Category: recommendations

The Blog Wants to Know: May 2026

I find that people often go through weird “phases” where they’ll be obsessed with certain topics, shows, or even celebrities. Something grips your curiosity and sends you to the Google searches and late-night video scrolls, desperate for more information about that topic. Or perhaps it’s a movie, song, or TV show that you can’t help but repeat over and over again, feeling that surge of dopamine with every viewing. For this month’s question, we’re diving into hyperfixations, obsessions, and topics that have gripped our staff’s curiosity.

What’s your current phase/hyperfixation/obsession?  What’s something that you’re constantly curious about and that you find yourself researching, watching, or reading about? This could be a show, series, period in history, celebrity, musician, author, artist, or even just an overall vibe.

Trinity, Library Page:  For a while, I was fixated on the art and life of J.C. Leyendecker, a commercial artist whose works were extremely popular from the 1920s-1930s. He’s most well-known for his Saturday Evening Post covers (of which I’ve collected ~15) and clothing advertisements for Arrow Collars and Kuppenheimer Clothes. J.C. and his brother, Frank (or FX) painted together for much of their early careers. Norman Rockwell is known to have been inspired by him, and some people suspect that F. Scott Fitzgerald based many of the motifs from The Great Gatsby on the grand parties that were held at his estate. I was drawn to him because I’ve always loved history and art, but more importantly, I relate to his experiences as a queer artist. Leyendecker’s relationship with his model, Charles Beach, was an open secret, but he still had to hide parts of his identity from the public eye. Beyond this, J.C. Leyendecker’s work is beautiful, characterized by bright color, movement, and his signature hatching technique that added visual interest to every part of his work. 

J.C. Leyendecker (1874-1951), Couple in a Boat — Arrow Collar Advertisement, 1912, oil on canvas,

More recently, I’ve been diving into astronomy. I think it was a mix of the Introduction to Astronomy course I’m finishing up and watching Project Hail Mary. I’m fascinated by the cosmic waltz of our planet and beyond. I always struggled in math, and science could be hit or miss no matter how much I loved it, but astronomy is such a beautiful blend of physics, science, chemistry, and art. In a few weeks, my summer reading might be out of this world!

Annalise, Public Support Service: I’ve always been the type of person who switches fixations at the drop of a hat. Every week, it’s something new! Lately, it’s been vintage and antique jewelry. I’ve always liked wearing jewelry, but suddenly after seeing reels and shorts by Maejean Vintage on social media, I’ve fallen into the rabbit hole of researching different eras of jewelry, their meanings, what materials were common in these different eras, etc. Victorian forget-me-not pieces enthrall me currently. With their overall theme of remembrance and deep connection, these pieces had a wide variety of meanings, giving a unique and sentimental backstory to each one. I own a few antique jewelry pieces that I’ve been lucky enough to pick up at estate sales, antique malls, and yard sales, and I’m looking forward to expanding my collection as I learn more! 

Kathy, Public Support Services: Jackie, Shadow and their two eaglets from the Friends of Big Bear Livestream.

Shane, Public Support Services: My current hyper-fixation is tiny living and tiny houses. And while I go back and forth on if I could actually live tiny, it has pivoted me into self-sustainability and homesteading which both feel more obtainable realistically.

Ashley, Interlibrary Loan and Cataloguing: My latest obsession has been with watching baseball.  I used to play as a kid on rec teams during the summer.  I loved going to games on school trips to see the Wichita Wranglers. 

Photo from my Seattle trip in 2016. My family went to see the Mariners play.

My team was and still is the Seattle Mariners.  I really got interested in them when Ichiro Suzuki played back in the early 2000s.  I have been to several Mariners games in Kansas City and one in Seattle.  Recently, with a free subscription to MLB.TV I have been able to catch several games and rediscovered my love of the sport.  I wear my Mariners gear, grab some snacks and watch my team play whenever I can.  Maybe one day soon I will get to go to another game in Seattle and see the new Ichiro statue by the stadium.  I would love to enjoy some sushi and beer while I cheer them on!  #TridentsUp

Dawn S., Youth Services Coordinator: I’ve been obsessed with game shows lately like Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. My kids and I will watch for about an hour after dinner and before homework. The show I’ve been constantly watching is The Rookie. Love me some Nathan Fillion. 

Alyssa, Adult and Teen Services Coordinator: My latest hyperfixation is all things Wizard of Oz/Wicked. I dove headfirst into the Wizard of Oz book series by L. Frank Baum in preparation for my Oz-themed Murder Mystery Night at the library, and the infatuation has yet to lift. I’ve read all fourteen of the main Oz books, and now I’m diving deeper into the “Famous Forty” titles as well as the vintage Reilly and Lee and Del Rey editions. I’m also a huge fan of the Wicked films and have been a bit obsessed with finding Wicked merch. I created a Wicked/Ozian corner in my home with all of my books and cute finds. The obsession is so bad that I even joined the International Wizard of Oz club!

Now it’s your turn? What is your current obsession and what do you love about it? Let us know in the comments below!

The Blog Wants to Know: April 2026

This month’s question is getting nostalgic by diving into the world of animation and cartoons!

What were some of your favorite cartoons to watch as a kid? Whether movies, TV shows, or even anime, what were some of your favorite childhood cartoons? And because it’s totally okay to watch cartoons even as an adult, do you have any current cartoon faves that you’re in to? 

Tabbitha, Youth Services: Growing up, I was definitely a fan of Arthur, Magic School Bus, and Rugrats. I loved anything with a bit of adventure! As for now, being in the library world, I have a huge appreciation for the art and heart in shows like Bluey—it’s honestly as much for the parents as it is for the kids. I also still have a soft spot for Studio Ghibli films like My Neighbor Totoro; the animation is just timeless.

Shane, Public Support Services: My favorite cartoon as a kid was Spongebob Squarepants, so much so that my first pair of glasses when I was 8 or 9 had a Spongebob frame. The episode “Have You Seen this Snail?” was very emotional for child me.

Dawn, Youth Services Coordinator: Inspector Gadget,  Eureka’s Castle, Snorks, The Jetsons, The Flintstones, Noozles, Rugrats, Fraggle Rock, The Smurfs, and Doug. The movies I watched over and over again were The Little Mermaid and Aladdin. 

Kathy, Public Support Services: We always had Looney Toons on Saturday mornings.

Alyssa, Adult and Teen Services Coordinator: Cartoons have shaped who I am as a person and basically raised me when I was a kid. I learned probably everything I need to know about life from Tommy Pickles and Rugrats. I was a 90s kid and a Disney kid so I loved Doug, Hey Arnold, Lilo and Stitch (both the movie and TV show), The Powerpuff Girls, Blues Clues, Little Bear, Franklin, Dragon Tales, Spongebob Squarepants, and I loved the HBO Family shows like Crashbox, Happily Ever After, and A Little Curious.

Honestly I watch just about as many cartoons as an adult. My favorite show of all time is Summer Camp Island. I also love Craig of the Creek, Moominvale, Doc McStuffins, and this new show I found while researching my Oz-themed murder mystery called Dorothy and the Wizard of Oz. It’s a preschool show featuring many characters from the Oz books!

Shelia, Interlibrary Loan and Cataloguing: One of my favorite memories involving cartoons was the Saturday morning cartoons. Some of my favorite cartoons were Scooby Doo, Captain Caveman, and The Jetsons. 

Justin, Technology Coordinator: I have some thoughts.  Specifically on TV.

Growing up, I was a cartoon kid, every Saturday morning, no exceptions.  I won’t mention every cartoon I watched. But I’ll give a special shout out to Dino Riders (dinosaurs with laser guns, honestly ahead of its time) and Muppet Babies.  The adventure combined with the cultural references just nailed the vibe. But the one that always stands out, the one that reminds me most of being a kid, is DuckTales.  I can’t tell you why, but that show defined my childhood.  When they did the reboot some years back I was pretty hyped for it…. it was ok.  Not terrible.

As an adult, I will say cartoons aren’t really part of my regular rotation anymore. But my daughter is a huge fan of Star vs. the Forces of Evil, and despite my best efforts to just let it play in the background, it won me over. It’s a genuinely good show and I’m not even a little embarrassed about it..

Going over to movies, I’ll drop this one: Oliver and Company.  I’m not sure why, but I remember being obsessed with it.  Favorite quote: Tito (Cheech Marin): “Hey, man, if this is torture, chain me to the wall.”

Hannah, Assistant Director: I watched Rugrats, Pinky & the Brain, and Bobby’s World. But my favorite cartoon was probably DuckTales, including the full-length movie Treasure of the Lost Lamp. My love of DuckTales extended to video games. I played through the NES games too many times to count.

Ashley, Interlibrary Loan and Cataloguing: My sister and I loved watching cartoons as kids.  We watched DuckTales, TailSpin and Chip n’ Dale Rescue Rangers on Disney all the time.  Cartoon Network had the old cartoons like Scooby Doo, Looney Tunes, Flintstones and The Jetsons.  We loved them all!  It was exciting when Disney+ started because many of the old cartoons were on there.  It is nostalgic to watch them again and be able to introduce them to my niece and nephew.

Annalise, Public Support Services: My favorite cartoon TV shows and movies to watch as a kid were Strawberry Shortcake, Chowder, Scooby-Doo, SpongeBob, The Land Before Time, and Barbie movies. When my mom got me a portable DVD player, I was unstoppable. As an adult, I still love watching the media I enjoyed as a kid, particularly when I’m sick or need a pick-me-up. I didn’t get into anime until middle school, and even then, I found that I enjoy watching it with my brother more than watching it alone. It’s fun to have someone to watch and react with! These days, we hang out weekly for TV & gaming sessions and watch Frieren, Odd Taxi, Steins;Gate, Castlevania, and more, with Frieren being my all-time favorite! 

Baya, Youth Services: I watched a lot of cartoons growing up, still do actually. Some that I still re-watch to this day include Scooby-Doo, Kim Possible, Phineas & Ferb, and Looney Tunes. As a kid, I also enjoyed Blue’s Clues, Dora the Explorer, The Backyardigans, and Max & Ruby.

Now it’s your turn! What were some of your favorite cartoons as a kid and do you watch any cartoons now as a grown-up?

The Blog Wants to Know: March 2026

It’s almost spring time and that means opening up the windows, clearing out the stale winter air, going through old clothes to donate or purge, and sprucing up your home. It’s not easy tackling the constant chore of cleaning so we’ve asked the librarians for their tips and tricks.

This month’s question is:

Do you have any cleaning, de-cluttering, or organizing tips that you’ve discovered over the years? What are some products that you love or books/resources that you have found helpful when cleansing your space? Are there areas in your home/car/workspace that you’ve found more difficult to keep tidy? 

Shane, Public Support Services: One tip I have is have homes for items and always put things back in their home. If you put something somewhere just “for now,” that’s going to become its new home. My desk is my hardest place to keep tidy because it’s where I put my “deal with later” mail, and I don’t have a trashcan nearby to get rid of it when I do deal with it so it often stays on the desk. Bonus tip: I also like to have bags or baskets for work-in-progress crafts, crochet, and knitting so they can be put away or even left out in a way that doesn’t look like clutter.

Tabbitha, Youth Services: Every evening after dinner, our family shifts into ‘tidy-up mode.’ We set a timer, crank up the music, and work together to clear the day’s clutter. It’s our favorite way to hit the reset button so we can wake up to a fresh, organized home the next morning. To finish things off, I love using essential oils while I clean. It’s a simple, natural way to make the house smell amazing and adds a calming touch to our evening routine.

Annalise, Public Support Services: I think it’s vital to find tips that you can see yourself actually using in your daily life. For me, keeping my hobby room tidy is difficult because I have too many hobbies! For that room and all of my spaces in general, I use the “cousins and coworkers” method. I found this tip on iOrganize’s social media page. It’s helpful for me because it gives three simple categories to decide where an item should go: whether it’s cousins, coworkers, or family (which is a bit more general than cousins for those hard-to-sort things).” It’s made de-cluttering and cleaning much easier, and led to a cleaner space for myself to enjoy hobbies in overall! 

Maycie, Public Support Services: My favorite cleaning tip is to make a sticky note wall. I’ll take a minute to walk around and assess what all I think needs done (or what I can realistically do) and each task gets it own sticky note. Then as I go along, I get to rip a note off of the wall after I complete each task.  It’s a really nice physical representation of my progress on a deep clean day. 

Maycie’s beautiful dog, Maverick!

We have two big big dogs who were both grave diggers in their former lives so it is impossible to keep up with the amount of dirt that gets brought into our home. My best advice, and I know this is bougie, but get a robot that will mop for you. Not having to think about sweeping and mopping on top of other chores is a life saver. I can be doing the dishes while Niles (like the butler from the Nanny) mops around me. It’s so worth it!

Megan, Outreach Coordinator: I have found that doing a “Sunday Reset” has been helpful! Nothing feels better than starting the week off right.

Also, alternating household chores every week with your partner. This gives you one goal everyday for a week to focus on, instead of trying to do it all.

Finally, a 5 minute clean-up every night. Set a timer (either on your phone, or Youtube has fun ones) and everyone in the house tidy’s up. It’s especially fun with kids!

Dawn S., Youth Services: What I’ve had to do is change my mind set when de-cluttering. I used to be really bad at saving stuff. I would say to myself, “I might use this later.” That was my mistake because all I was doing was cluttering more. Tip: Throw it away if you don’t have an immediate use for it! I love using the Pink stuff to clean my shower and a magic eraser. My car is by far the hardest place to keep tidy. I want to say it’s due to shuttling kids from place to place, but it’s probably due to just being lax at cleaning it more often. 

Ashley, Interlibrary Loan and Cataloguing: My biggest tip for cleaning is to clean as you go.  Put things back where they belong as soon as you’re done with them.  I use this to keep my apartment tidy but it is also my strategy when cooking/baking.  If I put away supplies, wipe down work spaces and throw away trash, it feels like I finish quicker.  I can enjoy the smell of the food cooking/baking faster rather than focusing on the cleaning process at the end.

Now it’s your turn! Share your tips and tricks for cleaning and organizing in the comments below.

The Blog Wants to Know: Feb. 2026

February is often a time to connect with a loved one, be it a friend, family member or partner. Whether you celebrate “the season of love” or not, this month’s blog question is sure to get you thinking.

This month, the blog wants to know:

If you could go on a dinner date (either romantic or platonic, your choice) with any character from a book, movie, or TV show, who would it be? What would you and this character talk about? What would you want to ask? Feel free to include more than one character if you’re struggling to narrow it down! 

Maycie, Public Support Services: Romantically — Hello Mr. Henry Tilney! He is my favorite Austen hero. He is snarky, smart and he is an “excellent judge” of muslins so you know you can trust him. 

Platonically — I think it would be very fun to have a night on the town with Merry and Pippin. You have to admit that they prove to know how to have a good time!

Kathy, Public Support Services: It would have to be Sean Connery and I would like to know what it was like growing up in Scotland and how he was selected to be the first James Bond.

Alyssa, Adult and Teen Services: One of my favorite books and films is The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd and the character of August Boatwright is such a gentle, motherly soul. She’s a beekeeper, a caretaker for her sisters, and a truly independent woman. Every word she says is pure wisdom. I’d love to talk with her and soak in all of her loving energy.

Kristy H., Public Support Services: My favorite person in the whole world is Jim Carey. Since as long as I can remember (all the way back to In Living Color), Jim Carey has always been my rock. Whenever I’m sad or lonely or need someone, he’s there to make me laugh. Never a dull movie! I feel my happiest when I watch him or hear his voice. I would just listen to him talk and talk about him and his day. He’s truly the best person to have a drink or laugh with.

Baya, Youth Services: Book-wise, I’m going to a mystery dinner with my pal Nancy Drew. I would also thank her for three generations of reading—my grandma, my mom, and me. Film-wise, I would love to have coffee at Central Perk with Joey and Chandler. Chandler’s sarcasm is funny, and Joey is endearing. I think they would be really great F.R.I.E.N.D.S to have!

Shane, Public Support Services: I would go with Geralt from the Witcher series. It would be difficult with this character, but I would just want him to talk about being a Witcher and some of his stories of slaying evil creatures. Maybe if we bring Jaskier along, he can do most of the storytelling, accompanied with fantastic music!

Annalise, Public Support Services: I think I would go on a platonic date with Fran Fine from the TV show The Nanny. It’s one of my go-to comfort shows to watch, and I’ve always loved her fun sense of style! So I’d ask her all about her outfits.

Now it’s your turn! Let us know which fictional character you would like to chat with in the comments below!

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!


Bookworm Buffet: A Feast for your Reading Senses

Bookworm Buffet: September 2025

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

September’s Spread –

Physical: The Raven Boys: The Graphic Novel by Maggie Stiefvater & Illustrated by Sas Milledge

Genre: Graphic Novel, Fantasy, Young Adult

Summary:
Join Blue and her Raven Boys on their unforgettable quest to find a long-forgotten Welsh king rumored to be sleeping beneath the mountains of their quiet Virginia town.
This beloved first book of a young adult series is now reimagined as a stunning full-color graphic novel adapted by Stephanie Williams and illustrated by Sas Milledge. The Raven Boys unravels a thrilling plot around a cast of characters impossible to forget.
Publication: July 29, 2025

My Rating:

eBook: The Favorites by Layne Fargo

Genre: Contemporary, Sports Fiction, Literary Retelling

Summary:
A modern day loose reimagining of Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights, set in the world of competitive ice dancing.
Katarina “Kat” Shaw and Heath Rocha, both disadvantaged by broken homes and humble beginnings, form a fierce and magnetic partnership in the cutthroat world of ice dance. As they rise from underdog prospects to international stars, their bond is tested by ambition, betrayal, and the glare of media scrutiny, when a shocking incident at the Olympic Games forces their partnership to end.
Ten years later an unauthorized documentary threatens to rewrite their legacy. Kat, tired of rumors and distortions, finally steps forward to tell the real story—one woven from childhood loss, obsessive love, rivalries, and the cost of chasing perfection.
Publication: January 14, 2025

My Rating:

Audio: 14 Ways to Die by Vincent Ralph

Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Young Adult
Narrated by: Tina Wolstencroft

Summary:
Jess Crane enters an online reality show to hunt down the person who murdered her mother years ago — a killer known only as the Magpie Man. Each week, Jess livestreams her life to thousands of viewers, using the platform to lure the killer out of hiding while simultaneously risking her own safety. As the show progresses, the boundaries between her public persona and private grief blur, and Jess becomes both the hunter and the hunted in a tense race to expose the truth before she becomes the Magpie Man’s next victim.
Publication: December 19, 2019

My Rating:

The Lineup: Shane

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

Shane’s Lineup

Books: H. P. Lovecraft’s Cthulhu Mythos

If you have seen and recognized my upper arm tattoos, you won’t be shocked to learn that I am a huge H. P. Lovecraft fan. I’ve been reading through his short stories when I can, starting with the Cthulhu Mythos. I really like how the Cthulhu Mythos stories are all individual stories, but relate to each other in some way.  I love the dark, gritty atmosphere and twist endings that really make you think. It’s also really fun to read the original stories that so many books, movies, and shows are inspired by even now.

Vacation: Redwoods, California

I recently returned from a family vacation to Northwest California. My older sister and I road tripped there and back, which was a fun bonding experience by itself. The trip was awesome, I saw (and touched) the ocean for the very first time, we did a lot of hiking, and saw so many big, beautiful, ancient trees. I was most excited by seeing the banana slugs though. We rented a remote house with a killer view of the ocean. We also spent half a day in Crescent City and ate a delicious meal at SeaQuake Brewing.

Hobby: Music & Concerts

I’ve been a rock music fan my whole life (thanks mom and dad) and love going to concerts to see a live performance when I can. Some favorites are Creeper, Twin Temple, Avatar, Hollywood Undead, Judas Priest, Plain White T’s, and Ghost (seeing them again soon!). Usually I go with my twin sister and her husband, but I’ve also gone with my parents to some. Seeing live music is always a special memory no matter how small or big the band is.

Games: Carcassone

I am a huge board game nerd and I own over 60 games. I love a game that is different every time you play, and Carcassone has that endless replayability to me. To me, it is simple to learn but still challenging and competitive (if you it to be). Thanks to my loved ones and their gifts, I own 9 out of 12 of the main expansion packs. This makes it even more customizable because we can pick and choose which packs to include when we play.

Hobby: Fiber Arts

I have always been someone who loved to “make things” but I never felt creative enough to do art. I taught myself knitting around 10 years ago and crochet about 2 years ago (still definitely learning that one). I love knitting and crochet because I enjoy following a pattern and watching it come together, it is very satisfying. It also totally opens up the real of gift-giving. If someone devotes the time to knit/crochet/sew you something, you should feel very special. I have made scarfs, hats, a bag, figures, and other small things. I am currently working on a duster robe for myself and have about half dozen other projects on my mind. The picture is of a spider scarf I made in 2022 while I was recovering from surgery. Very fun project!

The Blog Wants to Know: Sept. 2025

The weather is getting chillier, the Halloween decorations are cropping up at stores, and the release of the pumpkin spice latte can only mean that fall is officially upon us so this month’s question is all about fall favorites!

What are some of your favorite books, movies, TV shows, video games, recipes, drinks, or outfits that get you into the autumn spirit? Is there anything you indulge in during the fall months? Is there anything you’d recommend to get others into the autumnal vibe? 

Shelia, Interlibrary Loan and Cataloguing: I love curling up with a cozy blanket to watch Hocus Pocus and sip on a cup of hot apple cider with a splash or two of caramel vodka. Chili simmering in the crock pot is one of my favorite autumn meals.

Tabbitha, Youth Services: As you know, I have been enjoying the change of weather and all the rain we are having. Here are some of my Autumn Favorites!

Maycie, Public Support Services: I love to do an autumnal simmer pot!  Lots of oranges, cinnamon, anise and other spice blends to really make our home smell like fall. 

Alyssa, Adult and Teen Services: I’m definitely a basic girl when it comes to the autumn season so I’m down for getting a hot pumpkin spice latte and putting on a cozy hoodie or flannel. I’ve been re-watching Over the Garden Wall this month which has such a delightful fall vibe, and I’ve had The Pumpkin Princess and the Forever Night by Steven Banbury and The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest by Aubrey Hartman on my TBR, waiting for autumn.

Dawn S., Youth Services Coordinator: This is my favorite time of the year.  I spend a lot of time at pumpkin patches and my boys and I love P&M in Moundridge. I consider this chili and soup weather although I eat those year-round. I also enjoy getting apple cider. Right now, I’m watching Gilmore Girls again. 

Shane, Public Support Services: Hot cider and flannel shirts are my go to for fall. We also do simmer pots with herbs and spices to make the house smell amazing and keep the humidity up inside. Highly recommend.

The Blog Wants to Know: Aug. 2025

School is back in session so it’s got me thinking about all of the awesome things that our school-age patrons will get to learn and experience, and all of the fun topics that we dove into during school.  

What were some subjects or topics that you loved learning about in school? Was there a certain historical period or concept you found fascinating? This could have been during elementary school, middle school, high school, or even college. What kinds of things did you love to learn about? Feel free to share any books, TV shows, or resources you used in school to dive into that topic! 

Dawn B., Event Coordinator: In elementary school I was OBSESSED with the Loch Ness Monster! I did several different types of reports on Nessie. My resources were library books and the show Unsolved Mysteries!

Tabbitha, Youth Services: One of my favorite topics in school was the Lewis and Clark Expedition. I was fascinated by how they discovered countless new insects and animals, and meticulously mapped the uncharted land.

This led me down a rabbit hole of historical events that paved the way for their journey. I learned that the expedition was made possible by the Louisiana Purchase, a massive territory bought from France under President Thomas Jefferson. While this purchase was a huge win for expanding trade routes, I also learned about its complicated role in expanding slavery in the South.

Over their two-year, four-month, and nine-day journey, Lewis and Clark met many different Native American tribes. This expedition was a huge part of my elementary school history classes, especially since I’m from Illinois. It was an amazing topic that captured my interest for years!

Kathy, Public Support Services: My favorite books growing up were the James Herriott books and that led to Vet School which I loved.

Ashley and Dr. Kyle

Ashley, Interlibrary Loan and Cataloguing: Starting in about 7th grade I had a history teacher, Mrs. Kelso, who I absolutely loved.  She was always excited about what she was teaching and it sparked my love for history.  

In college I studied history for my degree.  I graduated from Tabor College in Hillsboro.  My advisor, Dr. Richard Kyle, taught many of my classes, took a group of us on a trip to Europe and helped me work my way through writing my senior paper about Thomas Cranmer and the English Reformation.  He was so knowledgeable about so many subjects and had a career that took him all over the world.  It was a great privilege to know and learn from him.  

Dawn S, Youth Services Coordinator: It was Little House on the Prairie for me. My mom and I spent every morning before school watching the television series and I told my teacher about it. My teacher informed me there was entire book series written. I had to read them all! 

Shane, Public Support Services: This should not come as a shock to anyone, but history has always been my favorite subject, particularly early American History. This continues to be a focus of mine into my college education. I first discovered this love in middle school American History. The late David McCullough is a notable historian who has written many great American History books. I have History Matters on hold to read when we have it available. It is a collection of essays he wrote during his life curated by his daughter and colleague focusing on his passion of History.

Alyssa, Adult and Teen Services Coordinator: In elementary school, I loved learning about American History, particularly the Revolutionary War. I watched this PBS Kids show, Liberty’s Kids, all the time. In middle school, I did many projects on the life of the poet, Maya Angelou. I found her so inspiring and her poetry made me feel both strong and vulnerable. I loved her poems “Phenomenal Woman” and “Still I Rise.”

Now it’s your turn! What were some topics that you loved learning about or are currently learning about in school?

The Blog Wants to Know – July 2025

We are knee-deep in the thick of summertime so this month’s question will hopefully cool you down! 

What are some of your favorite drinks to have during the hot, summer months? What do you reach for on these 90-degree days? 

Dawn S., Youth Services Coordinator: Lots of iced coffee!! I spend too much money at 7Brew on the Smooth 7 which is Irish Cream and White Chocolate Breve. I add almond milk instead of the half and half. It’s my go to drink for sure! Peach Iced Tea is great, too!

Shelia, Interlibrary Loan and Cataloguing: I just recently discovered lavender lemonade!! So delicious and refreshing!

Tami, Office Manager: Ice tea and for an adult beverage…a gin and  tonic

Maycie, Public Support Services: Raspberry lemonade!! There is nothing more refreshing or thirst quenching on a hot mid-western day. 

Kathy, Public Support Services: In the evening I like to have a nice cool glass of S. Sohne Riesling-Blue wine.

Shane, Public Support Services: I reach for a crisp, refreshing (alcoholic) seltzer.

Hannah, Assistant Director: Topo Chico! Or as my family calls it “Mom’s spicy water.”

Alyssa, Adult and Teen Services Coordinator: One of my favorite drinks in town is the Blueberry Moscow Mule from Dempsey’s. It’s so crisp and sweet! I’ll also make a non-alcoholic version at home with ginger beer and blueberry syrup.

Miranda, Youth Services: My favorite summer drinks are Seagram’s Jamaican Me Happy and strawberry lemonade with sliced strawberries. I usually order the strawberry lemonade at Red Robin.. its the best!

Jessie, Public Support Services: My favorite summer time drink is so simple! Lemon lime cucumber water! When I worked at a Marriott hotel years ago, one of our daily afternoon duties was to make infused waters for guests at check in. It doesn’t take much of the ingredients sliced up in a big pitcher of water to get a nice refreshing flavor in a few hours of it sitting and infusing the water.

Baya, Youth Services: If I’m in need of caffeine, I’ll get a Sonic Dr. Pepper with coconut and cream! When it’s above 90 degrees, I’ll take iced cold water. It’s basic but tastes life-changing in the heat. Then for cases when I don’t want caffeine or water, I’ll get a a crisp Sprite.

Ashley, Interlibrary Loan and Cataloguing: I absolutely love a good iced coffee.  It usually has small dash of caramel in it because I don’t like it too sweet.  Then for an adult drink I usually go for a local beer like Warbeard Irish Red by Walnut River Brewing.  Refreshing and cold which is perfect for these hot days.

Tabbitha, Youth Services: During summertime, my family’s go-to drink is to make freshly squeezed lemonade! It is a fun thing to do together and it tastes so much better than store bought.

Now it’s your turn! What are some of your favorite drinks during the summer months?



Derby Public Library's Blog