What's Happening @ Peters Township Public Library

FAFSA Completion Session for College-Bound Students and Parents

2012-01-18T17:18:00.001-05:00

The Peters Township Public Library will offer a free FAFSA Completion Session on Saturday, February 18 at 10:30 a.m. in the first floor Meeting Room. This workshop, for college-bound and seniors and their parents, provides the opportunity to get personalized help completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the chance to ask questions related to the financial aid process.

Session information will be provided by Jayeann Harr, Higher Education Access Partner of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA). Preregistration is required for this program online, call 724.941.9430, or visit the library circulation desk.

The deadline for submitting the FAFSA to determine eligibility for a need-based Pennsylvania State Grant is May 1 or August 1 for first-time students entering programs of study at community colleges, business, trade or technical schools, and hospital schools of nursing. Families should submit their FAFSA as early as possible after January 1 to ensure meeting earlier financial aid deadlines that may be required by selected schools.

The FAFSA is used to determine if students qualify for almost all forms of need-based financial assistance, including the Pennsylvania State Grant, Federal Pell Grant, many scholarships, work-study programs, many school-based awards, and low-cost federal student loans.

Last year, 98% of all applicants completed the FAFSA online which provides for faster and more accurate results. A new feature this year will allow tax filers to have their IRS data automatically populate certain FAFSA questions, making the process easier. Families are advised to be cautious of online FAFSA sites that require a fee to complete the free application, as help is available through PHEAA staff and the U.S. government at no charge.

Learn the ins and outs of online banking

2012-01-16T10:36:00.002-05:00

According to a recent survey, 73 percent of online households – 58 percent of all U.S. households – reported paying a bill online at a biller or bank website in the last month.* Have you hesitated becoming part of this trend and would like to learn more?

The Peters Township Public Library will host Kristen Painter, Branch Manager, Washington Financial Bank/Valley Brook, who will discuss how online banking makes it easy and convenient to check account activity, transfer funds, and pay bills. Learn how to easily navigate these features on Tuesday, February 7 from 7 – 8:45 p.m. The fee for this program is $5 and advance registration is required at the library circulation desk.

Kristen Painter has over 20 years of experience in the financial industry. She graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, the Pennsylvania Bankers Association School of Banking and Leadership Washington County.

"Making Sense of the Civil War" program filled within a week!

2012-01-16T10:32:00.003-05:00

Peters Township Public Library will host a five-part reading and discussion series which will focus on making sense of the American Civil War. The library is one of more than 150 sites throughout the country that will host the reading and discussion series, a 2012 project of the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association. Additional support in Pennsylvania is provided by the Pennsylvania Humanities Council. Registrations for the program opened on January 9 and quickly filled within a week.

Peters Township Public Library is one of four Pennsylvania libraries chosen to partner with Pennsylvania Humanities Council. Readings selected for the program will provide a glimpse of the vast sweep and profound breadth of Americans’ war among and against themselves, and include:
• March by Geraldine Brooks
• Crossroads of Freedom: Antietam by James McPherson
• America’s Wars: Talking about the Civil War and Emancipation of Their 150th Anniversaries, a forthcoming anthology of historical fiction, speeches, diaries, memoirs, biography, and short stories, edited by national project scholar Edward L. Ayers.

Program books are provided to participants through funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities, American Library Association and through the Pennsylvania Humanities Council for Peters Township Public Library participants.

Dr. Elaine Parsons, Civil War scholar and Associate Professor of History at Duquesne University, will lead all five discussion sessions. Dr. Parsons received her PhD at Johns Hopkins University. Her work focuses on social movements and popular culture in the nineteenth-century United States, with a focus on the Civil War and Reconstruction eras. She is currently completing a book about the Ku Klux Klan, entitled “Constructing the Kuklux: The Ku Klux Klan and the Modernization of the Reconstruction-Era South.” Dr. Parsons is the recipient of a Harry Frank Guggenheim Fellowship for the study of violence in culture.

Local musicians offer “An Evening of Jazz”

2011-12-27T19:58:00.001-05:00

Ease into winter with “An Evening of Jazz” at the Peters Township Public Library on Thursday, January 26 from 7:30-8:30 p.m. in the library lobby. This free program will be hosted by the library’s Senior Advisory Council and feature accomplished local musicians Lee Robinson and Joseph Sheehan. Register to attend online or call 724-941-9430.

As a jazz saxophonist, digital sound artist and music experimenter, Peters Township resident Lee Robinson presents music with an exciting perspective. His focus is to transform his listeners of all ages with “sound.” He has been able achieve this goal by collaborating with poets, actors, visual artists and a computer programmer for a variety of exciting projects, including an impromptu jam with Drepung Monks on their visit to the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts to build a Mandala for peace in 2002. Traveling with his musical group he has performed in New York City, Toronto, Ontario, and Saitama City, Japan.

Joseph Sheehan is a composer, pianist, and educator rooted in classical, jazz, and world music traditions. Sheehan leads his own ensemble, Kinetic. A prolonged trip to Ghana, West Africa, to study traditional drumming, song, and dance had a profound effect on his musical language and philosophy. He aspires to create music that connects with audiences in deep and fulfilling ways. In Pittsburgh he has been active as a pianist in many several groups, and also as an educator, teaching music at Duquesne University and CCAC Boyce. He holds degrees in composition from Indiana University (Bloomington, IN) and Duquesne University.

Learn to eat well for your health

2011-12-13T18:34:00.001-05:00

Is one of your New Year’s Resolutions for 2012 to eat better for your health, for more energy, or to lose weight? Sample delicious foods to help you on your mission at “Fabulous Recipes for Vibrant Health” on Thursday, January 12 at 7:00 p.m. at the Peters Township Public Library. Registration is required. There is a$10 program fee for the plentiful food samples. Register at the library circulation desk.

Presenting the program will be Janet McKee, Board Certified Holistic Health Counselor and a certified member of the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. The recipes to be sampled at the program are part of a collection of over 100 recipes that promote energy, vitality and longevity that McKee has complied and self-published. The cookbook includes recipes from appetizers to desserts like Blueberry Banana Superfood Protein Smoothie, Butternut Squash Soup with Fried Sage Leaves and Vegetable Stew with Spicy Sauce and Grains. Copies will be available for purchase at the program for $15. Cash, check or credit cards accepted. No Amex, Discover or debit cards.

“I want to help people understand how easy and enjoyable it is to take control of their health and to live a vibrant life. Knowing that preparing and enjoying delicious foods that are good for the body and which help us to prevent and sometimes reverse illness is something I want everyone to know, “says McKee.

Janet McKee is a board certified Holistic Health Counselor and a certified member of the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. After working in the corporate environment and obtaining her MBA from the University of Pittsburgh, Ms. McKee pursued a career in health and wellness by attending the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in affiliation with Columbia University. She has a private practice where she helps her clients reach their personal wellness goals. She works with individuals as well as groups and teaches how food and lifestyle choices affect one’s overall health and well being.

Local teachers create program to inspire young readers

2011-11-29T19:28:00.002-05:00

If you are a parent, teacher, or librarian struggling to find ways to motivate young children to read, three local teachers may have some of the answers you are seeking in their newly released book Personalized Reading: It’s a Piece of Pie. Nancy Hobbs, Kristen Sacco and Myra R. Oleynik will visit the Peters Township Public Library on Sunday, December 11 from 1-3 p.m. to discuss the PIE program featured in the book.

The three highly experienced teachers, one of whom is a school librarian, have found that the best way to encourage children to read isn't by offering them prizes through point systems. By showing elementary students the benefits of books through the PIE program—Personalized, Independent, Enrichment—teachers, librarians, and parents can motivate them to keep reading for the best reason: they've learned to love it. Utilizing the PIE program will teach students to make selections at an appropriate reading level, expand from choosing titles in the same genre or from the same author, and recognize and abandon a book of low interest to them. Within each chapter are explanations of the theories behind each step and practical ideas that teachers and librarians can implement collaboratively in the classroom and library. Parents will discover the top ten ways to help their children self-select books and how they can help to foster a love of reading in their children.

To attend this program register online, visit the circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430. Copies of Personalized Reading: It’s a Piece of Pie, normally sold for $35, will be available at the event or to order for the special price of $25, cash or checks made payable to “Friends of the Peters Township Public Library.” Coordinating with the PIE-theme for that day, the library will also be hosting a Gingerbread House Making Contest with The Pie Place during that afternoon from 1-3 p.m. Call the library at 724.941.9430 for further details.

Nancy L. Hobbs is a third grade teacher in the Peters Township School District in Washington County, PA. Hobbs is a former elementary school administrator in both Indiana and Pennsylvania, and has taught grades K through 6. Hobbs earned her master's degree from Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, and her doctorate in administrative and policy studies from the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA.

Myra R. Oleynik is K–3 library media specialist for 800 students at Bower Hill Elementary School, Venetia, PA, recently named Outstanding Library Media Center by the Pennsylvania School Librarians Association. Oleynik is also K–5 library media specialist in the Peters Township School District, Washington County, PA—a role she has had for 15 years—and was an elementary classroom teacher for 13 years. She holds a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Grove City College, Grove City, PA, and an MLS degree from the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA. Oleynik is a Keystone Technology Integrator and Pennsylvania Teacher Excellence honoree.

Kristen M. Sacco is a third grade teacher in the Peters Township School District in Washington County, PA. She has seventeen years' experience teaching in both Pennsylvania and Nevada, and has been an elementary school guidance counselor in the Las Vegas, NV area. Sacco earned her bachelor's degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Indiana, PA, and a master's degree in elementary school counseling from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV.

Local author’s book reveals presidents as students and teachers

2011-11-22T20:29:00.004-05:00

A new book by professor of education and chair of the Education Department of Washington and Jefferson College explores the student and teaching experiences of presidents and first ladies from George and Martha Washington to Barack and Michelle Obama. Dr. James McMurtry Longo will premier his new book From Classroom to White House: The Presidents and First Ladies as Students and Teachers at the Peters Township Public Library on Saturday, December 10 from 10-11:00 a.m. A book signing will follow the event. Seating is limited and registration is requested. To reserve your seat, please register online, visit the library circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430.

During his more than a decade of research, interviews, and travel, Longo discovered that few White House residents made model students. President Eisenhower, who was not always the best student, once wrote, “One cannot always read a man’s future in the record of his younger days.” Teachers reported that John F. Kennedy could “seldom locate his possessions,” found George H.W. Bush “somewhat eccentric,” and dubbed a sixth-grade Bill Clinton “a motormouth.” In addition to chronicling the school days of these historic figures, this volume also relates their teaching experiences, the educational issues they addressed during their White House years, and the intricacies of education at their time in history, providing an informative overview of American schooling over time.

Half the presidents and first ladies taught, but Professor Longo believes that if by some magical time machine all the presidents and first ladies could be transported back to their days as students - they would be a teacher’s worse nightmare. Stu Bryer of WICH radio in Norwich, Connecticut has called the book “fascinating” and a “must read”. Another reviewer wrote, “This is a book that gives hope to any parent of an underachieving child – and a big tip of the hat to teachers that make a difference in a student’s life.” Bill Bertenshaw from WOR Newsradio in New York said, “Great book…hard to put down…I learned more about history and the presidents and first ladies from this book than all the history classes I took in school.”

Dr. James McMurtry Longo is an award-winning teacher, storyteller, Fulbright scholar, and Chair of the Education Department at Washington and Jefferson College. He grew up in St. Louis, majored in History at the University of Missouri in St. Louis, worked as a public school teacher for over a decade, and earned his doctorate in education from Harvard University.

Longo has taught on three continents where he has lectured on the educational experiences of White House residents from Austria and Brazil, to Costa Rica and England. This is his seventh book. His previous book, Isabel Orleans-Braganza-The Brazilian Princess Who Freed the Slaves, was nominated for Yale University’s Frederick Douglass Book Prize for the “Most outstanding non-fiction book in English on the subject of slavery and abolition.”

Download Free Music from Freegal

2011-11-03T11:20:00.000-04:00

The Peters Township Public Library is offering you a way to add to your music collection for free through Freegal Music .Once you register at the library with your valid Peters Township Public Library card, you can download 3 songs per week for free.

Freegal Music is an online database that provides access to songs from Sony Music. The music files are DRM-free and do not expire, and the songs are compatible with PCs, Macs, iPods, iPads and other MP3-compatible devices. Offering over half a million songs to download in all types of music genres including classical, country, rock, jazz and pop, Freegal adds new music daily to the collection.

“By providing our patrons online access to Freegal, we are able to offer them a broad range of music that they can pick and choose from to add to their personal music collection,” said Pier Lee, Library Director. “Like our eReaders and Playaways available for checkout, this is another free service we offer so our library patrons can experience the latest technology - at no cost to them.”

To register for your free subscription to Freegal, bring your valid Peters Township Public Library card with you to the Reference Desk on the second floor of the library. A staff member will process your request and, once you have confirmed your account via email, you can begin adding songs to your own collection. For more information, call the library at 724.941.9430.

Changes regarding DVD fines and checkouts

2011-10-31T12:44:00.001-04:00

The Peters Township Public Library announced today that beginning November 1, 2011, the overdue fine on all feature film DVDs will be reduced from $1.00 per day to 50 cents per day. The feature film DVDs are located on the second floor of the library and can be checked out for one week by library patrons. The feature film DVDs will no longer be available for renewal.

Other DVDs in the library collection on the first floor, including Children's, Educational, Instructional, TV series, Travel, Fitness and Local, will not be affected by these changes. Please call the library at 724.941.9430 if you have any questions regarding these changes.

AARP Driver Safety Promotion for Veterans

2011-10-27T11:52:00.001-04:00

To recognize and thank veterans for their dedication and commitment to service, this November the AARP Safe Driving Course will be offered free of charge to ALL veterans, regardless of age and including widows and widowers. The Peters Township Public Library will host this two-part eight hour course on Tuesday, November 29 and Wednesday, November 30 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Any military personnel – active duty, retired, guard, or reserve – are eligible to receive this free Driver Safety Program. Veterans include those individuals who have served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, National Guard/Reserves, or Coast Guard. Spouses (including widows and widowers) are eligible to take the classroom course, free of charge, so long as they present a valid military spouse/widower identification, such as a dependent ID card (DD Form 1172), or a membership card to organizations such as the American Legion of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).

AARP Driver Safety Courses help drivers stay current on latest driving information and safe driving strategies. This course is designed to educate participants about how to best reduce traffic violations, accidents, and chances for injuries. The program will update driver’s knowledge about relevant laws, and provide safe driving strategies to compensate for age-related changes that impact one’s driving ability. Some of the topics to be covered include overall fitness and driving, tips for highway driving, understanding a vehicle’s safety features and new vehicle technology, handling aggressive drivers, changing lanes driving at intersections, and maintaining proper distance. Insurance companies in Pennsylvania may offer discounts for insured clients 55 or older that have completed the AARP Driver Safety Program.

Space is limited. Register for this course online through the AARP website or in person at the library circulation desk. The course is free for veterans and their spouses. For all others, the fee is $14.00 or $12.00 if a member of AARP. Please make checks payable to AARP if registering at the library and pay by credit card if registering through the AARP website.

It’s Your Money – Learn While You Earn Bingo

2011-10-19T17:56:00.001-04:00

More than 1.3 Americans complained to the Federal Trade Commission last year about problems concerning identify theft; sweepstakes and lottery fraud; and internet scams. Learn how not to become a victim yourself at “It’s Your Money – Learn While You Earn Bingo” at the Peters Township Public Library on Tuesday, November 15 from 11 a.m. to 12 noon. This is an AARP Financial Security and Consumer Issues Program presented by Eileen Mazza.

Participants will learn about fraud, identity theft, scams, overcharging, and how to become a better and more knowledgeable consumer. Mazza ‘s discussion will focus on identity theft issues with an emphasis on protecting your personal checking accounts; entering sweepstakes and lotteries; and telephone and internet scams. Attendees will learn about affinity fraud and what “FREE LUNCHES” and “FREE DINNERS” really mean. Other topics to be covered include investment fraud, what to look for in a financial professional, how to check the legality of anyone to whom you give money, and how to check if a product is legitimate.

This one hour program consists of a 30-minute presentation followed by 30 minutes of “Security Fraud Bingo.” Register to attend this program online, visit the library circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430.

Former cook for Fallingwater to visit the library

2011-10-19T17:25:00.002-04:00

Elsie Henderson, longtime and last cook for the Kaufmann family at Fallingwater will visit the Peters Township Public Library on Saturday, November 12, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. to discuss her life with and recipes prepared for the remarkable Kaufmann clan.

The 98-year-old’s adventures at Fallingwater are intertwined with recipes for the dishes she served there for 15 years in The Fallingwater Cookbook: Elsie Henderson's Recipes and Memories, written by Suzanne Martinson. Chef Robert Sendall and the late Jane Citron, longtime cooking instructor, also contributed to this unique volume. During the library program, Henderson will respond to questions from friend Lowell Britson, and then answer questions posed by the audience. Copies of The Fallingwater Cookbook will be available for purchase and signing after the presentation. Register to attend this program online, visit the library circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430.

At 98 years old, Elsie Henderson is certainly a woman of many stories. Rising from her Mount Washington roots as the youngest of 14 children, Elsie found her blue collar self in a world of American royalty. Her natural know-how in the kitchen landed her jobs cooking for families like the Mellons, Heinzes, Shrivers and Kennedys.

But her longest and most memorable position was as a cook and baker for Pittsburgh retail mogul Edgar J. Kauffman at Fallingwater, the architectural masterpiece of a home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Here, Elsie’s found herself among the nation’s most famous writers, painters, opera singers, industrialists and politicians. Her experiences went beyond whipping up sweetbreads and soufflés, allowing her to see into a world of wealth, influence and celebrity.

Now retired and living in Highland Park, Elsie has not stopped cooking. She combines her expert recipes with her quirky stories about the lives of the rich as famous as seen from their kitchens in the new book, The Fallingwater Cookbook: Elsie Henderson’s Recipes and Memories.

RESCHEDULED: What's in your child's backpack?

2011-10-08T12:57:00.003-04:00

At the request of several library patrons, the "What's in your child's backpack?" program has been rescheduled to Thursday, October 27 at 7:00 p.m.

“What’s in Your Child’s Backpack?” an interactive presentation by the Washington County Health Partners, Inc., a local non-profit organization in Washington County. The educational toolkit used in the program will demonstrate the similarities between tobacco products that are packaged to look like candy. Participants will get to see these smokeless products first hand. The presentation will explain how new tobacco and nicotine-containing products appeal to youth, why 30% of youth get addicted from their very first use, and how tobacco company marketing fund amounts compare to youth smoking rates.

To register for this free program online, visit the library circulation desk or call 724-941-9430.

"TAPPED" film screening to be hosted by library GO Green Club

2011-10-04T19:22:00.002-04:00

Is access to clean drinking water a basic human right, or a commodity that should be bought and sold like any other article of commerce? Stephanie Soechtig's debut feature, “Tapped,” is an unflinching examination of the big business of bottled water. The Peters Township Public Library’s GO Green Club will offer a free screening of the film on Friday, October 21 at 6:30 p.m. The film will be followed by a presentation by Josephine Posti, External Affairs Specialist from Pennsylvania American Water, who will discuss who Pennsylvania American Water is, where your water comes from, how it is treated and the value of drinking water.

From the producers of Who Killed the Electric Car and I.O.U.S.A., this timely documentary is a behind-the-scenes look into the unregulated and unseen world of an industry that aims to privatize and sell back the one resource that ought never to become a commodity: our water. Register for this after-hours program online, visit the library circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430.

From the plastic production to the ocean in which so many of these bottles end up, this inspiring documentary trails the path of the bottled water industry and the communities which were the unwitting chips on the table. A powerful portrait of the lives affected by the bottled water industry, this revelatory film features those caught at the intersection of big business and the public's right to water.

Director Stephanie Soechtig began her career ten years ago producing documentaries for 20/20, Primetime Live, produced for Good Morning America covering the 2000 presidential elections and worked with ABC's long-form unit to produce "Planet Earth" hosted by Leonardo DiCaprio. She then brought her documentary skills to Fox News Channel where she produced network specials for Bill O'Reilly before moving on to produce his daily show, The O’Reilly Factor.

Bringing Back the Family Table

2011-09-18T15:21:00.001-04:00

Who doesn’t want their children to do their best in school and behave well? If you are thinking that extra tutoring, sports, and other activities may help your children get there, you may be overlooking a simple solution found right around your kitchen table. A University of Michigan study found that more meal time at home was the single strongest predictor of better achievement scores and fewer behavioral problems. Meal time was more powerful than time spent in school, studying, church, playing sports, or art activities.

At “Bringing Back the Family Table,” Liz Kanche from American HealthCare Group will discuss how to get your family together for this important meal and quick, nutritious recipes that you can serve. This program will be offered at the Peters Township Public Library on Sunday, October 9 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. so not to conflict with the family dinner hour. To register for this program online, visit the library circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430.

College Financial Aid Night

2011-09-08T11:15:00.002-04:00

Here’s another reason for parents of college-bound students to lose sleep at night - according to “The Debt Crisis at American Colleges” in the August issue of The Atlantic, “…college loans are nearing the $1 trillion mark, more than what all households owe on their credit cards.”

To help parents and students through the sometimes confusing maze of paying for a college education, the Peters Township Public Library in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) will host a free “College Financial Aid Night” on Tuesday, September 27, 2011 from 6:30– 8:30 p.m. at the library. The program will be given Jayeann Harr, Higher Education Access Partner from PHEAA, who will provide an overview of the financial aid process.

Parents and students are invited to the 60-minute presentation, which will describe all federal and PA-state financial aid programs, scholarships and FAFSA application processes. Other topics will include how colleges award aid to families and how financial aid deadline dates interface with the college admissions process. Loan rates and interest rates for students and parents will also be discussed. A question and answer session will follow the program.

Registration is necessary for this free program online, at the Library's circulation desk, or call 724-941-9430.

Berlin Bureau Chief opens World Affairs International Program Series

2011-09-08T11:11:00.005-04:00

Senior Correspondent for ARD German TV Werner Sonne will open this year’s International Program Series, hosted by Peters Township Public Library in partnership with the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh. Sonne will discuss “Can Germany Lead? Europe’s Largest Economy in Times of Economic Uncertainty” on Monday, September 26, 2011 at 7:00 p.m.

Werner Sonne is a Senior Correspondent for ARD German TV. An expert on foreign affairs, security policy, and terrorism, he is the Berlin Bureau Chief for the ARD morning news program Morgenmagazin, a position he has held since 2004. Mr. Sonne has had a distinguished career of forty-plus years as a radio and television correspondent, covering many influential events. He worked as a foreign correspondent for eleven years on both sides of the Iron Curtain – including five years in Washington, DC. He witnessed and reported about the process of German reunification and saw the country rise to its current position as the strongest economic partner in the European Union. More recently, he has reported on the Middle East and German involvement in the Afghanistan War.

As one of the founding nations of the European Union, Germany has played a key role in European integration and many believe that Germany, with the largest economy in Europe, holds the key to financial stability in the Union. However, while Germany had been a star performer since the economic recession in 2008, posting high growth rates while the rest of Europe struggled, a recent slowdown in the country has caused some to worry that the global recession might be catching up to Germany. Sonne will discuss whether Germany can lead a European Union during times of uncertainty.

The McMurray Veterans of Foreign Wars POST 764 is providing support for the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh 2011-12 program series. Register for this event online, visit the library circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430.

Thinking of starting a new business?

2011-09-08T10:42:00.006-04:00

Starting a small business can be an exciting and challenging adventure. To help you in launching your new business, the Peters Township Public Library is partnering with the Peters Township Chamber of Commerce and the University of Pittsburgh Small Business Development Center to present “The Mechanics of Starting a Small Business.” The free program will be offered at the library on Thursday, September 22 from 7:00-9:00 p.m.

Presenters for this event will be Lindsey Biddle, Management Consultant, University of Pittsburgh Small Business Development Center; John Higie, Managing Partner, Peacock Keller Law Firm; and Edward Nemeth, Senior Loan Officer, Washington County Council on Economic Development. Topics to be discussed include sources of capital, understanding different legal structures, licensure and accessing helpful resources to establish your successful enterprise.

As space is limited, reservations are requested. Please register online, at the circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430 by Tuesday, September 20 to reserve your space.

Award-winning photojournalist offers photography classes

2011-08-25T11:29:00.002-04:00

Learn how to take great photographs from award-winning photojournalist Jim McNutt during four sessions to be offered at the Peters Township Public Library.

McNutt has been a photojournalist for the Observer-Reporter newspaper for the past 41years and a former adjunct professor at Washington and Jefferson College for 22 years. His striking photos have captured people, wildlife, nature and everyday life, winning him the 2011 PA Associated Press Award - First Place Feature for “Little Man, Big Shot” and the 2011 Keystone Publishers Award - Honorable Mention for “Sawyer Glacier in Alaska.” Visit www.observer-reporter.com/or/mcnuttgallery/ to view a collection of his photographs.

During the four-part series with McNutt, you will learn how to see photo possibilities, compose better images, and how to use your camera more effectively. The cost is $75 for the classes to be offered on the following dates and times:
• Thursday, September 22 from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
• Thursday, September 29 from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
• Saturday, October 1 at 9:00 a.m. to meet at library then travel to a remote location for a photo session.
• Thursday, October 6 from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Register at the library’s circulation desk for this 4-part program.

What's in Your Child's Backpack?

2011-08-23T19:27:00.003-04:00

“Back to school” means shopping for new clothes, new shoes and, of course, a new backpack – but it’s what’s inside your child’s backpack that parents may need to be concerned about this school year.

On Thursday, September 15 at 7 p.m., the Peters Township Public Library will present “What’s in Your Child’s Backpack?” an interactive presentation by the Washington County Health Partners, Inc., a local non-profit organization in Washington County. The educational toolkit used in the program will demonstrate the similarities between tobacco products that are packaged to look like candy. Participants will get to see these smokeless products first hand. The presentation will explain how new tobacco and nicotine-containing products appeal to youth, why 30% of youth get addicted from their very first use, and how tobacco company marketing fund amounts compare to youth smoking rates.

To register for this free program online, visit the library circulation desk or call 724-941-9430.

New “Listen While You Walk” program

2011-08-11T09:20:00.006-04:00

New research indicates that walking is not only good for your health – it’s also good for your brain. A study by the Department of Psychology, Beckman Institute at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, discovered older adults who walk at a comfortable pace for 40 minutes three times a week can enhance the connectivity between brain circuits and improve cognitive tasks like multitasking and using memory.

Beginning Thursday, September 8 at 9:15 a.m., members of the community can join Peters Township Public Library staff and volunteers for a 30-minute walk on the nearby Arrowhead Trail. Called “Listen While You Walk,” this new program offers the opportunity to combine physical exercise while listening to a favorite book or author. The library will offer a selection “Playaways,” all in one audiobooks, for participants to choose from for their walk.

Library Director Pier Lee explained that the library is “offering this fall program as a practical way to help our patrons find time to exercise while listening to a favorite book, whether it’s bestseller or classic title. The Playaway makes a perfect walking companion. At only 2 ounces, it’s light-weight and fits into the palm of your hand.”

Persons of all ages are encouraged to join in this new venture to exercise your mind while getting your body in shape. Participants will meet at the library at 9:15 a.m., select a Playaway, and proceed from the library to the Arrowhead Trail for a thirty minute walk.

Register for this free program online, at the library circulation desk, or call 724-941-9430. For more information about the program, call the Reference Department at 724-941-9430 extension 3.

Author Visit - Award-Winning Author Ceane O’Hanlon-Lincoln

2011-08-04T09:00:00.005-04:00

Hear the fascinating stories about the people, places, and events that shaped our “Keystone State” from award-winning author Ceane O’Hanlon- Lincoln at library on Monday, August 29 from 7:00-9:00 p.m.

Ms. O’Hanlon-Lincoln, a native of Connellsville, Pennsylvania, reveals her ingenious talent for bringing history alive in each compelling chapter of County Chronicles: A Vivid Collection of Pennsylvania Histories, a five volume set which taps into the vast wealth of history that is embedded in Pennsylvania’s lush, rolling landscape.

Often called a “state-of-the-heart writer," O’Hanlon-Lincoln’s books, both non-fiction and fiction, include A Toast to Destiny, Great Poems of Our Time, Autumn Song, and the County Chronicles series. She has garnered the Editor’s Choice Award for her poem “The Man Who Holds the Reigns;” honors at Robert Redford’s Sundance Institute for two of her screenplays; and two Citation/Special Recognition Awards from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and the Senate of Pennsylvania for her County Chronicles. In 2004, she was awarded the prestigious Athena Award, which is presented to professional “women of spirit.”

Register for this free program online, at the library circulation desk, or calling 724-941-9430.

First Ever Kids Cake Decorating Contest

2011-08-03T20:28:00.001-04:00

Junior bakers and cake decorators can showcase their talents and win a prize at a Kids Cake Decorating Contest to be held at the library and sponsored by The Pie Place, Upper St. Clair on Thursday, August 25 from 6:30-8:00 p.m.

The theme of the contest is “My Summer Vacation” and prizes will be awarded in three age categories: age 8 and under, age 9 to 13, and age 14 to 18. A fan favorite will be selected by those in attendance as well. The official rules and entry form are available in the library’s main lobby. An entry fee of $10 per cake will be collected and donated to the library. A panel of local residents and business owners will select a winner from each division. Prizes will be furnished by Bill Gray Volvo in McMurray.

All cakes submitted for judging must be iced and decorated by the child alone, and entrants will have the option to donate their cake to be part of a silent auction at the conclusion on the event. Entry forms should be dropped off at the Peters Township Public Library or The Pie Place, 1775 N. Highland Road, Upper St. Clair. If you need help planning your design, you can call Kirsten at the Cake Hotline at 412-576-0397 or email cakes@thepieplace.net.

2nd Annual Local Foods Potluck Dinner

2011-07-16T15:11:00.003-04:00

A celebration of locally grown foods will take place at the library on Friday, August 5 at 6:30 p.m. at the 2nd Annual Local Foods Potluck Dinner. The event is being hosted by the library’s GO Green Club and Cooking Club.

Attendees are asked to bring a potluck dish to share made with locally grown or produced foods or some samples of the bounty from their home gardens. During the dinner, Liz Kanche from American HealthCare Group will discuss “Eating Locally in Western Pennsylvania.” American HealthCare Group has sponsored the Farm to Table Conference in Pittsburgh for the past 5 years.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has identified a 16% increase in the number of operating farmers markets from 2009 to 2010. "Seeing such continued strong growth in the number of U.S. farmers markets indicates that regional food systems can provide great economic, social and health benefits to communities across the country," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "Farmers markets provide fresh, local products to communities across the country while offering economic opportunities for many producers of all sizes." Pennsylvania ranks in the top ten states with the most farmers markets.

Register online to attend the potluck dinner or at the library’s circulation desk by Monday, August 1, 2011.

AARP Driver Safety Program at the library

2011-07-05T20:01:00.001-04:00

Senior citizens can brush up on their driving skills this summer and possibly qualify for a discount on their insurance rates by completing the AARP Driver Safety Program to be offered in two Saturday sessions at the Peters Township Public Library. The eight-hour course will be taught in two four-hour sessions on Saturday, August 13 and Saturday, August 20 from 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. The programs are being offered on Saturdays for the convenience of individuals who work during the week or have other scheduling conflicts.

AARP Driver safety courses help drivers stay current on latest driving information and safe driving strategies. This course is designed to educate participants about how best to reduce traffic violations, crashes, and chances for injuries; update drivers’ knowledge about relevant laws; and provide safe driving strategies to compensate for age-related changes that affect one’s driving ability. Some of the topics to be covered include overall fitness and driving, challenges of city vs. rural driving, tips for highway driving, understanding a vehicle’s safety features and new vehicle technology, handling aggressive drivers, changing lanes, driving at intersections, and maintaining proper distances.

You may register for this course online through the AARP website or in person at the Peters Township Public Library circulation desk. Cost for the course is $14.00, check made payable to AARP. You may pay by credit card when registering through the AARP web site. AARP members receive a $2.00 discount and pay $12.00.

Insurance Companies in Pennsylvania offer discounts for insured clients 55 or older that have completed the AARP Driver Safety Program. It is recommended you consult your insurance company for their discount policy. Although the AARP driving course is geared toward drivers 50 and older, it can be taken by licensed drivers of all ages, and there are no tests.

Summer Pollinator Gardening Programs

2011-06-30T11:33:00.002-04:00

Dr. Candy DeBerry, Associate Professor of Biology at Washington and Jefferson College, returns to the Peters Township Public Library to present two free programs focusing on pollination in gardening.

Programs to be offered by Dr. DeBerry include:

“Plant Sex: How The Birds and the Bees Are Responsible for One-Third of the Food You Eat (and What You Can Do to Help Them)” on Thursday, July 28 at 7 p.m. will explain what pollination is, why it is important, which animals pollinate plants, and how your garden can support pollinators. Register online or at the library circulation desk.

“Plants for the Pollinator Garden” will be offered on Thursday, August 25 at 7 p.m. What brings joy to your garden? Hummingbirds darting among the blossoms? Butterflies flittering above the flowers? The deep drone of busy bumblebees? Bumper crops of tomatoes, squash, raspberries and watermelon? The secret to obtaining all of these will be revealed in this workshop - the very best plants to grow to attract pollinators. Register online or at the library circulation desk.

These programs are being sponsored by the library's GO Green Club.

"Pennsylvania's leading industry – agriculture – is dependent on the work of insects that pollinate 80 percent of the world's crops," explains Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture George Greig. "One-third of the food we eat is a direct result of pollination, so it is critical to remind all citizens they can and should play a role in protecting declining pollinator populations that set fruit and produce seeds for the future."

Candy DeBerry is an associate professor in the Department of Biology at Washington and Jefferson College and faculty advisor to Phi Sigma Biological Sciences Honor Society. Dr. DeBerry is passionate about ecological gardening, and her property is certified as Backyard Wildlife Habitat #48,3330 by the National Wildlife Federation and listed as a Bird Habitat by the Audubon Society of Pennsylvania.

Library welcomes Commissioner Burns for Story-time

2011-06-23T10:55:00.001-04:00

Washington County Commissioner Bracken Burns will visit the Peters Township Public Library on Saturday, July 9 from 1 to 2 p.m. for a special story-time. Burns will share his favorite children’s stories, followed by a craft for all ages. Register to attend in the children’s department or call 724.941.9430.

Burns has served as Washington County Commissioner since 1996. This will be his final year in office as he is not seeking a fifth term. After 40 years of service, including his time spent as the county's director of emergency medical services and the director of the emergency management agency, he is looking forward to spending more time with his wife, Kate, his two children and five grandchildren. Join us for a "great day in Washington County" as we welcome Commissioner Burns to our library!

Library Cooking Club hosts free cooking demonstration

2011-06-22T19:26:00.001-04:00

The Peters Township Public Library Cooking Club will host a free cooking demonstration and discussion by Gina Snyder and Chef Maggie Hatten of Sunny Bridge Natural Foods at their next monthly meeting on Thursday, July 7 at 7 p.m. at the library. All are welcome to attend but advance registration is required. To register email programs@ptlibrary.com or call 724.941.9430 by Friday, July 1st.

Scott Blasey "Live at the Library" video clip

2011-05-18T20:02:00.003-04:00

TrueFlix Interactive eBooks now available!

2011-05-18T19:55:00.003-04:00

The Library is now offering a new free resource for younger readers through the library web site. Scholastic’s TrueFlix is the only online resource that uses the award-winning True Books content to help students in grades 3-5 sharpen literacy skills and build knowledge of subject-area content. All of the True Book titles are supported with a deep and diverse reservoir of related content and primary sources featuring videos, audio, images, and text. TrueFlix is accessible both in the library and at home through the link on the library website.

Each TrueFlix title includes a streaming video that engages the student and introduces the topic and a flipbook version of the True Book with page-turning and read-along features, chapter tabs, and vocabulary terms indentified and defined. Students are able to progress from “learning to read” to “reading to learn” and master content area knowledge in science and social studies. There are 47 True Book titles available in 8 categories including U.S. Government, Ecosystems and Space.

Library Director Pier Lee explains “Our library is constantly searching for new ways to engage our young readers, and TrueFlix really brings books to life with video, sounds, and links to related web site. It’s a companion to the already available BookFlix for preschoolers.”

For more information about TrueFlix or BookFlix, please contact Heather Blake, Children’s Librarian at 724.941.9430 ext. 314 or email HLBlake@ptlibrary.org.

Scott Blasey "Live at the Library"

2011-04-23T10:41:00.002-04:00

Scott Blasey, lead singer, songwriter, and guitarist for Pittsburgh-based rock band The Clarks, will appear for a special solo "Live at the Library" concert at the Peters Township Public Library on Sunday, May 15 at 7:00 p.m. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m.

In addition to his success with the Clarks, Scott has found an audience for his solo work. He’s released three solo albums and has opened for rock icons Neil Young and the Beach Boys. He continues to tour with the Clarks and plays over 50 solo shows a year. Scott lives with his wife and three daughters in Peters Township.

For more about Blasey and his music, visit his web site. Register for this special event online or sign-up at the library’s circulation desk.

Former Asst. Secretary of Defense to speak at PT Library

2011-04-11T11:37:00.003-04:00

Dr. Lawrence J. Korb, Senior Advisor to the Center for Defense Information and former assistant secretary of defense under Ronald Reagan, will discuss “Defending America on a Balanced Budget: Is it Possible?” at the Peters Township Public Library on Monday, April 25 at 7:00 p.m.

For 13 years straight, the United States has seen uninterrupted growth in the defense budget, projected to exceed $500 billion this year. In light of a projected budget deficit for the 2011 fiscal year of $1.6 trillion dollars, the Obama administration and Congress have been debating ways to cut federal spending. Congress has so far put the defense budget off-limits, but with defense spending comprising 50% of the U.S. discretionary budget and 20% of the overall federal budget, can any meaningful effort to curtail federal spending ignore the Pentagon? As the United States winds down its missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, the time is ripe to reexamine whether the current level of defense spending actually enhances our national security capabilities.

This program is offered in partnership by the library with the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh and with the financial support of the McMurray Veterans of Foreign Wars POST 764. Register for this program online, at the library circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430.

Dr. Lawrence J. Korb is a Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress. He is also a Senior Advisor to the Center for Defense Information and an Adjunct Professor at Georgetown University. Prior to joining the Center, he was a Senior Fellow and Director of National Security Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations. Previously, Dr. Korb served as Director of the Center for Public Policy Education and Senior Fellow in the Foreign Policy Studies Program at the Brookings Institution; Dean of the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs at the University of Pittsburgh; Vice President of corporate operations at the Raytheon Company; and Director of Defense Studies at the American Enterprise Institute. Dr. Korb served on active duty for four years as Naval Flight Officer, and retired from the Naval Reserve with the rank of captain.

Dr. Korb has authored, co-authored, edited, or contributed to more than 20 books and written more than 100 articles on national security issues. His articles have appeared in such journals as Foreign Affairs, Public Administration Review, The New York Times Sunday Magazine, Naval Institute Proceedings, and International Security.

Carnival comes to Peters

2011-04-07T12:19:00.004-04:00

This article is from today's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette:
Thursday, April 07, 2011
By Dave Zuchowski

Dancer/ethnologist Tracie Yorke takes her audience on an interactive journey through the histories of Carnival in Trinidad, Brazil and New Orleans.If you missed out on the excitement of Mardi Gras on March 8, you have another chance.

The "Spirit of Carnival" will envelop the Peters Township Library from 1 to 2:30 p.m. this Sunday, April 10, when professional dancer and ethnologist Tracie Yorke uses carnival props, video projections and music to take patrons on an interactive journey through the histories of Carnival in Trinidad, Brazil and New Orleans.

"The props I'll bring along such as Carnival masks and costumes are personal mementos of my own Carnival experiences over the years," Ms. Yorke said.

"I'll start the program with recorded Samba music from Brazil that the audience will help reproduce with their voices," she said. "I'll then segue into the music of Trinidad which will focus on the traditions of Calypso, a way during Carnival for people to openly express their opinions on the government without the fear of sanctions or punishment. My program will end with Mardi Gras in New Orleans where I hope to capture the feel of a French Quarter street party by giving my audience a chance to get up and dance around freely and openly."

Ms. Yorke's presentation will be a mix of performance and discussion of the music, performance elements and dance traditions and what these traditions mean symbolically from an ethnographic point of view. The presentation, which is free and open to the public as part of the Commonwealth Speakers Series of the Pennsylvania Humanities Council, will end with a parade of champions drawn from the audience.

"In my presentation, I'll try to explain what these dances say politically, spiritually and socially," said Ms. Yorke.

To enhance the experience, the library lobby will be decorated Carnival style, and children in attendance will make additional Carnival props and masks. Refreshments like traditional King Cake will also be served.

Emilie Haertsch, program associate for the Pennsylvania Humanities Council said that Ms. Yorke is one of 83 speakers selected by the council's panel of peers in the humanities for 2011. After they're selected, the speakers travel around the state conducting presentations that are free and open to the public.

In 2010, the speakers series featured over 100 presentations at sites owned or operated by non-profit organizations, which have to apply for a speaker. The applications are available online at www.pahumanities.org. The website also lists each speaker and information about their presentations.

"We're very proud of the work Tracie Yorke does to engage with the community and support the humanities in the state," said Ms. Haertsch.

A specialist in Carnival, Ms. Yorke has an extensive background in the dance traditions of Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean and Brazil. Following her graduation from Amherst College, she received a fellowship two years in a row to travel to Guinea and Cuba to study the dance traditions of those countries.

While living in New York from 1998 to 2003, she studied at the Djoniba Dance and Drum Center, where she sat in on master workshops and performances of international dance companies from countries like Brazil, Senegal and Guinea. Two years ago, she started to explore the traditions of Salvador, an ex-slave port city in the northeast region of Brazil that has retained a lot of its African influences.

After earning a master's degree in educational technology at Carnegie Mellon University 2003, she worked for "Mr. Rogers Neighborhood" for nearly four years as the new media coordinator, giving her experience in early childhood development and its relationship to the arts and learning

In the past several years, she's given performances and art and education residences in the Pittsburgh area and has served as the artistic director of the Tracie Yorke Dance Studio in Lawrenceville. In 2008, she performed twice during the Carnival exhibition at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History showcasing dance from Trinidad and Brazil.

"I like to bring different events to the public, which includes speakers that introduce our audiences to an array of cultures," said Pier Lee, library director. "Tracie Yorke engages so well with younger audiences."

To register: 724-941-9430 or email programs@ptlibrary.org.

Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11097/1137491-55.stm#ixzz1Ir4X6vzK

Grand Opening of KEENage Korner

2011-03-29T19:49:00.001-04:00

The “KEENage Korner,” a space designed specifically for senior citizens at the Peters Township Public Library, will ceremonially open on Saturday, April 9, 2011 thanks to a $4,000 “Senior Spaces” grant provided by Pennsylvania’s Commonwealth Libraries. Senator John Pippy will assist with the ribbon-cutting. Along with the ceremony, bagpiper Sean O’Donnell will entertain with a short concert and Gina Snyder from Sunny Bridge Natural Foods will provide a healthy living lecture and demonstration. The festivities will begin at 11:00 a.m. in the library lobby; light refreshments will be served.

Since receiving the grant in fall of 2010, library staff along with members of the Senior Advisory Council worked to create new programs and learning opportunities for the Peters Township 50+ population. In addition to weekly “Wii Sports for Seniors” sessions, AARP tax assistance, and a variety of lectures, the council pushed for informational and instructional programming on current technology trends. To date, the library has offered a hands-on demonstration of devices such as the iPad, eReaders, iPod Touch and smartphones by a representative from the local Best Buy and a “Technology Fair” that showcased the library’s newest resources. The Senior Advisory Council is seeking new members to contribute ideas for the Senior Space and Senior programs; their next scheduled meeting is April 7, 2011 from 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Registration is not required for this event. Patrons of all ages are encouraged to drop by the library from 11:00-1:00 p.m. to enjoy the day’s events.

Spirit of Carnival on Sunday, April 10

2011-03-21T12:07:00.003-04:00

Experience the excitement of carnival in the streets of Port-of-Spain, Rio de Janeiro and New Orleans with professional dancer and ethnologist Tracie Yorke at the Peters Township Public Library on Sunday, April 10 from 1:00-2:30 p.m. This program will kick-off the library’s National Library Week celebration, April 10 through 16. Register for this program online or call 724.941.9430. Light refreshments will be served.

Each year, pulsating drum rhythms, flamboyant costumes and a coterie of colorful dancers transform the streets of Trinidad, Brazil and New Orleans to create non-stop street parties and elaborate displays of political, social, cultural and national solidarity. In this library event, dressed in stunning carnival pageantry, Tracie Yorke will use carnival props, video projections and music to take participants on an interactive journey through the fascinating histories of each one of these carnivals. The presentation will close, as all carnival celebrations do, with a parade of champions, drawn from the audience.

Yorke is a Commonwealth Speaker for the Pennsylvania Humanities Council and Artistic Director of Tracie Yorke Dance. She has a ten-year national/international performance history, having performed in countries such as Cuba, Brazil, Taiwan, Guinea and Italy. She currently conducts world dance residencies as a teaching artist in schools and communities throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania.

Consistent with Library Director Pier Lee’s objective to explore other cultures through library programs, “The Spirit of Carnival” will initiate several activities for patrons of all ages, including props for Carnival made by children and masks created by teens. The library lobby will be decorated to capture the excitement of Carnival.

This Commonwealth Speakers presentation is a program of the Pennsylvania Humanities Council, supported in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities and its We the People initiative. The Pennsylvania Humanities Council, a nonprofit organization, inspires individuals to enjoy and share a life of learning.

GREEN Fair to held at the Library

2011-02-26T11:35:00.012-05:00

The Peters Township Public Library GO Green Club will be sponsoring a GREEN Fair at the library on Saturday, March 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the library. The all-day event will feature local businesses and organizations that can help community members live a greener and more sustainable life. At the fair, 19 vendors to date will showcase their products and/or services with small items for sale to persons attending the event. No registration is required to attend this free event.

Participants in the fair include:
•Adam Solar Resources
•Appalachian Botanicals
•Artemis Environmental
•Bean Catering and Building New Hope
•Cartridge World
•Cherry Valley Organics
•Conservation Consultants, Inc.
•Construction Junction
•Envirobikes
•Goose Creek Gardens, LTD
•Green Irene
•Isidore Foods
•Meals on Wheels
•Organic Personal Chef Service
•Pennsylvania Resources Council
•Poverty Hollow Naturals and Exotics
•SOLAR-TEC
•Southwestern Pennsylvania Commissions CommuteInfo
•VOX Energy Solutions

Along with vendor exhibits and displays, a Speaker Series will be on-going throughout the day. Registration is required to attend each speaker session as space is limited.

•Doug Oster, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Backyard Gardener, will discuss "Grow Organic: Easy Steps to go Green in the Lawn and Garden" at 11:00 a.m. Register online, at the circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430.

•Dr. Candy DeBerry, Associate Professor of Biology at Washington and Jefferson College, will present "Native Plants for the Home Landscape" at 12:30 p.m. Register online, at the circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430.

•Faith Starr, local radio host of "Living Green with Faith" will discuss "Is Your Home Healthy?" at 2:00 p.m. Register online, at the circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430.

Please join us to learn more about "living green" from the many experts we have gathered for you. You will find information about reducing your energy bills, how and why to buy local foods, alternative transportation options, environmentally-responsible products for your home, and more. For more information about this event, email the Peters Township Public Library GO Green Club.

Developments in Egypt to be discussed at our library

2011-02-23T18:40:00.003-05:00

In February 2011, the world watched in amazement as mass protests in Egypt brought an end to President Hosni Mubarak’s thirty years of authoritarian rule, and uprisings in Tunisia led to the deposition of President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. Protesters across the Middle East have taken to the streets to demand regime change, enhanced freedoms, and constitutional reforms in places like Algeria, Libya, Bahrain, Yemen and Iran.

On Thursday, March 10 at 7:00 p.m. David Holdridge, President and Founder of Bridging the Divide (BTD), will discuss his recent trip to Egypt, ongoing developments in the region, and the importance of supporting peace and justice organizations in the Middle East at the Peters Township Public Library. Register to attend online or call 724.941.9430. The McMurray Veterans of Foreign Wars POST 764 is providing support for this program, which is part of the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh 2010-2011 program series.

David Holdridge is an expert in foreign assistance implementation with 30 years of experience providing executive leadership in non-governmental, humanitarian organizations in various countries in the Middle East, Africa, Central and Eastern Europe, Asia and the United States. From 2005 to 2009, he was Regional Director for Mercy Corps' Middle East programs, responsible for Israel and the Palestinian Territories, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, and Syria. Previously, he served in Iraq as Mercy Corps' Chief of Party for the Community Action Program. Prior to his term with Mercy Corps, Mr. Holdridge held a series of leadership positions with Catholic Relief Services and the Vietnam Veterans for America Foundation.

Bridging the Divide is an innovative non-profit, working to make the globe a safer, more just place. BTD features a model that directly connects the American Public to local grassroots organizations overseas working to bring peace and justice to their communities. Through social media and networking technologies, they facilitate dialogue, collaborate on advocacy efforts, and help the exchange of financial resources between Americans and on-the-ground organizations overseas. Using this unique approach, Bridging the Divide makes meaningful and sustainable advances in global security and justice.

PA Property Tax or Rent Rebate Help Available on March 7

2011-02-17T13:30:00.001-05:00

A member of Senator John Pippy’s staff will be providing assistance to individuals completing their Pennsylvania Property Tax or Rent Rebate Application at Peters Township Public Library. Pippy staff member, Sharon DeNardo, will be at the library on Monday, March 7 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Individual sessions will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Applicants should have proof of all income received in tax year 2010, including social security or railroad retirement benefits, pensions, annuities, interest and dividend income. Applicants applying for the first time must provide proof of age and proof of disability if appropriate. If the applicant received the PA 1000 application in the mail, they should bring the application with them. Home owners must provide proof that all real estate taxes were paid for the 2010 tax year and renters must have a completed rent certificate if possible, or proof of rent paid.

For questions, please call Sharon DeNardo at 412-262-2260.

Tom Atkins as "THE CHIEF"!

2011-02-09T17:37:00.001-05:00

Veteran actor of the stage, screen and TV, Tom Atkins, will discuss his 44-year career in the theater and his preparation for the role of his lifetime portraying Art Rooney Sr. at the Peters Township Public Library on Tuesday, February 22 at 7:00 p.m. Register for this program online or call 724-941-9430.

Mr. Atkins will perform one of the stories from “The Chief,” the one-man stage triumph about Rooney Sr., the legendary founding owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers franchise. Audience members will then watch the part of the newly-released DVD, “The Chief,” including the story Atkins related. A question and answer session will follow the DVD viewing.

"The Gallery": A Photographic Exhibit by Peters Township High School Students

2011-02-08T18:48:00.003-05:00

The Peters Township High School Photography Classes will exhibit their work in the main lobby of the Peters Township Public Library from February 24 through March 10 during library hours. "The Gallery" is a display of hundreds of student photographs from the classes and club at the high school. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, February 24 from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. All are welcome to attend.

Over 100 students contributed work for this exciting event. The Photography Club officers are: Chrisi Fagella, Jillian Eby, Jessica Kleja, Allie Schlafman, and Sean Sickmund. For more information about “The Gallery,” email the club sponsor, Erin Boni.

Planning for Profits Seminar Series

2011-02-07T14:54:00.003-05:00

Managing Employees? Understanding Financial Statements? Marketing Extraordinaire? Business Strategy Formation? When starting your small business you probably didn’t realize you were signing up to be CEO, CFO, CMO and COO all at once!

The Peters Township Public Library, the University of Pittsburgh Small Business Development Center, and PNC Bank want to help you manage all of the hats you wear with a special seminar series, “Planning for Profits.” This four–part program will help you look at your business from all angles.

Seminar One: February 24 - Marketing: Defining your customers, including targeting your customers and communications.
Seminar Two: March 24 - Financials: Understanding the financial condition of your business including cash flow planning and forecasting.
Seminar Three: April 21 - Operations: Understanding your operations including human resources and management control.
Seminar Four: May 26 - Strategy: How to position for future growth including strategic control and management control systems.

All programs are from 7:00-8:30 p.m. at the library, with a cost of $30 per seminar or $100 for all four seminars. Register for this program by emailing lbiddle@katz.pitt.edu with your name and contact phone number. You may also register by calling 724-229-8078.

Is Your Home Healthy?

2011-02-03T09:58:00.001-05:00

Are there unhealthy, toxic materials lurking in your kitchen, bathroom, and children’s rooms? Are your vet bills high because your animals keep getting sick? It could be a reaction to products you have in your home. Find out how easy it is to have a natural, healthy home for your family by attending “Is Your Home Healthy?” at the Peters Township Public Library on Saturday, February 12 from 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. Register to attend this free program by emailing the library or call 724.941.9430. This is a Peters Township Public Library GO Green Club program.

Local radio host Faith Starr will use all the diverse components of her comprehensive background to offer valid, usable tips for living a healthy, organic, and green lifestyle. She will share her knowledge about where to obtain healthy food in Western Pa - without breaking the bank. She is passionate about helping you find the hidden toxins in your own home environment. Faith Starr is in her fourth year of talk radio and is the host of "Living Green with Faith," which can be heard on Wednesday afternoons at 3:00 p.m. on 620 AM WKHB radio on WKHB in Pittsburgh.

Panelists from U.S. Army War College to discuss threats to National Security throughout the World

2011-01-31T12:51:00.003-05:00

President Obama announced the official end of the United States combat mission in Iraq this past August, yet viable threats to national security still exist across the world. From the recent package bombing attempts, to piracy in the Gulf of Aden, to the drug wars in Latin America, to the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan, national security is still of utmost concern to the current administration.

Visiting panelists from the Eisenhower Series College Program will share personal views based on their own experience, research, and reflection at the Peters Township Public Library on Tuesday, February 15 at 7:00 p.m. The panelists include: Captain William G. Davis, Director of National Security Studies and the Eisenhower Program; Colonel Eric Tilley, who will speak about the United States' role in NATO; and Lieutenant Colonel Harrison B. Gilliam, who will discuss Afghanistan Policy. Register for this program by emailing the library, at the library circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430. The McMurray Veterans of Foreign Wars POST 764 is providing support for the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh 2010-2011 program series.

The Eisenhower Series College Program was established in 1996 as a War College academic outreach program. It encourages dialogue on national security and other public policy issues between students of the Army’s senior educational institution and the public. Each panel member focuses on his/her study on a geographic region such as Europe, Russia/Eurasia, Asia, the Americas, Middle East, and Africa. To learn more about the Eisenhower Series College Program, visit their web site.

New Service for 2011 - AARP Tax Assistance

2011-01-26T20:41:00.004-05:00

In partnership with the AARP, tax assistance will be available at the library on Mondays and Tuesdays beginning Monday, February 7, 2011. AARP Tax-Aide will provide this free service to help low and moderate income taxpayers who are age 60 years and older.

You must visit the library in person to schedule an appointment for the month of February. The March appointment calendar will be released in February. Appointments are one hour long and begin at 9:15 a.m., with the last scheduled appointment for the day at 3:45 p.m. At the time of registration, the library will provide you a copy of the list of items you will need to bring when you arrive for your personal tax preparation session.

The list below includes the forms that are eligible for preparation by AARP TAX-AIDE consultants assigned to Peters Township Public Library:
*1040 with Schedules A, B, and D
*Schedule C up to $10,000 expenses/C-EZ up to $5,000 expenses (Schedule C has same requirements for CEZ – no employees, no inventory, no losses or depreciation etc.)
*Schedule EIC and EIC Worksheets
*1099 Misc. (box 7 nonemployee compensation is reported on Schedule C/CEZ)
*1099 Misc (box 1 or 2 – rents, royalties, reported on Schedule E with no expenses, depreciation)
*1099 Misc (box 3 other income is reported on 1040 Line 21)
*1040 – ES (Estimated Payments)
*2441 (Child and Dependent Care)
*5329 Additional Taxes on Qualified Plans, Part 1
*8283, Section A, Part 1 – non-cash contributions to charity exceed $500.00 but less than $5,000
*8606 (Nondeductible IRA) Part 1
*8880 (Qualified Savings Credit)
*8812 (Additional Child Tax Credit)
*8863 (Education Credits)
*9465 (Installment Agreement)
*8379 (Injured Spouse)
*1040X (Amended Returns, if trained in the tax year being amended)
*Schedule K – 1 that provides information only for interest, dividends and capital gain distributions and royalties (Schedule B, D, E)

Please bring the following items with you when you come for your scheduled appointment at Peters Township Public Library:
• Current year’s tax forms and preparation booklet
• Copy of last year’s income tax return
• W-2 forms from each employer
• Unemployment compensation statements
• SSA-1099 form if you were paid Social Security benefits
• All 1099 forms (1099-INT, 1099-DIV, 1099-B, etc.) showing interest and/or dividends and documentation showing original purchase price of sold assets
• 1099-misc. showing any miscellaneous income
• 1099-R form if you received a pension or annuity
• All forms indicating federal income tax paid
• Dependent care provider information (name, employer ID, Social Security number)
• All receipts or canceled checks if itemizing deductions
• Social Security cards or other official documentation for yourself and all dependents

For further information, please call the library at 724.941.9430.

New Year - New Gear!

2011-01-24T16:44:00.002-05:00

The library will be holding a “New Year – New Gear” Technology Fair on Saturday, January 29, 2011 from 1-3 p.m. in the main lobby of the library.

The library has recently purchased an iPad, eReaders, and an iPod to provide hands-on experience for patrons in using these new technologies and to fully benefit from the new library resources that are available. Library staff will offer help sessions to download audio books and eBooks to a home computer or to an iPod. Demonstrations of new children’s technologies like BookFlix, Tag, and Interactive Books will be taking place as well throughout the afternoon. Patrons can also register for UniversalClass™, a site that offers non-credit courses covering a wide range of topics. Other services, such as online registration for adult programs and the library’s weekly e-newsletter will be discussed as well.

Registration is not required for this event, and patrons are encouraged to drop by the library during the afternoon hours to take advantage of this special program to assist them with their technology questions. For more information, call the library at 724.941.9430.

Budgeting and Learning to Save -- A program that makes cents

2011-01-10T12:42:00.001-05:00

–“Thrift is the new black” according to “The Wall Street Journal Guide to the New Rules of Personal Finance" by Dave Kansas, who recommends now is the time to “…start with the foundation of eliminating debt and saving money.” To that end, members of the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) will discuss budgeting, establishing sound financial priorities, and learning how to save at “Budgeting and Learning to Save: A Program that Makes Cents” on February 10 at the Peters Township Public Library. Register for this program online, at the library circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430.

Program participants will include: Vic Conrad, CFP®, ChFC, AIF®, CPA (inactive) of Pinnacle Financial Strategies in Wexford; Jack Ellsworth, CPA, CVA of Cottrill Arbutina & Associates in McMurray and Robert Henkels, CPA, MED of R.D. Hoag & Associates in Pittsburgh. They will form a panel discussion from 7:00 – 8:00 P.M. and will field audience questions from 8:00 – 8:30 P.M.

Even though the economy is slowly recovering and job growth is still quite slow, you will learn at this session that it is not how much you make, but how much you spend. PICPA’s experts will also help you formulate your financial priorities and how to pay yourself first.

The Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) is committed to helping improve the financial literacy of Pennsylvania residents. In partnership with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and as part of a national effort, PICPA seeks to educate the public about fiscal responsibility, money management, and other issues relating to life’s stages through a variety of local programs and resources. For additional resources, visit their web site.

Update on Tax Forms at our library

2011-01-10T12:36:00.001-05:00

The Peters Township Public Library participates with the IRS and Pennsylvania Department of Revenue to provide both Federal and State Tax forms for our patrons. The Pennsylvania State Tax forms will begin arriving at the library the week of January 24, and property tax forms begin shipping February 10.

Shipments for the Federal Tax Documents including forms and publications have begun arriving at our library. However, shipment has been delayed (possibly until late January) for several tax publications, including Instructions 1040-ALL and Instructions 14040 A, due to the delay in passing the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010.

The library will soon be receiving copies of Publication 4893 – Important Information for Taxpayers Who No Longer Receive Tax Packages.

Individuals with a valid Peters Township Public Library card may access our library computers for tax forms and publications. Patrons choosing to print from library computers are charged a minimum fee to cover library costs. To access federal forms, visit www.irs.gov and to access state forms, visit www.revenue.state.pa.us.

You may call the following phone numbers for further assistance:
Federal Tax Help for Individuals 1-800-829-1040
Federal Tax Forms and Publications 1-800-829-3676
State Tax Help 1-717-787-8201

Free FAFSA Workshop with PHEAA

2010-12-23T10:51:00.009-05:00

The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) and the Peters Township Public Library will host a free FAFSA Completion Session on Saturday, January 29, 2011 at the library. PHEAA will present this free session to help families complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

The program will begin at 10:00 a.m. with an overview of the online FAFSA form and will include time for questions. All participants MUST register online or at the library circulation desk. Families can also register for an optional session following the program to complete the FAFSA form online at the library with assistance from Jayeann Harr of the PHEAA Pittsburgh Regional Office. The four 30-minute sessions will begin at noon and end at 2 p.m. Register at the library circulation desk or email the library and indicate your preferred time slot: noon, 12:30p.m., 1:00 p.m. or 1:30 p.m.

If your child is a high school senior planning to go onto higher education, your family must complete the FAFSA to qualify for federal and most state grants, scholarships, low-cost student loans, work-study programs, Pennsylvania state grant programs, and many school-based student aid programs.

To complete the FAFSA online, please bring federal income tax returns, W-2 forms, and business and investment information for both student and parent(s) to the help session. For more information about Federal Student Aid and completing the FAFSA, visit the FAFSA web site.

Win the clutter battle once and for all!

2010-12-22T18:11:00.005-05:00

The Peters Township Public Library will present “…But I Might Need It Someday!” featuring guest speaker Patty Kreamer on Saturday, January 22, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. Register for this free program online or at the library's circulation desk.

Imagine being able to find things when you need them…not three weeks later. If you’ve been miserable because clutter and chaos are ruling your life, ” …But I Might Need It Someday” is for you! Based on her first book by the same title, this program will help you understand the habits that keep you from organizing your work and lives. Patty will show you how to overcome your natural tendencies and conquer clutter in all its forms once and for all.

Patty Kreamer is a Certified Professional Organizer®, author, national speaker, organizer Coach, and president of Kreamer Connect. Patty is the author of two books, “…But I Might Need It Someday!” and “The Power of Simplicity” as well as The Clutter Rescue Course. Most recently, Patty became the owner of the online store www.OrganizedAtoZ.com that carries over 1500 organizing products worldwide. Patty was named Women's Business Network's 2007 Woman of the Year. For more information, visit her web site.

Alternative Energy Options: Solar, Wind and Geothermal

2010-12-15T18:53:00.002-05:00

Interested in learning more about alternative energy opportunities for your home? Tim Quigley, Director of Solar Tec, and Eric Casteel, Special Projects Manager for WR Casteel will discuss some of the different technologies currently available at the Peters Township Public Library on Wednesday, January 5 at 7:00 p.m.

The program will include an overview of wind and geothermal technologies, with information on feasibility and cost and benefits for residential, commercial, community and utility scale applications. Solar energy will be discussed, including a demonstration of the process used to create solar panels, how solar panels work and how the home or commercial business owner can save on their electric bill and earn from selling their alternative energy credits.

Register for this free program online or call 724.941.9430.

Tree-Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Party

2010-12-03T08:46:00.001-05:00

Join us Sunday, December 5 at 6 p.m. at the library for the annual Tree-Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Party, held in partnership with the Peters Township Parks and Recreation Department. Festivities will include lighting and decorating the outdoors township tree at 6:00, followed by holiday caroling. Refreshments, visits with Santa, and holiday crafts for children will also be offered in the library.

We'll also be welcoming John Steigerwald, a former KDKA-TV sports reporter and currently a sports columnist for the Observer-Reporter, who will be offering a preview of his newly published book, Just Watch the Game, from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.. It's a terrific way to get in the holiday spirit and spend time with family and friends!

Library marks Veterans Day with opening of World Affairs International Program Series

2010-10-20T19:19:00.003-04:00

The library will welcome Steven E. Sokol, new President and Chief Executive Officer, Pittsburgh World Affairs Council as he opens this year’s International Program Series on Thursday, November 11 at 7:00 p.m. at the library.

As is fitting for this date, Mr. Sokol will be recognizing the McMurray Veterans of Foreign Wars POST 764 for generously providing support for this program series in the community over the past four years. Sokol will also discuss key global trends and how they relate to World Affair Council programs and new initiatives. The presentation will address the important issues facing the international community and the options available for dealing with the rapidly changing political and economic forces impacting United States interests around the world.

Before joining Pittsburgh World Affairs Council in June 2010, Mr. Sokol served as Vice President and Director of Programs at the American Council on Germany in New York. Sokol is a frequent commentator on transatlantic relations and European and American political affairs in the U.S. and European media. He holds an M.A. in International Relations and International Economics from the Johns Hopkins University’s Paul Nitze School of Advanced International Studies and is currently working on a Doctorate in Law and Policy at Northwestern University. He has also studied at the Ruprecht-Karls-Universitat in Heidelberg and as a Fulbright Scholar at the Freie Universitat in Berlin.

Register online for this free program, at the library circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430. The McMurray Veterans of Foreign Wars POST 764 is providing support for the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh 2010-2011 program series.

This Week @ the Library Oct. 18 -23

2010-10-18T17:15:00.001-04:00

From the Children's Department

MOVIE NIGHTS
Ages: For kids and parents of all ages
When: Monday, October 18
Time: 6:00 - 7:45 p.m.
How to Train Your Dragon (rated PG for sequences of intense action and some scary images, and brief mild language)
It's movie night at the library! Bring your whole family as we watch terrific new release movies. We'll provide the popcorn and candy -- you don't even have to buy tickets! What could be better? Just bring a sleeping bag and/or a stuffed animal friend. See you at the movies! Register in the Children's Department.

STAR WARS CELEBRATION
Ages: For kids and parents of all ages
When: Tuesday, October 19
Time: 6:00 - 6:45 p.m.
Long, long ago in a galaxy far, far away ... comes to a library near you! Wear your Star Wars costume or outfit! Make your very own light saber! Share stories from the Star Wars universe and watch R2-D2's favorite video! Use the force and come to the good side at our Star Wars Celebration. Register in the Children's Department.

SPOOKY OOKY HALLOWEEN PARTY
Ages: Grades 4 - 8
When: Thursday, October 21
Time: 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Come to our very own Halloween Party for grades 4 - 8 ... if you dare! Wear your creepy or cute costume, play gruesome games, win petrifying prizes, and of course enjoy lots of sweet and spooky snacks! A special extra-fun, super-sweet edition of Camp Creepy. Register in the Children's Department.

From the Young Adult Department

TEEN READ WEEK BOOK BASH
When: Monday, October 18
Time: 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.
Join us to celebrate 2010's Teen Read Week, "Read Beyond Reality." During this book-themed afternoon we will make a craft, have snacks and discuss our favorite books!

METROID PRIME TRILOGY TOURNAMENT
Ages: Grades 6 - 12
When: Saturday, October 23
Time: 11:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Check in is at 11:30 a.m. Game play will begin at 12:00 p.m.
You must check in before 12:00 p.m. in order to play.
Cost: $2.00 entrance fee
Take a journey into the future with our first ever Metroid Prime Trilogy Tournament! Battle your friends for championship status. First and second place winners will earn awesome prizes!

CREATIVE CRAFTERS
When: Thursday, October 21
Time: 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.
Drop by the Teen Room for an afternoon of crafty fun. Using materials found around the house, we will make unique covers for your laptops, iPods and books!

Programs for Adults

PETERS TOWNSHIP PUBLIC LIBRARY GO GREEN CLUB
Meeting dates: 3rd Monday of the month (October 18)
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Are you interested in learning to live lightly on the planet? If so, please join us for our next GO Green Club meeting. The mission of the PTPL GO Green Club is to provide the community with educational resources through programs, library materials, and volunteer activities to help create a more environmentally- friendly and responsible lifestyle. Please email the library if you plan on attending. If you do not have email, you may register at the library's circulation desk.

COVER LETTERS AND RESUMES
When: Tuesday, October 19
Time: 7:00 - 8:45 p.m.
Instructor: Peter Stamoolis
This hands-on course will teach students how to use Microsoft Word on a PC to prepare professional looking cover letters and resumes. The purposes and various formats of each will be covered. Register at the library's circulation desk. Please note: there is no charge for this class.

PETERS TOWNSHIP PUBLIC LIBRARY COUPONING CLUB
When: 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of every month (October 19)
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Are you interested in learning how to save money in your monthly budget? Then the Peters Township Public Library Couponing Club is for you! Join is as we meet to swap coupons, exchange ideas and strategies for using coupons, and maintain the Coupon Swap Box in the library. Bring a pair of scissors to clip coupons during our lively and informative discussions! Register for this program online, at the library's circulation desk, or call 724-941-9430.

BREAST HEALTH AWARENESS
When:Tuesday, October 19, 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. OR
Saturday, October 23, 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
Presented by: Margie Webb, RN, NCTMB Join Registered Nurse and Certified Massage Therapist Margie Webb as she guides you through this interactive workshop. Participants will learn about breast anatomy, the changes in breast tissue throughout a woman's lifetime, changing negative thinking about self breast exams, the lastest guidelines from the American Cancer Society, boosting the immune system, and relaxation, laughter and movement for healthy breasts. Register for this program online here for the October 19 session, online here for the October 23 session, or at the library's circulation desk.

AFTERNOON BOOK CLUB FOR ADULTS
When: 3rd Wednesday of every month
Time: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
October 20: Planning meeting
The book club meets in the library's 2nd floor Reading Room. Please call the Reference staff at 724-941-9430 ext. 327 for information.

PETERS TOWNSHIP PUBLIC LIBRARY BEADING CLUB
When: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month, beginning Wednesday, October 20
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Ages: 12 and up
Facilitator: Karen Krohner of Beads 2 Wear
Join us for an evening of beading, work on an existing project, or begin a new one in the company of fellow beaders. Beginners and experienced beaders welcome. Bring your supplies and a small task light, if you have one. Additional supplies and tools will be available for purchase. A monthly project will be planned. Participation in project optional. Monthly project for October: Earring Workshop -- beginners welcome. Design at least two pairs of earrings. Learn to make wrapped and plain loops. Tools needed: chain nose and round nose pliers, wire cutter. Materials kit and tools will be available for purchase. Register at the library's circulation desk .

PETERS TOWNSHIP PUBLIC LIBRARY "LETS COOK TOGETHER!" COOKING CLUB
When: Thursday, October 21
Time: 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Are you tired of using the same recipes every month? Interested in trying a new cuisine or healthier recipe options? The Peters Township Public Library is looking for patrons interested in these topics to start a cooking club to meet monthly for cooking demonstrations and discussions, followed by food samples. Join us for our first meeting (planning session) on October 21. Tentative plans for the club include a demonstration on cooking with healthy grains in November, followed by a discussion and sampling of Jewish home cooking in December. Register for this program online, at the library's circulation desk, or call 724-941-9430.

Ride with Us: Explore Ridesharing Options with CommuteInfo

2010-10-14T11:44:00.006-04:00

Although the price of gas may not be as high as the prices last year, it continues to be a large part of a family’s expenses. Now may be a great time to “go green” and consider some of our region’s more energy-friendly ways of getting from here to there – while saving you some money.

The CommuteInfo program can help, offering free ridematching services to help commuters learn about the options available to them, including transit, vanpool, carpool, biking and walking. Lisa Kay Schweyer, the Program Developer for the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission’s CommuteInfo Program will be presenting an overview of the program’s services at the Peters Township Public Library on Saturday, November 13th at 10:30 a.m. Register for this free program online, at the library circulation desk or call 724.941.9430. This is a PTPL GO Green Club program.

For area residents “…carpools and vanpools are becoming more and more of a viable option,” says Schweyer. She notes that the CommuteInfo program can help match them up with other commuters in the area, or provide helpful links and information. “Think of CommuteInfo as a restaurant menu of commuting choices,” says Schweyer.

Visit CommuteInfo for more detailed information on commuting alternatives. It’s free to register, and benefits include informational updates and for those who join a “pool”, participation in the Emergency Ride Home service. Schweyer reminds commuters to consider their schedules and evaluate what their own personal transport needs are, and to consider sharing their ride, even 2 or 3 days a week.

This Week @ the Library Oct. 11-16

2010-10-11T10:59:00.004-04:00

From the Children's Department

GIRL'S NIGHT OUT
Ages: Girls in grades 4 - 8 and their moms / caregivers
When: Monday, October 11
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
It's a girls night out! All mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and daughters are invited to meet once a month -- just us girls! Enjoy reading together, watching chick flicks, and sharing in this special book club! Register in the Children's Department.

FAMILY PAJAMA STORYTIME-JUNGLE JAMBOREE
Ages: For kids and parents of all ages
When: Tuesday, October 12
Time: 6:00 - 6:45 p.m.
Look for the Bear Necessities .. they're at the library! Make awesome jungle animal masks, play games, and enjoy treats fit for a trek through the wildest jungle! Watch and sing along with your favorite Jungle Book songs on the big screen and take your turn at the tiger piñata! It's a jungle in here! Register in the Children's Department.

THE HEROES OF OLYMPUS: THE LOST HERO RELEASE PARTY!
Ages: For all ages
When: Tuesday, October 12
Time: 7:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Come and get first dibs on the first in the new series by Rick Riordan, The Heroes of Olympus: The Lost Hero! Compete in Camp Half Blood trials, watch the movie featuring our favorite Olympic hero Percy Jackson, wear a toga, enjoy Greek snacks, and win prizes! It's a party of Olympic proportions! Register in the Children's Department.

From the Young Adult Department

INTERNATIONAL AFTERNOONS
When: Wednesday, October 13
Time: 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.
Join us as we travel the world! Each month, we'll visit another exciting country and experience their cuisine, art, music, and more. Pack your suitcase and get your passports ready! This week: AUSTRIA

AFTERNOON MOVIE & MUNCHIES
When: Thursday, October 14
Time: 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Need a break from class and homework? If so, join us for a relaxing afternoon of movies and munchies in the Teen Reading Room.

ANIME CLUB
When: Every Friday, now through December 17
Time: 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Join us in the Teen Reading Room to celebrate your love of all things Anime and Manga. We'll discuss and watch the latest trends in comics, DVD's and magazines. All otaku are welcome!

SUPER SMASH BROS. BRAWL!
Ages: All ages welcome!
When: Saturday, October 16
Time: 11:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Check in is at 11:30 a.m. Game play will begin at 12:00 p.m.
You must check in before 12:00 p.m. in order to play.Cost: $2.00 entrance fee
Registration is required for each tournament session.
Due to popular demand, our brawl tournament series is continuing this fall! Join us in the Teen Room to show off your brawling skills and win some awesome prizes. The top scorers each month will earn the chance to compete and win in our January 8, 2011 Grand Championship. Start practicing and get ready to BRAWL!
Questions? E-mail the Young Adult Librarian .

Programs for Adults

WORD PROCESSING 3
When: Tuesday, October 12
Time: 7:00 - 8:45 p.m.
Cost: $5.00
In this class, students will learn about templates, multiple columns, adding graphics, mail merge, and discuss compatibility issues related to the Microsoft Office 2007 programs at the library. Basic mouse and keyboarding skills are required.
Pre-registration is required. Registration is not complete until payment is received; register at the library's circulation desk.

EVENING BOOK CLUB FOR ADULTS
When: 2nd Wednesday of every month
Time: 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
October 13: Luncheon of the Boating Party by Susan Vreeland
The book club meets in the library's 2nd floor Reading Room. Please call the Reference staff at 724-941-9430 ext. 327 for information.

THE MECHANICS OF STARTING A SMALL BUSINESS
When: Thursday, October 14
Time: 6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Presented by: Lindsey A. Biddle, Management Consultant, University of Pittsburgh Small Business Development Center, Ed Nemeth, Washington County Council on Economic Development, and Mary Gibson, Attorney
Thinking of starting a small business? Find out all of the basics at this seminar. This program is geared towards individuals interested in starting their own business. The program will go over different business structures, licensure necessary to start a small business, sources of startup capital, and the steps one should take before opening a small business in the state of Pennsylvania. Register for this program online, at the library's circulation desk, or call 724-941-9430.

Going Local with Faith Starr

2010-09-27T19:09:00.004-04:00

September is Local Food Month here in Pennsylvania! Join us we welcome local radio personality Faith Starr on Wednesday, September 29 at 7:00 p.m. at the library. She will discuss the importance of eating local foods and the impact this decision has on us and our communities. Ms. Starr's radio program, "Living Green with Faith," focuses on offering tips for living a healthier, organic lifestyle. The program can be heard on 620AM every Wednesday at 3:00 p.m. Register for this program online, at the library's circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430. This program is being hosted by the Peters Township Public Library GO Green Club.

Social Security and Financial Planning Event

2010-09-15T18:24:00.003-04:00

In recognition of Financial Planning Week (October 4 – 10) and the 75th Anniversary of Social Security, a Social Security representative will discuss tools for planning your retirement, retirement benefits, disability benefits survivor benefits, and more at "Social Security and Financial Planning," presented at Peters Township Public Library on Thursday, October 7 at 7:00 p.m. Participants in this workshop will also learn about features of Social Security online at including applying for benefits online and helpful navigation tips for using the features available at this online site. Information packages will be available to all in attendance.

Providing insight for the financial planning portion of the program will be Darla D. Main, Certified Financial Planner and President-Elect, Financial Planning Association of Pittsburgh. Darla Main’s presentation will provide a description of financial planning including retirement planning, estate planning, funding education, facing a financial crisis, handling inheritances and other topics. Participants will learn what life-triggering events may encourage the use of a financial planner and how to locate a financial planner in your area. Discussion will include how to interview a planner to determine whether he/she is a good fit for you.

Register for this free program online, at the library’s circulation desk or call 724.941.9430.

College Financial Aid Night

2010-09-09T10:18:00.006-04:00

Help is on the way for parents of high school seniors and juniors getting ready to navigate their way through the college financial aid process.

In conjunction with the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA), the Peters Township Public Library will host a free “College Financial Aid Night” on Monday, September 27, 2010 from 6:30– 8:00 p.m. at the library. The program will be given by Jim Cardinale, Regional Director of the Pittsburgh Office of PHEAA, who will provide an overview of the financial aid process.

Parents and students are invited to the 60-minute presentation, which will describe all federal and PA-state financial aid programs, scholarships and FAFSA application processes. Other topics will include how colleges award aid to families and how financial aid deadline dates interface with the college admissions process. Loan rates and interest rates for students and parents will also be discussed. A question and answer session will follow the program.

Registration is necessary for this free program via email, at the Library's circulation desk, or call 724-941-9430.

Running for Fun and Fitness: Prevent Pain and Injury

2010-08-21T13:54:00.002-04:00

Equally informative for those who are recreational/fitness runners or those who want to start running but have questions about proper technique, this program by Tony Zuloaga, PT, MS, OCS, on Tuesday, August 24 from 7-8:30 p.m. will discuss important running elements, including: proper flexibility, appropriate shoes, better body mechanics, how to increase strength, and helpful exercises. Reasons for pain during or after running will also be covered. Mr. Zuloaga is an orthopedically certified physical therapist and has been in practice for 30 years. Register for this program online, at the library's circulation desk, or call 724-941-9430.

Home Canning Basics at the Library

2010-08-11T20:40:00.001-04:00

Learn the art of home canning at the Peters Township Public Library on Saturday, August 14 from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. The workshop will teach how to effectively preserve foods to make the most of summer’s bounty.

Even with all the technological advances in the last fifty years, home canning is one of the safest and most reliable methods of preserving food, if done properly. “Home Canning Basics” will be taught by Loretta O’Brien, who has been canning for 33 years, and Angie Phares, Peters Township Public Library GO Green Club President and Master Gardening candidate.

Register for this free program online, at the library’s circulation desk, or call 724-941-9430.

Native Southwestern PA Plants in the Garden

2010-07-29T10:34:00.003-04:00

One of the hottest new trends in gardening and landscaping is the use of native plants. Tonight the library is offering a free program on this topic by Candy S. DeBerry, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Biology at Washington & Jefferson College.

Hosting by the PTPL GO Green Club, "Native Plants in the Garden and Landscape" will explain how growing native plants can reduce maintenance and water usage, saving time and money; reduce air, water, and noise pollution; increase biodiversity and create wildlife habitat; and increase property values. This workshop will introduce you to beautiful and landscape-friendly trees, shrubs, vines, grasses, and perennials, all native to Southwest Pennsylvania. Register at the library's circulation desk or call 724.941.9430.

Two-part Couponing 101 series

2010-07-27T19:45:00.002-04:00

Learn how to trim your monthly grocery bills, get items for free, and much more at “Couponing 101” a new series being hosted by the Peters Township Public Library on two consecutive Saturdays, August 7 and August 14 from 10 - 11:30 a.m.

The two sessions will explain coupon basics such as where to find the best coupons, how to organize your coupons and to use the weekly circulars to your best advantage. Find out how to read a coupon, what to do with expired coupons, and get your children, spouse, family and friends involved in the process. Each participant will receive a coupon packet to help start a coupon collection.

These classes will be offered by local coupon” experts” Cindi Johnson, Randy Piscatelli, and Lori Lautar, who will share the strategies and tips they have learning during their several years of couponing. Ms. Johnson initiated and maintains the “Coupon Swap” box at the library and has been an avid couponer for 40 years. Mr. Piscatelli has donated over $32,000 in food to various agencies that he has gotten for free through clipping coupons. He believes families can cut their food bills by 50 to 75% easily. Ms. Lautar regularly saves at least 50% on her grocery bills with coupons, and plans to share her knowledge about “coupon stacking” - combining more than one discount when purchasing an item.

To attend these free sessions, please register at the library circulation desk, call 724-941-9430, or email the library. Depending on the interest level at these sessions, the library is considering starting a couponing club for patrons to swap coupons, share web sites with coupon offers, and learn to save money on all their purchases.

Visit the Library Booth at Community Day!

2010-06-19T11:13:00.001-04:00

The Peters Township Public Library will once again be participating in Peters Township Community Day on Saturday, June 26 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Peterswood Park. (There is no rain date.) The Library's booth will be #110, located next to the large playground at the top of the hill.

We will be featuring information and activities for all ages! Children will have bandanas to decorate and carnival games, and the popular Sno-Cone machine will be back for an encore performance! For teens, there will be sand art key-chains and the opportunity to play Wii Sports Resort on a portable TV. The Reference Department staff and volunteers will be providing instruction on accessing Mango Languages - Language Learning Online Resource, available for free for library patrons. Members of the library's "GO Green" Club will be offering a recycling display and will be available to speak with visitors about the club's activities and projects.You can also purchase raffle tickets for a framed, signed (11 signatures) Pittsburgh Penguins jersey -- the winner will be chosen on July 6, and tickets ($2.00 each) are available at the library's circulation desk and will also be available at the Library's booth.

Stop by our booth and learn about everything we have to offer to you and your whole family!

Start off your summer by learning a new language!

2010-06-02T19:05:00.006-04:00

Did you know your library has a fun, fast and easy language learning program called Mango Languages? The best part it is free for Peters Township Public Library patrons, and you can access it anywhere the internet is available with your library card.

Mango is the easiest and most effective way to learn to speak a foreign language. Mango is available in two versions:

Mango Basic:
Perfect for a foreign language beginner, Mango Basic teaches everyday greetings, gratitudes, goodbyes and helpful phrases in a short period of time. The courses, which require only two to five hours of time to complete, are currently available in 22 foreign languages and 14 English as a Second Language (ESL) courses. You can view all the supported Mango Basic languages and ESL courses here.

Mango Complete:
Mango Complete offers a 100-lesson course that digs much deeper and is designed to provide a more complete understanding of the entire language and culture. It is available in nine foreign language and three ESL courses. Foreign language courses include Chinese, French, German, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish. ESL courses include Polish, Spanish and Portuguese.

To learn more about Mango and get a short preview of what the program has to offer, you can visit the company's website. Even better, you can visit the library's link to Mango and get started on the courses themselves!

Dad's Day Out @ the Library!

2010-05-26T11:03:00.003-04:00

To honor and celebrate Father’s Day 2010, the Peters Township Public Library will offer a day-long event for fathers and their children at the library on Saturday, June 19 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“Dad’s Day Out” is a special day to celebrate all things about dad. Events planned include a comedy dads’ movie marathon, father-son-daughter storytime, duct tape craft projects, and a Fathers vs. Kids Wii Tournament. There will also be an “Ugly Tie Contest”, so patrons are encouraged to wear their most hideous tie to win a prize! During the event, dads can also learn about the many resources available at the library to make their lives easier – free WiFi, study rooms, Consumer Reports online, Mango Languages and more. Refreshments will be available. Fathers and their children are encouraged to stop in at any time throughout the day.

Raffle tickets will be sold to win a framed, autographed Pittsburgh Penguins sweatshirt, which will be on display. Players who signed the shirt include: Matt Cooke, Sydney Crosby, Ruslan Fedotenko, Eric Godard, Alex Goligoski, Kris Letang, Sergei Gonchar, Jay McKee, Marc Andre Fleury, Craig Adams, and Jordon Staal. Tickets are $2 each and are currently available in the Children’s Department, the Young Adult Department and the circulation desk. The drawing for the shirt will be held on Tuesday, July 6. Proceeds from the raffle will benefit the library, and you need not be present at the drawing to win.

To attend the “Dad’s Day Out” program, please call the Children's Department at 724.941.9430 or email the library.

Summer Series of Gardening Workshops

2010-05-26T10:55:00.006-04:00

A new series of summer gardening workshops will be offered at the Peters Township Public Library, hosted by the library’s GO Green Club. The presenter for the series will be Candy S. DeBerry, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Biology at Washington and Jefferson College.

The series will feature three different programs:
Greening Your Garden on Thursday, June 17 at 7:00 p.m.
Rain gardens, grasscycling, native plants, xeriscaping, ecological landscaping... all these are ways to make your yard a healthier place, both for you and the environment. This workshop will explore the damaging effects of conventional gardening and landscaping practices, and offer alternative practices for "greening" your lawn and garden.

Native Plants in the Garden and Landscape on Thursday, July 29 at 7:00 p.m.
Native plants are one of the hottest trends in gardening and landscaping. Why? Because growing native plants can reduce maintenance and water usage, saving time and money; reduce air, water, and noise pollution; increase biodiversity and create wildlife habitat; and increase property values. This workshop will introduce you to beautiful and landscape-friendly trees, shrubs, vines, grasses, and perennials, all native to Southwest Pennsylvania.

Dealing with Problems in the Green Garden on Thursday, August 26 at 7:00 p.m."How do I identify and remove invasive plants? What pesticides are safest to use? How do I keep raccoons, deer, rabbits, voles and other wild creatures from damaging my garden?" If you've asked yourself these or similar questions, you need to come to this workshop to learn the answers!

Register for any or all of these three programs by emailing the library or call 724-941-9430.

Giant Oaks Garden Club Plant Sale TODAY!

2010-05-22T10:09:00.004-04:00

Stop by the library today until 1 p.m. for the Annual Plant Sale by the Giant Oaks Garden Club - beautiful plants at fabulous prices! This event is one of many fundraisers the club conducts as a means to raise money to support many local projects and community organizations, including the library. All of the plants offered for sale are grown by club members. PLUS the club has set up a flea market in the first floor meeting room with many unique items for sale! Hurry in - the sale is only until 1 p.m. today and things are selling quickly!

Composting 101 Workshop

2010-05-19T10:04:00.002-04:00

Ever had questions about composting? What goes in it? Does it have an unpleasant odor? Where should it go? How does it work? What’s the point? The Peters Township Public Library GO Green Club is hosting an educational workshop on composting given by local resident and composter, Angie Phares. The workshop will be held on Saturday, June 12 from 10 to 11:00 a.m. at the library. Register for this free program at the library’s circulation desk, call 724.941.9430 or register online.

Mrs. Phares has lived in the area for 5 years and has recently completed the coursework for the Washington County Master Gardener program. She and her family have been composting for several years and are amazed at how much can go in the compost bin! Register for the program to learn more about this time-honored practice for improving soil structure and increasing soil fertility.

Author Visit: Carmen Stenholm

2010-05-11T19:54:00.003-04:00

Join us on Saturday, May 15 at 11:00 a.m. as we welcome local resident and author Dr. Carmen Stenholm. Dr. Stenholm has recently published Crack Between the Worlds, a work of historical fiction based on the challenging lives of her great-grandmother, grandmother and mother. She will discuss the use of writing as a method of creative expression and as a tool for inner growth and evolution. She will also have copies of her book available for purchase. Register at the circulation desk or call 724.941.9430.

Enrolling for Social Security Benefits and Online Services

2010-05-07T08:10:00.002-04:00

This year, the Social Security Administration is celebrating the 75th anniversary of providing high quality, personal service to the American public. On Thursday, May 13 from 7:00-8:30 p.m., a representative from the Social Security Administration will provide information about applying for Social Security benefits as well as information about what can be accomplished at Social Security Online, the official website of the U.S. Social Security Administration.

The Social Security representative will discuss Retirement benefits, Disability benefits, Survivor benefits and Medicare. Attendees will learn about the features of Social Security Online, the advantages of using this website and some helpful navigation tips. There will be a question and answer session after the program. Information packages will be available. Register at the library's circulation desk or call 724.941.9430.

Food for Life Series offered at the library

2010-04-24T14:00:00.007-04:00

Our library will host a new four-part series that will to share knowledge about how food choices can help prevent cancer and support survival once cancer has been diagnosed. The Food for Life Nutrition and Cooking class series will begin on Wednesday, May 5 from 7 – 8:30 p.m. and be offered for the following three consecutive Wednesdays at that same time; May 12, 19 and 26. This series will be facilitated by Janet McKee, a board certified Holistic Health Counselor and a certified member of the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. Each class will focus on a key nutrition topic, a live cooking demonstration, and plentiful samples of delicious meals and healthy desserts.

Each session will feature a video segment by Neal Barnard, M.D. on the nutrition topic(s) of the day:
May 5: Introduction to How Foods Fight Cancer
May 12: Fueling up on Low-Fat, High-Fiber Foods
May 19: Discovering Dairy and Meat Alternatives
May 26: Cancer-Fighting Compounds and Healthy Weight Control

Janet McKee represents The Cancer Project, a non-profit organization founded by Dr. Neal Barnard, whose mission is to advance cancer prevention and survival through nutrition education and research. Designed by physicians, nutrition experts, and registered dietitians, each class includes information about how certain foods and nutrients work to promote or discourage cancer growth, along with cooking demonstrations of simple and healthy recipes that can be recreated easily at home.

Cost for the entire four-class series is $80, payable upon registration at the library’s circulation desk. The class fee includes meal samples and a loaner copy of The Cancer Survivor's Guide, which has extensive nutrition information and more than 100 pages of recipes. The book may be purchased at the conclusion of the series. For information and more detailed class descriptions, visit the Cancer Project web site.

Mexico: Meeting the Challenges of Economic Recovery and Expanded Organized Crime

2010-04-24T13:35:00.007-04:00

As the global economy appears to be moving towards recovery, and as Mexico emerges as a rising economic and global power, how will this country deal with the global economic downturn and the pervasive drug trade violence facing it?

These issues will be discussed as part of the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh’s International series, The Economics of Power-Rising Powers in a Changing World at the Peters Township Public Library on Wednesday, May 5, 2010 from 7:00 – 8:30 P.M. Dr. Arnulfo Valdivia Machuca, Chief of International Affairs of the State of Mexico will present Mexico: Meeting the Challenges of Economic Recovery and Expanded Organized Crime.

Mexico is one of the United States’ top trading partners and is a powerful economic force in Latin America. The end of the single party rule and steady economic growth have afforded new freedoms and opportunities, but the recent rise in power of domestic drug cartels has created an atmosphere of insecurity and volatility. This, coupled with a difficult recovery from the recent global economic downturn, brings about a number of challenges regarding Mexico’s economic future. How will Mexico respond to these challenges? What are the implications for United States – Mexico relations?

Dr. Arnulfo Valdivia Machuca, Chief of International Affairs of the State of Mexico, has been a Political Adviser to the Governor of the State of Mexico and has served as Honorary Representative of the State of Mexico in Europe and the United Kingdom. He has also served as an independent adviser to the Secretary of Economic Development of the government of the State of Mexico, the European Union, and several Mexican political parties. Dr. Machuca is currently the President of the Regional Advisory Council for the National Immigration Institute in the State of Mexico. In addition to a Post-Doctorate in Economic Integration from the European University institute, Dr. Machuca holds a Doctorate in Political Economics and a Masters in Development Studies from the University of Cambridge.

Register for this free program at the Library’s Circulation Desk or call 724-941-9430. For additional information, please email Pier Lee, Director, Peters Township Public Library or call at 724-941-9430 or email Brandon Wallace, World Affairs Council Community Program Director or call 412-281-7055.

An honorarium for this program is generously provided by a grant from the McMurray Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 764.

A visit from a very special neighbor!

2010-04-19T11:53:00.003-04:00

It will be a beautiful day in the neighborhood on Saturday, April 24 when the Peters Township Public Library welcomes Mr. McFeely for a visit from 1:00-3:00 p.m. A long-time TV favorite, Mr. McFeely (aka David Newell) will be stopping by with several puppet friends from the “Neighborhood of Make-Believe” to share stories and songs with library patrons.

Fans of the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood television show will remember Mr. Newell for his on-going performance as the neighborhood mailman “Mr. McFeely”, best known for his catchphrase: "Speedy delivery! Speedy delivery!" Residing in Pittsburgh, Newell is the director of public relations for Family Communications, Inc., a non-profit production company created in 1971 by Fred Rogers. He was recently featured in a documentary called Speedy Delivery, produced by several Carnegie Mellon University graduate students. Newell presently tours the country as “Mr. McFeely” promoting Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, the longest running children’s program on PBS.

Put on your favorite sweater and join your friends and neighbors at this free event – all ages are welcome! Please register in the Children’s Department for this free program.

Library celebrates 40th anniversary of Earth Day

2010-04-12T14:03:00.006-04:00

Peters Township Public Library, along with their newly formed GO Green Club, has a variety of programs and displays for the whole family planned to mark the 40^th Anniversary of Earth Day on Thursday, April 22, 2010.

The library’s GO Green Club will offer a free film screening of the documentary No Impact Man on April 22 at 7:00 p.m. The No Impact Project web site explains, “For one year, Colin Beavan and his family unplugged from the electrical grid, produced no trash, traveled exclusively by foot or bike, and bought nothing except food (all of it locally grown). By the end, they discovered something surprising: living simply wasn’t just good for the environment; it made them healthier, happier, and richer in ways they’d never expected.” This film is rated PG and suitable for family viewing.

A large display in the main lobby of the library created by members of the GO Green Club will explain everything you need to know about recycling in Peters Township. Books about sustainable living, organic gardening, and other earth-friendly topics are being featured on the second floor of the library. The GO Green Club members have also registered for township’s annual Clean-Up Day on Saturday, April 24 from 9:00 a.m. until noon and will be working outside the library and in the parking lot that morning. The Club’s blog Living the Green Life is available through the library web site.

The Young Adult and Children’s Departments at the library have also planned activities for Earth Day. After school from 3:30-5:00 p.m. on April 22, teens in grades 6-12 will be doing a craft from recyclable materials and watching the film “Planet Earth”. From 6:00-6:45 p.m. kids and parents of all ages will celebrate Earth Day with a special storytime, activities and crafts. Children can sign a leaf for a promise tree to keep our world growing green. Families are then encouraged to remain for the film, No Impact Man, which will begin at 7:00 p.m. Register at the library’s circulation desk.

To join the library’s GO Green Club, please email Carrie Weaver or register at the library’s circulation desk.

Step Back in Time Program to kick-off National Library Week

2010-03-23T19:45:00.001-04:00

The Peters Township Public Library will begin its National Library Week festivities on Sunday, April 11 at 1:00 p.m. with Step Back in Time: A Celebration of Life in Peters Township. The event, which will remember the history of Peters Township through exhibits, memorabilia, photographs, and slide presentations, is an excellent tie in with this year’s national theme of Communities Thrive @ your library.

The afternoon will begin with the Peters Township High School Jazz Band performing a variety of big band music. Visitors to the library that afternoon will also:

Meet Robert Donaldson and Patricia Donaldson Stutzman at their exhibit One Hundred years of Change at Donaldson's Crossroads.
Tour the library's Local History Room collection and discover treasures from the way life used to be in Peters Township.
Walk down memory lane with Edward Lybarger for a slideshow presentation Last Days of the Hollywood (Restaurant) and enjoy Hollywood Memorabilia courtesy of the Bob and Jane McClure family.

The Peters Township Public Library welcomes new residents to this event, as well as families who fondly recall living in the area during earlier times. Activities are scheduled from 1:00-4:30 p.m. that day, with refreshments at the conclusion provided compliments of Peters Township Friends of the Library. Register for this free program at the library's circulation desk or by calling 724-941-9430.

Experts to discuss planning a traffic-free bike trip

2010-03-23T19:33:00.002-04:00

Learn how to plan a traffic-free bike trip between Pittsburgh PA and Washington, D.C. in this special presentation by Mary Shaw and Roy Weil, two award-winning experts. The program, Linking Up: Planning Your Traffic-Free Bike Trip between Pittsburgh PA and Washington, D.C., will describe the trip traveling the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) and the C & O Canal Towpath, including what there is to do along the way. Shaw and Weil will offer information and tips on planning a bike trip along the entire route or planning shorter excursions along the trails. This free program will be offered by the library on Thursday, April 8 at 7:00 p.m. Register at the library circulation desk, call 724.941.9430 or email Pier Lee.

You will learn strategies for planning your trip, how to select an itinerary, options for shorter trips, and whether to travel independently or with an organized group (Outfitter). Find out about lodging and meal alternatives and what you might expect from resources along the way. This presentation will also focus on identifying what kind of assistance you will need to determine if you would enjoy a self-contained trip, a lightly supported trip, or a fully supported trip with someone else responsible for making all the arrangements including a guide to travel with the group. Suggestions for planning your distance for each day of your trip will be offered, along with the pros and cons of choosing an eastbound or a westbound trip with the description of the trails for each direction.

This is recognized as the premier trip of its kind in the country, and draws visitors from all over the world. It is the best bicycle camping trip in the eastern United States and it is right in our backyard! Come find out what makes it great and start planning your adventure.

Mary Shaw is a Carnegie Mellon University Professor of Computer Science and Roy Weil is a Civil Engineer for Baker Corporation. They are recipients of several awards for their efforts in promoting outdoor recreation in our region. They have also been recognized for their commitment to advancing environmental stewardship through their volunteer efforts of time, energy, and skill, to ensure the outdoors are accessible by all and protected for future generations. They currently serve as donor advisors of the Trail Volunteer Fund at the Pittsburgh Foundation. Shaw and Weil are the authors of Regional Guidebooks (Western Pennsylvania) for bicycling and canoeing including Linking Up: Planning Your Traffic-Free Bike Trip between Pittsburgh PA and Washington D.C. via the Great Allegheny Passage and the C & O Canal Towpath. This book will be available for sale following the program and the proceeds will benefit the Great Allegheny Passage. Mary Shaw and Roy Weil will be introduced by Mark Imgrund, President of the Montour Trail Council.

Doug Oster discusses tomatoes, basil and garlic

2010-03-15T10:37:00.002-04:00

Garden columnist and radio host Doug Oster will visit the Peters Township Public Library on Saturday, March 20 at 10:00 a.m. He will discuss how to get started now to have your best garden ever, provide tips and tricks on getting seeds growing, and talk about his favorite varieties. His new book, Tomatoes Garlic Basil, The Simple Pleasures of Growing and Cooking Your Garden's Most Versatile Veggies was just recently released. It is filled with practical gardening advice along with wonderful stories from Doug's life in the garden. A book signing will follow Oster’s program.

Doug Oster writes a garden column for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, a nationally syndicated cooking and gardening column for the LA Times Syndicate, and contributes to national and regional publications. He is co-host and producer of The Organic Gardener's Radio Program, a weekly show on KDKA, and appears weekly on KDKA-TV's Pittsburgh Today Live. He received the 2009 Outstanding Documentary Emmy for Gardens of Pennsylvania, written and produced for WQED. He co-authored two other gardening books, Grow Organic and A Gardener's Journal.

Register for this free program at the library’s circulation desk, call 724.941.9430 or email Carrie Weaver.

Disunity of Effort: America’s Interagency Struggle to Build an Afghan Nation

2010-03-09T19:50:00.002-05:00

Colonel Lew Irwin, as part of the 2010 World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh International program series, returns to Peters Township Public Library on Thursday, March 18, 2010 from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

With his perspective on government strategies in Afghanistan, Lew Irwin will present Disunity of Effort: America’s Interagency Struggle to Build an Afghan Nation. He will describe the specific challenges of “Nation Building” in Afghanistan, as well as the problems that have characterized past efforts of the various United States agencies at work there. Lew Irwin will also discuss the case for and the case against Nation Building in Afghanistan as a strategy related to United States National Security Issues.

During his 23 years of service in the United States Army, Colonel Irwin has served in Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, Bosnia, Panama, Germany, Afghanistan, and other locations throughout the United States and the World. Colonel Irwin currently commands the 301st Regional Support Group, headquartered in Butler, Pennsylvania. He is a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York. He holds masters degrees and a doctorate in political science from Yale University, and in his civilian career he is a professor of Public Policy and Government at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. Lew Irwin is the author of two books on American Politics and Public Policy and is currently working on a book on Afghanistan – soon to be published.

An honorarium for these speakers was generously provided by a grant from the McMurray Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 764. To register for this free program, please visit the library circulation desk or call 724-941-9430.

Visiting Israeli Scholar to speak on Arab-Israeli conflict

2010-03-01T11:08:00.002-05:00

Avi Ben-Hur, a visiting scholar from Israel, will discuss “Where We Stand in the Arab-Israeli Conflict, and the Challenges Facing Israel in the Next 5 – 10 years” at the Peters Township Public Library on Monday, March 15 from 7:30-8:45 p.m. This free program is being offered by the Peters Township Public Library in collaboration with the Agency for Jewish Learning. Register online, at the library circulation desk, or call 724.941.9430.

A Brooklyn native, Avi Ben-Hur specializes in Land of Israel studies, the history of Jerusalem, Arab-Israeli conflict and Holocaust studies. Avi's expertise is in integrating ideas and knowledge from various disciplines into a comprehensive and coherent narrative. At present, Avi lectures abroad as a "Scholar in Residence", is on the faculty of the University of Haifa Tourism school, is an examiner for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism and guides in Israel and Poland.

The Agency for Jewish Learning (AJL) is a beneficiary agency of the United Jewish Federation. It is committed to enhancing the quality of Jewish learning across the Pittsburgh community. AJL provides training, consultation, resources and networking for educators, and offers a menu of classes for adults, teens, and families.

For additional information, please email Pier Lee, Director, Peters Township Public Library or email Dr. Zipora Gur, AJL Director of Advanced Education or call 412-521-1101 Ext. 3104.

The Gallery Opens Tonight!

2010-02-25T11:45:00.002-05:00

The Peters Township High School Photography Classes will exhibit their work in the main lobby of the Peters Township Public Library from February 25 - March 10, 2010 during library hours. "The Gallery" is a display of hundreds of student photographs from the classes and club at the high school.

An opening reception will be held on February 25 from 6:30-8 p.m. All are welcome to attend.Over 80 students contributed work for this exciting event. The Photography Club officers are Amber Doerr, Samantha Norris, Kaitlin Richert, Britany Grezjka, Shannon Gallaway and Jessica Kleja. For more information about “The Gallery,” contact the club sponsor, Erin Boni, or the Library at 724-941-9430.

Energy Cost-Cutting Strategies for Residential Homes

2010-02-18T11:48:00.002-05:00

The need to cut energy consumption is upon us!! Energy and home heating fuels will continue to escalate in the next few years and will greatly impact the home owner’s total operating costs. Learn about the latest legislation by the government to reduce consumption and what you can do within your home to offset the increasing costs.

The Peters Township Public Library will host “Energy Cost-Cutting Strategies for Residential Homes” with guest speaker Mike Davic on Thursday, March 4 at 7:00 p.m. in the library’s Meeting Room on the first floor. To register for this program, visit the library’s circulation desk, call 724.941.9430, or email Carrie Weaver. This event is being offered in conjunction with the Peters Township Public Library GO Green Club.

Mike Davic, an Agent for Keller Williams Realty, was part of the first group of Agents in the Pittsburgh area to receive the new GREEN Designation from the National Association of Realtors. The purpose of the designation is to provide real estate professionals with knowledge and awareness of green building principles applied to residences, commercial buildings, developments and communities to help consumers in the purchase, retrofit and operation of energy efficient properties. Mr. Davic has a Bachelor of Science in Engineering plus a strong business background as well.

Image: Danilo Rizzuti / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Security in a Changing World

2010-02-04T09:54:00.004-05:00

As the global economy appears to be moving towards recovery, and the world’s rising economic powers look to shape their influence in the 21st Century - what do these changes mean for the men and women who serve in our nation’s military?

These issues will be discussed as part of the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh’s International series at the Peters Township Public Library on Tuesday, February 23 at 7:00 p.m. Panelists from the United States Army War College, Eisenhower Series will lead the discussion, Security in a Changing World, focusing on America’s security concerns in this atmosphere of change.

The Eisenhower Series College Program consists of a team of Army War College students selected for their experience, education, and interest in national security issues. Panelists participating in the program include Colonel Jeffrey P. Marlette, U.S. Army National Guard; Lieutenant Colonel Alan F. Rebholz, U.S. Air Force; and Colonel Steven R. Watt, U.S. Army.

To register for this free program, please visit the library circulation desk, call 724.941-9430, or email Carrie Weaver. An honorarium for these speakers was generously provided by a grant from the McMurray Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 764.

Further details about the Army War College students serving as panelists in this program:

COLONEL JEFFREY P. MARLETTE, U.S. ARMY NATIONAL GUARD.
Born in Redfield, South Dakota, COL Jeffrey P. Marlette enlisted in the South Dakota Army National Guard in 1980, and received his commission through the South Dakota Military Academy in 1982. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Northern State University. He also holds an Educational Specialist Degree from the University of Sioux Falls. COL Marlette was deployed to Iraq, where he spent fifteen months in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. When he is not on active duty, COL Marquette serves the Superintendent of Schools for the Gettysburg, South Dakota School District. He is currently a student at the U.S. Army War College.

LIEUTENANT COLONEL ALAN F. REBHOLZ, U.S. AIR FORCE.
Lt Col Alan F. Rebholz began his active duty in the U.S. Air Force in 1989, after graduating from the Reserve Officer Training Corps program. He served in satellite operations, space surveillance and as a Weapons School instructor, deploying to the Joint Task Force in Southwest Asia, where he provided missile warning during Operation Desert Fox. Lt Col Rebholz served as a staff officer at the Pentagon where he served as an Executive Officer for two Air Staff Directorates. He was deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom as the first Electronic Warfare Officer for a Counter-Improvised Electronic Device Task Force. Lt Col Rebholz received his B.S. in Mathematics from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, his M.B.A. from Webster University, a M.S. in Management from Troy State University; and Master of Military Operational Art and Science from Air Command and Staff College.

COLONEL STEVEN R. WATT, U.S. ARMY.
Col Steven R. Watt is a 28-year veteran of the U.S. Army and the Utah Army National Guard. Enlisting in 1981, he served in the enlisted ranks and non-commissioned officer corps for 8 years. In 1989 he was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant after attending Officer Candidate School. Since commissioning, he has attended the Infantry Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, the Combined Arms Service Support Course, the Special Forces Officer Qualification Course, the Long-Range Surveillance Leaders Course and the Command and General Staff Officer’s Course. COL Watt’s combat tours include Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom. In his civilian career, COL Watts is an Assistant Chief of Police with the Ogden, Utah Police Department, where he has served for 30 years. He is currently a student at the U.S. Army War College.

Free FAFSA Completion Sessions

2010-01-21T11:03:00.001-05:00

The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) and the Peters Township Public Library will host two free FAFSA Completion Sessions on Saturday, January 30, 2010 at the library, 616 East McMurray Road, McMurray, PA. PHEAA presents this free session to help families complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

The morning session will begin at 9:30 a.m. and the afternoon session will begin at 1:00 p.m. Each session will begin with a one-hour overview of the online FAFSA form with time for questions. This will be immediately followed by an optional session to complete your FAFSA form online at the library with assistance from Jayeann Harr of the PHEAA Pittsburgh Regional Office. Interested persons should register for one session only. Register at the library circulation desk, call 724-941-9430, or email Carrie Weaver.

If your child is a high school senior planning to go onto high education, your family must complete the FAFSA to qualify for federal and most state grants, scholarships, low-cost student loans, work-study programs, Pennsylvania state grant programs, and many school-based student aid programs.

To complete the FAFSA online, please bring federal income tax returns, W-2 forms, and business and investment information for both student and parent(s) to the help session. For more information about Federal Student Aid and completing the FAFSA, visit http://www.fafsa.ed.gov.

Library announces changes for 2010

2009-12-16T18:39:00.002-05:00

Patrons of the Peters Township Public Library will experience some changes in the library’s operations in 2010 due to cuts in state funding to public libraries.

Pier Lee, Library Director, recently learned she would not be received an anticipated check for $26, 912 from the state for funds generated through Access Pennsylvania. This shortfall is in addition to an already expected cut of about 20% from the state. During their recent meeting, the Library Board and Lee reviewed their options to cut operating costs and generate additional revenue, while maintaining the same level of service to library patrons.

One of the many measures to address this deficit will begin January 2, 2010, when the daily fine for overdue adult materials will be increased from $.10 to $.25 per day. The fine for overdue children’s materials will remain at $.10 per day.

The Board has also unanimously voted that the library will not offer Sunday hours during the summer months in 2010 from Sunday, May 30 through Sunday, September 5 to decrease its operating costs. Outside of this period, the library will continue to offer Sunday hours from 12 noon until 4:00 p.m.

To help prevent further reductions in service in 2010, the library is seeking pledges from the community in any amount to the Friends of the Peters Township Public Library. A form to submit a tax-deductible donation is available at the library or on the library’s web site and can be returned to the library by mail or in person.

Holiday Programs at the Library!

2009-11-28T18:39:00.003-05:00

Please join us to celebrate the season at one of the many free holiday programs we are offering in December for you, your family, and your friends!

TRINITY BELL CHOIR
For all ages
When: Tuesday, December 1 from 7:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Join us for relaxing hour of beautiful holiday bell music. Refreshments will be served after the performance. Register at the library's circulation desk or call 724.941.9430.

CHRISTMAS JOY: A HOLIDAY CONCERT WITH NICOLE MARIE GASSE
For all ages
When: Saturday, December 5 at 7:00 p.m.
Nicole will entertain us with an evening of selections from "Christmas Joy", her holiday CD released in 2008. Nicole Marie Gasse, soprano, is a graduate of the D'Angelo Department of Music at Mercyhurst College. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, Nicole Marie has displayed a passion for opera beginning at a young age. Currently residing in the Pittsburgh area, she continues to pursue her dream of becoming a professional opera singer. Register at the library's circulation desk, call 724.941.9430, or email Carrie Weaver.

TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY AND
LIBRARY CHILDREN'S HOLIDAY PARTY
For all ages
When: Sunday, December 6 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
The Tree Lighting Ceremony will begin at 6:00 p.m. outside the library and be followed immediately by the Children's Holiday Party inside the library. Join us for an evening of crafts and fun for the whole family to enjoy! Refreshments will be served and Santa will join in the fun too!

HOLIDAY YOGA
For kids and parents of all ages
Duration: 5 weeks, November 30 - December 28
When: Mondays, 1:15 - 1:45 p.m.
The holidays can be hectic -- chill out with Miss Linda's holiday yoga class! Yoga postures and breathing techniques will be taught in a fun and playful way. Children will stretch, sing, move, and imitate in this 30-minute yoga class for youngsters. Have child dressed comfortably and prepared to "play" in bare feet! Register in the Children's Department or call 724.941.9430.

EDIBLE HOLIDAY TREATS
For kids and parents of all ages
When: Thursday, December 3 from 6:30 - 7:15 p.m.
Join us for this annual library tradition. Santa never had better taste or tasted better! Register in the Children's Department or call 724.941.9430.

FAMILY ORNAMENT NIGHT
For kids and parents of all ages
When: Tuesday, December 8 from 6:45 - 7:15 p.m.
Join us for this annual library tradition. Plan on adding some sparkle to your holidays and your holiday gift giving! Register in the Children's Department or call 724.941.9430.

HOLIDAYS AND HOT COCOA
Grades 6 - 12
When: Wednesday, December 16 from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Join us as we start the holiday season in style! We'll decorate cookies, drink hot cocoa, decorate our Teen Room tree and karaoke to our favorite holiday tunes. For our gaming enthusiasts, we'll even bring out our Wii Ski, so you can practice before you hit the slopes!

GIFT WRAPPING PARTY
For kids and parents of all ages!
When: Thursday, December 17 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Having trouble sneaking around to wrap gifts for that special someone? Bring them to the library! We'll provide the festive wrapping paper, tape, scissors, and bows-you provide the presents! A limit of three gifts per person please, and all "smaller than a breadbox." Let your holiday spirit shine! Register in the Children's Department.

HOLIDAY MOVIE MARATHON
For kids and parents of all ages!
When: Monday, December 21 from 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
What better way to celebrate the season than by sharing your favorite holiday movies with your family? Even better-how about an all-day movie marathon at the library! Drop in for your favorite or stay for more-Christmas cheer and good tidings await! Bring a holiday snack to share and begin the week before Christmas in a special way.

Christmas Joy: A Holiday Concert with Nicole Marie Gasse

2009-11-18T08:02:00.002-05:00

The Friends of the Peters Township Public Library will host "Christmas Joy: A Holiday Concert with Nicole Marie Gasse" on Saturday, December 5 at 7:00 p.m.

Nicole will entertain us with an evening of selections from "Christmas Joy", her holiday CD released in 2008. Nicole Marie Gasse, soprano, is a graduate of the D'Angelo Department of Music at Mercyhurst College. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, She has displayed a passion for opera beginning at a young age. Currently residing in the Pittsburgh area, she continues to pursue her dream of becoming a professional opera singer. Register at the library's circulation desk, call 724-941-9430, or email Carrie Weaver.

How to Stay Sane (and Organized) Through the Holidays!

2009-11-04T09:40:00.002-05:00

Just in time to help us prepare for the holidays, Patty Kreamer returns to the Peters Township Public Library on Saturday, November 14 from 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. to discuss "How to Stay Sane (and Organized) During the Holidays!"

It's that time of year when everyone seems to turn into Scrooge. This year, you don't have to! If the holidays make you miserable because clutter and chaos are ruling your life, then this program is for you. Patty’s program offers simple, practical solutions on how to organize your life and WIN the clutter battle once and for all - all year round!

• Learn the 3 steps to organizing successfully.
• Discover how to make quick, logical decisions.
• Find Out how to easily maintain the daily flow of paper.
• Implement the E.A.S.Y. system -- Organizing has never been easier.

Due to the popularity of Patty’s programs, you must pre-register in advance to reserve a seat. Sign up at the library’s circulation desk, call 724.941.9430 or email Carrie Weaver.

Author, national speaker, consultant and organizer, Patty Kreamer, CPO® (Certified Professional Organizer®), is the Founding Past President of the National Association of Professional Organizers - Pittsburgh chapter and Past President of and The National Speakers Association - Pittsburgh chapter. She was named Women's Business Network's 2007 Woman of the Year as well as one of Pennsylvania’s Best 50 Women in Business and one of Pittsburgh’s Fastrackers in 2005.

NEW Adult Writing Workshop

2009-10-28T10:36:00.001-04:00

Are you passionate about writing and looking for someone to critique your work? If you would like to give and receive inspiration, motivation, and encouragement in a group atmosphere, the Peters Township Public Library is offering a new Adult Writing Workshop on Tuesday evenings from 6:30-9:00 p.m. beginning on November 3, 2009.

Facilitating the writing workshop will be author Linda Foltz, whose accomplishments include a published book and articles that have appeared in various magazines, including Seventeen, Teen Voices, and Family Resources Magazine. She has also been featured on local and national radio and television, including The Montel Williams Show. Linda believes her writing success is due largely to the ongoing support of members of her first writing group – eventually all of its members were professionally published. Linda is currently working on her second full-length manuscript.

Adult writers of all skill levels and genres are welcome to this free program. Please register for this program at the library’s circulation desk or call 724-941-9430.

Technology Tailgate

2009-10-15T12:31:00.002-04:00

Put on your black and gold, and come tackle the new technology available at the Peters Township Public Library at a “Technology Tailgate” being offered on Saturday, October 24 from 1 to 3 p.m. in the library’s main lobby.

Staff members wearing Pittsburgh Steeler shirts will offer hands-on demonstrations of the library’s new materials. The Young Adult Department will offer patrons a chance to play the Madden NFL 10 video game, one of the many video games available for 7-day checkout. The Children’s Department will be holding an “Out with the Old” Mega-Sale of VHS tapes and cassettes, and will demo new interactive children’s books. Online resources for the whole family will be presented by the Reference Department staff, including the library’s online catalog, Rosetta Stone Language Learning, ConsumerReports.org, e-newsletter and Twitter account.

The library’s many books and DVDs about the Pittsburgh Steelers will be on display for checkout and light refreshments will be available. Please stop by for a few minutes (or more)and find out what your library has to offer to you and your family!

Senior Crime Prevention University

2009-10-04T08:44:00.002-04:00

Every year, across Pennsylvania and the United States, senior citizens fall victim to many kinds of consumer fraud, especially home improvement, telemarketing, foreign lottery and sweepstakes scams. With 2.5 million residents over the age of 60 and the third highest percentage of senior citizens in the nation, Pennsylvania is a desirable place for con artists. With that in mind, the Attorney General expanded efforts to educate more seniors how to better protect themselves against fraud through his Senior Crime Prevention University program, which will be offered at the Peters Township Public Library on Tuesday, October 13 from 2:15 to 3:45 p.m. Register for this free program at the library’s circulation desk, call 724.941.9430 or email Carrie Weaver.

The presenter for this program will be Senior Supervisory Special Agent Richard Shaheen, who has spent 22 years serving the citizens of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as an Agent for the Office of Attorney General. He began his career with the Attorney General’s Office as a Special Agent with the Medicaid Fraud Control Section and after 13 years was promoted to Supervisory Special Agent in Medicaid Fraud. He was again promoted, this time to Senior Supervisory Special Agent in the Education and Outreach Unit.

As a recent victim of check fraud myself, I am looking forward to the information that will be presented by Special Agent Shaheen. If you are not a senior citizen yourself, please share this information with family, friends, or neighbors who would benefit from this valuable program.

The G-20 Summit: Outcomes, Prospects, and Implications

2009-09-29T08:02:00.002-04:00

Dr. Schuyler Foerster will deliver his final presentation as President of the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh at the Peters Township Public Library on Thursday, October 1, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. His topic, The G-20 Pittsburgh Summit: Outcomes, Prospects, and Implications, will open the 2009-2010 series. The upcoming World Affairs Council programs will be part of the series The Economics of Power - Rising Powers in a Changing World, which will focus on the world's emerging powers and examine the current economic climate as the global marketplace attempts to work its way back to recovery.

In his October 1st program, Dr. Foerster will discuss what emerged from the G-20 Summit held in Pittsburgh on September 24-25, 2009. He will also highlight conclusions reached concerning the current economic climate, recent developments that may be encouraging or cause for concern, and the impact of the G-20 Summit to the Pittsburgh Region. To attend this program, please register at the library's circulation desk, call 724.941.9430, or email Carrie Weaver.

In recognition of his long-term commitment to the Peters Township Public Library, a farewell reception for Dr. Foerster will be hosted by the library in the main lobby from 6:15-7:00 p.m., prior to the evening's presentation. The public is invited to extend their best wishes to Dr. Foerster as he begins his new assignment as the inaugural Brent Scowcroft Professor of National Security Studies at the United States Air Force Academy Department of Political Science and Eisenhower Center for Space and Defense Studies.

Library Technology Fair this Saturday

2009-09-09T18:53:00.001-04:00

Learn all about interactive books, Playaways, downloadable audiobooks and more at a Technology Fair to be held at the Peters Township Public Library on Saturday, September 12, 2009 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. in the main lobby.

Staff members will offer hands-on demonstrations of the library’s many new materials. The Young Adult Department will introduce over 50 new video games to be made available for 7-day checkout, and a free pair of earbuds will be given to persons attending the fair. Online resources to be featured will include the library’s online catalog, Rosetta Stone Language Learning, ConsumerReports.org, e-newsletter, and Twitter account. The self-checkout system for books will also be highlighted.

“We want to ensure that all of our patrons are aware of the many free services that our library has to offer,” says Pier Lee, Library Director. “We want them to be comfortable using these new devices and take full advantage of them in their busy lives, especially as we begin a new school year.”

No registration is required for this event.

RITA ® Award-winning romance author at PT Library

2009-09-03T13:33:00.002-04:00

Fans of romance novels will have the opportunity to meet
award-winning author Gwyn Cready, who will be at the Peters Township Public Library on Thursday, September 24, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. Cready will discuss “Time Travel, Jane Austen, and the Road to Becoming a Romance Writer”.

Cready was honored in July at the Romance Writers of America Conference in Washington D.C. when her second novel “Seducing Mr. Darcy” was selected as the Best Paranormal Romance for 2009. Pittsburgh is the setting for this novel, and the book’s time-traveling heroine works at the National Aviary. Readers will recognize many of the other Pittsburgh landmarks used throughout the book. Cready’s first novel was “Tumbling Through Time”, which Janet Evanovich calls "Funny and sexy .. a reading adventure you don't want to miss." Her next book, “Flirting With Forever” is due out in March 2010.

For more information on Gwyn, visit her website. Register for this free program at the library's circulation desk, call 724.941.9430, or email Carrie Weaver. A book sale and signing will follow the program.

Ferguson's Career Guidance Center

2009-08-12T08:23:00.003-04:00

Looking for a new career or just starting out in the job market? Planning for college and trying to choose a major? The Peters Township Public Library has an excellent resource available for you to use for help in all these areas!

The Ferguson's Career Guidance Center is a comprehensive career research database, broken down into three main sections: Job and Industry Profiles, Job-Hunting and Workplace Skills, and Career and Industry Resources. The Job and Industry Profiles section, organized into 16 Career Clusters created by the Department of Education, contains information on nearly 3,400 jobs and 94 industries. The Job-Hunting and Workplace Skills section provides invaluable advice on applying for a job, acing an interview, behaving professionally in the work environment, and more—with more than 90 sample résumés and cover letters included. The Career and Industry Resources section includes more than 55,000 entries on scholarships, internships, and more, divided into easily browsable categories with searchable records.

Starting to think about college? The database includes a College Planning and Financial Aid section with a College Planning Timeline, advice on Choosing a College, and Financial Aid Directories for undergraduate, graduate, and vocational education.

Learn more about this excellent resource available to Peters Township Public Library patrons! Visit our home page and click on the Online Databases link on the right side of the page. From there you will see a link to Ferguson's Career Guidance Center. You will need to provide your library bar code number to access this site.

Doug Oster's Fall Gardening Secrets

2009-08-05T12:24:00.003-04:00

Garden columnist and radio host Doug Oster will visit the Peters Township Public Library on Saturday, September 5 at 10:00 a.m. He will discuss how to put your garden to bed in the fall, preparing the garden for spring planting now, tips for planting perennials in the fall, secrets to bulb planting and more.

Oster is co-author of Grow Organic: over 250 tips and ideas for growing flowers, veggies, lawns and more. A book sale and signing will follow the program.

Doug Oster is the co-host of KDKA radio’s Sunday morning program The Organic Gardeners and is the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Backyard Gardener. His column is distributed regionally by the Associated Press and nationally by Scripps Howard News Service. He also works as writer, producer and on air talent for WQED-TV's OnQ program contributing stories related to gardening. Doug fills the same role at WYEP-FM's Allegheny Front program. He appears on KDKA-TV's Pittsburgh Today during their gardening segments. Doug's "Grow Your Own" gardening/cooking column is syndicated nationally through the Los Angeles Times News Service. He is also founder of Cultivating Success, a garden program for adoptive and foster children.

Register for this free program at the library’s circulation desk, call 724.941.9430 or email Carrie Weaver.

Consumer advice available at ConsumerReports.org

2009-07-31T16:10:00.002-04:00

In addition to Consumer Reports magazine, our library patrons will now be able to access the "ConsumerReports.org" website.

Known as one of the most trusted resources for information and advice on consumer products, this award-winning website contains information that enables consumers to make better purchasing decisions. Users will find advice and tips on saving money on home improvement plans, how to shore up personal finances, ways to improve health and much more.

A link to the Consumer Reports website is available through the library's website by clicking the "Online Databases" icon on the right side of the home page. Users will need to enter their library bar code numbers to access the site.

Through ConsumerReports.org, patrons can explore the product reviews, ratings, news and comparisons. The information is updated frequently, providing reliable data, unbiased information and more than 1000 ratings,reviews, product comparisons and video clips.

Consumer Reports.org provides consumer advice for many products in each of the following categories: appliances, automobiles, babies and kids, electronics, food, health, home and garden, money / personal finance, and many others. Content includes: buying advice, overviews, ratings report cards, recommendations, user/tester reviews, videos, and much more.

We hope you will enjoy using this most recent addition to the outstanding resources provided for you by the Peters Township Public Library!

Blasey Rocks the Library!

2009-07-26T17:31:00.004-04:00

Who would have thought you could have this much fun at a library on a Saturday night? Over 200 fans of all ages were treated to a free concert by Scott Blasey in the main lobby of the library last night. Blasey, lead singer, songwriter, and guitarist for Pittsburgh-based rock band The Clarks, offered up an evening of family-friendly music including several popular Clarks tunes, favorite cover songs and requests from the audience.

Pier Lee, Library Director, welcomed the crowd to the event, pointing out that the library offers so much to the community including downloadable audiobooks and playaways. After entertaining the audience with 90 minutes of songs and humorous tales, Blasey concluded the evening by remarking how lucky we are to have such a beautiful library, encouraging everyone to visit the new Teen Reading Room and Family Activity Center - an area very much enjoyed by his two young daughters. Copies of Blasey's three solo CDs, Shine, Don't Try This at Home, and Travelin' On will be available at the library for loan in the next few days.

If you didn't make it to the library show, Blasey will be performing at the Peterswood Park amphitheater on Aug. 5 at 7 p.m. Don't miss it!

A Summer Evening with Scott Blasey

2009-07-08T19:54:00.004-04:00

Scott Blasey, lead singer, songwriter, and guitarist for Pittsburgh-based rock band The Clarks, will appear for a special solo "after-hours" show at the library on Saturday, July 25 at 7:30 p.m. Doors will open at 7:00 p.m.

In addition to his success with The Clarks, Blasey has found an audience for his solo work. He's released three solo CD's, beginning in 1995 with Don't Try This at Home. His second disc, Shine, contains the regional hit Born Too Late. In 2007 he released Travelin' On, an eleven-song journey through rock and blues, county and R & B. With the help of producer Salim Nourallah (Old 97's), Blasey enlisted some of Dallas, Texas' finest musicians, including Chris Holt on guitar, to interpret the road-weary songs of a Pittsburgher living in Texas. He has since moved his family back to Western Pennsylvania and enjoys being part of this community.

For more about Blasey and his music, visit his web site .

Register for this special event at the library's circulation desk, call 724-9041-9430, or email Carrie Weaver.

"Faces of the Civil War" with Dr. Paul D. Newman

2009-06-29T10:33:00.003-04:00

Commonwealth Speaker Dr. Paul Douglas Newman will discuss Pennsylvania's role in the fighting and lasting memory of the Civil War at the Peters Township Public Library on Thursday, July 30 from 7:00-8:30 p.m. The presentation will contrast the popular memory of the war with its messy and gruesome realities, as revealed by photographs. Newman will ask participants to compare the realities of the Civil War with 20th and 21st century conflicts and to debate its permeating themes. This program is free of charge and open to the public. Register at the library’s circulation desk or call 724.941.9430.

Dr. Paul Douglas Newman is Professor of Early American history at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, where he has taught since 1995, being awarded the Phi Eta Sigma Teacher of the Year Award in 2002, and the Pi Lambda Theta Educator of the Year Award in 2003. Dr. Newman earned his Ph.D. and M.A. in history at the University of Kentucky, and his B.A. in history from York College of Pennsylvania. Dr. Newman is the Editor of Pennsylvania History: A Journal of Mid-Atlantic Studies, and has served as a consultant for a number of public history projects including the Fort Necessity National Battlefield, Fort Ligonier, the Johnstown Flood National Memorial, the Johnstown Area Heritage Association, among others. Dr. Newman began offering Commonwealth Speakers lectures in 1998. He is the recipient of the History Channel’s 2008 “Save Our History” Teacher of the Year Award.

This presentation is a program of the Pennsylvania Humanities Council, supported in part by a grant from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. The Pennsylvania Humanities Council, a nonprofit organization, inspires individuals to enjoy and share a life of learning.

Downloadable audiobooks are here!

2009-06-20T10:51:00.003-04:00

Our library has expanded our services with the addition of free downloadable audiobooks through a new digital media library. Patrons can check out and download titles anytime, anywhere by visiting the library home page and clicking on the green audiobook downloads graphic.

Library card holders may browse the collection of best-selling and classic titles. To check out, users will need a valid library card, a computer with an internet connection, and an email address. Once downloaded, digital titles can be enjoyed on the computer or transferred to a supported device, like an MP3 player. Many audio titles can also be burned to CD to enjoy in the car. At the end of the lending period, titles will automatically expire and are returned to the collection. There are never late fees or damaged materials.

“We are thrilled to offer our patrons another cost-saving use of their local library,” said Library Director Pier Lee. “With this free service, our busy patrons can listen to audiobooks while exercising on the trail, running errands in the car, or traveling on vacation over the summer months.”

Patrons will need to install free software, the OverDrive Media Console for audio titles, to use on a Windows operating system or Mac. The free and easy-to-use service is provided by the Peter Township Public library and powered by OverDrive, Inc, a leader in providing world-class infrastructure for downloading premium digital content.