2Mar, 2017
    First Books2Go Micro-Library Launches April 11

    The newest way to access books in the City of Scottsdale will become a reality next month, as the first Books2Go structure will be unveiled April 11 at 11am at Chaparral Dog Park.

    Books2Go micro-library for Chaparral Dog Park

    Books2Go micro-libraries will be installed in City of Scottsdale parks and other convenient locations to provide a “take one, leave one” opportunity for those seeking books to read. The first installation will take the shape of a dog house to reflect its location in the dog park.

    Each Books2Go installation is being designed by Jim Nance as part of the Library’s partnership with Intel and Experience Matters.

    The Friends of the Scottsdale Public Library provided funding for the construction and supplies of the Books2Go structures, while the initial books were funded through a donation by the Scottsdale Area Association of Realtors. The project is a collaboration between the Library, the Scottsdale Parks Department and the Scottsdale Facilities Department.

    Please join us on April 11 for a ribbon cutting ceremony at Chaparral Dog Park, and stay tuned for more Books2Go installations in 2017 currently planned at Mountain View Park and Indian School Park.

    15Oct, 2016
    Friends Sponsors Four Library Fellowships

    The Friends of the Scottsdale Public Library helped make four key Library programs a reality by facilitating four fellowships through the Experience Matters program.

    Each of the Fellows will work on special Library programming through financial support of Intel. Since 2011, Intel has placed and funded 60 former employees yearly in positions with non-profit groups that may utilize their experience in fields like engineering and project management.

    For the Library, here are the four programs funded for 2016-2017:

    • Justin Bingham will serve as Project Developer for Story Stroll. Story Stroll is an opportunity for families to read a children’s book, page by page, as they walk through parks and other outdoor areas. This is a year-long fellowship.
    • Arnie Dominguez will serve as Project Developer for the Ultimate Play Date. This annual event in March brings together children ages 0-8 to experience learning at different Play Zones like adventure, music & dance and science & technology. The 2017 Ultimate Play Date will take place March 4. This is a six-month fellowship.
    • Jim Nance will serve as Builder for the Books2Go Program. Books2Go is a series of micro-libraries in City of Scottsdale parks filled with free books for the public in a “take one, leave one” style system. This is a year-long fellowship.
    • Jim Willittes will serve as Coordinator for the STEAM Program. Short for science, technology, engineering, art and math, the STEAM Program will be a series of events designed to educate children in these important fields. This is a year-long fellowship.

    The Friends coordinated all the paperwork for these fellowships and is serving as the operations agency on behalf of the Library.

    30Jul, 2016
    Arabian Library Named Most Beautiful in Arizona

    In TechInsider’s recent ranking of the most beautiful library in all 50 states, Scottsdale’s Arabian Library was ranked #1 in Arizona.

    Arabian Library courtyard
    Patrons enjoy the Arabian Library branch

    According to the article, criteria for the judging was awards by the American Institute of Architects and the American Library Association awards. Arabian won the 2009 Library Building Award from these organizations.

    The Arabian branch originally opened in September 2007, and among its features is LEED® Silver Certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. Designed by Phoenix-based Richärd + Bauer, its signature look includes bronze-colored steel and giant windows to optimize natural light.

    If you haven’t visited Arabian Library recently, come check out the most beautiful library in Arizona.