Vol. 41 No. 4April 2010

At the LIbRARy APRIL 2010 1

Coming Up:

SFPL.ORG

By the Numbers: Comics

1,4002,200

6001

Titles of graphic novels in the adult collection

Titles of graphic novels in the teen collection

Titles of graphic novels in the juvenile (children’s) collection

Most popular juvenile graphic novel: Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days by Jeff Kinney

Graphic novel fan? Check out our exhibitions at the Main Library: Korean Comics: A Society Through Small Frames in the Jewett Gallery and Coloring Outside the Lines: Black Cartoonists as Social Commentators in the African American Center. Read more, Page 3.

Living a More Eco-Friendly Life

29th Annual Northern California Book AwardsCo-owner and former publisher of City Lights Book-sellers and Publishers, Nancy J. Peters, will be feted with the Fred Cody Award for lifetime achievement at the upcoming 29th Annual Northern California Book Awards on Sunday, April 18, 1 p.m., in the Main Library’s Koret Auditorium. The Cody Award is presented every year to a respected member of the literary community.

In 1971, City Lights founder Lawrence Ferlinghetti persuaded Nancy to leave the Library of Congress to begin their storied collaboration. In the midst of the Vietnam War and 1st Amendment challenges to the press over the protest against it, City Lights was a beacon for the underground press. Weathering this, she helped City Lights avoid a financial crisis by becoming a co-owner in 1984 and, with Ferlinghetti, bought the Columbus Avenue building that houses the bookstore in 1999. City Lights became a registered landmark in 2001, the first time this honor had been granted to a cultural institution as well as a building.

The Northern California Book Awards recognizes the best published works of 2009. Eligible books are divided into six categories: Fiction, General Nonfiction, Creative Nonfiction, Poetry, Children’s Literature and Translation. Local critics read the books, discuss their merits and pick the winners. All of the nominated books are saluted at the ceremony, and six authors walk away with honors. To see the full list of nominat-ed titles, go to: poetryflash.org/NCBA.html. Nominated books will be for sale at the event by Book Bay Main/Friends of the San Francisco Public Library.

Dia de los Niños/Dia de los Libros Celebrates at the Main Library

After celebrating Dia de los Niños/Dia de los Libros in San Francisco parks for the past 10 years, this year’s event moves to the Main Library!

The observance of Dia is a commitment to honor children and home languages and culture; promote literacy in all languages; involve parents as valued members of the literacy team; and pro-

mote library collections that reflect our plurality. San Francisco Public Library was a proud winner of the 2009 Raul and Estela Mora Award in recognition of an outstanding Dia celebration.

On Sunday, April 25, families are invited to join us for an afternoon of children and books, featuring mul-ticultural music, dance, storytelling, puppetry, art activities and a book giveaway. Beginning at 1 p.m., the

Koret Auditorium at the Main Library will have performances by: Puppet Art Theater Company presenting The 3 Billy Goats Gruff and The Tortoise and the Hare; Flute Sweets and Tickle Toons, a duo who combine storytelling, hu-mor and music in Green Golly & Her Golden Flute a classical music retelling of Rapunzel; youth hip hop performers, Imani’s Reality; and Cascada de Flores who will present a bilingual participatory program weaving an origin story of the diverse roots of traditional music and dance of Mexico.

Various arts and educational organizations will be conducting hands-on activities both on the Lower Level and in the Fisher Children’s Center on the 2nd floor of the Main Library. Those children who participate in activities and attend perfor-mances will be eligible to pick out a free book.

This event is a collaboration with Childhood Matters; Children’s Book Press; Friends of the San Francisco Public Library; KqED Education Network; Mayor’s Office of Commu-nity Development; Mission Learning Center; Nuestros Niños; and San Francisco State University’s Jumpstart Program.

MAY 1100th Anniversary of the U.S. Immigration Station, Angel Island Exhibition Larkin St. Bridge, 2nd Floor, Main

MAY 1Cinco de MayoOpen HouseMission Branch

MAY 13Author and Illustrator Ashley Wolff Annual Effie Lee Morris LectureKoret Auditorium, Main, 6 p.m.

MAY 23Shanghai Cultural FestivalKoret Auditorium, Main, 2–4 p.m.

Celebrate Literary Legends, April 16Details on Page 7

In honor of Earth Day, the Library is offering several engaging Green Stacks programs to help

San Franciscans lead a more sustainable lifestyle.

On Tuesday, April 20 at 6 p.m., the Main Library will host authors Laura Stec, a celebrated chef,

and Eugene Cordero, Ph.D., a nationally recognized atmospheric scientist, who wrote Cool Cuisine: Taking the Bite out of Global Warming. The book explores how what we eat matters as much as

the cars we drive in contributing to the earth’s rising temperature. They’ll discuss how to switch to a diet

with fewer environmental impacts, one that also promotes better health. The event is co-sponsored by the

Library’s Business, Science and Technology Center.

On Wednesday, April 21, at 6 p.m., the Main Library is presenting, The Water Dilemma: Bottled or Tap, a program offering information about the impacts of the bottled water industry. Renee Sharp, di-

rector of the California office of the Environmental Working Group, will talk about the marketing campaigns

of the bottled water industry, which promote an image of purity, despite comprehensive testing that reveals

a surprising array of chemical contaminants in every bottled water brand analyzed.

Emily Doskow and Janelle Orsi, the authors of The Sharing Solution, will be at the Main Library on

Earth Day, Thursday, April 22 at 6 p.m. to provide a guide to creating and maintaining successful sharing

arrangements. From housing to childcare, cars to lawnmowers, gardens to bike repair, they offer tips and

tools for sharing resources, while addressing commonly asked questions.

All three programs are sponsored by the Stegner Environmental Center at the Library.

Financing Green Improvements

In addition, branch libraries around the city will soon be serving as pickup locations for applications and

information about GreenFinanceSF, an accessible financing program that residential and commercial

property owners can use to finance sustainable building improvements, such as energy and water efficiency

upgrades, and renewable energy systems. Under this new city program, approved private property owners

will receive payment from the city for the upfront costs of the projects, and agree to repay the project costs

plus interest as a special line item on their property taxes (the repayment stays with the property). Find out

more at GreenFinanceSF.org.

Lawrence Ferlinghetti and Nancy Peters. Photo: Stacey Lewis

Flute Sweets and Tickle Toons

The largest building campaign in San Francisco Public Library history is in full swing. We are now seeing the fruits of the $106 million bond measure passed in November 2000. The Branch Library Improvement Program (BLIP) calls for the renovation of 16 branch libraries and the construction of eight new library buildings. The new buildings are: Bayview, Glen Park, Ingleside, Mission Bay, North Beach, Ortega, Portola and Visitacion Valley.

B u i l d i n g b e t t e r l i b r a r i e s f o r s t r o n g e r c o m m u n i t i e s .

Branch Library Improvement Program (BLIP)

2 APRIL 2010 At the LIbRARy

Branches under construction and projected opening dates:

Parkside – 2010

Visitacion Valley – 2010

Merced – 2011

Ortega – 2011

Anza – 2011

Golden Gate Valley – 2011

Presidio – 2011

Park – 2011

BLIP Update

Bookmobile hours subject to change; call (415) 557-4336 or visit sfpl.org for updated information.

The Library provides the following services during branch renovations.

Temporary ServicesSchedule

bookmobile Locations:

Anza(Balboa St., at 31st Ave.)Tuesday: 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m.Saturday: 1:30–5 p.m.

Golden Gate Valley(1700 Green St., alongside Allyne Park.)Tuesday: 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.Friday: 2:15–5:30 p.m.

Merced(Buckingham Way, near Stonestown movie theater.)Monday: 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.Saturday: 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Park(751 Stanyan St., south of Waller)Tuesday: 3:30–7 p.m.Wednesday: 1–5 p.m.

Parkside(1281 Santiago, at 24th Ave., Northwest corner of McCoppin Square.)Monday: 1–5 p.m.Wednesday: 1–5 p.m.

Presidio(2715 California St. at Scott St.)Wednesday: 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.Friday: 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Preserving the Environment at our Branches

TThough all the preceding branches were designed with the same rigor and mindset, the final 10 librar-ies in the Branch Library Improvement Program

will be designed to a Leadership in Energy and Environ-mental Design (LEED) Silver certification or greater. The creative approaches to conserving energy include green roofs, solar panels, rainwater storage in an existing base-ment and native plant landscaping.

Another innovative approach is a public signage program that will highlight the sustainable features at

all the renovated branches and inform patrons about the benefits of these features. This signage will facilitate both guided and self-guided tours of the building, while infusing the library space with educational information that leads library patrons to learn more about green building practices, green community resources available to them and other topics related to sustainability. This program includes a branch report card with a checklist of sustainable materials and building features used in the library, plus interpretive placards drawing attention

Potrero Branch Opening

to the environmental impact of each green building feature.

While all the reno-vated libraries have new Play-to-Learn interactive spaces in the children’s areas, several will be installed with an early learning panel that pro-vides visual and hands-on experience with green building concepts. The panel is particularly exciting, as it will pro-mote early literacy while introducing the young-est learners to the idea of sustainability as they begin to experience the world around them.

Sustainable SitesA 1914, historic Carnegie building was preserved for the Richmond Branch.

Water efficiencyA living, green roof is planned for the Ortega and Bayview branches, providing water management and reducing energy consumption.

energy and AtmosphereRoof mounted solar panels provide power for the Excelsior Branch.

Materials and ResourcesNatural linoleum made from renewable, non-toxic resources was installed at Glen Park Branch.

Innovation and Design ProcessMarina Branch uses environmentally sound cleaning products and practices.

Indoor environmental QualityAll asbestos and lead materials were removed from West Portal Branch.

How Greenis Your Library?Branch report cards show how environmental principles are being applied in your neighborhood library.

Clockwise from top left: The upper level of the renovated Potrero Branch and public art; the Knuckle Knockers entertain the crowd at the opening; lion dancers from Jing Mo Athletic Association bless the branch; singers from the Pride of International Studies Academy choir; patrons take in the new rear skyline view; State Senator Mark Leno, Potrero Branch Manager Lia Hillman and City Librarian Luis Herrera. Top left photo: Henrik Kam Photography. Other photos: Jason Doiy.

At the LIbRARy APRIL 2010 3

ExhibitionsSubscribe to the monthly exhibitions and Adult Programming newsletter at www.sfpl.org/nextreads

April 2010Jewett Gallery

*Korean Comics: A Society Through Small FramesFeatures 83 artworks of 21 of the best-known South and North Korean artists that examine the changing social realities of Korean society from the 1950s through the 1990s, by reading its comic books. Through June 13. Main, Lower Level, Jewett Gallery. Related Program: see Adults, Thursday, April 8, 6–7:30 p.m.

Skylight Gallery

Gallery Open Hours: same as MainGallery Closes: Mon.-Sat. at 6 p.m.; Sun. at 5 p.m.

*A Dog’s Life (with a Special Appearance by Cats)Drawn from the Schmulowitz Collection of Wit & Humor (SCOWAH), the annual exhibition features the work of The New Yorker and Punch magazine artists, and Life magazine; characters from newspapers & comic books; plus anecdotes & illustrations from around the world. April 1 through May 31. Main, 6th Floor, Skylight Gallery. Related Displays: Dog Me Around: Skylight Gallery wall cases, 6th Floor; Perfectly Beastly: Exemplary Books on the Animal Condition, General Collections & Humanities, 3rd Floor; It’s Raining Dogs and Cats: Fisher Children’s Center, 2nd Floor; and Horses, Horses, Horses: Work, Rescue, Retirement, Business, Science, & Technology Center, 4th Floor. Related Program: Canines on Camera (see April Adult Thursdays at Noon Video Section).

Other exhibition Areas in the Library

Forbidden City: The Golden Age of Chinese Night-clubs From the late 1930s to the early 1960s, Chinese nightclubs flourished in San Francisco’s Chinatown. They were the first—and then the only—venues for talented Asians who sang and danced professionally. The exhibit, based on the book of the same title by Trina Robbins, includes vintage photographs, costumes, menus and other mementos from the clubs and performers. April 10 through June 12, Main, 6th Floor, outside of San Fran-cisco History Center

Coloring Outside the Lines: Black Cartoonists as Social Commentators As cartoonist Keith Knight states,

“Cartoonists are the court jesters of modern times. We can get away with things that others can’t because of our

‘cute’ drawings.” Exhibit features some of those “court jesters” who share their experiences, inspiration and perspectives as social commentators and provocateurs, through their comic strips in newspapers from across the country. April 11 through June 17. Main, 3rd Floor, African American Center. Related Program: Meet the Artist, Sunday, June 13, 1–3 p.m.

Fierce Sistahs! Activism, Art & Community of Bay Area Lesbians of Color 1975–Present Photographs by Lenn Keller. On the heels of the anti-war, black power, gay and women’s liberation movements of the 1970s, a tiny, but powerful, lesbian of color community emerged that pushed the envelope of Bay Area activism and culture. Through photographs, memorabilia and artifacts—many rarely or never seen—they highlight the last four decades of lesbian of color culture and activism in the Bay Area. The exhibit was culled largely from the archives of Lenn Keller. Through May 20. Main, 3rd Floor, Hormel Gay & Lesbian Center

If I am Killed, I Shall Arise in the Salvadoran People On March 24, 1980, Oscar Romero was assassinated as he was officiating at a memorial communion service. One week prior to the assassination, Romero told an interviewer that if he died, he would rise in the people of El Salvador. Thirty years later, he does indeed continue to live on in the people he loved. On exhibit are images of El Salvador by photographer Karen Ande from her 2009 visit. Through May 6. Main, 3rd Floor, International Center

*Elegant Needlework: Embroidery from ShanghaiAs part of the Shanghai Celebration, a year-long San Francisco Bay Area-wide celebration organized by the Asian Art Museum, the Chinese Center of the Main Library hosts a Shanghai exhibition that features vivid and beautiful handmade works of elegant embroidered art. Through May 31. Main, 3rd Floor, Chinese Center

Digging Deep: Underneath San Francisco Public Library The current Main Library rests on a Gold Rush-era cemetery and the ruins of the old City Hall destroyed in the 1906 earthquake & fire. The archeological remains pulled from the site tell the story of the early develop-ment of the Civic Center area. Ongoing. Main, 1st Floor, Grove Street entrance exhibit cases

*Funded by Friends of the San Francisco Public Library

Humorous HoundsThe canine—humankind’s best friend, celebrated in literature, art, cinema, cartoons and, this year, at

the Library! A Dog’s Life (With a Special Appearance by Cats) is a comic take on dogs and their sometime sidekicks, cats. Drawn from the Schmulowitz Collection of Wit & Humor (SCOWAH), the annual wit

& humor exhibition features the work of New Yorker and Punch magazine artists, as well as the original Life magazine; classic and beloved characters from newspapers and comic books; and a little look-see at doggish anecdotes and illustrations from around the world. Presented by the Book Arts & Special Collections Center, the exhibition opens April 1, and continues through May 31, in the Skylight Gallery, Sixth Floor, Main Library.

SCOWAH is a unique library resource located in the Book Arts & Special Collections Center of the Main Library. This non-circulating research collection was presented as a gift to SFPL in 1947 by Nat Schmulowitz—attorney, bibliophile, humanitarian, and pet lover. The collection is considered the largest wit & humor collection in a public library. The annual SCOWAH exhibition is a tribute to Mr. Schmulowitz’s generosity and lifelong interest in the Library. The depth and breadth of the collection is highlighted in this display of treasures.

Cartoonists asProvocateursThe exhibition Coloring Outside the Lines: Black Car-toonists as Social Commentators comes to the African American Center, Third Floor, of the San Francisco Main Library from April 11 to June 17. Created and curated by Kheven LaGrone, the exhibit features sev-eral African-American cartoonists whose comic strips appear in newspapers across the country.

Comic strips offer a unique form of social criti-cism and commentary. The best cartoons may be both truthful and provocative. Cartoonist Keith Knight, creator of the strips, the K Chronicles, The Knight Life and (th)ink says, “Cartoonists are the court jesters of modern times. We can get away with things that others can’t because of our ‘cute’ drawings.”

Coloring Outside the Lines features some of those court jesters as they share their experiences, inspiration and perspectives as social commentators and provocateurs.

Other participating cartoonists and their strips in the exhibition include: Darrin Bell’s Candorville; Ste-phen Bentley’s Herb and Jamaal; Corey Thomas’s Watch Your Head; Jerry Craft’s Mama’s Boyz; Morrie Turner’s Wee Pals; Nate Creekmore’s Maintaining; Brumsic Brandon, Jr.’s Luther; and Barbara Brandon-Croft’s Where I’m Coming From. In May, the Thursdays at Noon film series will feature films about comic strips and their artists.

On June 13 at 1 p.m., nationally-syndicated cartoonists Darrin Bell and Keith Knight and curator Kheven LaGrone will appear at the Main Library’s Koret Auditorium to discuss their art. Animated shorts by nation-ally-syndicated cartoonist Jerry Craft will also be screened. The discussion will be moderated by Thomas Robert Simpson, founder and artistic director of the AfroSolo Arts Festival.

Related Displays:

Dog Me Around Comic dog portraits by Berkeley art-ist Irene Dogmatic. Skylight Gallery wall cases, Sixth Floor, Main Library. April 1 through May 31.

Perfectly Beastly: Exemplary Books on the Animal Condition Display of books presented by the General Collections & Humanities Center, Third Floor, Main Library. April 1 through May 31.

It’s Raining Dogs and Cats A selection of children’s books is on view in the Fisher Children’s Center, Second Floor, Main Library. April 1 through May 31.

Horses, Horses, Horses: Work, Rescue, RetirementA display of books and photographs on the life of re-tired San Francisco Police horses. After years of faith-fully serving San Francisco as members of the Police Department’s Mounted Unit, these horses retire to lush pastures on a Sonoma County Ranch, enjoying a life free of work and riders. In the Business, Science, & Technology Center, Fourth Floor, Main Library. April 1 through May 31.

Related Programs:

The library’s Audio-Visual Center presents Thursdays at Noon: Canines on Camera, featuring screenings of the films: Bolt (April 1), Beverly Hills Chihuahua (April 8), Hound of the Baskervilles (April 15), Year of the Dog (April 22), and Best in Show (April 29). Koret Audito-rium, Lower Level, Main Library, 12 noon.

Dark Water Rising A screening of the documentary Dark Water Rising: Survival Stories of Hurricane Katrina Animal Rescues, with panel presentation. Koret Audi-torium, April 28, 6–7:30 p.m.

Cecil Aldin. Sleeping Partners (London, 1929)

George Barr McCutcheon. The Day of the Dog (New York, 1904)

From Nate Creekmore’s Maintaining

Pick for March and April:

Farm City: The Education of an Urban Farmer by Novella Carpenter

If reading Farm City, Novella Carpenter’s Oakland urban farm memoir, inspired you to take over an abandoned lot next door, piqued your interest in chickens and bees, or just prompted you to read more fabulous farm memoirs, here are a few suggestions to keep you reading this spring:

Garden Anywhere: How to Grow Gorgeous Container Gardens, Herb Gardens, Kitchen Gardens, and More—Without Spending a Fortune by Alys FowlerHave a small patch of soil? Or just a window box? Not a

problem. Fowler, trained at the New York Botan-ical Garden, guides readers, with lots of photos, through the process from the ground up—from planning the garden to composting, pruning, harvesting, and propagating.

Black Plants: 75 Striking Choices for the Garden by Paul Bonine Striking, mysteri-ous, sinister, and strange all describe the singular appeal

of plants with black foliage, flowers, or fruit. For some gardeners, they are curiosities that yield a special thrill. For others, they are invaluable for providing contrast with brighter elements. In this compact, accessible volume, Bonine profiles 75 alluring black plants.

The Joy of Keeping Chickens: The Ultimate Guide to Raising Poultry for Fun or Profit by Jennifer MegyesiFarmer and animal expert Megyesi discusses all the basic details of rais-ing chickens—biology, health, food,

and choosing breeds—and identifies what terms like organic and free-range really mean for poultry farmers and consumers.

The Backyard Beekeeper’s Honey Handbook: A Guide to Creating, Harvesting, and Cooking with Natural Honeys by Kim FlottumFlottum’s enthusiast’s guide explores

the practical, back-to-the-earth beekeeping life-style and the artisan cultivation of honey varieties.

Goat Song: A Seasonal Life, A Short History of Herding, and the Art of Making Cheese by Brad Kessler “Novelist Kessler’s account of tending a small herd of milking goats in Vermont captures both the lush, poetic para-

dise of rural life and the raw, unrelenting drama of dairying ….[this] observant, unsanctimonious read is bound to inspire hobby farmers and consummate cheese lovers.”— Publishers Weekly

4 APRIL 2010 At the LIbRARy *Funded by Friends of the San Francisco Public Library

Adults1 thursday

*Poets 11: District 2 Poetry Readings Marina, 7–8 p.m.

1, 8, 15, 22, 29 thursdays

OWL: Older Writers’ Poetry Writing Group Bernal Heights, 1:30–3:30 p.m.

3 Saturday

Origami Club All levels; bring paper. Bernal Heights, 2–5 p.m.

Prescription Assistance for Low Income SeniorsMission Bay, 2 p.m.

*Filipino American Jazz Month Celebration Main, Koret Auditorium, 1–5 p.m.

5 Monday

Film: Criss Cross (1949/88 min.) Excelsior, 6:30–8:30 p.m.

5, 12, 19, 26 Mondays

Mental Aerobics Main, Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room, 1:30–3:30 p.m.

6 tuesday

Motorcycle Education for (Especially) Women All levels. Main, Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room, 12–1:30 p.m.

*Radar Reading Main, Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room, 6–7:30 p.m.

*Open Books: Anchee Min; Pearl of China: a Novel Main, Koret Auditorium, 6:30–7:30 p.m.

*Poets 11: District 9 Poetry Readings Mission, 7–8 p.m.

*Author Readings: Lewis DeSimone, Donny Lobree & Paul D. HufstedlerEureka Valley, 7–8:30 p.m.

7 Wednesday

*Poets 11: District 11 Poetry Readings Ingleside, 6:30 p.m.

*In the Pot & on the Web: Making Media about Making Food Main, Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room, 6–7:30 p.m.

Online Social Networking & Tyze Pre-register at tyze@sfcommunityliving.org. Mission Bay, 2–4 p.m.

8 thursday

Senior Scams: How to Fight Back Main, Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room, 11–12:30 p.m.

*Manwha: The Role of Girls & Women in Comics Main, Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room, 6–7:30 p.m. Related Exhibition: see Exhibitions.

10 Saturday

*Japanese Culture Koto player Shoko Hikage: call for reserva-tions, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Japanese paper marbling craft: Ages ten & over; pre-register at Information Desk. Glen Park, 3 p.m.

*Author Discussion: Anchee Min; Pearl of China: a NovelChinatown, 2:30-4 p.m.

*African American PoetsOpen mic. Main, 3rd Floor, Afri-can American Center, 2–4 p.m.

12 Monday

*Poets 11: District 4 Poetry Readings Sunset, 7–8 p.m.

13 tuesday

*22nd Annual Lambda Liter-ary Awards Finalists Read-ings Main, Latino/Hispanic Community Room, 6 p.m.

ITVS Community Cinema: The Horse Boy Explores autism; panel discussion. Main, Koret Auditorium, 5:45–7:30 p.m.

*Poets 11: District 3 Poetry Readings (Held at clubhouse, 661 Lombard St., at Mason.) North Beach, 7–8 p.m.

14 Wednesday

*Developing Minds: Develop-ing Control Over AttentionVideo for parents & teach-ers. Main, Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room, 4:30–6:30 p.m.

*Slide Show: Exploring Southwest China & Lhasa, Tibet Richmond, 6:30 p.m.

15 thursday

Author Reading: Mikaya Heart; My Sweet Wild DanceMain, 3rd Floor, Gay & Lesbian Center, 6 p.m.

16 Friday

Online Social Networking & Tyze Pre-register at tyze@sf-communityliving.org. Ingleside, 1:30–3:30 p.m.

17 Saturday

Knit Happens! Adults & ages 9 and over. Info: blevine@sfpl.org or (415) 557-4497. Main, 2nd Floor, Children’s Creative Center, 2–4 p.m.

How Servants Changed Emily Dickinson’s Life & Lan-guage Main, Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

The Sit-Down Readers’ The-atre Presents the 3rd Annual Chaucer Day Read a selection, if you like. (Held at clubhouse, 661 Lombard St., at Mason.). North Beach, 2 p.m.

Author Discussion: Hannah Clayborn Historic Photos of San Francisco Crime. Book sale. Chinatown, 2:30–4 p.m.

Financial Planning (In Chinese) q & A. Richmond, 3–5 p.m.

18 Sunday

*29th Annual Northern California Book Awards Info: www.poetryflash.org or (510) 525-5476. Main, Koret Audito-rium, 1–3:30 p.m.

20 tuesday

*Poets 11: District 8 Poetry Readings Eureka Valley, 7–8 p.m.

Fight Global Warming From Your Dinner Table With Laura Stec & Eugene Cordero. Main, Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room, 6–7:30 p.m.

Solar Power EcoSalonNoe Valley, 7 p.m.

21 Wednesday

Introduction to T’ai Chi Chuan Ingleside, 6–7:30 p.m.

The Water Dilemma - Bottled or Tap? Main, Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room, 6–7:30 p.m.

*Slide Show: The Journey of the Italians in America Main, Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room, 6–7:30 p.m.

Online Social NetworkingRichmond, 7–8:30 p.m.

22 thursday

*Poets 11: District 1 Poetry Read-ings Richmond, 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Earth Day: The Sharing Solu-tion Main, Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room, 6–7:30 p.m.

24 Saturday

Early Literacy Workshop (in Cantonese) For Childcare Providers Pre-register: Jessica Lee, (415) 230-7538. China-town, 2:30–5 p.m.

*Legacy Film Series For Seniors: A Day with Francisco (6 min); Life: The Silver Age (25 min): Mr. Rubens Goes to Mars (15 min). Richmond, 3–4 p.m.

*Korean Documentary Film Series: Korea; Out of North

‘On the Border’ (101 min. In English) Main, Koret Audito-rium, 2–5 p.m.

*Qi Gong for Beginners Western Addition, 2–3 p.m.

27 tuesday

Armenian Genocide Film & Discussion Main, Koret Audi-torium, 6–7:30 p.m.

Open Books: Author Katie Crouch; Men and Dogs Main, Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room, 6:30–7:30 p.m.

*Beat Poetry Readings with A.D. Winans, Neeli Cherkovski, Sharon Doubiago & David Meltzer (Held at clubhouse, 661 Lombard St., at Mason.) North Beach, 6 p.m.

*Poets 11: District 10 Poetry Readings Potrero, 6:30–7:30 p.m.

28 Wednesday

Dark Water Rising: Survival Stories of Hurricane Katrina Animal Rescues Main, Koret Auditorium, 6–7:30 a.m. Relat-ed exhibition: see Exhibitions.

*Poets 11: District 5 Poetry Readings Western Addition, 7–8 p.m.

*Legacy Film Series For Seniors: Why, My Father’s Hopes & Bella Bella Excelsior, 7–8 p.m.

30 Friday

*National Dance Month Cel-ebration: The Legat Legacy; A talk by Colin Russell-JonesMain, Koret Auditorium, 1–2 p.m.

Business Counseling7, 14, 21, 28 Wednesdays

Service Corps of Retired Executives Free Business Counseling Appointments: (415) 744-6827. Main, 4th Floor, Business, Science & Technology Department, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Book Groups7 Wednesday

Free Food for Millionaires by Min Jin Lee. Sunset, 7–8 p.m.

10 Saturday

(In Chinese) Main, Latino/His-panic Community Meeting Room, 2–4 p.m.

15 thursday

West Portal, 2:30 p.m.

21 Wednesday

Noe Valley, 7–8:30 p.m.

24 Saturday

The Russian Bibliophiles Club (In Russian) Main, Latino/His-panic Community Meeting Room, 2–4 p.m.

28 Wednesday

*Rincón Literario (In Spanish)Main, 3rd Floor Conference Room, 6–7:30 p.m.

29 thursday

The Maytrees by Annie Dillard.Bernal Heights, 4–5:30 p.m.

April 2010

River of Words Annual Awards CeremonyWinners of the annual international River of Words Poetry and Art Contest for youth 5-19 will be honored at the Main Library’s Koret Auditorium, April 17, at 1:30 p.m. The program is hosted by poet and sonneteer Steven Nightingale and artist/illustrator Thacher Hurd.

Young winners will read their poems, display their artwork, receive their awards and sign copies of this year’s compilation of their work which will be offered for sale. The contest was co-founded by Pulitzer Prize winning former U.S. Poet Laureate Robert Hass and writer Pamela Michael in 1995, in affiliation with the Library of Congress Center for the Book.

River of Words conducts training workshops for teach-ers, park naturalists, grassroots groups, librarians and others, helping them to incorporate observation-based nature

exploration and the arts into their work with young people. The contest theme is always wa-tersheds—a meaningful, scalable way of looking at the whole of nature. Poems are accepted in English, Spanish and American Sign Language.

Join us in acknowledging and celebrating these young artists’ contributions to informed appreciation of the natural world and the inter-connectedness of all beings.

At the LIbRARy APRIL 2010 5All programs and events are free and open to the public.

Computer ClassesClasses Held at the Main: 5th Floor Training Center. Most classes at the Main require profi-ciency in basic keyboard skills. All classes are first come, first served.

2 Friday

Internet & Library Catalog (In Spanish) Meet at 3rd Floor International Center. Info: (415) 557-4430. 2–4 p.m.

3, 10, 17, 24 Saturdays

Mouse & Keyboard Basics10:15–11 a.m.

3 Saturday

Word Processing BasicsMouse & keyboard skills required. Info: (415) 447-4430. 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Introduction to Trademarks1:30–2:30 p.m.

5, 12, 19, 26 Mondays

Job Seekers LabDrop-in. 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

6, 13, 20, 27 tuesdays

Job Seekers LabDrop-in. 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Mouse & Keyboard Basics1:15–2 p.m.

6, 13 tuesdays

Internet 101 Mouse & key-board skills required. 2–4 p.m.

9 Friday

Internet & Library Catalog (In Cantonese) Meet at 3rd Floor International Center. Info: (415) 557-4430. 2–4 p.m.

10 Saturday

E-mail Basics 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

14 Wednesday

Jobs & Careers on the Inter-net Ability to navigate Web required. 2–4 p.m.

15 thursday

Internet & Library Catalog (In Russian) Meet at 3rd Floor International Center. Info: (415) 557-4430. 9:15–11:15 a.m.

17 Saturday

Internet 101 Mouse & keyboard skills required. 11a.m.–1 p.m.

20 tuesday

Internet & Library CatalogInfo: (415) 557-4430. 2–4 p.m.

21 Wednesday

Magazine, Newspaper & Information DatabasesAbility to navigate Web re-quired (or observe). 2–4 p.m.

24 Saturday

Internet 102 11a.m.–1 p.m.

26 Monday

ABCs of Digital Scanning Microfilm 12–1 p.m. Held in Magazine & Newspaper Center, 5th Floor, Main

27 tuesday

Internet 102 Basic Internet proficiency required (or may observe). 2–4 p.m.

Classes Held at the Branches:

3, 10, 17, 24 Saturdays

Computer BasicsExcelsior, 3:30–5 p.m.

14 Wednesday

Resume WorkshopExcelsior, 1–2:30 p.m.

17 Saturday

Computer Class: OverdriveGlen Park, 2–3 p.m.

19 Monday

Computer & Internet BasicsMission, 6:30–8 p.m.

22 thursday

Jobs & Careers on the Internet Ability to navigate Web required; no registration. (Mission program). Held at City College Mission Campus Library, 1125 Valencia St., Room 408, 3:30–5:30 p.m.

23 Friday

E-mail Basics (In Japanese)Western Addition, 2–4 p.m.

26 Monday

E-mail Basics Mission, 6:30–8 p.m.

Mouse & Keyboard BasicsSunset, 6:30–8 p.m.

29 thursday

Jobs & Careers on the Internet (In Spanish) Ability to navigate Web required; no registration. (Mission program). Held at City College Mission Campus Library, 1125 Valencia St., Room 408, 3:30–5:30 p.m.

TeensSAT Workshops Priority given to high-school students in their Junior year; freshmen & sophomores are put on wait-ing list. Registration required online at http://www.suc-cesslinktutoring.com/SFPL/.

1, 8, 15, 22, 29 thursdays

Media Writing Ingleside, 3:45 p.m.

2, 9 Fridays

WritersCorps WorkshopRegister: aharwood@sfpl.org or (415) 355-5660. Portola, 3:30–5 p.m.

3, 10, 17, 24 Saturdays

*Teen ’Zine Ages 13–18. Bi-lingual online teen magazine workshop. Register: jew-elchen@sfpl.org or (415) 355-2888. Chinatown, 1–3 p.m.

4 Sunday

*Book Swap Register: dwong@sfpl.org. Ortega, 1:30 p.m.

6 tuesday

Film Ages 12-18. Info: bmergman@sfpl.org or (415) 355-2868. Excelsior, 4–6 p.m.

6, 13, 20, 27 tuesdays

Crafts Ages 8-18. Materials provided. Register: jewelchen@sfpl.org or (415) 355-5626. (Held at playground clubhouse, 661 Lombard St.) North Beach, 3:30–5 p.m.

7 Wednesday

Make Simple Sock CreatureAges 12-18. Materials provided. Register: aharwood@sfpl.org or (415) 355-2848. Visitacion Valley, 3:30–5 p.m.

7, 14, 21, 28 Wednesdays

Collage Crafts Ages 12-18. Materials provided. Register: mbergman@sfpl.org or (415) 355-2868. Excelsior, 4:30–6 p.m.

8 thursday

Craftology Teen’Zine Ages 12-18. Info: ghom@sfpl.org or (415) 355 5610. Richmond, 3–5 p.m.

9 Friday

Make Hemp Jewelry Ages 9-19. Materials provided. Info: jewelchen@sfpl.org or (415) 355-2888. Chinatown, 3:30–5:30 p.m.

9, 16, 23, 30 Fridays

*Beyond Journal WritingAges 12-19. Register: blevine@sfpl.org or (415) 557-4497. Main, 3rd Floor Conference Room, 4–5:30 p.m.

10, 24 Saturdays

Collage Poetry Journaling Ages 11-19. Register: blevine@sfpl.org or (415) 557-4497. Main, 4th Floor Conference Room, 2–4 p.m.

13 tuesday

Urban Fiction Writing Workshop Ages 14-22. Info: ntermini@sfpl.org or (415) 355-5738. Mission, 6–7 p.m.

16 Friday

*Chinese Reading Club Gao Xingm, by Pingwa Jia. In Manda-rin & English. Info: jewelchen@sfpl.org or (415) 355-2888. Chinatown, 3:30–5:30 p.m.

Make Simple Sock CreatureAges 12-18. Materials provided. Register: aharwood@sfpl.org or (415) 355-5660. Portola, 3:30–5 p.m.

17 Saturday

Knit Happens! Adults & ages 9 and over. Info: blevine@sfpl.org or (415) 557-4497. Main, 2nd Floor, Children’s Creative Center, 2–4 p.m.

21 Wednesday

3D Scrapbooking Collage Register: mbergman@sfpl.org or (415) 355-2868. Excelsior, 4–5:30 p.m.

*Make Personalized ButtonAges 12-18. Register: aharwood@sfpl.org or (415) 355-2848. Visitation Valley, 3:30–5:30 p.m.

22 thursday

Make Duct Tape Wallet Ages 12-18. Info: mbergman@sfpl.org or (415) 355-2858. Glen Park, 4–5:30 p.m.

Hang Out at the Branch Library Ages 10 & over. Music, games (bring yours to share). Richmond, 3–5 p.m.

23 Friday

*Gaming Day Ages 12-18. Regis-ter: aharwood@sfpl.org or (415) 355-5660. Portola, 3:30–5 p.m.

27 tuesday

Urban Fiction Writing Work-shop Ages 14-22. Info: ntermini@sfpl.org or (415) 355-5738. Mission, 6–7 p.m.

Videos on the Large ScreenWhen possible, films are shown with captions to assist our deaf and hard of hearing patrons. Sign up for monthly program e-mail no-tifications at: bwaterman@sfpl.org

In the Koret Auditorium at the Main, Thursdays at Noon

This Month’s Theme: Canines on Camera

Related exhibition: A Dog’s Life

1 April

*Bolt (2009, 97 min.)

8 thursday

*Beverly Hills Chihuahua (2008, 91 min.)

15 thursday

*Hound of the Baskervilles (1959, 120 min.)

22 thursday

*Year of the Dog (2007, 96 min)

29 thursday

*Best in Show (2001, 90 min.)

Events and HappeningsWise Up—Information, Education and Entertain-ment for SeniorsSenior Scams: how to Fight back

SFPL will bring together experts from the State Bar of California and Consumer Action to help seniors and their caregivers avoid scams and financial frauds that are perpetuated on the elder community. Join John O’Grady from the State Bar of California, Trusts and Estates Section, and Mikael Wagner of Consumer Action on Thursday April 8 at 11 a.m. in the Main Library’s Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room for the program: Senior Scams: How to Fight Back.

Scams where seniors have been defrauded into signing away their life savings or conned into buying unnecessary products and services will be discussed and questions will be answered. The Senior Scams program is organized by the library’s Business, Science and Technology Center.

Watch for a similar event, Elder Financial Abuse: Identification and Prevention, coming to the Richmond Branch Library on May 29 at 2:30 p.m.

Mental Aerobics

The Library’s Mental Aerobics weekly class on Mondays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. in the Latino Hispanic Community Meeting Room, will feature two guest teachers in the coming weeks. On April 12, Dr. Adam Gazzaley from UCSF will explain why it’s normal to forget and the science behind why memory fumbles with age. On May 3, certified hypnotherapist William Song will discuss how self-hypnosis can help with memorization.

Legacy Film Series

Several branch libraries will be screening the Legacy Film Series, which showcases older adults telling their stories with eloquence and grace, in April and May. Each branch will feature a different selection of films. These include Why, an animated explanation by the filmmaker about why she went to art school in middle age, My Father’s Hopes, a poetic and moving short documentary about the filmmaker’s father, who studied art as a young man, and The Yard People, a documentary about a group of African Ameri-can couples who met in 1940s Buffalo, N.Y. and, as seniors, remain friends. Sheila Malkind, the director of the Legacy Film Series, will facilitate lively audience discussions at each event listed below:

Richmond Branch Library, April 24 – 3 p.m.Excelsior Branch Library, April 28 – 7 p.m.Western Addition Branch Library, May 8 – 3 p.m.Mission Bay Branch Library, May 11 – 3 p.m.Sunset Branch Library, May 24 – 7 p.m.

Anchee Min Appears in AprilIn the last days of the 19th Century, two young girls bump heads and be-come thick as thieves. Willow is the only child of a destitute family, Pearl the headstrong daughter of zealous Christian missionaries. She will be-come the internationally renowned

author Pearl S. Buck, but for now she is just a girl embarrassed by her blond hair and enchanted by her new Chinese friend. The two embark on a friend-ship that will sustain both of them through one of the most tumultuous pe-riods in Chinese history. Thus is the tale of Pearl of China, bestselling author Anchee Min’s new book.

In honor of the Bay Area-wide Shanghai Celebration, Min will speak at two libraries this month: April 6, 6:30 p.m. at the Main Library, Koret Audito-rium and April 10, 2:30 p.m. at the Chinatown Branch. Books will be for sale at both events by Book Bay. More information at shanghaicelebration.com.

Maid as MuseAuthor Aífe Murray discusses her new book, Maid as Muse: How Servants Changed Emily Dickinson’s Life and Language, on April 17, 10:30 a.m. in the Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room at the Main Library.

Murray explodes the myth of the isolated genius and presents an intimate, densely realized story of joined lives

between Emily Dickinson and her domestic servants. Part scholarly study, part detective story, part personal journey, Murray’s book uncovers a world previously unknown: an influential world of Irish immigrant servants and an ethnically rich one of Yankee, English-immigrant, Native American, and Afri-can American maids and laborers, seamstresses and stablemen.

1 thursday

*It’s Yoga KidsAges 3-5. Reserve at (415) 355-2818. Sunset, 10:30–11 a.m.

Film Ocean View, 4:30 p.m.

1, 8, 15, 22, 29 thursdays

Homework Help Ages 5 & older. Grades K-7. Mission, 4–6 p.m.

1, 22 thursdays

*Family Literature ProgramGames, crafts, stories. Visitacion Valley, 5–6 p.m.

2 Friday

*Knitting with Anna Materials provided. Bernal Heights, 4:30 p.m.

3 Saturday

*Sing-Along with Bonnie Lockhart West Portal, 11 a.m.

3, 10 Saturdays

*Little Bears Music ProgramAges 5 & younger. Marina, 3:30–4:15 p.m.

3, 10, 17, 24 Saturdays

Chess Club Ages 6 & older. All levels. Excelsior, 1–3 p.m.

5, 12, 19, 26 Mondays

Homework Help Ages 5 & older. Grades K-5. Excelsior, 4–6 p.m. Ages 5 & older. Grades K-7. Mission, 4–6 p.m.

5, 26 Mondays

Films/Videos Ages 3-5. Bayview, 10:30–11 a.m.

6 tuesday

*Mark Bunnell, The Juggling Tornado Ages 3 to 5. (Held at clubhouse, 661 Lombard St.) North Beach, 11 a.m.

6, 13, 20, 27 tuesdays

Homework Help Ages 5 & older. Grades K-7. Mission, 4–6 p.m. Ages 5 & older. Grades K-5. Portola, 2:30–4:30 p.m.

6, 20 tuesdays

Playtime for Babies & Toddlers West Portal, 10:30–11:30 a.m.

Crafts Ages 3-5. Portola, 11–11:30 a.m.

7 Wednesday

*Eddie Madril, Native American Storyteller Ages 8 & older. Main, 2nd Floor, Fisher Children’s Center, 10:30 a.m.

7, 14, 21, 28 Wednesdays

Homework Help Ages 5 & older. Grades K-7. Mission, 4–6 p.m. Ages 5 & older. Grades K-5. Portola, 2:30–4:30 p.m. Ages 5 & older. Grades K-5. West Portal, 4–6 p.m.

8 thursday

*Crissy Field: Art, Bugs & Beyond Ages 3-5. Reserve at (415) 355-2818. Sunset, 10:30–11:30 a.m.

Homework Help Ages 5 & older. Grades K-5. Portola, 2:30–4:30 p.m.

10 Saturday

*Japanese Culture Koto player Shoko Hikage: call for reservations, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Japanese paper marbling craft: Ages ten & over; sign up at Information Desk in advance, 3 p.m. Glen Park. 1–4 p.m.

*Games, Games, Games!Ocean View, 1:30–2:30 p.m.

11 Sunday

San Francisco Girls Chorus Performance Main, Koret Auditorium, 2 p.m.

12 Monday

Videos Ages 3-5. Glen Park, 10:30–11 a.m.

13 tuesday

Films Ages 3-5. Chinatown, 10,

10:30 & 11:05 a.m.; 2 p.m. Ages 5-12. Chinatown, 4 p.m.

*Music & Movement with Charity Kahn Ages 3-5. Western Addition, 10:30 a.m.

14 Wednesday

*Crafts with Sophie Drop-in; caregivers with small children. Mission Bay, 4–6 p.m.

Films Ages 3-5. Richmond,

11–11:45 a.m. Ages 5-12. Chinatown, 4 p.m.

15 thursday

Homework Help Ages 5 & older. Grades K-5. Portola, 2:30–3:30 p.m.

*Magic Dan Marina, 3:30–4:15 p.m.

*The Lizard Lady Ages 5 & over. Glen Park, 4–5 p.m.

Films Ages 3-5. Chinatown, 10 a.m. Ages 3-5. Sunset, 10:30 a.m.

Films/Videos Ages 5-12. Chinatown, 4 p.m.

Stories & Crafts Ages 5 & over. Portola, 3:30–4:30 p.m.

16 Friday

*Music with Lee WeissMission, 2:30 p.m.

17 Saturday

History Alive! Museum theater: Uncle Toisan Ages 10 & over. Ingleside, 2 p.m.

River of Words Annual Awards Ceremony for Youth Poetry & Art Hosted by poet Steven Nightingale & illustrator Thacher Hurd. Main, Koret Auditorium, 1:30 p.m.

*Week of the Young ChildArts workshop, 10–11 a.m. Family Storytime, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Performances, music & dance, 12:30 p.m.–4 p.m. Main, 2nd Floor, Fisher Children’s Center, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

*Cascada de Flores Folk music & dance from Mexico & Cuba. Mission, 11:30 a.m.

*Dan Chan the Magic ManAges 5 & older. Ortega, 4 p.m.

19 Monday

*Dan Chan the Magic Man Ages 5 & older. Call for reserva-tions. Visitacion Valley, 10:30 a.m.

Films/Videos Ages 3-5. Ingleside, 11 a.m.

20 tuesday

Films Ages 2-5. Noe Valley, 11–11:45 a.m.

Crafts Ages 3-10. Richmond, 3:30–4:30 p.m.

21 Wednesday

Make a Personalized ButtonAges 12-18. Info or registra-tion: aharwood@sfpl.org or (415) 355-2848. Visitacion Valley, 3:30–5 p.m.

Films/Videos Ages 3-5. Main, 2nd Floor, Fisher Children’s Center (two show-ings), 10 & 10:45 a.m.

22 thursday

Hang Out at the Branch Library Ages 10 & over. Music, games (bring yours to share). Richmond, 3–5 p.m.

*Earth Day Stories & CraftOcean View, 4:30–5:30 p.m.

Films/Videos Ages 3–5. Main, 2nd Floor, Fisher Children’s Center (two show-ings), 10 & 10:45 a.m.

*Craft With Sophie using Recycled Materials Ages 5 & older. Call for reservations. Chinatown, 4–5 p.m.

*Music Program with Pam Donkin Ages 5 & under. Eureka Valley, 10:30–11 a.m.

22 & 29 thursdays

Homework Help Ages 5 & older. Grades K-5. Portola, 2:30–4:30 p.m.

24 Saturday

Spring 2010 Educator Work-shop Series (For Adults) With Pamela Brown: Bringing Books Alive with Flannel-board Stories, Puppets, & Early Literacy Fun Main, 2nd Floor, Fisher Children’s Center

Films Ages 3-5. West Portal, 10:30 a.m.

*Russian Dances Ages 5 & older. Richmond, 2–2:45 p.m.

Wu Yee Children’s Services: Early Literacy Workshop (in Cantonese) for Licensed Childcare Providers Register: Jessica Lee at (415) 230-7538. Chinatown, 2:30–5 p.m.

25 Sunday

Dia de los Ninos/Dia de los Libros Celebration Multicul-tural music, dance, storytell-ing, puppetry, art activities, & book giveaway. Main: Koret Auditorium; Latino-Hispanic Community Meeting Rooms; & 2nd Floor Fisher Children’s Center, 1–4 p.m.

27 tuesday

Films Ages 3-5. Marina, 10:15–10:45 a.m.

Videos Ages 3-5. (Held at clubhouse, 661 Lombard St., at Mason.) North Beach (two showings), 10:30 & 11 a.m.

29 thursday

*Baby Sign Language at Baby Storytime Ages birth- 2. Chinatown, 11 a.m.

*Flute Sweets & Tickletoons, with Storyteller Keith Torgan & Flutist Barbara SieselMain, 2nd Floor, Fisher Children’s Center, 10:30 a.m.

*Make a Personalized ButtonAges 5 & older. Registration required. Ocean View, 4:30–5:30 p.m.

30 Friday

Art activity Outdoors in the Garden Ages 5 & older. Mission, 3 p.m.

Children’s Calendar

6 APRIL 2010 At the LIbRARy

All programs and events are free and open to the public.

Programs are for children of all ages, except where noted.

Please call ahead to confirm dates and times. Groups need to reserve space.

Where branch is closed for renovation, alternate location is listed.

Golden Gate Valley Branch programming room is not accessible by elevator.

For film titles, call branch library or go to sfpl.org/news/events.htm and click on Children’s Films & Videos.

April 2010

*Funded by Friends of the San Francisco Public Library

**Please call ahead to confirm dates and times. Groups need to reserve space.

Preschool Storytimen Stories, songs, fingerplays and more for ages 3 to 5.**

AnzaTue, 6, 13, 20 & 27, 10:30–11 a.m. (Held at Richmond District Neighborhood Center, 741-30th Ave.)

Bayview Tue, 6, 13, 20 & 2710:30–11 a.m.

Excelsior Wed, 7, 14, 21, 28, 11–11:30 a.m. (Mandarin/Cantonese)Thur, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 11-11:30 a.m.

Eureka Valley Wed, 7, 14, 21, 28, 3:30 p.m.

Marina Tue, 6, 20, 10:15–10:45 a.m.

Mission Wed, 7, 14, 21, 28, 10:10 a.m.

Mission BayThur, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 4:30–5:10 p.m.

North BeachThur, 1, 8, 15, 22, 2911–11:30 a.m. (Held at clubhouse, 661 Lombard St., at Mason)

Ocean ViewTue, 6, 13, 20, 27 11:15 a.m.–12 p.m.

OrtegaTue, 6, 13, 20, 27, 10:30 a.m.

Parkside Fri, 2, 9, 16, 23, 3010–10:30 a.m. & 11–11:30 a.m. (Held at Taraval Police Station Community Room, 2345-24th Ave.)

Portola Tue, 6, 13, 20, 27, 10:30–11 a.m.

RichmondTue, 6, 13, 20, 27, 11–11:30 a.m.

SunsetThur, 22, 29, 10:30–11 a.m.

Western Addition Tue, 6, 27, 10–10:30 a.m.

Family Storytimen Family Storytimes are for children of all ages unless noted.**

Bernal Heights Thur, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 10:15 a.m. Ages birth-5

ChinatownSat, 3, 10, 17, 24, 10:30–11 a.m.

Excelsior Sat, 3, 10, 17, 24, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.

MainTue, 6, 13, 20, 27, 10:30–11:30 a.m. Sat, 3, 10, 17, 11 a.m.–12 p.m.

Marina Sat, 24, 3:30–4 p.m. + craft

Noe ValleyTue, 6, 13, 27, 11–11:30 a.m.

PotreroThur, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 10:30–11 a.m. Ages birth-5

RichmondSat, 3, 10, 17, 2411–11:30 a.m. Ages 3 & younger

Visitacion Valley Tue, 6, 13, 20, 2711 a.m.

West PortalWed, 7, 21 at 7:15 p.m. Ages 2-5 (In Russian) + craftSat, 10 at 10:30 a.m. Ages 5 & younger

Toddler Talesn Books, rhymes, music, move-ment and more for toddlers 18 to 36 months and their caregivers.**

Anza Thur, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 10:30–11 a.m. + playtime(Held at Richmond District Neighborhood Center, 741-30th Ave.)

Eureka ValleyTue, 6, 13, 20, 27, 10:30 a.m.

Golden Gate ValleyTue, 6, 13, 20, 27, 10:15–10:45 a.m.Fri, 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 10:15–10:30 a.m.(Held at Sherman Elementary School Library, 1651 Union St.)

InglesideTue, 6, 13, 20, 27, 11–11:30 a.m.Wed, 7, 14, 21, 28, 4:30–5 p.m.

Main Mon, 5, 12, 19, 26, 10:30 a.m. Wed, 7, 14, 21, 28, 10:30–11 a.m.

MarinaMon, 5, 12, 19, 26 at 10:15–10:45 a.m.

MissionThur, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 10:10 & 11 a.m. (Spanish/English)

Mission BayFri, 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 4:30–5:10 p.m. + playtime

Noe ValleyTue, 6, 13, 20, 27 10:15–10:45 a.m.

North Beach Thur, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 at 11:45 a.m.–12:15 p.m.(Held at clubhouse, 661 Lombard St., at Mason)

Ortega Mon, 5, 12, 19, 2610:30 a.m.

PortolaSat. 3, 10, 17, 1:30–2:15 p.m. + playtime

PresidioThur, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 10:15–10:45 a.m. (Held at Jewish Community Center, 3200 California St.)

RichmondTue, 6, 13, 20, 27 10:15–10:45 a.m.

Western AdditionThur, 1, 8, 2910:15–11 a.m. + playtime

West Portal Thur, 8, 22, 10:30 a.m.

Baby Rhyme Time Rollicking rhymes, songs and

books for infants to 18 months and their caregivers.**

Bernal HeightsWed, 7, 14, 21, 28 1:15 p.m. + playtime

Chinatown Thur, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 11 a.m.–12 p.m. + playtime

Eureka ValleyWed, 7, 21, 1:30 p.m. + playtime

ExcelsiorTue, 6, 13, 20, 27 11–11:30 a.m. + playtime

Glen ParkTue, 6, 13, 20, 27 10:30 a.m. + playtime

Main Thur, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 3:30–4 p.m.

MarinaMon, 5, 12, 19, 26 11 a.m.–12 p.m. + playtime

MercedMon, 12, 19, 26, 9:30 a.m. + playtime. (Held at Ston-estown YMCA, Childwatch Room, 333 Eucalyptus Dr.

MissionMon, 5, 12, 19, 26, 1:10 p.m. + playtime (English/Spanish)

Mission Bay Thur, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 10:15 a.m. + playtime

North Beach Thur, 1, 8, 15, 22, 2910:15–10:45 a.m. + playtime(Held at clubhouse, 661 Lombard St.)

Richmond Wed, 7, 14, 21, 28 3:30–4:30 p.m. + playtime

Sunset Sat, 3, 10, 17, 24 11 a.m.–12 p.m. + playtime

West Portal Tue, 13, 27 , 10:30 a.m. + craft

Don’t miss the San Francisco Girls Chorus Take a trip through time with Level III of the renowned San Francisco Girls Chorus School as they perform music from the last four centuries on April 11, 2 p.m. in the Koret Auditorium at the Main Library. Enjoy the beauty of classical pieces by di Lasso, Mozart and Brahms, and ex-plore music from different cultures by listening to folksongs from around the world. Let this richly varied program broaden your horizons.

Founded in 1978, the San Francisco Girls Chorus has become a regional center for choral music education and performance for girls and young women, ages 5-18. More than 380 sing-ers from 44 Bay Area cities participate in this internationally recognized program, deemed “a model in the country for training girls’ voices” by the California Arts Council. The Chorus School offers a program of unparalleled excel-lence, designed to take young girls from their first introduction to the art of choral singing through a full course of choral/vocal instruction. More information at sfgirlschorus.org.

Friends Focus

books at 10% off! Friends’ bonus bookstore Program! Friends members ($50+ level) receive a 10% discount at the following bookstores:

A Different Light bookstore Academy Store, California Academy of Science A. Cavalli Italian bookstore Adobe bookstore Alan Wofsy Fine Arts LLC Alexander book Co., Inc. Amazing Fantasy the beat Museum bibliohead bookstore bibliomania bird & beckett books & Records

black Oak books holding Corp. bolerium books book bay Fort Mason book bay Main books, Inc. booksmith borderlands books browser books Christopher’s books Chronicle books Compass books, Inc. Cover to Cover booksellers

Dog eared books eastwind books Globus Slavic bookstore Great Overland book Company Green Apple books & Music Kayo books Louie brothers book Store, Inc. Manning’s books & Prints Marcus book Stores Phoenix books

Omnivore books on Food Red hill books San Francisco botanical Gardens, Garden bookstore thidwick books the Green Arcade

At the LIbRARy APRIL 2010 7

April Featured Sections

Book Bay Main Judaica

Book Bay Fort Mason Poetry

April events

April Member Sale!In celebration of National Poetry Month, please join us for our Cruelest Month Sale! Members receive 25% off during the entire month of April when you show your membership or Bonus Book Store card at our Book Bay Bookstores.

April 10

$1 Book SaleDonation Center, 438 Treat Ave., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

April 24

Richmond Kids DayLafayette Elementary School, 4545 Anza, 1-3 p.m.Learn about the Anza Branch library and enjoy an afternoon of music, entertainment, crafts and more. Sponsored by Cinderella Bakery. Free.

April 24

2nd Vietnamese Poetry FestivalFort Mason Center, Fleet Room, 7 p.m.

Friends members receive the JCC member price at select events. Check out www.friendssfpl.org for a full list.

The mission of Friends of the San Francisco Public Library is to create, steward and support a superior, free public library system in San Francisco. We are committed to raising the standard of excellence of our libraries by funding programs and services beyond what is allocated in the city’s budget. We believe in free and equal access to information for all.

book bay Locations & hours

BOOK BAY FORT MASON Fort Mason Center, Building C Open daily 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Telephone (415) 771-1076

BOOK BAY MAIN Main Library Grove Street Entrance Open all Library hours Telephone (415) 557-4238

San Francisco International Poetry Festival presents:

The Vietnamese Poetry Festival

Allison Hoover BartlettCara BlackJack BoulwareJoshua BraffSusie BrightLewis BuzbeeFrances DinkelspielTom DolbyElaine Elinson and Stan YogiJanet Fletcher

Beverly GhermanCharlie HaasDon LattinKathryn MaRandall MannGreil MarcusKate MosesGerald NachmanJoel PaulFrank Portman

Jewell Parker RhodesBlanche RichardsonGeorge SmithJacqueline SueMike SullivanEthan WattersKatie WilliamsSteve WinnVictoria ZackheimMerla Zellerbach

Porchlight Performance and Party

Join Friends of the San Francisco Public Library and Diaspora Vietnamese Artists Network (DVAN) for the 2nd Vietnamese Poetry Festival, presented by the San Francisco International Poetry Festival on Saturday, April 24, at 7 p.m.

Held in the Fleet Room at the Fort Mason Center, this special event celebrates the large and thriving Vietnamese community in the Bay Area and

brings Vietnamese American poets from around the country to read and perform.

Hear new voices of international poetry, such as Anh Vu Buchanan, Nguyen Do, Lan Tran, Trinh T. Minh-Ha, Andrew Lam and Dao Strom. Emceed by Viet Nguyen, the festival promises to be a special evening filled with culture and literary life.

On April 16, for the first time ever, Friends of the San Francisco Public Library presents the Porchlight Per-formance and Party—an after-hours party at the Li-brary featuring music, stories, good times and more.

Immediately following the 14th Annual Library Laureates gala and dinner, join Porchlight hosts Beth Lisick, Arline Klatte and San Francisco’s legend-ary personalities for stories around the evening’s theme—“Urban Legends.”

Check out the Main Library at dark, enjoy drinks on the beautiful Sixth Floor terrace and share tales of folklore and myth at this premier literary party that raises money for the San Francisco Public Library’s education programs.

Ticket prices for the Laureates Dinner and the Porchlight Performance and Party vary. For ticket info visit friendssfpl.org or call (415) 626-7500.

Celebrate Literary Legends at the 14th Annual Library Laureates Dinner Join Friends and library supporters at the 14th Annual Library Laureates Dinner on Friday, April 16th. This year, we’ll celebrate “Urban Legends” as we honor 30 Library Laureates, including Jack Boulware, Susie Bright, Lewis Buzbee, Tom Dolby, Ethan Watters, Steve Winn and Victoria Zackheim.

The evening begins with a wine reception in the Main Library’s atrium. Guests then break into smaller groups in salons where they can more intimately swap stories and legendary tales, while sharing a gourmet meal catered by Paula LeDuc.

Embellish the theme to your liking. Explore local lore and dress like your favorite cautionary tale. Or, come dressed as your favorite San Francisco legend! Tie-dye your tie as a nod to Jerry Garcia or consider a platinum bun in homage to Vertigo.

Rumor has it that this Laureates will be the best yet! For tickets or more info, call (415) 626-7500 or visit www.friendssfpl.org. All proceeds benefit the San Francisco Public Library, where legends live on.

2010 Laureates

SAN FRANCISCO PUBLIC LIBRARY 100 LARKIN STREETSAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102

At the Library

8 APRIL 2010 At the LIbRARy

April 2010In this Issue:Page 1 – Living a More eco-Friendly Life

Northern California book Awards

Dia de los Niños/Dia de los Libros

by the Numbers: Comics

Page 2 – Potrero Opening Celebration

Preserving the environment

Page 3 – humorous hounds

Cartoonists and Social Change

exhibitions Calendar

Page 4 – On the Same Page

River of Words Annual Awards

Adult Calendar

Page 5 – Anchee Min

Maid as Muse

Wise Up

Page 6 – San Francisco Girls Chorus

Children’s Calendar

Page 7 – Friends Focus

Library Laureates Dinner

Porchlight Performance and Party

Vietnamese Poetry Festival

LIBRARY LOCATIONS AND HOURS S M T W T F S

ANZA Closed for renovation 557-4353 See temporary services schedule on page 2.

BAYVIEW/WADEN 5075 Third St. 355-5757 1–5 10–6 10–6 1–8 10–8 1–6 10–6

BERNAL HEIGHTS 500 Cortland Ave. 355-2810 x 10–6 10–9 1–9 10–6 1–6 1–6

CHINATOWN 1135 Powell St. 355-2888 1–5 1–9 10–9 10–9 10–6 1–6 10–6 Children’s Room 1–5 1–6 10–8 10–8 10–6 1–6 10–6

EUREKA VALLEY/MILK 1 José Sarria Court 355-5616 x 12–6 10–9 12–9 10–6 1–6 1–6 (at 16th St., near Market)

EXCELSIOR 4400 Mission St. 355-2868 1–5 1–9 10–9 10–9 10–6 1–6 10–6

GLEN PARK 2825 Diamond St. 355-2858 x 10–6 10–6 12–8 1–7 1–6 1–6

GOLDEN GATE VALLEY Closed for renovation 557-4353 See temporary services schedule on page 2 .

INGLESIDE 1298 Ocean Ave. 355-2898 1–5 10–6 10–6 12–8 1–7 1–6 1–6

MAIN LIBRARY 100 Larkin St. 557-4400 12–5 10–6 9–8 9–8 9–8 12–6 10–6

MARINA 1890 Chestnut St. 355-2823 1–5 10–6 10–6 1–9 1–9 1–6 10–6

MERCED Closed for renovation 557-4353 See temporary services schedule on page 2 .

MISSION 300 Bartlett St. 355-2800 1–5 1–9 10–9 10–9 10–6 1–6 10–6 Children’s Room 1–5 1–6 10–8 10–8 10–6 1–6 10–6

MISSION BAY 960 Fourth St. 355-2838 1–5 x 10–6 12–8 10–6 1–6 1–6

NOE VALLEY/BRUNN 451 Jersey St. 355-5707 1–5 x 10–9 1–9 10–6 1–6 10–6

NORTH BEACH 2000 Mason St. 355-5626 x 12–6 10–9 1–9 10–6 1–6 1–6

OCEAN VIEW 345 Randolph St. 355-5615 x 10–6 10–6 10–7 1–7 1–6 1–6

ORTEGA 3223 Ortega St. 355-5700 1–5 10–6 10–6 1–9 1–9 1–6 10–6

PARK Closed for renovation 557-4353 See temporary services schedule on page 2 .

PARKSIDE Closed for renovation 557-4353 See temporary services schedule on page 2 .

PORTOLA 380 Bacon St. 355-5660 1–5 x 10–6 12–8 1–7 1–6 1–6

POTRERO 1616 20th St. 355-2822 1–5 x 10–8 12–8 10–6 1–6 1–6

PRESIDIO Closed for renovation 557-4353 See temporary services schedule on page 2.

RICHMOND/MARKS 351 9th Ave. 355-5600 1–5 10–6 10–9 10–9 1–9 1–6 10–6

SUNSET 1305 18th Ave. 355-2808 1–5 1–9 10–9 10–9 10–6 1–6 10–6 Children’s Room 1–5 1–6 10–8 10–8 10–6 1–6 10–6

VISITACION VALLEY 45 Leland Ave. 355-2848 x 10–6 10–6 12–7 1–7 1–6 1–6

WEST PORTAL 190 Lenox Way 355-2886 1–5 1–9 10–9 10–9 10–6 1–6 10–6

WESTERN ADDITION 1550 Scott St. 355-5727 1–5 1–9 10–6 1–9 10–6 1–6 10–6

The San Francisco Public Library system is dedicated to free and equal access to information,

knowledge, independent learning and the joys of reading for our diverse community.

At the Library is published monthly on recycled paper by the San Francisco Public Library with support and funding from Friends of the San Francisco Public Library.

Circulation: 12,000

Online version: http://sfpl.org/atl

Main Library phone number: (415) 557-4400

how to reach usPublic Affairs, Main Library, 100 Larkin St.San Francisco, CA 94102(415) 557-4277; e-mail: publicaffairs@sfpl.orgWeb site: www.sfpl.org

Every effort has been made to produce a monthly calendar that is both accurate and complete. Please contact Public Affairs if you have any questions or comments regarding the listings.

TREASURE ISLAND BOOKMOBILE Community Center, 497 Ave. I Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and 1–4:30 p.m.

“x” means CLOSED. For more information: www.sfpl.org (All phone numbers are in the 415 area code.)

Tours of MainTours are conducted on the first Tuesday of each month at 12 p.m. Meet at the Information Desk in the First Floor atrium. Tours are limited to 15 people on a first come, first served basis. Groups can schedule a private tour by calling (415) 557-4266.

SFPL CommissionMeetings are generally held on the first and third Thursday of each month. This month’s meetings: 4:30 p.m. on April 1 and 15 in the Koret Auditorium of the Main Library. The public is welcome to attend.

Potrero Branch Library reopened on March 6, 2010. Ribbon Cutting with L-R: Ed Reiskin, director, SF Department of Public Works; Library Commissioners Lee Munson and Carlotta del Portillo;

Friends of SFPL Executive Director Donna Bero; City Librarian Luis Herrera; State Senator Mark Leno; Library Commission President Jewelle Gomez; Assemblyman Tom Ammiano; Branch Manager Lia Hillman;

SF Supervisor Sophie Maxwell.