Hello Library Lovers and Supporters,

With the Summer Reading Program ending shortly and school starting soon, we wanted to remind everyone of the many classes available that the Albuquerque Public Library Foundation (APLF) supports. Library patrons can find a schedule in the Event Guide published by APLF. You can also look at the website for each of our 19 libraries to discover upcoming programs and events.

For example:

• Stitch Up for those interested in crocheting, knitting, or other fiber arts at the Lomas and Tramway Library. You will need to register in advance for this recurring program.
• Family Storytime is available at the Rudolfo Anaya Library in the North Valley. It provides an opportunity for parents and children to gather and listen to stories, learn nursery rhymes and songs, and socialize.
• The International District Library offers adult coloring classes and arts and crafts for all ages.
• The Taylor Ranch Library, with its spectacular views of the Sandia Mountains, offers Music and Movement for children.
• Read to the Dogs is a program where children read aloud to a trained therapy dog, and it is available at multiple branches.

You are sure to find something which piques your interest, and you may discover a new branch to visit.

The Spring fundraiser to support a future Bookmobile for the library system

was successful. When more information becomes available, we will be updating you about this project that has generated a lot of excitement from the community.

This Spring, “A Word with Writers” fundraising events that were organized by Bookworks, a local independent bookstore, brought four authors to share their new books. Erik Larson discussed his new paperback, The Demon of Unrest, with local author Hampton Sides to a sold-out audience in March. April brought Alex Mayyasi from NPR’s Planet Money to talk about his book, Planet Money, again to a sold-out audience. Deb Haaland, former United States Congresswoman, Secretary of the Interior, and current nominee for governor of New Mexico, discussed her just-released memoir, A Voice Like Mine, in early June with a full house to hear her speak. The fourth author was Andrew Sean Greer, winner of the Pulitzer Prize in 2018, who talked to an enthusiastic audience about his latest book, Villa Coco.

What APLF has learned from people at our events is that members of our great community love the opportunity to attend an engaging event that helps them express their tremendous love and support for our libraries.

Finally, a huge shout-out to Bookworks for partnering with us to grow library services.

Thank you for your support and love of libraries.

Julia Grimes and Maria Geer

APLF Board Co-Presidents

#NationalBookLoversDay

A day for all those who love to read, National Book Lovers Day encourages you to find your favorite reading place, a good book (whether it be fiction or non-fiction), and read the day away.

Did you know:

• The very first books used parchment or vellum (calf-skin) for the book pages.
• The book covers were made of wood and often covered with leather.
• Clasps or straps kept the books closed.
• Public libraries appeared in the Middle Ages.
• Public libraries often chained the books to a shelf or a desk to prevent theft.

We encourage you to take time on August 9, or any other day in the month, to head to your local public library branch and see what new favorite you can find to curl up with. And don't forget to share your love of reading with a young person in your life--inspire them with your favorite novel or find out about the last book they took off the shelf.

Other August and September Themed Days