Library News Archive

March 29, 2018
IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE
Contact: Krystal Corbray
Programming and Marketing Librarian
509-575-3431 or kcorbray@yvl.org
www.yvl.org

Yakima Valley Libraries to Host Yakima Coffeehouse Poets at Next Authors Out Loud Event

Yakima, WA – Yakima Valley Libraries is pleased to announce the next event in the Authors Out Loud series, featuring an evening of readings by the Yakima Coffeehouse Poets group on Wednesday, April 4, 6:30pm at the West Valley Community Library.

The event will feature readings by some of Yakima’s finest poets, including Joyce Hernandez, winner of group’s 2017 Poetry Contest, in addition to Rod Nelson, Mark Fuzie, Randie Gottlieb and Jo Shafer.

Formed in 2014, the Yakima Coffeehouse Poets hold monthly open mic poetry readings, in addition to hosting a yearly poetry contest, from which they publish a chapbook of the winning poems, honorable mentions and selected pieces by the contest judges.

“This event will mark the second year that YVL has hosted the Yakima Coffeehouse Poets group,” said Krystal Corbray, programming and marketing librarian. “They’ve contributed more than twenty years of poetry and literary beauty to our community, and we’re looking forward to another wonderful evening featuring their work.”

Event Details:
An Evening with Yakima Coffeehouse Poets
Wednesday, April 4, 2018, 6:30pm
West Valley Community Library
223 S. 72nd Ave, Yakima, WA 98908
(509) 966-7070

Other Authors Out Loud Events :
Reyna Grande, Author of “The Distance Between Us” (two events)
Wednesday, April 25th, 1:00pm
Sunnyside Community Library
621 Grant Ave, Sunnyside, WA
(509) 837-3234

and at

Reyna Grande, Author of “The Distance Between Us”
Wednesday, April 25th, 6:30pm
Yakima Central Library
102 N. Third St, Yakima, WA
(509) 452-8541

Yakima, WA – Yakima Valley Libraries is pleased to announce that we have received a selection of early Yakima Valley newspaper archives from publisher Bruce Smith. Included in the donation are The Toppenish Review, The Wapato Review, The Wapato Independent, The Toppenish Tribune, the Review=Independent, The Zillah Mirror, and The Yakima Mirror.

According to archive librarian Terry Walker, newspapers have been published in the Yakima Valley since the 1880s and most towns, large and small, supported a newspaper that recorded local events and the news of the day.

These historical publications are an invaluable resource for researchers, genealogists, or anyone looking for first-hand accounts of historic goings-on in the Yakima Valley. Unfortunately, small newspapers with limited circulation were less likely to be digitized or preserved on microfilm, which significantly limits the public’s access to them.

Through Smith’s generous donation, Yakima Valley Libraries is now able to digitize and preserve an irreplaceable part of our local history.

“These newspapers are of lasting value to everyone in the Yakima Valley,” said executive director, Kim Hixson. “We look forward to preserving and digitizing the papers, in order to make them available to library users now and well into the future.”

For more information about the historical newspapers, or the Library’s plans to digitize them, contact Terry Walker, Archive Librarian, at (509) 575-3429.

TAKE THE WINTER READING CHALLENGE!

Yakima, WA – Kids, families, and LEGO enthusiasts of all ages are invited to Yakima Central Library on Saturday, December 30th for Brickstravaganza!

Join us at 2:00pm for LEGO-themed crafts, activities, and a LEGO robot demonstration courtesy of AFOL’s Brick, Yakima’s LEGO specialty store. Then stay and play with cool new LEGOs while you watch the hilarious LEGO Batman Movie, beginning at 3:00pm.

“There are a lot of benefits to LEGOs that we want to help promote,” said programming and marketing librarian, Krystal Corbray. “Research has shown that while playing with LEGOs definitely is fun, it’s also a great way for kids to learn about math, spatial reasoning, and problem-solving. LEGOs also help kids to build or improve literacy skills, since they need to read and understand printed instructions. We’re always looking for ways to creatively support literacy and learning for patrons of all ages, so we’re hoping to have a good turn-out.”

For more information please contact Yakima Central Library at 509-452-8541.

Yakima, WA – Yakima Valley Libraries popular legal aid workshop, Lawyers in the Library, will again be hosted at the Sunnyside Community Library, on Sunday, November 19 at 1pm.

This month’s topic is “Immigration Basics,” and is a repeat of the October session presented by Yakima-area immigration attorney Stephen Robbins.

Participants will receive free immigration information and answers to related legal questions.

The session will be presented in English, with Spanish translation available. There is no cost to attend and registration is not required.

For questions or information regarding the upcoming session at the Sunnyside Community Library, contact Deb Stilson, Managing Librarian at (509) 945-8744. Or call the Sunnyside Community Library at (509) 837-3234.

In order to better serve the public, Yakima Valley Libraries has revised hours at the West Valley, Moxee, Wapato, and Toppenish community libraries.

Effective Monday, November 13, 2017, the new hours are as follows: 

• The West Valley Community Library will be open from 9am-8pm on Mondays. 
• The Moxee Community Library will be open 1pm-6pm on Wednesdays and Fridays. 
• The Toppenish Community Library will be open:
  • Monday-Thursday , 12pm-7pm
  • Fridays, 12-6pm
  • Saturdays, 10-2pm 
• The Wapato Community Library will be open:
  • Monday-Thursday, 11am-7pm
  • Fridays, 11am-6pm
  • Saturdays, 10-3pm

“These changes were made after careful evaluation of staffing needs and library usage trends,” said Executive Director Kim Hixson. “We believe the new hours will allow us to provide better, more efficient library services to communities throughout the Yakima Valley.”

For complete hours at these, or other Yakima Valley Libraries locations, please contact your local community library, or visit: www.yvl.org/about-the-library/locations.

Yakima Valley Reads, the annual community read event hosted by Yakima Valley Libraries is in full swing! This year’s selected title is “Hidden Figures,” by Margot Lee Shetterly, which is a New York Times bestseller, and also the basis for an Academy Award-nominated film.

Described as “the phenomenal true story of the black female mathematicians at NASA at the leading edge of the feminist and civil rights movement, whose calculations helped fuel some of America’s greatest achievements in space.”

Thanks to the generous support of the Yakima Valley Libraries Foundation, free copies of the book are being distributed in all 17 of YVL’s community libraries; in addition, the e-book is available for download from the Library’s digital Overdrive collection–and until October 31st, there’s no wait-list for the e-book!

Throughout the month of October and early November, several community libraries are hosting events and activities that tie in with the book. Programming will conclude Wed., November 1, with a keynote address by Nathalia Holt, Ph.D., best-selling author of “Rise of the Rocket Girls: The Women Who Propelled Us, from Missiles to the Moon, to Mars.”

Other scheduled events include:

Trivia Nights

Fun, general science/NASA trivia, as well as 1960s pop culture, and other topics; not specific to the book.

Yakima Central Library
102 N. Third St,
Yakima, WA 98901
Tues., October 10th @ 5:30pm

Sunnyside Community Library
621 Grant Ave,
Sunnyside, WA 98944
Mon., October 23rd @ 6pm

West Valley Community Library
223 S. 72nd Ave,
Yakima, WA 98908
Thurs., October 26th @ 6:30pm

Selah Community Library
106 S. 2nd St.,
Selah, WA 98942
Mon., October 30th @ 5:30pm

Book Discussions

Sunnyside Community Library
621 Grant Ave,
Sunnyside, WA 98944
Sun., October 15th @ 2pm

Naches Community Library
303 Naches Ave,
Naches, WA 98937
Tues., October 24th @ 5:30pm

West Valley Community Library
223 S. 72nd Ave,
Yakima, WA 98908
Wed., October 25th @ 6:30pm
Sun., October 29th @ 2pm

Selah Community Library
106 S. 2nd St.,
Selah, WA 98942
Thurs., November 2nd @ 6pm
Fri., November 3rd @ 10am

Film Screenings

Hidden Figures

Join us to watch the Academy Award-nominated film based on the book! The movie tells the little-known story of a team of female African-American mathematicians who served a vital role in NASA during the early years of the U.S. space program. Starring Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monáe, Kirsten Dunst, and Kevin Costner.

West Valley Community Library
223 S. 72nd Ave,
Yakima, WA 98908
Tues., October 17th @ 6pm

Yakima Central Library
102 N. Third St,
Yakima, WA 98901
Sat., October 21st @ 3pm

Sunnyside Community Library
621 Grant Ave,
Sunnyside, WA 98944
Sat., October 28th @ 3pm

Keynote Speaker

Nathalia Holt, Ph.D.
Wed., November 1st @ 6:30pm
Yakima Central Library
102 N. Third St, Yakima, WA 98901
Event includes time for Q&A, and book signing. Inklings Bookshop will be on-hand to sell books.

The 2017 Yakima Valley Reads keynote speaker is best-selling author Nathalia Holt, Ph. D. Ms. Holt is a science writer and the New York Times bestselling author of Rise of the Rocket Girls: The Women Who Propelled Us from Missiles to the Moon to Mars. In her presentation, “Rocket Girls: The Unsung Heroes of NASA,” Ms. Holt will discuss the fact that women have long been left out of history books, and will highlight how an elite group of young women broke the boundaries of both gender and science at NASA in the mid-twentieth century.

For decades, the story of how these women transformed rocket design and made space exploration possible—with little more than paper, pencil, and mathematical prowess at their disposal—has remained little known and rarely told; as such, her book, and presentation are a perfect tie-in with the topics and history detailed in “Hidden Figures.”

Her talk will include time for audience questions, and a book signing, with books available for purchase on-site from Inklings Bookshop. We’re very excited to get to host Ms. Holt; her work has appeared in numerous publications including The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The Atlantic, Slate, Popular Science, and Time. She has trained at the Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard University, the University of Southern California, and Tulane University.

Yakima Valley Libraries is integrating Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) technology into its circulation procedures, which will improve workflow for library staff and make library visits faster and easier for patrons.

The addition of RFID involves adding tags – a sticker with an antenna and a tiny computer chip – to library materials; these tags contain information about each individual item, including its barcode number, and will allow library staff to check materials in and out more quickly.

In addition, library users will be able check out multiple items at the same time using new, RFIDenabled self-serve stations that will be available in many community libraries in mid-September.

The integration process will begin on Aug. 19, when library staff will start placing RFID tags inside library materials. With items in 17 library locations to be tagged, the RFID integration process is expected to last through early October.

“To better serve our patrons, we have chosen to have the libraries remain open during the tagging process,” said Kim Hixson, executive director. “Library staff is committed to continued excellent customer service and will work to ensure materials are readily available during this time. We thank you in advance for your patience as we work on this exciting project.”

For more information, contact Project Lead Francisco Garcia-Ortiz, Public Library Services Director at 509-575-3420.

Yakima, WA – Calling all amateur astronomers! In less than three weeks, the U.S. will have front row seats for a total solar eclipse, which will occur on Monday, August 21st, 2017—the first one visible in North America in almost 40 years! This is exciting news, but anyone viewing the eclipse needs to take certain precautions in order to do so safely.

Yakima Valley Libraries will be distributing free eclipse glasses, made available through the Washington State Library, and via a larger disbursement sponsored by STAR_net, the NASA @ My Library program, the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, among other organizations.

“We’re pretty fortunate to be among the 1,500 public libraries in the nation who received the glasses,” said Krystal Corbray, programming and marketing librarian. “Similar glasses are available for purchase online and in some stores here in the Yakima Valley, but it’s important we’re excited to be able to give them away for free, so many more people who otherwise might not be able to do so, can watch the eclipse safely. There has already been a lot of interest from the public, so we’re expecting them to go fairly quickly.”

Glasses will be distributed on a first come, first served basis in all 17 Yakima Valley Libraries locations, and anyone who receives glasses will also be given information about the eclipse, and tips for safely viewing the phenomenon. For library locations please consult our website at www.yvl.org or call 509-575-3400.

In addition, several community libraries will host a “pre-eclipse party” in the days leading up to the event on August 21st, which will include eclipse-themed crafts and activities.

For more information and event dates, contact your local community library.

Yakima, WA – Yakima Valley Libraries is pleased to announce that the July session of “Lawyers in the Library,” a free, legal aid program offered at the Yakima Central Library, 102 N. Third Street, will take place Sunday, July 16 at 1pm. This month’s session will provide attendees with free immigration information and answers to related legal questions.

The session will be hosted by attorney Stephen Robbins, who has practiced immigration law in Yakima since 2011. According to librarian Matt Kendall, attendees will receive a thorough overview of legal issues related to immigration.

“It isn’t unusual for patrons to stay after the session to ask specific questions about their cases,” Kendall explained. “And since the sessions are entirely free, it’s a great opportunity for the public to seek clarity and guidance on legal situations that normally would require costly appointments with a lawyer.”

The session will be presented in English, with Spanish translation available. There is no cost to attend, and registration is not required.

For more information about this and upcoming Lawyers in the Library workshops, contact librarian Matt Kendall at (509) 452-8541.

Yakima, WA – Yakima Valley Libraries is excited to announce that we are working on a redesign of our website! We want the new website to be user-friendly and relevant to our community, so we’re asking patrons and residents to participate in a brief user survey to share opinions about our current website, and suggestions for the new one.

All feedback is anonymous, unless a respondent chooses to provide contact information in order to be considered for participation in an in-person focus group.

The survey is now available on the Library website, and will be accessible until July 14, 2017.

To access the survey go to: www.yvl.org, click on “Website User Survey” located on the left side of the screen, and complete the questionnaire. Everyone’s input is valuable! We greatly appreciate your feedback and will certainly take into consideration all comments and recommendations!

If you have questions or need more information, please contact Melissa at 575-3426 or email mvickers@yvl.org Thank you.

Yakima, WA – The West Valley Community Library will be closed June 12th-14th, 2017 while the library’s parking lot undergoes repairs to replace the pervious concrete component, which deteriorated over winter.

During the repairs, the library will be closed and book returns will be inaccessible. However, library staff will have a booth outside Rosauers Supermarket, located directly across the street from the West Valley Library, to accept returned books and to sign children up for the Summer Reading Program. Hours for the library booth will be 11:00am-4:00pm, June 12th, 13th, and 14th.

Patrons may also return Library materials to nearby library locations, including Yakima Central Library, and can work with Library staff to request renewals or to temporarily change pick-up locations for incoming holds.

For more information, please contact the West Valley Community Library at (509) 966-7070.

Yakima, WA – Yakima Valley Libraries is once again hosting free healthcare and educational workshops, specifically for older and retirement-aged adults. Classes will be conducted by staff from the Medicare Health Alliance, will range from 30 to 90 minutes, and include time for attendees to ask questions. Topics, dates, and locations include:

ABCs of Medicare

This course teaches the basics of the federal Medicare program and introduces options, like Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement and prescription drug plans. Attendees will learn about Medicare timelines, requirements to qualify, ID cards, enrollment methods and more.

Tuesday, May 16th @ 2:00pm
Sunnyside Community Library
621 Grant Ave, Sunnyside, WA 98944
(509) 837-3234

Fraud Prevention

According to a 2015 report by True Link, seniors lose $36.48 billion each year to financial abuse or fraud. This session will examine the many forms that senior fraud can take and how people can protect themselves from falling victim.

Thursday, May 18th @ 12:30pm
Yakima Central Library
102 N. Third St, Yakima, WA 98901
(509) 452-8541

For more information about these workshops, please contact the community library where the class will be offered, or call (509) 452-8541 for general inquiries.

Yakima, WA – Yakima Valley Libraries is pleased to announce that Chris Crutcher, author of more than a dozen books for young adults, will speak at The Seasons Performance Hall on Thursday, May 11th, during the final event in the Library’s author series, Authors Out Loud.

Crutcher, a Pacific Northwest native, is best known for writing true-to-life young adult fiction, and has five books listed among the American Library Association’s 100 Best Books for Teens of the Twentieth Century. Crutcher’s writing is marked by his trademark humor, while also frequently drawing on his experiences as a former teacher and therapist who specialized in child abuse and neglect. His books are notable for their unflinching portrayal of young adults, and the real issues that many of them face.

One of his most popular books, Whale Talk, follows wisecracking high schooler, T.J., who reluctantly agrees to form a swim team from fellow underdogs and misfits in order to take on his school’s narrow-minded athletics program. Another of Crutcher’s novels, Deadline, tells the story of an 18-year-old high school student diagnosed with incurable cancer, who, with just one year left to live, decides to go after the girl of his dreams, help the town drunk get sober, all while leaving his mark on his tiny Idaho hometown.

“Although he writes for teens, his work is relevant for adult readers, too,” said Krystal Corbray, programming and marketing librarian. “I think the best thing about his books is the honest way they speak directly to teens, without speaking down to them or watering down tough topics. And I think that honesty is something that appeals to a lot of adult readers, too.”

Crutcher’s career has not been one without challenges. He holds the dubious honor of being one of the most frequently challenged authors of the last three decades, and in response to criticism and would-be censors, Crutcher is a staunch champion and spokesperson for freedom of speech. He’s also the recipient of two Intellectual Freedom awards—one from the National Council for Teachers of English, and another from the National Coalition Against Censorship.

Crutcher will speak at The Seasons Performance Hall at 7:00pm, on Thursday, May 11th. His talk will touch on the real life people and stories that helped inspire his books, in addition to his experiences of having his books challenged. A book signing will follow his talk, with books available for purchase courtesy of Inklings Bookshop. Admission is free.

Event Details
What: An Evening with Chris Crutcher
When: Thursday, May 7th, 7:00pm
Where: The Seasons Performance Hall, 101 N. Naches Ave, Yakima, WA 98901
For more information, or questions, call Yakima Central Library: (509) 452-8541

Yakima, WA – Yakima Valley Libraries’ new author series, Authors Out Loud, continues this week with two talks by best-selling romance writer, Wanda Brunstetter, who has introduced millions of readers to the simple joys of Amish life. She is the author of nearly 90 books, which have sold over 10 million copies, and her work has been covered by Time Magazine, USA Today, Newsweek, Good Housekeeping, and more.

“Wanda really is a powerhouse in her genre, and is widely considered to be one of the founders of Amish romance fiction,” said Krystal Corbray, programming and marketing librarian for Yakima Valley Libraries. “Being able to host her for two events is really exciting for us, especially since she’s a nationally-known author who lives right here in the Yakima Valley.”

Brunstetter will speak at the Sunnyside Library on Wednesday, May 3rd, and at the West Valley Community Library on Thursday, May 4th. Her talks will include a discussion of her writing influences, a preview of some of her newest titles, and will allow time for audience questions, Corbray said.

A book signing will follow each of her talks, with books available for purchase, courtesy of Inklings Bookshop. Both events are free.

Event details:
Wednesday, May 3rd, 5:00pm
Sunnyside Community Library 621 Grant Ave, Sunnyside, WA 98944 (509) 837-3234

Thursday, May 4th, 7:00pm
West Valley Community Library 223 S. 72nd Ave, Yakima, WA 98908 (509) 966-7070

On Wednesday, April 26, Yakima Valley Libraries will celebrate the 110th anniversary of the first Carnegie Library built in the Yakima Valley, an event that, eventually, lead to the formation of today’s Yakima Valley Libraries district.

Kim Hixson, Executive Director of Yakima Valley Libraries, will kick off the celebration at 1:00 p.m. with a welcome address, followed by a short presentation by Archives Librarian Terry Walker, and tours of the Yakima Central Library. Historical photos will be on display for the public, who are also invited to enjoy refreshments.

The legacy of Carnegie libraries in the Yakima Valley is a fascinating, but little-known historical footnote, despite the fact that these libraries helped to shape the cultural and educational landscape of our region. It’s a local story that, interestingly enough, begins back East. Between 1886 and 1919, Scottish- born industrialist Andrew Carnegie, one of the wealthiest men in American history, donated more than $40 million to aid communities throughout the U.S. in building public libraries. In addition to being a shrewd businessman and generous philanthropist, Carnegie’s donations for the establishment of public libraries also highlight his role as a pioneer of education and civic engagement.

Prior to Carnegie’s donations, libraries operated more like private clubs, instead of as the public forums and community gathering spaces we’re used to today. These early libraries often required membership and the payment of monthly dues. In addition, books were shelved in a separate room in the back of the library, requiring a library user to ask the librarian to bring out a specific book. Carnegie libraries changed all of this by implementing open stacks, where library users could browse the shelves for books. Carnegie libraries also introduced innovative services such as bookmobiles, fiction collections, and books especially for children.

Carnegie strongly believed that libraries should serve everyone, regardless of social class or standing. He made it a requirement that Carnegie libraries be governed by a board of trustees who were appointed to serve the public interest. Under their guidance, public libraries across the United States developed as agents of public education and civic improvement. All told, Carnegie’s donations helped to build 1,679 libraries throughout the United States. Forty-three of those libraries were constructed in Washington State, but only two were built in Yakima County—the North Yakima Public Library and the Sunnyside Public Library. 

The North Yakima Public Library

In 1903 the North Yakima Library Association applied for and received a $10,000.00 Carnegie grant for the construction of a free public library in North Yakima. In 1904 North Yakima passed an ordinance to finance the library with public taxes, and land for the building was purchased on N. 3rd and A Street. The library was designed by the architectural firm of Bebb and Mendel, who employed a restrained, Neo-classical style for the building’s exterior, which promoted function and utility. The main floor provided 2,133 sq. ft. of space and, typical of Carnegie libraries built in the early 20th century, the North Yakima Public Library featured a flight of stairs and a prominent light at the front entry, symbolizing elevation and enlightenment through learning.

The North Yakima Public Library opened in 1907 and, by 1919 was so well-used that an additional 1,156 sq. ft. were added to the building. By 1957, with library use continuing to outstrip the building’s size, the original North Yakima Public Library building was demolished and replaced by the current Yakima Central Library building, which was extensively remodeled in 2012. 

The Sunnyside Public Library

In 1910, the town of Sunnyside received a $5,000 Carnegie Library grant, and construction of the library building began in earnest. The Sunnyside Public Library opened in 1911 at 621 Grant Avenue. The style of the library reflected the evolving design restrictions of Carnegie library grants, which were put in place after 1909. The broad, overhanging roof and high vaulted ceiling with a ventilated cupola, was designed to moderate the temperature inside the building.

In 1956, the Sunnyside Library became affiliated with the Yakima Valley Regional Library and, in response to community needs, a new facility was built on the same site in 1965. In 2004, the Sunnyside Library was annexed to the Yakima Valley Rural Library District, which eventually came to be known as Yakima Valley Libraries.

In 2015, the Sunnyside Library underwent a major remodel, updating the decades-old building to include new windows, an improved workspace for staff, a reading room, an expanded children’s area, and study rooms.

For questions or more information please contact:
Francisco Garcia-Ortiz, PhD
Public Library Services Director
509-575-3420
fgraciaortiz@yvl.org

Beginning Friday, March 17, 2017, Yakima Valley Libraries will host a series of free healthcare and educational workshops, specifically for older and retirement-aged adults.

Classes will be conducted by staff from the Medicare Health Alliance, whose goal is, “to help teach various audiences about important topics related to aging, retirement planning, and healthcare coverage.”

“These workshops are a fantastic opportunity for folks to come with questions about Medicare, or to learn about financial planning for retirement, in addition to topics like fraud prevention,” said Krystal Corbray, programming and marketing librarian. “This is valuable information that we’re pleased to be able to help provide to the public, at no cost to them.”

Workshops will range from 30 to 90 minutes, will include time for attendees to ask questions, and will be offered in library locations throughout the Yakima Valley.

Topics, dates, and locations scheduled for March 2017, include:

Healthy Aging
Friday, March 17th @ 11:00am
Selah Community Library
106 S. 2nd St, Selah, WA 98942
(509) 698-7345

ABCs of Medicare
Tuesday, March 21st @ 10:00am
West Valley Community Library
223 S. 72nd Ave, Yakima WA 98908
(509) 966-7070

Retirement Planning—Health Insurance Options
Saturday, March 25th @ 10:00am
West Valley Community Library
223 S. 72nd Ave, Yakima, WA 98908
(509) 966-7070

Additional workshops scheduled for May include ABCs of Medicare at the Sunnyside Community Library on May 16th, 2017, and Fraud Prevention at the Yakima Central Library on May 18th, 2017.

For more information about any of these workshops, please contact the specific community library where the class will be offered, or call (509) 452-8541 for general inquiries.

Yakima Valley Libraries is excited to announce the debut of Authors Out Loud, a new series of author talks and book signing events, scheduled to take place in community libraries throughout the Yakima Valley!

Starting April 5th, the Library will host five events featuring local, regional, and best-selling authors, including the Yakima Coffeehouse Poets group; renowned young adult novelist, Chris Crutcher; New York Times bestselling romance writer, Wanda Brunstetter, and others.

According to Krystal Corbray, programming and marketing librarian, the Authors Out Loud series offers free, high-quality events that are, both, educational and recreational. “This is a project we’ve been thinking about for at least the last year,” Corbray said. “We generally host a community read event each October where we encourage people to read the same book and attend events centered around that one title, but with Authors Out Loud, we really wanted to expand on those successes, by providing a variety of different author events that should interest an even wider range of our adult patrons.”

Authors Out Loud events kick-off next week, on Wednesday, April 5th, at 6:00pm, with an evening of poetry readings by the Yakima Coffeehouse Poets group at the West Valley Community Library.

Other events include:

JEFF YEAGER
Jeff Yeager, billed as “the ultimate cheapskate,” is the author of four popular books about frugal living, including his most recent, How to Retire the Cheapskate Way. He is also the AARP’s official Savings Expert, has appeared on over 500 radio and TV shows, and was an original cast member on TLC’s hit reality show, Extreme Cheapskates.

• Wednesday, April 19th, 6:30pm
• West Valley Community Library

ISAAC MARION
Isaac Marion is a Pacific Northwest Native, whose debut fantasy novel, Warm Bodies, became a New York Times bestseller and inspired a major film adaptation of the same name. The third book in the Warm Bodies series, The Burning World, was released in February 2017. 

• Thursday, April 27th, 7:00pm 
• Yakima Central Library

WANDA BRUNSTETTER (two events)
Wanda Brunstetter is a best-selling romance novelist who has introduced millions of readers to the simple joys of Amish life. She is the author of nearly 70 books, which have sold over 10 million copies, and her work has been covered by Time Magazine, USA Today, Newsweek, Good Housekeeping, and more. She is also a Yakima Valley resident! 

• Wednesday, May 3rd, 5:00pm 
• Sunnyside Community Library 

• Thursday, May 4th, 7:00pm 
• West Valley Community Library

CHRIS CRUTCHER
Chris Crutcher’s young adult novels are some of the most loved—and banned—of the last three decades. Five of his books were named among the 100 Best Books for Teens of the 20th Century, and his true-to-life writing style about the issues and challenges teens face, has earned him two Intellectual Freedom awards, in addition to a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Library Association. 

• Thursday, May 11th, 7:00pm 
• The Seasons Performance Hall

All events are free and open to the public. For more information about the authors, and the complete events calendar, visit: www.yvl.org/authors

For questions, or to schedule interviews with any of the authors, please contact:
Krystal Corbray
Programming and Marketing Librarian
(509) 575-3431
kcorbray@yvl.org

Beginning June 1st, Yakima Valley Libraries will be implementing, “Latino Americans: 500 Years of History,” a project funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the American Library Association (ALA).

During the month of June, Yakima Valley Libraries will hold public programming about local, and national, Latino history and culture. In addition, the Library will be inviting the public to participate in documenting their history and lives.

Krystal Corbray, YVL Managing Librarian explained, “We’re looking for photographs, keepsakes, and personal stories that highlight the Latino experience. Coordinating this effort with the public will help us explore, and preserve, the fascinating history of Latinos in the Yakima Valley. ”

Other featured Latino Americans: 5oo Years of History events will include:

Documentary & Discussions
Thursday, June 2nd
6:00 – 7:30pm
Yakima Central Library
Presenter: Maria Cuevas, Professor of Sociology and Chicano Studies @ YVCC This event includes a screening of “Prejudice and Pride,” an episode from the award-winning Latino Americans documentary, produced by PBS. Following the screening, Ms. Cuevas will lead discussion about the episode, which details the history of the Chicano movement in the United States.

Thursday, June 9th
6:00-7:30pm
Yakima Central Library
Presenter: Erasmo Gamboa, UW Associate Professor of History and Latin American Studies This event includes a screening of “War and Peace,” an episode from the award-winning Latino Americans documentary, produced by PBS. Following the screening, Mr. Gamboa will lead discussion about the episode, which highlights the experiences of Latino Americans who served in the Armed Forces during World War II, while still facing discrimination and a fight for civil rights back in the United States.

“We are excited to undertake this project,” stated Library Director Kim Hixson. “With the public’s participation the community will experience an enriching and deeper understanding of this vibrant culture!”

Yakima, WA- On Wednesday May 25, 2016 the Harrah Community Library will be closed to the public as the City will be installing new flooring. The Library will re-open on Thursday June 2, 2016.

Patrons are encouraged to use a neighboring branch during the closure; a list of Yakima Valley Libraries branches is available at www.yvl.org. The closest branches are White Swan, Toppenish, Mabton, Granger and as always our website and eResources.

Yakima Valley Libraries is always looking for ways to make our libraries into more comfortable spaces for our patrons. Although we wish we could do this for every branch we own three of our seventeen facilities and often work with partners, cities and other entities if it is fiscally possible.

Yakima Valley Libraries presents its Pop-Up Library on May 14th at the Zillah Community Days! The Pop-Up Library is an interactive, portable library designed for public use at community events.

Library Director Kim Hixson states, “I’m excited about extending library services in such a unique way! We invite everyone to participate, sign up for a library card and check out books directly from our modular display. Staff will be on site to assist the public throughout this event.” Books for all ages will be available as well as handout materials listing the seventeen Yakima Valley Libraries locations and hours.

The YVL Pop-Up Library will also be featured at other upcoming events:

• Old Town Days in Union Gap, June 18 and 19
• National Night Out at Southeast Community Center, August 1
• Highland Community Days, August 20

Hixson conveyed, “Our library district offer exceptional opportunities with the purpose of meeting our community’s needs. We are always considering novel and innovative ways to extend our services and an ongoing resource to the public.”

Yakima Valley Libraries will offer a new Book a Librarian service starting immediately. The Book a Librarian sessions can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the individual who might need extra help with their project or questions. Services cover a wide range of topics from in-depth technical assistance, browsing the library catalog, questions about your business needs, grant research, or law-related information- bring your questions we are happy to help! Yakima Valley Libraries’ librarians are trained information professionals ready to help you.

You can schedule a time with your librarian by completing the request form online at www.yvl.org or call 509.452.8541. Appointments will be scheduled at the Yakima Central Library located at 102 N 3rd St Yakima, WA. Yakima Valley Libraries is excited to provide this new service to better serve our patrons.

Yakima Valley Community Reads: The Girl Who Wrote in Silk

This March Yakima Valley Libraries invites the community to participate in Yakima Valley Community Reads: The Girl Who Wrote in Silk by Kelli Estes. The program begins March 1st and culminates March 31st.

What is it?   A community reading program that brings us all together to share our love of books and reading. Twice a year Yakima Valley Libraries presents the Yakima Valley Community Reads, a valleywide reading event held in the spring and the fall in which one title is read and shared throughout our Yakima Valley. Yakima Valley Libraries, connecting people and ideas.

What to expect?   Fun! Excitement! A great read! An opportunity to talk about the book with the author! Kelli Estes hails from the Yakima Valley and will be in town to participate in book discussions. This is the first book from this fantastic new author! For more information about Kelli go to http://www.kelliestes.com/.

The schedule for the Valley Reads is as follows:

Books Available March 1!
Tue. 3/22 
2:00pm – West Valley Library book discussion 
6:00pm – Selah Library book discussion

Wed. 3/23 
2:00pm – Sunnyside Library book discussion 
6:30pm – West Valley Library book discussion

Thur. 3/24 
2:00 – Naches Library book discussion 
7:00pm – Yakima Central Library author talk & book signing

The online book discussion will be available at https://www.facebook.com/groups/1485574561694649/?fref=nf

What do I need to do?  Join us! Pick up your book, invite your friends, read and enjoy! You are invited to pick up your book beginning March 1st at any YVL location. There are a limited number of books so they will be first come, first serve. Books have been made possible by the Yakima Valley Libraries Foundation. Additionally, we will provide simultaneous access to the ebook and downloadable audiobook available through the YVL OverDrive webpage from March 1st – 31st .

Yakima Valley Libraries – Connecting People and Ideas

Yakima Valley Libraries is pleased to announce the completion of its remodeled Sunnyside Community Library. “We are excited to be able to bring this newly updated library to our patrons! Not only is it an updated facility with new furniture, carpeting, paint and improved lighting and windows, it will offer a new community space with a fireplace and two fully equipped study rooms with current technology for study and Internet access,” reported Yakima Valley Libraries’ Director, Kim Hixson. “We invite the community to join us on Monday, November 16th at 10:00 for the Grand Reopening of our Sunnyside Community Library.”

BORArchitecture and Booth & Sons Construction were selected by the Yakima Valley Board of Trustees to design and remodel the library building. For additional information about the project, please check out the library website at www.yvl.org.

The Sunnyside Community Library, a community library of Yakima Valley Libraries, has been undergoing a significant remodel that began in May. Yakima Valley Libraries Director Kim Hixson reports, “Despite some of the unanticipated occurrences during the remodel of an older building, we are moving forward. Yakima Valley Libraries is excited to provide the Sunnyside community with an updated library featuring new carpeting, furniture, paint, restrooms, community room with a fireplace, new windows, study rooms and let’s not forget to mention new books and materials for everyone!”

BORArchitecture and Booth & Sons Construction were selected by the Yakima Valley Board of Trustees to design and remodel the library building. Timeline of completion for the Sunnyside Community Library is expected at the end of October.

Library services have been conducted at a short-term site for the past several months. The temporary library is anticipated to close October 23rd for approximately three weeks to remove library equipment and materials and transfer them back to the original building. Library services are expected to resume November 16th following a Grand Opening which the public is cordially invited to attend.

This fall Yakima Valley Libraries invites the community to participate in Yakima Valley Reads: The Martian by Andy Weir. The kick off begins September 12th and the program culminates October 31st.

What is it?  Yakima Valley Libraries connects people and ideas. We are excited to present a program modeled after the National Endowment for the Arts, Big Read, with our own Yakima Valley Reads. Each fall and spring the Yakima Valley Libraries brings people together by reading one book throughout our valley.

What do I need to do?  Join us! Pick up your book, invite your friends, read and enjoy! You are invited to pick up your book beginning September 12th at any YVL branch. There are a limited number of books so they will be first come, first serve. Books have been made possible by the Yakima Valley Libraries Foundation. Books are available in both English and Spanish.

What to expect?  Fun! Excitement! A great read! An out of this world experience (ok, maybe not but we can dream- right?)!

The schedule for the Valley Reads is as follows:
Books Available: September 12th
“Astronomy for Everyone” Tuesday September 29, 2015 from 6:30- 9:00 pm at Yakima Central Library
“Exploring Mars” Thursday October 22, 2015 from 6:30- 8:00 pm at West Valley Community Library

Movie Showings:
“Robinson Crusoe on Mars” Tuesday October 20th at 7:00 pm at Yakima Valley Museum 2105 Tieton Dr Yakima, WA 98902
“Mars Attacks!” Tuesday October 27th at 7:00 pm at Yakima Valley Museum 2105 Tieton Dr Yakima, WA 98902

Book Discussions:
Naches Library: Oct. 13 @ 5:30 pm
Granger Library: Oct 17 @ 2pm
Moxee Library: Oct 20 @ 2pm
Terrace Heights Library: Oct 21 @ 6pm
West Valley Library: Oct 21 @ 6:30 pm & Oct 25 @ 2pm
Sunnyside Library: Oct 25 @ 2pm
Yakima Central Library: Oct 28 @ 5pm (SPANISH DISCUSSION GROUP)
Selah Library: Oct 28 @ 6pm

Yakima, WA- Effective July 20 the Granger Branch of Yakima Valley Libraries will maintain slightly different hours of operation. Granger will be open to patrons during the following hours:

Monday 12 – 6
Tuesday 10 – 6 NEW open time
Wednesday 12 – 6
Thursday 10 – 6 NEW open time
Friday closed
Saturday 12:30 -5 NEW open time
Sunday closed

We strive to provide the best service to our patrons and we believe that these hours are more effective for patrons and staff. We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to serving you.

Yakima Valley Libraries will be providing the opportunity for patrons to pay Yakima Valley Libraries fines and fees online. Patrons may pay their fines and fees online at www.yvl.org using their Visa, MasterCard or Discover card or by cash or check at the community library service desk.

Yakima Valley Libraries is always striving to serve our patrons while remaining relevant. Online payment will allow patrons the opportunity to pay for services in the comfort of their own home or on their mobile devices.

Yakima, WA- On Wednesday April 8, 2015 the Moxee branch of Yakima Valley Libraries will be temporarily closing for a building facelift. The branch will be receiving a fresh coat of paint, new baseboards and new carpet compliments of the City of Moxee, who owns the building. The branch is scheduled to re-open on April 13th.

Patrons are encouraged to use a neighboring branch during the closure; a list of Yakima Valley Libraries branches is available at www.yvl.org. The closest branches are Terrace Heights, Zillah, Yakima Central and as always our website and eResources.

Yakima Valley Libraries is always looking for ways to make our branches into more comfortable spaces for our patrons. Although we wish we could do this for every branch we own three of our seventeen facilities and often work with partners, cities and other entities if it is fiscally possible.

Yakima Valley Libraries is excited to be moving forward with the much anticipated remodel of our Sunnyside branch.

What is it?  An opportunity to remodel and upgrade our Sunnyside branch. The following have been selected for the project:

Architect: BORArchitecure, PLLC- Yakima, WA
Contractor: Booth & Sons Construction, INC- Richland, WA
Bid and Scope: $440,150, to include carpeting, painting, restrooms, staff room, office, community room, study rooms
Ceiling panels and lighting, windows in community room, replace north and west single pane windows with upgraded energy efficient windows; add two new study rooms complete with computer access, gas fireplace in community room and new endcaps and tops for the bookshelves.

Donations Committed:

Solarity Credit Union- furniture for circulation area and children’s areas
Yakima Federal Credit Union- funding for fireplace in community room
Lower Valley Credit Union- Furnishings for two study rooms
Sunnyside Rotary- $1500 for planter/landscaping project
Bill Flower- space for mini-library during remodel

Project Schedule/Branch Closures 

• Anticipated move from current branch to temporary branch from April 13-24, 2015. 
• Anticipated open date for mini-library is April 27, 2015. 
• Construction on Sunnyside branch to begin May 11 and completed August 21. 
• Mini-library branch hours to be determined shortly.

Archived Library News Prior to 2015