For cool hobbies

Whether you find your calling in astronomy, art or basket weaving,

hobbies can lead to what psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihaly called

“flow” --a time-transcending engagement in an activity offering

supreme creative fulfillment. For inspiration, turn to magazines on

Newport Beach Public Library shelves.

Interested in some of the most stellar sights in the heavens? Flip

through Astronomy for sky watching tips, equipment reviews and news

about space exploration. In the latest edition, explore the mysteries

of martian poles, learn to star-test a telescope, and peer into a

future dominated by dark energy.

For more down-to-earth interests, discover the world’s largest

collector-car marketplace in Hemmings Motor News. If you’re looking

to buy, sell or restore classic cars, this is your resource.

Thousands of ads for car shows, auctions, restorers, appraisers and

tools come together in each bi-monthly issue.

Two wheels more your style? Check out Cycle World for the latest

on Harleys, motor-sport events and adventure riding gear.

Research another cycling scene in Bicycling, featuring the best of

human-powered vehicles, competitive bicycling commentary and

information about cycling tours.

One of the most classic hobbies is the focus of Mekeel’s & Stamps,

published every week since 1891 for stamp collectors. Equally popular

with numismatics fans is Coinage, a monthly roundup of trends of

interest to those who enjoy amassing dollars and cents of rare postal

vintages.

More hands-on types may be drawn to Fine Woodworking, for

professional and wannabe carpenters. Using projects as examples of

techniques, this handsome publication offers guidance for furniture

and other projects.

Threads uses projects to illustrate sewing techniques and design

concepts. Sections on fit, fabric and style include tips for making

clothing and home accessories.

If you’ve purchased a digital camera or just want to get creative

with an old 35-millimeter or point and shoot model, Popular

Photography may be your best source for articles about equipment,

film and composition.

Learn how to display your photographs and other memorabilia with

Family Tree Magazine, a bimonthly magazine devoted to discovering and

preserving your family history.

For collectors, Antiques & Collecting looks at the art of amassing

everything from Americana to international knickknacks. More

traditional collectibles and limited-edition pieces are the focus of

Collector Editions.

Lovers of man’s best friend will be well served by Dog Fancy,

covering health, training, behavior and breed information for pet

owners. For feline fans, each issue of Cat Fancy features a specific

breed and includes a veterinarian’s column, feline fiction, a

breeders’ showcase and horoscopes.

Magazines are listed in the Library Catalog at

www.newportbeachlibrary.org. Articles may be copied and browsed

through at the Newport Beach Central Library. All but the current

issue may be checked out from Balboa, Corona del Mar and Mariners

Branch Libraries.

* CHECK IT OUT is written by the staff of the Newport Beach

Public Library. This week’s column is by Melissa Adams in

collaboration with Sara Barnicle. All titles may be reserved from

home or office computers by accessing the catalog at

www.newportbeachlibrary.org.