Welcome back, adventurers, to the continuation of the series where we answer that age-old question, “What’s in the basement at A.K. Smiley?” Our latest exploration into the depths of the Library has unearthed some truly fascinating artifacts that not only tell us about the past, but offer opportunities to reflect on the present.
First up, we discovered a dazzling disco ball trophy with a plaque reading, “Dancing With The Stars Winner” from the Redlands Symphony Gala, 2012. This glittering prize from a night of glamor and excitement reminds us of the community spirit that pervades the City of Redlands. The 2012 Gala was a memorable affair which featured over 200 enticing options up for auction including gourmet dinners in private homes, luxury seats at a Lakers game, jewelry, wine, exotic trips to Hawaii or Italy, and one special trip to New York City which included tickets to the David Letterman show.
Next, we stumbled upon a large document with dozens of signatures, thanking former Mayor Waldo F. Burroughs for his dedicated service to the City of Redlands. This plaque highlights the profound impact Mayor Burroughs had on the community, commemorating the lasting legacy he left behind. Mayor Burroughs was elected in 1958 and served until 1970. He was remembered in a 2017 article from The Sun which celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Redlands Boys and Girls Club – the mayor is shown cutting the ribbon to open the club in 1967, which remains open today.
After investigating these artifacts, we grabbed a random book: Good Housekeeping from 1915 which had a section titled ‘Your Daughter’s Career’ that extolled the benefits of education for young women. One standout quote reads: “Any woman who is going into newspaper work should know how to write. General education, culture, the larger the background of that kind one has the better, I think, in newspaper work, as in all other work. Personally, I am much in favor of the college education. I am not a college woman myself, so my favoritism can’t be prejudice.” This echoes the timeless value of a well-rounded education and the importance of embracing diverse perspectives.
Our final find is from the Book Review Digest of 1924, featuring a review of H.G. Wells’ ‘The Dream.’ The review describes the story as a vehicle for Wells’ critique of modern civilization, with the barbarity and superstition of the World War era being likened to prehistoric times. It’s a poignant reminder that the critical examination of society and its conventions is as relevant today as it was a century ago.
These treasures from the Library basement give us a fascinating glimpse into the past, but still resonate deeply with our present. As we navigate the complexities of our modern world, it’s intriguing to see how themes of community, education, and social critique have endured through the ages. Until next time, stay curious, and keep wondering, “What’s in the basement?”
My favorite time to read horror is in the summertime. There is something about the stillness and quiet of the summertime nights that makes me want to stay up late reading a scary book. If you are a fan of horror fiction, then I have some new titles to recommend to you (nightlight not included).
Andrew Larimer gets a phone call in the middle of the night from someone from his past telling him that he needs to come home to Kingsport, a place that he thought he would never have to visit again. Back in Kingsport, Andrew meets up with his childhood friends when they are confronted with a secret from the past. 
Anna and her family are vacationing at a villa in Italy when things start getting weird: strange noises, warnings from the townspeople, and a villa with a haunting past. Come check out 
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In 1983 the California State Library funded the first statewide adult literacy program with $2.5 million. Forty years later, the values that were established in 1983 still ring true at California Library Literacy Services (CLLS), the statewide agency that provides funding for the 