In the Stacks: It’s time to book your summer vacation

The warm weather is finally here and you know what that means – exactly – time to plan your summer reading. Whether you measure your summer vacation in months, weeks, or long weekends, the library has lots of great items to add to your reading pile. Am I the only one who packs my books before I pack my clothes? Here are some suggestions to throw in your suitcase or beach bag.

Like nearly everyone, I’m interested in learning more about AI technology. Two recent books that stand out for me are: Karen Hao’s, “Empire of AI: Dreams and Nightmares in Sam Altman’s OpenAI” and “Project Maven: A Marine Colonel, His Team, and the Dawn of AI Warfare” by Katrina Manson.

“Empire of AI” provides an in-depth look at the genesis and evolution of OpenAI, the tech company that created ChatGPT. Hao is an award-winning journalist who has written for “The Atlantic,” “The Wall Street Journal” and served as a senior editor for the “MIT Technology Review.” Her areas of expertise are AI research, tech ethics, and the social implications of AI. “Empire” is available from the library in print or in digital format via the Libby/Overdrive app. Don’t be discouraged by wait estimates. The library buys extra copies for Weston residents based on demand. If you place a hold, you will go to the front of the line, but you have to be logged in for the computer to recognize your library card and for us to know extra copies are wanted.

“Project Maven” is a fascinating look at the application of AI in the military and the moral and logistical issues raised by its implementation. Manson is an award-winning journalist who writes for Bloomberg and who has previously reported for the “Financial Times” on issues such as foreign policy, national security, and emerging technology. I’m listening to the audio version of the library book using the Hoopla app. Hoopla offers simultaneous use so download the app and immediately check out a book using your library card and PIN – no waiting!

If you are looking for inspiration for a hiking vacation, check out “Women Who Hike National Parks: Walking with America’s Most Inspiring Adventurers” by Heather Balogh Rochfort. Rochfort interviews 17 experienced hikers about their favorite trails. The guide includes beautiful color photos as well as information about the level of difficulty, fees, and reservations for locations throughout the United States.

Anelise Chen’s poignant memoir, “Clam Down: A Metamorphosis” is funny and sad all at once. Chen’s description of her evolution into a clam after receiving her mom’s text with a typo is unique and very clever. Or should I say “celver.” OK that’s not a word, but I really think they’ve started something. I am now telling myself to “clam down” as needed. As she says on page eight, “everyone knows it’s useless to tell an upset person to ‘calm down,’ but ‘clam down’ was always a hoot.”

There are some exciting new books arriving this summer. A few to watch for, by some of my favorite authors, include: “Summer of Love” by Kerri Maher, “Contrapposto” by Dave Eggers and “Land” by Maggie O’Farrell.

While you’re logging pages of great books, why not sign up for a library summer reading program to share your recommendations with other readers. There are programs for all ages starting with the preschool program. Information about how to sign up for all our summer reading programs will also be posted in June on the library’s website at westonlibrary.org or you can ask a librarian for guidance. Happy reading!