Showing posts with label library. Show all posts
Showing posts with label library. Show all posts

King County Library System among top three digital circulating libraries in the world

Friday, January 19, 2024

Photo courtesy KCLS
King County Library System
(KCLS) patrons checked out 8,863,118 digital titles in 2023 through OverDrive, a digital reading platform used by KCLS. 

OverDrive’s statistics for stand-alone libraries identify KCLS as the second-highest digital circulating library in the U.S. and third in the world.

In another record-setting year, readers across the globe downloaded 662 million eBooks, audiobooks and digital magazines through OverDrive, reflecting a 19% increase in digital readership over 2022.

"KCLS’ digital collection serves as an invaluable resource that prioritizes both convenience and accessibility,” stated KCLS Director of Collection Management Services Tracey Thompson. 
“Our robust usage numbers demonstrate the compelling need for these resources, underscoring their significance and impact. We hope patrons continue to enjoy the ease of electronic formats, inclusivity of accessibility features and diverse titles in our vibrant digital collection.”

A KCLS library card or eCard allows access to the library system’s electronic materials, which include streaming TV, music and movies, eBooks and audiobooks, online magazines, research databases, student resources, small business resources and more.

KCLS’ Top Five Digital Titles in 2023:“Fourth Wing” by Rebecca Yarros
  1. “Spare” by Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex
  2. “Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus
  3. “I'm Glad My Mom Died” by Jennette McCurdy
  4. “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Deep End” by Jeff Kinney
To view KCLS’ electronic downloads in real time, check out OverDrive’s digital circulation dashboard.

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Animals In Winter Workshop for ages 6-12 at Richmond Beach Library

Monday, January 8, 2024

Animals in Winter workshop
Animals In Winter Workshop, Ages 6 to 12.
Please register here

Saturday, January 20, 2024 from 11:00am – 12:00pm at the Richmond Beach Library 19601 21st Ave NW, Shoreline WA 98177

Have you ever wondered where turtles go in the winter? Or why some animals migrate, and some hibernate? 

Learn about the unique strategies animals use to survive during the winter season. 

The workshop will include guided science activities and a small wet felted project. 

Presented by Pacific Northwest Biology and sponsored by the Friends of the Richmond Beach Library.


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Shoreline Tool Library now open for business

Sunday, January 7, 2024

Ribbon cutting with a chain saw. Exec Director Josh Epstein center in green vest.
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

On Saturday, January 6, 2024, the eagerly anticipated Shoreline Tool Library opened for business. A project of Seattle REconomy, which also runs the NE Seattle Tool Library, it is sponsored by a grant from the Washington State Department of Ecology, in partnership with King County Solid Waste Division and the City of Shoreline.

The Tool Library is located in the Evergreen RV building. The yellow sign is still out front.
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Located in the Evergreen RV building at 16610 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline WA 98133, the ribbon cutting was accomplished with a chainsaw, with Shoreline Mayor, Councilmembers, and Chamber of Commerce members standing by.

Front counter. Photo by Steven H. Robinson

The check in counter is right in front of the doors, with volunteers ready to greet and direct customers.

The building interior is a log cabin. Racks hold shovels, and brooms.
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

The surprisingly beautiful interior was clean and organized with the inventory neatly arranged on shelves and racks.

Photos by John Boril
Everyone has their favorite things. John Boril favored wheelbarrows and clamps - and found a sewing machine among the power tools.

Neatly organized shelves - and Executive Director Josh Epstein
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Josh Epstein, Executive Director, was everywhere during the Grand Opening, making sure that questions were answered and everyone got to find everything they wanted.

Photo by Steven H. Robinson
Fixer Nights

He has plans for the future. There is a space for bicycles. He plans to hold regular “Fixer Nights” where people can fix their lamps or tools that may need some attention.  

The Fixer Nights will be held on the third Wednesday starting this month on January 17, 2024.  People can stop by at 7:00pm or sign up on the website

Membership

Members join for a monthly, yearly, or lifetime fee. Or they can volunteer for regular shifts. Then any tool in the library can be checked out.

Tool Donations

The library will accept your donated tools to add to its inventory.

Correction: Address is 16610 Aurora. The description and map link are correct.

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Online computer classes from King County Library in January

Saturday, January 6, 2024

The King County Library System offers a wide range of free classes, both in person at various libraries and online.

January features a series of Online Computer Classes for adults presented by Bridget of Gentle Tech Help.

The sessions will not be recorded.

Register here - for one or all

Augmented Reality Fun on Your Phone
Wednesday, January 10, 2-3pm

Use free apps to explore an Egyptian pyramid, change your hair color and much more!

A Beginner’s Guide to iPhone Photography
Wednesday, January 17, 2-3pm

Learn about easy built-in tools to improve your everyday photos.

Simplify, Simplify, Simplify!
Wednesday, January 24, 2-3pm

Get tips to minimize time spent on your computer sorting email, printing documents and more.

Explore Google Arts & Culture
Wednesday, January 31, 2-3pm

Curious minds will enjoy walking through the world’s museums, playing with color and much more.


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Second Friday Arts for Adults: Coloring - in person at the Kenmore Library

Tuesday, January 2, 2024

Second Friday Arts for Adults: Coloring at the Kenmore Library 6531 NE 181st Street, Kenmore, WA, 98028. 425-486-8747

  • Friday, January 12, 2024 drop in from 2-4pm
  • Friday, February 9, 2024
  • Friday, March 8, 2024

Come to the library to create casual art in a relaxed and friendly environment. We will have basic arts supplies, tea and snacks and quiet music. You can also bring your own project to work on!

We will start the year off in January with detailed pages from adult coloring books. Colored pencils supplied.

Registration not required. Drop in at any time.


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Heidi Daniel to become new King County Library System executive director

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Heidi Daniel named Executive Director of King County Library System

ISSAQUAH, WA — December 19, 2023 — The King County Library System (KCLS) Board of Trustees has selected Heidi Daniel to become KCLS’ new executive director. Following a nationwide search after Lisa Rosenblum’s announcement to retire, the Board of Trustees voted to extend an offer of employment to Daniel at the board meeting on December 13. Daniel accepted the offer, and she will begin her leadership role on March 11, 2024.

"Our search firm and committee conducted a rigorous interview process, with input from a diverse panel of staff, trustee and community stakeholders, to find KCLS’ next executive director,” stated KCLS Board of Trustees President Harish Kulkarni. 
“Daniel emerged as the most qualified and competitive candidate. She will bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and an impressive track record of innovation and community service to KCLS."

Daniel joins KCLS from the Enoch Pratt Free Library in Baltimore, Maryland where she has served as president and CEO since July 2017. Under Daniel’s leadership, the Pratt became one of the first fines-free public libraries on the East Coast. 

Daniel also oversaw the completion of the Central Library renovation, and helped spearhead plans for a new Park Heights Library, the Pratt’s first new building in more than 15 years. She helped launch the library’s Office of Equity and Fair Practices, steered the organization through the start of the unionization process, led new and innovative public service strategies through the historic COVID-19 pandemic, and kickstarted a new Master Facilities Plan to help ensure the Pratt’s ability to serve generations to come.

Prior to working at the Pratt, Daniel served as executive director of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County in Youngstown, Ohio for nearly five years. Daniel, the 2015 recipient of the Ohio Librarian of the Year award, oversaw 15 library branches throughout Mahoning County, worked on several major building projects and spearheaded innovative new services, including a Pop-Up Library and the circulation of mobile Wi-Fi hot spots.

“I am deeply honored to take the helm of the King County Library System,” said Daniel. “I’ve been impressed with KCLS, its staff and the Pacific Northwest. KCLS is nationally known for its excellence, commitment to community and welcoming atmosphere, and I am thrilled to build upon its foundation while moving KCLS into the future.”

The daughter of a factory worker, Daniel’s parents did not go to college, but used the library in her Michigan hometown to impress upon her the importance of education. Daniel earned her bachelor's degree in women’s studies at DePaul University and her master’s degree in library sciences at Texas Woman’s University. She began her career in children’s and teen programming in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and Houston, Texas before moving into library administration.

About the King County Library System:
 
Founded in 1942, the King County Library System (KCLS) is one of the busiest public library systems in the country. Supporting the communities of King County (outside the city of Seattle), KCLS has 50 libraries and serves nearly 1.6 million people. 

Richmond Beach, Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Kenmore, and Bothell are King County Libraries

In 2022, residents checked out 7.9 million digital eBooks and audiobooks through OverDrive, making KCLS the second-highest digital circulating library system in the U.S. In 2011, KCLS was named Library of the Year by Gale/Library Journal.


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Shoreline Tool Library to celebrate grand opening on Saturday January 6, 2024

Tuesday, December 19, 2023

Shoreline tool library opens January 6, 2024
Photo courtesy Shoreline Tool Library

SHORELINE – The key to keeping your New Year’s resolution to live more sustainably sits on the shelves of your local library. But a different one than you think.

The new Shoreline Tool Library, offering literally thousands of tools to borrow for free, will celebrate its grand opening from 9am - noon Saturday, January 6, 2024 at the library, 16610 Aurora Ave N, Seattle.

Beginning that day, this valuable community resource will be lending out tools, catering supplies, and much more, plus offering classes, and selling a selection of reused building materials.

“It’s just like a library, but for tools,” said Executive Director Josh Epstein. “We have everything from circular saws to pressure washers. Our focus is on reducing consumption and waste by sharing tools and repairing things that might otherwise go in the trash.”

The Shoreline Tool Library is the second location for parent nonprofit Seattle REconomy, the first being the NE Seattle Tool Library, founded in 2013. These libraries are scattered around Seattle (managed by different organizations) and are a “hidden gem,” according to Epstein.

“I hear so often, ‘I wish I’d known about this sooner!’ ” he said. “My goal is to have people saying, ‘I use the library all the time!’ ”

The libraries function through member donations, though no individual is denied access for lack of funds. Many members donate beyond the suggested amount to support this model.

The Shoreline Tool Library is also supported by generous grants from the WA Department of Ecology, King County Solid Waste, and the cities of Shoreline and Lake Forest Park.

Learn more about the Shoreline Tool Library and become a member HERE.

Learn more about Seattle REconomy here


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King County Library System Foundation awarded $800,000 grant from the Mellon Foundation to develop Memory Labs in Makerspace Libraries

Sunday, December 10, 2023

The King County Library System Foundation received an $800,000 grant from the Mellon Foundation, which supports communities through the power of the arts and humanities. 

The funding will be used to house two Memory Labs at the King County Library System (KCLS). 

One Memory Lab will be located in the Bellevue Library Makerspace and the other will be in the Federal Way Library Makerspace.

KCLS will work with community partners during the Memory Lab project to gather, amplify and preserve the stories of patrons who have been impacted by systemic inequities, and language and cultural barriers. 

The five-year project will focus on two key audiences: Asian Americans and their descendants in the Bellevue area who were displaced from their homes and farms during World War II, and immigrants and refugees who now call King County home.

Beginning in 2026, KCLS will record participants’ stories in the sound booths at both Makerspace locations. The collection of stories will be archived on the KCLS website and through StoryCorps, a national nonprofit dedicated to recording, preserving and sharing stories. 

In 2028, KCLS will host two events — one at each Makerspace — to showcase the Memory Lab stories.

“The Mellon Foundation has provided us with an incredible opportunity to honor patrons through storytelling,” stated KCLS Foundation Executive Director Lisa Yamasaki. “We’re excited to help shine a light on the moments and narratives that have shaped our communities.”

To learn more about the Memory Lab project and find out how to participate, contact KCLS-MemoryLab@kcls.org.

Founded in 1942, the King County Library System (KCLS) is one of the busiest public library systems in the country. Supporting the communities of King County (outside the city of Seattle), KCLS has 50 libraries and serves 1.6 million people. 

Locally, King County Libraries are in Richmond Beach, Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Kenmore, and Bothell.

In 2022, residents checked out 7.9 million digital eBooks and audiobooks through OverDrive, making KCLS the second-highest digital circulating library system in the U.S. 

In 2011, KCLS was named Library of the Year by Gale/Library Journal.


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Guidebook author will discuss hiking the Central Cascades on Tuesday at Shoreline Library

Day Hiking the Central Cascades at the Shoreline Library 345 NE 175th St, Shoreline WA 98155 on Tuesday, December 12, 2023 from 6 - 7pm.

Enjoy a hiking tour of Washington’s Central Cascades with guidebook author Craig Romano
Explore trails along the US 2 corridor and more. 

Books will be available for purchase. Cash only please.

Registration not required.

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Reminder: LFP Library book sale Saturday, December 9, 2023 from 11am to 4pm

Saturday, December 9, 2023

Lake Forest Park Library
Photo by Jerry Pickard

A big holiday book sale is scheduled for Saturday, December 9, 2023 from 11am to 4pm at the Lake Forest Park Library, 17171 Bothell Way N.E. in Lake Forest Park (lower lobby by the escalator).

There will be lots of children’s and teen books, fiction and nonfiction for adults, holiday books, cookbooks, and coffee-table books, all at very low prices.

Both used and new books are included, perfect for gift-giving and winter reading.

Prices start at one dollar (some at fifty cents) with specialty books marked up slightly; there will be further markdowns during the final hour of the sale. Proceeds help to support programs and events at the Lake Forest Park Library.

The book sale, sponsored by the Friends of the LFP Library, will take place inside the Library’s meeting room and also outside the library’s entrance. Call the library for directions at 206-362-8860.

The library is on the lower level of Town Center, by the escalator, intersection Bothell and Ballinger Way in Lake Forest Park.


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New and used books at Friends of LFP Library book sale Saturday

Tuesday, December 5, 2023

Lots of children's books at LFP Friends of the Library book sale Saturday
Photo courtesy Friends of LFP Library

A big holiday book sale is scheduled for Saturday, December 9, 2023 from 11am to 4pm at the Lake Forest Park Library, 17171 Bothell Way N.E. in Lake Forest Park (lower lobby by the escalator). 

There will be lots of children’s and teen books, fiction and nonfiction for adults, holiday books, cookbooks, and coffee-table books, all at very low prices. 

Both used and new books are included, perfect for gift-giving and winter reading. 

Prices start at one dollar (some at fifty cents) with specialty books marked up slightly; there will be further markdowns during the final hour of the sale. Proceeds help to support programs and events at the Lake Forest Park Library. 

The book sale, sponsored by the Friends of the LFP Library, will take place inside the Library’s meeting room and also outside the library’s entrance. Call the library for directions at 206-362-8860.


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Let’s Get Growing Indoors! workshop at Shoreline Library Sunday December 3, 2023

Friday, December 1, 2023

Let’s Get Growing Indoors!

Sunday, December 3, 4 - 5pm. For Adults.

Join Lisa Taylor for a hands-on session about planting and growing seeds inside. Discover crops that are well suited for Northwest gardens.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Shoreline Library.

Registration not required.


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Holiday and Winter Photography with Merrill Images Saturday December 2, 2023

Thursday, November 30, 2023

Holiday and Winter Photography with Merrill Images


Saturday, December 2, 2-3:30pm
For Adults.

Jumpstart your photography with new approaches to image-making throughout the winter season. John and Lisa Merrill from Merrill Images will help you harness the transformative power of light, compose for impact and intentionally make compelling photos.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Shoreline Library.

Registration not required.


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King County Library System (KCLS) Board of Trustees has appointed KCLS Deputy Director of Public Services Angie Miraflor as interim director of the library system

Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Angie Miraflor named interim director
of the King County Library System
ISSAQUAH, WA — The King County Library System (KCLS) Board of Trustees has appointed KCLS Deputy Director of Public Services Angie Miraflor as interim director of the library system, effective December 19, following the retirement of current KCLS Executive Director Lisa Rosenblum.

Miraflor joined KCLS in November 2021. She brings over 20 years of experience working in diverse communities throughout the country. Before coming to KCLS, she served as the director of central services at the St. Louis Public Library. 

Miraflor has also served as the director of customer experience at the Brooklyn Public Library, associate director of the West Bronx Library Network at the New York Public Library, and division manager for literacy and learning at the San Jose Public Library. 

Angie holds a master’s degree in library and information science and a bachelor’s degree in public relations from San Jose State University.

“I’m proud to say KCLS has been my library home for the last two years,” stated KCLS Deputy Director of Public Services Angie Miraflor. “I’m excited and honored to lead such an innovative and community focused organization during this time of transition. KCLS’ devoted staff will continue to provide excellent programs and robust collections.”  

The KCLS Board of Trustees is charged with hiring the new executive director. They are conducting a national search for the position, and they expect the effort to take several more months.

"The Board of Trustees is happy that Angie Miraflor has graciously agreed to fill the role of the interim director,” stated KCLS Board of Trustees President Harish Kulkarni. “We are confident that the library and its patrons will be in able and experienced hands until a new director can start their duties."

Rosenblum announced her retirement in July. A distinguished librarian, she has spent the past 35 years working for public libraries. Since Rosenblum joined KCLS in January 2018, the library system has received numerous awards and accolades for outstanding services and innovation, including being named a National Medal finalist by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) this year — a first for KCLS.


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Heaven on the Half Shell - presentation Sunday at Shoreline Library

Saturday, November 18, 2023


When the tide is out, the table is set.

No registration required for this presentation on the history of oyster cultivation in Puget Sound and elsewhere.

Sunday November 19, 2023 at 1pm. Sponsored by Friends of the Shoreline Library




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Shoreline Tool Library grand opening on January 6, 2024

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

The Shoreline Tool Library will celebrate its grand opening with a celebration on Saturday, January 6, 2024 from 9am to 12pm at its location in the Evergreen EV building, 16610 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline WA 98133.

Food and drinks will be served!

They have thousands of tools ready to borrow for free, just like a book library. You can also donate working, non-gas powered, tools and useful building materials.



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Decluttering Using the Kon Marie Method (Part 1)

Thursday, November 9, 2023

Decluttering clothing - Part I


Decluttering Using the Kon Marie Method (Part 1) 
Online / virtual
Tuesday, November 14, 6-7pm

Identify your ideal lifestyle! Learn with Natalie Vanderpump the principles and steps for organizing clothing. Get practical tips and transformative insights.

Please register here

You will be emailed a link no later than one hour before the program start time. If you do not see an email, check your Junk or Spam folder.

Attend one or all:
  • (Part 1) November 14: Decluttering Using the Kon Marie Method
  • (Part 2) December 13: Decluttering Books and Papers
  • (Part 3) January 9: Decluttering Your Home-Komono and Sentimental Items

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Learn PowerPoint 1 in free class at Shoreline Library Monday November 13, 2023

Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Microsoft PowerPoint Level 1
Shoreline Library 

Monday, November 13, 10:30am-12pm

Learn how to create a slideshow presentation for school, work or home.

Must be able to use the mouse and keyboard.

Please register here


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Bothell Community Resource Fair Saturday November 18, 2023

Sunday, November 5, 2023

The King County Library System (KCLS) will host their next Community Resource Fair at the Bothell Library on November 18, 2023.
 
Bothell Community Resource Fair
Saturday, November 18, 2023
1:30-4:30pm
Bothell Library 18215 98th Ave NE, Bothell, WA 98011, 425-486-7811

Connect with local human services providers and learn about resources for mental health, housing, food, healthcare, financial assistance and more.

Light refreshments provided while supplies last.

In partnership with the City of Bothell.

Participating agencies include 
  • Assurance Wireless, 
  • Brazilian Community Services, 
  • Center for Human Services, 
  • Chinese Information and Services Center,
  • Consejo Counseling, 
  • Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County, 
  • HealthPoint, 
  • Hopelink, 
  • Northshore School District, 
  • Northshore Senior Center.

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Shoreline Tool Library launch and info session Tuesday November 7, 2023

Thursday, November 2, 2023

Tool library NE Seattle
Join Seattle REconomy for the launch of the Shoreline Tool Library, coming in 2024. You'll learn about membership, volunteering, and more!

Tuesday November 7, 2023
6:00 to 8:00pm
Council Chamber at Shoreline City Hall
17500 Midvale Avenue N

This is a FREE community event. RSVPs appreciated, but not required. Reserve your spot today.

Join us for a presentation with a question-and-answer session about the new tool library coming to Shoreline in January 2024.
  • Learn about our new location, offerings, classes, and how to get involved.
  • Sign up for your tool library membership or to volunteer!
  • Light refreshments will be provided.
What is a tool library?

A tool library is similar to a book library: it is a collection of tools that you can check out, use for a while, and then return. The term “tools” is used broadly to include any items that someone might use on an irregular basis such as the usual woodworking and gardening tools, but also tools for cooking, food preservation, sewing, and even special events. 

Tool libraries provide community access to a wide variety of tools, training, and sustainable resources. By sharing items rather than owning them each individually, we reduce waste and increase community connections.

Seattle REconomy's vision for the tool library is larger than simply making tools available to borrow, however. They intend to host workshops to help people learn various skills from using the tools in the library to fixing broken items. They hope to use the tool library to collaborate with other groups in the neighborhood and to serve as a resource to increase community resilience and connectedness.

Learn more about tool libraries and the repair and reuse community on King County EcoConsumer.

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