The first of the Summer Book Talks begins on June 16th at 2:00 p.m. with Dr. Tom Flynn of Ohio University Eastern.  He will be reviewing "The Buddha in the Attic" by Julie Otsuka.  Otsuka tells a story about young Japanese women who were "mail-order, picture brides" for men in the U.S. in the early 20th century.  She traces their first nights as new wives, their backbreaking lives, struggles, and disappointments. Pick up your copy at the library today.  Dr. Flynn recently retired from OUE after 40 years of teaching a variety of composition and literature courses.  His career began with a Bachelors from University of Massachusetts, which was followed by a doctorate in English Literature with a dissertation on Jane Austen's "Mansfield Park". In the late 80's he collaborated with Barbara Holstein of Belmont College to assist all the high school English teachers in Belmont and Monroe Counties to develop a common approach to writing instruction and evaluation.  Another one of his high points was working with Yvonne Myers, Director of the Martins Ferry Public Library and other members of the James Wright Festival for 25 years to host the annual James Wright Festival.  Reading and discussing works of literature have been the driving forces of his personal and professional life.

 Summer Reading Club begins Friday, June 14th at 1:00 p.m. and goes all summer long.  Sign up at the library during the week of June 3rd.

      By popular demand. beginning quilting classes are back.  We will call ourselves the "Guernsey Quilt Club" with the novel, "The Giving Quilt" by Jennifer Chiaverini of the Elm Creek Quilt Novels as our guide. Classes are scheduled every Wednesday from June 12th  to July 11th at 5:00 p.m. (bring your meal if you'd like). Students will make one child's quilt or laptop to be given to charity as well as one for themselves.  Laura will be teaching the course.  She had taught quilting at the Wheeling Quilt and Embroidery Shop as well as in the Bethany community.  Guest quilters will also be on hand to demonstrate their skills. Sign up now to reserve a space.  Classes are free.  Sewing machines and some supplies will be available.