A Glimpse into Ritzville: Personal Reflections & Community Offerings

I didn’t grow up in Ritzville in the traditional sense, but Ritzville still is dear to my heart. It makes me think of cold popsicle juice dripping down my hand as I walk home from the pool on a Thursday night during an extended summer break at my grandparents’ house by the tennis court. It makes me think of the smell of dirt that wafts in the air during harvest time and the constant sneezing from the wheat germ in the air. It makes me think of home. My husband, son and I moved here from Spokane last year to get reacquainted with the town. He recently fulfilled his dream of becoming a Law Enforcement Officer and the town greeted him with open arms. It made the transition so much smoother to be welcomed so warmly. In 2017 I graduated with my B.A. in Theology and Philosophy. I do not regret getting it as it has made me a well-rounded individual, but I do not recommend any man, woman or child go to college for a Philosophy degree (contrary to popular belief, there are not many jobs that this is a useful education to possess). I worked in Early Intervention Services for the past 5 years under the umbrella of social work before becoming unbelievably burnt out and looking for something that could still support my family with our move. That’s where I met the wonderful staff at the Ritzville Public Library and learned that I could be a team member and provide some valuable input as well.

The library has a plethora of resources for anybody to utilize. Aside from the stacks of books we have to offer on a multitude of different topics, our website provides different resources online such as the Chilton Library to help you fix what ails your vehicle. Or Gale Presents: Peterson's Test and Career Prep that helps you prep for a vocational test, prepare for the US Citizenship test, prepare for college entrance exams, or find a school or scholarship, to name just a few. We also have computers, free Wi-Fi, printing for only $.15 a paper, free scanning and outgoing faxes, magazines, craft bags, and telescopes that can be checked out by patrons in good standing.

We will also be hosting The Rural Resource Community Fair on Monday, June 17th at 10 am. The library is proud to partner with and utilize the resources they provide the community such as free health screens and bringing DSHS out to meet with people who are unable to make the drive into Moses Lake or Spokane. Some of the other vendors that will be featured are Care Coordination, Housing Assistance, CHPW, and Molina Healthcare. Come on over and check out what resources they have to offer!

Additional Programs Happening in April:

Thursday, April 11 at 5 pm Film Fanatics (18+). This month’s movie will be Collateral Beauty (PG 13) starring Will Smith. After experiencing a tragedy, a man isolates himself from life and turns to Love, Time, and Death in search of universal truths. To his surprise, he begins to understand the interwoven nature of these concepts and discovers that moments of beauty and importance can arise even in times of grief.

Saturday, April 13 at 12 pm is Adults, get your crafty hats on for "Crafty Corner" (age 18+), where you'll be whipping up some snazzy jewelry for just $5!

Wednesday, April 17 at 4 pm Tween Zone (ages 9-12) will be diving into the art of crafting origami masterpieces!

Wednesday, April 17 at 5:30 pm the Board Meeting is open to all. If you are unable to attend in person, you can request a Zoom link from EALDhelp@ritzvillelibrary.org.

Saturday, April 20^th at 12 pm is our adult book club, Ritzville Readers. We gather to discuss our latest literary adventures based on a chosen theme or topic; April’s is humor/satire. Don't feel like reading? No problem! Come for a stimulating conversation and enjoy mouthwatering Mexican cuisine with fellow book enthusiasts.

Friday, April 26 at 4 pm is Teen Scene, it is a space designed for teenagers to have fun, and this month they will be hosting a zine workshop.

 Ky Beck-Gmeiner

Library Page

Fruitful Insights: Apples, Oranges, and Literature

Why is it that when we are asked to introduce ourselves our minds go blank, and we become strangers in our minds? What should be a simple straightforward task becomes uncomfortable and strenuous. How and where do I begin to explain who Heather is to you all?

Well, for starters I have lived in Ritzville off and on for around 20 years and am a Ritzville Alumni (Class of 2010). When I was in grade school I struggled and needed extra help in most subjects, one of which was reading. It wasn’t until I picked up the book “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone”. I quickly became a bibliophile and was hardly ever without a book in my hand. Unfortunately, college spoiled my love of reading for quite a few years. However, working at the library has once again reignited that passion and joy I once felt when reading and being a judge for the Washington State Book Awards (2022). Some more curious/interesting tidbits about me are that I am a major aquaphile I tend to do my best thinking while in water and it even helps me sleep at night. I am an INFJ personality type who hates math, wears her emotions on her sleeve, and loves practically everything to do with the arts. Overall, I am a unique and quirky individual constantly learning, growing, and evolving (that’s the goal anyway). In other words, I feel I am an orange among apples and most days I am cool with that.

Speaking of apples, we have a great presentation coming up for all you history buffs and food aficionados. Mark your calendars for a captivating evening at the Ritzville Public Library on Friday, March 15th at 6 PM. We're thrilled to welcome Amanda Van Lanen, an esteemed expert in the apple business and a distinguished professor of History at Lewis-Clark State College. Discover the fascinating tale behind Washington's rise as the apple state in Amanda's enlightening talk, "Big Apples, Big Business: How Washington Became the Apple State." Delve into the intricate web woven by scientists, investors, irrigators, railroad corporations, marketers, and apple growers that transformed Washington into the top apple-producing state in the nation. From the roots of industrial agriculture to the far-reaching impacts on the American food system and environment, Amanda will unravel the compelling narrative of Washington's apple industry. Gain insight into how historical forces have shaped the way we eat today. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to deepen your understanding of Washington's rich agricultural heritage. Admission is FREE, courtesy of Humanities Washington's Speakers Bureau. Join us for an engaging evening of discovery and community enrichment!

The adult programs don’t stop there. Get ready for an unforgettable month of entertainment and creativity at the Ritzville Public Library.

Check out our exciting lineup of adult programs happening this March!

Film Fanatics: Join us every 2nd Thursday at 5 PM for our Film Fanatics event. This month, we're screening the heartwarming classic "Fried Green Tomatoes." But wait, there's more! Indulge in a delicious meal that perfectly complements the film for a truly immersive experience.

Crafty Corner: Unleash your inner artist at Crafty Corner, happening every 2nd Saturday at 12 PM. This month, dive into the world of shadow watercolor painting and let your creativity flow. Whether you're a seasoned painter or just starting out, you're sure to have a blast experimenting with this unique technique.

Calling all book lovers! Join us at Mi Jalisco every 3^rd Saturday of the month for the Ritzville Reader’s Book Club: We'll gather at 12 PM to discuss our latest literary adventures based on a chosen theme or topic. Don't feel like reading? No problem! Come for a stimulating conversation and enjoy mouthwatering Mexican cuisine with fellow book enthusiasts.

Whether you're a film buff, an art enthusiast, or a bookworm, there's something for everyone at the Ritzville Public Library. Don't miss out on these fantastic opportunities to connect with your community and explore new horizons. See you there!

Heather Carruth

Adult Services/Acquisitions

Between the Pages: February’s Enchanting Library Escapades

In the enchanting realm of storytelling and exploration, I am thrilled to embark on a journey with you as your interim library director, Millie Hopkins. I will be your guide through the vast landscapes of language and literature. This introductory article serves as a window into the world of words that I am passionate about, a glimpse into the pages of my own narrative and the world I love to share with you all.

I have worked at the library for six years, starting as the Youth Services Library Assistant and ending in the Director’s chair. I moved to Ritzville in April of 2017 when the library was up at the high school while it was being remodeled to add the elevator. When the library moved back, I was excited to see the inside of a Carnegie Library still used as a library with original shelves! The first time I walked into the Carnegie building, I fell in love! I always brag about our library because it is so unique and unforgettable. I was so excited when I heard I got a job at the library I started dancing in the aisle at Walmart. Being able to work at this library was a dream come true. I did not know it then, but this library is why my family and I moved to Ritzville.

When Covid hit, and the library had to close, it was difficult because what I loved best about my job was no longer. I did not get to play with the kids anymore; I was doing Facebook Live programs and talking to myself all day. While things slowly opened back up and we gradually got back on our feet, we saw a director or two come and go but it is with much excitement that I announce that our programs are back to being fully open!

The doors are wide open, and we invite you to be a part of the celebration. Join us at any one of the many exciting things going on in February!

On Friday, February 1st, we are celebrating Take Your Child to the Library Day, which thousands of libraries across the globe celebrate. It is a way for families to spend some time together and discover the enchantment of the library. Join us for a whimsical celebration where the world of books meets the enchanting sweetness of Candyland from 12-5 pm. There will be different stations around the library where we will have fun activities and crafts. Each staff member picked a book for their station; I am using the BFG by Roald Dahl and will make dream bottles with the kids. We are also Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs with a Guess What is in the Box and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory with a chance to win a golden ticket! There is also Alice in Wonderland, which has a fun card game with a teatime snack and pop and The Invention of Bubblegum with a giant bubble gum machine!

Are you ready to experience the thrill of the unknown, the excitement of a surprise, and the joy of discovering a hidden gem? Say hello to the most enchanting blind date you’ll ever have- a rendezvous with a book that promises mystery, excitement, and the magic of story. We are doing our annual Blind Date with a book all month. Come down and find the one with the catchiest ‘pickup line’ and take it home. For me, any cheese line will do because I am easy! We have different genres, from romance to suspense, poetry, adult westerns, and more obscure options. Some are donations we did not add to the collection that we know you will fall in love with and get to keep. In contrast, others are library books that we would love to hear all the dirty details of your ‘date’ when you bring them back!

If roses and romance are not your thing and your tired of the heart shaped cliches and lovey-dovey gestures then join us for a night of rebellion, laughter, and unapologetic fun at our Anti-Valentines Day Party for adults. Not everyone has a date for Valentine’s Day or even really cares about the “Day of Love”. Well, if that is you, then we got you! Come down on that black Wednesday and celebrate Not being in love with other like-minded people because sometimes Love Stinks! We will have some fun games and food. Adults only, meet us at the library at 6 pm on Wednesday the 14th and celebrate your freedom from the shackles of Cupid’s silly arrows!

As the frosty days of winter melt away, a new chapter unfolds at the Ritzville Public Library. March promises a treasure trove of literary delights, engaging events, and opportunities to connect with stories that will captivate your imagination. Join us here again in anticipating the exciting literary journey that awaits you in the upcoming month.

Millie Hopkins

Library Director