Thursday, April 25, 2024

LAPL’s Digital Collection: Travel Posters

 


The travel posters included in the digital collection span the early 1920s to the 1960s and cover the "Golden Age of Travel”, when railways, airlines, and automobiles opened new and exciting possibilities to travel both locally and to destinations around the world. Travel posters commissioned during this period were created to entice would-be explorers to visit these destinations, and were common fixtures in travel agent offices, railway stations and airports. The collection showcases vibrant graphic design, including Art Deco and Futurist imagery.

Today we’ll look a poster advertising travel to Italy.  Here women in traditional costume walk down a dirt path near a church in Abruzzo, Italy. A peak in the Apennines mountain range is depicted in the background. Access the image here


Tuesday, April 23, 2024

Shakesperiance

Shakespeare in a different light.

drawing of Shakespeare against a very colorful background


Join us on Saturday May 4 at 3 p.m. for a Shakesperience

We are often introduced to Shakespeare as great literature – something to be read, dissected and studied.

In Shakespeare’s time, he was a showman. His plays were thrilling, emotional experiences for feisty crowds who love poetry and word play, theatricality, magic, romance, and humor.

Seen in this light, over 400 years later, Shakespeare’s works remain compelling adventures that still touch our hearts.

Join us as we use Shakespeare’s quotes, monologues, sonnets, sword play and even a bit of music… to explore his exciting contributions to drama, to writing, to modern language and his insights into the big, messy experience of being human today.

Discover a fresh connection and your own passion for the works of Shakespeare.

Everyone is welcome.


Sunday, April 21, 2024

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Monday
4:00 Earth Day Fun!

Tuesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
12:00 Budgeting: Developing Your Spending and Saving Plan (LAPL YouTube)
3:00 Read With a STAR: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
6:00 CĂ­rculo de Lectores

Thursday
1:00 Q.Me Free Legal Clinic (sign up)

Friday
11:30 Chinese for Beginners (email language@lapl.org for link)

Saturday
2:00 Read With a STAR: Toni
3:00 Arroyo Seco Regional Branch Library Book Club (in person OR via Zoom. Email ayosco@lapl.org)

Catch up with us on various sites...

    Arroyo Seco Social Media:    
Blog: arroyoseco5.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArroyoSecoLibrary
Instagram: www.instagram.com/arroyosecolapl

Wednesday, April 17, 2024

Monthly Trivia Question (Answer)….

 


This month our question was when was the California Landmarks Club founded and by whom? It was founded in 1894 under the leadership of Highland Park’s own Charles Lummis.

Pictured is a Longfellow-Hastings House currently located in the Heritage Square Museum.

The answer was found in the article:

GEBHARD, D.; WINTER, R. Historic Preservation in Los Angeles. Architectural Guidebook to Los Angeles, [s. l.], p. 29–32, 2003.

The article was found in the database Art & Architecture Source. Art & Architecture Source is the largest full-text art research database covering fine, decorative and commercial art, as well as architecture and architectural design. With strong international coverage, it offers hundreds of full-text art journals, magazines and books, plus detailed indexing and abstracts and thousands of images.

Find the Art & Architecture Source on the library’s Research & Homework page under “A” and access it with your library card.


Tuesday, April 16, 2024

Battle Ground


Battle Ground by Jim Butcher picks up literally the moment that his previous book, Peace Talks (link to previous review), leaves off, the bulk of it taking place over the course of one tumultuous, terrifying evening.  The Peace Talks failed and battle begins with all of the supernatural community ranged against a Titan (yes a primordial god) and her “outsider” allies. Harry is caught in the middle of everything and humanity as a whole (or at least the city of Chicago) is drawn into the mess.  Harry faces some pretty devastating losses during this book as we wade ever deeper into quite horrific war.

A good read with interesting series plot points.  Interestingly, virtually all of the major players with roles in the war were female. I don’t know if the author is trying to make any kind of point with this but it was definitely noticeable.  This is a book that will not work as a standalone.  So make sure to pick up the earlier titles in the series and work your way up to it.  You can start with Storm Front.  


Sunday, April 14, 2024

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
2:00 Nature Drawing With Kelvin Nguyen (limited space, sign up at info desk)

Monday
12:00 Investing Basics (LAPL YouTube)
4:00 Birdwatching for Kids

Tuesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
12:00 Introduction to Financial Planning Basics (LAPL YouTube)
3:00 Read With a STAR: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine

Thursday
12:00 Identity Theft and Fraud Prevention (LAPL YouTube)

Friday
10:00 Yoga & Meditation With Master John (email dmatthews@lapl.org for link)

Saturday
2:00 Read With a STAR: Toni
3:00 LA Made Presents: Nutrition With Healthy Cooking With Lilly Padilla

Catch up with us on various sites...

    Arroyo Seco Social Media:    
Blog: arroyoseco5.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArroyoSecoLibrary
Instagram: www.instagram.com/arroyosecolapl

Thursday, April 11, 2024

LAPL’s Digital Collection: Fashion Plates

 


The fashion plate collection consists of over 6,200 hand-colored, finely detailed fashion illustrations produced between 1780 and 1880 for British and American fashion magazines. The plates depict fashionable styles of dress for men, women and children, and constitute valuable source material on the history of dress during this period in history.

Today we’ll look at this illustration from July of 1824, almost 200 years ago exactly. Access the image here.


Wednesday, April 10, 2024

DMV Test Coming UP?

 


Do you have a DMV test in your future? Get the study practice you need to ace that exam with the help of one of the library’s new database products, California DMV Practice Tests.  This tool provides free access to practice tests for Class C, Commercial, and Motorcycle license tests from Driving-Tests.org. Practice tests are available in English, Spanish and Russian, and the CA DMV Handbook is available to download in multiple languages.

Access California DMV Practice Tests from the library’s Research Page, scroll down to the C’s to find it.

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

LA Made: Nutrition & Health Cooking with Lilly Padilla

 


Saturday, April 20 at 3:00 p.m.

Join Lilly Padilla, author and holistic nutrition chef, for a healthy cooking class focused on anti-inflammatory meals and healthy digestion. Learn the benefits of nutritional foods for healthy digestion, and proper assimilation of nutrients to help boost immunity and energy. 

There will be food samples to try

Lilly Padilla is a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, holistic nutrition chef, 12-year cancer survivor, and the author of the book Anti-Cancer Habits & Anti-inflammatory Nutrition.



Sunday, April 7, 2024

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Monday
10:05-12:20 Solar Eclipse Viewing and Glasses Giveaway (glasses while supplies last)
11:00 Poetry in the Park: Solar Eclipse
4:00 Make a Book, Button, or Puppet for DĂ­a

Tuesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 Read With a STAR: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
3:00-5:00 LA Saves Informational Table
6:00 CĂ­rculo de Lectores

Friday
10:00 Yoga & Meditation With Master John (email dmatthews@lapl.org for link)

Saturday
10:30 Again, Again: Music for Kids DĂ­a Celebration
2:00 Read With a STAR: Toni

Sunday
2:00 Nature Drawing With Kelvin Nguyen (limited space, sign up at info desk)

Catch up with us on various sites...

    Arroyo Seco Social Media:    
Blog: arroyoseco5.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArroyoSecoLibrary
Instagram: www.instagram.com/arroyosecolapl


Wednesday, April 3, 2024

Monthly Trivia Question…

 This month our question is when was the California Landmarks Club founded and by whom?

Tuesday, April 2, 2024

Poetry in the Park: Solar Eclipse

 


Join us to view the eclipse while listening to a live poetry reading by Los Angeles spoken word icon Alyesha Wise. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair and stay awhile! Participants will receive eclipse viewing glasses, available while supplies last. 

The eclipse starts shortly after 10 a.m. on April 8. The Poetry Reading begins at 11 a.m. shortly before the eclipse reaches its local maximum. Come early and enjoy the entire show (courtesy of both nature and our poet).

This program is co-presented with the Library Foundation of Los Angeles and the Getty Center.


Monday, April 1, 2024

 


Join us for a nature sketching class courtesy of Expedition L.A. on Sunday, April 14 at 2:00 p.m. Expedition L.A. is a free program series featuring activities focused on bringing you closer to the beautiful nature and state parks of Los Angeles. All supplies needed for the class are provided and are yours to keep. 

Participation is limited so please sign up at the information desk


Sunday, March 31, 2024

Programming Coming up This Week

Please note that the branch will be Closed on Sunday for Easter. Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
Branch closed because it’s Easter

Monday
11:00 Virtual Toddler Storytime (register)

Tuesday
3:00 Read With a STAR: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine

Thursday
1:00 Q.Me Free Legal Clinic (sign up)

Friday
10:00 Yoga & Meditation With Master John (email dmatthews@lapl.org for link)

Saturday
2:00 Read With a STAR: Toni

Catch up with us on various sites...

    Arroyo Seco Social Media:    
Blog: arroyoseco5.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArroyoSecoLibrary
Instagram: www.instagram.com/arroyosecolapl

Thursday, March 28, 2024

LAPL’s Digital Collection: Maps

 


The map collection is over one hundred years old, contains more than 225,000 physical items and represents a wide scope, including local, national and international cartography. Selections in this online collection focus on maps depicting Los Angeles and the West.

Today we’ll look at this 1926 edition of the official railroad map of California.  Access the full map here


Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Eclipse Viewing Party

 


The Arroyo Seco Library will be hosting an Eclipse Viewing Party on Monday, April 8th. It will begin at 10:06 in the morning and run until 12:22. We will have eclipse viewing glasses to give out while supplies last. So, join your neighbors to experience a celestial phenomenon and see a partial solar eclipse for yourself.  There won’t be a similar eclipse until 2044 so don’t miss this one!

All of this hinges on the weather, so fingers crossed the skies are clear.


Monday, March 25, 2024

Arroyo Book Club’s April Pick

 


The Arroyo Book Club will be reading The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese for discussion at our April meeting. The book is described by the publisher as “a stunning and magisterial epic of love, faith, and medicine, set in Kerala, South India, and following three generations of a family seeking the answers to a strange secret.”

Stop by the branch to pick up a copy to read (come early, it’s a looong book).  You will find the book in the usual location, just ask if you don’t know where that is.

We will meet to discuss the book on Saturday, April 27 at 3 p.m. It will be a hybrid meeting so you have the option of attending in person or via Zoom. If you’d like to join us via Zoom let us know at ayosco@lapl.org so we can get the link to you.


Sunday, March 24, 2024

Programming Coming up This Week

The library will be closed on Monday for César Chávez Day

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the remainder of the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Monday
Closed in celebration of César Chávez

Tuesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 Read With a STAR: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
6:00 CĂ­rculo de Lectores

Thursday
1:00 Q.Me Free Legal Clinic (sign up)

Friday
10:00 Highland Park Walks

Saturday
2:00 Read With a STAR: Toni

Catch up with us on various sites...

    Arroyo Seco Social Media:    
Blog: arroyoseco5.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArroyoSecoLibrary
Instagram: www.instagram.com/arroyosecolapl


Thursday, March 21, 2024

Free Income Tax Preparation and Filing

 


Free income tax preparation and filing by LAVITA Tax Group, through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program on Saturday, March 23 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Appointments are preferred. Book appointment here. Walk-ins are also welcome.

Tax forms we prepare are: Form 1040 (U.S. Individual Income Tax Return), CA Form 540 (California Resident Income), and Form 1040NR (Nonresident Income Tax Return). Both spouses must be present for joint returns.

What to bring on the day of your visit:

  • A valid CA Driver's License, ID, or Passport
  • Social Security Numbers or ITINs for the Taxpayer, spouse, and dependents
  • Tax Documents (Forms W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, 1099-INT, 1099-DIV, 1099-NEC, 1099-MISC, and all other tax documents)
  • Bank account number and routing number for direct deposit of refund

If this applies to you, also bring:

  • All Forms 1095, Health Form Statements
  • Daycare Provider's Information, including total amount paid for daycare per child, daycare provider's name, address, phone number, and tax ID number
  • Total Education Expenses (books, laptops, etc.)

Wednesday, March 20, 2024

Monthly Trivia Question (Answer)….

 


This month’s trivia question asked who is Augusta Savage?  Augusta Savage was a sculptor. She was a key figure in the New Negro Movement and the Harlem Renaissance, Savage was an internationally renowned sculptor and teacher. 

Pictured is one of her works. Titled “Gamin” it is currently in the Cleveland Museum of Art.

The question and answer were found in the African American Experience database.  This database has over 400 references, scholarly works, primary documents and papers, photographs, audio clips, maps and over 4,000 slave narratives explore their history and contemporary culture in the United States. Includes a timeline and lesson plans.

Find the African American Experience on the library’s Research & Homework page under “A” and access it with your library card.


Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Walk Highland Park


We will set out on foot to explore the Highland Park area once again on Friday, March 29 at 10:00 a.m. We will meet in the library lobby and decide upon a route that may involve, hills, stairs, or both so be prepared to sweat.  People of all ages are invited so make it a family affair. Dogs are welcome to come too but they will need to wait outside for the walk to begin.  

Don’t hesitate to give us a call at 323-255-0537 if you have any questions. Email is also an option, our email address is ayosco@lapl.org.


Sunday, March 17, 2024

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
3:00 The Sun in Eclipse: Selected Great Courses Lessons

Monday
4:00 Get Ready for Kindergarten: Math & Science

Tuesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 Read With a STAR: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine

Thursday
1:00 Q.Me Free Legal Clinic (sign up)

Friday
10:00 Yoga & Meditation With Master John (email dmatthews@lapl.org for link)

Saturday
10:00 1:00 Free Income Tax Preparation and Filing
2:00 Read With a STAR: Toni
3:00 Arroyo Book Club discusses NEA Big Read Book (in person OR online : email ayosco@lapl.org for link)

Catch up with us on various sites...

    Arroyo Seco Social Media:    
Blog: arroyoseco5.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArroyoSecoLibrary
Instagram: www.instagram.com/arroyosecolapl


Thursday, March 14, 2024

LAPL’s Digital Collection: Fruit Crate Labels

 

image shows a glass of orange juice next to a sliced orange

This is a collection of vibrantly-colored labels, designed for citrus growers throughout Southern California, mainly during the first half of the twentieth century. Many of the labels illustrate specific locations in the region, and are an excellent example of commercial graphic design from the period, as well as documenting the industry itself.

Today we’ll look at this label representing an Upland, CA base fruit grower. Access the image here.



Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Peace Talks

 


Jim Butcher continues his Harry Dresden series with Peace Talks. By now the series has progressed to the point where Harry is almost unrecognizable. In this volume he is working to ensure peace during some fraught filled treaty talks among the denizens of the supernatural while simultaneously attempting to rescue his vampire brother who is being held after attempting to assassinate a big wig. As always there is plenty of adventure and violence.

This is definitely a read for fans of the series. If you’re unfamiliar go back to the beginning and start with Storm Front.  The series as a whole is a fun adventure with a wizard who sidelines (at least initially) as a detective.


Sunday, March 10, 2024

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Monday
4:00 Rock, Paper, Scissors

Tuesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 Read With a STAR: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
4:00 Springtime Shrinky Dinks
6:00 CĂ­rculo de Lectores

Thursday
1:00 Q.Me Free Legal Clinic (sign up)

Friday
10:00 Yoga & Meditation With Master John (email dmatthews@lapl.org for link)

Saturday
1:30-3:00 The Sun Up Close With the Sidewalk Astronomers
2:00 Read With a STAR: Toni
3:00 Viva La Cultura! Neiya Arts Presents Folklorico Dance

Sunday
3:00 The Sun in Eclipse: Selected Great Courses Lessons

Catch up with us on various sites...

    Arroyo Seco Social Media:    
Blog: arroyoseco5.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArroyoSecoLibrary
Instagram: www.instagram.com/arroyosecolapl


Friday, March 8, 2024

The Sun in Eclipse: Selected Great Courses Lessons


Join us for a screening of information from The Great Courses Understanding the Universe series on Sunday, March 17 at 3 p.m. We will be examining lessons relating to solar eclipses and the sun. 

All are welcome to attend.


Thursday, March 7, 2024

LAPL’s Digital Collections

Did you know has portions of a number of their special collections available digitally for access via the web (specifically https://tessa.lapl.org/)?  Collections with this partial digital access include:
  • Photos
  • Fruit crate labels
  • Maps
  • Fashion plates
  • Travel posters
  • Movie posters
  • Book plates
  • Menus
  • Autographs
We’ll take a break from our bi-weekly History of Highland Park posts to spend some time focusing on these different collections, looking at an example from one collection or another each week. Prepare for some treats in the months to come.

Wednesday, March 6, 2024

Tuesday, March 5, 2024

View the Sun Up Close

(through a solar telescope)

Take an up close and personal look at the sun safely with the help of the Sidewalk Astronomers.

The Sidewalk Astronomers will set up telescopes with hydrogen-alpha blocking filters, which will allow safe viewing of sunspots and solar prominences, on the sidewalk in front of the library. Come by and take a look on Saturday, March 16 between 1:30 and 3:00 p.m.

Then make plans to join us for our Partial Solar Eclipse viewing party on April 8.

Everyone is welcome

Sunday, March 3, 2024

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
3:00 Game Day: Scrabble

Monday
12:30 Italian Conversation Group (email languages@lapl.org for link)

Tuesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 Read With a STAR: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine

Thursday
1:00 Q.Me Free Legal Clinic (sign up)

Friday
10:00 Yoga & Meditation With Master John (email dmatthews@lapl.org for link)

Saturday
2:00 Read With a STAR: Toni

Catch up with us on various sites...

   Arroyo Seco Social Media:   
Blog: arroyoseco5.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArroyoSecoLibrary
Instagram: www.instagram.com/arroyosecolapl


Thursday, February 29, 2024

History of Highland Park….

 


Today we have an 8-page article from Overland Monthly and Outwest Magazine that focuses, in some detail, on Charles Lummis.  The article is from the July 1928 edition of the magazine and includes some photographs.  Take a look at it here.  


Monday, February 26, 2024

Arroyo Book Club’s March Pick

 


The Arroyo Book Club will be participating in the NEA Big Read program again this year and so…. Our March book will be Can't we talk about something more PLEASANT? By Roz Chast. This well reviewed, graphic format, memoir tells the story of Chast’s parents’ final years through cartoons, family photos, found documents, and narrative prose.

A copy of the book will be yours to keep while supplies last. Pick one up from the usual spot. If you’re a fan of ebooks, find the ebook version of the title on libby here.

Find the NEA’s page for this book here. The page includes the discussion questions we will be using as well as additional information about the work.

We will meet to discuss the book on Saturday, March 23 at 3 p.m. If you can’t join us in person but would like to follow along remotely please send an email to ayosco@lapl.org so we can add you to the link list. 


Sunday, February 25, 2024

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Monday
4:00 Get Ready for Kindergarten: Body and Brain

Tuesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 Read With a STAR: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
6:00 CĂ­rculo de Lectores

Thursday
1:00 Q.Me Free Legal Clinic (sign up)

Friday
1:00 English Conversation Class With Sidney and Natalie (email literacy@lapl.org for link)

Saturday
2:00 Read With a STAR: Toni

Sunday
3:00 Game Day: Scrabble

Catch up with us on various sites...

    Arroyo Seco Social Media:    
Blog: arroyoseco5.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArroyoSecoLibrary
Instagram: www.instagram.com/arroyosecolapl

Saturday, February 24, 2024

Plant Day


Central Library is hosting a fun & informative Plant Day. This will be a family-friendly event celebrating all things plants. There will be workshops, keynote speakers, and gardening tips. Experience the joy of connecting with nature! 

Events range from a plant themed storytime through potting clinics to fruit tree pruning and beyond. Find the complete schedule of events here

Free and open to all.

Saturday, March 2, 2023

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Friday, February 23, 2024

Game Day

(of the non-electronic variety)

If you’re in the mood for some good old fashioned scrabble make plans to join us on Sunday, March 3 at 3:00.  We welcome all comers --- even complete novices.  

This will be friendly, though there will (of course) be one winner.  Will that be you?  See you there.

…by the way if you have a scrabble game board bring it along…

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Monthly Trivia Question (Answer)….

 

This month we asked what, in a nutshell, is infrared astronomy? To quote from our source, Infrared astronomy is 

“The field of astronomical observations specializing in detecting photons from the infrared portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. Infrared astronomy plays an important role particularly in the study of cooler astrophysical objects, ranging from asteroids and comets to exoplanets and developing stars. These objects emit brightly in the infrared, although they may be veiled by clouds of dust that conceal their presence at shorter, optical wavelengths. Infrared astronomy thus affords researchers an opportunity to study phenomena that would go unseen if relying on just visible light”

The question, and answer, were found in AccessScience. This is the online version of the standard encyclopedia with updated science and technology news, biographies, learning resources, study guides, and links to related web sites. The particular article referenced was: 

Bhattacharya, Bidushi. “Infrared astronomy.” AccessScience, McGraw Hill, Feb. 2019.

Find AccessScience on the library’s Research & Homework page under “A” and access it with your library card.


Monday, February 19, 2024

Hella

 


In Hella by David Gerrold you will find inventive Science Fiction world building, both the building of a literal alien world where our story takes place and the building of the social world of our colonists a world that is obviously answering to some of the social justice issues present in our own world today.

The story takes place on the planet of Hella.  This planet has a slightly lower gravity then Earth, meaning its plant and animal life is enormous --- think dinosaur world. It also has an extreme tilt so the colonists must migrate between summer and winter sites.  The colonists are getting by when a ship, with a meddling AI, from an Earth that has pretty much collapsed, arrives while simultaneously local politics turns ugly.  

The book is a fascinating read for its world building.  Hella and its plant and animal life are very interesting and keep you engaged. The social world building falls a little flat for me but you do have to give the author credit for trying and it gives you the chance to muse over what changes you would make in setting up a similar scenario.  All in all I recommend the book to anyone interested in a good SF adventure.


Sunday, February 18, 2024

Programming Coming up This Week

Please note that the library will be closed in celebration of Presidents’ Day on Monday 2/19.

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the remainder of the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Monday
Closed for Presidents’ Day

Tuesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 Read With a STAR: Jeffrey
6:00-7:45 Telescope Night With the Sidewalk Astronomers (weather permitting)

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine

Thursday
1:00 Q.Me Free Legal Clinic (sign up)

Friday
10:00 Yoga & Meditation With Master John (email dmatthews@lapl.org for link)

Saturday
2:00 Read With a STAR: Toni
3:00 Arroyo Book Club Meets (in person OR via Zoom / ayosco@lapl.org for link)

Catch up with us on various sites...


Thursday, February 15, 2024

History of Highland Park

 


Today we look at a library specific document. Specifically, the specifications for competitive bidding for the remodeling of the charging desk at Arroyo Seco Branch Library.  Read it over for an organizational picture of the library’s circulation desk. 

Pictured is an image of the original library’s circulation desk. Find it in the Library’s photo collection as image #00038649.


Tuesday, February 13, 2024

The Spirit Thief

 


If you’re in the mood for some escapist fantasy check out The Spirit Thief by Rachel Aaron. This book, the first in a series, introduces us to Eli Monpress. Eli is a thief, and a wizard, and has the dream of having the highest ever bounty on his head. He travels with a swordsman and a girl with demonic powers. To increase his bounty he plots to steal a king but things go, as things will, awry.

I recommend the story for those who like a bit of wizarding fantasy and enjoy a good world building series.


Sunday, February 11, 2024

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Monday
12:00 Triage Health: Being Prepared (Register)
4:00 Zany Zoe’s Magical Discoveries

Tuesday
3:00 Read With a STAR: Jeffrey

Wednesday
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
6:00 CĂ­rculo de Lectores

Thursday
1:00 Q.Me Free Legal Clinic (sign up)

Friday
10:00 Yoga & Meditation With Master John (email dmatthews@lapl.org for link)
11:00 Genealogy Garage: California Reparations (LAPL YouTube)

Saturday
10:30 Frozen Science Fun Inspired by "The Father of Ice Cream"
2:00 Read With a STAR: Toni

Catch up with us on various sites...

    Arroyo Seco Social Media:    
Blog: arroyoseco5.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArroyoSecoLibrary
Instagram: www.instagram.com/arroyosecolapl

Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

Telescope Night

 


The ever-popular Telescope Night returns (weather permitting) to the Arroyo Seco Library on Tuesday, February 20.  We will begin at 6:00 and wrap things up shortly before the library closes at 8:00.  Mark your calendar and plan to drop by.  Do note that the event is weather dependent, so if there are clouds on the day give us a call after 3:00 for word on the status of the program.

For those who don’t know what Telescope Night is…  During Telescope Night a group of local astronomers, the Sidewalk Astronomers, sets up telescopes outside the library and points them at objects of interest in the night sky.  Everyone is invited to take as many turns as they’d like looking through the telescopes.  The Sidewalk Astronomers are very knowledgeable and will answer your questions & chat about how they made the telescopes.  Bring your questions with you.


Sunday, February 4, 2024

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Monday
12:00 Triage Health: Getting Organized (Register)
4:00 Lunar New Year Dragon Craft Time

Tuesday
2:00 First Home Purchase Assistance (email business@lapl.org for Zoom link)
3:00 Read With a STAR: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
12:00 SBA Resources for Black-Owned Small Businesses (LAPL YouTube)
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine

Thursday
1:00 Q.Me Free Legal Clinic (sign up)

Friday
10:00 Yoga & Meditation With Master John (email dmatthews@lapl.org for link)

Saturday
2:00 Read With a STAR: Toni
2:00 Movie Screening: "Harriet"

Catch up with us on various sites...

    Arroyo Seco Social Media:    
Blog: arroyoseco5.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArroyoSecoLibrary
Instagram: www.instagram.com/arroyosecolapl


Friday, February 2, 2024

Movie Screening: Harriet

 


Join us for a screening of the film Harriet on Saturday, February 10 at 2:00 p.m. 

Harriet is the incredible true story of one of America's greatest heroes, Harriet Tubman. From her escape from slavery to the dangerous missions she led, setting free hundreds of slaves through the Underground Railroad.  

The movie was directed by Kasi Lemmons and features the acting work of Jennifer Nettles, Joe Alwyn, Cynthia Erivo, Janelle Monae, Tim Guinee, Clarke Peters, and Leslie Odom, Jr.


Thursday, February 1, 2024

History of Highland Park

 


Check out this article by Luella Rice from an undated issue of the Highland Park News Herald that details the life and work of Dr. Finis E. Yoakum, founder of Pisgah Home and Tabernacle. The author tells a fairly dramatic and over the top tale. Take a look.

Pictured (found here) is Yoakum’s Highland Park home.


Monday, January 29, 2024

Arroyo Book Club February Pick

 


The Arroyo Book Club will be reading Octavia Butler’s classic science fiction novel Kindred for our February meeting.  The library catalog describes the book with:

“Dana, a modern black woman, is celebrating her twenty-sixth birthday with her new husband when she is snatched abruptly from her home in California and transported to the antebellum South. Rufus, the white son of a plantation owner, is drowning, and Dana has been summoned across the years to save him. After this first summons, Dana is drawn back, again and again, to the plantation to protect Rufus and ensure that he will grow to manhood and father the daughter who will become Dana's ancestor. Yet each time Dana's sojourns become longer and more dangerous, until it is uncertain whether or not her life will end, long before it has even begun.”

There will be copies of the book available at the library in the usual location (just ask staff if you don’t know where that is).  If you prefer an e-book look here

We will meet to discuss the book on Saturday, February 24 at 3 p.m. If you can’t join us in person but would like to follow along remotely please send an email to ayosco@lapl.org so we can add you to the link list. 


Sunday, January 28, 2024

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Monday
12:00 Triage Health: Decisions About Work (Register)
4:00 Get Ready for Kindergarten: Talk and Play

Tuesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 Read With a STAR: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine

Thursday
1:00 Q.Me Free Legal Clinic (sign up)

Friday
10:00 Yoga & Meditation With Master John (email dmatthews@lapl.org for link)

Saturday
2:00 Read With a STAR: Toni

Catch up with us on various sites...

    Arroyo Seco Social Media:    
Blog: arroyoseco5.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArroyoSecoLibrary
Instagram: www.instagram.com/arroyosecolapl

Thursday, January 25, 2024

History of Highland Park(ish)…


Did you know that one of the nation’s first golf courses was here in the Northeast? Here we have an article about a golf course that was constructed in 1883 near the current Annandale Golf Club.  This fascinating article was written by Roger Swanson and published on 9/7/1975. Take a look.

Picture (from LAPL Photo Collection): This view looking east from the top of the Eagle Rock shows the Annandale Golf Club including the Greens, as well as the Vista Del Arroyo Hotel on the right with the tall tower, as well as other Pasadena buildings.


Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Dead Lies Dreaming

 


In Dead Lies Dreaming Charles Stross returns to the Laundry Files Universe.  This tale departs from our familiar characters to tell a tale of plotting and scheming and in-fighting and unexpected alliances set in the Britain that (now) is run by an incarnated god and follows quite medieval (literally) laws. This society has developed logically over the course of the series … a great deal of the fun in reading this series is to see how dramatically things have changed from its starting point. In this particular entry we meet Wendy Deere a thief taker, a truly evil billionaire and his constantly scheming secretary Evie, and Imp and his band of followers who are busy stealing to finance their planned filming of Peter Pan. 

This book has a truly intricate plot, a cast of characters that defines diverse, and a satisfying ending. It can be read without reading the series though more of the background will make sense if you’re up to date on the series. Give it a try.


Sunday, January 21, 2024

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Monday
4:00 Fairy Golf

Tuesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 Read With a STAR: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
4:00 Micah the Magician
6:00 CĂ­rculo de Lectores

Thursday
1:00 Q.Me Free Legal Clinic (sign up)

Friday
10:00 Yoga & Meditation With Master John (email dmatthews@lapl.org for link)

Saturday
2:00 Read With a STAR: Toni
3:00 Arroyo Book Club Meets (in person OR via Zoom: ayosco@lapl.org for link)

Catch up with us on various sites...

    Arroyo Seco Social Media:    
Blog: arroyoseco5.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArroyoSecoLibrary
Instagram: www.instagram.com/arroyosecolapl

Wednesday, January 17, 2024

Monthly Trivia Question (Answer)….


This month’s trivia question asked what is the mitochondria. The mitochondria reside in animal cells. They produce the cell's energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate, or ATP. The inner membrane of a mitochondrion is folded into structures called cristae. Interestingly:

“Mitochondria are believed to be the evolutionary descendent of an event where and anaerobic eukaryotic cell (cells capable of growing in the absence of oxygen) engulfed an aerobic (oxygen-utilizing) bacterium. The event produced a symbiotic relationship between the two still-independent organisms. The eukaryotic cells received ATP in exchange for supplying nutrients to the engulfed bacteria, and the bacteria provided ATP and allowed the eukaryotic cell to survive in the increasingly oxygenated atmosphere present early in Earth's history. Over time, the relationship became obligatory, and what was once a bacterium became an organelle of the eukaryotic cell.”

The question, and answer, were found in Gale Interactive: Science. Gale Interactive: Science helps students better visualize and understand concepts in biology, chemistry, earth, and space science. Students and instructors can manipulate and explore 3D models that are paired with reference and periodical content for further understanding. The particular article referenced was: 

"Mitochondrion." Biology, edited by Richard Robinson, Macmillan Reference USA, 2009. Interactive Science

Find Gale Interactive: Science on the library’s Research & Homework page under “G” and access it with your library card.


Sunday, January 14, 2024

Programming Coming up This Week

The Library will be closed Monday in celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the rest of the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Monday
Library Closed

Tuesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 Read With a STAR: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine

Thursday
1:00 Q.Me Free Legal Clinic (sign up)

Friday
10:00 Highland Park Walks

Saturday
10:30 Your Author Series: Rilla Alexander
2:00 Read With a STAR: Toni

Catch up with us on various sites...

    Arroyo Seco Social Media:    
Blog: arroyoseco5.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArroyoSecoLibrary
Instagram: www.instagram.com/arroyosecolapl

Friday, January 12, 2024

Highland Park Walks

 


We will set out on foot to explore the Highland Park area once again on Friday, January 19 at 10:00 a.m. We will meet in the library lobby and decide upon a route that may involve, hills, stairs, or both so be prepared.  People of all ages are invited so make it a family affair. Dogs are welcome to come too but they will need to wait outside for the walk to begin.  

Don’t hesitate to give us a call at 323-255-0537 if you have any questions. Email is also an option; our email address is ayosco@lapl.org.


Thursday, January 11, 2024

History of Highland Park….

 


This article from the 6/7/1913 Highland Park Herald announces the start of construction of a new Highland Park Library.  The library described is the first one that was built on the site we are still on today (albeit we are in a completely different building now).  The article includes a floor plan and sketch of the exterior. 

Tuesday, January 9, 2024

Burning Roses

 


S. L. Huang brings us a story straight out of fairy tale in Burning Roses.  Here we meet Rosa (aka Little Red Riding Hood) middle aged now, hiding out in China, mourning her past mistakes, and reflecting on her life.  Here she spends time with Hou Yi (the archer) also atoning for the mistakes of the past. Together they set out to find the source of a plague of deadly sun birds and find absolution along the way.

The book is short & lyrical, a fascinating blend of European & Chinese folklore, and worth picking up. Give it a try.


Sunday, January 7, 2024

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Monday
4:00 Dumpling Folding Workshop

Tuesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 Read With a STAR: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
6:00 CĂ­rculo de Lectores

Thursday
1:00 Q.Me Free Legal Clinic (sign up)

Friday
10:00 Yoga & Meditation With Master John (email dmatthews@lapl.org for link)

Saturday
2:00 Read With a STAR: Toni

Catch up with us on various sites...

    Arroyo Seco Social Media:    
Blog: arroyoseco5.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArroyoSecoLibrary
Instagram: www.instagram.com/arroyosecolapl

Thursday, January 4, 2024

Highland Park Photo


An exterior view of the house which belonged to Andrew J. Glassell in the Highland Park area. Undated photo.

Photo from library's photo collection. Access the library's digital collections here

Wednesday, January 3, 2024