The news is out! I hope you have already read the announcement of our “One City, One Story” title for March, 2014. By now, his Honor Mayor Bogaard has made a public statement, and everyone is rushing to a bookstore or PREFERABLY their branch library (!) to pick up a copy. This year’s choice is MR. PENUMBRA’S 24-HOUR BOOKSTORE by Robin Sloan, and it is quite a tale. It revolves around a young man who is out of work, begins to staff the midnight-to-8 am shift at this fantastical bookstore, and ends up possibly dealing with immortality. Oh, and yes, there’s a secret code to break (shades of The DaVinci Code?) and an insider’s look at technology via the folks at Google! There’s something for everyone and what a ride!
You have probably noticed that this selection for 2014 is very different from our usual picks. You told us that you wanted an uplifting title, something maybe even a little humorous. We think this one fits the bill. It’s full of surprises, fast-paced dialogue, and a story that will keep you captivated. There are secrets to decipher, mysterious puzzles to solve, and unusual ties between the bookstore and other entities … like Silicon Valley! Enjoy! Next month, we will start telling you about the programs planned.
I know this is a very busy time for you and your family, but I hope you will have a chance to come by your favorite library to take a look at the seasonal decorations. Every year, the Pasadena Public Library Foundation Board provides trees, poinsettias, and other items to make every single PPL location a feast for your eyes. We often hear from you that the tree in the great hall is a favorite of young and old. It’s a treat to see the excitement and wonder on the children’s faces as they tilt their heads ‘way, ‘way back to see all the way to the top. It’s a really big tree, and we are always pleased to have it here for you. If you know someone on the Foundation Board, please tell them thank you. It’s a great way for them to show their support and dedication to the library and for all the rest of us to enjoy the season.
I hope your holiday is filled with all the wonderful traditions that you and your family love, that your travels are safe, and that your plans for 2014 include lots of time for reading. We’ll be here to assist in any way that we can.
