Library-ish

Once upon a time, libraries were quiet places to read and research. Now? They're hosting storytimes, resume workshops, crafting nights, and coding classes. In this episode, Traci and January dive into how libraries evolved into vibrant community hubs—and why programming is at the heart of everything we do. 🎨👶📚💼 Plus, learn about some of the cool things we're doing at your favorite Butte County Branch! From toddler dance parties to tech help, we’ve got something for everyone.  The Library-ish Podcast delves into libraries & librarianship within the context of culture and community.  Library-ish podcast: https://www.buttecounty.net/2085/Library-ish-the-Butte-County-Library-PodButte County Public Library website: https://www.buttecounty.net/528/LibraryOur programming calendar: https://buttecounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month 📌 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with your fellow bookworms!

Who gets to define literature — and whose voices get remembered?In honor of Women’s History Month, this episode of Library-ish explores the women who didn’t just write books — they transformed the literary world. From authors who published anonymously or under male pseudonyms to those who reshaped entire genres, we’re highlighting the writers who expanded what stories could be told and who those stories were for.We discuss the impact of authors like Mary Shelley, Jane Austen, George Eliot, Virginia Woolf, Zora Neale Hurston, and Toni Morrison — along with trailblazing library leader Clara Stanton Jones, whose work helped ensure these voices remain accessible.Together, their contributions challenge us to think more deeply about literary history, representation, and the evolving idea of what counts as “literary.”🎧 Listen now and discover how these women changed not just books — but the entire landscape of literature.—🎙️ *Library-ish* is a podcast by the Butte County Library, where we explore books, literacy, and the role libraries play in our communities.📚 Visit your local branch or explore our online catalog to discover more authors and stories.The Library-ish Podcast delves into libraries & librarianship within the context of culture and community. Library-ish podcast:⁠https://www.buttecounty.net/2085/Library-ish-the-Butte-County-Library-Pod⁠Butte County Public Library website: ⁠https://www.buttecounty.net/528/Library⁠Our programming calendar: ⁠https://buttecounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month

Is your bookshelf inspiring you… or stressing you out? In this episode of Library-ish, librarians Traci and January share practical, no-guilt advice on how to declutter your bookshelves without regret. We’re talking about why it’s so hard to let go of books, how libraries “weed” collections professionally, and how you can curate a bookshelf that reflects who you are now — not who you used to be.  If you’ve ever wondered: How do I declutter books without feeling guilty? How do I decide which books to keep? What’s the right way to donate books? Is it okay to get rid of unread books?  This episode is for you.  We’ll walk you through a simple, librarian-approved system for spring cleaning your books, including the four-pile method, key decision-making questions, and what to do with books you’re ready to release.  Remember: owning books and reading books are two different hobbies. Choose the one that serves you. — 📚 Need something new for your refreshed shelves? Browse our catalog or download Libby to get started.  🎧 Subscribe for more bookish conversations from Library-ish.   The Library-ish Podcast delves into libraries & librarianship within the context of culture and community. Library-ish podcast:⁠ https://www.buttecounty.net/2085/Library-ish-the-Butte-County-Library-Pod⁠  Butte County Public Library website: ⁠https://www.buttecounty.net/528/Library⁠  Our programming calendar: ⁠https://buttecounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month 

Valentine’s Day isn’t for everyone—and neither are traditional romance stories.In this Galentine’s Day episode of Library-ish, we’re talking about unconventional romances: books where love looks like friendship, found family, queer joy, self-discovery, or quiet connection instead of a standard happily-ever-after.From cozy fantasy and BookTok favorites to literary fiction and genre-blending love stories, we’re sharing recommendations for readers who want something a little different this February.Whether you love romance, avoid it entirely, or fall somewhere in between—there’s a book here for you.📚 Topics include:Friendship as the central love storyQueer and nontraditional romancesCozy and comforting readsLove stories where romance isn’t the end goalLooking for personalized recommendations? Your local library is always a great place to start.🎧 Subscribe for more bookish conversations from Library-ish.The Library-ish Podcast delves into libraries & librarianship within the context of culture and community. Library-ish podcast:⁠https://www.buttecounty.net/2085/Library-ish-the-Butte-County-Library-Pod⁠Butte County Public Library website: ⁠https://www.buttecounty.net/528/Library⁠Our programming calendar: ⁠https://buttecounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month

Think your library card is just for checking out books? Think again.In this episode of Library-ish, we’re sharing 10 cool ways to use your library card you may be missing out on — from digital resources to in-person services that can save you time, money, and effort.Libraries offer far more than most people realize, and your library card unlocks access to tools, entertainment, learning opportunities, and community resources you might not even know exist.If you’ve ever said, “Wait… the library does that?” — this episode is for you.📚 Learn how to get more value out of your library card🎧 Discover services beyond books🏛️ See why libraries are one of the best free resources in your community👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you learned something new!The Library-ish Podcast delves into libraries & librarianship within the context of culture and community. Library-ish podcast:⁠https://www.buttecounty.net/2085/Library-ish-the-Butte-County-Library-Pod⁠Butte County Public Library website: ⁠https://www.buttecounty.net/528/Library⁠Our programming calendar: ⁠https://buttecounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month

What were the books Butte County readers checked out again and again in 2025? In this episode of Library-ish, we’re taking a look at the most popular titles borrowed from the Butte County Library — the books that flew off the shelves, racked up holds, and became true community favorites.We’ll talk about the reading trends that shaped the year and what these top checkouts say about what our community loves to read. Then, at the end of the episode, we’ll shift our focus to the year ahead and share the books we’re personally most excited to read in 2026 — from fiction to nonfiction and everything in between.Whether you’re looking for your next great read, curious about what your neighbors loved this past year, or already building your reading list for the new year, this episode is a great place to start.The Library-ish Podcast delves into libraries & librarianship within the context of culture and community. Library-ish podcast: https://www.buttecounty.net/2085/Library-ish-the-Butte-County-Library-Pod Butte County Public Library website: https://www.buttecounty.net/528/Library Our programming calendar: https://buttecounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month

Settle in with Traci and January for a cozy literary journey around the world as we explore real winter reading traditions that make this season perfect for stories, candles, and long nights with a good book.In this episode, we travel through:🕯️ Sweden’s mysiga stunder — the art of creating “cozy moments,” where winter reading becomes a slow, intentional ritual surrounded by warmth, candles, and comfort.📚 Iceland’s Jólabókaflóð — the beloved “Christmas Book Flood,” when families exchange books on December 24 and spend the night reading with cocoa or jólaöl.🌙 Iran’s Yalda Night — the ancient winter solstice celebration marked by poetry recitation, especially Hafez, as families gather to welcome the longest night with stories and light.🎄 Germany’s Advent Reading Nights — including chapter-a-day Advent books and Adventslesungen hosted in libraries and homes throughout December.📖 Japan’s fuyu no dokusho — the nationwide “winter reading season,” supported by seasonal book lists, school reading weeks, and library programs.🍃 Scotland’s Winter Storytelling Tradition — rooted in Celtic folklore, long nights, and oral storytelling gatherings that continue today through community events and library programs.Plus: a look at why winter becomes the natural global reading season — psychologically, culturally, and historically.Grab a warm drink, wrap up in a blanket, and join us for a tour of winter bookish traditions from across the world.The Library-ish Podcast delves into libraries & librarianship within the context of culture and community. Library-ish podcast: ⁠https://www.buttecounty.net/2085/Library-ish-the-Butte-County-Library-Pod⁠Butte County Public Library website: ⁠https://www.buttecounty.net/528/Library⁠Our programming calendar: ⁠https://buttecounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month

Join Traci & January for a cozy holiday episode of Library-ish as they unwrap Butte County’s most-checked-out titles of 2025, share their personal favorites, and recommend their most anticipated new and upcoming books to give (or keep!) this season.📚 Borrow these & many more titles for free through your local library — or find them on Libby & Hoopla!🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.The Library-ish Podcast delves into libraries & librarianship within the context of culture and community.  Library-ish podcast:⁠https://www.buttecounty.net/2085/Library-ish-the-Butte-County-Library-Pod⁠Butte County Public Library website: ⁠https://www.buttecounty.net/528/Library⁠Our programming calendar: ⁠https://buttecounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month#LibraryishPodcast #ButteCountyLibrary #HolidayReads #BookGifts #ChristmasReads #BookRecommendations #LibbyApp #HooplaDigital #ReadersOfInstagram

Some books tell stories. Others keep secrets. 📖💀In this Halloween episode of Library-ish, Traci and January open the covers of history’s most haunted and forbidden works — from the unreadable Voynich Manuscript and the chilling Devil’s Bible, to the Malleus Maleficarum, the Piri Reis Map, the legendary Necronomicon, and even Shakespeare’s Macbeth — the cursed Scottish Play that still haunts stages today. Are they cursed, misunderstood, or simply too powerful to ignore? Find out in Cursed Ink: The Legends Behind History’s Most Haunted Books. The Library-ish Podcast delves into libraries & librarianship within the context of culture and community.  Library-ish podcast:https://www.buttecounty.net/2085/Library-ish-the-Butte-County-Library-PodButte County Public Library website: https://www.buttecounty.net/528/Library Our programming calendar: https://buttecounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month

Did you know Charlotte’s Web was once challenged for its talking animals? Or that Where’s Waldo? was banned because of a single background image?In this episode of Library-ish, Traci and January dive into thesurprising history of banned books. We share unusual stories behind some of the most unexpected titles, explain why challenges happen, and highlight how libraries safeguard intellectual freedom for everyone.Join us as we take the mystery out of banned books and explore why access to stories—no matter how unusual the challenge—matters to every community. The Library-ish Podcast delves into libraries & librarianship within the context of culture and community.  Library-ish podcast:https://www.buttecounty.net/2085/Library-ish-the-Butte-County-Library-Pod Butte County Public Library website: https://www.buttecounty.net/528/LibraryOur programming calendar: https://buttecounty.librarycalendar.com/events/monthLibrary policies: https://www.buttecounty.net/694/Library-Policies

Long before equal access to public libraries existed, Black communities created their own reading spaces—often in secret, often with great risk, and always with purpose.In this Black History Month episode of Library-ish, we explore the history of Black reading spaces and the powerful role reading has played in community, resistance, and survival. From literacy during enslavement to churches, homes, barbershops, salons, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities, we look at how reading spaces were created when access to books and libraries was denied.We want to be clear: we are not historians or subject-matter experts. We are librarians who believe deeply in access to information. This episode is meant to educate, to share what we’ve learned, and to help guide listeners toward trusted resources if they want to continue learning.This conversation is not exhaustive—it’s an invitation.📚 Resources mentioned in this episode include:National Museum of African American History and CultureThe Schomburg Center for Research in Black CultureLibrary of Congress African American history collectionsHBCU libraries and archivesYour local public library## 📚 Sources used & Further Reading* Advertising Week. *Black Barbershops and Salons: The Custodians of Culture.*(https://advertisingweek.com/black-barbershops-and-salons-the-custodians-of-culture/)* African American Intellectual History Society (AAIHS). *Rethinking Early Slave Literacy.* [https://www.aaihs.org/rethinking-early-slave-literacy/](https://www.aaihs.org/rethinking-early-slave-literacy/)* Duke University Libraries. *Slave Letters Collection Guide.*(https://library.duke.edu/rubenstein/research/guides/slaveletters)* Duke University Press. *Forgotten Readers.*(https://www.dukeupress.edu/Forgotten-Readers)* JSTOR Daily. *Freedom Libraries and the Fight for Library Equity.*(https://daily.jstor.org/freedom-libraries-and-the-fight-for-library-equity/)* Library of Congress (Teaching with Primary Sources). *Education in Enslaved Communities.* (Aug. 2022) (https://blogs.loc.gov/teachers/2022/08/education-in-enslaved-communities/)* National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6934089/](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6934089/)* Oakland Literacy Coalition. *Literacy by Any Means Necessary: The History of Anti-Literacy Laws in the U.S.*(https://oaklandliteracycoalition.org/literacy-by-any-means-necessary-the-history-of-anti-literacy-laws-in-the-u-s/)* Picturing Black History. *Learning in Secret Places.*(https://picturingblackhistory.org/learning-in-secret-places/)* Princeton University (Steven A. Knowlton). *Rapidly Escalating Demand…* (PDF)(https://steven-knowlton.scholar.princeton.edu/sites/g/files/toruqf3746/files/steven.a.knowlton/files/rapidlyescalatingdemand.pdf)* Public Discourse. *Article 84434.* (2022)(https://www.thepublicdiscourse.com/2022/09/84434/)* Reading Partners. *Literacy: Path to Freedom and the Cost of Illiteracy.*(https://readingpartners.org/blog/literacy-path-to-freedom-illiteracy/)* Wikipedia. *Anti-Literacy Laws in the United States.*(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anti-literacy_laws_in_the_United_States)* Wikipedia. *Third Place.*(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Third_place)If you’d like help finding books, primary sources, or databases on this topic, your library is a great place to start.🎧 Subscribe for more conversations about libraries, books, and the role libraries play in preserving history and building community. The Library-ish Podcast delves into libraries & librarianship within the context of culture and community. Library-ish podcast:⁠https://www.buttecounty.net/2085/Library-ish-the-Butte-County-Library-Pod⁠Butte County Public Library website: ⁠https://www.buttecounty.net/528/Library⁠Our programming calendar: ⁠https://buttecounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month

The air is crisp, the leaves are turning, and fall is the perfect time to curl up with a good book. In this episode of Library-ish, Traci and January share their top recommendations for the season — pairing five timeless classics with five modern favorites that echo the same cozy, autumnal vibes.📚 From literary gems to sci-fi & fantasy adventures, from cozy mysteries to chilling horror tales, we’ll guide you through the perfect books to keep you company this fall.✨ Highlights include: Classic & modern pairings across four genresCozy mystery staples to warm your eveningsGothic and spooky favorites for fall chillsComforting, heartwarming reads for sweater-weather days🍂 Whether you love timeless stories or are searchingfor your next new favorite, this episode will inspire your fall TBR.🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share so younever miss an episode of Library-ish!

Is your to-be-read list more overwhelming than inspiring? In this episode of Library-ish, hosts Traci (librarian) and January(library assistant) break down a step-by-step guide to creating the perfect TBR—a list that works for YOU insteadof against you. ✨ What you’ll learn in this episode:- How to set realistic reading goals- Ways to balance your list with different genres, formats, and moods- Tricks for keeping your TBR manageable (and fun!)- Why it's okay to DNF and refresh your list regularlyWhether you’re a mood reader, a list-maker, or someone stuck in reading paralysis, this episode will give you tools and tips to make your TBR something you’re excited aboutagain. 🎧 Tune in, grab a notebook, and start building your dream reading list today!💬 Tell us in the comments: What’s the #1 book on your current TBR?🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for more episodes from the Butte County Library’s Library-ish podcast!

Welcome to Library-ish, the official podcast of ButteCounty Library! In this episode, we’re celebrating National Back to School Month with a crash course in how to useyour library like a pro—whether you're astudent, educator, or lifelong learner. 🔗 Need help getting started? Visit:https://www.buttecounty.net/709/E-Resources The Library-ish Podcast delves into libraries & librarianship within the context of culture and community.  Library-ish podcast: https://www.buttecounty.net/2085/Library-ish-the-Butte-County-Library-PodButte County Public Library website: https://www.buttecounty.net/528/Library Our programming calendar: https://buttecounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month 📌 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with your fellow bookworms.

Join us as we take a nostalgic dive into the books that made us fall in love with reading—from Scholastic Book Fair favorites to bedtime classics. Which childhood reads still hold up, and which ones surprised us on a reread? Let’s rewind!The Library-ish Podcast delves into libraries & librarianship within the context of culture and community.  Library-ish podcast: https://www.buttecounty.net/2085/Library-ish-the-Butte-County-Library-Pod Butte County Public Library website: https://www.buttecounty.net/528/Library Our programming calendar: https://buttecounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month

Feeling overwhelmed by constant notifications, endless scrolls, and screen fatigue? You’re not alone—and your local library might just be the perfect place to unplug, reset, and recharge.  In this episode of *Library-ish*, Traci and January explore the science behind digital burnout and share practical, peaceful ways to take a break from technology—*without* disappearing into the woods (unless you want to).  🎧 Whether you’re looking to unplug for a day or just reclaim a few quiet minutes, this episode has you covered—library style.  👇 Let us know in the comments: What’s your favorite way to take a break from screens? The Library-ish Podcast delves into libraries & librarianship within the context of culture and community.  Library-ish podcast: https://www.buttecounty.net/2085/Library-ish-the-Butte-County-Library-Pod Butte County Public Library website: https://www.buttecounty.net/528/Library Our programming calendar: https://buttecounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month

Not all book-to-movie adaptations are created equal—and we have *feelings* about it. In this episode of *Library-ish*, Traci and January dive into the wild world of page-to-screen storytelling. From adaptations that brought our favorite books gloriously to life, to those that made us question if the filmmakers even *read* the source material, we’re naming names and spilling popcorn. Expect:📚 Our all-time favorite book-to-film adaptations😤 The ones that broke our readerly hearts🎭 Unfiltered opinions, nostalgic shoutouts, and literary hot takes Whether you’re Team “The Book Was Better” or you’re just here for the drama, this episode is for anyone who’s ever watched an adaptation and muttered, “...that’s not how it happened in the book.” 🗣️ What book adaptation made *you* scream (in delight or despair)? Let us know in the comments or stop by your local Butte County Library branch to vent in person. \#Libraryish#BookToMovie #TheBookWasBetter #AdaptationReactions #ButteCountyLibrary#LibraryPodcast #BookishHotTakes "Hayden Folker - Train Robbery Demo" is under a Creative Commons (BY 3.0) license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/...   / hayden-folker   Music powered by BreakingCopyright:    • 🐂 Free Western Cowboy Music (For Videos) -...  

Are you ready to Level Up? In this sunny episode of Library-ish, Traci and January kick off Butte County Library’s 2025 Summer Reading Program with all the juicy details you need to join the fun. Find out what Summer Reading is all about & how you (yes, even grown-ups!) can win prizes. Plus, we chat with two of our amazing children’s librarians about their favorite summer moments, book picks, and the magic of a good read.Whether you’re reading at the beach, in a blanket fort, or under the stars, this episode has something for every book lover under the sun! The Library-ish Podcast delves into libraries & librarianship within the context of culture and community.  Library-ish podcast: https://www.buttecounty.net/2085/Library-ish-the-Butte-County-Library-Pod Butte County Public Library website: https://www.buttecounty.net/528/Library Our programming calendar: https://buttecounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month

Feeling behind on your 25 in ’25 Reading Challenge? Or maybe you’re flying through the prompts but missing someone to talk books with? In this episode of Library-ish, Traci and January check in on the challenge, share reading wins (and woes), and walk you through everything you need to know to start a book club that actually sticks. Whether you're reading for fun, accountability, or just snacks—this one’s for you.📚 Join the challenge, grab your tracker, and findyour next reading buddy at Butte County Library! 🌸 Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes of*Library-ish*, brought to you by the Butte County Library!The Library-ishPodcast delves into libraries & librarianship within the context of cultureand community.  Library-ish podcast:https://www.buttecounty.net/2085/Library-ish-the-Butte-County-Library-Pod Butte County PublicLibrary website: https://www.buttecounty.net/528/Library Our programmingcalendar: https://buttecounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month #LibraryPodcast#BookLovers #LibraryIsh

It’s springtime in Butte County, and Library-ish is rolling up its sleeves! In this episode, Traci and January explore how your local library can help you clean, declutter, and hit reset—not just on your home, but on your whole life.We’ll dive into the surprisingly fascinating history of spring cleaning, share how your library card unlocks tools for organizing and minimizing, and offer up tips on everything from book reorganization to digital decluttering. Whether you're in full-on cleaning mode or just thinking about opening that junk drawer, this episode is here to inspire, support, and maybe even entertain you while you mop.The Library-ish Podcast delves into libraries & librarianship within the context of culture and community.  Library-ish podcast: https://www.buttecounty.net/2085/Library-ish-the-Butte-County-Library-Pod Butte County Public Library website: https://www.buttecounty.net/528/Library Our programming calendar: https://buttecounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month