There is a place with free books, free DVDs, free magazines, free books on CD, free Internet and use of reference materials. This place is called the public library.

I live in Los Angeles and the public libraries  have provided me with reading material, books on CD, magazines, and fantastic DVDs including Louis Malle documentaries and The Simpsons Movie.  I listened to Little Scarlet by Walter Mosley on CD during a long drive.  I looked through two months of Martha Stewart Living.  Having a problem with your Internet? Just scurry over and use the library computers to answer your email. Take a chance on a new author, catch up on classics, take out a movie, find a book on a DIY project, the possibilities are endless. Bring the kids to take out an armful of children’s books. The library is recycling at its best.

Here is a list of just a few of the activities for June and July at the Westwood Branch:

Jun 24 – Emil Draitser’s “Stalin’s Romeo Spy” 6:30 PM Emil Draitser discusses and signs his new book “Stalin’s Romeo Spy: The Remarkable Rise and Fall of the KGB’s Most Daring Operative.”

Jul 10 – Book Club 11:00 AM Discuss “Light in August” by William Faulkner.

Jul 13 – Sherlock Holmes Panel 6:30 PM  Three Sherlock Holmes experts discuss the books they’ve written and the stage and screen adaptations that followed.

Jul 20 – Resume Workshop 6:30 PM Looking for work and need to update your resume? Get free expert help with your resume from a professional in the field.

Jul 29 – French Conversation Class 6:00 PM Come practice your French with discussions on a variety of themes. This month, bring a favorite text of any type and a piece of music inspired by the text.

And for children

Jul 26 – Magic Show with Allen Oshiro 4:00 PM Comedy, fun, and magic with Magician Allen Oshiro.

These are just a few of the activities at one branch.  They also have resources for job hunting and learning computer skills.

Think of it as a vacation from your routine. Pull up a chair, enjoy the  air conditioning, and choose a reading adventure.