Coming in April

To complement our Adult and 5th-8th Grade Book Discussion Groups, the Aliso Viejo Library will launch a High School Book Discussion on Monday, April 4, at 4pm (4/4 at 4!). The group will read a different book each month, then meet for discussion and refreshments the first Monday of the month.

Our inaugural title is "Blankets", an illustrated novel by Craig Thompson. This beautifully drawn, heart-achingly written, autobiographic graphic novel sees a young Craig dealing with first love, family, faith, and guilt as he navigates the snowy landscapes of his Midwest adolescence.

All high-school aged teens are invited to read "Blankets" and join us April 4 to discuss it Ð no quizzes, no grades, no pressure. Copies will be available at the circulation desk in March.

Star Gazing at the Aliso Viejo Library

Join us
Tuesday, February 1st for a
Star Viewing Evening with
The Orange County Astronomy Club



7:30 - 8:30 p.m.
(Right after Pajama Storytime from 7:00 - 7:30).

Come and look at the stars through real telescopes, then head into the Community Room for Information, Crafts and Hot Chocolate.

Dress warmly! The Telescopes will be outside in the Library parking lot.

This event was re-scheduled because due to excessive cloud cover in
December. So far, the forecast looks good for next Tuesday.

Aliso Viejo Teens discover that the Library is the perfect place to express themselves

Dumbledore's Army and the Lipstick Pickups will showcase their musical talents Saturday February 26th from 4 to 7pm. According to many high school students the Aliso Viejo Library has nothing to offer teens. There are storytimes for children, but nothing for us, laments high school student Mason. I didn't want to sound bitter by pointing out our lack of a young adult librarian, so I asked him what would he like to see at the library. He replied, music, and guess what he just happens to be in a band. So we got together and decided to provide a venue for high schoolers to perform.

Aliso Viejo Reads One Book for National Library Week

Beginning April 10th Through May 10th, Aliso Viejo will come together to read and discuss a book decided by a citywide vote. The ballots are available at the library and Barnes and Noble bookstore in Town Center. There are four choices: 1984 by George Orwell, Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury, Tortilla Curtain by T. Coraghessan Boyle, The Circuit by Francisco Jimenez, and a "write in" slot. We hope to have Aliso's new mayor, Karl Warkomski participate in a discussion. There will be several opportunities to discuss the chosen book, with groups forming in our new Cafe, the Neighborhood Cup, and at Barnes and Noble.

Philosophy begins in wonder. And, at the end, when philosophic thought has done its best, the wonder remains. ~Alfred North Whitehead

Philosophy is the study of issues which concern us all. Especially in these troubling times it's important for ordinary people from all walks of life to take some time to reflect on the big questions such as, "what is truth? What gives life meaning? What is free speech?" in a facilitated, no stress discussion group.

The Aliso Viejo Library understands the importance of life long learning so we are starting a Philosophy discussion group. At each meeting, participants select a question for discussion, which is examined for built-in assumptions, embedded concepts and logical consistencies (or inconsistencies).

Alternative viewpoints are encouraged and explored. All discussion takes place in an atmosphere of respect and support. Thoughtful responses and reasoned dialog are desired. Scorn, dogma and pontification are banned!

So dust off your biggest questions and really think about coming to the Aliso Viejo Library on the 4th Wednesday of each month at 7pm in the community room for a mental workout beginning February 23rd.