Suggested Viewing: Monday & Tuesday, December 25 & 26

Linda Reimer

Hi everyone, as the library is closed on Monday and Tuesday in observance of the Christmas holiday, and in lieu of recommending books to read, I’m going to do something different and recommend some videos you can stream for free from the Digital Catalog — they’re perfect for watching on your new mobile device –  no app required!

Just click on the photo of the video you’re interested in, you’ll be prompted to enter your library card number and PIN (by default the last four digits of your phone number) and, if the title is available you’ll be able to instantly watch the video! If the video is checked out you’ll be able to place a hold on it).

(Note: Click on the photo of the video you’re interested in to request it or check it out)

And if you’d like to stream some additional  titles – here’s a link to the Streaming Video section of the Digital Catalog:

 

Here are our suggested titles including some holiday favorites and some just plain fun to watch movies.

First the holiday titles:

BIG Adventure, The BIG Christmas Tree:

  

A Holiday Special!

Watch as the perfect Christmas tree is found by helicopter for the world-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration! See how the giant tree is transported to New York City and decorated with over 26,000 lights!

Learn the story of the Christmas Tree and how it came to be a holiday tradition! Meet a man with 14 Christmas Trees and over 20,000 ornaments! Even visit a Christmas tree farm!

Discover the magic and lights of the holidays in this Little Mammoth Holiday Special for kids 3 to 100!

Casper’s First Christmas (1979):

 

 Yogi Bear, Boo Boo, Huckleberry Hound and more Hanna-Barbera characters get lost and decide to spend Christmas by vising Casper, the friendly ghost. But soon they encounter a not-so-friendly ghost.

Christmas Trade (2015):

Just days before Christmas, an LA real-estate lawyer (William Baldwin)and his eleven-year-old son magically swap bodies. As they walk in each other’s shoes, from a cutthroat law firm and the frightening days of sixth grade, the father and son rediscover what it means to be family

A Doggone Christmas (2016): 

It’s a canine caper when Murphy (Just Jessie the Jack), a charming pup with telepathic abilities, escapes a government scientist (Dominique Swain, Face/Off) and runs straight into the loving arms o two young brothers (Walker Mintz, Nessie & Me; and Jayden Hedden, Betrayed). But the Washington brass won’t give up their secret weapon so easily, and with a no-nonsense special forces agent hot on Murphy’s trail (Lauren Parkinson, Avengers Grimm), the boys and their school buddies must hide the pint-sized Jack Russell Terrier from helicopters and drones–and their mom and dad (Amy Holt, I Am Singh, and Rib Hillis, General Hospital), who’ve forbidden them to have a pet! Can this unexpected team of heroes, armed with only their wits, their bikes, and a strong bond with Murphy, channel the real spirit of Christmas to save the day?

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Live (2012):

 

Mannheim Steamroller’s music is incredibly moving by itself, but add an enthusiastic live performance by some very animated musicians and an intense multimedia presentation and the result is even more powerful. This 56-minute Christmas concert features many favorite numbers from the album Christmas in the Aire, but “Joy to the World” perhaps best epitomizes that distinctive Mannheim Steamroller sound: powerful synthesized melodies and harmonies, an intense drive and pathos, and skillful ornamentation. The accompanying fireworks on a huge, over-stage screen add a striking visual dimension to the song. Several Renaissance-inspired numbers like “In dulci Jubilo” and “Wassail, Wassail” showcase unusual Renaissance instruments and are paired with a rich, on-screen portrayal of a Renaissance feast. The instrumental, theatrical, and multimedia performances are beautifully, effectively done. The album ends, as Mannheim Steamroller tradition dictates, with “Going to Another Place,” an all-time fan favorite. 

Santa Claus Conquers the Martians (1964):

A film this bad has never looked so good! Horizon Movies proudly presents a fully restored edition (from HD elements) of the notorious holiday classic. The Martians are irked that their children spend so much time watching TV shows from Earth that sing the praises of Santa Claus, so they decide to make a trek to the planet to capture Mr. Claus. During their mission, they also abduct two children who lead the aliens to the North Pole and Santa. The Martians take all three earthlings back to Mars, where, with the help of a native, they manage to spread Christmas cheer throughout the red planet. SCCTM took on newfound fame in the 1990’s after being featured on Mystery Science Theater 3000 and became a holiday staple on Comedy Central in the years following its 1991 premiere, becoming one of the series’ most popular episodes.

And on to the just plain fun to watch movies!

Brave Girl (2014) (Genre: Kids Videos):

 

When Clara arrived in America, she couldn’t speak English. She didn’t know that young women had to go to work, that they traded an education for long hours of labor, that she was expected to grow up fast. But that didn’t stop Clara. She went to night school, spent hours studying English, and helped support her family by sewing in a shirtwaist factory. Clara never quit, and she never accepted that girls should be treated poorly and paid little. Fed up with the mistreatment of her fellow laborers, Clara led the largest walkout of women workers the country had seen. From her short time in America, Clara learned that everyone deserved a fair chance. That you had to stand together and fight for what you wanted. And, most importantly, that you could do anything you put your mind to. Animated.

Dark Shadows, Volume 1: (Genre: Fantasy):

In late 1960s Maine, handyman Willie Loomis releases vampire Barnabas Collins from his coffin.

Barnabas then goes to the Collin’s Family estate, Collinwood, claiming to be a relative from England. Although noticing Barnabas’ resemblance to his “ancestor” in the foyer portrait, the Collins family does not realize he is the same Barnabas who lived at Collinswood in the 18th Century. As Barnabas moves into the Old House on the property, those around him are unaware of the horrors that will soon follow.

 If you find you like Dark Shadows – there are other episodes of the series in the Digital Catalog so you can find out what happened to Barnabas and company!

Jack Frost (Genre: Kids Videos, Nostalgic Videos):

A 1979 Rankin-Bass, stop-motion animated program similar to Santa Claus is Coming to Town, Jack Frost is a classic winter tale of good and evil, hope and despair, and love and sacrifice that will captivate viewers 5 and older. Narrated by Pardon-me-Pete Groundhog (Buddy Hackett) and framed as an exploration of the tradition of Groundhog Day, the music-filled Jack Frost is actually the story of young sprite Jack Frost who, under Father Winter’s leadership, is responsible for bringing winter weather to the world. Felt, but never seen, a lonely Jack begs to become human when he falls in love with January Junction resident Elisa. Father Winter grudgingly grants Jack Frost a winter of humanity, warning that in order to remain human forever, he must acquire the four essentials of a home, horse, bag of gold, and wife by springtime. Finding these essentials requires that Jack Frost overthrow the evil King of the Cossacks Kubla Kraus, a mission that is difficult and dangerous. Even with the help of fellow sprites Snip the snowflake maker and Holly the snowflake gypsy, Jack must make a very significant personal sacrifice in order to remove Kubla Kraus from power and ensure the continued well-being of Elisa and January Junction. Tami Horiuchi, Amazon Review.

The King’s Speech (Genre: Historical, Drama):

After the death of his father King George V (Michael Gambon) and the scandalous abdication of King Edward VIII (Guy Pearce), Bertie (Colin Firth) who has suffered from a debilitating speech impediment all his life, is suddenly crowned King George VI of England. With his country on the brink of war and in desperate need of a leader, his wife, Elizabeth (Helena Bonham Carter), the future Queen Mother, arranges for her husband to see an eccentric speech therapist, Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush). After a rough start, the two delve into an unorthodox course of treatment and eventually form an unbreakable bond. With the support of Logue, his family, his government and Winston Churchill (Timothy Spall), the King will overcome his stammer and deliver a radio-address that inspires his people and unites them in battle. Based on the true story of King George VI, “The King’s Speech” follows the Royal Monarch’s quest to find his voice.

Lucky Texan (1934) (Genre: Western):

 

Gold miners Wayne and Hayes strike it rich. Before they can cash in their claim, John is falsely accused of the robbery and murder of Gabby. However, Gabby shows up at the trial in disguise in order to spring an trap on the real bad guys. Yakima Canutt was the stunt double for for virtually all the actors in the cast. Good fun for Wayne fans.

The Magnificent Seven (1960) (Genre: Western):

Spectacular gun battles, epic-sized heroes and an all-star cast that includes Academy Award winners Yul Brynner and James Coburn, together with Steve McQueen, Eli Wallach and Charles Bronson, make The Magnificent Seven a legend among westerns.

The Seven Samurai is “a hard-pounding adventure” (Newsweek) and “an enduringly popular” (Leonard Maltin) cinematic classic. Merciless Calvera (Wallach) and his band of ruthless outlaws are terrorizing a poor Mexican village, and even the bravest lawmen can’t stop them. Desperate, the locals hire Chris Adams (Brynner) and six other gunfighters to defend them. With time running out before Calvera’s next raid, the heroic seven must prepare the villagers for battle and help them find the courage to take back their town or die trying!

Planet of the Apes (1968): (Genre: Fantasy):

A bewildered astronaut (Charlton Heston) crash-lands on a strange planet ruled by apes who use a primitive race of humans for experimentation and sport. Starring Charlton Heston and Roddy McDowell.

The Philadelphia Experiment (1984):

The origins of this story are not science-fiction – they are science-fact. In 1943 the U.S. Office of Naval Research conducted a series of tests at the Philadelphia Naval Yard to develop a sophisticated camouflage system to make ships invisible to radar. During the final test aboard the destroyer the Battleship Eldridge, something went wrong – very wrong. This film explores beyond reality to ask the question “what if…” Two young seamen get caught in a violent tornado-like vortex and fall through a time warp to a different era – 1984. Desperately they struggle to find a way back to their own time, but their efforts become all the more vital as the rift in time threatens to suck present-day earth back to the past. Michael Pare (Streets of Fire, Eddie and the Cruisers) and Nancy Allen (Carrie, Dressed to Kill) star in this psychological sci-fi hit.

The Quiet American (1958):

A love triangle brews amidst a growing political tempest in this “brilliantly intellectual” (Los Angeles Times) film in which nothing is quite as it seems. Adapted from the acclaimed novel by Graham Greene, Academy Award-winning writer-director Joseph L. Mankiewicz’s screenplay “delivers dialogue that not only sparkles but bites deep with the irony of truth” (Citizen-News). In 1952, Saigon is caught between the corrupt colonial powers and the Communist uprising. An idealistic young American (Audie Murphy) champions a shadowy Third Force, but cynical British journalist Thomas Fowler (Michael Redgrave) is concerned only with the American’s interest in his mistress. When jealousy forces Fowler to take sides at last, the personal and political consequences are devastating.

Red Balloon (1956) (Genre: Children’s Videos, Nostalgic Videos):

Winner of the Best Original Screenplay Oscar 1956

Winner of the Palme d’Or 1956 Cannes Film Festival (short film)

A Boy makes friends with a seemingly sentient balloon, and it begins to follow him. It follows the boy to school, to the bus, and to church. Boy and balloon play together in the streets of Paris and try to elude a gang of boys that wants to destroy the balloon. Winner of the Best Original Screenplay Oscar, and there is almost no dialog spoken in the film.

Stolen (2012):

STOLEN follows Will Montgomery (Nicolas Cage), a master thief who has been sent to prison for eight years after being double-crossed in a heist gone awry.  Upon his release, he s ready to leave his criminal past behind and rebuild his relationship with estranged daughter, Alison Loeb (Sami Gayle). Montgomery’s former criminal cohorts and FBI agent Tim Harlend (Danny Huston), are all convinced that the $10 Million dollars was hidden away by Montgomery before he was sentenced. In order to get his hands on it, former partner in crime, Vincent (Josh Lucas), kidnaps Alison and demands the missing loot as ransom; giving Montgomery one day to deliver. Montgomery is left with only one choice: To trust his instincts and join forces again with another old partner in crime, the beautiful, sexy and smart Riley Jeffers (Malin Akerman).  Together they must pull off one more heist so he can get his daughter back… before it’s too late.

Tidal Wave (2009):

A deep-sea earthquake occurs creating a tidal wave that is headed straight for Haeundae, a popular vacation spot on the south coast of Korea, which draws visitors from all over the world. During its peak season, more than a million vacationers pack onto its narrow one-mile strip of sand. While tracking offshore seismic activity, Professor Kim (Kyung-gu Sol), a marine geologist, recognizes the impending danger of a mega tsunami. He desperately attempts to warn authorities and alert the unknowing vacationers of the 500 MPH destructive force of nature headed their direction.

 Tomorrow we’ll resume our regular daily suggested reading recommendations!

You can request physical items, i.e. print books, DVDs & CDs, online via StarCat:

or by calling the library at: 607-936-3713 x 502.

Have a great day!

Linda, SSCL

Online Catalog Links:

StarCat

The catalog of physical materials, i.e. print books, DVDs, audiobooks on CD etc.

The Digital Catalog (OverDrive)

The catalog of e-books, downloadable audiobooks and a handful of streaming videos.

Freegal Music Service

This music service is free to library card holders and offers the option to download, and keep, three free songs per week and to stream three hours of commercial free music each day:

RBDigital

Digital magazines on demand and for free! Back issues are available and you can even choose to be notified by email when the new issue of your favorite magazine is available.

About Library Apps:

You can access digital library content on PCs, Macs and mobile devices. For mobile devices simply download the OverDrive, Freegal or Zinio app from your app store to get started. If you have questions call the library at: 607-936-3713 and one of our Digital Literacy Specialists will be happy to assist you.

Tech Talk is a Southeast Steuben County Library blog.

Non-Fiction DVD Recommendations 12 23 2017

Linda Reimer

Here are our two recommended non-fiction DVDs for this week!

(Click on the photos to request the DVDs)

The Everyday Gourmet: Rediscovering the Lost Art of Cooking (The Great Courses):

Description: Rediscovering the Lost Art of Cooking is a course of 24 highly visual and instructional lessons in which you’ll get a first-hand education in the essentials of cooking from an expert who’s not just entertaining, but trained to teach how to actually cook. Chef Briwa has devoted his entire career to showing audiences around the world the craft behind cooking, gastronomy, and flavor dynamics. A former chef at several California restaurants, he’s also spoken, presented, and judged at professional cooking conferences and competitions, including the International Association of Culinary Professionals Conference and the National Restaurant Association Show. Learn the culinary secrets of CIA-trained chefs. Explore in depth each of the major cooking techniques any chef must know. Learn how to work with unique tastes and ingredients to expand your palate. Rediscover the joy of cooking and eating. 24 – 30 minute lectures

Dewey Decimal Number: DVD 641.5 EVE

The World’s Greatest Geological Wonders: 36 Spectacular Sites (The Great Courses): 

Description: Geological wonders are like great works of art. They are impressive, beautiful, mysterious, and surprising. Whether you are planning your next vacation or exploring the world from home, this course is your gateway to an unrivaled adventure. By the time you complete this course, you will have experienced more than 200 different geological wonders in nearly 120 countries.

Dewey Decimal Number: DVD 550 WOR

Note: Just an FYI for browsers, we now have a solid selection of Great Courses DVDs thus they are now housed in their own separate section. Ask the staff for details!

Have a great weekend!

Linda, SSCL

Suggested Listening December 22, 2017

Linda Reimer

Hi everyone, for your listening pleasure, here are our six suggested albums for the week; a baker’s five streaming albums and one album on CD.

(Click on the photo of the album you’d like to hear or request)

Freegal Streaming Suggestions*

The Essential “Weird Al” Yankovic (Genre: Comedy, Spoken)

Weird Al Yankovic was born in California in 1959, was a huge fan of radio personality Dr. Demento and, in the 1980s, launched a very successful career of playing paradoies of pop culture songs and complimentary parody videos which got great play on MTV>

His hits, and their inspiration song, include: Another One Rides the Bus (Another One Bites the Dust – Queen), Ricky (Mikey – Toni Basil), Eat It (Beat It – Michael Jackson), King of Suede (King of Pain – Police), I Lost On Jeopardy (Jeopardy – Greg Kihn Band) and Smells Like Nirvana (Smells Like Teen Spirit – Nirvana)

Little Queen by Heart (Genre: Rock, Classic Rock):

Little Queen (1977) is the follow up album to the wildly popular 1976 album Dreamboat Annie, and features sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson at the height of their musical powers. They play with gusto on the LP and also co-wrote all the songs on the LP.

This is album full of great music including the songs: Barracuda, Kick It Out, Little Queen, the Love Alive and Cry To Me.

Open Book Winter Album by Justin Furstenfeld (Genre: Rock, Acoustic):

Singer-songwriter Justin Furstenfeld is best known as the leader of the Texas band Blue October and I’ll admit I’d never heard of him before doing the research for this posting – there is something of a Cat Steven sound to his voice and this album features 19 sparse, acoustic and emotional songs including: Italian Radio, Amnesia, Ugly Side, Into the Ocean, We Know Where You Go and Home.

Black Jack by Dale Watson (2017) (Genre: Country, Rock):

Blackjack is hard country rocker Dale Watson’s new LP.

The album, Watson’s 26 release, features 21 songs including: One Memory at a Time, Truck Stop in La Grange, Louie’s Lee’s Liquor Lounge, Honky Tonkers Don’t Cry and Don’t Let the Screen Door Hit Ya.

We Got A Good Thing Going by Hank Crawford (1972) (Genre: Jazz, Easy Listening)

Hank Crawford was a talented blues and jazz saxophonists who first stepped in the national lime light as a member of Ray Charles’s band.

He released many solo albums from 1960 to 2007, and this one, released in 1972, was one of his best. This is a great album to relax and unwind to or to have playing in the background during dinner.

Songs on the album include: We’ve Got a Good Thing Going, The Christmas Song, Alone Again (Naturally), I’m Just a Lucky so and So, Winter Wonderland, Dirt Dobbler and Betcha By Golly Wow.

Songs of Joy & Peace by Yo-Yo Ma & Friends (2008) (Genre: Classical):

Cellist sensation Yo Yo Ma’s holiday album features a host of guest players including: Diana Krall, Dave Brubeck, Matt Brubeck (Dave’s son), Paquito d’Rivera, Natalie MacMaster, Mark O’Connor and more.

Songs on the LP include: You Couldn’t Be Cuter, The Wassail Song/All Through the Night, A Christmas Jig, The Wexford Carol, Improvisation on “Dona nobis pacem,” My Favorite Things, This Little Light of Mine and Happy Christmas (War Is Over).

CD of the Week:

Stereotypes by Black Violin (2015) (Genre: Classic, Rap, R&B):

Black Violin is a duo consisting of violinist Kevin Sylvester (“Kev Marcus) and violist Wilner Baptiste (“Will B”).

Stereotypes is their second LP and features a cool blend of musical styles — if you like classical music and modern pop you should check it out.

Songs on the LP include: Stereotypes, Invisible, Another Chance, Addiction, Send Me A Sign, Walk On By and Magic.

Videos of the Week:

Weird Al Yankovic – Smells Like Nirvana

Kick It Out by Heart

I Want It by Justin Furstenfeld 

A Long Truckin’ Day by Dale Watkins

We’ve Got A Good Thing Going by Hank Crawford:

Dona Nobis Pacem by  Yo Yo Ma

Artist Biography & Discography Information:

The AllMusic Website:

http://www.allmusic.com/

The Billboard Book of Top 40 Hits by Joel Whitburn (Billboard Books. New York. 2009.)

P.S. If you have any questions about how to download or stream free music through the Freegal Music service to a desktop or laptop computer or how to download and use the Freegal Music app let us know! Drop by the library or give us a call at: 607-936-3713.

*You must have a library card at a Southern Tier Library System member library to enjoy the Freegal Music Service. Your card can be from any library in the system, and the system includes all public libraries in Steuben, Chemung, Yates, Schuyler and Allegheny Counties and includes our own Southeast Steuben Count Library in Corning, New York!

Library cards are free if you live in our service area. And you can obtain a card by visiting the Circulation Desk and presenting staff with a form of ID that features your name and your current address. 

 

Daily Digital & Print Suggested Reads: Friday, December 22, 2017

Linda Reimer

Hi everyone, here are our recommended titles for today.

(Note: Click on the photo of the item you’re interested in to request it or check it out)

Our digital suggestion for today is the ebook:

The Starlit Wood edited by Dominik Parisien and Navah Wolfe:

Once upon a time. It’s how so many of our most beloved stories start.

Fairy tales have dominated our cultural imagination for centuries. From the Brothers Grimm to the Countess d’Aulnoy, from Charles Perrault to Hans Christian Anderson, storytellers have crafted all sorts of tales that have always found a place in our hearts.

Now a new generation of storytellers has taken up the mantle that the masters created and shaped their stories into something startling and electrifying.

Packed with award-winning authors, this “fresh, diverse” (Library Journal) anthology explores an array of fairy tales in startling and innovative ways, in genres and settings both traditional and unusual, including science fiction, western, and post-apocalyptic as well as traditional fantasy and contemporary horror.

From the woods to the stars, The Starlit Wood: New Fairy Tales takes readers on a journey at once unexpected and familiar, as a diverse group of writers explore some of our most beloved tales in new ways across genres and styles.

Contains stories by: Charlie Jane Anders, Aliette de Bodard, Amal El-mohtar, Jeffrey Ford, Max Gladstone, Theodora Goss, Daryl Gregory, Kat Howard, Stephen Graham Jones, Margo Lanagan, Marjorie Liu, Seanan McGuire, Garth Nix, Naomi Novik, Sofia Samatar, Karin Tidbeck, Catherynne M. Valente, and Genevieve Valentine.

And our print suggestion for today is:

The Amber Shadows: A Novel by Lucy Ribchester:

During the dangerous days of World War II, Honey Deschamps is spending her days transcribing decrypted messages at Bletchley Park, when she starts to receive bizarrely coded packages. When everyone is keeping secrets, who can you trust?

Bletchley Park, 1942: As World War II rages on, Honey Deschamps sits at her type-x machine, tediously transcribing decrypted signals from the German Army, doing her part to assist the British war effort. Halfway across the world, Hitler’s armies are marching into Leningrad, leaving a trail of destruction and pillaging the country’s most treasured artworks, including the famous Amber Room―the eighth wonder of the world.

As reports begin filtering into Bletchley Park about the stolen loot, Honey receives a mysterious package, hand-delivered from a man that she has never seen before who claims that he works at the Park as well. The package is postmarked from Russia, and inside is a small piece of amber. It is just the first of several such packages, and when she examines them together she realizes that someone, relying on her abilities to unravel codes, is trying to tell her something.

Honey can’t help but fear that the packages are a trap set by the authorities to test her loyalties―surely nothing so valuable could get through the mail during a time of war. And yet, something about the packages reminds her of stories that her brother used to tell her about her absent father, and when her brother is found brutally murdered on his way to visit Honey, she can’t help but assume that the events are connected. But at Bletchley Park, secrecy reigns supreme, and she has nowhere to turn for help….

As a holiday FYI the library is open our regular hours on Saturday, December 23: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The library will be closed on Monday, December 25 and Tuesday, December 26 in observance of the Christmas holiday.

We’ll see you on Wednesday, December 27!

Linda, SSCL

You can request physical items, i.e. print books, DVDs & CDs, online via StarCat:

or by calling the library at: 607-936-3713 x 502.

Have a great day!

Linda, SSCL

Online Catalog Links:

StarCat

The catalog of physical materials, i.e. print books, DVDs, audiobooks on CD etc.

The Digital Catalog (OverDrive)

The catalog of e-books, downloadable audiobooks and a handful of streaming videos.

Freegal Music Service

This music service is free to library card holders and offers the option to download, and keep, three free songs per week and to stream three hours of commercial free music each day:

RBDigital

Digital magazines on demand and for free! Back issues are available and you can even choose to be notified by email when the new issue of your favorite magazine is available.

About Library Apps:

You can access digital library content on PCs, Macs and mobile devices. For mobile devices simply download the OverDrive, Freegal or Zinio app from your app store to get started. If you have questions call the library at: 607-936-3713 and one of our Digital Literacy Specialists will be happy to assist you.

Tech Talk is a Southeast Steuben County Library blog.

Daily Digital & Print Suggested Reads: Thursday, December 21, 2017

Linda Reimer

Hi everyone, here are our recommended titles for today.

(Note: Click on the photo of the item you’re interested in to request it or check it out)

Our digital suggestion for today is the ebook:

The Book of Swords edited by Gardner Dozois:

New epic fantasy in the grand tradition—including a never-before-published Song of Ice and Fire story by George R. R. Martin!

Fantasy fiction has produced some of the most unforgettable heroes ever conjured onto the page: Robert E. Howard’s Conan the Barbarian, Michael Moorcock’s Elric of Melniboné, Fritz Leiber’s Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser. Classic characters like these made sword and sorcery a storytelling sensation, a cornerstone of fantasy fiction—and an inspiration for a new generation of writers, spinning their own outsize tales of magic and swashbuckling adventure.
Now, in The Book of Swords, acclaimed editor and bestselling author Gardner Dozois presents an all-new anthology of original epic tales by a stellar cast of award-winning modern masters—many of them set in their authors’ best-loved worlds. Join today’s finest tellers of fantastic tales, including George R. R. Martin, K. J. Parker, Robin Hobb, Scott Lynch, Ken Liu, C. J. Cherryh, Daniel Abraham, Lavie Tidhar, Ellen Kushner, and more on action-packed journeys into the outer realms of dark enchantment and intrepid derring-do, featuring a stunning assortment of fearless swordsmen and warrior women who face down danger and death at every turn with courage, cunning, and cold steel.

FEATURING SIXTEEN ALL-NEW STORIES:
“The Best Man Wins” by K. J. Parker
“Her Father’s Sword” by Robin Hobb
“The Hidden Girl” by Ken Liu
“The Sword of Destiny” by Matthew Hughes
“‘I Am a Handsome Man,’ Said Apollo Crow” by Kate Elliott
“The Triumph of Virtue” by Walter Jon Williams
“The Mocking Tower” by Daniel Abraham
“Hrunting” by C. J. Cherryh
“A Long, Cold Trail” by Garth Nix
“When I Was a Highwayman” by Ellen Kushner
“The Smoke of Gold Is Glory” by Scott Lynch
“The Colgrid Conundrum” by Rich Larson
“The King’s Evil” by Elizabeth Bear
“Waterfalling” by Lavie Tidhar
“The Sword Tyraste” by Cecelia Holland
“The Sons of the Dragon” by George R. R. Martin

And an introduction by Gardner Dozois

“When fine writer and expert editor [Gardner] Dozois beckons, authors deliver—and this surely will be one of the year’s essential anthologies.”—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

And our print suggestion for today is:

Who Can You Trust?: How Technology Brought Us Together and Why It Might Drive Us Apart by Rachel Botsman:


If you can’t trust those in charge, who can you trust?

From government to business, banks to media, trust in institutions is at an all-time low. But this isn’t the age of distrust–far from it.

In this revolutionary book, world-renowned trust expert Rachel Botsman reveals that we are at the tipping point of one of the biggest social transformations in human history–with fundamental consequences for everyone. A new world order is emerging: we might have lost faith in institutions and leaders, but millions of people rent their homes to total strangers, exchange digital currencies, or find themselves trusting a bot. This is the age of “distributed trust,” a paradigm shift driven by innovative technologies that are rewriting the rules of an all-too-human relationship.

If we are to benefit from this radical shift, we must understand the mechanics of how trust is built, managed, lost, and repaired in the digital age. In the first book to explain this new world, Botsman provides a detailed map of this uncharted landscape–and explores what’s next for humanity.

Have a great day!

Linda, SSCL

You can request physical items, i.e. print books, DVDs & CDs, online via StarCat:

or by calling the library at: 607-936-3713 x 502.

Have a great day!

Linda, SSCL

Online Catalog Links:

StarCat

The catalog of physical materials, i.e. print books, DVDs, audiobooks on CD etc.

The Digital Catalog (OverDrive)

The catalog of e-books, downloadable audiobooks and a handful of streaming videos.

Freegal Music Service

This music service is free to library card holders and offers the option to download, and keep, three free songs per week and to stream three hours of commercial free music each day:

RBDigital

Digital magazines on demand and for free! Back issues are available and you can even choose to be notified by email when the new issue of your favorite magazine is available.

About Library Apps:

You can access digital library content on PCs, Macs and mobile devices. For mobile devices simply download the OverDrive, Freegal or Zinio app from your app store to get started. If you have questions call the library at: 607-936-3713 and one of our Digital Literacy Specialists will be happy to assist you.

Tech Talk is a Southeast Steuben County Library blog.

Daily Digital & Print Suggested Reads: Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Linda Reimer

Hi everyone, here are our recommended titles for today.

(Note: Click on the photo of the item you’re interested in to request it or check it out)

Our digital suggestion for today is the ebook:

The Amish Christmas Sleigh by Kelly Long, Amy Lillard and Molly Jebber:

 

Through the snowy night, silver bells ring cheerfully, heralding a season of secret gifts, unexpected chances, and love’s sweetest journeys . . .

A SLEIGH RIDE ON ICE MOUNTAIN by Kelly Long

For solitary toy-maker Sebastian Christner, hiring Kate Zook as his new housekeeper is simply the right thing to do. Now she can support her special-needs brother. But one taste of her independent spirit is showing him undreamed-of holiday joy—and making him long to give her a home for always . . .

A MAMM FOR CHRISTMAS by Amy Lillard

Bernice Yoder has far too much to do to entertain holiday dreams. Even if she can help Jess Schmucker outwit his three mischievous young daughters, it’s impossible to imagine the handsome widower can see her as anything but a scolding schoolteacher. He never guesses how a magical Christmas Eve will open his eyes to love or how Der Herr will awaken their faith and hope.

AN UNEXPECTED CHRISTMAS BLESSING by Molly Jebber

As much as Charity Lantz’s children need a father, the young widow isn’t sure her new neighbor Luke Fisher can ever be the right choice. They’re having more disagreements than snowflakes in December. Besides, he’s never given a sign he wants to be more than friends. Can Gott show them a way past their misunderstandings to a forever love?

And our print suggestion for today is:

Chicano Soul: Recordings & History of an American Culture by Ruben Molina and Louie Perez:

In 2007, Ruben Molina published the first-ever history of Mexican-American soul and R&B music in his book, Chicano Soul: Recordings and History of an American Culture. Ten years later, Chicano Soul remains an important and oft-referenced study of this vital but often overlooked chapter of the greater American musical experience. Chicano soul music of the 1950s and 1960s still reverberates today, both within Chicano communities and throughout many musical genres. Molina tells the story of the roots of Chicano soul, its evolution, and its enduring cultural influence. “Brown-eyed soul” music draws on 1950s era jazz, blues, jump blues, rock ‘n’ roll, Latin jazz, and traditional Mexican music such as ranchera, norteo, and conjunto music. With its rare and gorgeous photos, record scans, concert bills, and impressive updated discography (to say nothing of its rich oral histories and interviews), it is one of those rare works that speaks to both general and academic audiences.

Have a great day!

Linda, SSCL

You can request physical items, i.e. print books, DVDs & CDs, online via StarCat:

or by calling the library at: 607-936-3713 x 502.

Have a great day!

Linda, SSCL

Online Catalog Links:

StarCat

The catalog of physical materials, i.e. print books, DVDs, audiobooks on CD etc.

The Digital Catalog (OverDrive)

The catalog of e-books, downloadable audiobooks and a handful of streaming videos.

Freegal Music Service

This music service is free to library card holders and offers the option to download, and keep, three free songs per week and to stream three hours of commercial free music each day:

RBDigital

Digital magazines on demand and for free! Back issues are available and you can even choose to be notified by email when the new issue of your favorite magazine is available.

About Library Apps:

You can access digital library content on PCs, Macs and mobile devices. For mobile devices simply download the OverDrive, Freegal or Zinio app from your app store to get started. If you have questions call the library at: 607-936-3713 and one of our Digital Literacy Specialists will be happy to assist you.

Tech Talk is a Southeast Steuben County Library blog.

Daily Digital & Print Suggested Reads: Tuesday, December 19, 2017

Linda Reimer

Hi everyone, here are our recommended titles for today.

(Note: Click on the photo of the item you’re interested in to request it or check it out)

Our digital suggestion for today is the audio book:

God Rest Ye Merry Soldiers, A True Civil War Christmas Story written by James McIvor, narrated by Michael Prichard:

In the winter of 1862, during the seemingly endless nightmare of the Civil War, a small miracle occurred. Just after Christmas, on the eve of the bloody battle of Stones River in Tennessee, the Union and Confederate armies set up camp within shouting distance of one another. To raise their spirits, they began a volley of patriotic tunes-“Yankee Doodle” drowned out by “Dixie.” Then, during a pause, a Union band struck up the wistful strains of “Home Sweet Home.” A Confederate band chimed in, and soon every regimental band and every soldier, Rebel and Yankee alike, had swelled the chorus. This bittersweet moment is the centerpiece of James Mcivor’s portrait in miniature of a country weary of war.

And our print suggestion for today is:

Old Scores: A Barker & Llewelyn Novel by Will Thomas:


In 1890, the first Japanese diplomatic delegation arrives in London to open an embassy. Cyrus Barker, private enquiry agent and occasional agent for the Foreign Service Office, is enlisted to display his personal Japanese garden to the visiting dignitaries.

Later that night, Ambassador Toda is shot and killed in his office and Cyrus Barker is discovered across the street, watching the very same office, in possession of a revolver with one spent cartridge.

Arrested by the Special Branch for the crime, Barker is vigorously interrogated and finally released due to the intervention of his assistant, Thomas Llewelyn, and his solicitor. With the London constabulary still convinced of his guilt, Barker is hired by the new Japanese ambassador to find the real murderer.

In a case that takes leads Barker and Llewelyn deep into parts of London’s underworld, on paths that lead deep into Barker’s own mysterious personal history, Old Scores is the finest yet in Will Thomas’s critically acclaimed series.

Have a great day!

Linda, SSCL

You can request physical items, i.e. print books, DVDs & CDs, online via StarCat:

or by calling the library at: 607-936-3713 x 502.

Have a great day!

Linda, SSCL

Online Catalog Links:

StarCat

The catalog of physical materials, i.e. print books, DVDs, audiobooks on CD etc.

The Digital Catalog (OverDrive)

The catalog of e-books, downloadable audiobooks and a handful of streaming videos.

Freegal Music Service

This music service is free to library card holders and offers the option to download, and keep, three free songs per week and to stream three hours of commercial free music each day:

RBDigital

Digital magazines on demand and for free! Back issues are available and you can even choose to be notified by email when the new issue of your favorite magazine is available.

About Library Apps:

You can access digital library content on PCs, Macs and mobile devices. For mobile devices simply download the OverDrive, Freegal or Zinio app from your app store to get started. If you have questions call the library at: 607-936-3713 and one of our Digital Literacy Specialists will be happy to assist you.

Tech Talk is a Southeast Steuben County Library blog.

Daily Digital & Print Suggested Reads: Monday, December 18, 2017

Linda Reimer

Hi everyone, here are our recommended titles for today.

(Note: Click on the photo of the item you’re interested in to request it or check it out)

Our digital suggestion for today is the digital audiobook:

A Christmas Journey written by Anne Perry, narrated by Terrence Hardiman:

Readers of Anne Perry’s bestselling suspense novels revel in a world that is all their own, sharing the privileged existence of Britain’s wealthy and powerful elite in West End mansions and great country houses. It is also a world in which danger bides in unsuspected places and the line between good and evil can be razor thin. This new novel features Lady Vespasia Cumming-Gould–one of the most memorable characters from the Thomas Pitt series–who appears here as a lively young woman, the ultimate aristocrat who can trace her blood to half the royal houses of Europe.

It’s Christmas and the Berkshire countryside lies wrapped in winter chill. But the well-born guests who have gathered at Applecross for a delicious weekend of innocent intrigue and passionate romance are warmed by roaring fires and candlelight, holly and mistletoe, good wine and gorgeously wrapped gifts. It’s scarcely the setting for misfortune, and no one–not even that clever young aristocrat and budding sleuth Vespasia Cumming-Gould–anticipates the tragedy that is to darken this light-hearted holiday house party. But soon one young woman lies dead, a suicide, and another is ostracized, held partly responsible for the shocking turn of events.

To expiate her guilt, Gwendolen Kilmuir sets out for the Scottish Highlands, hoping to explain to the dead girl’s mother the circumstances surrounding the sorrowful act–and to bring her back to England for the funeral. Gwendolen’s sole companion on this nightmarish journey is Vespasia. As Vespasia learns more about the victim and the ugly forces that shaped her desperate deed, she understands the heartbreaking truth of the tragedy.

And our print suggestion for today is:

Chasing Christmas Eve by Jill Shavis:

(A standalone Heartbreaker Bay novel)

Meet cute…

Run for the hills—temporarily. That’s Colbie Albright’s plan when she flees New York for San Francisco. Wrangling her crazy family by day and writing a bestselling YA fantasy series by night has taken its toll. In short, Colbie’s so over it that she’s under it. She’s also under the waters of a historic San Francisco fountain within an hour of arrival. Fortunately, the guy who fishes Colbie out has her looking forward to Christmas among strangers. But she’s pretty sure Spencer Baldwin won’t be a stranger for long.

Make merry…

Spence’s commitment to hiding from the Ghosts of Relationships Past means he doesn’t have to worry about the powerful—okay, crazy hot—chemistry he’s got with Colbie. Just because she can laugh at anything, especially herself… just because she’s gorgeous and a great listener…just because she “gets” Spence immediately doesn’t mean he won’t be able to let Colbie go. Does it?

…and hope for a miracle.

Now the clock’s ticking for Colbie and Spence: Two weeks to cut loose. Two weeks to fall hard. Two weeks to figure out how to make this Christmas last a lifetime.

Have a great day!

Linda, SSCL

You can request physical items, i.e. print books, DVDs & CDs, online via StarCat:

or by calling the library at: 607-936-3713 x 502.

Have a great day!

Linda, SSCL

Online Catalog Links:

StarCat

The catalog of physical materials, i.e. print books, DVDs, audiobooks on CD etc.

The Digital Catalog (OverDrive)

The catalog of e-books, downloadable audiobooks and a handful of streaming videos.

Freegal Music Service

This music service is free to library card holders and offers the option to download, and keep, three free songs per week and to stream three hours of commercial free music each day:

RBDigital

Digital magazines on demand and for free! Back issues are available and you can even choose to be notified by email when the new issue of your favorite magazine is available.

About Library Apps:

You can access digital library content on PCs, Macs and mobile devices. For mobile devices simply download the OverDrive, Freegal or Zinio app from your app store to get started. If you have questions call the library at: 607-936-3713 and one of our Digital Literacy Specialists will be happy to assist you.

Tech Talk is a Southeast Steuben County Library blog.

Suggested Listening December 15, 2017

Linda Reimer

Hi everyone, for your listening pleasure, here are our six suggested albums for the week; five streaming albums and one album on CD.

(Click on the photo of the album you’d like to hear or request)

Freegal Streaming Suggestions*

boom. by Walker Hayes (2017) (Genre: Country, Pop, Rock):

boom. is the second album by country singer-songwriter Walker Hayes who hails from Mobile, Al.

Songs on the album include: Beautiful, Shut Up Kenney, You Broke Up with Me, Beer in the Fridge, Mind Candy and Prescriptions.

The Ferryman’s Curse by The Strawbs (2017) (Genre: Rock, Progressive Rock):

The Strawbs are a British band and originally formed as a bluegrass trio, the Strawberry Hill Boys, in 1967. The original line up featured singer-guitarist Dave Cousins, singer-guitarist Tony Hooper and mandolinist Arthur Phillips. In 1968 Phillips left the group, Rob Chesterman joined on bass and they changed their name to the Strawbs.

The 2017 line-up of the band features Dave Cousins, Dave Lambert on lead guitar, Tony Fernandez on drums and Chas Cronk on bass.

The Ferryman’s Curse is the group’s 26th album.

Songs on the LP include: In the Beginning, The Song of Infinite Sadness, The Familiarity of Old Lovers, The Reckoning, The Ferryman’s Curse and Bats & Swallows

The Music…The Mem’ries…The Magic! (2017) by Barbra Streisand (Genre: Pop, Easy Listening, Vocal):

 The Music…The Mem’ries…The Magic is the new album from the talented singer, actress and film producer.

Songs include: People: Overture, Being Alive, You Don’t Bring Me Flowers, Don’t Rain on My Parade and Climb Ev’ry Mountain.

Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring: Christmas with The Dominican Sisters of Mary
Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist (2017) (Genre: Classical):

This new and bestselling album by the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist, who reside in Ann Arbor, Michigan features a sacred collection of Christmas music.

Songs on the album include: Christmas Proclamation, Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring, Sleep, Little Jesus, Carol of the Bells, Emmanuel, Snowflakes, Away in a Manager and We Wish You a Merry Christmas.

The 3 Herds by Woody Herman & His Orchestra (Genre: Jazz, Swing, Pop):

This 1955 album by big band leader and clarinetist Woody Herman and His Orchestra offers a swing-ingly fun collection of songs including:

Non-Alcoholic, Caldonia, Sidewalks of Cuba, The Good earth, Keen and Peachy and Mulligan Tawny.

CD of the Week

Legends of Guitar, Rock The Sixties Vol. 1 by Various Artists:

I’m a big fan of the classic rock label Rhino Records. And being a huge guitar fan too, and playing the guitar just a little, I also am a fan of their Legends of Guitar series. This album is just one of the titles in their Guitar Player Legends of Guitar series. The series features music by great guitarists that cover all genres of music from rock to blues to country to jazz to classical. Some of the guitarist are well known and others less so – however, if you like guitar music this is definitely a series to check out!

Songs on LP include: Lullaby of the Leaves by The Ventures featuring Bob Bogle on guitar, The Train Kept A-Rollin’ by The Yardbirds featuring Jeff Beck on guitar, Boo Boo Stick Beat by Chet Atkins, Nine Types of Industrial Pollution by The Mothers of Invention featuring Frank Zappa on guitar, Sabre Dance by Love Sculpture featuring Dave Edmunds on guitar, Misirlou by Dick Dale & His Del-Tones featuring Dick Dale on guitar, Ball And Chain by Big Brother and the Holding Company featuring James Gurley on guitar and It Won’t Be Long by the Byrds featuring Roger McGuinn on guitar.

Videos of the Week:

You Broke Up With Me by Walker Hayes:

The Reckoning by the Strawbs:

Carol of the Bells Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist:

Trailer from The Music…The Mem’ries…The Magic! – the compliment video to the LP which is now streaming on Netflix by Barbra Streisand:

Chicken Picken’ by Lonnie Mack:

The Witch by the Sonnics:

Ball and Chain by Big Brother and the Holding Company featuring Janis Joplin on vocals and James Gurley on guitar:

Have a great weekend,

Linda, SSCL

References:

Artist Biography & Discography Information:

http://www.allmusic.com/

The Billboard Book of Top 40 Hits by Joel Whitburn (Billboard Books. New York. 2009.)

Info on current line-up of the Strawbs from their record company Esoteric/Antenna

P.S. If you have any questions about how to download or stream free music through the Freegal Music service to a desktop or laptop computer or how to download and use the Freegal Music app let us know! Drop by the library or give us a call at: 607-936-3713

*You must have a library card at a Southern Tier Library System member library to enjoy the Freegal Music Service. Your card can be from any library in the system, and the system includes all public libraries in Steuben, Chemung, Yates, Schuyler and Allegheny Counties and includes our own Southeast Steuben Count Library in Corning, New York!

Library cards are free if you live in our service area. And you can obtain a card by visiting the Circulation Desk and presenting staff with a form of ID that features your name and your current address.

Non-Fiction DVD Recommendations 12 15 2017

Linda Reimer

Here are our three recommended non-fiction DVDs for this week!

(Click on the photos to request the DVDs)

Older & Much Wiser Workout For Active Older Adults:

Description: The Older and Much Wiser Workout with Sue Grant is a gentle and safe workout that is perfect for beginners or those that have not been exercising regularly. All of the exercises are done either standing or sitting on a chair with no lying down on the floor. This fun, well rounded workout includes the four vital components of fitness:

– Easy-to-follow Low Impact Aerobics

– Gentle Stretching Training

– Balance & Gaze Stabilization Training

– Relaxing Cool Down & Stretch

You may mix and match these different sections depending on how much time you have and how you are feeling each day. In addition, you will see three different levels for each exercise, so you will be able to customize this workout to meet your particular needs. You will love the upbeat encouragement and helpful cues, and you will be amazed at how quickly you progress. Equipment Needed: sturdy chair with no arms, resistance band

Sue Grant is a certified Master Instructor for FallProof, the internationally recognized Balance and Mobility training program, and is also certified by the American Council on Exercise and the Arthritis Foundation. In addition she is proud to be a Fellow of Applied Functional Science with a Certificate in Fitness Instruction and Exercise Science from UC San Diego, specializing in both Personal Training and Group Fitness Instruction. She is a certified Older Adult Fitness Specialist. Most importantly, Sue’s lifelong love for fitness is contagious – she is passionate about helping Older Adults stay fit and active at any age!

Dewey Decimal Number: DVD 613.7045 OLD

Trailer:

Hollywood Rhythm The Best of Jazz & Blues: Paramount Musical Shorts, Volume 1:

Description: Musical shorts, produced to merely fill out the film program, have in many cases acquired more value than the features they once supported. Filmed at the Paramount Studios in Astoria, Queens, these films offer unparalleled opportunities to see and hear great artists in action, and sometimes present surprisingly gutsy subject matter via truly innovative film technique. In A Rhapsody In Black And Blue, Louis Armstrong dons outlandish leopard-skin attire to stand knee-deep in soap bubbles, where he trumpets and sings “I’ll Be Glad When You’re Dead You Rascal You.” In Hi-De-Ho, Cab Calloway demonstrates just what scat is all about, with the assistance of a bevy of Cotton Club fan dancers. The legendary “Empress of the Blues,” Bessie Smith, stars in her only film, the once-notorious musical drama St. Louis Blues. Teenaged Billie Holiday performs in Symphony In Black, perhaps the greatest of Duke Ellington’s shorts. Another Ellington piece, A Bundle Of Blues, spotlights his favorite band singer, Ivie Anderson (performing “Stormy Weather”), while Black And Tan Fantasy features the Ellington orchestra imparting a bluesy mood to a surprisingly downbeat tale featuring actress-dancer Fredi Washington (Imitation of Life). Meanwhile, George Dewey Washington’s powerful baritone transcends some stereotypical situations in Ol’ King Cotton. Also appearing on this DVD — definitely in a lighter vein — are bandleader Vince Lopez (who conducts a bouncy “St. Louis Blues” in Those Blues), composer Hoagy Carmichael (performing “Stardust” with the Jack Teagarden Orchestra) and Fats Waller, who growls a definitive Ain’t Misbehavin’.

Dewey Decimal Number: DVD 781.65 BEST

Trailer:

Symphony in Black by Duck Ellington and his Orchestra with Billie Holiday (Note Billie starts singing around 4:30 seconds into the clip):

 

The Impressionists The Other French Revolution (Narrated by Edward Herrmann):

Description: This epic documentary does a wonderful job of recapturing the revolutionary impact the impressionists made while providing a historical and artistic context for this extraordinary group of painters. The work of Monet, Degas, Morisot, and their fellow impressionists has now become so familiar that its power to shock has all but disappeared.

Young and resolutely modern, these artists threw off the shackles of academic art to capture everyday life in paintings that were iconoclastic in both style and subject. At first they struggled to survive because their work was rejected by the conservative Paris Salon, but those with independent means helped those without (Monet in particular was frequently rescued from poverty by his friends), and gradually they became impossible to ignore. Bruce Alfred’s script thoroughly explains the development of the impressionists’ approach to art and reveals fascinating aspects of their individual personalities, while a combination of dramatic reconstructions, period photographs, and the paintings themselves creates a rich and informative visual tapestry. Anyone with an interest in the history of art will find much to enjoy. –Simon Leake, Amazon Review.

Dewey Decimal Number: DVD 759.4 IMP 1 & DVD 759.4 IMP 1 2 (This is a two disc set)

Trailer:

Have a great weekend and don’t forget the library is open on Saturdays from  10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.!

Linda, SSCL