Lovers of nonfiction and mothers who enjoy relaxing with other mothers can find what they’re looking for at the Oakmont Carnegie Library.
Two new adult programs are happening at 700 Allegheny River Blvd.
TED Talks A/V Book Club started in October, and will take place 6:30 to 8 p.m. the second Wednesday of each month with reference librarian and historian Stephanie Zimble.
Mom’s Night Out started also started in October, and continues 6 to 7:30 p.m. the second Thursday of each month with children’s librarian Karen Crowell.
The new programs are free, and no registration is required.
Director Beth Mellor said the library evaluates its programs and surveys its patrons annually to see what’s working and brainstorm other possibilities.
“We look for gaps,” she said. “Who are we not reaching and who do we not have a program for?”
Mellor said all of Oakmont’s other book clubs focused on fiction.
“We were looking for a book discussion that was nonfiction, and people like to listen to the TED Talks,” said Mellor.
The first session features author and licensed psychologist Guy Winch and his book, “How to Fix a Broken Heart.”
TED, short for technology, entertainment and design, started as a conference in 1984 and has exploded during the past decade into short, 18-minute talks on wide-ranging topics watched by millions online or by smaller groups in person.
There is no babysitting available at the library for Mom’s Night Out.
“This is a chance for moms to leave their kids at home and work on a craft with other moms,” Mellor said. “There will be snacks, music and a chance to relax.”
New programs always are tested in the fall.
“When people go back to school, it’s kind of like the same sort of thing,” Mellor said. “We bring out new programs in the fall. We always hope that people come and enjoy them.”
Library records show 34 adult programs were offered in September with 432 participants.
More information about library programs is available at oakmontlibrary.org or by calling 412-828-5979.
Michael DiVittorio is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Michael at 412-871-2367, mdivittorio@tribweb.com or via Twitter @MikeJdiVittorio.
