Weekly Newsletter Emails

Each Monday the director sends out a Weekly Newsletter via email with information on what is happening at the library, along with a list of new books added to the collection in the past week.  Most patrons of the library are signed up to receive the emails.  If you do not receive the email please subscribe below.

September 18, 2023

When Alice Ozma was in 4th grade, she and her father decided to see if he could read aloud to her for 100 consecutive nights. On the hundredth night, they shared pancakes to celebrate, but it soon became evident that neither wanted to let go of their storytelling ritual. So they decided to continue what they called "The Streak." Alice's father read aloud to her every night without fail until the day she left for college.

Alice approaches her book as a series of vignettes about her relationship with her father and the life lessons learned from the books he read to her.

Our Chat & Chew Book Club will meet tonight, Monday, September 18 at 5:30.  This is a very informal group. We discuss books we are currently reading or have read recently, or have heard about, while enjoying a slice of pizza.
 
English Paper Piecing:
On Tuesday, September 19 at 1:30, Cathy McFarland will give a brief history of English Paper Piecing, then lead the class in making your own project to take home. No previous experience is necessary!
There will be a cost of $10 for each participant. You will each receive your own kit. Please contact the library to sign up for this interesting class! (This class was rescheduled from June, so if you signed up then, you are still signed up.)

Homemade Salsa Contest!
Do you like to make salsa? Enter our contest on Wednesday, September 20!  Bring your entry to the library before noon on Wednesday (we are open Mon 1-7, Tues 1-5, Wed 10-5).

Do you like to eat salsa? Salsa tasting is open to everyone and will be held from 12:00 - 5:00pm. Come taste test all of the entries and vote for your favorite salsa! A $25 Gift Certificate to La Terraza Mexican Grill and Seafood Restaurant in Traer will be awarded to the winner!
 
Pinterest Night!
Laurie is returning with another fun Pinterest Night on Monday, September 25! What is Pinterest Night?? Laurie will walk you through making your own seasonal decoration inspired by something she saw on Pinterest! This fall you will be making a wooden pumpkin wall or door hanging (double-sided if you'd like 2 different colors)! The pumpkin is roughly 18" tall x 16" wide. There are also 2 different fonts to choose from for your initial: Quirky Script (on orange pumpkin) or Love Spell (on teal pumpkin).

She is offering 2 different classes: 3:30 and 5:30. All sign-up slots have been filled, but we will take a couple more alternate names in case we have a last-minute cancellation. There will be a $10 fee for all of the supplies you will need. We will have many paint colors, so you can customize your pumpkin however you'd like.
























 

“Wellderly” Series:
Mark your calendars for some upcoming programs that focus on “Wellness for the Elderly” - health topics for those of us who are 55+. These programs will all be at 2:00 in the Talen Community Room.

• Wed. Sept 27: Coffee Talk with Tama County Public Health- nurse Beth Eberle will be speaking about Healthy Meals, Influenza, LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
• Wed. Oct 25: Dietician Crystal Petersen from the Grundy County Hospital will be speaking about nutrition – what your body needs in your 50s, 60s and beyond
• Wed. Nov 29 – Deb Kloster with On-Site Hearing in Waterloo will be speaking on the importance of taking care of our hearing as we age

Used Book Sale:
Our Used Book Sale Room is overflowing! We have recently added a lot more donated and weeded books, both fiction and non-fiction.  We have also added some audiobooks. The book sale room is open during library hours. Please bring your free-will donation to the circulation desk. All proceeds go to the Friends of the Library.

Westerns!
Do you like to read "Westerns"?  Maybe you've never given them a try? Westerns are primarily set in the American Old West between the late eighteenth century and late nineteenth century and tell the stories of cowboys, settlers, and outlaws exploring the western frontier and taming the Wild West. We have a variety of books in our own collection, plus we get 10 Large Print Westerns from both the Decorah Public Library and from the Drake Community Library in Grinnell every month.  We keep these books for 3 months before returning them.  We receive classic authors like Zane Grey, Max Brand, William W. Johnstone, and Louis L'Amour, and also newer authors such as Ralph Cotton, Lauran Paine, and many others.  Stop in and check one out!
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
I have a pet termite.  I named him Clint.  Clint eats wood.
 
Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

September 11, 2023

Good Morning!
 
On The Calendar:
Monday, Sept 11 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Tuesday Sept 12 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Sept 13 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Sept 13 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday Sept 13 at 11:30 Scones & Tomes
Wednesday Sept 13 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Sept 13 at 2:00 Propagating African Violets with Cindy Weida
Wednesday Sept 13 at 2:30 – 3:30 Early-Out Activities Grades 4-12
Thursday Sept 14 at 10:00 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Sept 14 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday Sept 15 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Friday Sept 15 at 2:00 Homeschooling Support Group
Monday Sept 18 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Sept 18 at 2:00 Book Club
Monday Sept 18 at 5:30 Chat & Chew Book Club
Tuesday Sept 19 at 1:30 English Paper Piecing with Cathy McFarland
Wednesday Sept 20 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Sept 20 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday Sept 20 from 12:00 – 5:00 Salsa Contest
Wednesday Sept 20 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Sept 20 at 2:30 – 3:30 Early-Out Activities Grades 4-12
Thursday Sept 21 at 10:00 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Sept 21 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday Sept 22 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty

Propagating African Violets:
Come to the Talen Community Room on Wednesday, September 13 at 2:00 to learn about propagating African Violets. Cindy Weida will share what she has learned about growing, propagating and caring for these beautiful flowers. She has many different varieties, and will bring some to show.
 
Homeschooling Support Group:
If you are a Homeschooler, come to the library this Friday, September 15 to meet with other homeschoolers! We will be meeting monthly on the 3rd Friday of the month at 2:00 in the Kupka Cultural Center. This is an informal group that will gather to share knowledge, bounce ideas off of one another, and ask questions. There is no "leader" for this group, just come to visit and share with other homeschoolers. Kids are welcome to come! We will have some toys for the younger ones, and a DVD player and TV available. You may bring snacks and drinks.

Upcoming Book Clubs:

 
English Paper Piecing:
On Tuesday, June September 19 at 1:30, Cathy McFarland will give a brief history of English Paper Piecing, then lead the class in making your own project to take home. English Paper Piecing involves stabilizing fabric pieces with paper. Once the shapes are wrapped and ready, the sewer will hand sew the shapes together one at a time until the shapes become an intricate design.

There will be a cost of $10 for each participant. You will each receive your own kit. Please contact the library to sign up for this interesting class! (This class was rescheduled from June, so if you signed up then, you are still signed up.)

Homemade Salsa Contest!
Do you like to make salsa? Enter our contest on Wednesday, September 20!  Bring your entry to the library between 10:00am and 12:00. Do you like to eat salsa? Salsa tasting is open to everyone and will be held from 12:00 - 5:00pm. Come taste test all of the entries and vote for your favorite salsa! A $25 Gift Certificate to La Terraza Mexican Grill and Seafood Restaurant in Traer will be awarded to the winner!
 
Pinterest Night!
Laurie is returning with another fun Pinterest Night! What is Pinterest Night?? Laurie will walk you through making your own seasonal decoration inspired by something she saw on Pinterest! Save the date for Monday, September 25.  She will be offering 2 different classes: 3:30 and 5:00. Please call the library to sign up by September 20, as there will be limited supplies available. There will be a small fee for all of the supplies you will need. Stay tuned for more details!
 
“Wellderly” Series:
Mark your calendars for some upcoming programs that focus on “Wellness for the Elderly” - health topics for those of us who are 55+. These programs will all be at 2:00 in the Talen Community Room.

• Wed. Sept 27: Tama County Public Health- nurse Beth Eberle will be speaking about Healthy Meals, Influenza, LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
• Wed. Oct 25: Dietician Crystal Petersen from the Grundy County Hospital will be speaking about nutrition – what your body needs in your 50s, 60s and beyond
• Wed. Nov 29 – Deb Kloster with On-Site Hearing in Waterloo will be speaking on the importance of taking care of our hearing as we age

New Materials:
Fiction:
Trapper Road - #6 Stillhouse Lake Series by Rachel Caine
Lost Angels - #3 Nikki Hunt Series by Stacy Green
The Sisters of Glass Ferry by Kim Michele Richardson
 
Non-Fiction:
The Essential Guide to Intermittent Fasting for Women: balance your hormones to lose weight, lower stress, and optimize health by Megan Ramos
The Things Our Fathers Saw-The Untold Stories of the World War II Generation Volume 4: Up the Bloody Boot-The War in Italy by Matthew A. Rozell
 
Teen:
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
Part of your World by Liz Braswell
Straight on til Morning by Liz Braswell
My Friend the Octopus by Lindsay Galvin
The Princess Will Save You by Sarah Henning
 
DVDs:
Spiderman – Across the Spider-verse
Monster High – The Movie
The Way
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
I’m reading a great book on anti-gravity.  It’s impossible to put down!
 
Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

September 4, 2023

August 28, 2023

Good Morning!
 
On The Calendar:
Monday, Aug 28 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday, Aug 28 at 2:00 BINGO
Tuesday Aug 29 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Aug 30 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Aug 30 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Aug 30 at 2:00 Prisoners of War in Iowa with Linda McCann
Thursday Aug 31 at 1:00 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Aug 31 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday Sept 1 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Friday Sept 1 at 2:00 Watercolors with Stephenie

Saturday Sept 2 CLOSED for Labor Day
Monday Sept 4 CLOSED for Labor Day
Tuesday Sept 5 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Sept 6 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Sept 6 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday Sept 6 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Sept 6 at 2:00 Carnegie Café Coffee & Crafts
Wednesday Sept 6 at 2:30 – 3:30 Early-Out Activities Grades 4-12
Wednesday Sept 6 at 2:45 – 4:00 Books for Cooks Grades K-5
Thursday Sept 7 at 10:00 Cribbage and Rummikub***Note Time Change
Thursday Sept 7 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday Sept 8 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
 
BINGO Today:
Join us at 2:00 TODAY for a fun hour of BINGO in the Talen Community Room.  You can win exciting prizes!
 
Prisoners of War In Iowa with Linda McCann:
Join us this Wednesday, August 30 at 2:00 in the Talen Community Room for another interesting historical program with Iowa Author Linda McCann. Linda has written several books on Iowa History. Linda will speak about what she learned while researching and interviewing people for her book Prisoners of War in Iowa.
 
During World War II, approximately 25,000 German, Italian, and Japanese prisoners of war were housed in Iowa. There were two main camps; Algona and Clarinda, which housed about 3,000 POWs each. There were 19 branch camps where prisoners stayed for a few months working in the fields, or at canning factories, seed corn companies, or other places which hired them. One of those branch camps was at the former Sac and Fox Sanitarium in Toledo. Linda has spoken with many people who knew or worked with the POWs and shares their memories in her book.

Watercolors with Stephenie this Friday:
Stephenie Bellwood is back by popular demand with more watercolor classes!  On the first Friday of the month, beginning September 1^st at 2:00, she will be focusing on a different painting technique each month. You do not need any prior painting experience to enjoy her classes! All supplies are provided, and you will go home with your own watercolor painting.
 
Note: The Library will be CLOSED next Monday, September 4 in observance of Labor Day.
 
Children’s Wednesday Programing resumes Sept. 6

Join Miss Sue beginning September 6 for Story Time every Wednesday at 10:15 as we listen to stories, make crafts, sing songs and have play time!
 

We will also be back on September 6 with children's programming from 2:30 - 3:30 on Early-Out Wednesdays (days with early school dismissal). We will have snacks and offer activities (games or crafts) for children in grades 4-12.  

 

Jenny Hulme returns to lead Books for Cooks on the first Wednesday of the month from 2:45 - 4:00 in the Talen Community Room. This is a fun program for kids who have completed grades K-5, and they will read books while learning how to cook! Everyone will learn to make a recipies, and of course you get to eat what you make and take the recipe home! There is NO FEE for this program.
 
Decades Book Challenge:
Ready for the next decade in our Challenge?  In September we move on to the 1980s.
Technology, materialism, and conservatism were among the highlights of the 1980s.

 

**See the Decades Book Challenge page for topic ideas and events,

and for ideas for books available at our library.

 
New Materials:
Fiction:
Savannah Breeze by Mary Kay Andrews
Magical Midlife Alliance - #7 Leveling Up Series by K.F. Breene
The Wait - #13 Seaside Saga Series by Joanne DeMaio
Pink Lemonade Cake Murder - #29 Hannah Swenson Series by Joanne Fluke
One Perfect Grave - #2 Nikki Hunt Series by Stacy Green
Jonas - #3 Minnesota Marshalls Series by Susan May Warren
Same Time Next Summer by Annabel Monaghan
The First Summer by Christina Edgar Olds (Waterloo, IA author)
Giving Up Grace by Christina Edgar Olds (Waterloo, IA author)
 
Teen:
One of Us is Back – #3 One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus
 
Non-Fiction:
The In-Between: unforgettable encounters during life’s final moments by Hadley Vlahos
Sew Sustainable: make 22 stylish products to reduce and reuse by Jennifer Warren
Artfully Transforming Bottles & Plates: 75 elegant projects to upcycle class and porcelain by Petra Knoblauch
 
DVDs:
Fast X (#10 Fast & Furious)
1923 (Yellowstone Origin Story Season 1)
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
I have a spare sewing machine for when my regular one breaks down.  It’s my backup Singer.
 
Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

 

August 21, 2023

Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

August 14, 2023

August 7, 2023

Good Morning!
 
On The Calendar:
Monday Aug 7 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Tuesday Aug 8 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Aug 9 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Aug 9 at 11:30 Scones and Tomes
Wednesday Aug 9 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Thursday Aug 10 at 1:00 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Aug 10 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday Aug 11 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Saturday Aug 12 Extended Hours for WSF 10:00-2:00
Monday, Aug 14 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Tuesday Aug 15 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Tuesday Aug 15 at 2:00 Teen Book Club
Wednesday Aug 16 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Aug 16 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Thursday Aug 17 at 1:00 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Aug 17 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday Aug 18 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
 
Quilt Display:
From August 1 through August 15, the Traer Library is hosting a Quilt Display in memory of Cynthia Stary Drajna.  Cynthia passed away unexpectedly in March of this year, and had been the leader of the Library’s weekly Quilting Group for almost 10 years.  She also published the book Gather 'Round the Table: a collection of 12 table runner patterns, which we have available to check out at the library.  We will display quilts that Cynthia made, and also quilts made by others in the group, using quilt patterns created by Cynthia.  Stop in to see this lovely display upstairs in the library.

Scones & Tomes:
Join us for an informal book club on Wednesday, August 9 at 11:30.  We share and discuss the books we have read lately while enjoying a sweet treat and a hot beverage.  Attendees always get ideas for great books to add to their reading lists. Newcomers are always welcome.

Open Longer Hours for Winding Stairs Festival:
The library will be open from 10:00AM – 2:00PM on Saturday, August 12 for the Winding Stairs Festival.  If you have friends or family members back in town who have not been in the library lately, or it’s been a while since you were in, this will be a great time to stop in to browse and see everything we offer to the community. We also have some interesting historical publications to browse through, such as “Generations of Community Pride: Traer Iowa 1873 – 1998 125 Years”, a 1998 Traer Quasquicentennial Calendar, and The Traer Public Library Grand Opening Aug. 1 2004 supplement to the Traer Star Clipper, plus many old yearbooks. You can also admire the Quilt Display in Memory of Cynthia Drajna. The Used Book Sale Room will also be open.
 
Decades Book Challenge:
Are you participating in our Decades Book Challenge, going on all year in celebration of Traer’s Sesquicentennial?  In August we move on to the 1970s. Stop in the library to pick up lists of topics and events and books available at the library.  Or find the lists on our website   https://www.traer.lib.ia.us/programs/list-ongoing-programming/decades-book-challenge
 
Prisoners of War In Iowa with Linda McCann:
Join us on Wednesday, August 30 at 2:00 in the Talen Community Room for another interesting historical program with Iowa Author Linda McCann. Linda has written several books on Iowa History, including Prisoners of War in Iowa. She will share what she has learned about this part of Iowa history that many of us know little or nothing about.
 
During World War II, approximately 25,000 German, Italian, and Japanese prisoners of war were housed in Iowa. There were two main camps; Algona and Clarinda, which housed about 3,000 POWs each. There were 19 branch camps where prisoners stayed for a few months working in the fields, or at canning factories, seed corn companies, or other places which hired them. One of those branch camps was at the former Sac and Fox Sanitarium in Toledo. Linda has spoken with many people who knew or worked with the POWs and shares their memories in her book Prisoners of War in Iowa.
 
New Materials:
Fiction:
Flags on the Bayou by James Lee Burke
Break of Day - #3 Annie Pederson Series by Colleen Coble
All the Sinners Bleed by S.A. Cosby
Dead Man’s Wake - #14 Mike Bowditch Series by Paul Doiron
Night will Find You by Julia Heaberlin
Slammed - #1 Slammed Series by Colleen Hoover
Point of Retreat - #2 Slammed Series by Colleen Hoover
This Girl - #3 Slammed Series by Colleen Hoover
Hiss Me Deadly - #15 Cat in the Stacks by Miranda James
The Last Sinner by Lisa Jackson
The Only One Left by Riley Sager
A Most Agreeable Murder by Julia Seales
 
Large Print:
Identity by Nora Roberts
Welcome to Beach Town by Susan Wiggs
 
Non Fiction:
The Wager: A tale of shipwreck, mutiny, and murder by David Grann

Junior Fiction and Graphic Novels:
We have received quite a few new Junior Fiction and Graphic Novels in the last few weeks.

Pun-Of-The-Week:
How large does the stage need to be at the Winding Stairs Festival? Depends on the bandwidth.
 
Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

July 31, 2023

Good Morning!
 
On The Calendar:
Monday, July 31 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday, July 31 at 2:00 BINGO
Tuesday Aug 1 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters – set up Quilt Display
Wednesday Aug 2 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Aug 2 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Aug 2 at 2:00 Carnegie Café Coffee & Crafts
Thursday Aug 3 at 1:00 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Aug 3 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday Aug 4 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Aug 7 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Tuesday Aug 8 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Aug 9 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Aug 9 at 11:30 Scones and Tomes
Wednesday Aug 9 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Thursday Aug 10 at 1:00 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Aug 10 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday Aug 11 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Saturday Aug 12 Extended Hours for WSF 10:00-2:00
 
Quilt Display:
From August 1 through August 15, the Traer Library will have a Quilt Display in memory of Cynthia Stary Drajna.  Cynthia passed away unexpectedly in March of this year, and had been the leader of the Library’s weekly Quilting Group for over 9 years.  She also published the book Gather 'Round the Table: a collection of 12 table runner patterns, which we have available to check out at the library.  We will display quilts that Cynthia made, and also quilts made by others in the group, using quilt patterns created by Cynthia.  Stop in to see this lovely display upstairs in the library.


















 

July 24, 2023

July 17, 2023

From the acclaimed author of Garden Spells comes an enchanting tale of lost souls, lonely strangers, secrets that shape us, and how the right flock can guide you home.

Down a narrow alley in the small coastal town of Mallow Island, South Carolina, lies a stunning cobblestone building comprised of five apartments. It’s called The Dellawisp and it is named after the tiny turquoise birds who, alongside its human tenants, inhabit an air of magical secrecy.

When Zoey Hennessey comes to claim her deceased mother’s apartment at The Dellawisp, she meets her quirky, enigmatic neighbors including a girl on the run, a grieving chef whose comfort food does not comfort him, two estranged middle-aged sisters, and three ghosts. Each with their own story. Each with their own longings. Each whose ending isn’t yet written.

When one of her new neighbors dies under odd circumstances the night Zoey arrives, she is thrust into the mystery of The Dellawisp, which involves missing pages from a legendary writer whose work might be hidden there. She soon discovers that many unfinished stories permeate the place, and the people around her are in as much need of healing from wrongs of the past as she is. To find their way they have to learn how to trust each other, confront their deepest fears, and let go of what haunts them.

Delightful and atmospheric, Other Birds is filled with magical realism and moments of pure love that won’t let you go. Sarah Addison Allen shows us that between the real and the imaginary, there are stories that take flight in the most extraordinary ways.

 
All are invited to join our book discussions.  You can pick up a copy of the current month’s selection at the circulation desk.  We usually have several Regular and Large Print copies available.
 
Our Chat & Chew Book Club will also meet today, at 5:30.  This is a very informal group. We discuss books we are currently reading or have read recently, or have heard about, while enjoying a slice of pizza.
 
Summer Teen Book Club:
Attention Teens! Join us on Tuesday, July 18 at 2:00 for a very informal discussion about the books you've been reading this summer!  NT Senior Jamie Jacobs will be leading the discussion. Come hang out, have a snack, and talk about books you’ve read, or heard about and want to read.

Summer Family Fun Program: BUBBLE STATIONS Tuesday Evening!!
Mark your calendars for some family fun in the park! Absolute Science will be bringing their Bubble Stations to Taylor Park in Traer on Tuesday, July 18 at 7:00pm. This Bubble Station program was recently hosted by the Norma Anders Library in Dysart during their 4^th of July celebration, and they were a huge hit!
 
Bubble Stations is one of the largest Mobile Bubble Outdoor Programs in the United States. Their hand-made bubble solution makes bubbles not only bigger, but longer lasting! With hundreds of wands of different shapes and sizes from all over the world, Bubble Stations is a wonderful hands-on experience that brings out the child in all of us! Check out their website at  https://www.absolute-science.com













Coffee Talk: Heat, Diabetes, Diet & Exercise Wednesday, July 19 at 2:00
On Wednesday, July 19, Beth Eberle, RN with Tama County Public Health & Home Care will be leading a discussion on Heat, Diabetes, Diet and Exercise.  She will also be available to answer your questions about Home Health Care.  Join us in the Talen Community Room at 2:00 to hear information on these important health topics. Free coffee and cookies will be served!
 
Garden Walk: Wednesday, July 19 at 3:30:
Our Garden Walk this week will be at the gardens of Stephenie Bellwood and Barb Kopriva. Meet at the library to ride together, or call for the addresses and directions. 
 
Living Longer and Healthier: Discussion with Rex McKee, based on the book “Lifespan”:
Rex McKee will continue his discussion of how to live longer and healthier, based on the book “Lifespan: Why We Age – and Why We Don’t Have To” by David A Sinclair, PhD . Our next discussion will be on Thursday, July 20 at 6:00 in the Talen Community Room. You can still join this discussion, even if you haven’t been here for previous discussions.  Come listen if you are interested in learning how lifestyle changes can help you feel younger and stay healthier longer. This may change the way you think about ageing and what you can do about it.
 
Children’s Summer Reading Challenge:
Children can register any time for our On Your Mark, Get Set, READ! Summer Reading Challenge! Children still have plenty of time to join the “race” to the finish line, and earn prizes at Pit Stops along the way! Stop in the library to sign up, or contact the library at 319-478-2180 with any questions you have.
 
Used Book Sale Room:
Our used book sale room is full! Items are available for a free-will donation. Lots of Fiction, Large Print, Romance, Junior Fiction, Junior Non-Fiction and Easy books have recently been added to the sale.  We also have magazines, and a few audio books, DVDs, puzzles, and cake pans.
 
Looking for Greenhouses and She-Sheds:
Do you have a greenhouse or a she-shed you’d love to show off? Laurie is looking for gardeners who would be willing to share their greenhouses or she-sheds with the library’s Down & Dirty Gardening Group during next year’s garden walks.  They don’t have to be extravagant – just share ideas with others gardeners and show what is working for you! If you would like to share, or know someone who might, please call the library at 319-478-2180 for more details.
 
New Books:
Fiction:
The Housemaid’s Secret - #2 Housemaid Series by Freida McFadden
Birthday Cake and Bodies - #9 Peridale Café Series by Agatha Frost
Love May Fail by Matthew Quick
 
Non-Fiction
Keto Cooking for Beginners! Easy recipes and essential information for living Keto
 
DVDs:
Book Club: The Next Chapter
Are You There God? It’s Me Margaret
The Man from Toronto
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
The seamstress decided to diversify and open a restaurant inside her shop.  But the reviews were only sew-sew.

Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

July 10, 2023

July 3, 2023

Good Morning!
 
On The Calendar:
Monday, July 3 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Tuesday July 4 – CLOSED for Independence Day
Wednesday July 5 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday July 5 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday July 5 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday July 5 at 2:00 Carnegie Café Coffee & Crafts
Wednesday July 5 at 3:30 Garden Walk – Paul Wendt
Thursday July 6 at 1:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday July 6 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday July 7 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday July 10 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Tuesday July 11 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday July 12 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday July 12 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday July 12 at 11:30 Scones & Tomes
Wednesday July 12 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday July 12 at 2:00 Felted Fiber Art with Megan Hammer
Wednesday July 12 at 3:30 Garden Walk – Donna Kersten
Thursday July 13 at 1:00 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday July 13 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday July 14 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
 
Story Time Resumes:
Our normal Story Time with Miss Sue will resume this Wednesday, July 5 at 10:15. We listen to stories, sing songs, enjoy a simple craft and play games. These activities are geared towards our youngest patrons.  As a reminder, we do not have Story Time in August.

Carnegie Cafe Coffee & Crafts:
Come to the Carnegie Cafe on Wednesday, July 5 at 2:00 to make a simple seasonal craft and enjoy a hot beverage.  There is no cost or sign-up required, and we provide any supplies needed.
 
Garden Walk: Wednesday, July 5 at 3:30:
Our Garden Walk this week will be at the gardens of Paul Wendt. Meet at the library to ride together, or call for the address and directions.
 
Felted Fiber Art with Megan Hammer:
Join us on Wednesday, July 12 at 2:00 to meet Fiber Artist Megan Hammer, and learn how she creates beautiful artwork from felted wool.

By transforming wispy wool fiber into soft, strong felt, Megan Hammer explores the potential for harmony and collaboration with nature. She embraces the textures revealed through the felting process and presents intricate details to share botanical studies and explorations of our natural world.

Megan will give a short presentation about her inspiration and the process she uses to create her felted wool fine art. Following the presentation, Megan will demonstrate needle-felting and provide an opportunity for participants to create a mini felted artwork. (Sharp needles will be used; caution is advised.) We will have supplies for 20 participants. Please come in or call the library to sign up for a kit.  There is no cost.
 

Megan is the daughter of Glenn and Dorothy Thorne of rural Traer, and a graduate of North Tama. You can see examples of her beautiful art pieces on her website http://www.meganhammer.com/

 

Summer Family Fun Program: BUBBLE STATIONS!
Mark your calendars for some family fun in the park! Absolute Science will be bringing their Bubble Stations to Taylor Park in Traer on Tuesday, July 18 at 7:00pm.
 
Bubble Stations is one of the largest Mobile Bubble Outdoor Programs in the United States. Their hand-made bubble solution makes bubbles not only bigger, but longer lasting! With hundreds of wands of different shapes and sizes from all over the world, Bubble Stations is a wonderful hands-on experience that brings out the child in all of us!

Check out their website at  https://www.absolute-science.com

Kids Summer Reading Challenge:
On Your Mark, Get Set, READ! Summer Reading Challenge for children continues until mid-August! Stop in the library to sign up, or contact the library at 319-478-2180 with any questions you have.

July’s Decade Book Challenge –The Swinging Sixties:
In July, our focus will be the 1960s. The Sixties was a decade dominated by the Vietnam War and a strong anti-war sentiment among young people against the US involvement in the War. Civil Rights marches also defined the era and helped bring about positive changes, including the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act.

In the early 1960s, many Americans lived in fear of nuclear war as the Cold War escalated. Throughout the decade, the country mourned the losses of beloved leaders, including President John F. Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Other headlines included Hippies, Woodstock & the Swinging Sixties, the British Invasion, and the Space Race. The 60s came to a close with a giant leap for mankind as the first astronauts stepped foot on the moon.

These are some of the historical events that have come to define the decade:
 

1960 May 9: The birth control pill becomes commercially available.

September 18 – 25: The first edition of the Summer Paralympic Games is hosted in Rome.

November 8: The 1960 United States presidential election marks the first televised debates between presidential candidates.

 
1961 January 20: John F. Kennedy is inaugurated as President of the United States.

April 12: Yuri Gagarin, flying the Vostok 1 spacecraft as part of the Vostok program, becomes the first human in space.

April 17 – 20: Bay of Pigs Invasion by Cuban exiles ends in failure

May 25: In an address to Congress, John F. Kennedy declares the United States' objective of "landing a man on the Moon and returning him safely to the Earth" by the end of the decade. This would be in fact achieved by the Apollo Project, despite several challenges and much doubt.

The Great Leap Forward ends in China after the deaths of roughly 20–45 million people.

 
1962 July 2: Walmart founded in Rogers, Arkansas by Sam Walton.
         October 16 – 29: The Cuban Missile Crisis nearly causes nuclear war.
 
1963 March 22: The Beatles' first record, Please Please Me, and the beginnings of the British Invasion.

August 28: Martin Luther King Jr. delivers "I Have a Dream" speech at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.

November 22: Assassination of John F. Kennedy. Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson assumes office as President of the United States.

 
1964 July 2: Civil Rights Act abolishes segregation in the USA.

August 2: The Gulf of Tonkin incident led to the escalation of U.S. military involvement in the Vietnam War.

November 28: NASA launches the Mariner 4 space probe from Cape Kennedy toward Mars to take television pictures of that planet in July 1965.

1965 February 21: Assassination of Malcolm X.

March 17: The Voting Rights Act of 1965, inspired by the Selma to Montgomery marches.

1966 October 21: The Aberfan disaster, the catastrophic collapse of a colliery spoil tip (pile of waste coal

mining material) in Aberfan, Wales results in 144 deaths.

Joseph Weizenbaum, a German computer scientist at MIT, completes ELIZA, the first ever chatbot.

 
1967 May 26: The Beatles release their landmark album Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band.

Mid-year: Summer of Love, in which as many as 100,000 people, mostly young people sporting hippie fashions of dress and behavior, converged in San Francisco's neighborhood of Haight-Ashbury.

 
1968 January – September: The Tet Offensive occurs in South Vietnam.

March 16: My Lai massacre, a mass murder and rape of unarmed South Vietnamese civilians by U.S. troops in the Vietnam War.    

April 4: Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. during the Poor People's Campaign.

June 5: Assassination of Robert F. Kennedy during the Poor People's Campaign.

September - National Guard deployed to Waterloo, Iowa, after riots.

 
1969 June 28 – July 3: The Stonewall riots in New York City instigate the gay rights movement.

July 20: Apollo 11 Moon landing, in which Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin become the first two humans on the moon.

August: The Woodstock festival in Bethel, New York, attracts an audience of more than 400,000.

October 29: Creation of Advanced Research Projects Agency Network (ARPANET), the earliest incarnation of the Internet.

November 10: Sesame Street premieres its debut episode.
 

You can also find our lists of ideas and books we have available at the library on our website https://www.traer.lib.ia.us/ or pick up lists at the circulation desk.
 
Blank Park Zoo Passes:
The library is again offering a limited number of passes to the Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines.  These passes are good for One Free Child Admission (ages 3-12). Passes are available at the circulation desk.  Please only request one pass per child.
 
New DVDs:
Avatar: The Way of the Water
The Super Mario Bros. Movie
The Americans – the complete TV Series
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
Don’t skip out on the Fourth of July barbeque – that could be a missed steak.

Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

 

June 26, 2023

 












Yes, these are made with felted wool! You can see more examples of her beautiful art pieces on her website https://www.meganhammer.com/

Blank Park Zoo Passes:
The library is again offering a limited number of passes to the Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines.  These passes are good for One Free Child Admission (ages 3-12). Passes are available at the circulation desk.  Please only request one pass per child.
 
New Books:
 
Fiction:
Fruitcake and Fear - #8 Peridale Café Series by Agatha Frost
The Secret Life of Sunflowers by Marta Molnar
The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer
 
Teen:
Enduring Freedom by Jawad Arash and Dysart native Trent Reedy
 
Junior Fiction:
Cat Ninja #4 by Matthew Cody
Stella Batts # 6-10 by Courtney Sheinmel
The Ghostess with the Mostest by JoJo Siwa
Jingle Bows and Mistletoe by JoJo Siwa
 
Non-Fiction:
Trishas’s Kitchen: easy comfort food for friends and family by Trisha Yearwood
The Things Our Father­s Saw: The Un­told S­to­ries of the World War II Gen­er­a­tion from Home­town, USA: #2 The War in the Air Book One by Matthew A. Rozell
The Things our ­Fa­ther­s ­Saw: The un­told s­to­ries of the World War II ­Gen­er­a­tion from Home­town, USA: #3 The War in the Air Book T­wo: ­com­bat­, ­cap­tiv­i­ty, and re­union by Matthew A. Rozell
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
The calf complained to his mother cow, “Why do I have to find someplace in the field to lie down and sleep?” She explained, “It’s pasture bedtime.”

Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

June 19, 2023

Good Morning!

On The Calendar:
Monday, June 19 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday, June 19 at 2:00 Book Club
Monday, June 19 at 3:00 NO APPLIQUE this month
Monday, June 19 at 5:30 Chat & Chew
Tuesday June 20 at 1:30 English Paper Piecing with Cathy McFarland
Tuesday June 20 at 2:00 Summer Teen Book Club with Jamie Jacobs
Wednesday June 21 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday June 21 at 10:00 Summer Reading Kids Programming: Fire and Ice Show!
Wednesday June 21 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday June 21 at 3:30 Garden Walk – Wilson Nature Preserve with Ned Vaughn
Thursday June 22 at 1:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday June 22 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday June 23 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Friday June 23 at 2:30 The Relationship Between Hearing Loss and Alzheimer’s with Dr. Robert Keefer (NOTE TIME CHANGE)
Monday June 26 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday June 26 at 2:00 BINGO
Tuesday June 27 at 1:05 Outside the Lines Coloring
Tuesday June 27 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday June 28 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday June 28 at 10:00 Summer Reading Kids Programming: Blank Park Zoo
Wednesday June 28 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday June 28 at 3:30 Garden Walks – Linda Gowdy & Susie Reichmann
Thursday June 29 at 1:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday June 29 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday June 30 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty

Book Clubs Today:
Our Monday Book Club meets today at 2:00 to discuss The Radium Girls by Kate Moore. The story, history and strength of these amazing women should make for a good discussion. We will also be handing out next month’s selection, The Sowing Season, by Katie Powner.

After he's forced to sell the family farm he's labored on his whole life, 63-year-old Gerrit Laninga doesn't know what to do with himself. He sacrificed everything for the land--his time, his health, his family--with nothing to show for it but bitterness, regret, and two grown children who want nothing to do with him.

Fifteen-year-old Rae Walters has growing doubts and fears about The Plan--the detailed blueprint for high school that will help her follow in her lawyer father's footsteps. She's always been committed to The Plan, but now that the pressure to succeed is building, what was supposed to unite her family in purpose, may end up tearing it apart.

When their paths cross just as they each need a friend the most, Gerrit's and Rae's lives begin to change in unexpected ways. Can they discover together what really matters in life and learn it's never too late for a second chance?

All are invited to join our book discussions.  You can pick up a copy of the current month’s selection at the circulation desk.  We usually have several Regular and Large Print copies available.
 
Our Chat & Chew Book Club will also meet today, at 5:30.  This is a very informal group. We discuss books we are currently reading or have read recently, or have heard about, while enjoying a slice of pizza.

English Paper Piecing:
On Tuesday, June 20 at 1:30, Cathy McFarland will give a brief history of English Paper Piecing, then lead the class in making your own project to take home. English Paper Piecing involves stabilizing fabric pieces with paper. Once the shapes are wrapped and ready, the sewer will hand sew the shapes together one at a time until the shapes become an intricate design.
There will be a cost of $10 for each participant. You will each receive your own kit. Please contact the library to sign up for this interesting class!

Summer Teen Book Club:
Attention Teens! Join us for a very informal discussion about the books you've been reading this summer!  NT Senior Jamie Jacobs will be leading the discussion. Come hang out, have a snack, and talk about books you’ve read, or heard about and want to read.
We will meet at 2:00 on the following Tuesdays:
June 20
July 18
August 15
 
Summer Reading Program: The Fun Continues!
 
Get FIRED UP for this week’s program! On Wednesday, June 21 at 10:00, Absolute Science will present their Fire and Ice Reaction Show! You'll see Fire light up in different beautiful colors. You'll see the freezing magic of Liquid Nitrogen. You'll even learn how to make Smoke appear like a genie out of a bottle in this amazing show about chemical reactions! Don’t miss this exciting program!
 

Next Wednesday, June 28, the Blank Park Zoo will be back and bringing some live animal friends!
 

All programs are at 10:00 AM in the Kupka Cultural Center in the lower level of the library.

 
Children can register any time for our On Your Mark, Get Set, READ! Summer Reading Challenge and receive a goal sheet, a free book, pencil and vinyl sticker. They will decorate their own race car to move along our bulletin board race track. For every completed goal sheet, their car advances to the next pit stop on the race track, earning a small prize! Your child can pick up a new goal sheet and keep on reading. Every time they bring a completed goal sheet to the library, they can advance their car and earn additional prizes!! Once they reach the finish line, their name will be put into a drawing for some BIGGER prizes. Please contact the library at 319-478-2180 with any questions you have.
 
Garden Walk: Wednesday, June 21 at 3:30:
Our Garden Walk this week will be at the Carl & Evelyn Wilson Nature Preserve, with Ned Vaughn as our guide. Meet at the library to ride together, or meet us there.  The Preserve is located at the west end of 6^th Street in Traer.
 
The Relationship Between Hearing Loss and Alzheimer’s with Dr. Robert Keefer:
Come to the Talen Community Room on Friday, June 23 at 2:30 (NOTE TIME CHANGE), to hear Dr. Robert Keefer speak about the relationship between hearing loss and Dementia/Alzheimers.  Dr. Keefer (son and brother to Traer residents Kathleen Keefer and Mark Keefer) has recently published The Alzheimer's/Hearing Aid Paradox: In Search of Sanity on his groundbreaking findings, and will share this important information with us.

The facts are staggering. Scientific studies have shown that people with hearing loss have up to a five hundred percent higher risk of dementia (including Alzheimer's), as well as serious falls and clinical depression. Today, around six million Americans have Alzheimer's--a number that is only expected to increase and overwhelm the healthcare system in the next five to seven years.

In a groundbreaking presentation, Dr. Robert Keefer relies on thirty years of experience in the healthcare industry and the results of his meticulous research to offer insights on how to correct outdated Medicare policies, improve US hearing healthcare, and ensure well-performing hearing aids for everyone in need. After detailing why people with hearing loss don't use hearing aids, he leads us on a journey into the world of these tiny medical devices, the US hearing healthcare matrix, the technology, and costs surrounding hearing aids, stories of those with hearing loss, wisdom from audiologists in their own words, and ways to advocate for changes that save hundreds of billions of dollars in healthcare expenses.

Blank Park Zoo Passes:
The library is again offering a limited number of passes to the Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines.  These passes are good for One Free Child Admission (ages 3-12). Passes are available at the circulation desk.  Please only request one pass per child.
 
New Books:
 
Fiction:
The Midnight News by Jo Baker
Tom Clancy: Flash Point – a Jack Ryan Jr. novel by Don Bentley
Only the Dead - #6 Terminal List Series by Jack Carr
The Diva Delvers on a Promise - #15 Domestic Diva Series by Krista Davis
Blueberry Blunder - #8 Amish Candy Shop Series by Amanda Flower
In the Shadow of the River by Ann H. Gabhart
The Shifting Current - #4 Coastal Guardians Series by Dani Pettrey
Lie to Her - #6 Bree Taggert Series by Melinda Leigh
You are Here by Karin Lin-Greenberg
The House on Prytania - #2 Royal Street Series by Karen White
Never Forget You by Fiona Lucas
The Housemaid by Freida McFadden
Summer Reading by Jennifer McKinlay
Things I Wish I Told my Mother by Sue Patterson
Identity by Nora Roberts
One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle
 
Teen:
Legendborn - #1 Legendborn Cycle Series by Tracy Deonn
Bloodmarked - #2 Legendborn Cycle Series by Tracy Deonn
 
Junior Fiction:
Doggo and Pupper Series (Books 1-3) by Katherine Applegate
Cat Ninja Series (Graphic Novel Series Books 1-3) by Matthew Cody
One for the Murphys by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
Who’s in Charge - #5 Stella Batts Series by Courtney Scheinmel
 
Non-Fiction:
Follow Me to Hell: McNelly’s Texas Rangers and the rise of frontier justice by Tom Clavin
The Summer of 1876: outlaws, lawmen, and legends in the season that defined the American West by Chris Wimmer
I’m Glad my Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
 
Memorial Books:
Birding Basics: tips, tools and techniques for great bird watching by Noah K. Strycker, given in memory of Barbara Bauch by Farmers Savings Bank & Trust
The Travel Book: a journey through every country in the world by Lonely Planet, given in memory of William C. Talen by Farmers Savings Bank & Trust
The Wedding Planner (Large Print) by Danielle Steel, given in memory of Barbara Dedic by Farmers Savings Bank & Trust
Wings of War: The World War II fighter plane that saved the Allies and the believers who made it fly by David Fairbank White, given in memory of Jon Nagel by Marilyn Nagel
 
DVDs:
Paw Patrol – The Great Pirate Rescue!
Pokemon Collectors Set: 4 movies
Creed III
The Bible Stories: Jesus
65
Travel the Road - Season 1
Tulsa King – Season 1
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
What do you call a pig with laryngitis? Disgruntled.

Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

June 12, 2023

The facts are staggering. Scientific studies have shown that people with hearing loss have up to a five hundred percent higher risk of dementia (including Alzheimer's), as well as serious falls and clinical depression. Today, around six million Americans have Alzheimer's--a number that is only expected to increase and overwhelm the healthcare system in the next five to seven years.

In a groundbreaking presentation, Dr. Robert Keefer relies on thirty years of experience in the healthcare industry and the results of his meticulous research to offer insights on how to correct outdated Medicare policies, improve US hearing healthcare, and ensure well-performing hearing aids for everyone in need. After detailing why people with hearing loss don't use hearing aids, he leads us on a journey into the world of these tiny medical devices, the US hearing healthcare matrix, the technology, and costs surrounding hearing aids, stories of those with hearing loss, wisdom from audiologists in their own words, and ways to advocate for changes that save hundreds of billions of dollars in healthcare expenses.

 
New Books:
Fiction:
It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey
Once You See: Seven Temptations of the Western Church by Jeff Christopherson
The Perks of Being a Parker - #6 Moonbeam Bay Series by Kay Correll
Restaurant on the Wharf - #4 Blue Heron Cottages Series by Kay Correll
Magpie by Elizabeth Day
Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney
Macarons and Mayhem - #7 Peridale Café Mystery by Agatha Frost
The Girls in the Snow by Stacy Green
The Glittering Hour by Iona Grey
Dessert at the Beach House Hotel - #6 Beach House Hotel Series by Judith Keim
Marriage Vow Murder - #9 Merry Wrath Series by Leslie Langtry
The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna
The Varsity Dad Dilema by Lex Martin
The Perfect Marriage by Jeneva Rose
One Last Gift by Emily Stone
Wild at Heart - #2 Simple Wild Series by K.A. Tucker
 
Large Print:
Where Coyotes Howl by Sandra Dallas
Seabreeze Sunset - #3 Summer Beach Series by Jan Moran
 
Teen:
Dead Girls Can’t Tell Secrets by Chelsea Ichaso
Cold Hearted: a tale of the wicked stepmother by Serena Valentino
Poor Unfortunate Soul : a tale of the sea witch by Serena Valentino
 
Non-Fiction:
The Alzheimer’s/Hearing Aid Paradox: In Search of Sanity by Robert C. Keefer, PhD
Murder, Motherhood, and Miraculous Grace by Debra Moerke
Homer’s Odyssey: a fearless feline tale, or, how I learned about love and life with a blind wonder cat by Gwen Cooper
 
DVDs:
Dungeons and Dragons – Honor Among Thieves
Blessed & Cursed
Brother White
Homeless for the Holidays
Space Jam
A Place for Heroes
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
A cartoonist was found dead in his home.  Details are sketchy.
 
Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

June 5, 2023

Good Morning!
 
On The Calendar:
 
Monday, June 5 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Tuesday June 6 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday June 7 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday June 7 at 10:00 Summer Reading Kids Programming: Spy Adventures with Jenny Hulme
Wednesday June 7 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday June 7 at 2:00 Carnegie Café Coffee & Crafts
Wednesday June 7 at 3:30 Garden Walks – Laurie Schafer & Diane Wagner
Thursday June 8 at 1:30 Cribbage and Rummikub**Note change in time for summer
Thursday June 8 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday June 9 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday June 12 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday June 12 from 1:00-4:00 Books for Cooks for Grades K-5 (Pre-registration was required)
Tuesday June 13 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday June 14 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday June 14 at 10:00 Summer Reading Kids Programming: Toby KID
Wednesday June 14 at 11:30 Scones & Tomes
Wednesday June 14 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday June 14 at 3:30 Garden Walk – Emily Doyle
Thursday June 15 at 1:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday June 15 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Thursday June 15 at 6:00 “Lifespan” Book Discussion with Rex McKee
Friday June 16 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty

It’s SUMMER!! We have lots of children’s activities going on at the library, online resources your children can access through our website or on our library computers, and lots and lots of children’s books and videos to check out!

Summer Reading Program!
We are getting ready for our 2023 Summer Reading Program with the theme On Your Mark, Get Set, READ!
 
Beginning this Wednesday, June 7, children can register for our Summer Reading Challenge and receive a goal sheet and a free book, pencil and vinyl sticker! When your child completes the goal sheet, they can return it to the library. When they return their first goal sheet, they can design a race car and advance their car to the first stop on the race track. They will also earn a small prize! Your child can pick up a new goal sheet and keep on reading. Every time they bring a completed goal sheet to the library, they can advance their car and earn additional prizes!! Once they reach the finish line, their name will be put into a drawing for some BIGGER prizes. Please contact the library at 319-478-2180 with any questions you have.
 
We also have some fun and exciting programming planned for June!  All programs will be on Wednesdays at 10:00 AM in the Kupka Cultural Center in the lower level of the library.
 
June 7 - Jenny Hulme with Iowa State Extension & Outreach will have fun with Spy Adventures!
 
June 14 - The Funny Farm presents Toby KID Klauenberg, whose interactive comedy/magic show will have both kids and adults laughing!
 
June 21 - Absolute Science presents their Fire and Ice Reaction Show! You'll see Fire light up in different beautiful colors. You'll see the freezing magic of Liquid Nitrogen. You'll even learn how to make Smoke appear like a genie out of a bottle in this amazing show about chemical reactions!
 
June 28 - The Blank Park Zoo will be back and bringing some live animal friends!
 
Tumblebooks – FREE kids ebooks online:
During summer vacation, when your kids or grandkids say “I’m bored!”, don’t forget about Tumblebooks! Tumblebooks is an online collection of e-books for children.  It can be accessed from any device with internet, so they can read on a computer, tablet or phone.
 
Kids can read along with over 1,100 animated, talking picture books, as well as chapter books, non-fiction books, and graphic novels, and play games and put together puzzles. And it’s all FREE for our library patrons! Just go to our website www.traer.lib.ia.us, click on the Tumblebooks box on the homepage, and put in your library card number. Or download the free Tumblebooks app.
 
Brainfuse: FREE online resources:
Need some boredom busters to keep kids engaged? Don’t let what kids learned in school fade away this summer! Keep their skills engaged by visiting the Brainfuse Help Now Online Summer Skills Camp. It has printable worksheets in all kinds of subjects for free. This is a great resource for caregivers too! 
 
To access these resources, go to our website  https://www.traer.lib.ia.us and click on the red Online Resources box. Then click the orange Brainfuse HelpNow button. Access the Summer Skills Camp under "Study." (look for the sun icon)
 
ABC Mouse:
ABCMouse.com early Learning Academy is a digital computer game for children ages 2-8.  You can access their website for FREE on any of the computers in our lab! Subjects covered include reading and language arts, math, science, health, social studies, music and art.  Activities include puzzles, games, videos, coloring activities, songs, and poems.  There are also some digital books. Come play along with your child, or let them work and play alone, as you use the computer next to them.

Garden Walks:
Garden walks will begin on June 7 at 3:30. We will be going to visit the gardens of Laurie Schafer and Diane Wagner. You can meet at the library to ride together, or call the library for their addresses and directions.
 
Summer Time Change for Cribbage and Rummikub:
For the months of June, July and August, our Cribbage and Rummikub groups will be meeting at 1:30 PM every Thursday.  Stop by for a few games and beat the afternoon heat in our nice cool library! We welcome new players – no experience is necessary!
 
English Paper Piecing:
On Tuesday, June 20 at 1:30, Cathy McFarland will give a brief history of English Paper Piecing, then lead the class in making your own project to take home. English Paper Piecing involves stabilizing fabric pieces with paper. Once the shapes are wrapped and ready, the sewer will hand sew the shapes together one at a time until the shapes become an intricate design.
There will be a cost of $10 for each participant. You will each receive your own kit. Please contact the library to sign up for this interesting class!

In search of…. Pine Cones!
Laurie is looking for some large pine cones (the size of your fist) that she is planning to use for an upcoming craft.  If you happen to have any, please bring them to the library, or give us a call!
 
Decade Challenge:
New month – new Decade for the Book Challenge! In June, our focus will be the 1950’s. Pick up a list of book ideas at the circulation desk, check out a book from our display, or search the catalog for your own ideas. You can also find our lists of ideas and books on our website https://www.traer.lib.ia.us/ .
 
New Books:
You can always see what new books we have on our website. Click on the orange Catalog Search flag in the top right corner of our homepage, or the orange library catalog box below the library photos, and you can see covers of our newest books scrolling across the top. You can also click on the What’s New tab in the What’s Hot box.
 
We have lots of new children’s books at the library – too many to list, but here’s a sample. 
 
Easy Books:
Dogs On Duty (Herding, Military, Service and Search & Rescue)
Animal Battles
Look and Find
I Can Read books
Owl Diaries #14 - #18
 
Junior Non-Fiction:
X-treme Facts: Engineering (books about buildings, bridges, cities, dams, tunnels and vehicles)
Cutting Edge Technology (Bionic Pets, Drones, Self-Driving Cars, Virtual Reality, Nanotechnology, Artificial Intelligence)
Amazing Animal Self Defense (Bloody Eyes, Bubbling Drool, Deadly Quills, Gooey Slime, Oozing Toxins, Eye-Watering Stink)
Animals At Risk (Axolotis, Tasmanian Devil)
What Do We Know About….. (Crop Circles, Atlantis, Loch Ness Monster)
Sports & E-Sports
Healthy Living
 
VOX Books:
VOX Books capture children’s attention by combining picture books with audio recordings. The permanently attached VOX Reader transforms an ordinary print book into an all-in-one read-along. There’s no need for computers, tablets, or CDs. Children simply push a button to listen and read along!
 
Mermaid School by Lucy Courtenay
Rick the Rock of Room 214 by Julie Falatko
Little Houses by Kevin Henkes
Home is Where the Heart Is by Cam Higgins
Come Home Already by Jory John
The Digger and the Duckling by Joseph Kuefler
Moon River by Johnny Mercer
Where is the Dragon by Leo Timmers
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
A termite walks into a bar and asks “Is the bar tender here?”
 
Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

May 29, 2023

In this paradigm-shifting book from acclaimed Harvard Medical School doctor and one of TIME magazine’s 100 most influential people on earth, Dr. David Sinclair reveals that everything we think we know about ageing is wrong, and shares the surprising, scientifically-proven methods that can help readers live younger, longer.
For decades, the medical community has looked to a variety of reasons for why we age, and the consensus is that no one dies of old age; they die of age-related diseases. That's because ageing is not a disease – it is inevitable.

But what if everything you think you know about ageing is wrong?
What if ageing is a disease? And that disease is curable.

Garden Walks:
This summer we will once again be offering Garden Walks through local gardens.  The walks are a wonderful way to see what your neighbors are growing, share tips and techniques, and get ideas for your own gardens. Our first walk will be on June 7 at 3:30. We will be going to visit the gardens of Laurie Schafer and Diane Wagner. You can meet at the library to ride together, or call the library for their addresses and directions.
 
Summer Time Change for Cribbage and Rummikub:
For the months of June, July and August, our Cribbage and Rummikub groups will be meeting at 1:30 PM every Thursday.  Stop by for a few games and beat the afternoon heat in our nice cool library! We welcome new players – no experience is necessary!
 
New Kids Books on Healthy Living:
We recently received a grant from the Tama County Public Health SKIP* Program (*Supporting Kids in Prevention) to purchase 10 new children’s books that focus on living a healthy lifestyle! The book topics focus on the importance of healthy eating and physical activity, as well as mental and social health. Some cover physical movement, from sports and exercise, to general ways to be more active, to yoga. Others focus on healthy eating and foods, or taking care of your physical, mental and social health.  Stop by with your kids and check them out!
 
Traer Fashion Show DVD:
If you missed the Sesquicentennial Fashion Show “Traer’s Apparel Through the Ages” in April, we have good news!  Bruce and Judy Morrison videotaped the show, and we now have a copy on DVD here at the library and available to check out!
 
In search of…. Pine Cones!
Laurie is looking for some large pine cones (the size of your fist) that she is planning to use for an upcoming craft.  If you happen to have any, please bring them to the library, or give us a call!
 
Decade Challenge:
On Thursday it will be June already - which means a new decade for the Book Challenge! In June, our focus will be the 1950’s. With the Great Depression just a memory and the post-WWII economy strong, the 1950s began a time of rapid change in the US. Families were growing fast, giving rise to the baby boomer generation, and began flocking to the suburbs in search of an “idyllic” life amid increasing fears of the atomic bomb. The Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Civil Rights movement were major news topics of the 1950s, but here are a few other noteworthy events:
 
June 1950s:
 1950   August 25: Bertie the Brain, one of the first computer games, is released.

May 22, 2023

Good Morning!
 
On The Calendar:
Monday, May 22 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday May 22 at 2:00 BINGO
Tuesday May 23 at 1:05 Outside the Lines Coloring
Tuesday May 23 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday May 24 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday May 24 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday May 24 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday May 24 at 2:00 Sesquicentennial Highlights with Judy Morrison
Wednesday May 24 at 2:45-4:30 Early Out Activities for 4th-12^th Graders (last one for this school year)
Thursday May 25 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday May 25 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday May 26 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Saturday, May 27-Monday May 29 CLOSED for Memorial Day weekend
Tuesday May 30 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday May 31 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday May 31 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday May 31 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Thursday June 1 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday June 1 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Thursday June 1 at 6:00 “Lifespan” Book Discussion with Rex McKee
Friday June 2 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty

NOTE: The library will be closed Saturday May 27-Monday, May 29 for the Memorial Day holiday weekend.
 
BINGO Today!
Join DuLaine today, May 22, at 2:00 in the Talen Community Room for some friendly games of BINGO and socializing. You can win fun prizes!
 
Outside The Lines:
Come to the library for a relaxing hour of coloring tomorrow, Tuesday May 23, at 1:05. We provide colored pencils, markers, cards, bookmarks, or coloring books for you, or bring your own supplies and come to socialize and relax. There is no cost or sign up required.
 
Sesquicentennial Highlights with Judy Morrison:
On Wednesday, May 24, at 2:00 in the Talen Community Room, Judy Morrison will be giving a presentation about Traer's Sesquicentennial, highlighting the events scheduled throughout the year.  There are lots of exciting things happening to celebrate our 150 years! Judy and the rest of the Sesquicentennial Committee have put in an enormous amount of time planning these events, culminating in a big Party in the Park on June 3rd. Come learn more about these events, along with a bit of history of our wonderful town.


“Lifespan” Book Discussion with Rex McKee
Would you like to live longer and healthier? Join our new Book Discussion group beginning on Thursday, June 1 at 6:00 in the Talen Community Room as we discuss the book “Lifespan: Why We Age – and Why We Don’t Have To” by David A Sinclair, PhD.

In this paradigm-shifting book from acclaimed Harvard Medical School doctor and one of TIME magazine’s 100 most influential people on earth, Dr. David Sinclair reveals that everything we think we know about ageing is wrong, and shares the surprising, scientifically-proven methods that can help readers live younger, longer.

For decades, the medical community has looked to a variety of reasons for why we age, and the consensus is that no one dies of old age; they die of age-related diseases. That's because ageing is not a disease – it is inevitable.

But what if everything you think you know about ageing is wrong?
What if ageing is a disease? And that disease is curable.

May 15, 2023

The incredible true story of the women who fought America’s Undark danger

The Curies’ newly discovered element of radium makes gleaming headlines across the nation as the fresh face of beauty, and wonder drug of the medical community. From body lotion to tonic water, the popular new element shines bright in the otherwise dark years of the First World War.

Meanwhile, hundreds of girls toil amidst the glowing dust of the radium-dial factories. The glittering chemical covers their bodies from head to toe; they light up the night like industrious fireflies. With such a coveted job, these “shining girls” are the luckiest alive — until they begin to fall mysteriously ill.

But the factories that once offered golden opportunities are now ignoring all claims of the gruesome side effects, and the women’s cries of corruption. And as the fatal poison of the radium takes hold, the brave shining girls find themselves embroiled in one of the biggest scandals of America’s early 20th century, and in a groundbreaking battle for workers’ rights that will echo for centuries to come.

Written with a sparkling voice and breakneck pace, The Radium Girls fully illuminates the inspiring young women exposed to the “wonder” substance of radium, and their awe-inspiring strength in the face of almost impossible circumstances. Their courage and tenacity led to life-changing regulations, research into nuclear bombing, and ultimately saved hundreds of thousands of lives...
 

Stop in and join the discussion or pick up next month’s selection at the circulation desk.
 
 
Chat & Chew Today:
At 5:30, join us for Chat & Chew, an informal Book Club where we share the books we have been reading lately, while enjoying a slice of pizza.
 
 
Planting our Raised Bed Gardens!
Join Laurie and Stephenie on Wednesday, May 17 to plant our raised bed gardens behind the library! Then feel free to stop by anytime to check on the plants and pluck a weed or 2!

 
Watercolors with Stephenie:
Stephenie Bellwood will be leading another Watercolor Class on Friday, May 19 at 2:00 in the Talen Community Room. She will guide you through painting your own watercolor picture to take home.  You can learn some basic techniques, practice what you already know, and even learn new techniques and get new ideas.  There is no cost and all supplies are provided.

 
BINGO date change:
Please note that BINGO this month will be moved up a week to Monday, May 22 at 2:00, due to the library being closed on Monday May 29 for Memorial Day

 
Sesquicentennial Highlights with Judy Morrison:
On Wednesday, May 24, at 2:00 in the Talen Community Room, Judy Morrison will be giving a presentation about Traer's Sesquicentennial, highlighting the events scheduled throughout the year.  There are lots of exciting things happening to celebrate our 150 years! Judy and the rest of the Sesquicentennial Committee have put in an enormous amount of time planning these events, culminating in a big Party in the Park on June 3rd. Come learn more about these events, along with a bit of history of our wonderful town.
 


Summer Reading Program!
We are getting ready for our 2023 Summer Reading Program with the theme On Your Mark, Get Set, READ!
 
We have lots of fun activities planned for the summer, and we will be sharing more details on our reading challenge soon!
 
We have some fun and exciting programming planned for June!  All programs will be on Wednesdays at 10:00 AM in the Kupka Cultural Center in the lower level of the library.
 

May 8, 2023

Good Morning!

On The Calendar:
 
Monday May 8 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Tuesday May 9 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday May 10 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday May 10 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday May 10 at 11:30 Scones & Tomes
Wednesday May 10 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday May 10 at 2:00 Creative Crocheting with Sandra & Julie
Wednesday May 10 at 2:45-4:30 Early Out Activities for 4th-12^th Graders
Thursday May 11 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday May 11 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday May 12 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday, May 15 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday May 15 at 2:00 Book Club
Monday May 15 at 3:00 Applique Class
Monday May 15 at 5:30 Chat & Chew
Tuesday May 16 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday May 17 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday May 17 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday May 17 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday May 17 at 2:00 Planting our Raised Bed Gardens
Wednesday May 17 at 2:45-4:30 Early Out Activities for 4th-12^th Graders
Thursday May 18 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday May 18 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday May 19 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Friday May 19 at 2:00 Watercolors with Stephenie
 
Creative Crocheting with Sandra and Julie:
On Wednesday, May 10 at 2:00, join Sandra Hyde and Julie Creeden, a mother-daughter team who enjoy crocheting together. Come and learn how the dynamic duo enjoy the love of crafting and time together as they crochet rugs and other creative things.  Sandra will also share how she makes fabric yarn for making her rugs.












 

May 1, 2023

Good Afternoon!  Happy May Day!

On the Calendar:

Monday, May 1 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Tuesday May 2 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday May 3 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday May 3 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday May 3 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday May 3 at 2:00 Carnegie Café Coffee & Crafts
Wednesday May 3 at 2:45-4:30 Early Out Activities for 4th-12^th Graders
Thursday May 4 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday May 4 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday May 5 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday May 8 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Tuesday May 9 25 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday May 10 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday May 10 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday May 10 at 11:30 Scones & Tomes
Wednesday May 10 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday May 10 at 2:00 Creative Crocheting with Sandra & Julie
Wednesday May 10 at 2:45-4:30 Early Out Activities for 4th-12^th Graders
Thursday May 11 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday May 11 at 2:15 Chair Yoga
Friday May 12 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
 
Carnegie Cafe Coffee & Crafts:
Come to the Carnegie Cafe on Wednesday, May 3 at 2:00 to make a simple seasonal craft and enjoy a hot beverage.  There is no cost or sign-up required, and we provide any supplies needed.
 
Creative Crocheting with Sandra and Julie:
On Wednesday, May 10 at 2:00, join Sandra Hyde and Julie Creeden, a mother-daughter team who enjoy crocheting together. Come and learn how the dynamic duo enjoy the love of crafting and time together as they crochet rugs and other creative things.  Sandra will also share how she makes fabric yarn for making her rugs.
Here are examples of their Creative Crocheting!
 


Decades Book Challenge:
New month – new Decade for the Book Challenge! In May, our focus will be the 1940’s. The 1940s is the decade when Depression turns into prosperity, when disillusionment gives way to optimism, when want yields to plenty — and when domestic peace is shattered by world war. The 1940s were defined by World War II, the Holocaust, atomic bombs, and the beginning of the Cold War. Women were needed in the workforce to replace men who went to war, and wartime production pulled the U.S. out of the Great Depression. We have a plethora of WW2 books, both non-fiction and historical fiction. 

World War II dominated the decade, but there are a few other noteworthy events that happened in the 1940's.
You can also find our lists of ideas and books we have available at the library on our website https://www.traer.lib.ia.us/ or pick up lists at the circulation desk.
 
May - 1940s:
1940    May 15: McDonald's founded in San Bernardino, California.
1941    June–December: Hitler commences the Nazi invasion of the Soviet Union.
            December 7: The Japanese Attack on Pearl Harbor leads to the USA joining World War II.
1942    The Manhattan Project begins.
            July 5 – Anne Frank goes into hiding
1943    January 15: The Pentagon is completed.
            January 18: Warsaw Ghetto Uprising
           February 2: Battle of Stalingrad ends with over two million casualties and retreat of the German Army.
1944    June 1: First operational electronic computer, Colossus, comes online.
            June 6: D-Day when over 150,000 allied troops landed on beaches in Normandy, France
 1945    April 12: President Franklin D. Roosevelt died in office, making his vice president, Harry S. Truman the new president
            May:  End of World War II in Europe.
            The Holocaust ends after ~12 million deaths, including 6 million Jews.
            August: The US dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan, ending the war in the Pacific
            October 8: The microwave cooking oven is patented, with the one of the first prototypes placed at a Boston restaurant for testing.
           October 24:  United Nations charter signed by 50 nations.
1947    April 15: Jackie Robinson becomes the first baseball player of color.
            Polaroid cameras invented
            June 27:  Dead Sea Scrolls discovered.
1948    June 24: Berlin Blockade begins.
1949    June 8: George Orwell publishes Nineteen Eighty-Four.
 

New Books:

Fiction:
The Devine Donut Shop by Carolyn Brown
Curated Murder - #5 Calendar Murder Mysteries by Camilla Chafer
Bookshop Near the Coast - #3 Blue Heron Series by Kay Correll
The Parker Family Secret - #4 Moonbeam Bay Series by Kay Correll
Grace Parker’s Peach Pie - #5 Moonbeam Bay Series by Kay Correll
Clue Krew - #24 Miss Fortune Series by Jana DeLeon
The Beachgoers - #11 Seaside Saga Series by Joanne Demaio
The Metropolitan Affair by Jocelyn Green
The Unkindness of Ravens by M.E. Hilliard
Cod Name Edelweiss by Stephanie Landsem
Americanos, Apple Pies, and Art Thieves - #5 Cape Bay Café Series by Lin Harper
Twist of Fate - #2 Southern Storms Series by Lexie Nicholas
West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
Fields of Bounty - #3 Leah’s Garden Series by Lauraine Snelling
Fraser by Susan May Warren
 
Large Print:
Earth’s the Right Place for Love by Elizabeth Berg
Meet Me at Sunrise - #2 Hideaway Bay Series by Michele Brouder
Second Chance at Sunflower Ranch by Carolyn Brown
Another One Bites the Crust - #7 Oxford Tearoom Series by H Y Hanna
The Road to Golden Days - #2 Mailbox Mysteries Series by Melanie Lageschulte
Summer Breeze - #2 Summer Beach Series by Jan Moran
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
Helvetica and Times New Roman walk into a bar. “Get out of here!” shouts the rude bartender. “We don’t serve your type.”
 
Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

April 24, 2023

April 24, 2023April 17, 2023

April 10, 2023

April 3, 2023

Good Morning!

On the Calendar:

Monday April 3 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty

Tuesday April 4 at 1:00 Tuesday Quilters

Wednesday April 5 at 10:00 PenPals!

Wednesday April 5 at 10:15 Story Time

Wednesday April 5 at 12:00 Lunch & Learn: Container Gardening w/Emily

Wednesday April 5 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty

Wednesday April 5 at 2:00 Carnegie Café Coffee & Crafts

Wednesday April 5 at 2:45-3:30 Early Out Activities for 4th-12^th Graders

Thursday April 6 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub

Thursday April 6 at 2:15 Yoga

Friday April 7 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty

Saturday, April 8 Closed for Easter Weekend

Monday April 10 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty

Tuesday April 11 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters

Wednesday April 12 at 10:00 PenPals!

Wednesday April 12 at 10:15 Story Time

Wednesday April 12 at 11:30 Scones & Tomes Book Club

Wednesday April 12 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty

Wednesday April 12 at 2:00 Building a Raised Bed Garden w/Laurie

Wednesday April 12 at 2:45-4:30 Early Out Activities for 4th-12^th Graders

Thursday April 13 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub

Thursday April 13 at 2:15 Yoga

Friday April 14 NO Fit & Feisty

 

Upcoming Gardening Programs:

 

Lunch & Learn - Container Gardening w/Emily:

Bring your lunch and eat while you learn about Container Gardening.  Emily Doyle will join us on Wednesday, April 5 at noon to give us more information and tips on growing your plants in containers.

Raised Bed Gardens at the library:

The Library has received a donation of 2 raised bed gardens from the Traer Lions Club!  We will eventually be planting seeds there, and growing produce to give away!

 

We will be assembling the beds on Wednesday, April 12 at 2:00, as Laurie talks more about raised bed gardening. We will then be placing them behind the library.

 

On Wednesday, April 19 at 2:00, Laurie will be filling the beds to get them ready for planting.  She will talk about what to put into your raised bed, besides plain ol' dirt! Come to learn more, and help her get the beds ready for planting!

 

Chair Yoga Classes – Resume this Thursday:

Cat! Cow! Warrior! Incredible Hulk! What do these things have in common? Yoga Poses!! Come to our Chair Yoga Class on Thursdays at 2:15, resuming on April 6.  Learn some relaxation techniques, and some gentle ways to improve your flexibility, strength and balance. Do Not Be Afraid! Ellen Stoakes leads us in this gentle, beginner class, and you DO NOT have to get down on (or up from) the floor! All exercises are from a seated or standing position, using the chair for balance.

 

Bring your yoga mat, water bottle, and wear comfortable clothes.  Come give it a try!
 

Fashion Show – Traer’s Apparel Through the Ages: April 16

Mark your calendars for what is sure to be a wonderful afternoon. Come to the Library's Kupka Cultural Center on Sunday, April 16 at 2:00 to enjoy a live fashion show event featuring local and historical clothing from the 1870s - through the 1950s. The event will feature Jean Kruse as Master of Ceremonies, Jenny Hulme playing the Grand Piano, and many local models.

 

Admission is FREE, and there is limited seating. A reception is planned following the show at the Traer Historical Museum.

 

This event is being planned by the Traer Sesquicentennial Committee in celebration of Traer's 150 Years of Pride and Progress.

 

 

 

Decades Book Challenge: April - 1930s:

 

Are you participating in our Decades Book Challenge to celebrate Traer’s 150 years? We kicked off January with the 1870s – 1890s. In February we moved into the 1900s – 1910s, and in March we focused on the Roaring 20’s. Our April decade is the 1930’s. Some major events of this decade include:

 

The Great Depression

The Star Spangled Banner is adopted as the United State’s national anthem 1931

Empire State Building completed 1931

The Lindbergh baby kidnapping 1932

The neutron is discovered by James Chadwick 1932

FDR inaugurated for 4th term1933

Prohibition abolished1933

Bonnie & Clyde shot & killed 1934

Enactment of Nuremberg racial laws 1935

Hoover Dam completed 1936

Hindenburg crashes in New Jersey 1937

Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs first feature-length animated film released 1937

Time Magazine declares Adolph Hitler as Man of the Year 1938

Release of MGM's The Wizard of Oz 1939

Nazi invasion of Poland triggers WWII 1939

Release of Gone with the Wind 1939

 

You can still join in on our reading challenge! This is YOUR Challenge so you can choose how you fulfill the prompt. You can choose a book published in that decade, a book about an event from that decade or set in that decade, or any topic related to something from the decade.

 

Go to our website www.traer.lib.ia.us and click on the Join Our Decades Book Challenge link for more topic ideas and a list of books we have available, pick up lists at the circulation desk, or stop in or call the library for more details!

 

Stay Sharp Memory Kits available for checkout:

The Library has 3 new Stay Sharp Memory Kits now available for check out. The kits help support those experiencing Alzheimer’s, dementia, memory loss, and other cognitive impairment.

Each kit is intended to help you interact, converse, or reminisce with a person with cognitive decline. The kits include items that stimulate memory and help spark conversations about life experiences, such as books, photos, sensory tools, puzzles and games.

We have 3 kits available: Garden, Handyman, and Birds & Butterflies

 

FREE Seed Giveaway!!

We still have quite a few seeds left to give away! We received a generous donation of 2022 seed packets from Home Depot and are sharing them with our community! You can help yourself to some we have placed in the card catalog in the library entryway.  The rest are downstairs in the hallway – help yourself!

 

New Books:

Fiction:

Night Flight to Paris - #2 Kate Rees WWII novel by Cara Black

I Will Find You by Harlan Coben

Lessons at the School by the Sea - #3 School by the Sea Series by Jenny Colgan

Forget What You Know by Christina Dodd

What Have We Done by Alex Finlay

Peanut Butter panic - #7 Amish Candy Shop Mystery by Amanda Flower

Exiles - #2 Aaron Falk Series by Jane Harper

Murder Your Employer -McMasters Guide to Homicide Volume 1 by Rupert Holmes

All Your Perfects by Colleen Hoover

Letters of Trust by Wanda E. Brunstetter

Second Time Around by Melody Carlson

All That is Mine I Carry with Me by William Landay

The Sister Effect by Susan Mallery

A Fall of Marigolds by Susan Meissner

Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano

Once We Were Home by Jennifer Rosner

The Queen of Dirt Island by Donal Ryan

Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q Sutanto

The Silmarillion by J.R.R. Tolkien

 

Large Print:

Storm Watch - #23 Joe Pickett Series by C.J. Box

Unnatural History - #38 Alex Delaware Series by Jonathan Kellerman

 

Non-Fiction:

The Nazi Conspiracy: the secret plot to kill Roosevelt, Stalin, and Churchill by Brad Meltzer

 

Pun-Of-The-Week:

Some aquatic mammals at the zoo escaped.  It was otter chaos!

 

Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

 

March 27, 2023

March 20, 2023

When poet and writer Joy Davidman began writing letters to C. S. Lewis—known as Jack—she was looking for spiritual answers, not love. Love, after all, wasn’t holding together her crumbling marriage. Everything about New Yorker Joy seemed ill-matched for an Oxford professor and the beloved writer of The Chronicles of Narnia, yet their minds bonded over their letters.

Embarking on the adventure of her life, Joy traveled from America to England and back again, facing heartbreak and poverty, discovering friendship and faith, and against all odds, found a love that even the threat of death couldn’t destroy.

At 5:30, join us for Chat & Chew, an informal Book Club where we share the books we have been reading lately, while enjoying a slice of pizza.
 
Applique TODAY:
Applique will meet today at 3:00. Join Joan Schafer as she leads us through making our February applique mini-banner.  There is no sewing involved in making these adorable banners! If you missed previous classes that’s ok – you can still join us and get the materials to make them at home.  Cost is only $10 for materials for the whole year.
 
Birdhouse Painting with Connie Draper:
Mark your calendars for another fun painting activity!  On Wednesday, March 22 at 2:00, Connie Draper will guide you while you paint your own birdhouse! You can paint a simple or elaborate design – it is up to you. We provide the paint and birdhouses – you provide the creativity. We have approximately 18 birdhouses available, so if you want to reserve one, call the library or respond to this email.  HUGE THANK YOU TO PAUL WENDT for making all the birdhouses!!
 


Yoga Resumes in April:
Ellen Stoakes will be returning to lead our weekly Yoga class on Thursday, April 6.  We meet at 2:15 in the Kupka Cultural Center. Ellen leads us through basic yoga routines as we focus on stretching, flexibility, balance, and relaxing our minds.  All exercises are done sitting in your chair, or standing using the chair for balance if needed.  There is no getting down to or up from the floor!
Bring your yoga mat and water bottle, and wear comfortable clothes.

FREE Seed Giveaway!!
We still have A LOT of seeds left to give away! We received a generous donation of 2022 seed packets from Home Depot and are sharing them with our community! You can help yourself to some we have placed in the card catalog in the library entryway.  The rest are in tubs in the lower level hallway – help yourself! We have a huge selection – vegetables, fruits, flowers and herbs - Oh My!
 
New Books:
 
Teen:
As Old as Time by Liz Braswell
The Odd Sisters: a tale of three witches by Serena Valentino
Mother Knows Best: a tale of the old witch by Serena Valentino
Mistress of all Evil: a tale of the dark fairy by Serena Valentino
Covet by Tracy Wolff
 
DVDs:
A Man Called Otto
Women Talking

Pun-Of-The-Week:
I saw a woman in Walmart yesterday who had March Madness teeth.  She was down to her Final Four.
 
Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

March 13, 2023

Good Morning!

On the Calendar:
Monday, Mar 13 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Tuesday Mar 14 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Mar 15 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Mar 15 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday Mar 15 12:00 FREE Seed Giveaway
Wednesday Mar15 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Mar 15 at 2:00 Coffee Klatch
Wednesday Mar 15 at 2:45-4:30 Early Out Activities for 4th-12^th Graders
Thursday Mar 16 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Friday Mar 17 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Friday Mar 17 at 2:00 Watercolor Painting with Stephenie
Monday, Mar 20 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Monday, Mar 20 at 2:00 Book Club
Monday, Mar 20 at 3:00 Applique
Monday, Mar 20 at 5:30 Chat & Chew Book Club
Tuesday Mar 21 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Mar 22 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Mar 22 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday Mar 22 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Mar 22 at 2:00 Birdhouse Painting with Connie Draper
Wednesday Mar 22 at 2:45-3:30 Early Out Activities for 4th-12^th Graders
Wednesday Mar 22 at 3:30-4:00 Peas in a Pod Gardening Basics for 4^th–12^th Graders
Thursday Mar 23 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Friday Mar 23 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty

FREE Seed Giveaway:
We received a donation of A LOT of 2022 seed packets from Home Depot, and we are giving them away! You can help yourself to some we have placed in the card catalog in the library entryway.  Or you can stop by for an even wider selection on Wed. Mar 15 @ noon. Laurie will have them all spread out down in the Talen Community Room.
 
Coffee Klatch:
Join us this Wednesday, March 15 at 2:00 for Coffee Klatch! We meet in the Talen Community Room for coffee, cookies and conversation! This is simply a time to gather and socialize with friends and neighbors, and maybe meet someone new!

Watercolors with Stephenie:
Stephenie Bellwood is back to lead another Watercolor Painting Class! Join us this Friday, March 17 at 2:00 to learn some basic watercolor techniques, or just to practice what you already know and get new ideas.  Your painting will have a Springtime theme!  All supplies are provided.

Birdhouse Painting with Connie Draper:
Mark your calendars for another fun painting activity!  On Wednesday, March 22 at 2:00, Connie Draper will guide you while you paint your own birdhouse! You can paint a simple or elaborate design – it is up to you. We provide the paint and birdhouses – you provide the creativity. We have a limited number of birdhouses available, so if you want to reserve one, call the library or respond to this email.  HUGE THANK YOU to Kevin Pecenka for making all the birdhouses!!
 
 
New Books:
 
Fiction:
Murder at Haven’s Rock by Kelley Armstrong
Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree
Storm Watch - #23 Joe Picket Series by C.J. Box
Georgie, All Along by Kate Clayborn
A Calder at Heart - #3 Calder Brand Series by Janet Dailey
The Sunshine Girls by Molly Fader
Force of Nature - #2 Aaron Falk Series by Jane Harper
Paws & Pastries by Barbara Hinske
The Book Spy by Alan Hlad
Never Never by Colleen Hoover
Margaritas at the Beach House - #5 Beach House Hotel Series by Judith Keim
The Librarian of Burned Books by Brianna Labuskes
One Day with You by Shari Low
Burner - #12 Gray Man Series by Mark Greaney
The House of Wolves James Patterson & Mike Lupica
Go As A River by Shelley Read
Convincing Florence by Celine L.A. Simpson
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin
 
Easy Books:
Knight Owl by Christopher Denise
Wallflowers by MacKenzie Joy
Hey Otter! Hey Beaver! By Brian Pinkney
 
DVDs:
Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
Devotion
Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody

Pun-Of-The-Week:
What’s Irish and comes out in the spring?  Paddy O’Furniture
 
Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

March 6, 2023

February 27, 2023

February 20, 2023

Good Morning!

On the Calendar:
Monday, Feb 20 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Monday, Feb 20 at 2:00 Book Club
Monday, Feb 20 at 3:00 Applique
Monday, Feb 20 at 5:30 Chat & Chew
Tuesday Feb 21 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Feb 22 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Feb 22 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday Feb 22 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Feb 22 at 2:00 Bird Watching with Naturalist Emma Bruck & Bird Feeder Craft
Wednesday Feb 22 at 3:00 FREE Seed Giveaway
Wednesday Feb 22 at 2:30-3:30 Early Out Activities for 4th-12^th Graders
Wednesday, Feb 22 at 3:30-4:00 Peas in a Pod Gardening Basics for 4^th–12^th Graders
Thursday Feb 23 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Friday Feb 24 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday, Feb 27 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Tuesday Feb 28 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Mar 1 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Mar 1 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday Mar1 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Mar 1 at 2:00 Coffee Klatch
Wednesday Mar 1 at 2:30-4:30 Early Out Activities for 4th-12^th Graders
Thursday Mar 2 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Friday Mar 3 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Saturday, Mar 4 at 10:00  FREE Seed Giveaway
 
Book Clubs TODAY:
Our Book Club meets this afternoon at 2:00 to discuss The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennet.
We will also be handing out the next selection, The Music of Bees, by Eileen Garvin.
 
Three lonely strangers in a rural Oregon town, each working through grief and life's curveballs, are brought together by happenstance on a local honeybee farm where they find surprising friendship, healing--and maybe even a second chance--just when they least expect it.
 
At 5:30, join us for Chat & Chew, an informal Book Club where we share the books we have been reading lately, while enjoying a slice of pizza.
 
Applique TODAY:
Applique will meet today, Monday, February 20 at 3:00. Join Joan Schafer as she leads us through making our February applique mini-banner.  There is no sewing involved in making these adorable banners! If you missed previous classes that’s ok – you can still join us and get the materials to make them at home.  Cost is only $10 for materials for the whole year.
 
 
Bird Watching Program:
This Wednesday, February 22 at 2:00, Emma Bruck, Naturalist with Tama County Conservation, will talk about the basics of birdwatching, and how to use clues to identify bird species seen in our community. She will briefly discuss common birds in Iowa, then dive into how to get involved in birding, provide information on birding organizations and groups, plus share information on how to become a good backyard birder. You can also stay and make this fun birdfeeder.  All supplies will be provided.



FREE Seed Giveaway!!
We received a donation of A LOT of 2022 seed packets from Home Depot, and we are giving them away! You can help yourself to some we have placed in the card catalog in the library entryway.  Or you can stop by for an even wider selection on the following dates:
 
            Wed. Feb 22 @ 3:00 (after the Bird Watching Program)
            Sat. Mar 4 @ 10:00
            Wed. Mar 15 @ 12:00
 
Spread the word – we have A LOT to give away!
 
Community Events:
Mark your calendars for these upcoming exciting (maybe yummy!) events:
 
Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, hosted by the Traer United Methodist Church

• Tuesday, Feb 21, 5:00pm – 7:00pm in the Traer Memorial Building. Tickets are Free will donation.

Traer Fire Department Fish Fry

• Friday, Feb 24, 5:00pm – 8:00pm at the Fire Station. Adults $15, Under 12 $8

Sesquicentennial Fashion Show: Traer’s Apparel Through the Ages

• Sunday, April 16, 2:00pm – 4:00pm at Traer Public Library  Experience a timeline of Traer’s fashion history with this live fashion show featuring local and historical clothing.

Traer’s Big Birthday Bash!

• Saturday, June 3, 2:00pm – 9:00pm in Taylor Park  Celebrate and commemorate our Sesquicentennial with live music, food & beverage vendors, free birthday cake, all day activities, moonlight movie & more!

 
New Books:
 
Fiction:
Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo
The Mitford Affair by Marie Benedict
Don’t Open the Door - #2 Regan Merritt Series by Allison Brennan
The Night Travelers by Armando Lucas Correa
Irish Coffee Murder by Leslie Meier, Lee Hollis & Barbara Ross
The House at the End of the World by Dean R. Koontz
Just the Nicest Couple by Mary Kubica
The Three Lives of Alix St. Pierre
The Whalebone Theatre by Joanna Quinn
The Backup Plan - #3 Sunrise Cove Series by Jill Shalvis
You Must Remember This by Kat Rosenfield
Do I Know You? By Emily Wibberley
 
Teen:
Chain of Thorns - #3 Last Hours Series by Clare Cassandra
 
Non-Fiction:
Becoming Free Indeed: my story of disentangling faith from fear by Jinger Duggar Vuolo
One: Simple One-Pan Wonders by Jamie Oliver
Spare by Prince Harry
 
DVDs:
Nothing is Impossible
Turning Red
The Fabelmans
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
According to our kids, Dad Jokes are not cool…for a-parent reasons.
 
Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

February 13, 2023

The Vignes twin sisters will always be identical. But after growing up together in a small, southern black community and running away at age sixteen, it's not just the shape of their daily lives that is different as adults, it's everything: their families, their communities, their racial identities. Many years later, one sister lives with her black daughter in the same southern town she once tried to escape. The other secretly passes for white, and her white husband knows nothing of her past. Still, even separated by so many miles and just as many lies, the fates of the twins remain intertwined. What will happen to the next generation, when their own daughters' storylines intersect?

Weaving together multiple strands and generations of this family, from the Deep South to California, from the 1950s to the 1990s, Brit Bennett produces a story that is at once a riveting, emotional family story and a brilliant exploration of the American history of passing. Looking well beyond issues of race, The Vanishing Half considers the lasting influence of the past as it shapes a person's decisions, desires, and expectations, and explores some of the multiple reasons and realms in which people sometimes feel pulled to live as something other than their origins.
 

Decades Book Challenge: February 1900s – 1910s:
You can still join in on our reading challenge! For February we move into the 1900s – 1910s.
 
You can choose a book published in that decade, a book about an event from that decade or set in that decade, or any topic related to something from the decade. You can read fiction, non-fiction, adult, teen, junior/children’s, or audio books. The idea is just to challenge yourself to read something you might not normally read, or to learn something new, and enjoy!
 
Go to our website www.traer.lib.ia.us and click on the Join Our Decades Book Challenge link for more topic ideas and a list of books we have available, check out our book display, or pick up lists at the circulation desk. Stop in or call the library for more details!
 
Community Events:
Mark your calendars for these upcoming exciting (maybe yummy!) events:
 
Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, hosted by the Traer United Methodist Church

• Tuesday, Feb 21, 5:00pm – 7:00pm in the Traer Memorial Building. Tickets are Free Will Donation.

 Traer Fire Department Fish Fry

• Friday, Feb 24, 5:00pm – 8:00pm at the Fire Station. Adults $15, Under 12 $8

Sesquicentennial Fashion Show: Traer’s Apparel Through the Ages

• Sunday, April 16, 2:00pm – 4:00pm at Traer Public Library  Experience a timeline of Traer’s fashion history with this live fashion show featuring local and historical clothing.

Traer’s Big Birthday Bash!

• Saturday, June 3, 2:00pm – 9:00pm in Taylor Park  Celebrate and commemorate our Sesquicentennial with live music, food & beverage vendors, free birthday cake, all day activities, moonlight movie & more!

New Books:
 
Fiction:
Every Summer - #8 Seaside Saga Series by Joanne DeMaio
The Reluctant Warrior - #2 High Sierra Sweethearts Series by Mary Connealy
The Unexpected Champion - #3 High Sierra Sweethearts Series by Mary Connealy
Every Summer After by Carley Fortune (Large Print)
Hurricane Beach by Lexie Nicholas
Three Debts Paid - #5 Daniel Pitt Series by Anne Perry
The Silent Wife - #10 Will Trent Series by Karin Slaughter
Everyone in my Family has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson
Keeper of Secrets - #7 Carly Moore Series by Denise Grover Swank

Non-Fiction:
8 Rules of Love: how to find it, keep it, and let it go by Jay Shetty
 
Memorial Books:
The Complete Guide to Adopting a Cat by Laura Cassiday, given in memory of Amy Brooke Speirs by Farmers Savings Bank & Trust – Traer
Veterans: Heroes in Our Neighborhood by Valerie Pfundstein, given in memory of Loren Ewoldt by Farmers Savings Bank & Trust - Traer

Pun-Of-The-Week:
My Aunt ran off to get married on Valentine’s Day. Yep….Antelope.
 
Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

February 6, 2023

Good Morning!

On the Calendar:
Monday, Feb 6 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Tuesday Feb 7 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Feb 8 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Feb 8 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday Feb 8 at 11:30 Scones & Tomes
Wednesday Feb 8 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Feb 8 at 2:30-3:30 Early Out Activities for 4th-12^th Graders
Wednesday, Feb 8 at 3:30-4:00 Peas in a Pod Gardening Basics for 4^th–12^th Graders
Thursday Feb 9 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Friday Feb 10 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday, Feb 13 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Tuesday Feb 14 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Feb 15 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Feb 15 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday Feb 15 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Feb 15 at 2:00 Coffee Klatch
Wednesday Feb 15 at 2:30-4:30 Early Out Activities for 4th-12^th Graders
Thursday Feb 16 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Friday Feb 17 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
 
Quilting Group and new AccuQuilt cutter and dies!
Do you love to quilt? Would you like to learn more? Are you stuck and need help from fellow quilters? Or do you just need space to spread out? Join our Tuesday Quilters Group! This is a lively, talented group that gets together every Tuesday at 1:30 to quilt and share ideas and tips.

We also have a new cutter and accessories to share! With donation and grant money, we have purchased an AccuQuilt Ready Set Go! Ultimate Fabric Cutting System and several cutting dies. This cutter allows you to cut 6 layers of fabric at a time, and gives you exact, precise pieces with an easy turn of a crank. No more backaches, cut fingers or sore hands from cutting pieces! We have dies to cut pieces for 8” and 9” blocks, and also for 1”, 1 ½”, 2”, and 3” strips.
 
The group is led by Cynthia Drajna of Iowa Star Quilts, and they always have a fun afternoon of quilting, visiting, and sharing their progress! Stop in to join them, and someone will be happy to show you how to use the AccuQuilt cutter!





Scones & Tomes:
Like the idea of a Book Club, but don’t want to be “told” read a specific book?  Come to Scones & Tomes Book Club! We share books we have read lately and favorite authors! We will meet this Wednesday, February 8 at 11:30 in the Carnegie Café. We enjoy a hot beverage and a sweet treat as we share our love of books.  Newcomers are always welcome.
 
February Early-Out Activities:
If you are in grades 4-12, join Miss Sue at 2:30 on Wednesday for snacks and fun! You could be crafting, doing Lego challenges, or other fun activities!
 
From 3:30-4:00, join Stephenie for Peas in a Pod, where you will learn some basics about gardening and participate in gardening activities.

Bird Watching Program:
On Wednesday, February 22 at 2:00, Emma Bruck, Naturalist with Tama County Conservation, will talk about the basics of birdwatching, and how to use clues to identify bird species seen in our community. She will briefly discuss common birds in Iowa, then dive into how to get involved in birding, provide information on birding organizations and groups, plus share information on how to become a good backyard birder. You can also stay and make this fun bird feeder.  All supplies will be provided.



Decades Book Challenge: February 1900s – 1910s:
You can still join in on our reading challenge! Since Traer is celebrating our Sesquicentennial (1873-2023) this year, we will be doing a Decades Book Challenge all year long! To cover our 150 years, each month you will choose a book corresponding to a specific decade. This is YOUR Challenge so you can choose how you fulfill the prompt.
 
You can choose a book published in that decade, a book about an event from that decade or set in that decade, or any topic related to something from the decade. You can read fiction, non-fiction, adult, teen, junior/children’s, or audio books. The idea is just to challenge yourself to read something you might not normally read, or to learn something new.
 
We kicked off January with the 1870s – 1890s. In February we move into the 1900s – 1910s. Some major events of these decades include:
 
Galveston Hurricane of 1900
Frank L. Baum Published The Wonderful Wizard of Oz 1900
Assassination of President McKinley in 1901
First Flight of the Wright Brothers in 1903
San Francisco Earthquake in 1906
Ford Model T invented in 1908
Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire 1911
Sinking of the Titanic 1912
World War I begins 1914
Spanish Flu epidemic 1918
 
Go to our website www.traer.lib.ia.us and click on the Join Our Decades Book Challenge link for more topic ideas and a list of books we have available, or pick up lists at the circulation desk. Stop in or call the library for more details!
 
Access to Digital copies of 1941-1975 Traer Star Clippers:
We have partnered with the Traer Historical Museum to provide access to digitized copies of the Traer Star Clipper dating from 1941 – 1975.  Unlike previous digitized issues, these are available in-house only, and can be brought up and used at the library or the museum with assistance from the librarian or the museum host. We encourage those interested in genealogy or local history to take advantage of these resources.
 
New Books:
 
Fiction:
Mean Streak - #2 Pelican Point Series by Christine Gael
The Blue Diamond - #5 Daughter of Sherlock Holmes by Leonard S. Goldberg
The Survivors by Jane Harper
Nantucket Homes - #8 Nantucket Beach Plum Series by Pamela Kelley
Coming Home to Hideaway Bay by Michele Brouder
Seabreeze Inn by Jan Moran
Sandbar Sisters by Rebecca Regnier
This Time Around: three sweet romances by Melissa Ferguson, Kathleen Fuller, and Denise Hunter

Pun-Of-The-Week:
For plumbers, a flush beats a full house.
 
Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

January 30, 2023

Good Morning!

On the Calendar:
Monday, Jan 30 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Monday, Jan 30 at 2:00 BINGO
Monday, Jan 30 at 3:30 – 6:00 Makerspace by Appointment
Tuesday Jan 31 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Feb 1 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Feb 1 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday Feb 1 at 12:00 Lunch & Learn: Planning Your Garden
Wednesday Feb 1 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Feb 1 at 2:00 Carnegie Café Coffee & Craft
Wednesday Feb 1 at 2:30-4:30 Early Out Activities for 4th-12^th Graders
Wednesday Feb 1 at 3:00-4:30 Story, snack & activities for K-5^th graders with Jenny Hulme
Thursday Feb 2 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Friday Feb 3 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday, Feb 6 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Tuesday Feb 7 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Feb 8 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Feb 8 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday Feb 8 at 11:30 Scones & Tomes
Wednesday Feb 8 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Feb 8 at 2:30-3:30 Early Out Activities for 4th-12^th Graders
Wednesday, Feb 8 at 3:30-4:00 Peas in a Pod Gardening Basics for 4^th–12^th Graders
Thursday Feb 9 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Friday Feb 10 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
 
BINGO TODAY!
Join us for a fun hour of BINGO today, Monday, January 30 at 2:00 in the Talen Community Room.  There is no cost to play, and you can go home with exciting prizes!
 
Makerspace Crafting TODAY 3:30 – 6:00
Do you need space to spread out to work on a crafting project? Or maybe you need some supplies you don’t have in your own crafting cupboard? From 3:30-6:00 today, you can stop in to use the library’s sewing machines, Cricuts, stamps, inks, papers, cutters, and other crafting supplies.  We have lots of crafting supplies! Just give us a call at 319-478-2180 to set up a time so we can get out what you need. The cost is a free will donation for any supplies you use.
 
Lunch & Learn:
It's time to start thinking about your gardens! Join Laurie on Wednesday, February 1 at noon for a Lunch & Learn about Planning Your Garden. She will talk about things to take into account when planning this year's garden, and help you to make your own Garden Planning Book to take with you. Please bring your lunch and eat while you learn.

Carnegie Cafe Coffee & Crafts:
Come to the Carnegie Cafe on Wednesday, February 1 at 2:00 to make a simple seasonal craft and enjoy a hot beverage.  There is no cost or sign-up required, and we provide any supplies needed.

February Early-Out Activities:
On February 1, join Jenny Hulme from the ISU Extension Office as she reads “Never Let a Dinosaur Scribble!” She will also have snacks, an activity/science experiment, and a craft to make and take home. This program is for children grades K-5^th.

If you are in grades 4-12, join Miss Sue at 2:30 on Wednesdays for snacks and fun! You could be crafting, doing Lego challenges, or other fun activities!
 
From 3:30-4:00 on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays,  join Laurie and Stephenie for Peas in a Pod, where you will learn some basics about gardening and participate in gardening activities

Decades Book Challenge: February 1900s - 1910s:
You can still join in on our reading challenge! Since Traer is celebrating our Sesquicentennial (1873-2023) this year, we will be doing a Decades Book Challenge all year long! To cover our 150 years, each month you will choose a book corresponding to a specific decade. This is YOUR Challenge so you can choose how you fulfill the prompt. You can choose a book published in that decade, a book about an event from that decade or set in that decade, or any topic related to something from the decade.
 
We kicked off January with the 1870s – 1890s. In February we move into the 1900s – 1910s. Some major events of these decades include:
 
Galveston Hurricane of 1900
Frank L. Baum Published The Wonderful Wizard of Oz 1900
Assassination of President McKinley in 1901
First Flight of the Wright Brothers in 1903
San Francisco Earthquake in 1906
Ford Model T invented in 1908
Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire 1911
Sinking of the Titanic 1912
World War I begins 1914
Spanish Flu epidemic 1918
 
Go to our website www.traer.lib.ia.us and click on the Join Our Decades Book Challenge link for more topic ideas and a list of books we have available, or pick up lists at the circulation desk. Stop in or call the library for more details!
 
Access to Digital copies of 1941-1975 Traer Star Clippers:
We have partnered with the Traer Historical Museum to provide access to digitized copies of the Traer Star Clipper dating from 1941 – 1975.  Unlike previous digitized issues, these are available in-house only, and can be brought up and used at the library or the museum with assistance from the librarian or the museum host. We encourage those interested in genealogy or local history to take advantage of these resources.
 
Looking for chess sets:
We would like to start a “Chess Club” at the library, but we need some nice wooden chess boards and pieces.  If you have one you no longer use and would be willing to donate, the library would happily take it off your hands. Please contact the library or stop in for more information.
 
New Books:
 
Fiction:
Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett
Dark of Night - #2 Annie Pederson Series by Colleen Coble
Without a Trace (Large Print) by Danielle Steel
City Under One Roof by Iris Yamashita
 
Non-Fiction:
Ray Lampe’s Big Green Egg Book: grill, smoke, bake & roast by Ray Lampe
US: The Resurrection of American Terror by Rev. Kenneth W. Wheeler
 
DVDs:
Finding Your Roots – Seasons 1 and 2
Ghosts – Season 1

Pun-Of-The-Week:
I sold my vacuum cleaner. It was just gathering dust.
 
Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

January 23, 2023

January 16, 2023

Good Morning!

On the Calendar:
Monday Jan 16 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday, Jan 16 at 2:00 Book Club
Monday, Jan 16 at 3:00 Applique (rescheduled-note time and date change)
Monday Jan 16 at 5:30 Chat & Chew Book Club
Tuesday Jan 17 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Jan 18  at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Jan 18 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday Jan 18 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Jan 18 at 2:00 Coffee Klatch
Wednesday Jan 18 at 2:30-4:30 Early Out Activities for 4th-12^th Graders
Thursday Jan 19 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Friday Jan 20 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Friday Jan 20 at 2:00 Watercolor Painting with Stephenie
Monday, Jan 23 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Tuesday Jan 24 at 1:05 Outside the Lines Coloring
Tuesday Jan 24 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Jan 25  at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Jan 25 at 10:15 Story Time
Wednesday Jan 25 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Jan 25 at 2:00 Rock Painting with Connie Draper
Wednesday Jan 25 at 2:30-3:30 Early Out Activities for 4th-12^th Graders
Wednesday, Jan 25 at 3:30-4:00 Peas in a Pod Gardening Basics for 4^th–12^th Graders
Thursday Jan 26 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Friday Jan 27 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Friday Jan 27 at 2:00 Watercolor Painting with Stephenie
 
 
Applique TODAY:
Applique will meet today, Monday, January 16 at 3:00. Join Joan Schafer as she leads us through making our January applique mini-banner.  There is no sewing involved in making these adorable banners! If you missed previous classes that’s ok – you can still join us and get the materials to make them at home.  Cost is only $10 for materials for the whole year.
This is the January banner:

 
Book Clubs TODAY:
Our Monday Book Club meets at 2:00 today upstairs in the library. We will be discussing Where I Come From: Stories from the Deep South by Rick Bragg. We will also be handing out our February selection, The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett. We have several regular and large print copies available at the circulation desk, so stop by to pick up a copy and join our Book Club!
 
The Chat & Chew Book Club also meets tonight at 5:30. We are a more informal book club – we enjoy a slice or two of pizza while we share the books we have been reading lately, favorite authors, or books we’ve heard about but haven’t had time to read yet.
 
Coffee Klatch:
New this Wednesday, January 18 at 2:00 – Coffee Klatch! Join us in the Talen Community Room for coffee, cookies and conversation! This is simply a time to gather and socialize with friends and neighbors. 
 
Watercolors with Stephenie:
Stephenie Bellwood is back leading another trio of Watercolor Painting Classes! Join us on Friday, January 20 and 27 at 2:00 to learn some basic watercolor techniques, or just to practice what you already know and get new ideas.  These classes will have a Winter theme.  The group that met last Friday enjoyed painting a polar bear! The couple of paintings I saw were great and the participants enjoyed the process. All supplies are provided and no sign up is necessary.
 
Rock Painting:
Mark your calendars for Wednesday, January 25 at 2:00, and join Connie Draper for Rock Painting! If any of you have been to Connie’s home, you know she has beautifully painted rocks scattered amongst her plants and home. She will share ideas, tips and techniques as she guides you in painting your own decorative rocks. All supplies are provide.

Decades Book Challenge:
You can still join in on our reading challenge! Since Traer is celebrating our Sesquicentennial (1873-2023) this year, we will be doing a Decades Book Challenge all year long! To cover our 150 years, each month you will choose a book corresponding to a specific decade. This is YOUR Challenge so you can choose how you fulfill the prompt. You can choose a book published in that decade, a book about an event from that decade or set in that decade, or any topic related to something from the decade.
 
Adults and children can participate! You can pick up a log sheet at the circulation desk to keep track of your books each month (or if you are not in town I can email you the info). We also have a list of topics and book ideas, a display table full of options, or just ask and we can help you find something! We will be giving away gifts to those who complete the challenge!
 
This is not a competition, just a personal challenge to read some books you might not otherwise choose. You can read fiction or non-fiction, adult, teen, junior fiction, or children’s books, as long as it relates in some way to the Decade(s) for each month. Books, e-books and audiobooks all count!  We hope you have FUN with this challenge as Traer celebrates our 150 years!
 
We kicked off January with the 1870s – 1890s. As you are searching for topics, ideas and books, if you find a book you’d like to read that we don’t have in our library, we can get it from another library for free, or look on Bridges/Libby for an e-book or audiobook.
 
New Books:
 
Fiction:
End Game - #6 Max Austin Series by Jack Arbor
Dead Canyon - #16 David Wolf Series by Jeff Carson
Little Beach Bungalow - #7 Seaside Saga by Joanne DeMaio
Liar Liar by Christine Gael
A Study in Crimson: Sherlock Holmes in WW2 by Robert Harris
Ties that Bind - #16 Shelby Nichols Series by Colleen Helme
The Quarry Girls by Jess Lourey
Beneath the Bending Skies by Jane Kirkpatrick
Concealed in Shadow - #5 Cassie Quinn Series by L T Ryan
Blind Bake by Denise Grover Swank
Shades of Truth - #6 Carly Moore Series by Denise Grover Swank
Shifting Sands - #4 Lobster Bay Series by Meredith Summers
No Matter the Cost - #3 Epic Story of RJ and York Series by Susan May Warren
The Dressmakers of Prospect Heights by Kitty Zeldis
 
Non-Fiction:
The Seed Saving Bible by Steven Dowding
And there was Light: Abraham Lincoln and the American Struggle by Jon Meacham
Do I feel Better Yet? Questionable attempts at self-care and existing in a general by Madeline Trebenski
 
Memorial Book:
Tom Clancy’s Red Winter by Marc Cameron, given in memory of James “Jim” Dinsdale by Farmers Savings Bank & Trust - Traer

Pun-Of-The-Week:
Orion’s Belt is a big waist of space.  (Terrible pun. Only 3 stars.)
 
Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

January 9, 2023

 

January 2, 2023

December 26, 2022

December 19, 2022

December 12, 2022

December 5, 2022

November 28, 2022

Good Morning!

On The Calendar:
Monday Nov 28 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Nov 28 at 2:00 Bingo
Monday Nov 28 at 3:30-6:00 Makerspace Crafting by Appointment
Tuesday Nov 29 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Nov 30 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Nov 30 at 10:15 Story Time with Miss Laurie
Wednesday Nov 30 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Nov 30 at 2:45 Christmas Card Making Grades 4-12
Thursday Dec 1 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Friday Dec 2 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Friday Dec 2 at 1:00-5:00 Holiday Happenings Open House
Friday Dec 2 at 5:30 Union Carolers in the Kupka Cultural Center
Saturday Dec 3 at 10:00 Story Time with Santa & Mrs. Claus
Monday Dec 5 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Dec 5 at 2:00 Applique Class
Tuesday Dec 6 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Dec 7 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Dec 7 at 10:15 Story Time with Miss Sue
Wednesday Dec 7 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Dec 7 at 2:00 Coffee & Crafts
Wednesday Dec 7 at 2:30-4:30 Early Out Activities 4th-12^th Graders
Thursday Dec 8 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Friday Dec 9 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
 
BINGO and Makerspace TODAY:
Come in today at 2:00 for a fun hour of BINGO! And if you have a crafting project you’ve been wanting to finish, you can come use any of the library supplies, like the Cricut, sewing machines, fabric, yarn, paper and other crafting supplies.  Just call the library to reserve a time between 3:30 and 6:00.

Holiday Happenings Events at the Library:

Library Open House: Stop in the library on Friday, December 2 from 1:00 - 5:00 for a cup of coffee and a cookie, and to sign up for a free book!  We will draw one lucky winner to receive a copy of "A Quilt for Christmas", a new book by Melody Carlson.

Union Carolers Performance: At 5:30 on Friday, December 2, come to the Kupka Cultural Center for a musical performance by the Union Carolers. The Union Carolers are an a capella ensemble that will provide about 20 minutes of holiday music, all while adorning traditional mid-19th century attire. For many years, the Union Carolers have been a constant in the holiday season across the Cedar Valley. A free-will donation may be made at the door.


Story Time with Santa & Mrs. Claus: On Saturday, December 3, bring your children to the library at 10:00 for Story Time with Santa and Mrs. Claus.  Santa will be reading "Twas the Night Before Christmas," children will be able to get their photos taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and the library will provide cookies and juice.


 
New Memorial Books:
Iowa Agriculture: A History of Farming, Family and Food by Darcy Dougherty Maulsby, given in memory of Gary Lee Kersten by Farmers Savings Bank & Trust
 
So Help Me Golf: Why We Love the Game by Rick Reilly, given in memory of Richard Johnson by Farmers Savings Bank & Trust
 
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
Did you hear about the explosion at the French cheese factory? All that was left was da brie.

Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

November 21, 2022

Good Morning!

On the Calendar:
Monday Nov 21 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Nov 21 at 2:00 Book Club
Monday Nov 21 at 5:30 Chat & Chew
Tuesday Nov 22 at 1:05 Outside the Lines Coloring
Tuesday Nov 22 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Nov 23 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Nov 23 at 10:15 Story Time with Miss Sue
Wednesday Nov 23 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Thursday Nov 24- Sunday Nov 27 Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday
Monday Nov 28 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Nov 28 at 2:00 Bingo
Monday Nov 28 at 3:30-6:00 Makerspace Crafting by Appointment
Tuesday Nov 29 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Nov 30 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Nov 30 at 10:15 Story Time with Miss Sue
Wednesday Nov 30 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Nov 30 at 2:45 Christmas Card Making Grades 4-12
Thursday Dec 1 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Friday Dec 2 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Friday Dec 2 at 1:00-5:00 Holiday Happenings Open House
Friday Dec 2 at 5:30 Union Carolers in the Kupka Cultural Center
Saturday Dec 3 at 10:00 Story Time with Santa & Mrs. Claus
 
Book Clubs TODAY:
Our Monday Book Club meets at 2:00 to discuss The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michelle Richardson. Come join us for the discussion, and to pick up next month’s selection Let It Snow by Nancy Thayer.
 
Our Chat & Chew Book Club meets at 5:30 this evening.  We enjoy a slice of pizza as we discuss the books we’ve read recently, the books we want to read, or the books we’ve heard everyone else talking about.  We are a very laid-back group and welcome newcomers. 
 
Outside the Lines Adult Coloring:
Do you love to color but don’t have the supplies? Come to the library for a relaxing hour of coloring on Tuesday, November 22 at 1:05. We provide markers, pens, pencils, cards and bookmarks. 
 
Holiday Happenings Events:
Library Open House: Stop in the library on Friday, December 2 from 1:00 - 5:00 for a cup of coffee and a cookie, and to sign up for a free book!  We will draw one lucky winner to receive a copy of "A Quilt for Christmas", a new book by Melody Carlson.
Union Carolers Performance: At 5:30 on Friday, December 2, come to the Kupka Cultural Center for a musical performance by the Union Carolers. The Union Carolers are an a capella ensemble that will provide about 20 minutes of holiday music, all while adorning traditional mid-19th century attire. For many years, the Union Carolers have been a constant in the holiday season across the Cedar Valley. A free-will donation may be made at the door.
Story Time with Santa & Mrs. Claus: On Saturday, December 3, bring your children to the library at 10:00 for Story Time with Santa and Mrs. Claus.  Santa will be reading "Twas the Night Before Christmas," children will be able to get their photos taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and the library will provide cookies and juice.

New Books:
Fiction:
The Sandcastle Hurricane by Carolyn Brown
Before You Knew My Name by Jacqueline Bublitz
The Italian Ballerina by Kristy Cambron
A Colorful Scheme by Krista Davis
Thief of Fate by Jude Deveraux
Going Rogue by Janet Evanovich
The Couple at the Table by Sophie Hannah
A Quilt for Christmas by Melody Carlson
Body of Evidence By Irene Hannon
Old Cowboys Never Die by William W. Johnstone
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
No Strangers Here by Carlene O’Connor
Triple Cross by James A. Patterson
We are the Light by Matthew Quick
 
Large Print:
No Plan B by Lee Child
The Boys from Biloxi by John Grisham
The Christmas Spirit by Debbie Macomber
 
Non-Fiction:
The Myth of Normal: Trauma, illness, and healing in a toxic culture by Gabor Maté
Lifespan: Why we age and why we don’t have to by David A. Sinclair
Go-to Dinners: Make ahead, freeze ahead, prep ahead, easy assembled by Ina Garten
Killing the Legends by Bill O’Reilly
The Escape Artist: the Man who broke out of Auschwitz to warn the world by Jonathan   Freedland
 
Teen:
The Stern Chase (#9 Brotherband Chronicles) by John Flanagan
Belladonna by Adalyn Grace
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
Shouldn’t IPhone chargers just be called apple juice?

Have a good week!
Judy Mitchell
​Traer Public Library

November 14, 2022

November 7, 2022

Good Morning!

On the Calendar:
Monday Nov 7 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Nov 7 at 2:00 Applique
Tuesday Nov 8 NO QUILTING
Wednesday Nov 9 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Nov 9 at 10:15 Story Time with Miss Sue
Wednesday Nov 9 at 11:30 Scones & Tomes
Wednesday Nov 9 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Nov 9 at 2:45 Christmas Card Making Grades 4-12
Wednesday Nov 9 at 3:00 Jenny Hulme: Story/Activity/Craft for K-5^th Graders
Thursday Nov 10 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Nov 10 at 2:15 Yoga
Friday Nov 11 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Friday Nov 11 at 2:00 Watercolor Painting with Stephenie
Monday Nov 14 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Nov 14 at 2:00 Iowa Author Joseph LeValley
Tuesday Nov 15 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Nov 16 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Nov 16 at 10:15 Story Time with Miss Sue
Wednesday Nov 16 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Nov 16 at 2:00 Table For One with Laurie
Wednesday Nov 16 at 2:45 Christmas Card Making Grades 4-12
Thursday Nov 17 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Nov 17 at 2:15 Yoga
Friday Nov 18 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Friday Nov 18 at 2:00 Watercolor Painting with Stephenie
 
Applique Class TODAY:
In October, we started a new Applique Class, and anyone can still participate! Today at 2:00, join Joan Schafer as she leads us through making our November applique mini-banner.  There is no sewing involved in making these adorable banners! If you missed the October class that’s ok – you can still join us and get the materials to make the October banner.  Cost is only $10 for materials for the whole year.
 
This is the November banner:
 
Quilting Reminder:
There will be NO quilting this week, Nov 8, since it is Election Day, and Cynthia will be working at the polls all day.
 
Scones & Tomes Book Club:
Join our lively Scones and Tomes book discussion group this Wednesday, Nov. 9 at 11:30, to share the latest books you’ve been reading.  This is an informal group, and we always love having new readers join us.  Enjoy a hot beverage and a sweet treat as we share books we’ve read and add more to our Want-To-Read lists!
 
Early Out Wednesdays in November:
Every Wednesday in November at 2:45, Miss Sue will provide snacks and crafting supplies to make Christmas Cards to give to the residents at Sunrise Hill Care and Rehab Center here in Traer.  This activity is for anyone in 4^th – 12^th grades.
 
This Wednesday, November 9 from 3:00-4:30, anyone in grades K-5th can also join Jenny Hulme with ISU Extension and Outreach for a story and some fun projects and activities using leaves! 
 
Watercolors with Stephenie:
Stephenie Bellwood will be leading three Watercolor Painting Classes in November! Those that came last Friday enjoyed themselves and the paintings they took home. Join us again on Friday, November 11 and 18 at 2:00 to learn some basic watercolor techniques, or just to practice what you already know and get new ideas.  These classes will have a Christmas/Winter theme.  All supplies are provided.
 
Here are examples of what you may be painting:


Iowa Author Visit:
Mark your calendars for another Iowa Author visit! Joseph LeValley is the author of a series of award-winning mystery/thriller novels, featuring a young newspaper reporter based in Iowa. Prior to becoming an author, Joe was himself a reporter/photographer for Iowa newspapers, covering crime and criminal justice. He then served over 30 years as a health care executive. He also plays drums and guitar, writes songs, and was inducted into the Iowa Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame.
 
Join Joe on Monday, November 14 at 2:00 for “Lessons Learned on the Journey to Becoming a Novelist”. Joe will share his writing experiences, behind the scenes details about his books, and how he went from journalist to executive to author.  He is a great storyteller.
 
The Library has the first four books in his Tony Harrington series if you’d like to check one out. His most recent, “Performing Murder”, was named Best Mystery/Suspense Novel of 2021 by the Maincrest Media Awards. You can also check out his website at https://josephlevalley.com



 

Community Calendar:
Join the Traer Sesquicentennial Committee on Tuesday, November 15 from 5:30-7:30 in the Library’s Kupka Cultural Center for a Community Input Meeting and Open House about the future plans for Taylor Park. Meet folks from the ISU’s Department of Landscape Architecture and its Community Design Lab, hear about their initial inventory and analysis report, and give your own input on desired amenities, site configurations, goals, concerns, and opportunities for improving Taylor Park.
 
New Books:

Fiction:
A Running Start - #7 Cherry Blossom Point Series by Christine Gael
Christmas Surprises at the Door - #5 Door County Quilts Series by Ann Hazelwood
It Starts With Us by Colleen Hoover
Home Sweet Christmas by Susan Mallery
Under the Starry Skies - #3 Love on the Santa Fe Series by Tracie Peterson
Calypso, Corpses, and Cooking - #2 Caribbean Kitchen Mystery Series by Raquel V. Reyes
Santa’s Little Yelpers - #26 Andy Carpenter Series by David Rosenfelt
Canary by Tijan
Enemies by Tijan
Hate to Love You by Tijan
The Revenge - #3 Insiders Series by Tijan
The Story of Love - #2 Amish Bookstore Series by Beth Wiseman
 
Large Print:
Long Shadows - #7 Amos Decker Series by David Baldacci
Endless Summer by Elin Hilderbrand
Righteous Prey by John Sandford
The High Notes by Danielle Steel
 
Non-Fiction:
Stuff They Don’t Want You to Know by Ben Bowlin
Madly, Deeply: the diaries of Alan Rickman by Alan Rickman
 
Teen:
The First to Die at the End - (prequel) #0 They Both Die at the End Series by Adam Silvera
 
Memorial Book:
Country Strong by Linda Lael Miller (Large Print), given in memory of Marian Argyl Nagel by Farmers Savings Bank & Trust - Traer
 
DVDs:
Top Gun: Maverick
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
I can cut wood just by looking at it.  It's true! I saw it with my own eyes.

Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

October 31, 2022

Happy Halloween!

On the Calendar:
Monday Oct 31 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Oct 31 at 2:00 BINGO
Monday Oct 31 at 3:30-6:00 Makerspace Crafting by appt
Monday Oct 31 at 4:00-7:00 Trick or Treat!
Tuesday Nov 1 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Nov 2 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Nov 2 at 10:15 Story Time with Miss Sue
Wednesday Nov 2 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Nov 2 at 2:00 Coffee & Crafts
Wednesday Nov 2 at 2:45 Christmas Card Making Grades 4-12
Thursday Nov 3 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Nov 3 at 2:15 Yoga
Friday Nov 4 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Friday Nov 4 at 2:00 Watercolor Painting with Stephenie
Monday Nov 7 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Nov 7 at 2:00 Applique
Tuesday Nov 8 NO QUILTING
Wednesday Nov 9 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Nov 9 at 10:15 Story Time with Miss Sue
Wednesday Nov 9 at 11:30 Scones & Tomes
Wednesday Nov 9 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Nov 9 at 2:45 Christmas Card Making Grades 4-12
Wednesday Nov 9 at 3:00 Jenny Hulme: Story/Activity/Craft for K-5^th Graders
Thursday Nov 10 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Nov 10 at 2:15 Yoga
Friday Nov 11 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Friday Nov 11 at 2:00 Watercolor Painting with Stephenie
 
BINGO Today!
Come to the Library today at 2:00 for a fun hour of BINGO! You can win fabulous prizes! Extra prizes if you come in your Halloween Costume!
 
Trick or Treat!
Don’t forget to bring your ghosts and goblins and superheroes and princesses and….. to the library this afternoon to Trick Or Treat from 4-7. Your librarians love to see the kids and their costumes.  We may even be dressed up ourselves! 
 
Quilting Notes:
Attention Quilters! Quilting this week will be in the Kupka Cultural Center. There will be NO quilting next week, Nov 8, since it is Election Day, and Cynthia will be working at the polls all day.
 
Coffee & Crafts:
On Wednesday, November 2 at 2:00, join Laurie to make a seasonal craft and visit. These crafts are simple, free, and we provide everything you need. Enjoy a hot beverage while you get your creative juices flowing.
 
Early Out Wednesdays in November:
Every Wednesday in November at 2:45, Miss Sue will provide snacks and crafting supplies to make Christmas Cards to give to the residents at Sunrise Hill Care and Rehab Center here in Traer.  This activity is for anyone in 4^th – 12^th grades.
 
Watercolors with Stephenie:
Stephenie Bellwood will be leading three Watercolor Painting Classes in November! Join us on Friday, November 4, 11, and 18 at 2:00 to learn some basic watercolor techniques, or just to practice what you already know and get new ideas.  These three classes will have a Christmas/Winter theme.  All supplies are provided.
 
Here are examples of what you may be painting!
 

Applique:
On Monday, November 7 at 2:00, join Joan Schafer as she leads us through making our November applique mini-banner.  There is no sewing involved in making these adorable banners! If you missed the October class that’s ok – you can still join us and get the materials to make the October banner.  Cost is only $10 for materials for the whole year.
 
Here is the November Applique banner!


Award-Winning Author Visit!
Mark your calendars for another Iowa Author visit! Joseph LeValley is the author of a series of award-winning mystery/thriller novels, featuring a young newspaper reporter based in Iowa. Prior to becoming an author, Joe was himself a reporter/photographer for Iowa newspapers, covering crime and criminal justice. He then served over 30 years as a health care executive. He also plays drums and guitar, writes songs, and was inducted into the Iowa Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame.
 
Join Joe on Monday, November 14 at 2:00 for “Lessons Learned on the Journey to Becoming a Novelist”. Joe will share his writing experiences, behind the scenes details about his books, and how he went from journalist to executive to author.  He is a great storyteller.
 
The Library has the first four books in his Tony Harrington series if you’d like to check one out. His most recent, “Performing Murder”, was named Best Mystery/Suspense Novel of 2021 by the Maincrest Media Awards. You can also check out his website at https://josephlevalley.com


 

New Books:
Fiction:
Beach Bliss - #4 Seaside Saga Series by Joanne DeMaio
November 9 by Colleen Hoover
I will Find You - #2 Epic Story of RJ and York Series by Susan May Warren
Triple Jeopardy - #2 Daniel Pitt Series by Anne Perry
 
Non-Fiction:
All-Time Favorites:14 quilts from blocks we love by Lissa Alexander
 
DVDs:
Minions: The Rise of Gru
League of Super-Pets: DC league of Super-Pets
Lightyear
Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris
The US and the Holocaust
Paws of Fury – The Legend of Hank
Thor – Love and Thunder
Trick or Treat Scooby Doo
 
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
I tripped over a pumpkin today.  It really caught me off gourd.

Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

October 24, 2022

October 17, 2022

October 10, 2022

October 3, 2022

Good Morning!

On The Calendar:
Monday Oct 3 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Oct 3 at 2:00 Applique
Tuesday Oct 4 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Oct 5 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Oct 5 at 10:15 Story Time with Miss Sue
Wednesday Oct 5 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Oct 5 at 2:00 Coffee & Crafts
Wednesday Oct 5 at 2:45 Recycling Projects Grades 4-12
Thursday Oct 6 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Oct 6 at 2:15 Yoga
Friday Oct 7 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Oct 10 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Oct 10 at 2:00 Rex & Phyllis McKee’s Moose Hunt Experience
Tuesday Oct 11 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Oct 12 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Oct12 at 10:15 Story Time with Miss Sue
Wednesday Oct 12 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Oct 12 at 2:45 Recycling Projects Grades 4-12
Wednesday Oct 12 at 3:00 K-5^th Grade Story, Activity & Craft w/Jenny Hulme
Thursday Oct 13 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Oct 13 at 2:15 Yoga
Friday Oct 14 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty


Monthly Applique Class TODAY:
Beginning Monday, October 3 our applique class will be starting a new project. Joan Schafer will teach you how to applique using simple techniques. There will be 12 classes, meeting on the first Monday of the month at 2:00, and you will be making a different applique mini-banner with a seasonal theme each month. You may participate in as many classes as you'd like. Class size is limited, but there are still spots available. There is a $10.00 fee for the entire year of classes to cover materials. There will be simple sewing involved.
This is what we will be making today:
 
 
Recycling Projects- October’s Early-Out Wednesday Program:
If you are in grades 4-12, come to the library between 2:45 and 4:45 on Early-Out Wednesdays for some fun with Miss Sue! October's theme is Recycling Projects.  We will be making fun crafts from recycled objects, like egg cartons, toilet paper rolls, cereal boxes, etc. We provide all the materials, and also provide snacks!
 
Rex & Phyllis McKee’s Moose Hunt Experience:
Join us on Monday, October 10 at 2:00 as Rex and Phyllis McKee share photos and stories of their experiences hunting Moose in Newfoundland, Canada.
 
K-5^th Grade Story, Activity & Craft with Jenny Hulme
Jenny Hulme with the ISU Extension Office will be offering programs for K-5th graders on the second Wednesday of the month. She will provide a program that includes a story, activity/science experiment, and a craft to go home with you!
 
Our next session is Oct. 12 from 3:00-4:30. The kids will help create a scarecrow for the Library!  There will also be another craft for them to make and take home. No sign up is necessary.
 
Tumblebooks:
Now that your kids are back into the school routine, remind them about using Tumblebooks, an online collection of e-books for grades PreK-6^th. They are a great resource for tech-savvy kids, and teaches them the joy of reading in a format they’ll love. There are over 1,100 animated talking picture books, read-along chapter books, non-fiction books, and also videos, games and puzzles!
 
And - it is all FREE for our library patrons. There are no check-out times or wait lists: the books are always available! To access, go to our website www.traer.lib.ia.us, click on the Tumblebooks box on the homepage, and put in your library card number.  Or, you can download the Tumblebooks app to your phone or tablet.  Just follow the prompts, then enter Traer Public Library and your library card number.  Your children can then have access to books to read along wherever there is internet access!

Community News:
Traer's Fall Clean-Up will be this weekend, on Friday Oct. 7 from 10AM -2PM, and Saturday, Oct. 8 from 8AM – 1PM. The drop-off location is at the recycling site, behind the library. For more information, visit www.traer.com
 
New Books:
Fiction:
Bound by Murder - #3 Antique Bookshop Series by Laura Gail Black
A Beacon of Light - #2 Long Road Home Series by Linda Byler
A Good Dog’s Guide to Murder - #8 Paws & Claws Series by Krista Davis
The Thread Collectors by Shaunna J. Edwards
The Cuckoo’s Calling - #1 Cormoran Strike Series by Robert Galbraith
The Silkworm - #2 Cormoran Strike Series by Robert Galbraith
Lethal White - #4 Cormoran Strike Series by Robert Galbraith
Harvest Moon - #3 Riverbend Series by Denise Hunter
Hell and Back - #18 Longmire Series by Craig Johnson
Fairy Tale by Stephen King
Fire Storm - #2 Garrett Kohl Series by Taylor Moore
Killers of a Certain Age by Deanna Raybourn
Desperation in Death - #55 In Death Series by J.D. Robb
 
Large Print:
Hellburner by Mike Maden
 
Non-Fiction:
American Demon: Eliot Ness and the Hunt for America’s Jack the Ripper by Daniel Stashower
An Immense World: how animal senses reveal the hidden realms around us by Ed Yong
Everything You Need to Know about Crochet
 
Memorial Book:
Horses: Portraits & Stories by Shelley S. Paulson, given in memory of Mildred Dengler by Farmers Savings Bank & Trust-Traer
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
People who take care of chickens are literally chicken tenders.

Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

Septmeber 26, 2022

Good Morning!

On the Calendar:
Monday Sept 26 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Sept 26 at 2:00 BINGO
Monday Sept 26 3:30 – 6:00 Makerspace Crafting by appt
Monday Sept 26 at 5:00 Pinterest Night
Tuesday Sept 27 at 1:05 Adult Coloring
Tuesday Sept 27 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Sept 28 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Sept 28 at 10:15 Story Time with Miss Sue
Wednesday Sept 28 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Sept 28 at 2:00 Iowa Author Linda McCann: Memories of the CCC in Iowa
Wednesday Sept 28 at 2:45 Gaming Unplugged
Thursday Sept 29 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Sept 29 at 2:15 Yoga
Friday Sept 30 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Oct 3 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Oct 3 at 2:00 Applique
Tuesday Oct 4 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Oct 5 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Oct 5 at 10:15 Story Time with Miss Sue
Wednesday Oct 5 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Oct 5 at 2:00 Coffee & Crafts
Wednesday Oct 5 at 2:45 Recycling Projects Grades 4-12
Thursday Oct 6 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Oct 6 at 2:15 Yoga
Friday Oct 7 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty

BINGO Today!
Stop in for a fun hour of BINGO at 2:00 today! We always have a good time as Laurie calls the numbers, and you can go home with a fabulous prize!
 
Pinterest Night Tonight!
There are still a couple of spots open for Pinterest Night tonight from 5:00-7:00 in the Talen Community Room. You will be decorating a fall wreath hand crafted from old barn wood. Cost for supplies is $10. There are supplies for 10 wreaths, so call or stop in the library to sign up!


 
Outside the Lines Coloring:
Do you like to color, but don’t have nice supplies? We do! Join us for a relaxing hour of coloring on Tuesday, Sept. 27 at 1:05.  We offer cards, bookmarks, pencils, and markers, or feel free to bring your own!
 
Iowa Author/Historian Linda McCann Program: CCC in Iowa:
Join us for what is sure to be a very interesting program on Wednesday, September 28 at 2:00. Iowa Author Linda McCann will share information and stories of 15 men who worked for the Civilian Conservation Corps in Iowa. As she states in the dedication of one of her books, “They entered as boys and left as men. The Corps changed them, and they changed our state.”
 
Linda has published 2 books about the CCC in Iowa: “Civilian Conservation Corps in Northeast Iowa” was published in 2016, and “Civilian Conservation Corps in Southeast Iowa” was published in 2018. Copies of these and her other books will be available for purchase after the program.
 












Monthly Applique Class:
Beginning Monday, October 3 we will be starting a new applique class. Joan Schafer will teach you how to applique using simple techniques. There will be 12 classes, meeting on the first Monday of the month at 2:00, and you will be making a different applique mini-banner with a seasonal theme each month. You may participate in as many classes as you'd like. Class size is limited and there is a $10.00 fee for the entire year of classes to cover materials. There will be simple sewing involved.

This is what we will be making on October 3rd:

 
Interlibrary Loan:
Did you know that if our library does not have a book you would like to read, we are able to request the book from another library in Iowa?  Please give us the title and the author of the book you want and we will see if it is available.  Once it arrives, we text or email you to let you know it is here.  There is no charge for this service. Please call, email or stop in to make your request.
 
Used Book Sale:
Come check out our Used Book Sale room in the lower level of the library!  We have lots of weeded and donated books, magazines, DVDs, Audiobooks, puzzles and cake pans. Take what you’d like – for just a free will donation to the Friends of the Library!
 
Community News:
Traer’s City Wide Garage Sales are this weekend, Sept 30 and Oct 1.
 
Traer Fall Clean-Up will be the following weekend, on Friday Oct. 7 from 10AM -2PM, and Saturday, Oct. 8 from 8AM – 1PM. The drop-off location is at the recycling site, behind the library. For more information, visit www.traer.com
 
New Books:
Fiction:
The Daring Girls of Guernsey by Gayle Callen
Back in Black by Lori Foster
Career of Evil by Robert Galbraith
The Seamstress of New Orleans by Diane C. McPhail
Promises by Belva Plain
Flowers on Main by Sherryl Woods
Changing Tides - #2 Lobster Bay Series by Meredith Summers
 
Large Print:
The Existential Worries of Mags Monroe - #1Mags Monroe Series by Jean Grainger
Growing Wild in the Shade - #2 Mags Monroe Series by Jean Grainger
Captive by Iris Johansen
Rise & Shine Benedict Stone by Phaedra Patrick
 
Non-Fiction:
Dinner in One: exceptional and easy one pan meals by Melissa Clark
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
I named my horse Mayo.  And sometimes Mayo neighs.

Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

September 19 Newsletter

September 12 Newsletter

Good Morning!

On the Calendar:
Monday Sept 12 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Sept 12 at 2:00 Applique Class
Tuesday Sept 13 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Sept 14 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Sept 14 at 10:15 Story Time with Miss Sue
Wednesday Sept 14 at 11:30 Scones & Tomes
Wednesday Sept 14 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Sept 14 at 2:00 Donna Kersten: Lakota Sioux Heirlooms and Artifacts Program
Wednesday Sept 14 at 2:45 Gaming Unplugged
Wednesday Sept 14 at 3:00 Early-Out Program with Jenny Hulme for Grades K-5
Thursday Sept 15 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Sept 15 at 2:15 Yoga
Friday Sept 16 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Sept 19 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Sept 19 at 2:00 Monday Book Club
Monday Sept 19 at 5:30 Chat & Chew Book Club
Tuesday Sept 20 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Sept 21 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Sept 21 at 10:15 Story Time with Miss Sue
Wednesday Sept 21 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Sept 21 at 2:00 Table For One with Laurie
Wednesday Sept 21 at 2:45 Gaming Unplugged
Thursday Sept 22 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Sept 22 at 2:15 Yoga
Thursday Sept 22 at 5:30 Watercolor Painting with Stephenie
Friday Sept 23 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
 
Applique Class Today:
Our Applique group meets today at 2:00.  This will be the last class in our “Monthly Applique Wall Hanging” series.  In October, we will start a new project.  Joan Schafer leads this beginners class, and you will learn simple applique sewing techniques. Anyone is welcome to join.  Stop in the library to see what we will be making next.
 
Scones & Tomes:
Our Scones and Tomes Book club will meet on Wednesday, September 14 at 11:30.  This is an informal book club – we discuss the books we have been reading lately while enjoying a hot beverage and a sweet treat. Newcomers are always welcome! We always add more books to our own “To Be Read” lists!
 
Lakota Sioux Heirlooms and Artifacts Program with Donna Kersten:
Join us on Wednesday, September 14 at 2:00 to hear Donna Kersten speak on her trip to Timberlake, South Dakota. She traveled there recently to return family heirlooms and artifacts belonging to the people of the Lakota Sioux. She will share her experiences, talk about her family heirlooms, and have photos to share.
 
Early-Out programming this week:
Do your school-aged children need something to do on Early-Out Wednesdays? Every Wednesday from 2:45 to 4:45, we are offering an activity for children in 4th-12th grades.  September's theme is Gaming Unplugged. We will have board and card games available, or feel free to bring your favorite game to share! Snacks will be provided.
 
Jenny Hulme with the Tama County 4-H and the ISU Extension Office will also be offering a program this Wednesday, Sept 14  for K-5th graders. Her program includes a story, activity/science experiment, and a craft to go home with you! There is no fee or registration for these programs. Just come to the library from 3:00-4:30 for some fun!
 
Monday Book Club:
Our Monday Book Club will meet next Monday, September 19 at 2:00.  This month’s selection is The Gown, by Jennifer Robson. This is quite a timely selection, as it is a novel of the Royal Wedding, the wedding gown worn by Queen Elizabeth, and the two embroiderers chosen to create the intricate stitching that will adorn her gown.  We still have a few copies available at the circulation desk if you’d like to read it and join our discussion.
 
Table for One:
Join us for this new monthly series on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 2:00 in the Talen Community Room. Our first session will be next week, September 21. Laurie Schafer will share recipes and tips and show us how to make single food servings for breakfast, lunch and dinner. (even desserts!) Each session will include samples to taste!
 
New Books:

Fiction:
Swamp Spirits - #23 Miss Fortune Series by Jana DeLeon
The Lost City - #2 Two Faces of the Jaguar by George Dismukes
Forged in Steele - #3 Steele Guardians Series by Susan Sleeman
Map Skills Murder - #7 Merry Wrath Series by Leslie Langtry
Girl, Forgotten by Karin Slaughter
The Chocolatier by Jan Moran
 
Non-Fiction:
Big Thrift Energy: the art and thrill of finding vintage treasures, plus tips for making old feel new by Virginia Chamlee
With Love: Poems Vol. 8 by Traer Resident Roger Corbin
 
DVD:
Bluey – Seasons 1 & 2
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
Somebody started throwing random Stephen King books at everyone.  I wondered why…..then It hit me.

Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

September 5, 2022 Newsletter

August 29 Newsletter

Good Morning!

On the Calendar:
Monday Aug 29 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Aug 29 at 2:00 BINGO
Monday Aug 29 at 3:30-6:00 Makerspace by Appt
Tuesday Aug 30 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Aug 31 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Aug 31 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Aug 31 at 2:30 Lego Challenge
Thursday Sept 1 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Sept 1 at 2:15 Yoga
Friday Sept 2 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Saturday Sept 3 Closed for Labor Day Holiday Weekend
Monday Sept 5 Closed for Labor Day Holiday Weekend
Tuesday Sept 6 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Sept 7 at 10:00 PenPals!
Wednesday Sept 7 at 10:15 Story Time with Miss Sue
Wednesday Sept 7 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Sept 7 at 2:00 Carnegie Café Coffee and Crafts
Wednesday Sept 7 at 2:45 Gaming Unplugged
Thursday Sept 8 at 10:30 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Sept 8 at 2:15 Yoga
Friday Sept 9 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
 
BINGO and Makerspace Today!
Come in today at 2:00 for a fun hour of BINGO! And if you have a crafting project you’ve been wanting to finish, you can come use any of the library supplies, like the Cricut, sewing machines, fabric, yarn, paper and other crafting supplies.  Just call the library to reserve a time between 3:30 and 6:00.
 
PenPals! New day and time:

 
Cribbage and Rummikub meets at 10:30:
Our Cribbage and Rummikub players will return to their normal meeting time starting this week.  If you like to play either of these games, or would like to learn, join us on Thursdays at 10:30 for a cup of coffee and some friendly competition!
 
Summer Reading Challenge Prize winners!
If your child or grandchild turned in some reading badges for completing BINGOs over the summer, they may have won a prize! Stop in the library or give us a call to find out!
 
Children’s Programming:
Story Time with Miss Sue will resume on September 7! We meet every Wednesday at 10:15 for stories, songs, crafts, and play! All young children and their caregivers are invited to come – we love making new friends! Just a reminder – we do not meet if there is no school or a two-hour delay at North Tama.

Do your school-aged children need something to do on Early-Out Wednesdays? Beginning September 7, every Wednesday from 2:45 to 4:45, we are offering an activity for children in 4th-12th grades.  Our Children's Librarian Miss Sue will have a different theme each month! September's theme will be Gaming Unplugged. We will have board and card games available, or feel free to bring your favorite game to share! Snacks will be provided.

Also, Tama County 4-H and the ISU Extension Office will be offering programs this fall for K-5th graders on the second Wednesday of the month. They will provide a program that includes a story, activity/science experiment, and a craft to go home with you! There is no fee or registration for these programs. Just come to the library from 3:00-4:30 on the following Early-Out Wednesdays for some fun!
Sept. 14, 2022
Oct. 12, 2022
Nov. 9, 2022
 
Community News:
The next Traer Community Blood drive will be on Thursday, September 8, from 12:30 – 5:30pm in the Memorial Building (414 2^nd Street). For an appointment call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.com and enter Sponsor Code:  Traer
 
New Books:
 
Fiction:
Cottage on Gooseberry Bay: Halloween Moon by Kathi Daley
Two Faces of the Jaguar by George Dismukes
Saving Sandcastles by Meredith Summers
 
Non-Fiction:
How to Eat More Plants: transform your health with 30 plant-based foods per week (and why it is easier than you think) by Megan Rossi
Simple Whatnots III: a third serving of satisfyingly Scrappy Quilts by Kim Diehl
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
To the person who stole my glasses – I will find you.  I have contacts.

Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

August 22 Newsletter

Good Morning!

On the Calendar:
Monday Aug 22 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Aug 22 at 4:00 PenPals!
Tuesday Aug 23 at 1:05 Outside the Lines Coloring
Tuesday Aug 23 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Aug 24 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Aug 24 at 2:30 Lego Challenge
Thursday Aug 25 at 1:00 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Aug 25 at 2:15 Yoga
Friday Aug 26 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Aug 29 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Aug 29 at 2:00 BINGO
Monday Aug 29 at 3:30-6:00 Makerspace by Appt
Tuesday Aug 30 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Aug 31 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Aug 31 at 2:30 Lego Challenge
Thursday Sept 1 at 1:00 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Sept 1 at 2:15 Yoga
Friday Sept 2 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
 
Outside the Lines:
Join us for a relaxing hour of coloring and visiting on Tuesday, August 23 at 1:05. We provide the cards, bookmarks, pencils and markers, you provide the creativity.
 
September Book Club:
The September selection for the Monday Book Club is The Gown, by Jennifer Robson. We have lots of copies at the circulation desk – several in large print. Stop by to pick up a copy. We will meet to discuss the book on September 19. New members are always welcome!

About the book:
London, 1947
Though the war ended two years ago, England’s recovery has been difficult. But the nation’s spirits are lifted when Princess Elizabeth’s engagement is announced. For Ann Hughes and Miriam Dassin, the upcoming wedding is more than a celebration. The talented embroiderers have been chosen to create the intricate stitching that will adorn the bride’s gown. It’s an extraordinary opportunity for a working-class English girl and a French émigrée who survived the Nazis.

Toronto, 2016
Intrigued by the exquisite set of embroidered flowers she inherited from her late grandmother, Heather Mackenzie discovers they match Queen Elizabeth’s wedding gown. She also finds an old photo of Nan with Miriam Dassin, a celebrated artist. How did her beloved Nan come to possess these treasures and what was her connection to Miriam Dassin? Yearning to know more about her grandmother’s past, Heather travels to London for a journey that will unlock the secrets of Nan’s life and, perhaps, lead her to her own destiny.

Children’s Programs for Early-Out Wednesdays:
Do your children need something to do on Early-Out Wednesdays? We have programs for all ages! 

Beginning September 7, every Wednesday from 2:45 to 4:45, we are offering an activity for children in 4th-12th grades.  Our Children's Librarian Miss Sue will have a different theme each month! September's theme will be Gaming Unplugged. We will have board and card games available, or feel free to bring your favorite game to share! Snacks will be provided.

Also, Tama County 4-H and the ISU Extension Office will be offering programs this fall for K-5th graders on the second Wednesday of the month. They will provide a program that includes a story, activity/science experiment, and a craft to go home with you! There is no fee or registration for these programs. Just come to the library from 3:00-4:30 on the following Early-Out Wednesdays for some fun!
   Sept. 14, 2022
   Oct. 12, 2022
   Nov. 9, 2022

New Books:
 
Fiction:
A Dress of Violet Taffeta by Tessa Arlen
Smile Beach Murder by Alicia Bessette
Where the Sky Begins by Rhys Bowen
Bookish People by Susan Coll
Reckoning by Catherine Coulter
Upgrade by Blake Crouch
Point Last Seen by Christina Dodd
The Apple Creek Announcement - #3 Creektown Discoveries by Wanda E. Brunstetter
Banished by Linda Byler
A Ladies Guide to Fortune-Hunting by Sophie Irwin
Mercury Pictures Presents by Anthony Marra
Properties of Thirst by Marianne Wiggins
 
Non-Fiction:
Leadership: six studies in world strategy by Henry Kissinger
 
Teen:
The Hawthorne Legacy - #2 Inheritance Games Series by Jennifer Barnes
The Bronzed Beasts - #3 Gilded Wolves Series by Roshani Chokishi
 
Junior Fiction Graphic Novels:
The Twisted Ones - #2 Five Nights at Freddy’s
The Fourth Closet - #3 Five Nights at Freddy’s
 
DVDs:
Jurassic World Dominion
Sonic the Hedgehog 2
Takers
The Gilded Age – Season 1
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
Never let your kids watch the orchestra.  There’s way too much sax and violins.

Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library

August 15 Newsletter

August 8 Newsletter

Good Morning!

On the Calendar:
Monday Aug 8 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Aug 8 at 2:00 All Things Tomatoes w/Laurie and Sharon
Monday Aug 8 at 4:00 PenPals!
Tuesday Aug 9 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Tuesday Aug 9 at 2:00 Summer Teen Book Club
Wednesday Aug 10 at 11:30 Scones & Tomes
Wednesday Aug 10 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Aug 10 at 2:30 Lego Challenge
Wednesday Aug 10 at 3:30 Garden Walk – David & Sandy Ingle
Thursday Aug 11 at 1:00 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Aug 11 at 2:15 **NO Yoga this week**
Thursday Aug 11 at 7:00 Kevin Wood in Concert – “Home, Sweet Home!”
Friday Aug 12 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Saturday, Aug 13 Open from 10:00 – 2:00 for Winding Stairs Festival
Saturday, Aug 13 10:30 Tabletop Role-Playing Games for ages 11-17
Monday Aug 15 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Monday Aug 15 at 2:00 Book Club
Monday Aug 15 at 5:30 Chat & Chew
Tuesday Aug 16 at 1:30 Tuesday Quilters
Wednesday Aug 17 at 1:00 Fit and Feisty
Wednesday Aug 17 at 2:30 Lego Challenge
Thursday Aug 18 at 1:00 Cribbage and Rummikub
Thursday Aug 18 at 2:15 Yoga
Friday Aug 19 at 1:00 Fit & Feisty
Saturday, Aug 20 10:30 Tabletop Role-Playing Games for ages 11-17
 
TODAY!! All Things Tomatoes:
Do you have an over-abundance of tomatoes? Are you tired of the same old recipes? Or just looking for new ways to use tomatoes? Come to “All Things Tomatoes” on Monday, August 8 at 2:00, and bring some of your favorite recipes using tomatoes to share. Laurie Schafer and Sharon Kern will lead the discussion, and hopefully you will go home with some new ideas and recipes using your tomato bumper crops!
 
Last Summer Teen Book Club:
Our final Summer Teen Book club will meet this Tuesday, August 9 at 2:00. Olivia will lead the discussion on what you’ve been reading lately, your favorite books and authors, or what’s next on your reading list.  Snacks will be provided.
 
Last Garden Walk of the Season:
We have seen so many beautiful gardens this year, and we have one more Garden Walk scheduled. This week we will gather at the garden of David & Sandy Ingle on Wednesday Aug. 10 at 3:30. Meet at the library to ride together, or call the library for addresses and directions.

Kevin Wood In Concert!
We are excited to have Traer native (class of '74) and professional singer and actor Kevin Wood returning to the library’s Kupka Cultural Center Stage! Kevin will present "Home, Sweet Home!" on Thursday, August 11 beginning at 7:00pm. This will be a cabaret-style show you won't want to miss!
 
Kevin is a graduate of North Tama as well as Luther College (Decorah, IA) and the University of Illinois (Urbana, IL).
After living and performing in NYC, Kevin relocated to Chicago and has had a music career that includes performances of operatic, musical theater and art song repertoire.  (No, you will not hear classical music at this show!)  He has also worked as a full-time parish church musician as well as music teacher and private voice instructor and accompanist in Chicagoland.

Bruce Perry, a fellow Luther alum, will join Kevin at the piano.  Bruce maintains an active musical schedule as a studio teacher, conductor, and performer. He serves as worship and music coordinator for Grace Lutheran Church, Fort Dodge and is active in Iowa Choral Directors Association. As a pianist, Perry has performed throughout the Midwest and in Brazil. Mr. Perry holds degrees in piano and vocal performance from Luther College and the University of Iowa.

Tickets are not required for this performance; however free-will donations to help support future library programs will be gratefully accepted.

Yoga: Please Note- There will be NO YOGA this week. See you back on the 18^th!
 
Winding Stairs Festival hours:
The library will be open from 10:00-2:00 on Saturday, August 13 for anyone that would like to stop in and look around our wonderful Carnegie Library.  We will have additional staff and Board Members available from noon-2:00 to answer any questions and show you around. If you or out-of-town friends and family have not been in the library since our 2004 renovation and addition, come see our beautiful library.  We are so very fortunate to have such a wonderful facility available for our community!

Tabletop Role-Playing Games:
Attention 11-17 year olds! Do you like to play role-playing games? Or would you like to try one for the first time? Come to the library this Saturday, August 13 to try one! Lily Jampoler will be the game facilitator.  Last week they played Honey Heist, and everyone had a lot of fun!
 
A tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG), also known as a pen-and-paper role-playing game, is a form of role-playing game in which the participants describe their characters' actions through speech. Participants determine the actions of their characters based on their characterization and the actions succeed or fail according to a set system of rules and guidelines. Within the rules, players have the freedom to improvise and their choices shape the direction and outcome of the game.
 
Summer Reading Challenge:
Young Readers - You still have some time to read and turn in your BINGO cards! Remember, for each BINGO you get, you receive a reading badge. After the library closes on Wednesday, August 17, all of the badges will be combined and we will randomly draw prize winners. Our prizes include Traer Theatre movie passes, Pizza Palace personal pan pizza coupons, Blank Park Zoo passes, camping cinch sacks of goodies, and more! So fill up those BINGO cards and come in to the library for your badges!
 
Early Carnival Ticket Vouchers:
Are you planning to ride the carnival rides at the Winding Stairs Festival? You can get Early Carnival Ticket Vouchers here at the library. Each Discount Voucher is $18. (Tickets at the Festival will be $20) You will then take this voucher to the Carnival Ticket Booth during the festival to receive your 24-ticket punch card. Each ride will require 2-3 punches. Vouchers must be paid for in cash. You may purchase vouchers until August 10.
 
New Books:

Fiction:
Remember Love by Mary Balogh
Cloudmaker by Malcolm Brooks
The Hidden One - #14 Kate Burkholder Series by Linda Castillo
The Bodyguard by Katherine Center
The Lies I Tell by Julie Clark
The Last Paladin by P.T. Deutermann
When You Dare - #1 Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor Series by Lori Foster
Trace of Fever - #2 Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor Series by Lori Foster
Things We Do in the Dark by Jennifer Hillier
Housebreaking by Colleen Hubbard
Deadly Target - #2 Rocky Mountain Courage Series by Elizabeth Goddard
The Big Dark Sky by Dean R Koontz
The Best is Yet to Come by Debbie Macomber
Augusta Hawke by G. M. Malliet
The Last to Vanish by Megan Miranda
The Swell by Allie Reynolds
To Marry a Scottish Laird by Lynsay Sands
The Edge of Summer by Viola Shipman
Portrait of an Unknown Woman - #22 Gabriel Allon Series by Daniel Silva
The It Girl by Ruth Ware
 
Large Print:
The 6:20 Man by David Baldacci
Any Other Family by Eleanor Brown
An Island Wedding by Jenny Colgan
High Risk Rescue by Elizabeth Goddard
By Her Own Design: a novel of Ann Lowe, fashion designer to the social register by Piper Huguley
Shattered - #14 Michael Bennett Series by James A. Patterson
 
Teen:
Blade of Secrets – #1 Bladesmith Series by Tricia Levenseller
The Inheritance Games – #1 Inheritance Games Series by Jennifer Barnes
 
Non-Fiction:
Botanical Watercolor Painting for Beginners: a step-by-step way to create beautiful floral artwork by Cara Rosalie Olsen
 
Pun-Of-The-Week:
I can’t believe someone broke into my garage and stole my limbo stick.  Seriously – how low can you go?!

Have a good week!
Diane Panfil
​Traer Public Library