Spring art exhibits will be on display through May 28, throughout the Clearwater Main Library’s galleries:

• Creative Vision, Seeing Beyond The Image by artist William Emrich will be exhibited in the Carnegie Gallery. Emrich’s works in abstract photography, resulted from his discovery that the colors and shapes of painted wildlife scenes on an outdoor mural were more magical than the actual images.
• Images of Japan by artist Jim Sikes will be in the Osceola Gallery. Sikes said, "My deep admiration and affection for Asian cultures emerged visually during a 30-year stay in the region. Much of my figurative work derives from a strong attraction to traditional scenes and architecture, including remnants of Japan’s cultural past. I search for new and imaginative ways to portray the images of Asia that I find compelling and strive to capture the quintessential qualities of my subject matter."
• Asian Works of Art from Nagano, Japan and Clearwater Sister Cities members will be on display in the 1st Floor Lobby Display Cases.

The galleries are open Monday through Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday,
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, call (727) 562-4970, ext. 5284.

Jeff Corwin spoke and signed books at the Main Library on Feb 2, 2008.  The turnout was spectacular.  Photos are available on the Library's Flickr Site.

We're taking a hard look at what we offer for free computer classes at the Main Library.  We anticipate getting the classes started again mid-March, but would love to get your opinion on what we offer.  
Please take 5 minutes and complete our survey on computer classes.

• Works by Liz Minor will be exhibited in the Carnegie and Osceola Galleries. “Drawing from the inspiration of the subtropics, the artist creates from a sensual and color-rich palette. Whether abstract or realistic, the works invite contemplation and provide a rich experience for the viewer.” Liz Minor also has works in numerous galleries, private and corporate collections throughout the United States and abroad.
• The Tampa Bay Miniature Enthusiasts will be exhibiting in the first floor lobby. On Jan. 16, 6 p.m. they will also host a free workshop at the Main Library. Attendance is limited to 25 persons; call 562-4970 x5284 to register.
• Creative Escapes by artists Paula Chaplinsky and Bernadette Weiers. They will host an exhibit in the Osceola Gallery display cases of memory items created with paper, vintage photos, ribbons, old books, tins, postcards, stamps, boxes, buttons, and yarn.

 Distinguished Poet to Kick off Poetry Series at Clearwater Main Library

Poet Peter Meinke will kick off Clearwater Public Library System’s poetry series with a poetry reading and book signing Thursday, Sept 20 at 7 p.m. at the Clearwater Main Library.

Peter Meinke has published 15 books of poems, seven in the prestigious Pitt Poetry Series, the most recent being The Contracted World in 2006. His poetry has received many awards, and his book of short stories, The Piano Tuner, won the 1986 Flannery O’Connor Award. He directed the Writing Workshop at Eckerd College for 27 years, and has often been writer-in-residence at other colleges and universities. His work has appeared in The New Yorker, Atlantic Monthly, and dozens of other magazines.  He and his wife, artist Jeanne Clark, have lived in St. Petersburg since 1966. In the spring of 2008 he’ll be “Distinguished Poet-in-Residence” at Wichita State University, Wichita, KS.

For more information call (727) 562-4970, ext. 5284.
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Calling All Aspiring Painters

The Clearwater Public Library is offering free painting classes featuring Donna Dewberry's One-Stroke Painting technique, Tuesday, Sept. 18, 10 a.m. to noon, at the North Greenwood Library. Materials will be provided.

Learn the basics of Donna Dewberry's famous brush strokes from certified instructor Debbie Worcester. Donna Dewberry is an American artist and author who developed the One Stroke painting technique. She has written more than 70 books and is also a columnist in a variety of magazines.

The class is free and limited to 16 students. To register call the North Greenwood Library at (727) 462-6895.

Dr. Michael Blauner of the Pinellas Opera League will present a one-hour lecture titled, “America’s Heritage of Freedom in Opera.” Blauner will discuss selections and show scenes from great operas, Mozart: Marriage of Figaro, Don Giovanni, The Magic Flute; Beethoven: Fidelio; and Verdi: Nabucco, Attila, Rigoletto, The Hymn Of The Nations, on Tuesday, July 3, 12 p.m. at the Main Library. Blauner will also review ideas of the great composers and examine how they continue to influence society. Bring a brown bag lunch or have lunch at the library's BW Cafe. 
Clearwater library programs are a public service offered at no cost to attendees. For more information on this event and other notable programs, call (727) 562-4970, ext. 5284.