Author – Spokane County Library District

Fantastic International Fiction: Read Beyond the Beaten Path & Expand Your World

Posted in Explore and Discover on August 2, 2022 at 6:00 am

By Melissa Rhoades This summer’s reading challenge dares us to “Read Beyond the Beaten Path.” Reading stories by international authors is a wonderful way to do that. International fiction—also called foreign fiction—allows us to not only imagine the sights, smells, and sounds of other landscapes but also gain exposure to diverse customs, […]

New Picture Books in Rhyme Bring Family Fun to Your Storytime

Posted in Parents and Teachers on May 4, 2022 at 6:00 am

Presenting storytimes again also gives me the perfect excuse to explore the new picture books added to our collection. Believe it or not, we’ve purchased over 650 picture books between January 2021 and April 2022. That’s a pretty hefty amount for one person to peruse! Here are eight new picture books that provide a great introduction to stories […]

Celebrate International Women’s Day with New & Groundbreaking Books

Posted in Explore and Discover on March 8, 2022 at 6:00 am

International Women’s Day takes place each year on March 8 to acknowledge women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements in the face of historical disadvantages. It’s also a day to advocate for women’s rights worldwide. I’m normally a fiction reader, so I’ve decided to celebrate International Women’s Day this year by e […]

Grow Your Creative Talents in the New Year with Helpful Books, Resources & Programs

Posted in Explore and Discover on December 29, 2021 at 6:00 am

“You can't use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have,” Maya Angelou said in an interview. From my experience, this is absolutely true. This means that including creative goals in your New Year’s resolutions could lead to a more productive and inspirational 2022. Our libraries offer plenty of ways to help with creative goals, incl […]

Over 148,000 Full-Text Reads in This Great Digital Resource for Literature Fans

Posted in Explore and Discover on November 23, 2021 at 6:00 am

Leisure readers, students, and people engaged in professional literature research will find quick searches to quality information (without advertisements getting in the way) when using Gale Literature: Litfinder. Litfinder is found in our Digital Library and is a fantastic tool for lovers of contemporary and classic literature from around the world […]

Top Literary Destinations to See in Asia, Africa, Europe & Latin America

Posted in Explore and Discover on September 10, 2021 at 6:00 am

Whether you’re planning an actual trip or simply want to travel in your imagination, you’ll find exciting places to add to your literary travel itinerary in this post! Discover some of the oldest, most beautiful, and most unusual libraries and literary landmarks in Asia, Africa, Continental Europe, and Latin America. […]

Top Literary Tourist Stops in English-Speaking Countries for Avid Book Fans

Posted in Explore and Discover on June 23, 2021 at 6:00 am

BY MELISSA RHOADES Summer 2021 may not be an ideal time to travel internationally, but it’s a great time to start dreaming and planning! In fact, Conde Nast Traveler (available digitally from Flipster) recommends planning international travel at least one year in advance. TRAVELING IN THE TIME OF COVID-19 The status of international travel is […]

16 Fabulous Book Destinations for Your Next Trip

Posted in Explore and Discover on April 14, 2021 at 6:00 am

BY MELISSA RHOADES As communities continue to reopen across the Inland Northwest, travel has dominated my mind. I’ve waited over a year to see family and friends, and I look forward to packing my bags for a visit. I also look forward to sightseeing again. With National Library Week taking place just last week, it […]

Escape screen time this winter

Posted in Explore and Discover on November 25, 2020 at 6:00 am

BY MELISSA RHOADES Several excellent virtual library programs are happening this winter, and we hope to see you at them! We also hope you’re taking breaks from screen time—especially if you’re one of the many people currently working, socializing, and playing virtually these days. Screen time is any time spent in front of a television, […]

Books & cocktail mixes: Find your perfect pairing

Posted in Explore and Discover on August 14, 2020 at 6:00 am

By Melissa Rhoades Recently, The New York Times published an article declaring the return of cocktail hour. I, for one, am celebrating. Mixed drinks can be enjoyed with or without a buzz. Those who choose to not imbibe alcohol can still find plenty to get shaken and stirred about. I’ve noted books that include non-alcoholic […]

Author: Melissa Rhoades