Need Book Suggestions? We’ve Got You Covered
By Leslie Williams
Senior Librarian, Pauline Robinson Branch
As I have transitioned at my new location, I have been asked what have I read lately or what can I suggest on a weekly basis. I think I am a little different than my other colleagues. I may start a book; however, if it doesn’t keep my attention within the first two chapters, I put it down and start a new one. This happens about twice a month, and on the average I read about two books a month.
In this season of gift-giving, whether it’s Christmas, Hanuakkah, Kwanzaa, or other, I would like to call your attention to the great book recommendation features the library offers.
Library Staff—We have the opportunity to see what comes in new, which books get placed on hold often, and which books get checked out the most.
Reviews & Recommendations on the Denver Public Library Website—We have updated our website, and included this new feature. Visit denverlibrary.org/recommendations for book reviews, blogs, and book lists created by library staff throughout the city.
Personalized Reading Lists—Another new feature available to you. You complete the online form and a librarian will email you a reading list based on your preferences. Allow some time to receive your reading list as this is a new service. Visit denverlibrary.org/request-reading-list for more details.
May you have much success finding great books to read and give this season. Below are this month’s programs at Park Hill and Pauline Robinson Branch libraries.
Park Hill Library Events
All Ages Storytime | Thursdays at 10:30am
All ages are welcome for this storytime! We may do a craft, play musical instruments, or have some fun with the parachute! No registration required.
Book Babies: Early Walkers | Thursdays at 11:15am
Stories, action songs, and rhymes developed to meet the needs of babies on the move and their caregivers. Playtime and socialization immediately follow the program. No registration required.
Tales for Twos | Fridays at 10:30am
Join us for a storytime just for two-year-olds and their caregivers. We will share books, sing songs, and provide movement activities. No registration required.
Book Babies: Pre-Walkers | Fridays at 11:15am
Stories, Rhymes, and lap songs developed to meet the needs of infants and their caregivers. Playtime and socialization immediately follow the program. No registration required.
Pajama Storytime | Wednesdays at 6:30pm
Join us for the Park Hill Branch Library’s PJ storytime! Stories, songs, and fun for all ages. Come in your
pajamas! Stuffed animals and blankies welcome! No registration required.
Teen Advisory Board (TAB) | Tuesday, December 10, 6pm and Tuesday, December 17, 6pm
Students in grades 6-12 are invited to join the Park Hill TAB. Help plan library events and projects at the Park Hill Library, talk about your favorite books, and make your opinion count! Join us for twice monthly meetings.
Genre Chat Book Club | Thursday, December 19, 3:30pm
This month we will be celebrating one year of the Genre Chat Book Club! Participants will each be reading a different “mystery” book to share at our meeting. Each book will be wrapped—you won’t know the title until you check it out! Read it and report back to the group if you liked it or not! Pick up your book at the reference desk. We will be making buttons – join us for the fun! Registration is suggested but not required. Call 720-865-0250 or visit the library to sign up.
Storytime Break
The Park Hill Branch Library will be taking a short storytime break from December 25-January 3. Please stop by for Open Play on Thursdays and Fridays from 10:00 am-noon! Regular storytimes will continue beginning Wednesday, January 8.
Pauline Robinson Library Events
After School is Cool | Monday to Friday, 4pm to 5pm
Our last program for the season will be Friday December 20
Programs are planned for the 8 to 12 year old age group in mind by any age is welcome to attend as long as they are at least in Kindergarten. Join us for games, crafts, science experiments, cooking and lots more. No registration required and all programs are free.
Family Storytime | Every third Saturday from 11-11:30am.
All ages are welcome for stories, music and fun.
Kwanzaa | Thursday December 26, 2-3pm
You are invited to learn about and celebrate Kwanzaa. This event will feature a performer and light refreshments. The word “Kwanzaa” comes from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” meaning “first fruits.” Kwanzaa begins on December 26 and ends with a communal feast called the Karamu on January 1. Kwanzaa is a seven-day holiday that celebrates Family, Community and Culture.