Oconto Falls Library Talks

Historical Pictures Posted on Infosoup

2011-12-28T11:03:00.002-06:00

We recently finished posted on Infosoup historical photos from the Oconto Falls area. The first collection is some negatives that were donated by Ken Bunn Jr of Menasha. Mark Mortell scanned the negatives to see what we had. They were photos taken by William Temple during the 1920's. A small selection is posted. The second collection was some negatives from John Larson. Again Mark Mortell was willing to scan them to see what we had. Included are pictue os the Stiles Dam, Paper Mill and some aerials of the city of Oconto Falls, Lena, Stiles Dam and Spruce. Please click on the link http://memory.infosoup.org/cdm/landingpage/collection/p15134coll9 and view. Or go to Infosoup.org, click on Digital Collections and then on Infosoup Memory Project, scrol down to Oconto Falls.

Oconto County Libraries @ the Fly In

2011-09-22T15:26:00.002-05:00

The Oconto County Libraries had a booth at the Third Annual EAA Warbird Fly In in Oconto on Sept 17th. Weather was perfect not only for the Fly In but also the paper airplane contest sponsored by the libraries.

Oconto County Libraries at the Fair

2011-09-19T17:21:00.004-05:00

The weather was great August 25th to the 28th for the Oconto County Fair. Again, this year the six Oconto County Libraries participated at the fair with a booth. It is fun to get out and hear from various people from all areas of the county on how much they appreciate their libraries. We also heard from visitors to our county and about their libraries back home.

When we weren't at the booth, we were checking out the beautiful handmade quilts next door, the cake judging and tasting, and who cannot stop in to see the chickens, goats, sheep, pigs (maybe not the pigs), and cows. Fairs and Libraries-a great combination!

Bluegrass Concert @ the Library

2011-08-15T15:47:00.002-05:00

All are invited Friday night, Aug 19 at 6:30 for a free concert at the library. The Osterman Family will be performing. Last Christmas they gave us a wonderful Christmas concert and afterwards started playing some bluegrass. So we simply have to have them back. There may be a conflict with the first home football game, but who can pass up a concert?

Randy Peterson Performs at the Library

2011-08-15T15:32:00.003-05:00

August 18th, the library patrons, staff and computer users were treated to a concert from Randy Peterson. Randy performed his One World Many Stories concert. The kids loved it. He interacted well with the kids, having them do sign language, dance, carry flags and sing with him. The kids and adults enjoyed the concert.

Vic Bast Speaks on WWII Experiences

2011-07-27T10:28:00.004-05:00

On July 21st, Vic Bast, resident of Oconto Falls and decorated WWII veteran, spoke at the Oconto Falls Library. Vic flew several missions over Europe. He tells his stories in a recently published book called Fighter Pilot. A copy can be found at the Library. Pictured above is Vic Bast on right and Jim Valentine on left. Many people may remember Vic from school days as he taught and was principal in Oconto Falls Schools for 42 years.

Puppet Shows @ the Library

2011-06-20T12:27:00.004-05:00

After receiving a donation of a puppet stage from a local church, we thought we should use it! Our first puppet show was Thursday, June16th at 10:30. We will hold a show every Thursday through out the summer. Pictured are Laura Kazenbach, Julie Spillane and our student worker Jennifer Kennedy.

Warren Gerds Visits the Library

2011-04-01T12:23:00.002-05:00

Thursday night the local community was treated to a program by Warren Gerds. Warren is an editor and writer for the Grren Bay Press Gazette. He shared some of his writing techniques and read a few of his stories, including the story shared by the title of his book ' My Father Lives in the Drawer'. He also advised us to keep a camera handy and take pictures. A photograph can help tell your story. Warren shared some of the people he has met and written about in his weekly columns. Thanks Warren for a nice evening.

Join Us With Warren Gerds

2011-03-25T09:43:00.003-05:00

On March 31st at 7:00 p.m. Warren Gerds will be at the Oconto Falls Library. Warren recently published a book of personal stories titled 'My Father Lives in a Drawer'. Born in West Allis, Warren grauated from UW-Milwaukee with a degree in journalism and presently writes for the Green Bay Press Gazette. You may have enjoyed many of his stories in the Saturday Press Gazette paper. Join us at 7:00 for more stories.

Library Welcomes Back Jerry App

2011-03-25T09:22:00.002-05:00

We welcome Jerry back to the Oconto Falls Library on April 1st and 2nd. Jerry was here last fall and was the final speaker of our 'History of Oconto Falls' series. His message was that we need to start writing down our stories. So we have invited Jerry back for a two-day event. Friday night will be a booktalk and Saturday morning at 9:00 a.m. will be a writing workshop. Turning Memories into Memiors will be the topic. He will discuss research and conducting interviews with family members. Please join us Friday and Saturday.

Carolers Visit the Library

2011-01-04T13:51:00.005-06:00

The Library was treated to their very own concert during the Christmas Season. The Middle School FFA Club visited local businesses and places along Main Street, and stopped at the Library. Check out the man in the red hat. Caroler Brett Iverson not only is teacher and club advisor, he is also a Library Board member for the Library. Way to go, Brett!

Concert at the Library

2010-12-06T10:20:00.003-06:00

Mark your calendars for Dec 16th at the Library. We will be hoting a christmas concert, featuring the Ostermann and the Kanzenbach families. Traditional and carols with a twist will be performed along with instumental solos and duets. Come and spend a musical evening at the Library Dec 16th at 6:30.

Stories a Success

2010-11-19T14:54:00.002-06:00

Our five part Stories of Oconto County program was a huge hit. People really enjoyed the programming and especially the finale with author Jerry Apps. We learned about Oconto County, from geology, Native American history, early settlers and genealogy. Jerry tied everything nicely together when he talked about Stories and our land.

Watch for more information as the library gathers more local stories to tell this winter!

Decades of Local Newspaper donated to the Library

2010-08-24T11:07:00.002-05:00

Wolf River Media, LLC, has donated to the Oconto Falls Community Library its collection of Gillett Times, Oconto Falls Herald and Oconto Falls Times-Herald. The newspapers, dating back to 1922, chronicles decades of community life in Oocnto County. The Shellman family acquired the Herald in 1929 and the Gillett Times in 1944. The two papers were merged in 1952. Back issues are popular with genealogists and local historians. With the papers housed at the library, they will be more accessable to patrons. Any one wishing an obituary or article can call the library or email the library from its new website at OcntoFallslibrary.org.

Story Hour Goes to the Dogs

2010-04-23T09:27:00.003-05:00

During the month of April the Oconto Falls Community Library has been doing a fundraiser for the Oconto County Humane Society as payback for the wonderful support and participation in our recent raffle. In return, the library hosted two programs on dogs, chickens and story hour got into the act with stories and crafts. We will be accepting items until the end of the month for the Humane Society and cash donations are also welcomed.

Top Ten at Oconto Falls Library

2010-03-12T10:41:00.003-06:00

All libraries in the State of Wisconsin has to file an annual report. We have finished ours and have come up 2009 Top Ten Facts about your library.

We circulated our highest number of items ever-86,245 item were checked out through our doors.
We added 2,861 new books, 204 new audio books, and 503 dvds for a total of 3,568 items.
We added 417 new patrons to our library.(Remember that your card is good at any Oconto County library).
We have 8 internet computers and patrons logged onto 9,870 sessions.
We circulated 22,965 children's books and 337 children attended Story Hour at the Library.
We hosted a national exhibit for the first time. Visions of the Universe, sponsored by the American Library Association and NASA, drew in 1,650 children, students and adults for programs.
We have added games to the library, such as Wii, X-Box 360, PlayStation 2 and Nintendo DS for the kids.
Expanded Westerns, Science Fiction and Inspirational fiction.
When teens say they were at the library, they could be. More teens are at the library.
We did all this and more with no budget increase.

Friends of the Library Holds Raffle

2010-01-21T10:29:00.004-06:00

This beautiful quilt will be first prize for the 2nd Friends of the Library Raffle. Made by Donna Bubolz and Durham Herzog, the quilt is a cardinal theme in the colors of red and tan. Donna and Durham have won many ribbons for their quilts and this one will surely be a heirloom for your family. Tickets are 6 for $5.00 or $1.00 a piece. Many other great prizes have been donated by local businesses and supporters. If you would like to purchase tickets at Mags Decor, Quilters Escape, contact a Friends member or visit the Library. The Raffle ends on Feb 27th at noon and winners will be drawn.

Oconto Falls Art Group Meets at LIbrary

2010-01-21T10:22:00.002-06:00

There is a new group in town and that is the Oconto Falls Art Club. Due to the lack of students, NWTC had to cancel the Spring Adult Art Class. But the need for art fellowship is great for a few students. They get together every Tuesday afternoon from 1:00 to 4:00 to paint, talk or look over other students work. They are looking for people to join the group. You do not need to be an artist to join. Carl Malingkowski (pictured) says that even I could join!

Santa Visits Library

2009-12-18T10:56:00.002-06:00

Story Hour had surprise visitors on Tuesday when Santa stopped by. Mrs Claus read a story and Santa led the group in song about reindeer. Santa then joined the group for crafts, cookies and punch.

News From the Friends

2009-12-18T10:27:00.004-06:00

As the year ends, the Friends of the Library would like to remind everyone that dues are due after January 1, 2010.
As the ecomomy affects everyone in our community, it also affects the Library Budget. We have begun making plans for fundraising in 2010 and will need help in some of the undertakings. The first thing on the agenda is a Raffle in February. If anyone has anything they would like to donate as a prize please contact Donna at the library. The main item of the raffle is a quilt made by Donna Bubolz and Durham Herzog.
You may think about joining the Friends group. The mission of the Friends to fundraising for the library. But we also need people to volunteer in the library by assisting staff. Pictured is Lorna Saffron, a Friend and Library Board member volunteering at the annual Youth Art Month Reception.

Local History @ Your Library

2009-12-03T14:53:00.002-06:00

Cub Scouts Dens 8 and 9 were given a local history lesson at Oconto Falls Community Library on November 19th. The Director, Joan Denis shared some history, the role of the river and logging with the boys and families. She showed the boys some historical photos of the river, the falls, and the town. Afterwards, John Funderburg had them practice their knot tying by building a raft. No test was given but one little boy would have failed when he asked if the Director took the photos!

Fire Truck Visits Library

2009-10-23T13:04:00.004-05:00

The Oconto Falls Fire Department visited the library for National Fire Prevention Week. Stories and songs were provided by John and Amy Dessart. Along with treats was the drawing for prizes from the fire department. First prize is a ride in the fire truck during the next parade! Four winners were selected. Then we all went outside to check out the firetruck.

Dealing With Change

2009-10-23T12:07:00.003-05:00

On Friday September 25th, four members of the Oconto Falls Public Library staff went to the NFLS sponsored wokshop "Dealing With Change". The speakers are the nationally known team of Joan Frye-Williams and George Needham. We all must deal with change wether we want to or not. How you and your staff deal with it is the question. As libraries we must recognize that the world is changing around us. We either change with it or become replaced. The workshop dealt with writing an Action Plan, the desired outcome and who will assist. I feel that this workshop was very benifical to our library and expect change in the future.

Taking Chance - A Must See Movie

2009-08-31T12:17:00.001-05:00

This is the true story of the death of a young marine, Lance Corporal Chance Phelps. The main theme is the transport of his body back to the US, the preparations for his final burial and the transport of his remains to his family in Wyoming. The movie is an exceptionally well executed portrayal of military traditions and the deep respect afforded to fallen soldiers. In the words of the movie's director, "the love and care marines have for one another." Kevin Bacon has had a number of roles. His portrayal of Marine Lt. Colonel Strobl shows a troubled man, deeply conflicted about the war in Iraq. A combat veteran himself, at the time of the death of Marine Lance Corporal Chance Phelps, he is assigned to a position as an analyst in the Pentagon. The Colonel feels guilty because he is stationed safely back in the US, while too many young people are dying. His feelings typify those who wonder why their friends have died and yet they have survived. So, the Colonel volunteers to escort young Phelps back to this parents, trying to do something to fill a deep need. In presenting Chance's personal effects to his family, the Colonel explains that all along the journey, young Chance was shown "Dignity, Respect and Honor." I was struck by the utter respect, love and honor provided to the young marine. We are shown how reverently service people, enlisted and commissioned officers, clean and prepare the body, washing it and then sewing a perfectly fitting uniform so that the young marine could be "properly squared away." The military traditions shown in the movie left me with moist eyes as on each time the casket was moved on and off an aircraft, the Colonel slowly saluted and civilians paused and doffed head gear and bowed their heads. There were more than a few illustrative scenes , but the one which was most memorable for me was on the road trip from the Wyoming airport to the church, a 5 hour trip along a two lane highway. Lt. Colonel Strobl is following the hearse in his rental sedan. A truck driver moves to pass the car and hearse and as he passes, the driver recognizes that the casket has a US flag draped on it and there is a marine officer escorting it. The driver turns on his headlights, removes his cap and slowly passes the hearse and moves just ahead, keeping pace. A few more motorists pass, also recognizing the military casket and they, too, turn on their headlights. In a short time there is a long procession of cars escorting the hearse with their lights on and keeping pace. An anti-war activist might see this movie and say the theme is about the futility of war and wasted youth. I saw this movie as a story about the sacrificial love of a young man serving his country who died alongside his friends, saving many lives. On the way home, young Chance serves as a witness of the faithful service of our military to all who see the procession, and all are deeply touched and forever changed. The DVD for this film also tells how Lance Corporal Chance Phelps will be honored by having a Fisher House named for him to support the VA medical center in Salt Lake, Utah. Fisher Houses are family centers where family members of wounded military personnel can stay while visiting and supporting their soldiers.

Its New at the Library

2009-08-14T11:08:00.001-05:00

The Library is accepting donations of books and items for the Annual Book Sale that will be held during Funfest. The Sale will start Thursday Sept 10th and continue through the month of September. At a recent Friends of the Library meeting, it was agreed to host host a Rummage Sale in October. So if you have some items that you wish to donate for the sale, bring them to the library starting Oct 20th. I have been seeing Ancestor.com advertised on television recently. Did you know that you can get it free at your local library. Using the public computers at the Library, you can go online and use the full version of Ancestor.com. If you are interested in your family history, stop in at your local Library and give it a try. Another database added recently is an Automotive Repair database. We do have many Chilton's Repair books but not all. This you can do using your home computer. Go to Infosoup and on the home page click on ARRC and your on your way. What is great about this database is that you can use it even when the library is closed! Some new items at the library are Robin Cooks Intervention, Elin Hilderbrand Castaway, J.A. Jance Fire & Ice, Sandra Brown Smash Cut, Pat Conroy South of Broad, Faye Kellerman Blindman's Bluff, and Guillermo Del Toro's new book The Strain. Also, for the new hobby farmers out there or people thinking about raising a few chickens or small livestock, the library has purchased several new books on hobby farming, poultry (as many of you heard I have purchased and am raising some chickens, but that is another story) and small backyard livestock. Stop in at the Library. You never know what you will find!

Blacksmith at Library

2009-07-17T12:33:00.002-05:00

On a hot day in June, Dale Raby, Blacksmith Extraordinaire, presented a workshop at the Library on Blacksmith. A forgotten art, Dale made chains, hooks, and spirals with the help of the kids. It was a very hot day, but the boys stayed out long after the girls went in to do something cooler. Dale, a graduate of Oconto Falls High School, lives in Green Bay and loves to share his art with kids.

Earthave Museum Participates in Summer Reading Program

2009-07-17T12:27:00.003-05:00

Mike Reisch from Earthaven Museum spent his Tuesday afternoons at the Oconto Falls Library. For four weeks, Mike lead the 9 to 12 year olds on archeological digs, mining and identifying gemstones, finding artifacts and dinosaur fun. Get Creative was our theme and Mike taught that even in science, you can be creative. Thanks, Mike for all your time and support for the Oconto Falls Library.

Local Theater Performs at Summer Reading Program

2009-07-17T12:10:00.004-05:00

Abrams Spotlight Productions performed at the July 14th Summer Reading Program at Oconto Falls Library. Appearing in costume, the actors held the attention of even the smallest of reader. Wizard of Oz was recently performed by the group. Actors are Josh Kozlowski, Cherran Dea Rasmovicz, Peter Budz, Erin Thompson and Kassandra Boehmer.

What to do With a Zucchini the Size of a Canoe

2009-07-02T12:54:00.001-05:00

Becky Dolata from the UW-Extension will be offering three classes at the Oconto Falls Community Library in July/August on preserving your garden. 'You grew it now use it' will be our motto. What are the new standards in food safety? Can you really pickle that? When using a hot bath, does the clock start when you put the jars in or after it comes to a boil? These are just a few questions I have that Becky will be answering. If you are new to food preservation or your pickles got moldy last year, you may want to attend these workshops free at the Library. Thursday July 23rd at 6:30 will be Preserving Your Bounty, August 6th is Perky Pickles and on August 13th will be Tempting Tomatoes. Hopefully we will all have bumper crops and the need to preserve for winter. Please call the Library at 846-2673 and reserve a spot for your 'piece of the patch'.Also, the Library will have available the UW-Extension Food Bulletins.

Off to a Good Start

2009-05-01T10:51:00.001-05:00

Visions of the Universe has blasted off to a good start at the Oconto Falls Community Library. Many elementary school and middle grade students have stopped in for a visit, story hour and craft. Some events planned are May 9th is Rocket-Paloosa at 1:00 at Pleasant View Park. Chris Anderson and his students from the High School Science Club will build and launch rockets, make craters and build edible space shuttles. There will be craft projects to take home. The event is planned for outside. If it is rainy or very dry the event will be moved to the Library. On May 12th, Dave Grignon from the Menominee Nation will be speaking at the Library from 6:00 p.m. On Saturday, May 16, will be Paper Airplane Day at the library. Plan on coming at 1:00 to build and fly planes with Cherie. On May 19th, Dan Kalgren from UW Marinette will be speaking on the Copernican Revolution, The Origins of Modern Scientific Astronomy at 7:00 p.m. Mark your calendars.The Library wishes to thank our local sponsors for their support of the program. They are Jones Funeral Home, KDS Accounting, Peshtigo National Bank, Oconto Falls Utilities and WPPI, and OEC Community Change. Without their financial support our Visions would be considerably smaller.Even though we are busy with the exhibit, the Library has kept up with the new releases. Get your name on the holds list for theses recent releases; 8th Confession by James Patterson,Coop: A Year of Poultry, Pigs and Parenting by Michael Perry, Dead and Gone by Charlaine Harris, First Family by David Baldacci, Intent to Kill by James Grippando, Just Take My Heart by Mary Higgins Clark, Lover Avenged by J.R. Ward, Mr and Mrs Anonymous by Fern Michaels, Visions in White by Nora Roberts. Coming soon are Shanghai Girls by Lisa See and Summer on Blossom Street by Debbie Macomber.

Mark Your Calendars

2009-04-06T14:42:00.000-05:00

The official opening of Visions of the Universe is Monday April 13th. On Tuesday April 14th at 7:30 pm, Mike Reisch from Earthaven Museum will be speaking at the Library on meteorites. He will talked about how to identify them and show us some of his meteorites. There will be a drawing for a meteorite at the program. Mike also has a display in the hallway display case this month on meteorites. Tuesday's at 10:30 begins Space Story Hour at the Library. We will travel to the moon, meet a few aliens, and dream about stars. Friday April 17th will be Armchair Astronomer night. We will have a Blast Off party Open House followed by a movie. Bring the whole family. Space Buddies will be shown at 7:00pm. Saturday the 18th we begin afternoon hours. The Library will be open from 9:00 to 3:00. On Sunday we will be open from 12:00 to 3:00. On April 20th will be Star Gazing with Paul Erdman from UW-Marinette at twilight. We will meet at the Library and caravan out to Bill Kamke's game farm for the evening. If you have a telescope or binoculars, please bring them. We will also be using the naked eye and I have a feeling of a lot of finger pointing! If weather is cloudy or rainy, we will meet Tuesday night at the library. Wednesday night April 22nd, will be Bob Brown from the Oneida Nation telling us Native American stories about the stars and moon. There are more events planned. Visit our website and view the calendar. All events are family friendly. But mostly, stop in and see the wonderful exhibit provided to us from the American Library Association, Space Telescope Institute and NASA. 2009 is the International Year of Astronomy. The Library wishes to thank our local sponsors. They are Jones Funeral Home, KDS Accounting, Peshtigo National Bank, Oconto Falls Ultilities and WPPI, and Oconto Electric

Its All At The Library

2009-03-12T14:43:00.000-05:00

Are you feeling the financial crush of the recession? Try out you local library. There are six libraries scattered across the county. They all offer free books, movies, music, audiobooks, magazines and internet. We at Oconto Falls Library offer internet but we also have Microsoft Word 2007 and Publisher 2007 on three new computers. Do you need to make a brochure, flyer or newsletter, try Publisher. It has templates so all you need to do is fill in the space. It can be tricky or somewhat frustrating when you first start, but what isn't! If you need to type up a resume, there are templates on all the computers for public access. When doing a resume and you want to print on a better quality of paper, bring it in and we will help you. Copies are .25 cents per page. We can also fax or xerox items. Need tax forms, the library will have them until April 15th. We can also go online and print the ones we don't have. If you don't have a library card, bring in picture I.D. and your card is free. Lost your card? Replacement cards are $3.00. So come into the library. Check out a new author, movie or magazine. Friday mornings are Junk Food Fridays. Come in for a free cup of coffee, chatter and junk food. Check out some movies on Friday for a family night at home and pick up a bag of microwave popcorn. Just come in and check us out

March Into The Library

2009-03-12T14:42:00.001-05:00

The Oconto Falls Community Library is marching into spring. Visions of the Universe, Four Hundred Years of Astronomy will be arriving here in April. We are in the planning stages for the exhibit funded by NASA. We have many things planned for schools and groups. We will have speakers and some fun science programs. Watch the paper, blog or drop in to the library for a list of events. Teachers, if you would like to bring your classes in for the exhibit, call the library and arrange a time and date. All are welcomed. March is also Youth Art Month. Art work started arriving last week and is on display at the library for the month. Artwork is from the Oconto Falls schools, Homeschools and St Anthonys. Youth Art Month Reception will be March 12th. Everyone is invited. At the last Friends of the Library meeting, the group again voted to award two scholarships to graduating seniors from Oconto Falls High School. Students need to apply through the Guidance Office at the High School. Some authors with new books coming out in the next few weeks are J.D. Robb, Robert Parker, Maeve Binchy, Jodi Picoult, Joanne Flukes, Kim Harrison, Therese Fowler, Anne Perry, Laura Lippman, Jonathan Kellerman, Randy Wayne White, John Burnside, Karen Robards and Gena Showalter. These books will all be available through InfoSoup. Add you name to the Holds List. The Library is initiating Junk Food Fridays starting on March 6th 10:00 to 11:00a.m.. Another excellent reason to check out a good book at the Library.

NWTC Art Show

2008-12-04T15:10:00.005-06:00

The Library is hosting the Second Annual Art Exhibit from the NWTC Adult Art Class. The class is comprise mainly of local students of all ages. On Tuesday, Dec 6th from 6:00 to 7:30 will be a reception. Come and meet the artists and sign up for a class.

I See Visions

2008-11-24T15:35:00.001-06:00

The Oconto Falls Community has been notified by the American Library Association that we were successful in our grant application for Visions of the Universe. The Oconto Falls Community Library is one of forty libraries across the nation to be awarded the grant. 'Visions' will be coming to Oconto Falls Community Library April 4 to June 12, 2009. The United Nations has declared 2009 as the International Year of Astronomy. The American Library Association, Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory and the Space Telescope Science Institute put together an exhibit and programs that reflect their mission of "how our views and understanding of the universe and the objects within it have changed over the last four hundred years". An official news release will be coming shortly. The exhibit will be open to the public and to any group, class or organization to view and participate in one of the many programs that will be available. The Library wishes to thank the sponsors who wrote letters with our application, Mark Merrifield from Nicolet Federated Library System, Roger Shellman from Oconto County Times-Herald, Amy Dessart from St Anthony School, Jan Stranz from Oconto Electric Cooperative, David Polashek from Oconto Falls School District, Jim Van Dornick from Community Memorial Hospital, April Konitzer from Oconto Falls Chamber of Commerce and Paula Huff from UW Extension.The grant application was written by Joan Denis and Cherie Bartha. The exhibit is funded by NASA.

Do You Know Where the Library Is?

2008-11-07T13:45:00.002-06:00

Five Library directional signs were recently donated and added to the city of Oconto Falls. A Library Board member noted that when he traveled to various towns, he would look for the Public Library. He saw that many towns had signs and we did not. Not only did he bring it up at a Board meeting, he felt that they were important enough, he offered to pay for them! Thanks Dave. Posted at five major roads coming into Oconto Falls, everyone can find the Library.

Look who is Not Coming to Dinner

2008-10-24T15:03:00.001-05:00

The NWTC Adult Art Class donated to the Oconto Falls Community Library a work of art made jointly by the class. The children's book Leaf Man by Lois Ehlert supplied the idea a painting of a turkey made by different fall leaves. Now residing in the children's section of the library, our turkey greets everyone. Measuring six feet in diameter, this is one bird not heading to the dinner table. Class contributers were Kathy Johnson from Oconto, Anita Peterson, Carl Manikowski and Ron Murray from Oconto Falls, Nancy Sleeter and Mae Adams from Suring, Judy and Kenneth Darby from Lena.

Oconto Falls Community Library to Provide Services to Abrams Area

2008-10-10T10:26:00.000-05:00

The Oconto Falls Community Library and the Oconto Falls School District are teaming up to provide Library services to the residents of the Abrams area. Oconto Falls Community Library is a member of the Nicolet Federated Library System and the Owlsnet Consortium. By simply accessing the OWLSnet online catalog at www.InfoSoup.org, library users can place holds on items and arrange to have them delivered to the Abrams Elementary School on Tuesdays and Fridays for pick up. When we notify you that you materials are available at the library, just a phone call to us (846-2673) and we will see to it that they are delivered to the Abrams Elementary School. You will also be able to return your items through the Abrams School.
InfoSoup is a catalog of over 641,000 distinct titles, and 1.7 million items, owned and freely shared by 50 libraries in northeast Wisconsin. As part of its support for libraries in the Nicolet service area, Nicolet provides a daily delivery service between all the libraries, so there is no cost to the library or the user to request books from the OWLSnet consortium member libraries. Books of all types, movies, magazines, books on cd and music cds are among the items that can be found in the InfoSoup catalog.

If you don’t have a library card, with a quick stop at the library we can issue you one or if you have lost your card we can replace it for a $3.00 fee. All we need to issue a library card is a driver license with your current address. We can also help you learn how to navigate the InfoSoup catalog. If you are just beginning to use the computer, InfoSoup is an easy site to use and help you become more familiar with the web. Oconto Falls Community Library, come check us out!

'Friends' on Vacation

2008-09-17T11:12:00.003-05:00

Amy and John just can't stay away from Libraries. Or they go on too many vacations

Butterflies at the Library

2008-08-15T12:54:00.005-05:00

This summer five caterpillars came to the library and left as butterflies. What a metamorphosis. It was all very exciting. The Adults were more interested than the kids. At one hatching, we had six adults standing around and waiting. The Monarchs were released to our flower garden outside.

The Library is a COOL Place

2008-08-15T12:32:00.002-05:00

We all remember the past summers where the library was not a cool place to be. By July and August our cooling system could not keep up with demand. This year our Library Board voted to replace the cooling and heating sytem in the library. We recieved grants from Focus on Energy and USDA Rural Facilities. On 3 hot days in July Johnson Controls came in and shut down any coolant that we had and installed the new system. So now we are nice and cool. Some would even say cold. I tell them to put a sweater on. Mark Desremaux, a local resident, works for Johnson Controls and headed the project. Pictured is Mark and Gordy in their 'protective gear'.

Where Do Friends of the Library Go While on Vacation

2008-07-11T10:54:00.002-05:00

Bugs All Over

2008-06-12T11:51:00.007-05:00

Bugs can be found all over the library this summer

Bugs, Bugs, Bugs

2008-06-12T10:42:00.004-05:00

Bugs is the theme of this summer's Reading Program at the Library and do we have bugs. Actually we have live bugs (Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches, pond bug, snails and soon catepillers) and things that eat bugs (snakes, frogs and anoles) sponsored by the High School Biology Department. On July 22ed we will have a visit form the NEW Zoomobile with critters for the kids. Tuesday's at 1:00 will be the buggiest place in town so join us for our programs. No advance registration is needed. The place is decorated and waiting.

Summer Reading Program

2008-05-23T10:53:00.000-05:00

Summer is almost upon us and the Library is planning Summer Reading Programming. The theme of this year's program is "Catch the Reading Bug". The Program will start on June 17th and run trough August 12th. June 17th will be a Story Hour, introduction to bugs from the High School Biology Department and frog races for the 3 to 8 year olds. We will also be having a program for the 9 and up age group. We will be making soap, altered books and putting on our own Project Runway Show. June 24th, Duf the Clown will be returning to provide Story Hour. July 1st will be no Story Hour but on the 8th through August 12th Mrs. Kurzynske will be back. We will be having the Zoomobile from NEW Zoo on July 22nd at 1:00 p.m. They will be bring five critters including Tobin the Turtle. As always, reading sheets will be available to pick up and prizes will be awarded as sheets are returned completed. Green Bay Press-Gazette will be hosting a reading program. Entries are available at the library. Fill out the entry form, pledge to read at least five books and mail into the Green Bay Press Gazette. Every week they will have book reviews in the paper. Students can submit their own reviews and drawings to be eligible for prizes from the Press Gazette. Barnes & Noble Booksellers is also having a reading program. Read eight books of your own choosing, fill out a Summer Reading Journal (available at the library), and return to Barnes & Noble between May 29th and Sept 2nd and receive a free coupon for a book. So there is plenty of opportunity to keep the kids reading during summer and hopefully they will have a little fun doing it.

Friends Of the Library Awards Scholarships

2008-05-23T10:48:00.003-05:00

If you are a parent of a graduating senior, Wednesday, May 14 at the PAC was the place that you wanted to be. Scholarships totaling $218,550.00 were awarded to 58 students from the Class of 2008. The Friends of the Library participated this year in awarding two scholarships to graduating seniors. Libraries encourage lifelong learning and promote the love of reading. Libraries play an important role in the education of our students. Whether they use it as a study hall, to meet their technology and research needs, or for entertainment, the skills learned will carry the students through high school, post high school and into adulthood. The Friends of the Library offered two scholarships to students who have demonstrated their use of the High School Library, a love of reading and hold a valid Public Library card. We hope that students graduating from Oconto Falls High School will continue to use and support the Public Library in the communities that they choose to reside in. The winners of the scholarships were Ian Bauer and Jordan Cook. Congratulations Seniors.

Who Did Win the Quilt

2008-04-10T11:08:00.002-05:00

Half a dozen members of Friends Of The Library were on hand for the drawing of the winning raffle tickets on April 5th. Winners were as follows: Mary Lemmen-Wisconsin Dells get-a-way, hand-made quilt -Carl Manikowski, digital camera - Linda Witt, original oil paintings - Holly Kussow & Marge Western, Stein thermos - Paul/Sue Mogged, soap gift basket - John Telford, tea set - Monica Gostisha, basket of towels - Teresa Blazer, eagle wall hanging - Kevin Erdman, Hallmark Angel-Rose Marifke, crocheted doily - Pam O'Connelll, and a quilt pattern - Loretta Shellman. Friends Of The Library members are most grateful to those who donated the prizes: Consuelo Cupino, Kathy Kamke, OEC Radio Shack, Donna Bubolz, Audrey O'Harrow, Eva VandenElzen, Lorna Saffran, Joan Denis, Jo Miller, Amy Dessart, Pat Sager, Tammy Walters, and Jeanne Waschbisch Thanks, also to Oconto Electric Cooperative for the use of their rotating basket for the tickets, and to Pam Langley for bringing it to the library. The funds raised through the raffle will be used to provide such things as more books, dvds, etc. as well as bigger items which the library may have need of to provide better service.

Youth Art Month at the Library

2008-03-20T09:27:00.002-05:00

March is Youth Art Month at Oconto Falls Library. If you have been in the library recently, it is filled with paintings, sculpture and pottery. Color everywhere in the drab month of March. March 13th a reception was hosted by the Friends of the Library. About 400 people attended. The morning started with a visit by the students of St. Anthonys. They checked out the art and recieved their awards. The work will be on display until the end of March.

Infosoup is on YouTube

2008-03-20T09:12:00.002-05:00

Some of you may remember back in January Infosoup had a YouTube contest. The results are in. There was 8 entries and 2 winners. First Place is called Infosoup vs. catalog http://http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bfm1_yQtI4w. The second place was an entry from Lakewood http://http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DdaWauaQKKc . Personally, I like the entry from Lakewood and Pam, the Director has informed us that Grampa has come in and gotten a Library card! Click on the links provided and you be the judge.

Raffle and Games at the Library

2008-03-19T17:28:00.000-05:00

Spring is in the air finally and people are checking out the gardening books at the Library. Also, if you are looking for weekend escapes for summer vacation, check out our Wisconsin titles for ideas. March is also Youth Art Month at the Library. The schools, representing the High School , Middle School, Elementary School, Abrams, Spruce,St Anthony's and the Homeschools have brought in a wide variety of work. All is on display to see. The Friends of the Library is holding a raffle. Tickets are 6 for $5.00 or $1.00 each. The first three prizes are a two-night stay at Wisconsin Dells, a quilt made by Kathy Kamke and third prize is a digital camera donated by RadioShack/OEC. Support the library and buy your tickets before April 4th. Drawing will be on April 5th. The Library is trying something new. Gaming is becoming very popular with our young people. The Library has purchased 20 games for the various machines. They are rated E for everyone. We have games for X-Box, PlayStation II, Wii and Nintendo DS. We also have purchased Dance Dance Revolution and Guitar Hero for the X-Box 360. These items can be checked out for 7days. You must pick them up and return them to the Oconto Falls Library. There is a $5.00 a day fine if overdue. Check them out at the Library

Youth Art Month

2008-03-10T14:43:00.000-05:00

A Look at 2007

2008-02-12T09:06:00.000-06:00

February is Annual Report time at the Library. This used to be a long laborious report, taking days to finish, and much frustration with the adding machine. I hear this was the only time of the year that Jeannie would close the office door and want no interruptions. But with the installation of the new software program in Feb of 2006, our techies at Appleton are able to provide most of the data for the report. Oconto Falls added to our collection 2,679 books, 331 audio books, and 438 dvds. Our patrons responded by checking out 56,589 adult items and 18,863 children items for a total of 75,452 items, an 11% increase over 2006. As with any business, growth presents it own problems, mainly in staff. But at the Library, we will continue to provide the best service that we can and continue to meet the needs of our Patrons.
What is in store for us in 2008? More great books and dvds. We will venture further into audio materials such as audio books and music cds. And we are experimenting with games for X-box, Playstation, Wii and Ninendo.
March will be Youth Art Month at the Library. We will be hosting a raffle, thanks to the Chamber for allowing us to use their raffle license, and we just got word from DPI that the bandwith to the library will be increased this month. We will also soon be connecting with area businesses about supporting our Summer Reading Program.
2008 looks to be a GREAT year for the Oconto Falls Community Library.

Third Down and a War to Go

2008-01-26T14:05:00.000-06:00

The Tuesday afternoon Art Class at NWTC, taught by Cheri Martell has a display of art work at the Library this month. Area residents participating are Kathy Johnson, Ron Murray, Mae Adams, Nancy Sleeter, Anita Peterson and Carl Manikowski. Examples of the teacher's work are also displayed. Come in and see work by our talented residents. Speaking of art, this month in the display case are spring and fall photos of Steve Bacon. If it is happening at school, Steve is shooting it. The end of March, the Friends of the Library will be hosting a Rummage Sale for a fund raiser. So start putting aside any items that you may wish to donate Some new bestsellers that we have received are Plum Lucky by Janet Evanovich, Blood Dreams by Kay Hooper, Blue Heaven by C.J. Box, Shadow of Music by Julie Garwood, Bleeding Kansas by Sara Paretsky and The Shooter by W.E.B. Griffin. Third Down and a War to Go by Terry Frei is a new book from the Wisconsin State Historical Society Press. The Wisconsin State Historical Press is starting to gain national attention for the quality of it's recent titles. (Private Soldiers; A Year In Iraq with the Wisconsin National Guard is a recent release from them). Third Down and a War to Go is about the nations' number third ranked 1942 Badgers football team. After the football season ended, they scattered and served our country in War. The recounts of these boys defines what a true hero is. Cherie B. is leading our Story Hour. She has many exciting ideas and crafts. If anyone has some leftover items from craft projects that you don't know what to do with, please consider donating to the Story Hour Program. We are looking for paper, glue sticks, eyes, pipe cleaners, or anything cluttering up your house. As always, check us out at the Library

Renewing the Countryside

2008-01-26T14:03:00.000-06:00

As many of you know the Oconto Falls Library has quilters a plenty. We do love our quilters. So starting Thursday Feb 7th at 8:00 am a new quilting group will meet in the Community Room. Quilters or wannabe quilters, start quilting with experienced quilters. If you have said that it is something that you always wanted to do, it is now time to learn. There is a list of things that you may want to bring. So stop in and pick it up. Donna and Cherie will be organizing the group. Story Hour has slowed down a bit but now that the holidays are over it is time to get back in the grove. Cherie B. will be holding Story Hour on Tuesdays at 10:30. On the 15th the subject will be Moose Tracks. On the 22nd Snow People and on Jan 29th Some Dogs Work. So come in and meet Cherie B. and have fun. This weekend I took home a book that we just received at the Library. Called Renewing the Countryside Wisconsin, the book is about communities in the state that have combined their heritage and traditions, along with innovations in agriculture and made themselves unique. They have marketed themselves and have brought people into their communities. With so many of our communities writing their Comprehensive Plan, this book is a resource for how others succeeded in making themselves unique. So come in and check it out at the Library

Earn A Buck

2008-01-10T12:40:00.000-06:00

Start racking up your points to earn a free ticket to see a Milwaukee Bucks game at the Bradley Center in Milwaukee! All students in 3rd - 10th grade are invited to suit up and start reading. You score a point for every page you read. A mere 500 points and you have earned a ticket to see the Milwaukee Bucks on either Sunday, March 9th at 12:00 noon vs. Philadelphia 79ers OR Friday, April 4th at 7:30 pm vs the Indiana Pacers. Complete details are available at the Oconto Falls Community Library. Come in and Pick up an information pack and get started today. The deadline for reporting your final reading score to the library is Friday, Feb 22nd.

Did You Know

2008-01-09T09:17:00.000-06:00

Your Library Facts and Figures For 2007
· Oconto Falls Community Library checked out 75,452 items in 2007
· Did you know that the Library offers a free meeting room for non-profit organizations?
· The Library has 13 Public Use Computers. Do they get used? We had 6,881 sign-ups for the Internet, 2,436 for InfoSoup and children’s computers, and 373 walk-ins using WiFi for a total of 9,690 users.
· Library cards are free. The best deal in town.
· We had 669 attendees to programs offered at the Library. Story Hour, Animae Club, Summer Reading Program and Movie Night are some of the programs offered at your local library.
· Did you know you can reach a reference librarian in the middle of the night? Did you know that the library participates in 24/7 reference?
· Did you know that the library has a fax machine, copier, scanner and a laminator?
· The Library cost to the City of Oconto Falls resident is about $19.50 per person per year. This does not include County Appropriations

Welcome to Oconto Falls Library Talks

2007-10-27T07:33:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Oconto Falls Library Talks our new Blog. This link will be used to help keep you informed of what is happening at the Library, such as Book Discussion, Story Hour, Fund Raisers, and Movie Night. Check with us for updates and activities.