Last year, voters in Deschutes County approved a library bond measure to create the best spaces, programs, activities, and resources possible for everyone in Deschutes County to enjoy. Architects are now bringing the details to life, and we'd love to hear from you. Please take a few minutes to learn more about the progress and share your feedback with us. Visit the website to take part: www.deschuteslibrary.org/future

The Fifth Annual Pumpkin Decorating Contest was our biggest ever—we received more than 80 amazing entries! The public votes have been tallied and we have five winners: First prize goes to Seymour from Splat the Cat; second to Baby Discworld from The Light Fantastic; a tie for third to Piggie and Gerald from We Are in a Book, and honorable mentions to Calvin & Hobbes and Little E from Little Excavator. But phew, voting was hard! Thanks to everyone who took part. Every creation was absolutely boo-tiful! Have a happy and safe Halloween 🎃

If there were no rules and no limits, what would your ideal library look like? What would it include? We want to see your creativity, from the practical to the outlandish—whatever your imagination can dream up! Use a piece of paper, an app on your phone or computer, or even cardboard boxes. Take a photo of your dream design and send it to newsletter@deschuteslibrary.org by November 30. Open to all ages. We'll share some of our favorite designs and even have some fun library swag for everyone who takes part!

Would you like to try your hand at calligraphy? Or give an air fryer a whirl before buying one? Perhaps you’d like to borrow tools to repair a bike. With Library of Things, you can check out more than books! And now you can check out more “things” than ever. From a stand mixer to a YouTube kit to sewing machines, we’ve added more to this popular collection, meaning there’s something for every interest. Explore the possibilities here. (Note: kits cannot be placed on hold and must be checked out from and returned to their “home” libraries.)

It’s Reading Season, and We’re Here to Help You Find Your Next Book

Whether you’re looking for a cozy mystery, a spooky ghost story, a riveting read for a teen, or a nonfiction page-turner, we have a librarian who is ready to help you find Your Next Book. Simply tell us about a few books or authors you’ve enjoyed and why, and we’ll place three books on hold for you or send you a personalized list of titles. Having three surprise books waiting for you on the hold shelf is like an early holiday present! Visit the Your Next Book page to learn more and to get started on Your Next Book.

Did you know that Deschutes Public Library closed the book on most late fees? By not charging fines on overdue books and DVDs, libraries have found success in leveling the playing field for all library users. In fact, many libraries see an increase in returned materials and library usage when people know they won't be financially penalized for a late return. Do we still want your materials back on time? Of course! But studies show that fines don’t significantly change how long an item is overdue (there is still a charge for lost or damaged materials so we can get those items back in the collection for everyone to enjoy). To learn more, visit our website; and you can check out this article to see why libraries across the country are eliminating late fines.

Fall means sweaters and cozy reading time—and it means that the unveiling of the A Novel Idea 2022 selections is just around the corner! Mark your calendar for December 5, when we host an online reveal of the youth and adult books for the 19th year of this popular community read program.

All libraries will close at 5:00 p.m. on November 24. All libraries will be closed on November 25 and 26 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.