Author: Alyssa Larue

I am the teen librarian at DPL and the epitome of a book nerd. When I'm not producing our teen or tween short films or getting glue everywhere while making a teen zine, I can usually be found with my nose in a classic, historical fiction, or fantasy read!

A “Kaleidoscope” of Kansas artists show work in Gathering Space Gallery

The Gathering Space at Derby Public Library has a new exhibition for art lovers to enjoy, presented by the artists of the Kansas Art Guild. Installed this past week, “Kansas Kaleidoscope” will be available to view through Jan. 9, 2017.

Oil painting titled Leather Boutique by Janet Butler
“Leather Boutique” in oil by Janet Butler

Seventeen Guild artists have brought 57 pieces of artwork to share with visitors to the Gathering Space Gallery. Including mediums such as watercolor, oil, and acrylic painting, and pen and ink and pastel drawings, these works engage the eye and capture the imagination. Each artist brings his or her own energy and talent to the work, and visitors can spend a few minutes or an hour, enjoying the variety and detail presented.

Oil painting titled A Secret Place by Dixie Mills
“A Secret Place” in oil by Dixie Mills

The Derby Arts Council will be hosting an artists’ reception 5:30-7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 8, in the Community Room. Light refreshments will be served and the public is cordially invited to attend.

More information about the Kansas Art Guild is available on its website at www.kansasartguild.com. Questions regarding purchase of artwork can be directed to Tami English, Derby Public Library, 788-0760.

 

 

Photographers offer “A View of the Seasons” in library’s High Wall Gallery

“The Deer Hunter” photography by Barney Tul

Local photographers Bill Fales and Barney Tull have put together a series of their photographs that promise to bring smiles and warm hearts. The exhibition, “A View of the Seasons,” is a treat that will be up through the holiday season.

The exhibition includes 13 photographs that will be on display through the first week of January 2017. While both men have exhibited their work at the library on other occasions, their work can also be seen in locations throughout Derby, including the Venue at Madison Avenue Central Park, City Hall, and the Derby Recreation Commission.

More works by Fales, a Derby police officer, can be found on his website, www.coastalplainsimages.com. Tull, who retired from the Army and from Boeing, offers photography classes through the Derby Recreation Center.

“Autumn Waterfall” photography by Bill Fales

Both men can often be spotted at public events in Derby, capturing the highlights and energy of whatever celebration they are attending.

Please stop by the High Wall Gallery when you visit the Derby Public Library and enjoy “A View of the Seasons.” Photo prints are available for sale from both artists, and more information regarding purchase is available by contacting Tami English, Derby Public Library, 788-0760.

 

Review: Dark Matter by Blake Crouch

“Dark Matter” by Blake Crouch was the December selection for our Hauntingly Good Reads book club. We had a great discussion about the book. Here’s my review of it (originally posted on my Goodreads page):

Jane and her reindeer Peppermint shared “Dark Matter” by Blake Crouch with library patrons.

This book might make you re-think your reality. While it’s definitely science fiction, the science doesn’t overwhelm the fiction and the story moves along at a great pace. The characters are well-developed and the settings are a vital part of the story. I had a hard time putting this book down once I started it. I genuinely wanted to know what was going to happen to the characters, and I like having a protagonist that I’m invested in.

There are plenty of unexpected plot twists, but none that feel artificial or forced. I love a novel that offers up plenty of suspense and this one does.

If you’ve ever wondered what might have happened in your life had you made a different choice at any juncture in your life, this book is for you. I highly recommend it.

Welcome to Derby Library’s new blog!

Welcome to the official blog of the Derby Public Library in Derby, Kansas. We’re excited to begin sharing great information about the library, books, reading, and more with you through this blog. We hope you’ll engage with us by leaving comments and sharing your thoughts on our posts.

Visit us here often for reviews of books, newly released or out for a while. Find out what’s happening with library programs. Read about the books that our book clubs have selected each month.

Thanks for joining us and we look forward to hearing from you!