The Book Nook: It’s National Library Week

By Ben Lathrop, Hyde Park Library

April 19 to 25 is National Library Week, an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries, librarians and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening our communities. Monday, April 20, is Right to Read Day, where we pause to highlight the need to protect, defend and celebrate the right to read. Tuesday, April 21, is Library Workers Day, where we want to draw special attention to the incredible effort made by library staff. And Thursday, April 23,^, is Take Action for Libraries Day, where citizens are encouraged to reach out to their elected officials to advocate for continued support of Ohio’s libraries.  

Writer in Residence

Intisar Khanani has been chosen as this year’s Writer-in-Residence. Her novels, A Darkness at the Door and Memories of Ash, were Kirkus Review picks of Best Young Adult Fantasy Novels of the Year. As part of her work as CHPL’s Writer-in-Residence, Intisar will host office hours and workshops. For details see: chpl.org/writer. 

Coming Soon

You tell me! What kinds of events, classes and services would you like to take advantage of at the library? Stop in and let us know, or send us an email at hydepark@chpl.org! 

Ben’s Bookshelf 

I’ve been reading Slow Horses by Mick Herron, first in a series of gritty thrillers about a band of outcasts from the United Kingdom’s Security Services (MI5). I picked it up after becoming obsessed with the TV series and was very glad to discover that the novel not only adds layers of information and depth of character to an already great story, but Herron’s use of language is a joy to read. 

I’ve also been trying to coax my son, who has suddenly and inexplicably become a teenager, to read a book I had enjoyed at his age. I remembered Another Fine Myth by Robert Asprin as being for high fantasy what The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy was for science fiction. I also remember furtively reading it during algebra and having to try hard not to laugh out loud. I’m not sure he’d agree with me, but he did think Monty Python and The Holy Grail was pretty funny, so here’s hoping he likes this one. 

*Check out chpl.org and follow @CincyLibrary on social media for the latest info on events and resources at YOUR Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library!