Grand Rapids Area Library

Community Organizations Contribute Literacy Station to Library

2011-12-20T14:32:00.000-08:00

Thanks to donations from The Grand Rapids Area Library Foundation, the Friends of the Grand Rapids Area Library, The Grand Rapids Centennial Rotary Club and the Kiwanis Daybreakers Club of Grand Rapids, children can now use a Literacy Station to play while they learn at the Grand Rapids Area Library.

The literacy station looks different from the other game computers in the library, with brightly colored graphics on a touch screen, a multi-colored keyboard and a child-sized mouse. The station is loaded with dozens of games chosen for both their educational outcomes and their “fun” factor. Math, Reading, Science, Drawing, music and history programs are available, as well as popular favorites such as Oregon Trail and Dora’s World Adventure. All instructional content is aligned to national education standards and has received top ratings in professional journals.

One of the primary goals of the Library is to support parents in preparing their preschoolers for learning success, and to help primary students develop a love of reading and learning. The literacy station provides one more opportunity for kids to practice learning skills while having fun.

Pictured are Kathy McCarty, Grand Rapids Area Library Foundation, Bill Litchke, Kiwanis Daybreakers Club, Carol Steel and Pat Fideldy of the Friends of the Grand Rapids Library, and Donna Hartung, Grand Rapids Are Library Foundation.

Museum Passes now available at Arrowhead Libraries

2011-12-17T11:24:00.000-08:00

Museum passes available again beginning Monday, December 19

They’re back! Passes are now available at the Grand Rapids Library for a variety of popular attractions throughout the region. The process has changed based on experience from the first year. You will be able to check out passes good through Feb 28 and good at all of the participating museums.

Participating Locations:
Duluth Depot,
Great Lakes Aquarium,
Forest History Center,
Judy Garland & Children’s Museum,
MN Discovery Center,
Split Rock Lighthouse Historic Site,
Dorothy Molter Museum,
North Shore Commercial Fishing Museum,
Ely-Winton Historical Society,
Carlton County Historical Society,
Palkie Grist Mill
Cook County Historical Society
Some of these are seasonal, so they will not be open in winter.
Due to limited quantities, we must restrict it to 4 passes per family per quarter.
In February we will receive passes that are good March –May.

Program suggestions requested by Arrowhead Library System

2011-10-25T08:28:00.000-07:00

The Arrowhead Library System has received a grant from the Minnesota Legacy Amendment Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. This grant will be used to provide art, arts education and arts access, and preserve Minnesota's history and cultural heritage for your region this fall, winter and spring.

We would like to know what type of events and programs you would like in your community! Please click on the link and take this short survey to provide your recommendations. The survey is only eight questions and takes less than five minutes to complete.

Your feedback will help to bring the programs you desire to your community. Thank you!
LINK: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/PXVFFYN

Last year this grant funded the museum and event passes, photography and art workshops, authors, musicians, poets and other performers at libraries around the region.

Mn orchestra string quartet visits the library

2011-10-12T15:54:00.000-07:00

about 70 people stopped by to listen while the string quartet played on Wednesday afternoon.
Thanks to the Friends of the Library for the cider and truffles!
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Roof

2011-10-06T09:12:00.000-07:00

Living roof installed by Nelson Roofing.
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Make a Book!

2011-10-03T10:00:00.001-07:00

How 2 B Books Tuesday, October 4, 3:30-4:45 pm

Do you know "How 2"? How do you eat spaghetti Put bait on your hook? Fly to the moon? With Creativity Tank artists, we'll look to classic children's author Munro Leaf, and his illustrations for inspiration. You will create a pullout pocket book to draw and write your own "How To" instructions for any number of fun and fantastical things we know how to do!

Open to all ages. Children 0-6 must be accompanied by adult.

This is a FREE Children First! Event.

Registration required. Please register online www.getlearning.org Select ChildrenFirst! or call ISD 318 Comm. Ed 327-5730 or the Children's Library 327-8823.

School bus #41 arrives at the library at 3:30 p.m.

Kindle Books now available @ your (virtual) library

2011-09-23T18:12:00.000-07:00

Ebooks available through the Arrowhead Library System are now compatible with Kindle readers or Kindle apps. There are nearly 2000 ebooks available that can be read on Sony, Nook and some other readers, and are now available for Kindles.
Go to the Overdrive Website for the Arrowhead Library System here:
http://arrowhead.lib.overdrive.com
On the left side, click on any category under "ebook" to browse different fiction and nonfiction titles. You can also search for a particular title or author.
When you find a title, choose the Kindle option for format. It will allow you to check out the book, if it is available. Once it is checked out, the book will be sent to Amazon.com where you can sync your Kindle and download it. If the title is already checked out, you can request it!
Have fun reading!

Riverfront Energy Center: Painting Done!

2011-09-15T15:07:00.000-07:00

The interior of the building has been painted white. The trim is green to match the trim on the Library. The grass has been re-seeded. Now we are waiting for the equipment!

Family Pizza and Movie Night at the Grand Rapids Library

2011-08-25T07:13:00.000-07:00

Thursday, August 25
At 5:30 we will all join together to celebrate a great summer of reading with pizzas donated by Papa Murphy's! Then, at 6:00, we will begin our movie. This month we are exploring new galaxies with the blockbuster "Mars Needs Moms." Don't miss dinner and a show!

Walls Completed on Riverfront Energy Center

2011-08-23T14:49:00.000-07:00

The exterior walls and the roof are now complete and work should begin on the interior.

Bricks on the outside of the energy building! August 2nd

2011-08-02T13:06:00.000-07:00

This is west of the Grand Rapids Library.

Energy Building Wednesday july 20 and Monday July 25

2011-07-25T15:13:00.000-07:00

They finished putting the walls up on Monday!

Work continues on the Riverfront Energy Project

2011-07-15T07:09:00.000-07:00

Excavating for the building

Digging Trenches for the pipes into the library.

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Sam Miltich and Friends at the Library

2011-07-14T15:28:00.000-07:00

Sam Miltich and Friends play a great concert with lots of interesting music tidbits for an appreciative crowd in front of the KAXE/Rotary tent. The preschoolers were dancing, and the seniors were tapping their toes!

Titambe west african dance ensemble

2011-07-06T11:37:00.000-07:00

A crowd of about 100 people learned about drums this morning at the Library, and about dancing!

Beginning construction on energy building at Library

2011-06-28T15:22:00.000-07:00

The digging began on June 24 in preparation for construction of a small building to house heat transfer equipment which will extract heat from the waste water discharged from the paper mill and use the heat in the Library's heating system. The work is expected to be completed by November 1.

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Finches like libraries too!

2011-06-10T09:53:00.000-07:00

Two finches stopped by the Grand Rapids Area Library today and rested on the window sill while watching the activity inside. Perhaps they wanted to sign up for the summer reading program. We have programs for all ages, including:

Novel Destinations

Our adult summer reading program. Pick up a book bingo card and expand your reading horizons! Read something you would not otherwise read. If you are in a book group and would like a Library staff person to do a short talk on free downloadable ebooks and audiobooks available from the library, let us know!

You are Here

Our teen summer reading program Read a book, complete a review and enter a drawing each week for fun prizes! Our 2nd Annual Teen Photo Contest begins this week also. Teens can submit photos until July 23rd. Stop at the reference desk for a submission form.

One World Many Stories

Kids (ages 0-14) can sign up for our summer reading program, pick up a reading log, and keep track of their reading. Bring back the completed log and get a free book to keep! Children under age 5 completing the summer reading program are eligible for Baby Steps Coupons.

Everyone is welcome to sign up!

Free tickets @ your Library

2011-06-06T14:58:00.000-07:00

The Grand Rapids Area Library just received some last minute tickets to area attractions.

These tickets must be used by June 13:

Judy Garland/Children’s Museum
Minnesota Discovery Center
Great Lakes Aquarium
Historic Union Depot (Duluth)
Split rock Lighthouse
Lake County Historical Society (Two Harbors)

Bring in your Arrowhead Library System card to pick up the tickets. The supply is limited, so hurry in! As long as you're stopping by, pick up a calendar of events and activities for the summer!

These passes have been funded with money from the sales tax which dedicated funding to preserve Minnesota’s arts and cultural heritage. The Legislature did not pass a bill to distribute these funds, so funding for future programs is in limbo.

Use your tickets!

2011-05-27T12:30:00.000-07:00

If you picked up a ticket at the Library to visit a local museum, historical society or other attraction in the region, use it this weekend! Most tickets expire May 30. Check the back of the ticket for an expiration date.

Note: The museum pass program has been funded through the Arts and Cultural Legacy funding. (remember the small addition to the sales tax?) A bill reauthorizing funding for Arts, Environment and Clean Water was not passed by the Legislature before they adjourned, so funding is in limbo for now.

Inheritance Cycle

2011-05-27T10:59:00.000-07:00

Eragon, Eldest, Brisingr...Inheritance. The final book in the Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini will be released on November 8, 2011!

Grand Rapids Library - Carpet update april 12

2011-04-13T09:01:00.000-07:00

The east half is nearly finished! The carpet needs to sit for a few days before the heavy stacks are moved over it. The movers will be back on Monday and Tuesday to move everything into place.

Library carpet progress: east half ready for carpet

2011-04-09T09:06:00.000-07:00

The guys with the big grinding machines finished Friday night. The carpet will be put down next week!

Library Carpet project continuing

2011-04-07T15:12:00.000-07:00

Scraping and grinding the floor

No checkout here

Picture books snaking down the aisle

The movers were in on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday moving everything down the the west half of the library. The "carpet guys" started ripping out carpet on Thursday morning and the guys with the grinding machines starting prepping the floor on Thursday afternoon.

Library Carpet: west half is done!

2011-03-30T13:44:00.000-07:00

The carpet layers just finished laying carpet in the west half of the Grand Rapids Library.

It needs to sit for a few days before the heavy stacks are moved back onto it. The movers will come back on Monday to move everything from the east end to the west end, then the ripping and grinding will begin again!

Progress on Library Floor

2011-03-28T10:13:00.000-07:00

Carpet is being laid this week on the first half of the floor at the Grand Rapids Library, after the concrete was resurfaced. The movers will be back next week to move everything to the completed half, and the process will begin again on the second half. We should be moving back in during the last week of April.

In the meantime, we are open for limited hours with limited services Monday - Friday from 12:30 - 5:30, and Saturday 10 - 2.

We have computers available, a small collection of children's and adult's materials for check out and newspapers and magazines. You can pick up material requested in advance. Thanks for your patience!.

Above Left: Resurfacing Floor

Right: Carpet and glue ready to go on the clean floor

Right: the first carpet tiles go down.

Grand Rapids Library Begins Re-carpet project

2011-03-22T12:25:00.000-07:00

Movers came on Monday morning to begin moving furniture and stacks in preparation for re-carpeting the

main library. They brought jacks to use for moving the stacks.

Arrowhead Library Catalog Restored

2011-03-18T08:09:00.000-07:00

After being down all of Wednesday and Thursday, the Arrowhead Library catalog is back up! You can now search for books, renew your books, and download audiobooks and ebooks. You can also request books. Thanks for your patience!
Don't forget: the Grand Rapids Library will be open limited hours beginning March 21.
M-F 12:30-5:30, Sat 10-2
Computers will be available, and books can be requested in advance.

Author Visit: Kao Kalia Yang- The Late Homecomer

2011-03-15T14:07:00.000-07:00

Author visit

Ms Yang will talk about her story on Thursday, March 17 at 7 pm at the Library. Born in Thailand’s Ban Vinai Refugeee Camp in 1980, Kao Kalia Yang immigrated to St. Paul with her family in 1987. A graduate of Carleton College and Columbia University, Yang, together with her sister, is the founder of Words Wanted, an agency dedicated to helping immigrants with writing, translating and business services. “The Latehomecomer” is her first book. For more information about the author, check her web site: http://www.kaokaliayang.com/

Rapids Reads
The Late Homecomer by Kao Kalia Yang, is the book chosen for Rapids Reads – a community-wide reading effort. It won the Minnesota Book Award for creative non-fiction in 2009. It is the story of one family’s journey from war-torn Laos, into and out of refugee camps in Thailand, and eventually to Minnesota.

Read a Copy
Many book clubs in town have already discussed the book or are planning to do so soon. Multiple copies are available at the Library for check-out. Pick up a copy to discuss with your book club or to read just for yourself.

Winter Reading Programs

2011-01-18T12:13:00.000-08:00

Teen Winter Reading 2011 is here!

It runs until-February 28. Teens (age 12-18) can read books or graphic novels and keep track of pages read each day. Log sheets can be picked up in the library or online at www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us/teens.htm After reading 700 pages, bring in the log sheet and pick a free book. Once 1500 pages have been read, stop back in with the log sheet and pick up a Target gift card. On Monday, January 24 from 1pm-3pm celebrate no school by playing a Wii game at the library.

Children’s Winter Reading Program
Pick up reading log
Come to the Children's desk and sign up for the Winter Reading Program! You'll receive a book log, a coupon for a free Applebee's kids’ meal, bookmark, and activity booklet. Then, just keep track of the time you read.When you have filled your sheet, return it to the Children's desk (by February 12th) and you can choose a new, free book to keep! Watch for special winter reading events coming up in January and February, including a special snow program on January 24.

Science Fun @ your Library

2011-01-18T12:11:00.000-08:00

Science explosion at RJEMS

Friday January 21 is an early release day for District 318 but there is a fantastic event planned for the Middle School beginning at 1:00 pm. Science explosion! will feature natural sciences, lego robotics, physical sciences and lots of interactive opportunities. There will be demonstrations, displays, exhibits, hands on activities, and fun things to do, watch and explore. This is a Children First! event organized by staff of Grand Itasca Clinic and Hospital any many volunteers

Science Books

The Children’s Library offers dozens of great titles for science experiments and everyday science fun! Stop by before the science explosion, or afterwards to explore more science

. Science Wizardry for Kids by Margaret Kenda and Phyllis S. Williams contains a multitude of science experiments which help teach principles of physics, meteorology, chemistry, astronomy, geology and more. Large print and great pictures encourage a lot of exploratory fun! Check out this book and many more in the “Science Experiment” Dewey number 507.8!

You can also find information about specific areas of science. Light, Sound & Electricity by Kirsteen Rogers is a great example of such a book. This book also includes internet sites you may want to visit to learn more!

Don’t miss the “Cool Science” series! Titles in this series include Cool Spy Supplies, Cool Sensory Suspense, Cool Odor Decoders, Cool Gravity Activities, Cool Dry Ice Devices, and Cool Distance Assistant. Lots of fun science projects for a lotta fun (and a little learning!)

Into robotics? Try the Robots and Robotics series. Titles include: Film and Fiction Robots, High-Risk Robots, How Robots Work, Robots at Work and Play, Scientific and Medical Robots, and Space Robots.

These and so many more are waiting for you at your library…check it out! Sign up for the Winter Reading Program while you are here and track those science books on your reading log!

Science Learning Resources

A great resource to use for science projects, science homework or just to learn more is the Science Reference Center, a database accessible from the Library, at home, or anywhere with a computer and internet connection. The database has many articles from periodicals, reference books, and many pictures. Additional Science resources can be found in Kids Infobits, the Virtual Reference Library, and the Infotrac databases. These databases are accessible from the Library's web site www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us under the "Online Resources" button, or by going to the Electronic Library for Minnesota page at www.elm4you.org.
Movie Night

Bring dinner or a snack or just yourself and join the fun at the monthly free family movie night beginning at 6 pm on Thursday, January 20. January’s film is “Nanny McPhee Returns”

Holiday book sale

2010-12-06T09:49:00.000-08:00

Holiday Book Sale at the Library!

Stop in all day to shop for books, puzzles, gift baskets etc for kids, teens and adults. In the Lobby and in the Friends of the Library Book Store

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Kayaking

2010-09-14T16:52:00.001-07:00

The leaves have started to change color and it's a perfect time to get out and enjoy nature either on foot or on the water. Speaking of water, we are excited to welcome Mary Shideler, the Kayak Lady, to the library. Mary's book, which came out a few weeks ago, is titled "The Kayak Lady: one woman, one kayak, and 1007 lakes." She'll be talking about her experiences paddling all 1,007 lakes in Itasca County.
The library has Mary's book but we have other books about kayaking, too. "Birthplace of the Winds: adventuring in Alaska's islands of fire and ice" by John Bowermaster is a trip around the Aleutian Islands. "Ka-Ka-Ska-Ska" by local paddler Jim Lewis chronicles his trip in a kayak from the Mississippi Headwaters to the Gulf. If you're looking for a how-to book, try "Kayak Companion: expert guidance for enjoying paddling in all types of water from one of America's top kayakers" by Joe Glickman. Stop in and we'll help you find the books.

Stieg Larsson read alikes

2010-08-25T16:28:00.000-07:00

Have you read the Millennium Trilogy books by Stieg Larsson and want to read more that are similar? There are a whole slew of authors from the cold north that you may find intriguing. In alphabetical order by last name here are the authors: Ake Edwardson, Kjell Eriksson,
Karin Fossum, Peter Hoeg, Arnaldur Indridason, Mari Jungstedt, Camilla Lackberg, Asa Larsson, Henning Mankell, Jo Nesbo, Hakan Nesser, Yrsa Sigurdardottir, Maj Sjowall. Titles by the authors can be found in our library and other libraries in the Arrowhead System.

Indies on Tuesdays return!

2010-06-14T14:56:00.001-07:00

Indies on Tuesdays 7:30 pm beginning June 15
They’re back! Each Tuesday night at 7:30 for the rest of the summer, an award winning independent film will be shown at the Reif Center. The films are from all over the world, and most have won multiple awards at International film festivals. All have subtitles in English. The film series is cosponsored by the Library and the Reif Center, and underwritten by the Boundary Waters Blues Fest. Check the Reif’s web site at www.reifcenter.org for a description of the films. This week’s film is “Welcome” from France. Next week’s film on June 22nd is “Sommers Town” from the UK

We the People

2010-06-10T16:49:00.000-07:00

The library wrote a grant and received 17 classic hardcover books as part of the "We the People" Bookshelf from the National Endowment for the Humanities. The books relate to the theme "A More Perfect Union." As we celebrate the 150th annivarsary of the Civil War, the NEH hopes to promote reflection among young people with this theme. Stop in to check out some of the books!

Cinder-Freckle-Frog-Faced-Ella

2010-06-10T13:18:00.000-07:00

Frog (courtesy of Schiffelly Puppets) gave a command performance to over 100 people on June 7.

Poetry & Music

2010-04-23T11:22:00.000-07:00

April is National Poetry month, and we are doing a special event this week to celebrate.

Brothers Barton and Ross Sutter will be presenting an entertaining evening of poetry and music.
Barton Sutter was the First Poet Laureate of Duluth in 2006, and is a writer and instructor at the University of Wisconsin-Superior. His books of poetry include: “The Book of Names: New and Selected Poems,” “Farewell to the Starlight in Whiskey,” and “Cold Comfort: Life at the Top of the Map” He also has a collection of stories entitled: “My Father’s War: Stories of Midwestern Men”
Ross Sutter is a musician who sings songs of Sweden, Ireland, England, Scotland and Germany. His instruments include: guitar, button accordion, concertina, dulcimer, and Irish goat-skinned drum. He has recorded several CDs of traditional music. Hear samples of his music at www.rosssutter.net

Create a Hot Chocolate Winter Book

2010-01-21T11:47:00.000-08:00

Saturday, January 23 1:00 - 3:30 in the Library Community Room
Cozy up and read a book together on a cold winter day. Creativity Tank artists will guide families in creating a hot chocolate mug shaped accordion book to share your memories.
Call the Children's Library at 218-327-8823 to pre-register.
Children 0-12 very welcome with an adult. Teens welcome on your own!

New Carpet in Library workroom

2009-12-31T14:39:00.001-08:00

It's all finished, except for the lingering smell of new carpet in the building after carpet was installed in the work room, the study room, and Teen Universe. Mike Russell and his crew from Russell Carpet did a great job of removing the old carpet and installing the new.

Thanks for your patience during the time we were open for only limited services!

Saturday at the Library

2009-12-17T10:13:00.001-08:00

December 19th
Dad and Me Story Time @ 10:30 am

Mom's Day out

An opportunity for Mom (or Dad) to go shopping, take a nap, or do something else fun: A Girl Scout troop is volunteering to provide supervision and activities for children age 3-10 on Saturday December 19th from 10-2:00

Space is limited. Pre-registration required. Call the Children?s Department at 327-8823 to register. We still have some openings, so call to reserve a spot!

Saturday is the last day to pick up holiday reading/viewing/listening material.
We will be open only limited hours on Monday-Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon and only for picking up reserved items and using the computers.
Check the web site for details.

Book Sale! Clear the Shelves

2009-12-07T12:09:00.000-08:00

The Bookstore shelves, that is! On December 10 and 11 The Friends of the Library are having a booksale to clear out the bookstore and all the accumulated donations so we can use the bookstore as a temporary workstation when we re-carpet the workroom.
Come for great bargains on books, and other miscellaneous items.
Thursday December 10 9-6
Friday, December 11 9-3

Let's Dance!

2009-12-07T11:59:00.000-08:00

Terrance Smith will lead a folk dance session for all ages on Tuesday December 8 from 3:30 -4:30.
Fun for everyone!
Bring a friend, learn a dance and have fun.
A founding member of the Tamarack Dance Association, Terrance teaches and leads dances for all ages.

Thanksgiving schedule at the Library

2009-11-25T14:11:00.000-08:00

We will close at 5 pm on Wednesday, November 25 and be closed on Thursday, November 26 for Thanksgiving.
We will be open on Friday and Saturday November 27 and 28.
Family Story time on Saturday, November 28.
Stop by and pick up some reading, listening or viewing material or just hang out and relax for awhile!

Don't forget Judy Garshelis' Otter Spotter program on December 1st!

This week at the Grand Rapids Library

2009-11-15T08:45:00.000-08:00

Monday, November 16, 3:30. Kid's Art Workshop with the Creativity Tank
Create Paper Collage similar to Lois Ehlert's colorful books:

This is another fun art workshop for kids in grades K-4. Pre-registration
is required. Call 327-8823

Tuesday, November 17 3:30-4:30 Teen Book Talk

Fever, 1793, by Laurie Halse Anderson

Stop at the Reference Desk to pick up a copy of the book.

Wednesday November 18th 12:00 -1:30 pm Great Decisions Discussion Series The Arctic Opportunities, Governance and Environmental Impacts

Briefing books available at the Library to check out or read in the Library.

More background info on the Foreign Policy Association Website

November 19th Tellabration 4th Annual Celebration of Storytelling

Morning events for kids at the Library

10 am - Community room: Stories for Kids

10 am - Story Circle: Stories for Preschoolers

Evening at the Forest History Center

7 pm - Tall Tales, Folk Tales and Your Tales, Storyteller Anne
Dunn plus Story Swap for everyone!

Book Times on Mondays at 9:30 and 10:30

Have a fun time with books, rhymes and songs, plus a snack and a craft.

Saturday, Story Times @ 10:30 am This week: Dad & Me story time

Special invitation to Dads, granddads, uncles, and best buddies

Let's Talk Turkey!

2009-11-02T14:18:00.000-08:00

November 3rd 7 pm Let’s Talk Turkey,
Steve Arbour and Dennis Brown will share cooking secrets of preparing turkey and trimmings. See how to cook turkey upside down and carve it with ease. Taste testing allowed!

Men's reading group featured on MinnPost

2009-10-20T13:34:00.000-07:00

See what reporter Sarah Williams has to say on MinnPost about the Grand Rapids Men's Reading Group after her visit with them this summer. They meet monthly at the Library and are open to new members.

Ghost stories @ GRAL

2009-10-06T17:33:00.000-07:00

Author Michael Norman spoke to a capacity audience about his book: The Nearly Departed: Minnesota Ghost Stories and Legends featuring a collection of firsthand accounts from across the state.

Davies Theater packed for visiting author

2009-09-23T12:55:00.000-07:00

Adam Shepard, author of Scratch Beginnings: Me $25, and the Search for the American Dream spoke to a standing room only crowd at Itasca Community College. The book is the author's story of starting truly from scratch in Charleston, South Carolina, with $25 and the clothes on his back. Shepard talked about his book, answered questions from the audience, and participated in a panel discussion with participants from Circles of Support regarding the challenges of living on low-wage work in Itasca County.

Happy birthday

2009-08-27T09:50:00.001-07:00

Happy birthday to Grand Rapids Area Library volunteer Joanne Dashel!

Fine Free Fridays

2009-08-26T14:06:00.000-07:00

Fridays in September 4, 11, 18, 25

All check-ins are exempt from fines.

You can request up to $10 removed from your fine balance.

Fines = late returned books, NOT lost books or collection charges.

Library Catalog Basics

2009-08-19T08:41:00.000-07:00

Learn how to access the library and regional catalog, explore basic and advanced search options, and manage your library account via computer.

Pick from four sessions in September:

8th 7-8 P.M.

9th 10-11 A.M.

29th 7-8 P.M.

30th 10-11 A.M.

Please sign up in advance at the Reference Desk

Grand Rapids Area Library's Latest Superstar

2009-08-15T09:24:00.000-07:00

Mister Cody - also known as pal of mine - is the most recent addition to GRAL's all-star roster of volunteers. Cody has been working with Darla and Tracy in the Children's Library shelving books and other library materials. A special thank you to Cody for all his hard work during a busy summer which included a record number of summer reading program participants.

Cake Decorating @ GRAL!

2009-07-28T11:04:00.000-07:00

A special thanks to Michelle and Curtis Johnson for putting on a sweet program!

Teen Summer Reading Grand Prize Winner!

2009-07-27T12:40:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to Sondra S. - winner of a PSP. Her name was drawn from over 125 entries. Thank you to the the Friends of the Library for the funds to purchase the grand prize.

Pictures of the MUSIC FOR KIDS concert with Hans Mayer

2009-07-15T09:36:00.000-07:00

Gigantic Used Book Sale for GRAL

2009-07-11T09:38:00.000-07:00

July 31- August 2

Tall Timber Days

Central Square Mall

Book Donations Wanted

Drop off new & used books at the Library before July 29, 2009. (Please, no books that smell like the attic, basement or garage! No mold or mildew!)

Volunteers Needed

Preparations are under way for this year's Tall Timber Days used book sale. Dedicated volunteers have been hard at work sorting and organizing books for sale. Volunteers are needed to help with set up, sales or clean-up. Contact Bonnie Henriksen at 327-8828.

Shop the sale

Bring your friends! Find great reading at bargain prices!

Summer Reading Program Update

2009-06-25T12:49:00.000-07:00

Children's Library staff report that over 500 kids are participating in the Be Creative at Your Library Summer reading program. In fact, so many kids have enrolled that Darla and Tracy are posting sign-up stars on both sides of the Starry Night bulletin board!

Book Review Blog

2009-06-24T17:50:00.000-07:00

Hi, this is Tandy and I use to work at the Grand Rapids Area Library. I'm now a "new" mom and I'm enjoying ever minute with my baby girl who is growing up way to fast! I wanted to share my blog that I recently set up for book reviews. You'll probably find me reviewing a movie and/or music artist as well.

Click the Book End to read the first book review.

More Books for iPods!

2009-06-23T15:45:00.000-07:00

The number of downloadable books in our catalog available for iPods just increased significantly. For all of you who have iPods and really like to listen to books, you now have a great selection! There are well over 2500 titles in the collection.
Go to the Grand Rapids lLibrary’s website at www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us and look for the button: Online Resources on the left side of the page, then click on Audio Books You can read the instructions, search for books, download the required software, download the book and you are on your way! The audio book catalog includes icons showing whether it can be played on a PC, Mac, iPod, iPhone or burned to CD.

Summer Reading Program: Book Camp

2009-06-09T14:11:00.000-07:00

Summer Adult Reading Program

2009-06-09T10:01:00.000-07:00

BINGO - just for fun Summer reading for adults!

Please stop by the reference desk and pick-up a Summer reading BINGO card. Score a BINGO by reading five books from the various genres listed. When your BINGO card is complete, come to the reference desk and claim your prize!

Name the dragon contest

2009-06-09T09:41:00.000-07:00

Help us name the newest addition to our Young Adult section and win fabulous prizes! It's easy - just stop by the Teen Universe and fill out an entry form. The winner will be announced June 29th. The grand prize is a gift certificate for Brewed Awakenings Gelato!

"Be Creative At Your Library" Masks!

2009-06-03T15:12:00.000-07:00

Reading Kits

2009-05-08T12:43:00.000-07:00

We have 4 reading kits available for checkout. A kit consists of 5 copies of a book. Titles that we have purchased so far: "The Book Thief" by Marcus Zusak, "Here, There Be Dragons" by James A. Owen, and "The Darkangel" by Meredith Pierce, and "Stormbreaker" by Anthony Horowitz. Most of the titles are considered Young Adult, but "The Book Thief" has been popular with adult reading groups. Stop in and ask about the reading kits! Thank you Library Foundation for the funds to purchase the kits.

CCC Camps

2009-05-06T13:05:00.000-07:00

Stop in the library to see the large 8-panel display about Civilian Conservation Corps camps in Minnesota. You'll learn where the camps were located, what projects "the boys" worked on, and even see a sample food menu! If the display leaves you hungry for more about the CCC, come to a program on Thursday May 21. Bill Jamerson presents a multimedia presentation that includes story telling, reading excerpts from his novel and playing original songs with his guitar. A short video presentation will take place in the library at 6:00pm with the rest of the program in the KAXE Rotary Tent starting at 6:30pm.

Photos from China show at the Library

2009-04-29T15:20:00.000-07:00

Mary Shideler will repeat her slide show of photos from China on Thursday April 30 at 7:00 pm. Mary travelled around the country and brought back many photos of the ancient and the modern aspects of this fascinating country. A list of books and other materials in the Library about China is on our website at: http://www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us/reading.htm

Another fun event this week is the storytime for kids and dads at 10:30 on Saturday morning, May 2nd. Come for a story on Saturday morning!

Library Events this week

2009-04-20T12:09:00.000-07:00

It's National Poetry Month!

Tuesday April 21 12:00-1:30
Celebrate the life and honor the spirit of Bill Holm, Minnesota poet and essayist. Readings and discussion of his work and life.
Copies of several of his works are available for check out, including Coming Home Crazy, and Boxelder Bug Variations
Tuesday 5:30 Poetry reading at Brewed Awakenings Coffee House
Join ICC students and contributors to Spring Thaw in reading poetry. Bring your own poetry to read, or just come to listen and celebrate the art of the poem.

Thursday, April 23 6:30 - 8:00 pm
Afghanistan and Pakistan is the topic of this month's Great Decisions discussion. A short video with background information will be shown, and participants will form small groups to discuss issues. Several copies of the background reading guides are available for check out or reading in the library.

Friday, April 24th 9:00-11:00 am
Blogging for Community Leadership. Griff Wigley, former online editor for Utne Reader, will lead a workshop about "Leadership Blogging" for community members interested in learning how to use blogs to promote their organizations, businesses and ideas to a larger audience.
Wigley, based in Northfield Minnesota, is a seminar leader and a weblog coach, helping business, non-profit, government and civic leaders learn the art of strategic leadership blogging and podcasting. He co-founded Northfield Citizens Online and the Northfield.org community portal (1995-2006), and launched their citizen journalism/civic blogosphere project in 2004. For more information about Griff: http://wigleyandassociates.com/about/ The training is open to anyone.
Cosponsored by Northern Community Internet and the Grand Rapids Area Non-Profit Network.
Call KAXE at 326-1234 to register

Dads and Kids Storytime

2009-03-27T11:11:00.001-07:00

Dads, grandads, uncles, and best buddies are invited to bring their little ones to the Library for a Saturday morning storytime on March 28 at 10:30. Stories, rhymes and songs will be followed by a snack and a craft. Come and join the fun!

Shmoop

2009-03-26T12:01:00.000-07:00

Check out www.shmoop.com - a new educational website for high school students interested in learning more about literature, poetry, and US history. Presented in a web 2.0 format -incorporating video, audio, and photographs - shmoop offers in-depth content created by graduate students. Both students and teachers will benefit from shmoop's clearly cited sources and breadth of detail.

Teen Book Club

2009-03-25T14:27:00.000-07:00

Teens: Join us on Friday, April 17th 3:30-4:30pm as we discuss "Stormbreaker" by Anthony Horowitz. Pick up a copy of the book at the Reference Desk.

Aprons, Aprons, Aprons!

2009-03-24T10:46:00.000-07:00

Emm's Aprons will be the theme of a style show and display of aprons on Thursday March 26 at 1:00. Elizabeth MacLeod will narrate a show of part of her collection of 200 aprons.

Come and learn about:

Apron history and stories aprons tell about American history
Different kinds and styles of aprons and when they were worn and for what reasons
How aprons were, and are, constructed
Aprons from other parts of the world

A display of apron memorabilia, sewing techniques, anecdotes and apron facts will open at 12:30 and be followed by a style show at 1:00 pm featuring nearly 100 aprons. Local women will model aprons for the show.

This week at the Grand Rapids Library:

2009-03-15T11:19:00.000-07:00

Thursday, March 19 at 12:00 Global Food Policy Discussion
Global prices for food staples have risen dramatically, resulting in protests and unrest around the world. What factors are driving prices up, and can they be tamed? What will the political fallout be for governments that fail to act, and what role can global institutions play?
This week is the second in the “Great Decisions” series of discussions of global issues. Copies of the background briefing book for this series are available for checkout at the library, and one copy is available at the reference desk for use in the library.

Friday, March 20th at 3:30 Teen book Club
There is no book selection for this month. Just come and talk about a book you’ve read recently

Friday, March 20, 7:30 pm - Another Evening of Stargazing: The Vernal Equinox!
Where: At Itasca Community College Engineering Center
What: Explore the spring night sky with Aaron Wenger
Who: Ages 9 to adult
How to register: Call the Children's desk at 218-327-8823
Participants will look at planet movement, the solar system and constellations. Bring your binoculars or even a telescope. There is no fee for this event, but preregistration is required.

This week at the Grand Rapids Library

2009-02-04T13:38:00.001-08:00

Thursday, February 5, 6:30 pm "Foreign Policy Challenges Faced by President Obama" at the Blandin Foundation
Tom Hanson, former Foreign Service Officer and a volunteer consultant with Minnesota International Center's Great Decisions program, will talk about the upcoming foreign policy issue.
This event kicks off the Great Decisions Discussion Series beginning February 18 with "Energy and the Global Economy" at noon at the Grand Rapids Library

Saturday, February 7, 10:00 am "Ready, Set, Goal" workshop by Karen Christenson
In the Library Community Room
This 3-hour workshop is designed for women who wish to uncover their life dreams. It will help to answer the question: "How do I see myself and my life's purpose?"
Preregister at http://www.getlearning.com/ or call 327-5730. $8.00 charge

Icicles

2009-01-26T15:40:00.000-08:00

This Week at the Library

2009-01-25T13:16:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, January 28th 7 pm Men’s Book Group meeting
Aaron Brown, author of “Overburden: Modern Life on the Iron Range” will be the guest of the Men’s Book Group at the library. Feel free to join them in a discussion of Aaron’s book.

Thursday, January 29, at 1:00 Mary Shideler: Travels in China
Mary will be talking and showing slides about her recent trip to China and Hong Kong. Mary was fascinated by the juxtaposition of the ancient and the modern side by side, and will share her observations of this unique country and its culture.

Friday, January 30, at 12:30 EllyAnne Geisel, curator of The Apron Chronicles
Geisel, curator of this traveling exhibit opening Feb 1 at Iron World, will talk about the process of the collecting 200 vintage aprons and the stories that go with them. Along with photographer Kristina Loggia, Geisel put together an exhibit that recalls a woman who’d worn an apron and what she represented to a family; an event when an apron was worn; recipes; values and traditions from gentler, less complicated times; the bond between parent and child; and modern perspective.
For more events connected to the exhibit see Iron World’s Web Site at www.ironworld.com/events/apron/ or pick up a flyer at the library.

Try it! It's Easy to check out your books!

2009-01-25T13:03:00.001-08:00

Volunteers Katie and Georgia (age 8) demonstrate how to use the new Express Check Out machine at the library.

It's a girl!

2008-12-31T06:27:00.000-08:00

Baby Kiley arrived safely to proud parents Tandy and Chad at 8 am Tuesday, December 30.
9 lbs 1 oz.
Mom, Dad and Baby are doing fine!

Winter @ Grand Rapids Area Library

2008-12-16T09:15:00.000-08:00

Enjoy the beauty of winter from inside the warm and friendly confines of GRAL. Hurry down while you can still see our neighbors at KAXE over the snowbanks - if just barely. Despite temperatures of (-25) the Mississippi River is still open - with the occasional ice flow moving downstream. Also, keep an eye out for a new visitor to GRAL - a Bald Eagle who regularly perches just across the river.

Overburden: Modern Life on the Iron Range

2008-12-04T09:26:00.000-08:00

Check out this exciting book by local author Aaron Brown! Be sure to mark your calendar for Wednesday, January 28, 2009 when Aaron visits the Grand Rapids Area Library Men's Book Club at 7 p.m. To learn more about Overburden visit Aaron's blog at: http://www.minnesotabrown.com/

Library Closed for Thanksgiving

2008-11-23T11:17:00.000-08:00

The Library will be closing at 5 pm on Wednesday, November 26 and will be closed on Thursday, November 27th, Thanksgiving Day. We will be open regular hours on Friday and Saturday, November 28th and 29th.

To Big Read or Not to Big Read

2008-11-23T11:15:00.000-08:00

Marcia Anderson, Grand Rapids Area Library, Erin Smith, Fergus Falls Public Library, and Mary Lukkarila, Cloquet Public Library, presented a session at the Minnesota Library Association Conference on November 21. The panelists talked about the positives and negatives of receiving a "Big Read" grant from the National Endowment for the Arts for conducting a community read project.

twilight celebration

2008-11-03T07:07:00.000-08:00

Teens 12-18

Celebrate the Twilight series

Saturday, November 22
2:30pm-4:00pm
Library meeting room

*Win movie passes
*Scavenger Hunt
*Trivia
*Make a bracelet
*EAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-10-31T08:45:00.000-07:00

It's Teen Read Week!

2008-10-12T10:12:00.000-07:00

It’s Teen Read Week October 12-18! Books with Bite

Stop by to indulge your biting curiosity and check out books and graphic novels on animals, technology, cooking and even vampires! Pick up a page turner that you can read or listen to, just for the fun of it! Check out what’s happening at the library during Teen Read Week and Celebrate reading!

Teens’ Top Ten Book List

Here is a chance to have your voice heard. Check the list of 25 nominees, see what you’ve read, and vote for your favorites at www.ala.org/teenstopten or stop in the library to vote!

October teen drawing:

Enter the drawing in the Teen Universe room for your chance to win Halloween goodies by filling out a slip of paper about scary characters.

Give us your ideas!

We want to know what you think about the materials and services for teens. Complete a quick survey during the week and get a coupon for 5.00 off your library fines.

Ever wonder about self-publishing?

Thursday, October 16 at 2pm Young Adult author Anna Fajardo will reveal the steps to self-publishing her first novel “Chosen.” She will give tips on how to get a manuscript ready for publishing as well as give information about where to get published. There is no school that day.

View candidate forums @ GRAL

2008-10-02T15:16:00.000-07:00

Grand Rapids Area Library has DVD videos of the Mayoral, City Council, and District 2 County Commissioner candidate forums. Stop by the library to view one of our reference copies in-house or check out a circulating copy and watch at home.

Nancy Pearl visits GRAL

2008-09-22T16:49:00.000-07:00

Grand Rapids Area Library was proud to host librarian emeritus Nancy Pearl on September 10th. Stop by GRAL to check out Nancy's favorite titles and take away a copy of her reading list!

Blandin Turtles

2008-09-22T11:18:00.000-07:00

Please be careful to watch for turtles!

Be advised that over the past several weeks library patrons and members of the public have reported sightings of several rare Blandin Snapping Turtles (Chelydra Serpentina Blandinis) on the walking path behind the library. Library Director - Marcia Anderson - reminds library users, fishermen, couples out for a romantic stroll, and the public at large to be mindful of these little treasures invading from the river bank. According to DNR Conservation Officer - Carl Linnaeus - Blandin Snappers usually range upstream from Grand Rapids, however the presence of Grand Rapids Area Library and KAXE Northern Community Radio make the area ideal habitat.

Periodicals: new titles and changes made

2008-09-15T15:43:00.000-07:00

agazines keep us informed of whats going on in the world. From politics to Hollywood, to recipes to crafts, magazines are packed full of information. The Library has added a couple of new titles to the periodical collection and moved some favorite titles to different locations within the building.

Moved Titles: These titles were moved from the Children's Periodical Collection to the Young Adult Periodical Collection.
Muse
New Moon
Plays

Game Pro- is a new addition to the Young Adult Periodical Collection. Packed within the pages of each issue covers the hottest games for your console covering previews, reviews, stratigies, and tips. We are expecting our first issue very soon.

New York Times(Sunday only Large Print)- This newspaper will take over for our regular print edition of New York Times. The big difference, the print will be in large print. The Sunday issues will summarize the events of the past week. We are expecting our first issue to arrive very soon and can be found on the back table where the current New York Times is kept.

Added back to the collection, American Rifleman, is an NRA publication, covering gun reviews, ammunition, Second Amendment rights, and more. We are expecting our first issue to arrive very soon and you can find the current issue in the periodical area shelves.

FYI- If you would like to donate and/or sponsor a periodical title to the library's collection, stop in and speak with Tandy or send her an email.

Nancy Pearl: Great Books to Read, New and Old

2008-09-09T13:42:00.000-07:00

Wednesday September 10, 1:30 pm
Nancy Pearl, author of Book Lust: Recommended Reading for Every Mood, Moment and Reason and Book Crush: For Kids and Teens- Recommended Reading for Every Mood, Moment and Interest, will talk about Great Books to Read: New and Old.
Bring a lunch and enjoy a great talk about books. Get ideas for good reads for yourself, your friends or your book club.

September is Library Card Sign Up Month!

2008-09-02T09:31:00.000-07:00

If you don’t have a library card, come in to sign up for one.

Replacement library cards are free in September!
If you have lost yours, or if your card is getting worn, come in for a new one! It is much easier and faster for us to scan your card than to look up your name or type in a number. Save yourself time and help us out by replacing a lost or worn card, and always bringing it to the Library. New cards are always free!

Children who sign up for a new library card in September may choose a book from our prize cart. Also, all children may enter a drawing for a gift certificate from the Village Bookstore, by dropping their signed check out receipts in the “book” on the Children’s desk.

StoryCorps Sneak Preview

2008-08-26T14:17:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, August 27th 7 pm at the Library
Find out what StoryCorps is all about and how it works.
Storycorps staff will provide background information, audio clips of interviews, and tours of the Airstream Trailer. (the mobile recording studio) They start doing interviews on August 29th. Check out KAXE’s web site at www.kaxe.org for more information, or call StoryCorps to set up an interview. 800-850-4406

Note: The Library will be closed Saturday, Sunday and Monday, August 30, 31 and September 1st for the Labor Day Holiday.

Events the week of August 17

2008-08-14T08:55:00.000-07:00

Tuesday August 19th
10:30 am Storytime for kids and their families

2-4 pm. Traveling Pants Creativity: (for teens)
Teens: Celebrate the opening of the movie: “Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2” by creating something fun out of an old pair of jeans. Bring your own jeans, we’ll supply ideas and decorations.

7:30 Film Series: Independent film at the Reif Performing Arts Center is “Oslo, Hawaii.”

Wednesday, August 20th 7 pm How can we make our community more bicycle and walker friendly?
Bob Chauncy from the National Coalition for Biking and Walking will be in Grand Rapids on to work with community members on finding answers to that question. He will lead a workshop in the morning, sponsored by Get Fit Itasca, and do a much shorter presentation in the evening at the Library. Call the YMCA at 327-8801 for more information about the morning workshop.

Thursday Aug. 21
1 pm Let’s Go Fishing with MinnAqua:
Program for kids on fishing, water safety and aquatic ecology. (preregistration required)
6 pm Family Movie night: Swiss Family Robinson A shipwrecked family turns a desert island into a paradise, complete with a 3 story tree house and a menagerie of wild animals.

Teen Back to School Drawing

2008-08-14T08:33:00.000-07:00

Teen Drawing
Win a back to school prize pack filled with pens, pencils, CD-Rs, combination lock, paper, folders, and CHOCOLATE!
All you have to do is stop in Teen Universe (teen room in the library), answer the question about your summer reading, and put your entry in the box. You can enter more than once!
2 winners will be drawn from the entries on Tuesday, August 26 at 4pm.

Bike Locks Available

2008-08-10T17:49:00.000-07:00

We have added bicycle locks to our collection! They are available for check out and use while you are in the library. Ask at the circulation desk.

Two bicycles have been stolen this summer, so locking your bike to the bike rack is a good idea.

Library Events This Week

2008-08-10T17:39:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, August 12,
10:30 am Storytime for kids and families at the Library

7:30 pm Forest for the Trees at the Reif Center
Independent film from Germany

Thursday, August 14,
7:00 pm Cyrus King and the Good Roads Movement
Brian Vroman talks about Cyrus King and the "Good Roads" movement. King was a pioneer living in Deer river around the turn of the last century and was a strong advocate for improvements in Itasca County.

Steve Keillor on Shaping Minnesota's History

2008-08-06T17:40:00.000-07:00

Thursday August 7th at 7 pm: Steve Keillor will be presenting humorous anecdotes from his new history of Minnesota, Shaping Minnesota's Identity: 150 Years of State history, published in 2008 by Pogo Press. This book features a Greater-Minnesota perspective, as portrayed in the lives of ordinary Minnesotans, as told by themselves in their own memoirs and reminiscences.

Independant Film on Tuesday

2008-08-02T16:14:00.000-07:00

This week's film is Aaltra from Belgium. (in French with English subtitles) Go to the Reif Center's old website to find the listings for the remaining independant Film series cosponsored by the library. 7:30 on Tuesdays.

There's Magic at the Library!

2008-08-02T16:09:00.000-07:00

Aug 5th 2:30 pm The Amazing Fabulous Magician Star will perform extraordinary feats of Magic for your entertainment and amusement. Bring the entire family and be prepared to be awed and astounded by this daring performer!

Book Sale and Chair Sale

2008-07-30T15:01:00.000-07:00

Book Sale! Friday Aug 1, 8-8, Saturday, 10-6, Sunday 10-4.
Shop for great books in Central Square Mall, South Entrance corridor.
Thank You! This is one of the fundraisers for the Grand Rapids Area Library Foundation, which supports programs and our book collection at the Library.
Watch for the Adirondack chairs around town also! Some will be on sale by the Library Foundation during Tall Timber Days. Others will be auctioned at an event August 9th.

August 9 Saturday 6 pm at the Rotary tent on the river behind KAXE
Chair Affair fundraiser for the Library Foundation. Silent and live Auction for Adirondack chairs painted by local artists, Food and music by Sam Miltich and friends. Tickets available at the library and from Library Foundation Board Members.

This Week at the Library

2008-07-30T14:59:00.000-07:00

July 31st 7 pm Sugar Point: The Last Indian Battle, by Cece McKeig
The Battle of Sugar Point was fought in 1898 between the 3rd U.S. Infantry and members of the Bear Island Pillager Indians in a failed attempt to apprehend their chief. Ms McKeig will share highlights of this piece of Native American history and display some Native American items from the Cass County Museum.
Local Lore and Legends: Summer History at the Library is a speaker series on the History and Characters of Grand Rapids and Northeastern Minnesota. The complete schedule is on the Library’s web site at www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us

August 1 Friday 10:30 am Willy Welch
Texas storyteller, songwriter and author of Playing Right Field presents a program for kids filled with fun stories, songs and books!