ELMORE LEONARD, A BOOK CLUB DELIGHT!

Photo from www.npr.org

It's all about famed author Elmore Leonard for the Pearl Library's  Chapter 1 Book Club's Thurs. May 9 meeting at 6 p.m.

It's not one particular title. It's any book by Elmore Leonard said Pearl Reference Librarian Cecelia, the group's leader, who is reading Forty Lashes Less One, a Western by Leonard. 

Elmore John Leonard, Jr. was born in New Orleans in Oct. 11, 1925.  He died less than a year ago, Aug. 20, 2013 in Detroit where his family had lived for years. He was 87.

Leonard's father Elmore John Leonard Sr. was a site locator for General Motors so the family moved around a lot finally settling in Detroit.

Leonard started out writing Westerns but went on to specialize in crime fiction and suspense thrillers.  Many of his books and stories have been made into movies.  He was not only a novelist but a successful screenwriter as well. 

His writing style has been described as "gritty realism" and "strong dialogue."

Some of his popular books include:  Get Shorty, SWAG, Three -Ten to Yuma, Rum Punch, Hombre, Out of Site, 52 Pickup, Kill Shot, Split Images and La Brava.

Please do come and enjoy the discussion, light refreshments and door prizes. No reservation is needed, and you don't have to join as an official member.  Just come on by!

We'll see you there!

YOU CAN ALMOST HEAR THE FLOWERS SING!

VINYL RECORD FLOWERS

Vinyl Record Flowers is what they are called.  How about these to brighten up any deck, porch or garden?!

Who found this simply, wonderful craft idea? Need you really ask?  

Eleanor, Pearl Library Reference Supervisor and queen of all things Simply Crafts! It's easy she said.

All it really takes are children's albums, decorative, glass pebbles or stones and garden stakes.

Wanna learn how to make them? Then do not miss the Pearl Library's  monthly Simply Crafts night on Tues. May 13 at 6 p.m. Eleanor will make sure everyone has a really good time!

Remember, no reservations needed and all materials are furnished. 

We'll see you there!

VINYL RECORD FLOWER

A BEAUTIFUL, MAGNETIC EVENING IN PEARL!

 WOOD SLICE BIRD MAGNET MAKING

Simply Crafts night, Tues. Apr. 8, at the Pearl Public Library, featuring Wood Slice Bird Magnets, was a huge success as you see participants hard at it in the photo!

Speaking of hard at it, Eleanor, the group's leader, is already working on ideas for next month's project. We'll be letting you know about that real soon!

Simply Crafts is fun and free. All materials furnished. It's the second Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. Tell your friends and family. Bring them all!

We'll see you there!

WOOD SLICE BIRD MAGNETS

CRANKING UP APRIL AT THE PEARL LIBRARY!

WOOD SLICE BIRD MAGNETS
SIMPLY CRAFTS, 
TUES. APR. 8 AT 6 p.m.
NO RESERVATION REQUIRED.
MATERIALS FURNISHED.

CHAPTER 1 BOOK CLUB
THURS. APR. 10
6 p.m.
DOOR PRIZES AND LIGHT REFRESHMENTS!

SPECIAL EASTER EGG HUNT, TRIVIA,
AND GREAT PRIZES ALL WEEK LONG
APR. 14 -18

BROWN BAG IS BACK!
PRESENTING CANDI HILTON WITH 
THE FOWLER PROCHIROPRACTIC
AND
WELLNESS CENTER
APR. 25 AT NOON!
DESSERT AND DRINK PROVIDED!

EASTER EGGS GALORE!
HUNT THEM THE WHOLE
MONTH OF APRIL
IN THE BOOK SHELVES!

EASTER BUNNY DELIVERS BIG IN PEARL!

Image from www.ingles.babylon-idiomas.com

OMG! IT'S HOPPIN' EASTER MADNESS! 

What on earth is going on at the Pearl Public Library!!! 

Do you know what Eleanor just told me? This is huge. This is reeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeally HUUUUUGE!  

Eggs. Eggs. Eggs. And more Easter Eggs!  Yep! The Easter Bunny just thought it would be a good idea to have an Easter Egg hunt all April-long! So, he delivered eggs and tons of candy to Eleanor!

This is how the hunt works. Find an Easter Egg in the FICTION or NONFICTION book sections of the library (Some patrons already have!). Open it up, and you'll find a note inside instructing you to take the egg to the Reference Desk to redeem your PRRRRRRRIZE! But, that's not all. 

That wonderful, Pearl Library Loving Easter Bunny left a special egg that will be added to the hunt during National Library Week, April 14 - 18! Find the egg and win a very, very special prize!

Don't miss out on this EGGSTRAVAGANZA! Come on to the Pearl Library and join in the fun. You'll be hoppin' glad you did!

See you there!

Crochet And Denim Put Together Like Flowers and Spring!

CROCHET SPRING BY RACHEL!

Spring has sprung at the Pearl Public Library in a most creative way! So, do not tell the circulation staff that Spring is not made of crochet because guess what?! It sure is! 

BEE-UTIFUL SPRING is what they call their desk decorations!(Above) 

 Mrs. Rachel got her fingers aworkin' and produced all the flowers, bees and the precious, red bird! WOW! That's a true gift! That lady can crochet like nobody's beeswax! Sara and Carolyn (who did all the lettering), along with the rest of the circulation staff, worked hard to get it all up!

Denim Window by Eleanor!

UHHH-HMMMMM!!!! Not to be outdone, Eleanor, from the Reference Dept., pulled out leftover denim from her Giving Tree Simply Crafts program and made all of THIS (above and below)!. Lettering, flowers, sun and grass border, all denim! Can you believe it! GREAT GOLLY, MISS MOLLY these folks are sure talented! Come by the library and see these bright, festive decorations!

Denim Spring Desk by Eleanor!

                                                                   

IT'S A NIGHT OF WILLIE!

www.mswritersandmusicians.com

Cecelia is hitting a lot of home runs with her Chapter 1 Book Club at the Pearl Public Library,and she's on a winning streak now! Who doesn't love Mississippi's own homeboy, the late, Willie Morris?!

Willie was born in Jackson in 1934 and later moved to Yazoo City when he was six. He played baseball, football and basketball at Yazoo City High School as well as served as editor of the school newspaper. 

One of Mississippi's best-known writers, personal experiences is where Willie pulled from to produce his awe-inspiring work. Some of his best known pieces include North Toward Home, Yazoo, Good Old Boy, My Dog Skip and The Last of the Southen Girls. Willie died September of 1999.

Pick any book written by Willie Morris for the Chapter 1 Book Club meeting Apr., 10 at 6 p.m. Cecelia would love to see you. No reservation required and there are  always door prizes and light refreshments!

We will see you there!

BACK TO THE BASICS! COMPUTER 101 IN PEARL!

Graphic from www.mytechteam.net

You've been asking about them, and starting in April, monthly, basic computer classes are BAAAAAAACK!

The Pearl Library's own Erica will show you how to do it all. There's Introduction to the Internet on Thurs. April 3, introduction to Email on Thurs. April 10 and Introduction to Microsoft Word on Thurs. April 17. All classes are at 4:00 p.m.

Don't miss out! Tell your friends. Tell your family. Tell somebody!!!!

Classes are free and no reservation required.  

We'll see you there!

A BIRD THAT STICKS WITH YOU!

Wood Slice Bird Magnets by Eleanor

Just so y'all know. Eleanor is back at it again.  She'll do whatever it takes for her Simply Crafts, adult program at the Pearl Public Library! Even if it means hauling wood. Uh-huh. That's right. 

April's craft is Wood Slice Bird Magnets on Tues. April 8 at 6:00 p.m.  

Obviously, the craft is made using wood slices. But, just where did the wood slices come from? "I found a tree limb by the pond behind my house," said Eleanor. "I dragged it into the yard for Jason (husband) to saw it up. I let him do all of the hard labor, but the craft was too cute to not put for the effort!"   

Don't you just know she was plumb tuckered out! But she did it! Oh, the sacrifices for craft night! KUDOS! I meeeeeean nothing but KUDOS for Eleanor and poor 'ol Jason!

The birds are from decorative bird napkins that Eleanor found at Dirt Cheap. Add a little mod podge and a paint brush and you got yourself a beautiful, decorative magnet! Wouldn't that would make a fine gift for someone?

Listen, don't miss out on this wonderful craft.  No reservation and no materials needed.

We'll see you there!

STICKS AND STRINGS CREATE BEAUTIFUL THINGS!

BABY'S SUN HAT AND HEAD BAND BY RACHEL

If you haven't heard by now, there's something mighty creative happening at the Pearl Library! It's crochet. It's hip. It's cool! Everyone's doing it!

Among the talented is library staffer, Rachel, truly gifted, who can weave the most beautiful works of crochet!  Fittingly she heads up the Sticks and Strings adult program the first Thursday of the month at 5:30 p.m at the  Library.  Her next session is Thurs. April. 3.

"I love it," said Rachel of her program and the art. "I've been crocheting for years. I started when my children were little." Then other things in life started taking her attention from crochet. But, she's back at it, and has been for a long while now letting her hands work pretty magic.

MUG COSIES BY RACHEL

Those brand new to crochet as well as the more advanced come to Sticks and Strings Rachel said.   "I have beginners in the group, so I'll try to have a little more simple project like a bow for them to do," she said.  

Then there are others who are more experienced, and for those Rachel may have a different project on hand.  Before anything gets underway, "I'll ask who has been working on something," said Rachel. "I'll tell them to show us what you have. Then, we'll go from there."

It's an informal session and there's no set agenda.  Folks just sit and crochet and visit. "They love it," Rachel said.  

No reservation is needed, but do bring your own materials. All are welcome!

We'll see you there!

PHONE THEM AND THEY WILL MAGICALLY TRAVEL THE AIRWAYS TO APPEAR!

That's what Skype is ya know. It's a derivative of SKY and PEER-TO-PEER that finally became SKYPE!

What it means is that you can talk to someone and see them at the same time! Not standing right beside you silly!  Over the computer OR your phone OR even your TV if it has Skye on it! 

You phone them and POOF! there they are! It's magic!  It's being together when you are apart. It's for every situation whether it be a party, business meeting or even a looooooooooove connection...oooh la la!

Let the Pearl Library's own, Keaura show you how it's done! Her informative, FREE, class is Monday, April 21 at 4 p.m. It's an hour-long class that needs no reservation. 

Don't miss this.  Let Keaura take you into the world of Skyping. She will tell you what Skype is, the services offered, the preparation it takes to use Skype, setting up a Skype account and how to make a call using Skype. 

Come on! Let's get your Skyping started! Oh, yeah! We will see you there!

THE PEARL LIBRARY HAS TOTAL CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH IN THE BAG!

After a few months' hiatus, the Brown Bag, adult program is BACK!!!!! 

To kick it off again, well, not too hard of a kick. You have to watch your back ya know! 

Candi Hilton with the Fowler ProChiropractic and Wellness Center - which uses the  "whole person approach" to wellness and which has been freeing people from pain since 2001 - will be the guest speaker April 25 at 12 - noon at the Pearl Public Library. Candi will talk about Trigger Point Therapy which relieves pain and stress from the body.

Located in Pearl, the ProChiropractic and Wellness Center, helps you achieve the highest in chiropractic wellness through combining skill and expertise that spans the entire chiropractic wellness spectrum.

It's a free program. Bring your lunch, but the library will hook you up with  dessert and a drink. There will also be door prizes!

No reservations needed. Just show up! We'll see you there!

LET'S GET THE PARTY STARTED AND GO ALL WEEK! IT'S WORTH IT!

There's a reason, libraries are celebrated all over the United States for a whole week in April. This year it's April 14 -18. 

Hey!!!! Libraries are WORTH IT! Can you imagine life without libraries?! WAKE ME UP FROM THIS NIGHTMARE, SOMEBODY PLEASE!

I'm OK now. Thanks. 

There's one thing for sure. The Pearl Public Library is definitely celebrating! On tap are an Easter Egg hunt for adults, trivia and prizes.  Oh, what's this I hear! Eleanor says the bunny is leaving a cute little basket for the winner that finds that special egg!  Cooooooooooooool beans...uh, eggs I mean!  Don't miss it!

And, now, let's take a look at what some folks have to say about libraries...

--The public library is more than a repository of books. It's a mysterious, wondrous place with the power to change lives.Chicago Tribune literary editor Elizabeth Taylor

--It's an essential fight librarians are making, an age-old fight; yours is a battle for civilization. It's a fight for our country's founding values. Radio talk-show host Jim Hightower

--We must not think of learning as only what happens in schools. It is an extended part of life. The most readily available resource for all of life is our public library system. Author David McCullough

--The part of my education that has had the deepest influence wasn't any particular essay or even a specific class, it was how I was able to apply everything I learned in the library to certain situations in my life. . . The library takes me away from my everyday life and allows me to see other places and learn to understand other people unlike myself. Musician Gloria Estefan

--We all love to hear a good story. We save our stories in books. We save our books in libraries. Libraries are the storyhouses full of all those stories and secrets. Actor Kathy Bates

---------------------------------------------------

YES! YES! YES! That's what I'm talkin' about! And, that's why the Pearl Public Library will have some special, adult fun going on during National Library Week!

Please come by and support your library especially during this nationally recognized week!

We'll see you there!

This Pretty, Little Craft Night Gem Had Them By The Neck!

Eleanor's March Simply Crafts group, at the Pearl Library, show their beautifully made glass pendant necklaces for all to see!

The craft called for beveled glass tiles, scrapbook paper, Modge Podge and bails and chains!
"Everyone had such a good time," said Eleanor. "They really enjoyed the pendant craft!"
She can't wait for next month's gathering. Stay tuned to this blog to find out what that's gonna be!

The Agatha Christie Experience, For The First Time Again, Starting With Chapter 1!

Just what is Cecelia up to now with her Chapter 1 Book Club at the Pearl Public Library?

It's a mystery. It's a mystery of all mysteries! It's rediscovering Agatha Christie. How better to do that than to start at the beginning, right? Riiiiiiight!

The Mysterious Affair at Styles, Agatha Christie's first novel, was first published in 1920, and introduced super sleuth, Hercule Poirot.  The fictitious, Belgian detective Poirot would go on to star in 39 of Christie's novels. 

OK, let's see what's up....

Emily Inglethorp, of the English countryside manor Styles, is dead.  She's really dead. The poor lady was poisoned with strychnine! YIKES!

Who's the first person of interest? Of course, the husband.  After all, this guy, upon poor Emily's death, would be riiiiiiiiiiich!  But, hold it right there! Let's not get ahead of ourselves! Anyway, it's just not that simple.

Captain Hastings, a guest at Styles,  called his friend to help investigate to find out just what went down! And, guess who the friend is? YEP,  enter Poirot!

Oh, if it were just a simple case of the husband did it, but the timeline doesn't fit the crime. So, now Poirot must  delve into all the personal business of the family living at Styles! 

So, who dunnit?!?!?! Read the book and come join the Chapter 1 Book Club meeting Thurs. Mar. 13 at 6 p.m. You don't have to reserve a spot, and you don't have to be a member. Just come by and join the fun discussion and the whole, wonderful Agatha Christie experience!

And don't forget...there will be door prizes and light refreshments.

We'll see you there!

MARCH RIGHT INTO ART MADNESS AT THE PEARL LIBRARY!

  Hulstromart.weebly.com

Come March you might not recognize the Pearl Public Library when you walk in OK! 

Seriously folks, it gets kinda art crazy around the place. You wanna know why?! Because it's National Youth Art Month!

It's madness I tell ya! M - ART - CH MADNESS! 

The library will literally turn into a wonderful art gallery with colorful, creative students' art - all from the Pearl Public School District - canvassing almost the whole library!  You gotta see this!

A reception on Tues. March 4 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. will kick things off.  Hundreds (and I do mean huuuuuuuuuuuuundreds) of supporters will turn out for this reception, enjoy some refreshments and stroll around the library to see all the gorgeous work these kids work so hard to produce!

The art work will stay up the entire month of March for all to enjoy!

Don't miss it!

ADORNING CRAFT AT THE PEARL LIBRARY!

You simply cannot beat fun, beautiful jewelry making, and Eleanor has March's Simply Crafts night looking pretty darn good!

How about tile glass pendants?

The craft calls for beveled glass tiles, scrapbook paper, Modge Podge and bails and chains! You do not want to miss this craft night full of creative fun on Tues. March 11 at 6 p.m. No registration is required. All materials are furnished.

And, then there's the morning session of March's Simply Crafts's double header  -  same day , but at 10:30 a.m. when Shirley will take you into the world of rug making using cloth.

This craft is called Rags to Rugs. Does it sound familiar? It should. This is Shirley's third month of  Rags to Rugs crafting!

It looks like this one may be her biggest class yet with so many already signed up although no registration is required. Please bring any old t-shirts or cloth you might have on hand.

We sure hope to see you at the Pearl Public Library where crafting is always simple and creatively entertaining!

CHAPTER 1: SKYPE SUCCESS!

The Pearl Library's Chapter 1 Book Club's live author's visit was  a huge success and everyone had a fabulous time said Cecelia, the book club's leader.

The Skype visit took place on Thurs. Feb. 13. "It is so exciting to be able to visit live with a best-selling author," said Cecelia speaking of author Becky Aikman.  "Becky lives in New York but called us from Los Angeles where she was for a book signing."

Aikman must have been great, and really down to earth because Cecelia said, "I could hang out with her! Becky was friendly, funny, entertaining and very generous with her time. She updated us on 'The Blossoms' as the five, young widows dubbed themselves. They are still friends.  They keep in contact with one another and get together periodically."

Here's what Saturday Night Widows is about:  Journalist and former Newsday reporter, Aikman lost her husband to cancer when she was in her forties. Sad and lonely she tried a support group. All she felt was more sad, and that was not working for her. She knew she had to get busy reinventing herself.  

Aikman researched what had been written about dealing with loss. Later, she remarried, but the traumatic loss was still present so Aikman found herself putting the valuable research to work.  

By asking around, Aikman was able to form her own group of young widows. Remarried for four years by the group's first meeting, Aikman also had new challenges to tackle. As if grief issues weren't enough, she now had to deal with a "new life, new career,  new husband, new stepdaughter, new home and new dog," as she put it. 

Her mission was to balance a new life with memories from the past.  Not an easy feat, but with five new friends, a lot of laughter and a few tears, Aikman made it work!

A Skype visit takes a book club meeting to another level said Cecelia. "If you or someone you know is in a book club, a Skype visit with an author makes a very unique program," she said. "Many authors, especially new ones, will work with you on speaking to your group."

The Pearl Chapter 1 Book Club meets every 2^nd Thursday from 6:00 – 7:00 P.M.  All are welcome to attend. If you would like to read along with the group, inquire at the Pearl Library for the current month’s selection at 601-932-2562 or on our website at www.cmrls.lib.ms.us.

SWEET AND HOT LIBRARY LOVE IN PEARL!

Photos by Pearl's circulation supervisor, Sara Smith

The Pearl Public Library's sixth annual Come in from the Cold with a Good Book was a tremendous success with upward of 1,200 patrons participating during the three-day event to support the Friends of the Pearl Library!

We heard "I love my library" over and over and over again as patrons happily enjoyed tons of free Community Coffee ( PECAN PRALINE ROCKS!), donuts and cookies Wed. Feb. 12 thru Fri. Feb. 14, that special love day!!!! Many patrons donated money to the Friends and/or expressed interest in becoming a Friends member. Some took an application to go while a couple of them signed up on the spot and paid their membership! YAY!!!

A big LOVIN' thanks to local business donors, Community Coffee, Dunkin' Donuts, That Special Touch, The Donut Factory, Western Sizzlin', Sam's and Wal-Mar for helping make this Library Lovers' Month celebration possible! 

And, thanks to the Friends of the Library for lending the library staff a helping hand.

Last but not least, thanks to our AWESOME patrons for making it so much fun!

HAPPY LIBRARY LOVERS' MONTH!

Library Lovers' Month is in full swing and the Pearl Public Library is gearing up for its sixth annual Come in From the Cold With a Good Book! 

The event, sponsored by area businesses, in support of the Friends of the Pearl Library, starts tomorrow Wed. Feb. 12 and runs through Valentine's Day, Fri. Feb. 14!

Free donuts, cookies and coffee, made possible by Community Coffee, Dunkin' Donuts, The Donut Factory, That Special Touch, Sam's Club, Wal-Mart and Western Sizzlin', will be provided for all patrons visiting the library from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday.

You don't want to miss this LOVELY event! The library welcomes all to come enjoy something sweet and a hot beverage, meet library staff and learn about the Friends of the Library. Who knows, you might even want to join and become a Friends member yourself!  Donations to the Friends will be sweetly and warmly welcome!

Oh, by the way, just a reminder that the library's adult winter program, Snuggle Up and Read!,  is going on right now and will run clear through Library Lover's Month, ending Feb. 28.  The person who reads the most, wins this pictured basket full of amazing prizes!

Saturday Night Widows Available At The Pearl Library!

Yes, another blog about the Chapter 1 Book Club's big night coming up Thurs. Feb. 13 at 6 p.m. at the Pearl Public Library. 

 Just in today, 10 copies of Saturday Night Widows are now available at the Pearl Library's circulation desk! Don't wait too late to come check one out! You don't want to miss this!
 
 Cecelia has arranged a Skype (visual using webcam) visit with Saturday Night Widows author, Becky Aikman.  WOOOO HOOO! Go, Cecelia!

Journalist and former Newsday reporter, Aikman lost her husband to cancer when she was in her forties. Sad and lonely she tried a support group. All she felt was more sad, and that was not working for her. She knew she had to get busy reinventing herself.  

Aikman researched what had been written about dealing with loss. Later, she remarried, but the traumatic loss was still present so Aikman found herself putting the valuable research to work.  

By asking around, Aikman was able to form her own group of young widows. Remarried for four years by the group's first meeting, Aikman also had new challenges to tackle. As if grief issues weren't enough, she now had to deal with a "new life, new career,  new husband, new stepdaughter, new home and new dog," as she put it. 

Her mission was to balance a new life with memories from the past.  Not an easy feat, but with five new friends, a lot of laughter and a few tears, Aikman made it work!

Can you believe that you get an opportunity to meet and chat with this wonderful author via Skype?! Amazing!

The Chapter 1 Book Club will meet Thurs. Feb. 13 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. No registration is required, and you do not have to commit to joining the group. Just come on by and hear a very interesting story LIVE!

The Pearl Library Creatively Features Mississippi's Magnetism!

The Love Mississippi magnet, sporting a sweet, red heart, lies beside the Shrinky Dinks bag.

If you have a real heart for our beloved state, and love crafts, you absolutely must come be a part of the Pearl Public Library's  Feb. 11, 6 p.m. Simply Crafts.

On tap is SHRINKY DINK crafting!

Eleanor says "Shinky Dinks aren't just for kids anymore! This month we'll create a Love Mississippi magnet using Shrinky Dink plastic. We'll outline and paint the state of Mississippi."

If you are already getting nervous just thinking that you might have to  freehand draw the shape, "Don't fret. We'll trace it," said Eleanor. "We'll add a heart detail near our hometown location. It's so fun to watch the plastic shrink and curl in the oven!"

That does sound like a ton of fun!  Don't miss it. No registration is required and all supplies are furnished. We will definitely see you here!

That takes care of the evening session of February's double header Simply Crafts. 

Shirley is raring to go with her second RAGS TO RUGS, a repeat of January's craft session, at 10:30 a.m. Tues. Feb. 11.  

 Fabric Woven Rug

"It takes a lot of fabric to make a rug," said Shirley.  So, please remember to bring in any old t-shirts you might have lying around.    Folks have been dropping off fabric in the donation bin next to the library's circulation desk. It's greatly appreciated. Keep it coming!

No registration is required, but would be helpful. The first three folks who register will get a small prize.  You can contact the reference desk to register or get more information.

Come on. Join us! Let's cut...uh...weave a rug together!!!

 

Pearl's Chapter 1 Book Club Hosts Live, Visual Talk With Author!

Author Becky Aikman and her Saturday Night Widows Group

Cecelia, leader of the Pearl Library's Chapter 1 Book Club, has arranged a Skype (visual using webcam) visit with Saturday Night Widows author, Becky Aikman. You don't want to miss it!

Journalist and former Newsday reporter, Aikman lost her husband to cancer when she was in her forties. Sad and lonely she tried a support group. All she felt was more sad, and that was not working for her. She knew she had to get busy reinventing herself.  

Aikman researched what had been written about dealing with loss. Later, she remarried, but the traumatic loss was still present so Aikman found herself putting the valuable research to work.  

By asking around, Aikman was able to form her own group of young widows. Remarried for four years by the group's first meeting, Aikman also had new challenges to tackle. As if grief issues weren't enough, she now had to deal with a "new life, new career,  new husband, new stepdaughter, new home and new dog," as she put it. 

Her mission was to balance a new life with memories from the past.  Not an easy feat, but with five new friends, a lot of laughter and a few tears, Aikman made it work!

Can you believe that you get an opportunity to meet and chat with this wonderful author via Skype?! Amazing!

The Chapter 1 Book Club will meet Thurs. Feb. 13 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. No registration is required, and you do not have to commit to joining the group. Just come on by and hear a very interesting story LIVE!

Mmmmm! That's Some Sweet, Sweet Lovin' ...Pearl Library Style!

February is Library Lovers' Month, and the Pearl Public Library is gearing up to do it again! You know what I'm talking about! It's a huge patron favorite!

The sixth annual Come in From the Cold With a Good Book, co-sponsored by the Friends of the Pearl Library, is back! It's a time when delicious treats abound putting smiles on so many faces! It's a PARTY! The event just wouldn't be the same without lip smackin' cookies, donuts and hot, smooth Community Coffee! OOOOH-YEAH!

You really don't want to miss it!  Come In From the Cold With a Good Book starts Wed., Feb. 12 and runs through sweetheart day Fri., Feb. 14. Hey, don't have plans for your special Valentine? Then this is perfect for you! Your sweetie will love you for it!

Patrons enter from the foyer of the library to a table full of yummy treats and comforting Community Coffee! You'll be met with warm smiles and learn about the Friends of the Library, the group that supports the library in so many ways! You might even like to join!

The event times are 10 a.m to 6:00 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday and 10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Friday - Valentine's Day!

The Pearl Library couldn't do it without generous donations from area businesses that love their library! That Special Touch, Community Coffee, The Donut Factory, Dunkin' Donuts, Walmart, Sam's and Western Sizzlin' are furnishing all the treats we need for the three-day celebration!  Sweet, sweet lovin'! You know that's what it is!

It's all free, but donations to the Friends of the Pearl Library are kindly and sweetly welcome!

There's no doubting it. The Pearl Library LOVES its patrons!!!
             ------------------------------------------
Oh, by the way, just a reminder that the library's adult winter program, Snuggle Up and Read!,  is going on right now and will run clear through Library Lover's Month, ending Feb. 28.  The person who reads the most, wins this pictured basket full of amazing prizes!

THE CRAFT THAT KEPT ON GIVING!

SIMPLY CRAFTS ARTISTS SHOWING OFF THEIR WORK!

WOW! Eleanor and her Simply Crafts group, at the Pearl Public Library, sure had a reeeeeeeeally good time making DENIM GIVING TREES!  Just look at the smiles on those wonderful faces! And, check out the diverse tree designs below!
She sure hit a home run with this fantastic craft idea! You go, El!!!!!!

SIMPLY CRAFTS DENIM GIVING TREES

The DENIM GIVING TREE was the night-time (6 p.m)  featured craft of the Pearl Library's first ever, double header Simply Crafts day Tues. Jan. 14.

Shirley headed up the morning's RAGS TO RUGS craft (10:30 a.m.) and said it was a lot of fun too. She plans to repeat this craft for February and March's Simply Crafts double headers! It takes mega cloth to make a rug so don't forget to bring those ol' t-shirts!  

Just a reminder, for those of you who might be frequenting the library for various reasons, the library is accepting cloth donations.  A plastic bin is located near the circulation desk! 

Hey, uh...just between me and you, the buzz is that folks are discovering they can keep on top of craft news - RIGHT HERE! - and plan to keep coming back!  
  

SO, stay tuned - RIGHT HERE! - and find out what's Eleanor's next, nocturnal double       header installment of  Simply Crafts coming Tues.  Feb. 11! You know it's going to be   reeeeeeeeeeeeally good!!

 COME ON AND JOIN IN THE FUN! WE'LL SEE YA HERE!

Exquisite Hand Carved Wood Art Exhibit At The Pearl Library!

The Pearl Public Library is showcasing, Expressions in Wood, now through the month of February - in honor of Black History Month - the magnificent woodcarving art of Oklahoma native, George Berry, Sr. 

A hand carved dolphin, hippo, turtle, bison, pig and wolf are only a few that are among the breathtaking, wooden animals that grace the library's foyer. Waterfowl, eagles, owls and horses are onsite to admire as well. Hand carved lapel pins in the likeness of a hummingbird, butterfly and several leave pins are also in the exhibit.

George Berry, Sr.
Image courtesy of Cwilkins

Berry, now a resident of Pearl, moved to Mississippi in 1972 to teach industrial arts at the Piney Woods Country Life School where he retired in 1985. He's been carving wood since he was 6-years-old which means he has been creating art almost all his life. 

Berry shows a great appreciation of the beauty of wildlife through fine, delicate detail. His work is so impressively done, it's quite hard to believe it's actually hand carved. It seems almost impossible and truly demonstrates Berry's genius.

For those who love outdoor sports, hunting dogs and catfish are Berry's homage to Mississippi culture. 

An honoree of the Mississippi Arts Commission, Berry received the Governor's Awards for Excellence in the Arts for Artistic Achievement in 2001. Berry's wood carved sculptures are exhibited in numerous places in Jackson and Oklahoma and other private residences and offices throughout the U.S.

Berry is a charter member and Fellow of the Craftsmen's Guild of Mississippi and is on the Guild's Board of Directors.

You really do not want to miss a great opportunity to see the Expressions in Wood exhibit! The Pearl Library invites everyone to come by. If it's your first time to visit the library, take a look around and see everything your library has to offer! 

We sure hope to see you here!


 

WIN THIS HUGE, AWESOME GIFT BASKET!

It's easy to win this fantastic gift basket designed by the Pearl Public Library's own Eleanor, reference supervisor and coordinator of adult programming!

The basket is yours if you read the most books by Feb. 28. 

The adult winter reading event is called Snuggle Up and Read, and is well underway. Library patrons are getting supercharged when they see this beautiful grand prize perched upon the reference department's work island. Uh-huuuuuh. It's like Christmas morning! Hey, even simply hearing about the grand prize starts patrons grabbing for books!

Here's how Snuggle Up and Read works.  You read five (5) books, turn in a reading log and get a small prize for your first reading log only. Turn in as many logs as you wish. All logs are counted. The person who reads the most wins the grand prize, a gorgeous basket loaded with goodies!

Don't wait to get in on this fun activity. Do it now! You just might win!

HAPPY SNUGGLY READING!

SIMPLY CRAFTS X TWO!

It's just a few days away. The Pearl Public Library's double dose of Simply Crafts, Tues. Jan. 14 is just right around the corner.

The regularly scheduled Simply Crafts program will be held at its normal time at 6 p.m.
Eleanor Jones, reference department supervisor and coordinator of adult programming, is the the nocturnal, craft leader. She will feature the DENIM GIVING TREE!  No registration is required and you don't have to bring your own supplies for this craft. However, denim donations are being accepted now.

The new addition to Simply Crafts is the morning session where you will need to register. Hey, you want to register for this fast to try and win a prize! Yes, you read that right!

The first five (5) folks to register get a free prize! Shirley Dennis, the library's branch manager, is the event leader and will be presenting RAGS TO RUGS! The program is Tues. Jan. 14 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 - Noon. You can contact the reference department to register. Please bring your own supplies, old t-shirts, needle, thread and scissors, and get ready to cut a rug!!!!
 (The RAGS TO RUGS craft will be repeated Tues. Feb. 11 and Tues. March 11!)

Don't miss out! We really want to see you there!

NOTE: The library is presently accepting cloth donations. A plastic bin has been placed near the circulation desk for your convenience!

Chapter 1 Book Club reaches for "Air"!

You don't want to miss this! Cecelia and her group, at the Pearl Library, are reading a great Mississippi author's work for January's Chapter 1 Book Club meeting.

Deborah Johnson's (a.k.a Deborah Johns) The Air Between US is the book of the month.

The Air Between Us takes place in segregated Revere where, like in most Mississippi towns, back in the 1960s, black people live on one side of the town, the whites on the other. They rarely mix, but then how does 10-year-old, Willie B. Tate, Jr. known as Critter, who is black and so short he can barely see over the dashboard, end up driving white, Billy Ray Puckett- wounded in a suspicious hunting accident - to a whites-only emergency room? 

The doc assures 'ol Billy Ray he'll be fine, but the good 'ol boy dies. Well, that's how hunting accidents end sometime. Right? Right!  That is until the sheriff orders an investigation. And the stuff that is unearthed!!!! Come to find out, those lines between the blacks and the whites in Revere, when you look a little deeper, aren't all that defined after all. Connections are revealed... hmmmmm.....

In The Air Between Us readers are kept guessing up to the very end!

You absolutely must read this book, and come to the Chapter 1 Book Club meeting on Thurs. Jan. 9 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. You don't have to reserve a spot, and you don't have to join the club, but do come by. We'll see you then. 

Deborah Johnson is a native of Columbus and has written several books with her next novel, The Secret of Magic, slated to be released  Jan 21, 2014. She is the editor for Genesis Press in Columbus, Mississippi and Executive Director of the Colom Foundation. Before moving to Columbus, she lived for eighteen years in Italy where she, for a time, worked as an announcer for the Vatican Radio in Rome. She has written several books and received an award from the Mississippi Library Association  for her novel The Air Between Us.