Let’s play the Paperback Game!

July 2, 2011

New York Times book critic Dwight Garner describes how his family plays the “paperback game,” as well as variations using Bartlett’s quotations and poetry anthologies. How about you – have you played your own version of the “paperback game”? Please share! ~ Olivia M.


Bookstores May Start Charging to See Authors

July 1, 2011

In response to changing market conditions (more online sales) bookstores are considering bringing in revenue by charging admission to an author event or requiring a book purchase. In the past this would have been unthinkable. This NY Times article discusses different opinions of store owners on this practice and buyers’ behavior in their stores. Shira […]


Only obsolete definitions of libraries are obsolete

July 1, 2011

Two articles were recently posted on our blog that address the same question: in our increasingly technology-driven age, are libraries obsolete? As a bookworm and library employee, one could justifiably say that I am heavily biased toward a resounding “no.” But even so, I think that we should get into the substance of this question.


School Named in Honor of Author

June 30, 2011

The Chicago Tribune has reported that a new school in Echo Park, California has been named in honor of author Sandra Cisneros. The Sandra Cisneros Learning Academy will serve elementary and middle school students and will open in the fall. Although there are other schools named for authors, it is a rare honor. Cisnero’s family is […]


“Make Your Mark”- Terrific Flash Mob at the Lit Fest!

June 30, 2011

Who said readers are not light on their toes? Book fans who participated in the recent Printers Row Lit Fest held in Chicago June 4-5 were treated to this wonderful surprise dance in honor of literacy. Writer Rick Kogan starts off the event slowly, but don’t worry, it takes off very quickly! Shira S.


An Interview with Luis J. Rodriguez

June 29, 2011

(Spanish version) Among countless literary awards and fellowships, best-selling author Luis J. Rodriguez received an “Unsung Heroes of Compassion” Award, presented by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. His first non-fiction book ALWAYS RUNNING, a first-hand account of gangbanging in East L.A., is used in classrooms throughout California, despite the fact that the American Library Association […]


Rapper 50 Cent Addresses Teen Bullying

June 28, 2011

50 Cent, the famous rapper, draws on his tough NY upbringing to discourage teens from bullying. His new book “Playground” will be out in January. The hero of his novel is a 13 year-old who causes harm through bullying and then changes his attitude. Shira S.


Google Adds British Library to Books Project

June 26, 2011

Google continues to make progress on its digital books project as plans to scan 250,000 items from the British Library are worked out. The books will cover the years from 1700 through the 1860’s. Interestingly, Google earns nothing directly from the downloads, however, they claim their search results are enhanced by the inclusion of previously […]



Free Download of Holmes!

June 23, 2011

Publisher’s Weekly seems quite excited by the limited offer by Tantor for a free download of The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes, which includes “The Greek Interpreter,” among other stories. Samples are featured, as well. No mystery in the appeal of a good deal! Shira S.


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