The King County Library System (KCLS) and the South Seattle Emerald are teaming up to bring you the "South End Scoop." Dig into this community-centered column each month for great book, music, movie, and event recommendations from your local librarians.
Celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month with KCLS! For more Asian American Heritage reads, visit this booklist. For more books about diverse Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander experiences, visit this booklist.
This delightful picture book explores the importance of family traditions through the lens of a child's experience with food. Using beautiful illustrations and poetic text, Laura G. Lee introduces readers to the cooking techniques, unique flavors, and rituals surrounding soy sauce. Lee's writing is simple yet powerful, capturing the warmth and connection that comes with sharing a meal. Soy Sauce! is the perfect book to honor this household staple.
Enjoy this vibrant collection of short stories about a group of South Asian middle schoolers who hang out at a New Jersey community center. The stories cover a range of topics, including chess tournaments, crushes, and anti-immigrant sentiment. Readers will find themselves cheering on the characters as they discover their identities, embrace cultural tradition, and learn about the power of shared community.
Author Stacey Lee delivers a compelling mystery set in 1932 Los Angeles in Chinatown. Sisters May, Gemma, and Peony run their family's flower business. They are thrust into a dangerous investigation when they discover the body of rising movie star Lulu Wong. Despite police indifference, the sisters pursue justice, uncovering clues that suggest the murder might involve powerful figures. The story explores racial prejudice, corruption, and the challenges of the Great Depression. Lee's vivid portrayal of 1930s Chinatown and the sisters' emotional journey makes for an engrossing, twist-filled read.
Set in the architectural haven of Columbus, Indiana, this film follows Jin, a man stranded in town after his father falls ill. When Jin meets Casey, a young woman at a crossroads in her life, the two find a connection in their shared family experiences. With stunning cinematography and a minimalist narrative, the film delves into themes of isolation, longing, and self-discovery. The measured pacing and subtle performances create a meditative viewing experience. Columbus is a poignant reflection on place, relationships, and the beauty of life's quiet moments.
Recommendations courtesy of KCLS Librarian Rachel Adams. Rachel is a children's services librarian at the Valley View Library. She loves helping readers of all ages find books and foster a love of reading. When not at the library, she enjoys camping, playing board games, and baking with her kids. You can find her reading and dancing at Friday Story Times.
KCLS offers a variety of in-person and online events and activities for all ages! All events are free. Find one that interests you at KCLS.org/Events.
Saturday, May 17, 2–3:30 p.m.
Bellevue Library
Join a conversation with Kiku Hughes, local Japanese American cartoonist and author of Displacement. Learn about the historical and personal effects of Japanese incarceration camps and discover the intergenerational issues they created. Get a free book at the event, while supplies last.
Wednesday, May 21, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Renton Library
Nature on the Big Screen is an ongoing series that brings the wonders of the natural world to life. Join us this month to watch My Octopus Teacher, in which a filmmaker forges an unusual friendship with an octopus living in a South African kelp forest.
Thursday, May 22, 5– 6 p.m.
Online
Learn how to finish strong in the final few weeks of school, which can be exhausting and busy. Discover tips and strategies for better managing this stressful time. Presented by Nancy Colburn of Engage ADHD Coaching.
Friday, May 23, 4–5 p.m.
Bellevue Library
Dig into the basics of sublimation printing and learn how to use the equipment in the Bellevue Library Makerspace.
Sunday, May 25, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Federal Way Library
Create helpful tools for plant lovers in the Federal Way Library Makerspace. You will learn how to use the Glowforge Laser Printer to create personalized plant stakes, Cricut decals, 3D print plant clips, and more.
Sunday, May 25, 4–5 p.m.
Federal Way Library
Let's get into the weeds! Spring is the perfect time to get familiar with what's growing around you. Learn to identify and control difficult noxious weeds and invasive plants in your garden with the King County Noxious Weeds Control Program.
Saturday, May 31, 11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m.
Skyway Library
Enjoy working on a combination of vinyasa and hatha style yoga that is alignment-based (where the joints are in agreement). We aim to provide a practice that is accessible to all through a variety of choices in yoga poses. Presented by Willa Becker.
Monday, June 9, 4–5:30 p.m.
Online
Explore LGBTQIA+ literature in a safe and nurturing environment online. Bring your own book or check out our recommendations.
Tuesday, June 10, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Burien Library
Social service providers will help connect you to health care, education, and more resources at this helpful event. Get assistance with phones and ORCA cards. Grab a hygiene kit and snacks, while supplies last. Some potential agencies include: Molina Medical, CHOOSE 180, Public Health – Seattle & King County, Gen Mobile, Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), King County Promotores Network, Salvation Army, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Hospitality House, Peer Kent, and more.
Wednesday, June 11, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Renton Library
Discover the amazing trails within the Metro Vancouver Regional District with award-winning guidebook author Craig Romano. Drawing from his new release, Urban Trails: Vancouver, BC, Romano will talk about trails in one of the world's most beautiful and dynamic cities.
Residents in the KCLS service area (in King County, outside the city of Seattle) can sign up for a physical card or digital eCard. If you live in a library district with a reciprocal agreement with us, you may apply for an all-access library card. Contact Ask KCLS if you need assistance with your account, or call 425-462-9600 or 800-462-9600.
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