Give A Gift That Gives Back!

Books are only the beginning! Our libraries are so much more than books! They are places where people of all ages gather to read, learn, connect and explore. The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library Foundation is dedicated to helping our libraries serve as cultural and intellectual centers that enrich the community and empower residents with tools for life-long learning.                                                   Your tax-deductible gifts are needed more than ever to keep our libraries dynamic, stimulating and relevant in today's world. No matter what the amount, donations help make more opportunities possible for learning, making connections and enriching lives.  Click here to make a gift Your library will thank you for it!

Gratefully,    John R. Thomas  Chairman

Atlanta-Fulton Public Library Foundation One Margaret Mitchell Square Atlanta, GA 30303

Metropolitan Library Grand Opening Celebration!

Metropolitan Library rendering

The Atlanta-FultonPublic Library System is preparing to open its seventh new library as part of Phase I of the Library Building Program with a grand opening celebration on Thursday, October 1 at 11:00 a.m. Please join us!

The new 25,000-square-foot Metropolitan Library will be located at 1332 Metropolitan Parkway, Atlanta 30310. This library will replace service at the Stewart-Lakewood Library, which will close to the public as of 6:00 p.m. on Friday, September 18, to prepare for the grand opening of the new library.

SmithDalia Architects, in association with Craig Gaulden Davis and ai3, provided design and engineering services for the new library. Winter Johnson Group, a Joint Venture, provided construction management services, and Heery/Russell is the program management team.

This opening is part of Phase I of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System’s Library Building Program, including construction of 8 new branch libraries and 2 expansion projects. In addition to the Metropolitan Library, six libraries have already opened: Wolf Creek (September 2014), Palmetto (December 2014), East Roswell (February 2015), Northwest at Scotts Crossing (July 2015), Milton (July 2015), and Alpharetta (July 2015). The Southeast Atlanta Library, is expected to open later this year and both the Auburn Avenue Research Library and the South Fulton Library are currently closed and under construction as the two expansion projects.

Green building design and sustainability are priorities for all Phase I library projects, and the Library System expects to achieve LEED Silver on each project. Each library will reflect the culture and interests of its community.

In November 2008, Fulton County voters overwhelmingly passed the Library Bond Referendum. The plan will greatly enhance all of the county’s libraries, and Phase I includes 8 new branch libraries, Alpharetta, East Roswell, Milton, Northwest Atlanta, Palmetto, Southeast Atlanta, Stewart-Lakewood, and Wolf Creek and 2 expanded libraries, the Auburn Avenue Research Library and the South Fulton Branch. 

For more information please visit our website, and click on “Your New Libraries” on the front page for updates. To RSVP for the event, please call 404-730-1977. 

We hope  to see you there!

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World at the Central Library

“Wazir Khan Mosque in Reflection,”painting by Samina Quraeshi–Courtesy of Samina Quraeshi

Please join us this fall from September 8 through November when the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System’s Central Library will take visitors on a voyage of discovery to explore the rich tapestry of Muslim poetry through Poetic Voices of the Muslim World, a travelling exhibit accompanied by poetry readings and musical performances.  

The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System has partnered with the Islamic Speakers Bureau of Atlanta to provide complementary programming each Tuesday at noon, and some Saturdays at noon on topics such as Islamic art, architecture and calligraphy, music, film making, and children’s story time. Four special programs occur on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. between October 27 and November 17.

The first floor of the Central Library will have a display of lushly-illustrated, vibrant panels featuring photography and calligraphic masterworks, as well as the work of poets ranging from traditional to contemporary and across the globe. Poetic traditions from four major language areas — Arabic, Persian, Turkish, and Urdu —introduce poetry from Asia, Africa and diaspora communities in Europe and the United States. 

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World is presented by Poets House and City Lore, in partnership with the American Library Association and the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System. Funded by the Bridging Cultures Program of the National Endowment for the Humanities:  Exploring the Human Endeavor. Additional support was provided by the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art. Local programming and support developed and provided by the Islamic Speakers Bureau of Atlanta.

All programs are free and open to the public. See below for a full list of programs related to Poetic Voices and, for more information visit our website or call 404-730-1896. All programs listed below will be held at the Central Library, One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta 30303.

Programming Information:

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World: Islamic Art

Tuesday, September 8. 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Dr. Sandra Bird, Professor of Art Education at Kennesaw State University, presents an introduction to Islamic Art.

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World: Islamic Art

Tuesday, September 22. 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Multimedia artist Kelly Izdihar Crosby delves into the varied artistic styles of the Islamic world.

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World: Children’s Story Time

Saturday, September 26. 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Join us as Jelena presents stories from across the Muslim world.

Central Library, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta 30303
For information call 404.730.1896

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World: The Power of Moving Images

Tuesday, September 29. 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Join us as Ameer Muhammad presents a program on film, film making and shooting with different types of cameras.

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World: Islamic Architecture

Saturday, October 3. 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Join us as Amin Tomeh presents a program on the beautiful architecture of the Islamic world.

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World: Rap with Ameer

Tuesday, October 6. 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Join us as Ameer Muhammad discusses rap lyrics and the history of Muslim influence on rap.

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World: Arabic Language and Calligraphy

Saturday, October 20. 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Come and learn about this beautiful language and art and get your name written in Arabic.

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World: Children’s Story Time

Saturday, October 24. 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Join us as Jelena returns with more stories from across the Muslim world.

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World: Islamic Painting and Calligraphy

Tuesday, October 27. 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Multimedia artist Kelly Izdihar Crosby demonstrates the beautiful arts of painting and calligraphy.

Central Library, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta 30303
For information call 404.730.1896

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World: Worlds of the Ghazal

Tuesday, October 27. 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Dr. Syed Akbar Hyder presents a discussion and readings of Ghazal. Then singer Kiran Ahluwalia and accompanist Rez Abbasi performs a contemporary styling of this timeless poetic form.

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World: The Traveling Word: A West African Epic

Tuesday, November 3. 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Poet and storyteller Kewulay Kamara and West African Jali musicians tell the story of preserving an ancient oral epic after Sierra Leone's Civil War.

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World: Islam and the Blues

Tuesday, November 10. 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Dr. Sylviane A. Diouf of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, New York Public Library, presents a discussion of the Islamic origins of the Blues.

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World: Poetry Reading and Discussion

Tuesday November 17. 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Poet and author Kazim Ali presents readings of his poems, a view from the vantage point of a Muslim and an American.

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World: Children’s Story Time

Saturday, November 21. 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Join us as Jelena returns with more stories from across the Muslim World.

September Art And Author Programs!

Art and Author programs abound during the month of September at the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System! The list below is a long one (which is a good thing!) so take the time to scroll through and see what might be happening at your local library next month. All programs are free an open to the public, but may require reserving a spot ahead of time. Don't wait! Find an event to attend and reserve your seat today! Book talks, art exhibits, film screenings, concerts and more!

Celebrate the Future: Atlanta Artists Center Members Exhibition
Through September 18. Library hours.
The Atlanta Artists Center members will present a multimedia group art exhibition. This non-profit organization, founded in 1954 by a group of local artists, is one of the largest member artists’ organizations in Georgia. The mission is to support the growth and education of emerging artists and to bring art education into the community.
Central Library, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System
One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta 30303
For information call 404.730.1749

September Exhibit: Atlanta Artists Center Art Collection

Tuesday, September 1-30. Library hours.

Sandy Springs Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System
395 Mt. Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs 30328

For information call 404.303.6130

Sankofa Film Festival Finale

Tuesday, September 1. 6:00-8:00 p.m.

The Southwest Branch, in collaboration with the Hammonds House Museum, will host the Sankoka Film Festival Finale. This film series celebrates the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of African Americans through film ends. Join us for a closing discussion to the film series. All ages.

Hammonds House Museum

503 Peeples St SW, Atlanta 30310.

For information call 404.699.6363

Film Screening: Looking for Langston

Thursday, September 3. 7:00 p.m.

In recognition of Atlanta Black Gay Pride (2015), the Auburn Avenue Research Library, in collaboration with Hammonds House Museum, will host a screening of this acclaimed art house documentary. Black British filmmaker Isaac Julien`s film is a lyrical and poetic consideration of the life of revered Harlem Renaissance poet Langston Hughes. This film (60 minutes) contains adult themes and images and is not suitable for children.

Hammonds House Museum

503 Peeples St. SW, Atlanta, GA 30310

For information call 404.612.0487 

Teen Photography Contest

Due September 4. Library hours.

Third annual photo contest for teens! Submit an original 8x10 photo taken during your summer vacation. Photo must be mailed or hand delivered in an envelope with your name, email, or local phone number by September 4. One entry per person. Photos will be on display as part of the annual photography exhibit. Prizes include gift cards to Binders, Barnes and Noble and Michaels. If you want your photo returned, pick it up at the library.

Buckhead Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

269 Buckhead Avenue NE, Atlanta 30305

For information call 404.814.3500

An Afternoon of Jazz With Rosemary Rainey and John Robertson

Saturdays, September 5, October 3, December 5. 3:00 p.m.

Enjoy some of the great jazz standards. For over 20 years John Robertson and Rosemary Rainey were the headliners at Dante’s Down the Hatch (now closed). Ms. Rainey is sure to take you down memory lane as she sings some of the great standards accompanied by her husband Mr. Robertson. They are students and enthusiasts of jazz. 

Buckhead Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

269 Buckhead Avenue NE, Atlanta 30305

For information call 404.814.3500

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World: Islamic Art

Tuesday, September 8. 12:00 p.m.

Dr. Sandra Bird, Professor of Art Education at Kennesaw State University, presents an introduction to Islamic Art.

Central Library, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta 30303

For information call 404.730.1700

An Evening of Spoken Word and Poetry

Tuesday, September 8. 5:00 p.m.

Participants will share original spoken word and poetry. Tweens/teens. Registration required.

Central Library, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta 30303

For information call 404.730.1700

Southwest Poetry Club

Tuesdays, September 8, October 6, November 3, December 1. 6:00–7:45 p.m.

Come and experience the enlightenment and prose of some wonderful poetry.  Share and recite some of your poetry. It’s for the poet who is new to poetry events and the experienced poet. Poetry can be read or recited. All ages.

Southwest Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

3665 Cascade Road, Atlanta 30331

For information call 404.699.6363

Author’s Spotlight: Robert Jones, We All Have 4 Downs

Tuesday, September 8. 6:00 p.m.-7:45 p.m.

If life is like a football game, there are four downs. Robert Jones will share his book and lead the discussion about the four downs of life. Part of the author’s spot light series. Adults.

Southwest Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

3665 Cascade Road, Atlanta 30331

For information call 404.699.6363

Author Deborah Wiles: Turning Your Personal History into Published Material

Saturday, September 12. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Come hear award-winning author Deborah Wiles talk about how to access your personal narrative -- your own life history --and turn it into story in picture books, poetry and novels. We'll work with specific techniques and models. Bring notebooks and a WIP if you like. *This workshop is suggested for adults and for youths 12 years of age and older. Registration required. Sponsored by The Friends of the Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library. 

For registration call 770.360.8820 email karen.swenson@fultoncountyga.gov

Northeast/Spruill Oaks Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek 30022

For information call 770.360.8820

Artist Meet and Greet: Geinene Carson

Saturday, September 12. 3:00 p.m.

Join the Friends of the East Atlanta Library for an artist meet and greet with Grant Park artist Geinene Carson. 

East Atlanta Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System
400 Flat Shoals Avenue, Atlanta 30316
For information call 404.730.5438

Divine Feminine: Photographic Exhibit by Linda Costa Cheranichit

Sunday, September 13-Sunday, November 1. Library hours.

Opening Event and Artist’s Talk: Sunday, September 13. 2:00 p.m.

In recognition of Atlanta Celebrates Photography, Auburn Avenue Research Library, in collaboration with Hammonds House Museum, will host this exhibition by light painting photographer Linda Costa Cheranichit. Inspired by Ifa, the African traditional belief system of the Yourba peoples, also known as Candomble in the artist’s native country Brazil, Cheranichit shares her artistic interpretation of the divine found in everyday women of color. This exhibition will be on display in the AARL

Satellite Gallery at the Hammonds House Museum

503 Peeples Street, Atlanta 30310.

For information call 404.612.0487 

Buckhead Writers’ Group

Mondays, September 14, 28; October 26; November 9, 23; December 14, 28. 10:30 a.m.

Do you have the desire to write a novel or play? The Buckhead Writers Group might be of interest to you. Novice to experienced. Share your writings with other participants. Give and receive critiques. Share information regarding the writing and publishing industry. Facilitated by Anita Lovely.

Buckhead Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

269 Buckhead Avenue NE, Atlanta 30305

For information call 404.814.3500

Author’s Spotlight: Dr. B. Ross, Teaching to Transform From the Inside Out

Tuesday, September 15.  6:00 p.m.-7:45 p.m.

Dr. B. Ross takes a poignant look at our educational system today and the student teacher relationship. Adults.

Southwest Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

3665 Cascade Road, Atlanta 30331

For information call 404.699.6363

Book Signing and Community Lecture: The Untold Story About a Place Called Black Hollywood

Tuesday, September 15. 7:00 p.m.

Auburn Avenue Research Library, in collaboration with the African American Cinema Gallery, and Hammonds House Museum, will host Len Gibson, President of African American Cinema Gallery, who will discuss his latest publication, which features intimate interviews with a broad cross section of film and television insiders and explores how African Americans continue to make a place for themselves in an industry that originally had no place for them.

Hammonds House Museum

503 Peeples St. SW, Atlanta 30310      

For information call 404.612.0487 

Beyond Life Satisfaction: A Workshop With Dr. Rachel Elahee

Wednesday, September 16. 5:45–7:45 pm.

Workshop designed to implement positive psychology on strategies for effectively improving levels of life satisfaction. This workshop will provide practical approaches adapted from Dr. Rachel Mitchum Elahee's latest book, Choose You! Reignite Your Passion for Life, for those looking for a little more interest and excitement in life.
Peachtree Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

1315 Peachtree Street, NE, Atlanta 30309

For information call 404.885.7830

Hispanic Heritage Film Fest 2015

Thursday, September 17.  5:30 p.m.

Cesar Chavez (2014) PG13. A biography of the civil-rights activist and labor organizer Cesar Chavez.

Central Library, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta 30303

For information call 404.730.1700

Absolute Chong: Photographic Works, Sculpture and Installation Art by Albert Chong

Friday, September 18 –Sunday, December 20. Library hours.

Artist’s Talk: Sunday, October 11. 2:00 p.m.

In recognition of Atlanta Celebrates Photography (2015), Hammonds House Museum will present this exhibition by Albert Chong, an artist of African and Chinese descent who uses art to explore his ancestry and identity, earning critical recognition for its contribution to the multiculturalism movement in the visual arts. During this period Chong will also participate in a photographic group exhibition at Arnika Dawkins Gallery titled “On Being Black.”

Hammonds House Museum

503 Peeples St. SW, Atlanta 30310.   

For information call 404.612.0487 

Author Talk and Book Signing: H. Jean Gray

Saturday, September 19. 1:00-2:30 p.m.

Ms. Gray will sign and discuss her book, The Truth about Parenting – a Universal Manual for Parenting Step by Step.  The author is local resident of the Adamsville/Collier Heights community, so come out and support your neighbor.

Adamsville/Collier Heights Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

3424 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Atlanta 30331

For information call 404.699.4206

Prodigies of Music: Concert and Master Class Jazz Concert

Saturdays, September 19, October 17, November 21, December 19. 1:00–4:45 p.m.

Join us for a jazz concert and master class featuring prodigies of music.  Hosted by Rosemary Robertson and presented by COMAS Music Group. Adults.

Southwest Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

3665 Cascade Road, Atlanta 30331

For information call 404.699.6363

Passport to China: Arthur Ratliff ACP 2015

September 20–October 30. Library hours.

First Thursday Opening Reception, Thursday, October 1. 5:00-7:00 p.m.

In this Atlanta Celebrates Photography exhibition, photographer Arthur Ratliff presents visitors with a passport to see China, visiting the small towns where time has stood still and ancient culture still prevails, as well as encountering the explosive growth of Shanghi, the world’s largest and fastest growing city.

Central Library, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta 30303

For information call 404.730.1700

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World: Islamic Art

Tuesday, September 22. 12:00–1:00 p.m.

Multimedia artist Kelly Izdihar Crosby delves into the varied artistic styles of the Islamic world.

Central Library, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta 30303

For information call 404.730.1700

Author Talk and Book Signing: Cornelius Smith

Tuesday, September 22. 1:00 p.m.

Local author Cornelius Smith will discuss and sign copies of Sleeping In Sin: A Trilogy. Adults. Reservations required.
Thomasville Heights Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

1700 Thomasville Drive, SE, Atlanta 30315

For information call 404.624.0620

Book Discussion and Signing African & American: West Africans in Post-Civil Rights America

Thursday, September 24. 5:00 p.m.

Auburn Avenue Research Library and the Central Library host Dr. Violet Showers Johnson, Professor of History and Director of Africana Studies at Texas A&M University, and Dr. Marilyn Halter, Professor of History and American Studies at Boston University, who will discuss their latest publication which explores issues of cultural identity formation and socioeconomic incorporation of 1^st and 2^nd generation West African immigrants and refugees in the U.S. during the last 40 years.

Central Library, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta 30303

For information call 404.730.1700

Hispanic Heritage Film Fest 2015

Thursday, September 24.  5:30 p.m.

Rebel: Loreta Velazquez, Secret Soldier of the American Civil War. Velazquez, an educated Cuban-born teenager, fought as an officer in the battle of First Bull Run, was wounded at Shiloh, and served as a secret agent for the Confederacy.

Central Library, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta 30303

For information call 404.730.1700

Poetic Voices of the Muslim World: Children’s Storytime

Saturdays, September 26, October 24, November 21. 12:00 p.m.

Join us as Jelena presents stories from across the Muslim world.

Central Library, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta 30303

For information call 404.730.1700

Transatlantic Blackness on Film: The Cinematic Black Experience in the United Kingdom

Saturday, September 26. 3:00 p.m.: Sapphire; 5:00 p.m.: Burning an Illusion (95 minutes)

Bridging the Diasporic Divide between Black America and Black Britain, Hammonds House Museum, in collaboration with Auburn Avenue Research Library and Narrative Eye, host this event exploring how blackness and racial identities are represented in film created by and for Black Britains in the United Kingdom. Sapphire, (92 min.) portrays Scotland Yard detectives investigating the murder of a young black woman who had been passing for white; Burning an Illusion, (95 min.) is an intimate coming of age story tracing the emotional and political growth of a young British-born black woman in Margaret Thatcher's London.

Hammonds House Museum

503 Peeples St. SW, Atlanta 30310.

For information call 404.612.0487 

Author Talk and Book Signing: AlTonya Washington

Sunday, September 27. 3:30-5:30 p.m.

AlTonya Washington will discuss her long-running Ramsey Tesano series which will soon conclude. The audience will be challenged to guess the title the passage comes from. Attendees have the chance to win prizes. Adults.

Central Library, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta 30303

For information call 404.730.1700

Prozi Ramphal, Film and Television Costume Designer, Guest Storyteller

Wednesday, September 30. 10:30 a.m.

Film and television costume designer Prozi Ramphal will serve as a guest storyteller and read books to children in recognition of Library Card Sign-Up Month. Ages 4-6. Reservations required.

College Park Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System
3647 Main Street, College Park 30337
For information call 404.762.4060

Alpharetta Library Grand Opening Celebration!

The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System announces the grand opening of the new 25,000-square-foot Alpharetta Library, which will open to the public with a celebration on Thursday, July 30 at 11:00 a.m. Please join us!

This is the sixth library to open as part of Phase I of the Library Building Program. Cooper Carry, in association with Vines Architecture, provided design and engineering services for the new library. Moss & Associates provided construction management services, and Heery/Russell is the program management team.

The beautiful two-level library creates a defining front porch to the Alpharetta City Center and embraces the park-like setting as it welcomes patrons to the variety of spaces and places within. The two levels of the building both feature public entries, and are connected internally by an open central stair. The library features convenient access to upper level collections, computer areas, reading, meeting, study and conference rooms. The lower level includes a variety of children’s program space, an auditorium, lobby and support spaces accessible through a central plaza entry. The brick exterior, cast stone features, large windows and extensive landscaping create a welcoming environment consistent with the ongoing growth of Alpharetta City Center.

In November 2008, Fulton County voters passed the Library Bond Referendum which will greatly enhance all of the county’s libraries, and includes 8 new branch libraries and 2 expansion projects.

We would love to see as many of our patrons there as possible so please come join in the festivities or just come to check out some brand new books, movies and music all day long!

WHEN:           Thursday, July 30, 2015

 11:00 a.m.

WHERE:        Alpharetta Library

10 Park Plaza

Alpharetta, GA 30009

Georgia Author Of The Year Award Announced!

Novelist and Atlanta native, David Darracott, has been named 2015 Georgia Author of the Year for his suspense novel, Wasted, in the detective/mystery category.  The GeorgiaWriters Association announced winners on Saturday June 27, 2015 at its annual banquet at Kennesaw State University.

A resident of Forsyth County and frequent speaker at libraries and literary gatherings, Darracott said he was gratified and appreciative to receive such an honor. “I’m extremely pleased,” he said, because “we writers often toil in the dark with little reward or recognition for the work we do or the arduous careers we lead, so it is particularly gratifying when we win tribute from our fellow writers.”

In her comments about his winning entry, the judge, Melanie Sumner, wrote: 

 

Darracott writes this suspenseful story with tight, polished prose, allowing his characters to reveal themselves with authentic, controlled dialogue.  The carefully chosen details of his settings, such as the protagonist’s old Triumph and his modest house outside of Decatur, Georgia, with an inch of pine needles on the roof, and a cracked concrete driveway, bring the reader smack into the middle of the story.  More exotic scenes on the Caribbean are illustrated in detail that is both exquisite and essential to the plot . . . the characters of Player and Sharpe are well-portrayed . . . a brilliant ending reveals the subtle satire . . .  and with that Wasted becomes a profound novel, as well as a good read.

In its 51 year history, Georgia Author of the Year has been granted to some of the state’s most distinguished writers of fiction, nonfiction, and specialty books.  Philip Lee Williams of Athens received the association’s Lifetime Achievement Award for his many contributions to the field. 

Darracott is a native of Atlanta and a graduate of Emory University.  A longtime writer of nonfiction for magazines, television, and film productions, his parallel career in fiction is “why I keep writing." He is also author of the novel Internal Security as well as some short stories. He holds a Masters degree in English and received a Hambidge Fellowship in 2009-2010. Though fiction is his passion—first, last, and always—fly fishing and golf run a close second. You can learn more about his work on his website and locate his books at amazon.com.

                        

July Art And Author Programs!

The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System is pleased to present a selection of Art and Author programs during the month of July, so come beat the heat with us and participate in any number of our free programs. You are certain to find something for all ages and interests in any of our 34 libraries, so don't miss out! And it's not too late to sign up for the 2015 Summer Reading Program, happening in all of our libraries through August 1st! Contact your local library to see what other events, programs, films, author talks and crafts will be happening all summer long. Come join in the fun!

Art by Way of Series: A Retrospective of the Artwork of Frank Holland

Through Friday, July 31. Library hours.

Opening Reception, Thursday, July 9, 5:00-7:30 p.m.

The exhibit explores artist Frank Holland’s fondness and passion for creating works of art by way of group/series. Featured are mixed media samples from 10 or more series the artist has created over the last twenty years.

Central Library, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta 30303

For information call 404.730.1745

Author: Shonte Press

Thursday, July 2. 10:00 a.m.

Author Shonte Press will share her recipe for making a nice summer entree.

Dogwood Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System
1838 Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway, Atlanta 30318

For information call 404.792.4961 

The Artist’s Way: A Path to Higher Creativity, Step Into Greatness Series

Saturdays, July 11, August 8. 1:30 p.m.

You are an Artist. We all are. We all have Creative Energy! Whether you are ready to write that book, produce your music, paint, design, live more creatively or simply create the life of your dreams this class is for you. Facilitated by Denise Dyer, life coach and host, Hold the Vision Radio. Teens and adults.

Southwest Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

3665 Cascade Road, Atlanta 30331

For information call 404.699.6363

Children’s Author: Nikki Porter

Monday, July 13. 10:30 a.m.

Nikki Porter will read her book, Grandpa Visits London. Ages 4-6. Reservations required.

College Park Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System
3647 Main Street, College Park 30337
For information call 404.762.4060

Altered Book Art Workshop for Adults

Wednesday, July 15. 2:00 p.m.

Give discarded library books a new purpose in life! Learn a variety of methods to turn old books into art. Come in and sample the vast possibilities. You’ll leave with a book to alter, ideas, and a new art project. Reservations required. Adults.

Buckhead Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

269 Buckhead Avenue NE, Atlanta 30305

For information call 404.814.3500

Family Night Craft With Children’s Book Author Mona Scott

Monday, July 20. 6:00 p.m.

DIY family night crafts with Sunrae and friends. Fun simple craft project for the whole family. Mona L. Scott children’s book author and crafter will be instructing the workshop. All ages.

West End Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

525 Peeples Street SW, Atlanta 30310

For information call 404.752.8740

Franklin Pond Chamber Music

Thursday, July 23. 11:00 a.m.

Please come and hear classical music played at its finest with Franklin Pond Chamber Music, a unique year-round chamber music program for talented string students. All ages.

Sandy Springs Branch, a part of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

395 Mt. Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs 30328

For information call 404.303.6130

Film Screening and Discussion, African Cinema as Art Film Series Featuring the Work of Ousmane Sembene: Mandabi

Saturday, July 25. 3:00 p.m.

As part of the African Cinema as Art Film Series, the Hammonds House Museum, in collaboration with the Auburn Avenue Research Library, will host a screening of the feature film, Mandabi (The Money Order) is a 1968 film directed by Ousmane Sembène. Based on his novel of the same name this is Sembène’s first film in his native language, Wolof, and explores themes of neocolonialism, corruption and Senegalese society.

Hammonds House Museum, 503 Peeples St, Atlanta 30310

Three New Libraries Opening This Summer!

The Atlanta-FultonPublic Library System is preparing to open the next three new libraries as part of Phase I of the Library Building Program this summer.

The new 25,000-square-foot Northwest Library at Scotts Crossing will open on Thursday, July 9 at 11:00 a.m. The library is located at 2489 Perry Boulevard, Atlanta 30318. The Perry Homes and Bowen/Bankhead Libraries permanently closed on May 15, 2015 to prepare for the grand opening of this new library.

The new 25,000-square-foot Milton Library will open on Thursday, July 16 at 11:00 a.m. Located at 855Mayfield Road, Milton 30009, this branch is providing service to an area of the county that was previously unserved by a library.

The new 25,000-square-foot Alpharetta Library

will open on Thursday, July 30 at 11:00 a.m. The library is located at 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta 30009, and is part of the new Alpharetta City Center. The existing Alpharetta Library, located at 238 Canton Street, Alpharetta, re-opened on June 3 after closing on May 21 to prepare the collection for the grand opening of the new Alpharetta Library. This library will permanently close approximately two weeks prior to the opening of the new Alpharetta Library. The closing date will be finalized in the coming weeks.

These openings are part of Phase I of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System’s Library BuildingProgram, including construction of 8 new branch libraries and 2 expansion projects. In addition to the Alpharetta, Milton and Northwest libraries opening in July, three libraries have already opened: East Roswell (February 2015), Palmetto (December 2014), and Wolf Creek (September 2014). Two additional new libraries, the Southeast Atlanta and Metropolitan branches, will open later this year. Both the Auburn Avenue Research Library and the South Fulton Library are currently closed and under construction as the two expansion projects.

Green building design and sustainability are priorities for all Phase I library projects, and the Library System expects to achieve LEED Silver on each project. Each library will reflect the culture and interests of its community.

This is a very exciting time for our library system! Thank you to all of our patrons for your continued support of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System. We hope you all have a chance to visit your beautiful new libraries very soon!

Library Volunteers Transition To New Roles!

Library volunteers assist throughout the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System with clerical duties, returning items to the shelves and tutoring. Over 500 volunteers a month help strengthen our resources available to patrons, but recently volunteers have impacted our system in other ways. Former Ocee Library teen volunteer, Josh Seides, founded the national nonprofit Technocademy when he was in the 9th grade! Recently he partnered with assistant branch manager Karen Kennedy at the Ocee Library to host the first session of their new segment called CodeKids to teach digital literacy. 

Technocademy has already reached over 150,000 seniors and is excited about expanding their work to help children. Two other former Ocee teen volunteers joined for the first of six computer programming classes for elementary and middle school kids. Seides served as a library volunteer from 2010-2013, Alice Tang served in 2011-2012 and Manu Poruthoor served in 2010-2011, but they are serving the library again to help teach 30 kids ranging from 3rd grade to 9th grade computer coding. Technocademy’s  highly skilled team will be providing hands-on Microsoft Office training for teens and adults this summer in the evening. Ocee staff are delighted to expand the Microsoft Office training sessions to reach additional teen and adult students seeking to enhance their digital literacy skills.

Other volunteers have transitioned to new roles as new part-time staff members. Sohna Harzeez started volunteering in 2014 at the East Atlanta Branch and is now working at the Central Library. Harzeez said, “I am able to see more of the inner workings of the library and am already making things easier for the Librarians.” Stephanie Bottom served as a volunteer at the Central Library and Hapeville Branch, but is now employed again as a part-time Library Associate with the Adamsville/Collier Heights Branch. Ellen Baxter is a library student who started volunteering at the Roswell Branch and transitioned into an internship with Collections Management at the Central Library before starting part-time back at the Roswell Branch. Baxter said, 

I am thrilled to be back in the library as an employee.  Volunteering, which I mainly did before being hired in 2011 and then after being laid off in 2014, has kept me connected to the library and to my love of literacy.  I love having a job where someone's day can be changed in an instant by obtaining a library card.  Working again within the library system also enhances my graduate studies in Library and Information Science and gives me more experience to bring to my studies and vice versa.

Are you interested in joining our wonderful group of volunteers? Visit the website to fill out an application and get started!