Children’s Event Organizer
Lakeshores Library System and
Mid-Wisconsin Federated Library System
Youth Services Update
Issue 356, May 24, 2011
http://www.lakeshores.lib.wi.us/site/childrensya
http://www.llsmwflschildrens.blogspot.com
In this issue:
Ruhama’s Reviews
One World, Many Stories
Mixing in Math
Grant Opportunity from Build-A-Bear
DigitalLiteracy.gov
2011-12 WrestleMania Reading Challenge
Dates to Remember
Website Faves
And Finally......
RUHAMA’S REVIEWS
The Secret of Rover by Rachel Wildavsky
http://tinyurl.com/4bgvhve
Katie and David, twins, have lived in the two extremes of life: poverty and wealth. Their parents and uncle worked for years to create a top-secret governmental program (called Rover) and once it was completed, they didn't have to want for anything anymore. Except perhaps another family member. Finally, after asking for years, the twins' parents agree to adopt a baby from Katkajan and immediately head off to get her. Unbeknownst to anyone, this is a nefarious plot by the Katkajans to get Rover and suddenly, Katie and David are prisoners in their own home. They decide to escape and try to get to their uncle's remote cabin in Vermont, as he is probably the only one left who can help.
This book has an intriguing concept, especially as it's portrayed as realistic fiction, rather than fantasy, and the plot moves quickly, but is not executed very well. The device of Trixie (the evil Katkajan in charge of the twins) constantly finding the kids every time they escaped or plotted to escape got old (and there are one too many twists, making the book drag a little by the end). Katie and David bicker constantly, which got annoying and felt over-the-top (as opposed to the realistic fighting between siblings it was meant to be). The sudden mood changes also were overwhelming and the overall relationship between the two was irritating. I also found the use of nicknames inconsistent, which was a little jarring to the overall feel of the text. A secondary purchase.
If you hop over to the Amazon reviews, you'll see that others have loved it.
The Fred and Susie Show
www.fredandsusie.com
A locally produced video series for children ages 4 to 7.
Various puppets help teach children facts about animals, family values, hygiene and art projects. There are a lot of props, sound effects and interesting backgrounds. Everything is packaged to keep attention, including small segments, songs and jokes interspersed, and is adapted to fit today's children. Humor abounds, which helps older children appreciate the show. Each DVD is about 50 minutes long and has several extra activities, bonus features and printables, if the disc is put in the computer. The art projects are filmed well; including close ups of the materials needed and tips for completing the project.
Some of the audio is low quality (e.g. Fred often sounds far away), some of the breaks seem excessive and some of the blue screens are a little disconcerting, but overall, the sets and layout are well done. I appreciated the changes in location and the variety of puppets used. The amount of factual information slipped in is phenomenal. The live action works well with the puppets and Susie is fun to watch. There is an element of Sesame Street to the episodes and patrons who enjoy Veggie Tales will like this series.
ONE WORLD, MANY STORIES
Planet Earth on You Tube – Metafilter
http://www.metafilter.com/101281/The-Definitive-Look-at-the-Diversity-of-Our-Planet
The breathtaking TV series is now available in its entirety on YouTube. Here are the links. (Neat New Stuff I Found This Week, http://marylaine.com/neatnew.html, Copyright, Marylaine Block, 1999-2011, 3/11/11)
National Geographic Travel and Cultures
http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/
Travel tips, blogs, photos, contests and much more.
Wisconsin Talking Book and Braille Library SRP Booklists
http://dpi.wi.gov/rll/wrlbph/summer_2011.html
The Wisconsin Talking Book and Braille Library has created booklists for the “One World, Many Stories” and “You Are Here” themes. These are items that are available in audio book format at the WTBBL.
MIXING IN MATH
Mixing in Math (MiM) is a set of FREE materials in English and Spanish, designed for integrating numeracy into story time, summer reading, and crafts for children and families. It's an appealing and engaging way to draw in new patrons, to offer them something different, and to reinforce skills children are learning in school.
MiM was designed with input from hundreds of librarians from MA, CT, NY, CA, MO, and other states. MiM resources include posters, games, calendars, crafts, and projects that are easy to use and fun for adults and children. The resources combine common library themes, such as animals, food, and holidays with the math of sizes, shapes, patters, measurement. MiM was funded by the National Science Foundation, and created at TERC, a non-profit educational organization.
Check the MiM website: http://mixinginmath.terc.edu to learn more and to download the materials.
(thanks to Sarah Sogigian at the Massachusetts State Library for sharing this!)
GRANT OPPORTUNITY FROM BUILD-A-BEAR
Build-A-Bear Workshop provides direct support for children in literacy and education programs, such as summer reading programs, early childhood education programs and literacy programs for children with special needs. The grants are made possible through the sale of Turner the Owl, a special furry friend available in all Build-A-Bear Workshop stores. With the sale of each Turner the Owl, 50 cents is donated to First Book and 50 cents is donated through the Build-A-Bear Workshop Bear Hugs Foundation to other literacy programs throughout the United States and Canada. Grant requests reviewed on a rolling basis through October 2011. For more information go to: http://www.buildabear.com/shopping/contents/content.jsp?catId=400002&id=700010.
DIGITALLITERACY.GOV
The U.S. Department of Commerce has launched DigitalLiteracy.gov, a gateway to materials, research, online learning tools and more to help librarians and educators access and share materials to use when training learners of all ages on topics such as information literacy, computer skills, digital literacies and more. The Dept. of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) created the portal in partnership with nine federal agencies to provide librarians, teachers, workforce trainers and others a central location to share digital literacy content and practices. Individuals are welcome to visit the site to find resources, upload their own and/or connect with others who are offering training on these topics. Visit http://www.digitalliteracy.gov/ to access the resource.
2011-12 WRESTLEMANIA READING CHALLENGE
YALSA and WWE are pleased to announce that registration is now open for the 2011-2012 WrestleMania Reading Challenge! Sign up by July 31, and teens at your library could win a trip to WrestleMania XXVIII in Miami next April – and you could win $2,000 for your library!
Libraries and educators who register will receive promotional packs with large posters, mini posters, and other materials to help you promote the challenge in late August. Libraries with multiple branches can register once and request the number of promotional packs they need to distribute to all branches.
Participation in the challenge is open to those in grades 5-12 in all 50 U.S. States and the District of Columbia, as well as all legal residents of Canada excluding Quebec. Teens and tweens who wish to compete for tickets and a trip to WrestleMania 28 in Miami, Florida, will complete and submit a special project during Teen Read Week, Oct. 16-22, 2011.
Twenty-one finalists will be chosen in January 2012 and will win transportation, hotel, tickets and spending money to attend WrestleMania 28 in Miami. Their sponsoring library will win $2,000. Finalists will compete in the WrestleMania Reading Challenge Championships, where they can win ringside tickets to WrestleMania 28 and other prizes. Registration is open now through July 31 at www.ala.org/wrestlemania.
DATES TO REMEMBER
June 20 First day of Storywagon
June 22-29 ALA Annual Conference, New Orleans
August 3 Michael Sullivan workshop, Franklin
August 22-24 CSLP Board meeting, Chicago
September 8-11 ARSL Conference, Fresno, Texas
October 16-22 Teen Read Week
November 1 2012 Summer Reading Program workshop, Milwaukee Public Museum Planetarium
November 1-4 WLA Annual Conference, Milwaukee
WEBSITE FAVES
The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs, South Dakota
http://www.mammothsite.com/default.htm
The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs contains thousands of fossilized mammoths, and was discovered by chance in 1974 while excavating for a housing development in South Dakota. Their website offers visitors a 360-degree virtual tour of the unique museum that was built over the site of the now dry sinkhole, along with views of excavations that are still in progress. The "Paleontology" tab informs visitors not only about the woolly and Columbian mammoths that drowned in the sinkhole, but other animals as well. The "Mammoth Site Vertebrate List" link shows a slew of other animals, such as camels, shrub oxen, and the giant short-faced bear that lived throughout the Great Plains of South Dakota. A PDF of the 85 species of flora and fauna recovered at The Mammoth Site, as of January 2008, is also available in the same link. Visitors should also check out the "Research" tab to learn about current and ongoing research at the site. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 4/15/11)
The National Gallery: 30 Highlight Paintings
http://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/paintings/explore-the-paintings/30-highlight-paintings/
Vermeer, Seurat, Gainsborough, Rembrandt - the National Gallery in London presents this website with thirty "greatest hits" of their collection. Visitors to the site can zoom in on the details of any of the paintings, such as a close-up of Venus' elaborately braided hair in Sandro Botticelli's Venus and Mars, 1485, or get close enough to see the individual brushstrokes in Van Gogh's Sunflowers, 1888. Each painting is accompanied by commentary, for example, this version of Sunflowers is one of four that Van Gogh painted in 1888 (not counting several in other years), and "the various versions and replicas remain much debated among Van Gogh scholars." (Internet Scout Report, 4/29/11)
Smart History
http://smarthistory.org/
Art teachers and students will want to spend some time visiting Smart History. It includes more than two hundred artworks and one hundred and fifty videos and podcasts. All those resources are organized thematically, by style, by artist, and by time period. Themes include For the Very Beginner, Image and Power, The Skill of Describing, Oil Paint, and Print Making. The video section includes Mies's corporate classicism," Odysseus at the Getty, and Magrittes treacherous pipe. Visitors to the site easily can locate the works of more than a hundred artist, including Jean Arp, Carvaggio, Gaugin, Monet, and others. Smart History gives visitors reliable content and a delivery model that’s engaging, with podcasts and screen-casts that are spontaneous conversations about works of art. (Education World Site Reviews, 5/3/11)
National Jukebox
http://www.loc.gov/jukebox/
If you don't have a Wurlitzer handy, the National Jukebox website is the next best thing. Actually, it's probably the "first-best" thing, as it contains over 10,000 recordings made by the Victor Talking Machine Company between 1901 and 1925. It is a tremendous endeavor, and one that brings the sounds of another era into the life of anyone with an Internet connection. First-time visitors should click on the "Making the Jukebox" to get started. Here they can view a slide show of Library of Congress staffers at work selecting the items to be digitized and other shots documenting the entire process. Next, visitors can listen to the "Playlists of Recordings", which feature playlists compiled by Library of Congress curators and project partners. Currently they include "Early Tin Pan Alley", "The Fox Trot", and "Songs by Irving Berlin". The interactive "Victrola Book of the Opera" from 1919 is quite a pip, and visitors can use it to read stories of great operas while listening to period recordings. Also, it's a good idea to read up in the "How'd They Do That?" section, found toward the bottom of the homepage, for more behind the scenes information on the project. (Internet Scout Report, 5/20/11)
4-H Youth Development Organization
http://www.4-h.org/
With over 100 years of service, the 4-H Organization is committed to helping "young people and their families gain the skills they need to be proactive forces in their communities and develop ideas for a more innovative economy." Their work includes outreach to agricultural communities, teen leadership programs, and many other initiatives. On the site's homepage, visitors will find four primary areas, including "About 4-H", "Programs", and "Resource Library". In the "Resource Library" area, visitors can learn about 4-H curriculum materials, volunteer resources, and grant opportunities. Moving on, the "Programs" area includes information about their youth research programs that address climate change, community leadership, and childhood obesity. Also, visitors can sign up for the "Power of YOUth News" updates and other news bulletins. (Internet Scout Report, 5/20/11)
AND FINALLY……
Have a great Memorial Day weekend!
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, April 18, 2011
Summer Reading Program Skit 2011
Thanks to Tricia and Cheryl for sharing this!
Summer Reading Program Skit 2011
Where in the World will I Go?
Traveler (excited about summer vacation) – I’m so happy that summer vacation is almost here! I am looking forward to traveling the whole world! I’m going to learn about different cultures and taste new foods. I’m going to learn to play different sports and make new friends everywhere! I’ve already packed my bags so that I’m ready to leave as soon as school is out. I’ve got some snacks, clothes for different kinds of weather and even remembered my passport. The only thing I’ve got left to do is to buy my tickets. I wonder how much it costs to travel around the world.
(Traveler goes on the internet with the IPAD and checks out prices.)
OH MY! Did you know that plane tickets cost $400? ONE WAY?? Hmmm…maybe I can travel by ship. Well, that’s not any better. I guess I could travel by car and just explore my country....WOW! Did you know that gas costs $3.50 a GALLON?! Even a horse costs money! What am I going to do? I guess I’ll just have to spend my summer walking around my neighborhood. How disappointing. How will I learn about other cultures just walking around my neighborhood?
(Traveler pouts and wanders around the stage. The world enters.)
Earth – I couldn’t help but overhear you. I think I can help. I know a little earth magic. I think I can use it to help you be able to travel the world this summer and it will cost you nothing.
Traveler – REALLY????? Can we try it now?
World – Sure. I just need a few items to cast the spell. Do you have anything blue that would represent the sky that shines over all of us around the world?
Traveler – Sure I do…let me just look in here….OK. Here it is!
World – We’ll just drop that in this magic pot. OK. Now I need something that represents the sun that shines over all the people of the world.
Traveler – Am I prepared or what? I told you I was already packed! I’m getting so excited!
World – One last thing…I need a compass to show us the way.
Traveler – Here! Is that it? What do I do now? When can I leave?
World – One second…I have to stir this all together and then I need (patting all round)…ahh, here it is! I need to add some light and some heat (light match and drop it into the bowl of water), stir carefully and THAT’S IT! Here it is! Your magic ticket to travel around the world for free! (Reach in and pull out a library card and pass it to the traveler.)
Traveler – This is it? It’s a library card!!! How is this going to help me travel around the world?
World – That is your ticket to anywhere you want to go! The summer reading program theme this summer is One World, Many Stories. Not only can you win prizes just for reading, but there will be programs that will teach you about cultures from all over the world. There will be games, food, animals, stories, dancing, music, and even magic from all over the world available for you to try out. You will meet amazing new people and you’ll be able to do all of the things you planned to experience this summer all at your local library. And the whole trip costs you nothing!
Traveler – Well, visiting the library wasn’t the way I initially planned to travel the world, but it certainly fits in my budget. What do I do next?
World – You can walk or drive to either Rochester or Waterford Library starting on Saturday, June 11 to sign up. You’ll get a calendar with all of the information you need to make sure that you don’t miss any adventures. At Waterford Library this summer we’re going to see a Martial Arts demonstration and learn a little bit about Korea, learn how to belly dance, play games from around the world, meet animals from around the world, and even learn how to party in all different countries. At our final program, kids will get to try World Wide Weiners and try hot dog toppings from around the world. At Rochester Library …..
(Cheryl fills in)
So don’t forget to sign up on Saturday June 11 so we can go
(sung to Sailing, Sailing)
Traveling, traveling
All the world to see.
Many a land and tales to tell
All without a fee!
Fun and games and
music and prizes, too.
Come to the libraries
Join the fun
One World and Many Stories!
Summer Reading Program Skit 2011
Where in the World will I Go?
Traveler (excited about summer vacation) – I’m so happy that summer vacation is almost here! I am looking forward to traveling the whole world! I’m going to learn about different cultures and taste new foods. I’m going to learn to play different sports and make new friends everywhere! I’ve already packed my bags so that I’m ready to leave as soon as school is out. I’ve got some snacks, clothes for different kinds of weather and even remembered my passport. The only thing I’ve got left to do is to buy my tickets. I wonder how much it costs to travel around the world.
(Traveler goes on the internet with the IPAD and checks out prices.)
OH MY! Did you know that plane tickets cost $400? ONE WAY?? Hmmm…maybe I can travel by ship. Well, that’s not any better. I guess I could travel by car and just explore my country....WOW! Did you know that gas costs $3.50 a GALLON?! Even a horse costs money! What am I going to do? I guess I’ll just have to spend my summer walking around my neighborhood. How disappointing. How will I learn about other cultures just walking around my neighborhood?
(Traveler pouts and wanders around the stage. The world enters.)
Earth – I couldn’t help but overhear you. I think I can help. I know a little earth magic. I think I can use it to help you be able to travel the world this summer and it will cost you nothing.
Traveler – REALLY????? Can we try it now?
World – Sure. I just need a few items to cast the spell. Do you have anything blue that would represent the sky that shines over all of us around the world?
Traveler – Sure I do…let me just look in here….OK. Here it is!
World – We’ll just drop that in this magic pot. OK. Now I need something that represents the sun that shines over all the people of the world.
Traveler – Am I prepared or what? I told you I was already packed! I’m getting so excited!
World – One last thing…I need a compass to show us the way.
Traveler – Here! Is that it? What do I do now? When can I leave?
World – One second…I have to stir this all together and then I need (patting all round)…ahh, here it is! I need to add some light and some heat (light match and drop it into the bowl of water), stir carefully and THAT’S IT! Here it is! Your magic ticket to travel around the world for free! (Reach in and pull out a library card and pass it to the traveler.)
Traveler – This is it? It’s a library card!!! How is this going to help me travel around the world?
World – That is your ticket to anywhere you want to go! The summer reading program theme this summer is One World, Many Stories. Not only can you win prizes just for reading, but there will be programs that will teach you about cultures from all over the world. There will be games, food, animals, stories, dancing, music, and even magic from all over the world available for you to try out. You will meet amazing new people and you’ll be able to do all of the things you planned to experience this summer all at your local library. And the whole trip costs you nothing!
Traveler – Well, visiting the library wasn’t the way I initially planned to travel the world, but it certainly fits in my budget. What do I do next?
World – You can walk or drive to either Rochester or Waterford Library starting on Saturday, June 11 to sign up. You’ll get a calendar with all of the information you need to make sure that you don’t miss any adventures. At Waterford Library this summer we’re going to see a Martial Arts demonstration and learn a little bit about Korea, learn how to belly dance, play games from around the world, meet animals from around the world, and even learn how to party in all different countries. At our final program, kids will get to try World Wide Weiners and try hot dog toppings from around the world. At Rochester Library …..
(Cheryl fills in)
So don’t forget to sign up on Saturday June 11 so we can go
(sung to Sailing, Sailing)
Traveling, traveling
All the world to see.
Many a land and tales to tell
All without a fee!
Fun and games and
music and prizes, too.
Come to the libraries
Join the fun
One World and Many Stories!
Friday, March 4, 2011
CEO Newsletter, 3/4/11
Children’s Event Organizer
Lakeshores Library System and
Mid-Wisconsin Federated Library System
Youth Services Update
Issue 355, March 4, 2011
http://www.lakeshores.lib.wi.us/site/childrensya
http://www.llsmwflschildrens.blogspot.com
In this issue:
Ruhama’s Review
One World, Many Stories
New LLS Website
Michael Sullivan Workshop in Franklin
What’s in Your Story Hour Closet?
Dates to Remember
Website Faves
And Finally......
RUHAMA’S REVIEW
Matched by Ally Condie
http://tinyurl.com/4r452mo
Welcome to the future: everything is done precisely and perfectly. Our story opens with 17 year old Cassia attending her Match banquet, where she will meet her future husband. This is the day she has been waiting for her whole life, and when her Match turns out to be childhood friend Xander, it's like a dream come true. But when Cassia loads Xander's data chip into her reader later, another face pops up and she is confused. Why has Ky been added her to this file? Is it really an honest mistake? As events unfold (the Official assigned to her assures it is a mistake), Cassia finds herself learning more about the boy who has been a mystery and falling in love. As this happens, Cassia begins to wonder if the Society actually knows what's best and has everything figured out like they say they have.
This futuristic story has several typical elements: the teenager who questions the system, forbidden romance and the potential future of society. What makes this book stand out is characterization and the backstory that's woven throughout each element of the Society. And it does make you think as you read: should some things be calculated and assigned, like your job and your mate? Is life truly better when a governmental agency is controlling everything? Cassia admits that she's not sure which is better: having everything figured out for you or the element of choice, which I found refreshing. Secondary characters also are developed, as well as setting (fun book club project: develop the complete history of the Provinces). The ending is hopeful, yet leaves an element of mystery, which I also found refreshing. Fans of The Hunger Games, the Uglies trilogy and The Giver will gobble this book up. There even is an element of Fahrenheit 451 to this tale, so hand it to adults as well as teens.
ONE WORLD, MANY STORIES
Agropolis Museum: Food and Agricultures of the World
http://www.museum.agropolis.fr/english/index.html
This website for the Agropolis museum in France is about food and how humans have produced it over the centuries. The exhibits offer a fresh way of looking at food and the role it plays in society. Visitors should not miss the fascinating and moving virtual exhibit "The Banquet de l'Humanite (The dining table of the world)", which explains the ongoing struggle for food worldwide. The exhibit, which is a sculpture at the physical museum, is pictured on the site, and it features clay figures seated around a table representing the world. Visitors will read that the figures represent countries with low, medium, and high rates of food production, and food information on each country can be linked to in the text below the sculpture. Additionally, there are two clay figures that aren't even seated at the table, and they are called the "Excluded Ones". They represent the "new poor people in a society of mass consumption." They are often unemployed, homeless or poor city dwellers. The "World's Food" virtual exhibit offers basics about food and human nutritional needs. Visitors should be sure to click on the colorful boxes at the top of the page, to see images of similar types of food, but in different cultures. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 2/25/11)
National Geographic Video: Animals, Travel, Kids
http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/player/
The "Video" section of the wonderful National Geographic website has so much to offer visitors. Many of the videos are just several minutes long, such as the two minute and twelve second video taken of an Australian sea lion attacking and eating an octopus, with a "Crittercam" that is attached to the sea lion. The videos are divided into six categories, including "Adventure", "Animals", "Environment", "Kids", "Movies", and "Music Videos". Within each of the categories, there are at least half a dozen subcategories, so visitors have a constant supply of videos, with new videos added frequently. The homepage of the Video section has "Featured Videos", and presently includes a very timely four minute segment entitled "Egypt Antiquities Damaged, At Risk During Unrest" about the damage that looters had done to artifacts at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. The "Movies" category contains mainly clips or previews from films, and visitors should check out the four clips from the movie "God Grew Tired of Us", about former child soldiers of Africa. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 3/4/11)
NEW LLS WEBSITE
Steve Ohs has been working for the past few months on the new LLS webiste and it is now up and online at www.lakeshores.lib.wi.us. The children’s and young adults page has been reorganized with new content and the RSS feed from the blog is incorporated into the page as well. I will be adding new content as time allows. Steve has done a GREAT job on the new website!
MICHAEL SULLIVAN WORKSHOP IN FRANKLIN
Milwaukee County Federated Library System and their youth services committee are sponsoring a workshop presented by Michael Sullivan, distinguished teacher, librarian and author of numerous titles on connecting boys with books. You can read more about Michael and his mission at http://talestoldtall.com/index.html.
He will be at Franklin Public Library on August 3, 2011 and will be presenting 2 different programs, one in the morning and one in the afternoon – Connecting Boys with Books and Why Boys Lit Gets a Bad Rap. This is an excellent opportunity to learn how to help bring boys into the library and get them excited about books!
WHAT’S IN YOUR STORY HOUR CLOSET?
(contributed by Luci Bledsoe, Johnson Creek Public Library)
What supplies do you keep on hand for your story hours? Do you have favorite items that you believe are necessary for your story hour programming? I know we all have (or try to have) construction paper; glue; crayons; scissors (best time to purchase the last three items is when school supplies appear in the stores at the end of July); wiggle eyes; fun foam; felt and poster board, but the following suggestions are either very inexpensive or can be donated by your library customers and story hour parents. Send an email to Rhonda, explaining what it is and suggesting possible uses and she will share your ideas in a future issue of the CEO.
What do we have in our closet at Johnson Creek PL?
• Cotton balls (the white ones are perfect for snowmen; if you can find the colored ones, they are great for decorating paper Easter eggs or making spring pictures)
• Brown paper lunch bags (paper bag puppets)
• White paper lunch bags (perfect for Valentine bags; gift bags for making a Mother’s or Father’s Day gift)
• Advertising Magnets (cut them with scissors; put a dab of glue on the printed side and attach to the craft project for a memorable refrigerator magnet (thanks to Nancy B at West Bend for this idea!)
• Old or damaged compact discs or CD-ROMS (used to make CD-ROM fish or birds; hanging mobiles—use 2 discs for a project and glue the printed sides together)
• Empty cereal boxes (have a volunteer or staff member cut them and save the fronts and backs. We use them for patterns (for our Valentine Story Hour, we cut out half hearts and showed the children how to fold paper; trace the half heart; and cut on the traced line). Although we have our die cut machine, we still need to make or cut an original pattern for tracing. *Extra bonus—if there is a promotional item available such as a small toy, send for a free toy for a SLP prize!)
• Stickers (magazines and other companies will send stickers as a small gift—they go into our sticker box and are used for a variety of crafts)
• Paper towel tubes (we do not use toilet paper tubes for obvious reasons! We have used cut down paper towel tubes for making small turkeys; groundhogs, binoculars, etc.
• Yarn (don’t buy it, just put up a list of what you need and your customers will donate! We use scrap yarn for holiday crafts; paper dolls; gift bags, etc.)
• Ribbons (again we use donated scrap ribbon for holiday crafts; lacing paper plates together, etc.)
• Gift bows (use as a color matching activity)
• Cheap white envelopes (hold game pieces when we make paper dominoes or play Color and Shape Bingo)
• Reinforcement labels for hole-punched paper (we use both white and colored. The white ones are used to reinforce punched holes for adding a bow to a paper bunny or cat)
• Inexpensive paper punch (if you make a paper bunny, punch 2 holes on the neck; add a ribbon for a bow, and it is one classy bunny!)
• Cheap paper plates, both large and small (lace a whole plate and ½ plate together; fill with paper flowers and small candies for a Mother’s Day gift or May Day gift; we also use them for small trays if we work with glitter or paint; also can be used for masks)
• Paper cups (planting a seedling or bean or radish seeds)
• Craft sticks (ask your local doctor’s office to see if they will donate tongue depressors, use for paper plate puppets)
• Powdered detergent measuring cups (fill with dirt, add a small seedling; glue buttons on sides for wheels, and you have a small wheelbarrow for a gift)
• Scoopable kitty litter jug lids (I used to use milk bottle caps, but they are potentially dangerous due to their size. I use kitty litter bottle caps for counting; matching colors; shape recognition, graphing, etc.)
• Brass paper fasteners (allows the head/arms/or legs of a paper animal to move)
DATES TO REMEMBER
March 7 CSLP board of directors meeting
March 7 Library Alliance meeting, Madison
March 8 Mardi Gras
March 22 Library Legislative Day, Madison
March 22 Rob Reid workshop, Hustisford
March 26 Riverport Chorus performance, Wilmot
April 5-8 CSLP Annual Meeting, Scottsdale, AZ
April 10-16 National Library Week
May 4-6 WAPL Conference, Madison
May 2-8 National Children’s Book Week
May 10-11 National Library Legislative Day, Washington, DC
May 20 Special Needs Consultants Meeting, Madison
June 20 First day of Storywagon
June 22-29 ALA Annual Conference, New Orleans
August 3 Michael Sullivan workshop, Franklin
October 16-22 Teen Read Week
November 1-4 WLA Annual Conference, Milwaukee
WEBSITE FAVES
Preservation Nation
http://www.preservationnation.org/
The National Trust for Historic Preservation has a lively, colorful website called PreservationNation.org. One look at the "History" section of the "About Us" tab and visitors will appreciate the work that the Trust has accomplished by getting more and more types of sites deemed historically valuable. Visitors can check out some of these designated sites in the History section of About Us: "Rural Heritage", "Main Streets", "Historic Hotels of America", "Historic Artists' Homes and Studios", "Historic Houses of Worship", and "African American Historic Places". The "Resources" tab allows visitors to peruse historic properties for sale, with search functions for price, property type, location and even number of bathrooms. The "Issues" tab alerts visitors to the historic preservation issues that affect them. Some that are listed include "Teardowns", "Chain Drugstores", and "Community Revitalization". Visitors shouldn't miss the "Travel & Sites" tab to learn about Gozaic, the travel planning resource for the cultural and heritage traveler. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 2/11/11)
Children's Library
http://www.archive.org/details/iacl
Drawing on materials from the New York Public Library, the National Yiddish Book Center, and the University of California Libraries, the Internet Archive has created this trove of digitized children's books. Currently, there are over 2,700 books available here and they include works like "Infant's cabinet of birds & beasts" from 1820 and "What the Moon Saw: And Other Tales" from 1866. On the left side of the page, visitors can take a look at the "Spotlight Item" and there is a tag cloud available here as well. Those persons looking for the most popular items can view the "Most Downloaded Items Last Week". Not surprisingly, some of these items include "Pinocchio" and "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." Visitors are also welcome to receive updates from their forum here, and they can also chime in with their own questions. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 2/11/11)
Child Trends
http://childtrends.org/
Child Trends is a non-profit, non-partisan research center, and is the "nation's only independent research and policy center focused exclusively on improving outcomes for children." Child Trends has twelve areas of research, listed across the top of any page. Some of the topics include "Child Poverty," "Fatherhood & Parenting," "Youth Development," and "Health." In each section, the research focus on that topic is explained in a brief introduction, followed by resources that include research briefs, executive summaries and full reports, fact sheets, and a publications archive of materials over three years old. A feature that visitors shouldn't miss is "What Works/LINKS," which can be accessed via the left side menu. The data in this section is about "programs that work -or don't- to enhance children's development". There are effectiveness charts, "Lifecourse Interventions that Work," and a continually updated database on programs that work (or don't). Visitors who are "Program Providers" in policy, education, or the media will find the "Information for..." heading on the left side of the homepage useful for fulfilling their specific needs. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 2/18/11)
The 1893 World's Columbian Exposition Collection
http://www.fieldmuseum.org/columbianexpo/
In 1893, the city of Chicago was the host of the World's Columbian Exposition. It was a seminal cultural moment in American history, as many new inventions and ideas were discussed and introduced there. After the Exposition closed, the Field Museum was opened in 1894 to house many of the items from this tremendous undertaking. Today, the Field Museum has created this digital collection which features images and data on thousands of items. First-time visitors may wish to start with the "History of the Collection." Here, they can read about how the Exposition came into being and the incorporation of modern anthropological techniques and methods. Moving on, there are "Photo Highlights" organized by region of the world. In this section, visitors will find Inuit boots, Mayan pottery, and spindle shafts from Peru. Museologists and others working in the field will want to look over "Bird's Eye View of The Fair." This area contains a wonderful selection of photographs that document how the artifacts from the collection were displayed at the Exposition. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 2/18/11)
American Sign Museum
http://www.signmuseum.net/
The American Sign Museum is the only public collection of its kind, and it is located in Cincinnati, Ohio. Its fun, colorful website just may bring back memories for some visitors. Users should definitely watch the video tour of the museum with the founder, Tod Swormstedt. The link can be found near the top of the homepage, and is entitled "Take a Video Tour." The founder explains his goals in opening the museum, which are to show "the history of the sign industry and its significant contribution to commerce and the American landscape." He also goes on to reference the urban renewal program from the 1960s called SOS, which meant Scrap Our Signs, as a source of many of the museum's holdings. The excellent "Exhibits" link on the left hand menu contains a link to the museum's permanent collection and visitors will find it is divided into eight categories, including "Painted/Non-illuminated Signs," "Plastic Signs," and "Neon Signs and Displays: The Glory Days." The Exhibits link also offers to visitors half a dozen sections of signs that can be seen from the road (On the Road), while walking around (Walking Tours), or from an armchair (Sign History). (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 2/18/11)
Tulane Special Collections: Carnival Exhibit
http://specialcollections.tulane.edu/Carnival.html
From 1870 to 1930, the world of the New Orleans Carnival was a colorful and opulent cornucopia of fantastic processions and amazing tableau balls. This appropriately colorful and remarkable digital collection from Tulane University's Special Collections department presents a selection of the ball invitations, dance cards, admit cards, exotic costumes, and elaborate floats that drew on a range of themes from history. The materials here are drawn from the extensive Carnival collection preserved by the Tulane Manuscripts Department, and they are divided into three sections, including "Costume Designs" and "Invitations". The "Invitations" area is a good place to start, and it includes materials from the Mistick Krewe of Comus. The float designs are just as remarkable and they bring together mythical birds, elaborate flower arrangements, as well as temples, tombs, palaces, and pleasure gardens. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 3/4/11)
AND FINALLY………
NCAA brackets are announced March 14. Let March basketball Madness commence.
Lakeshores Library System and
Mid-Wisconsin Federated Library System
Youth Services Update
Issue 355, March 4, 2011
http://www.lakeshores.lib.wi.us/site/childrensya
http://www.llsmwflschildrens.blogspot.com
In this issue:
Ruhama’s Review
One World, Many Stories
New LLS Website
Michael Sullivan Workshop in Franklin
What’s in Your Story Hour Closet?
Dates to Remember
Website Faves
And Finally......
RUHAMA’S REVIEW
Matched by Ally Condie
http://tinyurl.com/4r452mo
Welcome to the future: everything is done precisely and perfectly. Our story opens with 17 year old Cassia attending her Match banquet, where she will meet her future husband. This is the day she has been waiting for her whole life, and when her Match turns out to be childhood friend Xander, it's like a dream come true. But when Cassia loads Xander's data chip into her reader later, another face pops up and she is confused. Why has Ky been added her to this file? Is it really an honest mistake? As events unfold (the Official assigned to her assures it is a mistake), Cassia finds herself learning more about the boy who has been a mystery and falling in love. As this happens, Cassia begins to wonder if the Society actually knows what's best and has everything figured out like they say they have.
This futuristic story has several typical elements: the teenager who questions the system, forbidden romance and the potential future of society. What makes this book stand out is characterization and the backstory that's woven throughout each element of the Society. And it does make you think as you read: should some things be calculated and assigned, like your job and your mate? Is life truly better when a governmental agency is controlling everything? Cassia admits that she's not sure which is better: having everything figured out for you or the element of choice, which I found refreshing. Secondary characters also are developed, as well as setting (fun book club project: develop the complete history of the Provinces). The ending is hopeful, yet leaves an element of mystery, which I also found refreshing. Fans of The Hunger Games, the Uglies trilogy and The Giver will gobble this book up. There even is an element of Fahrenheit 451 to this tale, so hand it to adults as well as teens.
ONE WORLD, MANY STORIES
Agropolis Museum: Food and Agricultures of the World
http://www.museum.agropolis.fr/english/index.html
This website for the Agropolis museum in France is about food and how humans have produced it over the centuries. The exhibits offer a fresh way of looking at food and the role it plays in society. Visitors should not miss the fascinating and moving virtual exhibit "The Banquet de l'Humanite (The dining table of the world)", which explains the ongoing struggle for food worldwide. The exhibit, which is a sculpture at the physical museum, is pictured on the site, and it features clay figures seated around a table representing the world. Visitors will read that the figures represent countries with low, medium, and high rates of food production, and food information on each country can be linked to in the text below the sculpture. Additionally, there are two clay figures that aren't even seated at the table, and they are called the "Excluded Ones". They represent the "new poor people in a society of mass consumption." They are often unemployed, homeless or poor city dwellers. The "World's Food" virtual exhibit offers basics about food and human nutritional needs. Visitors should be sure to click on the colorful boxes at the top of the page, to see images of similar types of food, but in different cultures. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 2/25/11)
National Geographic Video: Animals, Travel, Kids
http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/player/
The "Video" section of the wonderful National Geographic website has so much to offer visitors. Many of the videos are just several minutes long, such as the two minute and twelve second video taken of an Australian sea lion attacking and eating an octopus, with a "Crittercam" that is attached to the sea lion. The videos are divided into six categories, including "Adventure", "Animals", "Environment", "Kids", "Movies", and "Music Videos". Within each of the categories, there are at least half a dozen subcategories, so visitors have a constant supply of videos, with new videos added frequently. The homepage of the Video section has "Featured Videos", and presently includes a very timely four minute segment entitled "Egypt Antiquities Damaged, At Risk During Unrest" about the damage that looters had done to artifacts at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. The "Movies" category contains mainly clips or previews from films, and visitors should check out the four clips from the movie "God Grew Tired of Us", about former child soldiers of Africa. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 3/4/11)
NEW LLS WEBSITE
Steve Ohs has been working for the past few months on the new LLS webiste and it is now up and online at www.lakeshores.lib.wi.us. The children’s and young adults page has been reorganized with new content and the RSS feed from the blog is incorporated into the page as well. I will be adding new content as time allows. Steve has done a GREAT job on the new website!
MICHAEL SULLIVAN WORKSHOP IN FRANKLIN
Milwaukee County Federated Library System and their youth services committee are sponsoring a workshop presented by Michael Sullivan, distinguished teacher, librarian and author of numerous titles on connecting boys with books. You can read more about Michael and his mission at http://talestoldtall.com/index.html.
He will be at Franklin Public Library on August 3, 2011 and will be presenting 2 different programs, one in the morning and one in the afternoon – Connecting Boys with Books and Why Boys Lit Gets a Bad Rap. This is an excellent opportunity to learn how to help bring boys into the library and get them excited about books!
WHAT’S IN YOUR STORY HOUR CLOSET?
(contributed by Luci Bledsoe, Johnson Creek Public Library)
What supplies do you keep on hand for your story hours? Do you have favorite items that you believe are necessary for your story hour programming? I know we all have (or try to have) construction paper; glue; crayons; scissors (best time to purchase the last three items is when school supplies appear in the stores at the end of July); wiggle eyes; fun foam; felt and poster board, but the following suggestions are either very inexpensive or can be donated by your library customers and story hour parents. Send an email to Rhonda, explaining what it is and suggesting possible uses and she will share your ideas in a future issue of the CEO.
What do we have in our closet at Johnson Creek PL?
• Cotton balls (the white ones are perfect for snowmen; if you can find the colored ones, they are great for decorating paper Easter eggs or making spring pictures)
• Brown paper lunch bags (paper bag puppets)
• White paper lunch bags (perfect for Valentine bags; gift bags for making a Mother’s or Father’s Day gift)
• Advertising Magnets (cut them with scissors; put a dab of glue on the printed side and attach to the craft project for a memorable refrigerator magnet (thanks to Nancy B at West Bend for this idea!)
• Old or damaged compact discs or CD-ROMS (used to make CD-ROM fish or birds; hanging mobiles—use 2 discs for a project and glue the printed sides together)
• Empty cereal boxes (have a volunteer or staff member cut them and save the fronts and backs. We use them for patterns (for our Valentine Story Hour, we cut out half hearts and showed the children how to fold paper; trace the half heart; and cut on the traced line). Although we have our die cut machine, we still need to make or cut an original pattern for tracing. *Extra bonus—if there is a promotional item available such as a small toy, send for a free toy for a SLP prize!)
• Stickers (magazines and other companies will send stickers as a small gift—they go into our sticker box and are used for a variety of crafts)
• Paper towel tubes (we do not use toilet paper tubes for obvious reasons! We have used cut down paper towel tubes for making small turkeys; groundhogs, binoculars, etc.
• Yarn (don’t buy it, just put up a list of what you need and your customers will donate! We use scrap yarn for holiday crafts; paper dolls; gift bags, etc.)
• Ribbons (again we use donated scrap ribbon for holiday crafts; lacing paper plates together, etc.)
• Gift bows (use as a color matching activity)
• Cheap white envelopes (hold game pieces when we make paper dominoes or play Color and Shape Bingo)
• Reinforcement labels for hole-punched paper (we use both white and colored. The white ones are used to reinforce punched holes for adding a bow to a paper bunny or cat)
• Inexpensive paper punch (if you make a paper bunny, punch 2 holes on the neck; add a ribbon for a bow, and it is one classy bunny!)
• Cheap paper plates, both large and small (lace a whole plate and ½ plate together; fill with paper flowers and small candies for a Mother’s Day gift or May Day gift; we also use them for small trays if we work with glitter or paint; also can be used for masks)
• Paper cups (planting a seedling or bean or radish seeds)
• Craft sticks (ask your local doctor’s office to see if they will donate tongue depressors, use for paper plate puppets)
• Powdered detergent measuring cups (fill with dirt, add a small seedling; glue buttons on sides for wheels, and you have a small wheelbarrow for a gift)
• Scoopable kitty litter jug lids (I used to use milk bottle caps, but they are potentially dangerous due to their size. I use kitty litter bottle caps for counting; matching colors; shape recognition, graphing, etc.)
• Brass paper fasteners (allows the head/arms/or legs of a paper animal to move)
DATES TO REMEMBER
March 7 CSLP board of directors meeting
March 7 Library Alliance meeting, Madison
March 8 Mardi Gras
March 22 Library Legislative Day, Madison
March 22 Rob Reid workshop, Hustisford
March 26 Riverport Chorus performance, Wilmot
April 5-8 CSLP Annual Meeting, Scottsdale, AZ
April 10-16 National Library Week
May 4-6 WAPL Conference, Madison
May 2-8 National Children’s Book Week
May 10-11 National Library Legislative Day, Washington, DC
May 20 Special Needs Consultants Meeting, Madison
June 20 First day of Storywagon
June 22-29 ALA Annual Conference, New Orleans
August 3 Michael Sullivan workshop, Franklin
October 16-22 Teen Read Week
November 1-4 WLA Annual Conference, Milwaukee
WEBSITE FAVES
Preservation Nation
http://www.preservationnation.org/
The National Trust for Historic Preservation has a lively, colorful website called PreservationNation.org. One look at the "History" section of the "About Us" tab and visitors will appreciate the work that the Trust has accomplished by getting more and more types of sites deemed historically valuable. Visitors can check out some of these designated sites in the History section of About Us: "Rural Heritage", "Main Streets", "Historic Hotels of America", "Historic Artists' Homes and Studios", "Historic Houses of Worship", and "African American Historic Places". The "Resources" tab allows visitors to peruse historic properties for sale, with search functions for price, property type, location and even number of bathrooms. The "Issues" tab alerts visitors to the historic preservation issues that affect them. Some that are listed include "Teardowns", "Chain Drugstores", and "Community Revitalization". Visitors shouldn't miss the "Travel & Sites" tab to learn about Gozaic, the travel planning resource for the cultural and heritage traveler. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 2/11/11)
Children's Library
http://www.archive.org/details/iacl
Drawing on materials from the New York Public Library, the National Yiddish Book Center, and the University of California Libraries, the Internet Archive has created this trove of digitized children's books. Currently, there are over 2,700 books available here and they include works like "Infant's cabinet of birds & beasts" from 1820 and "What the Moon Saw: And Other Tales" from 1866. On the left side of the page, visitors can take a look at the "Spotlight Item" and there is a tag cloud available here as well. Those persons looking for the most popular items can view the "Most Downloaded Items Last Week". Not surprisingly, some of these items include "Pinocchio" and "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." Visitors are also welcome to receive updates from their forum here, and they can also chime in with their own questions. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 2/11/11)
Child Trends
http://childtrends.org/
Child Trends is a non-profit, non-partisan research center, and is the "nation's only independent research and policy center focused exclusively on improving outcomes for children." Child Trends has twelve areas of research, listed across the top of any page. Some of the topics include "Child Poverty," "Fatherhood & Parenting," "Youth Development," and "Health." In each section, the research focus on that topic is explained in a brief introduction, followed by resources that include research briefs, executive summaries and full reports, fact sheets, and a publications archive of materials over three years old. A feature that visitors shouldn't miss is "What Works/LINKS," which can be accessed via the left side menu. The data in this section is about "programs that work -or don't- to enhance children's development". There are effectiveness charts, "Lifecourse Interventions that Work," and a continually updated database on programs that work (or don't). Visitors who are "Program Providers" in policy, education, or the media will find the "Information for..." heading on the left side of the homepage useful for fulfilling their specific needs. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 2/18/11)
The 1893 World's Columbian Exposition Collection
http://www.fieldmuseum.org/columbianexpo/
In 1893, the city of Chicago was the host of the World's Columbian Exposition. It was a seminal cultural moment in American history, as many new inventions and ideas were discussed and introduced there. After the Exposition closed, the Field Museum was opened in 1894 to house many of the items from this tremendous undertaking. Today, the Field Museum has created this digital collection which features images and data on thousands of items. First-time visitors may wish to start with the "History of the Collection." Here, they can read about how the Exposition came into being and the incorporation of modern anthropological techniques and methods. Moving on, there are "Photo Highlights" organized by region of the world. In this section, visitors will find Inuit boots, Mayan pottery, and spindle shafts from Peru. Museologists and others working in the field will want to look over "Bird's Eye View of The Fair." This area contains a wonderful selection of photographs that document how the artifacts from the collection were displayed at the Exposition. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 2/18/11)
American Sign Museum
http://www.signmuseum.net/
The American Sign Museum is the only public collection of its kind, and it is located in Cincinnati, Ohio. Its fun, colorful website just may bring back memories for some visitors. Users should definitely watch the video tour of the museum with the founder, Tod Swormstedt. The link can be found near the top of the homepage, and is entitled "Take a Video Tour." The founder explains his goals in opening the museum, which are to show "the history of the sign industry and its significant contribution to commerce and the American landscape." He also goes on to reference the urban renewal program from the 1960s called SOS, which meant Scrap Our Signs, as a source of many of the museum's holdings. The excellent "Exhibits" link on the left hand menu contains a link to the museum's permanent collection and visitors will find it is divided into eight categories, including "Painted/Non-illuminated Signs," "Plastic Signs," and "Neon Signs and Displays: The Glory Days." The Exhibits link also offers to visitors half a dozen sections of signs that can be seen from the road (On the Road), while walking around (Walking Tours), or from an armchair (Sign History). (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 2/18/11)
Tulane Special Collections: Carnival Exhibit
http://specialcollections.tulane.edu/Carnival.html
From 1870 to 1930, the world of the New Orleans Carnival was a colorful and opulent cornucopia of fantastic processions and amazing tableau balls. This appropriately colorful and remarkable digital collection from Tulane University's Special Collections department presents a selection of the ball invitations, dance cards, admit cards, exotic costumes, and elaborate floats that drew on a range of themes from history. The materials here are drawn from the extensive Carnival collection preserved by the Tulane Manuscripts Department, and they are divided into three sections, including "Costume Designs" and "Invitations". The "Invitations" area is a good place to start, and it includes materials from the Mistick Krewe of Comus. The float designs are just as remarkable and they bring together mythical birds, elaborate flower arrangements, as well as temples, tombs, palaces, and pleasure gardens. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 3/4/11)
AND FINALLY………
NCAA brackets are announced March 14. Let March basketball Madness commence.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
CEO, 2/9/11
Children’s
Event
Organizer
Lakeshores Library System and
Mid-Wisconsin Federated Library System
Youth Services Update
Issue 354, February 9, 2011
http://www.llsmwflschildrens.blogspot.com
In this issue:
Ruhama’s Review
One World, Many Stories
Center for Children’s Literature’s Annual Seuss-a-Thon
Dollar General Literacy Foundation
Joyce Foundation Grant Opportunities
OLC’s Teen Programming Guide
Ruksana Kahn Wins Zolotow Award
Teen Tech Week™ Publicity Tools Available
Dates to Remember
Website Faves
And Finally......
RUHAMA’S REVIEW
The Mockingbirds by Daisy Whitney
http://tinyurl.com/2g6644l
Alex knows something is wrong, but can't remember what happened. Gradually, through a series of flashbacks triggered by different things, she realizes that she's been date raped. Because the administration at her boarding school won't do anything, Alex turns to the Mockingbirds, a group of students that perform justice if a student asks for help. A trial is set up: Alex and her roommate (her student advocate) begin to compile their side of the argument.
Whitney has created a well-drawn character who experiences real emotions and growth. I enjoyed the secondary characters as well, and appreciated that Alex had an adult she felt she could talk to. The pacing is spot on: readers will be drawn to the next chapter to discover what happens next, yet could take a break if feeling overwhelmed. The twists and turns are realistic and the support of friends and the Mockingbirds was comforting. The comparison to the classic novel To Kill a Mockingbird is a nice touch and not heavy handed. There is an author's note at the end of the book and a list of resources for those that have been raped or know someone who has.
Note: this is a sensitive subject and Whitney frankly discusses the rape, so this is best for older teens.
ONE WORLD, MANY STORIES
Encyclopedia Smithsonian’s World Cultures
http://www.si.edu/Encyclopedia/Search/World%20Cultures
Includes links to online Smithsonian exhibits, fact sheets, reading lists, research and much more.
ALSC’s Great Websites: Cultures of the World
http://www.ala.org/gwstemplate.cfm?section=greatwebsites&template=/cfapps/gws/displaysection.cfm&sec=36
A superb collection of ALSC-vetted sites including National Geographic Kids and UNICEF’s Voices of Youth.
Kids.gov Social Studies World Cultures
http://www.kids.gov/6_8/6_8_social_studies_countries.shtml
The 5th through 8th grade section here contains a great list of websites that could be listed here independently.
Cultures and Customs Around the World
http://library.thinkquest.org/J0111929/
And we had a FABULOUS SRP workshop January 28th at the Country Springs Hotel with Marge Loch-Wouters and Leslie Peterson! I posted photos to the Lakeshores Library System Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/album.php?id=115500778473191&aid=39404. Please tag yourself if you are in any of the pictures!
CENTER FOR CHILDREN’S LITERATURE’S ANNUAL SEUSS-A-THON
The Carthage College Center for Children's Literature will he hosting its annual Seuss-a-thon on Saturday, February 26, 2011, in the Hedberg Library at Carthage College in Kenosha. From 9:00am to 5:00pm, various performances of Seussical and readings of Dr. Seuss books will take place, interactive activities will be provided, and gourmet green eggs and ham will be served. There will even be a visit from the Cat in the Hat himself!
You are welcome to stop by and listen throughout the day, or sign up for a time to read. For information on reserving a time to read or making a donation, contact Marilyn Ward, Professor of Education at Carthage College, either by phone (262) 551-5875 or by email mward@carthage.edu.
DOLLAR GENERAL LITERACY FOUNDATION
The Dollar General Literacy Foundation supports nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and libraries that offer literacy programs in communities served by Dollar General in 35 states. Currently the Foundation is accepting grant requests through the following programs: Adult Literacy Grants support nonprofit organizations that provide direct services to adults in need of literacy assistance. Family Literacy Grants support family literacy service providers that combine parent and youth literacy instruction. Summer Reading Grants help nonprofit organizations and libraries with the implementation or expansion of summer reading programs for students who are new readers, below grade level readers, or readers with learning disabilities. Online applications must be submitted by February 24, 2011. Visit the Foundation’s website at http://www.dollargeneral.com/dgliteracy/pages/grant_programs.aspx to access guidelines for each grant program.
JOYCE FOUNDATION GRANT OPPORTUNITIES
The Joyce Foundation supports efforts to protect the natural environment of the Great Lakes; to reduce poverty and violence in the region; and to ensure that its people have access to good schools, decent jobs, and a diverse and thriving culture. The Foundation focuses its grantmaking on initiatives that promise to have an impact on the Great Lakes region, specifically the states of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. The Foundation’s program areas include the following: Education, Employment, Environment, Gun Violence, Money and Politics, and Culture. (Several program areas have specific geographic limitations within the Great Lakes region: K-12 education grantmaking focuses on the cities of Chicago, Indianapolis, and Milwaukee. Early childhood grantmaking focuses on the states of Illinois and Wisconsin. Culture grants are primarily provided to organizations in the Chicago metropolitan area.) Letters of inquiry should be submitted six to eight weeks before the proposal deadline. The 2011 proposal deadlines are April 11 and August 17. Visit the Foundation’s website for detailed guidelines for each of the program areas. More information is available at http://www.joycefdn.org/content.cfm/home. (Grant Station Insider, 1/28/11)
OLC’S TEEN PROGRAMMING GUIDE
The Ohio Library Council’s (OLC) Young Adult Services Division has produced a Teen Programming Guide to share innovative and creative ideas for programs and displays. This awesome guide for library staff who work with teens is organized by the calendar year. It includes 25 great program themes around scheduled library/literary events like Teen Tech Week, and seasonally appropriate tie-ins including an Anti-Valentine’s Party. Each program idea includes resources, detailed instructions, timelines, and photos from Ohio library staff who have successfully implemented the programs at their libraries.
OLC has made the guide available free to all libraries at: http://olc.org/pdf/YA_TeenProgramGuide122010.pdf (Idaho Scoop, 1/28/11)
RUKHSANA KHAN WINS ZOLOTOW AWARD
"Big Red Lollipop" by Rukhsana Khan is the fourteenth annual winner of the Charlotte Zolotow Award for outstanding writing in a picture book. The award is given by the Cooperative Children's Book Center, a library of the School of Education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and will be formally presented on March 5, 2011 in Madison, WI.
Author Rukhsana Khan’s first-person narrative tells the story of Rubina, who’s thrilled to receive her first invitation to a classmate’s birthday party. But when her mother, unfamiliar with this cultural tradition, insists that she take her younger sister along to the party, the whole event is ruined for Rubina. Khan realistically and humorously presents sibling conflict in an authentic child voice as she shows a young girl successfully negotiating two cultures. Big Red Lollipop was edited by Catherine Frank and published in the United States in 2010 by Viking, an imprint of the Penguin Group.
The 2011 Zolotow Award committee named four Honor Books: "April and Esme, Tooth Fairies," written and illustrated by Bob Graham, edited by Joan Powers, and published by Candlewick Press; "City Dog, Country Frog," written by Mo Willems, illustrated by Jon J Muth, edited by Christian Trimmer, and published by Hyperion / Disney Book Group; "Hip-Pocket Papa," written by Sandra Markle, illustrated by Alan Marks, edited by Emily Mitchell, and published by Charlesbridge; and "A Sick Day for Amos McGee," written by Philip C. Stead, illustrated by Erin E. Stead, edited by Neal Porter, a Neal Porter Book / Roaring Brook Press.
The 2011 Zolotow Award committee also cited six titles as Highly Commended: "A Beach Tail," written by Karen Lynn Williams and illustrated by Floyd Cooper (Boyds Mills Press); "Chavela and the Magic Bubble," written by Monica Brown and illustrated by Magaly Morales (Clarion Books / Houghton Mifflin Harcourt); "I Am a Backhoe," written and illustrated by Anna Grossnickle Hines (Tricycle Press / Crown Publishing Group / Random House Children’s Books); "Little Black Crow," written and illustrated by Chris Raschka (Atheneum / Simon & Schuster); "My Garden," written and illustrated by Kevin Henkes (Greenwillow / HarperCollins); and "Willoughby & the Moon," written and illustrated by Greg Foley (Balzer & Bray / HarperCollins).
Established in 1998, the Charlotte Zolotow Award honors the work of Charlotte Zolotow, a distinguished children's book editor for 38 years with Harper Junior Books, and author of more than 70 picture books, including such classic works as "Mr. Rabbit and the Lovely Present," (Harper, 1962) and "William's Doll" (Harper, 1972). Ms. Zolotow attended the University of Wisconsin in Madison on a writing scholarship from 1933 to 1936, where she studied with Professor Helen C. White. The award is given annually for outstanding writing in a picture book for children in the birth through seven age range published in the United States in the preceding year.
Members of the 2011 Zolotow Award committee were: Carling Febry, chair (Librarian, Cooperative Children’s Book Center, Madison, Wisconsin); Suzy Grindrod (Kindergarten Teacher, Emerson Elementary School, Madison, Wisconsin); Kathleen T. Horning (Director, Cooperative Children's Book Center, Madison, Wisconsin); Tracy Moore (Children’s Librarian, Madison Public Library, Madison, Wisconsin); and Maryann H. Owen (Youth Services Librarian, Racine Public Library, Racine, Wisconsin).
The Cooperative Children's Book Center is a noncirculating library for adults with a professional, career or academic interest in children's and young adult literature. The Friends ofthe CCBC, Inc., is a nonprofit organization offering lectures, speaker receptions, book sales and other benefits for members, as well as assistance to the CCBC.
TEEN TECH WEEK™ PUBLICITY TOOLS AVAILABLE
School and public libraries can promote Teen Tech Week™ (March 6-12) with online resources offered by the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA).
Since 2007, Teen Tech Week http://www.ala.org/teentechweek, sponsored by YALSA, has ensured that teens are competent and ethical users of technologies, especially those that are offered through libraries such as DVDs, databases, audiobooks and videogames. Teen Tech Week encourages teens to use libraries' nonprint resources for education and recreation and to recognize that librarians are qualified, trusted professionals in the field of information technology.
The promotional effort for this year’s Teen Tech Week, held March 6- 12, is coordinated by ALA’s Public Information Office (PIO) and YALSA. It includes a number of online tools libraries can use to publicize Teen Tech Week activities:
Sample Press Release http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw11/publicity/publicity.cfm#release
Tips for Creating a Press Release http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw11/publicity/publicity.cfm#tips
Sample http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw11/publicity/publicity.cfm#psa
PSA http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw11/publicity/publicity.cfm#psa Sample Letters to Editor http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw11/publicity/publicity.cfm#editor
Sample Proclamation
http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw11/publicity/publicity.cfm#proclamation
Tips on Using the TTW Logo
http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw11/publicity/publicity.cfm#logo
Downloadable audio PSAs http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw11/publicity/publicity.cfm#audio (featuring Tom Kenny, the voice of SpongeBob SquarePants)
The 2011 Teen Tech Week theme of “Mix and Mash @ your library” fosters teen creativity and positions the library as a physical and virtual place for safe exploration of the many types of technology available at libraries, including DVDs, music, gaming, video production, online homework help, social networking, tech workshops, audiobooks and more.
For more information on Teen Tech Week, please visit www.ala.org/teentechweek.
DATES TO REMEMBER
February 11 WLA Board Meeting, Madison (my first as WLA president!)
February 14 WLA Conference Planning Meeting, Milwaukee
February 22 Library Legislative Day, Madison
February 23-25 Rhonda out of the office
March 3 MWFLS Youth Services Meeting, Horicon
April 5-8 CSLP Annual Meeting, Scottsdale, AZ
April 10-16 National Library Week
May 4-6 WAPL Conference, Madison
May 2-8 National Children’s Book Week
May 10-11 National Library Legislative Day, Washington, DC
May 20 Special Needs Consultants Meeting, Madison
June 20 First day of Storywagon
June 22-29 ALA Annual Conference, New Orleans
October 16-22 Teen Read Week
November 1-4 WLA Annual Conference, Milwaukee
WEBSITE FAVES
Digital Sanborn Maps of Milwaukee 1894 and 1910
http://www4.uwm.edu/Library/digilib/sanborn/
It might be hard to wander around Milwaukee in 1910, unless you have a friend with a functioning time machine. Well, such a journey through time and space is almost possible with this fine collection from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Library. The collection brings together the Sanborn Fire Maps from 1894 and 1910, and these documents are excellent historical resources for academics, geographers, urban planners, and those with a love of the built environment. Each map contains copious details on the construction materials of dwellings, sidewalk widths, and elevator locations. This collection is quite a pip, as it allows users to use Google Maps to wander around the city at their leisure, picking out details along the way. Visitors can use the "Browse" button to look through different sections of these maps, or they can just search for certain terms and locations. (Internet Scout Report, 1/28/11)
GrantCraft
http://www.grantcraft.org/
GrantCraft was originally started in October 2001 as a small collection of case studies and examples, and it was designed to be used as orientation material for new program officers at the Ford Foundation. Over the past decade, the site has grown significantly, and it offers videos, workshops, guides, and other tools to help grantmakers across the spectrum. On the homepage, visitors can start by looking over the "Guides" area to learn more about the challenges facing grantmakers today. Moving along, the "What We're Reading" area features some of their favorite resources from "the field and beyond". The bottom of the homepage features "Videos", such as information from the State Fiscal Analyses Initiative and nuts-and-bolts programs like "Building a Network". Finally, visitors can also sign up for free updates and they also shouldn't miss the "New to Grantmaking?" area. (Internet Scout Report, 1/28/11)
Vivian Maier: Her Discovered Work
http://vivianmaier.blogspot.com/
Often the true legacy of an artist goes unappreciated until after they pass away, and the case of artist Vivian Maier is a rather intriguing story. Maier lived in Chicago, and from the 1950s to the 1990s, she took well over 100,000 photographs of the city landscape and its denizens. Just after her death in 2009, John Maloof found her collection of negatives at a furniture and antiques auction. The collection is enormous and he is currently in the process of archiving these works and placing some of them on this website. The site features some of the photos from her time wandering the streets of Chicago, and there are amazing photos of homeless men eating sandwiches, elegantly dressed women waiting for a bus, and of course the "L". (Internet Scout Report, 1/28/11)
AND FINALLY……..
3 degrees and 15 below wind chills at Lambeau Field Green Bay yesterday but the “Return to Titletown” celebration was GREAT fun and I’d happily go again!
Event
Organizer
Lakeshores Library System and
Mid-Wisconsin Federated Library System
Youth Services Update
Issue 354, February 9, 2011
http://www.llsmwflschildrens.blogspot.com
In this issue:
Ruhama’s Review
One World, Many Stories
Center for Children’s Literature’s Annual Seuss-a-Thon
Dollar General Literacy Foundation
Joyce Foundation Grant Opportunities
OLC’s Teen Programming Guide
Ruksana Kahn Wins Zolotow Award
Teen Tech Week™ Publicity Tools Available
Dates to Remember
Website Faves
And Finally......
RUHAMA’S REVIEW
The Mockingbirds by Daisy Whitney
http://tinyurl.com/2g6644l
Alex knows something is wrong, but can't remember what happened. Gradually, through a series of flashbacks triggered by different things, she realizes that she's been date raped. Because the administration at her boarding school won't do anything, Alex turns to the Mockingbirds, a group of students that perform justice if a student asks for help. A trial is set up: Alex and her roommate (her student advocate) begin to compile their side of the argument.
Whitney has created a well-drawn character who experiences real emotions and growth. I enjoyed the secondary characters as well, and appreciated that Alex had an adult she felt she could talk to. The pacing is spot on: readers will be drawn to the next chapter to discover what happens next, yet could take a break if feeling overwhelmed. The twists and turns are realistic and the support of friends and the Mockingbirds was comforting. The comparison to the classic novel To Kill a Mockingbird is a nice touch and not heavy handed. There is an author's note at the end of the book and a list of resources for those that have been raped or know someone who has.
Note: this is a sensitive subject and Whitney frankly discusses the rape, so this is best for older teens.
ONE WORLD, MANY STORIES
Encyclopedia Smithsonian’s World Cultures
http://www.si.edu/Encyclopedia/Search/World%20Cultures
Includes links to online Smithsonian exhibits, fact sheets, reading lists, research and much more.
ALSC’s Great Websites: Cultures of the World
http://www.ala.org/gwstemplate.cfm?section=greatwebsites&template=/cfapps/gws/displaysection.cfm&sec=36
A superb collection of ALSC-vetted sites including National Geographic Kids and UNICEF’s Voices of Youth.
Kids.gov Social Studies World Cultures
http://www.kids.gov/6_8/6_8_social_studies_countries.shtml
The 5th through 8th grade section here contains a great list of websites that could be listed here independently.
Cultures and Customs Around the World
http://library.thinkquest.org/J0111929/
And we had a FABULOUS SRP workshop January 28th at the Country Springs Hotel with Marge Loch-Wouters and Leslie Peterson! I posted photos to the Lakeshores Library System Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/album.php?id=115500778473191&aid=39404. Please tag yourself if you are in any of the pictures!
CENTER FOR CHILDREN’S LITERATURE’S ANNUAL SEUSS-A-THON
The Carthage College Center for Children's Literature will he hosting its annual Seuss-a-thon on Saturday, February 26, 2011, in the Hedberg Library at Carthage College in Kenosha. From 9:00am to 5:00pm, various performances of Seussical and readings of Dr. Seuss books will take place, interactive activities will be provided, and gourmet green eggs and ham will be served. There will even be a visit from the Cat in the Hat himself!
You are welcome to stop by and listen throughout the day, or sign up for a time to read. For information on reserving a time to read or making a donation, contact Marilyn Ward, Professor of Education at Carthage College, either by phone (262) 551-5875 or by email mward@carthage.edu.
DOLLAR GENERAL LITERACY FOUNDATION
The Dollar General Literacy Foundation supports nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and libraries that offer literacy programs in communities served by Dollar General in 35 states. Currently the Foundation is accepting grant requests through the following programs: Adult Literacy Grants support nonprofit organizations that provide direct services to adults in need of literacy assistance. Family Literacy Grants support family literacy service providers that combine parent and youth literacy instruction. Summer Reading Grants help nonprofit organizations and libraries with the implementation or expansion of summer reading programs for students who are new readers, below grade level readers, or readers with learning disabilities. Online applications must be submitted by February 24, 2011. Visit the Foundation’s website at http://www.dollargeneral.com/dgliteracy/pages/grant_programs.aspx to access guidelines for each grant program.
JOYCE FOUNDATION GRANT OPPORTUNITIES
The Joyce Foundation supports efforts to protect the natural environment of the Great Lakes; to reduce poverty and violence in the region; and to ensure that its people have access to good schools, decent jobs, and a diverse and thriving culture. The Foundation focuses its grantmaking on initiatives that promise to have an impact on the Great Lakes region, specifically the states of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. The Foundation’s program areas include the following: Education, Employment, Environment, Gun Violence, Money and Politics, and Culture. (Several program areas have specific geographic limitations within the Great Lakes region: K-12 education grantmaking focuses on the cities of Chicago, Indianapolis, and Milwaukee. Early childhood grantmaking focuses on the states of Illinois and Wisconsin. Culture grants are primarily provided to organizations in the Chicago metropolitan area.) Letters of inquiry should be submitted six to eight weeks before the proposal deadline. The 2011 proposal deadlines are April 11 and August 17. Visit the Foundation’s website for detailed guidelines for each of the program areas. More information is available at http://www.joycefdn.org/content.cfm/home. (Grant Station Insider, 1/28/11)
OLC’S TEEN PROGRAMMING GUIDE
The Ohio Library Council’s (OLC) Young Adult Services Division has produced a Teen Programming Guide to share innovative and creative ideas for programs and displays. This awesome guide for library staff who work with teens is organized by the calendar year. It includes 25 great program themes around scheduled library/literary events like Teen Tech Week, and seasonally appropriate tie-ins including an Anti-Valentine’s Party. Each program idea includes resources, detailed instructions, timelines, and photos from Ohio library staff who have successfully implemented the programs at their libraries.
OLC has made the guide available free to all libraries at: http://olc.org/pdf/YA_TeenProgramGuide122010.pdf (Idaho Scoop, 1/28/11)
RUKHSANA KHAN WINS ZOLOTOW AWARD
"Big Red Lollipop" by Rukhsana Khan is the fourteenth annual winner of the Charlotte Zolotow Award for outstanding writing in a picture book. The award is given by the Cooperative Children's Book Center, a library of the School of Education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and will be formally presented on March 5, 2011 in Madison, WI.
Author Rukhsana Khan’s first-person narrative tells the story of Rubina, who’s thrilled to receive her first invitation to a classmate’s birthday party. But when her mother, unfamiliar with this cultural tradition, insists that she take her younger sister along to the party, the whole event is ruined for Rubina. Khan realistically and humorously presents sibling conflict in an authentic child voice as she shows a young girl successfully negotiating two cultures. Big Red Lollipop was edited by Catherine Frank and published in the United States in 2010 by Viking, an imprint of the Penguin Group.
The 2011 Zolotow Award committee named four Honor Books: "April and Esme, Tooth Fairies," written and illustrated by Bob Graham, edited by Joan Powers, and published by Candlewick Press; "City Dog, Country Frog," written by Mo Willems, illustrated by Jon J Muth, edited by Christian Trimmer, and published by Hyperion / Disney Book Group; "Hip-Pocket Papa," written by Sandra Markle, illustrated by Alan Marks, edited by Emily Mitchell, and published by Charlesbridge; and "A Sick Day for Amos McGee," written by Philip C. Stead, illustrated by Erin E. Stead, edited by Neal Porter, a Neal Porter Book / Roaring Brook Press.
The 2011 Zolotow Award committee also cited six titles as Highly Commended: "A Beach Tail," written by Karen Lynn Williams and illustrated by Floyd Cooper (Boyds Mills Press); "Chavela and the Magic Bubble," written by Monica Brown and illustrated by Magaly Morales (Clarion Books / Houghton Mifflin Harcourt); "I Am a Backhoe," written and illustrated by Anna Grossnickle Hines (Tricycle Press / Crown Publishing Group / Random House Children’s Books); "Little Black Crow," written and illustrated by Chris Raschka (Atheneum / Simon & Schuster); "My Garden," written and illustrated by Kevin Henkes (Greenwillow / HarperCollins); and "Willoughby & the Moon," written and illustrated by Greg Foley (Balzer & Bray / HarperCollins).
Established in 1998, the Charlotte Zolotow Award honors the work of Charlotte Zolotow, a distinguished children's book editor for 38 years with Harper Junior Books, and author of more than 70 picture books, including such classic works as "Mr. Rabbit and the Lovely Present," (Harper, 1962) and "William's Doll" (Harper, 1972). Ms. Zolotow attended the University of Wisconsin in Madison on a writing scholarship from 1933 to 1936, where she studied with Professor Helen C. White. The award is given annually for outstanding writing in a picture book for children in the birth through seven age range published in the United States in the preceding year.
Members of the 2011 Zolotow Award committee were: Carling Febry, chair (Librarian, Cooperative Children’s Book Center, Madison, Wisconsin); Suzy Grindrod (Kindergarten Teacher, Emerson Elementary School, Madison, Wisconsin); Kathleen T. Horning (Director, Cooperative Children's Book Center, Madison, Wisconsin); Tracy Moore (Children’s Librarian, Madison Public Library, Madison, Wisconsin); and Maryann H. Owen (Youth Services Librarian, Racine Public Library, Racine, Wisconsin).
The Cooperative Children's Book Center is a noncirculating library for adults with a professional, career or academic interest in children's and young adult literature. The Friends ofthe CCBC, Inc., is a nonprofit organization offering lectures, speaker receptions, book sales and other benefits for members, as well as assistance to the CCBC.
TEEN TECH WEEK™ PUBLICITY TOOLS AVAILABLE
School and public libraries can promote Teen Tech Week™ (March 6-12) with online resources offered by the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA).
Since 2007, Teen Tech Week http://www.ala.org/teentechweek, sponsored by YALSA, has ensured that teens are competent and ethical users of technologies, especially those that are offered through libraries such as DVDs, databases, audiobooks and videogames. Teen Tech Week encourages teens to use libraries' nonprint resources for education and recreation and to recognize that librarians are qualified, trusted professionals in the field of information technology.
The promotional effort for this year’s Teen Tech Week, held March 6- 12, is coordinated by ALA’s Public Information Office (PIO) and YALSA. It includes a number of online tools libraries can use to publicize Teen Tech Week activities:
Sample Press Release http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw11/publicity/publicity.cfm#release
Tips for Creating a Press Release http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw11/publicity/publicity.cfm#tips
Sample http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw11/publicity/publicity.cfm#psa
PSA http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw11/publicity/publicity.cfm#psa Sample Letters to Editor http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw11/publicity/publicity.cfm#editor
Sample Proclamation
http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw11/publicity/publicity.cfm#proclamation
Tips on Using the TTW Logo
http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw11/publicity/publicity.cfm#logo
Downloadable audio PSAs http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/teentechweek/ttw11/publicity/publicity.cfm#audio (featuring Tom Kenny, the voice of SpongeBob SquarePants)
The 2011 Teen Tech Week theme of “Mix and Mash @ your library” fosters teen creativity and positions the library as a physical and virtual place for safe exploration of the many types of technology available at libraries, including DVDs, music, gaming, video production, online homework help, social networking, tech workshops, audiobooks and more.
For more information on Teen Tech Week, please visit www.ala.org/teentechweek.
DATES TO REMEMBER
February 11 WLA Board Meeting, Madison (my first as WLA president!)
February 14 WLA Conference Planning Meeting, Milwaukee
February 22 Library Legislative Day, Madison
February 23-25 Rhonda out of the office
March 3 MWFLS Youth Services Meeting, Horicon
April 5-8 CSLP Annual Meeting, Scottsdale, AZ
April 10-16 National Library Week
May 4-6 WAPL Conference, Madison
May 2-8 National Children’s Book Week
May 10-11 National Library Legislative Day, Washington, DC
May 20 Special Needs Consultants Meeting, Madison
June 20 First day of Storywagon
June 22-29 ALA Annual Conference, New Orleans
October 16-22 Teen Read Week
November 1-4 WLA Annual Conference, Milwaukee
WEBSITE FAVES
Digital Sanborn Maps of Milwaukee 1894 and 1910
http://www4.uwm.edu/Library/digilib/sanborn/
It might be hard to wander around Milwaukee in 1910, unless you have a friend with a functioning time machine. Well, such a journey through time and space is almost possible with this fine collection from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Library. The collection brings together the Sanborn Fire Maps from 1894 and 1910, and these documents are excellent historical resources for academics, geographers, urban planners, and those with a love of the built environment. Each map contains copious details on the construction materials of dwellings, sidewalk widths, and elevator locations. This collection is quite a pip, as it allows users to use Google Maps to wander around the city at their leisure, picking out details along the way. Visitors can use the "Browse" button to look through different sections of these maps, or they can just search for certain terms and locations. (Internet Scout Report, 1/28/11)
GrantCraft
http://www.grantcraft.org/
GrantCraft was originally started in October 2001 as a small collection of case studies and examples, and it was designed to be used as orientation material for new program officers at the Ford Foundation. Over the past decade, the site has grown significantly, and it offers videos, workshops, guides, and other tools to help grantmakers across the spectrum. On the homepage, visitors can start by looking over the "Guides" area to learn more about the challenges facing grantmakers today. Moving along, the "What We're Reading" area features some of their favorite resources from "the field and beyond". The bottom of the homepage features "Videos", such as information from the State Fiscal Analyses Initiative and nuts-and-bolts programs like "Building a Network". Finally, visitors can also sign up for free updates and they also shouldn't miss the "New to Grantmaking?" area. (Internet Scout Report, 1/28/11)
Vivian Maier: Her Discovered Work
http://vivianmaier.blogspot.com/
Often the true legacy of an artist goes unappreciated until after they pass away, and the case of artist Vivian Maier is a rather intriguing story. Maier lived in Chicago, and from the 1950s to the 1990s, she took well over 100,000 photographs of the city landscape and its denizens. Just after her death in 2009, John Maloof found her collection of negatives at a furniture and antiques auction. The collection is enormous and he is currently in the process of archiving these works and placing some of them on this website. The site features some of the photos from her time wandering the streets of Chicago, and there are amazing photos of homeless men eating sandwiches, elegantly dressed women waiting for a bus, and of course the "L". (Internet Scout Report, 1/28/11)
AND FINALLY……..
3 degrees and 15 below wind chills at Lambeau Field Green Bay yesterday but the “Return to Titletown” celebration was GREAT fun and I’d happily go again!
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
CEO, January 26, 2011
Children’s Event Organizer
Lakeshores Library System and
Mid-Wisconsin Federated Library System
Youth Services Update
Issue 353, January 26, 2011
http://www.llsmwflschildrens.blogspot.com
In this issue:
Ruhama’s Review
One World, Many Stories
ALA Midwinter 2011 Updates
Super Bowl Programming Ideas
ALSC and YALSA News
Allison Kaplan Awarded Bechtel Fellowship
Arbuthnot Lecture
2011 Rainbow Awards
Dates to Remember
Website Faves
And Finally......
RUHAMA’S REVIEW
Ten Cents a Dance by Christine Fletcher
http://tinyurl.com/32m6k3m
Ruby Jacinski lives in the Back of the Yards in Chicago with her mother and sister. It's a distinctly Polish neighborhood and embodies everything you imagine of an old-time street: nosy neighbors, wariness of the nearby neighborhoods, close-knit families and kids getting together at the corner drugstore. But Ruby is ready to leave it all behind, especially once her mother's arthritis forces her to quit her job. Ruby agrees to drop out of school and work in the stockyards, though she hates every minute of it. Her true love is dancing and she can't get enough of jazz and other 'modern' music. When heartthrob Paulie Suelze suggests she start working at the Starlight, a taxi-dance hall, Ruby decides to check it out. Telling her mom that she got a job as a phone operator, Ruby is thrust into a new world of adulthood, including falling hard for Paulie, who might not have honorable intentions.
I read this book with a feeling of imminent doom the entire time, which ruined it a little bit for me, but it also means I really connected with the main character and didn't want to see her get hurt. The character development of Ruby is believable and I enjoyed watching her become an adult, albeit she did it the hard way. And early--she's only 16 by the end of the book. Other characters didn't feel as well rounded as Ruby, though, and it was a little jarring to watch her and Betty (her sister) interact. Paulie did not elicit any emotions from me either, which was disappointing, as Ruby did fall for him hard and I had hoped to feel the same emotions Ruby did. I did really enjoyed the history and think anyone who has a connection with Chicago will fully appreciate all the details Fletcher has included on this little-known area of history. Older students or adults who read this book could be led to The Jungle by Upton Sinclair next for more on the stockyards or Since You Went Away edited by J.B. Litoff to capture the homefront feeling. For another overall worlds colliding read, direct readers to Summer of the War by Gloria Whelan.
And, as a side note, I think the paperback cover is unappealing and too modern. Blech.
ONE WORLD, MANY STORIES
Don’t forget the SRP workshop this Friday at the Country Springs Hotel in Waukesha! Featured presenters are Marge Loch-Wouters and Leslie Peterson.
The entire Storywagon schedule has been posted to the Lakeshores calendar:
http://prem.calendars.net/lls
Flags of the World
http://www.crwflags.com/fotw/flags/
Flags of the World (FOTW), founded in 1994, is the Internet’s largest site devoted to vexillology (the study of flags). Here you can read more than 47,000 pages about flags and view more than 87,000 images of flags of countries, organizations, states, territories, districts and cities, both past and present.
Folktexts
http://www.pitt.edu/~dash/folktexts.html
Features public domain folktales from many countries categorized by theme, topic, or event.
ALA MIDWINTER 2011 UPDATES
A few of us from the Lakeshores area (besides me) attended ALA Midwinter in San Diego, here are some comments:
From Kelly Jensen (Delavan):
While in San Diego, what I spent most of my time doing was wandering the exhibits. I got the chance to talk to many of the publishers about their favorite titles and the trends they've been seeing. I was lucky to be invited to a preview meal from Simon and Schuster and Disney, both of which gave me a really nice look at the range of youth titles coming out (and if anyone is interested, I have the packets from both publishers). But maybe Saturday night was my favorite: I got to have dinner with Lisa McMann (author of the "Wake" trilogy and the forthcoming "Cryer's Cross"), her editor and publicist, as well as about 10 other librarians. It was a great night of talking books and youth services with people from all over the country.
From Jennifer Wharton (Elkhorn):
I went to a couple publisher previews, the Neil Gaiman thing (he was interviewed by Nancy Pearl) and basically spent four days seeing how many books I could collect. I mostly went around the exhibits (and around and around and around). I did some networking with publishers.
SUPER BOWL PROGRAMMING IDEAS
Here’s a list of websites to help you plan your Super Bowl programming and storytimes (and to celebrate a Green Bay victory!):
http://www.packers.com/
http://www.steelers.com/
http://www.nfl.com/superbowl/45
http://www.apples4theteacher.com/holidays/super-bowl-sunday/printables/
http://www.educationworld.com/a_lesson/lesson096.shtml
http://www.dltk-kids.com/sports/superbowl.htm
http://www.theteacherscorner.net/seasonal/super-bowl/
ALSC AND YALSA NEWS
ALSC names 2011 Notable Children’s Recordings
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6117
ALSC announces 2011 Notable Children's Books
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6122
ALSC announces 2011 Notable Children’s Videos
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6116
YALSA names 2011 Fabulous Films for Young Adult
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6076
YALSA names 2011 Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6102
YALSA names 2011 Best Fiction for Young Adults
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6101
YALSA names 2011 Popular Paperbacks for Young Adults
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6100
YALSA names 2011 Great Graphic Novels for Teens
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6094
YALSA names 2011 Amazing Audiobooks for Young Adults
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6099
ALLISON KAPLAN AWARDED BECHTEL FELLOWSHIP
The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) has awarded two 2011 Louise Seaman Bechtel Fellowships to Victoria Penny and Allison G. Kaplan. The Bechtel Fellowship is designed to allow qualified children’s librarians to spend a month or more reading and studying at the Baldwin Library of Historical Children’s Literature, a part of the George A. Smathers Libraries at the University of Florida, Gainesville. The Baldwin Library contains a special collection of 85,000 volumes of children’s literature published mostly before 1950. The fellowship is endowed in memory of Louise Seaman Bechtel and Ruth M. Baldwin and provides a stipend of $4,000.
Allison Kaplan, a faculty associate at the School of Library and Information Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, will pursue her study, “Board Books: From Toy to Literacy Tool,” while at the Baldwin Library. Kaplan’s research focus is on special types of books, known as “board books,” which are printed on thick paperboard. These are often considered “toy and movable” books. “By exploring the collection of toy and board books in the Baldwin Library,” said Kaplan, “I hope to be able to better understand what led to the evolution of the board book from a simple toy to an important part of the literacy process.”
Victoria Penny, the early childhood services coordinator at the First Regional Library in Hernando, Miss., has chosen “Rediscovering Child’s Sense of Wonder: Depictions of Nature and Outdoor Play in Historical Children’s Literature” as her topic of study. Penny’s work will investigate illustrations from 19th and 20th century American children’s literature to determine the manner in which this reflects notions of childhood development at the time. “I have always had a personal love for and intellectual interest in nature and the outdoors,” said Penny. “On a professional level, I have recently become much more interested in the importance of outdoor play and green time to children’s development.”
ALSC, a division of the ALA, is the world’s largest organization dedicated to the support and enhancement of library service to children. With a network of more than 4,200 children’s and youth librarians, literature experts, publishers and educational faculty, ALSC is committed to creating a better future for children through libraries. To learn more about ALSC, visit ALSC’s website at www.ala.org/alsc.
ARBUTHNOT LECTURE
On Friday, April 15, 2011 bestselling children's author Lois Lowry will give the 2011 May Hill Arbuthnot Honor Lecture in St. Louis. The event begins at 7 P.M. and will take place in the Main Reading Room of the St. Louis County Library (SLCL). The event is free and open to the public. Tickets can be obtained by visiting St. Louis County Library's event registration page, http://www.slcl.org/arbuthnot/.
Lowry, two-time winner of the Newbery Medal, is an internationally acclaimed author whose career spans more than 30 years. Her two Newbery Medals are from 1990 for "Number the Stars," set in Denmark during World War II, and in 1994 for the eerily dystopian "The Giver" (both Houghton). She was also the recipient of the 2007 Margaret A. Edwards Award, which honors an author's contribution to young adult literature.
The May Hill Arbuthnot Honor Lecture is sponsored by the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association (ALA). The lecture title honors May Hill Arbuthnot, distinguished writer, editor, and children's literature scholar. Each year, an author, artist, critic, librarian, historian or teacher of children's literature is chosen to prepare a paper considered to be a significant contribution to the field of children's literature. This year’s committee was chaired by Shawn Brommer from the South Central Library System in Madison.
2011 RAINBOW LIST
The ALA 2011 Rainbow Project Committee proudly announces the 2011 Rainbow List. Created during the 2011 Midwinter Meeting at San Diego, California, these titles reflect significant gay/lesbian/bisexual/trans-gendered/queer-questioning (glbtq) experience for young people from birth to age 18.
Titles marked with a * are a Top Ten Title for the 2011 List.
*Agell, Charlotte. The Accidental Adventures of India McAllister. 2010. 1 60p. Henry Holt & Co. (9780805089028). Gr 5-8
An illustrated diary-like account of things that India McAllister loves like her dog Tofu, her best friend, Colby, and other things…well, she’s not so sure about, like Amanda the Rodent and Richard, her dad’s boyfriend.
Beale, Elaine. Another Life Altogether. 2010. 416p. Spiegel & Grau. (978-0385530040). Gr 9+
Due to challenges at home, Jessie’s family decides to move to Yorkshire for a “new start”, and she struggles to fit in and find her own voice in her new town. On top of all this, she must also figure out her confusing new crushes.
Bergman, S. Bear. The Nearest Exit May Be Behind You. 2009. Arsenal Pulp Press. (978-1551522647). Gr. 10+
A collection of personal essays from a transmasculine perspective, featuring topics such as coming out, family, identity and religion.
Boyd, Maria. Will. 2010. 304p. Knopf Books for Young Readers. (978-0375862090). GR 9-12
High school jock and all-around popular guy Will Armstrong moons a bus full of girls and is assigned community service, which includes joining the school band and helping out with the musical. While serving his time, he is befriended by a gay boy and is forced to reconsider his own stereotypical views of what it means to be a man.
Cohn, Rachel. Very LeFreak. 2010. 320p. Knopf Books for Young Readers. (978-0375857584). Gr 9+
With a playlist for every moment, and the need for her tech buzzing in her veins, can Very unplug enough to discover what her heart really wants before it's too late and take a chance at real love?
Cruse, Howard. Stuck Rubber Baby. 2010. 224p. DC Comics. (978-1401227135). Gr 10+
While fighting for civil rights in the 1960s South, Toland fights the realization that he is gay, and has to deal with the idea and the change in his own thoughts and personal identity.
de Rossi, Portia. Unbearable Lightness. 2010. 320p. Atria. (978-1439177785). Gr 9+
Coming to terms with coming out and the damaging perceptions of commercial beauty, she shares her story of recovery from her eating disorder and her self-acceptance.
Diaz, Alexandra. Of All The Stupid Things. 2009. 272p. EgmontUSA. (978-1606840344). Gr 10+
When Tara learns that her boyfriend may be gay, she is devastated. But then—when she finds herself attracted to a new girl, Riley—she is forced to examine her own sexuality.
Diersch, Sandra. Out. 2010. 136p. Lorimer. (978-1552774229). Gr 9+
Canadian teenager Alex must confront his latent homophobia when his younger brother comes out to him.
* Eagland, Jane. Wildthorn. 2010. 352p. Houghton Mifflin Books for Children. (978-0547370170). Gr 9+
Louisa Cosgrove, a high-spirited young lady in nineteenth century England, loves her cousin Grace and longs to be a doctor.
DATES TO REMEMBER
January 28 2011 Summer Reading Program workshop, Country Springs, Waukesha
January 29 Diva Quest, Kenosha
January 31 CSLP Executive Board Meeting
February 4 LD&L Meeting, Madison
February 6 THE SUPER BOWL!!!!!!
February 9-15 Rhonda out of the office (tending to my dad after a surgery)
February 11 WLA Board Meeting, Madison (my first as WLA president!)
February 22 Library Legislative Day, Madison
March 3 MWFLS Youth Services Meeting, Horicon
April 5-8 CSLP Annual Meeting, Scottsdale, AZ
April 10-16 National Library Week
May 4-6 WAPL Conference, Madison
May 2-8 National Children’s Book Week
May 10-11 National Library Legislative Day, Washington, DC
May 20 Special Needs Consultants Meeting, Madison
June 20 First day of Storywagon
June 22-29 ALA Annual Conference, New Orleans
October 16-22 Teen Read Week
November 1-4 WLA Annual Conference, Milwaukee
WEBSITE FAVES
Young Adult Books Central
http://www.yabookscentral.com/
Young Adult (& Kid’s) Book Central is a place for people who love books. It features a large database of book reviews. Visitors to the site can find information on young adult and children’s books, along with more than 14,000 reviews, 200 excerpts, 182 author interviews, chances to win free books, forums, and much more. Teachers, students, and parents will appreciate the links to more than one hundred study guides, reader guides, and teacher guides. The site also gives parents, students, and teachers the opportunity to peruse the booklist to find appropriate reading material for their children or students. The book directory lists all the books that have been reviewed, identifies the genre, and gives an age range that is appropriate to interests and reading ability. Visitors to the site also are encouraged to write and submit their own book review. (Education World Site Reviews, 1/11/11)
Kids Know It Network
http://www.kidsknowit.com/
This site’s mission is “to create fun and interactive learning modules that can be utilized by teachers, parents, and home schoolers to enhance their learning environments, and increase the interest and attentiveness of their learners” and they have done it very well. Students will find homework help in a number of subject areas including astronomy, animals, biology, dinosaurs, geography, geology, history, math, memory, and spelling. Each subject area includes games and activities to keep students involved. When it’s time for just fun, students can head over to the game section to play games that are not found in other sections of the site. More than thirty free educational movies are available for teachers to use to supplement their lessons. The videos cover such topics as absolute values, adjectives, averages, eclipses, acceleration, biomes, hurricanes, and more. Each movie ends with an interactive online quiz. Additionally, a comprehensive database of educational songs can be used by teachers and students to enhance learning. The database can be searched by selecting any subject category. (Education World Site Reviews, 1/11/11)
The Art Institute of Chicago: Online Resources
http://www.artic.edu/aic/visitor_info/podcasts/video/education_videos/
The Art Institute of Chicago (AIC) recently redesigned their online resources site, and visitors new and old will find much that is compelling here. This particular set of videos on this site was designed for English and Spanish speakers who might be visiting the Institute in the near future, and all told there are nine different short films. The films include an introduction to the AIC, a film on how to teach and instruct students in the galleries, and a rather fine film on the Modern Wing (designed by Renzo Piano) and its green design. Additionally, visitors can slide on over to the "Podcasts" area for artist talks, curator commentaries, and other audio explorations. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 1/1/11)
AND FINALLY……….
My Sweet Adelines chorus has its 5th Annual Diva Quest show this weekend in Kenosha and my daughter is one of the Divas! Let me know if you’d like to go. For more info, go to: http://www.riverportchorus.org/divaquest.html. UW-Madison’s Madhatters, a men’s a cappella group, are the featured guests!
Lakeshores Library System and
Mid-Wisconsin Federated Library System
Youth Services Update
Issue 353, January 26, 2011
http://www.llsmwflschildrens.blogspot.com
In this issue:
Ruhama’s Review
One World, Many Stories
ALA Midwinter 2011 Updates
Super Bowl Programming Ideas
ALSC and YALSA News
Allison Kaplan Awarded Bechtel Fellowship
Arbuthnot Lecture
2011 Rainbow Awards
Dates to Remember
Website Faves
And Finally......
RUHAMA’S REVIEW
Ten Cents a Dance by Christine Fletcher
http://tinyurl.com/32m6k3m
Ruby Jacinski lives in the Back of the Yards in Chicago with her mother and sister. It's a distinctly Polish neighborhood and embodies everything you imagine of an old-time street: nosy neighbors, wariness of the nearby neighborhoods, close-knit families and kids getting together at the corner drugstore. But Ruby is ready to leave it all behind, especially once her mother's arthritis forces her to quit her job. Ruby agrees to drop out of school and work in the stockyards, though she hates every minute of it. Her true love is dancing and she can't get enough of jazz and other 'modern' music. When heartthrob Paulie Suelze suggests she start working at the Starlight, a taxi-dance hall, Ruby decides to check it out. Telling her mom that she got a job as a phone operator, Ruby is thrust into a new world of adulthood, including falling hard for Paulie, who might not have honorable intentions.
I read this book with a feeling of imminent doom the entire time, which ruined it a little bit for me, but it also means I really connected with the main character and didn't want to see her get hurt. The character development of Ruby is believable and I enjoyed watching her become an adult, albeit she did it the hard way. And early--she's only 16 by the end of the book. Other characters didn't feel as well rounded as Ruby, though, and it was a little jarring to watch her and Betty (her sister) interact. Paulie did not elicit any emotions from me either, which was disappointing, as Ruby did fall for him hard and I had hoped to feel the same emotions Ruby did. I did really enjoyed the history and think anyone who has a connection with Chicago will fully appreciate all the details Fletcher has included on this little-known area of history. Older students or adults who read this book could be led to The Jungle by Upton Sinclair next for more on the stockyards or Since You Went Away edited by J.B. Litoff to capture the homefront feeling. For another overall worlds colliding read, direct readers to Summer of the War by Gloria Whelan.
And, as a side note, I think the paperback cover is unappealing and too modern. Blech.
ONE WORLD, MANY STORIES
Don’t forget the SRP workshop this Friday at the Country Springs Hotel in Waukesha! Featured presenters are Marge Loch-Wouters and Leslie Peterson.
The entire Storywagon schedule has been posted to the Lakeshores calendar:
http://prem.calendars.net/lls
Flags of the World
http://www.crwflags.com/fotw/flags/
Flags of the World (FOTW), founded in 1994, is the Internet’s largest site devoted to vexillology (the study of flags). Here you can read more than 47,000 pages about flags and view more than 87,000 images of flags of countries, organizations, states, territories, districts and cities, both past and present.
Folktexts
http://www.pitt.edu/~dash/folktexts.html
Features public domain folktales from many countries categorized by theme, topic, or event.
ALA MIDWINTER 2011 UPDATES
A few of us from the Lakeshores area (besides me) attended ALA Midwinter in San Diego, here are some comments:
From Kelly Jensen (Delavan):
While in San Diego, what I spent most of my time doing was wandering the exhibits. I got the chance to talk to many of the publishers about their favorite titles and the trends they've been seeing. I was lucky to be invited to a preview meal from Simon and Schuster and Disney, both of which gave me a really nice look at the range of youth titles coming out (and if anyone is interested, I have the packets from both publishers). But maybe Saturday night was my favorite: I got to have dinner with Lisa McMann (author of the "Wake" trilogy and the forthcoming "Cryer's Cross"), her editor and publicist, as well as about 10 other librarians. It was a great night of talking books and youth services with people from all over the country.
From Jennifer Wharton (Elkhorn):
I went to a couple publisher previews, the Neil Gaiman thing (he was interviewed by Nancy Pearl) and basically spent four days seeing how many books I could collect. I mostly went around the exhibits (and around and around and around). I did some networking with publishers.
SUPER BOWL PROGRAMMING IDEAS
Here’s a list of websites to help you plan your Super Bowl programming and storytimes (and to celebrate a Green Bay victory!):
http://www.packers.com/
http://www.steelers.com/
http://www.nfl.com/superbowl/45
http://www.apples4theteacher.com/holidays/super-bowl-sunday/printables/
http://www.educationworld.com/a_lesson/lesson096.shtml
http://www.dltk-kids.com/sports/superbowl.htm
http://www.theteacherscorner.net/seasonal/super-bowl/
ALSC AND YALSA NEWS
ALSC names 2011 Notable Children’s Recordings
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6117
ALSC announces 2011 Notable Children's Books
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6122
ALSC announces 2011 Notable Children’s Videos
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6116
YALSA names 2011 Fabulous Films for Young Adult
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6076
YALSA names 2011 Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6102
YALSA names 2011 Best Fiction for Young Adults
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6101
YALSA names 2011 Popular Paperbacks for Young Adults
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6100
YALSA names 2011 Great Graphic Novels for Teens
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6094
YALSA names 2011 Amazing Audiobooks for Young Adults
http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=6099
ALLISON KAPLAN AWARDED BECHTEL FELLOWSHIP
The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) has awarded two 2011 Louise Seaman Bechtel Fellowships to Victoria Penny and Allison G. Kaplan. The Bechtel Fellowship is designed to allow qualified children’s librarians to spend a month or more reading and studying at the Baldwin Library of Historical Children’s Literature, a part of the George A. Smathers Libraries at the University of Florida, Gainesville. The Baldwin Library contains a special collection of 85,000 volumes of children’s literature published mostly before 1950. The fellowship is endowed in memory of Louise Seaman Bechtel and Ruth M. Baldwin and provides a stipend of $4,000.
Allison Kaplan, a faculty associate at the School of Library and Information Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, will pursue her study, “Board Books: From Toy to Literacy Tool,” while at the Baldwin Library. Kaplan’s research focus is on special types of books, known as “board books,” which are printed on thick paperboard. These are often considered “toy and movable” books. “By exploring the collection of toy and board books in the Baldwin Library,” said Kaplan, “I hope to be able to better understand what led to the evolution of the board book from a simple toy to an important part of the literacy process.”
Victoria Penny, the early childhood services coordinator at the First Regional Library in Hernando, Miss., has chosen “Rediscovering Child’s Sense of Wonder: Depictions of Nature and Outdoor Play in Historical Children’s Literature” as her topic of study. Penny’s work will investigate illustrations from 19th and 20th century American children’s literature to determine the manner in which this reflects notions of childhood development at the time. “I have always had a personal love for and intellectual interest in nature and the outdoors,” said Penny. “On a professional level, I have recently become much more interested in the importance of outdoor play and green time to children’s development.”
ALSC, a division of the ALA, is the world’s largest organization dedicated to the support and enhancement of library service to children. With a network of more than 4,200 children’s and youth librarians, literature experts, publishers and educational faculty, ALSC is committed to creating a better future for children through libraries. To learn more about ALSC, visit ALSC’s website at www.ala.org/alsc.
ARBUTHNOT LECTURE
On Friday, April 15, 2011 bestselling children's author Lois Lowry will give the 2011 May Hill Arbuthnot Honor Lecture in St. Louis. The event begins at 7 P.M. and will take place in the Main Reading Room of the St. Louis County Library (SLCL). The event is free and open to the public. Tickets can be obtained by visiting St. Louis County Library's event registration page, http://www.slcl.org/arbuthnot/.
Lowry, two-time winner of the Newbery Medal, is an internationally acclaimed author whose career spans more than 30 years. Her two Newbery Medals are from 1990 for "Number the Stars," set in Denmark during World War II, and in 1994 for the eerily dystopian "The Giver" (both Houghton). She was also the recipient of the 2007 Margaret A. Edwards Award, which honors an author's contribution to young adult literature.
The May Hill Arbuthnot Honor Lecture is sponsored by the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association (ALA). The lecture title honors May Hill Arbuthnot, distinguished writer, editor, and children's literature scholar. Each year, an author, artist, critic, librarian, historian or teacher of children's literature is chosen to prepare a paper considered to be a significant contribution to the field of children's literature. This year’s committee was chaired by Shawn Brommer from the South Central Library System in Madison.
2011 RAINBOW LIST
The ALA 2011 Rainbow Project Committee proudly announces the 2011 Rainbow List. Created during the 2011 Midwinter Meeting at San Diego, California, these titles reflect significant gay/lesbian/bisexual/trans-gendered/queer-questioning (glbtq) experience for young people from birth to age 18.
Titles marked with a * are a Top Ten Title for the 2011 List.
*Agell, Charlotte. The Accidental Adventures of India McAllister. 2010. 1 60p. Henry Holt & Co. (9780805089028). Gr 5-8
An illustrated diary-like account of things that India McAllister loves like her dog Tofu, her best friend, Colby, and other things…well, she’s not so sure about, like Amanda the Rodent and Richard, her dad’s boyfriend.
Beale, Elaine. Another Life Altogether. 2010. 416p. Spiegel & Grau. (978-0385530040). Gr 9+
Due to challenges at home, Jessie’s family decides to move to Yorkshire for a “new start”, and she struggles to fit in and find her own voice in her new town. On top of all this, she must also figure out her confusing new crushes.
Bergman, S. Bear. The Nearest Exit May Be Behind You. 2009. Arsenal Pulp Press. (978-1551522647). Gr. 10+
A collection of personal essays from a transmasculine perspective, featuring topics such as coming out, family, identity and religion.
Boyd, Maria. Will. 2010. 304p. Knopf Books for Young Readers. (978-0375862090). GR 9-12
High school jock and all-around popular guy Will Armstrong moons a bus full of girls and is assigned community service, which includes joining the school band and helping out with the musical. While serving his time, he is befriended by a gay boy and is forced to reconsider his own stereotypical views of what it means to be a man.
Cohn, Rachel. Very LeFreak. 2010. 320p. Knopf Books for Young Readers. (978-0375857584). Gr 9+
With a playlist for every moment, and the need for her tech buzzing in her veins, can Very unplug enough to discover what her heart really wants before it's too late and take a chance at real love?
Cruse, Howard. Stuck Rubber Baby. 2010. 224p. DC Comics. (978-1401227135). Gr 10+
While fighting for civil rights in the 1960s South, Toland fights the realization that he is gay, and has to deal with the idea and the change in his own thoughts and personal identity.
de Rossi, Portia. Unbearable Lightness. 2010. 320p. Atria. (978-1439177785). Gr 9+
Coming to terms with coming out and the damaging perceptions of commercial beauty, she shares her story of recovery from her eating disorder and her self-acceptance.
Diaz, Alexandra. Of All The Stupid Things. 2009. 272p. EgmontUSA. (978-1606840344). Gr 10+
When Tara learns that her boyfriend may be gay, she is devastated. But then—when she finds herself attracted to a new girl, Riley—she is forced to examine her own sexuality.
Diersch, Sandra. Out. 2010. 136p. Lorimer. (978-1552774229). Gr 9+
Canadian teenager Alex must confront his latent homophobia when his younger brother comes out to him.
* Eagland, Jane. Wildthorn. 2010. 352p. Houghton Mifflin Books for Children. (978-0547370170). Gr 9+
Louisa Cosgrove, a high-spirited young lady in nineteenth century England, loves her cousin Grace and longs to be a doctor.
DATES TO REMEMBER
January 28 2011 Summer Reading Program workshop, Country Springs, Waukesha
January 29 Diva Quest, Kenosha
January 31 CSLP Executive Board Meeting
February 4 LD&L Meeting, Madison
February 6 THE SUPER BOWL!!!!!!
February 9-15 Rhonda out of the office (tending to my dad after a surgery)
February 11 WLA Board Meeting, Madison (my first as WLA president!)
February 22 Library Legislative Day, Madison
March 3 MWFLS Youth Services Meeting, Horicon
April 5-8 CSLP Annual Meeting, Scottsdale, AZ
April 10-16 National Library Week
May 4-6 WAPL Conference, Madison
May 2-8 National Children’s Book Week
May 10-11 National Library Legislative Day, Washington, DC
May 20 Special Needs Consultants Meeting, Madison
June 20 First day of Storywagon
June 22-29 ALA Annual Conference, New Orleans
October 16-22 Teen Read Week
November 1-4 WLA Annual Conference, Milwaukee
WEBSITE FAVES
Young Adult Books Central
http://www.yabookscentral.com/
Young Adult (& Kid’s) Book Central is a place for people who love books. It features a large database of book reviews. Visitors to the site can find information on young adult and children’s books, along with more than 14,000 reviews, 200 excerpts, 182 author interviews, chances to win free books, forums, and much more. Teachers, students, and parents will appreciate the links to more than one hundred study guides, reader guides, and teacher guides. The site also gives parents, students, and teachers the opportunity to peruse the booklist to find appropriate reading material for their children or students. The book directory lists all the books that have been reviewed, identifies the genre, and gives an age range that is appropriate to interests and reading ability. Visitors to the site also are encouraged to write and submit their own book review. (Education World Site Reviews, 1/11/11)
Kids Know It Network
http://www.kidsknowit.com/
This site’s mission is “to create fun and interactive learning modules that can be utilized by teachers, parents, and home schoolers to enhance their learning environments, and increase the interest and attentiveness of their learners” and they have done it very well. Students will find homework help in a number of subject areas including astronomy, animals, biology, dinosaurs, geography, geology, history, math, memory, and spelling. Each subject area includes games and activities to keep students involved. When it’s time for just fun, students can head over to the game section to play games that are not found in other sections of the site. More than thirty free educational movies are available for teachers to use to supplement their lessons. The videos cover such topics as absolute values, adjectives, averages, eclipses, acceleration, biomes, hurricanes, and more. Each movie ends with an interactive online quiz. Additionally, a comprehensive database of educational songs can be used by teachers and students to enhance learning. The database can be searched by selecting any subject category. (Education World Site Reviews, 1/11/11)
The Art Institute of Chicago: Online Resources
http://www.artic.edu/aic/visitor_info/podcasts/video/education_videos/
The Art Institute of Chicago (AIC) recently redesigned their online resources site, and visitors new and old will find much that is compelling here. This particular set of videos on this site was designed for English and Spanish speakers who might be visiting the Institute in the near future, and all told there are nine different short films. The films include an introduction to the AIC, a film on how to teach and instruct students in the galleries, and a rather fine film on the Modern Wing (designed by Renzo Piano) and its green design. Additionally, visitors can slide on over to the "Podcasts" area for artist talks, curator commentaries, and other audio explorations. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2011. http://scout.wisc.edu/, 1/1/11)
AND FINALLY……….
My Sweet Adelines chorus has its 5th Annual Diva Quest show this weekend in Kenosha and my daughter is one of the Divas! Let me know if you’d like to go. For more info, go to: http://www.riverportchorus.org/divaquest.html. UW-Madison’s Madhatters, a men’s a cappella group, are the featured guests!
Saturday, January 22, 2011
CEO, January 4, 2011
Children’s Event
Organizer
Lakeshores Library System and
Mid-Wisconsin Federated Library System
Youth Services Update
Issue 352, January 4, 2011
http://www.llsmwflschildrens.blogspot.com
In this issue:
One World, Many Stories
YALSA’s Award for Excellence in Nonfiction
Little Golden Books Archive
South Carolina’s Day by Day Calendar
Youth Media Awards
ALA Offers Traveling Exhibit Grant Opportunities
Dates to Remember
Website Faves
And Finally......
ONE WORLD, MANY STORIES
Ideas for SRP 2011 YA Booklist – “You Are Here” Theme
(compiled by Kristin Pekoll, West Bend Community Library)
Around the World in 100 Days by Gary Blackwood
13 Little Blue Envelopes by Maureen Johnson
Jerk, California by Jonathan Friesen
We Were Here by Matt de la Peña
A Field Guide for Heartbreakers by Kristen Tracy (taking a summer class in Czech Republic)
Boys, Bears, and a Serious Pair of Hiking Boots by Abby McDonald (spending the summer in Canada)
Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly (trip to France)
Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins (going to school in France)
Heist Society by Ally Carter (traveling around Europe)
The Juliet Club by Suzanne Harper (taking a summer class in Italy)
Secret Keeper by Mitali Perkins (living in India)
Amy & Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson (road trip)
How to Be Bad by E. Lockhart, Sarah Mlynowski, and Lauren Myracle (road trip)
Shift by Jennifer Bradbury (about a bike trip across America.)
As Easy As Falling Off the Face of the Earth by Lynne Rae Perkins (involved getting around by various means)
North of Beautiful by Headley (published in '09, paperback came out this past February)
Crash into Me by Albert Borris
Mare’s War by Tanita S. Davis
SASS: Students across the seven seas (series)
YALSA’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN NONFICTON
The YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction honors the best nonfiction book published for young adults (ages 12-18) during a November 1 – October 31 publishing year. The award winner will be announced annually at the ALA Midwinter Meeting Youth Media Awards, with a shortlist of up to five titles named the first week of December. The award will be presented at ALA Annual Conference.
Janis Joplin: Rise Up Singing
By Ann Angel, published by Amulet/Abrams
Janis Joplin, a true "fish out of water" in Port Arthur, TX, follows her own path to become an icon of American music in her short, tragic life.
They Called Themselves the KKK: The Birth of an American Terrorist Group
By Susan Campbell Bartoletti, published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Bartoletti provides readers with an in-depth look at the formation of the KKK and its subsequent evolution into a violent organization. With primary source material, she details the horrific history of the Ku Klux Klan and the people who fell victim to its reign of terror.
Spies of Mississippi: The True Story of the Spy Network that Tried to Destroy the Civil Rights Movement
By Rick Bowers, published by National Geographic Society
In 1958, the state of Mississippi began an undercover operation, The Sovereignty Commission, to spy on and potentially squelch the Civil Rights movement. Bowers' expose of this unknown organization reveals the extent to which some were willing to go to see segregation remain the law of the state.
The Dark Game: True Spy Stories
By Paul Janeczko, published by Candlewick Press
This compilation of different spies carries readers from the Revolutionary War through the infamous Cold War era. Delve into stories about the Choctaw Code Talkers of WWI, Soviet moles, Mata Hari and more as you uncover just how they changed the course of history.
Every Bone Tells a Story: Hominin Discoveries, Deductions, and Debates
By Jill Rubalcaba and Peter Robertshaw, published by Charlesbridge
Through fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and scientific debate, the bones of Turkana Boy, Lapede Child, Kennewick Man and Iceman are used to tell the fascinating stories of four member of the human family tree. Maps, photographs, and news headlines add to our understanding of archeology's cutting edge science.
LITTLE GOLDEN BOOKS ARCHIVE
The Racine Public Library is starting an archival collection of Little Golden Books for their new Racine History Room. Racine was the home of Western Publishing (which produced the Little Golden Books) for many years. If anyone has items they would like to donate to RPL’s collection, please contact Darcy Mohr at 262-636-9247. Here is a link to a recent article in the Racine Journal Times regarding the collection: http://www.journaltimes.com/news/local/article_98786ede-05ab-11e0-8b0d-001cc4c002e0.html
SOUTH CAROLINA’S DAY BY DAY CALENDAR
www.daybydaysc.org
The South Carolina Day by Day Family Literacy Calendar is designed to be a tool that families, caregivers, educators and librarians can use at home and in the classroom to further develop early literacy skills that help young children become prepared for school or do better in school. The calendar has been updated since it was previously featured in the newsletter and now includes PDFs of the calendar by month and PDFs of the calendar in Spanish.
The Calendar is a project of the South Carolina State Library, working in partnership with many agencies and organizations, and primarily funded by a Library Services and Technology Act grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). (thanks to Denise Lyons, consultant at the South Carolina State Library)
YOUTH MEDIA AWARDS
It’s the equivalent of the Academy Awards to anyone with a passing interest in children’s books and publishing. To allow as many interested people as possible the opportunity to hear the winners of the Youth Media Awards on Jan. 10, during the American Library Association’s (ALA) Midwinter Meeting in San Diego, the ALA will provide a free live webcast. The number of available connections for the webcast are limited. Online visitors interested in following the announcements live can bookmark http://alawebcast.unikron.com. Visitors can begin logging in to the webcast at 7:30 am PST; the Youth Media Awards will begin at 7:45 AM Pacific Standard Time (9:45 for those of us in the Midwest). You should also be able to see results early in the morning on Facebook (www.facebook.com/alayma), on the Web (www.ala.org/yma), and Twitter (www.twitter.com/alayma) along with many blogs and media outlets.
ALA OFFERS TRAVELING EXHIBIT GRANT OPPORTUNITIES
Public, academic and special libraries, including museum libraries, and Jewish community centers are reminded to apply by January 24 to host one of three new traveling exhibits focusing on Jewish artists who have contributed to the culture of America and the world through their lives and work. More information about the exhibitions, including the online application, is available at www.ala.org/jewishartists.
The exhibits were developed by Nextbook, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Jewish literature, culture and ideas, and the ALA Public Programs Office, with funding from Nextbook. The national exhibit tours have been made possible by grants from the Charles H. Revson Foundation, the David Berg Foundation and the Nash Family Foundation, with additional support from Tablet Magazine: A New Read on Jewish Life.
Libraries are invited to apply to host a traveling exhibition on one of three subjects:
1. In a Nutshell: The Worlds of Maurice Sendak
Based on a major retrospective exhibition created by the Rosenbach Museum & Library, Philadelphia, this exhibit reveals the push and pull of New and Old Worlds in Sendak’s work and shows how Sendak’s artistic journey has led him deeper into his own family’s history and his Jewish identity.
2. Emma Lazarus: Voice of Liberty, Voice of Conscience
In this exhibit, a vital woman is brought to life in all her fascinating complexity. Viewers see Lazarus’s place in history as a poet, an activist and a prophet of the world we live in today. The exhibit traces her life, intellectual development, work and lasting influence.
3. A Fine Romance: Jewish Songwriters, American Songs, 1910-1965
Illustrated with colorful posters from Broadway shows and photographs of composers, singers and the casts of hit musicals and films, this exhibit highlights the lives and works of Irving Berlin, George and Ira Gershwin, Harold Arlen, Jerome Kern and a host of other Jewish songwriters who wove the American songbook deep into the fabric of American culture.
Successful applicants will host one traveling exhibition for a six-week period between April 2011 and February 2012 and receive programming and technical support from the ALA Public Programs Office. Participating libraries are expected to present at least two free public programs for adults on themes related to the exhibitions. All showings of the exhibition must be free and open to the public. Each of the exhibits requires at least 200 square feet of display space.
More information about the exhibitions, including guidelines and the online application, is available at www.ala.org/jewishartists. With questions, contact the ALA Public Programs Office at publicprograms@ala.org.
DATES TO REMEMBER
January 6-11 ALA Midwinter meeting, San Diego (Rhonda out of the office)
January 10 Youth Media Awards Announcements, will be approximately 10 AM CST
January 28 2011 Summer Reading Program workshop, Country Springs, Waukesha
January 29 Diva Quest, Kenosha
February 22 Library Legislative Day, Madison
March 3 MWFLS Youth Services Meeting, Horicon (tentative)
April 5-8 CSLP Annual Meeting, Scottsdale, AZ
May 4-6 WAPL conference, Madison
May 20 Special Needs Consultants Meeting, Madison
June 22-29 ALA Annual conference, New Orleans
WEBSITE FAVES
Airline History Museum
http://www.ahmhangar.com/
The Airline History Museum (AHM) in Kansas City, Missouri has a blog with such a tremendous selection of video, photographs, and updates about what's going on at the museum that visitors will feel like they have already been to the museum. "The Beginning" link, at the top of the homepage, will lead visitors to a few paragraphs about the birth of the museum along with a seven-minute documentary. The menu on the left side of the homepage has links under "Aircraft", to "Our Planes", "AHM Movies" and "Photo Albums". Visitors can see under "Our Planes" that the Museum has a Lockheed Constellation (Connie), DC-3, Martin 404, and an L-1011, and each plane featured has many photographs to illustrate the story of how the Museum got each plane, and what each had to go through before being displayed. The arrival of their L-1011-100 even has photos of the engines being removed prior to its arrival at the Museum. One of the most recent blog entries allows visitors to watch video of their DC-3 engine run in Arkansas, which is a pretty great find. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2010 http://scout.wisc.edu/, 12/10/10)
Think Green
http://www.thinkgreen.com/
Thinkgreen.com offers teachers and students, as well as the environmentally conscious public, information and resources related to many environmental topics. These topics include recycling, land reuse, and the conversion of waste to energy. The site also offers resources and classroom tools, such as puzzles, worksheets, and lesson plans. (Education World Site Reviews, 12/21/10)
AND FINALLY………
Hope to see some of you at the ALA Midwinter conference!
Organizer
Lakeshores Library System and
Mid-Wisconsin Federated Library System
Youth Services Update
Issue 352, January 4, 2011
http://www.llsmwflschildrens.blogspot.com
In this issue:
One World, Many Stories
YALSA’s Award for Excellence in Nonfiction
Little Golden Books Archive
South Carolina’s Day by Day Calendar
Youth Media Awards
ALA Offers Traveling Exhibit Grant Opportunities
Dates to Remember
Website Faves
And Finally......
ONE WORLD, MANY STORIES
Ideas for SRP 2011 YA Booklist – “You Are Here” Theme
(compiled by Kristin Pekoll, West Bend Community Library)
Around the World in 100 Days by Gary Blackwood
13 Little Blue Envelopes by Maureen Johnson
Jerk, California by Jonathan Friesen
We Were Here by Matt de la Peña
A Field Guide for Heartbreakers by Kristen Tracy (taking a summer class in Czech Republic)
Boys, Bears, and a Serious Pair of Hiking Boots by Abby McDonald (spending the summer in Canada)
Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly (trip to France)
Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins (going to school in France)
Heist Society by Ally Carter (traveling around Europe)
The Juliet Club by Suzanne Harper (taking a summer class in Italy)
Secret Keeper by Mitali Perkins (living in India)
Amy & Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson (road trip)
How to Be Bad by E. Lockhart, Sarah Mlynowski, and Lauren Myracle (road trip)
Shift by Jennifer Bradbury (about a bike trip across America.)
As Easy As Falling Off the Face of the Earth by Lynne Rae Perkins (involved getting around by various means)
North of Beautiful by Headley (published in '09, paperback came out this past February)
Crash into Me by Albert Borris
Mare’s War by Tanita S. Davis
SASS: Students across the seven seas (series)
YALSA’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN NONFICTON
The YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction honors the best nonfiction book published for young adults (ages 12-18) during a November 1 – October 31 publishing year. The award winner will be announced annually at the ALA Midwinter Meeting Youth Media Awards, with a shortlist of up to five titles named the first week of December. The award will be presented at ALA Annual Conference.
Janis Joplin: Rise Up Singing
By Ann Angel, published by Amulet/Abrams
Janis Joplin, a true "fish out of water" in Port Arthur, TX, follows her own path to become an icon of American music in her short, tragic life.
They Called Themselves the KKK: The Birth of an American Terrorist Group
By Susan Campbell Bartoletti, published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Bartoletti provides readers with an in-depth look at the formation of the KKK and its subsequent evolution into a violent organization. With primary source material, she details the horrific history of the Ku Klux Klan and the people who fell victim to its reign of terror.
Spies of Mississippi: The True Story of the Spy Network that Tried to Destroy the Civil Rights Movement
By Rick Bowers, published by National Geographic Society
In 1958, the state of Mississippi began an undercover operation, The Sovereignty Commission, to spy on and potentially squelch the Civil Rights movement. Bowers' expose of this unknown organization reveals the extent to which some were willing to go to see segregation remain the law of the state.
The Dark Game: True Spy Stories
By Paul Janeczko, published by Candlewick Press
This compilation of different spies carries readers from the Revolutionary War through the infamous Cold War era. Delve into stories about the Choctaw Code Talkers of WWI, Soviet moles, Mata Hari and more as you uncover just how they changed the course of history.
Every Bone Tells a Story: Hominin Discoveries, Deductions, and Debates
By Jill Rubalcaba and Peter Robertshaw, published by Charlesbridge
Through fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and scientific debate, the bones of Turkana Boy, Lapede Child, Kennewick Man and Iceman are used to tell the fascinating stories of four member of the human family tree. Maps, photographs, and news headlines add to our understanding of archeology's cutting edge science.
LITTLE GOLDEN BOOKS ARCHIVE
The Racine Public Library is starting an archival collection of Little Golden Books for their new Racine History Room. Racine was the home of Western Publishing (which produced the Little Golden Books) for many years. If anyone has items they would like to donate to RPL’s collection, please contact Darcy Mohr at 262-636-9247. Here is a link to a recent article in the Racine Journal Times regarding the collection: http://www.journaltimes.com/news/local/article_98786ede-05ab-11e0-8b0d-001cc4c002e0.html
SOUTH CAROLINA’S DAY BY DAY CALENDAR
www.daybydaysc.org
The South Carolina Day by Day Family Literacy Calendar is designed to be a tool that families, caregivers, educators and librarians can use at home and in the classroom to further develop early literacy skills that help young children become prepared for school or do better in school. The calendar has been updated since it was previously featured in the newsletter and now includes PDFs of the calendar by month and PDFs of the calendar in Spanish.
The Calendar is a project of the South Carolina State Library, working in partnership with many agencies and organizations, and primarily funded by a Library Services and Technology Act grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). (thanks to Denise Lyons, consultant at the South Carolina State Library)
YOUTH MEDIA AWARDS
It’s the equivalent of the Academy Awards to anyone with a passing interest in children’s books and publishing. To allow as many interested people as possible the opportunity to hear the winners of the Youth Media Awards on Jan. 10, during the American Library Association’s (ALA) Midwinter Meeting in San Diego, the ALA will provide a free live webcast. The number of available connections for the webcast are limited. Online visitors interested in following the announcements live can bookmark http://alawebcast.unikron.com. Visitors can begin logging in to the webcast at 7:30 am PST; the Youth Media Awards will begin at 7:45 AM Pacific Standard Time (9:45 for those of us in the Midwest). You should also be able to see results early in the morning on Facebook (www.facebook.com/alayma), on the Web (www.ala.org/yma), and Twitter (www.twitter.com/alayma) along with many blogs and media outlets.
ALA OFFERS TRAVELING EXHIBIT GRANT OPPORTUNITIES
Public, academic and special libraries, including museum libraries, and Jewish community centers are reminded to apply by January 24 to host one of three new traveling exhibits focusing on Jewish artists who have contributed to the culture of America and the world through their lives and work. More information about the exhibitions, including the online application, is available at www.ala.org/jewishartists.
The exhibits were developed by Nextbook, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Jewish literature, culture and ideas, and the ALA Public Programs Office, with funding from Nextbook. The national exhibit tours have been made possible by grants from the Charles H. Revson Foundation, the David Berg Foundation and the Nash Family Foundation, with additional support from Tablet Magazine: A New Read on Jewish Life.
Libraries are invited to apply to host a traveling exhibition on one of three subjects:
1. In a Nutshell: The Worlds of Maurice Sendak
Based on a major retrospective exhibition created by the Rosenbach Museum & Library, Philadelphia, this exhibit reveals the push and pull of New and Old Worlds in Sendak’s work and shows how Sendak’s artistic journey has led him deeper into his own family’s history and his Jewish identity.
2. Emma Lazarus: Voice of Liberty, Voice of Conscience
In this exhibit, a vital woman is brought to life in all her fascinating complexity. Viewers see Lazarus’s place in history as a poet, an activist and a prophet of the world we live in today. The exhibit traces her life, intellectual development, work and lasting influence.
3. A Fine Romance: Jewish Songwriters, American Songs, 1910-1965
Illustrated with colorful posters from Broadway shows and photographs of composers, singers and the casts of hit musicals and films, this exhibit highlights the lives and works of Irving Berlin, George and Ira Gershwin, Harold Arlen, Jerome Kern and a host of other Jewish songwriters who wove the American songbook deep into the fabric of American culture.
Successful applicants will host one traveling exhibition for a six-week period between April 2011 and February 2012 and receive programming and technical support from the ALA Public Programs Office. Participating libraries are expected to present at least two free public programs for adults on themes related to the exhibitions. All showings of the exhibition must be free and open to the public. Each of the exhibits requires at least 200 square feet of display space.
More information about the exhibitions, including guidelines and the online application, is available at www.ala.org/jewishartists. With questions, contact the ALA Public Programs Office at publicprograms@ala.org.
DATES TO REMEMBER
January 6-11 ALA Midwinter meeting, San Diego (Rhonda out of the office)
January 10 Youth Media Awards Announcements, will be approximately 10 AM CST
January 28 2011 Summer Reading Program workshop, Country Springs, Waukesha
January 29 Diva Quest, Kenosha
February 22 Library Legislative Day, Madison
March 3 MWFLS Youth Services Meeting, Horicon (tentative)
April 5-8 CSLP Annual Meeting, Scottsdale, AZ
May 4-6 WAPL conference, Madison
May 20 Special Needs Consultants Meeting, Madison
June 22-29 ALA Annual conference, New Orleans
WEBSITE FAVES
Airline History Museum
http://www.ahmhangar.com/
The Airline History Museum (AHM) in Kansas City, Missouri has a blog with such a tremendous selection of video, photographs, and updates about what's going on at the museum that visitors will feel like they have already been to the museum. "The Beginning" link, at the top of the homepage, will lead visitors to a few paragraphs about the birth of the museum along with a seven-minute documentary. The menu on the left side of the homepage has links under "Aircraft", to "Our Planes", "AHM Movies" and "Photo Albums". Visitors can see under "Our Planes" that the Museum has a Lockheed Constellation (Connie), DC-3, Martin 404, and an L-1011, and each plane featured has many photographs to illustrate the story of how the Museum got each plane, and what each had to go through before being displayed. The arrival of their L-1011-100 even has photos of the engines being removed prior to its arrival at the Museum. One of the most recent blog entries allows visitors to watch video of their DC-3 engine run in Arkansas, which is a pretty great find. (From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2010 http://scout.wisc.edu/, 12/10/10)
Think Green
http://www.thinkgreen.com/
Thinkgreen.com offers teachers and students, as well as the environmentally conscious public, information and resources related to many environmental topics. These topics include recycling, land reuse, and the conversion of waste to energy. The site also offers resources and classroom tools, such as puzzles, worksheets, and lesson plans. (Education World Site Reviews, 12/21/10)
AND FINALLY………
Hope to see some of you at the ALA Midwinter conference!
CEO, 12/8/10
Children’s Event
Organizer
Lakeshores Library System and
Mid-Wisconsin Federated Library System
Youth Services Update
Issue 351, December 8, 2010
http://www.llsmwflschildrens.blogspot.com
In this issue:
Ruhama’s Review
One World, Many Stories
Upcoming Holiday Meetings
News from the CCBC
2011 Storywagon Schedule
Dates to Remember
Website Faves
And Finally......
RUHAMA’S REVIEW
Thornspell by Helen Lowe
http://tinyurl.com/2cqa44r
Sigismund has always suspected that there's more than meets the eye with the Wood that's just outside his castle. What he didn't realize was how entangled his part would be and how much magic would be involved. Sigismund is a prince with ties to the faie, hence his father sets up a tutor for him by the name of Balisan. Through him, Sigismund learns more about the fairy realm, swordsmanship, family history and dreamwalking. The Prince learns of a sleeping princess on the inside of the enchanted wood, the protection of which was set in place by his grandfather, many years ago. Only one of his family can break the spell and make his way through the magic to rescue the girl and thwart the evil faie.
As you may have guessed, this is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty, but from the prince's point of view. This plot-driven story is filled with excitement, wonderful characters (many who are multi-dimensional) and a happy (but not sickly sweet) ending. It is a faced paced read, but I found I had to stop and catch my breath a few times because it is action packed. The only problem I have with the whole story is the kissing between Aurora and Sigismund at the end. It feels off kilter and not convincing. I don’t know how the author could have fixed this, though, so I’ll keep my nitpicking to a minimum.
This book will appeal to many readers. Those that love King Arthur stories, The Warrior Heir (Chima) or books by Melissa Marr will gobble this up. What to read next? Try handing them Dealing with Dragons (Wrede) or Beast (Napoli). And you may feel a little nostalgic and want to watch the Disney version again.
ONE WORLD, MANY STORIES
Lakeshores, MidWisconsin, Waukesha County Federated Library System, and Eastern Shores Library System are pleased to host the 2011 Summer Reading Program workshop, which will be held Friday, January 28 at the Country Springs Hotel in Waukesha. Presenters will be Marge Loch-Wouters and Leslie Peterson. Registration will begin at 8:30 and Marge will spend the morning on storytelling techniques and Leslie will discuss programming in the afternoon. The hotel has a block of rooms available if you are interested in an overnight stay. Cost will be $25 per person. More information will be available soon.
And on to websites of interest!
Teach the Earth
http://serc.carleton.edu/index.html
The Science Education Resource Center (SERC), with financial support from the National Science Foundation, presents this portal for educators who teach geo-science. Hundreds of teaching activities are available including visualizations, data sets and models, lab activities, projects, virtual field trips, and writing assignments. Topics for the activities include climate change, geochemistry, earth surface, energy/material cycles, ocean, solar system, earth history, and more. Teachers may also want to check out the section on methods. These strategies, such as cooperative learning, gallery walk, and others, could also be used effectively to teach other subjects. (Education World Site Reviews, 11/2/10)
Aaron Shepherd’s World of Stories
http://www.aaronshep.com/stories/
From the venerable Aaron Shepherd, here’s a list of stories from around the world that you can retell. Organized by genre, these include folktales, legends, magicial tales and much more. Also indicated are country/culture, theme, age appropriateness, and number of words.
Mama Lisa’s World
http://www.mamalisa.com
Mama Lisa’s World is a collection of children’s songs and nursery rhymes from around the world. Whatever the culture a child belongs to, whatever the flag he or she lives under, this is the place to find the lyrics to kids songs, in English and in the original languages! Some songs include MP3's and Midi music.
UPCOMING HOLIDAY MEETINGS
The Lakeshores youth services staff will meet this Friday, December 10th at noon at the LLS office. We are having a potluck luncheon, followed by a brief meeting. Please bring a white elephant gift to exchange. (email me if you need hints) Also, Lakeshores will be holding the first annual Ugly Christmas Sweater contest, which will be judged by Jim Novy and Steve Ohs from the LLS office. So get your ugly on, bring a dish to pass, and wrap up that extraordinary item that no longer appeals to you.
MidWisconsin librarians will be meeting Thursday, December 16th at noon at the Beaver Dam Public Library. We are also having the potluck luncheon, brief meeting, and white elephant gift exchange. No ugly sweater contest, unless you feel inclined.
I will get agendas out very soon.
NEWS FROM THE CCBC
Author James St James will be in Madison the first week in April 2011 to deliver a public lecture about his young adult novel, "Freak Show," which is the UW-Madison School of Education's Common Read for the academic year. You can keep updated with details concerning his upcoming visit and find out more about the book discussions and panel discussions connected to the book on the Common Read website at: http://commonread.education.wisc.edu/Home.aspx
You can see photos from Susan Patron's amazing Charlotte Zolotow Lecture from in October on the CCBC's Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Madison-WI/Cooperative-Childrens-Book-Center/35374628162#!/album.php?aid=237702&id=35374628162 Gene Luen Yang, author of "American Born Chinese," will deliver the 2011 Zolotow Lecture on Oct 5, 2011.
You can also now follow the CCBC on Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/CCBCwisc
We are once again offering weekly podcasts from the CCBC, called "Shelf Stories," where you can hear more about each week's Book of the Week, a bit about trends in publishing, and a connection of the current book to books we've admired in the past. The direct link for the podcasts is http://www.education.wisc.edu/ccbc/podcasts/default.asp.
2011 STORYWAGON SCHEDULE
The 2011 Storywagon schedule for Lakeshores is set. We will have storyteller Janice “Mama” Baer, story-performer Chris Fascione, and the musical duo Fox and Branch. Storywagon will begin on Monday June 20th and run through Thursday July 21st.
“Mama” Baer – June 20-24 and June 27-30
Chris Fascione – June 27-July 1 and July 11-14
Fox and Branch – July 11-15 and July 18-21
The daily schedule will be the same as this year.
DATES TO REMEMBER
December 8 Open House for Lowell Wilson, LLS office
December 9 Fox Lake Bunny Berigan Open House, 5-8 PM
December 10 Lakeshores Youth Services Pot Luck and White Elephant Gift Exchange, LLS office
December 11 Riverport Chorus on WGTD, 11:15 AM
December 16 MidWisconsin Youth Services Pot luck and Gift Exchange, Beaver Dam
December 23-24 LLS office closed
December 30-31 LLS office closed
January 1 THE ROSE BOWL
January 6-11 ALA Midwinter meeting, San Diego (Rhonda out of the office)
January 10 Youth Media Awards Announcements, will be approximately 10 AM CST
January 28 2011 Summer Reading Program workshop, Country Springs, Waukesha
January 29 Diva Quest, Kenosha
February 22 Library Legislative Day
WEBSITE FAVES
ProQuest’s Public Library Toolkit
http://www.proquest.com/en-US/utilities/toolkits/tk-public.shtml
Start here for access to complimentary bookmarks, customizable posters and fliers, digital commercials, and other tools designed to help you promote your public library’s online resources.
The Visual Dictionary
http://www.infovisual.info/
The Visual Dictionary can be used by anyone as a quick reference. It would be especially useful for ESL students for mastery of the language. The terms are categorized into six thematic topics: vegetal biology, animal biology, human body, music, transport, and clothing. The site uses images to explain objects and each of the objects defined on the site provides annotations that identify details of the object and a short description of each part at the bottom of the page. Visitors will find information on everything from the detailed structure of a tree to the description of a police officer’s uniform. Additionally, a few tips for using the site in an educational setting are offered in the help section. (Education World Site Reviews, 11/9/10)
Storybook Corner
http://www.hfrp.org/family-involvement/projects/family-involvement-storybook-project/storybook-corner
This one has been listed here before but it’s well worth another look. Storybook Corner contains free downloadable Web-based resources for educators and families. These materials show how storybooks that thematically emphasize family involvement can promote family involvement in real life. Many of the resources -- such as the original bilingual children's storybook "Tomasito's Mother Comes to School," illustrated by the award-winning children's book illustrator Joe Cepeda -- are especially useful for promoting involvement among culturally diverse families. Also included at the site are lesson plans and many other resources. (Education World Site Reviews, 11/9/10)
Museum of Science and Industry: Simple Machines
http://www.msichicago.org/fileadmin/Activities/Games/simple_machines/
The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago has recently expanded their online opportunities and interactive features. One of their latest additions is the "Simple Machines" feature, and here visitors will get to meet the curious robot "Twitch". The premise behind this game is that Twitch must complete a series of tasks to finish an important project. Using fun tools, keyboard motions, and careful object selection, visitors will have a bit of fun, and learn about the principles of force, the world of inclined planes, and other related topics. All of this fun is accompanied by a jaunty soundtrack that is part electronica, part lounge music. The graphics are superb, and the entire experience is quite user-friendly. (Scout Report, 10/22/10)
Lost Titles, Forgotten Rhymes
http://www.loc.gov/rr/program/bib/lost/
Anyone interested in locating literary resources should begin their search with this informative reference guide from the Library of Congress. The intent of the guide is to "help readers identify a literary work when they know only its plot or subject, or other textual information such as a character's name, a line of poetry, or a unique word or phrase." The guide is divided into three sections: Finding Novels, Finding Short Stories, and Finding Poems. Each of the sections gives directions for using general search engines, online book databases, library catalogs, listservs, message boards, and physical print resources that are available in public libraries. Included is a list of related resources, including how to find poems in the Library of Congress and locating criticism of individual poems. (Education World Site Reviews, 11/16/10)
A Book in Time
http://www.abookintime.com/
A Book In Time is a one-stop source for history teachers and home-schooling parents to find information, crafts, timelines, maps, and other projects related to whatever time period they are teaching. The site lists reviewed books that enhance the understanding of important eras, people, and events in a typical history curriculum. These booklists are grouped into time periods and cover both American and world history. Each title includes a suggested grade level and is linked to a site for purchase. Additionally, visitors to the site will find links to craft ideas, interactive history sites, maps, and timelines. (Education World Site Reviews, 11/2/10)
NASA’s Kid’s Club
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/forkids/kidsclub/flash/index.html
NASA Kid’s Club is a fun virtual playground for young students to explore important skills and concepts with interactive games. The games are divided into five advancing skill levels and are based on national education standards in math, science, and technology. Games increase in difficulty from identifying patterns to games of logic. The three interactive panels at the top of the home page give students updates about NASA’s vision for space exploration, information about the Space Station crew, and updates on current events, missions, and exciting discoveries. Additionally, teachers can click on the little red apple to find all of NASA’s educational materials listed by subject area and students can find an interactive drawing board by clicking on the cup full of art supplies. (Education World Site Reviews, 11/2/10)
AND FINALLY……….
Tune in to the link below to hear my Riverport Chorus, a featured performance group, on the local public radio show in Kenosha. We'll be live and on the air this Saturday, December 11 from 11:15 AM to noon.
To listen to Saturday’s program LIVE: http://www.wgtd.org/aboutWGTD.asp (links are in the upper right hand corner)
If you are unable to listen Saturday, the program will be archived here: http://www.wgtd.org/Radio_Theatre.asp
Organizer
Lakeshores Library System and
Mid-Wisconsin Federated Library System
Youth Services Update
Issue 351, December 8, 2010
http://www.llsmwflschildrens.blogspot.com
In this issue:
Ruhama’s Review
One World, Many Stories
Upcoming Holiday Meetings
News from the CCBC
2011 Storywagon Schedule
Dates to Remember
Website Faves
And Finally......
RUHAMA’S REVIEW
Thornspell by Helen Lowe
http://tinyurl.com/2cqa44r
Sigismund has always suspected that there's more than meets the eye with the Wood that's just outside his castle. What he didn't realize was how entangled his part would be and how much magic would be involved. Sigismund is a prince with ties to the faie, hence his father sets up a tutor for him by the name of Balisan. Through him, Sigismund learns more about the fairy realm, swordsmanship, family history and dreamwalking. The Prince learns of a sleeping princess on the inside of the enchanted wood, the protection of which was set in place by his grandfather, many years ago. Only one of his family can break the spell and make his way through the magic to rescue the girl and thwart the evil faie.
As you may have guessed, this is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty, but from the prince's point of view. This plot-driven story is filled with excitement, wonderful characters (many who are multi-dimensional) and a happy (but not sickly sweet) ending. It is a faced paced read, but I found I had to stop and catch my breath a few times because it is action packed. The only problem I have with the whole story is the kissing between Aurora and Sigismund at the end. It feels off kilter and not convincing. I don’t know how the author could have fixed this, though, so I’ll keep my nitpicking to a minimum.
This book will appeal to many readers. Those that love King Arthur stories, The Warrior Heir (Chima) or books by Melissa Marr will gobble this up. What to read next? Try handing them Dealing with Dragons (Wrede) or Beast (Napoli). And you may feel a little nostalgic and want to watch the Disney version again.
ONE WORLD, MANY STORIES
Lakeshores, MidWisconsin, Waukesha County Federated Library System, and Eastern Shores Library System are pleased to host the 2011 Summer Reading Program workshop, which will be held Friday, January 28 at the Country Springs Hotel in Waukesha. Presenters will be Marge Loch-Wouters and Leslie Peterson. Registration will begin at 8:30 and Marge will spend the morning on storytelling techniques and Leslie will discuss programming in the afternoon. The hotel has a block of rooms available if you are interested in an overnight stay. Cost will be $25 per person. More information will be available soon.
And on to websites of interest!
Teach the Earth
http://serc.carleton.edu/index.html
The Science Education Resource Center (SERC), with financial support from the National Science Foundation, presents this portal for educators who teach geo-science. Hundreds of teaching activities are available including visualizations, data sets and models, lab activities, projects, virtual field trips, and writing assignments. Topics for the activities include climate change, geochemistry, earth surface, energy/material cycles, ocean, solar system, earth history, and more. Teachers may also want to check out the section on methods. These strategies, such as cooperative learning, gallery walk, and others, could also be used effectively to teach other subjects. (Education World Site Reviews, 11/2/10)
Aaron Shepherd’s World of Stories
http://www.aaronshep.com/stories/
From the venerable Aaron Shepherd, here’s a list of stories from around the world that you can retell. Organized by genre, these include folktales, legends, magicial tales and much more. Also indicated are country/culture, theme, age appropriateness, and number of words.
Mama Lisa’s World
http://www.mamalisa.com
Mama Lisa’s World is a collection of children’s songs and nursery rhymes from around the world. Whatever the culture a child belongs to, whatever the flag he or she lives under, this is the place to find the lyrics to kids songs, in English and in the original languages! Some songs include MP3's and Midi music.
UPCOMING HOLIDAY MEETINGS
The Lakeshores youth services staff will meet this Friday, December 10th at noon at the LLS office. We are having a potluck luncheon, followed by a brief meeting. Please bring a white elephant gift to exchange. (email me if you need hints) Also, Lakeshores will be holding the first annual Ugly Christmas Sweater contest, which will be judged by Jim Novy and Steve Ohs from the LLS office. So get your ugly on, bring a dish to pass, and wrap up that extraordinary item that no longer appeals to you.
MidWisconsin librarians will be meeting Thursday, December 16th at noon at the Beaver Dam Public Library. We are also having the potluck luncheon, brief meeting, and white elephant gift exchange. No ugly sweater contest, unless you feel inclined.
I will get agendas out very soon.
NEWS FROM THE CCBC
Author James St James will be in Madison the first week in April 2011 to deliver a public lecture about his young adult novel, "Freak Show," which is the UW-Madison School of Education's Common Read for the academic year. You can keep updated with details concerning his upcoming visit and find out more about the book discussions and panel discussions connected to the book on the Common Read website at: http://commonread.education.wisc.edu/Home.aspx
You can see photos from Susan Patron's amazing Charlotte Zolotow Lecture from in October on the CCBC's Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Madison-WI/Cooperative-Childrens-Book-Center/35374628162#!/album.php?aid=237702&id=35374628162 Gene Luen Yang, author of "American Born Chinese," will deliver the 2011 Zolotow Lecture on Oct 5, 2011.
You can also now follow the CCBC on Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/CCBCwisc
We are once again offering weekly podcasts from the CCBC, called "Shelf Stories," where you can hear more about each week's Book of the Week, a bit about trends in publishing, and a connection of the current book to books we've admired in the past. The direct link for the podcasts is http://www.education.wisc.edu/ccbc/podcasts/default.asp.
2011 STORYWAGON SCHEDULE
The 2011 Storywagon schedule for Lakeshores is set. We will have storyteller Janice “Mama” Baer, story-performer Chris Fascione, and the musical duo Fox and Branch. Storywagon will begin on Monday June 20th and run through Thursday July 21st.
“Mama” Baer – June 20-24 and June 27-30
Chris Fascione – June 27-July 1 and July 11-14
Fox and Branch – July 11-15 and July 18-21
The daily schedule will be the same as this year.
DATES TO REMEMBER
December 8 Open House for Lowell Wilson, LLS office
December 9 Fox Lake Bunny Berigan Open House, 5-8 PM
December 10 Lakeshores Youth Services Pot Luck and White Elephant Gift Exchange, LLS office
December 11 Riverport Chorus on WGTD, 11:15 AM
December 16 MidWisconsin Youth Services Pot luck and Gift Exchange, Beaver Dam
December 23-24 LLS office closed
December 30-31 LLS office closed
January 1 THE ROSE BOWL
January 6-11 ALA Midwinter meeting, San Diego (Rhonda out of the office)
January 10 Youth Media Awards Announcements, will be approximately 10 AM CST
January 28 2011 Summer Reading Program workshop, Country Springs, Waukesha
January 29 Diva Quest, Kenosha
February 22 Library Legislative Day
WEBSITE FAVES
ProQuest’s Public Library Toolkit
http://www.proquest.com/en-US/utilities/toolkits/tk-public.shtml
Start here for access to complimentary bookmarks, customizable posters and fliers, digital commercials, and other tools designed to help you promote your public library’s online resources.
The Visual Dictionary
http://www.infovisual.info/
The Visual Dictionary can be used by anyone as a quick reference. It would be especially useful for ESL students for mastery of the language. The terms are categorized into six thematic topics: vegetal biology, animal biology, human body, music, transport, and clothing. The site uses images to explain objects and each of the objects defined on the site provides annotations that identify details of the object and a short description of each part at the bottom of the page. Visitors will find information on everything from the detailed structure of a tree to the description of a police officer’s uniform. Additionally, a few tips for using the site in an educational setting are offered in the help section. (Education World Site Reviews, 11/9/10)
Storybook Corner
http://www.hfrp.org/family-involvement/projects/family-involvement-storybook-project/storybook-corner
This one has been listed here before but it’s well worth another look. Storybook Corner contains free downloadable Web-based resources for educators and families. These materials show how storybooks that thematically emphasize family involvement can promote family involvement in real life. Many of the resources -- such as the original bilingual children's storybook "Tomasito's Mother Comes to School," illustrated by the award-winning children's book illustrator Joe Cepeda -- are especially useful for promoting involvement among culturally diverse families. Also included at the site are lesson plans and many other resources. (Education World Site Reviews, 11/9/10)
Museum of Science and Industry: Simple Machines
http://www.msichicago.org/fileadmin/Activities/Games/simple_machines/
The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago has recently expanded their online opportunities and interactive features. One of their latest additions is the "Simple Machines" feature, and here visitors will get to meet the curious robot "Twitch". The premise behind this game is that Twitch must complete a series of tasks to finish an important project. Using fun tools, keyboard motions, and careful object selection, visitors will have a bit of fun, and learn about the principles of force, the world of inclined planes, and other related topics. All of this fun is accompanied by a jaunty soundtrack that is part electronica, part lounge music. The graphics are superb, and the entire experience is quite user-friendly. (Scout Report, 10/22/10)
Lost Titles, Forgotten Rhymes
http://www.loc.gov/rr/program/bib/lost/
Anyone interested in locating literary resources should begin their search with this informative reference guide from the Library of Congress. The intent of the guide is to "help readers identify a literary work when they know only its plot or subject, or other textual information such as a character's name, a line of poetry, or a unique word or phrase." The guide is divided into three sections: Finding Novels, Finding Short Stories, and Finding Poems. Each of the sections gives directions for using general search engines, online book databases, library catalogs, listservs, message boards, and physical print resources that are available in public libraries. Included is a list of related resources, including how to find poems in the Library of Congress and locating criticism of individual poems. (Education World Site Reviews, 11/16/10)
A Book in Time
http://www.abookintime.com/
A Book In Time is a one-stop source for history teachers and home-schooling parents to find information, crafts, timelines, maps, and other projects related to whatever time period they are teaching. The site lists reviewed books that enhance the understanding of important eras, people, and events in a typical history curriculum. These booklists are grouped into time periods and cover both American and world history. Each title includes a suggested grade level and is linked to a site for purchase. Additionally, visitors to the site will find links to craft ideas, interactive history sites, maps, and timelines. (Education World Site Reviews, 11/2/10)
NASA’s Kid’s Club
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/forkids/kidsclub/flash/index.html
NASA Kid’s Club is a fun virtual playground for young students to explore important skills and concepts with interactive games. The games are divided into five advancing skill levels and are based on national education standards in math, science, and technology. Games increase in difficulty from identifying patterns to games of logic. The three interactive panels at the top of the home page give students updates about NASA’s vision for space exploration, information about the Space Station crew, and updates on current events, missions, and exciting discoveries. Additionally, teachers can click on the little red apple to find all of NASA’s educational materials listed by subject area and students can find an interactive drawing board by clicking on the cup full of art supplies. (Education World Site Reviews, 11/2/10)
AND FINALLY……….
Tune in to the link below to hear my Riverport Chorus, a featured performance group, on the local public radio show in Kenosha. We'll be live and on the air this Saturday, December 11 from 11:15 AM to noon.
To listen to Saturday’s program LIVE: http://www.wgtd.org/aboutWGTD.asp (links are in the upper right hand corner)
If you are unable to listen Saturday, the program will be archived here: http://www.wgtd.org/Radio_Theatre.asp
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