Many of us love certain authors. You know the ones...where we just can't wait to get our hands (or ears!) on their next book, like Janet Evanovich's number series (we're up to Explosive Eighteen), and Sue Grafton's alphabet (V is for Vengeance anyone?). Or we wonder what gruesome case Alex Cross will have to solve in the latest James Patterson crime thriller.

But every now and then it's nice to pick up a fresh voice. Sometimes all we need is a little encouragement to venture away from what we know and expect, and try something new. The beauty of borrowing is that there's no risk: if you can't get past the first few chapters, the book simply gets returned.

For some inspiration, here's a list of books that have recently been published by first time authors. If you give one of them a chance, you can even write a review for the catalog. Just go to the item, click on "write a review," and let us know what you think. Who knows, maybe there's the next Ken Follett or Jodi Picoult among them!

Conducted by professional energy auditors Paul Chalifour and Josh Zylak of Southern New Hampshire Services, this workshop will present information on how simple household adjustments and modest investments can lead to significant energy and dollar savings over the long haul will be offered.

Topics will include: common sources of energy waste in homes, easy do-it-yourself steps to save energy, guidance on air sealing, when to bring in an energy professional, and the technical and financial resources available to make it happen.

Presented by The Amherst Conservation Commission, the Town of Amherst, and the Amherst Town Library and made possible by a grant provided by the NH Office of Energy and Planning, with funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  

This workshop is free and open to the public. However, registration is REQUIRED due to space limitations. A raffle prize drawing for all attendees will occur at the workshop. Reserve your seat! 

We'll be starting up our "PAWS FOR READING" program again in February, with a new pair of doggy friends!!

Anna and Leo will be here with their friend Carol to listen to Amherst children read to them on Tuesday, Feb. 7 from 3:30-4:30, and on Saturday, Feb. 11 from 10:30 to 11:30. Come to the Children's Room to register for fifteen minutes of "quality reading time."

 Please note: All of the reading slots for Tuesday are filled, but there are still openings on Saturday!

Did you know that it is possible to slow down aging and avoid or delay the disabilities we commonly associate with old age? Registered nurse and geriatric nurse practitioner Paula Koppel presents the latest research on the physiology of aging and longevity enhancement by exploring four areas of the world, the "Blue Zones," where people live the longest. Learn how specific lifestyle changes can biologically slow down the aging process. Explore the role of genetics in aging and how lifestyle choices affect the expression of genes. Discover how to create a plan or "roadmap" that will incorporate this important research and protect your most important asset: your health and vitality.

This presentation is free and open to the public. However, registration is REQUIRED for this program due to space limitations. Sign up now! 

Amherst Town Library