Early Long Beach History To Be Presented At Ruth Bach Library Event
(LONG BEACH, CA; June 8, 2012) – Friends of the Long Beach Public Libraries has invited Fifth District Councilwoman Gerrie Schipske to discuss her recently published book, "Early Long Beach", at the Ruth Bach Public Library on Saturday, June 16th at 12:30 pm, located at 4055 N. Bellflower Blvd. Schipske will sign her book and donate 10% of the proceeds to the Friends of the Long Beach Public Library.
The Bath House and Board Walk, Long Beach, Ca. (1907) The book is the third in Schipske's series about the history of the city that started out as part of the railroad backed American Colony tract in the late 1880's to become the center of oil production, shipping and aviation by the 1930's.
“The success of Long Beach today is in great part due to its early history and the efforts of its residents to make both education and libraries a priority," says Schipske, who is a native of Long Beach. In 1908, Long Beach erected a public library funded by Andrew Carnegie.
"Early Long Beach" chronicles the city's first 50 years from its early days as a "alcohol free" seaside resort and real estate development area to its recovery from a devastating earthquake that destroyed 90% of its school system.
"Along the way, Long Beach paved the way for the creation, development and advancement of some of the most essential industries the world relies on today. Our oceanfront provided a resort area, a landing strip for early aviators, a fishing industry, a port for shipbuilding and trade, and a location for the US navy to anchor its battle fleet in 1919 that led to a massive relocation of Navy and Army resources. In 1921, the discovery changed the city forever, bringing wealth and people. Few other cities can boast these important assets," reminds Schipske.
The Friends of The Long Beach Public Libraries, is a non-profit organization designed to replenish vital reading materials and support for summer reading programs for both children and adults. The organization has been instrumental in helping both the Ruth Bach and El Dorado Library branches replenish much needed books and materials. Through the Councilwoman's "Library Round Up" drive, each year , local businesses participate in rounding up spare change from their customers to donate to the libraries. The funds are given to Friends of the Long Beach Public Libraries which in turn donates them to the 5th District branch libraries for materials.
Councilwoman Schipske is also the author of two other books: Rosie the Riveter in Long Beach and Early Aviation in Long Beach, both of which capture the historical importance the city played in aviation and the participation of Long Beach women during World War II. They are published by Arcadia Publishing.
For more information regarding "Early Long Beach," please contact the Offices of Councilwoman Gerrie Schipske at 562-570-6932, or email district5@longbeach.gov
