Author Archives: Laura Fletcher
-
Fiction 101: Women in History
Leave a CommentFiction 101: Centering Women’s Stories
by Shelby D., Evening Supervisor
Hello and welcome back to Fiction 101, the place where we talk about all things fiction (and nonfiction). In the past we’ve covered Black history, classics with a twist, cozy fantasy, folk horror, science fiction and fantasy, and more.
March is Women’s History Month! In its honor, we encourage you to engage with women’s stories. With that in mind, for this edition of Fiction 101 we will suggest some books centered around notable women in history. We will include some historical fiction and some nonfiction.
If you start any of these titles, log them in our Beanstack Book Club to earn a badge! It’s a digital, no-stress club that challenges you to read books on a new theme every month. For March, read books by and/or about women!
To help you find some books to read, here are 10 suggestions, starting with historical fiction books inspired by real women. There are so many extraordinary women—check out these titles and more at the Morgantown Public Library.
Historical Fiction
- Empress Orchid by Anchee Min: This historical fiction tells the story of Empress Dowager Cixi, China’s last empress.
- The Only Woman in the Room by Marie Benedict: Hedy Lamarr was an actress and a brilliant inventor. In this book, follow her rise to stardom and her work in science that forms the basis for many telecommunications today.
- Sisters in Arms by Kaia Alderson: The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion was an all-Black battalion of the Women’s Army Corps. They worked to sort and deliver mail through dangerous conditions during WWII. This book follows two characters as they act as a part of the “Six Triple Eight.”
- Radar Girls by Sarah Ackerman: This is another book that follows women during WWII. This time, read about the Women’s Air Raid Defense. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, women volunteers formed a defense unit stationed in Hawaii.
- Carolina Built by Kianna Alexander: Josephine N. Leary was an amazing historical figure. She was emancipated at the end of the Civil War. She built a life, businesses, and raised a family while facing segregation and prejudice. This novel tells a fictionalized version of her story.
Nonfiction: Biographies and Histories
- The Agitators: Three Friends Who Fought for Abolition and Women’s Rights by Dorothy Wickenden: This is a biographical account of Harriet Tubman, Martha Wright, and Frances Seward: three staunch abolitionists and advocates for women’s rights.
- A Black Women’s History of the United States: Revisioning American History by Daina Ramey Berry and Kali Nicole Gross: A broad overview of the history of the United States, this book centers Black women. Featuring writings from throughout history, this book tells the varied stories of Black women’s rich history.
- In Defense of Witches: The Legacy of the Witch Hunts and Why Women Are Still on Trial by Mona Chollet: This book talks about the witch hunts of the past and draws on the parallels between historical reasons for which women were accused of witchcraft and the misogyny of today.
- The Radium Girls: The Dark Story of America’s Shining Women by Kate Moore: In the 1920s the new element radium was used in many things. This bookis about the women who worked in factories that used radium-infused paints. As the workers began to fall ill, they had to fight for justice as companies ignored illnesses and delayed legal settlements.
- The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot: Lacks’ story was untold for a long time. Her cells were taken without consent and used in many scientific breakthroughs, including the polio vaccine. Skloot was fascinated when a lecturer in college described “HeLa” cells, briefly mentioning that they were cells taken from a woman named Henrietta Lacks. This book tells her story and the story of her family.
-
Beanstack Book Club
Leave a CommentIntroducing a new online challenge!
Looking for new books to read, along with low-pressure encouragement? Try our new Beanstack Book Club, for ages 16 and up! Every month there is a new genre to read and a new badge to earn.
How does it work?
You sign up on the Morgantown Public Library System’s Beanstack. Each month has a different theme and reading recommendations cultivated by library staff. To earn a badge, read something from the month’s theme, like graphic novels or mystery, and log it on Beanstack. If you miss a month, don’t worry! There are more ways to earn badges, such as reading a recommendation from a friend, making an in-person visit to the library, or exploring library apps.
Beanstack Instructions
Beanstack is easy to use and available both online and as a mobile app. Get started by visiting our website at mympls.beanstack.org to create your account. You can also register through the app.
Have your library card ready and choose how you would like to register (as an individual) and then complete all required fields (marked with *). If you need a library card, visit your local branch to sign up today! Note: An email address is required—if you do not have one, you will need to create one first. Once registered, you can access your account online or in the app by signing in with your username and password.
To get the app: The free app is in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store under the name BeanstackTracker. Once downloaded, open the app and follow the simple step-by-step prompts to create an account for yourself, your child, or your family/group. If you’ve already created your account through the website, you can skip this step and just sign in. Note: When registering through the app, the first prompt in creating your account is selecting “Find Your School or Library.” Enter “Morgantown” in the search bar. Otherwise, the process is the same as registering on the website.
Troubleshooting: If at any time you need help with Beanstack, please visit their Help Center and type in your question. If you can’t find your answer there, our staff would be happy to assist you! You can reach them by calling 304-291-7425 or by emailing ask@mympls.org.
-
RFP: Morgantown Roof
Leave a CommentRequest for Proposal: Rubber Roof Replacement
Issued by: The Morgantown Public Library System
Project Location: Morgantown Public Library, 373 Spruce St., Morgantown, WV 26505
Submission cutoff date: March 13, 2026The Morgantown Public Library System is now accepting proposals from qualified roofing contractors for the replacement of the flat rubber roof at our main facility in downtown Morgantown. The roof area is approximately 9,890 square feet and was originally installed in 1993 with repairs completed in 2017. The library system is committed to maintaining safe and welcoming facilities for the community. As part of our commitment to sustainability and fiscal responsibility, we are looking for partners who share our values and are willing to contribute to the community’s well-being.
Detailed Scope of Work, Material Handling, and Project Timeline
Scope of Work: The selected contractor will be responsible for: Removing the existing rubber roofing membrane and associated materials. Inspecting and preparing the roof deck/substrate for new installation. Installing new single-ply roofing membrane (EPDM, TPO, or PVC systems acceptable). Replacing all flashings, edge metal, and penetration details. Installing proper insulation and vapor barrier as required. Conducting a thorough cleanup and ensuring all debris is removed from the site. Ensuring that the library remains operational and accessible to the public throughout the project duration. All work must be performed in a workman-like manner as per library policy and manufacturer specifications.
Work Timeline: The Project must be completed by June 1, 2026. Contractors must specify their proposed start dates and demonstrate how they intend to complete the project within a realistic timeframe that ensures quality workmanship.
Material Purchase and Storage: The Morgantown Public Library System places high importance on the quality and durability of the materials used in the roofing project. Proposals must meet the following criteria regarding product standards:
Lifespan and Durability: The roofing system selected should have a proven lifespan that aligns with industry standards for commercial flat roofs. We expect a minimum lifespan of 20-30 years for the membrane system, considering the local climate and environmental conditions. Materials should be able to withstand typical weather patterns in West Virginia, including resistance to temperature extremes, snow accumulation, UV exposure, and wind uplift.
Material Warranty: Proposals must include comprehensive warranty details covering both materials and workmanship. This includes coverage against manufacturing defects and installation errors that might affect the roof’s functionality and performance. The roofing system should come with specific guarantees against wind damage, seam failure, and membrane deterioration.
Contractors must outline their plan for the timely purchase and secure storage of materials needed for the project. This plan should ensure that all materials are readily available on-site before the project begins to meet the project timeline.
Site Accessibility: The library will remain open to the public throughout the duration of the roofing project. Contractors must take all necessary precautions to ensure public safety and minimize disruption to library operations.
Contractor Qualifications: Proposals will only be considered from contractors who meet the following criteria:
- Valid West Virginia roofing contractor’s license.
- Proof of insurance.
- Ability to provide a 100% surety bond.
- Strong references and proven work history on similar commercial flat roof projects.
- Experience with EPDM, TPO, and/or PVC roofing systems.
Partnership and In-Kind Contributions: We value community engagement and are particularly interested in partnering with companies willing to consider in-kind donations or reduced rates as part of a tax-exempt donation to our nonprofit organization. Such contributions can include donations of materials or labor.
Point of Contact: Darrin Baker, Facilities Manager for the Morgantown Public Library System, will be the primary point of contact for this project. Mr. Baker will coordinate site visits, review proposals, and answer any questions regarding the project. Contractors wishing to schedule a site visit or seek clarifications on the project scope should contact Mr. Baker directly.
Proposal Submission: Detailed proposals outlining the approach to the scope of work, material specifications, projected timeline, and any proposed in-kind contributions should be submitted in PDF format to Darrin Baker via email at facilities@mympls.org by March 13, 2026. Proposals should include a detailed timeline that demonstrates how the contractor will manage the project to keep the library operational and ensure quality workmanship.
Evaluation Criteria: Proposals will be evaluated based on cost-effectiveness, contractor qualifications, proposed timeline, product and labor warranty coverage, and the extent of in-kind contributions.
-
Between the Covers
Leave a CommentSaturday, February 21, 12-3 p.m.
The Co-Op, 131 Pleasant St.If you love to read romance, this is the book fair for you! Want something bookish and unique to do with your galentines? Join the Morgantown Public Library “between the covers” at the Co-Op at 131 Pleasant Street on February 21.
Between 12 and 3 p.m., enjoy shopping and meeting with our cultivated group of romance authors from across the region. Make bookish crafts, treat yourself to something sweet or spicy at our free candy buffet, and have a relaxed afternoon with your besties and new friends alike.
Meet the Authors, Dating-Bio-Style
Joy E. Held — historical romance for adults and young adults
- Her favorite color is purple and all of its shades, so if you’re wearing anything purple, you’ve scored several points in advance.
- Mermaids are real, and a cold Pepsi is the way to her heart.
- Her hobbies include “yoga, herb gardening, walking for fitness, meditation, reading, and still want to shake someone every once in a while.”
K.L. Ramsey — a little bit of everything: MC (biker romance), Mafia, Paranormal, and Why Choose (extra spicy!)
- She’s looking for a reader so that she can buy her ten cats and two dogs their food and treats. Otherwise, they might rebel and take over the world.
- More cat facts: “My hobbies include petting, talking to, feeding, and cuddling my cats, as well as spending time with my husband (when I’m not hanging out with my cats).”
L. Shannon — interconnected paranormal romances set in a shared universe
- She enjoys long walks under a full moon and emotionally tormenting her characters.
- She’s not so secretly in love with each and every one of her broken heroes and fierce heroines.
- Besides writing, she says, “I split my time between my farm filled with goats, koi ponds, fancy chickens, rowdy turkeys, peacocks and emu (AKA murder chickens) and a fantasy world where I can play with all my imaginary super-hot friends.”
More dating profiles to come from…
-
Fiction 101: Black History
Leave a CommentFiction, history, & memoirs from the African diaspora
by Shelby D., Evening Supervisor
Hello and welcome back to Fiction 101, the place where we talk about all things fiction (and nonfiction). In the past we’ve covered classics with a twist, cozy fantasy, folk horror, science fiction and fantasy, and more.
Have you joined our new online reading log, Beanstack Book Club? February is Black History Month and to celebrate, this month’s Beanstack Book Club and Fiction 101 will both focus on Black authors. This month on Beanstack, read at least one book by a Black writer to earn your limited-time badge! We also have a list of suggested titles there.
This month our Fiction 101 blog features 10 books, five each of nonfiction and fiction.
Nonfiction Selections
These memoirs, histories, and essay collections offer an in-depth education on African American history. All are available in our collection, often in ebook and audiobook form as well as physical copies.
- The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Malcolm X as told to Alex Haley
- Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates
- A Black Women’s History of the United States by Daina Ramey Berry and Kali Nicole Gros
- The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin
- Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America by Ibram X. Kendi
Novels and Short Stories
It’s always important to amplify Black voices, and celebrating literature written by Black authors is a great way to honor Black History Month. These five titles span genres and decades.
- The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
- Kindred by Octavia E. Butler
- The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead
- How Long ’til Black Future Month? by N. K. Jemisin (short stories)
- Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
Check out Beanstack for more Black-authored book suggestions from us, and log your reading to earn badges!
-
Fiction 101: Classics
Leave a CommentClassics of literature, with a twist
by Shelby D., Evening Supervisor
Hello and welcome back to Fiction 101, the place where we talk about all things fiction (and nonfiction). In the past we’ve covered cozy fantasy, folk horror, science fiction and fantasy, and more.
We recently launched our new Beanstack Book Club. Join us online to read books, take part in reading challenges, and collect badges. This month our theme is classics! Pick up that book you’ve been meaning to read or choose one from our list.
To go along with our Beanstack Book Club’s January badge, this month we will talk about classics, but with a twist! Each book suggestion comes with a retelling or modern adaptation to go with it, with three pairs in total.
Defining a “Classic”
Classic novels are books that had an impact on literature. They help define genres. These long-lasting stories are still read decades after publishing. Even if you don’t know the whole story, you probably know the characters, the tropes, and maybe even famous quotes.
Recommended Books
Pair #1: Pride and Prejudice and Bridget Jones’s Diary
Jane Austen is so funny and her books are beautiful. All of her books are good, but Pride and Prejudice is my favorite. Her books feel like a snapshot in time, and her witty commentary on society is what makes me (and so many others) love them so. For a fun twist on this classic, check out this other iconic book that acts like a retelling: Bridget Jones’s Diary by Helen Fielding.Pair #2: Frankenstein: the original and a graphic novel adaptation
A cornerstone for science fiction, this gothic horror story is a must-read. Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley writes such beautiful prose, and the story of Frankenstein is so eerie. Gris Grimly’s Frankenstein, Or, The Modern Prometheus is a graphic novel retelling that you can check out.Pair #3: The Odyssey: a modern translation and a graphic novelization
It’d be hard to find a more classic classic. Homer’s The Odyssey is one of the oldest works of western literature. It’s been translated a lot, but I personally really like Emily Wilson’s translation. She keeps the cadence and rhythm but the clean prose gives it a contemporary feel. The library also has a graphic novelization by Gareth Hinds available for check out.I’m such a fan of the classics! Often they give us a glimpse into the past and the writing is so poetic. Check out Beanstack for more classic book suggestions from us, and log your reading to earn badges!
-
10 Before the End
Leave a Comment…but instead of books, it’s free library activities!
The new social media/booktok trend is #10BeforeTheEnd, where you try to read 10 more books before the end of the year. That…seems daunting to most of us in late November. Instead, we recommend ticking off this list of library to-do’s, which are free and probably more achievable!
1. Earn a badge on Beanstack
This online adult reading challenge is low stakes but high reward! Sign up on the Morgantown Public Library System’s Beanstack. Each month has a different theme and reading recommendations cultivated by library staff. To earn a badge, read something from the month’s theme, like graphic novels or mystery, and log it on Beanstack. There are more ways to earn badges, such as reading a recommendation from a friend, making an in-person visit to the library, or exploring library apps.
2. Borrow a board game or video game
Both Morgantown Public Library and Clay Battelle Public Library have video games (Nintendo Switch, Xbox, and PS5), and many of our branches also have board and card games to borrow!
3. Watch a movie on Kanopy
With your library card, Kanopy gives you instant access to thousands of critically acclaimed movies, documentaries, and kid’s media. Receive 18 tickets each month to check out content, with unlimited video views on the Kanopy Kids channel.
4. Read a magazine from Libby
Libby is best known for ebooks and audiobooks, but they also have thousands of magazines. Plus, magazines are instantly available with no wait lists, loan limits, or due dates! Watch an intro video about Libby’s magazines.
5. Stream a Hoopla audiobook
Hoopla has instant access to lots of material, including audiobooks. If you haven’t tried listening to a book, now is the time!
6. Listen to an online author talk
Through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium, we provide access to live events (or stream past ones) where authors and experts talk about their books and answer your questions. Check out the available talks.
7. Make a playlist on Freegal
Freegal has music from over 10,000 labels and more than 60 countries. With your library card, you can stream unlimited music, browse playlists by users and libraries, and make your own playlist! Plus you can download—and keep forever—up to three songs each week.
8. Borrow a citizen science kit
Flex your scientific muscles with citizen science kits, available at the Morgantown Public Library. The backpacks hold supplies and instructions to investigate biodiversity, clouds, water quality, and—our newest kit—snowflakes!
9. Take a friend to the library
Flex your scientific muscles with our four citizen science kits, available at the Morgantown Public Library. The backpacks hold supplies and instructions to investigate biodiversity, clouds, water quality, and—our newest kit—snowflakes!
10. Add up your savings!
Literally! You can use this handy online calculator to estimate the money you saved by getting your books, movies, music, and more materials and services from your local library.
If you need help with any of these resources, please ask a librarian! We can point you in the right direction. You can reach them by calling 304-291-7425 or by emailing ask@mympls.org.
-
Fiction 101: Cozy Fantasy
Leave a CommentSnuggle up to a fantastic escape!
by Shelby D., Evening Supervisor
Hello and thank you for reading November’s Fiction 101! Fiction 101 is where we talk about all things Fiction (and sometimes non-fiction). Every month we discuss a different sub-genre or genre of fiction and give some book suggestions to go along with it.
Remember, we just launched our new Beanstack Book Club! Every month earn badges and complete challenges related to a theme. This month, earn a badge when you read anything in the Fantasy genre. To help you find something great to read, this month’s Fiction 101 will focus on a related subgenre: cozy fantasy.
Defining Cozy Fantasy
Cozy fantasy is a subgenre of fantasy. Basically, cozy fantasy is fantasy fiction with lower stakes. While fantasy often has action driven plots and large quests, cozy fantasy is often more character driven. A bigger focus is put on the relationships between characters. The world building and magic have a whimsical feeling. They are warm feel-good stories set in fantasy worlds. Perfect for a cup of hot chocolate or tea and a warm blanket on a cold day!
Here are some good stories to read as the weather gets chilly!
Recommended Books
The Ornithologist’s Field Guide to Love by India Holton
I love a good enemies-to-lovers romance. I actually picked this one up because of a negative review. The review said something like “I love fantasy, but this is far too whimsical.” I was hooked, too much whimsy? No such thing! Instantly opened Libby to check it out. If you are looking for a whimsical fantasy romance this is perfect!The Full Moon Coffee Shop by Mai Mochizuki
This is such a cozy story! There is nothing more delightful than a coffee shop run by cats. Personally, if I’m ever down on my luck, I can only hope a cat wearing an apron gives me coffee and life advice.Dallergut Dream Department Store by Miye Lee
Is there a quota on how many times I can call a book whimsical in this? I can’t think of a better word for a book about a department store that sells dreams. This book follows Penny when she takes a job at a store nestled in our collective consciousness where we go to buy dreams.The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
This is a delightful book well worth the hype it gets. Linus Baker, a case worker at the Department in Charge of Magical Youth, travels to an island inhabited by six dangerous children and their caretaker, Arthur Parnassus. In this heartwarming story, Linus Baker finds a family.A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers
The book’s dedication page reads, “For anybody who could use a break,” and I think that describes the book perfectly. It’s a charming novella about a monk and a robot who travel through a unique post-apocalyptic world spreading warmth and comfort.Cozy reads are the perfect choice for cold-weather days. Enjoy some of these suggestions! If you read any of them, be sure to log them in Beanstack for the Beanstack Book Club. Also, be sure to check out our science fiction and fantasy book club that meets the third Thursday of every month!
-
2025 Local Author Fair
Leave a CommentSaturday, November 15 from 12-3 p.m.
Picture this: You’re sitting at your elementary school desk, watching the clock tick. Finally, the loudspeaker hums to life: “Third grade may now proceed to the gym.” You leap up and walk as fast as you can down the hall—it’s book fair day!
Join us for an engaging afternoon at our 2025 Local Author Fair! Come out to the Morgantown Public Library on Saturday, November 15 from 12-3 p.m. to meet with local authors and creators. Books and art will be available for purchase, so don’t miss out on this opportunity to shop local for the holidays.
We will also have retro book fair giveaways—like slap bracelets, scratch-and-sniff pencils, and fun erasers (while supplies last)! Grab a drink and snack while you browse, and stick around to make your own custom bookmark at our craft station.
Featured Authors and Guests
Our featured authors:
- S.L. Baron – urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and historical fantasy
- Angie Candell – children’s nonfiction and artwork
- Mary Lucille DeBerry – poetry
- Linda Gribko – cross-genre fiction and digital photo collage
- Madalyn Leigh – young adult fantasy
- Rose Miller – children’s poetry
- The Morgantown Writers Group – hub for writers in north central West Virginia
- Cindy O’Brien – early childhood books and mixed media paintings
- Rena Perozich – memoir, self-help, and psychology
- Psiocratic Press – tabletop roleplaying zine
- Dr. MJ Ramirez – leadership and self-development
- K.L. Ramsey – all types of romance
- Dr. Jessica Thompson – murder mystery and suspense
Our artists and special guests:
- The Bards of Yellow Wood – custom poetry on the spot
- ckdelano Designs – paintings and stickers
- Mindful Roots – mindful art and emotional wellness for families and kids
- The Silent Book Club of Morgantown – reading in silence, together
- Spring Fox Studios – illustrations, stickers, art prints, and zines
-
12 Days of Halloween
Leave a CommentWatch spine-tingling films on Kanopy!
Ready to celebrate spooky season with some scary movies? Look no further than Kanopy, a collection of streaming videos focusing on popular films, documentary, and independent films available instantly, with automatic returns and no late fees. You get free access with your library card, and you can stream on your browser, devices, or smart TV.
Count down to Halloween with these 12 creepy films, from frightening classics to new releases.
- Night of the Living Dead (1968) – zombie classic
- The Wicker Man (1973) – folk horror
- Possession (1981) – psychological horror
- Evil Dead 2 (1987) – horror comedy
- The Exorcist III (1990) – supernatural horror
- Scream (1996) – slasher comedy
- Donnie Darko (2001) – cult sci-fi thriller
- The Ring (2002) – psychological horror
- The Girl with All the Gifts (2016) – post-apocalyptic sci-fi
- Annihilation (2018) – sci-fi thriller
- Longlegs (2024) – horror thriller
- Your Monster (2024) – horror comedy
To start using Kanopy: Visit kanopy.com and click the Get Started button. Search for and select “Morgantown Public Library,” then enter your library card number. After this, enter your email address and create a password. Now you’re ready to stream! You can also download the Kanopy app to watch on mobile devices and most smart TVs.