The small town of Fry in Logan County is a weird place. Strange, unexplainable, dangerous stuff happens all the time, threatening the townsfolk. Thankfully, the town is also home to cousins Otto and Sheed - the Legendary Alston Boys. They've solved mysteries and saved the day countless times, but when they encounter an unusual man with a magical camera on the last day of summer, they embark on what may be their toughest challenge yet... The setting is reminiscent of Gravity Falls or Stranger Things (but more kid-friendly of course) - Logan County is full of supernatural surprises. Otto and Sheed are extremely likable characters, and the story is filled with humor, action, imagination, and delivers a heartwarming and inspiring message on top. Recommended for ages 9-12, but could be enjoyed by younger kids as well.

Reviewed by Paul D.

Did you know the Main Library offers unique items for check out like mobile hotspots, energy monitors, book club kits, seeds, toys, and outdoor adventure backpacks? They’re part of our Library of Things!

A Library of Things is a collection of items for loan that expands the boundaries of traditionally defined library materials, meeting the needs of our diverse and growing community.

Beginning May 1, we’re adding two new items to this collection––iPads and Mobile Video Production Kits!

Our cellular-enabled iPads are pre-loaded with apps and programs for everyday use! WiFi access is not needed and iPads come with unlimited data. The collection offers you an opportunity to use something you might not come across otherwise, or to “try before you buy.” This collection is funded by a City of Bloomington Digital Equity Grant. Read more about iPads and Mobile Video Production Kits Added to the Library of Things

Barbara “Barb” Fisher, a dear friend of the VITAL program, passed away on April 1, 2021. Barb’s love of reading led her to VITAL in 2008, when she participated in training to teach English as a New Language to Bloomington newcomers. Over the next 12 years, Barb was a regular fixture at VITAL. As a one-on-one tutor, she volunteered with nine different English language learners, helping them improve their language skills and confidence while adjusting to life in the US. As an office volunteer, she welcomed new faces at the VITAL front desk and assisted with clerical work. As a Quiz Bowl player, she matched wits with Bloomington’s finest trivia brains, competing under the titles “Infosyndics” and “VITAL Statistics” among other creative monikers. Finally, as a generous donor and supporter, she anonymously sponsored teams and encouraged many to take part in the annual fundraising and advocacy event. Barb was one of a kind, and she was certainly "vital" to us. Read more about Barb Fisher, VITAL Volunteer

With the passage of the American Rescue Plan individuals can enroll or change their current Federal Health Insurance Marketplace plan now through August 15, 2021. Individuals are qualifying for substantial savings in a new plan or on the same plan with lower monthly premiums. Read more about Health Insurance Marketplace Assistance with ASPIN

When children experience trauma, we encourage them to seek out the helpers in their lives. The people who work at Susie’s Place are among the helpers in our community providing support for children who have been harmed. In addition to advocating for children who have been abused, guiding them and their families through judicial processes, and connecting them to essential social services, the people who work at Susie’s Place also strive to prevent child abuse by helping children learn ways to keep themselves safe.

Susie’s Place works in partnership with schools to help children and teens learn effective methods for preventing, recognizing and responding to threatening situations. While schools have been closed to visitors, and in effort to reach children learning at home, Susie’s Place has prepared educational videos that teach children practical safety rules. Read more about Help Prevent Child Abuse