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If you're thinking of trimming down your home magazine subscriptions, check out the library's collection - chances are good that you can keep current with your favorites without burdening either your pocketbook or the landfill. All current titles are library-use only, but older issues are always available to check out for a leisurely home read. In addition, the library subscribes to two databases that give you access to an even larger variety of titles. With new magazines being created and older titles closing shop, the selection at the public libraries has changed this year - here's a summary of the new titles scattered throughout the public library branches.

Available now:

"Play"

Written by and for gamers, this reviews new games on a number of platforms including Wii, PSP, Xbox 360, and more. Alongside the reviews are regular columns by developers and artists, editorials, comics, and other tidbits of interest to those in the gaming world, as well as monthly rundowns of new anime imports. Slick graphics from the games make this an extremely visually appealing read.

"Cloth Paper Scissors"

Free-form artists, take note! Dedicated to exploring a mix of media, this magazine is full of inspiration for creative people of all stripes. There's something here for quilters, collage artists, painters, embossers, and other non-industrial art pursuits. Step-by-step instructions as well as plenty of color photos and well-organized lists of materials make it easy to dive into new projects.

"Linux Pro"

Whether you're already running Linux or wondering what it's all about, pick this up for a look inside Linux and its applications. Learn about new applications, get support from fellow users, read the latest User Friendly strip, take a look at upcoming developments, and get disks full of new releases.

"Dwell" Tired of home design magazines featuring remodeled colonial mansions? Pick up a copy of Dwell to see the latest in (mostly) small homes and apartments with a modern twist. In addition to elegant minimalist design, Dwell highlights the ecological choices homeowners, designers, and architects are making. Even the advertisements are consistent with the magazine's philosophy and are often smoothly blended into the overall visual layout. The result is a great idea book for real, livable, contemporary spaces.

"The Ring"

No ring girls here - this solid magazine covers boxing as a sport, not entertainment for the masses. Expect the latest stats, opinions pages written by experts, boxer profiles, and blow-by-blows of recent matches as well as looks back at key matches and boxers in history. If you're into boxing, this is the one magazine you need to read.

And, coming soon:

"AARP"

Published by the American Association of Retired Persons, this magazine emphasizes issues that concern us as we age. Changing angles on health care, choosing pension plans, helping adult children, grandparenting, travelling and relationship advice are all here and aimed at those 60 and older.

"Gardening How-To"

Practical tips for home gardeners of all stripes can be found here. Want to grow more veggies in small spaces? Spice up your flower beds? Wonder how to get rid of pests and keep critters out of your swiss chard? Check this out for a monthly infusion of useful ideas.

"Climbing"

Filled with technical equipment reviews, climbing tips, expedition news, step-by-grip accounts of amazing adventures, and of course, photos to take your breath away, this is the perfect magazine for hard-core climbers and those yearning to become them. Whether you prefer sport, trad, bouldering, walls, ice, alpine, or mountains, Climbing has it covered for you.

"Martha Stewart Weddings"

The Douglas Library now has its own wedding magazine. Those familiar with Martha Stewart know that she's a font of information and ideas for elegant but hands-on and budget-conscious details. Whether you're looking for advice on hiring photographers, needing a unique idea for handmade decorations, or planning the perfect reception, this will put you on your way with step-by-step instruction and worksheets.