Technical Aids for Seniors

Thanks to a grant we received from International Paper, we have extended our selection of books to aid with the newer personal devices patrons are using.

The Studio Visual Steps set for Seniors features instructions geared for users who have little to no technical background.  The set features large print for ease of reading as well as numerous illustrations to keep learners on the right path.  The step-by-step instructions are self-paced, learn as you go.  Chapters are organized so that you can skip one or repeat a chapter as often as you desire.

We have added four of their books to our collection.  The first is iPad for Seniors.  This book is suitable for learning how to use all iPads with iOS9 from iPad 2 and up.  It covers many topics of interest to users including how to download apps for the App store and how to use the Internet and email.

The second book is iPhone for Seniors.  This book is suitable to use for learning how to use all iPhones with iOS9 or higher.  It covers making phones calls, sending texts, connecting to Wi-Fi among other topics.

The third book is Working with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet with Android 5 for Seniors.  It is suitable for learning how to use all Samsung Galaxy tablets with Android 5.  The topics covered include how to operate the tablet, surfing the Internet and connecting to email, and working with photos, videos and music.

The fourth book is Windows 10 for Seniors for the Beginning Computer User.  It is suitable for learning how to use Windows 10 on any laptop or desktop computer featuring Windows 10 software.  Using step by step instructions, the chapters take users from learning how to make use of the mouse, keyboards, touchpads and/or touchscreens to how to work with files and folders.

Each of the four books has a accompanying website where additional information on the device in question can be found.

Want to learn all the tricks on how to use your new personal device?  Check out one of these books and see what you might be missing.

New Titles for Those in the Crafty Corner

Those of you who enjoy fiber-craft (i.e. sewing, knitting, crochet) will enjoy three of our newest titles on the subject.

     First up for all of you who enjoy sewing and want to freshen your home or give a room a new look, we have Easy to Make! Curtains & Blinds by C & B Crafts. This book is broken down in easy-to-read sections that allow even beginners to get in on the decorating fun. In the "Getting Started" chapter, you will learn about the different types of windows, how to choose the right window treatment, what sort of fixtures you will need, what kind of fabrics work well, and how to work with patterns and textured fabrics. Next, you'll learn how to measure for your curtains, calculate how much fabric your project will take, and learn about lined, interlined, unlined curtains, and sheers. The third chapter discusses how to create the perfect blinds for your windows. You'll learn how to measure for your blinds, calculate fabric quantity, and see the difference between Roman, soft pleat, and roller blinds. The final two chapters discuss the finishing touches like trims, embellishments, and tiebacks as well as the equipment and techniques you will need to create your new looks. This book includes color photos and illustrations as well as a glossary of terms for your convenience.

     Next, we have Sew Brilliant Bags by Debbie Shore. This book contains 12 beautiful projects for sewing your own bags, purses, and totes. The easy-to-use instructions are accompanied by step-by-step photography to make your projects a breeze. All of the techniques are fully discussed and the projects are made using a basic sewing machine. The author also teaches you how to customize your projects to suit your own tastes as well as how to design and make your own creations.

     Finally, we have a knitting-project book that features projects that are a bit more whimsical. Woolly Woofers is by Debbie Bliss and contains more than twenty knitwear projects for your dog. There are sweaters for the winter and costumes for the holidays. Both beginner friendly projects and advanced skilled outfits adorn these pages. There is a chic Breton striped top and beret; a tweed cape and matching deerstalker that takes its cue from Sherlock Holmes; a black and white sweater inspired by the Jolly Roger; and a festive Santa Paws costume. All of these projects include the step-by-step instructions and knitting pattern for your convenience.

    Come and check out these titles today!

New Fiction Novels by Patron Favorites

We have recently added three new novels to our collection from authors that many of our patrons enjoy.

First is the latest book by American lawyer and novelist James Grippando.  Gone Again is the twelfth novel in the series featuring Jack Swyteck, Miami criminal defense attorney.

In this fast paced novel, Swyteck takes on his first death-row client since The Pardon (the first in the Jack Swyteck series, also available in our collection).







The next novel is Once a Rancher by popular romance novelist Linda Lael Miller.  The first book of her newest series, The Carsons of Mustang Creek, follows the eldest of three brothers.  Slater Carson is a documentary filmmaker by trade, but still a rancher at heart.  He shares the running of the family ranch with his two younger brothers, Drake and Mace.

Things change when former Seattle cop Grace Emery comes to town to manage the local resort spa with her ward in tow, Ryder - the rebellious son of her ex-husband.

Last is The Other Side of Silence, the eleventh novel in the Bernie Gunther series by Scottish author, Philip Kerr.

The year is 1956 and Bernie Gunther is hiding in plain sight under an assumed name with fake papers.  Posing as a concierge at the Grand Hotel, he is drawn into a nest of vipers when he is asked to assist author W. Somerset Maugham, who is being blackmailed.




These and many other titles can be found on our New Adult Fiction shelves.  Enjoy!

Beer Lovers, Rejoice!

     This week I want to take a look at two new books about craft beer, brewing beer, and food pairings to go with your beer.

     The first book is Mastering Homebrew: the Complete Guide to Brewing Delicious Beer by Randy Mosher. This is the ultimate comprehensive guide to the craft of beer for both beginners and advanced brewers. These simple, easy to follow instructions along with colorful graphics and illustrations show the process and technique for the home brewer. Mosher also includes 27 master recipes and a vast range of variations to help you master the art of beer. You will learn how to get the most out of your brewing ingredients, formulate recipes for classic as well as original brews, understand the different beer styles, choose and use your equipment, manage the brewing process for the best results, and package and serve a perfect glass of your beer. This book is written with expert advice and levity to help inspire and mentor the homebrewer.

     The second book is Beer, Food, and Flavor: a Guide to Tasting, Pairing, and the Culture of Craft Beer by Schuyler Schultz. This book begins with some tips and vocabulary for tasting different kinds of beer. Next you will learn which beers pair well with different kinds of foods. You will learn to build menus that will help bring out your chosen beer's best flavors as well as which sorts of cheeses pair well with beer. The final chapters of the book discuss the philosophies of craft brewing as well as discussing some of the most notable craft brewers here in the United States. The final chapter offers a glimpse into the greater craft beer community with focus on online communities, beer judge certification programs, brewers associations, and books and resources that may be helpful for those serious about their beer.

   Both of these books are available in the New Non-Fiction section of the library. Similar titles can be found in the regular non-fiction section around the call number 641. And remember, if you need a little help finding these titles, the Reference Desk will be happy to help!