Library Notes

5 kids ages 7 - 11 had a great time doing the Library Scavenger Hunt on Friday, July 6th. They searched the library for answers to questions like who illustrated the Velveteen Rabbit and who created Sherlock Holmes. Kaitlyn was the winner with the most correct answers. She received this great pirate book. The parents learned as much as the children did about how to use the library.

Independence Day is a time that makes us remember our historical past. If you enjoy history, you may enjoy some of these new titles that shed light on parts of the history of the United States. Check one out next time you are in the library.

Fallen Founder by Nancy Isenberg. This biography by Isenberg argues that Burr was the real thing, a founder "at the center of nation building" and a "capable leader in New York political circles." Isenberg believes Burr was "the only founder to embrace feminism," the only one who "adhered to the ideal that reason should transcend party differences." Far from being an empty vessel, she says, Burr defended freedom of speech, wanted to expand suffrage and was a proponent of equal rights.

Presidential Courage by Michael Beschloss. Using new sources and providing interesting perspectives, Beschloss examines a variety of actions and decisions taken by presidents under great stress. Some of the more interesting episodes examined here include Washington's decision to fight for ratification of the unpopular Jay's Treaty with Britain, Jackson's struggle against the rechartering of the Bank of the United States, and Truman's decision to support the establishment of the state of Israel, despite vociferous opposition from the State Department.

Last Flag Down by John Baldwin. During the Civil War the Confederate ship, the Shenandoah, launched a series of remarkably successful raids on Union shipping. However, cut off from communication with the Southern homeland, the crew was unaware of the surrender of Confederate armies in April 1865. Since the Shenandoah continued raiding, the sailors on board were now pirates. When the officers realized this, they began a heroic effort to find a refuge for themselves and their crew.