just for fun

Book with Broken Spine (part 2)

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First I removed the end paper from the spine. Seems like “first, do no harm” is not an option today.

The hinge is broken and a curly edged piece was attached to the cheesecloth. I removed it but now wonder if I can use that for the repair or should I use the single stitch binder tape?

While I contemplate that, I know that the end paper coming off the back board will have to be glued so I mixed library glue with water to make a light adhesive.

Those things have to dry first before I can complete the rest of repair, so — patience. I did experiment with ironing the material that had been attached to the cheesecloth. It was easier to straighten than I anticipated.

It came out really nice and flat. But when I rewatched the video on single stitch binder tape, I realized that the reason this broke is that this material was not strong enough to hold such a large text block. I think it would be best to finish the repair with the binding tape.

Stay tuned.

Next Steps

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Last summer I worked a bit with the people who developed the website NextSteps Idaho. I found it was a good resource for lots of information even if you weren’t the target audience (Idaho residents).

For example, here is a fun page where you can imagine your best life and see what it takes to maintain your chosen lifestyle. Create different scenarios and see how it affects the bottom line.

https://nextsteps.idaho.gov/plan-smart/intro

I find it helpful for my audience to check in with reality. Maybe internet cost is not something one would think of when designing a sustainable income. We think of rent and food and car, but what about clothes, entertainment, or — children?

I admit this page is geared toward Idahoans, but many of the other pages (especially the aptitude sections) are free, fun, and full of awesome info. Perhaps I’ll get a chance to highlight some of those in future.

So many books, so little time — a Quiet review

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I’ve been reading so many books since my last reviews. Where to start?

For a book that will make you think, — try “Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that Can’t Stop Talking” by Susan Cain. Ok, maybe that describes most librarians, but I found deep thought around this topic and plenty of balm for my guilt for not being more… what? — outgoing? boisterous? charismatic? humorous?

Why can’t the world see that some just need a little space once in a while? There’s nothing wrong with that. If you agree (and even if you don’t), “Quiet” will convince you that if you’re wired such that you enjoy alone time, there is reason to create that space and hang on to it.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8520610-quiet

Oh, and there’s even a TED Talk.

Enjoy.

Still thinking about “Seraphina” by Rachel Hartman

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I’m still talking about Seraphina when asked about what I’ve read this year, though I finished it several months ago. It was outstanding to me on multiple levels. I made a list of what I found in the book.

  • prejudice
  • secrets
  • music theory
  • shame
  • victory
  • gifts
  • and more

Well as you can see, it made me think on several levels. I mostly agree with this review. It’s a bit long, but very accurate as to how I experienced the book. (True confession: I read both books and agree with their take on the second book too.)

A big part of this review is the expansion on Rachel Hartman’s ability to portray Seraphina’s mind work — what’s going on in her head. This is a fascinating aspect to the book and raises it above normal for this genre in my estimation.

Thank you for reading!

The Pandemic and the Ballet

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Several years ago my New Year’s resolution was to watch more “live” performances. Since I knew people from Lionel Hampton School of Music, this was not difficult. I have many outstanding memories from that resolution!

During the Pandemic, this old habit has taken a hit and I have not been able to watch live performances at all. But this month, looking for some dance performances, I ran across Dance Theatre Harlem. They are celebrating Founder’s Week (51st anniversary) and I’ve been able to watch some wonderful dancing.

I especially enjoyed this bit of info behind their Creole Giselle. Take some time to watch!

Many professional dance companies have created streaming content or video content to share with their fans and audiences. I’ve found theatre and dance companies especially generous with their access in light of the fact that they are not able to tour and perform to paying audiences.

This Sunday, there is a streaming performance from Dance Theatre Harlem. The Valentine’s Day ticket price is $7. Where could you ever get to go and see DTH for seven dollars?

Check out all of their virtual ballet series.

DTH On Demand

Don’t forget to see The Valentine’s Day performance!

Sunday Matinée | February 14, 2021