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Blog: Blog

Pride for Quiet Gays: Great Reads

If you find parades and crowds overwhelming, there are still a lot of ways to celebrate Pride! Here are some great ideas for quiet gays (or introverts in general).

Pride for Quiet Gays: Great Movies

If you find parades and crowds overwhelming, there are still a lot of ways to celebrate Pride! Here are some great ideas for quiet gays (or introverts in general!)

Immigrant Heritage Month Storyteller: Najwa Badawi

Our next Immigrant Heritage Month storyteller is Najwa Badawi. Read more about her journey, where she shares feelings of gratefulness "for the opportunities this country has offered me and hope that my story can serve as a reminder that with hard work and faith, better times lie ahead."

9 Books to Read If You Like Better Call Saul

The Breaking Bad saga is wrapping up with the final season of Better Call Saul. If you're looking to recapture the edge of your seat twists and turns that show provides, these are the books for you.

5 Books with Terrible Hotels

Have you ever listened to friends complaining about a disappointing hotel or a vacation spot? Well, the people in these books have entered the chat.

Immigrant Heritage Month Storyteller: Franco Vitella

Our second Immigrant Heritage Month storyteller is Franco Vitella. Read more about Franco’s journey to Toledo, as he celebrates the communities that have welcomed generations of his family, while creating new traditions through an appreciation of culture and heritage.

6 Must-Read Ms. Marvel Comics

Ms. Marvel debuts on Disney+ and these are the comics you need to read to get caught up on the adventures of Kamala Khan.

It’s “Officially” Juneteenth!

One of the brightest spots I can remember, for me personally and for our country in the past two years, is June 17, 2021 when Juneteenth was officially made an American holiday.

Immigrant Heritage Month Storyteller: Ting Li

Our first Immigrant Heritage Month storyteller is Ting Li, who comes from a city called Dalian, in China. Arriving as a student, Ting Li has since found her way to Toledo, where she experienced "numerous moments that people from a greater Toledo community radiated warmth towards each other."

Listen Up!

Audiobook suggestions based on distraction level, humor, length, and ability to pause.

6 Obi-Wan Kenobi Books to Read

The Obi-Wan Kenobi series hits Disney+ and now is a great time to get caught up on the adventure of the titular Jedi master.

The Holding Project

What makes you feel safe? What makes you feel unsafe? These questions are the basis for an ongoing and expansive public art project called The Holding Project.

10 Best Doctor Strange Comics

Excited for Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness? Check out some of the Sorcerer Supreme’s greatest comic book adventures.

NaNoWriMo 2021

Celebrate NaNoWriMo with our favorite novels written during the writing challenge.

StoryWalk Challenge

Enjoy fall while walking through TLCPL StoryWalks and earn a cozy prize. *while supplies last.

Rethinking World War II 80 Years On

Two University of Toledo professors choose their top book picks for look at how WWII and the events of 1941 are remembered 80 years later. Here are their top book picks.

Ability Awareness: Teen Book List

Want to gain a better understanding of younger characters that have disabilities? Check out these titles about youths who defied normal.

Lady Whistledown Recommends

Let it be known, if there is a scandal, I shall uncover it and share every last detail. These books are sure to be full of them.

Inspiring Prison Memoirs

Out of the stark and brutal conditions of prison, come inspiring stories of faith, redemption and hope. Get a glimpse of this world from authors who have lived it.

Hitchhiker’s Guide to Sci-Fi Subgenres – Part 5

Welcome to part five of “Morgan Talks About Her Favorite Niche Genres,” better known as “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to Sci-Fi Subgenres.” The next two subgenres are my favorites partially because they can be so fun while bringing surprising gravitas when needed.

Social Emotional Learning Resources for Grades 1-5

Social emotional learning (SEL) encourages the development of self control, self awareness and the interpersonal skills needed to succeed in school and life. We hope this collection of library materials will inspire you to think of many ways you can promote social emotional learning among the children in your life.

Frightfully Good Young Adult Horror Just in Time for Halloween

Are you looking for a good scary story? YA fiction is full of good horror: from ghosts to demons, spine-chilling houses to serial killers. Take a look at any of these stories to get you through the Halloween season. Just be sure to keep a bit of light on at night (to go to the bathroom, not because you’re scared of the creepy things that go bump in the night…)

Great Fiction, Unique Form

Sometimes novels need to spice it up. The titles featured here use unconventional formatting to make their pages more interesting.

Check Out These Wonderbooks!

As a mom to two soon-to-be toddlers, I’m always looking for ways to get my kids to read (more). And if they can do it on their own: let them! So when Wonderbooks came to the Toledo Libraries, I just had to give them a go. If you haven’t heard of them: visit your local library now to get one!

Five Books by Latinx Authors All Feminists Should Read

For decades, Latinx authors have written empowering stories of women navigating family, culture and societal norms to find their true selves. In honor of Latinx Culture Month, and in the spirit of intersectional feminism, The Steinem Sister Collection has compiled a list of 5 books by Latinx authors that every feminist should read.

Dial-A-Story September 15-28

Our call-in line is open! Free, recorded stories for children, teens, and adults. Listen by phone any time of day or night by calling 419-745-9700.

Trans & Nonbinary Author Spotlight – Kids

Gender is a spectrum and we love books and authors that celebrate this truth! Enjoy this list highlighting diverse books written by authors who are transgender, non-binary, gender fluid, or experience gender in one of the many other ways that defy a simple female/male dichotomy.

Transgender & Nonbinary Author Spotlight – Adult

Gender is a spectrum and we love books and authors that celebrate this truth! Enjoy this list highlighting diverse books written by authors who are transgender, non-binary, gender fluid, or experience gender in one of the many other ways that defy a simple female/male dichotomy.

Transgender & Nonbinary Author Spotlight – Teen

Gender is a spectrum and we love books and authors that celebrate this truth! Enjoy this list highlighting diverse books written by authors who are transgender, non-binary, gender fluid, or experience gender in one of the many other ways that defy a simple female/male dichotomy.

Children’s Library & Teen Recommends – Fall 2021

Youth Services Librarians love to read, too! Check out what your favorite Children’s and Teen Librarians at Main Library are reading, whether it be a picture book about penguins, a middle grade adventure in a treehouse, vampires in Louisiana, or a time-traveling phone booth!

Humor and Laughter

Humor is something I have shared with family and laughter is a strong glue that binds us. Laughter can help us cope with pain and recover more quickly from hardship.

Dial-A-Story Anytime

Press 1 for a story! Free, recorded stories for children, teens, and adults. Listen by phone any time of day or night by calling 419-745-9700.

Five Queer Women Who Helped Shape a Movement

This month Toledo is celebrating PRIDE and there is no better time to take a deep dive into the LGBTQ+ women who have helped to shape the fight for equality and justice in Queer communities of yesterday and today.

Photography at Your Library

Do you appreciate good photography? Do you enjoy taking photos with your phone or camera? The Library can help you pursue those interests!

Children’s Library & Teen Recommends – Summer 2021

Youth Services Librarians love to read, too! Check out what your favorite Children’s and Teen Librarians at Main Library are reading, whether it be a picture book about penguins, a middle grade adventure in a treehouse, vampires in Louisiana, or a time-traveling phone booth!

For Fans of The Mysterious Benedict Society

Now a popular streaming series for tweens, The Mysterious Benedict Society is based on a series of books by Trenton Lee Stewart. Check out these other great books and series while you wait for the next episode.

Cinema for the Ears

Treat your ears to full cast dramatizations of your favorite classics complete with sound effects and music.

Hitchhiker’s Guide to Sci-Fi Subgenres – Part 4

Welcome to part four of my series, “SCI-FI—X-TREME EDITION,” or “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to Sci-fi Subgenres.” The next two subgenres are a little more serious in tone than those explored in previous posts but for some, the dark tone is the appeal.

Small, but Mighty FUN!

Cards are super-portable and can make for great games and magic tricks to boost the fun factor on a rainy day.

Great YA Books for EFL Students, Part II

Curating this booklist brings back many fond memories of mine as I used to teach EFL (English as a Foreign Language) while living as an ex-pat overseas. If you’re an educator like I am, you are well aware that finding suitable reading material can be both arduous and heartbreaking. I hope this list makes it a bit easier for you.

Classics Retold

Stories are constantly being retold with new and exciting twists. What's cool about book versions is that they usually don't feel like the subpar sequels or remakes Hollywood often subjects us to.

Discover Dolly!

Here is a selection of available materials at TLCPL of all things Dolly!

Immigrant Heritage Month Story: Andrea De la Roca

We are celebrating #ImmigrantHeritageMonth by sharing Welcome Toledo Lucas County’s letter series that brings to life stories from our local immigrant, refugee, and diverse community members. Hear from Andrea, who came to the United States from Guatemala City in 2001, settling in Napoleon, Ohio.

Young Adult LGBTQ+ Books to Add to Your TBR Pile

We often look for ourselves in books (okay, mostly in fiction), but undeniably: a great book resonates with us as we empathize with a protagonist’s struggles, triumphs, etc. It encourages us to step into their shoes as they set off on their fantastic journeys.

Novel Novellas Round 2

Here’s a second list of some of my favorite books that are just a little out there, and under 200 pages long.

Immigrant Heritage Month Story: Houng Dhar

Immigrant Heritage Month gives people across the United States an opportunity to annually explore our country's heritage and celebrate the shared diversity that forms the unique story of America. The letter below is a part of a series that brings to life stories from our immigrant, refugee, and diverse community members who call Toledo and Lucas County, home.

End of Life Memoirs

Authors who write about the last months of their lives offer perspective and inspiration.

What is Juneteenth?

Are you wondering, “What is Juneteenth?” Juneteenth is a day, a week, and in some areas a month marked with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics, and family gatherings all recognizing the 19th of June as the day of emancipation of enslaved people in Texas.

A Year of Science Fiction and Fantasy

It's been 12 months of titles spanning the genres of Science Fiction and Fantasy for this Online Book Club. Come read about our last 12 books and get a preview of the coming titles.

The Godfather of Comedy

Comedy writer Paul Mooney worked with household names without ever quite becoming one himself, but the mark he leaves on American culture is unmistakable.

YA Books Featuring Characters with Mental Illnesses

Struggling with anxiety or any type of mental illness is usually up there with resounding themes of Young Adult Fiction, including first love. That is because our teenage years are often very complicated, especially when mental health issues start to first arise. There are so many other factors that young adults face (besides growing up) that can push anyone over the edge.

Calling All Bridgerton Fans

So you’ve finished binge watching Bridgerton? Now what? To satisfy your need for more romantic rom-com during Regency England, take a gander at these reads below. You may just find something to your satisfaction until the next season comes around.

True Stories of Dreamers

Our vast resources include true stories of immigrants past and present and vital information and resources that Dreamers and new immigrants may need.

Immigrant Heritage Month Story: Terwase Ngur

Immigrant Heritage Month gives people across the United States an opportunity to annually explore our country's heritage and celebrate the shared diversity that forms the unique story of America. The letter below is a part of a series that brings to life stories from our immigrant, refugee, and diverse community members who call Toledo and Lucas County, home.

Ready to Read Early Literacy Tip 5- Playing

Parents and caregivers, save the chores for later, you have important work to do by playing! This month, Ready to Read's blog is all about play and how doing just that will help your child build essential early literacy skills for future reading success!

The Comedy Stylings of Charles Grodin

The actor Charles Grodin left his mark on film, in books, and on late-night talk shows, but if all he'd ever done was irritate Robert DeNiro and romance Miss Piggy that would have been more than enough.

To All the Otaku, with Love (May 2021)

Are you a manga or anime enthusiast? We are, too! We are constantly looking for new (and awesome) titles to add to our collection. We are happy to share some of our favorites with you, including some light novels! For more suggestions, please feel free to contact your teen librarian at the Library!

Red or White?

Unfortunately, this blog is not about Italian Chianti or Chardonnay. It is about Mother's Day.

Great YA Books for Advanced EFL Students, Part I

Curating this booklist brings back many fond memories of mine as I used to teach EFL (English as a Foreign Language) while living as an expat overseas. If you’re an educator like I am, you are well aware that finding suitable reading material can be both arduous and heartbreaking. I hope this list makes it a bit easier for you.

Books and Other Strange(r) Things

Stranger Things finally released a new season four teaser after shooting delays due to COVID-19. Since the release date has yet to be announced, you've got some time to catch up on these stories about events before and during the show.

Escape Into a Summer Read

No need to pack your bags--just check out one of these titles and escape into a compelling story set in a beautiful location.

Cat Tails!

Cats may have nine lives and keep us guessing, but these 18 "tails" will keep you entertained too!

Recs for The Witcher Fans

If you are like us and patiently waiting for the next season of The Witcher on your favorite streaming channel, check out these reads. Here’s hoping that they will help tide you over before the highly anticipated release day!

YA Books for Seekers of the Immersive Gaming Experience

Hello there, Player One. Choose what type of adventure you’d like to go on below. All of these titles feature some sort of Massively Multiplayer Online Game (MMOG) or similar environment. What are you waiting for? Pick one of these fabulous books to read today!

Lately, I’ve Been Thinking… I Want You to Be Happier.

Springtime is one of renewal and joy. What better way to spend it than to check out a new and interesting book? Here are some great, uplifting recommendations, curated by yours truly. And the answer is yes: I was totally jamming to Marshmello’s lyrics while curating this piece (extra brownie points to those that know the song)!

Rural Relocation

City dwellers find themselves relocated to new zip codes involving barns, chickens and dirt roads.

Asian American & Pacific Islander Author Spotlight – May 2021

In honor of Asian and Pacific American Heritage Month, here is a list of notable authors and some of their works. We are sure that you will find something here that is worth your while! A Library card and PIN will be required to access many of the resources listed. Need help with your card or PIN? Contact your nearest location or call 419-259-5200. Need a new card?

Hitchhiker’s Guide to Sci-Fi Subgenres Part 2

Welcome to part two of my series, “Morgan Writes Excitedly About Her Favorite Genre”— I mean, “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to Sci-fi Subgenres.” This time, we’ll dive a little deeper into specific subgenres with alien invasions and post-apocalyptic settings.

Teenage Witchy Reads

Whether you are a fan of The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, or wishing that you are living it up at Hogwarts: here are some witchy-reads to satisfy your craving for long-lost magic. Sprinkle some lilac and gooseberries along the way as tribute to our current favorite witch, Yennefer of Vengerberg. Remember: not everything monstrous-looking is evil, and not everything fair is good...

YA Books that Encourage Body Positivity

People of all ages experience body negativity and insecurity. We are constantly under the scrutiny of needing to be thin or fit. Let’s continue to advocate for the body-positive image. Let’s start with these reads, all of which promote body positivity!

Mother’s Day

With Mother’s Day coming up, here are some books about moms.

Grow Your Own Food at Home

Creating a kitchen garden is not only a fun hobby, but can provide your home with fresh produce all year long.

“Party Up” and Beyond

DMX left behind a robust catalog of gruff and visceral hip-hop tracks. If you want to go beyond megahit "Party Up" you're going to have to use your library card up in here, up in here.

More YA Novels to Celebrate AAPI Month (May 2021)

To continue honoring Asian American and Pacific American Heritage Month (and beyond, we’ve compiled a short list of novels for our young adult and older audience by Asian and Asian American voices, available to you at your local library! Simply click the available links below to place a hold! Thank you for your continued support.

To All the Otaku, with Love – April 2021

Are you a manga or anime enthusiast? We are, too! We are constantly looking for new (and awesome) titles to add to our collection. We are happy to share some of our favorites with you, including some light novels! For more suggestions, please feel free to contact your teen librarian at the Library!

Wordless Picture Books

If I were to choose one word to describe any of these beautifully illustrated books… I wouldn’t! If you’re new to the world of wordless picture books, borrow one of these titles for yourself and see what I mean.

Best Books for Preschool and Kindergarten

Is your preschool or kindergarten-aged child looking for something new to read? Check out this curated list of best books for Preschoolers and Kindergarteners for your little one to enjoy!

Race and Police Violence in Children’s Books

News items about police violence involving Black Americans have become so prevalent even young kids can't help but become aware of them. Here are some books to help them make sense of it all.

Learn about Birds

In the spring, warblers, a tiny, colorful classification of songbirds, fly through our area on their journey of thousands of miles between Central and South America, and the Caribbean, on their way to Northern North America.

Ready to Read Early Literacy Tip 4- Writing

In this month's Ready to Read blog, we explore writing. Writing begins at birth! Learn tips and tricks on building fine motor skills to get your little one ready for future school success!

Best Series Books for Grades 4-5

A book series motivates children to continue reading to see what happens next. This selection highlights the first book in these popular children’s series.

Energy Education for Grades 4-5

In honor of Earth Day, take a deeper look at how we get electricity to power our homes (and lives) and whether there are more sustainable and healthier ways to obtain this resource from the environment.

Mystery Resources for 4-8 Graders

Are you wishing your middle grade reader is into Nancy Drew or the Boxcar Children as much as you were (or are)?! Check out this list of middle grade novels with a tried and

Graphics and Comics for Grades 6-8

Adventure, magic, and good friends can be found in these books of amazing artwork. Try one of our recommendations for middle schoolers!   A Library card and PIN will be required to access many

Ready to Read Early Literacy Tip 3- Reading

There are so many benefits to reading to your child, but did you know that reading to infants is one of the best ways to start building early literacy skills? This month's Ready to Read blog includes reading tips and research that shows it's never too early to start reading!

Learn More About Celebrating Ramadan

Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar and is a holy month celebrated by Muslims around the world. Ramadan is observed as a reflecting time of worship, helping other, and spending time with loved ones.

Fairy Tales for Adults

Behold, the perfect list for your fairy tale loving heart. Fairy tale stories and retellings for adult readers.

Boost Your Resilience – Children’s Edition

Merriam-Webster defines resilience as “an ability to recover from or adjust easily to misfortune or change.”  This is not an ability we typically associate with young children; instead, we picture the terrible twos, what it’s like

Ohioana Book Festival Books for Adults

Since its start in 2007, The Ohioana Book Festival provides readers opportunities to connect with Ohio writers. Check out this list of adult titles from the 2021 festival!

Beverly Cleary, Age 104

Beverly Cleary, who died March 25 at the age of 104, was once named a “Living Legend” by the Library of Congress, and rarely has such a distinction seemed so well-deserved.

Best Books for Grades 7-8

Finding just the right book for a seventh or eighth grader can be a challenge. Let your librarians help you with a few of our favorite fiction titles.

Comics About Girls By Women For Kids

There was a time in human history when some people didn’t think comics were suitable reading material for girls. (There are some, even today, who don’t think comics are suitable reading material for anyone, but that’s a whole other outrage.)

The Performances of Yaphet Kotto

Yaphet Kotto built a distinguished and celebrated career on stage and screen, but certain fans of "Midnight Run" he'll always have a special place in our hearts as the other Alonzo Mosely.

A Plethora of Poetry Books to Celebrate National Poetry Month

National Poetry Month is the largest literary celebration in the world, with tens of millions of readers, students, K-12 teachers, librarians, booksellers, literary events curators, publishers, bloggers, and, of course, poets marking poetry’s important place in our culture and our lives every April.

Comics and Graphic Novels for Grades PreK-3

Are you an avid comic reader and looking for comics and graphic novels to share with your little one? This list will introduce your child to the wonderful world of comics and graphic novels!

Best Books for Second Grade Readers

Looking for books for a second grader? Here are wonderful picture books and easy readers specifically chosen for this age group. Books in series are noted. A Library card and PIN will be required to access many of the resources listed. Need help with your card or PIN? Contact your nearest location or call 419-259-5200. Need a new card?

YA Lit—Not Just for Teens

Highlighted titles for contemporary and realistic young adult literature, that is not just for teen readers. YA Lit is able to cross over to adult audiences and tackle diverse issues in an approachable way.

April Fool’s Day for Grades PreK-3

April Fool’s Day is celebrated this year on Thursday, April 1, 2021. Whatever your prank, joke or pun, make it a great time to celebrate with a smile.

March is Disability Awareness Month

March is a month of many observances.  Though maybe not as well known as Women’s History Month, St. Patrick’s Day or the beginning of spring, Disability Awareness Month is certainly as important.

Women’s History for Kids on hoopla

Through your TLCPL hoopla account, share the uplifting stories and inspiring accomplishments of heroic women with your young readers and encourage them to dream beyond the feats of the past and into a future full of promise.

Toledo Loves Its Library!

Joe Boyle, Toledo Public School Educator and soon to be published author, shares his experience finding this 1940s era photograph of a Toledo family outside our own Main Library.

Top Ten Teen Books

In 2020, teens across the country voted these 10 books as their most favorite. Be a part of the vote for 2021!

Books for Bibliophiles

If you've somehow run out of books or recommendations, first of all, I commend you. Second, these titles should help you stock back up.

UFO’s: Out of this World

UFO’s are getting a lot of attention recently. Although I have never seen a UFO, I often look up at the sky hoping one is there! Check out these books, documentaries, and feature movies to open your mind to the world of ufology.

Ready to Read Early Literacy Tip 2- Singing

Parents and caregivers, warm up your voices! It's time to sing! In this month's Ready to Read blog, learn about all the ways that singing has positive impacts on the success of your future reader.

Recommendations for Among Us Fans

For fans of the astronaut-themed murder mystery co-op game, Among Us: here are some book recommendations just for you! See if you can figure out who the murderer is. There is definitely something sus going on here!

Happy Birthday Sarah J Maas!

In conjunction with Women’s History Month and her birthday, let us celebrate this author who is making women’s history as we speak… or read!

Motivation for Runners

Whether you’re a newbie runner, training for a 5K or going the distance, we’ve got you covered with helpful resources in multiple formats. Runners, take your marks!

Daft Punk is Playing at Your House

Daft Punk became one of the most influential acts in pop and dance music. Which is why the French have that old saying: Never underestimate a couple of guys in robot helmets.

Novel Novellas

Here's a list of fiction books that are just a little out there, and under 200 pages long.

Realistic Fiction for Grades 4-5

Read these fictional inspiring stories that resemble realistic situations, issues or experiences that could have happened in real life.A Library card and PIN will be required to access many of the resources listed. Need

Poetry for Middle School Readers

Middle school comes with a lot of feelings. Poetry is a beautiful outlet of those feelings. Share these great books with your middle schooler.

Celebrate Toni Morrison Day!

On December 21, 2020, Governor Mike DeWine signed House Bill 325 declaring Toni Morrison’s birthday, February 18, Toni Morrison Day in Ohio.

Creative Writing Workshops Return!

Whether you have a new creative piece you've been working on or you have been itching for the inspiration to begin writing, our upcoming writing workshops may be the place for you.

More Plays by Black Playwrights

Much of the most vital writing in the American theater today is coming from Black playwrights. Let the library acquaint you with a few

Helping You Meet Those Reading Goals

Have you started a reading challenge yet this year? Maybe you need a little inspiration to log a few more books for TLCPL’s Winter Read. Maybe you want to challenge yourself to “read harder” this year. No matter what, the team at Kent Branch has you covered! We have curated a list of challenges to diversify your reads this year, and our staff has provided suggestions of some of their faves to match!

Children Love Everything About Music

Whether it’s banging on a pan or plastic tub to hear the sound or dancing enthusiastically to toddler tunes, music has the potential to engage children in fun and unique ways. Music may even help reduce stress and alleviate boredom, which is something we all need from time to time.

Presidents’ Day for Grades PreK-3

President’s Day is celebrated on the third Monday of February. It was originally a celebration of George Washington, the first president, but now it is a celebration for all presidents.

Mysteries for Grades 4-5

Are you ready for some mysteries to keep you warm with anticipation this winter? Check out our list for some ideas on what to read!

Get Unplugged with a Day of Play

Why not choose a just one day a week to get unplugged? Encourage your family to take a digital diet away from all devices, just for a single day! A one-day “fast” from technology is a great way to refresh your senses, add spontaneity to your life and reconnect with your family!

Steinem Sisters Collection Recommends Feminist Fiction

At our last Steinem Sisters Collection Talking Circle of 2020, we celebrated the books that lifted us up and helped us get through what was a trying year. We hope you will find one, or two, from this list of feminist book recommendations that will do the same for you.

Mysteries for Grades 1-3

Can you help crack the case? These mystery books for grades 1-3 won't leave you guessing, whodunit?!