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Off the Shelf

Off the Shelf is a weekly update on the news and events taking place at the Omaha Public Library. Locally produced at KIOS by David Koesters, it can be heard Mondays at 8:44am during Morning Edition, and again at 4:44pm on All Things Considered.

Latest Episodes
  • For the curious to the avid family historians out there, the Omaha Public Library has added two new genealogy research databases to its already robust list of resources free and available to the public. Plus, Holly Pelesky joins us to talk about the book Notes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka.
  • Kids take part in a Dr. Seuss story with Heartland Youth Ballet by dancing out the characters and animals. This is a fun and active way for children to connect with the story and bring it to life. Heartland Youth Ballet students will then share their version of the Dr. Seuss story. This storytime is geared for toddlers and preschoolers, but all ages are welcome to attend. Check the OPL events calendar to see when they'll be at your branch. Also, David Dick joins us to talk about the book Maeve Fly by C.J. Leede.
  • Join the Omaha Public Library as they celebrate Family History Month with a trio of genealogy themed programs. Also, Mark Sorenson book talks The Salt Grows Heavy by Cassandra Khaw.
  • Do you have a scary story to share? Join Omaha Public Library at the Benson Branch during October's Benson First Friday on October 6th from 7-9pm for a spooky season-themed story slam. This is a fun storytelling event for adults where presenters from the public tell a 5-8 minute scary stories. Storytellers are encouraged to register prior to the event here. Judges will be chosen from the audience and prizes will be awarded to the creepiest tale. Wear a costume and get entered into a drawing for a spooky-themed prize! Also, Elly Roberts stops by to book talk A Little Devil in America by Hanif Abdurraqib.
  • Did you know you can get free personal tutoring through the Omaha Public Library? Discover the many resources available to students of all ages. Also, Elly Roberts book talks The Lost Journals of Sacagawea by Debra Magpie Earling.
  • This year’s Omaha Reads selection is Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. Drawing on her life as an indigenous scientist and as a woman, Kimmerer shows how other living beings offer us gifts and lessons, even if we've forgotten how to hear their voices. Learn more about the Omaha Read's pick and the many OPL activities in store this year. Erin Duer closes things out with a book talk on This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub.
  • Children ages 6 months to 7 years are invited to participate in free hearing and vision screenings after storytime. Find out when and where the screening storytimes will be held by visiting the OPL Events page. Parental permission is required to participate in the screening. Also, Tammy Hansen Snell stops by to talk about Cat Castles and Dog Origami.
  • September is National Library Card Sign-up Month. From borrowing books, eBooks, and museum passes to getting homework help, learning new skills, or attending storytime, a library card helps you do more of what you enjoy. Here is a top ten list of what your library card can do for you.
  • Has a librarian made a difference in your life or gone above and beyond to serve your community? The I Love My Librarian Award invites library users to recognize the accomplishments of exceptional public, school, college, community college, or university librarians. Also, Holly Pelesky gives a book talk on the novel Sam by Allegra Goodman.
  • For the 10th anniversary of the Between the Lines fundraiser, the Omaha Public Library Foundation will host a conversation between SNL alum/author Molly Shannon and author Susan Orlean about the importance of public libraries and the varied, vital roles they play in our communities. The event takes place at the Holland Performing Arts Center, Tuesday, September 26th. Both will also discuss their favorite library memories and their work as published authors – most likely with a dash of humor. Also, Angela Fernandez book talks Certain Dark Things by Silvia Moreno-Garcia.