This is a great article on looking at trying new things and making sure systems actually work for the people who use them. It focuses on Te Awe Library and the Māori culture in New Zealand. Even if you don’t have any interest in Cataloging or how things can be organized, this is still an interesting, encouraging article to read. You can find the article here) https://magazine.1000libraries.com/this-library-in-new-zealand-is-replacing-dewey-with-a-system-rooted-in-maori-tradition/

Depending on your interests, this could be a busy weekend with options for a Powwow and a Renaissance Festival (separate post)! This Powwow says it’s open to everyone and is indoors, so weather isn’t a problem. The event is at the Jaycee Fairgrounds in Jefferson City and takes place Saturday-Sunday, May 24th-25th. For more information on this event you can go here) https://www.facebook.com/forthepeoplepowwow/

Anyone who loves Renaissance festivals is in luck this weekend. This festival is taking place the 24th & 25th at the Fairgrounds in Laurie. If you would like to find out more about this event, please visit the site here) https://www.facebook.com/people/Dragon-Lake-Renaissance-Festival/61573028822480/

This article seems geared towards those who are actually thinking of becoming pro book recommenders but I found it an interesting read regardless. As someone who is constantly mentally throwing the “write & write faster” phrase at every author I follow, including Brandon Sanderson, I might try the tips in here just for myself. It provides a systematic approach to book recommendation where you can go from easy beginner steps all the way to pro levels that require research. I hope you find the information valuable no matter who you use it for or how involved you want your process to be. You can find the article here (https://bookriot.com/how-to-recommend-books-like-an-expert/) if you would like to read more.

This article provides some unique and fun ideas for corresponding with your pen pals. I thought about picking my favorite to share as an example but decided not to give spoilers. Don’t have a pen pal? They have a few ideas to help with that as well. Go here (https://www.npr.org/2025/04/24/nx-s1-5321366/how-to-send-handwritten-letters-mail) to read more.

The Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis is showcasing Chinese culture next weekend (May 3-4). I don’t see a schedule of activities for this yet but last year they had unique cultural crafts guests could make and terrific performances such as the lions and acrobats. This is a great time to visit the botanical garden. For more information please visit this site) https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/events-classes/signature-events/chinese-culture-days

This is a global effort to share your experiences with nature where you live. You can get caught up on the details at https://www.citynaturechallenge.org/ and there is a list of online events here: https://www.citynaturechallenge.org/events.

These mugs are worth a look and who knows, maybe you’ll find a new favorite! (https://bookriot.com/handmade-bookish-mugs/)