I know some of you out there gobble up books like candy, and there are never enough to keep you satisfied.  If you are up for the challenge, YALSA (The Young Adult Library Services Association - part of the America Library Association) has created the ultimate list for you:  The 2014 List of Outstanding Books for the College Bound. 



"The books on this list offer opportunities to discover new ideas, and provide an introduction to the fascinating variety of subjects within an academic discipline. Readers will gain an understanding of our diverse world and build a foundation to deepen their response to that world.  .  .  Revised every five years as a tool for several audiences (students preparing for college, educators, librarians, and parents) it offers opportunities for independent reading and lifelong learning. Use it to round out your reading as you prepare for college entrance exams and courses, to strengthen your knowledge in a variety of subject areas and enhance appreciation for different cultures and times."

Keep in mind that in the U.S. the term "college" is used for both colleges and universities (as we call them here in Canada) so this is list for anyone who is a decent reader and, more importantly, who likes to read both fiction and nonfiction about a variety of topics.  The list is divided into five topic areas (arts & humanities, history & culture, literature & language, science & technology, and social sciences) and each section contains both fiction and nonfiction titles which explore that topic area in some way.  There is a quick summary for each book to give you an idea of what to expect..

Not surprisingly, given who created the list, there is an emphasis on American issues and writers, but that doesn't mean there aren't lots of great suggestions here.  The majority of the books have been published in the past 5 - 8 years.  We have a few of these titles in our library collection, but just a drop in the bucket!  The public library would certainly have more.  If you are up for a new challenge, check it out!

For this list, as well as previous lists (from 2009, 2004, 1999),  visit the YALSA website or, to download a pdf copy of the 2014 list, click on the link below.

Whether or not you are into sports, the Olympics are always kind of fun.  Canada usually does particularly well in the Winter Olympics making it easier to get on board with all the flag waving! 

Lots of up-to-the-minute coverage plus in-depth features on the athletes and the sports can be found on the CBC Olympics website at http://olympics.cbc.ca.

Check out our Olympic themed display in the library and let us know what winter sport you most like to play, and which one you like to watch!