Between You and Me A Linguist’s Guide to Language

Join Host and Linguist Anne Curzan, Thursday, November 9 at 7:00 p.m., to hear about her language pet peeves.

Michigan Public Radio’s Anne Curzan Visits Rochester Hills Public Library

Curzan will tackle topics like why we say what we say, how words like ‘funner’, ‘snuck’ and ‘lol’ are creeping their way into the English Language and take your questions.

“We’re excited to have a Michigan Radio Host join us for this exciting presentation,” says Community Relations Specialist Amanda Harrison Keighley, “Curzan’s insights and wit on the air are sure to translate to an unforgettable program for our patrons.” 

Registration is required. To register please visit calendar.rhpl.org. A valid RHPL Library Card is required.

The New Zoo: How are Zoos Changing & Their Conservation Efforts on November 16 at 7:00 p.m. 

Field Conservation Officer of the Detroit Zoo, Paul Buzzard is coming to discuss the future of the zoo. This includes how zoos are changing along with the increased role zoos play in conservation of wildlife and animal welfare.

Rochester Hills Public Library Explores the New Zoo

Hosting 125 acres of naturalistic habitats for more than 2,000 animals, the Detroit Zoo stands as a landmark in the Metro Detroit area. It boasts award-winning attractions such as the National Amphibian Conservation Center, Great Apes of Harambee and the Arctic Ring of Life. The Detroit Zoo also holds the largest facility for penguins in the world, the new Polk Penguin Conservation Center.   

“Zoos are a staple to tourists across the country but they aren’t just there to showcase animals,” says Community Relations Specialist Amanda Harrison Keighley, “We are excited to hear what zoos are doing to impact our global community for man and animal alike.” 

Registration is available online for this event at calendar.rhpl.org. Sign up in advance as space will be limited.

Those living in Sanctuary at Bellbrook, Avon on the Lake Senior Living, and Samaritas Affordable Living will now be able to share a variety of beloved children’s books their grandchildren and other little visitors.  

“We know the importance of reading out loud to your children but we’re just starting to realize the positive impact it has on seniors,” says Outreach and Bookmobile Services Manager Mary Davis, “Bringing books to mini-branches will give them an opportunity to bond with their loved ones.” 

This new initiative is possible by a generous donation in memoriam of the longtime Authors in April board member, Adelia “Dee” Parent. As a Media Specialist for Holy Family Regional School, Parent was an advocate for learning and literacy in children’s lives. She is remembered by her husband, son, sister, sister-in-law, and aunt. She worked in education for 44 years. 

“We are honored to remember such a champion for children’s education in such an impactful way,” says Youth Services Manager Claire Lopiccolo, “We are grateful for Dee’s service and her lasting legacy.” 

The Rochester Hills Public Library hosts six mini-branches around the community with the largest located at the Older Persons Commission. Volunteers run all branches. Members of these communities are required to have a library card in order to check out materials.

Polar Express Celebration

Fantastic Fridays

November 17 – Meet Splat the Cat Storytime

Multipurpose Room, 10:00 a.m., Ages 1-5 with a caregiver

Due to his recent election to the Rochester Hills City Council, Ryan Deel, library trustee, has resigned from the library board of trustees effective November 19, 2017.

Chuck Stouffer, President of the library board said, “Ryan has been an extremely valuable and active member of the board and will be greatly missed.” Stouffer announced today that the remaining members are seeking a qualified person to fill the vacancy for the term ending 2020.

The applicant must be 18 years of age or older, be a registered voter in Rochester Hills, must be able to attend the evening meetings held on the second Monday of each month, and be able to assume board responsibilities. Persons with previous experience in governance, interest in library affairs and/or who have a keen desire to serve the greater Rochester community should consider applying. This is a volunteer position and is non-compensated.

A full description of responsibilities is available through the office of Christine L. Hage, Library Director. “I would be happy to talk to people interested in being appointed and to answer any questions they may have,” said Hage.

Individuals interested in being appointed to the vacancy should send a cover letter and resume to Christine.Hage@rhpl.org by January 3, 2018 to be considered. Personal interviews of qualified persons will be held prior to recommendation to the full board for approval.

Fantastic Fridays

Friday, January 19 10:00-10:45 a.m.

Ages 5 & under with a caregiver

Multipurpose Room

Celebrate your favorite Polynesian characters with a dance party & leis.

Baby Wearing Dance Party

Saturday, January 20 , 11:00-11:30 a.m.

Ages Birth to Walking with Caregiver

Multipurpose Room

Are you looking for a fun way to get some exercise that both you and your baby will love? Bring your baby to the library in a secure baby carrier for this baby wearing dance party. You will learn a few simple dance routines and do some fun, silly freestyle dancing with your baby.

Would You Survive?

Saturday, January 20, 3:00-4:00 p.m. Life on the Prairie

Grades 3 and up

Multipurpose Room

Separate registration required for each date. See if you’ve got what it takes to make it through this harrowing historical era.

Dad and Donuts Story Time

Monday, January 22, 2018, 6:30-7:15 p.m.

Dads (male caregivers) and children 1-5

Story Time Room

Calling all dads (or uncles and grandpas). Join us for an evening story time devoted to fabulous father figures and delicious donuts. PJs, slippers, teddy bears, and blankets are encouraged. Donuts from Knapp’s Donut Shop in downtown Rochester and beverages will be provided.

3D Printed Pinewood Derby

Thursday, January 24, February 28, and March 28, 6:30-8:30pm

Grades 4 and up

Makerspace Room

Design your own 3D printed derby car and let it loose. In this three-session program, participants will design, craft, and ultimately race their 3D printed derby cars. Teams of up to four welcome. Designs due by February 12.

Many who know about the Civil Rights Movement know about Martin Luther King, Jr. but few know the other influential leaders who helped shape the movement. Learn these untold stories during Names Unspoken: Unsung Heroes of the Civil Rights Movement, Tuesday, February 6 at 7:00 p.m.

ASALH Detroit

President of the Detroit Branch of Association for the Study of African American Life History will share stories of Bayard Rustin, who organized the March on Washington, Fannie Lou Hamer, who is the reason why Christian hymns were sang in protests, and Ella Baker, one of the highest-ranked women in the NAACP during that time. These men and women are some of the names lost overtime.

“My job is to keep history alive,” says Jamon Jordan, President of the Detroit Branch of ASALH, “And history tells us that Martin Luther King, Jr. was not alone in having a dream. There were many others who helped to share his vision.”

The ASALH serves as an organization dedicated to celebrate the history of African Americans and speak for the community. ASALH Detroit is responsible for Black History Month activities throughout the Metropolitan Detroit area.

“At the Rochester Hills Public Library, we love to celebrate the diversity among us and the history that binds us,” says Community Relations Specialist Amanda Harrison Keighley, “the Rochester Hills Public Library is pleased to have Jamon Jordan speak on the champions who helped shape the Civil Rights Movement.” 

Registration is available online for this event at calendar.rhpl.org. Sign up in advance as space will be limited.

The Burned-Over District: Revival, Reform and the Migration to Michigan, 1820-1850

Michigan settlers during the territorial and early statehood period in the early and mid-1800s came from western New York. Learn about them at the event on Tuesday, February 13, at 7:00 p.m. at the Rochester Hills Public Library.

Second Great Awakening

During this period, many considered western New York the Burned-Over District. This area was the epicenter for both the religious revival known as the Second Great Awakening along with social and political reform. These movements changed the course of history into the following centuries.

“Many of the local families who have been in Michigan for years know that this period left a mark on their ancestors,” says History Teacher Jim Craft, “So many people can trace back 5 generations and their 3rd great grandparent was living this.”

Known as the “history buff”, Craft is a historian with an extensive background. Holding both his Bachelors and his Masters, Craft taught history for 13 years and currently serves on the Oakland County Historical Commission.

“The Rochester Hills Public Library is excited to have Jim Craft share this interesting history,” says Community Relations Specialist Amanda Harrison Keighley, “We hope patrons learn a little bit more about their family’s past at this event.”

Registration is available online for this event at calendar.rhpl.org. Sign up in advance as space will be limited.

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

Heated debate over Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), a potential border wall and stipulations for legal immigration have gone so far as to cause a government shutdown. The instability surrounding the subject has left some voters confused and the future of DACA benefactors unclear. To help make sense of where the law currently stands, how it could soon be changing and resources for immigrants looking for help, Wayne State Law Professor Jonathan Weinberg will speak Monday, February 12 at 7:00 p.m.

Wayne State Law Professor Jonathan Weinberg will speak about DACA

“I anticipate talking about the basic structure of U.S. immigration law and the realities of migration to this country; about DACA; about the current Administration’s proposed immigration law changes including family-based migration,” Professor Weinberg says.

Weinberg was a former law clerk to U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall and then-Judge Ruth Bader Ginsburg. His Juris Doctorate is from Columbia Law School and an Artium Baccalaureus from Harvard University.

“Rochester Hills Public Library serves a diverse community. Because of the debate in Washington over immigration, we have a responsibility to provide our residents with the opportunity to dive into the subject beyond the short headlines dominating the news,” says Community Relations Specialist Amanda Harrison Keighley.

Although Professor Weinberg will not be providing individual legal advice, people with specific questions will walk away with clarity on the subject and additional resources.

Registration is available online for this event at calendar.rhpl.org. Sign up in advance as space will be limited.

The question of the moment: Where can you hear great lectures on the Mackinac Bridge, pet peeves about the English language, our state’s legacy of lighthouses, Detroit’s role during World War II, the history of motorsports and beekeeping all in one evening that also includes a strolling dinner, beverages plus an exciting silent auction?

The answer is, at the Friends of the Rochester Hills Public Library’s Fifth Annual Wine, Wit & Wisdom (WW&W) event set for April 14 at the Library, 500 Olde Towne Rd. in downtown Rochester.

Anne Curzan

WW&W has emerged as a must-attend event on the Rochester social scene. Here’s how it works: Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Each guest will have the opportunity to attend two 45-minute presentations by informative speakers, sandwiched between a strolling dinner with beverages (wine, beer, soft drinks), and desserts as well as bidding on an array of silent auction items. The evening concludes by 10:00 p.m.

The event is a major fundraiser for the Friends, the library’s volunteer non-profit assistance group. Registration begins February 12. Payment is $55 per person; $65 per person after April 2. (Reservations will be held at the door; tickets will not be issued.) Suggested attire: Smart Casual. Because alcohol will be served, participation is limited to guests aged 21 or older.

“This event has evolved into a unique opportunity to make over the library into a convivial gathering spot for great food and interesting informational exchanges for a very special evening. We’ve seen attendance growth each year, based on the great word-of-mouth reviews of the previous four events,” said Ron Meegan, President of the Friends of the Rochester Hills Public Library.

“Attendees also have the opportunity to bid on wonderful items,” at the silent auction, said Wine ,Wit & Wisdom Chairperson, Theresa Meegan. Among the most alluring is a gourmet dinner for eight prepared by Library Director Christine Hage, as well as other services and entertainment opportunities.

Registration can be done by completing a registration form available at the library info desk or by using a credit card Online with Eventbrite (transaction fee of about $5 per registration and all purchases are final; no refunds).

About the Presentations

Going Grammando: A Linguist’s Look at Language Peeves: Is it acceptable to have “10 items or less” on a grocery store sign? Anne Curzan, noted historian of the English language and frequent NPR guest, explains how language peeves have changed over time and her perspective on making judgments about “acceptability” in language.

Kim Nowack, chief engineer for the Mackinac Bridge Authority

The Mackinac Bridge – Then and Now: Nothing is more quintessentially “Michigan” than the Mackinac Bridge. How was this masterpiece constructed? Learn this, as well as what life was like before and after the bridge, from Kim Nowack, chief engineer for the Mackinac Bridge Authority.

Michigan Lighthouses, an Aerial Photographic Perspective: John Wagner has photographed all of the state’s lighthouses and will talk about his remarkable aerial photos including the intricacies of flying while photographing these beautiful sentinels.

Detroit in World War II: History professor and author Gregory Sumner chronicles the wartime sacrifices and contributions of the Motor City as it forged thunderbolts for the front lines.

Abi Saeed, entomologist and beekeeper at the Michigan State University Extension

The World of Bees and Beekeeping: Abi Saeed, entomologist and beekeeper at the Michigan State University Extension, provides insight into the highly organized work of queen bees, drones and worker bees; and what it takes to be a successful beekeeper. With responsibility for pollinating 90% of the world’s food supply, bees are one of nature’s treasures.

Motorsports: The Thrill of the Track: Hear about the evolution of auto racing in the U.S. and abroad. Marc Trahan, long-time Audi executive, shares this history and gives us an insider’s view into one manufacturer’s efforts in this high-energy sport.

The Rochester Hills Public Library today announced the appointment of Suba Subbarao, an English professor for Oakland Community College and avid library user, to the library’s Board of Trustees. The appointment fills a vacancy left by now-Rochester Hills City Councilmen Ryan Deel, who stepped down shortly after winning November’s election.

Suba Subbarao

“Subbarao brings substantial experience to the Board and a shared commitment to serve the interest of our library, said Board President Bob Bonam, “she will be an extremely valuable addition to our board.”

“I have always appreciated the value the Rochester Hills Public Library brings to our community,” said Subbarao, “It has grown from being a resource for quality information to a town square, where people gather to learn and discuss new ideas.”

Subbarao has lived in Rochester Hills since 1988 and has been a library card holder since that time. She utilizes the library’s many services including the Bookmobile and MeLCat, regularly recommends books and topics for community lectures, and has utilized the study rooms to tutor non-native speakers.

For over 10 years, Subbarao chaired the English Department at Oakland Community College, Auburn Hills, where she piloted textbook cost-savings initiatives for students and implemented department-wide integration of technology supplements in writing classes. She stepped down from that position at the end of 2017. 

Subbarao will have to run for election to the Board of Trustees this coming November.

Learn About Hollywood in WWII at the Rochester Hills Public Library

World War II took a toll on everyone and Hollywood was included. Learn about the celebrities who served in the US Military during WWII at the event, When Hollywood Went to War on Tuesday, February 20 at 7:00 p.m.

Learn About Hollywood in WWII at the Rochester Hills Public Library

You know the names, people like Kirk Douglas, Beatrice Arthur, Henry Fonda, Tyrone Power and Audie Murphy. But did you know all of them served during WWII? Learn about the nearly 90 celebrities who heard Uncle Sam’s call to action and how that changed the course of their lives.

“The most challenging facet of the project was finding photographs of these celebrities in uniform,” says presenters Al and Dave Eicher, “This presentation will explain where they went to serve and what battles they experienced.”

The Eicher’s project was to collect hundreds of photographs, films and interviews from the men and women in the entertainment world who, young and old, took time out of their careers to protect and serve freedom.

“The Rochester Hills Public Library is thrilled to have Al and Dave Eicher show us their research into celebrities in WWII,” says Community Relations Specialist Amanda Harrison Keighley, “This is sure to be a crowd favorite.” 

Registration is available online for this event at calendar.rhpl.org. Sign up in advance as space will be limited.

Residents of Rochester, Rochester Hills, and Oakland Township, don’t miss these amazing concerts with the Rochester Hills Public Library. Each person must be registered under his or her own library card and be a resident of Rochester, Rochester Hills or Oakland Township. Registration is online. All adult programs are funded by the Friends of the Rochester Hills Public Library. See the Schedule of Events on our website at rhpl.org.

Belleau Notte, Sunday, March 4, 2-3:30 p.m., Multipurpose Room

The trio, Belleau Notte, consists of a cellist/violinist, woodwinds and an accordionist. They perform a variety of music from around the world, including waltzes, ballads, folk songs, sambas, tangos and polkas. They take the audience on a musical tour all around the world with songs from Ireland, Italy, Spain, Norway, Russia, France, Cuba, Israel, the Philippines and more.

The Rhythms of Cuba w/Tumbao Bravo, Sunday, April 8, 2-3:30 p.m.,  Multipurpose Room

Since 2003 Tumbao Bravo has released five critically acclaimed albums of their unique and exotic Afro Cuban music. Three time winners of Detriot Music Awards (for both Best Jazz Recording and Best World Music Band) this Latin jazz combo has performed all over Michigan at major events and festivals.

Metro Jazz Voices, Sunday, May 6, 2-3:30 p.m., Multipurpose Room

The winners of the 2014 Detroit Music Award for Best Traditional Jazz Group, Metro Voices performs a unique and thoroughly enjoyable array of music spanning across the Jazz genre. Their music incorporates styles such as Vocalese, Funk, Easy Listening and Gospel. The band has also worked in collaboration with members of the Detroit Opera Theater Orchestra, to create original arrangements sure to appeal to music lovers everywhere.

The Rochester Hills Public Library is hosting a Myth Busters inspired presentation with the Michigan Science Center to make things explode, Monday, March 5 from 7:00-8:30 p.m.

The science center will present KaBOOMistry a hands-on demonstration about the science of explosions.

The Michigan Science Center Presents “KaBOOMistry” at Rochester Hills Public Library

“The Michigan Science Center is proud to bring educational and fun programming to libraries and community centers throughout southeast Michigan. Interactive demonstrations go a long way to get all ages excited about learning, and encourage lifelong, ongoing education.”

Attendees will learn about the relationships between pressure, temperature, and fuel to explain why things go KA-BOOM! The mix of chemistry and physics will wow the audience with some loud, flashy effects.

“We are excited to have the Michigan Science Center present this unique demonstration at the library. We believe science is an important subject all ages can enjoy,” says Amanda Harrison Keighley of the Rochester Hills Public Library.

The program is March 5 from 7:00-8:30 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room and is open to everyone with an RHPL library card. This program is geared toward adults but all ages are welcome. Please register in advance at rhpl.org.

Prevnt Shines Light On the Dark Reality of Elder Abuse at the Rochester Hills Public Library

The Rochester Hills Public Library proudly partners with the Disability Network Oakland and Macomb to present “Prevent Elder Abuse”, March 20 from 7:00-8:30 p.m.

The Disability Network Oakland and Macomb is offering a new program called PREVNT, dedicated to educating and informing the public on how to recognize high risk situations and prevent elder abuse.

Gillian Bentley

“PREVNT is all about avoiding high risk situations and learning how you can prevent elder abuse in your family and community. Unfortunately, abuse can happen in all types of relationships, whether it’s a family member, caregiver, or con artists targeting the vulnerable,” said Gillian Bentley, our presenter.

Attendees will learn how they can impact the cycle of elder abuse and protect their valued community and family members.

“We are excited to have Gillian Bentley present the PREVNT program at our library. We are honored to be able to help educate and protect our community,” says Rochester Hills Public Library Community Relations Specialist Amanda Harrison Keighley.

The program is March 20 from 7:00-8:30 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room and is open to everyone with an RHPL library card. Please register in advance at rhpl.org.

Rochester Hills Public Library and Ascension Crittenton Hospital Team Up to Present Discussions on Latest Medical Advancements 

The Doctors at the Library

The Rochester Hills Public Library (RHPL) and Ascension Crittenton Hospital have formed a partnership to provide you access to esteemed medical professionals. Through a new conversation series, The Doctors, beginning March 29, each medical professional will bring their unique perspective and discuss diverse subject matter. “We are thrilled to partner with such a highly regarded organization,” said Amanda Harrison Keighley, community relations specialist of RHPL. “The new programs offered with Ascension Crittenton will give our patrons the opportunity to learn about the latest advancements in medical research and technology from some of the leaders in the field. Ascension Crittenton has been a part of the Rochester community for decades. Providing education on medical research and advancements is part of our commitment to keep our community healthy and informed,” said Karen Pfeffer coordinator of Community Health & Education at Ascension Crittenton. The following discussions will be offered at the Rochester Hills Public Library. The programs are free; attendees must register in advance with their library card, and take place in the Multipurpose Room of the RHPL.

Robotic Surgery

Dr. Sullivan

March 29, 2018

7:00-8:30 p.m.

Dr. Daniel Sullivan helps lead the way in the medical field with robotic surgical procedures that seem out of this world. Dr. Sullivan specializes in the new surgical techniques here in the Metro Detroit area. Dr. Sullivan will be able to answer questions regarding ever-changing surgical techniques.

Adult Stem Cells

Dr. Keller & Dr. Frisch

May 1, 2018

7:00-8:30 p.m.

Dr. Robert Keller, specializing in Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Sports Medicine, along with Dr. Nicholas Frisch, specializing in Orthopedic Surgery, will lead a discussion about adult stem cell research and procedures that help patients. With their combined knowledge on this subject, they will be able to answer questions and describe what this means for patients today.

Medical Weight Loss for Women

Dr. Duff

May 15, 2018

7:00-8:30 p.m.

Graduating from Wayne State University, Dr. Richard Duff will be leading a conversation about Medical Weight Loss for Women. Specializing in Gynecology and Obstetrics, Dr. Duff will help answer questions about what is available in the medical weight loss field and help you apply the best practices for different body types.

The Rochester Hills Public Library (RHPL) is excited to partner with Emagine Theatre in Rochester to bring members once-monthly Library Movie Nights.

Here’s how it works, for a limited time your RHPL Library Card will get you an exclusive deal of $8 for a movie ticket and a small popcorn. This special event will happen once a month on April 23, May 16, June 18, July 16 and August 15.

Library Movie Nights

“We’re thrilled to partner with the Rochester Hills Public Library to bring the excitement of going to the movies to everyone in the community. Programs like these make it easier for the community to have access to the arts that they might not otherwise have,” said Dale Jaslove of Emagine Theatre.

So get ready to binge on all of the amazing adaptations and original movies coming to the big screen in the coming months, movies like A Wrinkle in Time, Love, Simon, and Avengers: Infinity War. Or enjoy one of the original movies due to hit the screen like Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.

“The Rochester Hills Public Library is about so much more than borrowing books,” said Community Relations Specialist Amanda Harrison Keighley. “We want our patrons to be able to have all kinds of experiences with the library, and making going to the movies more affordable is just one of the ways we can build bridges in the community.”

This special offer is only valid with a current RHPL Library Card at the Rochester Hills Emagine Theater on the designated dates.

The Rochester Hills Public Library proudly presents “What’s In a Name?” presented by Genealogist Judy Nimer Muhn, April 19 from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Nimer Muhn has been researching genealogy since the age of 12 and specializes in French-Canadian, Acadian, Native American and Michigan genealogy. She will discuss how your surname could offer important clues about your family’s history and the signals that there may have been a name change in your family tree.

“My presentation will focus on how a name can be a key to an entire ethnic history that might have otherwise gone undiscovered,” says Nimer Muhn. “Not only on how to see if there was a name change in your family history, but how to use that information to uncover more about your genealogy.”

For audience members interested in doing their own genealogy research the Rochester Hills Public Library offers in-house access to Ancestry.com free of charge.

“Ancestrylibrary.com lets you search census data, vitals and military and immigration records,” says Rochester Hills Public Library Community Relations Specialists Amanda Harrison Keighley. “It’s an invaluable tool for anyone researching their family history.”

The program is April 19 from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room and is open to everyone with an RHPL library card. Please register in advance at rhpl.org.

Ken Daniels Shares Insider Stories from the Red Wings at Rochester Hills Public Library

The Rochester Hills Public Library (RHPL) is proud to present “If These Walls Could Talk: Insider Stories from the Detroit Red Wings,” presented by TV Broadcaster Ken Daniels, April 24 from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Daniels served as the Red Wing’s club TV play-by-play man for 20 years, and in his new autobiography, “If These Walls Could Talk: Detroit Red Wings,” Daniels details anecdotes from the locker room, ice and press box.

“As the television voice of the Detroit Red Wings for the past 21 seasons, I’ve got plenty of stories to tell”, said Daniels. “I’m always excited for the opportunity to share stories of my time with whom I consider the greatest athletes in the world. I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to do something I’ve wanted to do from the age of 10, and look forward to meeting you at the Rochester Hills Public Library.”

Audience members will get a glimpse of behind-the-scenes secrets from the past 20 years of Red Wings history. They’ll also hear stories from Daniel’s formative years growing up in Toronto.

“The Rochester Hills Public Library prides itself on offering a wide range of topics. By inviting Mr. Daniels to share his unique experiences, we hope to attract a new audience who might not have attended our lectures in the past”, says Rochester Hills Public Library Community Relations Specialists Amanda Harrison Keighley.

The program is April 24 from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room and is open to everyone with an RHPL library card. Please register in advance at calendar.rhpl.org.

The Friends of the Rochester Hills Public Library organization is sponsoring a tour of the Detroit News and Free Press Printing facility on Friday, May 18.

Most everyone has read a newspaper at some point in their life. Have you ever wondered what the process is to produce that newspaper? This is your chance to find out.

Detroit News and Free Press Printing Facility Tour

The printing facility is a 480,000 square foot, six-story building which originally opened in 1971, with several expansions since. It was considered one of the most technologically advanced printing facilities in the world by 2005. The entire facility is an engineering marvel of high-tech wizardry, consolidation and automation. Both the Detroit Free Press (c. 1831) and Detroit News (c. 1873) have been printed here since the combination of their business operations was approved in 1989.

The facility consists of six offset press lines. Each press line is 6-stories (90 feet) high, 540 feet long and can print 75,000 full newspapers (ie: 7-sections, 80 pages, including 40 pages of color) per hour. The press line is “offset” because the paper itself never actually touches the printing plate. For higher quality, printing blankets (big rubber cylinders) offset the ink and image on the paper.

The tour lasts about 90 minutes and includes lots of walking and stairs, so bring some comfortable walking shoes. The facility is not ADA Accessible for tour participants. Photography is allowed. Space is limited to 25 people per tour so the Friends have arranged two tours on the same day. Once 50 reservations are reached, names will first go on a waiting list for cancellations. But if interest merits and the waiting list grows sufficiently, an additional tour will be added. Prompt sign-ups are encouraged.

Tour participants will meet at the facility, and parking is limited so carpooling is recommended. The News and Free Press Facility is located at 6200 Metropolitan Parkway (at the corner of Mound Rd.) Sterling Heights, Michigan.

• Date: Friday, May 18
• Time: 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Cost: $20 per person. Proceeds will benefit Library programs.

To reserve your place online via PayPal, go to www.rhpl.org/friends-of-rhpl and scroll down to the “special event” tab, and click on the PayPal link. Sign-up forms are also available at the Library information desk (500 Olde Towne Road in downtown Rochester). Payment can be made by check accompanying that form.

Please reserve by Tuesday, May 8. Tickets will not be issued; admittance will be from a list of paid reservations at the door.