 2009

England, China, Africa - A Travel by Book Update!

The first discussion in the Adult Summer Reading Program took us from England to China. Simon Winchester's book, "The Man Who Loved China", made for a lively discussion.

Several attendees had visited China and shared their interesting experiences with the group. They recommended reading books by Ha Jin, Amy Tan, and Jung Chang ("Wild Swans") to anyone interested in stories with plots relating to China.

One lucky participant in the discussion won a Black Dog Coffee Mug for attending the meeting. More prizes will be awarded at the future meetings, courtesy of our sponsors, the Library Friends of Oak Bluffs.

Please join us for another fun and thoughtful discussion on Wednesday, July 22 at 10:30 AM. Copies of the book to be discussed, "Out of Africa" by Isak Denisen, are available at the check out desk at the library.

Friday, June 26, 2009

Great news for iPod users!

Our Download Service now offers more free downloads for iPod users! Upgrade to OverDrive Media Console version 3.2 and most titles in our collection will instantly become compatible with iPod and other Apple Devices for users with Windows PCs. OverDrive Media Console version 3.2 is free.

MP3 format is compatible with MAC and most portable devices including iPods.

See the 'Plays on' icons next to each title for compatibility information.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

We Want Your Feedback - Take Our Survey Today!

Last spring, the Oak Bluffs Public Library was awarded a grant through the EqualAccess Libraries – Lifelong Access Program. This survey is being used to collect feedback from the community about our efforts relating to the program and to help plan future library programs and services. Thank you for your participation, we value your time and input!
Click Here to take survey

Number Crunchers and Wordsmiths Collide at the Crossword & Sudoku Challenge

This past Saturday a group of word and number aficionados joined us at the library for an all ages crossword & sudoku puzzle challenge.

Prizes were awarded to the highest scoring crossword (a finishing time of 18:15) and sudoku (a finishing time of 13:48) challenge participants courtesy of the Vineyard Gazette. All participants were entered into a door prize - giveaway drawing sponsored by the Library Friends of Oak Bluffs.

If you want to try the puzzles that were used for the contest please visit the library's front desk and ask a staff member for a copy. The contest has been held annually at an Island Library since 2007, so practice your puzzles and prepare for next year's competition!

Thank you to the Vineyard Gazette, Library Friends of Oak Bluffs and our enthusiastic volunteers for making this event possible.

Wednesday, June 03, 2009

Adult Summer Reading Program Announced!

The library is hosting a series of book discussions this summer based upon popular works of travel, geography and history.

Attend the monthly book discussion meetings to be eligible for monthly prizes, enjoy free refreshments, and to be entered into an end of summer giveaway drawing. The more book discussion meetings that you attend the more chances you have to win the giveaway drawing!

Copies of the books will be available at the library, please read the books and join us for a series of lively discussion meetings:

June's Discussion - "The Man Who Loved China: the Fantastic Story of the Eccentric Scientist Who Unlocked the Mysteries of the Middle Kingdom" by Simon Winchester on Wednesday, June 24 at 10:30am.

July's Discussion - "Out of Africa" by Isak Denisen on Wednesday, July 22 at 10:30am.

August's Discussion - "A Voyage Long and Strange" by Tony Horwitz on Wednesday, August 26 at 10:30am.

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Attention Job and Volunteer Seekers!

Thursday, June 4 at 2:00pm - 3:30pm

From Ad to Interview - Finding the Perfect Job or Volunteer Opportunity for You

Elaine Pace, professional author, will facilitate a round table discussion regarding career and volunteer opportunities. Learn how to put your best foot forward when applying for jobs, and how to identify your strengths and skills to find your most fulfilling job or volunteer opportunity. Limited Seating - Please contact the library to sign up

All attendees will be entered into a giveaway drawing to win a gift certificate to Darosa's, where you can purchase resume paper, portfolios, and other essential office supplies!

A former teacher, school administrator, newsletter editor and writing coach, Ms. Pace has interviewed hundreds of job applicants.

New library resources for job, career, and vounteer seekers will also be highlighted at this session.

Illumination for Lifelong Learners

The library is organizing this event as part of the Illumination for Lifelong Learners Series, a series of programs and services for lifelong learners, made possible by grant funding and support from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners and Libraries for the Future.

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Librarians Return from MLA Conference

Library Director, Danguole Budris, Assistant Director, Mathew Bose and Childrens Librarian, Jessica Bowers recently attended the Massachusetts Library Association Conference held in Springfield, MA May 6-8.

Danguole and Mat both signed up to blog the conference in order to waive conference fees. You can read the conference blog to learn about the lectures, exhibits, and networking opportunities that they attended.

Please join us in congratulating Childrens Librarian, Jessica Bowers for applying for and receiving the Kay Bader Scholarship. Based on an essay that she submitted, she was 1 of 6 librarians and students chosen from the state of Massachusetts to receive the scholarship to help pay for attending the library conference and becoming a member of the Massachusetts Library Association. Congratulations Jessica!

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Spring Newsletter Available - Online or in Print

Stay informed about library events, services and resources by reading the latest issue of our new library newsletter - Books & Beyond!

Print copies are available at the library or you can be green and read it online. Ask a friendly library staff member for a copy today!

Past issues of Books & Beyond can be found at the About the Library webpage of the library's website.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Savor the Moment Photography Contest - Now Accepting Entries

Savor the Moment Photography Contest & Exhibition sponsored by the Oak Bluffs Public Library

Entry deadline: May 29, 2009

The Oak Bluffs Public Library, in conjunction with the annual celebration of DELLA HARDMAN DAY on Saturday, July 25th, is sponsoring a photography contest to select 14 images featuring Martha’s Vineyard that reflect Della Hardman’s legacy theme ~ “savor the moment.”

The winning entries will be published in the Oak Bluffs Public Library Calendar for 2010.

Contest judges are photographers Alison Shaw and Donalexander Goss, and Francine Kelly, Director, Featherstone Center for the Arts. Photographs will be judged based on the artful representation of the “Savor the Moment” theme during all four seasons on the Island.

Fourteen award-winning entries will be selected: twelve to represent each month of the year, one for the cover and one for the back cover.

For more details, please read the contest entry form or speak to a library staff member.

Friday, April 03, 2009

Technology Fair a Crowd Pleaser!

A crowd of 45+ techno-lusting individuals attended the library's first ever technology fair on Saturday, March 21. All of the attendees that signed in were entered to win a free MP3 player. The lucky winner also learned about the library's free download service, her new MP3 player will help her enjoy plenty of free audiobooks and music using this popular library service!

Learn more about the download service by visiting the library's web site or by speaking with a library staff member.

A variety of technologies related to business, entertainment, personal computers and home networks were showcased. The library contributed a “technology sandbox” table where people tried using the new Amazon Kindle 2, Nintendo Wii, an iPod Touch and our free download service. More great gadgets on loan from the Southeastern Massachusetts Library System were also on display.

A special thank you goes out to Valerie Becker - West Tisbury School, Travis Larsen - Information Technology Manager for the Town of Oak Bluffs, Maury de Geofroy - Educomp Representative and Rich Hammond - Hammond and Associates for sharing their time and expertise at the fair.

Please visit our Lifelong Learners web page to find presentation links and more information about computers and technology.

The library organized this event as part of the Illumination for Lifelong Learners Series. A series of programs and services for lifelong learners, made possible by grant funding and support from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners and Libraries for the Future.

Thursday, April 02, 2009

March Book Discussion Group

In March we read the interesting memoir of Azar Nafisi entitled "Reading Lolita in Tehran." This was an incredibly rich narrative which discussed several literary classics such as "The Great Gatsby" and "Pride and Prejudice" in addition to Nabokov's "Lolita." The story takes place in Iran, and we read of the difficult lives the Iranians led during the 1979 Revolution, the Iran-Iraq War and later.

In April we will be reading "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho. Please drop by the circulation desk to pick up a copy of the book. Hope to see you at our meeting on Wednesday, April 22nd at 10:30 am.

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Bowling Returns to Oak Bluffs!

Saturday, March 28 at 2:30pm - 4:30pm

Oak Bluffs Public Library

Play one frame of bowling using the library's Nintendo Wii and you will be entered into a free gift card giveaway drawing (A generous donation by the Library Friends.)

There will be a brief slideshow and presentation about the historic bowling alleys of Oak Bluffs before we start bowling at 2:45pm

Play a board, card, or classic game from our huge selection while you wait!

There will be some free snacks & community fun

This program is part of our Illumination for Lifelong Learners Series.

This program is being funded through the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners with funds from LSTA (Library Services and Technology Act), a Federal source of library funding provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. EqualAccess Libraries™ is a professional development program sponsored by Libraries for the Future (LFF).

Friday, March 13, 2009

Win An MP3 Player At Our Free Technology Fair!

Saturday, March 21 from 2PM - 4PM, the Oak Bluffs Public Library will be hosting a free Technology Fair in the library’s meeting room. All attendees that sign in will be entered to win a free MP3 player.

Learn about a variety of technologies related to business, entertainment, energy, personal computers and home networks. The library is contributing a “technology sandbox” table where you can try using the new Amazon Kindle 2, Nintendo Wii, an MP3 Player and our Free Download Service. More great gadgets on loan from the Southeastern Massachusetts Library System will also be on display.

Presenters include Valerie Becker (MAC Computers, Apple Applications, & Google Tools), Reference Librarian – Mathew Bose (Technology Sandbox), Town of Oak Bluffs IT Manager – Travis Larsen (Teleconferencing, Telecommunications, & Town WiFi), Educomp Representative – Maury de Geofroy (Home Networking & Web Design), and a representative from the Vineyard Energy Project (Alternative Energy Technology).

Learn how these new technologies can help you save time and money, streamline your business or entertain the whole family.

The library is organizing this event as part of the Illumination for Lifelong Learners Series. A series of programs and services for lifelong learners, made possible by grant funding and support from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners and Libraries for the Future. Call 508-693-9433 for more information.

Saturday, March 07, 2009

Grant Resources for Island Nonprofits at the OBPL

Thanks to the collaboration of Associated Grant Makers of Massachusetts (AGM), The Oak Bluffs Public Library, and the Martha’s Vineyard Donor Collaborative, and a grant from the Peter and Elizabeth C. Tower Foundation, Island non-profit grant seekers will no longer have to travel to Boston for grant research.

Grant Resource Network: Martha's Vineyard (GRN: MV) will duplicate the resources and expertise available at AGM's center in Boston, including their research database of 400 local funders, and bring much needed grant seeking support to the Vineyard.

Housed at the Oak Bluffs Public Library and available free to the public, Grant Resource Network: Martha's Vineyard will also be a Foundation Center Cooperating Collection so the full resources of that national organization, including their research database of 97,000 grant makers, will also be available to Vineyarders.

More than 15 people with grant writing and research experience have been trained and are available by appointment to assist those using GRN: MV resources. To make an appointment for someone to help you, contact Peter Temple at 508-645-3690 or grnmv@mvdonors.org.

The center will open officially to the public on March 12, 2009.

Friday, February 27, 2009

Cape & Island Libraries Give Away MP3 Players

The Edgartown, Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven Public Libraries are promoting a new audio book and music download service by giving away MP3 Players.

Patrons of the 27 participating CLAMS libraries that use the digital download service during the month of March are automatically entered to win one of two Creative MuVo V100 MP3 players courtesy of OverDrive, our service provider.

The more titles you download and the more often you use the service, the greater your chance of winning. All you need is a valid CLAMS library card from a participating library, computer access and a broadband Internet connection.

Speak to a staff member at the library for assistance. Some rules and restrictions apply.

Visit www.oakbluffslibrary.org and click on the Free MP3 Player icon for more information. The drawing will be held during the first week of April 2009.

Friday, February 13, 2009

Read Our Library Newsletter - Books and Beyond

The Oak Bluffs Public Library is publishing a new quarterly newsletter. Copies of the first issue of Books & Beyond are available at the library’s checkout desk or "be green" and view it online at January 2009 Newsletter.

Learn about the latest library programs, resources, services, staff recommendations and much more by reading our new publication.

Read the first issue of Books & Beyond today!

Saturday, February 07, 2009

Black History Month - Library Events & Services

In celebration of Black History Month the library has organized several special events & services:
  1. A documentary viewing and discussion of "4 Little Girls", took place on Sat. February 7 at 2:00pm.

  2. An African-American Theme, Afterschool Kids Program (Ages 6-10) will take place on Fri., February 20 at 3:15pm

  3. The library has signed up for a free trial of ProQuest's Black Studies Center, a website that can be accessed from the library's public computers. Ask a librarian for assistance in using this resource!

  4. There are several book displays highlighting the library's related collections in different areas of the library.

  5. Dr. Elaine Cawley Weintraub will speak about The African American Heritage Trail of Martha's Vineyard on Thurs., February 26 at 6:30pm

Thursday, January 29, 2009

"The Glass Castle" - January Book Discussion Group

In spite of really horrific weather, we had a small but lively and interesting group for the discussion of "The Glass Castle" on Wednesday, January 28th. The discussion was particularly intense at times because we all had different reactions to the book which tells the tale of Jeannette Walls who grew up in the world's most dysfunctional family. Ms. Walls relates an absorbing, albeit at times unbelievable, story of her nomadic upbringing.

This memoir was challenging on several fronts: the rootlessness of Ms. Walls' childhood in the West and then the dire poverty she and her family experienced in West Virginia made her success in her career and marriage all the more astounding.

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Illumination for Lifelong Learners Series

A new series of programs and services begins this winter at the library. The “Illumination For Lifelong Learners” series will include basic computer classes, lectures on topics of local interest, multi-generational gaming programs, and an information clearinghouse for community members.

The library will use funding provided by a Lifelong Access grant to purchase a Nintendo Wii, an Amazon Kindle, and a new information kiosk to be used for monthly information spotlights. The first spotlight topic will be on Saving Money & Financial Assistance. The Better Business Bureau will be presenting a special lecture at the library on “Going Green to Save Money” on January 29th and January 30th. All monthly spotlight and event information will be available at the library’s website.

You can monitor all of the library’s programming by subscribing to receive updates through email or RSS feeds on the library’s home page, or through the local newspapers and other media outlets.

This Lifelong Access program is being funded through the Massachusetts Board of Library

Commissioners with funds from LSTA (Library Services and Technology Act), a Federal source of library funding provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Additional support is being provided by the Library Friends of Oak Bluffs. Library Director, Danguole Budris, and Assistant Director, Mathew Bose attended the EqualAccess Libraries™ professional development program sponsored by Libraries for the Future (LFF) to create and implement this new series of community programming and services.

Friday, January 16, 2009

New Homework & Language Learning Resources!

The library has purchased subscriptions to World Book Web for Kids & Students and Mango Languages. These resources may be used from home by visiting our website: www.oakbluffslibrary.org, and scrolling down the page until you see the appropriate logos or link. You will need an Oak Bluffs Public Library Card Number (located on the back of your library card) to access the websites.

World Book Web - Kids: This homework site is specifically designed for kids. It offers simple navigation, colorful illustrations, diagrams, and maps, and dozens of activities tied to national curriculum standards.

World Book Web - Students:
A great homework resource for older students that offers articles, multimedia, web sites, and much more.

Mango Languages: Learn Brazilian Portuguese or English as a Second Language for Brazilian Portuguese Speakers! There are also modules for learning Spanish, French, German, and Italian.

We have also continued our subscriptions to Ancestry Library Edition (a genealogy website accessible from inside the library only) and NoveList (a great tool for all ages to find new reading material and more literary information). NoveList may be accessed from home using your Oak Bluffs Public Library Card number.

At this time we are no longer offering access to Heritage Quest (another genealogy website), but please speak to a library staff member to learn about alternative options.

Thursday, January 08, 2009

Cape NPR Show - Role of Libraries in Economic Hard Times

Did you hear the Diane Rehm Show on our local NPR station this Wednesday Morning? The topic of the 11:00 show was, "The Role of Libraries in Economic Hard Times". Here is a link that you can use to listen to the show.

Rehm discusses the fact that libraries offer more than just books. There are also DVDs, CDs, Internet Access, Games, and more educational and entertainment resources available to borrow or take advantage of. Your local library has a special role in the community during tough economic times!

Here is another news story, "Rediscovering the Library During Down Economic Times", that aired on NECN News recently.

There have been many similar stories in the news lately from all over the country. Please tell us about any articles, news spots, etc... that you have seen!