The Blog Wants to Know: Jan. 2026

We’re starting up another year of “The Blog Wants to Know” where we ask staff members questions about their everyday lives. Stay tuned all year for some great recommendations, shared memories, and heartfelt words of advice from our amazing library staff!

For this month’s question, we’re looking into 2026 with hope, promise, and accomplishment.

What is one thing you hope to accomplish this year? It can be big or small. It can be a trip you hope to take, a project you hope to finish, or a professional or personal goal that you hope to achieve. 

Kathy, Public Support Services: “To go on a trip with my sister now that she has retired. Hoping to convince my husband that we should go to Michigan and see the grand baby.”

Dawn S., Youth Services Coordinator: “I hope to take better care of myself this year.”

Shane, Public Support Services: This year, my goal is to practice tarot more often and pull and interpret at least one card per day. To facilitate this goal, my partner got me a Writual Journal for this year. It’s a helpful addition that combines astrology with tarot. It has card spreads for moon phases, monthly pages, and you can also use it for daily to-do lists and other journaling. So far, I haven’t missed a day!”

Hannah, Assistant Director: “I set the goal to journal every day. Nothing fancy, just dumping a random stream of consciousness onto a piece of paper. I love stationary, and I recently branched out into the fountain pen world and splurged on a Midori Codex 1 day 1 page journal.”

Ashley, Interlibrary Loan and Cataloguing: “In February 2026 I will turn 40!  This always seems like such a big number but I am going to try to make it fun rather scary.  I have dubbed 2026 ‘My Fortieth Year Extravaganza!’.  I want to do something fun each month to celebrate the year.  

Ashley with her parents at Kerry Park on Queen Anne Hill in Seattle overlooking downtown.

In February I am actually going to Seattle for five days.  The big reason for this is I was born up in Tacoma (just south of Seattle at the Air Force base there) and thought it would be a great way to celebrate.  I will be there on my actual 40th birthday!  On a side note, the Seahawks are playing well and may make it to the Super Bowl which is also that weekend and would be fun to experience the game with other 12s. Go Hawks!

In May my parents and I may go see Styx at the Park City Arena.  Then my hope for the fall is to take a trip to Wisconsin and try to go to a Green Bay Packers football game at Lambeau Field with my dad.  Go Pack Go!

The other months are currently open for ideas.  I hope to make this year one to remember!”

Now it’s your turn. Let us know what are some of your hopes and goals for the new year, and we can’t wait to be a part of it!

What’s Ashley Reading?: The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher

The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher by Kate Summerscale

First line: On Sunday, 15 July 1860, Detective-Inspector Jonathan Whicher of Scotland Yard paid two shillings for a hansom cab to take him from Millbank, just west of Westminster, to Paddington station, the London terminus of the Great Western Railway.

Summary: It was in June of 1860 that the body of a small boy, Saville Kent, was found at the bottom of an outdoor privy (outhouse). He had his throat cut and dumped in the hole sometime during the night. The crime shocked the local community but it became national news upon the arrival of Detective Jonathan Whicher.

Detectives were a new invention and only a few existed in England. Upon his arrival at the Kent home, he began to suspect that someone inside the house was the perpetrator. Nevertheless, without clear evidence or a confession he was unable to prove anything. With the crime unsolved, he returned to London with his reputation in tatters. It was years later before justice was finally served and his theories proved correct.

My Thoughts: Last year I read Summerscale’s newest true crime book, The Peepshow, and found her work very intriguing. She goes to great lengths to research the people, the period and the workings of the criminal justice system.

Again, in this one she does the same. She lays out the events of the night in question, gives us information about the family and servants and explains how murders were investigate and solved in Victorian England. The most interesting part to me was the family dynamic. From the outset, you can tell that there is some strife going on in the household and it has made for a toxic environment. I think from early on you know who the killer is but with the lack of evidence and new art of detecting it is hard for Whicher to prove.

It is hard to imagine a world without a police force patrolling and investigating crimes but before 1829, there was no organized police to handle crime. So even by 1860 everything was still rather new. Quite a bit of the middle is spent on how the job of a detective was new and making its way into popular fiction as well. Summerscale gives examples of some of the first fictional detectives from books by Charles Dickens and Wilkie Collins. While this is true crime, it also seems to be a history of detecting too.

This was a fascinating look into the world of a Victorian middle class family. By the end, we learn the fate of each of the main players in the story. I enjoyed this for the true crime but also the social history it presents.

FYI: Murder of a child.

What’s Ashley Reading?: A Year in Review

This was a busy year for reading! I completed 112 books in 2025 but there were a few standouts that I would highly recommend. Below are my top 10 books I read in 2025!

  1. Red Rabbit by Alex Grecian
  2. The Love Haters by Katherine Center
  3. Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins
  4. First-Time Caller by B. K. Borison
  5. Finders Keepers by Sarah Adler
  6. Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
  7. Warrior Princess Assassin by Brigid Kemmerer
  8. Boudicca’s Daughter by Elodie Harper
  9. The Undertaking of Hart & Mercy by Megan Bannen
  10. Alchemy of Secrets by Stephanie Garber

And I know that next year will have some great books for my TBR list. Here are the ones I am most looking forward too!

  1. Sparking Fire Out of Fate by Brigid Kemmerer (1/27/2026)
  2. And Now, Back To You by B. K. Borison (2/24/2026)
  3. Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line by Elle Cosimano (3/10/2026)
  4. Everyone In This Bank Is a Thief by Benjamin Stevenson (3/17/2026)
  5. Daughter of Egypt by Marie Benedict (3/24/2026)
  6. The Caretaker by Marcus Kliewer (4/21/2026)
  7. The Shippers by Katherine Center (5/19/2026)
  8. Wild Goose Chase by Sarah Adler (7/7/2026)
  9. The Unknown by Riley Sager (8/4/2026)
  10. Grim Tidings by B. K. Borison (9/1/2026)

What were your favorite reads of 2025? And what are you looking forward to the most in 2026? Leave us a comment!

What’s Ashley Reading?: Santa Cruise

Santa Cruise by Mary Higgins Clark & Carol Higgins Clark

First line: Randolph Weed, self-styled commodore, stood on the deck of his pride and joy, the Royal Mermaid, an old ship he had bought and paid a fortune to refurbish and on which he intended to spend the rest of his life playing host to both friends and paying guests.

Summary: The maiden voyage of the Royal Mermaid is turning out to be more eventful than the Commodore had hoped for. The Santa Cruise was set to launch with people of all sorts who had done good in their communities and donated to worthy causes. Among these are Alvirah, a lottery winner turned amateur sleuth, Regan Reilly, a private investigator, and two stowaways who are paying a fortune to escape from the law. As weird occurrences continue to happen Alvirah and Regan start putting the pieces together to find out who is sabotaging this holiday cruise.

My Thoughts: As part of my holiday TBR I picked up another Mary Higgins Clark book. This one brings together characters from her books, Alvirah Meehan and Regan Reilly from her daughter, Carol Higgins Clark’s, book series. I have not read either series yet but I met the characters in another holiday mystery last Christmas, Deck the Halls. Even without knowing the backstories I felt that it was easy to enjoy and follow the story.

This book had a cozier vibe to it than others I have read and it had a very complicated and sometimes ridiculous plot but I did have fun reading it, which is all that matters. There was a lot of coincidences that would never happen anywhere else than in fiction but this made it rather funny. There are two criminals hiding on the ship dressed as Santa Claus, a cabin mix-up leading to further complications and several sightings of a “ghost” which are the perfect recipe for a complicated but cozy mystery.

If you want something quick before Christmas than give this or Deck the Halls a chance. Each are short and sweet and will help get you in the holiday mood.

The Blog Wants to Know: Dec. 2025

In this holiday season, you might be working through your shopping list of gifts for loved ones, but it’s okay to share what you might like this season so we asked our library staff what they’re hoping for!

What’s something you’re hoping for in the holidays, whether a gift from others or a gift you might get for yourself? What’s something you’ve had your eye on for a while? Maybe your wish list might inspire some ideas for others! 

Ashley, Interlibrary Loan and Cataloguing: This holiday, I got myself a little gift.  I moved into a bigger apartment this summer so I was lacking a few items to fill the space.  I really wanted a dining table with chairs for my kitchen.  I finally found one that was reasonably priced and the perfect fit.  Last weekend I went to pick it up and got it set up in my space.  I LOVE it!  I cannot wait to have people over for a little dinner party.  Luckily Christmas is just around the corner!

Kathy, Public Support Services: There is not anything I need anymore, so the thing I want most is to spend time with my family!

Dawn S., Youth Services Coordinator: What I want the most is for life to slow down a bit this holiday season so I can enjoy it. I feel like I’m always running from place to place and exhausting myself. I want to spend the holidays with my family and enjoy my surroundings. 

Tabbitha, Youth Services: Honestly, the best gift I could ask for isn’t something that can be wrapped. I just want time with my family! Just to be present, share some laughs, and intentionally create those beautiful, core memories that we all can share for years to come and that will stick with my daughters for a life time.

Alyssa, Adult and Teen Services: I had the opportunity to take surf lessons with my goddaughter this summer, and I realized pretty quickly how much strength and training it requires. Since Kansas is the most landlocked state ever, I know that I need something to help for the next time I get to hop on a board in the ocean. I found this awesome balance board called the RevBalance Swell, and I really hope to snag that so I can practice my balance for the waves!

Shane, Public Support Services: I always appreciate a gift that makes my life easier in some way. This year I asked for a Happy Planner for next year, a new computer keyboard, and a water distiller. However, I have been eyeing a sale for a Big Blanket Co. Hideout Hoodie. I just can’t justify the full cost to spend on myself!

Now it’s your turn! What are some of your holiday wishes this year? Share them in the comments below, and Happy Holidays!


What’s Ashley Reading?: Vagabond

Vagabond by Tim Curry

First line: “Honey, you’re the third Tim Curry to call today,” she said, and hung up the phone.

Summary: Tim Curry has had a career that has spanned decades with some of the most memorable characters on stage and screen. In his memoir he explores his childhood as the son of a military chaplain, the start of his love for performing, the iconic roles throughout his career and overcoming the challenges following his stroke.

My Thoughts: I absolutely love Tim Curry. I always look forward to watching Rocky Horror Picture Show at Halloween (at times going to the midnight shows at the Orpheum). He stars alongside the Muppets in Muppet Treasure Island which is one of my favorite movies. Then I see him every Christmas as the creepy hotel worker in Home Alone 2. He can do so much and has been a part of my viewing life since I was a kid. When I saw that he was releasing an autobiography this year, which also coincides with the 50th anniversary of Rocky Horror and 40th anniversary of Clue, I immediately added it to my TBR.

Rather than reading it I decided to listen to the audiobook, especially since he reads it himself. It was a fascinating stroll through the ups and downs of his life and career. He makes a point at the start that he will not discuss personal relationships but focus on his work. For an actor who has spent so long in the public eye he has stayed very private about his personal life and he kept it that way here too. But as a reader I never even noticed the exclusion. He had so many stories about his work that he didn’t even need it.

After finishing the book I was just blown away by how much he has done, seen and lived. Listening to him reminisce was fascinating and to hear the behind the scenes stories made me love him and his work even more. If you love Rocky Horror or Clue or any of his other movies then this should be a must read. It will give you a new appreciation for the man who made these characters what they are.

The Lineup: Tabbitha

The lineup of what the DPL staff have been up to lately.

Tabbitha’s Lineup

Hobby: Don’t Wreath Me Hangin’! 

There’s nothing I love more than the holiday season, and jumping into the decorating process is always my favorite part! Creating beautiful, custom wreaths for my family and friends has become my absolute favorite Christmas tradition. It’s such a relaxing and fun DIY activity—I love putting on a cozy movie or show and getting lost in the process of shaping the perfect design. Last year, I had extra fun creating this festive piece specifically for my amazing, gnome-loving best friend! Seeing the finished, personalized product ready for gifting is truly the best part of the holidays. 

Travel:

This year, our family is excited to be heading back home to Illinois for the holidays, eager to visit with family and friends. There’s something truly special about Chicago; it’s one of those places that wraps you in a warm embrace and instantly feels like home, no matter how much time has passed since your last visit. Coupled with the crisp winter weather and the city’s signature, over-the-top holiday decorations, being there makes you feel like you’ve stepped right into the middle of a classic Christmas movie. The whole city sparkles with an almost cinematic, unforgettable festive magic.

Entertainment:

Every holiday season, we make sure to cuddle up and watch all of our favorite Christmas classics, but the real fun lies in discovering a fantastic new addition to the lineup. Last year, we struck gold with a movie called Dashing through the Snow, which delivers a truly fun and unexpected twist on the typical holiday fare.

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Traditions:

One of our absolute favorite ways to bring in the holiday season is by visiting Illuminations at Botanica every year. This tradition provides the perfect opportunity to get out of the house, enjoy the crisp winter air, and immerse ourselves in the breathtaking display of holiday lights. Each year, Botanica manages to outdo themselves; there’s always something brand new—a stunning new installation or a clever lighting design—that captivates us and reminds us of the magic of the season. It truly is a spectacular way to create lasting holiday memories.

Show/Music:

 If you are looking for high-quality children’s programming, look no further! The beloved classic picture book, The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats, has been beautifully adapted into an Amazon Prime Original that is an amazing watch with your children. It captures the simple, warm wonder of the book, making it a wonderful way to celebrate the magic of winter. The show also features a stunning, unexpected score “Snowy Day,” performed by the renowned group Boyz II Men. Their signature, flawless harmony, making it a treat for parents and kids alike.

Bookworm Buffet: A Feast for your Reading Senses

Bookworm Buffet: November 2025

Welcome to Maycie’s Bookworm Buffet! Get ready to feast on three literary delights, each served up in a different format: physical, digital ebook, and audiobook.

November’s Spread –

Physical: Alchemy of Secrets by Stephanie Garber

Genre: Fantasy, Magical Realism

Summary:
Folklore 517: Local Legends and Urban Myths, taught by a woman called the Professor. Most students believe the Professor’s stories are just fiction, but Holland St. James has always been convinced that magic is real. When she tracks down a local legend named the Watch Man, who can supposedly tell you when you’ll die, the world finally makes sense. Except that the Watch Man tells her she will die at midnight tomorrow unless she finds an ancient object called the Alchemical Heart. With the clock ticking, Holland is pulled deeper into this magical world in the heart of Los Angeles— and if she can’t figure out whom to trust, not even the Alchemical Heart will save her.
Publication: October 07, 2025

My Rating:

eBook: We’re a Bad Idea, Right? by K.L. Walther

Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Summary:
Audrey Barbour has had enough of following the rules. So when her best friend Henry proposes an outrageous fake-dating scheme to win back his ex-girlfriend, it feels like the first step to shaking up her perfect life. And the second? That comes when Audrey’s parents go out of town, sparking a high-risk, high-reward solution to pay for her fellowship—renting out her family’s Connecticut mansion online. With the help of her new fake-boyfriend, it shouldn’t be hard to pull off… right?  
Expected Publication: March 03, 2026

My Rating:

Audio: All Systems Red by Martha Wells

Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Novella
Narrated by: Kevin R. Free

Summary:
On a distant planet, a team of scientists is conducting surface tests, shadowed by their Company-supplied ‘droid–a self-aware SecUnit that has hacked its own governor module and refers to itself (though never out loud) as “Murderbot.” Scornful of humans, Murderbot wants is to be left alone long enough to figure out who it is, but when a neighboring mission goes dark, it’s up to the scientists and Murderbot to get to the truth.
Publication: May 02, 20217

My Rating:

What’s Ashley Reading?: The Winter People

The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon

First line: The first time I saw a sleeper, I was nine years old.

Summary: The town of West Hall, Vermont, has had a history of strange disappearances and deaths. One the first and most confounding is Sara Harrison Shea in 1908. She was found in her backyard shortly after the death of her daughter.

Now in the present day, Ruthie along with her mother and sister live in Sara’s house. Nothing strange has ever happened until one day Ruthie’s mother, Alice disappears without a trace. While Ruthie is searching for clues about where her mother has gone she discovers a copy of Sara’s diary. As she looks into the mystery surrounding Sara she starts to see some parallels with others who have searched for lost love ones. Could they all be connected somehow? What is happening on this farm in small town Vermont?

My Thoughts: I picked this up at a used bookstore with the plan to use it as a vacation read. I know it doesn’t look like something you’d take on a trip to sunny Florida but it was also October. I have read several of McMahon’s books and always really enjoyed them. She does a perfect mix of mystery with a paranormal twist.

I enjoyed the jumping between the historical events of Sara and the present day with Ruthie. Multiple timelines and flashbacks are one of my favorite writing formats. The Sara storyline was really creepy and gave me chills. It was a perfect pick for spooky season but under all the scary bits it brings forth a really difficult question. What would we be willing to do for a little more time with a loved one who has died? It seems so tempting but as we see in this novel it may not be all we expected it to be. This book will make you think deeper thoughts and scare you at the same time. If you want a book for those cold dark nights then this is it!

FYI: Trigger warning : Death of a child, murder, scary scenes.