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.

Saturday, December 23

• Aloha Community Library - closed

Sunday, December 24

• Aloha Community Library - regular closure
• Banks Public Library  - regular closure
• Beaverton City Library and Murray Scholls Branch  - closed
• Cedar Mill Community Library and Bethany Branch  - closed
• Cornelius Public Library - closed
• Forest Grove City Library  - regular closure
• Garden Home Community Library - closing at 3:00pm
• Hillsboro Brookwood Library and Shute Park Library  - closed
• North Plains Public Library - regular closure
• Oregon College of Art & Craft  - regular closure
• Sherwood Public Library - closed
• Tuality Healthcare Library  - regular closure
• West Slope Community Library - regular closure

Monday, December 25

• All libraries closed

Tuesday, December 26

• Banks Public Library - closed
• Hillsboro Brookwood Library and Shute Park Library - closing at 6:00pm

Sunday, December 31

• Aloha Community Library - regular closure
• Banks Public Library  - regular closure
• Beaverton City Library and Murray Scholls Branch  - closed
• Forest Grove City Library  - regular closure
• Hillsboro Brookwood Library and Shute Park Library  - close at 4:00pm
• North Plains Public Library - regular closure
• Oregon College of Art & Craft  - regular closure
• Tuality Healthcare Library  - regular closure
• West Slope Community Library - regular closure

Monday, January 1

• All libraries closed

Tuesday, January 2

• Hillsboro Brookwood Library and Shute Park Library  - close at 6:00pm

2018 Teen Summer Reading Art Contest

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 2018 Teen Summer Reading program materials across Washington County, including posters, bookmarks, flyers and more.

Winners also receive gift cards for Amazon.com:
First Place: $200
Second Place: $100
Third Place: $50

New for 2018:
Digital artwork submissions accepted! Enter the contest online, or visit any WCCLS library to drop off your entry.

Submissions will be accepted starting Monday, January 8, 2018, and the last day to submit your entry is Monday, February 12, 2018. 

Click here to get all of the contest details and the entry form.

Winners will be announced at the beginning of April. 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. 22	Thursday Nov. 23	Friday Nov. 24	Saturday Nov. 25
Aloha	Normal Hours	Closed	Normal Hours	Normal Hours
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	Normal Hours	Closed	Closed	Normal Hours
Forest Grove	Normal Hours	Closed	Closed	Closed
Garden Home	Closing at 3:00	Closed	Normal Hours	Normal Hours
Hillsboro	Closing at 4:00	Closed	Normal Hours	Normal Hours
Hillsboro Shute Park	Closing at 4:00	Closed	Normal Hours	Normal Hours
North Plains	Closing at 5:00	Closed	Normal Hours	Normal Hours
Oregon College of Art and Craft	Normal Hours	Closed	Closed	Usual Closure
Sherwood	Normal Hours	Closed	Closed	Normal Hours
Tigard	Normal Hours	Closed	Normal Hours	Normal Hours
Tualatin	Closing at 6:00	Closed	Normal Hours	Normal Hours
Tuality Health Resource Center	Closing at 3:00	Closed	Closed	Usual Closure
West Slope	Closing at 4:00	Closed	Normal Hours	Normal Hours

Library Closures for Veterans Day

Most, but not all, WCCLS member libraries will be closing in observance of Veterans Day: on Friday, November 10, or Saturday, November 11, 2017.

Libraries closed Friday, November 10:
Cedar Mill Community Library
Cedar Mill Community Library @ Bethany
Cornelius Public Library
Forest Grove City Library
Sherwood Public Library
West Slope Community Library
WCCLS offices & courier services

Libraries closed Saturday, November 11:
Aloha Community Library
Banks Public Library
Beaverton City Library
Beaverton City Library @ Murray Scholls
Forest Grove City Library
Garden Home Community Library
North Plains Public Library
Sherwood Public Library
Tigard Public Library

Libraries open both days:
Hillsboro Brookwood Library
Hillsboro Shute Park Library
Tualatin Public Library

Best Practices for Protecting your Devices

As you may have heard, a WI-FI security vulnerability was announced last weekend. It is called KRACK, and there are simple steps you can take to protect your devices.

These steps are also general best practices for the security of your devices and personal information.

• Update your device, operating system, and browser to the latest versions
• Try not to interact with personal information while on open Wi-Fi networks, such as online banking or shopping.
• Most websites that ask for personal information, such as banking sites, use HTTPS. HTTPS can protect you from this vulnerability. Most browsers will tell you the site is using HTTPS with a little padlock. 
  
• You might also consider installing an HTTPS Everywhere extension on your browser.

The WCCLS website and library catalog both use HTTPS to keep your personal information secure.

More information about KRACK can be found on PCWorld, CNET, and TechCrunch.

Help us organize the research section of the WCCLS website!

Do you have a spare 5-10 minutes to help with the WCCLS website? 

Participate in an online card sort

The purpose of a card sort is to help us organize content on our website in a meaningful way, so that people can navigate it quickly and easily.  We want to improve the use of the Research section of our website, and the information you provide will help create the structure of the improved section.

During the card sort, you will be given a set of online cards to organize in a way that seems logical to you. There are no “right answers” in a card sort, but as a group we can see trends that will inform the navigation of our website.  The survey will close October 27.  Your participation is greatly appreciated!

Sherwood Public Library wins national grant for $5000

Getting advice on good books is going to get a lot easier in Sherwood. Thanks to a grant from LibraryAware and NoveList, Sherwood Public Library is launching a new service called Book Match @ Sherwood Public Library to help match readers to books they will love.

Library staff have always specialized in recommending books. This national grant for $5000 will allow Sherwood Public Library to take that basic service to the next level to meet the local demand in our community of readers. Readers will be able to submit requests for book recommendations via online and paper forms in English and Spanish, in addition to in person and over the phone. Librarians will deliver customized list of recommendations designed to suit individual interests and preferences, reading levels and desired formats.

More than 50 libraries submitted proposals for the Engaging Readers at Your Public Library Grant. The two other winners are Chatham-Kent Public Library (Ontario) and Dallas Public Library (Texas). Part of what made the Sherwood grant request so competitive was the growing success and high participation rates in the local Adult Summer Reading program and book clubs, and how the proposal fit into the library’s new Strategic Plan. Through a process that began in Fall 2016 with Library staff, community forum members and Library Advisory Board members, three key strategic directions emerged as service priorities for the next three years. The top goal relates directly to reading: The library inspires and facilitates reading, viewing and listening for pleasure.

A design firm, ZOnion Creative Group, which specializes in working with non-profits and libraries, has created the Book Match logo and will design more marketing materials, including a comprehensive recommendations booklet that will be ready in time for Summer Reading. Book Match @ Sherwood Public Library will soft-launch this Winter and have the full range of services implemented by Spring.

Interactive Workshop and Discussion at Tualatin Library

How can we prepare ourselves so that we are not caught off guard when we see public harassment or hear racist or insensitive comments? Building a more supportive community by interrupting everyday incidents, often takes skills that many of us don’t feel we have. This interactive workshop can provide you with tools that help prepare you to interrupt or de-escalate such situations when they are happening.

Wednesday, October 11
7:00-8:30 p.m.
Tualatin Public Library
Free

You will be trained to recognize harassment directed at yourself or others, and be given choices as to how to respond. Scenarios will be discussed including helping others who are being victimized as well as ideas on self-protection. Discussion and role-plays will be utilized.

This workshop is presented by the Human Rights Council of Washington County (HRC). Facilitators will be Rob Solomon, retired mental health clinician and past president of HRC, and Peg Pfab, Secretary of HRC.

Garden Home Community Sustainability & Repair Fair

Garden Home Community Library is hosting its 7th annual Sustainability Fair.

Friday, October 13, 5:00-7:30PM
THPRD Garden Home Community Rec Center Gym
FREE and open to the public

The event is family-friendly, with topics of interest for everyone: parents or retired, apartment dwellers or homeowners.

• Repair Fair: Sign up ahead of time and bring up to two broken items for volunteers to fix 
• Test drive a Nissan Leaf: valid driver’s license required
• Hosiery recycling station: Bring in your old stockings (any condition) to donate to Recycled Crafts
• Learn from nineteen green living exhibitors, including new ones for this year: ecoShuttle, H2O at Home, Portland Urban Beekeepers, Reduce Your Waste Project, Umpqua Bank, and Victory Seed Company

New Cornelius Library Groundbreaking

Librarians, local officials, and the public enjoyed a fun circus-themed ceremonial groundbreaking for Cornelius Place on Saturday, September 23.

Cornelius Place is a multi-use development that will house the expanded Cornelius Public Library, as well as a community convening space, a YMCA center, and 45 affordable apartments for adults age 55 and older. The new library will provide a variety of services to support children, families, and seniors, including pre-reading and early education programs, student success programs, and adult education. Learn more at hud.gov.

The Groundbreaking program included remarks from:

Cornelius Mayor Jef Dalin and his wife, Janel

• The Honorable Jef Dalin, Mayor, City of Cornelius
• The Honorable Suzanne Bonamici, Congresswoman, 1st District, U.S. House of Representatives
• The Honorable Susan McLain, Representative, 29th District, Oregon House of Representatives
• Kathryn Harrington, Representative, District 4, Oregon Metro
• Alison Lorig, Senior Vice President, BRIDGE Housing Corporation
• Nathan Teske, Executive Director, Bienestar
• Emily Leach, SVP & Commercial Team Leader, Heritage Bank
• Karen Hill, Director, Cornelius Public Library

Performers included Aztec
Dancers, Huehca Omeyocan

"There have been many years of effort by many people, which has made this happen," said Washington County Cooperative Library Services Director Eva Calcagno. "I hope the event reinvigorates community support for its library and fosters community."

Learn more about supporting this project.

New Library Card options in honor of National Library Card Sign-up Month

WCCLS libraries offer library cards that fit a variety of needs. Most registered patrons have General cards. This is the card we prefer to issue as we want all residents to have full access to library services and collections. But one size does not fit all.

In the last few years, the E-access card has become more popular for school students. In partnership with a school, students are registered for WCCLS E-access cards which provide access to electronic resources only – research databases and e-books. This is useful for schools that issue students tablet computers to complete classroom and homework assignments. WCCLS began offering online registration for E-access cards for all residents through our website this September.

Another new option that WCCLS offers is a Youth Access card. Youth Access cards are designed for children up to 17 years old, and in addition to providing access to electronic resources, the Youth Access card will allow up to five checkouts of books or audiobooks as well. It is designed to fill the gap between E-access only and a full service General card. It’s a Goldilocks card – not too restrictive, not too open, but just right for many children and students, and for families that want their children to have access to library materials but are concerned about limiting potential costs if materials are lost.

WCCLS Director Eva Calcagno said, “We are rolling out these new options as part of our five-year levy plan to reduce barriers to library access and improve and expand services that support children and learning. We know that an essential ‘back to school’ supply is an active public library card!”

Celebrate National Library Card Sign-up Month by visiting your library to get a card for everyone in your family!

New! Apply online for an E-Access Library Card

WCCLS is happy to announce that you can now apply online for an E-Access library card!

What can you do with an E-Access card?

• Download e-books and audiobooks for all ages (no late fees!)
• Learn business, creative, and technology skills, from workplace communication to Photoshop to coding, with Lynda.com
• Immerse yourself in a new language with Mango Languages
• Get live homework help for your child with Brainfuse: HelpNow
• Read the New York Times online
• Find new books to read through Novelist Plus
• Get admission to local destinations through the Cultural Pass to Adventure

Online registration is currently open to Washington County residents who do not currently have a WCCLS library card. If you already have a WCCLS library card, you currently have access to everything listed above!

To check out or place holds on physical items, please visit your library to get a different kind of library card.

Celebrate National Library Card Sign-up Month by applying for a card today!

Cool off at your Library this Labor Day Weekend

An extended period of very hot weather is expected over the next several days in Washington County.

“We urge people to limit their time outdoors if possible, wear loose-fitting and lightweight clothing, drink plenty of water, and stay in air-conditioning as much as they can,” says Washington County Deputy Health Officer Dr. Christina Baumann.

Check your library's hours for this weekend - they all have air conditioning!

In addition to regular hours, North Plains Public Library will be open on Labor Day, 10AM-7PM. Library materials will be available on a self-service basis.

Tualatin Public Library will be open extended hours on Saturday (10AM-7:30PM). Additionally, the Library lobby and Community Room will be open 1-7PM on Monday (Labor Day). Library services will not be available that day. Please call or check their website to confirm extended hours.

Please view a comprehensive list of places to beat the heat this weekend in Washington County from Health and Human Services. Please note that Monday is Labor Day, and many places are closed or have reduced hours.

Representative Bonamici learns more about Growing Early Readers

Representative Suzanne Bonamici visited the Beaverton Library August 29th to learn more about the Bridging Cultures: Growing Early Readers grant project. The project is a partnership between Early Learning Washington County, the Beaverton Library, and WCCLS. The $100,000 Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant was funded by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Family friendly book bags were distributed to local organizations that work with immigrants and refugees. The bags included three levels of developmentally, culturally and linguistically appropriate books in Arabic, Chinese, English, Somali, Spanish or Vietnamese. Also included are wordless picture books and related activities and supplies. More culturally and linguistically diverse books for children and adults will be permanently housed at the Beaverton City Library. The grant goal is to help more children be prepared to enter school ready to read.

WCCLS Program Supervisor Stephanie Lind said “We would like to thank Congresswoman Bonamici for coming to the Beaverton City Library today to learn more about our IMLS grant funded projects. We were thrilled to be able to have our community partners there so that you could hear first-hand about the impact this funding has had on new immigrant and refugee populations in Washington County.”

Libraries closed on Labor Day

All WCCLS member libraries will be closed on Monday, September 4th 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. 

UPDATE: North Plains and Tualatin are open as cooling centers.

Introducing Online Homework Help and More with Brainfuse

We're excited to announce the launch of Brainfuse – on demand, anytime, anywhere eLearning for all ages and levels.

Brainfuse HelpNow™ offers a personalized homework help in core subjects (math, reading, writing, science and social studies) including the SAT preparation. Connect with live tutors online Monday-Sunday, 2pm-11pm.

Brainfuse also includes JobNow™: a host of services to help in every step of the job search process. The JobNow™ service comes with an extensive collection of resources, including resume/cover letter templates, interview tips, general sample interview questions, industry-specific sample interview questions, and a diverse array of online resources and links.

To get started, click the links below with your library card handy:
HelpNow™: wccls.org/brainfusehomework
JobNow™: wccls.org/brainfusejob

Several WCCLS Libraries opening late on Monday, August 21

Aloha Community Library will open at 12 noon.

Cedar Mill Main Library and Cedar Mill @ Bethany will open at 11AM to give staff and volunteers the opportunity to view the eclipse.

Tigard Public Library will open at 10:30AM. Join staff in viewing the eclipse outside the library before opening with free eclipse viewing glasses while supplies last.

Tuality Healthcare Library will be closed all day.

West Slope Library will open at 11AM. They will have eclipse glasses, snacks and crafts for adults and kids on the lawn next to the library starting at 9:30AM.

Stay cool this week at your WCCLS Library

Washington County Public Health is reminding people to take precautions over the next few days to avoid heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

Check your library's hours for this week - they all have air conditioning and many are open until 8PM or later!

Beaverton Main Library will have the lobby and the Cathy Stanton Room open until 9 PM on Friday for people seeking relief from the heat.

Garden Home Community Library has their Annex open Thursday and Friday from 2-5 PM. (Look for the big yellow gnome in the Lamb's Thriftway plaza!) Play Mario Kart on the big screen, color, play board games, or curl up with a good book. All ages welcome.

North Plains Public Library will be open until 9PM on Tuesday through Friday, and will be offering bottled water.

Tualatin Public Library will be open extended hours on Friday (10AM-9PM). They will have cool water available, as well as family-friendly activities. The Tualatin Library is also a free lunch site for youth Monday-Friday (in partnership with the Tigard-Tualatin School District). On Sunday, the lobby and Community Room will open at 10AM; the Library will close at the usual time of 6PM Sunday night.

West Slope Library has a free after-hours event on Friday at 6:30PM. Watch the film Lion while enjoying free refreshments. Free bottled water will also be provided during regular hours on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.

In addition, please see this public health press release for a comprehensive list of places to beat the heat this weekend in Washington County. Washington County will also post any updates to cooling center information.

Tips for Staying Cool:

• Stay in an air-conditioned indoor location as much as possible.
• Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device when it is very hot.
• Avoid strenuous activities in the heat of the day.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature. Find a splash pad or fountain.
• Don’t use your stove, oven, washer or dryer on very hot days. 
• Eat small, light meals.
• Close your blinds and curtains to keep sunlight out.
• If the temperature falls at night and it’s safe to do so, open your windows to let the cool air in.

Stay hydrated:

• Drink plenty of fluids, especially while working or exercising outside.
• Avoid alcohol or sugary beverages.
• Check for symptoms and treatment of heat-related illnesses.

Experience the Solar Eclipse with Your Local Library

For many viewing a total eclipse is a once in a life-time experience. While Washington County will not be in the zone for totality, WCCLS member libraries are pleased to bring the viewing experience to residents through a series of local events. The next solar eclipse won’t be visible in the continental U.S. until 2024 so don’t miss this rare opportunity.

Due to expected increase in travel and traffic leading up to the eclipse, no library materials will be due between August 19-21.

View Eclipse Events on the WCCLS Calendar

Offered August 1 – 21, several programs are designed for all ages and a few are especially created with kids’ activities in mind.

Be sure to check whether the program you’re interested in requires advance registration.

UPDATE: Libraries do NOT have eclipse glasses, unless they are hosting a special event, and then they only have a limited supply. You may try a local retailer to see if they have glasses available for purchase. Find out where in this Oregonian article. Or find out how to make your own viewer with instructions from NASA.

August 1 - 21

Eclipse Book Display
Tigard Public Library
Look for a book display on the 2017 solar eclipse this summer and pick up a free pair of eclipse glasses while supplies last!

August 3

Kid’s Interactive Eclipse
Tualatin Public Library at 11 a.m.
Designed for ages 8-12, come have a ball learning about the eclipse and how to safely view the event. Limited number of free eclipse viewing glasses to be given away.

August 9

Book Discussion: Hidden Figures
Sherwood Public Library at 6 p.m.
Inspired by the eclipse and all things related to the race to the moon, the library is hosting a book discussion of Hidden Figures: the American Dream and the untold story of the African American women mathematicians who helped win the space race, by Margot Lee Shetterly. Join in the lively discussion about this pivotal part of history. The first five to register get a free copy of the book. Registration required – call 503-625-6688.

August 10

Eclipses & Other Occultations
Aloha Community Library at 4:00 p.m.

Join Dr. Roy Torley to discuss solar eclipses, lunar eclipses, eclipses seen from the International Space Station, eclipse chasing, and our very own eclipse. All attendees will receive a free solar eclipse viewer (while supplies last).

August 15 - 21

Eclipse It!
Sherwood Public Library - all day
Join in the activities to celebrate the coming eclipse. Receive information about how to keep your eyes protected while watching the eclipse. Limited supply of eclipse viewing glasses will be available. Explore stations throughout the library with coloring, games and more.

August 16

Eclipses & Other Occultations
Tigard Public Library from 7 - 8:30 p.m.
Dr. Roy Torley will prepare you for the solar eclipse on Monday, Aug. 21, by sharing pictures and short movies of past eclipses of the sun, the moon and on Jupiter and Saturn.

August 20

Make a Pinhole Viewer for the Eclipse
Hillsboro Brookwood Library from 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
Use ordinary household materials to build a pinhole viewer to safely observe the August 21st solar eclipse. Library will provide materials and directions for different types of viewers.

Solar Eclipse Storytime
Hillsboro Shute Park Library from 4 - 5 p.m.
Have fun learning what will happen on August 21st and receive a pair of viewing glasses (while supplies last) to safely look at the sun during the eclipse.

August 21

Solar Eclipse Viewing
Hillsboro Shute Park Library from 9 – 11 a.m.
Join in this rare opportunity to view a solar eclipse. Gather at the plaza where you can enjoy the eclipse with viewing glasses provided (while supplies last) to make it safe to watch.

Solar Eclipse Viewing
Beaverton City Library Main, South Lawn from 9:45 -10:30 a.m.
Watch the eclipse with special viewing glasses on the library front lawn!  Glasses provided only for those registered for this event. This eclipse will only be visible on a narrow track stretching across the United States from Oregon to South Carolina. Beaverton will not experience a total eclipse (totality). Designed for ages 4-12 years with adult. Registration required; register online or call 503-350-3600.

Oregon’s Eclipse
Tualatin Public Library at 10 a.m.
Join as we safely view the eclipse! The library will provide glasses (limited supply) free of charge that will allow you to safely view the eclipse. Designed for all ages.

Eclipse Party
West Slope Library at 10 a.m.
Join in the eclipse viewing party. Glasses provided (limited supply) for safe viewing. All ages are welcome.

Eclipse Craft
Bethany Library from 11 a.m. - noon
After viewing the total solar eclipse make a paper eclipse craft to reenact this amazing event again and again! All ages welcome.

Cedar Mill Bethany Library turns 10!

Happy Birthday, Bethany Library!

The week of July 10-14 marks the Cedar Mill Bethany Library’s 10th Anniversary. Celebrate the library’s 10th birthday all week long!

Stop by the library to sign a giant birthday card and take part in all the activities planned for the week:

• Tuesday, July 11 – Birthday Themed Family Storytime at 10:30AM or 11:30AM
• Wednesday, July 12 – Bethany Evening Market, 6-8:30PM
• Thursday, July 13 – Bethany Village Summer Concert, 6-9:30PM featuring Steve Hale and The Super Soul Heroes and 10th Anniversary craft for kids
• Friday, July 14 – Cupcakes will be served outside the library from 11AM – 12PM and drop-in birthday bookmark craft for kids

Library Closures for Independence Day - July 4, 2017

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

Libraries will return to their regular schedules July 5. Please check our schedule for your library's hours.

Our online resources and digital library are always available.

Have a safe and fun Fourth of July!

Cool off at your WCCLS Library this weekend

Washington County Public Health is reminding people to take precautions over the next few days to avoid heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

“If your home doesn’t have air conditioning, find a place to stay cool. Consider visiting a library or indoor shopping mall to get away from the heat,” says Deputy Health Officer Dr. Christina Baumann. “Also, please remember to check on any vulnerable neighbors.”

Check your library's hours for this weekend - they all have air conditioning!

Tualatin Public Library will be open extended hours on Saturday (10AM-9PM) and Sunday (1PM-9PM).

In addition, please see this public health press release for a comprehensive list of places to beat the heat this weekend in Washington County. Washington County will also post any updates to cooling center information.

Tips for Staying Cool:

• Stay in an air-conditioned indoor location as much as possible.
• Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device when it is very hot.
• Avoid strenuous activities in the heat of the day.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature. Find a splash pad or fountain.
• Don’t use your stove, oven, washer or dryer on very hot days. 
• Eat small, light meals.
• Close your blinds and curtains to keep sunlight out.
• If the temperature falls at night and it’s safe to do so, open your windows to let the cool air in.

Stay hydrated:

• Drink plenty of fluids, especially while working or exercising outside.
• Avoid alcohol or sugary beverages.
• Check for symptoms and treatment of heat-related illnesses.

Fine rates changing for Adult and Young Adult materials

WCCLS is pleased to announce that fine rates for Young Adult and Adult materials in all formats will become 25¢ per day effective July 1, 2017.

As WCCLS Director Eva Calcagno noted, “WCCLS member libraries have undertaken this change to simplify the policy - charging one rate of 25¢ per day for Young Adult and Adult materials, regardless of format – books, CDs, DVDs, etc. Fine rates for print and recorded materials had not been adjusted since 2003 and the video fine rate has been the same since the 1980's.”

This change is step two in a two-part process to adjust overdue fine rates for all patrons. WCCLS implemented a new no-fine policy for all children’s (juvenile) material materials on June 1 of this year.

What is not changing is that WCCLS will continue to bill patrons for replacement charges for all materials that are never returned, or are lost or damaged.

For more information, read here.

Banks Public Library begins Community Room construction

Banks Public Library began construction of the Jane Moore Community Room on June 1.

During construction, several traffic, parking, and building entry changes will occur:

• Driveway closed to through traffic
• Parking is on Market Street or the center spaces in the adjacent church parking lot
• Library entrance is the south lobby door, from Market Street
• Book drops are not available. During closed hours, library materials may be returned to any WCCLS library.

The Library will be open regular hours, with some short-term closures and noise. Construction hours are 7:00AM to 4:00PM. Construction is scheduled to be completed by mid-October.

Update: The Banks Library will be closed August 7-12. Check their website for additional updates.

Library Closures for Memorial Day, 5/29/17

All WCCLS member libraries will be closed
Monday, May 29, in observance of Memorial Day.

All of our online resources and e-books are available!

Have a safe and relaxing Memorial Day.

Foster Care 101 discussion at Cedar Mill Library

About 7,500 children are in foster care in Oregon on any given day.  Join experts from different organizations, as well as a foster family, to discuss the current state of foster care in Oregon and the many different ways in which we can help kids in our community.

Whether you just want a better understanding of how foster care works or you’re ready to help, National Foster Care Month is the perfect time to learn more!

This discussion will be held on Wednesday, May 24, at 6:30 PM, in the Cedar Mill Library.

We are reorganizing our digital library to expand our collections!

On June 14, WCCLS will move out of the Oregon Digital Library Consortium (Library2Go) into our own OverDrive collection so we can better serve digital readers in Washington County. We are also moving the e-books and all audiobooks currently in Cloud Library over to our OverDrive platform, where we will continue to grow our digital library going forward.

If you use OverDrive now, starting June 14 you will need to update your bookmarks, and/or re-login to OverDrive or Libby apps, choosing WCCLS as your library rather than Library2Go. The tried and true OverDrive app has features you’ve come to expect, the new Libby app from OverDrive offers a new, easy-to-use interface. Both the Libby and OverDrive apps will provide access to the same great WCCLS digital collections.

Additionally, we will retire our Cloud Library platform on June 15. If you have holds on titles in Cloud Library that you don’t think you will read by June 13, please log into your OverDrive account and place new holds on those same titles using OverDrive. If you haven’t used OverDrive before, here is how to get started.

With these changes, you will see wait times for popular titles go down, limits for your holds and checkouts will go up, and we look forward to being able to offer expanded collection options for patrons of all ages.  If you have questions or need assistance, please send us a message or learn more here.

Grant awarded for new healthcare e-books

WCCLS extends its sincere appreciation to the Samuel S. Johnson Foundation for the generous grant of $1,000.

We chose to use the funds to boost our digital library to include titles that match the Samuel S. Johnson Foundation’s mission of supporting nursing students, and improving access to health care for rural residents.

Our digital library of downloadable e-books provide 24/7 access to information for residents of Washington County and use of e-books is increasing dramatically. They are particularly useful to residents who may not be able to access the library during open hours, due to their work or school schedules, or lack of transportation options.

Check out the 35 titles we were able to purchase in OverDrive thanks to the foundation.

Fine free children's materials beginning June 1

WCCLS wants all children to use the library, explore library collections and participate in summer reading!

In order to help families and reduce barriers to library use,  WCCLS is eliminating overdue fines on children’s materials beginning June 1.

This coincides with the kick-off of the annual Summer Reading Program.

For more information read here.

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

Washington County elections officials are encouraging voters to mail 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 May 11 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 May 16.

Many ballot drop sites are inside or outside of WCCLS libraries. Check the list to find one near you!

Exploring Religious Differences Conversation at Tualatin Public Library

Religion is a topic traditionally not discussed in mixed company. But what do we lose when we avoid exploring our religious differences? Oregon is among the states in the US where people are most likely to identify as religiously unaffiliated. Many Oregonians have spiritual practices that both align with and transcend institutional definitions. Others filter strongly held values through religious traditions and frameworks. What are the tools we use to talk about religion without dismissing others’ beliefs or flattening the beautiful and sometimes harrowing complexities of our experiences?

This is the focus of:
“In Good Faith: Exploring Religious Difference in Oregon,”
a free conversation with Elizabeth Harlan-Ferlo.
Wednesday, May 10, 7:00 pm
Tualatin Public Library

Harlan-Ferlo has created extensive curricula on religion and intercultural competency and served for nine years as an Episcopal school lay chaplain. She is trained in facilitation for community, conflict, and collaboration with a creative arts focus. Elizabeth holds an MFA from the University of Oregon and her poetry has been published in many literary journals, including Fourteen Hills, Anglican Theological Review, and Tupelo Quarterly. She hosts the Eavesdrop podcast and curates the Artists in Conversation Series for Interfaith Muse.

This program is hosted by the Tualatin Public Library and sponsored by Oregon Humanities. 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.

WCCLS receives two Oregon Library Association awards

This year the Oregon Library Association (OLA) recognized two Washington County Cooperative Library Services (WCCLS) affiliates at their annual conference in Salem on April 21.

WCCLS Director, Eva Calcagno expressed, “it is with great pleasure that WCCLS joins OLA in recognizing both Martín Blasco and the Aloha Community Library Association. We are honored that they represent WCCLS and offer wonderful symbols of the tremendous impact of libraries life-long learning on the diverse residents of our County.”

OLA presented its 2017 Librarian of the Year Award to Martín Blasco, WCCLS Outreach Librarian for Latino and Multicultural Services. This award is presented to an Oregon Librarian for exceptional service and Blasco has made many contributions through his service to member libraries and their communities.

The Association recognized Mr. Blasco for his outstanding work in Washington County, as well as his dedication statewide in creating an Oregon Chapter of the National Reforma organization for librarians in the region, and for serving on the prestigious Caldecott Award Committee of the American Library Association.

OLA presented its 2017 Library Supporter of the Year Award to the Aloha Community Library Association. This award is presented for exceptional efforts to support and promote libraries.  According to Aloha Library Director, Terri Palmer, “the non-profit Aloha Community Library Association (ACLA) was founded in 2011 and it has established a tradition of working with members of the community to build an institution that grows and adapts to meet the needs of their patrons.”

In approximately six years, the dedicated residents of Aloha went from a crazy idea to start a non-profit library association to a full-service library operating as part of a strong countywide library system. The library is ideally situated in a highly used shopping center, within walking distance of a high school, a middle school, several elementary schools, and numerous apartment complexes.  It has created a new heart to a community beginning to define its own destiny.

As a result of the ACLA efforts the new Library offers Aloha residents:

• A 30% increase in open hours – now open 6-days a week for 47 hours per week
• Four times the space – including significantly expanded public and staff areas
• Doubled computer access for the public to 14 stations,  plus free Wi-Fi access
• Integration with the WCCLS.org website and catalog
• Access to Cooperative’s shared collection of over 1.6 million books, e-books, CD’s and more
• Convenient local hold pick-up and drop-off location for WCCLS items in the heart of Washington County
• More robust program offerings for children and adults

The Oregon Library Association (OLA) provides advocacy, education, leadership and collaboration to continually strengthen Oregon’s libraries and the communities they serve. Over 1,000 librarians, library employees, and library supporters are part of the association.

NEW! Cultural Pass online reservation system launches May 8

Did you know that your WCCLS library card can get you free admission to nine local cultural destinations? It’s true, but until now that admission has required coordination with your local library as well as a visit there to pick up a physical pass.

Starting May 8, you will be able to reserve Admission Passes to these destinations from the comfort of your own home. This service allows WCCLS library cardholders to browse destinations by date or venue and reserve, print or cancel admission tickets online. The new reservation system makes it easy to plan your next adventure or family trip!

Check www.wccls.org/culturalpass beginning May 8 to learn more.

WCCLS web services unavailable Tuesday, April 11 7:00-9:00AM

All WCCLS web services will be offline for scheduled maintenance on Tuesday, April 11, starting at 7:00 AM. 

Estimated downtime is two hours, during which time you may experience intermittent access to the following services:

• WCCLS catalog and mobile catalog (including My Account, renewals, searches, holds, lists, etc.)
• Telephone renewal line
• Cloud Library and Library2Go/OverDrive
• WCCLS events calendar
• Our website www.wccls.org, and online resources and databases

Inclement Weather Update, Friday April 7

Due to power outages caused by high winds, the following libraries are operating on alternate schedules today:

• Garden Home Community Library: CLOSING at 12:00 noon
• North Plains Public Library: OPENING at 3:00pm

Please contact your library before heading out today!

Last updated at 1:45pm

Food for Fines Drive at the Cornelius Library

This week, the Cornelius Public Library joins libraries nationwide in celebrating National Library Week, a time to highlight the value of libraries.

The Friends of the Cornelius Library have coordinated efforts to sponsor Cornelius Library’s annual “Food for Fines” drive. Cornelius library patrons can help out community members in need while clearing out their fines. From Sunday, April 9 through Saturday, April 15, the Cornelius Library will forgive $2.00 in fines (up to $20.00 per person) for every non-perishable food item donated.

This year the library expanded the max amount that can be waived up to $20, an increase from last year.

“People are delighted to help others in need of food while clearing up their library accounts,” notes Director Karen Hill. “All the food goes directly to Cornelius residents through a local church food pantry.” The food will be donated to the United Methodist Church food pantry in Cornelius, which will distribute it to local families in need.

Acceptable donations include:

• Canned meats (tuna, chicken, salmon, etc.)
• Canned and boxed meals (chili, soup, macaroni and cheese, etc.)
• Peanut butter
• Pasta, rice and cereal
• Canned fruits
• 100% fruit juices
• Baby food

The Library cannot accept expired, homemade, perishable, open items, unlabeled or rusty cans. Donated foods can only be used to reduce library fines, not other library charges.

Other WCCLS Member Libraries also offer fine programs during National Library week or other times of the year. Please contact your library with questions.

Announcing 2017 Teen Summer Reading Art Contest Winners!

First Place Artwork by Elena Hessinger

The Washington County Cooperative Library Services (WCCLS) is proud to announce the winner of its 2017 Teen Summer Reading Art Contest: Elena Hessinger!

A tenth-grader at Westview High School, Elena has been awarded top honors for her color design which depicts a group of diverse teens reading and constructing a new city in their minds. Her design expertly captures this year’s Teen Summer Reading theme: Build a Better World: Read!

Second Place Artwork by Laurel Shepard

Elena receives a $150 gift certificate for Powell’s Books and her art will appear on all countywide Teen Summer Reading publicity this summer.

This is the eighth consecutive year that WCCLS has encouraged teens to capture the spirit of Summer Reading through their creative art. Thirty-seven pieces were submitted at the public libraries in Washington County during the months of January and February. On March 14th, feedback collected from local teens was reviewed and the winning piece was selected.

2nd Place and Honorable Mention winners were also awarded. These individuals each received a gift card for Dick Blick Art Materials.

Below is a full list of 2017 Teen Summer Reading Art Contest winners:

• First Place: Elena Hessinger, Westview High School
• Second Place: Laurel Shepard, Southridge High School
• Honorable Mention: Crystal Franklin, Jesuit High School
• Honorable Mention: Len Nguyen, Sunset High School

Honorable Mention Artwork by Crystal Franklin

Honorable Mention Artwork by Len Nguyen

The Summer Reading Program promotes reading habits that last all year. Summer Reading in Washington County will officially begin on June 1st. Teens can sign up at their local public library to earn prizes for reading, including tickets to Portland Thorns, T2, and Trail Blazers games; a round of miniature golf at Bullwinkles Family Fun Center, a deep discount to Oaks Amusement Park, and Buy One-Get One admission to the Oregon State Fair.

The Teen Summer Reading Art Contest was made possible by a grant from the Oregon State Library.

Art of the Story 2017 performer spotlight: Kevin Locke

Hear Kevin Locke perform at the 2017 Art of the Story festival:

• Wednesday, April 5, 7:00 p.m., Sherwood Center for the Arts
• Thursday, April 6, 7:00 p.m., Garden Home Library
• Friday, April 7, 6:30 p.m., North Plains Elementary
• Saturday, April 8, 7:00 p.m., Arts & Communication Magnet Academy auditorium

Kevin Locke (Tokaheya Inajin in Lakota translation “First to Rise”) is a world famous visionary Native American Hoop Dancer and preeminent player of the Indigenous Northern Plains flute. He is a NEA Heritage Award Fellow and Cultural World Ambassador from the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe in South Dakota.

Kevin is Lakota and Anishnabe. His instructions were received from his immediate family and community and from extended family in every part of the world. He has learned many lessons in global citizenship and how we each draw from the richness of our individual heritages.

His role in life is to entertain, educate, engage, and empower the minds of both youth and adults in the North American Indian cultural arts and history of Native Americans. His special joy is working with children on the reservations to ensure the survival and growth of indigenous culture.

Having performed in over 90 countries around the world, he has made appearances to over 1 million students and guests in over 10,000 schools and events in the last 35 years. Kevin’s goal is to inspire youth in reaching greatness and uniting the world in oneness. Kevin has recorded twelve albums of music and stories, most recently The First Flute, Open Circle, Keepers of the Dream, and Dream Catcher. Find out more at kevinlocke.com.

Learn more about Kevin Locke in this video:

Art of the Story 2017 performer spotlight: Ingrid Nixon

Hear Ingrid Nixon perform at the 2017 Art of the Story festival:

• Thursday, April 6, 7:00 p.m., Banks City Hall
• Friday, April 7, 7:00 p.m., Aloha Library
• Saturday, April 8, 7:00 p.m., Arts & Communication Magnet Academy auditorium

Ingrid Nixon is a world-traveling storyteller, who loves nothing more than to whisk away listeners on journeys of the imagination. Exploration nail-biters, lies, tall tales, traditional and personal stories—she tells them all, bringing characters to life using voices, gestures, and animated facial expressions. Her creative approaches to story crafting help make traditional tales relevant to modern audiences.

Ingrid’s first CD, Grimm’s with a Twist, offers deliciously dark stories spiced liberally with humor and pathos. Her new recording, Operation Bouncy Chair, features personal stories about the important things in life: family, love, and coffee. She is a champion liar many times over, a claim that makes her mother both proud and worried. After living in Alaska for many years working in the wilds as a National Park Service ranger, she currently hails from Washington State. Find out more at ingridnixon.com.

Hear Ingrid perform at The Moth:

Art of the Story 2017 performer spotlight: Norm Brecke

Hear Norm Brecke perform at the 2017 Art of the Story festival:

• Sunday, April 2, 2:00 p.m., Hillsboro Brookwood Library
• Monday, April 3, 7:00 p.m., Tigard Library
• Tuesday, April 4, 6:30 p.m., Cedar Mill Library
• Saturday, April 8, 7:00 p.m., Arts & Communication Magnet Academy auditorium

Norm Brecke tells everywhere; from narrating for the Seattle Symphony to being a featured teller at the PowellsWood Storytelling Festival, from the Seattle Art Museum to Tom’s Shoes.

Norm spices folktales to make them unique, spins personal stories that reflect his Northwest roots, and performs entertaining historical programs. He often brings music to his stories with guitar, ukulele, banjo, or jaw harp.

Norm taught elementary school for 14 years and developed after-school storytelling programs as well. He and his wife teach storytelling to adults at workshops and Portland Community College. Find out more at normbrecke.com.

Here is a video of Norm performing Bear Girl:

Art of the Story 2017 performer spotlight: Brianna Barrett

Hear Brianna Barrett perform at the 2017 Art of the Story festival:

• Monday, April 3, 7 p.m., Walters Cultural Arts Center
• Tuesday, April 4, 6:30 p.m., Forest Grove Library
• Saturday, April 8, 7:00 p.m., Arts & Communication Magnet Academy auditorium

Brianna Barrett is a playwright, filmmaker, performer, cancer survivor, and punch-card-carrying regular at every locally-owned tea shop in Portland. As a member of Portland Storytellers’ Guild, she teaches storytelling workshops and coaches first-time tellers at the local HHH Foundation's Notes of Hope annual benefit concert.

She was named Portland's Best Storyteller in Willamette Week Magazine (Best of Portland, 2016). Brianna has recently appeared in the Affable Gentlemen, The Yarn, and Imagine Live at the Pickathon Music Festival. She also facilitates a weekly writing workshop for cancer survivors at Oregon Health & Science University. Find out more at briannabarrett.com.

Here is a video of Brianna performing at the Portland Storytellers' Guild:

WCCLS 2015-16 Year in Review

Did you know that WCCLS libraries have 1,657,104 items you can check out?

Or that our library users check out an average of 33,004 items per day?

Or that WCCLS member libraries see an average of 10,943 visitors each day?

Find out more fun statistics in the WCCLS 2015-2016 Year in Review, or in the At-a-Glance infographic.


As WCCLS Director Eva Calcagno points out, “As a group, our goal is to provide consistent, quality library experiences for residents of all ages through free access to collections, programs that educate, entertain and inform, services that meet diverse needs, and electronic resources that provide wherever/whenever access beyond library walls.”