What's New At the Library

It's spring break and if your kids are already complaining they're bored, head to the and you might find something for yourself to do as well. A 30-minute visit caught at least 10 things that many might miss if they're only coming to check their email.

Sign of the times - in keeping with the city's move to develop a brand awareness, signage of public buildings has begun to change to the blue background and cattails. The library sign was recently updated to also include a leader board to broadcast messages on upcoming events.

Photo op - On this visit, we took a look at the previous winning entries from the Old World Wisconsin (OWW) Foundation's photo contest. The featured pic here took top honors in 2011 and came from Muskego resident Lisa Thinnes. Have a knack with a camera? Head to OWW and capture your own memories on 'film,' enter and hopefully win.

Multi-media - The DVD rack has been moved, and it's getting bigger. Good titles on classic and current movies, and it doesn't cost a thing...unless you return them late. (And, yes, this was 11 things, but we liked the list so much we couldn't delete a thing.)

Teen time - they've cleared out a corner at the back of the library, reserved just for teens to hang out together and do what they do best - chat. Free wi-fi also lets them to the second best thing...surf the net on their phones while chatting.

Self-help, part I - If you're sick of your job, or wish you had one, the library offers a job center with resources to get started or stay current on your search. Better than online sites, too because real people are there to help you with a question.

Bordeaux and books - coming May 19, the annual Friends of the Muskego Public Library Winetasting will be held. Sign up while you're there, especially since they have taken the time to create a great presentation table!

Self-help, part II - If you have no patience for lines, you are now able to check out your own books using the self-checkout, which is located to the right of the 'in-person' checkout desk.

In a bind? Available now are book binder services, which takes 25-40 pages that you've printed, adds a cover in your choice of style and for only a $5 donation to the library friends. It's great for reports, scrapbooks, story books or photo albums, but do call ahead - 262-366-8180 - or email barb@lakeview-consulting.com for an appointment.

Getting techy - Libraries are embracing technology, and Muskego's is part of OverDrive Media eBooks, which is a downloadable app for your smartphone. The idea is to tap into your local libraries - and those far and yon - to read books they have available. We picked up a flyer on how-to, at the reference desk.

Toss it - Flags that are worn, as well as your stored up poptops from aluminum cans, can be turned in here. The Muskego VFW has a patriotically decorated mail depository that you can places your old flags in (no books, please!), and the front desk will take your collected poptops to turn in for the Ronald McDonald House.

Treats for Troops - U.S. Military members are forever grateful when you remember them, and there is a collection at the library that makes it easy to do so. Local hero Judy Wiedenkeller has organized this grassroots effort to send care packages over year round. You can also read some of the letters back from the troops, thanking everyone for their support.