Thursday, December 27, 2007

2008 is almost here!

The staff of the John's Island Regional Library wishes you a Happy New Year! As a reminder, the library will close at 6:00 p.m. on December 31st. We will be closed on January 1st and will reopen at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 2nd.
We hope you will make visiting the library more often one of your New Year's resolutions! In addition to our wonderful collection of books, DVDs, videotapes, books on CD and audiocassettes, music CDs, periodicals, and computers, we are planning some great, free programs for all ages in 2008. We are here to serve you and hope to see you soon.

Saturday, December 22, 2007

A Message for You from Our Staff


Season's Greetings from the staff of the John's Island Regional Library! As a reminder, the library will be closed on December 24, 25, and 26. Have a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season.

Monday, December 17, 2007

New in 2008!

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Tuesday, January 15 at 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, January 17 at 6:00 p.m.


Come to the session of your choice & discuss The Water is Wide by Pat Conroy. Follow Conroy as he travels to an isolated sea island off the coast of South Carolina in the 1960s to teach the island's children. While supplies last, copies of the book can be obtained at the Reference Desk.

Tax Help and Forms @ the Library


From Saturday, February 2, 2008 through Saturday, April 12, 2008 AARP volunteers will be in the John's Island Regional Library's auditorium to assist in the preparation of income tax forms. The free tax assistance will be available from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on a first come, first served basis. There will be a Spanish-speaking tax preparer to assist patrons in Spanish. The last person will be accepted at 1:00 p.m. to allow AARP volunteers time to assist before closing at 2:00 p.m. Free tax help will also be available at select other branches of the Charleston County Public Library.
2007 Income Tax forms will be available at the library from January 7, 2008 until April 21, 2008.

Wednesday, December 5, 2007

New DVDs @ Your Library

The following DVDs are now available for borrowing @ the library. Reserve your copy today by visiting the library's catalog or by calling the Reference Desk at (843) 559-1945 or another branch of the CCPL.

Are We Done Yet?
Starring Ice Cube, Nia Long, John C. McGinley, Aleisha Allen
Rated PG
Black Snake Moan
Starring Samuel L. Jackson, Christina Ricci, Justin Timberlake
Rated R
Blades of Glory
Starring Will Ferrell, Jon Heder, Will Arnett, Amy Poehler
Rated PG-13
Constellation
Starring Ever Carradine, David Clennon, Rae Dawn Chong, Melissa DeSousa
Unrated
Norbit
Starring Eddie Murphy, Thandie Newton, Marlon Wayans, Terry Crews, Clifton Powell, Lester "Rasta" Speight, Cuba Gooding, Jr.
Rated PG-13
300
Starring Gerard Butler, Lena Headey, Dominic West, David Wenham
Rated R
Unaccompanied Minors
Starring Paget Brewster, Jessica Walter, Wilmer Valderrama, David Koechner, Lewis Black
Rated PG
1408
Starring John Cusack, Mary McCormack, Samuel L. Jackson
Based on a short story by Stephen King
Rated PG-13

We also have the following new seasons in our TV series DVDs:
Criminal Minds: Season Two
Deadwood: Season Three
Prisonbreak: Season Two

Be A Tourist In Your Own Town Winner!

Congratulations to Caroline Warner
Winner of the "Be A Tourist in Your Own Town" family pass
at the John's Island Regional Library!

If you would like to purchase your own pass, click here for details of how to get your pass that's good for
admission to 35 attractions and
discounts at 19 area restaurants
during the entire month of January 2008!

Computer Classes in January 2008

All computer classes are free and are open for adults and young adults to register. For more information please call (843) 559-1945 and ask for the Reference Department. Class space is available for 8 participants per session.

Word Basics
Monday, January 7 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Registration starts 12/23
Introduction to the basic tools of Microsoft Word. Tools include selecting and modifying text, cutting and pasting, opening a document, and saving a document. Prerequisite: Some experience using a mouse will be helpful.

Computer Basics
Tuesday, January 8 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 Noon
Registration starts 12/23
This class provides a basic introduction to the personal computer and its parts. Learn how to use the mouse and navigate the computer screen. There is time for hands-on practice. No computer experience is necessary.

Word: Beyond the Basics
Monday, January 14 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Registration starts 12/31
In this follow-up to Word Basics learn how to set tabs, create columns, paste text from the Internet, insert page numbers, add ClipArt and photographs, and format text as you design a simple newsletter. Prerequisite: Word Basics or some experience with MS Word will be helpful.

Internet Basics
Tuesday, January 15 from 10:30 – 12 Noon
Registration starts 12/31
An introduction to the Internet, focusing on the World Wide Web, using Internet Explorer. Provides an overview of how the Internet is structured and introduces searching on the World Wide Web. Prerequisite: Some experience using a mouse will be helpful.

Internet: Searching the Library Catalog
Tuesday, January 22 from 10:30 – 12 Noon
Registration starts 1/8
Learn how to find books, movies and more by entering keywords or specific terms. Discover the benefits of placing items on hold, searching by type, and viewing your library account online. Please bring your library card with you to class. Prerequisite: Some experience using a mouse will be helpful.

PowerPoint Basics
Monday, January 28 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Registration starts 1/14
Overview of Microsoft PowerPoint, a software program for designing creative presentations and slideshows. Create a simple presentation and learn how to use this program to produce effective printed materials. Prerequisite: Word Basics or some experience using MS Word will be helpful.

Publisher: Create a Newsletter
Tuesday, January 29 from 10:30 – 12 Noon
Registration starts 1/15
Learn the basics of this desktop publishing program. MS Publisher is designed for creating greeting cards, flyers, signs, brochures, calendars, and much more. This class will focus on creating a newsletter. Prerequisite: Word Basics or some experience using MS Word will be helpful.

Friday, November 9, 2007

Knitting Group Meetings

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Come to the library and join other adults who love to knit! Bring your current knitting project and join in the fun. While sitting and knitting, you'll enjoy great conversation and get to see the projects of other knitters. Share ideas while making new friends! We welcome adult knitters of all skill levels. Mark your calendars for the remaining Tuesday sessions this year:

November 27, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
December 4th & 16th, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, November 7, 2007

Computer Classes in December

Did you know that our library offers free computer classes for adults and young adults? Our December classes are listed below. Registration is required.

If you would like more information, please call 559-1945 and ask for the Reference Department. Class space is available for 8 participants per session.

Computer Basics
Monday, December 3 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Registration starts 11/19
This class provides a basic introduction to the personal computer and its parts. Learn how to use the mouse and navigate the computer screen. There is time for hands-on practice. No computer experience is necessary.

Word Basics
Tuesday, December 4 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 Noon
Registration starts 11/20
Introduction to the basic tools of Microsoft Word. Learn how to enter and format text, change margins and line spacing, and copy and paste text. Saving and printing tips will also be discussed. Prerequisite: Some experience using a mouse will be helpful.

Keyboard Basics
Monday, December 10 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Registration starts 11/26
Basic orientation to using the computer keyboard. Learn to be a more efficient keyboarder. General instruction and hands-on practice. No computer experience is necessary.

Excel Basics
Tuesday, December 11 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Registration starts 11/27
An introduction to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel. This session provides a basic overview and common uses for spreadsheets. Learn basic Excel functions and build a simple budget spreadsheet. Prerequisite: Word Basics or some experience using MS Word will be helpful.

Internet Basics
Monday, December 17 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Registration starts 12/3
An introduction to the Internet, focusing on the World Wide Web. Provides an overview of how the Internet is structured and introduces searching on the World Wide Web. Prerequisite: Some experience using a mouse will be helpful.

Publisher: Create a Greeting Card
Tuesday, December 18 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Registration starts 12/4
Create a greeting card for the holidays! Learn the basics of this desktop publishing program. MS Publisher is designed for creating greeting cards, flyers, signs, brochures, calendars, and much more. Prerequisite: Word Basics or some experience using MS Word will be helpful.

Thursday, November 1, 2007

Smart Growth, Sprawl, and the Future of John's Island

Join us on Monday, November 5, at 6:00 p.m. as Dana Beach, Executive Director of the SC Coastal Conservation League, speaks on Smart Growth, Sprawl, and the Future of John's Island at our library. This program is part of the Charleston Collegiate Guest Speaker Series.

Monday, October 22, 2007

November Library Programs for Adults

Please join us for these great free programs:

Smart Growth, Sprawl, and the Future of John's Island (young adults/adults)
Monday, November 5 at 6:00 p.m.
Dana Beach, Executive Director of the Coastal Conservation League, a grassroots non-profit conservation organization founded in 1989, will be the speaker. This program is part of the Charleston Collegiate School Guest Speaker Series.

Knitting Group
First and Fourth Tuesdays from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Enjoy the company of other adult knitters. Meet to exchange ideas. Bring your projects and knit with friends. Open to knitters of all skill levels.

Rehabilitation After Joint Replacement
Wednesday, November 7, from 11:00 a.m.-Noon
Join Deb Su Saye, licensed physical therapist with 24 years of experience in orthopedics, as she discusses rehabilitation after joint replacement surgery.

Free Computer Classes for Adults & Young Adults:

*Word Basics
Monday, November 5 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Registration starts 10/22
Introduction to the basic tools of Microsoft Word. Tools include selecting and modifying text, cutting and pasting, opening a document, and saving a document. Prerequisite: Some experience using a mouse will be helpful.

*Computer Basics
Tuesday, November 6 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 Noon
Registration starts 10/23
This class provides a basic introduction to the personal computer and its parts. Learn how to use the mouse and navigate the computer screen. There is time for hands-on practice. No computer experience is necessary.

*Internet Basics
Tuesday, November 13 from 10:30 – 12 Noon Registration starts 10/30

An introduction to the Internet, focusing on the World Wide Web, using Internet Explorer. Provides an overview of how the Internet is structured and introduces searching on the World Wide Web. Prerequisite: Some experience using a mouse will be helpful.

*Excel Basics
Monday, November 26 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Registration starts 11/10
An introduction to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel. This session provides a basic overview and common uses for spreadsheets. Learn basic Excel functions and build a simple budget spreadsheet. Prerequisite: Word Basics or some experience using MS Word will be helpful.

*Publisher: Create a Greeting Card
Tuesday, November 27 from 10:30 – 12 Noon Registration starts 11/13
Create a greeting card for the Holidays! Learn the basics of this desktop publishing program. MS Publisher is designed for creating greeting cards, flyers, signs, brochures, calendars, and much more. Prerequisite: Word Basics or some experience using MS Word will be helpful.

*All computer classes are free. For more information please call 559-1945 and ask for the Reference Department. Class space is available for 8 participants per session.

Friday, October 12, 2007

Now On Order--Reserve Your Copy Today!


These books are now on order, so you can place your reserves today! Click here to access our catalog online with your PIN and library card number or call our Reference Desk at (843) 559-1945 or any of our branches to be added to the wait list.
Angela and the Baby Jesus by Frank McCourt
Antony and Cleopatra by Colleen McCullough
Blood Dreams by Kay Hooper
Chase by Clive Cussler
Creation in Death by J.D. Robb
Darkest Evening of the Year by Dean Koontz
Everlasting by Kathleen Woodiwiss
Hand of Evil by J.A. Jance
Last Noel by Heather Graham
Lord John and the Hand of Devils by Diana Gabaldon
Race by Richard North Patterson
Shadow Music by Julie Garwood
Stone Cold by David Baldacci
Third Degree by Greg Iles
Wednesday Letters by Jason Wright
Whole New Light by Sandra Brown

Friday, September 28, 2007

Zora Alive! @ the Library

As part of The Charleston County Big Read, don't miss Zora Alive! starring Phyllis McEwen as Zora Neale Hurston. Hear stories and songs Hurston collected in the 1920s and 30s when she worked for the Works Progress Administration.

Ms. McEwen is a poet, actor, scholar and librarian who has portrayed Hurston across Florida in more than 100 cities since 1990. She has also performed in New York, Maryland, Delaware, South Carolina, and in Washington, DC at the Library of Congress. Zora Alive! program will be at the John's Island Regional Library on Wednesday, Oct. 3, at 4:00 p.m. Click here if you want to know about other performances of Zora Alive! at the Charleston County Public Library.

Saturday, September 22, 2007

Now On Order--Get on the Reserve List Today!



Now's the perfect time to call or go online to reserve a copy of these forthcoming books. In addition to the books above, these titles are scheduled to be released in October 2007:

The Coldest Winter: America and the Korean War by David Halberstam
Bridge of Sighs by Richard Russo
Celebrity Detox by Rosie O'Donnell
Down River by John Hart
World Without End by Ken Follett
Blonde Faith by Walter Mosley
A Lifetime of Secrets by Frank Warren
Inside the Helmet: Life as a Sunday Afternoon Warrior by Michael Strahan
Become a Better You: 7 Keys to Improving Your Life Every Day by Joel Osteen
The Abstinence Teacher by Tom Perrotta
Book of the Dead by Patricia Cornwell
A Lick of Frost by Laurell K. Hamilton
Now and Then by Robert B. Parker
The Ghost by Robert Harris
Basic Black: The Essential Guide for Getting Ahead at Work (and in Life) by Cathie Black
Home to Holly Springs: The First of the Father Tim Novels by Jan Karon
A War of Gifts: An Ender Story by Orson Scott Card
The Quiet Girl by Peter Hoeg
Protect and Defend by Vince Flynn

If you have questions about your library card and online account, click here to see our Frequently Asked Questions. If you have a PIN and Internet access, you're ready to place reserves for any of our books, to include the ones on order above--just visit our catalog. If you're not sure how to place a hold or need a PIN, you're welcome to call our Reference Desk at (843) 559-1945 or any of the CCPL branches.

Thursday, September 20, 2007

Programs for Adults During October

Interested in learning how to use a computer or about different computer programs? Come to the library! Here are our free computer classes in October:

Computer Basics
Monday, October 1 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Registration starts 9/17
This class provides a basic introduction to the personal computer and its parts. Learn how to use the mouse and navigate the computer screen. There is time for hands-on practice. No computer experience is necessary.

Word Basics
Tuesday, October 2 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 Noon Registration starts 9/18
Introduction to the basic tools of Microsoft Word. Learn how to enter and format text, change margins and line spacing, and copy and paste text. Saving and printing tips will also be discussed. Prerequisite: Some experience using a mouse will be helpful.

Internet: Searching the Library Catalog
Saturday, October 6 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 Noon Registration starts 9/22
Learn how to find books, movies and more by entering keywords or specific terms. Discover the benefits of placing items on hold, searching by type, and viewing your library account online. Please bring your library card with you to class. Prerequisite: Some experience using a mouse will be helpful.

Keyboard Basics
Monday, October 8 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Registration starts 9/24
Basic orientation to using the computer keyboard. Learn to be a more efficient keyboarder. General instruction and hands-on practice. No computer experience is necessary.

Word: Beyond the Basics
Tuesday, October 9 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 noon Registration starts 9/25
In this follow-up to Word Basics learn how to set tabs, create columns, paste text from the Internet, insert page numbers, add ClipArt and photographs, and format text as you design a simple newsletter. Prerequisite: Word Basics or some experience with MS Word will be helpful.

Files and Folders: File Organization and Management
Monday, October 15 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Registration starts 10/1
Learn how to organize your computer files more effectively. Basics concepts include: creating a file or document, creating folders, naming folders and saving document in a folder and copying files from one floppy disc to another. Prerequisite: Computer Basics will be helpful.

Excel Basics
Tuesday, October 16 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 noon Registration starts 10/2
An introduction to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel. This session provides a basic overview and common uses for spreadsheets. Learn basic Excel functions and build a simple budget spreadsheet. Prerequisite: Word Basics or some experience using MS Word will be helpful.

Internet Basics
Monday, October 22 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Registration starts 10/8
An introduction to the Internet, focusing on the World Wide Web. Provides an overview of how the Internet is structured and introduces searching on the World Wide Web. Prerequisite: Some experience using a mouse will be helpful.

Excel: Beyond the Basics
Tuesday, October 23 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 noon Registration starts 10/9
A follow-up session to Excel Basics. Learn some additional features of the program, such as sorting and filtering. Learn how to use additional types of formulas. Prerequisite: Excel Basics or some experience using MS Excel will be helpful.

PowerPoint Basics
Saturday, October 27 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 Noon Registration starts 10/13
Overview of Microsoft PowerPoint, a software program for designing creative presentations and slideshows. Create a simple presentation and learn how to use this program to produce effective printed materials. Prerequisite: Word Basics or some experience using MS Word will be helpful.

Email Basics
Monday, October 29 from 5:30 – 8:00 p.m. Registration starts 10/15
The library does not provide individual email accounts. However, there are many Internet sites that provide free email. This class presents the basics of registering for a free email account, composing messages, sending and opening email. Prerequisite: Some experience using a mouse and the Internet will be helpful. Please note earlier start and longer class time.

Access Basics
Tuesday, October 30 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Registration starts 10/16
An introduction to databases using Microsoft Access. A database is a collection of information related to a particular topic. This workshop introduces the basic MS Access Tools and Wizards used to build a simple database. Prerequisite: Word Basics and/or Excel Basics class (or familiarity with those programs) is strongly urged. Please note earlier start and the longer class time.

*All computer classes are free. For more information please call 559-1945 and ask for the Reference Department. Class space is available for 8 participants per session.

Here are some more great programs for adults during October:

Knitting Group
First and Third Tuesdays, October 2 and 16, from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Enjoy the company of other adult knitters. Meet to exchange ideas. Bring your projects and knit with friends. Open to knitters of all skill levels.

Belly Dance Basics - Level I: The Essentials (Adults, Women only)
Wednesdays, October 3 through November 7, from 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Learn the ancient art of belly dance in this step-by-step instruction by Jennifer White. Discover your inner goddess through the artful dance that has embraced women of all ages, experience levels and, body types. Limited space and registration required. Call the library at 559-1945 to register.

The Charleston County Big Read continues in October with these events and displays at our library:

Zora Alive! (All ages)
Wednesday, October 3 at 4:00 p.m.
Get to know Zora Neale Hurston, portrayed by Phyllis McEwen, as she tells the stories and sings the songs that she collected during her work with the Works Progress Administration in Florida in the 1920s and 30s.

Hip Hop with Nikki Hunter (Ages 8 and up)
Thursday, October 4 at 4:00 p.m.
Nikki Hunter, teacher and Hip Hop artist, will discuss the history of Hip Hop and how teachers, parents, and students can use rap music as a learning tool. Nikki will demonstrate with songs from various CDs in her Hip Hop Hooks series. Winners of the September writing contest for island high school students will be announced.

Zora Neale Hurston Storytime (All ages)
Saturday, October 6 at 11:00 a.m.
Enjoy short stories by Zora Neale Hurston adapted for children.

Exhibitions/Displays
Lowcountry Images: Carol A. Simmons, local artist, will display her lowcountry paintings at the John’s Island Regional Library. Carol Simmons was a former programmer analyst before training to become an artist.

Silas' Hearts: A quilt made with all authentic African fabrics by Nora Rice Williams, a local fiber artist, will be on display in the library's lobby.

Soft sculptured dolls, also designed by Nora Rice Williams, of Zora Neale Hurston, the author of Their Eyes Were Watching God, and her main character, Janie will be on display. The display will also include lowcountry dolls such as two dolls from the slave era. The dolls will be on display at the John’s Island Regional Library.

Local High School students will design a quilt based on their interpretation of the novel, Their Eyes Were Watching God, by Zora Neale Hurston under the guidance of local quilters Jakki Jefferson and Nora Rice Williams. This quilting project began in September 2007 and will exhibit at the John's Island Regional Library during the months of February and March 2008. Interested high school students or teachers should contact the Reference Department at 559-1945 to register.

And don't forget to check at www.johnsislandkids.blogspot.com for information concerning Children's programs or www.johnsislandteens.blogspot.com for information on teen programs @ your John's Island library!

Thursday, September 13, 2007

Now On Order-Place Your Reserves Today!



Here are just a few of the books we currently have on order. Once a book's record is in our catalog with a status of "on order," you can place a hold on the book and be added to the wait list. If you have a PIN and your library card, you can place orders online using our catalog. During library hours, you can also call our Reference Desk at (843) 559-1945 or any of our library branches to request to be added to the wait list for a book on order (or any book in our catalog).

More books now on order:
The Age of Turbulence: Adventures in a New World by Alan Greenspan
Shoot Him If He Runs by Stuart Woods
Fire in the Blood by Irene Nemirovsky
Dave Barry's History of the Millennium (So Far) by Dave Barry
Other Colors: Essays and a Story by Orhan Pamuk
Playing for Pizza by John Grisham
Louder than Words: A Mother's Journey in Healing Autism by Jenny McCarthy
When You Need a Lift: But Don't Want to Eat Chocolate, Pay a Shrink, or Drink a Bottle of Gin by Joy Behar

Monday, September 10, 2007

Recent Arrivals

New materials are constantly arriving at the library! Here are just a few of the recent ones:

FICTION
Agnes and The Hitman by Jennifer Crusie & Bob Mayer
Heart Sick: A Thriller by Chelsea Cain
Strip Search by William Bernhardt
Genesis of Shannara: The Elves of Cintra by Terry Brooks
Cassidy by Lori Wick
The Museum of Dr. Moses by Joyce Carol Oates

NON-FICTION
The People's Princess by Larry King (Biography of Princess Diana)
Black Widow: The True Story of a Beautiful Woman, Two Lovers, and Two Murders by Marion Collins
The Human Body: Illustrated Guide to Its Structure, Function, & Disorders by Steve Parker
Semi-Homemade 20-Minute Meals by Sandra Lee
Little Book of Big Ideas: Religion by Dr. Jeremy Stangroom
Bathrooms: Creating the Perfect Bathing Experience by Vinny Lee
Red Mutiny: Eleven Fateful Days on the Battleship Potemkin by Neal Bascomb

Click here to go to the CCPL Catalog to see what else is new!

Wednesday, September 5, 2007

September Library Programs

We have the following programs for adults at the library in September:

Knitting Group
First and Third Tuesdays from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Enjoy the company of other adult knitters. Meet to exchange ideas. Bring your projects and knit with friends. Open to knitters of all skill levels.

Infant and Child CPR @ Your Library
Wednesday, September 19 from 4:00-7:00 p.m.
Learn life-saving techniques from certified trainers. Spaces are limited so please call the Children’s Department at 559-1945 to sign-up by September 17.

Don't forget The Big Read events for September! More information can be found in the posting for August 30th below. Or just click here for full program information.

John's Island Library programs for children can be found at http://johnsislandkids.blogspot.com and teen program information at http://johnsislandteens.blogspot.com. Permanent links to these sites are in the sidebar to the right.

Computer classes for adults and young adults offered at our branch during September are also listed in the sidebar to the right. But here's some additional information:

*Computer Basics
Tuesday, September 4 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 Noon (Registration starts 8/21)
This class provides a basic introduction to the personal computer and its parts. Learn how to use the mouse and navigate the computer screen. There is time for hands-on practice. No computer experience is necessary.

*Word Basics
Monday, September 10 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. (Registration starts 8/27)
Introduction to the basic tools of Microsoft Word. Tools include selecting and modifying text, cutting and pasting, opening a document, and saving a document. Prerequisite: Some experience using a mouse will be helpful.

*Keyboard Basics
Tuesday, September 11 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 Noon (Registration starts 8/28)
Basic orientation to using the computer keyboard. Learn to be a more efficient keyboarder. General instruction and hands-on practice. No computer experience is necessary.

*PowerPoint Basics
Saturday, September 15 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 Noon (Registration starts 9/1)
Overview of Microsoft PowerPoint, a software program for designing creative presentations and slideshows. Create a simple presentation and learn how to use this program to produce effective printed materials. Prerequisite: Word Basics or some experience using MS Word will be helpful.

*Excel Basics
Monday, September 17 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. (Registration starts 9/1)
An introduction to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel. This session provides a basic overview and common uses for spreadsheets. Learn basic Excel functions and build a simple budget spreadsheet. Prerequisite: Word Basics or some experience using MS Word will be helpful.

*Files and Folders: File Organization and Management
Tuesday, September 18 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 Noon (Registration starts 9/4)
Learn how to organize your computer files more effectively. Basics concepts include: creating a file or document, creating folders, naming folders and saving document in a folder and copying files from one floppy disc to another. Prerequisite: Computer Basics will be helpful.

*Excel: Beyond the Basics
Monday, September 24 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. (Registration starts 9/10)
A follow-up session to Excel Basics. Learn some additional features of the program, such as sorting and filtering. Learn how to use additional types of formulas. Prerequisite: Excel Basics or some experience using MS Excel will be helpful.

*Internet Basics
Tuesday, September 25 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 Noon (Registration starts 9/11)
An introduction to the Internet, focusing on the World Wide Web. Provides an overview of how the Internet is structured and introduces searching on the World Wide Web. Prerequisite: Some experience using a mouse will be helpful.

All computer classes are free. For more information please call 559-1945 and ask for the Reference Department. Class space is available for 8 participants per session.

We hope to see you soon at the library!

Thursday, August 30, 2007

Have You Heard of The Charleston County Big Read?


From the CCPL website:

"Dozens of programs and events are scheduled in September and October to celebrate The Charleston County Big Read – a first-time, community-wide effort to promote literacy, celebrate diversity and recognize the significance of community connections by bringing people together to read and discuss a single book.
The Big Read, created by the National Endowment for the Arts, is being coordinated locally by Charleston County Public Library and runs September 9th-October 14th. This is one of 117 communities nationwide selected by the NEA to launch Big Read projects this fall.
The Charleston County Big Read is Zora Neale Hurston’s 1937 book, Their Eyes Were Watching God, about a young, vivacious African-American woman struggling to find her voice, her identity and the meaning of true love. This powerful and lyrical book is perfect for the Lowcountry with its rich Gullah heritage coupled with the desire to honor and preserve the Gullah traditions.
Schools, colleges, businesses, the military, arts organizations, governments, the news media, civic groups and community organizations are joining together to host events, sponsor programs and hold book discussions focusing on Hurston’s book, her characters and the amazing life of this struggling author of the Harlem Renaissance period."


For more information on The Big Read, click here.

We'll be having special events, displays, and exhibitions at the John's Island library to help celebrate this wonderful event:

Writing Contest for Island High School Students
September 9 through October 1, 2007
High school students from John's, Wadmalaw, Kiawah, and Seabrook Islands are invited to write a paper on Their Eyes Were Watching God with the theme: Love Relationships versus Independence. Entries will be accepted at the Reference Desk. Names of participants and winning papers will be on display at the library from October 8 through October 31. Prizes will be awarded for the top three papers.

Film: Their Eyes Were Watching God
Saturday, September 15 at 2:00 p.m.
Join us as we watch the movie based on Hurston's novel.

Book Discussion: Their Eyes Were Watching God
Monday, September 17 at 2:00 p.m.
Participate in a group discussion of Zora Neale Hurston's beloved 1937 classic novel.

Film: Daughters of the Dust
Thursday, September 27 at 6:00 p.m.
Don't miss this emotionally charged epic drama.

Zora Alive! (All ages)
Wednesday, October 3 at 4:00 p.m.
Get to know Zora Neale Hurston, portrayed by Phyllis McEwen, as she tells the stories and sings the songs that she collected during her work with the Works Progress Administration in Florida in the 1920s and 30s.

Hip Hop with Nikki Hunter (Ages 8 and up)
Thursday, October 4 at 4:00 p.m.
Nikki Hunter, teacher and Hip Hop artist, will discuss the history of Hip Hop and how teachers, parents, and students can use rap music as a learning tool. Nikki will demonstrate with songs from various CDs in her Hip Hop Hooks series. We'll also be announcing the winners of our writing contest for island high school students.

Zora Neale Hurston Storytime (All ages)
Saturday, October 6 at 11:00 a.m.
Enjoy short stories by Zora Neale Hurston adapted for children.

Exhibitions/Displays
Lowcountry Images: Carol A. Simmons, local artist, will display Lowcountry paintings at the John’s Island Regional Library for September and October. Carol Simmons was a former programmer analyst before training to become an artist.

A quilted wall hanging of Zora Neale Hurston's book, Their Eyes Were Watching God, designed and quilted by local fiber artist, Nora R. Williams. This wall hanging will feature the main character, Janie, resting on her back while her eyes were watching God. The quilt will be on display at the John’s Island Regional Library during September and at the Saul Alexander Gallery, Main Library, during October.

Soft sculptured dolls, also designed by Nora R. Williams, of Zora Neale Hurston, the author of Their Eyes Were Watching God, and her main character, Janie will be on display. The display will also include the lowcountry dolls such as 2 dolls from the slave era. The dolls will be on display at the John’s Island Regional Library during September and October.

Local high school students will design a quilt based on their interpretation of the novel, Their Eyes Were Watching God, by Zora Neale Hurston under the guidance of local quilters Jakki Jefferson and Nora R. Williams. This quilting project will start in September 2007 and exhibit at the John's Island Regional Library during the months of February and March 2008. All interested high school students should come by or contact the Reference Desk at (843) 559-1945 to register so adequate supplies will be on hand.

Thank you to the National Endowment for the Arts and all our The Charleston County Big Read sponsors.

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Welcome to Our Blog





Welcome to our wonderful regional library on John's Island!




Opening in October 2004, our library is the newest of 16 branches in the Charleston County library system. We offer a multitude of resources at your fingertips. In addition to our library's collection of over 50,000 volumes, we have almost 40 computers at your disposal, including 16 with Internet access! Come to the library to enjoy free entertaining and educational programs for all ages, from storytimes to lectures and book signings.

Our friendly staff will be glad to help you apply for a library card and to answer your questions so you can begin taking advantage of your community library.

We look forward to seeing you!