IDEA LAB OPENING
Did you know?
The La Jolla/Riford Library boasts what is quite possibly the first biology lab inside a public library anywhere in the world. It contains everything required for the majority of molecular biology techniques, such as a thermal cycler, gel electrophoresis, and centrifuge. Thanks to the camera connected to one of the lab microscopes, students can view their slides up on the TV or on a computer screen, take images, and conduct more in-depth analysis of microscope slides.
At the new space’s grand opening, Congressman Scott Peters bestowed it with a congressional proclamation! As he put it, the lab is “a reflection of the bio-tech industry in La Jolla and makes emerging technology accessible to anybody.”
Summer Camp!
The first summer camp at the bio-lab was a Hands-On Genetic Modification workshop aimed to teach children and their parents about cells, DNA, DNA replication, and PCR. These experiments were completed with a bacterial transformation (introduction of foreign DNA), which caused the bacteria to glow when exposed to UV light.
Explore the Idea Lab
The Idea Lab at the La Jolla/Riford Library is open to “any member of the community who is curious about science or has an idea they want to try out.” Those are the words of Callen Hyland, a Senior Research Scientist at the University of San Diego and one of the lab’s passionate volunteers. Since the Idea Lab’s grand opening on May 25, 2019, volunteers and patrons have made excellent use of the signature space. The lab has three main aspects—a community biology lab, a 3D printer lab, and two brand new Mac computers equipped to edit digitized photos and videos (such as what you’ve digitized in the Memory Lab!).
Hours of Operation
The bio lab is accessible to registrants from the public during scheduled weekend workshops and by appointment only. The 3D printer lab and memory lab are open whenever a volunteer is present. Check here for information on service hours and upcoming workshops and unleash the citizen scientist in you!
A WORLD UNDERWATER - Summer Art Show
The La Jolla Library Art Gallery is pleased to announce its summer show, A World Underwater.
Thirteen members of the San Diego Underwater Photographic Society have been invited to exhibit their
work which tells the story of the diversity and beauty of plant and animal life that exists in our oceans.
These photos immerse the viewer in nature’s exotic, compelling and breathtaking sea life and showcase
a truly spectacular and sometimes mysterious world.
The show runs from June 18 to September 14, 2019, with an opening reception on Sunday, June 23 from 2-4pm.
Participants include Bob Pooley, Corinne Klein, Dana Buchner, Erin Chandler, Greg Volger, Jami Feldman,
Marla Matin, Matthew Meier, Mike Couffer, Robert Yin, Teresa Pooley, Walter Heim, and Nan Oslett.
Library's 120th Anniversary Festivities
On Thursday, June 6th, 2019, we are celebrating the 120th anniversary of a public library in La Jolla! In fact, you can browse the original minutes from the library's first meeting in our history room while you digitize your old family photos in the process! There’s a lot more we want you to experience for the anniversary, and we’ve packaged it all into a variety of activities on Thursday, June 6th.
Trivia Hunt
From 10:00am to 5:00pm, participate in a Trivia Quiz turned scavenger hunt that entails visiting different areas of the library and learning about them and La Jolla history in the process. You’ll even be eligible to enter a raffle for cool giveaways.
Storytime
At 10:30am, we’ve prepared a special storytime for our youngest patrons. There’s a Junior Detective theme replete with a clue hunt and prizes, and the tot in your life doesn’t want to miss it.
After-Hours Party
In the evening from 6:30pm-8:30pm, there’s a Friends Members-only party for adults. Drinks and appetizers will be served. Notable La Jollans of the past and present will be there to assist guests in solving the mystery, The Caper on Draper: Who Stole the Manuscript? Would you like to become a member and attend? Register at the event for as little as ten dollars.
Did you know the famed mystery novelists Raymond Chandler and Anne Rice lived in La Jolla? Or that mystery fiction novels are our most frequently circulated books? It’s inspired the mystery theme for the entire day. We hope to see you on June 6th!