Trivia of the Month (Answer)...

This month’s question was what is the name of the currency of Guatemala, i.e. what is the Guatemalan equivalent of dollars?  Quetzales. 

The question and answer were drawn from p. 439 of The Standard Catalog of World Paper Money: Modern Issues.  The book was published in 2016 by Krause Publications.

Events for the Week of December 30….

The library will be open from 10:00 to 5:00 on Monday the 31st and will be closed all day on the 1st. Events going on at the library during the rest of the week include: 

Monday – 12/31
Grupo de apoyo para la familia at 10:00

Wednesday – 1/2
Toddler Storytime at 10:30
STAR Reader at 3:00

Thursday – 1/3
STAR Reader at 3:00
Create-a-Zine workshop at 4:00
Walk-in-Tutoring for Adults from 6:00-7:30

Friday – 1/4
Drop in Computer Lab at 3:30

Saturday – 1/5
STAR Reader at 2:00

You can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches

Library Events in January…

(Mark your calendars accordingly)

Welcome the New Year with a resolve to take advantage of librarian programming.  Save money & engage in interesting and educational activities… that ought to tick more than one of your resolutions.  Let me give you a run down of what’s scheduled so you can plan ahead.  Let’s start with the non-repeating events:

- - - - - - - - - - 
1/3 @ 4:00
Zine Workshop
Join us and work on your own personal Zine in this all-ages workshop.

1/7 @ 4:00
Stuffed Animal Sleepover
Bring your favorite stuffed animal along for this overnight in the library preceded by party fun for the two of you.

1/14 from 2:30-4:30
LA DOT Tap Information Table
Ask questions about TAP or just get your card refilled.

1/14 @ 4:00
Make it Monday
Join us for some STEAMy fun.

1/15 @ 6:00
Círculo de Lectores
Hay café, pastel casero, ye conversación amena sobre el libro que estamos leyendo

1/16 @ 4:00
Teen Program
Teens join us to for some insider fun.

1/19 @ 1:30
Workers’ Comp Essentials
Whether you’re embroiled in a claim or just want to be prepared for the worst join us to learn the basics about workers’ compensation claims.

1/19 @ 3:00
Craft Space
Join us for an hour of crafting.  Bring your ideas for future craft program projects.

1/26 from 9:30-1:30
VITA Tax Prep
Have a professional do your taxes for free. First come first served. There are income limits so check with branch to make sure you qualify.

1/26 @ 3:00
Arroyo Book Club
Join us for a discussion of Life After Life by Kate Atkinson.

1/28 @ 4:00
Make it Monday
Join us for a Neighborhood Science program

- - - - - - - - - -

Each month the library also has a number of ongoing classes & events.  They are:

Grupo de apoyo para la familia - - - Mondays at 10:00

Baby Storytime - - - Tuesdays at 10:30
Stories, songs, and rhymes await babies up to 18 months. (no session on 1/1)

Toddler Storytime - - - Wednesdays at 10:30 
Little Ones’ 3 and under & their grownups are invited to join us for stories, music, & games.

LAPD Read Along - - - Tuesdays at 3:00
Officers from the LAPD read favorite stories with kids.

STAR Volunteer Readers - - - Available on Tuesdays at 3:30, Wednesdays at 3:00, Thursdays at 3:00 and Saturdays at 2:00.
STAR readers present the fun of storytelling and reading to children one-on-one or in small groups. Kids earn a free book to keep after 3 visits. 

Walk in Tutoring - - -  Mondays from 6:30-7:30 and Thursdays from 6:00-7:30
Free tutoring for adults (19+). Stop by on a first come first served basis for tutoring in English reading, writing, and conversation skills as well as help with your computer or cell-phone.

Drop in Computer Lab - - - Fridays at 3:30
Bring your questions about computers, tablets, eReaders, or other electronic devices.  We will do our best to help you figure out answers. 

- - - - - - - - - -

Please do not hesitate to call the library at 323-255-0537 if you have any questions or would like more information.  Remember that you can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches.

Arroyo Book Club January Pick…

The Arroyo Book Club will be reading Kate Atkinson’s Life After Life for our January meeting.  This is a book that uses the device of reliving a life to examine a time and place in detail. It seems like it will be an interesting read.  The catalog summary describes it with:

What if you could live again and again, until you got it right?

On a cold and snowy night in 1910, Ursula Todd is born to an English banker and his wife. She dies before she can draw her first breath. On that same cold and snowy night, Ursula Todd is born, lets out a lusty wail, and embarks upon a life that will be, to say the least, unusual. For as she grows, she also dies, repeatedly, in a variety of ways, while the young century marches on towards its second cataclysmic world war.

Does Ursula's apparently infinite number of lives give her the power to save the world from its inevitable destiny? And if she can -- will she?

Darkly comic, startlingly poignant, and utterly original -- this is Kate Atkinson at her absolute best.

So… science fiction, realism with a touch of the magical, deeply philosophical, stop by the library for a copy and decide for yourself.  We’ll be discussing the book on January 26 at 3:00.

Events for the Week of December 23….

The library will be open from 10:00 to 1:00 on Monday the 24th and will be closed all day on the 25th. Events going on at the library during the rest of the week include:

Monday – 12/24
Grupo de apoyo para la familia at 10:00

Wednesday – 12/26
STAR Reader at 3:00

Thursday – 12/27
STAR Reader at 3:00
Walk-in-Tutoring for Adults from 6:00-7:30

Friday – 12/28
Drop in Computer Lab at 3:30

You can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches

History of Highland Park…

Are you curious about Highland Park’s local newspaper?  Check out this story (http://dbase1.lapl.org/webpics/calindex/documents/10/520291.pdf) where the Highland Park News Herald relates its history on the occasion of its 30th anniversary.  The article was published in 1936.

Discover and Go

The library has launched a new program that will let you use your library card to “check out” free or discounted passes to many local cultural institutions.  Just go to Discover & Go (https://lapl.discoverandgo.net/) and log in with your library card.

Some specifics…

This program is open to Los Angeles residents 18 and over with an LAPL card in good standing. To get started:

• Log in with your library card to browse available passes by date or attraction.
• Make your reservation and print or download your pass shortly before your visit. Note: You cannot cancel your reservation once you have printed or downloaded your pass.
• Bring your printed pass with you. The pass is only valid for the name and date on the pass, and valid photo ID is required.

Keep in Mind:

• You can have up to two reservations at a time.
• You can make reservations up to three months in advance.
• All passes are first come, first served.
• New passes are released at the beginning of each month.
• Passes for the Los Angeles Zoo and Kidspace are limited to select zip codes within the City of Los Angeles.

Find more details on the library’s website at https://www.lapl.org/explorela

Events for the Week of December 16….

Events going on at the library during the week include: 

Monday – 12/17
Grupo de apoyo para la familia at 10:00
Make it Monday at 4:00
Walk in Tutoring for Adults from 6:30-7:30

Tuesday – 12/18
Baby Storytime at 10:30
LAPD Read Along at 3:00
STAR Reader at 3:30
Círculo de Lectores at 6:00

Wednesday – 12/19
Toddler Storytime at 10:30
STAR Reader at 3:00

Thursday – 12/20
STAR Reader at 3:00
Walk-in-Tutoring for Adults from 6:00-7:30

Friday – 12/21
Drop in Computer Lab at 3:30

Saturday – 12/22
Caroling with Holiday Lights at 1:30
STAR Reader at 2:00
Arroyo Book Club meets at 3:00

You can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches

Trivia of the Month...

We call our currency dollars.  This month’s question is what is the name of the currency of Guatemala?

The Seeds of Life

Edward Dolnick provides a highly illuminating, slightly horrifying history of the quest to discover where exactly babies come from in The Seeds of Life.  The actual answer as we understand it today was not nailed down until well into the 19th century so there is plenty of history and many stories of false trails for Dolnick to share.  Included we have the somewhat gruesome story of an anatomist who dissected his own father and brother in his quest to know more, a brilliant experimentalist who sewed boxers for frogs to prove something significant about semen and many more similarly interesting tales.  I would recommend it for anyone looking for an interesting histor
y of science.

Holiday Lights

Enjoy a dose of holiday spirit as we head ever deeper into the season.  Holiday Lights, a local chorus group, will be performing on December 22 at 1:30.  They will perform a selection of seasonal music.  Sing along to the songs you know, enjoy the songs you don't know.

Events for the Week of December 9….

Events going on at the library during the week include: 

Monday – 12/10
Grupo de apoyo para la familia at 10:00
LA DOT Tap Information Table from 2:30-4:30
Make cosmic art at 4:00
Walk in Tutoring for Adults from 6:30-7:30

Tuesday – 12/11
Baby Storytime at 10:30
LAPD Read Along at 3:00
STAR Reader at 3:30

Wednesday – 12/12
Toddler Storytime at 10:30
STAR Reader at 3:00
Teen Henna Program at 4:00

Thursday – 12/13
STAR Reader at 3:00
Walk-in-Tutoring for Adults from 6:00-7:30

Friday – 12/14
Drop in Computer Lab at 3:30
Community Birthday Party at 3:30

Saturday – 12/15
Walk Highland Park at 9:30
Financial Empowerment Workshop (sponsored by HHPNC) at 1:30
STAR Reader at 2:00
Wrestling themed Shrinky-Dinks at 3:00

You can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches

Financial Empowerment

On December 15 at 1:30 HHPNC Culture and Equality Committee Presents "Financial Empowerment: Surviving Student Loans + Library Services" to the NELA/Eastside community at the Arroyo Seco Branch Library. The text on their flyer reads….

Join us for a work shop about personal financial empowerment with a focus on surviving student loans and paths to home ownership for people with high student loan burdens. Parents, students planning to
Take on student loans, AND adults who are in student loan debt will especially benefit from this workshop facilitated by Magaly Zapien.

Our librarian will also be presenting about the amazing FREE services offered by our local library that can help you save money on services you use everyday. Victoria Wagner from the LA Securities and  Exchange Commission will be on hand with information you can take home about avoiding scams and investment fraud. All are welcome! If you have any questions, please reach out to jamie.tijerina@highlandparknc.com

This is part of the #NELearn 2018-2019 Community Learning Series. Future installments will include workshops on Renter's Rights, Neighborhood Councils 101, Environmental Justice, STEM/Cybersecurity, and Health and Wellness.

Winter Reading Challenge

The library will be offering a Winter Reading Challenge this year.  Think of the WRC (or winter reading challenge) as a counterpart to the one we do in the summer, except maybe a bit lower key.  The purpose is to keep everyone reading and engaged across the winter holidays.

The WRC will begin on December 14 and run until January 14.  You can stop by the branch to register and obtain a paper game board or you can register yourself online and use the computer to keep track of your progress. There will be small prizes available for you to win as you work your way through the challenge and completion earns you a ticket in a branch raffle for a $50 Amazon gift card.

Look for the link to the online component of the Winter Reading Challenge on the library’s webpage at www.lapl.org on the 14th.  Go directly there with www.lapl.org/winter.

Make plans to enroll your entire family and see who is first among you to complete the game board!

December eResource of the Month

For all those with food on their minds (and isn’t that just all of us) we have A to Z World Food.  This eResource is a food culture and recipe database.  It features over 174 countries covering six categories:

• National Cuisine
• Regional Cuisine
• Daily Meals
• Dining Etiquette
• Special Occasion Foods
• Food Trivia

Included in this database are recipes for appetizers, soups salads, breads, main courses, side dishes, desserts, and beverages.

This bonanza for your future meal planning is accessible via the Research & Homework link on the library’s web page (https://www.lapl.org/collections-resources/research-and-homework), look for it at the top in the A section.

Use this resource to plan some exciting extra touches to this year’s holiday menus.

Events for the Week of December 2….

Events going on at the library during the week include:

Sunday – 12/2
NELA Holiday Parade… march with us… we’ll meet in the library parking lot at 12:40.

Monday – 12/3
Grupo de apoyo para la familia at 10:00
Make cosmic art at 4:00
Walk in Tutoring for Adults from 6:30-7:30

Tuesday – 12/4
LAPD Read Along at 3:00
STAR Reader at 3:30
Círculo de Lectores at 6:00

Wednesday – 12/5
Toddler Storytime at 10:30

Thursday – 12/6
STAR Reader at 3:00
All Ages Zine Workshop at 4:00
Walk-in-Tutoring for Adults from 6:00-7:30

Friday – 12/7
Drop in Computer Lab at 3:30

Saturday – 12/8
Make a Tiny Terrarium at 3:00 (limited availability of materials so late comers will be out of luck)

--oOo--

You can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches

Trivia of the Month - Answer...

This month’s question was what is the VII amendment of the US Constitution?  The VII amendment addresses your right to trial by jury and reads:

In suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of a trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact tried by a jury shall be otherwise reexamined in any court of the United States, than according to the rules of the common law.

The question and its answer were found on p. 55 of The Constitution of the United States of America and the Constitution of the State of California.  The book was published by the California Legislature Assembly during the 2001-2002 session.

Library Events in December…

(Mark your calendars accordingly)

The library's Winter Reading Challenge runs from December 14 through January 14.  Drop by the branch to sign up or sign yourself up online, complete the challenge task, & win prizes.

As to what's going on at the branch this month... as always there are plenty of interesting activities.  Let me give you a run down so you can plan ahead.  Let’s start with the non-repeating events:

- - - - - - - - - - 
12/2 @ 12:40
Northeast Los Angeles Holiday Parade
March in the parade with us.  We will meet in the library parking lot at 12:40 and then move to the parade staging area.

12/3 @ 4:00
Make it Monday
Express your creativity and your love of astronomy by making cosmic art.

12/4 @ 6:00
Círculo de Lectores
Hay café, pastel casero, ye conversación amena sobre el libro que estamos leyendo

12/6 @ 4:00
Zine Workshop
Join us and work on your own personal Zine in this all-ages workshop.

12/8 @ 3:00
Make a Tiny Terrarium
Learn about plants, succulents in particular, and make your own tiny terrarium to take home.

12/10 from 2:30-4:30
LA DOT Tap Information Table
Ask questions about TAP or just get your card refilled.

12/10 @ 4:00
Make it Monday
Join us for some construction fun.

12/12 @ 4:00
Teen Henna
Teens join us to learn about henna & henna design and get a henna design of your own applied.

12/14 @ 4:00
Community Birthday Party
Join us as we celebrate those who had a birthday in November or December.

12/15 @ 9:30
Walk Highland Park
Get a bit of exercise while exploring the neighborhood.

12/15 @ 3:00
Wrestling Shrinky-Dinks
Create a pin, amulet, or refrigerator magnet all on a wrestling theme.

12/17 @ 4:00
Make it Monday
Join us for some creative fun.

12/18 @ 6:00
Círculo de Lectores
Hay café, pastel casero, ye conversación amena sobre el libro que estamos leyendo

12/22 @ 1:30
Caroling with Holiday Lights
Join us for some a capella holiday caroling by a local group of singers.

12/22 @ 3:00
Arroyo Book Club
Join us for a discussion of Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice.

- - - - - - - - - -

Each month the library also has a number of ongoing classes & events.  They are:

Grupo de apoyo para la familia - - - Mondays at 10:00

Baby Storytime - - - Tuesdays at 10:30
Stories, songs, and rhymes await babies up to 18 months. (no session on 12/4)

Toddler Storytime - - - Wednesdays at 10:30 
Little Ones’ 3 and under & their grownups are invited to join us for stories, music, & games.(No session on 12/26)

LAPD Read Along - - - Tuesdays at 3:00
Officers from the LAPD read favorite stories with kids.

STAR Volunteer Readers - - - Available on Tuesdays at 3:30, Wednesdays at 3:00, and Thursdays at 3:00.
STAR readers present the fun of storytelling and reading to children one-on-one or in small groups. Kids earn a free book to keep after 3 visits. 

Walk in Tutoring - - -  Mondays from 6:30-7:30 and Thursdays from 6:00-7:30
Free tutoring for adults (19+). Stop by on a first come first served basis for tutoring in English reading, writing, and conversation skills as well as help with your computer or cell-phone.

Drop in Computer Lab - - - Fridays at 3:30
Bring your questions about computers, tablets, eReaders, or other electronic devices.  We will do our best to help you figure out answers. 

- - - - - - - - - -

Please do not hesitate to call the library at 323-255-0537 if you have any questions or would like more information.  Remember that you can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches.

History of Highland Park…

Today’s little nugget of historical goodness is a 1952 report about Highland Park written by local resident Helen Gorian.  It includes a general background, a history of the area, a look at the oldest remaining businesses as well as current businesses, the arroyo, the local newspapers, local industries, transportation, local residences, churches, places to visit, and schools.  All in all a comprehensive portrait of the community.

Find the report here: http://dbase1.lapl.org/webpics/calindex/documents/11/520734.pdf 

Arroyo Book Club December Pick….

As has recently become a tradition the Arroyo Book Club will be reading one of William Shakespeare’s play for our December meeting.  This time around we will be enjoying The Merchant of Venice.  

A number of years ago PBS had a program entitled In Search of Shakespeare.  The website page they made in conjunction with the program had synopses for the plays that have always tickled my funny bone.  So here is the one they made for The Merchant of Venice…

It was a simple deal... that went badly wrong. Repay a loan within three months or pay a horrific forfeit. But the moneylender also has a debt to repay – a debt of hate. Now the deal has changed, and money is not enough to heal the wounds of past enmity.

Shylock shall have his pound of flesh.

Rated NC-17. Psychological drama. Contains scenes of racial stereotyping already.

Stop by the library for a copy of the play and make plans to join us for discussion on December 22 at 3:00.

Events for the Week of November 25….

Events going on at the library during the week include: 

Monday – 11/26
Grupo de apoyo para la familia at 10:00
Explore Ice Planets at 4:00
Walk in Tutoring for Adults from 6:30-7:30

Tuesday – 11/27
Baby Storytime at 10:30
LAPD Read Along at 3:00
STAR Reader at 3:30

Wednesday – 11/28
Toddler Storytime at 10:30
STAR Reader at 3:00

Thursday – 11/29
STAR Reader at 3:00
Walk-in-Tutoring for Adults from 6:00-7:30

Friday – 11/30
Drop in Computer Lab at 3:30

You can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches

Make your own…. Tiny Terrarium

Join us for a workshop on December 8 at 3:00 and learn about plants, specifically succulents. Then make your own tiny plant environment in a jar to take home.  A chance to get your hands dirty and come away with a bit of nature all your own. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

Enjoy a day of food and family.... as well as this image of a magnificent turkey taken from LAPL's photo collection.  The picture is dated 1954.

NELA Holiday Parade

The Northeast Los Angeles Holiday Parade will march down Figueroa Street from about where the library lives (York Blvd) to Sycamore Park on Sunday, December 2nd.   The library will be participating and we invite you (& your family & friends) to join us.  Those daring souls who wish to join us in costume should feel free to go all out.  We will meet up in the Library parking lot at 11:40 on the second before moving to the parade staging ground.

Please get in touch if you plan to join us so we can know to expect you.  Call us at 323-255-0537, email us at ayosco@lapl.org or drop by and sign up in person.  The more the merrier so pass along word of the event to everyone you know who might be interested.

Events for the Week of November 18….

The library will be closed Thursday & Friday this week for Thanksgiving.  Events going on at the library during the remainder of the week include: 

Monday – 11/19
Grupo de apoyo para la familia at 10:00
Filtered Light Art at 4:00
Walk in Tutoring for Adults from 6:30-7:30

Tuesday – 11/20
Baby Storytime at 10:30
LAPD Read Along at 3:00
STAR Reader at 3:30
Círculo de Lectores at 6:00

Wednesday – 11/21
Toddler Storytime at 10:30
STAR Reader at 3:00

Saturday – 11/24
Arroyo Book Club meets at 3:00

You can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches

Trivia of the Month...

This month’s question is trivia in the sense of how much do you remember of what you learned in school but it’s nature is not at all trivial.  Without looking, what is the VII amendment of the US Constitution?

The Prey of Gods

Nicky Drayden’s The Prey of Gods is a fascinating story that combines the reawakening of some uber-powerful beings (“gods” if you will) with arising AI, some problematic genetic engineering, and an epidemic of a powerful new hallucinogenic drug.  With Port Elizabeth, South Africa (& probably the world) on the brink of absolute disaster four disparate people work together to solve things. 

The book is a bit slow to get into and ventures far into the realm of magical realism but once you’re hooked it’s impossible to put down.  I would recommend it to anyone with a taste for SF who enjoys a fascinating possible future and doesn’t mind if there’s a bit of the truly improbable mixed into the story.

Events for the Week of November 11….

The library will be closed three days this week.  We are closed on SUNDAY because it is Veteran’s Day, we are closed on MONDAY also because of Veteran’s Day, and we are closed on WEDNESDAY because of staff development day. Events going on at the library during the parts of the week we’re open include:

Tuesday – 11/13
Teen program featuring balloons & construction at 3:00
LAPD Read Along at 3:00
STAR Reader at 3:30

Thursday – 11/15
STAR Reader at 3:00
Walk-in-Tutoring for Adults from 6:00-7:30

Friday – 11/16
Drop in Computer Lab at 3:30

Saturday – 11/17
Walk Highland Park at 9:30
Workers’ Comp Essentials workshop at 1:30
Chavez Wrestling Art program at 3:00

You can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches

Highland Park History….

Check out this article, Recall early history of fire station here - when horses pulled wagons, for a nice description of the Old Fire Station 12.  Old Fire Station 12 stood where our current 5921 N Figueroa station now stands.  The article includes a picture of the original station. 

November’s Electronic Resource of the Month…

The Electronic Resource of the Month for November is Opposing Viewpoints in Context.  Opposing Viewpoints provides resources on major social and political issues.  It provides pro and con arguments with contextual information and opinions on hundreds of today's hottest social issues drawn from news articles, journals, primary source documents, statistics, images, videos, audio files and links to vetted websites.  Perfect for students with a social studies paper or an interest in debate. 

Find the Opposing Views database on the library’s Research & Homework page (http://www.lapl.org/collections-resources/research-and-homework#O).  You will need your library card number & pin if you are accessing the database from a non-library computer.  Once on the database you can browse through suggested topic categories or type in what you are looking for.

Events for the Week of November 4….

Events going on at the library during the week include: 

Sunday – 11/4
Sunday Afternoon at the Movies at 3:00

Monday – 11/5
Grupo de apoyo para la familia at 10:00
Chickasaw Astronaut John Herrington Story with Craft at 4:00
Walk in Tutoring for Adults from 6:30-7:30

Tuesday – 11/6
LAPD Read Along at 3:00
STAR Reader at 3:30
Círculo de Lectores at 6:00

Wednesday – 11/7
Toddler Storytime at 10:30
STAR Reader at 3:00

Thursday – 11/8
STAR Reader at 3:00
Walk-in-Tutoring for Adults from 6:00-7:30

Friday – 11/9
Drop in Computer Lab at 3:30

Saturday – 11/10
Financial Empowerment Workshop brought to us by the HHPNC at 10:00

You can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches

Workers’ Comp Essentials

Whether you are embroiled in a workers’ compensation case or just want to be prepared in case something ever happens to you at work swing by for a short seminar all about the basics of Workers’ Compensation on November 17 at 1:30.  This workshop will be presented by local attorney Armen Yedalyan, Esq. (State Bar No. 282492 / www.yedalyanlaw.com).  Bring your questions!

Financial Empowerment

On November 10th, 2018 from 10am-12pm, HHPNC Culture and Equality Committee Presents "Financial Empowerment: Surviving Student Loans + Library Services" to the NELA/Eastside community at the Arroyo Seco Branch Library.

The workshop will cover personal finance topics, including avoiding predatory payday loans, programs available to help borrowers defrauded by for-profit colleges, and more. Our librarian will also be presenting about the amazing services and programs that our library has to offer, many of which could help community save money on services they use every day.

This is part of the #NELearn 2018-2019 Community Learning Series. Future installments will include workshops on Renter's Rights, Neighborhood Councils 101, Environmental Justice, STEM/Cybersecurity, and Health and Wellness.

Trivia of the Month (Answer)...

The month we asked what does a henry measure? The henry is a unit electrical inductance.  The henry, named for Joseph Henry, American physicist, was defined as the inductance of a circuit in which an electromotive force of 1.0 volt is induced by a current varying at the rate of 1.0 ampere per second and equaling 1x109 cgs units of inductance.

The question and its answer were found on p. 288 of For Good Measure by William D. Johnstone.  The book was published by Holt, Rinehart and Winston in 1975.

Wrestling Inspired Art

21 Collections: Every Object Has a Story is an exhibition presented by the Library Foundation of Los Angeles in collaboration with the Los Angeles Public Library, examining the role collections play in telling our stories and those of our communities and Los Angeles at large. 

Our branch has decided to examine the idea of collections by looking at the possible focus of a collection, in our specific case wrestling, and designing a display and some programs revolving around that theme. 

Our display will feature our own temporary collection of wrestling memorabilia culled from the collections of local patrons and organizations willing to share.

We have two related programs scheduled. 

The first is called Wrestling Inspired Art with Chavez Art.  Chavez, a Los Angeles artist, will discuss his art and its connection to wrestling and then help everyone as they create their own lucha mascaras.  This program will take place on November 17 at 3:00.

The second is called Shrinky-Dink Wrestling.  Here participants will design a wrestling mask and then create it as a shrinky-dink.  We will then be able to turn it into either a pin or a amulet.  This program will take place on December 15 at 3:00.

Plan to stop by to admire the display as well as attend either, or both, programs.  And… if you are down visiting Central Library be sure to stop in for a look at the 21 Collections display.  It is an eclectic eye-opener.

Arroyo Book Club November Pick

The Arroyo Book Club will be reading The Remains of the Day
by Kazuo Ishiguro for our November meeting.  A succinct summary describes the book as follows:

From Kazuo Ishiguro, a tragic, spiritual portrait of the perfect English butler and his reaction to his fading insular world in post-war England.

Ishiguro is a recent Nobel Prize Winner for Literature and you may recall a movie was made for this book back in 1993. 

Stop by the library for a copy and plan to join us for discussion on November 24 at 3:00.

Events for the Week of October 28….

Events going on at the library during the week include: 

Monday – 10/29
Grupo de apoyo para la familia at 10:00
Make it Mondays features a Goosebumps Party at 4:00

Tuesday – 10/30
Baby Storytime at 10:30
LAPD Read Along at 3:00

Wednesday – 10/31
Toddler Storytime at 10:30
STAR Reader at 3:00

Thursday – 11/1
STAR Reader at 3:00
Create a Zine all-ages Workshop at 4:00
Walk-in-Tutoring for Adults from 6:00-7:30

Friday – 11/2
Drop in Computer Lab at 3:30

You can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches

Library Events in November…

(Mark your calendars accordingly)

As always there are plenty of interesting activities going on at the library.  Let me give you a run down so you can plan ahead.  Let’s start with the non-repeating events:

- - - - - - - - - - 
11/1 @ 4:00
Create a Zine
People of all ages are invited to make their own zine with us.

11/4 @ 3:00
Sunday at the Movies
Join us for the showing of film depicting the journey home for Thanksgiving.

11/5 @ 4:00
Chicksaw Astronaut John Herrington Story
Join us for a story and craft with a starry, voyagesome flavor.

11/6 @ 6:00
Círculo de Lectores
Hay café, pastel casero, ye conversación amena sobre el libro que estamos leyendo

11/10 @  10:00
Finance
Highland Park Neighborhood Council sponsors a financial information seminar that will include focus on dealing with student loans.

11/13 @ 4:00
Teen Program
Join us for some teen tastic fun.

11/17 @ 9:30
Walk Highland Park
Get some exercise and see some of Highland Park. Join us for a stroll.

11/17 @ 1:30
Workers’ Comp Essentials
Local attorney Armen Yedalyan will present the basics of workers’ compensation. Questions are welcome.

11/17 @ 3:00
Chavez Wrestling Art
Chavez will discuss his art and its connection to wrestling.  Then we will create our own “lucha mascara”.

11/19 @ 4:00
Make it Monday
Today we will create filtered light art.

11/20 @ 6:00
Círculo de Lectores
Hay café, pastel casero, ye conversación amena sobre el libro que estamos leyendo

11/24 @ 3:00
Arroyo Book Club
Join us for a discussion of Ishiguro’s Remains of the Day.

11/26 @ 4:00
Make it Monday
Today we will explore ice planets.

- - - - - - - - - -

Each month the library also has a number of ongoing classes & events.  They are:

Grupo de apoyo para la familia - - - Mondays at 10:00

Baby Storytime - - - Tuesdays at 10:30
Stories, songs, and rhymes await babies up to 18 months. (no session on 11/13)

Toddler Storytime - - - Wednesdays at 10:30 
Little Ones’ 3 and under & their grownups are invited to join us for stories, music, & games.(No session on 11/14)

LAPD Read Along - - - Tuesdays at 3:00
Officers from the LAPD read favorite stories with kids.

STAR Volunteer Readers - - - Available on Tuesdays at 3:30, Wednesdays at 3:00, and Thursdays at 3:00.
STAR readers present the fun of storytelling and reading to children one-on-one or in small groups. Kids earn a free book to keep after 3 visits. 

Walk in Tutoring - - -  Mondays from 6:30-7:30 and Thursdays from 6:00-7:30
Free tutoring for adults (19+). Stop by on a first come first served basis for tutoring in English reading, writing, and conversation skills as well as help with your computer or cell-phone.

Drop in Computer Lab - - - Fridays at 3:30
Bring your questions about computers, tablets, eReaders, or other electronic devices.  We will do our best to help you figure out answers. 

- - - - - - - - - -

Please do not hesitate to call the library at 323-255-0537 if you have any questions or would like more information.  Remember that you can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches.

History of Highland Park….

Here we have a booklet, put together in 1923, titled Five Friendly Valleys (http://dbase1.lapl.org/webpics/calindex/documents/11/518939.pdf).  The subtitle is The History of Greater Highland Park and it proceeds to give us just that in 27 pages.  It includes plenty of photographs (including one of Franklin’s 1923 graduating class) and articles.  It has articles that address life in Highland Park by decade and articles that discuss particular aspects of Highland Park over time. 

Take a look.

Events for the Week of October 21….

Events going on at the library during the week include: 

Monday – 10/22
Grupo de apoyo para la familia at 10:00
LA Saves from 3:00-5:00
Make it Mondays features Leyendo con La Plaza at 4:00

Tuesday – 10/23
Baby Storytime at 10:30
LAPD Read Along at 3:00

Wednesday – 10/24
Toddler Storytime at 10:30
STAR Reader at 3:00

Thursday – 10/25
STAR Reader at 3:00
Walk-in-Tutoring for Adults from 6:00-7:30

Friday – 10/26
Drop in Computer Lab at 3:30

Saturday – 10/27
STAR Reader at 2:00
Arroyo Book Club meets at 3:00

You can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches

Gone Gull

Donna Andrews gives us another light hearted Meg Langslow mystery in Gone Gull.  This time murder is afoot in Meg’s grandmother’s newly opened craft center.  The problem starts with a string of maliciously vandalous acts and then ramps up as an unpopular teacher is found stabbed.  A very organized Meg springs into action to solve both crimes as she also deals with her eccentric grandfather who is hot on the trail of a recently spotted gull from a believed to be extinct species.

As always with an Andrews mystery you can expect to enjoy the interaction of a number of eccentric characters as the mystery is set up and, ultimately, solved.  

The Strange Disappearance of a Bollywood Star

The Baby Ganesh Agency series by Vaseem Khan continues with The Strange Disappearance of a Bollywood Star.  In this book Inspector Chopra (& the baby elephant Ganesha) are hired by a distraught mother to find her missing, soon discovered to be kidnapped, son.  At the same time his associate, Rangwalla, begins a case with roots deep in the past involving Mumbai’s eunuch community. 

So far all the entries in this series have proven to be interesting, entertaining reads.  In addition to the current book you can also read The Unexpected Inheritance of Inspector Chopra and The Perplexing Theft of the Jewel in the Crown.  Pick up one of these titles and give it a try.

Trivia of the Month...

This month’s question is quite obscure, what does a henry measure?

Events for the Week of October 14….

Events going on at the library during the week include: 

Sunday – 10/14
Afternoon at the Movies at 3:00

Monday – 10/15
Grupo de apoyo para la familia at 10:00
Voter Registration Drive from 4:00-6:00
Make it Mondays features a Juggling Show at 4:00

Tuesday – 10/16
Teens make Candy Sushi at 3:00
LAPD Read Along at 3:00
STAR Reader at 3:30
Círculo de Lectores at 6:00

Wednesday – 10/17
STAR Reader at 3:00

Thursday – 10/18
STAR Reader at 3:00
Walk-in-Tutoring for Adults from 6:00-7:30

Friday – 10/19
Drop in Computer Lab at 3:30

Saturday – 10/20
Walk Highland Park outing at 9:30
STAR Reader at 2:00
Construction of Community Ofrenda at 3:00

You can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches

Community Ofrenda

We will be launching a monthly Craft Space this month.  Craft Space will take place on the 3rd Saturday of each Month at 3:00 and will be aimed at the skill level of adults though anyone is welcome to join us and some events will be multi skill leveled for families to attend.

This month we will be using the time to construct a Community Ofrenda in celebration of Día de los Muertos.  We will have a variety of craft projects for people of all levels so bring your whole family along to help.  Be sure to bring photos of significance to scan & print for the altar as well as your own ideas for making the altar magnificent.  The 3rd Saturday is October 20 so be sure to mark your calendar and join us at 3:00.

-------------
(If you can’t join us but still want to participate)

For our Día de los Muertos community ofrenda we are constructing a paper chain.  Each link of the chain will represent a person that someone wants to remember. 

Contribute to our chain of memories by making one (or more) links for the people you want to remember.  Stop by the information desk for links and a marker and decorate your link just the way you want anytime during the week 10/15 – 10/20.

Highland Park History...

Did you know that Mammoth bones were found during the excavation for Sparkletts Water company in 1939?  Check out this photo & caption (http://dbase1.lapl.org/webpics/calindex/documents/10/520350.pdf) to see.

Events for the Week of October 7….

Please note that the library will be closed on Monday in observance of Indigenous Peoples Day.  Events going on at the library during the remainder of the week include:

Tuesday – 10/9

• LAPD Read Along at 3:00
• STAR Reader at 3:30

Wednesday – 10/10

• Toddler Storytime at 10:30
• STAR Reader at 3:00

Thursday – 10/11

• STAR Reader at 3:00
• Walk-in-Tutoring for Adults from 6:00-7:30

Friday – 10/12

• Community Birthday Party at 3:00
• Drop in Computer Lab at 3:30

Saturday – 10/13

• STAR Reader at 2:00
• LA Made: USC’s Kazan Taiko Drummers at 3:00

You can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches

October eResource of the Month

The October eResource of the Month is Kanopy a product for watching streaming videos.  Kanopy is a video streaming platform with over 26,000 documentaries in art, business, education, health, etc. In addition, it provides entertainment films from the 1920s to present. The collection also includes 1,500 foreign language films in 180 languages.  Over 1,000 producers and content providers are featured including the Criterion Collection, Great Courses, Kino Lorber, BBC, and New Day Films. Library card holders will be able to check out 10 films per month. Each film has a loan period of three (3) days.

Find Kanopy by starting on the Library website’s emedia page (http://www.lapl.org/collections-resources/e-media).  To use Kanopy you will need to create an account with your email address on their site. After you verify the account you will be asked to add your library card to it to begin using the service.

A Quick Look at the Branch’s Buildings…

The Arroyo Seco Library began its life 104 years ago, serving the public out of a small, elegant Carnegie building.  Click here (http://jpg1.lapl.org/pics38/00038629.jpg, or here http://jpg1.lapl.org/pics38/00038636.jpg, or here http://jpg1.lapl.org/pics38/00038633.jpg) for some lovely images of the building.

Time passed, as time does, and the community grew.  The original building was quite small and, toward the end of its life, suffered from some pretty severe water leakage problems.  So it was replaced with the second building.  This building was constructed mid 20th century and can only be described as reflecting that time (i.e. it’s pretty ugly).  Find some pictures of it here (http://jpg1.lapl.org/pics38/00038643.jpg, or here http://jpg1.lapl.org/pics23/00031179.jpg, or here http://jpg1.lapl.org/pics38/00038640.jpg).

More time passed.  Once again the building being used grew to be too small for the community it was serving.  Eventually it was replaced by the third building.  Construction finished on this latest building about 16 years ago and it is the one you’ll see when you come visit us.  Find a picture here http://jpg3.lapl.org/pics27/00063126.jpg

Trivia of the Month (Answer)...

This month our question asked about William Wendt.  To quote, sporadically, from our source:

William Wendt was a painter.  Among the best known Southern California artists of his day, he celebrated the state’s scenic grandeur in lush landscapes infused with the spirituality he ascribed to nature.

He lived in Los Angeles from 1906 to 1912 before relocating permanently to Laguna Beach.

Google image search William Wendt for a look at his work. 

The question and answer were taken from p. 514 of The Oxford Dictionary of American Art and Artists by Ann Lee Morgan.  The book was published by Oxford University Press in 2007.

Events for the Week of September 30….

Events going on at the library during the week include: 

Monday - 10/1

• Grupo de apoyo para la familia at 10:00
• Make it Monday features a building block challenge at 4:00

Tuesday - 10/2

• Baby Storytime at 10:30
• LAPD Read Along at 3:00
• STAR Reader at 3:30
• Círculo de Lectores at 6:00

Wednesday - 10/3

• Toddler Storytime at 10:30

Thursday - 10/4

• STAR Reader at 3:00
• All-Ages Zine Workshop at 4:00
• Walk-in-Tutoring for Adults from 6:00-7:30

Friday - 10/8

• Drop in Computer Lab at 3:30

Saturday - 10/6

• STAR Reader 2:00

You can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches

Library Events in October…

(Mark your calendars accordingly)

As always there are plenty of interesting activities going on at the library.  Let me give you a run down so you can plan ahead.  Let’s start with the non-repeating events:

- - - - - - - - - -
10/1 @ 4:00
Building Blocks Club
What can you build?

10/2 @ 6:00
Círculo de Lectores
Hay café, pastel casero, ye conversación amena sobre el libro que estamos leyendo

10/4 @ 4:00
Create a Zine
People of all ages are invited to make their own zine with us.

10/12 @  3:30
Community Birthday Party
Join us for a children’s birthday party celebrating all those with birthdays in September and October.

10/13 @ 3:00
LA Made: Taiko Drumming
USC’s Kazan Taiko group will showcase the Japanese art of traditional Taiko drumming. Join us for this magnificent program.

10/14 @ 3:00
Sunday at the Movies
Join us for the showing of a classically funny horror film.

10/15 @ 4:00
Found Objects Juggling Show
Enjoy a dexterous and amusing showcase of juggling skill.

10/16 @ 4:00
Teen Program
Join us for some teen tastic fun.

10/16 @ 6:00
Círculo de Lectores
Hay café, pastel casero, ye conversación amena sobre el libro que estamos leyendo

10/20 @ 9:30
Walk Highland Park
Get some exercise and see some of Highland Park. Join us for a stroll.

10/20 @ 3:00
Craft Space: Community Altar
Join us as we construct a community altar for the Día de los Muertos.  Bring photos for scanning & printing & plan to be assigned craft tasks.

10/22 from 3:00-5:00
LA Saves Information Table
Come learn about the LA Saves program and get how they can help you with your financial planning.

10/22 @ 4:00
Make it Monday
Leyendo con La Plaza.

10/27 @ 3:00
Arroyo Book Club
Join us for a discussion of Desmond’s Evicted.

10/29 @ 4:00
Goosebumps Party
Get in the Halloween spirit at this spooky event.

- - - - - - - - - -

Each month the library also has a number of ongoing classes & events.  They are:

Grupo de apoyo para la familia - - - Mondays at 10:00

Baby Storytime - - - Tuesdays at 10:30
Stories, songs, and rhymes await babies up to 18 months. (no session on 10/9)

Toddler Storytime - - - Wednesdays at 10:30 
Little Ones’ 3 and under & their grownups are invited to join us for stories, music, & games. (no session on 10/17)

LAPD Read Along - - - Tuesdays at 3:00
Officers from the LAPD read favorite stories with kids.

STAR Volunteer Readers - - - Available on Tuesdays at 3:30, Wednesdays at 3:00, on Thursdays at 3:00, and on Saturdays at 2:00
STAR readers present the fun of storytelling and reading to children one-on-one or in small groups. Kids earn a free book to keep after 3 visits.

Walk in Tutoring - - - Thursdays from 6:00-7:30
Free tutoring for adults (19+). Stop by on a first come first served basis for tutoring in English reading, writing, and conversation skills as well as help with your computer or cell-phone.

Drop in Computer Lab - - - Fridays at 3:30
Bring your questions about computers, tablets, eReaders, or other electronic devices.  We will do our best to help you figure out answers.

- - - - - - - - - -

Please do not hesitate to call the library at 323-255-0537 if you have any questions or would like more information.  Remember that you can always check the Branch Page (http://www.lapl.org/branches/arroyo-seco) on the LAPL website for upcoming events or check out the Master Calendar (http://www.lapl.org/whats-on/calendar) where you can search for something specific across multiple branches.