Library News & Updates

Does it Matter Where We Buy Books? (part 1: Buffalo Street Books)

November 24, 2018

In this episode I spoke with Lisa Swayze, the general manager of Buffalo Street Books about the impacts of shopping local vs shopping online. Over the past couple years the library budget has been tighter than usual, despite the increase in demands on the library’s services. To better serve the community we’re inviting our supporters…

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Does it matter where we buy books?

November 20, 2018

The obvious answer is YES! But the reality is… and I bet you can relate… we slip up on our values and shop online from ‘you know where’. This is not an email about the big tech scandals and monopolizing of commerce… It’s an honest reflect on whether we, the Durland Alternatives Library, can make…

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Introducing Heidi Eckerson, our new librarian at DAL

August 3, 2018

We’re so excited to introduce everyone to Heidi Eckerson, the newest member of our team at the Alternatives Library. She brings a spark of energy and passion to the library’s collection – and it’s likely that you’ll be interacting with her when you visit the library or reach out with any questions about the collection.…

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Tea And Coffee For Your Reading Pleasure

August 2, 2018

When was the last time you brewed cup of tea, and browsed the collection at the library? You can now brew yourself tea or coffee at the Durland Alternatives Library, totally free! We have a coffee and tea station with hot water kettles, tea bags with loose leaf tea blends, and locally roasted coffee pour overs.…

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Introducing Amber, Abbie, Alex, and Gracie – Our Amazing Summer Staff!

July 22, 2018

We have an amazing crew this summer keeping the library open, and processing hundreds of letters arriving for Prisoner Express. I asked them about “alternatives”, and to share what surprised them about working at the library. Here are their answers, corresponding left to right in the image 🙂 Alex: Q : What is an alternative…

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Want help with your non-profit website?

June 4, 2018

This is a quick note for all the activists, community organizers, social entrepreneurs, and non-profit directors out there… Because websites are challenging. With all the choices, and all the clutter, and all the competition, how are you building your audience and awareness about your work? If you have any questions about your website, or want…

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3 Adventurous Ways to Get To The Alternatives Library

May 3, 2018

As it turns out, driving isn’t the best way to get to the Durland Alternatives Library. Unless you’re willing to wait until 5pm when parking is available on campus, you’re better off taking an alternative route… such as the topic of this post. First I want to be honest – the real reason I’m writing this…

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