Library News and Notes: The BRIC, a hidden gem

Gale Virtual Reference Library

The library Online Research site, anchored by the recently upgraded and expanded Gale Reference Library, has become much more user-friendly. By using a subject grid and constantly adding to the online reference collection, the librarians have made the site more efficient and streamlined. Each subject is divided into three sections, databases, e-books and websites, each enabling patrons to complete quality research by simply using a library card.

The addition of e-books to the online reference collection demonstrates the advanced capabilities of the library. Sections of books, scholarly articles and other materials can be downloaded, translated into several languages, read aloud and emailed to a home computer, IPad, Kindle or other e-reader. Adult Services Librarian Susan Antipa is a helpful, knowledgeable guide through this aspect of research and can be reached by calling the library at 887-2244 for an appointment.

Business assistance in action

With the added development of the above-mentioned Gale Virtual Reference Library, the BRIC, Carson City's Business Resource Innovation Center, has expanded its vast array of tools to assist businesses. After spending a brief time accessing business databases (Reference USA and Business USA), Techspert Consulting's Nancy Jean King and Daniel Magrath found exactly what they needed and were able to generate spreadsheets regarding demographics, area businesses and a targeted mailing list. With a goal of "Looking for people who need us," Ms. King and Mr. Magrath declared the BRIC a "hidden gem in Carson City."

Library activities upcoming

The National Forest Service will conduct a public meeting from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday in the library auditorium.

The increasingly popular Family Story Time will be available at 10:15 and 10:45 a.m. on Wednesdays throughout the summer. Youth Services Librarian Amber Sady provides 20 fun-filled minutes of stories, songs, and rhymes, and it gives children a chance to sign up for the Summer Reading Program.

Saturday is a busy day for children as well, with the Lego Club from 10 a.m. until noon and the Love on a Leash reading program from 1-2 p.m. After reading to the trained dogs, children receive a free book. The Teen Advisory Board and the Teen Book club meet from 3-5 p.m. Friday, June 24 at the library. Teens will be reading Heidi Ayarbe's new novel, "Compulsion," which is set in Carson City and has both soccer and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder as its theme.

It is said that everyone is Irish on St. Patrick's Day. At 6 p.m. on Thursday the library transfers that tradition into June with Explore the World @ Your Library: Ireland. Festivities include traditional Irish music by Ciana, songs by "Dana," and dance by the Blanchette School of Irish Dance. Patrick Moriarty will provide the Blarney.

The Library Board of Trustees conducts its regular meeting at 5:30 June 23 in the Sierra Room at the Community Center. A topic for discussion will be possible philanthropic funding for a new library, including the land offer and the capital campaign.

Volunteer Attorneys for Rural Nevadans presents a divorce clinic at noon June 23 in the library auditorium.