Appreciation to the Library Board of Trustees

Welcome Suzanne Schmick, Endicott and Andrea Miller, St. John to the Whitman County Library Board of Trustees, joining Bob Bates, Colton, Chuck Petras, Farmington and Steve Balzarini, Colfax.

Thank you for making sure we have a great library for years to come!

Watercolor exhibit in the Colfax Library

 

 

 

 

Palouse Plein Air, Traveling Exhibit

Runs through February 28, 2015

Colfax Library

The Palouse Plein Air Traveling exhibit is now on display at the Colfax Library. This exhibit features the award winning work of 10 of the artists who competed in the Palouse Plein Air competition in Moscow, Idaho last fall. 

Plein Air is French for "in the open air" and used to describe the act of painting outdoors. For the local competition artists were required to paint outdoors using the medium of their choice. Among the prize winners on display in Colfax are Forrest Dickson’s 1st place entry, “Creekside Light” and “September Colors” by Nancy Bowman, winner of the Artists’ Choice award.

The exhibit can be seen during regular library hours which are Mon-Weds 10-8, Thur-Fri 10-6 and Sat-Sun 1-5. For more information, visit the library’s website at www.whitco.lib.wa.us or call the library at 509-397-4366.

Photo attached: Bursche Road by Nancy Bowman, winner of “Best Palouse” award.

 

Uniontown Library renovation

Special thanks to Northwest Farm Credit for your generous support of the Uniontown Library renovation!

 

 

Thanks also to Inland Northwest Community Foundation for your generous support of the same project!

If you'd like to donate, please contact Whitman County Library at 509-397-4366 today. Only $5000 is needed to complete this important project.

 

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

Dating Myths:

Myth: "Teen dating isn't really that serious."


The Facts:
Nearly one-third of teenage girls ages 13 to 17 said they know someone their age who has been physically abused by someone they dated.  Numerous others experience psychological and emotional abuse from their partners.


Myth: "Jealousy and possessiveness are signs of true love."


The Facts:
Jealousy and possessiveness are signs the person sees you as a possession.  It is one of the most common early warning signs of abuse.


Myth: "Victims bring on the abuse themselves.  They ask for it."


The Facts:
Perpetrators believe the have the right to use abuse to control their partner and they see the victim as less than equal to themselves.  The victim has no control over the abuser.
 Learn the facts and get helpContact "Alternatives to Violence of the Palouse"Visit the Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month website.Suggested Reading List:

"Breathing Underwater" by Alex Flinn "Thirteen Reasons Why" by Jay Asher "Evernight" by Claudia Gray "Honey, Baby, Sweetheart" by Deb Caletti

Tax Forms at the Library

Tax Forms at the Library

For years, the Colfax Branch of Whitman County Library has supplied IRS tax forms to the public. Due to significant cuts in the IRS appropriations in the 2015 Omnibus Appropriations bill that was passed by Congress, the timing and number of tax forms available to the public is changing.

This year, the library expects tax forms to trickle in from the IRS beginning February 9^th. For this filing season, the library will only receive the following products:

• Forms 1040, 1040A and 1040EZ
• Publication 17, one reference copy for the library (Taxpayers will be able to access Publication 17 in English and Spanish online from irs.gov/Pub17 and, new this year, it will also be available as a free e-Pub for downloading from IRS.gov and viewing on most e-Readers and other mobile devices.)
• Publication 1132, Reproducible Copies of Federal Tax Forms and Instructions

Instructions for Forms 1040, 1040A and 1040EZ will not be available at the library but copies of these instructions and other tax forms can be obtained through the IRS website at www.IRS.gov.

To print forms from your personal computer or library computers, visit IRS.gov/Forms. If you’d like to order tax forms, visit IRS.gov/orderforms or call 800-829-3676 and they will be delivered to you by mail.
Finally for general questions during regular weekday business hours, residents can call 800-829-1040 and business can call 800-829-4933.

State and Federal Tax forms online

Federal Tax Forms via IRS
Click above to download federal tax forms directly from the IRS website.

State Tax Forms via Federation of Tax Administrators
Click above and then click on the map to go to the tax form site for your state.


For more information, contact:
Kristie Kirkpatrick at 509-397-4366
For a complete list of events and programs happening in all fourteen Whitman County Library branches, visit the Whitman County Library website or the library's events calendar or call the library at 397-4366 or 877-733-3375 toll-free.

Palouse Plein Air Traveling Exhibit

Image: Bursche Road by Nancy Bowman, winner of “Best Palouse” award.

The Palouse Plein Air Traveling exhibit is now on display at the Colfax Library. This exhibit features the award winning work of 10 of the artists who competed in the Palouse Plein Air competition in Moscow, Idaho last fall.
Plein Air is French for "in the open air" and used to describe the act of painting outdoors. For the local competition artists were required to paint outdoors using the medium of their choice. Among the prize winners on display in Colfax are Forrest Dickson’s 1st place entry, “Creekside Light” and Martha McIver’s “September Colors” by Nancy Bowman winner of the Artists’ Choice award.
The exhibit can be seen during regular library hours which are Mon-Weds 10-8, Thur-Fri 10-6 and Sat-Sun 1-5. For more information, call the library at 509-397-4366.

For a complete list of events and programs happening in all fourteen Whitman County Library branches, visit the Whitman County Library website or the library's events calendar or call the library at 397-4366 or 877-733-3375 toll-free.

WCL Calendar Sampling Jan. 29-Feb. 5

Thursday, January 29

LaCrosse – 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. – E-book & Audiobook Open House – Learn how to download e-books and audiobooks from the library’s website. Sponsored by the Digital Training Grant

Palouse – 3:45 p.m. – Homework help and game time with WSU students.

Colfax – 6 to 8 p.m. – Game Night – Teens grades 6 and up, call/text your friends to meet at the Colfax Library for Game Night!  

Friday, January 30

Endicott, LaCrosse, St. John & Uniontown – Early learning storytime with books, singing and crafts for ages six and younger.   Check the calendar for times.

Rosalia – 7 to 9 p.m. – Family Game Night – Bring your favorite board or card game or just come join in the fun with snacks, games and laughter.  

Saturday, January 31

Colfax – Palouse Plein Air Exhibit – Featuring award winning work of 10 artists who competed in the competition in Moscow, Idaho last fall. Exhibit is open during regular library hours.

Monday, February 2

Colfax – Three different fitness classes for different skill levels at The Center.  Visit the online calendar for more information and costs.

Colton – 10:30 a.m. – Storytime – Ages 1-6 are invited to learn about numbers through stories and songs.

Tuesday, February 3

Farmington, Palouse, Rosalia & Uniontown – Pre-School programs – Social time for kids and parents with play, singing, crafts and storytelling for ages 6 and younger. Visit the online calendar for times.

Colfax – 11 a.m. – Friends of WCL – Business meeting followed by assembling new baby packets for the hospital.

Wednesday, February 4

Albion, Garfield, Malden and Oakesdale – Storytime – Bring in the little ones for fun stories, songs and more every Wednesday. Visit the online calendar for times.

Colfax – 2 to 4:30 p.m. – WAZZU Wednesday – Teens 12 and up are invited for FREE after school fun. The WSU Center for Civic Engagement (CCE) provides student mentors for teens to explore science, technology, everyday skills, homework assistance and more.

Colfax – 5 p.m. – World War I: Conflict & Consequences – Cost is $16 for four class sessions. For more information or to register visit http://www.sccel.spokane.edu/ACT-2.aspx or call (509) 279-6030.

Thursday, February 5

Tekoa – 1 p.m. – Pre-School Storytime – Join Miss Diane for stories and songs.

Albion – 4 p.m. - Craft Day- An afterschool Pre-Valentine party with treats and card making.

 

This is only a sampling of the dozens of programs held each week in branches of the Whitman County Library.  Check our events calendar www.whitco.lib.wa.us  to see what else is happening.

Learn about wolves in the modern times...

Kim Weerts, president of the Whitman County Cattleman’s Association recently presented Sarah McKnight of the County Library District with 14 copies of The Real Wolf by Ted Lyon. The book explores the science, politics and economics of co-existing with wolves in modern times. Because wolf sightings and contacts are increasing, the Cattlemen want this information to be easily accessible to members and the community.  To secure a copy, visit Whitman County Library’s online catalog at www.whitco.lib.wa.us or call toll-free 877-733-3375.

Teen Art at the Colfax Library

Rural Alliance High School Art Show

Art Exhibit
January 10-23
Local teen artwork, paintings, drawings, collage, pottery displayed throughout two floors of Colfax Library. Exhibit open hours M-W 10-8, Th-F 10-6, Sat-Sun 1-5.







 For a complete list of events and programs happening in all fourteen Whitman County Library branches, visit the Whitman County Library website or the library's events calendar or call the library at 397-4366 or 877-733-3375 toll-free.

 

  

After School Program-Jan. 15 @ 3:30 pm

For more information contact:Sheri Miller at the library (509-397-4366.)

For a complete list of events and programs happening in all fourteen Whitman County Library branches, visit the Whitman County Library website or the library's events calendar or call the library at 397-4366 or 877-733-3375 toll-free.

INBC Blood Drive-Colfax Library-Jan. 15

 The gift of blood is the gift of life. You can save the lives of three people by donating blood Thursday, January 15, 2:00-5:30 p.m. Appointments are being taken by contacting the library at 509-397-4366 or the Inland Northwest Blood Center at www.inbcsaves.org. According to the Inland Northwest Blood Center, here are a few facts about donations:

1. Every 2 seconds, someone in the United States needs a blood product.
2. Although 60% of Americans are eligible to donate blood, only approximately 5% actually do.
3. It is estimated that one in three individuals will need a blood product sometime during their life.

Walk-ins will be seen on a first come, first serve basis with photo I.D. required. Donors should drink plenty of fluids and eat a meal at least two hours prior to arrival. The entire list of eligibility criteria can be found by  contacting the Inland Northwest Blood Center at www.inbcsaves.org by calling toll-free 800-423-0151.

For a complete list of events and programs happening in all fourteen Whitman County Library branches, visit the Whitman County Library website or the library's events calendar or call the library at 397-4366 or 877-733-3375 toll-free.

WCL Closed-Jan. 18-19

All 14 branches of Whitman County Library are closed Sunday and Monday, January 18 and 19.  Due dates for library materials have been extended in anticipation of the closure and no late fines will be charged for these days. Drop boxes will remain open at all locations for returned items. Access to the library’s catalog, downloadable audio and eBooks, and other online resources including Microsoft IT Academy are available by visiting the library’s website at www.whitco.lib.wa.us. For more information about library closures or upcoming community programs, the Library Events calendar is also accessible from the library website at www.whitco.lib.wa.us.

            Libraries affected by the closure are: Albion, Colfax, Colton, Endicott, Farmington, Garfield, LaCrosse, Malden, Oakesdale, Palouse, Rosalia, St. John, Tekoa, and Uniontown. Residents may call the library at 397-4366 or toll-free at 1-877-733-3375 for information, details regarding the closure or renewal of materials.

History at your fingertips!

Don't forget all the great historic photos available from Whitman County Rural Heritage brought to you by YOUR local library and Washington State Library. Visit www.whitco.lib.wa.us and choose the link...

Art, history, cooking ... sign up today!

A new line-up of classes is now available at the Colfax Library thanks to a partnership with Community Colleges of Spokane. These ACT 2 programs provide low cost, non-credit classes that range from history and technology to cooking and music.

Back to teach Sensational Savory Soups on Saturday, Feb. 21 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. is Kelli Collins of Joseph’s Grainery. Kelli is the foodie behind the blog at josephsgrainer.com and she will teach you how to make savory soups and stews with grains and legumes. A tour of the Grainery is included at a cost of just $14.

Other local instructors include Steve Balzarini, Gonzaga History professor teaching about WWI and Scott Hallett, local musician and founding member of the Ukulele Players of the Palouse teaching Ukulele for all playing levels.

For more information on these or a complete list of classes, call 800-845-3324 or visit www.iel.spokane.edu/ACT2 or contact Whitman County Library 509-397-4366.

Photography, Soup, History ... oh my!

A new line-up of classes is now available at the Colfax Library thanks to a partnership with Community Colleges of Spokane. These ACT 2 programs provide low cost, non-credit classes that range from history and technology to cooking and music.

The first class being offered is Introduction to Digital Photography with Lisa Soranka. The class is each Tuesday, Jan. 13 through Feb. 10 from 3:30-5 p.m.  The class is just $16 and will teach you simple edits, lighting techniques and other tips for better photos.

Back to teach Sensational Savory Soups on Saturday, Feb. 21 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. is Kelli Collins of Joseph’s Grainery. Kelli is the foodie behind the blog at josephsgrainer.com and she will teach you how to make savory soups and stews with grains and legumes. A tour of the Grainery is included at a cost of just $14.

Other local instructors include Steve Balzarini, Gonzaga History professor teaching about WWI and Scott Hallett, local musician and founding member of the Ukulele Players of the Palouse teaching Ukulele for all playing levels.

For more information on these or a complete list of classes, call 800-845-3324 or visit www.iel.spokane.edu/ACT2 or contact Whitman County Library 509-397-4366.

WCL Calendar Sampling Jan. 8-15

Thursday, January 8

Colfax & Tekoa – Storytime – Educational fun with your little one! Check with the location for more information.

Farmington – 7:30 p.m. – Mom’s Night Out – Crafts, treats and some grown-up time.

Friday, January 9

Endicott, LaCrosse, St. John & Uniontown – Storytime – Stories, crafts and social interaction for young children and their parents.  Check the calendar for times.

Colfax – 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. – Sears Academy of Dance – Variety of children's dance classes. Check the online calendar or call 1-887-733-3375 for specifics about classes and costs.

Saturday, January 10

Colfax - The Rural Alliance High School Art Show returns to the Colfax Library January 10 – 23 during regular open hours. This exhibit features the creative works of middle and high school students from Whitman County. Call Nichole at 1-887-733-3375 for more information.

Monday, January 12

Colton – 10:30 a.m. – Storytime – Ages 1-6 are invited to learn about numbers through stories and songs.

Colfax – 4 p.m. – Art Show Reception – Teen artists from around the county talk about their works.

Tuesday, January 13

LaCrosse – 3 p.m. – After School Fun – Activities, crafts and snacks for elementary students.

Colfax– 3:30 to 5 p.m. – Digital Photography Class – Cost is $16 for five class sessions. For more information or to register visit http://www.sccel.spokane.edu/ACT-2.aspx or call (509) 279-6030.

Wednesday, January 14

Colfax – 10 a.m. – Fit and Fun – Nancy Stanard leads this gentle, low impact class at the Center.  Visit the online calendar for more information and cost.

Endicott, Oakesdale, Rosalia, St. John & Tekoa – After school Programs – Many branches hold special programs for elementary students on Early Release Wednesday.  Check the calendar for times.

Thursday, January 15

Colfax – 2 to 5:30 p.m. – INBC Blood Drive - Contact the Inland Northwest Blood Center to register the time that is most convenient for you at www.inbcsaves.org or call toll free 800-423-0151 for additional information. Walk-ins are welcome.

Albion, Colfax, Colton, Farmington & Palouse – After School Programs – Fun, educational and snacks for elementary students. Check the library calendar or call the branch for more information and times.

 

This is only a sampling of the dozens of programs held each week in branches of the Whitman County Library.  Check our events calendar www.whitco.lib.wa.us  to see what else is happening.

The Friends of WCL are selling great new book bags for only $5.  Drop in at any branch and pick one up.

Fun activities for kids after school

Looking for after-school activities for your elementary aged student?  All 14 branches of Whitman County Library provide programs for grade school aged youngsters.  Activities include crafts, science experiments, games and snacks provided by community donations to the Friends of the Library. 

The week of January 12 will be an especially busy one with 12 programs scheduled over just three days.   On Tuesday, Jan. 13, LaCrosse students are invited to a 3 p.m. program in the large new library.  Wednesday is an early release day for many county schools with after school programs set for Albion, Endicott, Oakesdale, Rosalia, St. John & Tekoa branch libraries.

On Thursday, Jan. 15, Albion, Colton, Colfax, Farmington and Palouse offer their regular 3^rd Thursday after school programs. In Palouse, these programs happen each Thursday thanks to a partnership with WSU’s Center for Civic Engagement. Children participating in this program receive assistance with their homework, play games and receive support and encouragement from student mentors.

For specific program dates and times, visit the Library’s Events Calendar at www.whitco.lib.wa.us or the Branch Facebook pages which can be found under the Locations link.

 

Digital photography and more...

Have you wanted to take better photos with your digital camera or cell phone? If so, ACT 2 Colfax Classes has just the opportunity for you. Beginning on Tuesday, January 13 from 3:30-5 p.m.  ACT 2 offers a series of introductory photography classes by Lisa Soranka that will teach you simple edits, lighting techniques or tips for better photos. (This photo is by local photographer Aaron Cowan.)

This 5 week class is just $16 thanks to sponsorship of Community Colleges of Spokane. To register, call 800-845-3324 or visit www.iel.spokane.edu/ACT2.

Classes set for the winter quarter include Making Savory Soups, Lost Apples of Whitman County, World War I: Conflict and Consequences, Art, Ukulele, Beginning Ballet and more. For more information, contact Catalina Flores at Whitman County Library 509-397-4366.

New Year's resolution...

Looking for personal improvement this year? Try a low cost non-credit class at the Colfax Library!

Upcoming classes include Making Savory Soups, Lost Apples of Whitman County, World War I: Conflict and Consequences, Digital photography, Art, Ukulele, Beginning Ballet and more. For more information, contact Whitman County Library 509-397-4366 or register at 800-845-3324 or www.iel.spokane.edu/ACT2.

Friends of the Library

THANK YOU!

Friends of Whitman County Library for your help in providing quality library service throughout Whitman County. The next Friends business meeting is Tues, Jan 6 at 11 a.m. in the Colfax Library.

Everyone is welcome!

Book returned ... 60 years late!

Whitman County Library recently agreed to waive 60 years worth of late fees on the book The American Twenties. An anonymous patron inquired about returning the book but worried that fines might apply. Pocket of the books shows it was borrowed from the Colfax Public Library and due to be returned on Oct 13, 1954. Policy at the time, called for a 2 cent per day late fee, which would total $638.90 due today. Today, the library does not collect late fees, only fines for lost or damaged items. (Staffer Sara Garza inspects the book.)