| Pardon the Dust: Burton Barr Central Library to Receive Roof and Fire Suppression System Upgrades | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/library/3274 | Library | | 11/9/2024 7:40:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3274/burton barr.jpg | | Pardon the Dust: Burton Barr Central Library to Receive Roof and Fire Suppression System Upgrades | <div class="ExternalClassF166603BD72E4F46A00C71EB34751EDF"><html>
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Please pardon the dust, noise, parking impacts, and inconveniences as Phoenix Public Library makes critical upgrades to Burton Barr Central Library. Burton Barr Central Library is a dynamic, 280,000-square-foot facility that serves a diverse population and welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
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This means routine updates, replacements and improvements need to be made to many features of such an iconic building. This project will include two substantial capital improvement projects to various roofs and the fire suppression system throughout the building. Construction on these two projects will be done simultaneously beginning Monday, November 11, 2024, and projected through September 2025. <br></p>
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<strong>A. To accommodate this project, closures and restrictions to parking availability in three of our parking lots will be in place. We advise guests to arrive 15-20 minutes earlier for in-person events to ensure they can find adequate parking. </strong></p>
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1. Portions of the “Solar Panel (North) Parking Lot” will not be available. <br></p>
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*All current Accessible Parking Spaces in this lot will NOT be available. Four (4) additional alternate parking spaces will be allocated near the two (2) existing Accessible parking spots near the library’s east entrance. These parking spots will be identified as Accessible parking. <br></p>
<p>2. The east row of parking spots along the Pill (Center) Parking as you enter Burton Barr Central Library off of Willetta Street will not be available. <br></p>
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3. Portions of the “Employee Parking Lot” (immediately adjacent to Hance Park on Culver Street) <br></p>
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<strong>B. To accommodate this project, guests will see small closures or relocation of services temporarily. </strong><br></p>
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1. The Pulliam Auditorium, one of our largest meeting areas, will have limited access. All other BBCL meeting rooms and study areas can be reserved per usual. <br></p>
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2. The Children’s Garden (immediately adjacent to Children’s Place, 1st floor, southeast corner) will be CLOSED from November 11, 2024, through February 2025. <br></p>
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3. Burton Barr Central Library’s general programing, StartUpPHX, and College Depot programs will continue as listed in our online calendar of events. <br></p>
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Burton Barr Central Library will remain open during these projects, with little to no disruption to weekly services. Phoenix Public Library has a communications plan in place and will be providing information to the community, Burton Barr Central Library neighbors, library customers and the broader public through multiple channels. Please look out for routine updates on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/about/library-updates">www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org</a> and via social media.
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</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/library | News | library | Library | | |
| Erin MacFarlane Named New Library Services Director | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/library/3166 | Library | | 7/16/2024 6:19:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3166/PHXNewsroom_ErinMacFarlane.jpg | | Erin MacFarlane Named New Library Services Director | <div class="ExternalClassEC2521659D024232A739D5B39E9448DC"><html>
<p><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;"></span></p><div>Following a competitive nationwide recruitment process, Phoenix City Manager Jeff Barton has announced that Erin MacFarlane has been selected as the next Library Services Director, effective July 29, 2024. <br></div><div><br></div><div>MacFarlane brings 26 years of experience in education and libraries to our team. She started her library career at the Phoenix Public Library in 2006. She’s spent the last 14 years in various positions at the Maricopa County Library District, most recently serving as Deputy Director.</div><div><br></div><div>During her time at Maricopa County, Erin significantly expanded library access by implementing virtual library programs, digital library card registration, and curbside pickup of library materials. <br></div><div><br></div><div>She played a crucial role in establishing key community partnerships, including an award-winning program with the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office to expand library material access in county jails. <br></div><div><br></div><div>Erin also works with the American Library Association and the Arizona Library Association on public policy initiatives that promote intellectual freedom and access to electronic resources for an open information society. <br></div><div><br></div><div>Erin holds an undergraduate degree in education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a master's degree in library and information science from the University of Arizona.<br></div><div><br></div><div>MacFarlane replaces Rita Hamilton, <a target="_blank" href="/newsroom/library/3046">who retired from the City in April </a>after serving as the City Librarian for 13 years. Mitch Menchaca, the City’s Arts and Culture Director has been serving as Interim City Librarian.<br></div>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/library | News | library | Library | | |
| Burton Barr Central Library To Host Annual Summer Solstice Celebration on June 20 | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/library/3137 | Library | | 6/18/2024 11:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3137/Newsroom_Libraries_001.jpg | | Burton Barr Central Library To Host Annual Summer Solstice Celebration on June 20 | <div class="ExternalClass746EA97AB5DB406CA5EA2655BD5B7A47"><html>
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Join us on the 5th Floor of Burton Barr Central Library to celebrate the <a href="https://calendar.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/event/12295942" target="_blank">Summer Solstice </a>on Thursday, June 20, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
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Welcome the first day of summer and the longest day of the year while witnessing the architectural magic of Burton Barr Central Library. Observe the moment when man-made engineering combines with the power of the sun to reveal the moment of solstice. <br></p>
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Since 1995, it’s been a tradition to welcome guests at Burton Barr Central Library on this special day. Residents leave in awe of the light and community that shines through this building. This year, Phoenix Public Library celebrates milestone markers such as the 90th anniversary of Arizona Room, the 15th anniversary of College Depot, and adding new amenities such as the Bookmobile to our catalog of cornerstone public resources.<br></p>
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<strong>What to Know: </strong>This year’s commemorative Summer Solstice prints will pay homage to James McClintock and Dorothy McClintock, whose donation made the Arizona Room possible. We will also have special John Milton prints to celebrate the <a href="/newsroom/library/3099" target="_blank">historic treasure recently discovered in the Rare Book Room</a> and Friends of the Phoenix Public Library will have t-shirts for sale.<br></p>
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<strong>Activities: </strong>Head to <a href="https://calendar.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/event/12387838" target="_blank">MACH1 to celebrate the Summer Solstice</a> to create your own solstice sun catcher! Using collaged tissue paper, we'll learn all about light and color and create fun sunlight-catching art pieces for you to hang up on your window at home. This is a walk-in program for children of all ages and their families.<br></p>
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Music will begin at 11:30 a.m. The solstice presentation will begin at 12:00 p.m.<br></p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/library | News | library | Library | | |
| Summer Reading Adventure Begins at Phoenix Public Library on June 1! | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/library/3114 | Library | | 5/30/2024 11:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3114/Newsroom_Library_SRP2024_001.jpg | https://youtu.be/Td7ZpSf2Ch8?si=IY8xwGT61-13cEmF | Summer Reading Adventure Begins at Phoenix Public Library on June 1! | <div class="ExternalClassCB16DA5A9D754EACA0BC9C8B28638A22"><html>
<span style="font-family:Calibri;font-size:14.6667px;" id="ms-rterangepaste-start"><span style="font-size:17.3333px;"></span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;"><span style="font-size:17.3333px;"></span><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">Phoenix Public Library invites kids, teens, adults and families to sign up for and play the Summer Reading Game, "Adventure Begins at Your Library" June 1 through August 1. <br><br>All those looking for excitement, free prizes and teleporting to new places through books and interactive activities while staying cool (and it's all for free) can find plenty of adventure at a Phoenix Public Library location this summer.<br>How to Play:<br></span><span style="font-size:17.3333px;"><ul><span style="font-size:17.3333px;"><li><span style="font-family:Calibri;font-size:17.3333px;" id="ms-rterangepaste-start"><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;"><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;" id="ms-rterangepaste-start"><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;"><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;"></span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;"><a href="https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/summer-reading" target="_blank">Register for the game.</a></span></span></span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;"> </span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;">Free for all ages, everyone in a household can join any time!</span></span></span></li><li><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">Grab a <a href="https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/summer-reading" target="_blank">printable gameboard</a> (found under “Additional Resources") or in person and/or just play online.</span></li><li><span style="font-size:17.3333px;">Read at least 20 minutes a day and <a href="https://maricopacountyreads.org/" target="_blank">Log those minutes</a> (points) to earn prizes and to enter grand prize drawings.<br></span></li></span></ul></span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:17.3333px;">Just by reading, everyone has the chance to win amazing experiences such as Phoenix Mercury Tickets, Harkins Theatres Family Prize Packs and free state park passes. From pop-up mini golf to magic, to Disney princess visits and live reptiles, there is nothing quite like summer reading at your library.Adventure is out there – it begins at a library – and it's all for free! Sign up and join in on an endless amount of fun by visiting <a href="https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/" target="_blank">Phoenix Public Library</a> or check out what fun is in store at a <a href="https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/summer-reading" target="_blank">local Phoenix Public Library branch</a>.</span><span style="font-size:13.3333px;"><br></span></span></span>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/library | Video | library | Library | | |
| Historic Treasure Found in Phoenix Public Library | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/library/3099 | Library | | 5/15/2024 4:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3099/Newsroom_Library_MiltonMay2024.png | | Historic Treasure Found in Phoenix Public Library | <div class="ExternalClass418C840017E94598B82DDFF6E3F744B7"><html>
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For centuries, public libraries have played a critical role in communities. A role that evolves and shifts, reflecting the needs of its community. Yet at the same time, public libraries remain timeless and few gathering spaces appear as frequently in an individual's life as the library. Here in Phoenix it's where a child goes for story time and to read their first chapter book. Where an adolescent learns to code and discovers how to get lost in a novel. Where a nervous teenager fills out their college applications. Where adults snag the latest musical album or newest book topping the charts, receive help with their taxes or prep for an interview. Where visitors of all ages can connect with life changing information or find a treasure.<br><br>
It is also the place where on a recent March morning global scholars gathered in
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Phoenix Public Library's Rare Book Room at Burton Barr Central Library</a>. The group, hosted and joined by
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Arizona State University
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faculty, looked on with slack-jawed wonder at a 437-year-old book with handwritten notes by author John Milton of “Paradise Lost" fame. Normally, it would take months for scholars to research the handwriting and determine if it was Milton's. But, by ASU faculty leading the charge and inviting four international scholars to join together, the red tape was cut away and
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history was made</a>.</p>
<p>Just a few floors above where local teens sat filling out college applications these scholars identified the handwriting of Milton in an Alfred Knight Collection copy of “Holinshed's Chronicles," dated 1587. Believed to be very popular in its time, “Holinshed's Chronicles" was used as a source for much of Shakespeare's works. It's likely that, at one time, this was John Milton's personal copy of the book and this is only the third book with Milton's notes known to history.</p>
<p>It would be hard to overstate the significance of such a find nearly 350 years after Milton's death and at this particular point in time. As debates rage across the nation over the notion of free speech, finding the handwriting and real-time thoughts of one of history's most impassioned defenders of both the freedom of speech and of the press seems like kismet. Even more good fortune, this treasure of a rare book representing a timeless thread is accessible at a public library.<br></p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/library | News | library | Library | | |
| Phoenix City Librarian Announces Retirement | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/library/3046 | Library | | 3/18/2024 5:35:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3046/Newsroom_Library_01.png | | Phoenix City Librarian Announces Retirement | <div class="ExternalClass0A34B333ADDE43EAA2E610ABFC8C78F6"><html>
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Rita Hamilton, Phoenix City Librarian has officially announced her retirement in April after serving Phoenix as City Librarian for 13 years.<br></p>
<p>Rita has dedicated her entire career to providing quality library services to the public. As Phoenix City Librarian, Rita has continuously focused on improving library services and resources through automation, growth and incorporating advancing technologies. Rita has held various positions in the library profession for almost 50 years. She developed her knowledge and experience through an extensive career of high-profile projects with Pima County Library, Nashville Public Library, and Scottsdale Public Library before her appointment as Phoenix City Librarian in 2011. As Phoenix City Librarian she has directed all library operations at Burton Barr Central Library and 16 branch libraries providing specialized library services College Depot, StartUp PHX, and PHXWorks.<br></p>
<p>“This is not a decision I have made lightly; I have been in the library world for some time, beginning as a student volunteer at my high school library," said Rita Hamilton. “It has been my great honor to be part of many of Phoenix Public Library's achievements; especially serving the young readers, families, life-long learners and all those that look to the library for life improving information and resources. I am privileged to have worked alongside the dedicated library staff, fellow City of Phoenix departments, and partner with a wonderful cadre of library stakeholders throughout our community. I am excited to see how Phoenix Public Library will continue to embrace new initiatives, build new libraries, and rise to meet the needs of our communities."</p>
<p>"I want to first thank Rita for her leadership these past 13 years in her role as the City Librarian, as well as recognize the positive partnerships that have been developed during her tenure, including the Public Health efforts that were successful as a result of the Phoenix Public Library Team," said Phoenix City Manager Jeff Barton. “Effective March 18, 2024, I have asked Mitch Menchaca<span id="ms-rterangepaste-start"></span>, City of Phoenix Arts and Culture Director<span id="ms-rterangepaste-end"></span> to help with the transition as the Interim City Librarian while we conduct a national recruitment that will include both internal and external candidates."<br></p>
<p>The City of Phoenix and Phoenix Public Library wish Rita a happy and well-deserved retirement. Rita's retirement is effective April 5, 2024, allowing for a seamless transition with Mitch Menchaca. The City of Phoenix will conduct a national recruitment for the next leader in a new chapter of the 125-year Phoenix Public Library story.<br></p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/library | News | library | Library | | |
| Phoenix Public Library to Host Bookmobile Ribbon Cutting | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/library/2995 | Library | | 1/23/2024 11:45:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2995/Newsroom_Library_Bookmobile_2024.jpg | | Phoenix Public Library to Host Bookmobile Ribbon Cutting | <div class="ExternalClass48859F2955DF4C3D8DC1A42A9635BC0E"><html>
<p>Phoenix Public Library will unveil its Bookmobile to the public with an official ribbon cutting and Bookmobile “open house.”<br></p>
<p>“Our libraries provide crucial support and assistance that improves the quality of life in Phoenix, and our brand-new Bookmobile is another great tool we'll use to meet and serve residents where they are.” says Mayor Kate Gallego, “Soon, Phoenix families will be able to enjoy library amenities directly where they live and work!”<br></p>
<p>The Bookmobile, funded as part of City of Phoenix American Rescue Plan Act Community Investment Focus Area, was designed and built by Farber Specialty Vehicles and features a distinctive vehicle wrap. The Bookmobile will be visiting Phoenix communities, outreach events, community partners and neighborhoods beginning in February and is outfitted with approximately 2,500 items for check out featuring a diverse range of authors, genres and age levels, a large print collection; and Seed Library items and Culture Passes. Bookmobile visits will give the community access to Storytime programs, S.T.E.M. activities, Wi-Fi, and signing up for a Phoenix Public Library card. Included is an accessible lift for ADA access and a 20-foot retractable awning to provide shade and shelter for outdoor access and activities.</p>
<p>Rita Hamilton, City Librarian, looks forward to reaching more Phoenicians, “I am so pleased Phoenix Public Library will have a bookmobile to provide library services and resources to communities throughout Phoenix. A mobile library will go a long way in extending our resources and services to even more Phoenix residents.<span id="ms-rterangepaste-start"></span>”<span id="ms-rterangepaste-end"></span><br></p>
<p>Media and members of the community are welcome to join Phoenix Public Library, City of Phoenix leadership, and community partners in participating in the Bookmobile's debut. The ribbon cutting, Bookmobile tours, special crafts and fun library activities will begin at 10 a.m. on Friday, January 26, 2024, in the eastern portion of Burton Barr Central Library's (1221 N. Central Ave.) parking lot, immediately adjacent to Hance Park. For other programs and activities visit <a target="_blank" href="https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/">phoenixpubliclibrary.org</a>.<br></p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/library | News | library | Library | | |
| Celebrate Black Voices: Art Exhibit | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/library/2590 | Library | | 12/8/2022 5:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2590/Newsroom_LIB_BHM-ArtCall (1).jpg | | Celebrate Black Voices: Art Exhibit | <div class="ExternalClass6C5D3D5C33F646E29CA8D17077BE61F2"><html>
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<p>Phoenix Public Library is hosting its annual virtual art exhibit in February celebrating Black History Month. Young artists in grades K-12 are invited to draw an important person or event celebrating the African American experience. Entries will be displayed in a virtual art gallery on Phoenix Public Library's website and featured on our social media pages. </p>
<p>Entries are being excepted now through <strong>5:00 p.m. on January 22, 2023</strong> and may be submitted at any of the 17 Phoenix Public Library locations or by email at <a href="mailto:socialmedialibrary@phoenix.gob" target="_blank">socialmedialibrary@phoenix.go</a>v. For complete rules, library locations and printable submission forms visit <a href="https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/kids" target="_blank">phoenixpubliclibrary.org/kids</a>. <br></p>
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</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/library | News | library | Library | | |
