Saturday, March 31, 2018

Thank you to all our anonymous supporters and Whitman County voters!

Anonymous supporters and Whitman County voters from across the Palouse greatly impact library services and facilities. The library district could not thrive without the combination of voter supported funds, community donations, and volunteers. Whitman County Library and our community appreciate you!

Whitman County Library trustees, Friends and administrators sponsor the library supporter award to recognize individuals and groups who play a key role in forwarding the library’s activities, improving cultural offerings within our communities and supplementing a limited budget

March 2018 Whitman County Library Supporter of the Month

 For a complete list of recognized supporters, click here!

For more information, contact Kristie Kirkpatrick at 509.397.4366 

Friday, March 30, 2018

Do you own an old barn or have a love for them?

Then join us and fellow barn enthusiasts for an evening lecture about Washington's historic barns and also, the state’s award-winning Heritage Barn Register Program!

Washington Barn History & Heritage Barn Register Wed. April 4, 6 pm at The Center at Colfax Library

Journey the backroads of Washington State as we explore the history, architecture, and styles of barns as well as the technology required to build them. Architectural historian, Michael Houser, will also show barns across the state that have been rehabilitated as part of the State’s effort to preserve our rich agricultural heritage and tell you how to apply for grant funding to preserve your barn. Currently $450,000 is available in matching grants to support rehabilitating historic barns!

As an added bonus, The Center will be filled with stunning local barn photos! Click here to learn more! For more information, contact Kristie Kirkpatrick at 509-397-4366 or kirkpatr@colfax.com

BARNS OF THE PALOUSE: A Photography Exhibit, April 3 - 27 in The Center by George Bedirian, Ken Carper & Steve Van Vleet.

Thursday, March 29, 2018

The World's Angriest Librarian

Daily News column for Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017 by Kristie Kirkpatrick

While many are busy, watching the flow of tweets coming from President Trump, it was a different Twitterstorm that caught my eye. Click here for the read the "Angriest Librarian is Full of Hope" article.

The storm began with a tweet from Andre Walker, a columnist for the New York Observer who said, “Nobody goes to libraries anymore. Close the public ones and put the books in schools.”

After giving the comments some thought, a student librarian from Portland, Alex Halpern sent the following response. “Hang tight folks, because I am about to drop some necessary knowledge on you. First off, library usage is on the RISE mother*******.”

While Halpern acknowledges that his use of profanity is probably what caught most people’s attention, I hope the resulting conversations move the focus to what is really important, understanding today’s libraries so everyone can take advantage of all we have to offer.

In reality, today’s libraries are modern, welcoming, educational, technical, social, trendsetting, transforming and transformative. A look at upcoming activities in my own library illustrates this very clearly. In the coming week, we’ll provide classes, programs, and community events that serve EVERY age group libraries, schools, daycares, and senior facilities across 14 communities. These include children’s literacy, STEM and early learning classes, after school math, reading and art clubs, first aid, software coding, circuitry, knitting, arts and crafts, a photography exhibit, history exhibits, Medicare assistance, Ukulele lessons, dance classes, exercise, author presentations, adult coloring, ice age floods, community movie, “Happy Hour Yoga,” Fireside community group, Pie & BINGO, technology instruction, and caregiver support.

This list doesn’t even include the day-to-day services, like the lending of books, movies, music, downloadable audio and eBooks, other online collections, technology support, Internet access and public computing, Wi-Fi hotspots, public restrooms, reading and meeting spaces, coffee, and so much more.

All of these classes and services are available in one week from “little” Whitman County Library. Can you imagine what larger libraries like Mr. Walker’s in New York City are accomplishing and the people they are impacting?

Unfortunately, there are some people like Andre Walker who envision a library they used long ago (or perhaps they’ve never really used one). These folks imagine a building full of old books, old ideas and old librarians.

I hope Mr. Walker will visit his library to view all that is new. More importantly, I hope you will visit too.

Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Early Release PG MOVIE DAY is this Friday!

Kids & families, join us for movie at Colfax Library!
Friday, Mar. 30, 12:45 - 2:30 PM

Ferdinand, a big bull with an even bigger big heart, is mistaken for a dangerous beast, he is captured and torn from his home. Determined to return to his family, he rallies a misfit team on the ultimate adventure. Rated PG - Children under 8 must have an adult or teen present.

Call Sheri at 397-4366 for details. Sponsored by Friends of WCL.

Monday, March 26, 2018

SIGN UP TODAY!

Intro to Ukulele: Plus with Scott Hallett


April 4 - 25, 2018 (Wednesdays at 6 to 7:30 pm) Cost $18

The ukulele has recently made a huge comeback in popularity and is the easiest of all stringed instruments to learn.This class is for absolute beginners as well as those who have taken the introductory course or know simple chords. The emphasis is on fun rather than theory! 


WWI Comes to the Palouse with Richard Sola









April 3 - 23, 2018 (Tuesdays at 9:30 am to 12 pm) Cost $25

The Palouse, along with the rest of the Northwest Inland Empire, played a little known role in the the First World War even before the U.S. entered the conflict in April 1917. Discover how the Palouse prepared as America geared up to fight the "War to End All Wars." Especially important was protecting the war essential wheat crop, endangered by a blistering drought and the threat of sabotage. Learn about the universal draft emptying colleges, women entering the workforce, rationing, censorship, and 
the search for spies and subversives.                      
To register, please call Spokane Community Colleges at (509) 279-6030, visit www.sccel.spokane.edu/ACT2 or stop by any of our 14 branches of Whitman County Library to register by mail.

Saturday, March 24, 2018

New *FREE* Fitness Classes at Colfax!

Kundalini & Intensati exercise classes come to Colfax Library in March with instructor Aubrey Aguilar!

*FREE* Kundalini Yoga - Wednesdays 6 to 7:30 pm - The class is an uplifting blend of spiritual and physical awareness along with movement, dynamic breathing techniques, and meditation all intended to build physical vitality and increase consciousness.

*FREE* Intensati Fitness - Saturdays 9:30 to 10:30 am - This invigorating practice is a combination of high energy aerobics, martial arts, strength conditioning with spoken affirmations.

All fitness levels are welcome and no registration is required!

For a complete list of classes and information, visit Whitman County Library’s Events Calendar at www.whitco.lib.wa.us or call 397-4366.

*Classes remain free for the month of March only.

Friday, March 23, 2018

Your Libraries May Just Surprise You


When I started working at Whitman County Library five years ago I was in for a few surprises. First of all, working at the library is more fun than I would have imagined!  I have the greatest co-workers, serve the nicest people and every day is a new adventure. 
Surprise number two is how many people use the library and for so many reasons beyond just books. These include computer and internet access, movies, magazines, bingo, support groups, dance classes, art exhibits, money management classes, blood drives, yoga, children’s programs, and my personal favorite, book signings by famous authors.
The third and most surprising part of working at the library is all of the “Rotten Tomatoes” I encounter.  You see, one of my duties at the library is purchasing new movies and one of my go-to sites to learn about them is “Rotten Tomatoes,” home of the Tomatometer. The Tomatometer is their method of measuring movie quality. 
Buying movies for the library is fun because our customers are a dedicated bunch. They love talking about movies, suggesting titles and browsing the library’s huge selection. WCL has foreign films, documentaries, Oscar winners, musicals and more.  An adult can borrow up to four movies at a time and a family account is allowed up to eight movies at a time.  The library’s movies are categorized by rating which makes it easy for parents and children to find the “G” and “PG” rated movies and the staff is always willing to help you pick out something good to watch.  Here are a few I always recommend:
“Fracture” starring Anthony Hopkins and Ryan Gosling.  This twist-a-minute thriller is exceptionally suspenseful and a must watch! 
“Enemy at the Gates” starring Jude Law and Ed Harris.  This movie is based on a true story and tells the cat-and-mouse game between a German sniper and a Russian sniper during the WWI battle of Stalingrad. 
“The Book Thief” starring Geoffrey Rush and Sophie Nelissee.  This movie tells the tale of a young girl orphaned during WWII.  It is a masterful film with endearing characters and is another must see!
 “The Art of the Steal” directed by Don Argott.  This documentary follows the struggle for control of Dr. Albert C. Barnes’ 25 billion dollars collection of modern and post-impressionist art.  A must watch that will have you seething from the corruption and the art of the steal. 
            Another of my responsibilities at Whitman County Library is writing the weekly “Library List” that gets printed right next to this column.  Thanks to a huge influx of eBooks, we added over 43,000 new titles to our collection last year and thanks to the Daily News we are able to give you a glimpse into some of those each week.
            Three of my favorites to recommend are: “A Man Called Ove” by Fredrick Backman, “Let’s Pretend This Never Happened” by Jenny Lawson, and “Big, Little Lies” by Liane Moriarity.  All three are a joy to read and will have you laughing, crying and recommending them to all the friends in your own slice of life. 
If you are looking for a great movie, book or something fun to do, I hope you’ll contact Whitman County Library or any of the amazing public libraries that serve our region. I think you’ll be in for a surprise too!

Moscow Pullman Daily News - March 10, 2018 by Rachelle Marshall, Library Assistant Click here to visit Moscow Daily News website

Thursday, March 22, 2018

Trivia Night is TONIGHT!

WCL Trivia Night - March 22, 6:30 pm

Having FUN isn't hard when you have a LIBRARY card! 

Answer questions, identify music clips, compete with friends, and see what you know! Bring your team of up to 8 people or join one on arrival. Extra points are awarded to team members who present their library card. For more information, contact Sarah Phelan at 397-4366 or sarahp@whitco.lib.wa.us!

Wednesday, March 21, 2018

Be a HERO - Donate Blood!

DID YOU KNOW: almost 40% of the population is eligible to donate blood but only 10% do? Help raise that percentage and ensure a safe blood supply in your community!
Find the HERO in YOU and donate at the Colfax Library on Friday, March 23 from 2 to 5 p.m.!
This is your opportunity to save up to THREE lives by donating blood! Click here to make your preferred appointment time to avoid the wait or register directly on the Inland Northwest Blood Center (INBC) mobile bus parked outside the library. As the only provider of blood to local hospitals, INBC needs 200 donors per day to supply the community with the components needed for chemotherapy, transfusions, and major surgeries. Call INBC toll free 800-423-0151 for details.

New month, new opportunity to WIN big while saving lives in your community! Presenting donors in March are automatically entered to win a $200 Sportsman's Warehouse gift card!

Tuesday, March 20, 2018

Thank You Gary & Trudy Libey!

Major Donation from Superior Court Judge Gary Libey and wife Trudy to benefit Center and Library!
Whitman County Superior Court Judge, Gary Libey and his wife, Trudy shared news of their $104,000 donation to The Center in Colfax & Friends of the Library during a surprise announcement at Thursday’s Picnic in Style.  In making the announcement, the couple expressed their desire to give back to the community that means so much to them. They hope their donation might inspire others to give locally to the organizations that are making a positive difference in our communities.
Gary and Trudy Libey (left) announce their donation during The Picnic in Style on
Thursday, March 15 at The Center with Director, Kristie Kirkpatrick (right)

Initial plans for the donation include funding of special library projects and services, completion of the roof at The Center, and developing a reserve fund for ongoing operations.
Picnic in Style was a fundraising event sponsored by Tick Klock Drug, Sport Town, and Fonks that raised funds for children’s technology. Last year, attendance at Whitman County Library’s children’s programs topped 20,000 with nearly ¼ of those utilizing specialized technology . 



Thank you for your ongoing support and generous donation!

Kristie Kirkpatrick encourages you to contact Gary and Trudy Libey at (509) 397-2151 or (509) 592-03658. They are very excited to talk about this gift and encourage others to give back to the community as well!

Monday, March 19, 2018

How to Spot a Computer Scam

Tech Tuesday! How to Spot a Computer Scam with Theresa Kusznir Tuesday, March 20, 6-7 pm
Theresa Kusznir, of Colfax Computer guides participants on how NOT to fall victim to impersonation fraud via phone calls, pop up messages or incorrect search engines. Learn how to spot a computer scam and keep your information safe.

See a list of all March Tech Tuesday programs

For more information call TEK Center Coordinator, Nichole Kopp 397-4366 

Saturday, March 17, 2018

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

The Story of the Irish Race by Seumas MacManus

Everyone know that St. Patrick drove the snakes from Irish soil, that the Irish have all the luck, that Tristian’s Isolde came from Ireland, that Deirdre of the Sorrows was a great beauty, right?  If you didn’t know, you might want to check out this book and find out all you don’t know about the Irish people. 

Heritage of Ireland by Brian de Breffny


Featuring 100 black and white photographs and 16 full color pagers this book covers the history, culture, religion, folklore, myth, language, architecture, art, literature the Irish people have created throughout history. 

Poems from Ireland selected by William Cole

Through the long centuries of invasion and conquest, even when their language was taken from them Irishmen still sang secret songs to their beloved land.  Poverty and oppression could not silence them and this book contains and exciting collection of some of the most enduring Irish literature. 

Friday, March 16, 2018

Community Art Reception March 20 - CANCELLED, we apologize for any inconvenience

UPDATED Multi-Media Artist Exhibit & Reception
Colfax Center - Tuesday, Mar. 20, 4-6 p.m.

The community is invited to a reception and updated multi-media art show hosted by Molly Rice on Tuesday, March 20 from 4-6 p.m. at The Center at Colfax Library. Light refreshments will be served.

To keep the sizable exhibit ever-changing, Rice has included a number of new canvas prints. Rice’s colorful exhibit features a wide variety of media from paintings, pen and ink works and photographs to handcrafted papers made from a variety of plant materials.

The exhibit runs through March. Hours are Mondays – Wednesdays 10 – 8, Thursdays – Fridays 10-6, Saturdays – Sundays 1-5 p.m. The Center is located at Colfax Branch of Whitman County Library, 102 S. Main Street, Colfax, WA. For more information, call 509-397-4366.

Thursday, March 15, 2018

Trivia Night in Colfax - March 22!

WCL Trivia Night - March 22, 6:30 pm

Trivia Nights: The most fun you can have while learning! 

Check out Whitman County Library's Trivia Nights! The library holds trivia contests in Colfax, Endicott, Rosalia, St. John, Tekoa, and more! We provide the questions, materials, and a trivia host while local businesses donate prizes.

Answer questions, compete with friends, and see what you know! Bring your team of up to 8 people or join one on arrival. Extra points are awarded to team members who present their library card and all donations go to Friends of the Library for local programs and projects. For more information, contact Sarah Phelan at 397-4366!

Don't miss these upcoming Trivia Nights!

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Tuesday, March 13, 2018

Bring your family to INVESTIGATE INSECTS!

Insects ALIVE! Kids and families are invited to the Colfax Library on Thursday, March 15, 3:30 pm.

BUGS, BUGS & MORE BUGS! Join us for a family, afterschool program, "Insects ALIVE," with scientist, Steve VanVleet! It's 3rd Thursday FUN & learning at the Colfax Library. Kids of all ages are invited to the library for this special STEM engagement program. Call Sheri or Nichole at 397-4366 for details. Sponsored by Friends of WCL.

Saturday, March 10, 2018

Thank you Colfax!

We want to say a huge thank you to the Colfax Community for supporting our local food bank with Whitman County Library's eighteenth annual Food for Fines Drive!

In Colfax, over $230 of non-perishable goods were donated to our local food bank, $170 in fines waived, and ~30 residents participated! Thank you Colfax!

Friday, March 9, 2018

Memorial Walls with WSU History Professor, Ray Sun - RESCHEDULED FOR MAY 31

Ray Sun, Professor of History at WSU discusses the Vietnam Memorial, and the impact it has had in shaping subsequent memorials on Thursday, March 15 at noon at the United Methodist Church in Colfax. Many now adopt the “wall of names” concept, including the 9/11 memorial and a major planned Holocaust memorial in Amsterdam. Sun explores the commonalities and differences between the Wall and the later memorial sites. 
Memorial Walls
RESCHEDULED FOR MAY 31

This presentation is being held in conjunction with the Colfax Rotary meeting. It is free and open to the public. If you would like to order lunch, contact Kristie Kirkpatrick at 397-4366 or just come to listen!

Thursday, March 8, 2018

International Women's Day

March 8 is International Women's Day! Enjoy these non-fiction recommendations! Click here to read about this worldwide celebration.
"Radium Girls" by Kate Moore Incredible true story of the brave girls who fought America's glowing danger. The Curies' newly discovered element, radium, makes gleaming headlines across the nation as a wonder drug and beauty treatment. Meanwhile in the radium-dial factories, hundreds of girls toil amidst the glowing dust, covered from head to toe. When they begin to fall mysteriously ill, factories ignore claims of gruesome side effects and the battle for workers' rights begins.

"Queen of Katwe" by Tim Crothers - Inspiring true story of Phiona Mutesi, a teenage chess prodigy from the slums of Kampala, Uganda. Nine-year-old Phiona sleeps in a decrepit shack with her mother and three siblings, struggling to find a single meal each day. Phiona has not been in school most of her life as her mother could afford it, so she is only now learning to read and write. Phiona Mutesi is also one of the best chess players in the world.

"The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot - Her name was Henrietta Lacks, but scientists know her as HeLa. She was a poor Southern tobacco farmer who worked the same land as her slave ancestors, yet her cells—taken without her knowledge—became one of the most important tools in medicine. All HeLa cells ever grown would weigh more than 50 million metric tons. HeLa lead to advancements such as the polio vaccine, in vitro fertilization, cloning, gene mapping, and more. Yet, Henrietta is unknown, buried in an unmarked grave.

"A Train in Winter" by Caroline Warhead An extraordinary story of women, friendship, and resistance. They were teachers, students, and housewives; a singer at the Paris Opera, a midwife, a dental surgeon. They distributed anti-Nazi literature, hid resisters, secreted Jews to safety, transported weapons, and conveyed clandestine messages. Eventually, the Gestapo hunted down 230 of these women and in 1943, they were sent to their final destination: Auschwitz.

"American Chronicles: First Ladies" by NPR -  NPR presents the story of iconic first ladies as they apply their unique gifts to transform America. Featuring in-depth, inspiring profiles of our beloved and brilliant first ladies, including: Martha Washington, Eleanor Roosevelt, Jacqueline Kennedy, Lady Bird Johnson, Betty Ford, Laura Bush, Michelle Obama, and more. (audiobook only)

Request a title from the library today!

Wednesday, March 7, 2018

Colfax event raises fund for kids' technology!

Youngsters at Palouse Coding Camp
Picnic in Style, comes to The Center at Colfax Library on Thursday, March 15 with social hour at 5:30, picnic dinner and style show starting at 6:30 p.m. All proceeds will benefit youth technology programs at Whitman County Library thanks to sponsorship from Friends of the Library, Tick Klock Drug, Sport Town and Fonks. ONLY 8 TICKETS LEFT!!! 

Over the past year, participation in the library’s countywide technology programs for kids has skyrocketed. Nearly 20,000 children attended library programs last year with over 3000 of them using specialized technology equipment like Ozobots, Lego Mindstorms or Arduino Micro-controllers. The library struggles to provide sufficient equipment and staffing so proceeds from Picnic in Style will have an important impact.

Sponsors are excited about the casualness and low cost nature of this community event. Classic picnic fare is being served by Fonks and community members will model the latest fashions from local businesses. No-host bar will also be available.


Sponsor Joel Warwick of Sport Town says, “This is a beer and beans kind of event. We want people to come out and have a great time while raising money for a really important cause.” Cost for Picnic in Style is just $25 per ticket, $40 per couple or $160 for table of 8. With only 72 seats, tickets are expected to sell quickly.

Get your tickets at the Colfax Library. Event sponsors hope to fill every seat so residents are encouraged to donate directly to the library instead of buying tickets should you be unable to attend. For more information, contact Kristie Kirkpatrick at 397-4366 or kirkpatr@colfax.com.

Tuesday, March 6, 2018

Happy Hour Yoga

Whitman County Library presents "Happy Hour Yoga" Thursday, March 8 at 6 p.m.


The Yoga - Vinyasa & Restorative based class increases flexibility, balance, and focus while releasing stressful energy. This class is set to a fun playlist and laughter is guaranteed. 

The Mixer - Hang around after class to enjoy friends, appetizers, and beverages...and of course sweets! 

Who Benefits - Not only your body but a different local charity each month!

The Cost - $10 drop-in, punch cards, or free for ages 65 & up.


Sign up today! Contact instructor, Suzy McNeilly at (509) 397-4709 or the Colfax Library at (509) 397-4366 to register.

Monday, March 5, 2018

Making Technology Work for Your Business: Part 2

Making Technology Work for Your Business features an interactive session with Jim Kusznir, owner of Colfax Computer and Colfax Phone. Kusznir will discuss a variety of issues and questions business owners are facing when trying to match technology and services to their business needs.

Jim has worked in the Internet and networking field since 1994; in 2014 founded Palouse Technology Services in Pullman where he brought his high tech expertise to small businesses. As a business consultant, Jim often finds that the technology and services in use by a business do not closely match their operations. 

Session 2 will cover: Cloud services, merchant accounts (PoS systems and more), multi-site and remote worker configurations

Plan to attend the following free session to understand available technology and get your questions answered (content will be tailored to the interests of the attendees) on Tuesday March 6, at the Colfax Library in The TEK Center from 6-7pm. 

For additional information on this Tech Tuesday program and a complete schedule of technology classes at the Colfax library visit Whitman County Library’s Events Calendar at www.whitco.lib.wa.us or call 397-4366.

Saturday, March 3, 2018

Queen of Katwe

Join St. John and Endicott communities Friday, March 9 for a visit from Phiona Mutesi & Benjamin Mukumbya, the real life inspiration for Disney movie, "Queen of Katwe."
"Queen of Katwe" is based on the vibrant true story of a young girl from the streets of rural Uganda whose world rapidly changes when she is introduced to the game of chess. Supported by her family and community, she’s instilled with the confidence and determination to pursue her dream of becoming an international chess champion.

Endicott School 9:00 am & 2:30 pm –open to public
St. John School 10:50 am & 11:20 am –open to public
 

Questions? Call the Endicott Library at (509) 657-3429 or St. John Library at (509) 648-3319.

Friday, March 2, 2018

ACT 2 Spring Classes at Colfax Library

Intro to Ukulele: Plus with Scott Hallett

April 4 - 25, 2018 (Wednesdays at 6 to 7:30 pm) Cost $18

The ukulele has recently made a huge comeback in popularity and is the easiest of all stringed instruments to learn.This class is for absolute beginners as well as those who have taken the introductory course or know simple chords. The emphasis is on fun rather than theory! 

WWI Comes to the Palouse with Richard Sola














April 3 - 23, 2018 (Tuesdays at 9:30 am to 12 pm) Cost $25

The Palouse, along with the rest of the Northwest Inland Empire, played a little known role in the the First World War even before the U.S. entered the conflict in April 1917. Discover how the Palouse prepared as America geared up to fight the "War to End All Wars." Especially important was protecting the war essential wheat crop, endangered by a blistering drought and the threat of sabotage. Learn about the universal draft emptying colleges, women entering the workforce, rationing, censorship, and the search for spies and subversives. 
                         
To register, please call Spokane Community Colleges at (509) 279-6030, visit www.sccel.spokane.edu/ACT2 or stop by any of our 14 branches of Whitman County Library to register by mail.

Thursday, March 1, 2018

February 2018 Library Supporter of the Month

Starr Cathey was honored as February’s Library Supporter of the Month by staff at the Albion Branch. Starr, of Albion, is a longtime supporter of the library and community. She and her children use the library faithfully and Starr played a key role in combining children’s library programs with free summer lunch program, insuring that both the minds and bodies of young residents are well-fed.
Starr (center) receives her award from staffers Kristie Kirkpatrick and Lynn Fleharty