The Kokomo-Howard County Public Library is now taking nominations for the 20th year of Howard County Reads.

Howard County Reads is an annual tradition that encourages residents in Howard County read a specific book. The program is a partnership between KHCPL and the Indiana University Kokomo library. A committee made up of library staff and community members choose each year's book from community nominations.

Melissa Wheelock, a readers' advisory librarian at KHCPL, said she's seen a lot of changes in the program over the years. In the early days, there were specific requirements for nominations, and a few titles made the list of top picks a few years in a row. Now, the committee avoids having repeat titles from year to year, and there are no longer specific length requirements.

Another big change over the years is an emphasis on bringing the author to Howard County. Last year, author Nikki Erlick visited to talk about the 2023 Howard County Reads book, "The Measure." The county has also seen Delia Owens, author of "Where the Crawdads Sing," and Sherri Smith, author of "Flygirl," among others.

Some years, the library has hosted events other than author visits, such as a dinner at the Elliott House or trips to other communities highlighted in the book that year.

Over the last several years, the committee has released a list of the top 15 picks, including the overall top choice. The last few years' lists can be found at //www.khcpl.org/hcr.

Community members are encouraged to nominate titles for this year's top pick. Specifically, the committee is looking for books that are well-written, character-driven and interesting to a wide variety of readers. Books should also not be too long, Wheelock said. And it's a bonus if they're available in paperback, but it's not a requirement.

Nominations are open now through Feb. 29. To nominate a book, visit the nomination website.

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Published: 12 January 2024

The Kokomo-Howard County Public Library is proud to announce that beginning Jan. 1, 2024, library patrons will no longer accrue fees for late materials.

The move, approved by the library board at its December meeting, is focused on removing barriers and making the library as accessible as possible for everyone served by KHCPL.

The new fine free policy will take effect at the beginning of the year, meaning materials checked out after Jan. 1 will no longer accrue late fees. Patrons will still be responsible for replacement costs if an item is lost or damaged, and patrons may still be responsible for late fees on materials checked out before the start of the new year.

For several years, KHCPL has not charged late fees on children’s books. The decision was initially introduced as a pilot program to remove financial barriers between children and literacy. At the end of the pilot, the library decided to permanently remove late fees for children’s books after seeing how successful it was in helping children access library materials.

The decision to remove late fees for all ages is in line with what other libraries around the state and country have done, including the Indianapolis Public Library and the Carmel Clay Public Library. According to Library Journal, many libraries are finding it profitable to do away with late fees, and a survey conducted by Library Journal found that while 92% of public libraries charged late fees in 2017, 36% charged late fees in 2022. Their survey found that libraries that dropped late fees reported higher patron satisfaction and participation.

Kayla Skiles, head of circulation at KHCPL, said the goal is to make the library accessible for everyone, and fees can serve as a barrier for people who may stop using library services due to late fees.

“The ability to provide our community with no concerns if they are a few days late returning an item, I believe, provides patrons with the comfort their library is a positive, understanding and welcoming place,” Skiles said. “When overdue fines are no longer an obstacle, or embarrassment, for those involved, it makes the library a place you want to visit. This decision will hopefully encourage the community to come to the library and check out all our new programs and free resources that they are perhaps paying to use at home.”

Skiles said when she started in her role as head of circulation, she received calls from people concerned about returning materials on time while they were in the hospital or out of state handling a family crisis.

“Patrons experiencing extenuating circumstances should not have to worry about getting their library materials back to us on time,” Skiles said. “That should be far from your mind. We are not only thinking of patrons who may be experiencing extenuating circumstances, but we are also thinking about the busy adult who hasn’t had time to drop off their library items. There is a growing number of adult students who are trying to juggle work, school and parenting. Giving patrons grace during what may be a very difficult or busy time in their story can only connect us deeper as a community.”

Skiles also encourages patrons who accrued late fees before the start of the new year to come in and talk with an employee about options for those late fees. There will also be opportunities in 2024 to waive outstanding late fees. Patrons are encouraged to keep an eye on the library’s website and Facebook page for information on these upcoming opportunities.

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Published: 22 December 2023

This holiday season, celebrate the season with the Kokomo-Howard County Public Library. Whether you’re looking for festive events or ways to enjoy the holidays from the comfort of your own home, we have so many ways to enjoy the most wonderful time of the year.

1. Holiday events

KHCPL has holiday events planned through the rest of the year, with activities for people of all ages. Children up to 5 years old can enjoy Holiday Magic at KHCPL Russiaville, with story times, crafts and engaging activities. Holiday Magic takes place from 10-10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 14 and Monday, Dec. 18.

Kids up to 13 can join us for Pajama Storytime from 6-7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 14 at KHCPL Main. Dress in your PJs and celebrate the holidays with stories, singing and a craft.

KHCPL Russiaville will celebrate the winter solstice with a bonfire, live music, crafts and caroling from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 22. This event is open to all ages.

Ring in the New Year with the library. We’ll make confetti poppers, create personalized boxes of wishes and let our creativity soar with wand streamer crafts. New Year’s Wishes will take place from 6-7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 28 at KHCPL South and again from 2:30-3:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 31 at KHCPL Main.

2. Icelandic Book Flood take-and-make kit

Jolabokaflod, or Christmas book flood, is an Icelandic holiday tradition of giving and receiving books. Immerse yourself in this cozy tradition with this fun take-and-make kit. Pick up your supplies at any KHCPL location on Thursday, Dec. 21 to make your own felt book ornament and decorative bookmark.

3. Holiday movies

The library has a number of ways you can enjoy holiday movies, whether you’re looking for loveable classics or modern rom-coms.

If you’re looking to stream, KHCPL offers two convenient options: Kanopy and hoopla. Kanopy allows you stream movies and TV shows for free on your smart devices, including smart TVs. Hoopla can be used on smart phones, tablets and computers. One of the great benefits of these platforms is that there are no late fees! KHCPL boasts a large collection of DVDs and Blu-Rays, with displays available at all KHCPL locations. You can also place a hold on titles for pickup at any location using our online catalog.

4. Holiday crafts made easy with Creativebug

Creativebug is an online resource that offers a wide collection of tutorials to help you make just about anything crafty. With Creativebug, you can bake delicious holiday treats, create thoughtful handmade gifts, and engage your children with festive crafts and activities. Access Creativebug by visiting our list of databases and scrolling down to Creativebug.

5. Bake beautiful cakes with Experience Kits

Why purchase a cake pan you can only use once a year when you can check it out for free with your library card! We have several holiday-themed cake pans available for check-out, with designs including a gingerbread man, snowman, stocking and Christmas tree. Browse our full list of Experience Kits!

6. Books, books, books!

It wouldn’t be the library without a large collection of books to suit your interests. Find heartwarming fiction, festive romance novels, adorable children’s books and informative nonfiction that can help you learn about traditions and holiday history. Browse our physical collection at any KHCPL location, browse our online catalog to place holds for pick-up, or explore ebooks and audiobooks using apps like hoopla and Libby.

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Published: 14 December 2023

The Kokomo-Howard County Public Library is preparing for the 2024 solar eclipse, which will take place on April 8, 2024. As the date of the eclipse approaches, we have answers to some commonly asked questions below. KHCPL plans to host programs relating to the eclipse. Be sure to stay tuned on our website for more information as we get closer to April 8, 2024.

Q: When will eclipse glasses be available?

A: We plan to have glasses available at KHCPL locations the day of the eclipse, April 8, 2024. You may find eclipse glasses and solar viewers online. NASA has released a list of products and vendors, though NASA does not endorse or approve any products. Find their list here: https://eclipse.aas.org/resources/solar-filters

Q: When and how should I wear eclipse glasses?

A: According to NASA, viewing the Sun without special-purpose eclipse glasses will instantly cause eye injury. Eclipse glasses are necessary to safely view the eclipse. These are not the same as regular sunglasses, which are not safe for viewing the sun. Eclipse glasses should be secured over your eyes and should not be used if they are torn, scratched or otherwise damaged.

Q: Do I need to wear eclipse glasses while driving during the eclipse?

A: No. Eclipse glasses only need to be worn when looking directly at the eclipse. Regular activities that do not involve looking at the Sun will not require eclipse glasses.

Q: What if I don’t have a pair of eclipse glasses?

A: The effects of the solar eclipse can be seen in indirect ways that do not involve looking directly at the Sun. Click here for a list of ways to view the eclipse indirectly: https://eclipse.aas.org/eye-safety/projection.

Q: Can I use eclipse glasses with a camera, binoculars or telescopes?

A: According to NASA, “do not use eclipse glasses with cameras, binoculars or telescopes. These require different types of solar filters.” It’s best to seek advice from experts before using a solar filter with these items or other optical devices.

According to NASA, it’s still important to wear sunscreen, a hat and protective clothing to protect skin during the eclipse and prevent damage from the Sun. You can find more information on NASA’s website: https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/eclipse-2024/safety/

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Published: 13 November 2023

William Rodman, Ambrose Sherer and John Vaughn may not be as familiar to you as David Foster, Capt. T.J. Harrison or Šaapontohsia of the Miami Indians in terms of local history, but these three men were actually among the buyers of the first lots for sale in Kokomo, Indiana, back in October 1844.

In fact, so far as is known, the names of all the original 43 lot owners of Kokomo have never been published. But the list is now available in the new Howard County Land Records collection on the Howard County Memory Project (www.howardcountymemory.net). This website is managed and maintained by the Genealogy & Local History Department at the Kokomo-Howard County Public Library (KHCPL).

Conceived and compiled by local history writer Gil Porter, the Land Records collection comprises tract books, public land surveys, and a host of original documents. According to Porter, the Land Records collection brings together dozens of documents and data files relating to Kokomo and Howard County that were previously either difficult to find or else only searchable online or on microfilm. "It's really a treasure trove of material now available in one place for the first time in a convenient, easy-to-use interface," Porter said.

All told, the site contains more than 400 separate records, images and spreadsheets ranging from the U.S. government's Royce Indian Land Cessions map to the Allen Hamilton-to-David Foster deed transfer in January 1844 (the Fosters later deeded 40 acres to start Kokomo) to every single sheet of the seven public domain Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps books for Kokomo from 1885 to 1916. Porter added that KHCPL's Howard County Memory Project was the perfect home for the collection. "I rely on the Genealogy and Local History department for research relating to our local history," Porter said. "This was the ideal way to make this information globally accessible."

Amy Russell, head of the department, agreed. "We often have patrons asking about the early land records or when their ancestors may have first started their farms," Russell said. "Now, we have the ability to go back even further in our Howard County history and are pleased to offer this service to anyone researching their ancestors' patterns."

As it turns out, the Land Records collection may be an important new resource for Howard County's Recorder's Office as well. The staff there also occasionally helps patrons looking for historic details about county land. "The site is a great attribute for the citizens of Howard County," said Torie Kelley, Howard County recorder. Kelley noted the site has value for a range of research, whether it be for genealogy purposes, title companies or anyone who is just curious about our history. "As the county recorder, I am very excited to have this resource available," she said.

Porter highlighted a few of the features found on the new Land Records site:

• 1819-20: Survey of the Great Miami Reserve
• "The surveyors named the water source they found along the west side of the Miami reservation 'St. Johns' and 'River Pouextipecheaux.' They didn't know it was the Wildcat Creek."
• 1842: Canal Land Sales. Miami Reserve Tract Book #1
• "This is probably the single most important historical document for Howard County. It has the records of the original westside landowners dating back to 1842."
• 1846-47: Indiana General Land Office Index, GLO Plat Maps Database
• "We created an interactive database that visually maps 81 squatter farms, fields and improvements dating to winter of 1846-47, before the federal land sale in the summer of 1847."

Porter noted that the tract books and survey maps available on the Land Records collection provide definitive details about dates, names, and locations for all the original landowners in Kokomo and Howard County, Indiana. "The collection is comprehensive and definitely presents a more accurate picture of our history," Porter said. "We now have better context for family and history researchers by using these primary sources." More information about the new collection is available in the article "Finding history in the land records" in the May 2023 issue of Footprints, the quarterly publication of the Howard County Historical Society. howardcountymuseum.org/explore/publications-archive

(Library Trivia Note: John Vaughn mentioned at the start of the story was the first librarian in Howard County. [Commissioners' Record 1, 1844-1850])

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Published: 23 October 2023

Library and Community Foundation partner to provide grant search service to Howard County nonprofits

A new service available to Howard County nonprofits will provide opportunities to pursue funding that they may not have been aware of before. The Kokomo-Howard County Public Library (KHCPL) and the Community Foundation of Howard County are partnering to bring grant search software to Howard County.

In February 2023 the Community Foundation convened a half-day workshop with representatives from a broad range of nonprofits to meet and discuss ways to plan for long-term success. As a result of that gathering, multiple nonprofit needs were identified, and a range of individual programs were developed. One of the needs the Foundation was made aware of, access to a searchable database of grants, seemed simple, but the Foundation needed a place to host such a service.

The database GrantSelect is now available through the Kokomo-Howard County Public Library thanks to a grant from the Community Foundation.

"KHCPL was an obvious partner to provide this software to the community," said Todd Moser, President, Community Foundation of Howard County. "We are looking forward to the impact that this software will have by providing otherwise unknown funding opportunities to our local nonprofits and we believe the library is the most accessible way to offer this in Howard County."

Justin Kingery, assistant head of adult and teen services at KHCPL, said the new database is a great opportunity for organizations of all sizes looking for grant funding.

"This database will help organizations search for grants quickly and easily, allowing them to save time while searching for funds to strengthen their organizations and our community as a whole," Kingery said. "We're so grateful to the Community Foundation for making it possible for the library to offer this resource."

The Community Foundation is also working with GrantSelect to bring training to Howard County. A workshop is being offered to teach nonprofits how to utilize the software. The GrantSelect workshop will be located at the Community Foundation office on Sept. 19. Space is limited, so nonprofits that are interested in attending should contact Carrie Giannakos, Community Leadership Coordinator at carrie@cfhoward.org.

The Kokomo-Howard County Public Library provides opportunities for the community to become its best. Serving Center, Taylor, Howard, Clay, Ervin, Harrison, Honey Creek and Monroe counties, KHCPL enriches the community through a wide collection of materials, programs for people of all ages and abilities, and in-person and online resources.

The Community Foundation of Howard County, Inc., was formed as a not-for-profit public charity in March 1991. The Foundation seeks to serve donors and make grants to benefit the citizens of Howard County. For more information about the Community Foundation, contact Todd Moser at 765-454-7298 or todd@cfhoward.org. Visit us at http://www.cfhoward.org where you will find information about making gifts to endowment funds, scholarships and grantmaking.

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Published: 19 September 2023

Turning Point offers addiction recovery resources at Library

The Kokomo-Howard County Public Library and Turning Point System of Care have teamed up to help individuals struggling with mental health and addiction challenges..

On select days, a Turning Point Rapid Access Navigator will be available at KHCPL Main, 220 N. Union St., to help connect individuals with resources. Turning Point can connect people with services such as peer recovery coaches, intensive outpatient addiction programs, a detox unit and more..

Brian Robinson, a rapid access navigator with Turning Point, said he can also help people navigate food stamps, insurance and housing resources..

Turning Point's presence at the library is meant to serve as a starting point for those looking for help with addiction and mental health struggles. People can meet with a trained professional for free and confidentially. If an individual needs help with transportation to treatment, that is available as well..

Those looking for help are encouraged to bring their photo ID and birth certificate, though individuals can speak with Turning Point even without these resources. Robinson added that he can help people access these vital records if necessary..

Turning Point will be available in the quiet study room 2 on the second floor of KHCPL Main from noon to 5 p.m. on Thursdays, Sept. 21; Oct. 5 and 19; and Nov. 2 and 16. No appointment is necessary, and this resource is open to anyone..

For more information, call either the library at 765-457-3242 or Turning Point at 765-860-8365.

Turning Point's mission is to respectfully strengthen recovery community safety nets through providing collaborative, person-centered and affirming recovery support to those individuals and families impacted by mental health and substance abuse challenges. The organization is located at 1234 N. Courtland Ave. and open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Published: 12 September 2023

The Kokomo-Howard County Public Library announces the installation of an Indiana Legal Help Kiosk at their location at KHCPL South.

Indiana Legal Help kiosks provide a way for Hoosiers to easily access IndianaLegalHelp.org, an Indiana Bar Foundation program connecting Hoosiers to legal resources and services. The Indiana Legal Help website, which has seen over one million visits since its launch, includes legal forms, instructional videos, referrals to free and low-cost legal services, and a statewide calendar of free legal advice clinics. The Indiana Legal Help kiosks will initially focus on serving Hoosiers facing eviction or housing instability and will expand to include other legal topics later next year. The ADA accessible kiosk has a printer and scanner.

The Indiana Legal Help Kiosk is part of an initiative to place 120 kiosks in communities around the state. This opportunity is the result of a partnership between the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority and the Indiana Bar Foundation to increase housing stability legal services using federal funds made available through the Emergency Rental Assistance 2 Program (ERA2).

“We are grateful to the organizations around the state that are partnering with us to make this valuable resource available in their community. Through IndianaLegalHelp.org and a network of statewide partners engaged in assisting Hoosiers facing housing-related civil legal issues, the Foundation is uniquely positioned to expand services statewide and connect more Hoosiers with legal services,” said Foundation President & CEO Charles Dunlap.

The Indiana Legal Help Kiosk will be available to the public on Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

For housing and other legal needs, you can always check out the legal resources available at IndianaLegalHelp.org.

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Published: 30 March 2023

The Kokomo-Howard County Public Library recently unveiled its new Discovery Center, a space dedicated to helping children explore the world of science, technology, engineering and math.

The Discovery Center is located in the children’s department at KHCPL Main. The space is filled with a mix of low-tech and high-tech games and activities such as hex bugs, coding robots, 3D pens and virtual reality. It caters to children between the ages of 8 and 13.

During open hours, children are encouraged to explore available technology. Open hours are from 4-6 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays when there are no conflicting children’s programs.

Activities are regularly planned in the Discovery Center. Activities may be focused on specific technology or on themes, such as the recent Pi Day activities on March 14.

Upcoming Discovery Center activities can be found on the calendar of events. For questions, please call 765-626-030 or email csd@khcpl.org.

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Published: 27 March 2023

Can’t make it to the library? With our To Your Door Library Delivery service, we deliver books, movies, videogames, magazines, CDs, and audiobooks to your home - FREE! Here's how it works.

• You need to live in KHCPL's service area, be 18 or older, and have a KHCPL card with an account in good standing.
• Sign up by going to //www.khcpl.org/home-delivery-service and entering your name and email address.
• Go to KHCPL.org to search our online catalog.
• Select and request an item/items.
• When the library material(s) you chose are available, we'll contact you to coordinate the delivery to your home.
• We deliver on Tuesday afternoons and Thursday mornings.
• Limit one delivery per week per address.
• Once we drop off your item(s) in a weatherproof blue bag, we'll text you.
• A printed receipt with the due dates for each item will be in the bag as well.
• When you're done, call or text us at 765.860.6858 or email homedelivery@khcpl.org to request a pickup. You can also drop materials off at any KHCPL location.

Questions? Call 765.860.6858 or email homedelivery@khcpl.org.

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Published: 28 July 2022

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, as of 2018 there were 30.2 million small businesses across America that employ 58.9 million workers. This equates to almost half the U.S. workforce. Those figures include local businesses in Kokomo.

Often startups and experienced business owners alike simply don’t know what kind of information they need, where to find it, or how to get started. Now small businesses in Kokomo can take advantage of Gale Business: Plan Builder, an online resource, from Gale, a Cengage company. Gale Business: Plan Builder is a step-by-step guide to help you with what can otherwise be a complex business-planning process.

“It is important for KHCPL to contribute to the local economy, and one of the best ways we can do that is to support entrepreneurs,” said KHCPL Director Faith Brautigam. “I am excited that we now offer a product just for them that offers templates for actionable steps. Even better, it includes a spectrum of elements appropriate for a range of people, from someone who is just starting a side hustle to those who have experience as business owners.”

Gale Business: Plan Builder is equipped with the following features:

• Business-planning tools and templates, including Lean Canvas, SWOT, Pitch Deck and more, to assist you in creating documents and other deliverables you’ll need for starting, managing, and growing your business.
• An intuitive dashboard that shows your progress and completion of activities as it moves you through the entire business development life cycle. It even includes “guide me” tips.

For anyone who is new to small business ownership, this resource provides a gradual introduction to entrepreneurial concepts. For more seasoned business owners, the focus shifts toward activities to support the management and growth of an operation, such as getting a loan, seeking investors, buying new equipment, or opening a new facility.

Kokomo residents can access Gale Business: Plan Builder at the library, from their office, home, or on the go. Go to //www.khcpl.org/business-and-finances and click on Gale Business: Plan Builder to get started.

Any resident served by KHCPL can access this and our 77 other online resources with their library card. To sign up for a card, visit KHCPL Main, South, or Russiaville. Bring along a valid photo ID showing your name and current address. For more information about Gale Business: Plan Builder or any of our digital products, call us at 765.626.0892.

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Published: 19 February 2021

• Archived

When Ben Rutz proposed to Caele Pemberton -- both of whom are avid library supporters -- KHCPL Director of Marketing Lisa Fipps had a proposal of her own: She asked them if they'd like to get married at the library. Fipps remembers their response. "They said, 'Are you serious? We can do that?!' And I said, 'Of course. We'll make it happen.' KHCPL works to find ways to say yes. And what better way to showcase people's love for the library and one another -- and further show the community that libraries are far more than warehouses for books -- than to host a wedding?"

The library has three locations, but KHCPL South was the best fit, since it's all on one floor and has the most open space. We took Ben, a local DJ, and Caele, a local former journalist, on a tour, showing them they could walk down the aisle between the rows of computers for public use to the quasi-altar, aka the reference desk, which happens to be just a few feet from our romance collection. They could use study rooms and the small meeting room for the wedding party to get ready. They could use the two large meeting rooms for the reception of their Halloween night wedding. "It was like the perfect romance novel. Two people fall in love. They plan a wedding. But then there was a plot twist: COVID," Fipps said. "So they had to scale down the invite list and add a Zoom option for people to watch from home. But, in the end, as with all good romance novels, love prevailed," Fipps said. "The photos tell such a beautiful story of a happy couple outside the library, of them saying their vows at the reference desk, and of them reading books in the stacks. It's one of the best chapters in the book about KHCPL."

Photo Credits, Franklin Focus.

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Published: 09 December 2020

• Archived

The Kokomo-Howard County Public Library Community Butterfly Garden ribbon-cutting and grand opening will be from 11 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept. 12, at KHCPL South, 1755 E. Center Road.

“The garden will allow the library to do a variety of things to help save the monarch butterfly and other pollinators,” KHCPL Director of Marketing Lisa Fipps said.

With the KHCPL Community Butterfly Garden, the library will accomplish the following:

• raise awareness about the environmental threats facing butterflies, bees, and other pollinators;
• provide residents with new opportunities to learn about a significant environmental issue independently as they explore the garden and through formal educational programs hosted at the site;
• provide hands-on learning events for people of all ages;
• provide an educational information center; and
• locally support a declining species to address a global problem.

The public is invited to the grand opening. Mask are required.

“We have so many people to thank who have made the KHCPL Community Butterfly Garden possible,” Fipps said. “Duke Energy generously provided $10,000 toward the project. The Friends of the Library gave $2,000. The Howard County Master Gardener Association provided $500. Stewart and Ruth Worthley donated materials, along the Hamilton County Master Gardener Association, Marian Cable, Carol and Jack Reed, Bridget North, Jeannie Gale, Jeanette Land, Sandy Price, Carol Petro, Sharon Cooper, Emily Roark, and Valerie Gordon.”

“But there’s just no way we could have the KHCPL Community Butterfly Garden without the countless hours of hard work these volunteers, especially the Howard County Master Gardener Association, put into it, from planning to planting, from watering to weeding, the list goes on and on,” Fipps said.

Volunteers included Stewart and Ruth Worthley, Carol and Jack Reed, Marian Cable, Jeanette and Kent Land, Jeannie Gale, Gwendolyn Parker, Perry Grieb, Sandy Price, Buddy Knepley, Bridget North, Carol Petro, Megan Moss, Teresa Keller, Sharon Cooper, Jack Reed, Kent Land, Wendy Zeider, and the members of Girl Scout Troop 628 (Jessica Shannon, Lilly Shallenberger, Abby Thatcher, Sara Thatcher, Becky Crabtree, and Pat Skillington, leader).

More donations and volunteers are needed to sustain the garden. “We’d love to see businesses, organizations, Scouts, schools, families, and individuals get involved,” Fipps said.

To donate or volunteer, call or email Fipps at 765.626.0807 or lfipps@KHCPL.org.

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Published: 08 September 2020

• Archived

Beginning on Monday, Sept. 21, Kokomo-Howard County Public Library patrons will notice some exciting changes when searching the online catalog.

“We’re excited to announce we’ll be launching the implementation of Wise, a new cataloging and materials management system that will provide patrons with some unique tools,” said KHCPL Director of Marketing Lisa Fipps.

“We’ve been with our current system for almost 30 years, including various upgrades and updates,” Fipps said. “To keep it would have become costly because of changes that the provider is about to make. So, we began searching for a new system and found Wise. We love the unique features it provides patrons. Since we’re taxpayer-funded and patron-minded, we’re always seeking ways to save money and provide even better customer service. Wise allows us to do both.”

Wise is the first community-engagement system for U.S. public libraries. About 75 percent of libraries in the Netherlands already use it. “Since we’re only the fourth public library in the United States to implement Wise, we’ll be a beta tester,” Fipps said. “We love that this partnership puts us on the cutting edge of technology for public libraries in America.”

One feature of Wise that patrons will like is that once you approve a relationship with another library cardholder who’s a part of or not a part of your household, such as a coworker, friend, or neighbor, you can pick up holds, check out items, and pay fines for each other. “You’ll have a lot more options with Wise,” Fipps said.

There will be a little bit of a transition time as KHCPL makes the change. From Friday, Sept. 18, until Monday, Sept. 21, patrons won’t be able to pay fines, log in to see when items are due, place holds, or renew items, Fipps said. “You’ll still be able to check out materials that weekend, but we’ll be going kind of old-school. We’ll be writing down the items’ barcodes. So please allow for a little extra time for checkout when you visit us on those days. You should be able to continue to use Overdrive and Hoopla for movies and more.”

Because the transition is staff-intensive, KHCPL will not be able to offer Curbside Pickup on Friday, Sept. 18, and Monday, Sept. 21. It will resume Curbside Pickup starting on Wednesday, Sept. 23.

As KHCPL completes the changeover on Sept. 21, we’ll have to be closed until 4 p.m. that day.

“We regret patrons will have a few days of inconvenience as we implement this new system, but we know that Wise provides so many conveniences that it’ll all be worth it,” Fipps said. “We thank everyone, in advance, for their patience and understanding.”

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Published: 08 September 2020

• Archived

What’s your favorite book? Not an easy question to answer, is it? Now you know how the Kokomo-Howard County Library feels when it receives your votes for the Howard County Reads book of the year. But, after careful review, KHCPL has named The Year We Left Home by Jean Thompson as the 2020 Howard County Reads book.

The Year We Left Home chronicles the happiness pursuits of the Eriksons from their 1970s coming-of-age to the near-present day, in a story told from revolving viewpoints. It begins in 1973 when the Erickson family of Grenada, Iowa, gathers for the wedding of their eldest daughter, Anita. Even as they celebrate, the fault lines in the family emerge. The bride wants nothing more than to raise a family in her hometown, while her brother, Ryan, watches restlessly from the sidelines, planning his escape. He is joined by their cousin, Chip, an unpredictable, war-damaged loner who will show Ryan both the appeal and the perils of freedom. Torrie, the Ericksons' youngest daughter, is another rebel intent on escape, but the choices she makes will bring about a tragedy that leaves the entire family changed forever.

To keep everyone safe and to do our part to reduce the spread of COVID, the author visit will be a virtual one. More details will be announced at a later date. KHCPL will be able to have the author visit thanks to One State/One Story. The Year We Left Home is presented by Indiana Humanities in partnership with the Indiana Center for the Book and the Indiana State Library.

KHCPL has also selected 14 other books to round out the Top 15 Howard County Reads books.

• How Dare the Sun Rise by Sandra Uwiringiyimana
• True to You by Becky Wade
• Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern
• Red at the Bone by Jacqueline Woodson
• Things You Save in a Fire by Katherine Center
• They Called Us Enemy by George Takei
• Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys
• Island of Sea Women by NAME
• Gone Dead by Chanelle Benz
• Widows of Malabar Hill by Sujata Massey
• Attucks: Oscar Robertson and the Basketball Team that Awakened a City by Phillip Hoose
• Bride Test by Helen Hoang
• Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers
• Inland byTéa Obreht

KHCPL will have three librarian-led book discussions, one at each location, of The Year We Left Home.

• 10 a.m., Wednesday, Sept. 9, at KHCPL Main
• 6 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 10, at KHCPL Russiaville
• 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 15, at KHCPL South

KHCPL is also planning a virtual author event and other programs. Follow us on social media for the latest library news about materials, events, and programs.

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Published: 07 August 2020

• Archived

Back by popular demand is the Friends of the Library’s Book Sale – but with a few changes. It’ll be a Bag of Books Drive-Thru Sale on Aug. 15, and you have to order in advance.

Here’s how it’ll work.

• To keep everyone safe and slow the spread of COVID in the community, you will order books in advance instead of browsing through the available materials.
• Place your order online at https://bit.ly/30lrs1F.
• If you prefer, you can fill out an order form, available at any KHCPL location. Return it to any service desk.
• This is what you can order:
• a bag of 20 music CDs for $5
• a bag of 10 DVDs, or adult books on CD or MP3 for $5
• a bag of 20 children's hardback, juvenile, or YA books for $2
• a bag of 5 adult hardback books for $5
• a bag of 20 adult paperback books for $10
• You can choose from pre-selected genres/interests. For example, when ordering an adult non-fiction bag, you can choose from cookbooks, home arts, biography/history, religion, sports, travel, and war.
• You can purchase as many bags as you want.
• Between 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 15, go to KHCPL Main, park, and call 765-431-0485 to tell them you’ve arrived to pick up your order.
• Tell them your name and the type of vehicle you’re in and the color.
• Remember to wear your mask.
• We’ll bring your order to you and collect payment. Exact change is preferred. Checks accepted. No credit/debit cards accepted.

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Published: 03 August 2020

• Archived

During the month of August, the Kokomo-Howard County Public Library will host a new popup exhibition from the National Archives, called Rightfully Hers, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment.

Rightfully Hers contains simple messages exploring the history of the ratification of the 19th amendment, women’s voting rights before and after the 19th, and its impact today.

Despite decades of marches, petitions, and public debate to enshrine a woman’s right to vote in the constitution, the 19th Amendment – while an enormous milestone – did not grant voting rights for all. The challenges of its passage reverberate to the ongoing fight for gender equity today.

"The ratification of the 19th Amendment was a landmark moment in American history that dramatically changed the electorate, and although it enshrined in the U.S. Constitution fuller citizenship for women many remained unable to vote,” said Rightfully Hers co-curator Jennifer N. Johnson.

“KHCPL has materials, databases, and programs to provide education about a variety of topics,” said Director of Marketing Lisa Fipps. “So we love bringing in exhibits that do as well. We encourage people to check out materials about women’s voting rights after they view the exhibit. We’ll have a special display nearby.”

KHCPL South is the host site for Rightfully Hers. You can explore the exhibit during normal library hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Fridays; and 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Saturdays.

About Rightfully Hers

Rightfully Hers is organized by the National Archives and Records Administration. In celebration of the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, the National Archives has launched a nationwide initiative and major exhibition that explores the generations-long fight for universal woman suffrage. The exhibition is presented in part by the Women’s Suffrage Centennial Commission and the National Archives Foundation through the generous support of Unilever, Pivotal Ventures, Carl M. Freeman Foundation in honor of Virginia Allen Freeman, AARP, and Denise Gwyn Ferguson.

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Published: 31 July 2020

• Archived

As part of the Kokomo-Howard County Public Library’s More than a Memory project, funded by the Community Foundation of Howard County, we’re offering free stickers to alert emergency responders so they know someone inside a residence is a person living with dementia.

“There are 20,719 people 65 and older in Howard County and, statistically, 8.8 percent of those 65 and older have dementia,” said Lisa Fipps, KHCPL Director of Marketing and More Than a Memory coordinator. “That means at least 1,823 people in our community live with dementia. And, like all residents, there will be times when they need emergency responders, whether it be because of a fall, break-in, fire, etc. Interacting with a person living with dementia has unique challenges. First responders are trained on how to interact with people living with dementia; however, when entering a home during an emergency, they have no idea if someone inside is a person living with dementia. Until now. This sticker alerts first responders.”

The stickers are FREE and are available at the Reference Desk at all KHCPL locations and on the bookmobiles. Simply ask for one or more. It’s good to have one on each door and window, including a patio door. Before applying the sticker to a door or window, write on it the name of the person living with dementia. It's best to use a permanent marker. “The sticker speaks for the person with dementia when he or she or the caregiver cannot,” Fipps said.

“There is one caveat,” Fipps said. “Keep in mind that there are people who might see the sticker and then try to target the person living with dementia for a scam. This is especially true if the person living with dementia lives alone. However, we think the benefit outweighs the risk, especially since most people living with dementia live with caregivers, because as the disease progresses it makes independent living unsafe. Do what’s best for your loved one.”

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Published: 31 July 2020

• Archived

The Kokomo-Howard County Public Library will begin a “no mask, no entry and mask on, come on in” policy at all locations and bookmobiles beginning on Monday, July 27, in compliance with Gov. Eric Holcomb’s statewide Executive Order.

Currently, KHCPL employees wear masks, and we ask that the patrons do. However, starting on July 27, until further notice, patrons will be required to wear masks.

“If you do not want to or cannot wear a mask, due to medical reasons, we understand,” said KHCPL Director Faith Brautigam. “For you, we offer Curbside Pickup. That way we can follow the law, do our part to stop the spread of COVID in the community, keep everyone safe, and accommodate patrons.”

Curbside Pickup is available from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m., Mondays, at all locations; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wednesdays, at Main and South; and a10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Fridays, at all locations. To place holds for Curbside Pickup, either use our online catalog or call the location where you want to pick up your materials: 454.4710 (KHCPL Main), 453.4150 (KHCPL South), and 883.5112 (KHCPL Russiaville).

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Published: 31 July 2020

• Archived

The Kokomo-Howard County Public Library’s bookmobiles, Adventure and Discovery, are taking on a temporary new role: They’re delivering free food starting Monday, July 6.

The United Way of Howard and Tipton Counties, in partnership with Fiat Chrysler, created meal bags for students in Howard County. The bags have six to eight meals in them, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Now that school is out for the summer, United Way and Fiat Chrysler needed a way to distribute the bags. That’s when KHCPL stepped up to help.

“KHCPL prides itself on partnering with others and serving Kokomo and Howard County,” said Lisa Fipps, KHCPL Director of Marketing. “Our bookmobiles already deliver books to the community. Why not food? There’s a limited supply of meal bags, so we’ll distribute them on a first-come, first-served basis at our public stops.”

To find out where the bookmobiles will be, please go to our website for the schedule: //www.khcpl.org/bookmobile-schedule.

To protect everyone and to do our part to try to stop the spread of COVID-19 in the community, please follow these safety guidelines.

• Since the bookmobiles are smaller, confined spaces, we request you have a mask on before you join us. Our bookmobile staff will be wearing masks, too.
• We will have hand sanitizer available for patrons and staff.
• We’ll allow one family or up to two patrons to be in a bookmobile at a time.

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Published: 06 July 2020

• Archived