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1973: Plans are finalized for the new MC Library

When we last talked about Library History, we ended in 1972 with a grant, an architect and momentum. The original architectural plans called for a 14,000 square foot two story building (7,000 square feet of floor space on each level) but due to the cost, the lower level would not be finished. I know from completing my annual reports for the Office of Commonwealth Libraries that I report the “library” as 9,630 square feet. As the months moved along toward 1973, so were the plans finalized for a new library building. There were still money woes as well as concerns over another go ...

The JC Library in 2023: Facts, figures and more

I look forward to writing this column every year. I love seeing what were the most popular and sought-after titles. It helps me get a glimpse into what the interests are here in Juniata County. I’m always surprised to see an item on the list that I wouldn’t have imagined to be as popular as it turned out to be. Conversely, I find it interesting to not see some books or authors on the list. Below I list the titles, the circulations (checkouts and renewals) and some details about the item. Heart Bones by Colleen Hoover (22 circulations) – new adult fiction. Last year’s most ...

We can’t run from God

We can’t out-run God or His love — Jonah 3:10 It’s futile to run from God. Jonah discovered that. When God called him to go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim their impending judgment, Jonah refused and fled. Why? Because he knew what would happen. The Ninevites might repent of their wickedness, and he knew God was gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, willing to relent from sending calamity. Jonah didn’t want God to spare these bitter enemies. He learned the hard way, though, that you and I can’t out-run God or His love. Jonah ...

Our priority should be our spiritual growth

Oh, worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness! — Psalm 96:9 If I were to give this article another title or name, I would call it the “Good Ole Boys Club.” Many years ago, we were at a fair in the mountains of Pennsylvania. We bought a fish sandwich and sat down at a table to eat. We began to chat with an older lady across the table from us. Before we realized it, it was almost time for us to start back home and we had never left the table. We were still enjoying our new friendship. We began to visit her at her home and share some of life’s experiences with each other. I ...

Valentine’s Day goes Italian in Bev’s Kitchen

Happy Valentine’s Day from the kitchen! Today is a day to celebrate with your favorite people. I asked my spouse what his idea of a Valentine’s meal was and he said, “Anything you make.” I decided on an Italian dinner since Italian food is my all time favorite. After spending some time in Italy a few years ago, I’ve grown to love Italian food more than ever. The smells of Italian cheeses, pizzas, dinners and wines are forever etched in my mind. For today, I’ve made fresh-made lasagna, Parmesan garlic bread, salad and fresh fruit. I also made the ricotta to use in the ...

2023: Some Mifflin Co. Library facts

It’s that time of year again. That time when I reveal my inner nerd to all of you. I do believe I get nerdier every year. Recently, I received a desktop document holder as a gift. It’s an easel-like device (similar to a picture frame) with a clip that can hold multiple documents, along with a built-in ruler to help me keep my place. The easel design also helps prevent neck pain from constantly looking down. There’s even a ledge where I can place my phone (my kids can tell you that I’m always searching for my phone). See I told you I am truly a geek. Anyway, on to the topic ...