Using our Library Voices

This episode is bursting with creativity! In honor of this year's Summer Reading Program theme, Color Our World, we team up with our artsy neighbors at the Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts. Discover how this hidden gem next to the Barbara Bush Library brings color, culture, and kid-friendly exhibits to our community.Join Rebecca Burns and Samantha Aguilar from the Pearl as we dive into the vibrant world of color—its culture, its politics, and yes, its drama.PLUS: Hear shoutouts from your favorite authors recorded at the Texas Library Association Conference by our own Gabbing Librarian, Jennifer Finch. From Martha Wells to Saadia Faruqi and Bob Shea, it's a celebration of stories, art, and summer fun!

 Get ready for a jam-packed episode with two epic segments you won't want to miss! 

In this interview, John Schaffer interviews Space City Weather founder Eric Berger discusses Hurricane Beryl's impact on Houston, which caused extensive damage with 97 mph winds. He advises Houston residents to understand their location-specific vulnerabilities while maintaining perspective. Berger highlights climate trends affecting Houston, including longer summers and earlier heat, and emphasizes the urgent need for the "Ike Dike" coastal barrier and comprehensive flood planning to ensure Houston's long-term viability. Read our blog here: https://hcpl.net/blogs/post/interview-with-space-city-weathers-eric-berger/Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisela Parker, Kara Ludwig, John Schaffer, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu

This month, we're talking about some of the many ways you can go green at the library. We'll hear some voices from our most recent Repair Cafe, which took place at the Katherine Tyra Branch Library at Bear Creek this past month and we'll also interview Laura Smith about sustainable libraries. This podcast was produced by Darla Pruitt, edited by Beth Krippel and hosted by Gisela Parker. This episode featured voices from Katelyn Helberg, Kara Ludwig, Gisela Parker, Darla Pruitt, Dylan Smith, and Sara West. Special thanks to Lisa Lin, Steve Selzer, and Laura Smith for speaking with us for this episode. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you in the stacks.   Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library. www.hcpl.net Podcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisela Parker, Kara Ludwig, John Schaffer, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisela Parker, Kara Ludwig, John Schaffer, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu

Join the panel of Gabbing with Librarians to discuss the representation of women in Japanese Anime. How has it changed and how is Japanese culture reflected in the way it portrays women in anime? Anime mentioned include (in no particular order) Kare Kano; Revolutionary Girl Utena; Love Hina; Tenchi Muyo (and subsequent series); Cardcaptor Sakura; Marmalade Boy; Inuyasha; Slayers; Magic Knight Rayearth; Naruto; Bleach; Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood; Jujutsu Kaisen; Attack on Titan; Trigun; Your Name; Tomorrow's Joe; Akir; Ronin Kenshin; Rose of Versailla; Lupin the Third; Studio Ghibli films; Cowboy Bebop; Dragon Ball; Horimiya; My Love Story with Yamada-Kun at Level 999; Laid Back Camp; My Romantic Comedy SNAFU; Mobile Suit Gundam; Mobile Suite Gundam The Witch from Mercury; Dan Da Dan; My Dress-Up Darling; Konasuba: God's Blessing on this Wonderful World!; Kaguya-sama: Love Is War; Ouran High School Host Club, Kaiju 8; Idol M@ster!; Zombie Land Saga; The Selection Project; Oshi No Ko; Ghost in the Shell; My Senpai Is Annoying; Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku; Bleach; Sailor Moon.Host and Producer: Jennifer FinchPanelists: Marissa Basquez, Janell Constantino, John HarboughEditor: Beth KrippelCreated by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisela Parker, Kara Ludwig, John Schaffer, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu

This month we talked to some of our regular programming partners who are presenting a variety of programs for families and kids. Didn't catch a program over Spring Break? No worries, all three of these presenters will be back in our libraries this summer! For older kids and adults dreaming of getting a Spring Break as a college student, take a listen to our interview with our very own FutureU Advisor, Daniel Sullivan to hear about the free workshops and support you can receive from HCPL's FutureU program.   0:23 Jen Sommers with the Houston Ballet  See upcoming events on our calendar here  20:46 Troy Scheid with Brave Little Company Summer camp info is on this page 32:56 Daniel Sullivan with FutureU Find out more at https://hcpl.net/futureu/ 41:01 Mike Blackwell with CodeKnights Find out more at https://www.minecraftevents.com/  Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisela Parker, Kara Ludwig, John Schaffer, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu

Join Harris County Public librarians as they discuss the winners, losers, and snubs of this years awards season. PRODUCTION CREDITS: Episode was produced by Jennifer Finch and edited by Beth Krippel. Featured voices include Crystal Mosley, Genesis Harte-Munoz and our Host, Jennifer Finch. Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisela Parker, Kara Ludwig, John Schaffer, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu

Hi! It's a SPECIAL episode! We are doing a deep dive into the many different cooking programs that we offer here at the Harris County Public Library. Come along as we visit the Kingwood, Evelyn Meador, Octavia Fields, and Northwest Libraries and hear about all the delicious foods that they've cook up. Just make sure you've eaten before listening as this episode is sure to stir up your appetite. If you are interesting in trying your hand at some delicious new recipies check out this link to view so amazing cook books that were recommended by our Cooking Programmers! https://hcpl.bibliocommons.com/list/share/2232335159_katelynh_hcpl/2678705627_cookbook_recs_from_food_amp_cooking_programmersCreated by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisela Parker, Kara Ludwig, John Schaffer, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu

Houston is known for many things, but one thing that may surprise people to find out is the variety of birds that can be found in our area. Since February is National Bird Feeding Month, the team at Using Out Library Voices decided to explore birding as a hobby, talk to an expert, and learn about one very famous type of bird which you can spot here in Houston.Learn more about our local birds at your local library www.hcpl.net Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisela Parker, Kara Ludwig, John Schaffer, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu

To kick off our first episode of 2025, This month's host, Kara takes us through the different components of the library's citizenship program. In 2024, Harris County Public Library was awarded a grant to expand our citizenship program to meet the community needs. We'll be hearing from some citizenship students about why they started their citizenship journey at the library and our Adult Services Program Coordinator, Sarah O. who oversees the program to learn about the different components and what the program can and can not help with creating new citizens.If you're interested in learning more about the Citizenship, English as a Second Language or Basic Education classes at the library , please visit www.hcpl.net/Citizenship  Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisela Parker, Kara Ludwig, John Schaffer, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu

As both the end of the year and chilly weather approach, we all have our ways to seek comfort. Some of us relish the extended darkness and contemplate what may be hiding in the shadows. Others enjoy getting cozy and rewatching their favorite movies and TV series. This month, join us with our host Gisela for an exploration of cryptids and a rewatch of the series Roswell. Also, some of our fellow HCPL staff members share their own favorite comfort shows... And one big miss.Are the eerie and spooky your holiday cup of tea, too? Check out SarahG's blog, Horror for the Holidays, from last December and indulge!Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisela Parker, Kara Ludwig, John Schaffer, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu

The latest Gabbing with the Librarians discusses the latest in Superhero movie news and whether Marvel and DC find themselves in a downward spiral or are just hitting a new stride.  Find Superhero movies, books and graphic novels at your local library or online at www.hcpl.net Voices include Jennifer Finch, Tony Goodwin, and Eric Ray.  Produced by Jennifer Finch. Edited by Beth Krippel.Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisela Parker, Kara Ludwig, John Schaffer, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu

If you've ever seen that map of every state's favorite Thanksgiving food and wondered what the rest of the county Is doing, we're here to say you can find folks with head-scratching Thanksgiving meal traditions much closer to home! This month the whole HCPL podcast team met for a four-course meal debating the finer points of Turkey Day foodstuffs. Then stick around for a tour across a variety of food and cooking programming you can find at libraries across Harris County.  Registration landing page for Herbs for the Holidays at Octavia Fields is here! Spice Club packets are available to pick up anytime while supplies last. New packets available on First Fridays.  Info for the next installment of the Cook by the Book cooking demonstration at Kingwood is here. Watch the calendar for the next installment of Cook the Book at Northwest Library in Cypress (Jones/Grant):  and for the At the Table series in Seabrook, Tx.  Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, John Schaffer, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu

Join us for the spooky month edition of Using Our Library Voices hosted by Sadina.  Katelyn invites you to read some space horror in the Reading Room segment, while Sadina shares some kitchen magic an a real life supernatural story.Harris County Public Library is home to Houston, AKA Space City- we thought it would be fitting this month to share with you a list of books that place emphasis on that special feeling of horror that only the dark vacuum of space and unknown can give. And for emphasis, we also have a blog about it!  https://hcpl.net/blogs/post/in-space-no-one-can-hear-you-scream/Find the full reading list of Space Horror Book recommendations here:https://hcpl.bibliocommons.com/list/share/2232335159_katelynh_hcpl/2631074540_space_the_frightening_frontierCreated by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library. www.hcpl.net Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu

In this episode, hosted by Mary, we learn more about the Gulf Coast Reads community event from John and the "I'm With the Banned" event from Kara.  Also, Sadina and Nikki sit down to talk with Tatiana Schlote-Bonne, author of the novel "Such Lovely Skin." Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu

August is Read a Romance month!  If you don't know where to begin, listen in for Nikki and Delaney's recommendations on the HCPL Reading Room Radio!Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu

 Hosted by John Schaffer, this episode is a deep dive into the problem's libraries are facing in the aftermath of storms like Hurricane Beryl.  John discusses the “mold” and the new in an extended interview with Amber Seely, Division Director of Collections & Technical Services at HCPL.Please visit the Blog page for more information on the ways HCPL is dealing with humidity damage to our collection in the article, “Libraries – Dealing with the fungus among us.”Read the blog on our website: https://hcpl.net/blogs/post/libraries-dealing-with-the-fungus-among-us/Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu

This episode, hosted by Delaney, we take a look into perspectives and experiences related to tech and cybersecurity.  Ty touches on tips and strategies to safeguard your personal information and deter cyberattacks.  Katelyn interviews Jessamyn West to discuss modern tech literacy and its implications.  We also have insights from John on the CyberPatriot program, which engages students and Civil Air Patrol Cadets in cybersecurity. Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

This month's host Katelyn, gives us a quick update on Beryl and our cooling center locations. If you've ever been curious about cosplaying and didn't know where to get started, this episode will help you get started— or at least what not to use on your face. Darla interviews some seasoned cosplayers about the resources and inspirations that keep them creative and cosplaying!We also drop in at Comicpalooza this year we asked cosplayers what their characters would recommend for you to read!If you'd like to learn more about which library locations are open or serving as cooling locations please visit-https://hcpl.bibliocommons.com/v2/locationsCreated by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

Summer is in full swing at the library and this month's podcast is aimed at supporting YOUR adventures! We'll chat with a friend who's out living their life on the road and RVing across the U.S.A., then we'll chat about the variety of sports that Texans just don't understand!Find more information about our Summer Reading Program at https://hcpl.net/summer-reading-program/ and find books about sports and Rving in our catalog, at www.hcpl.net/Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Dylan Smith, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

Join John Harbaugh for this special episode of Using Our Library Voices as he talks to the prolific local SciFi/Fantasy author of the Murderbot Diaries, Martha Wells, before her appearance at Comicpalooza.Find more SciFi and Fantasy books at your local library www.hcpl.net/ Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

We recently were announced to be a 2024 recipients of the IMLS National Medal for Library Service. In this episode we'll learn what the medal means and hear from some patrons on how much our library means to them.Learn more about the medal hereand as always, check out our library's website for more resources, books and news!Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

Using Our Library Voices was given the opportunity to sit down with horror novelist and comic book author  Clay McLeod Chapman ahead of his Comicpalooza appearance this Memorial Day Weekend.  Join host Jennifer Finch as they discuss his upcoming book Wake Up and Open Your Eyes, his comic book influences, and the research and inspiration he uses to write his books.  Clay McLeod Chapman has written numerous award winning horror novels, graphic novels and comics including the Origin series and Venomverse, as well working with his novel Wendell & Wilde being adapted into an animate film by Jordan Peele's Monkeypaw Productions.   Find more reads from Clay McLeod Chapman and other horror authors at www.hcpl.net Comicpalooza is Houston's premier pop-culture festival. Brimming with entertainment, special attractions, programming and celebrities representing a myriad of fandoms, there is no shortage of fun all weekend long. Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

In this podcast episode, we visit memories of bookstores in honor of Independent Bookstore Day, April 27.  Let's not forget Earth Day, April 22, with notes about our seed libraries and Earth Day book recommendations.Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

In this episode of "Gabbing with Librarians", Jennifer, Jasmine, Jessica, and Dedra touch on the cultural phenomenon that is Beyoncé's "Cowboy Carter" and explore the concept of gatekeeping in media.The discussion begins with an exploration of Beyoncé's artistic evolution and her ability to challenge traditional boundaries within the music industry.  They confront the issue of gatekeeping in media and its impact on diverse voices and perspectives.  In addition, they examine how gatekeepers, often holding positions of power, control the narratives and representations that are allowed to thrive in mainstream media, thereby limiting opportunities for marginalized communities.The role of libraries as spaces for diversity and representation, where individuals can access a wide range of voices and stories that reflect the richness of human experience, is part of the conversation.Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

We're celebrating Women's History Month by recognizing five ladies whose names grace a few Harris County Public Library locations.  These women led extraordinary lives and are forever synonymous with literacy, access and their communities. So let's meet our library patron saints, Barbara Bush, Maud Smith Marks , Edith Fae Cook Cole, Octavia Fields, and Evelyn Meador.This episode features voices from: Janet Castanon, Shane Harris, Sara West, Akhila Bhat,  Charlotte Brooks , Gabrielle Vogel, and Miranda Guillory and is hosted by Sadina Shawver and edited by Kara Ludwig. Learn more about our library locations at www.hcpl.net Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

It's a jam packed episode! Where we're expresses our passion in all sorts of ways in this episode, first with "Heart" book recommendations from our library staff, books that travel with you and definitely worth checking out.  We extend our passion for democracy with an interview with Harris County Clerk, Teneshia Hudspeth,  and learn about the unique voting landscape that is Harris County.  And we end on a chat with Librarians Delaney and Katelyn about Novelist and our Book Hunters program which allows real life librarians to select books to your unique specifications.As always if you'd like to learn more about Harris County Public Library or any of materials, check out www.hcpl.net for more information.This episode was hosted by Gisele Parker, featuring the voices of Julie Hermonant , Daisy Preciado, Jasmine Washington, Casey Morris , Delaney Daly, Teneshia Hudspeth, Mary Mink, Sadina Shawver and was edited by Logan Tuttle.Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

It's a new year, and re-cap episodes are so 2023.  Are we going to talk about resolutions?  No, instead, we're so excited about things coming in 2024. Topics include HCPL getting sanctuary status, as well as interviews with staff from Baldwin Boettcher and Atascocita as they discuss their journeys to getting their branches up and running and so much more!Visit www.hcpl.net to learn about all 27 of our branches.Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

Winter stories to keep you warm and chill your bones, following the tradition of telling ghost stories on Christmas eve...the Harris County Public Library's podcast team present to you 3 stories as we take a nod to the history of storytelling to connect with those around you. So gather 'round the car radio, share an airpod or turn up the volume for our final episode of the year.And remember, there are thousands more stories waiting for you at your local public library.Enjoy!   Visit www.hcpl.net for more stories!Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

This month, we shine light on National Adoption Month by sharing stories from three family on the adoption process and how they grew their families. We also talk with our Early Literacy program manager, Anjela Martinez, about Family Place Libraries and how the library provides different resources for families.This episode features the voices of host Beth Kripple, and guests Fred Schumacher, Jim Johnson, and Anjela Martinez. Edited by Dylan Smith and Nancy HuFor more information about our Family Place Libraries in Harris County, Please visit: www.hcpl.net/Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

Join Harris County Public Library Staff and members of Students Engaged in Advancing Texas to discuss censorship and libraries in honor of the American Library Association's Banned Books Week. Banned Books Week Website: https://bannedbooksweek.org/ Office of Intellectual Freedom: https://www.ala.org/aboutala/offices/oif Top 13 Most Challenged Books: https://www.ala.org/advocacy/bbooks/frequentlychallengedbooks/top10 Texans for the Right to Read: https://texansfortherighttoread.com/ Students Engaged in Advancing Texas: https://www.studentsengaged.org/about Harris County Public Library's Collection Policy: https://hcpl.net/collection-policy/ National Coalition Against Censorship: https://ncac.org/ Host/Producer: Jennifer Finch Panelists: Lanna Sell; Kate Hunziker; Nyla Vela; Hayden Cohen; Da'Taeveyon Daniels Music: Scanglobe by Sputnik; link to license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/ Editor: Beth Krippel In memory of Darcy Cassavant Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

It's officially spooky season! We're kicking off our favorite time of the year with a way to get your own little shadow with an interview with Citizen for Animal Protection's Freddy about black cat adoptions, and then come with us to chat with Elyssa about Tarot cards and how they work. Katelyn and Sadina then talk about body horror books in honor of Darcy C.Interview with Freddy from Citizens for Animal Protection about Black Cat adoptions. https://www.cap4pets.org/Link to body horror book list hereInterested in learning more about Spooky Cores and aesthetics, see our book lists! Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

It's September and you know what that means! Cooler weather? Not likely. Fall leaves? Sadly, not in Harris County. Library Card Sign Up Month? You bet! And who are libraries for? Voting season is looming and along with that questions such as who can vote, how do you register to vote, and how do you report voting issues. Sadina Shawver interviews elections officials, Kyle Cummins and Lynn Mumford, about all your voting questions. Out in the community, Katelyn Helberg highlights a new HCPL collection at Sunrise Lofts, a housing center for youth aging out of foster care. For more information about voting in Harris County visit www.harrisvotes.orgAnd for more information about library outreach and our work to provide access to resources visit our website at www.hcpl.net Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

Have you ever wondered how a book gets to you from another branch? It may seem like library magic, but a book passes through many hands and beeps before it gets to you. This month, we follow the journey of a book getting from one borrower to another.  We'll also take a look at the different borrowers that we have that inhabit the library eco-system. Listen now to find out where you fit into the reader's food web.   Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library. www.hcpl.net  Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu  Original Music created by Bryan Kratish Music in this Episode:Little Troll 2 by Frank SchroeterOnly Forward by RomanSenykMusicSpring Awakening [Full version] by MusicLFilesInformative Pizzicato by Steven OBrienLittle Break/LoFi Beat by SoulProdMusicCrime Time by Frank SchroeterDocumentary Story by RomanSenykMusicSecrets of the Old Library by Geoff HarveyEpicaly by LiteSaturationPiano by LesfmCreated by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

It's a Compicpalooza extravaganza episode as this month's host, Jennifer Finch, brings us voices from vendors and cosplayers alike, highlights from the live Gabbing with the Librarians podcast session, and an interview with fantasy author Kij Johnson.  This episode was produced by  Sadina Shawver edited by Katelyn Helberg and features the voices of Kij Johnson, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Sadina Shawver, attendees and vendors at Comicpalooza, and our Host, Jennifer Finch  Check out some of the titles mentioned in this episode from your local library! Click HERE for books from this episode  Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

It maybe a dated phrase these days, but the "Summer Blockbuster" was a Summer time staple for kids who grew up in the 70s, 80s and 90s. This month's episode we celebrate and recall what the biggest Summer Blockbusters were to give listeners today a peek into what made these movies iconic for generations!If you're like to watch any of these blockbusters from the comfort of your own home, check out our online streaming service, Kanopy. Available with your Harris County Public Library card. Visit www.hcpl.net for more information.Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

On this Gabbing with the Librarians episode, we explain and talk about the Writing Guild of America's writing strike and how it will affect your T.V., Movies and Entertainment in the future. This  episode was edited by Beth Krippel and features the voices of  to Jennifer Finch and Mary Mink from the Spring Branch Memorial Branch Library.Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

This month we celebrate Jewish American Heritage month with  interviews from two great organizations in the Harris County area! First we'll chat with Houston Hillel about their outreach serving the Jewish LGBTQIA community and we talk to Joel Bangilan of the Laurie and Milton Boniuk Library at the Holocaust Museum Houston about the different resources they have available .For more information about the museum, please visit www.hmh.organd if you're searching for more resources to explore the Jewish faith or culture, please visit https://www.houstonhillel.orgCreated by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

People, let me tell you 'bout my best friend.  They're warm-hearted people that'll love the library to the end and on this month's episode we meet a few of our library friends of all ages and chat with them about the different ways they support the Harris County Public Library. If you'd like to be a friend to the library, please donate to or join https://www. hcfol.org This episode features the voices of Logan Tuttle, Mary Mink, Sadina Shawver, John Harbaugh,  and Kelly Hayden with guests Jennifer Nandal and the FRIENDS and Patrons of Katy Branch Library and Spring Branch Memorial Branch Library. Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

Ever wonder what the kids are thinking? This month Darla talks to Young Adults from our Atascocita Branch Library in Northeast Harris County, to hear what they're loving to read and why they love about the library! We  also chat with TeenBook Con organizer, Elizabeth Boggs and we learn from Anjela Martinez about Tournament of Books, a book club battle for teens ! With the launch of our new library TikTok Account, @HarrisCountYPL ,  we chat with Jasmine Washington, the awesome lady who's been running her own BookTok Account since joining the platform last year.Learn more about the programs and events that we mentioned in this episode by visiting www.hcpl.net/ And follow our new TikTok account at @HarrisCountyPLCreated by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

As part of our African American History Month celebration, we're getting to know the performers and organizations that will be presenting their talents at our libraries this month. We have Tommy Terrific, a  traveling magician who adds a historical twist to his show that delights kids of all ages.Meet the Jalen Trio, a young up and coming jazz trio who perform their music as part of DACAMERA.And then we chat with Christelyn Nash of Young Audiences, who tells us about their many performing and visual arts programs available to Harris County Residents. To see any of these wonderful performers or programs this month, please visit www.hcpl.net/eventsand see our African American History month reads on https://hcpl.overdrive.com/Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

As part of our SciFi celebration— Our host, Jennifer Finch and other HCPL librarians to take part in the eternal debate: Star Wars, Star Trek, or... even more controversial... otherInterested in checking out some of the books and fandoms mentioned in this podcast? Check out our Science Fiction list on www.hcpl.netCreated by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

Join this month's host, Sadina Shawver as we celebrate National Science Fiction Day or month... with an interview of Neoromancer Cover illustrator, Rick Berry!Also get a list of our top SciFic book recommendations to explore more of this exciting genre.Episode was produced by  Darla Pruitt and. edited by Christian Ornelas and features the voices of John Harbaugh, Gisela Parker and  Katelyn Helberg and our Host, Sadina ShawverLearn more about Rick's art at www.rickberrystudio.comCreated by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

This month we interview with award winning children's  Singer/Songwriter Laurie Berkner, and Jennifer chats with Melissa Martinez about the Project Grad and the Grad Cafe's wonderful work to help people explore career pathways. We also learn about the Career Online High School program at the library from Gaspar Guevara, our Adult Literacy Specialist, who tells all about ways you can earn your high school diploma. For more information about the library and our literacy programs please visit www.hcpl.netFind more music from Laurie Berkner at hereFind more information about Project Grad and Grad Cafe at: https://www.gradcafe.org/This episode was edited by Beth Kripple, Produced by Jennifer Finch and Jennifer Nandlal and hosted by Ellen KaluzaCreated by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

This Month, host Sadina Shawver chats with Leonard Washington at our Evelyn Meador Branch Library in Seabrook, Texas about his passion for True Crime and how that translated to a series of captivating programs at our library.For more True Crime and Mystery, visit your local library, or visit us online at www.hcpl.net Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

This month, we share spooky stories and experiences from patrons and librarians! Hosted by Jennifer Finch, featuring voices from John Schaffer, Ellen Kaluza, Nancy Hu, and Sana Thalo . We also give out of this world romance book recommendations from Darcy Casavant!Stop by one of our library locations for yourself! Find your nearest location at www.hcpl.net or if you're looking for one of the book recommendations, find them at hcpl.overdrive.com Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

On this episode of our podcast we take you into the world of passport services, chat with the League of Women Voters and  learn about Octavia Fields Library in Humble..As we move through the pandemic into a new way of living, countries are welcoming visitors once more.  But visiting another country means updating or getting your first passport!  The Harris County Public Library system can help with that.  Then Megan, Division Director of Research and Development, spoke with League of Women Voters – Houston Chapter president, Dr. Annie Johnson Benifield about the importance and impact of using your right to vote.    Visit hcpl.net and read our latest article on books the build our understanding of the world or the way governments work.  This episode was produced by Darla Pruitt, Beth Kripple, Ellen Kaluza and Nancy HuCreated by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

Join librarians from across Harris County as they discuss fan fiction's influence on pop-culture recorded live at Comicpalooza! The participants were Anjela Martinez, Darcy Casavant, Logan Tuttle, and myself. Beth Krippel edited and Nancy Hu producedBorrow all your favorite comics, graphic novels, anthologies and stories from your local library or online at www.hcpl.net Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

A short episode that features some of our awesome Summer Reading Program partners performing at our branches this Summer and one of the core departments at HCPL, CATS...or Collections and Technical Services.Voices on this episode: Leif Steenson, Jennifer Nandlal, Jennifer Finch, Darcy Cassavant, Amber Seely Partners in this episode: Jessica from Books Alive https://www.books-alive.org/ Matthew from Just Add Beats  https://justaddbeats.com/index.php/about/This episode was produced by Beth Krippel and Edited by Christian Ornelas We'll see you this weekend at #Comicpalooza2022 !Created by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

In celebration of PRIDE month, our hosts Sadina Shawver and MC Brickell chat with Leigh of History is Gay Podcast about  the history and implications of book banning has on the LGBTQ Community. Leigh shares their knowledge of queer history with Sadina and MC within the framework of rising trends in book challenges and bans. They will discuss the differences between and impacts of book challenges and bans in parallel with the historic erasure of the queer community.We'll be continuing the conversation at Rice university in Houston,TX on June 29th at 6 P.M.Joined by host of Southern Queeries, Aubree and moderated by Professor Tesla CarianiCreated by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish

Interview with Amy Campbell and HCPL Writes about the Importance of writing, how it supports reading and comprehension and just in time for Summer Reading Program... How to Make Reading Fun!We also check in with Ellen K. from our Northwest Branch Library to hear about what's been happening on their side of the county.Find our NaNoWriMo programs online at www.hcpl.net and sign up for our infamous Summer Reading program at www.hcpl.beanstack.orgCreated by the Podcast Team at the Harris County Public Library.www.hcpl.netPodcast Team Members include: Beth Krippel, John Harbaugh, Mary Mink, Lana Sell, Ellen Kaluza, Sadina Shawver, Gisella Parker, Kara Ludwig, Delaney Daly, Jennifer Finch, Katelyn Helberg, Logan Tuttle, Darcy Casavant, Darla Pruitt and Nancy Hu Original Music created by Bryan Kratish