Library Corner

Browsing…Perusing…Scanning… Ruminating… Skimming… Inspecting…Scrutinizing… Killing time… whatever you may do when you find yourself near People’s Library books, consider opening up a book from the shelves.  Below are the books I discovered recently as I searched for books to highlight this month.—LL


35 Dumb Things Well-Intentioned People Say; Surprising Things We Say that Widen the Diversity Gap, by Dr. Maura Cullen—658.3 Cu

And, even though it was written in 2008 so is now out of date with its mention of only two states that allow same sex marriage, most of the examples and suggestions are good.  So…”If you’ve ever wanted to be more effective in your communication with others, or have been afraid of saying the wrong thing, then this concise guide is essential to becoming more inclusive and diversity-smart.”


Know Just What You Mean; the Power of Friendship in Women’s Lives, by Ellen Goodman and Patricia O’Brien—158.2 Go

Cokie Roberts liked it.  So did Doris Kearns Goodwin and Judy Blume. Written in 2008 and including an interesting chapter on men’s friendships, this book “considers the unique elements that make up a friendship between women, incorporating interviews with close friends from all walks of life who became friends in childhood, old age, and after long periods of separation.”


10% Happier; How I Tamed the Voice in My Head, Reduced Stress Without Losing My Edge, and Found Self-Help That Actually Works, by Dan Harris—158.12 Ha

“After having a nationally televised panic attack on Good Morning America, Dan Harris knew he had to make some changes. A lifelong nonbeliever, he found himself on a bizarre adventure involving a disgraced pastor, a mysterious self-help guru, and a gaggle of brain scientists.  After learning about research that suggests meditation essentially rewires your brain, Harris took a deep dive into the underreported world of CEOs, scientists, and even marines who are now using it for increased calm, focus, and happiness.”


A Cup of Chicken Soup for the Soul; Stories to Open the Heart and Rekindle the Spirit, compiled by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, and Barry Spilchuk—158.12 Ca

From the dedication page…”The stories in this book were chosen to make you think: think about your family, think about your friends and think about love; for it is with love that all great things are accomplished.”


Questions/ comments are welcomed.  Please contact Lois Loeffler, chair of the Library Committee, at loisloeffler@gmail.com.