The light may be slowly returning after Solstice, but there is still plenty of darkness left to read, listen and puzzle in as we head into the heart of winter. Here at the library, we have been working on building our collection of books, audiobooks, and DVD’s so you can do just that.

Would you like to be the first to read the new book from your favorite author?  Then adopt him or her!  By signing up to sponsor a particular author, you help increase their collection at the library, with the cost to you generally 25-45% off the cover price. After reimbursing the library, you then get to be the first person to read the book before it goes into regular circulation.  A special bookplate with your name is also added to each title you help purchase.  Another way to support our collection development is through donation of audiobooks and DVD’s in “like new” condition for both adults and children. Challenging because of the higher price point than print books, we would love to be able to add more selection for those that like to use this form of listening and watching. Call, email, or stop in to share audiobooks and DVD’s you no longer need, or to get more information and sign up for the adopt an author program.

Next month we are excited to begin a year long series with clinical herbalist Allison Dellner, “To Be of the Earth: A Year of Herbs”.  Meeting once a season, the workshops will explore natural ways to keep ourselves and our families well. On Sunday, January 22nd at 4pm, join us for Mushrooms, Roots and Berries: Immune-Stimulating Remedies for Winter. Learn what plants to look for while walking the woods and garden to keep you warm and well through the cold winter months. In this class, we will discuss immune-stimulating herbs, warming remedies and some basic medicine-making techniques. We will make two useful winter remedies for supporting a healthy immune system; a syrup, and a medicinal chai blend. Call 802-496-9728 or email moretownlibrary@gmail.com to reserve a spot.

New to our cookbook collection is “Deep Run Roots: Stories and Recipes from My Corner of the South” by Vivian Howard. After time spent in New York City, Vivian returned with her husband to her hometown in Eastern North Carolina to open a restaurant of her own.  Like many of the chefs in our area, she actively supports and encourages local agriculture and the farmers who grow our food. She is also committed to learning from her elders and preserving their signature dishes.  With over 200 recipes and stories, there is sure to be something interesting for everyone. Those of you familiar with her television show “A Chef’s Life” on PBS will no doubt read through the book with her voice in your head.

In our Young Adult or Crossover category, we have “Heartless” by Marissa Meyer. Like her Lunar Chronicles series or Gregory Maguire’s “Wicked”, this novel dives into the character of the Queen of Hearts from “Alice in Wonderland”. Although favored by the King of Hearts, all Catherine wants to do is open a bake shop with her best friend. Further entanglements with the court joker and fate ultimately lead to her turn towards evil.  

Best wishes for the holiday season ahead, and I hope to see you at the library soon.