Community Discussion:Washtenaw County Jail - Critical Issues

This event was held on November 12, 2009 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:25:50)

What are the most pressing issues of the County Jail? Overcrowding? Transition to the outside world? Come hear from individuals involved with the jail and then offer your own comments at this community forum. The panel of speakers includes Sheriff Jerry Clayton, Prosecutor Brian Mackie, County Commissioner Barbara Bergman, and Christine Negendank, psychiatrist for the Washtenaw County jail diversion program.This community discussion is presented in conjunction with the Ann Arbor League of Women Voters.

'Townies' Dave DeVarti, Coleman Jewett And Geoff Larcom Discuss Growing Up In Ann Arbor

This event was held on October 6, 2009 at Pittsfield Branch: Program Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:21:12)

Geoff Larcom, Dave DeVarti and Coleman Jewett all grew up in Ann Arbor and each has intricate personal stories about the city and its residents. Come hear about the city as they knew it and how they view changes in Ann Arbor over the decades. Along with the discussion, the Library will show a sampling from 'Picture Ann Arbor' (aadl.org/pictureAnnArbor), the online collection of local photos. Find out what these 'townies' have to say and gain an intimate look at Ann Arbor.

Wizard Rock Concert featuring Remus Lupins with Special Guest Tonks and the Aurors

This event was held on June 14, 2009 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:45:03)

Calling all Harry Potter fans! Get your fix a month before the film is released with this afternoon of Wizard Rock with two Harry Potter-themed bands. From Los Angeles, we've got the Remus Lupins and, as an opening act, Ann Arbor's own Tonks and the Aurors.

From the Observer to the Web: Then & Now Goes Online

This event was held on June 24, 2009 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:36:36)

The Ann Arbor District Library and the Ann Arbor Observer are extremely pleased to unveil 'Ann Arbor Observer: Then & Now' to the public. Local historian Grace Shackman and Ann Arbor Observer editor John Hilton will discuss the history of the Ann Arbor as viewed by the Observer and staff will introduce 'Ann Arbor Observer: Then & Now' an online collection of local history articles published in the Ann Arbor Observer over the past three decades. These articles give a rich picture of the various themes, people, and places that make up Ann Arbor. Accompanying the articles is an image gallery with photographs from Ann Arbor's past. Refreshments will be served at this event, which will include a demo of this new historical resource.

Green Energy for the Homeowner, Discussed By Hans Steiner of SolarYpsi

This event was held on August 6, 2009 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:20:30)

How much do YOU know about green energy? If you have taken significant steps to reduce your energy consumption – is there more you can do? At this program, Hans Steiner of Solar/Ypsi will discuss information on going green, current and upcoming incentives, inspiring examples, and much more.

The members of Solar/Ypsi are dedicated to the use of renewable energy sources. This Ypsilanti Solar Project was launched in 2005 when the Ypsilanti Food Co-operative won a grant from the State of Michigan's to install a small, demonstration, solar photovoltaic system on their roof. As part of this initial grant, volunteers have created a traveling educational presentation to explain how solar power works in Michigan. Over a thousand people have attended Solar/Ypsi presentations, which have evolved to include information on other renewable and efficiency measures that provide great returns on investment for the homeowner.

Movie-Making in Ann Arbor: The Producers, Director, Writer and Cinematographer of The New Michigan Based Film 'Trivial Pursuits' Discuss The New Burst Of Film-Making In Michigan

This event was held on August 1, 2009 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:29:06)

Michigan is quickly becoming the movie making capital of the Midwest, thanks to the Michigan Film Incentive. Get an inside look at what the movie-making business is all about and why Michigan is such a hot spot for the motion picture industry when the creators of the new film “Trivial Pursuits” talk about their experience shooting a major movie in Ann Arbor. These film-makers will discuss everything that’s gone into the making of the movie: from casting and catering to lighting and locations- and will answer audience questions.

Selling On eBay With Expert Carol Kamm

This event was held on May 19, 2009 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:30:48)

Carol Kamm, owner of the eBay consignment store iSold It - The Easy Way to Sell on eBay, will share her eBay expertise at a special presentation during which she will cover: selling basics, what typically sells well, item research, creating a listing, payment options, after the sale, and much more! eBay was founded in 1995 and the very first item sold on eBay was a broken laser pointer for $14.83. It has grown tremendously since that time, and Carol will offer tips on how to have the most success with the site. iSold It has offered professional online consignment sales to individuals and businesses for nearly four years.

The Business of Game Design With Local Game Developer Brian Spence

This event was held on May 7, 2009 at Pittsfield Branch: Program Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:13:04)

Learn what it takes to create, design & license board, card and party games with local game designer Brian Spence. Brian has developed over 200 games and licensed 60 games including his most popular, Buzzword (by Patch Products) and Last Word (by Buffalo Games). From the fun and creative side of game design, to the business side of making a prototype and getting Mattel or Hasbro to buy your idea, you'll learn about a little known career path for creative thinkers!

Metroparks, Recreation, and The Quality of Community Life With Robert Marans, Metro Parks Commissioner and UM Professor at the Institute Of Social Research

This event was held on June 17, 2009 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:54:38)

Professor Robert Marans will discuss his current research about the impact of the built and natural environments on the quality of life, urban areas, Washtenaw County Parks and the metroparks throughout southeastern Michigan. He is the President of the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission and the Commissioner of the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority-the governing body responsible for the planning, development and operations of the metroparks throughout Southeastern Michigan. This event is held in conjunction with the Library’s summer reading program, Local Motion - which encourages the use of local neighborhoods, gyms, recreational facilities and outdoor areas to move and get fit!

Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Reads: Detroit Observatory and the Victorian Space Race

This event was held on March 29, 2009 at Pittsfield Branch: Program Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:21:27)

Are you curious about how the 1854 Detroit Observatory came to be – and why it is in Ann Arbor, NOT Detroit? Michigan is not the most likely place to build a state-of-the-art astronomical observatory. However, the Detroit Observatory, named in honor of major donors from Detroit, was the centerpiece of President Henry Philip Tappan's efforts to transform the University of Michigan into one of the first research universities in the United States. Karen Wright, Program Coordinator for the University of Michigan Detroit Observatory will discuss the people, the ideas, the technology and the economics that resulted in the creation and preservation of this 19th century observatory. This event is held in conjunction with The Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Reads 2009, which, this year focuses on the theme The Universe: Yours To Discover.

Washtenaw County Bike Rides With Author Joel Howell and Ann Arbor Cyclery's Jon Kieft

This event was held on May 6, 2009 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:55:00)

What could be more scenic than a bike ride in Washtenaw County in the Spring? If biking is one of your passions then this is the event for you. Start the season right with two of the most knowledgeable local experts. Joel Howell will present highlights from his book- Washtenaw County Bike Rides: A Guide To Road Rides In And Around Ann Arbor- and Jon Kieft will display new models of many styles of bikes and discuss choosing the right one for your needs. This event will include a book signing and books will be on sale courtesy of Nicola’s Books.

Discover the Secrets of the Farmers Market

This event was held on May 11, 2009 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:08:30)

Learn more about Farmers Markets, including the Ann Arbor Farmer’s Market, just in time for spring. A panel of local “market experts” will be on hand, including: Chef Janea Makowski of Carson’s American Bistro who will explain how she creates meals at Carson’s that are centered on market produce. Eileen Spring, who will discuss Food Gatherers’ amazing gleaning efforts, which collect upwards of 1,000 pounds of produce at the conclusion of each Ann Arbor Farmers Market. Amanda Edmonds, who will tell the story of Growing Hope’s fantastic successes with EBT, or food stamp usage, at the Downtown Ypsilanti Farmers Market in 2008. In addition, Molly Notarianni, Ann Arbor Farmers Market Manager, will offer tips on shopping at Farmers Markets and eating seasonally.

There will be plenty of time for questions and community discussion. This event is co-sponsored by Slow Foods Huron Valley, which strives to preserve and cultivate our culinary heritage.

Comic Book Academy With Comic Book Artist Jerzy Drozd - Part 6

This event was held on August 5, 2008 at Malletts Creek Branch: Program Room AB

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:25:00)

This is part 6 of a 6 part series that was held July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 & August 5 at Malletts Creek.

Here's your chance to create an entire graphic novel, manga or comic book. Comic art professional Jerzy Drozd will guide you as you learn about graphic storytelling, character design, writing the story, penciling the first draft, refining and completing the penciled pages, and inking (or finishing) the pages.

Comic Book Academy With Comic Book Artist Jerzy Drozd - Part 5

This event was held on July 29, 2008 at Malletts Creek Branch: Program Room AB

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:20:00)

This is part 5 of a 6 part series that was held July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 & August 5 at Malletts Creek.

Here's your chance to create an entire graphic novel, manga or comic book. Comic art professional Jerzy Drozd will guide you as you learn about graphic storytelling, character design, writing the story, penciling the first draft, refining and completing the penciled pages, and inking (or finishing) the pages.

Comic Book Academy With Comic Book Artist Jerzy Drozd - Part 4

This event was held on July 22, 2008 at Malletts Creek Branch: Program Room AB

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:22:00)

This is part 4 of a 6 part series that was held July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 & August 5 at Malletts Creek.

Here's your chance to create an entire graphic novel, manga or comic book. Comic art professional Jerzy Drozd will guide you as you learn about graphic storytelling, character design, writing the story, penciling the first draft, refining and completing the penciled pages, and inking (or finishing) the pages.

Comic Book Academy With Comic Book Artist Jerzy Drozd - Part 3

This event was held on July 15, 2008 at Malletts Creek Branch: Program Room AB

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:19:00)

This is part 3 of a 6 part series that was held July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 & August 5 at Malletts Creek.

Here's your chance to create an entire graphic novel, manga or comic book. Comic art professional Jerzy Drozd will guide you as you learn about graphic storytelling, character design, writing the story, penciling the first draft, refining and completing the penciled pages, and inking (or finishing) the pages.

AADL-GT Super Smash Double Dash Grand Championships

This event was held on December 20, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:14:00)

The hottest tournament in town concludes with the Grand Championships – to be televised on CTN. The Grand Prizes will be awarded for Super Smash Brothers and Mario Kart Double Dash team and single player events. Visit the AXIS blog at axis.aadl.org for constant updates.

Didn’t qualify for the Grand Championships during the season? Come right at noon for the Wildcard Tournament and one last shot at making it into the big show!

AADL-GT Smash Kart: Round 4

This event was held on November 29, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:50:00)

The hottest tournament in town continues each month at the Downtown Library! Prizes will be awarded for Super Smash Brothers Melee and Mario Kart Double Dash team and single player events, with the Grand Championship in December! Form your own 4- to 5-person clan and battle your way to fame and glory. Visit the AXIS blog at axis.aadl.org for constant updates.

National Library Week Director's Event: Local Historian Grace Shackman Discusses Why Is Tubingen Our Sister City?

This event was held on April 14, 2009 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:15:00)

Each year, Library Director Josie Barnes Parker chooses a current topic of interest as the director’s program for National Library Week. This year’s event features local historian Grace Shackman who will examine the relationship of Ann Arbor and its German sister city, Tübingen. Grace will explain Ann Arbor’s historically strong German roots and discuss why a sister city pact with Tübingen made sense – it is a university town in the southern part of Germany where most of Ann Arbor’s Germans came from. Tübingen is even as near to Stuttgart (where most of Germany’s cars are made) as we are to Detroit. Since 1965, Tübingen and Ann Arbor citizens have lived in each other’s homes, traveled together, celebrated achievements, and mourned losses together. Today Ann Arbor has seven sister cities and Tübingen has eight, but they continue to be each other’s only American-European partner. The event is co-sponsored by the Friends of the Ann Arbor - Tübingen Sister City Relationship.

The Art of Tribal Tattoo with Leo Zulueta

This event was held on February 20, 2009 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:19:00)

Do not miss this opportunity to meet one of the masters of the tribal tattoo! Known as the father of modern tribal tattooing, Leo is the owner of tattoo studio Spiral Tattoo in Ann Arbor. He'll show us some of his work, share his expertise, and talk about the process of getting a tattoo.

Leo began tattooing in 1981 in San Francisco, under the direction of Don Ed Hardy, who encouraged Leo’s collecting of imagery relating to traditional tattooing from around the world. After designing many neo-tribal tattoos in the 1990's and becoming a world-wide phenomenon overnight, Leo has now opened the eyes of many people to the intrinsic art of the tribal tattoo.

The Michigan Prisoner ReEntry Initiative: A Community Discussion Led By MPRI Staff

This event was held on March 5, 2009 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:13:00)

Five years ago, Michigan's corrections crisis became a major public policy issue. The prison population was growing rapidly, as were the costs to taxpayers. Thousands of prisoners were returning to their communities on parole after completing their sentences - with unacceptable and sometimes dangerous results: nearly half were back in prison within two years. Today, the Michigan Prisoner ReEntry Initiative is transforming corrections practices and policies. Join us to learn more about this important topic for community discussion and involvement. A panel of returning citizens will speak about their experiences transitioning back into the community alongside MPRI professionals who will discuss the initiative and its many benefits. Among the panelists for this evening presentation will be Mary King, MPRI Community Coordinator for Washtenaw County.

UM Assistant Professor David Doris Discusses Art of Southwestern Nigeria: Faces and Fragments - The Moral Image in Yoruba Culture

This event was held on February 11, 2009 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

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In honor of Black History Month, David T. Doris will explore the stunning art of the Yoruba people of southwestern Nigeria who have produced some of Africa’s most graceful works of art, objects, and images. In Yoruba, an image, like a proverb, is a trigger of conscience, calling the viewer to interpret and identify with the powerful legacies of the past. This presentation will examine the mechanics of such visual engagement by introducing Yoruba conceptions of the person, and of the image as àwòrán, “that which we look at and remember.”

David T. Doris, PhD, UM Asst. Prof., Dept. of the History of Art and the Center for Afroamerican and African Studies. He has been a Fulbright Scholar in Nigeria, and has held fellowships at the Center for Advanced Study of the Visual Arts, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Getty Research Institute. His book, Vigilant Things: The Strange Fates of Ordinary Objects in Nigeria, is forthcoming from the University of Washington Press.

The Art of Gourmet Pizza Making with Cottage Inn Experts

This event was held on February 25, 2009 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:01:00)

Join us for an evening of pizza tasting with experts from Ann Arbor’s own Cottage Inn! Get some pizza history, hear tales of recipe-making, learn what makes a good crust, and much more.

2nd Annual GT Awards and Grudge Banquet

This event was held on December 22, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:44:00)

Come for open play, People’s Choice Awards, Hall of Fame inductions and the end-of-season wrap-up. This event will include score-settling match-ups between the players you most want to see battle it out, and will also include token awards for distinctive achievements throughout the season. Refreshments will be served courtesy of Salsarita's Fresh Cantina.

Ghost Hunting & Paranormal Investigations with The SouthEast Michigan Ghost Hunters Society

This event was held on October 30, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:25:00)

The SouthEast Michigan Ghost Hunters Society is an award-winning professional research group based in Lansing, with years of experience helping those who might be experiencing, or have questions about, possible paranormal activity in their homes or businesses. Director Brad Mikulka will discuss ghostly investigations, demonstrate equipment, share some actual investigation stories of ghostly encounters, and bring samples of evidence captured (sound recordings, photos, videos).

Since 1996, The SouthEast Michigan Ghost Hunters Society has assisted individuals with hauntings. They conduct investigations utilizing state-of-the-art equipment, as well as psychic investigators.

The Art of Movement: Freerunner Levi Meeuwenberg & Co-Founders of the UM Parkour Club Present Parkour & Freerunning

This event was held on September 26, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:28:00)

Levi Meeuwenberg, a competitor on G4's "American Ninja Challenge" and "Ninja Warrior," returns to AADL, this time joined by Travis Graves and Mike Friedman, co-founders of the UM Parkour Club. Come learn more about parkour and freerunning, the exciting new disciplines that turn everyday objects in the city, into an obstacle course. Parkour is the art of moving through your environment using only your body and the surroundings to propel yourself. It can include running, jumping, climbing, even crawling, if that is the most suitable movement for the situation.

Ann Arbor resident and Traverse City native Levi Meeuwenberg has been a stunt double in KSwiss and Mountain Dew commercials. He has also appeared in the pilot episode of the TV show "Chuck" and performed freerunning in Madonna's 2006 "Confessions World Tour" and her "Jump" music video.

Downtown Historical Street Exhibit Program Dedication Ceremony

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:29:00)

On November 6, 2008, the Downtown Ann Arbor Historical Street Exhibit program dedicated and celebrated four new wall panels that will be on permanent display near the corner of South University and East University, and South University and Forest Avenue. Speakers at the event include Ann Arbor Mayor John Hieftje; Dennis Tice, President of South University Area Association; Sandy Odell, daughter of Fred Ulrich; Maggie Ladd, Executive director, South University Area Association; Cynthia Shevel, owner of Middle Earth; and Ray Detter, Street Exhibit coordinator. The panels cover the following topics: "The Corners of South University and East University Avenues," "Like a Small Village," "Houses to High Rises on South University Avenue," and South University and Forest Avenues."

Zoning Changes for Downtown Ann Arbor with City Planner Wendy Rampson

This event was held on November 5, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:17:00)

Downtown Ann Arbor is about to experience change: the City Council is poised to adopt the first major zoning changes to downtown Ann Arbor since 1966. Ms. Rampson will review the history of downtown planning and zoning in Ann Arbor and provide an overview of the draft zoning and parking amendments recently recommended by the Planning Commission.

These zoning changes seek to implement the community vision for downtown developed in 2006 with the assistance of Calthorpe and Associates. Better known as the Ann Arbor Discovering Downtown (A2D2) initiative, this implementation effort has been guided by citizen advisory committees and the City Planning Commission since early 2007.

Dr. Rick Solomon Discusses Autism: The Brain-Mind Connection

This event was held on October 23, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:20:00)

In partnership with the University of Michigan Investing in Ability Week, Dr. Solomon will present an update on the most recent scientific evidence related to Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Dr. Solomon will cover the brain science and genetics of ASD; demonstrate the diagnostic criteria with video examples; discuss possible causes for the large increase in prevalence, including the controversial relationship between ASD and immunizations/mercury; and overview the evidence for behavioral, developmental, educational and dietary/alternative interventions. His PowerPoint and a list of scientific references will be provided.

Richard Solomon, MD, has nearly 20 years of experience working with children with autistic spectrum disorders as a developmental and behavioral pediatrician. He is an adjunct associate professor at the University of Michigan and the Medical Director and founder of The Ann Arbor Center for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics and The P.L.A.Y.â„¢ Project (Play and Language for Autistic Youngsters).

Author Jeff Counts Discusses Michigan and His Book, "Michigan: An Explorer's Guide"

This event was held on September 18, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:52:00)

As publisher of Michigan’s Streamside Journal, Jeff Counts has explored the rivers, lakes, and backcountry of his home state to bring readers the essential stories of the outdoors. Counts’ new book "Michigan: An Explorer’s Guide," recently released by The Countryman Press, a division of W.W. Norton, is the state’s first comprehensive guidebook, with an emphasis on the outdoors, especially in the remote areas of the Upper Peninsula. Jeff will discuss the many familiar and unfamiliar regions of Michigan which are highlighted in this new guidebook. Books will be for sale, and the evening will include a book signing.

Downtown Ann Arbor Historical Street Exhibits Program Dedication

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:23:00)

On October 2, 2008, the Downtown Ann Arbor Historical Street Exhibit program dedicated and celebrated two new wall panels that will be on permanent display on the northeast corner of Washington and Ashley streets. Speakers at the event include Ann Arbor Mayor John Hieftje, Thomas Aprill, grandson of Theophil Aprill; John Metzger, third generation owner of Metzger's Restaurant; and Ray Detter, Street Exhibit coordinator. The panels cover the topics "From Horses to Cars: Early Autos, Service and Parts" and "Three Generations of Metzgers on Washington Street."

The YMCA: 150 Years In Ann Arbor, Presented By Cathi Duchon, YMCA President and CEO

This event was held on September 21, 2008 at Pittsfield Branch: Program Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:06:00)

The first Ann Arbor YMCA was established in 1858 by students at the University of Michigan and was the second YMCA in the state of Michigan. Cathi Duchon will discuss the YMCA’s history in Ann Arbor from 1858-2008. Dan Maier, Vice President of Association Advancement, YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit, will also speak. A short reception will follow.

This event is cosponsored by The Washtenaw County Historical Society, in conjunction with their September 17-November 22 exhibit, "The Ann Arbor YMCA from 1858 to 2008: Serving the Ann Arbor Community for 150 Years," on display at the Washtenaw Historical Society, 500 North Main Street at Beakes Street in Ann Arbor.

Why Is My Computer So Slow? Mateen Jaffer of Jafferson Computers Discusses Routine Maintenance And How To Get Rid Of Spyware

This event was held on September 15, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:34:00)

Mateen Jaffer returns to AADL for his popular and informative presentation on how to improve computer performance. What makes computers run slowly: Is it too many programs on the computer? Infected with Spyware and adware? Not enough memory?

Routine maintenance for a PC requires the hard drive to be free of temporary junk files and free of unwanted registry entries. Learn how to clean up hard drives, remove unwanted applications, and perform other simple tasks on your computer to obtain an immediate result of improved performance.

Fine Binding: Extra Work, Extra Results Presented by Book Conservator Julia Miller

This event was held on August 7, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:48:00)

Julia Miller has been a book conservator for 30 years. She will discuss historical book binding in conjunction with the Downtown AADL exhibit, "Design Bindings Presented by the Kerrytown BookFest." The exhibit is on display through August. This event is cosponsored by the Kerrytown BookFest, a community event occurring on Sat., September 7, 2008.

Miller has recently shifted her work from bench treatment to independent scholarship, studying and recording the historical style and structure of bindings in the rare collections at the University of Michigan. She will discuss historical 'fine' binding, what makes such bindings special, and how they relate to the current exhibit at AADL. She will bring some examples and images of different levels of 18th- and 19th- century historical binding for illustration.

Yo-Yo Genius of Michigan

This event was held on July 30, 2008 at Pittsfield Branch: Program Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:26:00)

YoJake picked up a yo-yo during National Turn Off the TV Week when he was nine years old and hasn't put it down! This yo-yo genius is the highest ranked yo-yo performer in Michigan and has consistently been one of the top ten yo-yoers in the nation! Come see his latest yo-yo tricks and skills.

Ann Arborite David Keren: Local Pathologist and Devoted Grandfather Discusses Galloping Up Kilimanjaro

This event was held on June 11, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:08:00)

David Keren is a grandfather and experienced pathologist -- and the oldest member of a recent climb up Mount Kilimanjaro! He will present a scenic overview of the climb (his first mountain climbing adventure), and discuss many aspects of the experience, including his rigorous training at local venues, altitude sickness, and the mountain's threats from global warming.

David Keren has been an Ann Arborite since 1978. He is the Medical Director of Warde Medical Laboratory and teaches residents at the University of Michigan and Henry Ford Hospital.

'All's Well That Ends Well': Director John Neville-Andrews & Members of the Michigan Shakespeare Festival Cast Discuss and Perform Scenes from Their Upcoming Production

This event was held on July 14, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:17:00)

Join us to discuss one of the greatest comedies in the English language with one of the premiere acting companies in the Midwest. At this special interactive discussion/performance, renowned director John Neville-Andrews will encourage the audience to suggest moods and emotions for the cast members of the Michigan Shakespeare Festival to bring to scenes of "All's Well That Ends Well." He will then direct the actors to follow the audience’s suggestions.

"All’s Well That Ends Well" is a romantic comedy with captivating themes of male versus female, society’s view of merit and rank, and the value of honor and integrity. It keenly exposes each audacious plot after plot, until it all ends well – or does it? This interactive event will feature Janet Haley as Countess Rossillion and Donna Dancho as Helena. Neville-Andrews will moderate.

Local Car Historian Bob Elton Presents A Brief History of Chrysler Corporation

This event was held on July 7, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:23:00)

The story of Chrysler Corporation is an epic story of bold, ambitious men, horrible mismanagement, bad luck, gritty perseverance and the will to never say die. Local car historian Bob Elton presents a fascinating introduction to this once great company. In today’s troubled times for the car business, it’s a story worth hearing. This event is held in conjunction with the Main Street Area Association’s July 11 Rolling Sculpture Car Show and cosponsored by the Main Street Area Association. Mr. Elton is one of the founders of the Rolling Sculpture Car Show.

Ten years ago, the Chrysler Corporation, then one of the largest automobile manufacturers in the world, ceased to exist. Swallowed up by a much smaller Daimler-Benz, it became merely a division of a German company. Today it’s the private preserve of a New York investment company.

Musican/Storyteller Bill Jamerson Presents A Celebration of the 75th Anniversary of Michigan's Civilian Conservation Corps

This event was held on May 7, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:13:00)

The Civilian Conservation Corps was a federal works program created by President Franklin Roosevelt in 1933, during the Great Depression. Bill Jamerson of Escanaba has spent years researching the Corps. In addition to performing, Jamerson will discuss his research and show a short clip from his award-winning PBS film, "Camp Forgotten: The CCC’s in Michigan." He will also read excerpts from his novel, "Big Shoulders," which has the Conservation Corps as its setting.

From 1933-42, over 100,000 young men, 17 - 25 years of age, enlisted in Michigan's CCC, planting over 484 million trees, fighting forest fires, restoring riverbanks, building lookout towers, roads, fish hatcheries and making countless other natural improvements to the environment.

Local Teacher Robin Frisch-Gleason Presents Antarctica and Climate Change: A Photographic Tour Through Antarctica and ANDRILL (the Antarctic Geologic Drilling Program).

This event was held on June 4, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:19:00)

Local elementary school teacher Robin Frisch-Gleason was selected to join a team of educators and scientists to travel to Antarctica last fall as part of the ARISE (Research Immersion for Science Educators) program to study Antarctica's role in global climate change. She led a room-packed discussion at the Library last July, before she began this expedition.

Robin returns to AADL to discuss her experience in Antarctica, including images and a discussion of ANDRILL, a program that gives a tremendous amount of information about how the climate of Antarctica has been changing over time.

AADL-GT Smash Kart: Round 2

This event was held on September 20, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:40:00)

The hottest tournament in town continues each month at the Downtown Library! Prizes will be awarded for Super Smash Brothers Melee and Mario Kart Double Dash team and single player events, with the Grand Champion to be chosen on December 20. Visit the AXIS blog at axis.aadl.org for constant updates. Form your own 4- to 6-person clan and battle your way to fame and glory!

AADL-GT Smash Kart--Round 1

This event was held on August 9, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:52:00)

The hottest tournament in town continues each month at the Downtown Library! Prizes will be awarded for Super Smash Brothers Melee and Mario Kart Double Dash team and single player events, with the Grand Champion to be chosen on December 20! Visit the AXIS blog at axis.aadl.org for constant updates. Form your own 4 to 6 person clan and battle your way to fame and glory!

Mario Kart and Super Smash Brothers Tournament Series Grand Championship

This event was held on December 17, 2005 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:50:00)

It's the fifth and final Mario Kart/Super Smash Brothers tournament of the series and the Grand Championship! The December Grand Champion clan will receive one iPod shuffle for each primary clan member. The Grand Champion prize is a Sony PSP; 2nd prize: an iPod; 3rd Prize: Nintendo DS and 4th prize: a Nintendo SP. Players, are you ready?

2008 Tübingen Reception

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:56:00)

A private reception was given by AADL to welcome Boris Palmer, the mayor of Ann Arbor's Sister City of Tübingen, Germany, and a delegation of 29 Tübingen citizens. The delegation visited Ann Arbor to learn more about our city's endeavors in environmental politics and continue support for artists' exchanges between the two cities. Mayor Palmer has initiated an unprecedented climate protection campaign at the local level. At an AADL public event on Tuesday, May 13, he gave a presentation outlining his climate protection campaign.

Germany's Greenest Mayor, Boris Palmer, Discusses Climate Change and Ann Arbor's Sister City of Tübingen

This event was held on May 13, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:09:00)

Boris Palmer is Germany's rising "green" star -- one of the future leaders of their Green Party. The 35 year-old mayor of Tübingen, a city rich in history, host to a famous European university and sister city of Ann Arbor since 1965, will visit Ann Arbor from May 10 - 16. He will head a delegation of Tübingen citizens here to learn about Ann Arbor's environmental politics and continue support for artists' exchanges between the two cities. During his first year in office, Mayor Palmer started an unprecedented climate protection campaign at the local level. Hear his ideas when he discusses climate change and the city.

Artistic Director Guy Sanville and Purple Rose Cast Members Discuss the New Play 'Sea of Fools'

This event was held on August 21, 2007 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:12:00)

How do you create a play from a brand new script? Set in the height of the McCarthy era, Sea of Fools, penned by Michigan's own Matt Letscher, glimpses a company of actors who live in an elaborately-constructed fantasy world. The talented cast includes Guy Sanville. Hear Sanville and members of the cast discuss the transformation from the playwright's page to the performance stage! This event is scheduled to be broadcast live on Community Television Network, channel 18.

Guy Sanville celebrated his twelfth anniversary as Artistic Director of The Purple Rose Theatre Company on May 1st. He has directed over twenty productions for the company and has received the Detroit Free Press Excellence in Theatre Award for Best Director four times. Sanville has appeared in seven plays for the Rose, most recently as Brock in Born Yesterday and Stu in Boomtown.

pictureAnn Arbor: Then And Now: Local Historian Grace Shackman Helps To Introduce New Library Service

This event was held on May 26, 2005 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:52:00)

At this kick-off event for a new, innovative Library service, local historian and freelance columnist Grace Shackman discussed what you can learn from pictures past and present with an illustrated lecture of key moments in Ann Arbor history. AADL staff members then introduced and explain the new Library service, pictureAnnArbor.

As part of this project, the Library gathers pictures from the community to capture the images and create a digital collection of photos, that are easily web searchable, which reflect everyday life in the Ann Arbor community.

YOUR photos could be an important part of this project!!!

PictureAnnArbor is designed to:

-Increase awareness of the richness of our community's life

-Create a public resource for research and enjoyment

-Facilitate public awareness to unpublished materials

-Capture existing images in digital form

Take a look at everything that has been added since this event by going to pictureAnnArbor today.

Lecture: Urban Planning Consultant Robert Gibbs Discusses Retail Economics and Downtown Ann Arbor

This event was held on September 8, 2005 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:45:00)

Mr. Gibbs, considered a leading urban planning consultant by many mayors, architects and shopping center developers, will discuss how downtown businesses can adopt some of the same business principles that have made malls so successful. This is the second of five public lectures by leaders in the modern movement to revitalize American cities. The series is cosponsored by the Ann Arbor Downtown Development Strategy Steering Committee.

Robert Gibbs, of Gibbs Planning Group in Birmingham, MI, has been profiled in such publications as Atlantic Monthly, Consumers Reports, the New York Times, Urban Land Institute and the Wall Street Journal. He has devoted the last twenty years to developing innovative, yet practical, methods for applying current trends in residential and commercial development to more than 300 town centers and historic cities across North America, the Pacific Rim, and the Caribbean.

For more information about this series, or for community visioning project updates, visit a2gov.org/downtown.

Being Homeless In Washtenaw County: A Panel Discussion with the Washtenaw Housing Alliance

This event was held on November 1, 2007 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:50:00)

The Washtenaw Housing Alliance (WHA) is a unique coalition of ten non- profit organizations that serve those experiencing homelessness or those at risk of homelessness. Come and learn from various service and housing providers across the community about the current state of homelessness in Washtenaw County, the innovative partnerships that have been created to address the need, and the next steps needed to reach their shared vision: to end homelessness in our community. Disturbing facts on homelessness in Washtenaw County: 2, 756 people will experience homelessness within a year in the county; 26% of these are families; 41 people in the county in any given week become homeless. The WHA and its member agencies have created a collaboration that harnesses the commitment, energy and resources of a major hospital system, the cities of Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, Washtenaw County, three major institutions of higher education, the private sector and the community at large to end homelessness in Washtenaw County.

From Ewe To You: Farmers and Spinners Share Their Expertise On Wool and Its Local Production

This event was held on February 13, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:24:00)

Three fiber experts, Mary Underwood, Linda Koeppel and Neil Kentner, will share their expertise about producing yarn from the pasture to the finished product. These local spinners and farmers will present a fascinating overview of how fiber animals are raised, what makes a good fleece, and how and why to select various animal fibers for yarns. Learn how our textile-rich community can help you take advantage of locally produced fibers.

Finding Local Food and Bringing It Home for Dinner: Supporting Our Farms

This event was held on May 22, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:16:00)

This panel discussion features exemplary local farmers and food experts who will discuss what they've learned about growing food, what they see for the future of food and why Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farms are so important to the community. They will also highlight the creative ways in which local people in our community are buying, cooking and enjoying food that is produced close to home.

Panelists include Richard Andres and Deb Lentz (Tantre Farm); Kris Hirth (Old Pine Farm); Mary Wessel Walker (Community Farm Kitchen) and Victoria Bennett (a parent who found new ways to shop for food because of her son’s severe allergies). Cosponsored by Slow Foods Huron Valley

Ann Arbor's Levi Meeuwenberg Discusses His Recent Appearance on G4's American Ninja Challenge, His Trip To Japan, and His Passion for Freerunning

This event was held on June 9, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:58:00)

Levi has been a freerunner in a Mountain Dew commercial, a stunt double in a K-Swiss commercial, and performed freerunning in Madonna's 2006 "Confessions World Tour" and in her "Jump" music video. Most recently, he was chosen as one of two competitors to travel to Japan to compete on the 20th session of the famed competition show "Ninja Warrior" (aired May 18 in the U.S.). Meet Levi in person and get an inside look at the popular G4 network show, hear his account of his trip to Japan and learn about his love of freerunning.

Levi was introduced to the sport/art/discipline of freerunning early in its development in the U.S. He has begun a freerunning class at his hometown gym and currently assists in running the Michigan Parkour Club in Ann Arbor.

An Introduction to the Downtown Ann Arbor Historic Street Exhibits

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:08:00)

The Downtown Ann Arbor Historical Street Exhibit Program is a series of permanent sidewalk exhibits at sixteen landmark sites throughout downtown Ann Arbor. Each exhibit has a theme. The first exhibit, installed in 1999, illustrates the hustle and bustle of town life that once centered on Courthouse Square. Subsequent exhibits throughout the downtown showcase the city's artistic heritage and the roles of business, banking, manufacturing and education in shaping the community. An online tour of the exhibit is also available at: http://www.aadl.org/aastreets. This DVD, narrated by Ann Arbor historian, Wystan Stevens, traces the evolution of the project from a grassroots-level initiative to a community-wide enterprise generously funded and supported by Ann Arbor citizens, local government, and corporations. The film includes an overview of the various design and installation processes involved and a list of donors and sponsors.

Panel Discussion: From the Farm to Your Fork – Why Local Food Can Make Us Healthier, Happier and More Secure

This event was held on February 18, 2008 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:32:17)

Food is powerful! We need to eat every single day and the choices that we make determine how our world is used. Among the most powerful things we can do to create a secure community and a healthy family is to eat and buy locally grown and produced food. This event spotlights our community, and features local farmers Annie Elder and Paul Bantle, chef Alex Young (chef and co-owner of Zingerman's Roadhouse), dietician Ruth Blackburn, and UM research scientist Dr. Catherine Badgley.

This program is cosponsored by Slow Food Huron Valley, an organization that identifies culinary artisans and local producers who engage in sustainable agriculture and are committed to the viability of the land.

The Ann Arbor Street Art Fair: How The 2006 Artists Were Selected

This event was held on June 28, 2006 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:27:53)

Each year the Street Art Fair (the Original art fair in Ann Arbor) receives a thousand or more applications from artists across the country. How are these entries winnowed down to fill the 175 spaces at the Fair? Find out at this special event with Festival Executive Director Shary Brown and jurors Julia Gleich, Jill Ault, and Tom Venner. They will discuss and demonstrate a new technology process, zapplication, used to select this year's artists. Through the keen eye of excellent jurors, and with the help of AADL's techno-experts, the artists' works were viewed earlier this year and selected for the upcoming 2006 Art Fair. See a mock jury and get a sneak peek at the work of some of the artists who will be participating in the 2006 Street Art Fair, cosponsors of this event.

The Fair uses the newest process, zapplication, which allows artists to register on-line and send digital images of their artwork to the jury instead of the previous method--old 35mm slides. The Street Art Fair partners with the Library for this process (AADL techno-staff equip jurors with the necessary computers to access the images) and the several-day jurying process results in a spectacular selection of award-winning artists from across the country.

Dr. Robert Bartlett, Surgeon and Inventor: Reflections On A Life In Medicine

This event was held on October 26, 2005 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:05:05)

Ann Arbor's own Dr. Robert Bartlett will reflect on his amazing career as a doctor, inventor and, most recently, a writer of fiction. For many years, Dr. Bartlett was professor of surgery at the U-M Medical School, director of critical care/general surgery, and director of surgical intensive care at the U-M Health System. One of his greatest achievements, however, is as a pioneer in the development of prolonged extracorporeal circulation, including development of the technique for respiratory failure in newborn infants and children. His most recent role is of author, and he has penned a new work of fiction entitled 'Salem Syndrome: A Novel of Medicine and Law.'

Bartlett led the development of ECMO, an artificial lung that can oxygenate the blood of those who have experienced acute heart or lung failure. In 1975, Dr. Bartlett used the then little known device to successfully treat a newborn infant with respiratory failure. Since then, ECMO has helped to save the lives of literally tens of thousands of patients.

Dr. Bartlett is also one of a team of four that launched the University of Michigan Health System's Breast Care Center in 1984. He also developed the field of critical care medicine at Michigan, and was director of the internationally recognized Surgical Intensive Care unit for 25 years.

He is a recipient of the Medal of Special Recognition from the National Academy of Surgery of France, the McGraw Medal of the Detroit Surgical Association, and the Medallion for Scientific Achievement from the American Surgical Association.

Bartlett also was the recipient of the Jacobson Innovation Award of the American College of Surgeons for the year 2003, in honor of his work in the development and establishment of the first ECMO program. He is the author of more than 450 articles, monographs, chapters and books.

Panel Discussion Hosted By UMS President Ken Fischer: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Royal Shakespeare Company

This event was held on October 30, 2006 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:05:33)

AADL is very pleased to present UMS President Ken Fischer in discussion with leaders from the RSC's production and education departments about managing this major company and why Ann Arbor has become a favorite location for the RSC. Panelists include Jeremy Adams, RSC Producer; Virginia Grainger, Learning Project Manager; Richard Clayton, RSC Company Manager; and members of the UMS staff. The 2006 Royal Shakespeare Company Residency is presented by the University Musical Society.

Sunday Edition Author Series: Local Historian Grace Shackman Discusses Her Book 'Ann Arbor Observed'

This event was held on December 10, 2006 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:48:44)

Twenty-five years ago, Grace Shackman began writing articles about Ann Arbor's buildings, events, and people for the "Ann Arbor Observer." Her latest book compiles the best of these articles into eight sections: public buildings and institutions; the University of Michigan; transportation; industry; downtown Ann Arbor; recreation and culture; social fabric and communities; and architecture. Shackman will discuss her book, including her research methods, local history sources, and her experience with writing local history. Books will be for sale at the event, courtesy of Nicola's Books.

Shackman's 'Ann Arbor Observer' articles, which depicted all aspects of Ann Arbor, became much-anticipated regular stories. Readers turned to her illuminating mini-histories when they wanted to know about a particular landmark, personality, business, structure, organization, or other story from Ann Arbor's past. For long-time residents, Ann Arbor expatriates, University of Michigan alumni, and visitors alike, "Ann Arbor Observed" provides a rare bygone glimpse of a town with a rich and varied history.

Sunday Edition Local Author Series: American Book Award-Winner Thomas Lynch

This event was held on October 9, 2005 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:01:31)

Michigan author and American Book Award winner Thomas Lynch will discuss his newly-released book, 'Booking Passage: We Irish and Americans,' in which he reflects on his journeys to Ireland and the binding ties of family, language and home place. It is a mixture of reminiscence, cultural portrait and meditation on what it means to be Irish, American and Irish-American.

Thomas Lynch won the American Book Award for his 1997 book, 'The Undertaking: Life Studies from the Dismal Trade' (the book was also a finalist for the National Book Award) and has published three volumes of critically-acclaimed poetry. He is a funeral director in Milford, Michigan, and has made numerous journeys to his ancestral country, Ireland.

Guy Sanville, Artistic Director of the Purple Rose Theatre Company, Discusses the Art of Directing

This event was held on July 28, 2006 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:29:41)

In this program celebrating the performing arts, Guy will discuss the art of directing, specifically the current production of 'Honus and Me' and the upcoming premiere of Jeff Daniel's new play 'Escanaba In Love.' Guy Sanville celebrated his eleventh anniversary as Artistic Director of The Purple Rose Theatre Company on May 1st. He has directed over twenty productions for the company and has received the Detroit Free Press Excellence in Theatre Award for Best Director four times.

Guy Sanville has appeared in seven plays for the Rose, most recently as Brock in Born Yesterday and Stu in Boomtown. He is a proud member of The Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers, Actors Equity Association and the Screen Actors Guild. He also currently serves as Great Lakes Regional Vice President of the Literary Managers & Dramaturgs of the Americas. The Purple Rose production of Honus and Me is the Midwest premiere of the play. A magical family comedy, this play, which runs through September 2, tells the story of a little league player who finds the most valuable baseball card in the world. Escanaba In Love is the long-awaited sequel to Jeff Daniel's Escanaba in Da Moonlight and will have its world premiere run at the Purple Rose from September 28 through December 23. Featuring a cast of wacky characters this 11th play by the actor/playwright is sure to be a hilarious hit.

The Design Police: Regulating the City without Stifling Creativity

This event was held on October 27, 2005 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:31:25)

This last in a series of public lectures concerning the future of downtown Ann Arbor, will center on urban planning and feature a lecture by Brenda Scheer. A panel discussion will follow, with local architect Damian Farrell, planner Megan Gibb and developer Bernie Glieberman. Moderated by UM Architecture Dean Douglas S. Kelbaugh, the panel will discuss types, as well as pros and cons, of design guidelines and codes. The series is cosponsored by the Ann Arbor Downtown Development Strategy Steering Committee.

Both suburban sprawl, with its arterial strips and endless cul-de-sac subdivisions, and urban blight, with its hollowed out urban centers, have degraded the physical environment of our communities. Many communities have tried to resist and reverse this trend with design guidelines and codes. Come join this community discussion. For visioning project updates, visit www.a2gov.org/downtown.

Town Hall Meeting on the Allen Creek Greenway: Panel of Experts with Audience Discussion

This event was held on March 8, 2005 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:28:08)

Should the city-owned parcel at the corner of First and William Streets be used for a park for added downtown greenspace or a parking lot to assist downtown visitors and commuters?

A controversial proposal - the establishment of a public greenspace park, the Allen Creek Greenway, in the downtown area of Ann Arbor - will be discussed by a panel of experts at this town hall meeting.

Panel experts include Fred Beal, the chair of the Ann Arbor Downtown Development Association; Janis Bobrin, the Washtenaw County Drain Commissioner; Joe O'Neal, a Greenway advocate from O'Neal Construction; Barbara Murphy from the Old West Side Neighborhood Association Board; and Ed Shaffran, the chair of the Main Street Area Association.

The panel will be moderated by Susan Smith, President of the Ann Arbor League of Women Voters, co-sponsors of this program. The event includes time for community questions.

Join the discussion as these representatives of several key community associations consider the future of downtown Ann Arbor and examine the pros and cons of this issue.

Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Reads Event: Working Together: the Arab and Jewish Women of Ann Arbor's Zeitouna

This event was held on February 7, 2005 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:29:27)

Zeitouna is a local group composed of six Arab and six Jewish women from Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. All are American citizens. They are a dialogue group and, over the past two years, have found ways to discuss the Middle East, including their own personal stories and the politics of peace. They named their group Zeitouna, Arabic for olive - both the fruit and the tree.

Zeitouna's stated mission is "to embody and promote the peaceful and just coexistence of Arab and Jewish peoples through connection, trust, empathy and actions focused on the creation of a sustainable future for Palestine and Israel.

At this special program, members Wadad Abed, Irene Butter, Huda Karaman, and Laurie White discuss their own stories as well as Zeitouna's challenges and achievements.

Come learn how this powerful local group has made inroads in dialogue and understanding of cultures.

Ann Arbor-Ypsilanti Reads is a community initiative to promote reading and civic dialogue through the shared experience of reading and discussing a common book.

Library, University and community representatives from Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti have modeled the read after the previous two reads which focused on the books Abraham Lincoln's DNA (in 2003) and 'Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria? And Other Conversations About Race (in 2004).

In 2005, the program will encourage readers of all ages to explore the Cultural Treasures of the Middle East - its many shared and diverse histories, memories and traditions of creative expressions. A selection committee of community leaders, students and educators in the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti area chose Amin Maalouf's Leo Africanus, translated by Peter Sluglett, as the focus of Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Reads 2005. This is the first time a work of fiction has been chosen for the Read. Written in the form of a memoir, Leo Africanus explores Islam and Christendom through the fictional adventures of a real-life Arab traveler and geographer.

Copies of the book are available at all Ann Arbor District Library sites and at area bookstores.

For more information about Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Reads, check out the website at www.aareads.org.

Chocolate Lovers! Demonstration and Tasting with the Experts at Zingerman's

This event was held on February 10, 2006 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:37:30)

Taste amazing chocolates with the experts at Zingerman's and learn about making chocolate - from the bean to the bar. Arrive early -- space is limited!

Gala Tubingen Sister City Celebration

This event was held on May 22, 2005 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:05:32)

This gala reception to welcome the official delegation of 27 citizens from Tubingen, Germany, celebrates the 40th anniversary of the Sister City relationship between the two cities. This public event will also feature elegant refreshments and music from the award-winning Community High School Jazz band. The event also highlights the Library's May photo exhibit, "Images of Tubingen.

Hosted by Library Director Josie Parker, the reception will also feature remarks by Ann Arbor Mayor John Hieftje, Tubingen Lord Mayor Brigitte Russ-Scherer and other dignitaries.

Tubingen became Ann Arbor's first sister city in 1965 - the year this historic university town won the prestigious Europe Prize. But the relationship was as old as the waves of German settlers who came here in the 19th century from the region known as "Swabia" in southwest Germany. By the 1960s, high school teachers in both cities were arranging music exchanges.

Since 1965, the Tubingen and Ann Arbor citizens have lived in each other's homes, and traveled together at home and abroad for days or weeks at a time. Today, Ann Arbor has seven sister cities and Tubingen has eight, but they continue to be each other's only American-European partner.

The photo display "Images of Tubingen" will be on display in the Downtown Library Multi-Purpose Room from April 16 through May 30. Yvonne Berardi, Alexander Gonschior, and Ulrich Metz - three of Tubingen's regional photographers - have captured the city's charm with these photographs. Ranging from grandiose panorama pictures to impressions of everyday life, they portray the city's beauty, and the beauty of living there.

Nationally-Known Heirloom Cooking Experts The Brass Sisters Discuss Heirloom Baking and Introduce AADL's New Digital Database of Local Recipes 'Ann Arbor Cooks'

This event was held on October 25, 2007 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:12:00)

See the premiere of Ann Arbor Cooks, the new online database of local historical cookbooks and heirloom recipes available at aadl.org. Who better to introduce this terrific new service than the nationally-known (and always enjoyable!) heirloom cooking experts from New England, Marilynn and Sheila Brass, authors of "Heirloom Baking with the Brass Sisters." This delightful evening includes a demonstration of Ann Arbor Cooks, a discussion of heirloom baking by the Brass sisters, and refreshments made by the Washtenaw County Historical Society from heirloom recipes. The Brass sisters will also sign their book, for sale at the event courtesy of Nicola's Books. ANN ARBOR COOKS: This new project by AADL, in cooperation with the Washtenaw County Historical Society and Hadassah, digitizes cookbooks published by Ann Arbor churches and organizations, making them available through aadl.org. The Library has reached back in time to gather cookbooks from the late 19th and 20th centuries that capture the tastes and tempo of Ann Arbor throughout its history. Many of these books were provided for this project by the Washtenaw County Historical Society. The online exhibit also contains two illustrated cookbooks from Hadassah, "Like Mama Used to Make" and "Like Mama Used to Make ... And More." Ann Arbor Cooks will also highlight local growers, local food clubs, classes and many special events for everyday cooks, aspiring chefs and food lovers. "Heirloom Cooking with the Brass Sisters" was recently nominated for a 2007 James Beard Foundation Book Award.

Ann Arbor Police Lieutenant Michael Logghe Discusses True Crimes In Ann Arbor & Anecdotes from the AAPD, then Assists in Unveiling the New aadl.org Feature 'Ann Arbor Police Department Online History Exhibit'

This event was held on April 24, 2006 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:11:00)

Listen to fascinating anecdotes of the Ann Arbor Police Department, then learn about this new aadl.org exhibit. A joint project of AADL and AAPD, the Online History Exhibit contains more than 200 images of Police Department history, including photos of the earliest officers, marshals, vintage cars and cityscapes. See the new Online History site unveiled and demonstrated. The site will then be accessible through aadl.org. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about our police department and this new, easily accessible online resource. The Ann Arbor Police Department Online History Exhibit also contains histories and narratives of the AAPD. Want to know how the Ann Arbor police shooting range was developed? Or who was the police chief in the 1970s? This is the new online source for that information. Lt. Michael Logghe has been a member of the Ann Arbor Police Department for twenty years. He grew up in Roseville, Michigan and received his BA in Criminal Justice from Ferris State University.

John Bowditch of the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum Discusses Edison & Tesla: Inventors as Icons

This event was held on June 21, 2007 at Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room

Watch Now (Runtime: 01:20:00)

It's the 25th anniversary of the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum! In celebration, and in conjunction with the Library's Figure It Out summer reading program, AADL and AAHOM are hosting several science lectures at the downtown Library. In the first lecture, nationally-known Edison expert John Bowditch will discuss two great inventors of the 20th century. Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison are known not only for their inventions, but also for their intense rivalry. This event will be taped for future broadcast on Community Television Network. A 25th Anniversary Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum Historical Exhibit will be displayed in the lower level of the Library through July 21. John Bowditch is the current Director of Exhibits at the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. He has also served as Curator of Industry at Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village for 21 years and as the Director of the Lowell Museum in Lowell, Massachusetts. A published author, Bowditch has appeared on the BBC and History Channel as an expert on Thomas Edison. Additional science lectures in this series will take place in July.

Annual Report 2006-2007

Watch Now (Runtime: 00:05:00)

Each year, Ann Arbor District Library produces an Annual Report that covers the state of the organization, additions to services, and other information about your library. This year, we've produced a 5-minute video that summarizes some of the happenings of the past fiscal year, which was from June 2006 through July 2007. We hope you enjoy it!

You can also find full financial, statistical, donor and community partner information for 2006-2007 on our Annual Reports page, along with past reports.