Blog: BIGIDEA

Celebrate Pura Belpré

You may have heard about the Pura Belpré Award for children's books, but have you heard about the woman who inspired it?

5 Titles to Start Your Environmental Feminist Journey

Local environmental activist, Angie Fitzpatrick, kicks off our discussion of Feminism and the Environment that will continue at the Sylvania Branch on (Tu) August 20 at 6 p.m. Local sustainability advocates will lead a discussion on their journeys to sustainability and what women in Lucas County can do to help.

Babies Need Words: Diversity

To build a positive sense of self, children need to see themselves, their families, and their cultural traditions in the books we read to them.

100 Years of Summer: 1945-1964

It's the 100th year of Summer Read! Here are books popular from 1945-1964. You're sure to recognize some of these classics!

Immigrant Heritage Month Storyteller: Nicolai Salgau

June is Immigrant Heritage Month, and we are excited to share stories of our community members who have made Toledo, and Lucas County, home. Hear from Nicolai, a small business owner in East Toledo, who found ways to give back to the supportive community that played a role in achieving his American dream.

Small Business Launch: The Easy Jump by Eddie Jones

Though the Easy Jump is only one of Eddie Jones’ many mechanical or engineering pursuits, it is his first foray into entrepreneurship. What he has found most surprising about this new small business journey is people’s reactions. From his initial drawings to today, only about a year and a half has elapsed – remarkable progress for a product of significant size that takes some manufacturing know-how…

Small Business Launch: Building Up Seniors in Tech by Alondria Wright

Before becoming a small business owner, Alondria Wright fielded support requests for a local technical service provider. “People were upset and frustrated, and I felt like as I listened to more and more senior citizens to call into my line, I felt rushed to get them the help that they needed.” Feeling limited by the extent to which she could help seniors in that role, Wright got an idea…

Trail Blazing Women

10 amazing books for kids about women explorers, adventurers, and pioneers in their fields.

5 Ways to Commemorate the Summer of Soul

In 1969, over the course of six Sundays the Harlem Cultural Festival was born. Filling Harlem with the mighty sounds of Mahalia Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, Sly and The Family Stone, and Gladys Knight and the Pips just to name a few.

The First: Remembering Sandra Day O’Connor with 5 Books

"Sandra Day O'Connor blazed an historic trail as our nation's first female justice," Chief Justice John Roberts said in a statement. "She met that challenge with undaunted determination, indisputable ability, and engaging candor."

15 Titles to Combat Violence Against Women

International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women was November 25. These titles lean on personal experience, statistics, and work being done by women worldwide to end this crisis.

Found in Translation: Literature in Other Languages

Gifted translators like Edith Grossman break through language barriers to introduce readers to the great literature of the world, so you can finally find out what people mean when they talk about Don Quixote and windmills.

LGBTQIA+ Nonfiction for Beginners

Talking about feelings is hard. Talking about feelings when you don't have the right vocabulary to describe them is even harder. And it's hardest when you don't know if those feelings are okay to have. (Hint: They are).

Dyslexia-Friendly Books for Juvenile Readers

Fact: Dyslexia is one of the most common learning disabilities to affect children. Here is a selection of juvenile fiction about dyslexia, some even written in dyslexia-friendly typeface.

Immigrant Heritage Month Storyteller: Araf Doumani

As we celebrate Immigrant Heritage Month, hear from Afaf, who has found her passion advocating for mental health care to promote general wellbeing for all, including the Middle East and North African community.

3 Was the Magic Number

De La Soul, featuring the late David Jolicoeur, so thoroughly reimagined hip hop that their records sounded like transmissions from another reality. Plug Two, over and out.

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."

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.

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."

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.)

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.

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.

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!

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.

Need some comic books and graphic novels to read during Black History Month? The library has you covered.

During Black History Months, we are reminded of the countless ways African Americans have contributed to visual arts, music, film, and fashion, among other creative endeavors. Like jazz, comic books are a truly American artform whose influence showcases the talent of countless Black creators. While comics have had a frustrating history with diversity and representation, the number of Black authors, illustrators, inkers, letterers, and colorists who have contributed to the medium is extensive and ever-increasing. By no means an exhaustive list, hopefully these books provide a starting point for those hoping to delve into the diverse world of comics created by African Americans.

Love You, Hate Your Politics

It would be the understatement of a lifetime to say that political disagreements are problematic for most people these days. From friends to relatives to lovers, no relationship is immune to this crisis. Fear not, there are resources that can (hopefully!) help.

WWII Propaganda: How Images of Women Made the Difference

With thousands of men enlisted into the war effort, contributions by women were tested. See how American government propaganda not only encouraged women to support the war effort but also reminded women – and the entire country – of their value in dire times.

Historical Heroines: Medieval Powerhouses

This post is inspired by Jozlyn’s medieval history professor's passion for Middle Ages-era women, as well as by Stefani's colonial history professor having told her class, “Now that you have this knowledge, you can’t pretend you don’t.” Coming to fruition thanks to two librarians and history nerds, this blog is sure to have you wondering if it always, really has been a “Man’s World”!

Meet Connie

The Library values the diversity of its staff and the culture and history they represent. This Hispanic Heritage Month, we invite you to get to know some of our Hispanic/Latinx staff members.

Meet Ruben

The Library values the diversity of its staff and the culture and history they represent. This Hispanic Heritage Month, we invite you to get to know some of our Hispanic/Latinx staff members.

Steinem Sisters Collection & The Silent Witness Project

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the Steinem Sisters Collection has teamed up with The Bethany House to spotlight the Silent Witness Project, an awareness initiative for domestic violence. Read further for more information on domestic violence amidst the pandemic, links to resources, as well as book recommendations from our very own Steinem Sisters Collection.

Reading the Supremes

If you're curious about the Supreme Court, the many books published about the late and legendary RBG are just the tip of the Ginsburg. I mean iceberg.

Remembering Chadwick Aaron Boseman

The unexpected death of Chadwick Aaron Boseman is particularly poignant for the Mott Branch Library community who had previously dubbed the branch Mottkanda.

Women in Politics: 6 Must Reads

For the first time in our nation's history a female of color is a nominee for the office of Vice President! Let's celebrate by diving into top 6 books by or about the ladies of politics.

Welcome TLC 2019 highlights

See how Welcome TLC is building a welcoming and inclusive community for immigrants, refugees, and people of diverse cultures.

Anti-Racism Reading List

Our country has been called to challenge the racism that resides amongst us and within us. Part of meeting that challenge is educating oneself and seeking a greater understanding of the experiences and history of Black Americans.

Welcome TLC is now Housed at the Library

The Welcome TLC initiative works to build a more welcoming and inclusive community for immigrants, refugees, and people of diverse cultures that supports a vibrant civic, economic, and social fabric for all. See how Welcome TLC’s mission fits in with the Library’s institutional values, by reading about the initiative’s origins and transition to the Library.

Root Out Racism

To be anti-racist, we must understand the history of racial disparities, acknowledge privilege and actively fight against racism.

2020 Pulitzer Prize Winners

If you love award-winning books, you'll definitely want to check out this year's Pulitzer Prize winners, several of which are available in eBook or audiobook on OverDrive.

Feed Your Harriet Need

Now that I’ve seen the biopic Harriet and have a taste for who this incredible woman was - I’ve begun searching for more information about her life, and wanted to share some recommended reading (and viewing).

Celebrating Black History

Black History Month puts a spotlight on African American history and accomplishments as a people and culture. Our past, present and future can be researched, read about and discovered at your local Library.In order

LGBTQ+ Chapter Books For Kids

I am pleasantly surprised with recent books for middle schoolers which feature kids and parents who are LGBTQ. Engaging books with compelling characters are a welcome addition for LGBTQ kids who want to read

Fantastic Books for Kids by African American Authors

In celebration of Black History Month, we compiled a list of picture books to read with your child by noted African American authors. Some inspire young minds, some are just for fun, and all are perfect for enjoying together.

Become a Part of Toledo’s History!

The Toledo Lucas County Public Library has launched a program to collect photos from the public to be preserved as part of our local history collections. Contribute your photos (physical or digital) to become a part of Toledo history.

Toledo Streets Newspaper Archive Now Available

The Local History and Genealogy department of the Toledo Lucas County Public Library has partnered with Toledo Streets, the local nonprofit news organization that helps those experiencing poverty with the opportunity to economically empower themselves. The first 74 issues of the newspaper are now available online through the Library.

Our Diverse World

A collection of children's books about different cultures, lifestyles, abilities and histories.

Journey in His Shoes

Have you seen our #GetToKnowTLCPL social media campaign? In this blog, we're inviting you to get to know Library staffer James Dickerson and an upcoming exhibit he's a part of, March 15-17.

Two Librarians, Too Many Books: It’s Women’s History Month, Y’all!

It’s Women’s History Month, y’all! I, for one, can’t think of a worthier topic to chat endlessly about. So in celebration, Katie and I got together to talk about the female authors who have captivated us through the written word and inspired us in our own lives. The following conversation is a lightly-edited-for-clarity transcription of that chat.

Plays by African-American Playwrights

For decades, African-American playwrights have pushed the American theater to embrace bold, daring and popular new forms and have, in the process, contributed some of the most enduring stories and characters in the American literary canon. The library has on its shelves an assortment of scripts from this robust tradition.

Ten Native American Authors You Should Know

In celebration of Native American Heritage Month, explore this list of top ten popular Native American authors. These authors write on activism, culture, history, challenges of reservation life, and attempting to establish identities in the modern world.

Diversity in Juvenile Fiction

April is Celebrate Diversity Month, and we’re prepared to do just that with this awesome variety of juvenile fiction titles.

Caring & Compassion

“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” - the Dalai Lama. Continue reading for a list of resources exploring the topic of compassion.

Strong Women Making An Impact

The world is at a turning point. People everywhere understand and support the idea of gender equality. They know it’s not just a women’s issue, it’s a human rights issue. And when these powerful voices are heard, they will change the world. The time for that change is now.