What's New

Teens, are you currently living out all your summer dreams? Are your hours filled with round-the-clock thrills and excitement? When school starts back up, will your classmates stare at you icily as you read aloud your autobiographical essay, “My Unbelievably Amazing Summer?” If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, put this article down immediately and get back to it! Congratulations! You’re excused to go on your unbelievably amazing way!

Hello? Are you still there? If you are, I will assume your summer may be in need of a little oomph. Good news…oomph is the Teen Underground at A.K. Smiley Public Library’s middle name! Not only do we have a line-up of fun and creative events planned for teens, including a Modern Embroidery Makers’ Workshop, Teen Summer Book Club, and Super Smash Bros. Video Game Tournament, but we’re also hosting an ongoing summer reading challenge with some giveaways you may not want to miss.

Our Summer Reading Program theme this year is “Adventure Begins at Your Library,” and truer words have never been spoken. Last weekend, I attended the American Library Association’s annual conference in San Diego, and one of the keynote speakers was comedian and author Trevor Noah. Trevor (I call him Trevor now) called the library his rocket ship. A place he could go that would take him anywhere in the universe. A place where an old guy in the corner could be reading a book about how to build a closet while Trevor read a book about, well, not building a closet, and they would exist together, bound by the thread of curiosity that holds all library users together. What an unbelievably amazing place to be! Wait…

Teens! I’ve got it! This is your ticket to an unbelievably amazing summer. Bring your curiosity and we’ll take care of the rest. For more information on what’s happening this summer (and beyond), visit our webpage at www.akspl.org/teens or follow us on Instagram at akspl_teens. And if you, like me, are a fan of Trevor Noah, start by checking out his memoir, “Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood.” You’ll find it in our Adult Nonfiction section, but there’s plenty that you may be able to relate to, learn from, and be moved by. While a rocket ship may be overkill to get you from Redlands to South Africa, you have a standing invitation to climb aboard. There’s no better time to start your (unbelievably amazing) summer adventures.

Friendly footnote: As with everything you read, we encourage you to talk to your parents/caregivers about what may be a good fit for you.

Kristina Naftzger is a Youth Services Librarian at A.K. Smiley Public Library. Unfortunately, “Oomph” is not her middle name.

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 50^th 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. Small Town Horror by Ronald Malfi is a must read for any fan of classic horror fiction.

Harry Adams loves horror movies; she loves them so much that she even got a job cleaning the house of one of her favorite horror directors. The house is huge and filled with horror movie paraphernalia, which is fine by Harry until she starts hearing strange noises coming from one of the many locked rooms. Find out what is lurking behind closed doors in The House that Horror Built by Christina Henry.

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 Diavola by Jennifer Thorne, it will have you rethinking any vacations you take involving your family and a creepy old villa in Italy.

Come check out these chilling titles at A.K. Smiley Public Library!

Fabric craft fanatics, are you looking for inspiration on your next crocheting masterpiece? Check out the following new books and let your fingers fly!

“Lulu’s Crochet Dolls: 8 Adorable Dolls and Accessories to Crochet” written by Sandra Muller, under the pseudonym Lulu Compotine, features dolls depicting all four seasons, each with a story to tell. Louis, who carries a satchel to school, can’t wait for autumn kite-flying weather and watching the antics of a squirrel friend. Caroline embodies spring while tending her flower garden and listening to bird song. Summer finds bathing beauty Agatha at the seaside, decked out in swimsuit, cap, and arm floats. A cup of cinnamon hot chocolate warms up Celia during the cold winter weather. Enjoy crocheting these endearing dolls and more. Don’t forget their accessories, which just adds to their charm. Step-by-step instructions, patterns, and pictures accompany each doll. I’m sure you’ll want to make all eight!

Welcome to the whimsical world of Impkins. Megan Lapp helps you create your very own unique and mythical amigurumi creatures in her book “Crochet Impkins.” Once you’ve decided on your Impkin’s body, arm, belly, and face type, it’s time to add some personality. Ears are always a good start, but what about adding a snoot or horns, perhaps an antenna? Some Impkins will take flight with wings, others have reptilian scales. It’s up to you. I just know that mine will definitely have a top hat for a touch of sophistication.

“Colorful Baby Crochet: 35 Adorable and Easy Patterns for Babies and Toddlers” by Laura Strutt offers patterns to make all the cozy and comfy things little ones need: booties, blankets, chunky sweaters, and toys too. My favorite is the striped romper. Hand-making a gift is truly special and baby will love it, too. Quickly now, start making some booties, the baby’s feet are getting cold!

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 Redlands Adult Literacy and Family Literacy Programs. This article highlights some of the core CLLS objectives, which have shaped the successful Redlands Adult and Family Literacy Programs.

A library welcomes everyone: Many of us cannot recall not having free and easy access to library services, but some long-term residents of Redlands never came to Smiley Library because they couldn’t read. In contrast, other adults, who are new to Redlands, eagerly come to Smiley Library because they know they will be welcomed and receive free services to improve their reading and writing. The Redlands Adult Literacy Program is a bridge that provides vital literacy services so that everyone can fully access library and community services.

Adult literacy programs rely on partnerships: CLLS funding for local literacy programs is contingent on local financial support. The Redlands Adult Literacy Program is grateful for the support provided by the city of Redlands, Smiley Library Trustees, the Friends of the Library, and local donors. These partnerships are based on a local and statewide recognition of the importance of adult literacy, which enables adults to get better jobs, advance their own and their children’s education, and leads to the promotion of better health and civic participation.

Adult learners are leaders in their own education and the Redlands Adult Literacy Program: Every year an adult learner speaks to the City Council to express their appreciation for the Council’s support of the Redlands Adult Literacy Program. The representative learner shares that year’s anthology entitled “Our Stories: A Collection of Writing.” Through these anthologies, the Redlands community learns about the lives and aspirations of community members who often feel invisible to the larger community. It takes courage, commitment, and drive to work to improve one’s reading and writing as an adult. Adult learners are the true ambassadors to anyone in Redlands who wants to make his/her life better.

The Redlands Adult Literacy Program was reinitiated in 2010 by the Friends of A. K. Smiley Public Library. In 2015, with funding provided by the city, the adult literacy program became a key component of library services. Through the dedicated service of its many volunteers and the leadership of literacy staff, over 450 lives have been changed. Adults have been able to keep or advance in their jobs because of their new-found literacy skills. Adults have opened businesses in the Redlands community. Adults have worked to gain skills so they can read to their children and help them with their homework. A welcoming library, strong partnerships, and respect for adults seeking to improve their lives profoundly changes the city of Redlands.

If you would like to learn more, we invite you to attend the next adult literacy volunteer tutor orientation scheduled for Saturday, June 22. Please reserve your space by contacting Diane Shimota, Adult Literacy Coordinator, at A. K. Smiley Public Library at 909.798.7565, ext. 4110, or by emailing literacy@akspl.org. Learn about how you might change an adult’s life through literacy and if you know someone who needs help with their literacy, please help them to contact Diane. All inquiries are confidential and services are free.