Pioneer Memorial Library Blog

Trivia Night 2011!

2011-11-03T12:42:00.000-07:00

Our Annual Trivia Night was held on November 3,2011!

Andrea and Sandy were eager to help, among other staff members for this great night!

Team members deliberate for a final answer. This team was actually visiting from California; they had a wonderful experience participating in our night!

November Booked For Lunch

2011-11-02T11:30:00.000-07:00

This month for Booked for Lunch, we invited Patrick Toth to share with us on the book, What It Is Like To Go To War by Karl Marlantes. Patrick shared the intense story with us, and we were all on the edge of our seats with the story.

October Yac Attack

2011-10-20T12:23:00.000-07:00

The October Yac Attack was held on October 20,2011. The kids and library staff had fun decorating pumpkins and eating spooky snacks. When the kids were done decorating pumpkins, they had the choice to take their pumpkins or leave them here. If left here, the pumpkins were displayed for Halloween.

Snacks included: Delicious Cupcakes, Scary Mouths, Slime Punch and Veggies with dip

Kids had the chance to carve pumpkins or decorate them while they got to enjoy snacks

October Booked For Lunch

2011-10-05T10:57:00.000-07:00

For October's Booked for Lunch, our guest speaker was Shiela Frahm reviewing Clara and Mr. Tiffany by Susan Vreeland. Lunch was served and all of our guests had lots of fun!Shiela gave an enticing review over the book, and guests thrived upon it! Thanks, Shiela!

Shiela showing the group a certain aspect from the book, Clara and Mr. Tiffany

September Booked For Lunch

2011-09-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

September's Booked for Lunch was hosted by Pioneer Memorial Library. Lon Frahm was the guest speaker, and he reviewed the book, Survival of Rural America by Richard E. Wood. The attendee's really enjoyed having Lon as a guest speaker, and felt that his review was very informative and beneficial for everyone. Thanks Lon!

Lon speaking with some of the attendee's for BFL

Summer Reading Events 2011- Colby Visitor's Center with Ralph Fischer

2011-07-02T12:01:00.000-07:00

This summer, children who were involved in the summer reading program wrote poems which were then displayed out at the Colby Visitor's Center south of town. In the photo, Ralph Fischer is talking to a child about her poem that she wrote.

Summer Reading Events 2011-Reader's Theatre

2011-07-01T11:54:00.000-07:00

Older kids who participate in Summer Reading get to participate in a reader's theatre! This is a great way for children to improve on their reading skills, and get involved in something fun and exciting! Plus, you get to wear cool hats too! ;)

Books For Soldiers

2011-07-01T10:28:00.000-07:00

Books for Soldiers! Pioneer Memorial Library was asked to box up books to send to soldiers everywhere! We sent off 10 packs of books thanks to Friends of the Library.

Summer Reading '11-Eric Vaughn Magic Show

2011-06-09T14:03:00.000-07:00

June 9, 2011 had exciting prospects for many Colby children and families: A magic show done by Eric Vaughn hosted by PML!

Many people of all ages came out to the library to enjoy a magic show, and were pleasantly surprised by what they witnessed! Thanks again, Eric Vaughn!

Summer Reading Events 2011-Galloping Gourmet

2011-06-06T11:43:00.000-07:00

Leanna and Andrea with helper Nick taught the kids how to make Phillipino Banana Bites!

This Summer, Librarians, Leanna and Andrea decided to try gourmet cooking with kids ! They met every Monday at 3:15 in the Library basement and had a lot of fun! They made everything from German Pigs in a Blanket to Australian Fairy Bread. The girls tried to match their gourmet cooking with the country that they were going over in summer reading each week.

Colby Artwalk 2011

2011-04-22T10:15:00.000-07:00

First "Artwalk" In Colby, Kansas! It was held on April 22, 2011 from 6p.m-9p.m. The idea of the event was to showcase the art that was being produced in our community. There were three starting points, The Colby High School, three of the CCC buildings, and people could also start downtown. There was entertainment provided in the downtown area; including a keyboard player, saxophonist, and a private band also played. Pioneer Memorial Library hosted some art and also had the basement open for students 1st-8th grade to participate in some fun educational activities. This was for the children whose parents were participating in the artwalk.

Checkout some of the displays from the artwalk!!

Library In Motion-April 9,2011

2011-04-09T13:41:00.000-07:00

This Library In Motion trip took us all the way to the Salt Mines! In Hutchinson of course! Ten of the most daring kids journeyed to the depths of the salt mine, and naturally, they had a blast!

The brave children also visited an underground tunnel on their expedition!

Murder Mystery-March 6, 2011

2011-03-06T13:28:00.000-08:00

The annual Murder Mystery was held on March 6, 2011, and it went off without a stab! Or, did it?

Over 100 attendee's witnessed the "Whodunit?" plot which involved a slew of interesting characters, including a homeless lady, a butcher, and many other suspects.

Attendee's enjoyed a dinner that any food critic would have praised: Asian inspired chicken and rice, gourmet salad, fresh-from-the-oven dinner rolls, and a decadent brownie drizzled with caramel sauce, piled high with whipped topping, and a sweet cherry to top it off.

Booked For Lunch: A "Deadly Descent" into March...

2011-03-02T17:02:00.000-08:00

Pioneer Memorial Library presents the March Booked For Lunch: Deadly Descent by Charlotte Hinger. Hinger's novel depicts a "homegrown" mystery; set in Kansas. Charlotte's visit is also brought to the library in honor of Women's History Month.

Charlotte Hinger discussing her book, Deadly Descent, to a rapt audience

Author, Charlotte Hinger enjoys lunch while discussing an intriguing topic with the guests at the table.

Tom Averille: Booked For Brunch

2011-02-18T16:40:00.000-08:00

In honor of Kansas' 150th Anniversary, Tom Averill was invited to Pioneer Memorial Library to speak about his book and share some interesting facts and information about what Kansas really means to Tom. Naturally a smooth talker, Tom told stories about history in a way that people really understood and wanted to continue to learn more about.

Tom Averill presenting on his book, What Kansas Means To Me

Chocolate and All That Jazz!

2011-02-14T16:13:00.000-08:00

Chocolate and All That Jazz was an event hosted by Pioneer Memorial Library, celebrating Valentine's Day with friends, family, desserts, music and a little pizzazz!

A wide array of desserts were made to satisfy any sweet tooth as well!

Friends and family gather to listen to the CCC Jazz Band while enjoying close company and some yummy snacks!

Booked for Lunch - January 2011

2011-01-10T12:35:00.001-08:00

January Booked for Lunch had Matt Ludwick speak about his recently written book. He spoke on issues about growing up with hearing issues, bullying and overcoming these problems. He talks to audiences about how even today he finds that his hearing problems helps him be more aware of his surroundings, peoples feelings and the current issues of bullying.

Food for Fines in December

2010-12-28T12:18:00.000-08:00

The library had its Food For Fines campaign again this December. We collected boxes of foods and allowed patrons to reduce their fines by the amount donated.

Booked For Lunch in December and Chorace Singers

2010-12-10T12:21:00.000-08:00

The Pioneer Memorial Library wanted to sing in the Christmas season by having the Colby High School Chorale singers perform for our Booked for Lunch audience. We did learn what each youth was hoping to do during the holidays but the Library Director told them she was said that none had thought staying home and reading books for the holidays made the top of their list!

PML works with others

2010-11-10T09:46:00.000-08:00

The Pioneer Memorial Library is an active participant with others. We supported an extension group that places information about health and living. They showed the benefits of tea and ways to make it along with beautiful tea pots and cups.

National Family day was celebrated when Stanly and his family came to the library. Stanley and his family showed ways to enjoy healthy food alternatives and spending time together.

The library celebrated National Recovery Month in the Colby park and then brought the proclamation to the library to be displayed for a week!!

Trivia Night Game Night was lots of fun!

2010-11-06T09:09:00.000-07:00

The Library hosted a Trivia Night. Teams answered questions from 12 different subjects. Each team brought snacks to eat and the library provided the drinks. We had lots of fun and laughs. The winning team won a PML mug with a $10.00 Starbucks card (1/2 donated by Starbucks in Colby, 1/2 by PML). Losers received outdated encyclopedia volumes so they could bone up on the facts! Through the night team members and teams had the ability to also win fun prizes according to the subject matter. Thanks to Andrea and her dad who got the Trivia Wheel made for us!

2010-11-04T08:59:00.000-07:00

Tom talked about the book, "Nomad," by Ayaan Hirsi Ali. He stressed the authors experiences from childhood to being an adult serving in a parliamentary country in Europe. He expressed that she believes the answer to fighting terrorism is to educate the women in Islamic societies. He expressed how difficult the life of the author's now is due to threats to her life.

Library in Motion for Middlers

2010-10-15T12:12:00.000-07:00

Middle school students enjoyed the Library in Motion (LIM) in October 2010. They viewed the King Tut museum and 2 other related places. They also toured a very scary haunted house for the season as well. Everyone had a great time.

Friend of the Pioneer Memorial Library - Journey Stories Project Finished

2010-10-10T09:23:00.000-07:00

The Friends of the Pioneer Memorial Library came up with idea to support the 125th Anniversary of Thomas County by having a special project. Its title was His-story, Her-story, Our-story. This project asked citizens of Thomas County to tell their story about coming to the area, the beginning of a business or organization or a special event that really exemplifies living in the area.

The Friends of the Kansas Library organization gave the Friends group a matching grant.

The Prairie Museum of Art & History worked tirelessly besides the Friends group.

The 125th Committee and the Thomas County/Colby Chamber of Commerce also helped get the word out through advertising.

The big day came and many read the many submissions!

Book Review & Discussion with Colby Community College Lectureship

2010-10-06T08:54:00.000-07:00

Susan McMahan, Director of Thomas County Emergency Management talks about the book, "Unhealthy Truths: How Our Food is Making us Sick - And What We Can Do About It," by Robyn O'Brien.

Booked for Lunch 2010

2010-10-05T08:45:00.000-07:00

The Pioneer Memorial Library began it Booked for Lunch (BFL) kick off by having staff member, Nancy Saddler speak on the book, Are We Winning Yet. She spoke on how sports have influenced her families lives for the good and how participating with her kids and husband really broadend their relationships.

The second BFL we had Doris Johnson and Ray Imhoff speak about their new book on area heritage an history.

Basement activities in the summer.

2010-07-31T08:34:00.000-07:00

PML hosted youth in the basement besides summer reading as well.

One special event was to learn about Etiquette. Thanks to Alan, Trek & Keana Keck!! We had lots of others, but pictures did not get taken since we were so busy enjoying the youth.

We had summer activities in the basement besides the Summer Reading. Our first event was to have kids learn about Ettiquette.

Summer Reading 2010 -

2010-07-29T08:20:00.000-07:00

Children and youth of the area flocked to the Pioneer Memorial Library for a Water Themed Summer Reading Program. Each age group was given their own special title for their activities and given age appropriate Bingo Card to fill out and complete. The beginning of the summer we had the Tropical Shores Steel Drum Band come and entertain the community on the east lawn. Then we made a splash with Keir Royale's magic show in the basement towards the end. Those that finished their Bingo Cards got to attend a special Pool Blackout Party.

The children and youth of the area flocked to the library to enjoy a water themed related Summer Reading and Events that corresponded to their theme.

We had a Steel Drum Band begin the events. And then Magic show toward the end. The kids that completed their summer reading "Bingo" card got to attend the Pool Blackout Party!

Screen Casting for Learning to Place Items on Hold

2010-07-16T14:42:00.000-07:00

Have you ever viewed instructions and wondered how people made instructions showing their database or computer? Well we have learned how!

This screencast tells you how to easily use the PML Card Catalog to place a wanted item on hold.

Watch and Learn!

Memorable Book Sale Advertisement!! May 27-29 2010

2010-07-16T14:35:00.000-07:00

Watch our fun books sale advertisement. We here at the library have been having fun putting together videos for patron information. Three staff made the video. Two staff did the acting while another held the camera!

June 2010 Chautauqua events

2010-06-12T13:19:00.000-07:00

The Pioneer Memorial Library hosted 11 events during the day time hours for the Chautauqua event.

Chautaqua June 2010

2010-06-10T08:10:00.000-07:00

The Pioneer Memorial Library held eleven (11) events at the library during the Chautaqua event in June. Scholars who spoke and dress the part of their characters in the evening came and gave information on the times and their characters.

Chautauqua June 2010

2010-06-01T07:38:00.000-07:00

The Pioneer Memorial Library Hosted 4 events leading up to the June 2010 Chautaqua event.

We hosted the following scholoars to help prepare citizens for the event.

Pictures of Pre-Chautaqua events

2010-05-30T08:02:00.000-07:00

The four events were hosted by scholors of the Kanasa Humanities. They spoke on the various themes of Chautaqua. We viewed the movie "Grapes of Wrath," discussed the book, "Mules and Men," watched the movie "The Dust Bowl," and reviewed the book, "All The Kings Men."

Book Review and Discussion - Mules and Men

2010-05-11T13:08:00.000-07:00

In March some of us gathered to discuss the book, "Mules and Men," by zora Neale Hurston. Ann birney conducted the lively discussion.

Kansas Humanities scholar, Ann Birney led us in a discussion about the book "Mules and Men" by Zora Neale Hurston. This was done in preparation for the June 2010 Chataqua event. We had a lively discussion and lots of fun.

February 21st a group of patrons traveled through a snow storm to watched "The Grapes of Wrath" staring Henry Fonda in preparation for the June 2010 Chataqua event.

Pre-Chataqua events for the Library

2010-05-10T12:41:00.000-07:00

The Library prepared four Chautauqua events each month from February to May.

Book for Lunch - May 2010

2010-05-05T12:31:00.000-07:00

The Library invited Mike Baughn, who is the curent chairman for the 125th Anniversary Thomas County Committee. He is an avid history buff for the Thomas County area. He discussed the book, "They Pointed Them North," by E.C. Abbot.

Snap Shot Day in April

2010-04-30T14:30:00.000-07:00

The Pioneer Memorial Library had a snapshot day of all the events that happen in our library on one day. We interview people, took pictures, had regular events. It was really fun to hear from the patrons on what they do in our library. this is a short Animoto clip--we could have added much more, but just wanted something to share with you!

http://animoto.com/play/6XnyEoYQQ6EYweYt1DHIdQ

National Library Week 2010

2010-04-20T13:32:00.000-07:00

The Pioneer Memorial Library hosted a variety of speakers and authors April 12th to April 16th. Special lunches were served every day.

Rick Ress discusses "Master of War: The Live of General George H. Thomas," by Benson Brobrick. What we discovered was that General Thomas had high standards and believed in hard work. We cam away appreciating the fact that Thomas County was named after the General.

Lee Whitely spoke on the highways in the area of Kansas. He also discussed how politics, the railroad and other things influenced the survival of town. His work has been published and a PBS video on the parks as well.

Joanne Sunderman discussed "Impeached: The Trial of President Andrew Johnson and the fight for Lincoln's Legacy." She explained to the audience the importance of the rule of law during impeachment and how Kansas legislatures saved Andrew's Presidency.

The local Colby Writers Club presented work for the community today. A devotional work, "Seasons of Salt: Meditations," by Millie Horlacher, a fiction book about depression and Alzheimers; "All Stubborned Up," by Nancy Larsen-Sanders, delightful poems, stories from genological research on family.

Joanne Emerick held the audience spell-bound by discussing and reading from her soon to be published book, "Courage Before Every Danger." She was so good that the audience begged us to have her back when her book has come out.! "Courage Before Every Danger" is about the 31st bomber squadron that flew during World War II (http://31stbombers.org/; also see http://31stbombers.org/NEWSNOTES.htm).

Murder Mystery - 6th Annual !!

2010-03-10T09:53:00.000-08:00

Friends of the Pioneer Memorial Library, library staff and others wrote a murder mystery for the 6th Annual Murder Mystery. In recognition of the 125th Anniversary of Thomas County, we thought that we should use the broad brush facts of the characters in the County that helped to found this vital part of Northwest Kansas. Some of the pictures we took were not a crisp as we would like, but we had a great time laughing, gaufing and just having lots of fun.

Names were changed to protect the innocent and the writers of this play!! Enjoy some of the photos from our Flicker page!

Book For Lunch - Designer Babies

2010-03-04T09:37:00.000-08:00

The Pioneer Memorial Library colaborated with the Colby Community College during their 2010 Lectureship series. We invited Sue Evans of the Regional Prevention Center to reveiw the book, "Designer Babies: Genetic Choice."

The participants discussed various types of genetic modifications possible and then were given an opportunity to take a poll of a variety of choices they would want for themselves and their community.

Booked for Lunch - Journey Stories and the Dust Bowl

2010-03-02T09:19:00.000-08:00

February 2010, Librarian, Judy Kleinsorge did a wonderful puppet presentation on the Dust Bowl Days in the early 1900's. Mrs. Marmalade and she went over some of life issues found in "Rose's Journal. This included putting water or milk in a mason jar with a metal lid. Then when they wanted to drink from the jar they punched a whole in the jar lid and placed a straw in it so that dust would not get inside.

Library Volunteer's Make Attire for Mrs. Marmalade!

2010-02-02T09:30:00.000-08:00

The Pioneer Memorial Library is very blessed to have volunteers who often help us with putting together crafts and things. This last month, Mother and Daughter helped with Mrs. Marmalade's attire for her very special upcoming debut with Children's Librarian, Judy Kleinsorge. At this event they would be discussing Journey Stories and the Dust Bowl during the Book For Lunch event in February.

Booked for Lunch - 2009 Fall Season

2010-01-07T11:35:00.000-08:00

Booked for Lunch starts each September and runs until May. Each month we have a guest speaker discuss a current book or topic of interest to those in the community.

Clarice Howard is the librarian for the Talking Books Library Service for the visually impaired and those with handicapps that affect their reading. (http://www.skyways.org/KSL/talking/)

She not only share about 2 wonderful books, but demonstrated how the new digital talking book equipment is now easier to use.

Our First speaker was Linda Goosen reviewed "Extreme Measures," by Wine Flynn. She presented a very clear picture of the books intrigue and drama. She made many of want to begin reading his series of books as well.

Food for Fines - December 2009

2009-12-31T13:06:00.000-08:00

The Pioneer Memorial Library collected food in leu of library fines from December 5th to December 23rd. We collected over $500.00 worth of food stuffs supplied by patrons who wanted to pay their overdue fines while helping others.

Pioneer Memorial Hosts Legislators for Kansas

2009-12-22T13:25:00.000-08:00

Brian Perkins, Legislative Assistant for health care and other areas to Congressman Jerry Moran spoke with citizens from the Thomas County Area. Pioneer Memorial Library hosted a large contingent of adults and students to discss the issues of health care reform and current legislation.

A whole class studying government from the Colby High School Dist. 315 attended this discussion. They contributed some very tough and important questions to the discussion.

Kansas Representative, Jim Morrison talks with residents about the many concerns: Education funding, the Kansas deficit and how to solve the problem and other needs of the state.

He also took time to read to Preschoolers and Toddlers in our Storytime sessions on Tuesday & Wednesday mornings. The children loved it.

Cool Off From Summer/Exploring Your World Thru Local Eyes

2009-10-26T08:26:00.000-07:00

COOL OFF FROM SUMMER

Cool Off From Summer became a new program that began in June 2009. We had heard that people really liked to have others share about their travels around the world. We decided that we would combine the thought of vacations and travel with keeping cool from the long summer heat. Thus, was born Cool Off From Summer.

Our First Program was done by Nancy LePell. She shared fun stories about living on a sail boat while traveling the South Pacific. She also showed us pictures of people and places that she loved. There were many thoughtful questions asked during her program.
The South Pacific:
. We all came away with an added respect and knowledge about Nancy's like previous to moving to Colby, KS. The rich knowledge she shared about many countries she visisted was really fun.

July 2009 - Cool Off From Summer - Exploring Ecadore:

Gene & Roy Rothfuss shared about serving in a remote northern region in Ecadore. They shared about trying to errect buildings and conduct children's programs in mude and drenching rain.

Serving In Iraq:

Jeff Saddler & Tom Reust preseneted a program with Heather Saddler assisting about their military service in Iraq. They helped us understand how the locals are just trying to survive with the insurgents destroying their country. They also shared how just living and serving in Iraq made them really appreciate home.

Jeffrey said that the farmers in Iraq work hard just to grow a few crops. He was amazed at the agriculture in Iraq and the farmers hard work. He knew that the conditions they survived under were very difficult. Being from a family with lots of farm land in Kansas, he new how hard these families had to survive. Tom Reust also shared about working as a Marine in Iraq. Hard but really rewarding. Each is attending university and are part of a group of previous deployed military men and women who help students on campus with re-entry.

Living in Japan and Experiencing 4-H in Japan:

Kimberly Gerstner told about living with two families during her time in Japan. One was family lived in a large city and the other in a rural area. She came to really enjoy each family. Together with her host families she learned how some 4-h camps are conducted. They are intergenerational events that encourage each participant to learn from each person regardless of age. While there she also learned little Japanese lanugage and culture.

October we discussed Berlin, Germany:

Ayline Kozempel an international exchange student in Colby, KS discussed her home and school life, along with showing us the huge metropolitan area that Berlin is. She discussed the large number of ethnic peoples that now live in Germany. We also got a peak at her Russian heritage and St. Petersburg as an extra benefit.

Aylin cheerfully talks to us about her home. A bit home sick????

Cool Off From Summer became Explore Our World Thru Local Eyes in September 2009. We will resume in the summer once again.

Magic Show - Starts New School Year for Library

2009-10-09T13:48:00.000-07:00

The Pioneer Memorial library had 50 patrons attend the Oct 9th, "Make Your Own Rainbows Magic Show" done by Magician and author Eric Eicher. He shared funny, stimulating, and interactive magic tricks while also encouraging children and adults alike to read and have creative fun!

Summer Reading Programs were great fun!

2009-09-04T14:58:00.000-07:00

Pioneer Memorial Library served many preschool, primary & middle school students during our summer reading program. Children and adults of all ages also enjoyed our special events that highlighted the "Be Creative @ Your Library" theme for Summer Reading 2009.

We had a movie mattinee to start off the fun, then we had Sue Schnitzer come and share an outdoor concert on the Library east lawn. She made us help her in her silly, creative songs. We jumped, jiggled, swam, skipped, and much more as we considered all the ways we can move.

The third event when Suzanne Lively came to share her interactive ballon show in the PML basment. Kids of all ages loved this show!

Our Middle School students wrote and performed in their own "Oscars & Emmy's Reader's Theater Program.

Many children helped us make our quilt that now hangs proudly in our upstairs meeting room!

Library Board Trustee Honored for Time of Volunteer Service

2009-06-25T12:47:00.001-07:00

During National Library Week 2009, Patrick Toth, the retiring Pioneer Memorial Library Board of Trustee President was honored for his service as Presidnet from May 2003 – March 2009 (5 years 10 months), and his regular board membership beginning April 2001. He served faithfully a total of 8 years.

Colby community enjoying lunch during National Library Week 2009

2009-06-25T12:27:00.000-07:00

Patrons of the Colby Community made National Library Week 2009 a huge success! For three days during the week we had three authors presenting their books and telling about their writing and life experiences. Two patrons from the community also did a bang-up job reviewing books that they have enjoyed reading. We had 288 guests attend during the week, with at least 111 different people attending on different days!

National Library Week

2009-06-25T12:02:00.000-07:00

o Friday 17th – 52 people attended – Friends of the Library Board member and faithful patron, Ann Miner reviewed a quite a few novels, and the group really enjoyed it. Pizza was served. o Thursday 16th – 55 people attended - Author Jim Gray – Book: Desperate Seed – There were lots of questions for this speaker, and questions about the area of Ellsworth. – Mex-Tex Dish served

o Tuesday April 14th – 58 people attended - Author: Janice Haney – Book: Greenberg: Twisted Tales – Lots of questions for the speaker. The community seems genuinely concerned for the results of a tornado and its possible affects on their lives – Potato Bar

o Monday: April 13th – 47 people attended Author: Ron Smith – Book: Thomas Ewing Jr.: Frontier Lawyer and Civil War General (Shades of Blue and Gray) - The audience asked some questions about the general - Wonderful meat dish

o Wednesday 15th – 76 people attended - Former Library Director of PML - JoAnne Sunderman reviewed the book The Shack (a Novel). The large crowd did not ask many questions, but were especially pleased at the way she reviewed this controversial book. – Salad Luncheon was served

o Thursday 16th – 55 people attended - Author Jim Gray – Book: Desperate Seed – There were lots of questions for this speaker, and questions about the area of Ellsworth. – Mex-Tex Dish served

o Friday 17th – 52 people attended - Library Parton, Ann Miner reviewed a quite a few novels, and the group really enjoyed it. Pizza was served.

2009 Murder Mystery-- At Crooke's Crossing

2009-03-19T10:11:00.001-07:00

The Friends of the Pioneer Memorial Library, PML Library Staff and a host of volunteers and cast members participated in an action packed night at the 2009 Murder Mystery-- at Crooke's Crossing. Below you will find several sections of pictures divided up by theme for the night.
A BIG THANKS THANKS TO ALL WHO PARTICIPATED!

2009 Murder Myster at Crooke's Crossing - Detective Scene

2009-03-19T10:00:00.001-07:00

Patron's, Staff and others discussing:
WHO-DUN-It?

Crime Scene and detectives!

Crime Scene and the investigators!

Murder Mystery 2009 - Crooke's Crossing - Designs and Decorations - done by our very own library staff.

2009-03-19T09:50:00.001-07:00

Decorations and Designs! 2009 Murder Mystery

Murder Mystery - Preparation 2009

2009-03-19T09:37:00.001-07:00

What a great crew of Friends of the Library Board Members, their spouses and the Library Staff, plus our Dental Hygiene students as volunteer servers!

Murder Mystery 2009 - Preparation prior to the Murder!

2009 Murder Mystery Cast

2009-03-19T09:20:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Murder Myster @ Crooke's Crossing!!
Find our wonderful cast and director below !

Murder at Crooke's Crossing - 2009 Murder Mystery Cast and Director - Great Job!!

Murder Mystery 2009 - A Great Success & Lots of Fun

2009-03-19T08:59:00.001-07:00

Lots of Laughs and Gafaw's at the Mystery Night!

Guests at the 2009 Murder Mystery !

Booked for Lunch and Kansas Reads with Nancy Pickard March 4, 2009

2009-03-17T14:07:00.000-07:00

March's Booked for Lunch combined with the Kansas Reads program to featured special speaker Nancy Pickard, Kansas author of her book The Virgin of Small Plains. She explained to listeners how often a character in a book sometimes takes on a life of their own. She admitted that the main character in this book actually decided to go up the stairs, thereby opening Nancy's insight into what the motive and outcomes could be for the book. Nancy is a delighful author who's observational abilities and deep insight into local areas within Kanas have greatly influenced this wonderful mystery.

Ad Lib - At the Library for Middle School Kids

2009-03-17T13:55:00.000-07:00

Middle school age students met on Saturday February 28, 2009 where they had the opportunity to play games, create crafts and also experience their first try a Rock Band played on the new Wii system (donated by the Kiwanis club of Colby & State organization).

Booked for Lunch - on Philanthropy - February 4, 2009

2009-03-17T12:33:00.000-07:00

Booked for Lunch was held February 4, 2009. Melinda Olsen, executive director for the Thomas County Community Foundation shared with us about the benefits of philanthropy to a community. She share with us how making funds available for many organizations to serve the various needs in the community help to draw our young families back to Colby once they have finished their education. She continued to encouraged us to plan ahead and designate funds that can be a benefit to this community in years to come. TCCF is currently building permanent endowments for Thomas County so that Thomas County residents will thrive!

Booked for Lunch - December 2008

2008-12-12T10:49:00.000-08:00

This year the Pioneer Memorial Library added a special December - Booked for Lunch. We did readings on both children and adult materials. We learned how universally accepted the song of Silent Night is among the nations. The food and fellowship was also very good!

Halloween at Pioneer Memorial Library

2008-11-05T10:18:00.000-08:00

Library Patrons and Staff had loads of fun dressing up just for Halloween. Children's Librarian, Judy Kleinsorge and Melany Wilks, Library Director dresses up as Thing 1 and 2 (part of the Cat and the Hat, Dr. Seuss book). Children received candy inside a mummy. The children learned that the mummy just loved to "get all wrapped up in a good book."

Libray In Motion - Middlers Travel to Dancing Leaf: Cultural Learning Center

2008-10-20T09:44:00.000-07:00

Middler youth of Colby participated in the Library in Motion event organized by Children’s Librarian, Judy Kleinsorge of the Pioneer Memorial Library. Funds were donated to help with the cost of the trip through the Thomas County Attorney Special Law Enforcement Fund at the Thomas County Community Foundation and the Friends of the Library organization. Students arrived on Saturday morning October 11th ready for a few hours of travel and the possibility of a cold and wet day. This however did not damper their enthusiasm or spirit. Together the adult chaperons and youth traveled to Wellfleet Nebraska to visit the Dancing Leaf: Cultural Learning Center. There, we were intrigued by discovering new knowledge about the ancient existence of the Paleo Indians, prehistoric mammals and dinosaurs. Les Hosick, the owner created memorable pictures of how ancient mammals such as elephants and rhino type animals would have roamed the Southwest Nebraska and North West Kansas area 10,000 years ago. During this presentation he showed us tusks, teeth, jaw bones, and even leg parts from this time period. His story then turned to the Indians known as the Upper Republican Culture. We had the extreme pleasure to actually sit inside a replica of an earth lodge that archeological evidence shows existed from the time period 800-1300 years ago. Les Hosick made the way of life and traditions come alive for us, as we considered this ancient culture as more stable and less migratory in nature. He demonstrated the efficiency of the lodges, the matriarchal traditions of the tribes, the games and ways of hunting. We then took an hour walking tour around the hillside, creek and general area learning about medicinal plants, hunting, water being the source of life, and the gift of trees and animals to their very existence. Youth were able to make musical instruments, find out about different types of food sources, including both plant and animal. We were taken to the top of one hill where a medicine wheel was recreated to examine the cycles of life as they apply to the moon and the sun. At the end of the tour we were given a rare privilege by being taken into their private home where we literally pounded yucca leaves flat in order to make friendship bracelets. Some of our youth were expert in this, while others like my self needed remedial leaf bashing assistance! I must say–that yucca plant fibers become very strong when a natural twist is allowed to form. Even two weeks later my bracelet shows no sign of weakening. This was what the lesson was about. Friendship was to remain strong even in the midst of difficult circumstances and hardship! Once our friendship was established we ate food that might have been eaten by Native Americans: buffalo stew, raw vegetables, homemade (blue) corn muffins, and hot sliced baked apples, topped off with ice tea. If you are interested in experiencing this, take an online tour at http://www.dancingleaf.com/index.html. There you will find pictures, and information even about staying overnight in the earth lodge. I intent to go back and take others along!

October 2008 Booked for Lunch

2008-10-15T09:36:00.000-07:00

The library held it’s second “Booked for Lunch.” The author Doris Johnson discussed two books she had written, Gutsy Women and The Cookie Crumb Trail. There were 50 attendees who enjoyed explanations about why Doris chose the women she did in her book. Since Doris grew up in Brewster, many of the women in the book were from this area. We also enjoyed a few stories along the way. Next month’s (November) “Booked for Lunch” will be presented by Janice Frahm, on the book Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson.

New Sound Sytem Donated by Secrest Foundation part of Thomas County Community Foundation

2008-09-30T08:49:00.000-07:00

The PML's new sound system was used in our first Booked for Lunch September 2008. We have used it numerous time during several different events sponsored by the Pioneer Memorial Library. It has made the use of the basement area so much better. Patrons and staff have enjoyed using the system to present workshops and special events without the need for extra training.

Activities during Summer 08

2008-09-24T17:11:00.000-07:00

Bongo Barry encourages crowd to get the beat!

The Pioneer Memorial Library in Colby was a-buzz this summer as they served over 1200 people through the Summer Reading Program activities. The activities included storytime/activity sessions (five each week), four special events, the Reading Challenge Game, and the “Black-Out” party for those who completed the reading game (26 of them did!).

The highlights of the summer were the special events made possible by the generosity of area sponsors. The Bug Juice Jamboree with Thad Beach kicked off the summer at the library on June 5. Everyone settled in around the campfire at Camp Bugaboo for hilarious original participatory songs and traditional sing-alongs. This program and the books, supplies, snacks and party were funded through the support of the Friends of the Pioneer Memorial Library.

On June 19 the Butterfly Pavilion of Westminster, Colorado presented Summer Safari: Live Bugs to a crowd of 175 people. Everyone got up close and personal with live insects, spiders and other arthropods from around the world. This visit was made possible through a grant from the Midwest Energy Community Fund.

Then to start the Fourth of July weekend off with a bang, Bongo Barry of Healthy Sounds from Overland Park was on the stage in the library parking lot on the evening of July 3. Over 135 people brought lawn chairs or blankets and settled on the lawn east of the library for an interactive program entitled Buggies with a Beat. This program was supported by a generous grant from the Thomas County Attorney SLEF Fund from the Thomas County Community Foundation.

The final event was held July 17 and engaged a large crowd. The 2008 players of the Reader’s Theater presented Ladybugs and Gentlemoths: A Bug Collection. Local middle-school youth presented an amusing and entertaining collection of skits and poems.

Written by Judy Kleinsorge - Children's Librarian

Down Under

2007-06-20T09:03:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, May 5th, the library took 20 middle school students on a trip "Down Under." On this Library in Motion trip we visited the Underground Tunnels in Ellinwood, KS, the Kansas Underground Museum and Salt Mines in Hutchinson, KS and rounded things out with a bouncing good time at Pump It Up! in Wichita!

Judy Kleinsorge summed up the trip well in saying that, "The 'Down Under' trip will be hard to top. The tour of the Kansas Underground Salt Museum was truly a unique experience, especially since it had just opened to the public. The students really had no idea what to expect except that it would be a little like a cave. As we were touring on the tram, I was thrilled to hear them saying, over and over, 'This is SO awesome!' I think the stop at the pile of salt rocks to load up sacks was the highlight of the tour. Kids and rocks, it couldn't get any better than that."

We had a great trip and would especially like to thank our sponsors who made this trip possible including: the Colby Law Enforcement w/ the Thomas County Community Foundation, Friends of Pioneer Memorial Library, and Pioneer Memorial Library Foundation, Inc.

The Magic Show!

2007-06-19T08:55:00.001-07:00

Mr. Alphbetrix was here on Thursday, May 31 to help us kick off our summer program of Get a Clue! We had more than 140 people watch Mr. Alphabetrix do the unthinkable.

His bag of tricks was a great sign of things to come at the library! We have a lot more of great things to "pull out of the hat" so don't forget to check-out all the things to do at the library this summer!

National Library Week - 2007

2007-05-07T09:28:00.000-07:00

Thanks for all those who came and supported libraries across the nation during National Library Week, April 15-21. Here at Pioneer Memorial Library we had 5 different reviewers present a book during each day of the week. They were:

Jim Oliver – Lucille and the XXX Road by Jim Oliver

John Van Nostrand – Great Plains by Ian Frazier

Skip Sharp – An Unfinished Life: John F. Kennedy, 1917 - 1963

Ralph Fischer – The Man Who Ate the 747 by Ben Smallwood

Carol Rahn – Infidel by Ayaan Hirsi Ali

Thanks to all the reviewers for your time and effort. You made for a great week!

Carol Rahn - our Friday reviewer

Great food!

and most importantly...great crowds!

2007 Murder Mystery

2007-03-12T14:14:00.000-07:00

The Friends of Pioneer Memorial Library hosted another sold out performance for 2007! Thanks to all of our Murder Mystery actors who played up their parts with pizzaz. The list of actors were:

Mike Larmer - Mason Rumpole
Josh Jennings - Rocky Stallion
Brette Pfeifer - Madonna Bux
Mike Karnes - Lt. Clueseau
Molly Oliver - Nurse Hatchet
Ron Redick - Porky Prudhomme
Terry Stover - Indy Kowalski
Tom Harbaugh - Guy Happy
Jim Myers - Heathcliffe Bux
Kristy Karnes - Jane Bronte
Joyce Mahin - Librarian

Director - Amanda Wahlmeier

Porky Prudhomme hams it up...

Guy Happy

Nurse Hatchet "mingling" with the crowd

Rocky Stallion was a temporary trillionaire
Madonna Bux is in denial...

Thanks to all who came and to our sponsors Colby Convention Center, Colby Bowl and Fun Center, Colby Dental Hygiene Students, Someplace Special and Amanda Wahlmeier for doing a superb job in directing the mystery. It was a murderously good performance!

Library in Motion

2006-10-17T15:17:00.000-07:00

Once again, a group of the middle school students drug two librarians on another trip. This time they "rock n' rolled" across Kansas and stopped to have a few adventures along the way. The first stop was Rock City just outside of Minneapolis. Next on the list of stops was Mushroom Rock (pictured above top) near Brookville. Once that stop was explored, it was on to lunch at Made from Scratch in Wilson. One of the last stops was the Garden of Eden (pictured above bottom) in Lucas. And finally, on to Pete Felton's gallery and miniature golf in Hays. Thanks go out to the Thomas County Sheriff Law Enforcement Fund and the Friends of Pioneer Memorial Library for helping make this trip possible.

Creature Feature 2006

2006-07-14T13:05:00.000-07:00

Jack & Thea Haugen with the Sternberg Museum brought some slithery snakes (and a few other notable reptiles) to the library on July 6 to celebrate the theme of Paws, Claws, Scales and Tales. It turned out to be a crazy day when nearly 150 people showed up to see the show! Things got downright hyssssterical when the snakes were taken out of their cages one by one to be viewed by the audience. After the show, everyone that was daring enough got to touch one of the snakes. That included the biggest snake in attendance….an oversized bull snake named “Papa.” Thanks Sternberg Museum, it was a riveting array of reptiles!

Capone

2006-07-14T12:56:00.000-07:00

We had a “doggone” good time at Hot dogs with the Top Dog. Jeff Friesen, the Director - officially dubbed the Top Dog - cooked up some hot dogs while our local police K-9 named Capone stole the show. Here he is showing what he is capable of to Ron Alexander, Colby police officer. Capone put on an impressive performance. Everybody in the crowd learned at least one thing. It is best to obey the law if you don’t want to tangle with Capone!

Pinkerton

2006-07-14T12:44:00.000-07:00

Thank you Mr. Kellogg for sending Pinkerton to Pioneer Memorial Library to kick-off the summer programs. He has been very obedient and we were all very thankful to see he is potty trained! We were sorry to see him go though, the kids loved him!

Summer Program Kick-off

2006-07-14T12:40:00.000-07:00

Judy Kleinsorge is our wacky, but extremely fun and creative, children’s librarian. Here she is acting almost normal as she prepares for the summer program theme of Paws, Claws, Scales and Tales. If the kids have half as much fun as Judy does its going to be a great summer!

Paws, Claws, Scales and Tales

2006-04-26T13:46:00.000-07:00

Don't be a Hermit this summer!

Get out and take part in the library's Summer Reading Program.

This year's theme is "Paws, Claws, Scales and Tales"; so books and activities will focus on animals, especially pets. We are planning a couple of special events in July and we are looking forward to a very special visit from a very special character at the end of May!! Fliers will be distributed at the library and schools after the 1st of May and you can keep checking back here for more information. Summer Reading is for kids of all ages - - so plan on joining us!

An Amazing Journey

2006-04-26T12:28:00.000-07:00

Twelve middle school students drug two library staff members to Kearney, NE on Saturday, April 8, 2006 for an "Amazing Journey". The first stop was at Cabela's to view the exhibit of mounted wildlife, then a great lunch at Skeeter Barnes. The group spent the afternoon at the Great Platte River Road Archway Monument where they toured the exhibit, attended an oral history presentation, and navigated the "TrailBlaze Maze". If you ever want to get from point A to Point B in the quickest way possible, Kalyn is your gal!! Of course, expended energy meant increased appetites, so the group headed off to Eileen's Colossal Cookies for yummy frosted cookie treats. Thanks so much to the Thomas County Sheriff's Department for their generous donation to this drug-free activity.

2006 Murder Mystery

2006-03-17T09:23:00.001-08:00

Friends of Pioneer Memorial Library hosted the second annual Murder Mystery. Evidently everyone was "dying" to go because it sold out for the second straight year! A great cast of characters took part in the play including:

Jim Oliver as Dr. Bill
Patrick Toth as Inspector Ace Gumshoe
Jada Tubbs as Duchess Ellington
Michael Karnes as Earl "Fatha" Hiney
Michael Hawkins as Jellyroll Goodman
Wanda Spresser as Opera Windbag
Pat Tubbs as Maybelline Lipgloss
Corey Sorenson as Gopher Clueless
Relda Galli as Clarinetta Fitzgerald
Linda Ladenberger as Lena Savoy

Thanks to our sponsors including: Someplace Special, Colby Bowl, Ashley Wright, Bickner Electric, CCC Dental Hygiene Students, Convention Center, and Dana Unruh Catering Service.

Jellyroll Goodman

Thanks for coming!

Duchess Ellington

Gopher Clueless

Family Night

2006-02-21T07:54:00.000-08:00

Every Tuesday night @ 7:00pm join Judy Kleinsorge and Pioneer Memorial Library for Family Night. Something new and different is available each week. If you join us this week plan on a pirate theme. Shivers me timbers!!

Karissa Singer makes her Pirate hat.

Arrrgh....Matey! These seaworthy chaps wouldn't burn you out and loot you would they???

Thanks to Midwest Energy

2006-01-05T09:01:00.000-08:00

The library was the recipient of a Midwest Energy Community Fund Grant. This grant provided funds toward copies of children's books that needed to be replaced due to age or poor repair. We were able to purchase 52 copies which include books by some of our favorite authors like Dr. Suess, Russell Hoban, Stan & Jan Berenstain, Don Freeman, Virginia Burton and Ezra Keats. We feel very fortunate to be able to offer new issues of old favorites to our patrons.

Chocolate and all that jazz....

2005-11-21T13:13:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Bruce Dawson and the Fort Hays State Jazz Band for making a trip to Colby to give us an outstanding evening of jazz. The tunes were as smooth as the chocolate that flowed through the chocolate fountains. Thanks to the Pioneer Memorial Library Friends of the Library for making it all happen.

National Children's Book Week

2005-11-21T13:03:00.000-08:00

Pioneer Memorial Library, Colby Rotary Club, and the Colby Resource & Referral teamed up this year to celebrate National Children's Book Week. The goal set by libraries across Kansas was to read to all children ages 0-5. To do this, we attempted to read in as many daycare centers as possible during the week of November 14-20, 2005. The honorary book that was chosen this year by the State Library of Kansas and donated to all of the daycares in Thomas County and Northwest Kansas was No Matter What by Deb Gliori. Above is a picture of Debbie Tittel, Asst. Director at Pioneer Memorial Library reading to some preschoolers.

Halloween at PML

2005-11-03T07:12:00.000-08:00

The Puddle Duck Preschoolers showed up at Halloween this year but luckily we were prepared. The library decided to treat rather than trick and a few more people left as satisfied customers. Happy Halloween!

Debbie (red shirt) and Glovine (flowered shirt) making sure everybody gets candy.

Willie Nelson sang, "Mama, don't let your boys grow up to be..."(j/k)

Ewww...Grossology

2005-11-03T06:47:00.000-08:00

Pioneer Memorial Library took 20 middle school students to Denver on Saturday, October 22 to see the Ewww....Grossology exhibit at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, the Hammond Candy Factory, and finally the Corn Maze at the Denver Botanic Gardens. We left Colby at 7AM and didn't get home until 11:30pm! It was a long day but we had a good time learning about flatulence, candy, and getting lost (the corn maze). Thank you to the Friends of the Pioneer Memorial Library and Colby Law Enforcement for sponsoring such a great day!

The future of the Hammond Candy Factory?

Fearless leader (and children's librarian) Judy Kleinsorge appears to have lost her way.

How's them noodles Christina?

David and William posing as boogers!

Trivia Night

2005-10-14T09:06:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a night! 6 teams battled it out for bragging rights and a steamy cup of Starbucks coffee. Thanks for sponsoring trivia night Starbucks!

After 10 rounds of 10 questions (for a total of 100 questions) everyone went home mentally exhausted. The Colby High School Scholar's Bowl team came in third by answering 57 questions correctly.

The Library Board & Co. came in a strong second by answering 65 answers correctly.

And the winners were...the Colby Rotary Club. Congratulations, enjoy that Vienti cup of Starbucks coffee!

Congratulations everyone on a job well done and thanks for participating!

As I Remember It

2005-10-05T13:23:00.000-07:00

For the October Booked for Lunch Ray Imhof and Doris Johnson came and reviewed the book As I Remember It. The book is a collection of memories from Esther, the mother of Ray and Doris. Esther spent all but the first 6 years of her life in Northwest Kansas. For more information on this book go to http://www.trafford.com and do a "quick search" for As I Remember It.

Fear Factor

2005-09-20T16:49:00.000-07:00

The first 3rd 2 (3rd Tuesday of each month) in September for middle schoolers was interesting! 12 middle schoolers willingly endured six rounds of gut-wrenching food products. Not many people find Oreos and Bubble Gum to be a particularly good combination. Worse yet, try eating Jello through knee-high pantyhose stretched over your head. After the smoke cleared and all 6 rounds were completed, only two had a perfect record! The face-off was a blind-folded attempt to five 25 cents worth of change in a bowl of jello. Nick Larmer faced off with Alex Diercks in the finale and Nick was declared the winner. (but only by a nickel) Check out these pics!

And the winners are....

Governor visit

2005-07-21T08:25:00.000-07:00

Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius made it to the Pioneer Memorial Library on Tuesday, July 5! It's not very often that the Governor makes it to the library so we made the most of it. The Governor read and then later donated the book No Matter What by Deb Gliori.

National Library Week

2005-04-13T08:46:00.000-07:00

We are hosting book reviews everyday of the week to celebrate National Library Week. This includes authors and locals that are willing to share their knowledge about some great books. We kicked off the week by having a 102 year old man review his book My First 100 Years! Needless to say he had a lot of information to cram into 30 minutes. Man has he seen some changes.