Oregon’s own Ken Kesey wasn’t a mystery writer, but he summed up the appeal of one of the most popular genres when he said, “The answer is never the answer. What's really interesting is the mystery.” Join Community Librarians Nate, Catherine, Jenny and Liisa for a look at what mystery should be your next read. During the programs each of the four Community Librarians will be highlighting a different mystery sub-genre. The presentations are part of the Know Mystery series of programs during the month of February at Deschutes Public Libraries. The programs are free and open to the public.

February 2, 2013 • 2:00 p.m.
Redmond Public Library

February 6, 2013 • 6:00 p.m.
Downtown Bend Public Library

Nate, who has been with DPLS since June 2012, will be shining a light on noir mysteries. “I like the poetry of the language used in noir and the way it can encourage bravery even in the face of an uncaring world.” Nate says that “I often daydream about moonlighting as a private detective, prowling the back alleys of this mean city in a ’48 Packard with a black fedora on my head and a blond bombshell on his arm.” Nate recently had a series of articles about collecting mystery books published in Mystery Scene magazine.

Liisa, has been with the Deschutes Public Library for 14 years.  Her love of mysteries began as a child when she started reading Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew books.  Her favorites these days are those with humorous themes and strong female characters. “What entertains me the most about humorous mysteries are the over-the-top characters and the crazy situations they often find themselves in,” says Liisa. She is looking forward to introducing people to Plugged, the first adult crime novel by Eoin Coffer, known primarily as the YA author of the Artemis Fowl series.

Currently a Collection Development Librarian, Catherine came to work at DPLS in 2005.  Before coming to Bend, she received her library science degree from the University of South Florida and worked at the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library System. Catherine will be highlighting historical mysteries. “I love books that expand my understanding of the world while getting me to care about the characters and their lives,” says Catherine. “A well-written, engaging mystery that helps me experience a different time and a place from an inside point-of-view is the perfect combination.”

Jenny has worked at Deschutes Public Library in various capacities since 2008. She previously worked in the news business and wonders why it took her so long to make the switch to libraries. Jenny will be investigating the “whodunit” mystery genre. “I rate mysteries based on the strength of their puzzles. That’s why I love whodunits so much.” She says the puzzle of who committed the murder is the star of the complex, plot-driven detective stories that she loves. Like many mystery fans Jenny enjoys the challenge of trying to solve the mystery before the author reveals the answer at the end.

For more information about this or other library programs, please visit the library website at www.deschuteslibrary.org. People with disabilities needing accommodations (alternative formats, seating or auxiliary aides) should contact Liz at 312-1032.