Multnomah County Library circulation breaks records

For the eighth year in a row, Multnomah County Library patrons have checked out and renewed more items than patrons of any other U.S. library serving fewer than one million residents, according to a 2010 Public Library Data Service report. Last year, circulation exceeded 22 million, or 31 items per person — a new record.

Ready for a new school year

It was the biggest Summer Reading in history: 80,000 kids reading and listening to books, drawing pictures, writing poems and book reviews, and having fun at their libraries. We've created an album to capture the faces of this year's summer readers, who are going back to school next week ready to learn. Share a photo of your family's summer readers.

Literacy Is Freedom

Literacy is key to growing lives and communities. On International Literacy Day, September 8, Central Library will host a celebration of all that is literacy. Get advice from nonprofits and community colleges about pursuing a GED, building reading skills, or gaining citizenship. During the evening, share culture and language with food and live performances.

what happened?

Find out October 7-10, when Wordstock stages its 2010 book and literary festival, the largest of its kind in the Northwest. Wordstock 2010 features more than 200 authors, several writing workshops, a children's area, and more. For a free sneak peek, come to Wordstock at the Library and hear readings from popular local nonfiction and young adult authors.

A round of applause for Troutdale

The new Troutdale Library received an enthusiastic welcome from its East County community this summer. Since then, more than 30,000 items have been checked out, some 3,500 Troutdale-area residents have participated in library programs, and nearly 700 have registered for new library cards. If you haven't already, come in and discover all this new library has to offer.

In sickness and health

If you are seeking some clarification about how the new health care laws impact you, look no further. At this discussion, a panel of experts will answer questions on what health care reform means to Oregonians.

Presenting Willy Vlautin

Acclaimed local author Willy Vlautin joins library book groups this fall to discuss his heartbreaking new novel. The story of an orphaned and homeless boy who befriends a failing racehorse, Lean on Pete speaks to the plight of children in the American underclass.

Got homework?

With school back in session this month, the library's Homework Center is ready for business. Students will find reliable databases and websites for researching assignments, online tutors who can help in English or Spanish, and ways to get help any time of the day or night.

Lunchtime enlightenment

The popular Brown Bag lecture series resumes September 16. Learn creative problem solving, tap into innovation for your workplace, or find the courage to take a road less traveled.

Multnomah County Library's e-newsletter is made possible by The Library Foundation, a local nonprofit dedicated to the library's leadership, innovation and reach through private support.

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Multnomah County Library
205 N.E. Russell St., Portland, OR 97212