Beaverton City Library seeks entries for local authors' book fair

The Beaverton City Library will host a free local authors' book fair on Saturday, May 21 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 12375 S.W. Fifth Street.

The library is seeking writers from Washington, Multnomah, and Clackamas counties to apply for a space to share and promote their latest work. All genres are welcome, including adult, young adult, and children's literature. Selected authors will receive table space to discuss and sell their books.

There is no cost to participate and authors will keep 100 percent of proceeds from sales. In exchange, the library requests that each participating author donate two books, one of which will be raffled off to attendees and the other of which will be considered for inclusion in the library's collection.

Donated books not added to the collection will be sold by the New Friends of the Beaverton Library to support library programs and services. Up to six authors will be invited to speak or read from their work at the event. Participants will be chosen by random drawing.

Applications are due on Tuesday, March 15, 2016.  For more information or to request an application, contact Helen Butler.

Winter holiday closures for WCCLS member libraries

Please note most WCCLS member libraries will have reduced hours for the upcoming holidays... but remember that you can download e-books and audiobooks anytime!


Check here for regular WCCLS member library hours.

Library	Thurs., Dec. 24	Fri., Dec. 25	Thurs., Dec. 31	Fri., Jan. 1
Banks	Closed	Closed	Closing at 3pm	Closed
Beaverton	Closing at 5pm	Closed	Closing at 5pm	Closed
Beaverton at Murray Scholls	Closing at 5pm	Closed	Closing at 5pm	Closed
Cedar Mill	Closed	Closed	Closing at 5pm	Closed
Cedar Mill at Bethany	Closed	Closed	Closing at 5pm	Closed
Cornelius	Closing at 2pm	Closed	Closing at 5pm	Closed
Forest Grove	Closing at 2pm	Closed through Dec. 27	Normal hours	Closed
Garden Home	Closing at 3pm	Closed	Closing at 3pm	Closed
Hillsboro Main Library	Closing at 4pm	Closed	Closing at 4pm	Closed
Hillsboro Shute Park Branch	Closing at 4pm	Closed	Closing at 4pm	Closed
North Plains	Closing at 2pm	Closed	Normal hours	Closed
Oregon College of Art and Craft	Closed Dec. 23 to Jan. 4
Sherwood	Closing at 2pm	Closed	Closing at 5pm	Closed
Tigard	Regular closure	Closed	Regular closure	Closed
Tualatin	Closing at 6pm	Closed	Closing at 6pm	Closed
Tuality Health Resource Center	Closed	Closed	Closed	Closed
West Slope	Closing at 4pm	Closed	Closing at 4pm	Closed

Cornelius Library awarded $500,000 grant for new library

Oregon’s U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici today announced a grant to help the City of Cornelius build a new library and community convening space. The award comes from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Challenge Grant program and recognizes Cornelius Library’s commitment to improve the cultural and civic life of the city.

“The city of Cornelius deserves tremendous credit for its hard work to earn this extremely competitive grant,” said Senator Wyden. “A new library and public space will provide residents of all ages with a wonderful asset for learning and community.”

“In many of our rural communities, libraries are the heart of the community,” said Senator Merkley. “They are a gathering space for people of all ages to learn and grow, and serve as a crucial link for so many Oregonians whose only internet access may be the local library. This new library in Cornelius will help enrich the community and as a bonus will provide much needed senior affordable housing. This is a great day for the Cornelius community.”

“Thank you to the National Endowment for the Humanities. The Cornelius Library is an important part of the community, and they truly deserve support for their expansion,” said Congresswoman Bonamici. “Many Cornelius residents have no internet access at home and they rely on the library for important tasks like applying for jobs or checking their children’s grades. This expansion will include a much-needed community space, increase community access to computers, and provide local affordable housing.”

“There is no better community for this investment,” said Karen Hill, Library Director. “Cornelius has the highest level of poverty and illiteracy in Washington County. The new space is designed to yield some amazing opportunities to provide new and expanded literacy and cultural services to the community.”

Cornelius expects to begin construction in December 2016 on the new three-story building that will have a library and community space on the first floor and affordable senior apartments (funded separately by development partner Bienestar, Inc.) on the second and third floors. The new library will expand from 3,000 square feet to almost 14,000 square feet, with a 100-person community meeting room, four conference/study rooms, a teen zone and large collections of children’s and Spanish language books. Because this is a challenge grant, the Cornelius Library will need to raise $1.5 million in matching funds from donors.

The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) is an independent federal agency created in 1965. It is one of the largest funders of humanities programs in the United States.  The Cornelius Library is a member of Washington County Cooperative Library Services.

Banks Library bookdrop temporarily closed

The Banks Library has had to close the media and book drops because of leaks from excessive rain. Once everything is dried out and the rain slows down, the book and media drops will be reopened. Please return items inside the library during library hours or drop them at another library if that isn't possible. Call the library at 503 324-1382 with any concerns.

Thank you for your patience during this wet time!

New Notes in the WCCLS Catalog

As of today, you’ll start to see more items in the WCCLS online catalog and mobile catalog with Notes. Notes contain added locational or informational details about specific items.

For example, notes may help you locate what you're looking for; such as an item on display or the bottom shelf because it is oversize.  It will also let you know if the item cannot ship to another library, and must be picked up at the owning library if you place a hold.

If you have any questions about the notes, or need more information on searching the WCCLS catalog, please contact your local library.

December Fun at a WCCLS Library

Why not make this a holiday season to remember with one or more outings to your local library?

Our member libraries have music, arts, crafts, games, and more fun programs planned for all ages!

For a full listing of events at each library please visit our calendar.


Tuesday, December 1, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Beaverton Civic Theatre Preview: A Little Princess
Beaverton City Library

Tuesday, December 1, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Nathan Palmer: Coffees of the World
Forest Grove City Library

Wednesday, December 2, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Winter Concert: River City Ramblers
West Slope Community Library

Thursday, December 3, 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Children's Choir & Strings Concert
Sherwood Public Library

Friday, December 4, 6:00 PM
First Friday Flick
North Plains Library @ Jessie Mays Center

Saturday, December 5, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Wassail Party
Forest Grove City Library

Tuesday, December 8, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Jewelry 101
Beaverton Murray Scholls

Tuesday, December 8, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM 
Song Circle: Sing Popular Pop & Folk Songs - For Adults
Cedar Mill Community Library

Tuesday, December 8, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM 
Taiko: Youth Japanese Taiko Drum Ensemble
Tigard Public Library

Wednesday, December 9, 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Craft Night
Banks Public Library

Thursday, December 10, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Snow Globe Craft
Hillsboro Shute Park Branch

Friday, December 11, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Holiday Happy Hour: Two Spirit Jazz Concert
Sherwood Public Library

Saturday, December 12, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Game On
Tigard Public Library

Sunday, December 13, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Board Game Day (adults, teens, families)
Cedar Mill Community Library

Sunday, December 13, 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Knotty Yarn Crafts
Tigard Public Library

Tuesday, December 15, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Teen WinterFest
Beaverton City Library

Tuesday, December 15, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Winter Swap Meet
Garden Home Community Library

Thursday, December 17, 5:30 PM - 7:45 PM
Family Game Night
West Slope Community Library

Friday, December 18, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Friday Family Flicks -Minions Movie Screening
Hillsboro Shute Park Branch
6:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Friday, December 18, 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Teen Friday Night Movies
Tualatin Public Library

Friday, December 18, 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Teen Movie Night
Sherwood Public Library

Friday, December 18, 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Friday Family Flicks -Minions Movie Screening
Hillsboro Main Library

Friday, December 18, 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Foreign Film - Human Capital (Italian w/English subtitles)
Garden Home Community Library

Saturday, December 19, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Star Wars Celebration
Beaverton City Library

Saturday, December 19, 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Reindeer Crafts
Tigard Public Library

December 19-31, 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
'Tis the Season for Teen Reading
Beaverton City Library

Monday, December 21, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Star Wars Crafticon
Tualatin Public Library

Tuesday, December 22, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Star Wars Trivia Battle and Costume Contest
Tualatin Public Library

Tuesday, December 22, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Around the World Holiday Crafts
Hillsboro Shute Park Branch

Wednesday, December 23, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Lego Star Wars
Tualatin Public Library

Thursday,  December 24, 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
Teen Button Making
Hillsboro Main Library

Thursday,  December 24, all day event
Christmas Eve Games & Goodies
West Slope Community Library

Tuesday, December 29, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM     
Decorative Cookie Battle
Beaverton City Library

Tuesday, December 29,  4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Last Tuesday Game Night
West Slope Community Library

Tuesday, December 29, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Fun with folk art - Scandinavian craft workshop
Garden Home Community Library

Wednesday, December 30, 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Film Club - Eight Women (France)
Cedar Mill Community Library

Call for Story Slam Contestants

The 12th Annual Art of the Story Festival announces a call for Story Slam contestants.

A Story Slam is a competition within a set time limit, placing emphasis on a storytellers content and performance.

This Slam is judged by the audience.

Story Slam Contest
Saturday, April 2, 2016, 7-8:30 p.m.
Beaverton City Library
(Adult program)

The winner receives a cash prize and the opportunity to tell a story, along with nationally acclaimed tellers, at the Festival Finale on April 9.

Contestant Entry Deadline: November 30, 2015

Email for more information.

2016 Teen Summer Reading Art Contest

Hey! Are you an artist who also happens to be age 12-18? Submit a design to our Teen Summer Reading Artwork Contest!

The winning design will be used on 2016 Teen Summer Reading program materials across Washington County, including posters, bookmarks, flyers and more.

The winner also receives a $150 gift certificate for Powell's Books. The second place winner receives a $50 gift certificate for Blick Art Materials, and the winner of honorable mention will get a $25 Blick gift certificate.

The contest opens Saturday, January 2, 2016, and the last day to submit your entry is Monday, February 15, 2016. Click here to get all of the contest details and the entry form (PDF). Good luck!

Library closures for Thanksgiving week

See the chart below for WCCLS member libraries hours during the week of Thanksgiving.

Remember that you can download ebooks and audiobooks 24/7!

Library	Wednesday Nov. 25	Thursday Nov. 26	Friday Nov. 27	Saturday Nov. 28
Banks	Normal Hours	Closed	Closed	Normal Hours
Beaverton	Closing at 5:00	Closed	Closed	Normal Hours
Beaverton Murray Scholls	Closing at 5:00	Closed	Closed	Normal Hours
Cedar Mill	Normal Hours	Closed	Normal Hours	Normal Hours
Cedar Mill at Bethany	Normal Hours	Closed	Normal Hours	Normal Hours
Cornelius	Closing at 2:00	Closed	Closed	Normal Hours
Forest Grove	Normal Hours	Closed	Closed	Normal Hours
Garden Home	Closing at 3:00	Closed	Normal Hours	Normal Hours
Hillsboro	Closing at 4:00	Closed	Closing at 6:00	Normal Hours
Hillsboro Shute Park	Closing at 4:00	Closed	Closing at 6:00	Normal Hours
North Plains	Closing at 5:00	Closed	Normal Hours	Normal Hours
Oregon College of Art and Craft	Closed	Closed	Usual Closure	Usual Closure
Sherwood	Closing at 6:00	Closed	Closed	Normal Hours
Tigard	Normal Hours	Usual Closure	Normal Hours	Normal Hours
Tualatin	Closing at 6:00	Closed	Normal Hours	Normal Hours
Tuality Health Resource Center	Normal Hours	Closed	Usual Closure	Usual Closure
West Slope	Closing at 4:00	Closed	Normal Hours	Normal Hours

City Club Friday Forum on The Art of Storytelling

WCCLS is a proud co-sponsor of the November 20^th City Club of Portland Friday Forum on The Art of Storytelling. The Friday Forum features internationally acclaimed Native American teller Gene Tagaban (One Crazy Raven), Lawrence Howard (co-founder of Portland Story Theater), living African-American historian Chetter Galloway and Mindy Netifee (co-producer of Backfence PDX).

To register to attend this event, visit the PDX cityclub website.

Washington County asks: Have We Heard From You Lately?

Washington County Seeks Your Ideas to Improve Community Involvement
Washington County's Community Involvement Transition Planning Team is seeking your input about enhancements to Washington County's community involvement program. You can help expand and improve the ways that our community contributes to decision-making that shapes our livability in Washington County. Here are three direct ways to help:

• Take an on-line survey – Provide feedback about enhancements to the county's public involvement program by completing a brief web-based survey from November 16 until November 30. Your input will help the Transition Planning Team refine their recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners.
• Community event December 1 – Come and learn more about the work of the Transition Planning Team, the options under consideration and provide input about recommendations for re-shaping Washington County's community engagement program. This event is planned for Tuesday, December 1, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Willow Creek campus of Portland Community College.
• Sign up for on-going notices – Stay current with this important effort by receiving updates about the county's community involvement program. Add your email address to the eSubscription service under the "County Administrative Office" category listed at this website: http://washtech.co.washington.or.us/subscriptions/

Background
The 13-member Community Involvement Transition Planning Team was appointed by the Washington County Board of Commissioners earlier this year to explore a broad range of public participation models and strategies. Oregon State University's Extension Service staff support for the county's Citizen Participation Organizations (CPOs) ends in early 2016. OSU Extension announced in 2014 that it had re-evaluated its institutional strengths and role in this county program and would not continue to administer the program on the county's behalf in the future. More information about the transition process is available at: http://www.co.washington.or.us/CPO/transition.cfm

Sponsored by: Washington County Administrative Office

Tualatin Library presents Exit Wounds: Soldiers' Stories

Exit Wounds: Soldiers' Stories – Life After Iraq and Afghanistan is a book of 50 oral histories by very thoughtful men and women of all demographics, experience, and opinions.

Saturday, November 14, 2:00 p.m.
Tualatin Library Community Room
Free for ages 18 and up

Every American should hear what our warriors have to say about war and homecoming. Author and photographer Jim Lommasson will be presenting.

Library Closures for Veterans Day

Most, but not all, WCCLS member libraries will be closing in observance of Veterans Day, Wednesday, November 11, 2015.

Libraries open on Wednesday, November 11th:
Oregon College of Art and Craft (open 12:00-5:00 p.m.)
Tualatin Public Library (open 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.)
Tuality Healthcare Library (open 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.)

Libraries closed on Wednesday, November 11th:
Banks Public Library
Beaverton City Library
Beaverton City Library @ Murray Scholls
Cedar Mill Community Library
Cedar Mill Community Library @ Bethany
Cornelius Public Library
Forest Grove City Library
Garden Home Community Library
Hillsboro Main Library
Hillsboro Shute Park Branch
North Plains Public Library
Sherwood Public Library
Tigard Public Library
West Slope Community Library
WCCLS offices & courier services

Libraries Thank Voters for Continued Support

On Tuesday, November 3rd Washington County voters approved the Washington County Cooperative Library Services (WCCLS) replacement operating levy. Unofficial returns as of November 4 give the levy a 64% approval. With nearly 97,000 votes counted, the library community is delighted with this show of support from Washington County voters. According to Eva Calcagno, Director of the Cooperative Library Services, “WCCLS would like to thank the voters of Washington County for their continued support of countywide library services with the passage of Measure 34-235!”

The renewal of the local option levy, Measure 34-235, means that funding from the approved levy will maintain and expand countywide operating support at an increased rate of 22¢ per $1,000 of assessed value for the next five years, beginning July 1, 2016 through June 30, 2021.

Following the election returns Calcagno remarked, “With this increased funding, WCCLS and member libraries will maintain and expand the services and collections our patrons want, both in the library and in the community through increased electronic offerings and outreach programs to meet people where they are. We look forward to offering the residents of Aloha more convenient direct neighborhood access to the WCCLS system with the addition of the Aloha Community Library as a full member. We congratulate the residents of Bethany, Cornelius and Hillsboro who will welcome expanded library operations in coming years, as well as the residents of Banks, Garden Home, North Plains and Tigard who will see increased open hours at their local libraries.”

Thank you, voters, for your continued confidence in your public libraries as vital components of your quality communities since 1976.

Too late to mail, not too late to vote!

Washington County elections officials are asking last-minute voters to drop off their ballots at official collection sites as soon as possible so that all ballots are processed in a timely manner. The deadline for voting is 8 p.m. Tuesday, November 3.  

With only a few days left in the vote-by-mail election period, Washington County has received 289,567 ballots, or about 22 percent of all registered voters in the county so far.

Drop-off Sites Available
Ballots will also be collected until 8 p.m. Tuesday at several official drop-off sites throughout the county. All official drop-off sites are listed on the county's website. Many WCCLS libraries have ballot boxes available.

24-hour Drop-off Sites
Voters may drop off their completed ballots at several 24-hour drop off sites, including: 

• Washington County Elections Office, 3700 S.W. Murray Boulevard, Beaverton (Look for the slot in the front lobby and drive-through service in the front parking lot on Tuesday, November 3.)   
• Washington County Charles D. Cameron Public Services Building, 155 N. 1st Avenue, Hillsboro (Look for the drop box near the rear entrance of building.)   
• Banks Public Library
• Cornelius City Hall, 1355 N. Barlow Street, Cornelius   
• Forest Grove, Pacific Avenue and Birch Street, Forest Grove   
• Hillsboro Main Library
• King City - City Hall, 15300 S.W. 116th Avenue, King City   
• North Plains City Hall, 31360 N.W. Commercial Street, North Plains   
• Sherwood City Hall, 22560 S.W. Pine Street, Sherwood   
• Tigard City Hall, 13125 S.W. Hall Boulevard, Tigard   
• Tualatin City Offices, 18880 SW Martinazzi Avenue, Tualatin

Indoor Drop-Off Sites
Official drop boxes at indoor locations include: 

• Beaverton City Library
• Cedar Mill Community Library
• Garden Home Community Library
• Hillsboro Library Shute Park Branch
• West Slope Community Library

Saturday Hours to Help Meet Election Deadline
To assist with the last-minute rush of voters, the County Elections Office at 3700 S.W. Murray Boulevard will be open this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Voters with questions or concerns are welcome to call or visit during these Saturday hours.

Drive-through Service on Election Day Only
A drive-through service will be provided at 3700 S.W. Murray Boulevard on November 3 only. This drive-through service will be offered from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and will be accessible from the right-most northbound lane of S.W. Murray Boulevard, just north of the Tualatin Valley Highway.

Your Library = Access to Technology and Life-long Learning Opportunities

One of the best services the Washington County Cooperative Library Services (WCCLS) offers is the shared library collection that all patrons have access to. Did you know that through the WCCLS system, our 263,000+ library card holders have access to over 1.6 million books and other materials? That’s the equivalent of about five Beaverton Main Library collections.

In addition to the shared library collection WCCLS and its 15 member libraries offer 375 public access computers and free WiFi that people use for job searches, email communication, checking in with the home office, studying for job exams, or completing online courses. Member libraries offer technology assistance for all members of our community. Examples of learning opportunities include library workshops (resume writing, computer skills), research databases and online tools such as Oregon Career Information System, Learning Express Library, Reference USA. And with WCCLS member libraries open up to 359 days per year they also offer access to meeting space – free, safe, neutral public space for meeting with clients or study groups or doing market research.

In the spring of 2015 WCCLS conducted a survey of 4,478 people to better understand how community members use and benefit from free access to computers and the Internet through their public libraries. Of the total survey participants who reported visiting the library in the past year, 59%, or 2,623 people, reported that they had used a public access computer or the library's wireless network during their visits. In fact, the survey revealed that access to library technology helped Washington County Residents in multiple ways. According to Eva Calcagno, WCCLS Director, “82% of respondents believed library technology access was important for their communities and one out of five WCCLS computer users made use of this resource for their employment or job searches.”

The same can be said for the monthly offering of hundreds of literary, career and cultural programs presented throughout the WCCLS member libraries. From visits by Acclaimed Authors to learning the Basics of Going Solar or hands-on assistance with Computer Skill Development – there is sure to be a local library-based program or service that will meet the interests of the nearly 3.9 million visitors our libraries welcome each year.

These are just a few of the reasons why maintaining resources for job-seekers and expanding the purchase of books, e-books and other materials are a core-component within Measure 34-235 – the replacement levy for countywide library services on the November 3 ballot (www.wccls.org/levy).

Following is a brief sample of upcoming programs and services designed for the adults in our communities. Additional services can be found on the libraries events calendar (www.wccls.org/calendar).

Classes & workshops:

BEAVERTON CITY LIBRARY
Seismic Retrofitting: Sat., Oct. 24, 1- 3 p.m. Learn the basics of installing a residential seismic retrofit.
Encore Entrepreneurship: Wed., Oct. 28, 6 p.m. Turn your professional experience or hobby into an encore career!

CEDAR MILL COMMUNITY LIBRARY
Basics of Going Solar: Sun., Oct. 25, 2 p.m. Presented by Solar Oregon and Energy Trust of Oregon. Registration required.

CEDAR MILL COMMUNITY LIBRARY@ BETHANY
Open Computer Lab: Thurs., weekly, 9 - 10 a.m. Drop by for help with your tablet, downloading e-books and more.

CORNELIUS PUBLIC LIBRARY
Computer Help (Bilingual): Wed., weekly, 5:30 p.m. Computer help on library computers or yours.

FOREST GROVE CITY LIBRARY
Writing Workshop with Writers in the Grove: 2nd Sat., monthly, 10:30 a.m. Designed for all experience levels.

NORTH PLAINS PUBLIC LIBRARY
Writers’ Group: 1st Thurs., monthly, 6:30 p.m. Share your writing projects and receive feedback from peers.

TIGARD PUBLIC LIBRARY
Can I Recycle That? Recycling and Sustainability: Wed., Nov. 4, 6:30 - 8 p.m. Reduce, reuse and lighten your footprint.

Arts & Culture:

FOREST GROVE CITY LIBRARY
Friends of the Library Cultural Series: 1st Tues., monthly, 7 p.m. Nov. 3: Leah Stenson – Japanese Poetry and Dec. 1: Nathan Palmer – Coffees of the World

TUALATIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
Classical Guitarist Peter Fletcher: Tues., Oct. 27, 7:30 p.m. Diverse music program including Bach’s Third Lute Suite and more.

Book, Film, Poetry & Discussion Groups:

BEAVERTON CITY LIBRARY
Crazy 8s Author Tour: Thurs., Nov. 5, 7 p.m. Eight published Oregon authors speak for eight minutes each. Enjoy this engaging and fast-paced event.

HILLSBORO PUBLIC LIBRARIES
Hillsboro READS: Series of October events surrounding author Harper Lee’s books To Kill a Mockingbird (and film screenings), Go Set a Watchman; author Marja Mills The Mockingbird Next Door.

TIGARD PUBLIC LIBRARY
Holocaust Remembrance on the 77th Anniversary of Kristallnacht: Mon., Nov. 9, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Witness local Holocaust survivors speak about experiences under Nazi persecution.

TUALATIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
Soup and Books: Thurs., Oct. 29, 6:30 - 8 p.m. Author Maggie Stuckey discusses books as we enjoy free soup from New Seasons.
Exit Wounds: Soldiers’ Stories – Life after Iraq and Afghanistan: Sat., Nov. 14, 2 p.m. Book of 50 oral histories will be discussed by the author.

For additional information about Measure 34-235 please visit www.wccls.org/levy.

Save a stamp: drop off your ballot at a Washington County ballot box

Washington County elections officials are encouraging voters to send in or drop off their ballots as soon as possible this election season so that all ballots are processed in a timely manner.

Voters should have received their ballots by mail over the recent weekend. Information about vote-by-mail, voter eligibility and other election matters may be found at the Washington County Elections Office website or by calling 503-846-5800.

Voters will have until October 29 to send their completed ballots in appropriately signed envelopes with a postmark from the U.S. Postal Service. After this date, completed ballots should be dropped off at official collection sites in order to meet the election's 8 p.m. deadline on November 3.

Bridging the Gap: Offering Mobile Libraries to In-home Child Care Providers

A Successful Model of Countywide Efficiency

Photo from unitedway-pdx.org

Early literacy education and public libraries go hand-in-hand with Pat-a-Cake, Pat-a-Cake and a child learning their ABC’s and 1, 2, 3’s. The Washington County Cooperative Library Services (WCCLS) is pleased to have been chosen as an anchor partner collaborating with the United Way and the Early Learning HUB of Washington County to deliver mobile library services to in-home child care providers. Leading educators and librarians in the community identified a need to reach young children where many spend their waking hours Monday through Friday. Realizing that transporting children off-site is difficult at best for this audience, the Early Learning HUB approached WCCLS to develop a countywide resource Books for Kids/Libros Para Niños. Through the partnership WCCLS delivers mobile library services (refreshed monthly) to approved child care providers in geographic hot spots across Washington County.

Tualatin Library hosts Classical Guitarist Peter Fletcher

New York Based Classical Guitarist Peter Fletcher will a perform a diverse program encompassing four centuries.

Tualatin Library
Tuesday, October 27
7:30 p.m.

The main works will include Bach's Third Lute Suite, William Walton's "5 Bagatelles", "Cordoba"  and "Sevilla" by the Spanish composer Isaac Albeniz.  Peter will also perform selections from his Centaur Records release "Music of Edvard Grieg" in which he himself wrote the guitar transcriptions. Other composers include Praetorius. York and Villa-Lobos.

Free for all ages at the Library Hearth!  This event is made possible by the generous support of the Friends of the Tualatin Library.

Drop off your ballot at a WCCLS library

Tuesday, November 3 is Election Day, and several WCCLS member libraries have official Washington County Elections ballot drop boxes on site.

Click on the links below for locations and library hours.

24-hour Drop Off Sites
Voters may drop off their completed ballots before the 8 p.m. election day deadline at several 24-hour drop-off sites, including:

• Washington County Elections Office, 3700 S.W. Murray Boulevard, Beaverton
• Washington County Charles D. Cameron Public Services Building, 155 N. 1st Avenue, Hillsboro
• Banks Public Library, 111 Market Street, Banks
• Cornelius City Hall, 1355 N. Barlow Street, Cornelius
• Forest Grove, Pacific Avenue and Birch Street, Forest Grove
• Hillsboro Library - Main Branch, 2850 N.E. Brookwood Parkway, Hillsboro
• King City - City Hall, 15300 S.W. 116th Avenue, King City
• North Plains City Hall, 31360 N.W. Commercial Street, North Plains
• Sherwood City Hall, 22560 S.W. Pine Street, Sherwood
• Tigard City Hall, 13125 S.W. Hall Boulevard, Tigard
• Tualatin City Offices - Council Building, 18880 SW Martinazzi Ave, Tualatin

Indoor Drop-Off Sites (open only during library hours)
Official drop boxes at indoor locations include:

• Beaverton City Library, 12375 S.W. 5th Street, Beaverton
• Cedar Mill Community Library, 12505 N.W. Cornell Road, Portland
• Garden Home Community Library, 7475 S.W. Oleson Road, Portland
• Hillsboro Library, Shute Park Branch, 775 S.E. 10th Avenue, Hillsboro
• West Slope Community Library, 3678 S.W. 78th Avenue, Portland

Garden Home Community Sustainability & Repair Fair

Garden Home Community Library is hosting the 5th annual Sustainability fair. This year they are also adding a Repair Fair! Free and open to the public. Family friendly, with a photo booth and other kid friendly tables.

Saturday, Oct. 17, 11 am – 2 pm
Garden Home Community Rec Center
7475 SW Oleson Rd, Portland, OR 97223

Repair Fair
The waffle iron stopped waffling and you accidentally ripped the pocket of your favorite jacket. You cannot bear to toss these things out because they just need to quick repair to start working again. But you are not sure how. We can fix it!

A Repair Fair is a free, volunteer-driven event where people with repair skills help fix broken items such as and pants, a blenders, mixers, coffee makers, vacuums, bikes and more. Please no gas-powered equipment, TVs or microwaves.
People who are interested in having an item fixed are asked to contact RepairFairOregon@gmail.com and let us know what broken items they will bring so we can come prepared.

In addition to the Repair Fair, there will be 2 rooms of sustainability topics and exhibitors including:

• Eat Smart, Waste Less
• 8 Inch Nails
• Transition PDX-Westside
• SW Trails
• Habitat for Humanity West
• Happy Baby Food
• Safe Routes to School
• Green Living Journal
• Tualatin Valley Water District
• Repair PDX (NEW ATTENDEE!!!)
• Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District (THPRD) Nature Park
• SOLV
• Solar Oregon
• Drive Oregon
• Portland Pollution Prevention Outreach

Tualatin Library presents Braceros: The Men of Migrant Labor

Join our bilingual Washington County Museum presenter as she brings the past to life and shares about the Braceros, a group of Mexican workers who helped farmers during the labor shortage of WWII.

Saturday, October 10, 2015
2:00-3:00 p.m.
Tualatin Library

Learn hands-on by examining artifacts and photographs. Free for all ages (Grades 3 and up) in the Library Community Room.

Braceros: trabajadores migrantes
Adultos y niños desde 3er grado.
Únanse a nuestra presentadora bilingüe del Museo del Condado Washington quien revivirá el pasado y compartirá las experiencias de los braceros: los trabajadores mexicanos que ayudaron a los agricultores durante la falta de trabajo rural durante la Segunda Guerra Mundial. Aprendan mientras observan artefactos y fotografías.
Sala comunitaria. Tualatin Library. Gratis.
Sábado 10 de octubre de 2 a 3 p.m.

"Aztec Eagles" film screening at Garden Home Community Library

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage month, Garden Home Community Library is hosting a screening and presentation by historian, author and filmmaker Sig Unander about the “Aztec Eagles.” 

Tuesday, Sept. 29 at 7 p.m.
Garden Home Community Library
Free, refreshments provided

This documentary film tells the story of the legendary “Aztec Eagle” pilots of Fighter Squadron 201, the only Mexican military unit ever to serve outside of that country. Created by special accord between Presidents Franklin Roosevelt and Manuel Avila Camacho, the elite unit of bilingual aviators and ground personnel helped American forces liberate the Philippines during World War II. The pilots’ exploits were highly publicized; they became national heroes in Mexico and symbols of bi-national solidarity. Their unit was decorated by the governments of all three countries for valor in the cause of freedom and its members honored by the president of each nation.

The documentary was filmed over a three-year period in Mexico, the Republic of the Philippines and the United States. It blends rare archival footage of the unit in training and in the Far East with present-day interviews with squadron veterans, their families and historians in the three countries. Among its memorable segments is one that features the late Captain Reynaldo Perez Gallardo, a fighter pilot who flew with the unit in the war, viewing the remnants of the squadron’s old airfield in the Philippines after 60 years.

The film has several Northwest connections: two individuals interviewed in the film – Philippine Army veteran Alejandro De la Rosa and American pilot Lt. Colonel Howard Tuman who helped train the Mexican pilots – resided in Oregon. The film’s technical advisor/researcher, Sig Unander, is a Portland area writer. The National Combat History Archives in Hillsboro donated rare historical film footage and the Tillamook Naval Air Station Museum provided the use of a rare P-47 Thunderbolt fighter aircraft.

The film’s producer/director Victor Mancilla, a native of Mexico City, owner of Eravision Productions of Los Angeles, previously produced or directed documentaries with Hollywood stars including Kelly Hu, Anthony Hopkins and acclaimed actor Edward James Olmos, who introduces and narrates part of The Forgotten Eagles. “This is a positive story of Mexico partnering with the United States and the Allies to help liberate the Philippines, a former sister colony to Mexico. It is also a dramatic personal narrative, told firsthand by those who lived it,” he said.

Reminder: New wccls.org Launches September 15

Image via PlaceIt

The new, mobile-friendly WCCLS website will debut Tuesday, September 15. Some links within our website will change at that time, so you may need to update your bookmarks.

No interruption of service is expected, and the online library catalog and your account will not change.  Once live, please contact us via the contact form with any questions about locating a service or resource.

Survey: Tell us about your child's super summer with summer reading!

Did enjoy a super summer with your child this year through the Summer Reading Program?

Fill out the Super Reader Survey to tell us all about it in four short questions! 

The survey is English and Spanish.

Libraries closed on Labor Day

All WCCLS member libraries will be closed on Monday, September 7th in observance of Labor Day.

Image via PlaceIt

Want to check out a book but the library's closed? Download e-books and audiobooks to your smartphone, tablet and more - 24/7!

If you have any questions, please contact your local WCCLS library. 

Washington County 2016 Community Cultural Participation Grant Opportunity

The Cultural Coalition of Washington County (CCWC) opens its grant cycle on Tuesday, September 1st.  Washington County based not-for-profit arts, heritage and humanities organizations are encouraged to apply for grants to be used during calendar year 2016. Organizations may apply for grants of up to $1,000 or $2,000. To apply for a $2,000 grant, an organization must be a 501(C)3 non-profit.

A strong grant application will address priorities of promoting cultural diversity, developing community and/or cross-cultural partnerships, providing matching-fund or cost-sharing. Proposals should be geared toward a specific event, activity or communication of the organization.

Applicants to this grant program can apply for activities or opportunities that address one or more of these five goals:

1. Public Awareness, Audience Building and Participation: Marketing and promotion
2. Support Existing Cultural Organizations: Professional development and capacity building
3. Increase Public Art Opportunities: Installations with high impact and/or educational purpose
4. Support Cultural and Heritage Learning: Education and cultural learning programs/participation
5. Increase Youth Access to the Arts: School-based arts and cultural opportunities and arts awareness  

The Washington County Cultural Plan, detailed 2016 Grant Guidelines, and application instructions for the Community Cultural Participation grant program are available online on the CCWC website. Application are submitted online only through the Regional Arts & Culture Council’s grant application site.

The grant application period ends October 12th at 5pm. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to attend the grant orientation session scheduled for:

Wednesday, September 9, 2015, 4:30-6:00 pm
Hillsboro Public Library – Main  Library Board Room (second floor)
2850 NE Brookwood Parkway, Hillsboro 97124

The CCWC was established in 2005 to distribute funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust to promote the cultural identity, quality of life and economic vitality of Washington County and its arts, heritage and humanities organizations. The Coalition has distributed over $385,000 in grants to Washington County based organizations over the last 10 years.

The Oregon Cultural Trust was established by the Oregon Legislature to strengthen Oregon’s culture through the establishment of a permanent endowment. The Trust primarily receives funding from the sale of Cultural license plates and from gifts from individuals and businesses through an Oregon State tax credit program. The Trust invests a portion of proceeds from the endowment in annual grants to Oregon counties and tribal groups, funding for statewide cultural agencies, and competitive grants to cultural non-profits. To learn more about the Trust or to make a donation please visit the website.

Announcing a new WCCLS website in September

WCCLS will be launching a new-and-improved website on September 15.  The new wccls.org is:

1. Mobile-friendly.  Over 30% of WCCLS website visitors come by mobile devices.  With the new website, no matter if you’re using a desktop or a mobile phone, content will automatically resize for easy reading.
2. Clean and uncluttered.  The new website was designed by the WCCLS in-house web team, with a focus on simplicity and accessibility.   
3. Easy to navigate.  The web team used input from library users through in-person and online studies (more than 300 responses—thank you!) to make it easier to find the content you need.

No interruption of service is expected, and the online library catalog will not change.  We look forward to serving you better through the new wccls.org!

"Your Own Business" series at Beaverton City Library

Starting Your Own Business: 
Feasibility & Business Plans

Tuesday, September 8, 6-7:30 p.m.
Beaverton City Library Meeting Room A
Registration is optional.

Curious about starting your own business? Learn more about what to consider before taking the leap, as well as some tips for getting started writing your business plan. Presented by Analizza Lambino of the Small Business Administration's Portland District Office and Portland Community College's Small Business Development Center.


Marketing 101 for Small Business
Tuesday, September 22, 6-7:30 p.m.
Beaverton City Library Meeting Room A

Registration is optional. To register call the SCORE office at (503) 326-5211.

This class will provide an overview of marketing basics with an emphasis on low cost marketing ideas including an overview of social media options.

Tualatin Library extends hours on Friday

The Tualatin Public Library will extend hours on Friday, July 31, until 9pm to serve as a "cooling center." The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for the Portland-metro area through Friday night, with forecasted highs of 100 degrees.

The Tualatin Library normally closes at 6pm on Friday through Sunday but is open until 9 pm on Monday through Thursday. For more information, call 503-691-3074 or visit online.

The Juanita Pohl Center is another Tualatin location where residents without air conditioning can find some relief. The JPC will be open regular hours on Thursday and Friday: 8 am - 5 pm. The JPC is located at 8513 SW Tualatin Rd. (inside Community Park). For more information, call 503-691-3061.

Heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year and claiming more lives each year than floods, lightning, tornadoes and hurricanes combined. The most vulnerable individuals are those who work or exercise outdoors, adults over 65, infants and children under four, the homeless or poor, and people with chronic medical conditions.

Washington County Public Health advises taking precautions to avoid heat-related health issues, including staying hydrated, staying in an air-conditioned indoor location as much as possible, and avoiding strenuous activities. For more info: http://www.co.washington.or.us/hhs/news/heatwave-june-2015.cfm.

Partners in Diversity Survey

Partners in Diversity is seeking minorities who are unemployed or underemployed to take an online survey (located in the purple section of their homepage).  The survey is available in several languages.

Click here to participate in the survey

The nonprofit organization is collecting data in an effort to help minorities and English Language Learners overcome barriers to living wage jobs in the greater Portland area. Your participation is appreciated!

Partners in Diversity is an affiliate of the Portland Business Alliance Charitable Institute, whose mission is to partner with Oregon and SW Washington member employers to attract and retain professionals of color.

North Plains Public Library open more hours

Thanks to funding from the Washington County Cooperative Library Services and approval of the 2015-2016 budget by the North Plains City Council, the North Plains Library will be open 50 hours each week - one hour earlier each weekday and Saturday and eight summer Sunday afternoons.  Visit early and visit often!

Monday-Wednesday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Thursday-Friday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday:10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. (July 12, 19, 26 and August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30)

Scheduled Maintenance for Online Resources

Our authentication system for online resources will be undergoing routine maintenance on Sunday.  As part of this upgrade, you may experience a brief period of downtime from 9:00 pm on Saturday, July 11, through 3:00 am on Sunday, July 12.

You will still have access to our online catalog and e-books during that time.

Hillsboro Main Library closing early on July 17

The Oregon International Air Show is happening July 16-19, next door to the Hillsboro Main Library.  Since major roads around the library will be closed during parts of the show, the Hillsboro Main Library will close at 6pm on Friday, July 17. 

The library will be open regular hours on Saturday (10am-6pm) and Sunday (12-6pm). The Shute Park Branch will be open normal hours throughout the weekend.

Brookwood Parkway will be closed between Cornell Road and Dawson Creek Parkway during the following times:

• Thursday, July 16: 11am-3:45pm
• Friday, July 17: 10:30am-3:45pm and 7-10:30pm
• Saturday, July 18: 10:30am-5pm
• Sunday, July 19: 10:30am-5pm

Traffic will be allowed to access the Library from the north during the road closures, but expect extensive delays.

Tigard Library Installs Automated System to Check in Items Faster

The Tigard Library has a new automated check-in system:

NEW Tigard Public Library AMH from Tigard Library on Vimeo.

“We are excited about this new system,” said Library Director Margaret Barnes.  “By checking in items faster, we’ll be able to get them off people’s accounts and back on the shelf quicker so that other patrons can check them out.  Our goal is to increase customer satisfaction and confidence.”
   
In 2014, checking in items manually required about 190 hours a week.  The new system will check in up to 2,500 items per hour.  It reads the radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag to determine what type of material it is, and then sorts it into the correct bin for re-shelving. 

The Tigard Library is the third library in Washington County to install an automated check-in system, along with Hillsboro and Beaverton.

Free online access to Chilton auto repair information

WCCLS now offers online access to Chilton’s trusted auto repair information. 

Log in with your library card to use this extensive resource from anywhere you have internet access. 

Visit wccls.org/chilton to get started!

Library closures for July 4th weekend

Please note that WCCLS libraries will be closed during the July 4th weekend.

Friday, July 3
The following libraries are closed:

• Banks Public Library
• Forest Grove City Library
• Oregon College of Art & Craft
• Sherwood Public Library
• Tuality Health Resource Center
• West Slope Community Library

Saturday, July 4
All WCCLS member libraries will be closed in observance of Independence Day.

Sunday, July 5
Hillsboro Library Shute Park Branch will be closed.
The following libraries are also regularly closed on Sundays:

• Banks Public Library
• Forest Grove City Library
• Garden Home Community Library
• North Plains Public Library
• Oregon College of Art & Craft
• Tuality Health Resource Center
• West Slope Community Library

Please check our schedule for your library's normal operating hours.

Our online resources and e-book digital collections are always available. Have a safe and fun Fourth of July!

Beat the Heat: Stay Cool at Your Local Library

Looking for inside activities this weekend?  Escape the heat, and enjoy the free air conditioning at our fifteen WCCLS member libraries.  Each library has a cool assortment of activities to enjoy during a heat wave. Relax in a comfortable chair and experience a great summer read, attend one of our many programs designed to entertain and educate, or just browse our amazing collection.  With over 1.6 million items available countywide, you are sure to find something you like!

Extended hours: The Tualatin Public Library will keep entire library open extended hours, until 8:30 pm on Friday, June 26 and Saturday, June 27.

All other WCCLS member libraries will be open regular hours.  See our calendar of events for cool entertainment during this warm weekend.

Visit Evergreen Wings & Waves Waterpark for FREE this Summer

The Cultural Pass to Adventure is adding something new this summer.

Available now through September 7, you can reserve a one-day Summer Boarding Pass Membership to visit the Evergreen Wings & Waves Waterpark.

The Evergreen Wings & Waves Waterpark features a wave pool and 10 waterslides, including one that starts in a real Boeing 747 aircraft on the roof!  Waterpark visitors will also learn about the power of water through hands-on educational exhibits in the Waterpark museum.

The Waterpark Summer Boarding Pass Membership admits two individuals into the Evergreen Wings & Waves Waterpark.  No other attractions on the Evergreen campus are included.  For more information, please read the small print.

Reserve the Waterpark Pass and grab your swimsuit!

Library Staff Member Awarded Prestigious Reforma Scholarship

Araceli Acosta is one of two proud recipients of a 2015 REFORMA Scholarship, awarded annually by the National Association to Promote Library and Information Services to Latinos and the Spanish-Speaking. Araceli was awarded the Rose Treviño Memorial Scholarship for her dedication to serving Hispanic communities at the library and beyond. In addition to working at Beaverton City Library and North Plains Public Library, she is excited to begin her first semester of school at San Jose State University in the Fall.

"Araceli’s greatest motivation and fulfillment comes from assisting Spanish-speaking library patrons, particularly parents, to obtain the information and tools needed to help their children succeed in school and in life,” says Debra Brodie, Library Director at North Plains Public Library.  “It is most fitting that she has been selected to receive the memorial scholarship honoring Rose Treviño.  In her spirit, Araceli is also a passionate and dedicated advocate for youth and a superior role-model, particularly for Spanish-speakers."

Victoria Campbell, Youth Services Manager at Beaverton City Library, adds “Araceli has worked or volunteered in libraries for over ten years.  She has served our Youth Services division since May 2014.  She brings creativity, enthusiasm, and eagerness to her work with teens.  After one month in her new position as Reference Assistant, she started asking about library school.  We are so excited to see her choose the librarian career path!”

Established in 1971 as an affiliate of the American Library Association (ALA), REFORMA actively seeks to promote the recruitment of more bilingual and bicultural library professionals and support staff. To learn more about REFORMA services and lobbying efforts, please visit www.reforma.org.

Summer Reading Proclamation signed by Washington County Board of Commissioners

The Washington County Board of Commissioners signed a proclamation this week declaring the importance of Summer Reading at WCCLS libraries. Super Reader and WCCLS director Eva Calcagno championed the proclamation, along with Super Readers from the County.  The Board of Commissioners joined the fun by donning Super Reader gear and encouraging all residents to sign up at their libraries!

WHEREAS, WCCLS and its 15 member libraries annually offer Summer Reading Programs with activities for children, teens and adults to engage, educate and entertain residents of all ages; and...

WHEREAS, the theme for the 2015 Summer Reading Program is, "Every Hero has a Story," which encourages readers to read about all types of heroes - mythical, graphical, literary, imaginary, or actual every-day heroes;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that on this 16th day of June, 2015, the Washington County Board of Commissioners encourages residents of all ages to visit their public libraries, to participate in the annual Summer Reading Program and become reading superheroes in their own right; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a County of Super Readers is a County that is informed, engaged, and better prepared to face the challenges of the future.

Read the full proclamation.

The Truths We Hold: A Free Conversation at the Tualatin Public Library

If the Constitution of the United States speaks to the head, the Declaration of Independence speaks to the heart and to the body; if the Constitution is prose, the Declaration is poetry. What does the Declaration of Independence have to offer us as twenty-first century Americans? What does it mean to have a right to pursue happiness? And how might we think about—and use—the Declaration to improve the state of our Republic?

Join the Tualatin Public Library for “The Truths We Hold: The Poetry and Lessons of the Declaration of Independence,” a free conversation with Wendy Willis.

Thursday, July 2, 7:00 p.m.

Tualatin Public Library

Hosted by the Tualatin Public Library and sponsored by Oregon Humanities

Willis is a poet, essayist, and national leader in civic engagement and collaborative governance. She serves as executive director of the Policy Consensus Initiative, a national nonprofit organization housed at Portland State University and devoted to improving democratic governance. Her first book of poems, Blood Sisters of the Republic, was released in 2012.

Through the Conversation Project, Oregon Humanities offers free programs that engage community members in thoughtful, challenging conversations about ideas critical to our daily lives and our state's future.

Download audiobooks with 3M Cloud Library

You can now download audiobooks using 3M Cloud Library! We have added over 1000 titles for readers and listeners of all ages, and will be adding new titles each month.

If you don’t feel you have time to read, but miss having books in your life, you may find audiobooks to be a great alternative! Listen to books in the car, at the gym, or while you’re doing chores around the house.

Audiobooks are just as easy to use in 3M Cloud as e-books. While the initial download can be a little slow (expect around 20 minutes), once the audiobook is on your device, you can listen to it without internet access.

We have audiobook shelves on the Featured section of the 3M Cloud app that you can browse. You can also swipe from the right of the screen to see the option to filter titles by format.

Download the 3M Cloud Library app to your Apple or Android device to get started.

Summer Reading begins at WCCLS libraries!

Stop by one of our libraries to sign up for Summer Reading 2015.  There's something for everyone!

Little Kids:  Summer Reading is a perfect early reading adventure for babies, toddlers and pre-readers. It's never too early to get kids hooked on books! Visit a library storytime to sign up, and learn more here.

Big Kids and Teens: There are great events throughout the summer, and prizes for readers who meet their summer reading goals - as well as prizes just for signing up! Choose your age group here.

Adults: Once again this year summer reading for adults means finding great book suggestions in your inbox, sharing your reads, prizes for book lovers, and events at your local library. We encourage you to sign-up online and check out the calendar of great events we have lined up for adults.

We look forward to seeing readers of all ages this summer in the library and online!