NYT Bestsellers

Do you have a book club? Get your kit from Ransom!
70+ Titles!
Everything you need to have a great discussion packed in a handy bag. Now with over 70 great titles guaranteed to please your readers.
Ransom Book Discussion
Join us the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM for an hour of intellectual and entertaining conversation.

May 8, 2012 &
June 12, 2012
Two Part Discussion
Personal History
By Katharine Graham

July 10, 2012
August 14, 2012
September 11, 2012
October 9, 2012
November 13, 2012

Books to be announced...

No Discussion
in December 2012

New title recommendations are welcome!

All titles we have read are available in the discussion kit bags for circulation.

Ongoing Kid & Teen Programs

Caffeine Teens
Mondays, 3:00-4:00 p.m.
Starting April 9th

Teen Writers Group
Fourth Monday of the Month @ 7:00

Elementary Kids: Read—Write—Dance
Tuesdays, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
April 10th - June 26th

Story Time
Wednesdays, 10:30-11:15
April 11th – June 27th

Guitar Club
Youth & Beginners
Thursdays, 3:00 – 4:30 p.m.
April 12th – June 28th

Guitar Jam Club
Teens & Experienced
2nd and 4th Fridays
of each month, 3:00 – 4:30

Parachute Playtime
Fridays, 11:00-11:30 a.m.
April 13th – June 29th

New members are welcome to any group!

For more info visit:
Kids Things to Do Page &
Teens Things to Do Page

Item Due Notices
Ransom has begun sending out emails of "Item Due Notices" in advance of material due dates. We hope these notices will help patrons to remember to return and/or renew their materials to avoid late fees. We will also continue to email overdue item notices. Please be sure to add your email address to your library account as well as any child's account to ensure you get these notices.
Your checked out items may be viewed and renewed online by visiting: www.ransomlibrary.org and click on Library Account. Your library account username and password are your library card number. If your login is not working, please call the library at 269-685-8024.

Troan Yearbooks

Ransom District Library is missing the following yearbooks and we would appreciate donations of the following years:

1957, 1961, 1969, 1979, 1993, 1995, 1997, 1998

Ransom only emails you once a month or as needed for the following reasons:

 -Reserve Notices
(As Needed)
-Interlibrary loan (MEL)
(As Needed)
-Item Due Notices
(As Needed)
-Overdue Notices
(As Needed)
-Ransom eNewsletters
(Once a Month)
-New Book Alerts
(Once a Month)

Sign up your email to your account and/or your child's account today!

Mark your calendars:

Summer Reading Registration starts June 13th and the Summer Reading Kickoff Event is June 14th with Magician Jeff Wawrzasczek. See the Kid's Things to Do Page or the Teen's Things to Do Page for more details.





Story Time:
Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.

For more information, please visit our Children's Page.


Online Access to Your Library Account and Online Catalog

Access your online library account by scrolling over "Library Catalog," then click "My Account." Just enter your library card number for your username and password. Once into your account, you may view your checked out materials and renew materials.

You may also reserve materials online. Just search our catalog, locate the item and enter your library barcode number for your username and password. This can also be done through our Catalog Computers in the library!

Order on MEL? Review your MEL Account and renew items! Go to www.mel.org, click MyMel to log in. Or go to MyMel directly to check for due dates, renew your MEL materials, and see the status of your requests. Just select your library (Ransom District Library) from the drop down list and login with your name and library card number.
Get the updates, newsletters, and more!

Send us your email!
Is your email on your library account? Get Ransom's Newsletters, interlibrary loan (MEL) and Ransom Reserve notices to your inbox!

If you registered your email with us and have not received an email, please check your "spam folder" and mark our email address as "not spam." Thank you!
What title comes next in a series of books?
Find out with this valuable resource.
Database of: Kent District Library

How much are you saving by using Ransom Library?

Find out with the Library Use Calculator, just enter in the number of times per month you or your family use each service. See how much you save or could be saving!


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Southwest MI Digital Library
Free eBooks & Downloadable Audiobooks

Now compatible with Kindles!
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CLASSES
@ YOUR LIBRARY
 
Registration Required for all Classes
  
Microsoft Office 2007:
Wonderful World of Word
Monday, May 14 & 21 @ 7PM

Free Online Computer Classes!
Compliments of the Goodwill Community Foundation

Friends of Ransom Library Upcoming Book Sales
Save money and help the library at the same time by shopping at one of these upcoming book sales:
Sat., May 19th from 10-3PM
 
All money made is used for future book purchases and special programs. Most books are $1 or less!

Can't make it to the Book Sale? Don't forget the Friends Book Sale Shelves!
The Book Sale Shelves (behind the coffee counter) hold our best sale materials and are regularly restocked with the finest selection. These items are available for browsing and purchasing everyday during library hours!

DONATIONS NEEDED!
 
If you are cleaning house and have audiobooks, CD's, books or DVD's consider donating them to Ransom.
Don't forget: Donations are tax deductible, too!

MDOT Construction

Ransom will be open!

Beginning in the 2012 construction season the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will reconstruct and improve a two-mile stretch of M-89 from 12th Street east to Florence Street through the City of Plainwell. Ransom Library will be open during this construction project. For more information about the project or for possible "re-tour" routes to Ransom Library, please visit plainwell.org or pick up a MDOT brochure at the library.



Need more information on ordering through MEL (interlibrary loan)? Go to our Library Cards page for more information.



Ransom will be closed:

Memorial Day
Mon., May 28, 2012

Independence Day
Wed., July 4, 2012

Labor Day
Mon., September 3, 2012

Closing Early at 5 p.m. on:
Wed., November 21, 2012

Thanksgiving
Thurs., November 22, 2012

Christmas Eve
Mon., December 24, 2012

Christmas Day
Tues., December 25, 2012

New Years Eve
Mon., December 31, 2012

New Years Day
Tues., January 1, 2013

Music Equipment Wanted!


Do you have a guitar, amplifier, or any other musical equipment to donate to the library? Your old guitar, acoustic or electric, and other musical equipment could provide an opportunity for someone else to discover the joy of playing music in upcoming Ransom District Library programs. Please consider donating any musical equipment to the library and feel in tune with your community.

ATTENTION PARENTS!

Parents: Add your email address to your child's account - get overdue notices sooner to help reduce fines! Just fill out the Contact Us Form with your name, your email, and child(ren)'s name.



Be sure to view all of Ransom District Library's events!

All events are listed on Ransom's calendar.

But for program details on Children's & Teen's events visit: Children's Page and Teen Page.
Free Electronics Recycling @ Ransom
 
Ransom has partnered with The Recycling Team to offer free recycling! We now accept: computers, monitors, printers, scanners, fax machines, toners, cell phones, any type of batteries and more! No large appliances, please. TVs are accepted for a $10 fee. Please drop off items during regular library hours.
 



Got a question about a library service? Visit Ransom's Library Service Page!

Find out about our copy/fax/san service, exam proctoring, computers, MEL, and more!

Still have questions?
Contact us!

Questions about item loan periods, fines, and overdue items? Visit our Library Cards Page for more information!

Wanted:
Lego Donations!



Ransom Youth Services is asking for Lego donations—if you, or anyone you know, has Legos that they’d like to see get some good use (or just get gone!), please consider donating them to our collection. If delivery is a problem, Mr. Joe will come pick them up! We plan to have many future Lego programs and we want to allow a wider participation.
Reserving the Meeting Room
The Library has a meeting room available for reservation. The room is available to non-profit organizations only. There is no charge for meeting room use. Please check our calendar for dates and times that already have the Burchfield Room reserved. If you would like to reserve the room, please call the Library for further information or use our Meeting Room Reservation Form.


Get a NEW Fold & Snap Canvas Tote Book Bag from Ransom Library! At the Circulation Desk: $5.00


Walter Forbes: War Stories

Thursday, May 17 @ 7PM


Colonel Walter Forbes will share his experience in three wars during a special presentation at Ransom District Library on Thursday, May 17 at 7PM. 

Born in Niles, Michigan and currently residing in Kalamazoo, Forbes served as a USAF pilot in World War II, Korean War and Vietnam. He flew a P-47 'Gal from Kalamazoo' in air-to-air and ground combat on 72 missions, destroying one confirmed ME-109. Forbes also supported the D-Day Invasion on June 6, 1944, flying combat missions over the invasion zone. He was awarded the Legion of Merit, DFC with cluster, Air Medal with 16 clusters and a Bronze Star. 

As an Air Zoo volunteer tour guide his stories have captivated visitors for years.In 2009 he was inducted into the Air Zoo's Michigan Aviation Hall of Fame.  

With Memorial Day right around the corner patrons are invited to remember our veterans during this special program sponsored by the Friends of Ransom District Library.

Joe Reilly Concert 
Sunday May 20th @ 2:00 p.m.
“Joe Reilly is a singer, songwriter and environmental educator from Ann Arbor.  His way of working with children is empowering, inspiring, and educational.  Offering an interactive musical program for children and families that teaches ecology and environmental science through original songs, Joe makes learning fun for all ages!” (from Joe’s bio) A Kalamazoo native, Joe has been delighting young and old listeners in our region for years. Come hear his wonderful act at the Ransom Library as part of our Sunday music series. Suitable for children of all ages. Learn more about Joe Reilly’s music and message at www.joereilly.org.
 
 



Gift Bag Class

Wednesday, May 23 @ 6PM

Local artist Barb Stewart will teach patrons how to make a small gift bag from card stock and decorate it with die-cuts. All supplies will be provided. To see samples of Barb's work please visit her website. Registration is required.




What Happened to Them?
Giving Back to Wounded Knee
Thursday, August 16 @ 7PM
Presented by Cynthia J Hicks-Orth
(Please note date change from May 24)


Learn the general history of the Great Sioux Nation, the Oglala and Lakota tribes, what happened to them, and why local resident Hicks-Orth organized her foundation after seeing these completely forgotten people while on the way west.To learn more about this non-profit 501(c)3 charitable organization or to find out what donations they may need please their website.




Get Certified to Save a Life @ Ransom Library
CPR & First Aid Class, June 2 from 10-1 PM
Amanda Roden, Heartsaver Instructor and Member of the American Heart Association
Cost: $40
Learn CPR (infant, child, adult), first aid, AED (automated external defibrillators) use and how to manage illness and injuries in the first few minutes until professional help arrives. This course meets State of Michigan First Aid and CPR requirements for daycare providers. Space is limited and registration is necessary.

  
Patricia's Chocolate

Thursday, June 7 @ 7PM

 
 
Patricia's Chocolate is a collection of artisan ganache and caramel palets, and only one of a select few chocolatiers world-wide entrusted with Fortunato No. 4, the extremely rare 68% Peruvian Grand Cru chocolate. Patrons will hear about life in the chocolate kitchen, and learn about the chemistry of chocolate and of course sample some of her exquisite chocolates! Chocolate will be available for purchase after the program. Check outher mouthwatering website for more information. This sweet program is beingsponsored by the Friends of Ransom District Library. Space is limited and registration is required.
 
 
 
Gary Brandt & Jackie Davidson Concert
Sunday, August 5 @ 2PM
 
 
 
Jackie Davidson - an original member of the Grammy Award winning "New Christy Minstrels" - and Gary Brandt - retired educator and coach - call their show, "Singing the Good Old Songs Again." They combine "classic" and original folk songs into an entertaining, energetic and fun show, with a lot of audience interaction, participation and humor.
 
 

 

 
 
 
How to Improve Your Handwriting

September 27, October 11 and the 25 from 6:00-8:00

Instructor: Dr. Robert L. Hosack
who is a member of Iampeth.com.
 
   
This class will focus on studying the two most common forms of handwriting being taught today. Each participant can then choose the alphabet that is close to their current style. Much of time in class will involve writing with the instructor showing each individual areas where they can improve. Some comments about calligraphy will be included.   Class limited to 12 for ages 16 and above.

 

FREE Park and Read Passes through October 1st!

Get a FREE one-day vehicle Park and Read Pass into any one of Michigan's state parks or recreation areas or Michigan Historical Museums. Compliments of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Library of Michigan.

Passes are valid for seven days from checkout and can be used for one day. The program runs through Oct. 1, 2012.

For more information on the program and a complete list of participating libraries, hammock availability and park events throughout the state, visit www.michigan.gov/stateparks.
Visit Our New Caldecott Medal Section!
 
 
Ransom Library now has a new Caldecott Medal section located on the children's new book shelf.
 
The Caldecott Medal was named in honor of nineteenth-century English illustrator Randolph Caldecott. It is awarded annually by the Association for Library Service to Children, a division of the American Library Association, to the artist of the most distinguished American picturebook for children.
 
For more information about these special books please visit the Caldecott Medal Award home page.

Free Online Classes!
http://www.gcflearnfree.org/
This is an amazing service provided by the Goodwill Community Foundation.

Start anytime, finish anytime - Study at your own speed!
Use for just one tutorial or complete a whole class!
750+ free lessons – receive a Certificate of Completion & accredited Continuing Education Units!

Just to name a few…Topics range from:
  • Microsoft Office: Windows, Outlook, Powerpoint, Publisher, Word, Excel, & Access – available in XP, 2000, 2003, 2007, & 2010
  • Career Building: Resumes & Cover Letters, Interview Skills, Job Searching & Applications
  • Internet Basics, Email Basics, Apple, Google, Mobile Apps, & Social Media Math Basics, Reading, Money, & “Everyday Life”
Click here and build your skills today.

Now compatible on Kindles!
Books & Audiobooks - Log in and check out items today!
Log in today by selecting Ransom District Library and using your library card number. You may begin browsing materials immediately. However, to download materials and transfer them to your device you will need to review the QuickStart Guide. Please note that an email address will be required to download the software for accessing items and to place holds on checked out items. We recommend reviewing all of the links listed below for new users.
Important Links for Getting Started:

SouthWest Michigan Digital Library Home Site - Bookmark this page!

QuickStart Guide - Guided Tour - Checkout Assistance

FAQ's & Troubleshooting - Supported Devices - Incompatible Devices


Why don't you have [Bestseller / Award Winner / etc.] as an eBook?

Chances are it's because we don't have a choice. Not all eBooks available to individuals are available to libraries. Sadly, unlike a regular person, a library cannot pay Amazon or Barnes & Noble for an eBook and then lend it out to people. eBooks and other digital content are treated differently than print books and other physical formats by the publishers and the companies who manage digital content licensing. We desperately want to offer you these eBooks but the companies won't let us. As your library, we commit to continuing advocacy for change in these policies.

The following publishers currently refuse to sell or license eBooks to libraries. If you disagree with their policies concerning libraries and eBooks, please contact them and make your opinion known.

New Book Alerts display all new items!
Browse our new items below, click on an item to see more! *New items added WEEKLY!*



New Book Alerts is a free online service that showcases the newest titles purchased by your local library. You can select to receive alerts via email and/or RSS feeds. If you see a new title that you are interested in, just click "borrow" to place a hold on the item right away.

Click here to see the New Book Alerts Page!

*New items added to the page WEEKLY!*

(Email Newsletters sent out monthly.)