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Join us in September for this stellar lineup of bestselling authors and thought-provoking writers! Lidia BastianichThursday, Sept. 7 | 7-8 p.m. Register Pull up a chair for an evening with award-winning television host and bestselling author Lidia Bastianich as she talks about her memoir My American Dream: A Life of Love, Family, and Food and gives a preview of her newest cookbook, Lidia’s From Our Family Table to Yours: More Than 100 Recipes Made With Love For All Occasions. Lidia Matticchio Bastianich is the author of 15 previous cookbooks and is the Emmy Award-winning host of public television’s Lidia’s Kitchen, which also airs internationally. Adam Alter Wednesday, Sept. 20 | 2-3 p.m. Register Join New York Times bestselling author Adam Alter for a chat about his new book Anatomy of a Breakthrough: How to Get Unstuck When It Matters Most.  Almost everyone feels stuck in some way, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Anatomy of a Breakthrough is the roadmap we all need to escape our inertia and flourish in the face of friction. Adam Alter is a professor of marketing and the Stansky Teaching Excellence Faculty Fellow at New York University’s Stern School of Business. He also holds an affiliated professorship in Social Psychology at NYU’s Department of Psychology.  Alter is the New York Times bestselling author of two books: Drunk Tank Pink and Irresistible. Amor Towles Wednesday, Sept. 27 | 8-9 p.m. Register Please tune in as we chat online with New York Times bestselling author Amor Towles about his incredible body of work. Born and raised in the Boston area, Amor Towles graduated from Yale College and received an MA in English from Stanford University. Amor Towles is the author of Rules of Civility, A Gentleman in Moscow, and The Lincoln Highway. He is also the author of the ebook You Have Arrived at Your Destination, part of Amazon’s Forward collection. His next book, Table for Two, is a collection of short stories to be published in April 2024.

Read. Shop. Buy smart. This month CR tells us “How to Stay Healthy Longer.”  Today’s life expectancy is 26 years longer than it was in the 1950s. While that is great news, we need to learn how to enjoy good health during that extended time.  Start by finding out what to expect as you age, and get smart about how to recognize trouble.  Don’t stop there!  Learn how to address some age-related changes and possibly prevent them.   CR also eplains which tests and screenings provide a better picture of your physical condition and can help identify a developing health issue.  Don’t worry if you aren’t in the best of shape right now; CR shows some changes to get healthy and and stay that way. “Which Milk Should You Drink”  provides a detailed review of various milk products.  Research shows that just one cup of milk each day provides many vital nutrients with surprisingly few drawbacks.  It turns out that many of the old fears about a link between the fat in cow’s milk and heart disease or diabetes are unfounded.  There are some fine alternatives for those who are lactose intolerant, and A2 milk can be the solution for those with GI symptoms.  If cow’s milk isn’t for you, CR offers reviews of six plant based milk alternatives.  Even non-milk drinkers may want to try some of these plant based alternatives after reading the descriptions provided here. Yard sales are a good way to move unwanted stuff out of the house and make a little extra cash. There are also online reselling sites where sellers can make a great deal more on those unwanted items.  Do you have a valuable item that you don’t know how to price?  Use an Appraisers Association Directory for help with that.  CR highlights eight sites where everything from cars to coffee makers and handbags to hockey sticks can be sold.  Learn how to list items and handle the transaction a buyer is found.  With CRs help you can make a successful online sale. Other topics in this issue include: “Get the Insurance You Need (at a Great Price)” “Do You Really Need to Walk 10K Steps a Day?” “Which Brand of Bagged Popcorn Tastes Best?” “Saving Money on Printers” “Insect Repellents” Consumer Reports magazine is available free in print and online to Fauquier Public Library card holders, providing access to articles, reviews and ratings on over 8,000 products and services.

It’s hard to believe summer is waning but the signs are all there.  The sun sets earlier, stores stock school supplies, Labor Day looms.  Here at the library, the summer reading program buzz ended with ice cream sundaes for everyone. Flip flops may yield to hard shoes, but some things are not in flux, like our talented community partners who make great programs happen. If you haven’t taken advantage of the Naturalist Is In, there are still plenty of opportunities.  Old Rag master naturalists are ready and willing to answer your questions about nature and the environment. How to remove a ground hog, how to deter ants and ticks, and info about the hammerhead worm are just a few of the questions put to these knowledgeable folks during recent library visits. In 2019, the world watched in horror as flames devoured Notre Dame, the geographical, spiritual and cultural center of France.  Join legendary local history teacher Bob Jacobs on August 23 for a discussion of  Notre Dame: The Soul of France by Agnes Poirier, the library’s non-fiction book club’s latest title.  One critic described the book as “A passionately recounted history, a compelling story of destruction, restoration and the rebirth of hope.” Retired editor and journalist Lou Emerson will interview Fauquier County School Superintendent Dr. Major Warner on October 15 for the next installment of Sundays at Two, Fauquier Public Library’s new quarterly series that brings together local distinguished writers, artists, and scholars for conversations about their work and life.  Dr Warner, a lifelong Fauquier resident, attributes his success to teachers and coaches who “saw something in me long before I ever saw something in myself.” At their heart, libraries are all about sharing. Of course, we lend books, magazines, movies and other wonderful things. But, the library is made all the better, stronger by our community who gives generously of its time and talent. Together we say, this institution is important, it’s ours and isn’t it grand? Regards, Maria Del Rosso Director, Fauquier Public Library

Read. Shop. Buy smart. Do you know how to avoid being scammed?  This month CR explains how scammers make use of texts, phone calls, e-mails, ATM cards, and even QR codes to capture your information.  They do this by playing upon your friendships, emotions and fears.  Don’t fall for their tricks!  For example, any message, call or e-mail that urges you to act immediately isa red flag.  Don’t respond or click on a link if you get such a message.  Does the message say your account is blocked?  Before you click or call the number they’ve provided to “fix” the problem, try accessing the account that’s referenced to see if it really is blocked.  Help someone else by reporting any scams you encounter to the proper agency.  CR explains what to do if you actually do get scammed.  The information will help repair any damage that may have been done and will build up your immunity to scammers. The newest smartwatches can do many of the things your old fitness tracker could do, and much more!  They can monitor health, safety and fitness details, but they can only do these things really well if you buy a watch with the right sensors.  There are thousands of apps for these watches, they even have aps for games!  In fact, smartwatch features have improved so much that CR has revised their ratings.  Be sure to check out these ratings if you are in the market for a new watch. What makes a pizza taste good?  CR digs into this question and comes up with some answers in: “The Best (and Worst) Frozen Pizzas.”  CR notes that “in general, pizza is not considered a particularly healthy meal,” (so turn off health monitoring on your smartwatch) but we all know pizza is a wonderfully delicious food.  CR staffers would agree.  They taste-tested seven popular brands – find out how your favorite pizza stacks up compared with others in the frozen food department.  It might be time to try a new brand! Other topics in this issue include: “Is It Time to Upgrade Your Blender?” “How to Spot Fake Online Reviews” “Best Budget Electric Bikes” “Your Guide to Safer Lettuce” “Cleaning Secrets From CR’s Experts” Consumer Reports magazine is available free in print and online to Fauquier Public Library card holders, providing access to articles, reviews and ratings on over 8,000 products and services.

This month, the Book Cellar will host a special Cat & Kitten Adoption event with For the Cats’ Sake, a local cat-rescue organization.  Come see the adorable kitties, and give one (or more!) of these furballs a forever home! Saturday, August 26 Noon – 4 p.m. And throughout the month, we’ll celebrate all types of animals with special store displays. Follow us on Facebook to stay up-to-date on all of the latest Book Cellar news!

If you missed Sundays at Two with Hope Porter and Lou Emerson, the program is now available on-demand. Hope Porter, a leader in land conservation in Fauquier County and Virginia, spoke on July 16 with veteran journalist and editor Lou Emerson about her nearly 60 years as an “accidental activist.” In the 1950s, the threat of unchecked development from the greater Washington area spreading into an unprotected Fauquier County propelled Porter to defend the county’s open land. She has been honored for her passion and dedication to sensible land use and success in preserving the county’s quality of life. Named the Citizen of the Decade by the Fauquier Times-Democrat in 1980, Porter is one of the most powerful people in the county and yet has never held public office. Lou Emerson is an entrepreneurial journalist who launched the Fauquier Citizen and Fauquier Now and several niche publications and websites. An experienced consultant, he is a frequent lecturer and seminar leader for state press associations, colleges and other groups. Sundays at Two brings together distinguished writers, artists, and scholars for conversations about their work and lives. Mark your calendar for the next Sunday at Two, as Major Warner, Superintendent, Fauquier County Public Schools and lifelong Fauquier County resident, talks with Lou Emerson, veteran journalist and editor. Sunday, October 15, 2-3 p.m. at the John Barton Payne Bldg., 2 Courthouse Square, Warrenton.

The Fauquier County Public Library and The Open Book are pleased to co-host BOOKENDS at the Warrenton Fall Festival on Saturday, September 23, 2023 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.  Booths at either end of Main Street — in front of The Open Book and the John Barton Payne Building– will give local authors an opportunity to discuss and sell their work during one of Warrenton’s busiest days. Author space is limited so please register early. Registration & Publicity Online applications accepted 9 a.m. July 5 –  5 p.m. July 31, 2023, or until full. REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED Questions? Contact The Open Book or Natalie Damewood. The library and The Open Book will advertise BOOKENDS at the Warrenton Fall Festival using print and electronic media. Authors are encouraged to distribute publicity through their social media, email lists and other community outlets. Media kits will be provided to authors upon confirmation of participation. Participating authors should plan to staff their booth during the entire event. Ways & Means The library and The Open Book will provide tables, chairs and author name tags. Authors are responsible for tents, decorations, table coverings, book easels, etc. Only those authors who have received confirmation of participation from the library or The Open Book will be permitted to set up, display or sell their materials. Only materials directly related to an author’s published works may be sold or displayed. All sales will be made directly through participating authors, who will provide books to sell, money box (including change), receipts, etc. Any taxes, if applicable, will be the responsibility of the authors. BOOKENDS at the Warrenton Fall Festival promises to be a celebration of local talent and reading! Please plan to join us. We look forward to hearing from you soon! Sincerely, Maria Del Rosso, Director, Fauquier County Public Library Cammie Fuller, Owner, The Open Book

Read. Shop. Buy smart. The health benefits of seafood are well known, including lowered risk of heart disease, obesity and cognitive decline, but cost and food safety concerns have stopped some from adding it to our diets. This month Consumer Reports (CR) reminds us that a portion of seafood the size of a deck of cards is enough to gain the health benefits. That portion size helps put the price into perspective, but what about food safety? This month’s lead article: “Is Your Seafood Safe to Eat?” will show you how to recognize good seafood and select types of fish that are less likely to contain mercury. CR covers how to buy fresh seafood, including how to handle it and cook it at home, and the staff picks section put tinned fish and shellfish to the taste test. Be sure to check out the related article on “Why Sustainability Matters.” It will help you shop (and order) seafood responsibly. If you’re taking a “Staycation” this summer read “Your Backyard Haven.”  To make your deck or patio feel like another room of your house read “Keep it Cozy” for tips on how to bring that indoor feeling outside.  Make sure you have good seating and lighting as well as shelter from the sun and protection from insects.  That’s especially important if you’ll be eating outdoors.  “Easy Shade Solutions” suggests that gazebos, pergolas, umbrellas and awnings can quickly turn a one dimensional yard or patio into a comfortable gathering place.  Sturdy tableware should be part of the plan.  Read “Warm up a Chilly Evening” if you think a fire pit would be a neat addition! Do you have a closet full of floppy discs, monitors, old printers and all the CPUs and laptops you’ve ever owned, not to mention all those cables that used to fit something?  CR is here to help sort it all out and safely dispose of it.  Chances are you saved those discs and CPUs because there was something on them you wanted to keep, but never got around to copying to your new computer. Learn how to “Back Up and Wipe” old phones, computers, CDs, DVDs, and floppy discs, and how to recycle them afterward.  There’s a great photo gallery of cable ends to help sort the good ones from the bad ones.  Once the old stuff is sorted, CR has advice on how to “Make More Space on Your Devices,” covering everything from cell phone storage to email inboxes. Other topics in this issue include: “The Best Sunscreens of the Year” “Get What You Need From Warranties” “Cocktails to Go” “Pressure Washers” “Where to Save Big on Small Appliances” “Sleep Cooler This Summer” Consumer Reports magazine is available free in print and online to Fauquier Public Library card holders, providing access to articles, reviews and ratings on over 8,000 products and services. The library has copies of Consumer Reports dating back to 2019.

The month of June brings fun and amazing new virtual author talks from a cutting-edge scientist and thought leader, an New York Times bestselling author, and an award-winning author and screenwriter! Each talk features the opportunity to participate in author Q&A or pre-submit questions during registration! Read on for details on how to register for these and other upcoming talks. Mike Rucker, Ph.D.Wednesday, June 7, 4 p.m. Register Doesn’t it seem that the more we seek happiness, the more elusive it becomes? There is an easy fix, hiding in plain sight. Fun is an action you can take here and now, practically anywhere, anytime. Through research and science, we know fun is enormously beneficial to our physical and psychological well-being, yet fun’s absence from our modern lives is striking. The Fun Habit: How the Disciplined Pursuit of Joy and Wonder Can Change Your Life is the ultimate guide to reap fun’s profound benefits. Grounded in current research, accessible science, and practical recommendations, Dr. Rucker will use The Fun Habit strategies to teach you how to build having fun into an actionable and effortless habit and why doing so will help you become a healthier, more joyful, more productive person. Jamie BeckThursday, June 15, 2 p.m. Register Join New York Times bestselling author and award-winning photographer Jamie Beck as she talks about her book An American in Provence: Art, Life, and Photography. An American in Provence is a beautiful collection of exquisite portrait, scenic, and still-life photography. Looking to slow down from her fast-paced life in New York City, Beck embarked on a one-year getaway to Provence. One year, turning into five, Beck moved to the French countryside, documenting her life as “An American in Provence.” Equal parts art book, travel diary, memoir, and cookbook, An American in Provence transports you to the South of France. Tananarive DueWednesday, June 28, 8 p.m. Register Please join us for a gripping chat with Tananarive Due about her body of work. Due’s prolific body of work cements the author as a leading voice in black speculative fiction for more than 20 years. Due is an award-winning writer, educator, and producer. Her work includes sixteen books, including Blood Colony, The Living Blood, The Good House, Joplin’s Ghost and the forthcoming The Reformatory. In addition, she is a contributing author of Black Panther: Tales of Wakanda and Black Panther: Sins of the King. Collaborating with her partner Steven Barnes, she also co-wrote “A Small Town” for Season 2 of Jordan Peele’s “The Twilight Zone” on Paramount Plus and two segments of Shudder’s anthology film Horror Noire. We look forward to you joining us for exciting author talks this month! Meet the Author is sponsored by Friends of the Fauquier Library and made possible through the Library Speaker’s Consortium. Two to three programs are offered each month. Register to receive log-on details. All programs are available for on-demand viewing following the event.

Fridays & Saturdays | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. John Barton Payne Bldg., Warrenton The Book Cellar is the cool place to be on a hot summer day.  Stop by to grab a book or two to enjoy during your vacation/stay-cation—our prices can’t be beat. Watch for special displays throughout the summer commemorating Father’s Day, Juneteenth and Independence Day. As a proud sponsor of Fauquier Public Library’s summer reading program, we are offering 50% off all children’s books throughout the program (June 5 – July 29). We have a wide selection of children’s books to choose from! For the latest Book Cellar news, follow us Facebook.

Read. Shop. Buy smart. This special May/June issue of Consumer Reports (CR) is focused on helping you “keep more of your money” by showing you how to “Save Big at Home” and waste less.  Here you will find 14 pages of ideas that could save thousands in 2023.  The savings suggestions cover everything from air conditioners to washing machines.  Many of these ideas, such as lowering (or raising) the thermostat are totally free, others might require upgrading to energy efficient appliances that can save you more money over the long term.  Some improvements to the energy efficiency of your home may even qualify for new tax credits under the “Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.”  The best suggestion – cultivate a garden! The Home Entertainment Buying Guide rates and reviews 474 products.  Audio and video media floods our lives with sounds and images.  Often everyone in the family is listenting to or watching something on their device at the same time, making a good set of headphones essential.  CR reviews a whole array of headphones that offer noise-canceling features so that you can hear what you want to listen to without disturbing others.  Check out the reviews for televisions and smart speakers to find the best equipment for those times when everyone wants to watch and listen together.  While you’re looking at technology products, scan CR’s “Top Picks for a Great Home Office” for advice on how to upgrade your computer and printer, as well as tips on “office extras” that will improve your workspace. Planning a vacation this year?  Check out “Smart Vacation Deals Ahead” for some great tips on where in the world you might want to go and how to afford it.  Early booking, package deals and traveling during “shoulder season” can result in signficant savings.  If all that planning, scheduling and booking seems overwhelming, consider hiring a Travel Advisor.  CR tells you why that might be a good idea based on your trip’s length and complexity. Other topics in this issue include: “Stay Cool This Summer” “Proven Anti-Tick Strategies” “Easier Mowing” “The Best Grocery Store Guacamole” “Portable Generators” “Electric Mountain Bikes” “Blenders” “Innerspring Mattresses” “Machine-Washable Rugs” Consumer Reports magazine is available free in print and online to Fauquier Public Library card holders, providing access to articles, reviews and ratings on over 8,000 products and services. The library has copies of Consumer Reports dating back to 2019.

We paid no heed to the fly buzzing lazily among the window shades in our second-grade classroom. The trials and triumphs of Wilber and his new friend Charlotte had our full attention. Every afternoon, Sister Mary Helen would read a chapter aloud from Charlotte’s Web. It was my favorite time of the day, more welcome than lunch or recess.  I was as dreamy as Fern, happy to spend the long afternoon listening to the delightfully spun tale about a pig and a spider. Sister Helen and E.B. White got me started on a lifelong love affair with books. A good book, read aloud, will enchant any child and entice them to ask for more.  That’s great because we want kids to fall in love with books and reading. In May, we celebrate Children’s Book Week.  Begun in 1913, the week was meant to mark the importance of children’s books and literacy as life-changers.  Pretty sturdy language to describe the incandescent magic of learning to read and finding a delightful book to practice on. Nonetheless, a celebration of children and reading is welcome. Instilling a love of reading early gives a child the key that unlocks the door to lifelong learning.  It helps them to make sense not only of the world around them but also people, building social-emotional skills and of course, imagination. So, go ahead, raise a reader by sharing your love of Where the Wild Things Are, Little Bear, Frog and Toad, Winnie the Pooh, Ramona Quimby, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Pippi Longstocking or whichever childhood books and authors that stick with you most. While you’re revisiting old favorites perhaps you’ll remember when a book, a blanket and rain against the window was all you needed for an afternoon of pure bliss. Maria Del Rosso Director, Fauquier Public Library