Oak Bluffs Public Library

NEW HOURS BEGIN TUESDAY, JAN. 17

2012-01-13T16:21:00.002-05:00

The library hours have changed (we've gone back to our old hours):
Tuesday 10 am to 8 pm
Wednesday 10 am to 5 pm
Thursday 10 am to 8 pm
Friday 10 am to 5 pm
Saturday 10 am to 4 pm
Sunday CLOSED
Monday CLOSED

We are now open 2 evenings for your convenience. See you at the library!

Holidays are silver, blue, and white at the library

2011-12-14T16:11:00.002-05:00

Happy Holidays from the staff at the Oak Bluffs Public Library. We have decorated the library with all recycled, reused, and re-purposed materials. Our Christmas trees have received lots of attention. We made them out of old paperback books. See if you can tell what publication we used to make the large trees. Hint: think close to home.
We hope to see you during the holidays.

"Fall back" on November 6

2011-10-29T21:49:00.004-04:00

Get an extra hour of sleep on Sunday, November 6th. Or show up somewhere an hour early, if you forget to set the clocks back. Just a friendly reminder from your library:)

Open Hours after Labor Day

2011-08-26T15:38:00.004-04:00

Starting September 6th, the week after Labor Day, the library will again be open 40 hours a week:

Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday: 10 to 6
Thursday: 10 to 8
Saturday: 10 to 4

Author Talk: Dr. Chester P. Soliz

2011-08-19T14:47:00.003-04:00

On Wednesday, August 24th, at 2 p.m. Dr. Chester P. Soliz discusses his book, The Historical Footprints of the Mashpee Wampanoag. Book signing to follow. Refreshments will be served.

Screening of a documentary film, The Presumption of Guilt

2011-08-08T10:21:00.010-04:00

Screening of the Documentary Film, The Presumption of Guilt
Based on the best selling book by Charles Ogletree, directed by award-winning director Hafiz Farid. Thursday, August 18, 6 pm in the Meeting Room.
Q&A to follow with the director Hafiz Farid.

Notes from the publicist:
Shortly after noon on Tuesday, July 16, 2009, Henry Louis Gates, Jr., a renowned Harvard professor acclaimed for his work on racial justice, was arrested by a Cambridge police sergeant. The reasons for the arrest would come under scrutiny, raise questions about racial profiling, and set off a firestorm in the media, finally culminating in a much publicized “beer summit” where the policeman and the professor came face to face at the White House. Here, one of the country’s foremost experts on civil rights puts the now infamous event in the context of the complicated history that exists at the intersection of race, class, and crime in America.
From the book THE PRESUMPTION OF GUILT: THE ARREST OF HENRY LOUIS GATES, JR. AND RACE, CLASS AND CRIME IN AMERICA by Charles Ogletree

“In the documentary film, THE PRESUMPTION OF GUILT, we aim to use the camera lens to highlight the complex issue of Race, Class and Crime in American society and to shine the light on that dreaded subject that we have failed to confront, but simply cannot ignore. Einstein once said that racism is America’s worst disease. We sincerely hope and pray that this book and film will be used as a tool to help find the cure. We must be honest enough to admit that racism is an adult disease and courageous enough to stop passing it on through our children." Hafiz Farid, Director

Oak Bluffs Week at the Museum!

2011-08-08T10:16:00.004-04:00

Oak Bluffs Week: The Martha's Vineyard Museum is celebrating Oak Bluffs. With the exhibit, Your Town, Our Island, seasonal and year round Oak Bluffs residents are encourages to come tour the Museum for free the entire week. The Museum is open Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Discounts on memberships to the museum, too!
The Museum is on 59 School Street in Edgartown.
Here is a link to their web site:
http://marthasvineyardhistory.org/

Book Talk: A Shred of Hope, by Yuliana Kim-Grant

2011-08-03T11:35:00.005-04:00

Ms. Kim-Grant will discuss her book from 2 to 4 pm Wednesday afternoon, August 10th, at a book signing in the library Meeting Room.
Yuliana Kim-Grant received her MFA in Creative Writing Fiction from Emerson College. She lives in Manhattan with her husband and son, and in Oak Bluffs.
Here is a review of the book by Jack Shea in the Martha's Vineyard Times:
http://www.mvtimes.com/marthas-vineyard/article.php?id=6649

Opening Reception ~ Art by Della Hardman

2011-07-27T12:16:00.008-04:00

West Africa - Mother and Child
Photo by Della Hardman

Opening Reception - Art by Della Hardman
On Saturday, July 30, from 2:00pm-3:30pm

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 artist, civic activist & writer who chronicled cultural and social events in Oak Bluffs for the Vineyard Gazette for nearly a decade.
The Oak Bluffs Public Library, in conjunction with the seventh annual celebration on July 30th, 2011, is hosting a show of Della’s photographs and textile art, which will be on display at the library from July 30th to August 12th.

New open hours for July and August

2011-06-21T13:03:00.004-04:00

In July and August the hours are the same on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. On Thursday we will be opening at 2p.m.
The trustees had to make the difficult decision to reduce open hours for July and August from 40 to 36 hours per week. The town is not able to fill the Reference Librarian's position for now, and since we are already short-staffed, this makes it difficult to properly staff the library during the busiest time of the year.
We hope that, with some additional summer help, this reduction in open hours will be sufficient, and we are able to provide the level of service our users expect when we are open.

Origami!

2011-05-20T17:19:00.012-04:00

Origami is the ancient Japanese art of paper-folding, which appeared shortly after the invention of paper nearly two thousand years ago. It was first a privilege that only the rich and the ruling class could enjoy. As paper became cheaper to manufacture, it became an art enjoyed by more and more people until it became popular among all cross-sections of societies across the globe. No cutting, gluing, or taping is allowed in traditional origami.

Here are examples of origami, some designs being from long ago and others from more recent times. These models will be on display all summer long.

One Book ~ One Island Event: Documentary screening

2011-05-12T12:43:00.000-04:00

On Thursday, May 19th, 6:30 p.m., in the Oak Bluffs Public Library Meeting room, we'll be screening a documentary film: Farming the Future: Farm Life on Long Island. The film celebrates the more than three-century old family farmer way of life, examining the challenges of farming in suburbia and exploring solutions that can help farmers remain on the land. The one-hour documentary weaves interviews, historical photographs and contemporary footage to sew a vibrant tapestry of Long Island’s farming legacy from a historical, cultural and economic perspective. Farming the Future: Farm Life on Long Island features Farm Aid President and music legend Willie Nelson, Nassau County Executive Thomas R. Suozzi, Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy, Congressman Tim Bishop, Assemblyman Michael J. Fitzpatrick, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper, Long Island Farm Bureau Executive Director Joseph M. Gergela III, local bluegrass band Buddy Merriam & Back Roads, and a cross-section of Suffolk and Nassau counties farm families, including the Halseys, Tuthills, Grossmanns, Schmitts, Fosters, Kennedys, Talmages, and many more. Massapequa native, actor William Baldwin (Backdraft, The Squid and the Whale) narrates.
Although best known as the oldest suburban community in the country, Long Island housed nearly 3,000 farms in 1950. In 2005, only 700 remain, but Long Island farms continue to be the most productive in New York State, adding $150 million annually to the economy in the shadows of strip malls, as the region faces looming financial and environmental challenges. According to a 1997 study by American Farmland Trust, “Long Island is one of the top 20 most threatened agricultural regions,” reports Northeast Regional Director Jerry Cosgrove.
The program begins by exploring the history of farming on Long Island, highlighting the various ethnic groups that settled here and forever left their marks, including English, Irish, and Polish families. Viewers gain a sense of life growing up on a farm as the families share their emotional stories – the value system, work ethic and appreciation of nature, as well as the challenges of fighting natural and manmade factors beyond their control, such as weather conditions and real estate development pressures. The program also explores the ways that farmers have adapted to changing times, highlighting niche markets like the wine industry; flower production; direct marketing of produce to New York City restaurants; agri-tourism including pumpkin picking, corn mazes and music festivals held in the fields; and suburbanite support of local family farms.

After the screening, we would like to have a short discussion about the film's relevance to Martha's Vineyard.

Produced by Rudaitis Media. Producers: Ron Rudaitis and Sarah L. Rudaitis. Thank you to the authors for allowing the Oak Bluffs Public Library to screen the film!
From: http://www.wliw.org/productions/local-focus/farming-the-future-farm-life-on-long-island/325/

One Book - One Island 2011 events

2011-04-29T16:55:00.007-04:00

The first of the One Book - One Island 2011 series of events were held at the libary: Wednesday we had a discussion of Barbara Kingsolver's "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle" led by Dawn Braasch, owner of the Bunch of Grapes bookstore, followed by "Local" lunch prepared by Jan Buhrman of Kitchen Porch and sponsored by Library Friends of Oak Bluffs. Thursday evening we hosted a panel discusion "Local&Sustainable", moderated by Nis Kildegaard, Reference Librarian, Edgartown Free Public Library, with Jim Athearn (Morning Glory Farm), Ali Berlow (edible Vineyard), Jan Buhrman (Kitchen Porch), Rebecca Gilbert (Native Earth Teaching Farm), Sidney Morris (Farm Institute, Thalia Scanlan (COMSOG) and others in the audience participating. Healthy tasty refreshments were prepared by Jan, and sponsored by Library Friends of OB. Thank you to all who participated!
More events are scheduled:
May 5, at 5p.m. at the Chilmark Library ~ Book discussion of Barbara Kingsolver's "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle"
May 7, 4p.m. at the West Tisbury Library ~ Book discussion and signing, "Book of Duck Cookery", with Rebecca Randall Gilbert of Native Earth Teaching Farm.
May 19, 6:30 p.m. ~ Screening of documentary film, Farming the Future: Farm Life on Long Island.
A cheese making workshop at the Oak Bluffs Library is being planned for June 14th (check for the exact time and sign up at the library later).
The kids have not been forgotten: on May 7, children 3 years old and older are invited to a story time with Sondra, with a theme of "slow food" followed by seed planting to seed pods that the kids will be able to take home with them.

Congratulations to Sondra!

2011-04-11T15:33:00.001-04:00

Congratulations to our Children's Librarian, Sondra Murphy, who was one of only five Librarians in the state to win Massachusetts Library Association's Kay Bader Scholarship to the Annual MLA Conference, which is being held in Danvers at the end of this month!

Spring Ahead One Hour

2011-03-08T15:14:00.003-05:00

Just when you thought Spring would never arrive, it is time to turn your clocks ahead one hour. Early Sunday morning, March 13, at 2 am, spring ahead. Enjoy the sunlight!

Visit us on Facebook

2011-03-05T08:57:00.002-05:00

See all the photos of our first Stuffed Animal Sleepover. This morning the children will return to pick up their special pals and enjoy a breakfast with Sondra. It looks like all the stuffed animals had a wonderful time when the library was closed.

Early closing Wed., Jan. 12, 4 pm

2011-01-12T14:35:00.001-05:00

The library will be closing at 4 pm today, Wednesday, January 12, due to weather conditions. We are sorry for any inconvenience.

Important update - Dec. 24 library hours 10 am-noon

2010-12-22T14:15:00.002-05:00

Thanks to the kind gesture by the selectmen the library will be closing at NOON on Dec. 24. Come in and get your books, DVDs, and music CDs for the holidays. Our hours on Dec. 24 will be 10 am to Noon.

December 31, library hours 10 am to 3 pm

2010-12-17T12:58:00.001-05:00

The library will be closing at 3 pm on Friday, December 31. Happy New Year!

Holiday Open House

2010-12-02T15:17:00.003-05:00

The Library Friends of Oak Bluffs invite you to a Holiday Open House on Friday, December 10, 1 to 4 pm.
Food, music, children's activities, and a visit from Santa (3 pm). Everyone is welcome so stop by and say hello.

Library hours

2010-11-18T14:06:00.003-05:00

The library will be closed on Thanksgiving, Thursday, Nov. 25 and Friday, Nov. 26. We will reopen on Saturday, Nov. 27 at 10 am.
Enjoy your Thanksgiving!
The library will be opening late on Friday, Dec. 3 for staff training. We will be open from 2 to 6 pm on Dec. 3.

Great night for a movie

2010-11-04T13:15:00.003-04:00

Join us at 6pm tonight for the hit, romantic drama "Letters to Juliet." The movie is a delightful tale of finding a long-lost love. Along the journey two young people discover the meaning of true love.
The movie and the popcorn are free.

Happy Halloween !!

2010-10-26T16:25:00.003-04:00

Join Children's Librarian Sondra Murphy on Saturday, Oct. 30, 11 am to 1pm, for a fun Halloween Party. Costume parade and contest with prizes. Treats, music, crafts, and lots more. See you there.

Free admission to MV Museum

2010-10-05T14:29:00.002-04:00

MV Museum unveiled its newest exhibit, "Your Town, Our Island." To celebrate the museum is inviting Oak Bluffs residents to visit for free this Saturday, Oct. 9, from 10 am to 5 pm. In addition to free admission, the museum is offering discounted memberships should you decide to join.
Learn about Oak Bluffs and what makes us unique.
The museum is located at 59 School Street, at the corner of Cooke Street, in Edgartown. For more information call 508-627-4441 or visit www.mvmuseum.org.

Reflections of Our World Art Show

2010-10-02T13:25:00.003-04:00

Artist and environmentalist Michael Wooley's work is now on display through October in the library's Meeting Room. Illustrations, undersea photography, and collages all show the wonders of our planet. The work is peaceful and serene with touches of whimsy in unexpected places. A beautiful addition to our library. Stop by and view the astounding world as seen through Michael's eyes.

Tom Dresser talk cancelled

2010-09-28T12:02:00.001-04:00

Tom Dresser had to cancel his talk on Thursday, Sept. 30. We are sorry to disappoint all those who were looking forward to hearing Tom talk about his new book.

Writers resources

2010-09-16T11:16:00.002-04:00

Our library is an excellent place to begin your writing career. The Writer's Group meets every Thursday morning and is now taking new members.
An excellent resource is Ploughshares, a literary journal published by Emerson College. The journal features new writing and is guest-edited. For more information visit their website: www.pshares.org or pick up an issue of the journal in the library. If you visit the website be sure to check out the blog by Greg Schutz. He came to our library last winter to give a talk.

Art to feed the tired soul

2010-09-14T15:27:00.002-04:00

If you need a lift, visit our Meeting Room and see the paintings on display. You will feel the artist's joy through vibrant colors and images of his native Haiti. Artist Wilfrid Dantis was greeted by guests at his Art Opening and Reception on Sept. 9. It was a wonderful evening.
His work will be on display for all to enjoy through September.

Tom Dresser: Author's Talk Sept. 30, 6:30 pm

2010-09-09T19:14:00.002-04:00

Tom Dresser will be back to talk about his new book, "African Americans on Martha's Vineyard: From Enslavement to Presidential Visit." Don't miss this informative evening. Tom brings history to life.
Q&A follows. Books available for sale. Refreshments.

Friday, Sept. 3 Library closed

2010-09-02T15:22:00.004-04:00

The library and all public buildings in Oak Bluffs will be closed Friday, Sept. 3.

NOAA Weather Hurricane Earl Updates

2010-09-02T13:09:00.001-04:00

Click here for the latest weather report from NOAA

Tom Dresser TALK CANCELLED DUE TO STORM

2010-08-28T15:36:00.004-04:00

Yes! Tom Dresser is back for a third time to discuss his new book African Americans on Martha's Vineyard: From Enslavement to Presidential Visit.

Friday, Sept. 3, 11 am

Tom's previous visits were capacity crowds and we had to turn people away. So here is your chance to meet Tom and learn all about this wonderful book.

All Black and White and Wonderful

2010-08-28T13:15:00.003-04:00

Join us for Movie Night, Thursday, Sept. 2, 6 pm for the Film Noir classic, Laura. Otto Preminger directed this 1944 film starring Dana Andrews, Gene Tierney, and Clifton Webb. A young Vincent Price plays a romantic leading man.

The popcorn is free! Don't miss it.

Artists’ Reception - Photography Exhibition

2010-07-21T16:09:00.003-04:00

Please join us for the annual Della Hardman Day celebration

on Saturday, July 31st, 2:00-3:30pm,

in the Library Meeting Room.

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 artist, civic activist, and writer who chronicled cultural and social events in Oak Bluffs for the Vineyard Gazette for nearly a decade. The Oak Bluffs Public Library, in conjunction with the sixth annual celebration, sponsored a contest to select images featuring Martha's Vineyard that reflect the "Savor the Moment" theme. The winning entries are published in a 2011 calendar, and will be displayed at the library from July 31st to August 14th.

No more rainy day blues

2010-06-30T14:17:00.003-04:00

When the weather turns rainy and you can't go to the beach, join us for CRUMMY WEATHER CRAFT DAYS in the Children's Room. There will be crafts, music, board games, giant puzzles, and more. The special drop-in crafts will be available from July 1 through August 28 as long as it's raining outside.
Don't be sad to see the rain. Come to the library where the fun is.

No more book donations for the Friends book sale

2010-06-16T11:25:00.003-04:00

The Friends of the Oak Bluffs Library are victims of their own success. They asked for used books and received an overwhelming response from our generous patrons and new friends. The July sale will be a big success thanks to all of you. No more donations please! The space is full!

Donate Your Used Books, CD's and DVD's

2010-05-18T11:43:00.005-04:00

Do you need to make some room in your house? Donate your used books, CD's, and DVD's to support the Oak Bluffs Public Library. The Library Friends of Oak Bluffs are gearing up for their Summer Book Sale. The Friends are looking for used books across all categories, for all ages, including hardcover and paperback, fiction and nonfiction, DVD's and books on CD, as well as recent textbooks and travel books. They must be in good shape, with no missing pages, water damage or mold.

Drop off your donations at the Oak Bluffs Public Library, Tuesday - Saturday, during library hours. Please do not leave books outside the library when it is closed. If you have a lot of books to donate, please help us by calling e.l. Edwards in advance at 508-693-8326. If you can’t get your book donation to the library, call for a pick-up.

Authors Visit and Birding Talk & Walk @ Your Library

2010-05-05T17:42:00.006-04:00

Many interesting programs are planned for the month of May @ your library. Including author visits by Carol McCleary and Susan Wilson, a slideshow about a birding expedition to New Zealand by Susan Whiting, and a FREE Vineyard birding walk with local birding expert, Susan Whiting! Please click on the links below to learn about these events and more @ your library:

Saturday, May 8 at 2:30 PM - Author Visit, Carol McCleary Ms. McCleary will discuss her new novel The Alchemy of Murder, featuring Nellie Bly, the world's first investigative reporter and other historical characters such as Jules Verne, Louis Pasteur and Oscar Wilde. Learn more...

Thursday, May 13 at 6:30 PM - Author Visit, Susan Wilson Local author, Susan Wilson, will discuss her latest novel One Good Dog. Publisher's Weekly says, "...Old Yeller's got nothing on this very good man and his dog story." Fiction readers and dog lovers alike will not want to miss this event! Learn more...

Thursday, May 20 at 6:30 PM - Birding in New Zealand - Slideshow by Susan Whiting Please join Susan B. Whiting, local birding expert and co-author of Vineyard Birds 2, for a recap of her voyage on the Southern Ocean where she visited a string of New Zealand's offshore islands rarely visited by man. Learn more...

Saturday morning, May 22 - FREE Vineyard Birding Tour - Susan Whiting Please join Susan B. Whiting, local birding expert and co-author of Vineyard Birds 2, for a free Vineyard birding tour. The number of participants will be limited, please call the library to sign up. Learn more...

National Library Week - April 11 - 17

2010-04-06T15:56:00.006-04:00

During National Library Week April 11 – 17, we are encouraging community members to use the “Library Savings Calculator” to learn how much money they are saving by using their local library.

To calculate your savings visit:
http://oakbluffslibrary.org/library_calculator.shtml

National Library Week - Facts:

Americans check out an average of more than seven books a year. They spend $33.56 a year for the public library—about the average cost of one hardcover book.

Americans go to school, public and academic libraries nearly three times more often than they go to the movies.

Reference librarians in the nation’s public and academic libraries answer nearly 5.7 million questions weekly. Standing single file, the line of questioners would span from Long Island, New York, to Juneau, Alaska.

A 2009 poll conducted for the American Library Association found that 96% of respondents agreed that public libraries play an important role in giving everyone a chance to succeed because it provides free access to materials and resources.

*Facts taken from the "Quotable Facts About America's Libraries 2010" produced by the American Library Association

3rd Annual Savor the Moment Photography Contest

2010-04-02T13:29:00.004-04:00

The Oak Bluffs Public Library, in conjunction with the annual celebration of DELLA HARDMAN DAY on Saturday, July 31st, 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 2011. An exhibition is planned of a representative sample of the works submitted. The contest is open to all who wish to participate.

Entry deadline: May 29, 2010

View and print an entry form online, or pick one up at the library during your next visit. Please speak to a library staff member or read the entry form for more details.

Workshop for Nonprofit Grant Seekers Introduces GRN:MV

2010-03-02T14:47:00.007-05:00

The library recently hosted a two-day workshop for nonprofit grant seekers that attracted over 30 attendees. The workshop focused on how to find and apply for grants using a collection of print and online resources referred to as the Grant Resource Network: Martha's Vineyard (GRN:MV), available at the Oak Bluffs Public Library. It includes access to online grant databases provided by Associated Grant Makers of Boston (includes over 400 local funders) and the Foundation Center (includes 97,000 national grant makers).

If you missed the workshop, please visit the library during our open hours to use the collection. You can also contact the Martha's Vineyard Donors Collaborative to arrange for a trainer to assist you when using the grant databases. Send an E-mail to grnmv@mvdonors.org to make an appointment with a trainer.

The GRN:MV was made possible by the collaboration of Associated Grant Makers, the Oak Bluffs Public Library, and the Martha's Vineyard Donors Collaborative, and also a grant from the Peter and Elizabeth C. Tower Foundation.

Winter Reading Series & Technology Fair!

2010-02-17T15:11:00.015-05:00

The library has two very exciting programs coming soon that you will not want to miss:

Thursday, March 11 at 5:30 PM - Winter Reading Series

Samuel Leader and Greg Shultz, Fiction Fellows at the Fine Arts Work Center in Provincetown will talk about their writing. Refreshments Served. Read more...

Saturday, March 20 at 1:00 PM - 2nd Annual Technology Fair

Community, school, library and business leaders will present examples of new information and communication technologies to the public. This is a free event and one lucky attendee will win an MP3 Player courtesy of the Library Friends of Oak Bluffs. Read more...

Computer Classes Full - Signing Up Alternates

2010-02-03T16:55:00.004-05:00

The series of computer classes that are being offered at the library are filled to capacity. The library will continue to sign up alternates for the classes so that if someone cancels their seat will be filled. Please call 508-693-9433 and speak to a library staff member to sign up as an alternate. The computer classes have been made possible in part by a generous donation from the Martha’s Vineyard Savings Bank.

Black History Month - Displays & Resources

2010-02-03T16:04:00.005-05:00

The Martha's Vineyard chapter of the NAACP has created a display at the library to honor former presidents of the local chapter and to commemorate the centennial celebration of the NAACP. The display is located on the top floor of the library near the stairs. You can learn more about the NAACP of Martha's Vineyard by visiting their website at http://www.mvnaacp.org.

The library has also created a display consisting of materials related to Black History Month, including the highly acclaimed African American National Biography, Africana, The Underground Railroad: an encyclopedia of people, places and operations and Harlem Renaissance Lives. These resources are very helpful for students doing homework assignments, researchers, and anyone interested in learning more about black history.

Please come to the library and visit these two displays celebrating Black History Month.

Tax Forms Are Now Available

2010-01-29T16:24:00.004-05:00

State and federal tax forms have been delivered to your local library. Visit the upstairs reference area to pick up the forms that you need. Please speak to a staff member if you can't find a form and we will help you print a copy or request it from the state or federal government.

FREE Computer Classes At Your Library

2010-01-22T09:27:00.004-05:00

A series of free computer skills classes for beginners and intermediates will be offered at the library this winter. Sign up today to improve your computer knowledge and skills, learn how to use Microsoft Word and Excel, and discover new Internet search tools and techniques. Space is limited for the classes, please speak to a library staff member to learn more and to reserve a seat. The series has been made possible in part by a generous donation from the Martha’s Vineyard Savings Bank.

Richard Hammond, an employee at the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School, a continuing education instructor and the owner of Hammond & Associates, will be the instructor for the classes.

Schedule of Classes - Please remember, seating is limited, call the library (508)-693-9433 to sign up:

Thurs., Feb. 4 at 6 PM - Basic Computer Skills
Thurs., Feb 11 at 6 PM - Inter. Computer Skills
Sat., Feb 13 at 2 PM - Microsoft Office Word
Thurs., Feb 18 at 6 PM - Microsoft Office Excel
Sat., Mar. 6 at 2 PM - Internet
Sat., Mar. 13 at 6 PM - Basic Computer Skills

Robert B. Parker - A Tribute & Book Display

2010-01-21T19:26:00.007-05:00

Robert B. Parker September 17, 1932 – January 18, 2010

Novelist Robert B. Parker epitomized the spirit of Massachusetts ; its Yankee tenacity, hard-boiled character, and deep-rooted loyalty. Born in Springfield , educated in Maine , and finally dying at his writing desk in Cambridge , New England ran through him and into his beloved characters.

His legions of fans are just as loyal to their favorite Parker characters as they are to the author himself. Be it Spencer, Jess Stone, Susan Silverman, or Hawk fans can often be found arguing the merits of one over the other.

The news of Mr. Parker’s death hit New England as hard as the blowing January cold. We all asked the same selfish question, “Did he leave us any books?” The answer is yes but not nearly enough. For now we will carefully pick our favorite Parker book from the shelf, let our fingers smooth the cover, open it slowly, and reread his words savoring each and every one.

Please visit our display of Mr. Parker's books by the downstairs check out desk.

Winter Newsletter - Now Available!

2010-01-15T15:14:00.004-05:00

Learn about new library services, events and news by reading our winter 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 - Winter 2010 - Volume 2, Issue 1

Meryl Streep and Fossil Fred - Highlight January Programming

2009-12-31T11:24:00.003-05:00

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.

Libraries Offer New Language Learning Service

2009-12-30T10:51:00.007-05:00

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

Holiday Hours At Your Island Libraries

2009-12-19T11:55:00.002-05:00

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.

MV Libraries Support The Island Food Pantry

2009-12-08T13:24:00.002-05:00

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.

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

2009-12-01T12:49:00.017-05:00

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.

The Perfect Gift Idea - "Savor The Moment" Calendars

2009-11-25T12:18:00.011-05:00

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!

Library Receives 3 Star Rating From Library Journal

2009-11-19T15:12:00.004-05:00

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.

Poetry Reading & Undersea Slideshow Highlight November Events

2009-11-07T15:13:00.003-05:00

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!

2009-11-07T14:50:00.008-05:00

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

2009-11-07T14:09:00.001-05:00

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.

A Message From The Library Director

2009-11-05T17:10:00.001-05:00

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

Thursday Night Movie @ The Library!

2009-10-28T12:36:00.006-04:00

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.

Fall Newsletter - Now Available!

2009-10-27T15:15:00.005-04:00

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

Library Announces New Hours

2009-10-14T10:17:00.002-04:00

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.

Upcoming Author Visits, Movies and Lectures @ Your Library

2009-10-06T15:07:00.006-04:00

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

Free Grant Funding Workshop - How to Approach a Foundation

2009-08-19T12:09:00.003-04:00

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.

Article Lists 100 Best Beach Books EVER!

2009-08-14T12:25:00.002-04:00

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

Save Money - Use Your Local Library

2009-08-08T12:44:00.009-04:00

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...

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

2009-07-29T10:46:00.010-04:00

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.

Author Visits, Guest Speakers, Presentations and Art Exhibits!

2009-07-24T12:36:00.013-04:00

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!

Della Hardman Day 2009 Events!

2009-07-16T15:55:00.008-04:00

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.

Vote in our new lifelong learners poll today!

2009-07-15T10:55:00.006-04:00

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.

Summer Newsletter Available - Online or in Print

2009-07-09T17:07:00.005-04:00

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.

Savor the Moment—Art Exhibition & Celebration

2009-07-08T11:09:00.009-04:00

Please join us on Saturday, July 25^th 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 5^th 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.

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

2009-07-03T16:21:00.004-04:00

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.

Great news for iPod users!

2009-06-26T16:37:00.003-04:00

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.

We Want Your Feedback - Take Our Survey Today!

2009-06-23T17:55:00.003-04:00

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

2009-06-23T17:15:00.010-04:00

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.

Adult Summer Reading Program Announced!

2009-06-03T14:50:00.002-04:00

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.

Attention Job and Volunteer Seekers!

2009-05-27T16:16:00.005-04:00

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.

Librarians Return from MLA Conference

2009-05-13T16:45:00.005-04:00

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!

Spring Newsletter Available - Online or in Print

2009-04-22T18:58:00.012-04:00

Savor the Moment Photography Contest - Now Accepting Entries

2009-04-21T11:52:00.009-04:00

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.

Technology Fair a Crowd Pleaser!

2009-04-03T14:15:00.004-04:00

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.

March Book Discussion Group

2009-04-02T11:24:00.002-04:00

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.

Bowling Returns to Oak Bluffs!

2009-03-25T15:51:00.003-04:00

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).

Win An MP3 Player At Our Free Technology Fair!

2009-03-13T16:40:00.002-04:00

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.

Grant Resources for Island Nonprofits at the OBPL

2009-03-07T17:02:00.003-05:00

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.

Cape & Island Libraries Give Away MP3 Players

2009-02-27T17:20:00.003-05:00

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.

Read Our Library Newsletter - Books and Beyond

2009-02-13T16:19:00.009-05:00

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!

Black History Month - Library Events & Services

2009-02-07T13:39:00.008-05:00

In celebration of Black History Month the library has organized several special events & services:

A documentary viewing and discussion of "4 Little Girls", took place on Sat. February 7 at 2:00pm.

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

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!

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

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

"The Glass Castle" - January Book Discussion Group

2009-01-29T11:56:00.004-05:00

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.

Illumination for Lifelong Learners Series

2009-01-28T15:49:00.002-05:00

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 29^th and January 30^th. 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.

New Homework & Language Learning Resources!

2009-01-16T16:05:00.001-05:00

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.

Cape NPR Show - Role of Libraries in Economic Hard Times

2009-01-08T18:24:00.006-05:00

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!

Library Friends Holiday Party - One to Remember!

2008-12-20T10:09:00.012-05:00

On Thursday afternoon a large crowd attended the Library Friends of Oak Bluffs annual holiday party at the library. Many people heard about the party on the radio, as Library Friends Member, Marilyn Miller, was interviewed on the MVY Person of the Week broadcast.

There was a tremendous selection of baked goodies to eat, many of the recipes came from the Friends new cookbook that can still be purchased at the library as a last minute Christmas gift! There were also gingerbread people for the kids to decorate, gift grab bags, and a crowd-pleasing visit from Santa Claus!

You can see more pictures of the party by visiting the library's flickr account!
Thank you to all of the Library Friends Members who put so much hard work into organizing, baking, setting-up & cleaning-up for the party, and for your ongoing support of the library's programs and services. The library staff greatly appreciates your efforts!

December Book Discussion Group: The Book of Salt

2008-12-05T12:52:00.002-05:00

The Book of Salt was author Monique Truong's first novel. As a Vietnamese-American who came to America as a six-year old refugee with her mother in 1975, Ms. Truong set her first novel in Paris and Saigon of the early 1930's. The narrator of the story is a young Vietnamese cook who has been employed by Gertrude Stein and Alice B. Toklas (the Mesdames) for five years.

We had a lively discussion about several of the book's themes, such as: the relation of food and seduction, the meaning of salt, and French colonialism in Vietnam. It was fascinating to read about the Paris of this age and come to appreciate some of the unknown details of the Mesdames' lives. We found it amusing that both Ms. Toklas and Ms. Stein were totally enthralled and in love with Gertrude Stein!

We also enjoyed looking at some pictures of the Mesdames and their favorite dog, Basket, out for a stroll in Paris and "at home" in their studio.

The January book discussion meeting will be on Wednesday, January 28th at 10:30 am. We will choose a book soon.

Downloadable MP3 Audiobooks Have Arrived!

2008-11-19T11:49:00.003-05:00

Do you have a Mac and/or iPod that you want to use to listen to audiobooks? The library now provides this service through our CLAMS Digital Downloads website!

The OverDrive Media Console for Mac is now available to download from the site. With OverDrive Media Console for Mac, OverDrive MP3 Audiobooks can now be downloaded and enjoyed on Macs. The built-in Burn Wizard can be used to burn MP3 Audiobooks to CD, and the Transfer Wizard allows quick and easy transfer to Apple® devices.

Oprah loves her new Kindle!

2008-11-13T13:44:00.006-05:00

Here is a story from the Oprah Winfrey Show in which Oprah is "talking-up" her new Amazon Kindle. The Kindle is a portable electronic reading device that allows users to download the latest books, magazines, & newspapers from the Amazon Website. The Kindle has lots of other interested features as well, learn more about it by reading the story that we linked to above!

"Vineyard Supernatural" - Holly Nadler's Book Talk

2008-10-31T09:53:00.005-04:00

A crowd of 30 people came to the library to listen to Holly Nadler discuss her latest book, "Vineyard Supernatural: True Ghost Stories from America's most Haunted Island".

The lights were dimmed as Holly read from several chapters of her book and discussed the walking ghost tours that she leads. She recounted spine tingling paranormal events taking place in notorious Island locations such as The Ritz Cafe and The Newes Pub.

The library has copies of all of Holly's books relating to the supernatural, check one out today:

Ghosts of Boston Town

Haunted Island

Vineyard Confidential

Vineyard Supernatural

Sustainable Book Club - "The Omnivore's Dilemma" by Michael Pollan

2008-10-24T10:17:00.007-04:00

On Thursday evening, the library hosted the Island-Wide Sustainable Book Club Discussion. 15 people gathered to discuss Michael Pollan's book, "The Omnivore's Dilemma".

You can find a review of the book by visiting the library's catalog, and the Sierra Club produced a useful discussion guide including links to other related resources (an interview with the author, articles, etc...) that you may find interesting.

As the meeting wrapped-up, a few stragglers continued to talk about television commercials and how they affected their parent's choices of food and consumer products. Below are some commercials from the 50's and 60's that you can watch, courtesy of the Internet Archive.

"Is Pakistan Imploding?" - A Lecture by Dr. James Norton

2008-10-17T13:46:00.006-04:00

A group of 13 people gathered at the library to listen to Dr. James Norton lecture on a very important current events topic, "Is Pakistan Imploding?".

In this picture Dr. Norton is concluding his lecture by reading some recommendations for improving the situation in Pakistan that he had made in 2001.

Many thoughtful comments and questions were posed by the audience, some of which led to a discussion of Greg Mortenson's popular book, "Three Cups of Tea".

Please see our events calendar to learn about future lectures and events happening at the library!