News Blog @ Wellington City Libraries

The much acclaimed prolific Western writer Elmer Kelton has died aged 83. He began his career as a journalist after serving in the United States Army during World War II. He was farm and ranch editor for the San Angelo Standard-Times for 15 years, then spent 22 years as editor of Livestock Weekly.  His first short story was published 1948 and his first novel Hot Iron in 1955. From then he published over 60 fiction and non-fiction titles. His novel, The good old boys was published in 1978 and was made into a television movie in 1995. He received numerous awards for his fiction, the most acclaimed being, The time it never rained, published in 1974, The man who rode Midnight published in 1988 and most recently Way of the Coyote published in 2002.

Elmer Kelton was more than a typical Western writer, with most of his novels set in recent times with characters facing the problems of modern day range life.

If this rings a bell, this is the book for you. Procrastination: why you do it, what to do about it by Jane Burka and Lenora Yuen examines the reasons we put things off and gives practical advice and steps to “recovery”. Pick up this book now!

It sucked and then I cried: how I had a baby, a breakdown and a much needed margarita has to be one of the best titles this year. Author Heather Armstrong gives a candid look at the ups and downs of motherhood. 

When couples get married all have the wish that this will be forever but sadly it is not always the case. Staying in love: the top secrets of great relationships by Robyn Salisbury looks at the importance of a strong physical relationship.

Read about other subjects such as loneliness, making decisions and the secret life of France in this month’s Personal Development Recent Picks.

Women are playing poker in much larger numbers and succeeding. Why? Eliza Burnett, a successful Texas Hold’em Player thinks that women’s natural ability to read people can give them the edge over their male competitors. Read tips and advice in her book Girls’ guide to poker, find a game and cash in those chips!

Darts is a global sport and top players make a very good living. Whether you aspire to that level or are just a beginner John Lowe’s book The art of darts will give advice and instructions that will improve your game. Bullseye.

A strategic game played worldwide and by all ages chess has a large following. Understanding chess move by move is aimed at the more experienced player but still uses clear, jargon-free language.

Finf out how to improve your skill or learn a new game by reading these books and others in this month’s Sports Recent Picks.

It is little things that impact on the look of a room but getting it right can be easier said than done. Accessorize your home: over 400 perfect finishing touches for your living space by Caroline Clifton-Mogg will help to add decorative details and imaginative displays to individualise your home. And what is most important is these ideas will not break the bank.

Chris Gleason, a professional cabinet-maker has no time for fussy, period furniture and his book Building real furniture for everyday life focuses on practical, sturdy and modern items. No time, little money and minimal tools – not a problem he says. Sensible furniture on a budget will be the result.

Organic gardening is becoming more popular as people increasingly want to know what they are eating. Growing organic: green tips for New Zealand gardeners by Nick Hamilton and Philippa Jamieson is a handy guide with information on preparing the soil through to harvesting the crop. Enjoy the fruits of your labour.

Read more about these subjects and other books on topics including herb gardening, vintage sewing projects and making blinds on this month’s DIY Recent Picks.

What are the implications of Einstein’s theory of gravity for astronomy and cosmology?  What happens if you add quantum physics to the mix?  And why should we be interested?  The physics community have been racking their brains on these aspects for the last ninety years and in this illustrated talk Professor Matt Visser from Victoria University will present a non-technical and easy to understand description of some of the key issues.  You won’t need a degree in physics or anything to enjoy this free talk – just a general interest in astronomy or science. 

 Come along to find out more on Wednesday 9^th September, 7pm at Central Library (Victoria Street) as we continue to celebrate the International Year of Astronomy!

According to author Jerry Silver, you can improve your knowledge of physics without expending a lot of energy. He has written 125 physics projects for the evil genius, a title he uses for himself, to guide people through experiments without the use of a formal lab, a large budget or years of technical experience. Topics cover motion, gravity, energy, sound, light and more. Adults – ask your children first.

But wait there’s more. Quantum physics for dummies looks at what it can do for the world. Steven Holnzer has written this to be compatible with classroom textbooks and courses, letting students study at their own pace.

And more. Three other book also covering the subject of physics – General relativity: an introduction for physicists, Lightening: physics and effect and Practice in physics.

If this topic is not for you, look at other books on this month’s Science Recent Picks including climate change, genetics and fossils.

Library Manager, Jane Hill

Kia ora Koutou Katoa

Welcome to my first posting on topics from my perspective as Libraries Manager.

Kia ako                                      To learn
Kia manaaki                             To support
Kia puawaii                              To flourish
Kia marama                             To understand

This Maori and English text launched the Public Libraries of NZ ; a strategic framework 2006 – 2026. It was with delight this week that I accepted on behalf of all the Libraries’ staff a NZ Diversity Award 2009. The award recognises the wide array of services and programmes that Wellington City Libraries offer Maori and ethnic communities. Congratulations to all the Libraries team members! They placed us on the national stage with their work.

Currently we are looking at linking more with other public libraries around NZ to explore how we could benefit from co-operative buying in this specialist area.

On Sunday we hosted the National Forum on Public Libraries and Diversity which was attended by 31 people drawn from public libraries, Massey University and home tutors from across New Zealand. It was an inspiring day which allowed people to network and gain from each other’s experiences. Everyone said they were taking home new ideas and initiatives.

Later in the day at the NZ Diversity Forum at Te Papa, we launched the DVD, Our Place, Your Place, about Wellington’s Muslim communities and libraries.

News and notes

Recently the Libraries Leadership Team and myself have joined with other Council managers in problem solving in relation to how we can all prepare Wellington and the City Council for the 2011 Rugby World Cup. The spotlight will be on Wellington for a full month.

July 2009 was our busiest month ever on the Libraries’ website with over 1.7 million page views. The team have been working with the Modica Group to refresh our website homepage and I’m looking forward to that going live within the next month.

Jane Hill
Manager, Wellington City Libraries

#wclreview

Fred the “green” hair mermaid is a very direct and funny character keeping well the secret of her fishy behind from creepy scientists. Catalogue link

#wclreview

Despite all odds the strength of their love holds the protagonists together. Physically, and culturally, they are polar opposites but manage to maintain an equality between them. Catalogue link

#wclreview

Really great to get you motivated for the important things; good to open at random. Catalogue link