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The Best of Quaranzine

Hats Off to Our Quaranzine Community

We began Quaranzine toward the beginning of Covid-19, which marked the most dynamic shift in our collective lives within recent memory.

The call was simple: Show us how you're responding to the world right now.

The responses came pouring in, and we built a collection of works that displayed the warmth, creativity, diversity, and innovation that we've come to expect and cherish about our community.

Here we celebrate Quaranzine by revisiting some of our favorite entries, with deep thanks to everyone who took part in this experiment. We've all changed so much this year, and the joy in sharing what we can with each other is immeasurable.

We hope this finds you all warm, safe, and finding creativity in new ways.

Photo of street diorama with rubber rats holding signs in Old Town Alexandria.
Alex Zealand, "Rats for Social Distancing" - Street diorama with rubber rats holding signs. Photographed in Old Town Alexandria.
I like to research and find out more when I'm anxious and feel I don't have control. Questions like, have we gone through something like this in the past? The answer is always yes, in a way. Plague Doctors look scary, but I encourage you to look closer; they were doctors. They were there on the front lines to diagnose and help. The beak of the mask was filled with flowers and herbs often thought to chase away the bad smells of disease. The stick or cane was used for social distancing and for examining. The round hat was the symbol of a doctor at this time. Of course, this was before germ theory. I wanted to draw and play with ink to get my mind off of our current situation, but still remember that we have survived.
Brit Austin, "The Doctor" - I like to research and find out more when I'm anxious and feel I don't have control. Questions like, have we gone through something like this in the past? The answer is always yes, in a way. Plague Doctors look scary, but I encourage you to look closer; they were doctors. They were there on the front lines to diagnose and help. The beak of the mask was filled with flowers and herbs often thought to chase away the bad smells of disease. The stick or cane was used for social distancing and for examining. The round hat was the symbol of a doctor at this time. Of course, this was before germ theory. I wanted to draw and play with ink to get my mind off of our current situation, but still remember that we have survived.
Carved face yawning, or screaming, with ivy growing around it.
Maria Lauron, "Ivy Face" (editor's note: #mood)
I've decided to start making daily sketches of things in & around my home. This was my first sketch (3/29/2020) and I hope to continue this practice until this pandemic passes.
Janelle Ortiz, "Pothos Sketch" - I've decided to start making daily sketches of things in & around my home. This was my first sketch (3/29/2020) and I hope to continue this practice until this pandemic passes.
A neighborhood birthday party in the time of coronavirus.
Patricia Loverich, "Happy Birthday James" -A neighborhood birthday party in the time of coronavirus.
Portrait of a young woman in physical isolation watching tv and waiting for Corona to end.
Amari Eaglin, "Wake Me Up When Corona Ends" -Portrait of a young woman in physical isolation watching tv and waiting for Corona to end.
Looking through the bars of the prison.
Barry Dunn, "Cabin Fever" - Looking through the bars of the prison.
A sweet neighbor made chalk photo stations, a maze and an obstacle course for children to enjoy on their daily walk outside.
Beckie DiPasquale, "Sidewalk Angel" - A sweet neighbor made chalk photo stations, a maze and an obstacle course for children to enjoy on their daily walk outside.
Blackout poetry/collage: "A map of miracles, prayers as dark as ink, the poets are stranded."
Bekah Richards, "The Poets Are Stranded" - Blackout poetry/collage: "A map of miracles, prayers as dark as ink, the poets are stranded."
As I'm generally a home-body, I've been opting for using all this down time to make things that bring me joy! Chocolate muffins *oven bings*, crochet projects, drawing, these doodles, etc. I've found myself saying... I was made for this! But then I realized the gender stereotype that "a woman's place is in the home" (which is sexist). While recognizing the gender stereotypes that lead me to my hobbies, I'm reclaiming my space in the home as a person who likes to be there--I mean look at the picture, I'm really am taking up the whole living room. Have a nice walk husband, I'll try that some day!
Brooke Lacock-Nisly, "Many Ways of Coping" - As I'm generally a home-body, I've been opting for using all this down time to make things that bring me joy! Chocolate muffins *oven bings*, crochet projects, drawing, these doodles, etc. I've found myself saying... I was made for this! But then I realized the gender stereotype that "a woman's place is in the home" (which is sexist). While recognizing the gender stereotypes that lead me to my hobbies, I'm reclaiming my space in the home as a person who likes to be there--I mean look at the picture, I'm really am taking up the whole living room. Have a nice walk husband, I'll try that some day!
I keep a daily sketchbook of things I encounter when I'm out and about each day. With outside trips severely limited these days, I have been looking inside for inspiration. This practice has helped me reconfigure what "doing something" looks like and what the markers of a "productive day" might be.
Brooke Stoneman, "Inside Home" - I keep a daily sketchbook of things I encounter when I'm out and about each day. With outside trips severely limited these days, I have been looking inside for inspiration. This practice has helped me reconfigure what "doing something" looks like and what the markers of a "productive day" might be.
Acrylic on paper, 24x24
Don Rubin, "Around Here" - Acrylic on paper, 24x24
This 11x14” acrylic painting is based on a sunset photo taken by a friend on his sailboat while sailing on the Potomac before the Stay-at-home order. It reminds me to treasure the freedom we still have to explore in nature.
Alanna Rivera, "Potomac River Sunset" - This 11x14” acrylic painting is based on a sunset photo taken by a friend on his sailboat while sailing on the Potomac before the Stay-at-home order. It reminds me to treasure the freedom we still have to explore in nature.
I am a seasonal allergy sufferer. As spring arrived early this year in the DC area, there have been a number of mornings that I've woken up with symptoms that could either be allergies or the Coronavirus. The attached comic was inspired by this conundrum.
Erika Johnson, "Coronavirus and Allergies" - I am a seasonal allergy sufferer. As spring arrived early this year in the DC area, there have been a number of mornings that I've woken up with symptoms that could either be allergies or the Coronavirus. The attached comic was inspired by this conundrum.
I wrote a poem to express what's keeping me going. It's you, it's me, it's us. What gets me though is knowing that we're in this together, to help us get through. Thank you for putting this project together. It's quite heartwarming.
Devin Boyle, "Keeping On" - I wrote a poem to express what's keeping me going. It's you, it's me, it's us. What gets me though is knowing that we're in this together, to help us get through. Thank you for putting this project together. It's quite heartwarming.
We are all hyper-aware of hand washing, face touching and physical distancing these days. Doing something that would have been relaxing pre-COVID-19, like a massage, now feels threatening. Made with collaged elements including a withdrawn sticker from an old library book, updated with a new stamp date; found images; painted paper; and fingerprints from a stamp pad, pressed three times to represent the decrease in virulence on surfaces over the course of days.
Molly McCracken, "Try to Relax" - We are all hyper-aware of hand washing, face touching and physical distancing these days. Doing something that would have been relaxing pre-COVID-19, like a massage, now feels threatening. Made with collaged elements including a withdrawn sticker from an old library book, updated with a new stamp date; found images; painted paper; and fingerprints from a stamp pad, pressed three times to represent the decrease in virulence on surfaces over the course of days.
Mixed media on wood: acrylic paint, metallic paint, tarot cards, sharpie pen, stamps 12"" X 24" The turning point of a disease when an important change takes place, indicating either recovery or death; physically, economically, leadership, organizational misdeeds . Now, in this age of Covid 19, is a crisis point of history. Soon we will be at the zero hour point of no return. I fear for our humanity, for our future.
Jennifer Beinhacker, "What Does the Future Hold in Times of Crisis? - "Mixed media on wood: acrylic paint, metallic paint, tarot cards, sharpie pen, stamps 12"" X 24" The turning point of a disease when an important change takes place, indicating either recovery or death; physically, economically, leadership, organizational misdeeds . Now, in this age of Covid 19, is a crisis point of history. Soon we will be at the zero hour point of no return. I fear for our humanity, for our future.
When I'm feeling stressed I like to listen to Ira Glass's soothing voice on "This American Life". It's usually a place of escape for me, but now they're focusing so much on the pandemic and crisis around that in this podcast too. Is my place of comfort being destroyed, or should I be reassured that my fears are normal? I just want Ira Glass to reassure me with that nice, smooth voice of his.
Nico Felsenheld, "Emotional Support NPR Host" - When I'm feeling stressed I like to listen to Ira Glass's soothing voice on "This American Life". It's usually a place of escape for me, but now they're focusing so much on the pandemic and crisis around that in this podcast too. Is my place of comfort being destroyed, or should I be reassured that my fears are normal? I just want Ira Glass to reassure me with that nice, smooth voice of his.
Week four of quarantine has us all feeling like trapped tigers, I think.
Sierra Barnes, "Quarantiger" - Week four of quarantine has us all feeling like trapped tigers, I think.
This picture is of bright pink flowers which I think really highlights positivity and happiness which can make people smile during this time knowing that they should keep their chin up and stay happy.
Hannah Portner, "Springing Positivity During Quarantine" - This picture is of bright pink flowers which I think really highlights positivity and happiness which can make people smile during this time knowing that they should keep their chin up and stay happy.
In the midst of these strange and challenging times, our pets give us unconditional love and support. They encourage socialization—however distant—and give us love and affection. Oreo is cuddly and sweet; this drawing shows his calm demeanor and pleasant personality.
Melanie Roberts, "Oreo" - In the midst of these strange and challenging times, our pets give us unconditional love and support. They encourage socialization—however distant—and give us love and affection. Oreo is cuddly and sweet; this drawing shows his calm demeanor and pleasant personality.
This image represents the angel in everyone that feels they are in a dark place looking outside their abode.
David Stanley, "Stuck Inside" -This image represents the angel in everyone that feels they are in a dark place looking outside their abode.
Eva Boal, 8, finishes her yoga workout at home on her first day of "spring break", while quarantined during the COVID-19 pandemic on Monday, April 6, 2020. Schools were closed for the year several weeks ago, and since then, her school has been scheduling daily video calls with her teacher and classmates. Monday was the first day of Spring Break where there were no video calls and classwork, so she decided to try a yoga session in the living room.
John Boal, "Quarantine Yoga" - Eva Boal, 8, finishes her yoga workout at home on her first day of "spring break", while quarantined during the COVID-19 pandemic on Monday, April 6, 2020. Schools were closed for the year several weeks ago, and since then, her school has been scheduling daily video calls with her teacher and classmates. Monday was the first day of Spring Break where there were no video calls and classwork, so she decided to try a yoga session in the living room.
Using this extra time to make some punny cross-stitch art for my friends. (Cross-stitch pattern by Etsy artist CraftTimeinArkham)
Julian Plamann, "Seize the Day" - Using this extra time to make some punny cross-stitch art for my friends. (Cross-stitch pattern by Etsy artist CraftTimeinArkham)
Last week I came up with a way to document what’s happening around us. I started contacting friends to send me a picture of themselves in the spot they are spending the most time in during this quarantine. Along with the picture I asked them to write a short paragraph about what this quarantine means to them. Or if they didn’t want to write a short paragraph, I asked them to give me 10 words that describes what they are feeling right now. I then added my own twist to the photos and words to create one-of-a-kind images. (www.socialpolaroids.com)
Miguel Martinez, "Social Polaroids" - Last week I came up with a way to document what’s happening around us. I started contacting friends to send me a picture of themselves in the spot they are spending the most time in during this quarantine. Along with the picture I asked them to write a short paragraph about what this quarantine means to them. Or if they didn’t want to write a short paragraph, I asked them to give me 10 words that describes what they are feeling right now. I then added my own twist to the photos and words to create one-of-a-kind images. (www.socialpolaroids.com)
Been doing a lot of walking, of course, these days. Took a bunch of pictures of blossoming trees and buttercup-filled patches of grass, but this sight, of the barren trees reflected on the water of Four Mile Run, was more like my mood of late. Quiet, soft, thinking, waiting.
Theresa Flynn, "Spring Reflections" - Been doing a lot of walking, of course, these days. Took a bunch of pictures of blossoming trees and buttercup-filled patches of grass, but this sight, of the barren trees reflected on the water of Four Mile Run, was more like my mood of late. Quiet, soft, thinking, waiting.
A ballpoint portrait of Actor Clark Gregg in the play The Christopher Boy's Communion, drawn while in isolation. I spent approximately 40 hours over 3 weeks drawing it. Shading all those details kept me (somewhat) sane!
Paulina Valanty, "Theater Portrait" - Actor Clark Gregg in the play The Christopher Boy's Communion, drawn while in isolation. I spent approximately 40 hours over 3 weeks drawing it. Shading all those details kept me (somewhat) sane!
This is a poem about the countryside in the spring. (Written by Lucas Hand, age 7, 2nd Grade, Glebe Elementary School)"
Lucas Hand, "Sunrise" - This is a poem about the countryside in the spring. (Written by Lucas Hand, age 7, 2nd Grade, Glebe Elementary School)"
My name is Nadia Lach, I am eleven years old. I hope this mini anthology will help some people struggling and I hope you enjoy it! These are all my works, I am excited to submit.
Nadia Lachhab, "Coronavirus" - My name is Nadia Lach, I am eleven years old. I hope this mini anthology will help some people struggling and I hope you enjoy it! These are all my works, I am excited to submit.
"We can support each other from afar with words and images of kindness, hope, compassion and hugs. Getting out exercising and working on a project such as this with family and friends - showing an act of kindness and support for one another is a good thing. This is Lake Accotink Park and Ravensworth Farm in Springfield, VA. The kids did all the artwork and posted them around Lake Trail, the marina, and the neighborhood. A big thank you to the VanBrunt family (dedicated Friends of Lake Accotink Park (FLAP) and community volunteers) for their amazing artwork of kindness, hope, support, hugs and compassion - wonderful job by Arika and the kids. For many, getting out for a walk, following protocols, is the only time they can get out for exercise and a much needed break. Seeing these signs lets them know they are not alone - we are all in this together.
Mary Keeser, "Signs, Words and Images of Kindness, Hope, Compassion and Hugs" - We can support each other from afar with words and images of kindness, hope, compassion and hugs. Getting out exercising and working on a project such as this with family and friends - showing an act of kindness and support for one another is a good thing. This is Lake Accotink Park and Ravensworth Farm in Springfield, VA. The kids did all the artwork and posted them around Lake Trail, the marina, and the neighborhood. A big thank you to the VanBrunt family (dedicated Friends of Lake Accotink Park (FLAP) and community volunteers) for their amazing artwork of kindness, hope, support, hugs and compassion - wonderful job by Arika and the kids. For many, getting out for a walk, following protocols, is the only time they can get out for exercise and a much needed break. Seeing these signs lets them know they are not alone - we are all in this together.
A drawing of a mother whale and her calf.
Maya Gibel, "Mother and Calf" - A drawing of a mother whale and her calf.
This picture is about everything that is going on right now. I know it's hard for some people but I hope this will bring people joy at this awful time. (Eliana Villwock, Grade 2)
Eliana Villwock, "The Helpers" - This picture is about everything that is going on right now. I know it's hard for some people but I hope this will bring people joy at this awful time. (Eliana Villwock, Grade 2)
I created this work 2 weeks into Quarantine when I still had hope and excitement for the break from school. Now I have run out of creative energy and I am just left with the fruits of my labor.
Wes Riggs, "Troubled Water" - I created this work 2 weeks into Quarantine when I still had hope and excitement for the break from school. Now I have run out of creative energy and I am just left with the fruits of my labor.
My dad introduced me to Star Trek and I really liked the way the characters and other things looked, so I made a whole page of drawings dedicated to Star Trek. And it turned out more awesome than I thought, so I decided to submit it.
Kai Heilen, "Star Trek Forever" - My dad introduced me to Star Trek and I really liked the way the characters and other things looked, so I made a whole page of drawings dedicated to Star Trek. And it turned out more awesome than I thought, so I decided to submit it.
Each day my twin brother Sully and I do a chalk drawing about something we miss or are longing for during quarantine and incorporate ourselves into it. We were supposed to go snorkeling in Hawaii over Spring Break, so we created a fun underwater image of us snorkeling with fish and other sea creatures. We've also created images of our summer swim and dive teams, fishing and crabbing, watching the sunset on the beach, soccer games and dance recitals and even playing on the playground with our friends!
Audrey Portner, "Longing for Snorkeling in Hawaii" - Each day my twin brother Sully and I do a chalk drawing about something we miss or are longing for during quarantine and incorporate ourselves into it. We were supposed to go snorkeling in Hawaii over Spring Break, so we created a fun underwater image of us snorkeling with fish and other sea creatures. We've also created images of our summer swim and dive teams, fishing and crabbing, watching the sunset on the beach, soccer games and dance recitals and even playing on the playground with our friends!
"Caoimhe (sounds like 'kiva', rhymes with 'diva' for good reason) is four years old and loves nothing more than drawing and the library, so she was particularly excited about submitting to the Quaranzine. She's by far our family's most talented artist!
Caoimhe O'Connor, "Lion Artastic" - "Caoimhe (sounds like 'kiva', rhymes with 'diva' for good reason) is four years old and loves nothing more than drawing and the library, so she was particularly excited about submitting to the Quaranzine. She's by far our family's most talented artist! Interview with the author: Q - What were you thinking about when drawing? "I was thinking of drawing an oval with a heart, and a tail like he was lying down." Q - Why did you draw a lion? "Because I love lions. They're my favorite animal, and they're yellow, and they're soft." Q - Why did you choose to use markers? "Because they're my special thing and I love them and they're my favorite thing in my art kit."
Hello I am Enkule. I drew the “Great Wave of Kanagawa” which was created by Hokusai. I moved to Arlington county in January and I started school on February 1st. I went to school for 2 months, and now we are stuck at home because of the quarantine. I draw a lot of pictures, we enjoy cooking, playing games, and I do my school assignments online at home. I can’t go out much, and I can’t see my friends for a while, so I’m a little bored. When we go out to get groceries we wear masks and gloves to protect us. We are being very careful because I have an 8 month old baby brother. We are extra careful about going out. Hope this is better soon!
Enkule Federer, "The Great Wave of Kanagawa" - Hello I am Enkule. I drew the “Great Wave of Kanagawa” which was created by Hokusai. I moved to Arlington county in January and I started school on February 1st. I went to school for 2 months, and now we are stuck at home because of the quarantine. I draw a lot of pictures, we enjoy cooking, playing games, and I do my school assignments online at home. I can’t go out much, and I can’t see my friends for a while, so I’m a little bored. When we go out to get groceries we wear masks and gloves to protect us. We are being very careful because I have an 8 month old baby brother. We are extra careful about going out. Hope this is better soon!
I am an Arlington resident sheltering in place with my 8 year old granddaughter. This is a poem she wrote about how she feels about staying in quarantine.
Alma Dominique-Kabasela, "In Quarantine" - I am an Arlington resident sheltering in place with my 8 year old granddaughter. This is a poem she wrote about how she feels about staying in quarantine.
This papercut hangs on my door to thank all those working for USPS, parcel services, and delivery services. The figure is inspired by the eagle logo for USPS, in the style of the Egyptian god Horace (an eagle-headed human).
Melanie Kehoss, "Delivery Heroes" - This papercut hangs on my door to thank all those working for USPS, parcel services, and delivery services. The figure is inspired by the eagle logo for USPS, in the style of the Egyptian god Horace (an eagle-headed human).
Sometimes home can be a refuge. In these times, home feels a bit confining. Tara Barr is a lifelong art lover and a working mom in the DC area. She recently decided to make painting a high priority in her life after setting it aside for over a decade to focus on her family and her career in technology. Tara is inspired by great design, interesting details, and nostalgic memories. You can show your support following @tarabarr.art on Instagram.
Tara Barr, "Woman House" - Sometimes home can be a refuge. In these times, home feels a bit confining. Tara Barr is a lifelong art lover and a working mom in the DC area. She recently decided to make painting a high priority in her life after setting it aside for over a decade to focus on her family and her career in technology. Tara is inspired by great design, interesting details, and nostalgic memories. You can show your support following @tarabarr.art on Instagram.
This picture represents my feelings about making it through hard times. Persistence and self-expression were qualities Frida Kahlo demonstrated throughout her life. When I was looking through recent paintings I was thinking about Frida Kahlo and what art means to me during this difficult time for all of us.
Cynthia Killough, "Frida 1932" - This picture represents my feelings about making it through hard times. Persistence and self-expression were qualities Frida Kahlo demonstrated throughout her life. When I was looking through recent paintings I was thinking about Frida Kahlo and what art means to me during this difficult time for all of us.
I am a freelance illustrator from Washington D.C. and serve as a political cartoonist for environmental news platform Our Daily Planet, as well as an illustrator for Georgetown University Office of Communications. In order to help me keep artistic and mental discipline during quarantine, I started an online art challenge called #CatadayApril, in which participants were encouraged to draw one cat every day in April. I created a prompt list as well as official graphics for the challenge.
Alexandra Bowman, "Cat Video Lawyer" - I am a freelance illustrator from Washington D.C. and serve as a political cartoonist for environmental news platform Our Daily Planet, as well as an illustrator for Georgetown University Office of Communications. In order to help me keep artistic and mental discipline during quarantine, I started an online art challenge called #CatadayApril, in which participants were encouraged to draw one cat every day in April. I created a prompt list as well as official graphics for the challenge.
A comic about how our family is social distancing outside.
Meehea Davis, "Social Distancing" - A comic about how our family is social distancing outside.
Route 7 (King Street) and Walter Reed Drive was completely devoid of cars one evening as I was on my way to the new Five Guys to pick up burgers for my wife and I. The brand new West End development, located where the old Five Guys used to be, is hoping to be a bustling city center. It looked so nice in the evening sun, but I felt a touch of sadness in the contrast between hope for future success of the new center and the empty street.
Andrew Henderson, "King Street Quarantine Views" - Route 7 (King Street) and Walter Reed Drive was completely devoid of cars one evening as I was on my way to the new Five Guys to pick up burgers for my wife and I. The brand new West End development, located where the old Five Guys used to be, is hoping to be a bustling city center. It looked so nice in the evening sun, but I felt a touch of sadness in the contrast between hope for future success of the new center and the empty street.
"Apollo." Duct tape, cardboard. 8.25"" x 11"" My partner and I decided to live together during the stay at home orders, resulting in me spending time with his dog 24/7 while he is out working long hours, 5-6 days a week. Apollo has become my world, in so many ways.
El Simmons, "Apollo" - Duct tape, cardboard. 8.25"" x 11"". My partner and I decided to live together during the stay at home orders, resulting in me spending time with his dog 24/7 while he is out working long hours, 5-6 days a week. Apollo has become my world, in so many ways.
Image from a walk across the 395 pedestrian bridge in Shirlington at sunset.
Hillary Williams, "Sunset Bridge" - Image from a walk across the 395 pedestrian bridge in Shirlington at sunset.
Poppies in graphite. See more of my work on JoannaKEdwards.com or Instagram @thejosho
Joanna Edwards, "Poppies" - Poppies in graphite. See more of my work on JoannaKEdwards.com or Instagram @thejosho
I celebrated my 90th birthday this month. I was born in Baltimore in 1930. One of my favorite life memories is from when I was 13 years old, and my 15-year-old sister and I hitchhiked to Maine. I stayed at an artist colony for two weeks. In my youth I was a dancer and played piano, mandolin, cassinette, and bass. When I graduated from high school I had to choose: dance professionally or study medicine. I became a doctor (Endocrinologist) and in the 1960s managed some of the first gender affirming (sex reassignment) surgeries for people who are trans. I live in a colorful house in Lyon Village with my husband Bob. We’ve raised children and are now grandparents. I am proud to be in my 90s. Photo credit: Marley Pulido
Joey Gibson, "My 90th Birthday" - I celebrated my 90th birthday this month. I was born in Baltimore in 1930. One of my favorite life memories is from when I was 13 years old, and my 15-year-old sister and I hitchhiked to Maine. I stayed at an artist colony for two weeks. In my youth I was a dancer and played piano, mandolin, cassinette, and bass. When I graduated from high school I had to choose: dance professionally or study medicine. I became a doctor (Endocrinologist) and in the 1960s managed some of the first gender affirming (sex reassignment) surgeries for people who are trans. I live in a colorful house in Lyon Village with my husband Bob. We’ve raised children and are now grandparents. I am proud to be in my 90s. Photo credit: Marley Pulido
I often find myself referring back to Carrie Fisher's writing and acting, especially when I'm feeling lost or vulnerable, or when the world seems to have stopped making sense. Her insistence on being loud and unapologetic about who she was has always been a source of strength for me, so painting her seemed appropriate in these times.
Katelyn Attanasio, "Space Mom" - I often find myself referring back to Carrie Fisher's writing and acting, especially when I'm feeling lost or vulnerable, or when the world seems to have stopped making sense. Her insistence on being loud and unapologetic about who she was has always been a source of strength for me, so painting her seemed appropriate in these times.
I am a diplomat who is serving in China. Every time I come to Arlington for training, I get to enjoy the wonderful services you provide to the community. I want to share a bit of what I see and feel here. I did a series called "Beating COVID-19"
Paloma Kottonger, "Beating Covid 19" - I am a diplomat who is serving in China. Every time I come to Arlington for training, I get to enjoy the wonderful services you provide to the community. I want to share a bit of what I see and feel here. I did a series called "Beating COVID-19"
Take a break. Stare into the fountain. It helps.
Mark Charette, "Fountain: Halquist Hospice" - Take a break. Stare into the fountain. It helps.
Like may people, my husband and I have been keeping connected with family and friends during this time by participating in virtual visits, happy hours and trivia games. To make our Zoom get-togethers feel special, we have been experimenting with different cocktails. The actor, Stanley Tucci, posted a tutorial on his Instagram account making a Negroni for his wife. We tried it and found our new favorite! My painting includes all the ingredients for a perfect Negroni. I had fun composing the still life. I loved the colors and shapes of the bottles contrasting with the oranges, the brick wall and the lace table covering. This quieter life has gifted me adequate moments to notice and celebrate the simple beauty of everyday objects.
Rita Wiggins, "COVID-19, Still Life #1, An Homage to Stanley Tucci" - Like may people, my husband and I have been keeping connected with family and friends during this time by participating in virtual visits, happy hours and trivia games. To make our Zoom get-togethers feel special, we have been experimenting with different cocktails. The actor, Stanley Tucci, posted a tutorial on his Instagram account making a Negroni for his wife. We tried it and found our new favorite! My painting includes all the ingredients for a perfect Negroni. I had fun composing the still life. I loved the colors and shapes of the bottles contrasting with the oranges, the brick wall and the lace table covering. This quieter life has gifted me adequate moments to notice and celebrate the simple beauty of everyday objects.
This was the first piece I worked on since social distancing began. I started playing Animal Crossing: New Horizons shortly after things began to close and it was a great feeling to be able to escape to a tropical island where I could visit my friends in the safety of the virtual world. I wanted to make a piece that captured the idea of the island that I escape to and the reality of me at home in my blanket cocoon and 24/7 pajamas. Fantasy meets reality.
Rob Solka, "Escapism" - This was the first piece I worked on since social distancing began. I started playing Animal Crossing: New Horizons shortly after things began to close and it was a great feeling to be able to escape to a tropical island where I could visit my friends in the safety of the virtual world. I wanted to make a piece that captured the idea of the island that I escape to and the reality of me at home in my blanket cocoon and 24/7 pajamas. Fantasy meets reality.
I am curious about interior landscapes, so I started photographing everyday landscapes in my house. I post a daily image to my Facebook account as part of a meditation on the emotional processing of the effects of social distancing.
Stephanie Dempsey, "Separated" - I am curious about interior landscapes, so I started photographing everyday landscapes in my house. I post a daily image to my Facebook account as part of a meditation on the emotional processing of the effects of social distancing.
A Photo-Haiku of hope for these unusual times.
Stephen Hugh, "Covid 19 Haiku" - A Photo-Haiku of hope for these unusual times.
When things get so bleak we don’t know which way is up, we have to remind ourselves that there is light at the end of the tunnel, even if you have to create it yourself.
William Dickson, "Be The Light" - When things get so bleak we don’t know which way is up, we have to remind ourselves that there is light at the end of the tunnel, even if you have to create it yourself.
Due to required telework, I have not been able to water my desk plants. I prefer a desk-jungle if I have to be indoors all day. I was terribly worried as week two started that they may not make it. Fortunately, I was able to teach the building's minimal staffing team and they agreed to take pity on the plants. They asked for instructions, and I sketched and painted this quick instructional picture for them. Thankfully, the plants are surviving coronavirus.
Kayla Hinrichs Sorenson, "Please Water the Plants" - Due to required telework, I have not been able to water my desk plants. I prefer a desk-jungle if I have to be indoors all day. I was terribly worried as week two started that they may not make it. Fortunately, I was able to teach the building's minimal staffing team and they agreed to take pity on the plants. They asked for instructions, and I sketched and painted this quick instructional picture for them. Thankfully, the plants are surviving coronavirus.
Poster art: Acrylic painting on Poster. “Seeing colors of creativity in 2020” Seeing and giving feeling to emotions using art to express The inner thoughts on social and emotional response to the current epidemic happening the world today.
Jennie Lovelace, "2020 Spectrum" - Poster art: Acrylic painting on Poster. “Seeing colors of creativity in 2020” Seeing and giving feeling to emotions using art to express The inner thoughts on social and emotional response to the current epidemic happening the world today.
John Conroy, "COVID Postcards"
This is a group of elephants walking in the middle of the night with their trunks holding on to the tail of the elephant in front of them. They are under a starry night and a full moon. I painted it because I thought it would be fun and it would keep me busy, so that I am not bored.
Mina Dowler, "We are Together" - This is a group of elephants walking in the middle of the night with their trunks holding on to the tail of the elephant in front of them. They are under a starry night and a full moon. I painted it because I thought it would be fun and it would keep me busy, so that I am not bored.
Liz Laribee, Rhythm and Blues
Liz Laribee, Rhythm and Blues
Protest Poster Design
Eric Mercado, "Demand Justice" - Protest Poster Design
Hand carved woodcut printed on archival paper.
Grace O'Malley, "Flower of Life" - Hand carved woodcut printed on archival paper.
I'm a freelance illustrator and comic book artist who believes strongly that black lives matter! I created this piece as a fundraiser for the BLM and for George Floyd.
Jenny Tato, "No Justice No Peace" - I'm a freelance illustrator and comic book artist who believes strongly that black lives matter! I created this piece as a fundraiser for the BLM and for George Floyd.
With spending a lot of time at home, it has allowed for many days of cooking and experimenting with baking. (I have a record for not being a good baker, but I've been succeeding lately!) I FINALLY started a blog after years of thinking about it. It's called faithful foodee! My cooking focuses on making simple meals with items found in the home and food scraps! This recipe can also be found on there at https://faithfulfoodee.wixsite.com/faithfulfoodee. It's an easy way to incorporate more veggies into a low-carb meal.
Melissa Grant, "Zucchini Roll-ups Recipe" - With spending a lot of time at home, it has allowed for many days of cooking and experimenting with baking. (I have a record for not being a good baker, but I've been succeeding lately!) I FINALLY started a blog after years of thinking about it. It's called faithful foodee! My cooking focuses on making simple meals with items found in the home and food scraps! This recipe can also be found on there at https://faithfulfoodee.wixsite.com/faithfulfoodee. It's an easy way to incorporate more veggies into a low-carb meal.
Sharpie and watercolor on a paper napkin, unfolded.
Liz Laribee, "I Miss What Summer Used to Feel Like" - Sharpie and watercolor on a paper napkin, unfolded.
A Six Word Memoir
Megan Biggins, "My Quarantine in Short" - A Six Word Memoir
This spring I wanted to be sure to pay extra attention to all of the blooms around my neighborhood through a series of drawings. This pen and ink drawing is taken from this set of sketches.
Angelina Jones, "Azalea" - This spring I wanted to be sure to pay extra attention to all of the blooms around my neighborhood through a series of drawings. This pen and ink drawing is taken from this set of sketches.
20 x 30” Acrylic on Canvas. This is my first painting, and the first comment I received about it was, “next time, try to do something more positive.” While I completely understood the viewer’s point, my frustration quietly compounded as I felt the understanding wasn’t reciprocated. What I hoped would be a connection, was instead a separation. Suspicions of being devalued were confirmed. This was not a matter of feelings, but a matter of fact.
Angela Maray, "Time" - 20 x 30” Acrylic on Canvas. This is my first painting, and the first comment I received about it was, “next time, try to do something more positive.” While I completely understood the viewer’s point, my frustration quietly compounded as I felt the understanding wasn’t reciprocated. What I hoped would be a connection, was instead a separation. Suspicions of being devalued were confirmed. This was not a matter of feelings, but a matter of fact.
Hosta flowers have begun to open. As soon as sprinklers shut off, the bees start collecting pollen.
Mark Charette, "Bumble bee: Halquist Hospice" - Hosta flowers have begun to open. As soon as sprinklers shut off, the bees start collecting pollen.
I created some mini paintings on a canvas pad using acrylic while on a zoom chat with some friends. They were fun and I found it easy to hop around while the paint dried and not worry so much about little details.
Allison Coyle, "Summer Essence" - I created some mini paintings on a canvas pad using acrylic while on a zoom chat with some friends. They were fun and I found it easy to hop around while the paint dried and not worry so much about little details.
A portrait of Dr. Fauci by Violet, age (almost) 3
Violet Radzin, "Dr. Anthony Fauci" - A portrait of Dr. Fauci by Violet, age (almost) 3
A meditation on the meaning we impart to nature.
Edgar Evans, "Winter" - A meditation on the meaning we impart to nature.
Modified photo
Diane Kresh, "Things I miss #4792" - Modified photo

To take part in another creative project through Arlington Public Library, check out the Edible Book Contest! Submissions are due by December 29.

Read with the Big Book Club Podcast

Welcome back! Over the next six weeks, or three episodes of the podcast, we’ll be reading – and librarianing the heck out of – the first book in Frank Herbert’s epic Sci-Fi series, “Dune.” We chose “Dune” in part because it’s getting a lot of buzz, first-reads, and rereads this year, due to the new feature film coming out in 2021.

In part one, Megan can’t pronounce any of the made-up names, Pete reminisces about his dad reading “Dune” when he was a kid, and Jenny muses on Cold War politics.

Listen now!

The Library Director’s 2020 Book List, Continued

Reading in a Pandemic

“Salvation is certainly among the reasons I read. Reading and writing have always pulled me out of the darkest experiences in my life. Stories have given me a place in which to lose myself. They have allowed me to remember. They have allowed me to forget. They have allowed me to imagine different endings and better possible worlds.”

Roxane Gay, "Bad Feminist"

In late December last year, I compiled a list of books I intended to read in 2020.  As with most “to do” lists and resolutions, I began with good intentions. And then the pandemic hit and the books on my list no longer seemed adequate. My reading tastes shifted along with everything else in both my work and home life.

Photo of hand written notes of a book list.

I’ve always been a reader, but I began reading voraciously, as if I was running out of time.

Barely was a book closed before another opened. My hold list in the library catalog grew and grew and GREW. I created booklists on scraps of paper and in the margins of the arts and style sections of the newspaper. I listened faithfully to The Book Review Podcast from the New York Times.

And I read. All the time. More than 50 books in all, across genres and styles, dating from the 19th century to the present.

Diane's 2020 Pandemic Reading List
Photo of book covers.

There were many standouts. Long a fan of coming of age novels, I read five that will stick with me. Each of these authors is known for other, more famous books. These are worth a look for everyone who wants to revisit the trials of adolescence and early adulthood.

I dipped into classics:

And on the lighter side because I needed a dose of hopefulness, “A Wrinkle in Time,” by Madeleine L’Engle.

Photo of book covers.

Race was very much on the national mind and steered me toward:

The 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment and women being granted the right to vote drew me to women’s issues more broadly. I read:

For the pure pleasure of superior plotting and writing, I’ll mention “Disappearing Earth” by Julia Phillips.

Photo of book covers.

And finally, the wonderful Arlington READS authors whose books we featured in our 2020 series, “We the People.” In a year of reinvention of Library programs and services, we Zoomed the author talks, part of our new now.

And on a personal note, I discovered the joy (and ease) of audiobooks, especially when read by the author. What a delightful way to get lost in a story.

Diane's 2020 Pandemic Reading List

Reading was an anchor, a sure bet during months of uncertainty. With hours blending into days, into weeks and then months, I occasionally lost track of the day of the week, but never lost my place in a book. I had something to look forward to and there were always more books.

My stacks of books have not disappeared, and I am still adding holds in the Library catalog. At this moment, I am reading “Surviving Autocracy,“ by Russian-American journalist, translator and activist Masha Gessen, who I am excited to announce will be our first Arlington READS author in the new year.

In closing, thank you for your support of Arlington Public Library. It is a joy and an honor to serve this wonderful community.

Stay safe, stay hopeful and keep reading.

Diane

Scrawled signature of Diane Kresh

2020 Pumpkin Decorating Contest Winners

Having a Gourd Time with Your Library!

We are thrilled to have received 42 pumpkin submissions for our first virtual Pumpkin Decorating Contest! It was hard to choose the winners, as we adored so many. Thank you for submitting, attending the virtual decorating programs and carving out fun with the folks at the library!

Best Kids Upto Grade 5 Pumpkin:
"The Witch" by Elaina V.

“I was not alone in the pumpkin patch. There were warty pumpkins and neat pumpkins and big pumpkins and small pumpkins. One day, a farmer picked me up out of my patch and drove me to a nearby grocery store to sell me. Soon, a masked man came and picked me up (it’s coronavirus, dude). He drove me to his home and there was a little girl and her mom. They cut me and carved me and poked me and prodded me. One time, my owner picked me up and put me in the bathroom (for some reason). I finally saw myself through the bathroom mirror. I had an ugly, big nose and a long pointy black hat and silver paint smudged everywhere and big eyes. And then I thought, this look suits me.” – The Witch (aka Eliana, age 8)
Eliana V. "The Witch" - “I was not alone in the pumpkin patch. There were warty pumpkins and neat pumpkins and big pumpkins and small pumpkins. One day, a farmer picked me up out of my patch and drove me to a nearby grocery store to sell me. Soon, a masked man came and picked me up (it’s coronavirus, dude). He drove me to his home and there was a little girl and her mom. They cut me and carved me and poked me and prodded me. One time, my owner picked me up and put me in the bathroom (for some reason). I finally saw myself through the bathroom mirror. I had an ugly, big nose and a long pointy black hat and silver paint smudged everywhere and big eyes. And then I thought, this look suits me.” – The Witch (aka Eliana, age 8)

Best Grade 6-12 Pumpkin:
"Just Eat It" by Anne A.

Anne A., "Just Eat It"

Best Adult Pumpkin (TIE):
"It's a Magical World" by Steve M. and
"Arthur Celebrates Libraries" by Abby H.

The "stars" were made using 3 different sized nails inserted at various angles, so their luminosity changes depending on your viewing angle. So if you walk around the pumpkin, it "twinkles". Also, Hobbes' orange fur is the skin of the pumpkin.
The "stars" were made using 3 different sized nails inserted at various angles, so their luminosity changes depending on your viewing angle. So if you walk around the pumpkin, it "twinkles". Also, Hobbes' orange fur is the skin of the pumpkin.
Steve M., "It's a Magical World" - The "stars" were made using 3 different sized nails inserted at various angles, so their luminosity changes depending on your viewing angle. So if you walk around the pumpkin, it "twinkles". Also, Hobbes' orange fur is the skin of the pumpkin.
As a kid, I watched Arthur on PBS regularly. Years later, I revisited the series and found it just as charming as it had always been. Now, I read Marc Brown's Arthur books to my niece. As a librarian and book lover, it's no wonder my favorite scene from the series is Arthur and his friends' performance of "Library Card," a song that appears in the episode "Arthur's Almost Live Not Real Music Festival" and proclaims "Having fun isn't hard when you've got a library card." I couldn't help but illustrate Arthur's library card and sage lyrics on a pumpkin with paint. And, Arthur, I heartily agree.
Abby H., "Arthur Celebrates Libraries" - As a kid, I watched Arthur on PBS regularly. Years later, I revisited the series and found it just as charming as it had always been. Now, I read Marc Brown's Arthur books to my niece. As a librarian and book lover, it's no wonder my favorite scene from the series is Arthur and his friends' performance of "Library Card," a song that appears in the episode "Arthur's Almost Live Not Real Music Festival" and proclaims "Having fun isn't hard when you've got a library card." I couldn't help but illustrate Arthur's library card and sage lyrics on a pumpkin with paint. And, Arthur, I heartily agree.

Honorable Mentions...

Best Alternative Gourd:
"Dragons Love Halloween Candy" by Kelley M.

Best Dressed:
"Minnie Fang" by Ari T.

Most Intricate:
"Spotted Owl" by Carolyn B.

Hey Judges! Do you love pumpkins? And Halloween? And candy? So do dragons! If you want dragons to trick-or-treat at your house (socially distanced, of course), you’ll need boatloads of candy! Just make sure you bury all the spicy candy in the backyard or donate it to a Tasmanian devil. The one thing dragons can’t stand is spicy Halloween candy because it gives them the yummy troubles. Hey Dragon, how do you feel about Red Hots, Fireballs, and Hot Tamales? Too late...
Kelley M., "Dragons Love Halloween Candy" - Hey Judges! Do you love pumpkins? And Halloween? And candy? So do dragons! If you want dragons to trick-or-treat at your house (socially distanced, of course), you’ll need boatloads of candy! Just make sure you bury all the spicy candy in the backyard or donate it to a Tasmanian devil. The one thing dragons can’t stand is spicy Halloween candy because it gives them the yummy troubles. Hey Dragon, how do you feel about Red Hots, Fireballs, and Hot Tamales? Too late...
Carolyn B., "Spotted Owl"
Ari T., "Minnie Fang"

Check out these other pumpkins we loved!

Nicolas D., "The Scary Tree"
Sharing a love of books and storytelling to playing outdoor hide and seek, the Feliciano brothers and Kan kids live across the street from each other and have become the closest of friends this year. We had a blast carving pumpkins together on our driveway - a first time for most of the kids! Pumpkin seeds were saved to roast and snack on and the pumpkins will be composted after Halloween in the bountiful Kan garden. Happy kids carved happy pumpkins!
Jennifer F., "Happy Pumpkins, Happy Kids!" - Sharing a love of books and storytelling to playing outdoor hide and seek, the Feliciano brothers and Kan kids live across the street from each other and have become the closest of friends this year. We had a blast carving pumpkins together on our driveway - a first time for most of the kids! Pumpkin seeds were saved to roast and snack on and the pumpkins will be composted after Halloween in the bountiful Kan garden. Happy kids carved happy pumpkins!
Wakana & Akane H., "Oh, Nooooo! My Sister!!!!!"
"I love Bad Kitty books because they're funny and she's silly. I've read almost all of them by myself and with my mom and dad. My pet cat, Bartleby, looks just like Bad Kitty."
Amelia H., "Bad Kitty" - I love Bad Kitty books because they're funny and she's silly. I've read almost all of them by myself and with my mom and dad. My pet cat, Bartleby, looks just like Bad Kitty.
This year my daughter and I read through the entire Tiffany Aching series within the Discworld Series by Terry Pratchett. In the 4th book, I Shall Wear Midnight, a repeated image is a hare running. It has been our favorite series of books to read. She related a lot to Tiffany, a young witch and I related a lot to the older witches in the stories who helped guide Tiffany. I hope that my daughter will always remember those stories and the many many hours we spent reading together. The quote repeated within the story goes - "The Hare runs into the fire. The fire, it takes her, she is not burned. The fire, it loves her, she is not burned"
Janet H., "The Hare Runs into the Fire" - This year my daughter and I read through the entire Tiffany Aching series within the Discworld Series by Terry Pratchett. In the 4th book, I Shall Wear Midnight, a repeated image is a hare running. It has been our favorite series of books to read. She related a lot to Tiffany, a young witch and I related a lot to the older witches in the stories who helped guide Tiffany. I hope that my daughter will always remember those stories and the many many hours we spent reading together. The quote repeated within the story goes - "The Hare runs into the fire. The fire, it takes her, she is not burned. The fire, it loves her, she is not burned"
During COVID quarantine time, I thought it'd be cute to build my own pumpkin house. Went flower picking in Loudon County, and used them to decorate the windowsills of the pumpkin chalet!
Kathryn H., "Pumpkin Chalet" - During COVID quarantine time, I thought it'd be cute to build my own pumpkin house. Went flower picking in Loudon County, and used them to decorate the windowsills of the pumpkin chalet!
Arlene G., "This skull is on fire!"
As someone with the bad habit of constantly touching my face and eyes, the CDC's COVID prevention recommendations (don't touch your face, eyes, nose, mouth) have been very hard to follow! My pumpkin is an homage to how much scarier my bad habits became in 2020.
Amelia R., "Don't Touch Your Eyes!" - As someone with the bad habit of constantly touching my face and eyes, the CDC's COVID prevention recommendations (don't touch your face, eyes, nose, mouth) have been very hard to follow! My pumpkin is an homage to how much scarier my bad habits became in 2020.
This pumpkin were carved by 3 beautiful girls who had a blast, every single one has different inspirations. Mariana, 10 years old, was the artist behind the first pumpkin, first one to the left, she was inspired by her favorite emoji face. Maddie, 9 years old, was behind the throw up pumpkin, and she wanted to create something scary and disgusting at the same time and I think she did a wonderful job. Layla, 5 years old, was the artist that required the most help but still she did a wonderful job with the mini hear emoji pumpkin which she choose the design of, helped the grown ups with the cat pumpkin and she also made a beautiful design with marker on the remaining pumpkin, no carving necessary she said is perfect jus the way it is. With love Andy Aupair
Andy M. & kids, "Dream Work" - This pumpkin were carved by 3 beautiful girls who had a blast, every single one has different inspirations. Mariana, 10 years old, was the artist behind the first pumpkin, first one to the left, she was inspired by her favorite emoji face. Maddie, 9 years old, was behind the throw up pumpkin, and she wanted to create something scary and disgusting at the same time and I think she did a wonderful job. Layla, 5 years old, was the artist that required the most help but still she did a wonderful job with the mini hear emoji pumpkin which she choose the design of, helped the grown ups with the cat pumpkin and she also made a beautiful design with marker on the remaining pumpkin, no carving necessary she said is perfect jus the way it is. With love Andy Aupair
One day, like any other, there was a pumpkin. A farmer was soon coming to harvest it. Of course the pumpkin didn't have feelings, but if it did it would feel proud being from "the finest in the patch," the farmer said. A kid picked up the pumpkin and said in a gruff voice, "This is the one!" Back at the house, the kid was ready to carve.
Alex K., "Stumpkin" - One day, like any other, there was a pumpkin. A farmer was soon coming to harvest it. Of course the pumpkin didn't have feelings, but if it did it would feel proud being from "the finest in the patch," the farmer said. A kid picked up the pumpkin and said in a gruff voice, "This is the one!" Back at the house, the kid was ready to carve.
2020 has been quite a year...while grappling with the pandemic and other terrible occurrences, I've also had a number of successes and happy moments. As a tribute to both the good and the bad of this year, I carved these pumpkins - one happy, one scary!
Hannah A., "Beauty and the Beast" - 2020 has been quite a year...while grappling with the pandemic and other terrible occurrences, I've also had a number of successes and happy moments. As a tribute to both the good and the bad of this year, I carved these pumpkins - one happy, one scary!
Helen T., "Haunted House Pumpkin"
Once upon a time, there was a ghost and the ghost met a pumpkin! And the pumpkin turned the ghost into a fox and the fox ran away. The fox turned back into a ghost and then a big dinosaur came and ate the ghost up. And then the dinosaur stomped into the water and sank and turned into a fish. The fish turned into a tiger shark! And the tiger shark never turned back into a dinosaur. The pumpkin with the face turned into a...pumpkin (without a face)! And lived happily ever after. The end.
Ella H., "Ghost Carve Boo" - Once upon a time, there was a ghost and the ghost met a pumpkin! And the pumpkin turned the ghost into a fox and the fox ran away. The fox turned back into a ghost and then a big dinosaur came and ate the ghost up. And then the dinosaur stomped into the water and sank and turned into a fish. The fish turned into a tiger shark! And the tiger shark never turned back into a dinosaur. The pumpkin with the face turned into a...pumpkin (without a face)! And lived happily ever after. The end.
Tricia T., "Pumpkin Sweet Pumpkin"
Jadon O., "Winking Jack"
I am 8 3/4 years old and I carved this pumpkin all by myself. I choose the name 'give me a treat!' because, she is looking up and smiling so I thought it would fit. I hope you choose mine!
Kira S., "Give me a treat!" - I am 8 3/4 years old and I carved this pumpkin all by myself. I choose the name 'give me a treat!' because, she is looking up and smiling so I thought it would fit. I hope you choose mine!
My pumpkin dreams of going to space. Her gaze is directed towards what is up above, the stars, planets and the moon.
Jaya S., Jack o' Astronaut" - My pumpkin dreams of going to space. Her gaze is directed towards what is up above, the stars, planets and the moon.
Girl Scout Cadette Troop 502 spent time decorating pumpkins for the contest. Thank you for inspiring the fun!
Olivia Q., "Flower Forest" - Girl Scout Cadette Troop 502 spent time decorating pumpkins for the contest. Thank you for inspiring the fun!
Girl Scout Cadette Troop 502 spent time decorating pumpkins for the contest. Thank you for inspiring the fun!
Katie M., "I Will Try" - Girl Scout Cadette Troop 502 spent time decorating pumpkins for the contest. Thank you for inspiring the fun!
Girl Scout Cadette Troop 502 spent time decorating pumpkins for the contest. Thank you for inspiring the fun!
Katerina B., "COVID Cadette" - Girl Scout Cadette Troop 502 spent time decorating pumpkins for the contest. Thank you for inspiring the fun!
Girl Scout Cadette Troop 502 spent time decorating pumpkins for the contest. Thank you for inspiring the fun!
Lucy M., "Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Pumpkins" - Girl Scout Cadette Troop 502 spent time decorating pumpkins for the contest. Thank you for inspiring the fun!
Girl Scout Cadette Troop 502 spent time decorating pumpkins for the contest. Thank you for inspiring the fun!
Hadley B., "Cadette Craving Creativity" - Girl Scout Cadette Troop 502 spent time decorating pumpkins for the contest. Thank you for inspiring the fun!
Girl Scout Cadette Troop 502 spent time decorating pumpkins for the contest. Thank you for inspiring the fun!
Alexis Q., "Pom Pom Beehive" - Girl Scout Cadette Troop 502 spent time decorating pumpkins for the contest. Thank you for inspiring the fun!
Girl Scout Cadette Troop 502 spent time decorating pumpkins for the contest. Thank you for inspiring the fun!
Delanie J., "Masky" - Girl Scout Cadette Troop 502 spent time decorating pumpkins for the contest. Thank you for inspiring the fun!
In memory of my beloved recused cats. I loved and cherished them. They were such a comfort to me. Starbucks my black Halloween cat Charvet my furry white cat Puzzles my brown furry cat Tiffany my black dog
Kathryn D., "My Cats" - In memory of my beloved recused cats. I loved and cherished them. They were such a comfort to me. Starbucks my black Halloween cat Charvet my furry white cat Puzzles my brown furry cat Tiffany my black dog
COVID 19 has turned the world upside down so ...When life gives you pumpkins, make pumpkin pie. As a proverbial phrase, it’s helped and encouraged optimism and a positive can-do attitude in the face of adversity or misfortunes. Like a pumpkin, you must be well rounded and get plenty of sunshine and the great outdoors. Have thick skin, appreciate and give thanks to life’s bounty, breath, breath and breath!!! Keep growing big as a pumpkin but be gentle to your surroundings. God bless the little ones in our lives who help us during these challenging times ❤
Amy F., "When Life gives you pumpkins..." - COVID 19 has turned the world upside down so ...When life gives you pumpkins, make pumpkin pie. As a proverbial phrase, it’s helped and encouraged optimism and a positive can-do attitude in the face of adversity or misfortunes. Like a pumpkin, you must be well rounded and get plenty of sunshine and the great outdoors. Have thick skin, appreciate and give thanks to life’s bounty, breath, breath and breath!!! Keep growing big as a pumpkin but be gentle to your surroundings. God bless the little ones in our lives who help us during these challenging times ❤
Loren K., "Bloody Vampire"
I created this pumpkin by using masking tape to make the shapes.
Malina A., "Mr. Pumpkin" - I created this pumpkin by using masking tape to make the shapes.
Mila N., "They Are Back"
Olive G., "Howloween"
Sanjay R., "Pumpkin Scarry- like Richard Scarry"
I carved different sea creatures all around the pumpkin and then painted an ocean scene on it.
Sophia G., "Ocean Commotion" - I carved different sea creatures all around the pumpkin and then painted an ocean scene on it.
General Grevious was one of the most feared and terrible Jedi Hunters of the Clone Wars, he is the perfect character to carve on a pumpkin!
Siddharth G., "The Wrath of General Grevious" - General Grevious was one of the most feared and terrible Jedi Hunters of the Clone Wars, he is the perfect character to carve on a pumpkin!
My son absolutely adores Star Wars and wanted to decorate our pumpkin really unique this year, because no “ordinary” pumpkin will do in 2020!!
Sydney K., "Space Pumpkin" - My son absolutely adores Star Wars and wanted to decorate our pumpkin really unique this year, because no “ordinary” pumpkin will do in 2020!!
Gabriella Z., "The Witch Flies at Midnight!"

Thanks for joining us. See upcoming library events for all ages here.

A Year of Stories and Milestones in the Fight for Women’s Suffrage

Celebrating the 19th Amendment

Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment with stories about the people and events that led to the passage of women’s suffrage in the United States.

The executive committee of the National Woman’s Suffrage Association. Image courtesy of Spartacus Education via Your Voice Your Vote.

Over the course of the last year, the Center for Local History has collected the stories of the individuals and groups that helped lay the foundation for women’s suffrage in the United States.

As the Library commemorates the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, a major milestone in enacting the democratic principles of our nation, read the stories detailing the people and events that led up to this historic moment.

January 8: The First Issue of The Women’s Journal

Suffragist Margaret Foley distributing the Woman’s Journal and Suffrage News, 1913. Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division.

The Woman’s Journal was a women’s rights publication that produced its first issue on January 8, 1870.  One of the most significant and popular publications of the women’s suffrage movement, it ran in various forms from 1870 to 1931. Founded by suffragist Lucy Stone and her husband Henry Browne Blackwell in Boston, Massachusetts, the Woman's Journal aimed to provide a broad segment of women with information on the women’s rights movement and the suffrage cause.

Read the rest of the story.

January 26: Zitkála-Šá

Image of Zitkála-Šá ca. 1921, courtesy of the Library of Congress

Nationally recognized as an author and activist, Zitkála-Šá was a vocal proponent for citizenship and voting rights for Native Americans. A Lyon Park resident later in life, she passed away on this date in 1938 and is buried in Arlington Cemetery.

Read the rest of the story.

March 10: Hallie Quinn Brown

Hallie Quinn Brown. Image courtesy of Wilberforce-Payne Unified Library.

Born on March 10, 1865, Hallie Quinn Brown was a preeminent educator, writer, public speaker, and activist in the causes of civil rights and suffrage throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. She was a president of the National Council of Colored Women and worked on political campaigns throughout her life.

Read the rest of the story.

May 4: Mabel Ping-Hua Lee

Dr. Mabel Lee, date unknown. Photo from the George Grantham Bain Collection, courtesy of the Library of Congress.

On May 4, 1912, Mabel Ping-Hua Lee made history when she led one of New York City’s major suffrage parades on horseback. Lee was an active suffragist and activist throughout her life despite the barriers around her – for example, Chinese women such as Lee herself would not be able to vote until the Chinese Exclusion Act was removed in 1943 and they could become citizens.

Read the rest of the story.

May 10: The 11th National Women’s Rights Convention

“Horse-drawn float declares National American Woman Suffrage Association’s support for Bristow-Mondell amendment.” Circa 1914. Image courtesy of the Library of Congress.

In 1866, the women’s suffrage movement experienced a significant change in its organization as the various groups leading the struggle toward women’s suffrage split over certain issues. Key among them was support for the 15th Amendment, (passed in 1869), which states that "The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude."

Read the rest of the story.

May 20: Nannie Helen Burroughs

Nannie Helen Burroughs photographed between 1900 and 1920. Image courtesy of the Library of Congress.

Nannie Helen Burroughs, who was a leading educator, feminist and suffragist in the Washington, D.C., area throughout the early 20th century, founded a school for girls and women and was an active member in her community.

Read the rest of the story.

July 16: Ida B. Wells

Portrait of Ida B. Wells, circa 1893. Image courtesy of the National Park Service.

Ida B. Wells was an investigative journalist, activist, and suffragist who led an anti-lynching crusade in the United States in the 1890s. She was also one of the founders of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

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September 23: Mary Church Terrell

Mary Church Terrell, photo taken between 1880 and 1900, printed later. Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division.

Born on September 23, 1863, Mary Church Terrell was a D.C. suffragist who was a tireless champion of women’s rights and racial justice. She was the first president of the National Association of Colored Women, an active member of the National American Woman Suffrage Association, and was engaged in lawsuits related to civil rights well into her eighties.

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October 17: Agatha Tiegel Hanson

Video of Agatha Tiegel Hanson, reminiscing [about her college experiences] with unnamed younger people. From the Gallaudet Archives. No transcript, undated.

Agatha Tiegel Hanson was the first female graduate (and valedictorian) of Gallaudet University and an early champion of both deaf and women’s rights. Hanson, who passed away on October 17, 1959, was instrumental in organizing women’s groups on Gallaudet’s campus and continued to advocate for equality throughout her life.

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October 23: The National Woman’s Rights Convention

Lucy Stone, one of the Convention’s lead organizers and a speaker at the event.

On October 23, 1850, the first National Woman’s Rights Convention began in Worcester, Massachusetts. Amidst the ringing fervor of the mid-19th-century clarion call for expanding women’s rights – with the right to vote as its central tenet – this day would emerge as a significant step in solidifying the goals and action plan of the women’s suffrage movement in the United States.

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November 14: The Night of Terror

Policewoman arrests Florence Youmans of Minnesota and Annie Arniel (center) of Delaware for refusing to give up their banners. June 1917. Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division.

On November 14, 1917, a group of suffragists underwent a horrifying night of torture and abuse that would come to be known as the “Night of Terror.” On this day in history, 33 women protesters were taken to the Occoquan Workhouse in Fairfax County and subjected to brutal treatment by the prison’s guards in retaliation for the women’s ongoing peaceful protest for the right to vote.

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November 26: Sojourner Truth

Portrait of Sojourner Truth. Caption on portrait reads: "I sell the shadow to support the substance." Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division.

November 26 marks the anniversary of the death of legendary suffragist and abolitionist Sojourner Truth. Born into slavery as Isabella Baumfree (sometimes written as Bomfree) in 1797, Truth was enslaved in Dutch-speaking Ulster County, New York, where she was bought and sold four times throughout her life.

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December 10: Wyoming Day

“Scene at the Polls in Cheyenne,” 1888.
Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division.

On December 10, 1869, the frontier territory became the first to explicitly grant women the right to vote when Governor John Campbell approved “An Act to Grant to the Women of Wyoming Territory the Right of Suffrage and to Hold Office.”

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To learn more about Arlington's history, visit the Center for Local History on the first floor of the Central Library.

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Columbia Pike Renovation Starts Early August

Full Renovation Will Create Improved 1st Floor Library

Access to the Columbia Pike Branch book drop and parking lot Wi-Fi will be unavailable during construction.

Columbia Pike, 2009

The full renovation will create a significantly improved library space for patrons on the first floor.

The Columbia Pike Library, currently closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, is beginning a long-planned renovation project.  The first floor of the library will undergo a full renovation to include more efficient use of floor space and shelving, more small public meeting room spaces, improved lighting, and new furniture, carpet and paint.

The current second floor of the library will be converted to a classroom and multi-use space for the adjoining Arlington Career Center.  The renovated second floor space will be available to the community as a public meeting and gathering space on the evenings and weekends, in cooperation with Arlington Public Schools (APS).

What is the timeline of the construction and when will the Columbia Pike Library re-open?

  • Construction is scheduled to begin in early August and will go through late Fall 2020.
  • All library neighborhood branches are currently closed to the public due to the Covid-19 pandemic.  Holds-only pickup of books and DVDs is underway at Central Library.  Following completion of construction, the County will evaluate when to reopen the Columbia Pike library based on Covid-19 conditions and health and safety guidelines in place at that time.

What are the immediate changes for residents and library patrons?

  • The book drop at Columbia Pike will close as of Friday, July 17.
  • All other book drops remain open.
  • Wi-Fi in the parking lot at Columbia Pike will no longer be available after Wednesday, July 22.

How can residents access library and expanded Wi-Fi services going forward?

  • Expanded Wi-Fi remains available in the parking lots at Central Library and Aurora Hills Library.
  • The library’s eBook and eAudiobook collection is available and has expanded offerings.
  • The status of County facilities is uncertain moving forward due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Currently, holds-only pickup of books and DVDs is underway at Central Library.
  • The library will continue to evaluate what library services can be offered safely for patrons and staff.  Expanded offerings beyond the holds-only pickup service at Central library may be available at one or more libraries in the future.

Background

The School Board and County Board members first met with the community about this project on November 18, 2019.  For more information on the Arlington Career Center Expansion project and Arlington Public Schools use permit for this construction project, please see Item 34 from the June 13, 2020 County Board agenda and continue to follow the APS design and construction page for the Arlington Career Center Expansion updates.

Arlington Public Library Eliminates Overdue Fines

Minimizing Barriers to Using the Library

As of July 1, Arlington Public Library eliminated overdue library fines to make the library’s collections accessible to all Arlingtonians and library patrons. The goal is to increase access to and minimize barriers for marginalized populations to use the library, particularly for youth and low-income patrons.

“Every member of our community has a right to library services and library fines and fees are known barriers to use. We are pleased that we can eliminate these long- standing barriers and continue our mission to reach everyone regardless of their socioeconomic background,” says Diane Kresh, Director of Arlington Public Library.

The elimination of fines will reduce the Library fine budget by an expected $155,000 in anticipated revenue to $10,000 in FY 2021. The $10,000 remains in the budget due to the continuation of replacement fees for lost items.

Borrowing

Patrons will be able to borrow an item for up to twelve weeks if no other patron has placed a hold or up to 3 weeks if another patron has a hold on the item.

Library staffer adding back books to a shelf.

If the item is not returned at the end of the loan period, a grace period of twenty-eight days will come into effect. The patron will not accrue overdue fines during the twenty-eight days. If the item is not returned by the end of the grace period, the item is considered lost and a replacement fee will be charged. If a replacement fee is charged and the item is later returned, the fee is reversed. The replacement fee is dependent on the cost of the book.

Going forward, patrons who either lose or fail to return items to the Library will be assessed a replacement fee that will affect their ability to borrow, renew, place holds on materials, or log in to premium sites, such as Consumer Reports until the fee has been paid or the item has been returned.

Patrons with existing fines will still need to pay those. During the library closure, no fines were accrued for checked-out items.

Paying Fines

  • By phone at 703-228-5260; Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
  • By mail with a check or money order mailed to Central Library, Attention: Circulation, 1015 N. Quincy St, Arlington, VA 22201
    • Please include the library card number with the payment and make the check payable to “Treasurer of Arlington County.”

To find out more about borrowing, loan periods and renewals, visit the accounts information page.

Confronting Racism: Books, Films and More Resources

We have compiled a list of books, movies, podcasts, articles, and organizations where you can learn more about structural racism in the United States, how to engage with and act against anti-black racism, and what you can do to eradicate systematic racism and fight for justice in your community.

Those with the greatest privilege have the most power to make change. When you, your family, and the people around you understand how race, racism, and white privilege impacts society, then you can more effectively engage in the fight against racism.

Interactive Food Resources Map

The Cooperative for a Hunger Free Arlington is working to ensure that all residents who need food assistance have access to available resources.

Interactive Food Resources Map of Arlington - tap or click to open.

This interactive map shows the locations of:

  • Blue - Food pantries
  • Green - Arlington Public Schools Grab-and-Go meals
  • Red - Restaurants offering meals to families in need

Additional resources will be added as they become available.

For information on additional food programs call 703-228-1300 or visit the Arlington County website.

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