Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays from everyone here in the Youth Services Department.

...Including our Guinea Pigs!

Cottontail has Holiday Cheer.

Flopsy says Bah-Humbug!

In Need of Volunteers

It's been a busy month, as I'm ure you've noticed by our long absence and lack of posting. Part of why it's been so busy is our desperate need for volunteers for specific projects.

Right now, we're looking for volunteers to help sort entries and do some database processing (nothing too hard I promise) for the Scholastic Writing Awards. We will be setting up shop in the Study Center from January 2nd through the 18th. Any help would be greatly appreciated. We are anticipating several thousand entries which is an awful lot for only a couple people to handle.

If you'd like to help or have any questions please contact Jennifer Hummel in the Youth Services Department at 717-396-9313 x134 or jhummel@lancaster.lib.pa.us

Boo-tiful Costumes

We're in the Halloween Spirit here at the library. Even if you don't celebrate the holiday, we'll never pass up the opportunity to have a little fun. Have a peek at the costumes found today at the library.

Spider Witch

Hippie

Severus Snape (Potions Master)

Cat in the Hat

Witch



Gypsy/Pirate

Jester

Pumpkin

It's About Life!

Exciting Program For Teens and Adults!
November 5th 7-8 p.m.
Bates Auditorium 2nd Floor

What is organ donation all about? How can you help without being a donor? What happens when I become an organ donor? All these questions and more are answered!

A panel discussion with a donor family, transplant recipient, and a representative from the region's Organ Procurement Organization- Gift of Life Donor Program. Learn more about the ins/ and outs of organ donation and how you can be a lifesaver Please call 396-9313 x124 to register.

Virtual Pumpkins

Our thanks to Renee at the Library System of Lancaster County for pointing out this fun fall website to us...go create your very own virtual pumpkins!


http://www.coasttocoastam.com/timages/page/pumpkin_sim.html

Item of the Month

The item for October is: 20oz. Plastic Bottles (WITH LIDS)

We know this was the same item as last month, but we are still in dire need. We got quite a few donations be we still need a few more. Don't forget the lids!



We are always in need of such items as:
Construction Paper (All Colors)
Glue Sticks
White Glue (ex. Elmers)
Packaged Snacks (Goldfish Crackers etc.)
Bottled Juice
Please call the Youth Services Department (717) 396-9313 x 124 if you have any questions or would like to donate some other item that is not on this list.

Closed on Monday...

Lancaster Public Library and it's branches will be closed on Monday, October 8th for a Staff In-Service Day. Our regular hours will resume on Tuesday, October 9.

New Teen Contest

Teen Read Week happens every October, and this year, to commemorate, the Library System of Lancaster County is providing a unique contest for our tech-savvy teens. Check out the http://www.lancasterlibraries.org/lolteencontest page for all the details, and get your videos ready for entry!

Supply Item of the Month

Want to help your Youth Services Department?

Well here's your chance! Each month we will post an "Item of the Month". Your willingness to donate these materials make it possible to continue offering free children's programming here at the library.



The item for September is:

20oz. Plastic Bottles




We are always in need of such items as:

• Construction Paper (All Colors)
• Glue Sticks
• White Glue (ex. Elmers)
• Packaged Snacks (Goldfish Crackers etc.)
• Bottled Juice

Please call the Youth Services Department (717) 396-9313 x 124 if you have any questions or would like to donate some other item that is not on this list.

Back to Work!

One of our favorite authors is apparently back to work, this time, writing material for adults. Follow this link to find out who...

Summer Reading Pictures Online

Almost all the pictures from summer reading programs are up online now. We had a lot of fun this summer. Go take a look!

Clue Game Answer and Winners!

The correct answer to who kidnapped the library director is:

Karin, with the bookmark, in the Teen Center.

And now, we're excited to announce the 20 prize winners for the Library Clue Game!
Please excuse any spelling errors...

In the Child Category:

1. Ella Walker - 8
2. Jazleen Jones - 8
3. Karina Morales - 10
4. Arianna Henderson - 8
5. Nathan Henderson - 8
6. Addy Walker - 10
7. Henry Ginder - 7
8. Kelsey Lynn Trout - 9
9. Josie Gates - 9
10. Yolanda Passmere - 7
11. Justin Lopez - 12
12. Brianna Babant - 11
13. Nathanael Kulina - 12
14. Whitney Stutzman - 11
15. Tabitha Stutzman - 11
16. Frances - 8
17. Olivia - 8
18. Gregory Troop - 8
19. Thomas Troop - 11
20. Ian Troop - 6

Teen Category:

1. Mike Todd - 18
2. Allie Sexton - 14

Congratulations to all who won. You did some great detective work! Make sure you stop by the library to pick up your prizes.

Don't Forget Summer Reading

The Summer Reading Program is almost over. Tomorrow, Saturday August 11th is the last day to turn in reading logs for prizes. Don't Forget!

Who Nabbed the Library Director Clue #14 Last Clue!

Who Nabbed the Library Director Clue #14 Last Clue!

#14 "Book marks" the spot!

The clues so far...
#1 Tools of the trade were involved.#2 A sale won't help you find the kidnapper.
#3 Paper is important.
#4 The object doesn't have wheels.
#5 Not even kidnappers like moldy books. Ewwww!
#6 The first letter of the kidnappers name is NOT one of the first five letters of the alphabet.
#7 The kidnapper is NOT a man.
#8 Dust and storage boxes were not part of this kidnapping.
#9Larger rooms are not good for kidnapping.
#10 The kidnapper is the youngest of the suspects.
#11 The scene of the crime is NOT near the children's bathrooms.
#12 The scene of the crime IS where the big kids hang out.
#13 Don’t check the dictionary. You won’t find any answers there.

Today was the last clue! We will be collecting answersheets until the end of the day tomorrow...Saturday (August 11th). We will then start drawing names for the prizes. Be sure you write your name and phone number nice and neat so we can contact you if you win something.

Upcoming programs...

Teen Auction Tonight, all your hard work pays off! Use the library loot that you earned for reading books over the summer to buy things from the teen store. Your vouchers from your reading paper will be used to raffel the auction prizes. Saturday, August 11 at 6:00 pm (Ages 13 & up)

Kids & Cultures Clues-A-Palooza Liz and Matt's parents have suddenly disappeared, leaving behind only one clue. Join them in their search around the globe! Tuesday, August 14 at 1:30pm (Ages 5-12)

Who Nabbed the Library Director Clue #12 & #13

Who Nabbed the Library Director Clue #12 & #13...

#12 The scene of the crime IS where the big kids hang out.
#13 Don’t check the dictionary. You won’t find any answers there.

The clues so far...

#1 Tools of the trade were involved.
#2 A sale won't help you find the kidnapper.

#3 Paper is important.

#4 The object doesn't have wheels.

#5 Not even kidnappers like moldy books. Ewwww!

#6 The first letter of the kidnappers name is NOT one of the first five letters of the alphabet.

#7 The kidnapper is NOT a man.

#8 Dust and storage boxes were not part of this kidnapping.

#9Larger rooms are not good for kidnapping.

#10 The kidnapper is the youngest of the suspects.

#11 The scene of the crime is NOT near the children's bathrooms.

The Clue Game is coming to an end and so is the summer! Next week will be the last clue. Make sure you put those thinking caps on and come to the library to turn in your answersheet. The box will go out today (August 3rd) and stay until the end of the day on Saturday (August 11th). We will then start drawing names for the prizes. Be sure you write your name and phone number nice and neat so we can contact you if you win something.

Upcoming programs...

Brain Teasers Check out these puzzles for your mind! Tuesday, August 7 at 6:00 pm (Ages 13 & up)

Puzzle It Out! Put on your detective hat; get out your spyglass and notebook. You’re on the case! Discover the joys of family and team work through a cooperative puzzle activity. Wednesday, August 8 at 11:00 a.m. (Families)

Teen Auction Tonight, all your hard work pays off! Use the library loot that you earned for reading books over the summer to buy things from the teen store. Your vouchers from your reading paper will be used to raffel the auction prizes. Saturday, August 11 at 6:00 pm (Ages 13 & up)

Who Nabbed the Library Director Clue #11...

Who Nabbed the Library Director Clue #11...

#11 The scene of the crime is NOT near the children's bathrooms.

The clues so far...
#1 Tools of the trade were involved.
#2 A sale won't help you find the kidnapper.
#3 Paper is important.
#4 The object doesn't have wheels.
#5 Not even kidnappers like moldy books. Ewwww!
#6 The first letter of the kidnappers name is NOT one of the first five letters of the alphabet.
#7 The kidnapper is NOT a man.
#8 Dust and storage boxes were not part of this kidnapping.
#9Larger rooms are not good for kidnapping.
#10 The kidnapper is the youngest of the suspects.

Upcoming programs...

Skulls and Scat Find out how to use skulls and scat as clues to identify an animal. Wednesday, August 1 at 11:00 am (K-6th grade) Sponsored by the Lancaster County Environmental Center

Wilderness Survival Learn basic survival skills; how to: avoid getting lost, build a shelter, pack a survival kit, build a fire, and more! Thursday, August 2 at 3:00 pm (Ages 12 & up) ­Sponsored by the Lancaster County Environmental Center

Mini Dinosaur Dig Join us as we uncover the secrets of dinosaurs and create our own mini-excavation site. Friday, August 3 at 11:00 am (Ages 7 & up)

Potter-Mania!

Now that the book has been released, reactions to it are beginning to pour in, and it is beginning to break all sorts of records:

http://www.cnn.com/2007/SHOWBIZ/books/07/23/harry.potter.ap/index.html

Remember, if you'd rather read a library copy of the book for free, you can put your name on our reserve waiting list any time!

It's finally here!

The day has finally arrived...the first day of the 7th book of Harry Potter! YAY!

Go ahead and cheer...you know you want to.

Since the books arrived to be catalogued on Wednesday, we've been eagerly awaiting the time when we were allowed to FINALLY open the box. It was hard, we all WANTED to be sorted into Gryffindor, but several of us were close to that Slytherin title as we were very tempted to open it early!

In preparation for the day, several of our staff visited Barnes and Noble and Borders lastnight to join in the festivities of the release parties. We are also having a party of our own today at the library for witches, wizards and muggles alike ages 10 and up at 12noon until 1pm. Come join us for some fun!

Here are a few pictures of the events. We even met several of our regular patrons.

Professor McGonagall with the sorting hat.

Professor Sprout Talking to a reporter and teaching about herbs.

One of our faithful patrons and I sharing our love of Professor Snape. Trust Snape!

Who Nabbed the Library Director Clue #10

Who Nabbed the Library Director Clue #10...

#10 The kidnapper is the youngest of the suspects.

Whew! We're finally caught up!!! (Sorry about all the clue delays lately)

The clues so far...

#1 Tools of the trade were involved.

#2 A sale won't help you find the kidnapper.

#3 Paper is important.

#4 The object doesn't have wheels.

#5 Not even kidnappers like moldy books. Ewwww!

#6 The first letter of the kidnappers name is NOT one of the first five letters of the alphabet.
#7 The kidnapper is NOT a man.

#8 Dust and storage boxes were not part of this kidnapping.

#9Larger rooms are not good for kidnapping.

Upcoming programs...
There are no programs this week due to the holiday.

What Happened to Cass McBride? by Gail Giles: Book Discussion When popular high-school student Cass McBride is kidnapped, the police race to save her before it’s too late! The first 10 teens to sign up will receive a free copy of the book. Come ready to discuss your thoughts! Tuesday, July 24 at 6:00 pm (Ages 14 & up)

Mystery Writing Workshop It was a dark and stormy night…well okay, so maybe it was just a light drizzle. Either way, bring your ideas and pencils to learn how to write your own mystery story. Wednesday, July 25 at 11:00 am (Ages 12 & up)

Teen Mystery Night Another mystery night! You will get to evaluate evidence, listen to suspect statements, view crime scenes, and solve the crime! Prizes for winners. Friday, July 27 at 6:00 pm (Ages 13 & up)

Potter: Into the Final Countdown...

We are just hours away now from the release of the Harry Potter final chapters! Pick up your copy at a store, reserve one from the library (and get put on a waiting list, our 10 copies will go out first thing tomorrow to the first 10 people on our list) and then come back and use the blog as a place to discuss what you think!

And, don't forget to visit us at noon tomorrow for our Harry Potter Party and Feast.

Who Nabbed the Library Director Clue #8 & #9...

Scott told me he had trouble posting the clues on friday. I'm finally back so here they are. Sorry for the delay!

Who Nabbed the Library Director Clue #8 & #9...

8.) Dust and storage boxes were not part of this kidnapping.
9.) Larger rooms are not good for kidnapping.

The clues so far...
#1 Tools of the trade were involved.
#2 A sale won't help you find the kidnapper.
#3 Paper is important.
#4 The object doesn't have wheels.#5 Not even kidnappers like moldy books. Ewwww!
#6 The first letter of the kidnappers name is NOT one of the first five letters of the alphabet.
#7 The kidnapper is NOT a man.

Potter Countdown: Are you up to the challenge?

Check out this unique Harry Potter challenge being sponsored by the BBC in the United Kingdom. Do you think you'd have what it takes to accomplish what they're looking for?

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/6896062.stm

Other Programs this week!

A small gremlin struck the blog last Friday, and so we'll be posting the latest clues for our Giant Clue Game as soon as we can! But in the meantime, there is still room in upcoming programs this week, and we invite you to join us:

Tonight, Wednesday, July 18 at 6:30 p.m. for our "Family Night," "Puzzle it Out." This is a unique and fun family themed cooperative puzzle activity.

Tomorrow at 3:00 p.m., readers are welcome to come to the library and discuss Blue Balliett's popular novel, "Chasing Vermeer."

And, on Friday, find out what disguises have worked for detectives and make your own during our Disguise Workshop at 11:00 a.m.

To register for the programs, just give us a call at 239-2124.

Keep Checking the Scrapbook!

As the summer keeps moving along, don't forget to keep checking our photo scrapbook on our web site. New pictures are being added all the time! Coming soon, we'll be posting pictures from yesterday's "Cats Pajamas" concerts!

http://www.lancaster.lib.pa.us/lcl/cwp/view.asp?a=1165&q=464656

And, the library is soon going to reveal it's new section on YouTube, where you'll be able to download short video clips of library happenings. Keep watching the blog for that link when it happens!

Potter Update: A Free Feast!

Saturday's Harry Potter Feast, happening from 12-1 in the Youth Services Department doesn't require any registration! You're welcome to just stop by and greet fellow Muggles and enjoy a few neat treats!

Potter Countdown: Come to the Feast!

Lancaster Public Library invites all Muggles to a special feast to commemorate the release of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," on Saturday, July 21st at noon! For those of you who will be up reading the final book starting at 12:01 a.m., here's a chance to fill your stomach with some good food before heading off to dreamland after lunch time.

More details on the feast to come in the next week or so! Call the Youth Services Desk now at 239-2124 for more information or to pre-register.

Commerce Bank Info

Many of you who have signed up for our Summer Reading Program are hard at work filling in all of your points on our purple sheets, as well as the $10 bank account flyer from Commerce Bank!

For those of you who don't know, in order to open a bank account, in addition to the program flyer, ID of some form (birth certificate, social security card) will be required to open an account for each child.

We thank Commerce for partnering with us in this way for the Summer Reading Program, and encourage anyone who hasn't signed up yet to do so now for a chance at this cool offer!

Who Nabbed the Library Director? - Clue #7

Who Nabbed the Library Director? - Clue #7

#7 The Kidnapper is NOT a man.

The clues so far...

#1 Tools of the trade were involved.

#2 A sale won't help you find the kidnapper.

#3 Paper is important.

#4 The object doesn't have wheels.
#5 Not even kidnappers like moldy books. Ewwww!

#6 The first letter of the kidnappers name is NOT one of the first five letters of the alphabet.

Upcoming programs...

Crack the Code Learn to write secret messages! Tuesday, July 10 at 6:00pm (Age 13 & up)

Nosy Noses Use this fun crime solving tool to sniff out the clues! Wednesday, July 11 at 11:00am (Ages 5 & up)

Shane the Street/Table Magician Shane Holland presents tabletop magic that will have you wondering 'how did he do that?!' Come along if you know some card tricks or would like to learn a new one. Thursday, July 12 at 11:00am (Teen)

Who Nabbed the Library Director? - Clue #6

Who Nabbed the Library Director? - Clue #6

#6 The first letter of the kidnappers name is NOT one of the first five letters of the alphabet.

The clues so far...

#1 Tools of the trade were involved.
#2 A sale won't help you find the kidnapper.
#3 Paper is important.
#4 The object doesn't have wheels.

#5 Not even kidnappers like moldy books. Ewwww!

Upcoming programs...

There are no programs this week due to the holiday.

The Giant Clue Game...Online!

That's right. The giant clue game has gone online! You now have another way to access the game and you don't even have to leave the comfort of your own home. Gee, we make all this detective stuff look easy don't we?

Click here to check it out!

Summer Reading Pictures

We've finally gotten around to updating the online Scrap Book. Go take a look at the new pictures from Summer Reading 2007. There are more to come soon.

Who Nabbed the Library Director? - Clue #5

Who Nabbed the Library Director? - Clue #5

#5 Not even kidnappers like moldy books. Ewwww!

The clues so far...
#1 Tools of the trade were involved.
#2 A sale won't help you find the kidnapper.
#3 Paper is important.
#4 The object doesn't have wheels.

Upcoming programs...

Footprint Casting You Never Know… What you leave behind. Come learn the art of footprint casting and add to your forensic knowledge. Tuesday, June 26 at 6:00 pm (Ages 14 & up)

Maryland Science Center Brain Benders Come & learn amazing acts! Balance a lightbulb on your head? Put a straw through a potato without crushing it? No, it's not magic-it's science! Thursday, June 28 at 11:00am. (Age 5-12) **This program is currently full but we are taking a waiting list.**

Mysterious Mummies Come for some revealing details of the mysteries of Ancient Egypt and stay to make your own mummy! Friday, June 29 at 11:00 am (Ages 7 & up) **This program is currently full but we are taking a waiting list.**

Call 717-396-9313 x124 to Register

Write to the Storybook Man!

The Eagles Book Mobile came to visit today. If you would like to write to the Eagles Book Mobile or the Storybook man about your experience at the program today Use the address below...

Eagles Youth Partnership
Amy Tessier
The Novacare Complex
1 Novacare Way
Philadelphis, PA 19145

Potter Mania in Final Month!

With the release of the final Harry Potter just over a month away, Potter mania is spreading to the World Wide Web very quickly.

NBC News has secured an exclusive interview with JK Rowling to be held in July, and the TODAY show has set up an entire area of their web site with Potter information and articles, as well as a chance to submit reasons why you're the biggest Potter fan. Submissions could be eligible for a chance to appear on TV to discuss why you love Potter if your story is great enough!

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/18783376/

And, while looking around Amazon today, it looks like a new "Muggle Counter" has debuted on their main page showing how many orders have been taken for the final book so far! Is your order part of their astounding total, updated hourly?

http://www.amazon.com/

Biscuit Visit Tonight!

Tonight, Biscuit the puppy, a popular character from Children's Books will be making an appearance here at the library. On one of our schedule sheets listing Summer Programs, the time of the program was recorded as 5:00 p.m. This was a typographical error for which we apologize.

The correct time of tonight's program is 6:30 p.m. in the Bates Auditorium.

Who Nabbed the Library Director - Clue #3 & #4

Opppps! We were so busy on friday we didn't have a chance to post the clue!

There are two this week...

Who Nabbed the Library Director? - Clue #3 & #4

#3 Paper is important.

#4 The object doesn't have wheels.

The clues so far...

#1 Tools of the trade were involved.

#2 A sale won't help you find the kidnapper.

Upcoming programs...

Jesse Rothacker & Forgotten Friend Reptile Sanctuary Become a reptile detective! Reptiles are the most mysterious creatures on the planet. Meet a dozen or so live reptiles from around the world. Solve some mysteries too! Monday, June 18 at 11:00 am. (Family)

Mysteries of the Mind, ESP Night Extrasensory Perception (ESP) is a term used to describe a form of getting information other than through the five senses (sight, touch, taste, smell, and hearing). Come test your abilities…Do you have ESP? You Never Know… Tuesday, June 19 at 6:00 pm (Ages 14 & up)

Fingerprinting Workshop Everyone’s fingerprints are different. Do you have a Whorl, Arch, or a Loop? Don’t know? Come to the fingerprinting workshop to find out and learn how to dust for prints just like in the movies! Wednesday, June 20 at 11:00 am (Ages 7 & up)

Biscuit the Storybook Character The popular dog from the beginner book series will charm young and old at special storytime fun! Wednesday, June 20 at 5:00pm (Tots & Up)

Eagles BookMobile Come and hear the “Storybook Man” read aloud to children and distribute a free, new book to each child. Thursday, June 21 at 11:00 am. (Ages 5-11)

Who Nabbed the Library Director? - Clue #2

Who Nabbed the Library Director? - Clue #2

#2 A sale won't help you find the kidnapper.

The clues so far...

#1 Tools of the trade were involved.

Summer in Full Swing

Get a Clue @ Your Library

On June 1st, the Summer Reading Program officially started and the Youth Services Staff has begun to pull their hair out! No, we actually love summer reading but there's just so much to do this year and it never seems like there is enough time to get it all in!! Several of us have been wishing for clones of ourselves already and it's only three days into the summer!

But anyway, we will try to leave periodic reminders here on the blog about the fun things going on including the Giant Clue Game, Prize drawings, website updates, and other cool stuff.

SRP reminders for today are...

Fridays Clue:

1.) Tools of the trade were involved.

Upcoming Programs:

Teen Scavenger Hunt How well do you know the library? Test your detective skills at our library scavenger hunt. Prizes for winning team. Tuesday, June 5 at 6:00 pm (Ages 13 & up) Registration Required.

Mystery of Mars Come join astronomer Charles Chavarr, who has done planetarium
programs for the The North Museum of Natural History & Science as he takes us on a tour with great images and stories to satisfy even the most starry eyed detective. Friday, June 8 at 10:30 am (Ages 6 &up) Registration Required.

Uncovering Mysteries Do you know about the treasure of Oak Island? Did you hear about a town in Pennsylvania that has been on fire since 1962? Learn about some of the mysteries in our state and around the world and see if you can solve them! Tuesday, June 12 at 6:00 pm (Ages 13 & up) Registration Required.

Misc. Information:

• Coupons and other prizes for summer reading will not be awarded until after July 1st.
• Teens may redeem Library Bucks in the teen store begining July 1st.
• Download the Free Movie Calendar

Summer Reading Information

For those looking for preliminary information on our Summer Reading program, you can head to a special section of our web site at:

http://www.lancaster.lib.pa.us/lcl/cwp/view.asp?a=1165&Q=464516&lclNav=

Registrations for this year's programs begins on Friday, June 1st.

Car Seat Recall

For parents of our smallest library users, please be aware of today's announced car seat recall:

http://money.cnn.com/2007/05/10/news/companies/evenflo/index.htm?cnn=yes

1/2 Price Book Values Today!

We neglected to mention our FRIENDS of the Library book sale on the blog for the last couple of days, but the good news is that there is still a chance to cash in on some of the great deals, and today, Wednesday, until 6:00 p.m., you can shop the sale at Overlook Activities Center on Lititz Pike for half price!

An alternative to breakfast...

Check out this unique online comic with some information on the fate of some of cereal's most popular characters...a very clever concept.

www.WebcomicsNation.com/poyorick/botg

Find out if you're cursed!

On Friday night, the Youth Services Department and our Teen Advisory Board invite fellow teens to join us as we uncover "The Pharaoh's Curse," an Interactive Mystery Night event!

The fun starts at 6:00 p.m. (participants are asked to use the entrance from the parking lot) with pizza and a chance to begin deciphering the clues! The solver of the mystery will be eligible for a prize too!

Come join your fellow teens for a fun evening in the library "after hours."

To register, call 396-9313 x 267 or email event coordinator Jen Fiene at jfiene@lancaster.lib.pa.us

Make time for a virtual visit!

The library invites you to virtually visit the country of Turkey over the next several weeks. One of our regular library familes, the Wengers, are headed to the European nation to help them as they plan new programs for the libraries that they visit under their business, Kids and Cultures.

To follow their trip journey, simply head over to
www.ReallyBigFieldTrip.com

Program Info Options

Would you like to get a list of Youth Services' monthly program schedule sent to you via e-mail? If so, drop us a note at youthservices@lancaster.lib.pa.us and we'll make sure you're among the first to know about the monthly excitement happening here!

Potter: 100 Days to Go!

It's 100 days until the final Harry Potter book is released, but it's already setting incredible records!

Take a look at this story: http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20070413/en_nm/books_harrypotter_dc

Leaving Clues for you...

As the library moves through April and May, our preparations are underway for this year's Summer Reading Program, "Get a Clue @ Your Library." As the weeks move ahead, we'll be leaving you clues on occasion through the blog as we fill you in on the wide variety of fun things we'll have happening here!

And, our teens will be able to start saving their library loot for the 2nd annual Teen Auction as well, and we'll have details on all of that too! So, watch this space in the days and weeks ahead!

Lapsits Start in May!

Another program that you can register for now is our new lapsit programs for babies! This special program, for our littlest ones, from 12-18 months, gives you a unique chance to introduce a new reader to the love of books, movement and music.

Each lapsit program, being held on Wednesday mornings at 10:30 (the same time as Family Place, which is currently running, the lapsits start after it has finished it's run) will be limited to 20 babies and their caregivers, so register early! Again, call the YS desk today at 394-2651 x 124.

Still More Builders Wanted...

Our registrations for Saturday's LEGO building competition continue to come in, and there is still plenty of room for you and your family to join us! To sign up today, call the Youth Services Desk at 394-2651 x 124.

Look inside Family Place...

Today, we invite you to take a look inside our Family Place setup, with a couple of photos from the first two weeks of the program.

If you build it, the judges will judge it...

For students who have time off this week because of the Easter holiday and would be looking for something to do on Saturday afternoon, the 7th of April, the library has a fun, cool idea! Join us for our first ever LEGO building contest. Any child who participates will have the chance to make the most unique creation they can think of out of a set number of LEGOs. The freeform masterpieces will be judged by guest judges, and the winner of our contest is up for special recognition county-wide. For more information on this program, call the library today at 394-2651 x 124

"Jump" into Storytime!

Now that this morning's fog is burning off, if you're looking for something fun to do this afternoon, we recommend you drop by the library and jump into a special storytime that we will be holding today at 2:00 p.m. The "Living History Crew" will be presenting "Jump Frog Jump" for a very special afternoon event! There's still plenty of room, so drop by if you can!

Potter: Your Thoughts/Ideas

Now that the last cover in the Harry Potter series has been released, speculation as to what should or will happen during Harry's final adventure continues to grow. Do you have any thoughts on how you'd like to see the series end, or how do you think J.K. Rowling will end it?

And, do you think, as some on the web are speculating today, that the cover predicts anything in particular happening?

Potter: The Final Cover...

Head over to www.amazon.com today and take a look at the final cover for "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows."

Free Tickets

Our friends at the Ephrata Performing Arts Center stopped by the library this afternoon and dropped off some complimentary passes for this weekend's performances of "Just So Stories," a performance showcasing several of the famous short stories by Rudyard Kipling. If your family is interested in attending one of this weekend's performances, please stop by the Youth Services Desk to pick up your free children's passes. Adults must pay for their admission to the shows.

Family Place Extended

Due to demand for the popularity of our Family Place program so far, and to offer more of an opportunity for you and your children to take part in it, we have extended the program by two weeks. Family Place will now run on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 through April 24th, and at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday mornings through April 25th.

If you haven't yet joined us for Family Place, there is still time to call and register. 239-2124.

Redwall Reminder...

In case you've forgotten, our first-ever Redwall Feast happens today! If you haven't signed up, there's still time! Join us at 4:00 today for food, fun, and a chance to peek at episodes from the Redwall TV Series.

Together again!

While Harry Potter is no doubt the biggest book series of our time, one of the most popular (and the highest grossing movie of all time) was Titanic, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet as Jack and Rose. For the first time since that monumental film, the actors are reuniting, for a whole different kind of movie. CNN has the details!

http://www.cnn.com/2007/SHOWBIZ/Movies/03/23/dicaprio.reut/index.html

Some Potter News...

A bit of Harry Potter news today, and this is related to the page count for the final book.

It won't be as long as the series' longest installment (that honor still goes to Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix at 870 pages) but it will be the 2nd longest, coming in at 784 pages. No other real story scoop yet, but as that comes in the weeks and months ahead, we'll pass it along!

Aspiring College Students...take note!

If any one that is bound for college who reads this blog has an interest in Journalism, take a look at this unique opportunity presented to work in the field, through the offices of CBS News:

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/03/09/springboard/main2552915.shtml

Family Place a Success

Our first week of Family Place programming was a strong success! We will be posting photos from the program here on the blog very soon!

Come to the feast...

...the Redwall feast that is.

Come celebrate the change of season at our Redwall feast. Enjoy games, quizzes, and food inspired by Brian Jacques’ Redwall books. Stay after the feast to watch the animated Redwall movie. Children, teens and their families are welcome. Please call the Children’s Desk to register.

This program will happen two weeks from today, on Monday, March 25 beginning at 4:00 p.m. If you're a Redwall fan, we invite you to participate in this fun program!

Family Place Tomorrow Night!

Last week, we mentioned that the library kicks off our new Family Place programming tomorrow night. There is still plenty of room for parents and caregivers of children 0-3 to interact with resource professionals on key areas of child development and get your questions answered. If you want to sign up either for tomorrow night or Wednesday morning's session, just call us today at 394-2651 x 124, and we'll be very glad to help you get registered!

Thinking Spring!

It still feels chilly outside on this Friday morning, but we all know that spring is offically just a few days away. One sign of that is the coming of Daylight Savings Time, which increases our amount of daylight each year. This year, that "springing ahead" (or loss of one hour of sleep) happens three weeks earlier than normal, and happens tomorrow night, Saturday, into Sunday morning at 2:00 a.m.

Don't forget to set your clocks ahead so you're on time for work, school, or library programs of course, next week.

The Family Place is coming!

Next week, the Lancaster Public Library begins offering a unique and special new program for parents and caregivers of children from ages 0-3. The program, funded by an LSTA Grant (a federal grant source) allows for the creation of a "Family Place" here at the library.

This unique five week program provides caregivers the opportunity to interact one on one with resource professionals in such important areas such as speech and language development, nutrition, and more.

We invite you to sign up for one of our two special sessions, beginning either next Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. or next Wednesday morning at 10:30 a.m.

Sessions will continue on each Tuesday or Wednesday through mid-April. To sign up, call us at 239-2124 or you can email us at youthservices@lancaster.lib.pa.us

Calling for all Lurkers....

If you've been looking at this blog for any length of time, but haven't let us know that you're out there, we invite you to respond to this post, let us know that you're one of our regular readers, and telling us what you'd like to see on this blog the most.

Tomorrow is...

...Thursday, and that means that the next one of our preschool storytimes will be offered at 10:30 a.m. You can always register for this or any library program by calling us at 394-2651 and dialing extension 124.

Lots happening in March

It has been a hectic and busy month of February here at the library, and we continue to dig out from the winter weather that we've been handed this year! We are all hoping for warmer weather soon, and in March, we have a wide variety of programs to pique your interest, and hope you'll join us for them. In the coming days, we'll advertise different programs and fill you in on our full schedule.

Homemade Valentines!

Are you in need of a fun way to commemorate Valentine's Day this year? The library is pleased to provide a table and supplies in the children's area for you to create your own personalized Valentine greetings for those you want to share with. In addition, a box is provided on the table for you to drop generically made greetings that will be delivered both to residents at Conestoga View and Millagro House here in Lancaster.

This unique opportunity gives you the chance to help yourself as well as other individuals in the area.

Rowling Heartbroken?

Why is J.K. Rowling feeling heartbroken? She confesses in her newest diary entry on her site at www.jkrowling.com

More Cool Teen Stuff

Our Teen Center, "The Hub," continues to be a hub of activity since it opened a while back. More new artwork and other goodies are on display throughout the teen area! Come in and check it out, all on the 2nd floor of the library!

Lapsit Storytimes Coming!

Coming this spring, the library will be offering "Baby Lap Sit" storytimes, geared for the very young. As we're planning this exciting new addition to our roster of services, geared for our youngest users to get their first experiences at the library, we have one key question that we're wondering about. If your family would be interested in programs like this, what time of day is most likeable for you? Morning, afternoon, or evening? Respond now and let us know!

The Big Breaking News...

....that many have waited years for is now here!

The Harry Potter saga will conclude with the release of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows" on July 21, 2007!

Remembering an Author

Last night, Sidney Sheldon, an adult fiction author who was also famous for his work in creating "I Dream of Jeannie" on television has died. He was 89. Yahoo has the information on his obituary.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/obit_sheldon

2007 Book Awards

Way back at the beginning of this blog, in one of our very first posts, we shared the Caldecott and Newbery winners for 2006. The American Library Association has made it's choices for 2007, and has announced them! Follow this link for all the details!

http://www.ala.org/Template.cfm?Section=News&template=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=146679

New Web Page

The Youth Services Department is proud to unveil our new web page

Our new site includes lots of program details, information about our staff, and links to downloadable recommended reading lists. You can also find out where we need volunteers and how you can help! We welcome any suggestions for further improvements to the new site!

Snow Day is Coming!

No, we're not talking about a weather forecast that changed drastically. It still looks to be a rainy weekend in the Lancaster, PA area, but there will be a little bit of snow at the library on Monday, when we celebrate the fact that many children are off from school because of the Martin Luther King holiday by opening our doors to a special day of programming, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., including movies, board games, activities, and even a virtual snow ball fight. No registration is needed for this program, so we invite you to visit us on Monday.

Teen Center: In Use

These teens hang out after school one day in their new corner of the library:


The coolest thing is that small changes continue to happen on a regular basis as we keep working to improve the teen center! Check back to the blog for the newest pictures as furniture and some other goodies arrive in the months ahead.

Tomorrow, we'll share pictures from another big library event in December!

Teen Center: After

Here are a couple of small snapshots from the space after the renovations were done!

Teen Center: During...

During renovations, staff proved that librarians can handle hammering, as we put shelves together!

Teen Center: Before...

Here are a couple of photos of our new teen space before our mini-renovations! The after photos are coming next!

Storytime tomorrow!

Our preschool storytimes continue tomorrow at 10:30 a.m. To pre-register, please give us a call at 239-2124.