The week's events
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Book Donations Needed For Friends Of The Library Book Sales
Book Donations Needed For Friends Of The Library Book Sales
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Oct 25, 2021
The Friends of the Library (FOL) organizations that support Fort Bend County Libraries (FBCL) are requesting donations of gently-used books, DVDs, CDs, and audiobooks so they can replenish their supplies and continue their book sales and fundraising efforts. Donations can be brought to any FBCL location during business hours.The FOL groups have long had ongoing book sales in the libraries, as well as special book-sale events periodically throughout the year. These book sales are a primary fundraising source for the organizations.
Money raised by the Friends of the Library Book Sale has provided funding for special adult and children’s programs, cultural events, and staff-development and continuing-education programs for library employees.
In addition to books, DVDs, and CDs, donations of gently-used LPs, Blu-ray discs, and puzzles are also welcome.
Items that cannot be accepted include cassettes, VHS tapes, encyclopedias, legal statutes, case books, National Geographic and some magazines, or books that are damp, moldy, dirty, or insect-ridden.
The Friends organizations are 501(c)(3) tax-exempt corporations. Donations and contributions to the Friends are tax deductible.
BECOME A FRIEND OF THE LIBRARY
The Friends of the Library groups are nonprofit, all-volunteer organizations. Each library has its own Friends of the Library group, and new members are always welcome.
Friends of the Library members support the library in a variety of ways. Some members are able to donate their time and expertise to support, promote, and raise awareness of their libraries, as well as augment the resources of their libraries. They do this through advocacy and through fundraising (usually book sales).
For those with limited time, simply becoming a member and paying annual membership dues are a wonderful way to show support of the library.
For information on how to become a Friend of the Library, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), or call any of the branch libraries or the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).
Libraries Present Introductory Technology How-To Videos OnlineLibraries Present Introductory Technology How-To Videos Online
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Oct 25, 2021Fort Bend County Libraries (FBCL) will present a series of introductory online demonstrations in October to introduce people to various aspects of computer use and technology.These how-to tutorials can be viewed on the Fort Bend County Libraries website – www.fortbend.lib.tx.us – by clicking on the “Classes and Events” tab, selecting “Virtual Programs,” and finding the virtual “class” on the dates listed.
Some of the topics include multiple sub-topics, and participants can choose to view the whole series or the individual parts of their choice. The schedule for October is as follows:
“Cyber Security” – Monday, October 4 (pre-recorded video)
In this multi-part series, learn about steps to take to ensure your online accounts remain safe and secure from virtual attacks and breaches. Get tips on how to create strong passwords, recognize and avoid email scams, verify “fake news,” avoid malware and viruses, and protect one’s privacy on social media.
“Intro to 3D Printing” – Monday, October 11 (pre-recorded video)
This 2-part instructional video will provide an overview of 3D printing. Learn about how the 3D printer works, the process for printing, and how to use Tinkercad to design 3D objects.
“Accessing Consumer Reports Online” – Friday, October 15 (pre-recorded video)
Learn how to access full-text articles from Consumer Reports online through FBCL's website.
“Computers 101” – Monday, October 18(pre-recorded video)
FBCL's multi-part "Computers 101" series consists of basic, introductory videos providing an overview of computers and how they can be used. Episodes in the series cover the physical parts of a computer, the differences between a Microsoft PC and an Apple Mac computer, and the meanings of different computer terms. Get an overview of the software programs in the Microsoft Office Suite (MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint), and much more.
“MS Word Survival Basics” – Monday, October 25 (pre-recorded video)
In FBCL’s “MS Word Survival Basics” series, learn the basics of using this word-processing software program to create letters, resumés, forms, and other types of documents. Different segments in the multi-part series will demonstrate various features, such as text effects, changing font style and size, adding images, footnotes and endnotes, page numbers, tables, mail merge, and more.
“MS Word: Table of Contents” – Monday, October 25(pre-recorded video)
Learn how to format a table of contents in this word-processing software program.
The sessions are free and open to the public. To access these online tutorials, go to the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Classes & Events,” select “Virtual Programs,” and find the program on the date indicated. For more information, call the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).
For more Fort Bend County Libraries computer and technology tutorials, visit the library system’s YouTube channel -- https://bit.ly/FBCLYouTubeChannel.
Libraries Present Online Demonstrations For Craft & Hobby EnthusiastsLibraries Present Online Demonstrations For Craft & Hobby Enthusiasts
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Oct 25, 2021Fort Bend County Libraries will present a series of online, craft- and hobby-themed video demonstrations this month to introduce people to new hobbies and activities, and to give current crafters inspiration and new ideas.These programs will be online; they will NOT take place in the library. Links to the videos will be posted on FBCL’s online calendar on the designated date, and they can be viewed at any time.
- “Photography Basics: What Makes This Photograph Great” – Monday, October 11 (pre-recorded video)
Learn how to critique amazing photographs by master photographers to gain a better understanding of the elements that make a photo great. This episode will focus on American portrait photographer Philippe Halsman.
- “Virtual: Indigo Fabric Dyeing” – Monday, October 25 (pre-recorded video)
Learn about the Japanese textile art known as Shibori indigo dyeing. Shibori is a resistance dyeing technique dating back to the 8th century in Japan. It typically involves taking fabric and manipulating it by folding or clamping it between boards, stitching and gathering it, or pleating and bounding it, and then dyeing it in a vat of indigo.The programs are free and open to the public. The videos can be viewed online on FBCL’s website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us) by clicking on “Classes & Events,” selecting “Virtual Programs,” and finding the programs on the dates indicated. For more information, call the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).
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Law Library’s “Pro Se Basics” Series Introduces Free Legal Info Resources Online
Law Library’s “Pro Se Basics” Series Introduces Free Legal Info Resources Online
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Oct 26, 2021Fort Bend County Libraries’ Law Librarian, Andrew Bennett, will present a series of “Pro Se Basics” online demonstrations of the informational legal resources that are available to the public at the Fort Bend County Law Library. These programs will be virtual sessions live-streamed via Webex; they will NOT be in person.The introductory classes will take place on Tuesdays October 5, 12, 19, and 26, from 10:00 to 11:00 am.
The classes will introduce important procedural information for self-represented litigants who wish to begin their legal research, represent themselves in court, or seek resources for their Family Law or Probate issues. Individuals may choose to attend individual sessions or the whole series.
The material that will be discussed is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of an attorney. Librarians cannot provide legal advice or recommend specific forms.
- October 5– “Introduction to Legal Research.” This class will introduce the basics of legal research. Those attending will gain a better understanding of the difference between primary and secondary resources, how to read legal citations, and where to find legal resources in print and online.
- October 12– “Advanced Legal Research.” This class covers search strategies using the libraries’ databases. Learn how to use Boolean operators, natural language, and special characters to narrow searches. In addition, the class will demonstrate how to begin a simple search and how to narrow searches.
- October 19– “Courthouse 101.” Self-represented litigants will get a basic introduction to the legal system. Learn about the difference between civil and criminal cases, the basic parts of a legal document, the different types of legal documents, and where to file legal documents. Gain a better understanding of the differences between district courts, county courts, and justice of the peace courts, learn how they interact with each other, and how individuals might be involved with the courts.
- October 26– “Courthouse 102.” This class covers the introduction to civil litigation after the answer phase, including discovery, trial, and post-trial. Learn about resources that can be used to address these issues, and become aware of various problems that could arise.
The series will continue in November.
The classes are free and open to the public. Registration is required; a link to the Webex session will be emailed to participants who register. To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Classes & Events,” select “Virtual Programs,” and find the program. Participants may also register by calling the Law Library at 281-341-3718.
Libraries Host Live-Streamed Children’s Programs In OctoberLibraries Host Live-Streamed Children’s Programs In October
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Oct 26, 2021Fort Bend County Libraries’ (FBCL) youth-services programming will be presented in virtual format rather than in-person so that families can enjoy them online and participate from home. These virtual activities will take place online; they will NOT be in person at the library.The October schedule of online Family Story Time programs will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:15 am. They will be live-streamed on the “FBCL Virtual Programs & Educational Resources” Facebook group page.
If families are unable to watch the live-streamed programs, the sessions will be recorded and available for viewing on the Youth Virtual Programs page of the FBCL website on the following Tuesday/Thursday.
Family Story Time includes stories, songs, and action rhymes that children of all ages can enjoy. The schedule for October is as follows:
October 5 – Colors
October 7 – Pumpkins
October 12 – Bath Time
October 14 – Oceans
October 19 – Rhymes
October 21 – Monsters
October 26 – Pets
October 28 – Forest/Night Animals
Families with infants 1-12 months of age can practice their early-literacy skills by watching the pre-recorded Little Bits video episodes that will become available online on Wednesdays. In these videos, library staff demonstrate rhymes and songs for parent/child activity time at home. The videos will be posted on the Youth Virtual Programs page on the FBCL website, where they can be viewed at any time.
A collection of virtual youth programs continues to be available on the Fort Bend County Libraries Youth Services YouTube channel. Pre-recorded activities for different age ranges are available for viewing at any time.
Families of toddlers and preschoolers may pick up to-go activity packets from the library for the month. These packets contain fun craft activities that can be done at home.
For more information, see the FBCL website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), or call the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).
Libraries Host Online Gardening Program On Backyard Fruit TreesLibraries Host Online Gardening Program On Backyard Fruit Trees
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Oct 26, 2021Fort Bend County Libraries will present an online gardening program, “Fruit Trees for the Backyard,” on Tuesday, October 26, beginning at 2:00 pm. Part 7 of the Texas AgriLife Extension Office’s Landscape Success series for homeowners, this program will be live-streamed via Webex; it will NOT be in person.Fort Bend County Master Gardener Deborah Birge will talk about varieties of fruit trees that can thrive in the Gulf Coast climate. Hear about proper planting techniques and recommended maintenance tips to encourage fruit production, including pruning, feeding and watering.
Having earned her Fort Bend County Master Gardener certification in 2002, Birge has since earned advanced certifications in Citrus Culture, Home Fruit Production, and First-Detector Plant Disease.
She is currently conducting a citrus-hardiness demonstration using 72 citrus trees of 12 varieties. She also maintains a home orchard of more than 60 trees and vines, both in-ground and in containers.
The series will continue on Tuesday, November 16, with a program on “Tree Care Basics,” presented by Boone Holladay.
The program is free and open to the public. Registration is required for the program so that a link to the Webex session can be emailed to all who register. To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Classes & Events,” select “Virtual Programs,” and find the program on the date indicated. Participants may also register by calling Fort Bend County Libraries’ Communications Office at 281-633-4734.
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Libraries Celebrate Teen-Tober With Online Activities For Young Adults
Libraries Celebrate Teen-Tober With Online Activities For Young Adults
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Oct 27, 2021Ft. Bend County Libraries will celebrate TeenTober by highlighting all the great activities and resources that are available at the library for the Young Adult community all year long.TeenTober is a national literacy initiative created by the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA), a division of the American Library Association. Thousands of libraries, schools, and bookstores across the country are participating in this month-long initiative encouraging teens to take advantage of reading in all its forms – books, magazines, e-books, audiobooks, and more -- and to become regular library users.
Fun, online programs specifically designed for high school-age teens in grades 9 through 12 take place throughout the year. In October, the programs will all be live-streamed via Webex. An email with the link for the Webex meeting will be sent to all who register on FBCL’s online virtual calendar.
Young Adult Advisory Councils
- “YA Advisory Council” – Tuesday, October 12, 4:00i-5:00 pm; Tuesday, October 19, 4:00-5:00 pm; Wednesday, October 20, 4:00-5:00 pm; or Wednesday, October 27, 4:00-5:00 pm.
This event will be live-streamed via Webex at the scheduled time. Teens can earn volunteer-service hours by expressing ideas, organizing upcoming activities, and suggesting new programs and books that would be of interest to young adults at the library. Registration is required.
Young Adult Book Clubs
- Teen Read Week “Get Rec’d Ideas for Teens” – Monday, October 11, and Wednesday, October 13, 4:00-4:30 pm.
In this live-streamed program, teens will talk about their favorite books and share their recommendations with others. FBCL library staff will share news and views on some captivating Young Adult lit for teens. Registration is required.
“YA Book Club” – Wednesday, October 13, 4:00-5:00 pm
This event will be live-streamed via Webex at the scheduled time. This month, readers will discuss Lovely War, written by Julie Berry. This book selection is in print and on OverDrive; call George Memorial Library to check availability of additional print copies. Registration is required.The activities are free and open to the public. Registration is required for the live-streamed Webex sessions; a link to the Webex session will be emailed to participants who register. To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Classes & Events,” select “Virtual Programs,” and find the program on the date indicated. For more information, call the Fort Bend County Libraries’ Communications Office (281-633-4734).
Libraries Celebrate Teen-Tober With Online Activities For Young AdultsLibraries Celebrate Teen-Tober With Online Activities For Young Adults
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Oct 27, 2021Fort Bend County Libraries will celebrate TeenTober by highlighting all the great activities and resources that are available at the library for the Young Adult community all year long.TeenTober is a national literacy initiative created by the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA), a division of the American Library Association. Thousands of libraries, schools, and bookstores across the country are participating in this month-long initiative encouraging teens to take advantage of reading in all its forms – books, magazines, e-books, audiobooks, and more -- and to become regular library users.
Fun, online programs specifically designed for high school-age teens in grades 9 through 12 take place throughout the year. In October, the programs will all be live-streamed via Webex. An email with the link for the Webex meeting will be sent to all who register on FBCL’s online virtual calendar.
Sienna Subtext: Graphic Novel & Animé Club -- Thursday, October 14, 4:00-5:00 pm.
This event will be live-streamed via Webex at the scheduled time. The book to be discussed is Centipede: Game Over, Vol. 1, created by Max Bemis. This title is available in print; call the Sienna Branch Library to check availability of additional print copies. Registration is required.
Heavy Inks Graphic Novels Book Club-- Saturday, October 16, 11:00 am-12:00 noon.
This event will be live-streamed via Webex at the scheduled time. The book to be discussed is Monstress, created by Marjorie Liu. This title is available in print; call George Memorial Library to check on availability of additional print copies. Registration is required.
“YA Book Club” – Wednesday, October 27, 4:00-5:00 pm.
This event will be live-streamed via Webex at the scheduled time. This month, readers will discuss Patron Saints of Nothing, written by Randy Ribay. This title is available in print and on OverDrive; call the Cinco Ranch Branch Library to check on availability of additional print copies Registration is required.
Young Adult Online Gaming
Teen Read Week “Biblio Gaming Showdown” – Tuesday, October 12, and Thursday, October 14, 4:00-4:30 pm.
Teens will meet up online to play virtual games, such as CodeNames, Drawphone, and JackBox Party. It is not necessary to own any of the games; teens will participate from home on their mobile device with the link emailed from FBCL. Registration is required.
“YA Marvel Trivia” – Wednesday, October 13, 4:30 pm.
This event will be live-streamed via Webex at the designated time. Teens aged 13 and up who enjoy the challenge and excitement of a trivia competition are invited to join in this virtual event, putting their knowledge of Marvel Comics to the test. Registration is required.
The activities are free and open to the public. Registration is required for the live-streamed Webex sessions; a link to the Webex session will be emailed to participants who register. To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Classes & Events,” select “Virtual Programs,” and find the program on the date indicated. For more information, call the Fort Bend County Libraries’ Communications Office (281-633-4734).
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Libraries Host Live-Streamed Children’s Programs In October
Libraries Host Live-Streamed Children’s Programs In October
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Oct 28, 2021Fort Bend County Libraries’ (FBCL) youth-services programming will be presented in virtual format rather than in-person so that families can enjoy them online and participate from home. These virtual activities will take place online; they will NOT be in person at the library.The October schedule of online Family Story Time programs will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:15 am. They will be live-streamed on the “FBCL Virtual Programs & Educational Resources” Facebook group page.
If families are unable to watch the live-streamed programs, the sessions will be recorded and available for viewing on the Youth Virtual Programs page of the FBCL website on the following Tuesday/Thursday.
Family Story Time includes stories, songs, and action rhymes that children of all ages can enjoy. The schedule for October is as follows:
October 5 – Colors
October 7 – Pumpkins
October 12 – Bath Time
October 14 – Oceans
October 19 – Rhymes
October 21 – Monsters
October 26 – Pets
October 28 – Forest/Night Animals
Families with infants 1-12 months of age can practice their early-literacy skills by watching the pre-recorded Little Bits video episodes that will become available online on Wednesdays. In these videos, library staff demonstrate rhymes and songs for parent/child activity time at home. The videos will be posted on the Youth Virtual Programs page on the FBCL website, where they can be viewed at any time.
A collection of virtual youth programs continues to be available on the Fort Bend County Libraries Youth Services YouTube channel. Pre-recorded activities for different age ranges are available for viewing at any time.
Families of toddlers and preschoolers may pick up to-go activity packets from the library for the month. These packets contain fun craft activities that can be done at home.
For more information, see the FBCL website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), or call the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).
Learn About The National Novel-Writing Month Challenge At Libraries’ Online ProgramLearn About The National Novel-Writing Month Challenge At Libraries’ Online Program
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Oct 28, 2021In preparation for National Novel-Writing Month in November, Fort Bend County Libraries will present a special, 2-part “NaNoWriMo Prep-tober 2021” workshop to introduce aspiring writers to the NaNoWriMo challenge. The workshop will be live-streamed on Thursdays, October 7 and 28, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, via WebEx.Established in 1999, National Novel Writing Month is a creative-writing project designed to empower and inspire vibrant creativity among aspiring writers, who are encouraged to write 50,000 words of a novel in the 30 days of November. More than 250 novels that began as a result of the initiative have been published through traditional publishing houses; some of those novels include Sara Gruen’s Water for Elephants, Erin Morgenstern’s The Night Circus, and Rainbow Rowell’s Fangirl.
During Part 1 of the workshop (October 7), staff from the libraries’ Adult Services department will provide an overview of the writing initiative and how it works. Get tips on brainstorming, developing plot outlines for the big picture, and creating characters and scene cards.
During Part 2 of the workshop (October 28), participants will get tips on different planning methods, how to schedule work sessions, and how to set attainable goals. They will also be able to exchange tips and ideas and network with other participants.
This online workshop is recommended for adults and teens aged 14 and up.
Aspiring writers may also view a pre-recorded video, “Drafting Fast,” which will be posted on FBCL’s Virtual calendar on October 1, and may be viewed at any time throughout the month. Get tips on ways to get that first draft onto the page faster.
The workshop is free and open to the public. Registration is required; a link to the WebEx session will be emailed to participants who register. To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Classes & Events,” select “Virtual Programs,” and find the program. Participants may also register by calling George Memorial Library at 281-342-4455.
