Since 1926, the Austin Public Library has provided Austin residents with access to classic works of literature and more modern literary offerings. The current building, which was constructed in 1979, was renamed the Faulk Central Library, but it still aims to provide locals with the same reading resources entirely free of charge. The building is a large, square structure with three floors and a parking garage, and it serves as the reference and collection epicenter of the entire Austin Public Library System.

In addition to its many books, this library also offers a very impressive selection of DVDs and CDs. Educational programs for adult and children are frequently offered at the Faulk Central Library, including computer classes, Spanish lessons, and an all-ages story time.

The Faulk Central Library is open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and noon to 6 p.m. Sundays.

Faulk Central Library
800 Guadalupe Street
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 974-7400
www.library.austintexas.gov/locations/Faulk%20Central%20Library
www.yelp.com/biz/faulk-central-library-austin-public-library-austin

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/Alexandre Duret-Lutz

Having a fear of flying is very common, but this phobia can be quite a hindrance when it comes to traveling for work or taking a cross-country trip. If you’re afraid of airplanes and can’t seem to calm your nerves, these tips will help you to overcome your fear.

1. Become familiar with the plane. Many people are afraid of plane crashes, but crashes are uncommon. Learning how an airplane works will help you to feel more secure once you’re on board. Research facts about your specific type of airplane, and even ask to meet the pilot before boarding.
2. Allow yourself plenty of time. Airports are known for being hectic and stressful, and this will only intensify your fear. Be sure to arrive at the airport a few hours early so that you have time to get to your terminal and relax before it’s time to board.
3. Choose an aisle seat. If you’re afraid of flying you probably don’t want to look down at the ground from the plane’s window. Choosing an aisle seat will eliminate this stressor, and you can even wear an eye mask to close off your view entirely.
4. Avoid caffeine. Stimulants like caffeine will only make your anxiety worse. Avoid drinking your morning latte the day of a flight, and be sure to stay hydrated to keep yourself from feeling fatigued.

Fear of Flying [Independent Traveler]
How to Overcome Your Worst Fears [Lifehacker]
10 Tips for the Fearful Flyer [NBC News]
How Can I Overcome My Fear of Flying? [ADAA]

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/funcrush28

The farm-to-table culinary movement is the backbone of a number of Austin’s most popular restaurants, and although the ingredients come from local suppliers, eateries like Uchi prove that they can be used to create cuisines from around the globe. This Japanese farmhouse restaurant and sushi bar serves creative, modern takes on traditional Japanese dishes using meats and produce from farms around the Austin area. The restaurant is located inside of a renovated bungalow-style house in South Austin, and it is decorated with colorful cherry blossom wallpaper, rustic wooden tables, and an elegant sushi bar where guests can sit and watch as talented chefs prepare each roll by hand.

Uchi’s menu includes a tasting menu of small hot and cool dishes, a full list of sushi, soups and other Japanese fare delicacies. There is also a sake social menu that offers the perfect sake pairing for any dish on the menu.

Uchi
801 South Lamar
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 916-4808
www.uchiaustin.com
www.yelp.com/biz/uchi-austin

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/Ken Hawkins