Tag:

entertainment

So You Say You Hate Musicals

by Toledo Lucas County Public Library August 21, 2018

Hello blog readers! Allison F and Eric P here to talk to you about something that’s been weighing on us.

So, you say you hate musicals …

Do you really?

Is it the cheesy storylines? Or maybe it’s the way they keep making their characters sing and dance when people don’t really do that. Perhaps they give you a strange, uncomfortable feeling – as if you are embarrassed for the incredibly talented people singing and dancing their hearts out. They look like they’re having the time of their life, but deep down they feel awkward and self-conscious, right? Right?

We get it, musicals are kinda weird. But the thing is, we don’t actually believe you when you say you hate them.

We think maybe you just haven’t discovered the musical that’s right for you.

We think maybe you saw “Fiddler on the Roof” once when you were seven and swore you’d never watch one again. (At an impressionable age, Eric sat through a high school production of “Oklahoma!” in which the title song threatened never to end. It may still be going to this day.)

We think we can convince you otherwise.

So we dare you to keep reading. Let us try and prove to you that musicals are a magical force of fun and excitement just waiting to change your life. Or at least change your mind.

Eric says

If you like…

Seekers and finders [music CD] / Gogol Bordello

You're the worst - Television Show, Season 2 on DVD / Bluebrush Productions

You’ll probably enjoy…

Natasha, Pierre and the great comet of 1812 [music CD] : original Broadway cast recording / Dave Malloy

“Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812“

The musical where actors play their own guitars and accordions while navigating love and dysfunction during the Napoleonic wars.

Music CD | eMusic

Allison says

If you like…

Outlander. Season 1, volume 1 [DVD] / executive producer, Ronald D. Moore

You’ll probably enjoy…

“The Phantom of the Opera“

In which the female lead never once questions the disembodied voice that is teaching her to sing and willingly allows herself to be kidnapped and taken into the bowels of Paris’s underground before panicking and realizing something might not be quite right with the dude in the mask.

DVD | Music CD | eMusic

Eric says

If you like…

Lysis ; Symposium ; Gorgias / Plato ; with an English translation by W.R.M. Lamb

The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert - motion picture

The rise and fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars [music CD] / David Bowie

You’ll probably enjoy…

“Hedwig and the Angry Inch“

The glammy rock opera about love, identity, and sex reassignment surgery in the shadow of the cold war.

Music CD | eMusic

Allison says

If you like…

RuPaul's drag race (Season 7) - television show

You’ll probably enjoy…

“Hairspray“

The upbeat and colorful tale of some plucky teens who just want to dance and aren’t gonna let a little thing like institutionalized racism get in their way.

DVD | Music CD

Eric says

If you like…

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl

Wall of sound [music CD] : the very best of Phil Spector, 1961-1966

The Complete houseplant survival manual : essential know-how for keeping (not killing) more than 160 indoor plants / Barbara Pleasant ; photography by Rosemary Kautzky

You’ll probably enjoy…

“Little Shop of Horrors“

In which carnivorous plants and malicious dentists sing catchy Brill Building pop numbers as the bodies pile up.

DVD | eMusic

Allison says

If you like…

The Very Best of Backstreet Boys - music

You’ll probably enjoy…

“Newsies“

The story of scrappy turn of the century newspaper sales boys who team up with Teddy Roosevelt to take down the newspaper industry. Also, Christian Bale in a cowboy hat.

DVD | eMusic

Eric says

If you like…

Symphonie fantastique [music CD] / Hector Berlioz

The Donner Party [DVD] / written and directed by Ric Burns ; produced by Lisa Ades and Ric Burns

You’ll probably enjoy….

“Sweeney Todd“

The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, a darkly Victorian tale of entrepreneurial cannibalism.

DVD | Music CD

Allison says

If you like…

Harry Potter and the sorcerer's stone / by J.K. Rowling

Kermit the Frog's "It's Not easy Being Green" — Image by Isotastic – flickr

You’ll probably enjoy…

“Wicked“

The tale of the “Wicked” Witch of the West who it turns out had a greater handle on things than anyone else and also really knew how to rock the all-black look.

Music CD | eMusic
Based on the novel “Wicked” by Gregory Maguire.

Eric says

If you like…

Omar Sharif - 1963 — Photo by Gene Weber – Wikimedia Commons

You’ll probably enjoy…

“The Band’s Visit“

The intimate and heartbreaking show about cosmopolitan Egyptian musicians unexpectedly stranded in a small Israeli desert town.

Music CD | eMusic
Book | eBook
Based on the film by Eran Kolirin.

Allison says

If you like…

Antiques Roadshow behind the scenes : an insider's guide to PBS's #1 weekly show / Marsha Bemko

The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas

You’ll probably enjoy…

“Les Miserables“

In which everyone is truly miserable except for two young lovebirds whose self-absorption is so intense they are able to all but ignore the French Revolution. Plus, ghosts.

DVD | Music CD

…Did it work? Is your previous antipathy toward musicals dwindling like the box office returns of “Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark?” Do you feel a newfound generosity toward the art form swelling in you like the crescendo of an 11 o’clock number?

Or perhaps your indifference remains unchanged. Maybe you still feel as antagonistic toward the stage musical experience as Leslie Odom Jr’s Aaron Burr felt toward Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Alexander Hamilton.”

But that’s okay. It just means we haven’t found the right one for you yet. We’ll be back with another blog post with more suggestions, and we’ll keep coming back until you’ve got jazz hands.

I mean, that high school performance of “Oklahoma!” is still going on somewhere, so anything’s possible.

Five-six-seven-eight!

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Tell us what you’ve enjoyed reading, watching or listening to, and our librarians will give you personalized recommendations.

No algorithms, cookies or data mining – just real experts in your community sharing their love of great books, music and movies with you. We call it Give 3 Get 3.

Get started today at

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Feeling Crafty? Try Something New!

by Toledo Lucas County Public Library July 16, 2018

Summer is a great time to turn off the TV and craftily relax and enjoy ourselves. We have oodles of craft books of all kinds, as in the titles below…

Time to Get Crafty…

With the Help of These Creative Books

Crochet Taxidermy: 30 Quirky Animal Projects from Mouse to Moose by Taylor Hart

Drawing Calm: Relax, Refresh, Refocus with 20 Drawing, painting and Collage Workshops inspired by Klimt, Klee, Monet and More by Susan Evenson

PVC + pipe engineer : put together cool, easy, maker-friendly stuff / Jordan Bunker

Mason jar nation : the jars that changed America and 50 clever ways to use them today / JoAnn Moser

Paper Craft: 50 Projects including Card Making, Gift Wrapping, Scrapbooking and Beautiful Paper Flowers by Gemma Fletcher

Looking for your next great read?

Let us help you!

Tell us what you’ve enjoyed reading, watching or listening to, and our librarians will give you personalized recommendations.

No algorithms, cookies or data mining – just real experts in your community sharing their love of great books, music and movies with you. We call it Give 3 Get 3.

Get started today at

toledolibrary.org/Give3Get!

Originally posted by Amy H. at ToledoLibrary.org/blog/feeling-crafty

Free Music Rocks the 419!

by Toledo Lucas County Public Library July 16, 2018

The longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere is the summer solstice, which took place on June 21 this year. So, even though it feels like summer has been here for quite some time, there’s still lots of time to enjoy the warm weather in the great outdoors.

The 419 is alive with activity this summer. Short on cash? No problem! Enjoy an incredible variety of performers from all types of musical genres scattered across the Toledo area.

Free Summer Music Concerts in 2018

Brown Bag Summer Concerts - Toledo Lucas County Public Library

Brown Bag Concert Series

When: Wednesdays | June – August 1 | 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Where: Main Library – North Lawn, 325 Michigan Street, Toledo, Ohio 43604

June 27 | Maumee Community Band

July 11 | Fu5ion (R&B/Hip Hop/Rock)

July 18 | Just Kiddin’ Around…with Elisa and Chuck Hage (Children’s)

July 25 | Xplozivo (Tejano)

Aug. 1 | Elixer (Beatles Tribute)

Music Under the Stars

When: Sundays | July 8-29 | 7:30 p.m.

Where: Toledo Zoo Ampitheater | 2700 Broadway St, Toledo, Ohio 43609

July 8 | Stars, Stripes, and Sousa with the Toledo Symphony Concert Band

July 15 | Jurassic Park, Indiana Jones and Star Wars: The Music of John Williams with the Toledo Symphony Concert Band

July 22 | Christmas in July with the Toledo Symphony Chamber Players

July 29 | Swing, Swing, Swing: Music of the Big Band Stars with the Toledo Jazz Orchestra

Maumee Community Band

When / Where: See listings below

June 27 | 12:15 p.m. | Brown Bag Concert
Main Library – North Lawn, 325 Michigan Street, Toledo, Ohio 43604July 3 | 6 p.m. | Independence Day Celebration
Downtown Maumee, Ohio 43537

July 10 | 7 p.m. | Music by the River II
Maumee Branch Library, Maumee, Ohio 43537

July 11 | 6 p.m. | Summer Concert
First Presbyterian Church, 200 E Broadway Street, Maumee, Ohio 43537

Aug. 7 | 7 p.m. | Music by the River III
Maumee Branch Library, Maumee, Ohio 43537

Aug. 11 | 10:30 a.m. | Maumee Street Fair
Downtown Maumee, Ohio 43537

Walbridge Park Summer Concerts - Toledo, Ohio

Walbridge Park Concerts

When: Thursdays | June-July | 7-9 p.m.

Where: Walbridge Park Gazebo | 2761 Broadway Street, Toledo, Ohio 43609

June 21 | E Z Pickenz (Acoustic Rock)

July 5 | Night Sessions (Big Band)

July 12 | Cactus Jack (Funk Rock)

July 19 | Quickness with Michelle Shelton (Jazz)

July 26 | Old State Line (Blue Grass Country)

Music at the Market

When: Thursdays | June-August | 7 p.m.

Where: Downtown Perrysburg (corner of Louisiana & Indiana Avenues)

June 28 | Swingmania

July 5 | My Distant Cousinz

July 12 | Ol’ Creek Road

July 19 | The House Band

July 26 | Barile & May

Aug. 2 | Old State Line

Aug. 9 | Tammy & Dan Acoustic Duo

Aug. 16 | 56 Daze

Aug. 23 | Ramona Collins Group

Aug. 30 | The Original Killer Flamingos

Old West End Summer Concerts in the Arboretum - Toledo, Ohio

Old West End Music in the Park

When: Select Sundays | 6-8 p.m.

Where: The Arboretum (Old West End, corner of Delaware and Robinwood), Toledo, Ohio 43606

July 8 | The Essentials

July 22 | Polka Floyd

Aug. 12 | Rockys East

Aug. 26 | Zodiac Click

Sept. 9 | Organized K-OS

Ottawa Park Amphitheater Summer Concerts - Toledo, Ohio

Ottawa Park Amphitheater Concert Series

When: Saturdays | July 14-Aug. 18 | 6-8 p.m.

Where: Ottawa Park | 2201 Ottawa Pkwy, Toledo, Ohio 43606

July 14 | The Good, The Bad & The Blues (Blues)

July 21 | Madison Avenue Band (Lots of Favorites)

July 28 | East River Drive (Las Vegas Show Music)

Aug. 4 | Nu-Tones (British Invasion)

Aug. 11 | Not Fast Enuff (Hi Energy Party Band)

Aug. 18 | Boffo (Classic Rock)

Can’t make it to these summer concerts?

Browse hoopla and stream a variety of music for free.

No Capes Required: Comics Embrace All Literary Genres!

by Toledo Lucas County Public Library July 16, 2018

When I was young, I loved comics. Whether it was the X-Men, Batman or Deadpool, I couldn’t get enough of the emersion and escapism that comics offered. As I’ve grown older I’ve begun branching out from the superhero comics of my youth, and my love and respect for the art form has only intensified.

It may come as a surprise that the world of comics has so much more to offer than spandex-clad muscle men and swooning damsels in distress. Luckily for us there are comics out there to suit just about every taste in literature: there are westerns, science fiction, fantasy and noir detective-style comics. And let’s not forget comics with romance, horror, or comics that have good endings and bad. Comics that are weird. Comics that are queer. Comics that are funny. Comics that are cute. And pretty much everything in between.

Here are 20 of my favorite “no cape” comics – some are stand-alone, many are part of a series – for those of you looking for some alternatives to Marvel and DC. If you haven’t picked up a comic in a while, one of these titles may be the perfect place to get reacquainted. If you think you “aren’t into comics” – I guarantee that at least one of these will change your mind.

Graphic novels for people looking for an alternative to superhero comics

Blacksad written by Juan Diaz Canales ; ilustrated by Juanjo Guarnido

Daytripper / by Fábio Moon & Gabriel Bá ; with coloring by Dave Stewart ; lettering by Sean Konot

East of West. Volume 1 / Jonathan Hickman, writer ; Nick Dragotta, artist ; Frank Martin, colors ; Rus Wooton, letters

Fables: Legends in Exile written by Bill Willingham ; illustrated by Lan Medina

Blacksad written by Juan Diaz Canales ; ilustrated by Juanjo Guarnido

AMAZON RATING: 4.7 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 4.34 stars

Private investigator John Blacksad is up to his feline ears in mystery and intrigue, digging up the backstories behind murders, child abductions, and nuclear secrets during the 1950s Red Scare in the United States. Also available as an eComic.

Daytripper by Gabriel Ba and Fabio Moon

AMAZON RATING: 4.7 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 4.3 stars

Presents key moments in the life of Brás de Oliva Domingos, a Brazilian writer and sometime journalist, and the son of a prominent author, as if each episode would turn out to be the day in which he was about to die. Also available as an eComic.

Duncan the Wonder Dog written and illustrated by Adam Hines

AMAZON RATING: 4.4 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 4 stars

What if animals could talk? Would some of them form a militant group in reaction to how humans treat them? Would humans treat them different?

East of West written by Jonathan Hickman ; illustrated by Nick Dragotta

AMAZON RATING: 4.1 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 3.92 stars

This is the world. It is not the one we wanted, but it is the one we deserved. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse roam the Earth, signaling the End Times for humanity, and our best hope for life, lies in DEATH! Also available as an eComic.

Fables: Legends in Exile written by Bill Willingham ; illustrated by Lan Medina

AMAZON RATING: 4.4 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 3.98 stars

Who killed Rose Red? In Fabletown, where fairy tale legends live alongside regular New Yorkers, the question is all anyone can talk about. But only the Big Bad Wolf can actually solve the case – and, along with Rose’s sister Snow White, keep the Fabletown community from coming apart at the seams. Also available as an eComic.

Joe the Barbarian" by Grant Morrison (Author), Sean Murphy (Illustrator)

Locke and Key: Welcome to Lovecraft by Joe Hill

Hellboy by Mike Mignola (Author/ Illustrator), Various (Illustrator)

AMAZON RATING: 4.6 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 4.12 stars

When strangeness threatens to engulf the world, a strange man will come to save it. Sent to investigate a mystery with supernatural overtones, Hellboy discovers the secrets of his own origins, and his link to the Nazi occultists who promised Hitler a final solution in the form of a demonic avatar. Also available as an eComic.

Joe the Barbarian by Grant Morrison (Author), Sean Murphy (Illustrator)

AMAZON RATING: 4.2 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 3.77 stars

Joe is an imaginative young kid of 11 who happens to suffer from type 1 diabetes. Without supervision and insulin, he can easily slip into a delirious, dissociative state that presages coma and death. One fateful day, his condition causes him to believe he has entered a vivid fantasy world in which he is the lost savior — a fantastic land based on the layout and contents of his home.

King City by Brandon Graham (Author/ Illustrator)

AMAZON RATING: 4.6 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 3.99 stars

Joe is a catmaster, trained to use his cat as any tool or weapon. His best friend, Pete, falls in love with an alien he’s forced to sell into green slavery, while his ex, Anna, watches her Xombie War veteran boyfriend turn into the drug he’s addicted to. King City, an underbelly of a town run by spy gangs and dark dark magic with mystery down every alleyway.

Locke & Key: Welcome to Lovecraft by Joe Hill (Author),‎ Gabriel Rodriguez (Artist)

AMAZON RATING: 4.5 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 4.16 stars

“Locke & Key” tells of Keyhouse, an unlikely New England mansion, with fantastic doors that transform all who dare to walk through them, and home to a hate-filled and relentless creature that will not rest until it forces open the most terrible door of them all! Also available as an eComic.

Monstress by Marjorie Liu (Author), Sana Takeda (Artist)

AMAZON RATING: 4.5 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 3.97 stars

Set in an alternate matriarchal 1900’s Asia, in a richly imagined world of art
deco-inflected steampunk, MONSTRESS tells the story of a teenage girl who is struggling to survive the trauma of war, and who shares a mysterious psychic link with a monster of tremendous power, a connection that will transform them both.

Pretty Deadly: Volume one - The shrike by Kelly Sue DeConnick

Nimona by Noelle Stevenson (Author, Illustrator)

AMAZON RATING: 4.7 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 4.19 stars

Lord Blackheart, a villain with a vendetta, and his sidekick, Nimona, an impulsive young shapeshifter, must prove to the kingdom that Sir Goldenloin and the Institution of Law
Enforcement and Heroics aren’t the heroes everyone thinks they are. Also available in Audio and eAudio.

Pretty Deadly by Kelly Sue DeConnick (Author), Emma Rios (Artist), Jordie Bellair (Artist)

AMAZON RATING: 4.1 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 3.82

As Sissy, a girl with a crow head-dress and two different colored eyes, and Fox, a blind old man, travel a fanciful Old West world, they are pursued by Death who seeks Sissy for reasons unknown. Also available as an eComic.

Saga by Brian K. Vaughan (Author), Fiona Staples (Artist)

AMAZON RATING: 4.7 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 4.23

When two soldiers from opposite sides of a never-ending galactic war fall in love, they risk everything to bring a fragile new life into a dangerous old universe. Fantasy and science fiction are wed like never before in a sexy, subversive drama for adults. Also available as an eComic.

Sandman by Neil Gaiman (Author), Sam Kieth (Illustrator), Mike Dringenberg (Illustrator)

AMAZON RATING: 4.4 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 4.28 stars

After his seventy-year imprisonment and eventual escape, Dream, also known as Morpheus, goes on a quest for his lost objects of power. On his arduous journey Morpheus encounters Lucifer, John Constantine, and an all-powerful madman. Also available as an eComic.

Tales from Outer Suburbia by Shaun Tan (Author, Illustrator)

AMAZON RATING: 4.7 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 4.33 stars

An exchange student who’s really an alien, a secret room that becomes the perfect place for a quick escape, a typical tale of grandfatherly exaggeration that is actually even more bizarre than he says… These are the odd details of everyday life that grow and take on an incredible life of their own in tales and illustrations that Shaun Tan’s many fans will love.

Through the woods : stories by Emily Carroll

WE3 : the deluxe edition by Grant Morrison

Through the Woods by Emily Carroll (Author, Illustrator)

AMAZON RATING: 4.5 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 3.91 stars

Journey through the woods in this sinister, compellingly spooky collection that features four brand-new stories and one phenomenally popular tale in print for the first time. These are fairy tales gone seriously wrong, where you can travel to. Also available in eBook.

The Umbrella Academy by Gerard Way (Author), Gabriel Ba (Illustrator)

AMAZON RATING: 4.4 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 3.96 stars

In an inexplicable worldwide event, forty-seven extraordinary children were spontaneously born to women who’d previously shown no signs of pregnancy. Millionaire inventor Reginald Hargreeves adopted seven of the children; when asked why, his only explanation was, “To save the world.” Also available as an eComic.

We3 by Grant Morrison (Author), Frank Quitely (Illustrator)

Writer Grant Morrison and artist Frank Quitely deliver the emotional journey of WE3 – three house pets weaponized for lethal combat by the government – as they search for “home” and ward off the shadowy agency that created them. Also available as an eComic.

The Wrenchies by Farel Dalrymple (Author, Illustrator)

AMAZON RATING: 3.7 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 3.28 stars

In a demented future where humanity is oppressed by the evil Shadowsmen, only a gang of ruthless and powerful children called the Wrenchies can hope to stand against them.

Y: The Last Man by Brian K. Vaughan (Author), Pia Guerra (Illustrator), Jose Marzan Jr. (Illustrator)

AMAZON RATING: 4.2 stars

GOODREADS RATING: 4.11 stars

Yorick Brown and his pet male monkey learn just how valuable they are when they set out across the planet in search of one specific girl in the wake of a strange plague that has killed every man, boy, and mammal with a Y chromosome–except for them. Also available as an eComic.

Looking for your next great read?

Let us help you!

Tell us what you’ve enjoyed reading, watching or listening to, and our librarians will give you personalized recommendations.

No algorithms, cookies or data mining – just real experts in your community sharing their love of great books, music and movies with you. We call it Give 3 Get 3.

Get started today at

Toledolibrary.org/Give3Get!

The Steinem Sisters Collection: Feminism at Toledo Library!

by Toledo Lucas County Public Library June 25, 2018

An exciting new collection is available at the Toledo Library!

Introducing – The Steinem Sisters Collection:

In December 2017, the Toledo Lucas County Public Library (TLCPL) began working with the Steinem’s Sisters Collective to acquire their lending library when their previous home, the People Called Women Bookstore, changed ownership. The Steinem’s Sisters Collective Lending Library was formed in 2014. It was established to honor Gloria Steinem in her hometown and fill an information and community need. The collection includes a wide variety of feminist resources designed to sustain feminist thought, values, and culture by inspiring learning, spreading knowledge, and strengthening the local feminist community.

Housed in the Humanities Department at the Main Library, The Steinem Sisters Collection celebrates the lives and achievements of women; champions their historical, cultural and political contributions; and strives to provide a welcoming space for women of all walks of life to share their truths. The types of materials we collect are first and foremost “feminist materials” – which are those materials that uphold women’s rights and interests in defining and promoting political, economic, personal, racial and social equality. In partnership with TLCPL’s institutional values, the Steinem Sisters Collection seeks to be welcoming of all the complex and diverse voices that comprise the modern feminist movement; to be innovative in the programming we provide; and collaborative with community members and local women’s organizations in order to broaden the reach of the collection.

Steinem Sisters Temporary Location At Main Library

Above all else, the Steinem Sisters Collection is meant to be useful to our community, to reflect the diverse nature of that community and the way feminism intersects with the various aspects of identity.

Please visit The Steinem Sisters Collection at its temporary location in the Humanities Department at the Main Library. The collection will be accessible by request while the
Main Library is closed for renovations and we will have a permanent and dedicated space when Main reopens in 2019!

In the meantime, please keep a look out for some exciting feminist programs we will be hosting throughout the system starting in September.

Why Feminism at the Public Library?

Feminism.

It is a simple word that can provoke a variety of passionate responses. With the introduction of the Steinem Sisters Collection at the Library, it is important that we investigate the question of why and how a public library can participate in critical librarianship in relation to housing a feminist collection and providing related programming.

I think this discussion could start with Dr. Angela Y. Davis who said:

Feminism involves so much more than gender equality and it involves so much more than gender. . . Feminism must involve a consciousness of capitalism and racism and colonialism and post-colonialists, and ability and more genders than we can even imagine and more sexualities than we ever thought we could name.

Public Libraries and professionally trained librarians are in a unique position to be engaged in our community, by creating programs, providing access to archival materials and encouraging discovery. Where Davis reminds us that many forms of feminism can give us a way to name multiple forms of oppression, feminism can also liberate us, and provoke us to imagine and name possibilities. Librarians as gatekeepers hold the key to these possibilities for every individual who walk through our library doors.

Feminism can be, and has been, defined in many ways and from all different perspectives. But when I talk about feminism, I’m talking about a lens that makes visible, and gives voice to, the unique and intersecting oppression women experience due to the dominant patriarchal culture; and thus, by naming it and making that oppression visible, feminism in a public library setting allows for the transforming of culture so that women are humanized and treated with the respect owed to all of humanity.

Upcoming Steinem Sisters Collection Programs: July-Dec. 2018

Steinem Sisters Collection Opening Celebration

July 9 | 6:00 p.m. | Main Library – Huntington Room

Talking Circle With Steinem Sisters Collective

Sep. 5 | 6:30 p.m. | Reynolds Corners Branch Library
Nov. 7 | 6:30 p.m. | Reynolds Corners Branch Library

The Silent Witness Project Exhibit

Oct. 1 – Nov. 2 | During Library Hours | Reynolds Corners Branch Library

Feminist Book Discussion

Oct. 3 | 6:30 p.m. | Reynolds Corners Branch Library
Dec. 5 | 6:30 p.m. | Reynolds Corners Branch Library

Recognizing Domestic Violence

Oct. 4 | 1:00 p.m. | Waterville Branch Library
Oct. 25 | 6:30 p.m. | Oregon Branch Library

Children and Domestic Violence

Oct. 10 | 6:30 p.m. | Reynolds Corners Branch Library
Oct. 24 | 7:00 p.m. | Maumee Branch Library

A Sampling of the Steinem Sisters Collection

Looking for your next great read?

Let us help you!

Tell us what you’ve enjoyed reading, watching or listening to, and our librarians will give you personalized recommendations.

No algorithms, cookies or data mining – just real experts in your community sharing their love of great books, music and movies with you. We call it Give 3 Get 3.

Get started today at

toledolibrary.org/Give3Get!

The Art of Storytelling: 5 Tips on Crafting Compelling Storylines

by Toledo Lucas County Public Library May 22, 2018

Are you an aspiring writer trying to get started on that next bestselling novel?

Are you an experienced writer, but need a little help creating compelling storylines or dynamic dialogue?

No matter where you’re at in the writing process your Library can help! We have a ton of great writing resources to help you from start to finish.

5 Tips on Crafting Compelling Storylines

Tip 1: Avoid Common Plot Cliches

We all know a cliche when we see it in a movie or read it in a book. It’s important to think about how cliches annoy you when you come across them, so you’ll be less likely to include them in your own work. By writing a story that only you can tell, instead of borrowing from popular formulas, it will be fairly easy to avoid common plot pitfalls.

We read so that we can be moved by a new way of looking at things. A cliche is like a coin that has been handled too much. Once language has been overly handled, it no longer leaves a clear imprint. ~ Janet Fitch

Tip 2: Generate New Story Ideas by Asking – What If?

If you’re having trouble generating new story ideas – try the what if question game. What if you lived in an alternate universe? What if you had to change occupations? What if you were alive during the early 1900s? By asking a series of what if questions with your personal experiences and interests in mind you’ll be able to ensure your stories are coming from a place of sincerity.

Alternate history fascinates me, as it fascinates all novelists, because ‘What if?’ is the big thing. ~ Kate Atkinson

Tip 3: Use the Power of Emotion

Engage readers with emotional content. Readers that feel emotionally invested in the characters or story won’t want to put the book down. After all, emotion often overrides reason in the human brain (compelling reasonable people to stay up all night reading).

A plot is nothing but a normal human situation that keeps arising again and again….normal human emotions—envy, ambition, rivalry, love, hate, greed, and so on.
~ Louis L’Amour

Tip 4: Create Characters That Resonate With Readers

It’s important for readers to feel connected to your characters. Think about what you can do to make them seem more real to the audience. Research facts, build backstories and create character profiles to ensure they are truly authentic.

As a writer, I demand the right to write any character in the world that I want to write. I demand the right to be them, I demand the right to think them and I demand the right to tell the truth as I see they are. ~ Quentin Tarantino

Tip 5: Draft Dynamic Dialogue

Effective dialogue helps to bring characters to life and advance the story. Read authors renowned for dialogue to find inspiration when writing your own.

If you are using dialogue — say it aloud as you write it. Only then will it have the sound of speech. ~ John Steinbeck

Craft Compelling Stories With the Help of These Great Books

Learn More About the Art of Storytelling With These Helpful Articles

Three Powerful Ways to Brainstorm New Story Ideas – Well-Storied

5 Golden Rules for Writing Authentic Dialogue – Writer’s Edit

5 Elements for Crafting a Compelling Story Your Audience Will Love – Write to Done

5 Tips For Creating Characters Readers Can’t Wait to Come Back To – The Creative Penn

5 Tips on Writing Dialogue – NY Book Editors

7 Simple Ways to Make a Good Story Great – Writer’s Digest

Ten Authors Who Write Great Dialogue – LitReactor

10 Easy Ways to Improve Your Dialogue – Write to Done

10 Tips to Avoid Cliches in Writing – Writer’s Digest

The 7 Tools of Dialogue – Writer’s Digest

Emotion vs. Feeling: How to Evoke More From Readers – Writer’s Digest

Novel Settings: 7 Tips to Get Setting Description Right – Now Novel

Some of the Greatest Writers of Dialogue (And What We Can Learn From Them) – Gizmodo

Story Plots: 7 Tips for Writing Original Stories – Now Novel

Your Novel’s First Scene: How to Start Right – Jane Friedman

Toledo Library Blog Posts on Writing

Writers on Writing: Tips for Aspiring Writers

5 Tips to Improve Your Writing Skills

Top 5 Reasons to Join a Writing Group

Memoir Writing Resources

Developing Characters that Resonate with Readers

How to Write a Novel in a Month

Learn How to Publish a Book

The ABCs of DNA: An Introduction to Genetic Genealogy

by Toledo Lucas County Public Library May 22, 2018

Please join the Toledo Lucas County Public Library’s celebration of Immigrant Heritage Month!

Debra Smith Renard, founder of Eureka! Genealogy, will be presenting:

The ABCs of DNA: An Introduction to Genetic Genealogy
Saturday, June 9, 2018 | 10:00 am.

Debra is a full-time Genetic Genealogist with Legacy Tree Genealogists. She is co-leader of the Louisville, Kentucky, Genetic Genealogy Special Interest Group, a board member of the Louisville Genealogical Society and is Secretary of the Kentucky Chapter of the Association of Professional Genealogists. She speaks at local, regional and national levels. She is especially passionate about helping those with unknown birth families find their roots.

Her program is an overview of the genetic tests available to build family histories. Topics include:

Basic DNA terminology and concepts
The kinds of DNA tests available for genealogical purposes
Inheritance patterns and limitations
What results look like

What is Genetic Genealogy?

Genetic genealogy is the use of DNA testing, along with the use of traditional genealogical and historical records. It can be used to infer the level and type of genetic relationship between individuals.

Learn more about Genetic Genealogy:

International Society of Genetic Genealogy (ISOGG)

7 Resources to Get You Started With Genetic Genealogy

Learn more about Genetics, DNA and Genealogy

The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy by Blaine T. Bettinger

DNA : the story of the genetic revolution by James D. Watson, with Andrew Berry and Kevin Davies

Finding family : my search for roots and the secrets in my DNA by Richard Hill

Learn more about tracing your roots

“It’s All Relative: Adventures Up and Down the World’s Family Tree” by A.J. Jacobs

Traces the author’s three-year investigation into what constitutes family, describing how, after receiving an e-mail from a stranger who claimed to be a distant cousin, he embarked on an effort to build the biggest family tree in history.

Also available in Audiobook.

“Finding Your Roots: The Official Companion to the PBS Series” by Henry Louis Gates Jr.

Gates provides practical information for amateur genealogists just beginning archival research on their own families’ roots, and he details the advances in genetic research now available to the public.

Finding your roots : the official companion to the PBS series / Henry Louis Gates Jr. ; foreword by David Altshuler

“Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr.”

The PBS series moves from Asia and Africa to Europe and the Americas, uniting us all through emotional moments that enrich and enlighten – encouraging us to look at our world through a wider, more inclusive lens.

Seasons: One | Two | Three | Four

Check out our previous post on Genealogy Research:

Getting Started With Genealogy Research

12 Words Coined in Fiction

by Toledo Lucas County Public Library April 18, 2018

What do the words robot, chortle and malapropism all have in common?

Answer: they were all coined in fiction.

While fiction authors dazzle us with their ability to conjure fantastic worlds and unforgettable characters, their creativity has often been obstructed by mankind’s limited vocabulary. Hence, fiction authors have had to create their own words.

Many of these “made up” words have faded to obscurity since their first utterance. But, some have become a part of our common vernacular. Take a look at these twelve words and their literary origins – some of them may surprise you.

Literary Origins of Words

BLATANT [bleyt-nt] Likely an alteration of the Latin word blatire, meaning “to babble.” The word was coined by Edmund Spencer in his epic poem “The Faerie Queen” published in 1590. In the poem Spencer describes the Blatant Beast, a thousand-tongued monster representing slander. “The Faerie Queene” by Edmund Spencer Print \| eBook \| eAudio
CHORTLE [chawr-tl] Possibly a combination of chuckle and snort. Coined by Lewis Carroll in his iconic poem, “The Jabberwocky” originally published in 1871. “O frabjous day! Callooh! Callay! He chortled in his joy.” “Through the Looking Glass” by Lewis Carroll Print \| Audio \| eBook \| eAudio \| DVD
GARGANTUAN [gahr-gan-choo-uh n] This word comes from the character Gargantua, a giant from Francis Rabelais’ 5 book series “Gargantua and Pantagruel” published between 1693–1694. “Gargantua and Pantagruel” by Francis Rabelais Print \| eBook \| eAudio
MALAPROPISM [mal-uh-prop-iz-uh m] From the character Ms. Malaprop in Sheridan’s “The Rivals” published in 1775, who was known for her comical misuse of complex words. “The Rivals” by Richard Brinsley Sheridan Print \| eBook \| eAudio
MENTOR [men-tawr, -ter] From the character Mentor who, in Homer’s Odyssey, is entrusted with the care and Teaching of Odysseus’ son, Telemachus. “The Odyssey” by Homer Print \| eBook \| eAudio
NERD [nurd] The first instance of this word in print was Dr Seuss’ “If I Ran the Zoo” published in 1950. Here, the word describes an imaginary creature that the narrator of the story wishes to own. Possibly a play on “nert,” a word commonly used in the 1940s to describe eccentric or nutty people. “If I Ran the Zoo” by Dr. Seuss Print \| eBook
PANDEMONIUM [pan-duh-moh-nee-uh m] In John Milton’s “Paradise Lost,” published in the year 1667, Pandemonium is the name of the capitol of Hell. The prefix “pan” denotes “all” and “demon” means… “demon.” The word is commonly used to describe utter chaos and confusion. “Paradise Lost” by John Milton Print \| eBook \| eAudio
ROBOT [roh-buh t, -bot] From the Czech word robota meaning “forced labor.” First used in its current form by Karel Čapek in his play “Rossum’s Universal Robots” from 1920. “Rossum’s Universal Robots” by Karel Čapek Print \| eBook
SERENDIPITY [ser-uh n-dip-i-tee] Coined by the art historian Horace Walpole, inspired by “The Three Princes of Serendip” originally published in Venice in 1557. According to Walpole, he was inspired by the way the princes in the story were “always making discoveries, by accidents and sagacity, of things which they were not in quest of.” “The Three Princes of Serendip” by Elizabeth Jamison Hodges Print
STENTORIAN [sten-tawr-ee-uh n, -tohr-] Named after Stentor, Greek herald during the Trojan War. Homer’s “Iliad” describes Stentor’s voice as being loud as 50 men. Now the word is used synonymously with “loud.” “The Iliad” by Homer Print \| eBook \| eAudio
TRILBY [tril-bee] As in the narrow-brimmed hat often mistaken for a fedora. Named after George du Maurier’s novel Trilby from 1894. The book was adapted to Theatre in 1895, the opening night of which saw many trilby hats on display. “Trilby” by George du Maurier Print \| eBook \| eAudio
UTOPIA [yoo-toh-pee-uh] From the Greek phrase eu-topos, meaning “good place.” The nearly identical ou-topos means “no place” or “nowhere.” It’s no wonder that Thomas More chose “Utopia” as the name for the fictional island society in his 1516 book of political satire. “Utopia” by Thomas More Print \| eBook \| eAudio

Yakking in a Pond

by Toledo Lucas County Public Library April 18, 2018

A few years ago, my husband, kind fellow that he is, tried to find me the perfect present. Here is the back story: my husband is terrible at gift-giving – he’s the worst! He gives up before he even gets started. Cards and flowers are out of the question, because a decision must be made. He can’t do that well because in his mind, they are still presents. He used to ask our young daughter at the time ‘what to get Mommy?’ at every major event throughout the year. He still texts her even now that she’s married. Somehow, he came up with the idea that a kayak would make the perfect birthday present. A kayak? I was astonished. I still think he had help from someone.

I have always loved the outdoors, having traveled all over the country and across the world in my twenties and thirties. Then, I met my husband and had two wonderful children. I settled in the area, accepted a Children’s Librarian position to be close to children of all ages and stopped a lot of my traveling. But, I have always loved canoeing, kayaking, swimming, scuba diving and boating – anything having to do with the water. The Lake Erie region and Maumee River Corridor are perfect for all of these activities.

Lake Erie and Maumee Corridor Books

Ohio's Lake Erie public access guidebook : Rivers edition

The Great Lakes at ten miles an hour : one cyclist's journey along the shores of the inland seas / Thomas Shevory

In the watershed : a journey down the Maumee River / Ryan Schnurr

A kayak it was to be. I am rather tiny in stature, and this was going to be a problem too. But after much searching, falling over in boats way too massive, not to mention the improbability of me even lugging the thing (anything over 35 pounds, forget it), I made my choice. It was three stress-filled months of arguments, tears, laughter, and then simply picking one. Much like pointing your finger blindfolded onto a map and hoping your choice was going to have 4-star accommodations at a 1-star price-tag – it didn’t, but it was a gorgeous boat.

Books on Kayaking, Michigan and Ponds

Michigan off the beaten path : a guide to unique places / Jim DuFresne ; revised and updated by Jackie Sheckler Finch

Building natural ponds : create a clean, algae-free pond without pumps, filters, or chemicals / Robert Pavlis

We now live at a lake in Michigan during the summer months. It’s a very small lake, with an even smaller pond, round and quiet, with safe and easy access for beginner kayaking.

However, the pond is so small my brand new sky-blue kayak at 14 feet barely could be turned around with any ease! And that is where my dear, kind husband plopped it. It weighs 26 pounds, and I can manage it just fine, but he didn’t think I had it in me to try carrying it to the lake, in addition to sitting in it and paddling it.

Do you know what it is like to have a toothpick placed flat into the bottom of a cup and try to turn it around keeping it flat to the bottom? It’s not easy. My husband wouldn’t let me take it out of our “cup” for two years by myself for fear of my drowning. Remember, I am a certified scuba diver, and excellent watercraft enthusiast, including jet skier, and he knows this. I was allowed the comfort of sitting in it, attempting to steer the thing, and hoping to not get stuck in the cattails along the bank.

I am still married, still have the kayak, and I am proud to say allowed to use our small lake now as my refuge from the chaos of the outside world. My husband still has a phobia of my imminent drowning, so I am not allowed to take the thing to any river, lake, stream and especially not Lake Erie. Every time I place my kayak rack that I bought on my car, it mysteriously gets taken down. The kayak gets put back onto its hanger in the garage, which I can’t reach (my husband placed that strategically too high for me to get to readily without a ladder). But, the ladder is another tale. I am going to sneak that boat out in the middle of the night one of these days. Kayaks, ponds and marriage. Strange bedfellows.

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BLATANT [bleyt-nt] Likely an alteration of the Latin word blatire, meaning “to babble.” The word was coined by Edmund Spencer in his epic poem “The Faerie Queen” published in 1590. In the poem Spencer describes the Blatant Beast, a thousand-tongued monster representing slander. “The Faerie Queene” by Edmund Spencer Print \| eBook \| eAudio
CHORTLE [chawr-tl] Possibly a combination of chuckle and snort. Coined by Lewis Carroll in his iconic poem, “The Jabberwocky” originally published in 1871. “O frabjous day! Callooh! Callay! He chortled in his joy.” “Through the Looking Glass” by Lewis Carroll Print \| Audio \| eBook \| eAudio \| DVD
GARGANTUAN [gahr-gan-choo-uh n] This word comes from the character Gargantua, a giant from Francis Rabelais’ 5 book series “Gargantua and Pantagruel” published between 1693–1694. “Gargantua and Pantagruel” by Francis Rabelais Print \| eBook \| eAudio
MALAPROPISM [mal-uh-prop-iz-uh m] From the character Ms. Malaprop in Sheridan’s “The Rivals” published in 1775, who was known for her comical misuse of complex words. “The Rivals” by Richard Brinsley Sheridan Print \| eBook \| eAudio
MENTOR [men-tawr, -ter] From the character Mentor who, in Homer’s Odyssey, is entrusted with the care and Teaching of Odysseus’ son, Telemachus. “The Odyssey” by Homer Print \| eBook \| eAudio
NERD [nurd] The first instance of this word in print was Dr Seuss’ “If I Ran the Zoo” published in 1950. Here, the word describes an imaginary creature that the narrator of the story wishes to own. Possibly a play on “nert,” a word commonly used in the 1940s to describe eccentric or nutty people. “If I Ran the Zoo” by Dr. Seuss Print \| eBook
PANDEMONIUM [pan-duh-moh-nee-uh m] In John Milton’s “Paradise Lost,” published in the year 1667, Pandemonium is the name of the capitol of Hell. The prefix “pan” denotes “all” and “demon” means… “demon.” The word is commonly used to describe utter chaos and confusion. “Paradise Lost” by John Milton Print \| eBook \| eAudio
ROBOT [roh-buh t, -bot] From the Czech word robota meaning “forced labor.” First used in its current form by Karel Čapek in his play “Rossum’s Universal Robots” from 1920. “Rossum’s Universal Robots” by Karel Čapek Print \| eBook
SERENDIPITY [ser-uh n-dip-i-tee] Coined by the art historian Horace Walpole, inspired by “The Three Princes of Serendip” originally published in Venice in 1557. According to Walpole, he was inspired by the way the princes in the story were “always making discoveries, by accidents and sagacity, of things which they were not in quest of.” “The Three Princes of Serendip” by Elizabeth Jamison Hodges Print
STENTORIAN [sten-tawr-ee-uh n, -tohr-] Named after Stentor, Greek herald during the Trojan War. Homer’s “Iliad” describes Stentor’s voice as being loud as 50 men. Now the word is used synonymously with “loud.” “The Iliad” by Homer Print \| eBook \| eAudio
TRILBY [tril-bee] As in the narrow-brimmed hat often mistaken for a fedora. Named after George du Maurier’s novel Trilby from 1894. The book was adapted to Theatre in 1895, the opening night of which saw many trilby hats on display. “Trilby” by George du Maurier Print \| eBook \| eAudio
UTOPIA [yoo-toh-pee-uh] From the Greek phrase eu-topos, meaning “good place.” The nearly identical ou-topos means “no place” or “nowhere.” It’s no wonder that Thomas More chose “Utopia” as the name for the fictional island society in his 1516 book of political satire. “Utopia” by Thomas More Print \| eBook \| eAudio

entertainment

So, you say you hate musicals …

“Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812“

“The Phantom of the Opera“

“Hedwig and the Angry Inch“

“Hairspray“

“Little Shop of Horrors“

“Newsies“

“Sweeney Todd“

“Wicked“

“The Band’s Visit“

“Les Miserables“

Looking for your next great read?

Let us help you!

toledolibrary.org/Give3Get!

Time to Get Crafty…

With the Help of These Creative Books

Looking for your next great read?

Let us help you!

toledolibrary.org/Give3Get!

Free Summer Music Concerts in 2018

Music at the Market

Can’t make it to these summer concerts?

Graphic novels for people looking for an alternative to superhero comics

Blacksad written by Juan Diaz Canales ; ilustrated by Juanjo Guarnido

Daytripper by Gabriel Ba and Fabio Moon

Duncan the Wonder Dog written and illustrated by Adam Hines

East of West written by Jonathan Hickman ; illustrated by Nick Dragotta

Fables: Legends in Exile written by Bill Willingham ; illustrated by Lan Medina

Hellboy by Mike Mignola (Author/ Illustrator), Various (Illustrator)

Joe the Barbarian by Grant Morrison (Author), Sean Murphy (Illustrator)

King City by Brandon Graham (Author/ Illustrator)

Locke & Key: Welcome to Lovecraft by Joe Hill (Author),‎ Gabriel Rodriguez (Artist)

Monstress by Marjorie Liu (Author), Sana Takeda (Artist)

Nimona by Noelle Stevenson (Author, Illustrator)

Pretty Deadly by Kelly Sue DeConnick (Author), Emma Rios (Artist), Jordie Bellair (Artist)

Saga by Brian K. Vaughan (Author), Fiona Staples (Artist)

Sandman by Neil Gaiman (Author), Sam Kieth (Illustrator), Mike Dringenberg (Illustrator)

Tales from Outer Suburbia by Shaun Tan (Author, Illustrator)

Through the Woods by Emily Carroll (Author, Illustrator)

The Umbrella Academy by Gerard Way (Author), Gabriel Ba (Illustrator)

We3 by Grant Morrison (Author), Frank Quitely (Illustrator)

The Wrenchies by Farel Dalrymple (Author, Illustrator)

Y: The Last Man by Brian K. Vaughan (Author), Pia Guerra (Illustrator), Jose Marzan Jr. (Illustrator)

Looking for your next great read?

Let us help you!

Toledolibrary.org/Give3Get!

An exciting new collection is available at the Toledo Library!

Introducing – The Steinem Sisters Collection:

Why Feminism at the Public Library?

Upcoming Steinem Sisters Collection Programs: July-Dec. 2018

Talking Circle With Steinem Sisters Collective

Feminist Book Discussion

Recognizing Domestic Violence

Children and Domestic Violence

A Sampling of the Steinem Sisters Collection

Related Toledo Library Blog Posts

Looking for your next great read?

Let us help you!

toledolibrary.org/Give3Get!

5 Tips on Crafting Compelling Storylines

Tip 1: Avoid Common Plot Cliches

Tip 2: Generate New Story Ideas by Asking – What If?

Tip 3: Use the Power of Emotion

Tip 4: Create Characters That Resonate With Readers

Tip 5: Draft Dynamic Dialogue

Craft Compelling Stories With the Help of These Great Books

Learn More About the Art of Storytelling With These Helpful Articles

Toledo Library Blog Posts on Writing

What is Genetic Genealogy?

Learn more about Genetic Genealogy:

Learn more about Genetics, DNA and Genealogy

Learn more about tracing your roots

Check out our previous post on Genealogy Research:

Literary Origins of Words

BLATANT

[bleyt-nt]

CHORTLE

[chawr-tl]

GARGANTUAN