St Louis County Library

If you've ever toyed with the idea of replacing or reducing your lawn, you will appreciate the practical advice and beautiful photography in Pam Penick's book "Lawn Gone! Low-Maintenance, Sustainable, Attractive Alternatives for your Yard."

Penick makes a strong case for exploring alternatives to the traditional American lawn. While a lush green lawn is attractive and provides space for play, there are drawbacks. In addition to the regular watering and mowing required to maintain a lawn, the chemical fertilizers and pesticides that are often used can affect wildlife and streams. The equipment used in lawn care contributes to air and noise pollution. Penick argues that trying to maintain the same landscape in areas with different climates makes little sense. Why not celebrate the individual beauty of your own region?

Checkout the newest and soon to be released romance titles from St. Louis County Library. Reserve your copy today!

"Edge of Dawn: A Midnight Breed Novel" by Lara Adrian--Vampires, war, bloodshed and a dark passion. Need I tell more?

"Heart of Atlantis" by Alyssa Day--Warrior and High Priest of Poseidon, Alaric is one of the most powerful men in Atlantis, but he cannot have the one thing he desires most, rebel leader Quinn. This conclusion to the Warriors of Poseidon series wraps up the loose ends while still telling a satisfying story.

Rock Road staff member, Laura Nowlin recently published her first novel called "If He Had Been With Me," which will be released on April 1st. If you're looking for a teen novel with surprising depth and emotional impact, this one is for you. The interweaving of the familial problems of divorce, depression and expectations combined with the normal drama of high school take this novel to the "next level."

No handbook will be as vital to you this gardening season as "How to Survive a Garden Gnome Attack" by Chuck Sambuchino. While you worry about the lack of rain, these garden ornaments could be preparing to attack your family. Sambuchino has documented examples, though many survivors are in witness protection. Photographs are provided of gnomes caught in the act of invasion, burrowing under houses and coming up through the heating vents. The author provides a step by step guide to:

• Access your risk
• Gnomeproof your house
• Discover the weapons gnomes use
• Discover what weapons to use against gnomes
• Gnome disposal

Don't be fooled by their apple cheeks and Santa beards. Sambuchino recommends sleeping with your shoes on to be prepared for a gnome attack. So this spring, may your sprouts be many and your harvest be full, but most of all beware!

Alright, I admit it...hi, my name is Joni and I am addicted to romance  books. There is just something about this genre that speaks to me. I fly through these books, so it's great that I have a library card to save me money. The average romance paperback can run between $4.99-$7.99 per book, plus tax. With the money I save, I can buy the necessities: shoes and chocolate. The romance categories are endless: inspirational, contemporary, romantic suspense, mystery, paranormal, historical and so many more. The best part, for me is the happy ending. The couple's journey towards each other is met with interesting secondary characters, plot twists and sometimes evil villians. But, at last, true love conquers all! So, what's your favorite genre? Post your response on the SLCL Facebook page.

Here's what's coming to SLCL. Click on the titles below to reserve your copy.

"I Capture the Castle" by Dodie Smith is as delightful a book as I have ever read, and I'm not a person who often calls things delightful. Published in 1948, the book is filled with oddballs. If you liked "Little Miss Sunshine" or "The Royal Tenenbaums" then you might like this book.

Kent Haruf's new book "Benediction" is his third novel set in the fictional town of Holt, Colorado. It is the poignant story of a dying man looking back on his life. Dad Lewis faces his last days at home with his wife and adult daughter. He considers his good fortune as well as some unresolved regrets. His family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors offer what help they can as they struggle with their own sorrows.

Haruf uses beautiful language and a simple style to depict the understated drama of everyday life. The pace of this book is slow, but the minimal action is heavy with consequence.

Checkout the newest and coming romance releases from St. Louis County Library. Reserve your copy today!

"One Good Earl Deserves a Lover: The Second Rule of Scoundrels" by Sarah MacLean--I love snuggling up with one of Sarah MacLean's books on a cold day, with a cup of hot chocolate. In her latest book, the owner of Fallen Angel gaming club finds himself propositioned by scientist Lady Phillipa Mabury.

"Highlander Most Wanted" by Maya Banks--Steamy romance, muscled Highlanders and Scottish accents...somebody get a hose.