One of the projects that I have been working on at the library is a spreadsheet of all of the Wisconsin authors that we have in our collection. I am marking the physical books with a sticker that says Wisconsin Author. We are by no means representing all of the authors in the world that have a Wisconsin connection, but just that ones that we have in our collection at the Whitefish Bay Public Library. Much of the initial research was done by Samantha Spottek, who was one of our librarians, but has taken another job up north. I have added to her list and verified the residence or connection of these writers to our state.

Wisconsin is home to many talented writers, three of whom have books out right now. Some are on the New York Times bestsellers list. They are Lauren Fox, Anuradha D. Rajurkar, and Christina Clancy. The first two live in Shorewood, and Clancy grew up in Milwaukee and currently resides in Madison.

It’s now been seven months since the March lock-down. While some things are opening up, life is far from normal. And, for those of us older than a ‘certain age,’ we’re told to be particularly careful. Since we can’t return to all of our normal pursuits, it is helpful to find new things to do outside.

As this ‘safer at home and OK outdoors’ environment continues, however, it can be helpful to find new routines. Walking or otherwise traveling through the same routes is getting more than a bit boring. Therefore, this missive offers some recreational ideas that you might not have considered—things that you can do safely in Whitefish Bay and which might prove to be fun ways to enjoy the outdoors.

Interested in reading local? The last few years there have been a number of really great books that are written by Wisconsinites. Whether you like fiction or nonfiction, mystery or graphic novels, there’s something here for everyone.