Last month my father, Jim Shilliday, launched his latest book, “A Memory of Sky” at McNally-Robinson. It’s his second in the span of a few years – the first being a biography of Seager Wheeler, “Canada’s Wheat King”. Not bad for a guy who has been retired for nearly 20 years.

Jim Shilliday reading from his book at McNally-Robinson

This book chronicles not only the colorful history of aviation in Canada, but his own experiences as a pilot during the Cold War.

He was stationed in North Lufnam, England, Marville, France and Baden-Baden, Germany while serving with the 410 fighter squadron and flew the F-86 Sabre – a single engine aircraft that was widely respected – and, depending on the flag you saluted – feared.

Lots of family, friends and people simply fascinated by airplanes and aviation history turned up that afternoon – even a pair of brothers who were friends of my uncle Robert. He was a gunner on a Lancaster bomber that was shot down over Germany. 19 years old.

If you ever find yourself in Duck Mountain Provincial Park and are driving near the bottom of East Blue Lake, look out for another lake called Shilliday – it’s named after him.

Jesus of Cool by Nick Lowe

If you haven’t already discovered the music treasures found at the local library, you’re missing out.

I’ve been trolling the online database of our local libraries for a couple of years and am continually amazed by the titles and artists I find – obscure and popular.

What started as an occasional visit on the way to my studio gradually evolved into an obsession once I was given an ipod for Christmas recently. You have to fill 30gbs with something.

Some finds weren’t too surprising: Amy Winehouse, Beck and Coldplay, for example; but getting my hands on Cat Power, Deerhunter, Fleet Foxes, Grinderman and LCD Sound System was an indication that some knowledgeable hipster was in charge of ordering their music.

Jukebox by Cat Power

The convenience can’t be over-emphasized as well. Search and order from the library’s website and depending on how many people are queued up, it will be ready for pick-up in a few days.

I’ve been able to rediscover bands and recordings that I have only on vinyl and are stored in the porch under fractured wicker chairs and a pile of memory foam: the first Psychedelic Furs album, “Jesus of Cool” by Nick Lowe and Husker Du’s “Candy Apple Grey”.

You’re more likely to take a chance on a recording as well, though, that isn’t always a good thing. But hey – now I know who Buckethead is and that I won’t be searching for other titles by him.

Did you know there are books at the library as well?