These cold days in January are ideal for curling up by the fire with a good book. We have a list of 100 best novels at the reference desk that we would be happy to show you, to give you some ideas if you stop in and see us at Steele. We also have a display of National Endowment for the Arts Book Selections for “The Big Read” on the second floor. Or you might want to read something true about our own area.
Our area has been mentioned in a couple of books lately that you might want to check out. The latest is Company Town: the Industrial Edens and Satanic Mills that Shaped the American Economy by Hardy Green. In this book, the author mentions Corning as a beneficial company for the town of Corning. Read it to see if you agree. It’s on the shelf under call number 307.76 G796
Is there anyone out there who hasn’t heard about Zebratown by Greg Donaldson? The whole title is Zebratown: the true story of a Black Ex-Con and a White Single Mother in Small Town America. That small town is Elmira. Donaldson is a professor who follows an inmate from Elmira Correctional Facility in his first year out of prison. It was well-written, easy to read, and interesting, if a little discouraging. You’ll need to call 733-9173 or go to our website, to put a hold on this book, as all copies are currently charged out.
The Family Silver by Sharon O’Brien is an older (2004) memoir where another college professor reminisces about visiting her grandparents in Elmira, in the summer when she was growing up. She has a picture of their house on Clinton Street in the book and talks about enjoying Grove Park, and other Elmira Landmarks.
If you would like to be more active we also have books about trails or places to walk in our area. Whether you just want to read where to hike in the spring or cross country ski on the trails, check out Take a Hike: Family walks in New York’s Finger Lakes Region by Rich Freeman or 25 Walks in the Finger lakes by William Ehling.
Whatever you do in January enjoy!
Phyllis Rogan, Reference Librarian
Steele Memorial Library