Holiday Shopping Help from the Port Jefferson Free Library: Part 2

      Looking for some great gift ideas, but don’t know where to start? Let the library help!

For those who are looking to buy the “big” gifts (electronics and the like) turn to one of the best known and trustworthy review publications, Consumer Reports. Consumer Reports will tell exactly what products are worth the money and will go the distance. You can read print copies of the magazine in the Library. All copies can be found in the front Reading Room. The newest issue is on the front of the magazine rack in plastic. The newest issue can only be read in the Library, but all the back issues circulate. To find the back issues simply lift the shelf and they will be there  to browse and check out.

Time can be short with holiday preparations. You can still get the exact same information from Consumer Reports using our online database version. You will need to have your Library card and your Library password handy to log in to access the database.  You can access from this page: http://www.portjefflibrary.org/alphadata.html Just scroll down to Consumer Reports and click on the link that says “Home Use Link”. Once the page loads simply type the item you are searching for into the search box at the top of the page and read at your convenience.

Are books, movies, or music possible choices for your gift list? The Library is a terrific resource to help in making selections. A first stop for an overview of options would be the two parts of the Weekend Arts section New York Times November 29th issue. From Opera to the Grateful Dead to video games, DVDs, they offer suggestions to appeal to nearly anyone. The same issue also offered some wonderful book suggestions, with coffee table books that are as beautiful in their presentation as they images they contain. As always you can stop by the Reference Desk to request the print issue or for those who prefer online access please go to: http://www.portjefflibrary.org/alphadata.html#N and find the New York Times link. Please have your library card handy as you will be asked for your barcode and Library password. 

For those who may want to give books, but on a slightly smaller scale, but with no loss of quality check out this weeks (December 7 ,2013) New York Times Book Review. It contains an impressive 88 pages full of book reviews and recommendations. Start with the 100 Notable Books of 2013 which include both fiction and non-fiction titles. Many other works on a variety of subjects from Hollywood to gardening and all things in between are reviewed. Please see the above instructions on how to access the New York Times through the Library’s website or simply stop by the Reference Desk and ask to read the print copy.

To help with more specific gift book/music searches the Reference librarians can provide information on which books are bestsellers, award winners, and new releases. Don’t forget if you need help with book selections ask a librarian!  Help is on hand to tell you who won the latest Edgar Award for best mystery, or the National Book Award. There is nothing we love more than helping to share the love of reading so feel free to ask us for suggestions.

The Port Jefferson Free Library sends to all Patch readers best wishes for a very happy and healthy holiday season.