Lifelong Literacy - PSA

While watching television this weekend I saw the new Lifelong Literacy Ads from the Literacy Council and the Ad Council. Below is my favorite of the series.

Click here to see the other versions saved in our favorites.

Best Books for Teens 2008 are here!

Best Books for Young Adults 2008.

Which ones have you read?

Do you agree that they are the best?

E-mail us with your comments, or better yet, come in to a teen advisory board meeting and discuss the books with your peers. TAB meetings are in the HUB (second floor) of the Lancaster Public Library on every third Tuesday of every month at 4:30PM.

What do you want to do?

Women's History Month 2008

Hello All,
In honor of Women’s History Month (March), I created a teen readers’ advisory of non-fiction.
Please feel free to forward to your friends and teachers.

Social Science (Civil Rights, Feminism):

Women on war : an international anthology of women's writings from antiquity to the present / edited and with an introduction by Daniela Gioseffi. YA 303.66 WOM women’s writings on war and peace.

33 things every girl should know about women's history : from suffragettes to skirt lengths to the E.R.A. / edited by Tonya Bolden. YA 305.4 THI

Uses poems, essays, letters, photographs and more to present the actions and achievements of women in the United States, from its beginnings up through the twentieth century.

Ms. and the material girls : perceptions of women from the 1970s through the 1990s / Catherine Gourley. YA 305.40973 GOU

Prologue: The women's strike for equality, August 26, 1970 -- Who took the "r" out of "mrs."? -- Bionic women and real-life heroines -- From denial to indulgence : the body obsession -- The material world, or welcome to the 1980s -- Guerrilla girls and other militant females -- Epilogue the "game of life" -- Source notes.

Flappers and the new American woman : perceptions of women from 1918 through the 1920s / Catherine Gourley. YA 305.40973 GOU

Prologue: Armistice Day, November 11, 1918 -- Modern girls and the media -- Happy housewives and delicate women -- Morals and manners -- Beauty in the eye of the beholder -- The backlash against modern times -- Epilogue: Change and continuity and what comes next.

Rosie and Mrs. America : perceptions of women in the 1930s and 1940s / Catherine Gourley. YA 305.40973 GOU

Prologue: Inauguration Day, March 4, 1933 -- Ain't we got fun? : amusements and diversions in hard times -- Mrs. America goes to the movies -- Fashion's passions -- Bylines and headlines : women who write news, women who make news -- The many faces of Rosie -- Epilogue: Mrs. America goes home.

Women in pants : manly maidens, cowgirls, and other renegades / Catherine Smith & Cynthia Greig. YA 391.2 SMI

19th & 20th century history.

Music History:

Take-off! : American all-girl bands during WW II / Tonya Bolden. YA 784.48165 BOL

The band was on fire -- We played all the way up to New York -- What are we gonna do for a drummer? -- Outro -- Glossary -- Notes -- Selected sources -- Recommended reading -- Recommended listening -- Illustration and text credits -- Acknowledgments -- Index.

Sports:

Let me play : the story of Title IX, the law that changed the future of girls in America / Karen Blumenthal. YA 796.082 BLU

Up until the 1970s, if you were a girl, you were told you shouldn't play team sports, or go to college. But, in 1972, Title IX changed that, by ensuring that girls have the same opportunities as boys to participate in sports and
classes. But that change did not come without a fight.

Chamique Holdsclaw : my story / Chamique Holdsclaw with Jennifer Frey. YA 796.323 HOLDSC HOL

basketball.

Poetry:

A poem of her own : voices of American women yesterday and today / edited by Catherine Clinton ; illustrated by Stephen Alcorn. YA 811.008 POE

Literature:

Keeping secrets : the girlhood diaries of seven women writers / by Mary E. Lyons. YA 818.303 LYO

Biography:
Abigail Adams : a Revolutionary woman / Jacqueline Ching. YA B ADAMS ABIGAI CHING

Elizabeth Blackwell : with profiles of Elizabeth Garrett Anderson and Susan La Flesche Picotte / [writer, Lisa Klobuchar]. YA B BLACKW ELIZAB KLOBUC

the first woman to obtain an M.D. degree in the United States, with profiles of two prominent individuals, who are associated through the influences they had on one another, the successes they achieved, or the goals they worked toward. Includes recommended readings and web sites

Golda Meir : with profiles of David Ben-Gurion and Yitzhak Rabin / [writer, Lori Meek Schuldt]. YA B MEIR GOLDA SCHULD

A biography of Golda Meir, the Ukrainian-born fourth and only female prime minister of Israel.

Emily Dickinson : a biography / Milton Meltzer. YA B DICKIN EMILY MELTZE

Examines the life of the reclusive nineteenth-century Massachusetts poet whose posthumously published poetry brought her the public attention she had carefully avoided during her lifetime.

Paula Danziger : voice of teen troubles / Jennifer Bond Reed. YA B DANZIG PAULA REED Examines this wonderful writer and explores her many facets.

My father's summers : a daughter's memoir / Kathi Appelt. YA B APPELT KAHTI APPELT A series of prose poems describes the author's life while she was growing up in Houston, Texas, from her eleventh birthday in 1965 through her eighteenth in 1972, and beyond.

Anne Frank : a hidden life / by Mirjam Pressler YA B FRANK ANNE PRESSL

Describes the background in which Anne Frank's life and diary were set as she hid in an attic in Nazi-occupied Holland for two years.

Martha Graham : a dancer's life / by Russell Freedman. YA B GRAHAM MARTHA FREEDM

A photo-biography of the American dancer, teacher, and choreographer who was born in Pittsburgh in 1895 and who became a leading figure in the world of modern dance.

Pocahontas / George Sullivan. YA B POCAHO SULLIV

Powhatan Native Americans.

Betsy Ross : the American flag and life in a young America / Ryan P. Randolph. YA B ROSS BETSY RANDOL




Websites:
Please visit the Library of Congress’s Women’s History Month Project:
http://www.loc.gov/topics/womenshistory/

Please visit the History Channel to watch videos on women’s history:
http://www.history.com/minisites/womenhist/

World Book Wants Your Thoughts

We have so many great resources here at the library that we sometimes forget to tell people about them. One that I've always liked and suggested to kids is the World Book Encyclopedia. We have the hard copy version on the shelf and we also offer World Book Online for free through our Power Libraries Databases. All you need is a library card!

Right now, World Book is also asking for your opinions. As librarians we always have opinions on the types of things we buy for library use, but this time World Book wants to hear from the kids and parents who use the materials. Go ahead and email them at worldbookadvisors@worldbook.com . Tell them what you think!

March - Item of the Month

Glitter Glue

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

You don't need to wait to donate materials to us! 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.

March Programs

Our online calendar is on the fritz at the moment so, in the mean time, we thought we'd post our list of programs for March here.

Preschool Playdate Tuesdays @ 10:30 am
March 4 - Snowkids
March 11 - Found It!
March 18 - Green
March 25 - Bunnies

Music and Stories with Lucie Wednesdays @ 1pm
March 5
March 12
March 19
March 26

Lapsit Storytime Wednesdays @ 10:30 am
March 5 - Dr. Seuss Celebration
March 12 - Apples
March 19 - Circus Fun
March 26 - Bunnies

Preschool Storytime Thursdays @ 10:30 am
March 6 - Birds
March 13 - Morning
March 20 - Rabbits
March 27 - Fairy Tales

Sing, Sign and Storytime Mondays @ 10:30 am
March 3
March 10
March 17
March 24
March 31

Teen Interest: current.com

One of the things that I love about meeting new people, is the exchange of new information. While talking with someone today they told me about a really neat website called Current . They describe themselves on the website which I've pasted below.

Since its inception in 2005, Emmy award-winning Current TV has been the world's leading peer-to-peer news and information network. Current is the only 24/7 cable and satellite television network and Internet site produced and programmed in collaboration with its audience. Current connects young adults with what is going on in their world, from their perspective, in their own voices.

With the launch of Current.com, the first fully integrated web and TV platform users can participate in shaping an ongoing stream of news and information that is compelling, authentic and relevant to them.

Current pioneered the television industry's leading model of interactive viewer created content (VC2). Comprising roughly one-third of Current's on-air broadcast, this content is submitted via short-form, non-fiction video "pods". Viewer Created Ad Messages (VCAMs) are also open to viewer's participation.

Current's programming ranges from daily pop culture coverage to political satire in "SuperNews," unprecedented music journalism in "The Current Fix," and unique insights into global stories through Vanguard and Citizen Journalism.

Current is now viewed in the U.S. and U.K. in more than 51 million households through distribution partners Comcast (Channel 107 nationwide), Time Warner (nationwide), DirecTV (channel 366 nationwide), Dish Network (channel 196 nationwide), Sky (channel 193) and Virgin Media Cable (channel 155).

So check it out! And maybe I'll see your clip on TV next!

February - Item of the Month

Construction Paper

We didn't recieve any last time so we're still in need!

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

You don't need to wait to donate materials to us!

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.

Chinese New Year - February 7, 2008 marks the beginning of the Year of the Rat

Get ready to celebrate The Chinese New Year on February 7 and welcome the Year of the Rat. According to World Book Online Reference Center (which you can use at Power Library through our website ), "the Chinese New Year is the most important festival of the Chinese calendar. The date of the Chinese New Year is based on the cycles of the moon." Spending time with family is a big part of this holiday. "Places are set at the table for absent family members to symbolize the unity of the family. Special foods that symbolize good fortune for the new year are served. For example, rice cakes, called nian gao, are a popular food for New Year’s Eve dinners. The Chinese word nian means year, and gao means high. This food signifies achievement in the new year. Children bow to their parents and grandparents to wish them a long life. Gifts of money in red envelopes are given to children to wish them luck and wealth in the new year." Another popular part of the holiday includes special dances with dragon costumes as well as parades in many Chinese communities.

Chen, Tung-Ling Li. "Chinese New Year." World Book Online Reference Center. 2008. [Place of access.] 3 Feb. 2008

We have a variety of picture books, fiction and non-fiction books about Chinese New Year and the Chinese Culture. You can even find out more about rats. Check out our online card catalog to reserve a book or stop by Youth Services and we'd be happy to help you find some great reads about this exciting holiday. Have a prosperous New Year!

Here are a few links about this holiday and the Chinese calendar.
http://www.educ.uvic.ca/faculty/mroth/438/CHINA/chinese_new_year.html

http://webexhibits.org/calendars/calendar-chinese.html

Lapsit Grows!

The Lapsit Storytime Program is off to a great start! Each week, I have been so lucky to meet new children and parents/caregivers. We will be singing and reading about things that go 'round this week so spin on up to the Kid's Department. Don't be shy, stop in and join the fun.
Ms. Jen

Flat Stanley Has Come to Visit Lancaster

We recieved the coolest letter today. Flat Stanley has come to visit us here in Lancaster, PA the whole way from Vinita, OK. That's over 1,156 miles!

If you haven't read the book, it's about a child named Stanley who gets flattened when a bulletin board falls on him. He's okay though, just very very flat. The story goes on to tell about all the fun things he can do now that he's so very flat, including putting himself in an envelope and mailing himself to California!

This time, Flat Stanley has decided to mail himself to Pennsylvania, and needs our help to catalogue his vacation...we need to take pictures of Flat Stanley doing things around town and at the library to send back to his class at Kings Kids Christian School. If you would like to be in a picture with him, or have a good idea of fun things Stanley could do, let us know.

For more information on this fun project visit:

http://www.flatstanley.com/

Cool Website Tool

While looking for information on Bushbabys for a patron I came across this very cool website. This just struck me as a possible tool for homeschooling families, as well as further fun/education for everyone.

Backyard Jungle is a PBS kids based website. It was created by a group of people "who like to explore the outdoors, to see what beautiful and scary things live there, and see cool stuff from others all around the world." Backyard Jungle was created and is produced by staff at Forum One Communications. Backyard Jungle was funded by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Check out some other cool sites that CPB funded, too!


Below is the "about us" information on their webstie.

Backyard jungle is a sophisticated, free, kid-friendly website where users around the world can load photos, drawings, and descriptions about the natural surroundings where they live, their "backyard." Users manage and map their own information, share it with other people who visit the website, and visit and comment on the backyards of other users as well. With other people worldwide users can explore and answer the question, "What's out there?" All the content (information, photos, and drawings) on the website is loaded by users themselves.

Backyard Jungle is organized around three types of information that users load into the website: "Members", "Backyards", and "Discoveries." Anyone can view this information. Only people who join as Members can load in information, map their Backyard, and put Discoveries into the website. Members also get to vote on each others materials, earn points, and get featured on the home page and other parts of the website when they load in something super cool or beautiful. Members leave their computer, explore their surroundings (yards, neighborhoods, parks, wildlands), and return to load descriptions and photos and drawings into the website.

Scholastic Writing Awards List!

Congratulations to the winners of the 2008 Scholastic Writing Awards!

All parents, friends, family and Judges are welcome to join us at the awards ceremony on February 24th at 2pm at the Lancaster Catholic High School.

*Denotes American Voices Nominees

Columbia Borough Jr./Sr. High School

Certificate of Merit
Adam Mowrer
The Effects on Fox
Short Short Story Group 1
Grade 7
Ms. Virginia Babic

Donegal Middle School

Certificate of Merit
Lucy Scanlon
Mine; Sistres in Difference; Worship;
Half-Life; Time Line; Release
Poetry Group 1
Grade 8
Mrs. Rose Ellen Haggerty

Ephrata Area High School

Certificate of Merit
Brianna Brubaker
Curiosity Helped the Cat
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 9
Ms. Colleen Hauser

Nicole Messner
Not Even a Goodbye
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 11
Mrs. Cheryl Fritz

Stevana Morris
When I Was Seven
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 11
Mrs. Cheryl Fritz

Kaitlin Nordhoff
The Littlest Ninja-Princess-Racecar Driver
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 9
Ms. Colleen Hauser

Katie Zuziak
This is the Story of a Girl
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 9
Ms. Colleen Hauser

Garden Spot High School

Gold Key
Sarah Costello
Please Be Polite
Journalism Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Priscilla Fias

Certificate of Merit
Emily Dissinger
A Balancing Act
Journalism Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Priscilla Fias

Jennifer Himes
Tick
Short Short Story Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Priscilla Fias

Anne Martin
With No One Waiting
Short Story Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Priscilla Fias

Kate Timpson
Snapshot of the Past
Short Short Story Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Priscilla Fias

Hempfield High School

Certificate of Merit
Elana Beckett
The Entertainment Gone Wrong
Humor Group 2
Grade 10
Mrs. Alicia Mitchell

Gregory Troutman
Poison Oak; K Rose at the Barber Shop
Poetry Group 2
Grade 11
Ms. Wanda Richie

Alyssa Wettig
We Felt His Physical Pain Emotionally
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 11
Ms. Wanda Richie

Homeschools

Certificate of Merit
Meredith Bechtel
Riot!
Short Story Group 2
Grade 10
Mrs. Margaret Bechtel

Abby Brubaker
The Choice
Short Story Group 1
Grade 8
Mrs. Khris Brubaker

Lampeter-Strasburg High School

Certificate of Merit
Cassidy Baker
Pew Blues; A Copy for the Masses; Black and White; By Design; Slowly Rising; Dreams; Ode of Hamlet; Decay; Brain Wash; The Classroom
Poetry Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Janis Harrington

Lancaster Catholic High School

Gold Key
Kelly Smith*
Room 323A
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Jacqueline Cicchetti

Kelly Smith
Yellow Truck
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Jacqueline Cicchetti

Silver Key
William Cassidy
The Summer of Food
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Mrs. Joann Demming

Nicholas Cicchetti
Long Live the Dragon
Short Story Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Jacqueline Cicchetti

Nicholas Cicchetti
A Plea for Mercy
Journalism Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Jacqueline Cicchetti

Nicholas Cicchetti
Lords and Masters
Science Fiction/Fantasy Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Rachel Brumbach

Kaitlyn Garbarino
A Leap of Faith in the Vault
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Jacqueline Cicchetti

Francesca Giustini
The Secret
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Rachel Brumbach

Julia Goldbach
In Your Eyes
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Mrs. Joann Demming

Rebecca Hegarty
Across the Universe
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Jacqueline Cicchetti

Sean Little
The Incident at Cryo 13
Science Fiction/Fantasy Group 2
Grade 9
Ms. Priscilla Kegel

Michelle Schubert
Why Ban Certain Books
Journalism Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Anne Schober

Alexander Veronis
A Time that Transformed Me
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Greade 12
Ms. Rachel Brumbach

Certificate of Merit
Regina Bowe
Narcism 101; One Heart; La Danse de l’Une; Minstrel
Poetry Group 2
Grade 11
Mrs. Leslie Laird

Stephen Bruckno
Only Hard Work Pays Off!
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Mrs. Anne Schober

Alyssa Carter
I Come From…
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 11
Mrs. Leslie Laird

Nicholas Cicchetti
The Game
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Jacqueline Cicchetti

Nicholas Cicchetti
Gregor’s Revenge
Short Short Story Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Rachel Brumbach

Brooke Fulcher
My Pledge
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Joann Demming

Bridget Gibbons
Silver Spring
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 11
Mrs. Leslie Laird

Hillary Graham
Picture Us
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Mrs. Joann Demming

Alicia Gray
Left
Short Short Story Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Rachel Brumbach

Hilary Kane
The Scariest Thing of All
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Mrs. Joann Demming

James Kelly
Trial by Fire
Short Story Group 2
Grade 11
Mrs. Leslie Laird

Alexander Kelso
Nerds: An Expose on Misunderstood Social Species
Humor Group 2
Grade 11
Ms. Jacqueline Cicchetti

Laura Lastowski
Tales of the Dining Hall
Humor Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Jacqueline Cicchetti

Anya Mullen
The Castle of the Greenwood
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Jacqueline Cicchetti

Anya Mullen
A Walk-Walk to Remember
Personal Essay Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Jacqueline Cicchetti

Rebecca Pollock
A Journey
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Joann Demming

Brian Rank
Bottled Up
Journalism Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Jacqueline Cicchetti

Claire Regan
Pause; Screen Porch; How to Bleed the Right Way; Boomerang
Poetry Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Rachel Brumbach

Mary Grace Reich
Moment vs. Memory
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 11
Mrs. Leslie Laird

Edward Schriener
Conversion
Short Short Story Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Jacqueline Cicchetti

Ashley Scrivener
The Autumn of Pride; Motion Censored; Our Get-Away Driver Was Not on Time; Excerpt – Chapter One
General Writing Portfolio Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Anne Schober

Michael Sloan
Do I Have a Dog?
Short Short Story Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Rachel Brumbach

Rachel Zakany
Violet
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Mrs. Joann Demming

Lancaster Country Day School

Certificate of Merit
Caitlin Bailey
Pure Gold; Lola; Near and Far
Poetry Group 1
Grade 8
Ms. Willa Bacon

Lancaster Mennonite High School

Gold Key
Sara LeFever*
Out of Season
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Jane Moyer

Silver Key
Suzanne Yocom
Over a Cup of Coffee; Infatuation; he Confession; Glimpse; A Letter of a Dreamer; Just another Flowery Poem; Cramming; Hard Feelings
Poetry Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Jane Moyer

Certificate of Merit
Alexandra Diamantoni
Special Places, Special Days
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 11
Mr. Jonathan Metzler

Audrey Ebersole
Growing Up
Personal Essay Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Jane Moyer

Jenna Ebersole
GOAT?
Journalism Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Jane Moyer

Lucas Good
Curtis
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 11
Mrs. Kathleen Engle

Chelsea Information
Life Could Never be Better
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 12
Ms. Jane Moyer

Landisville Middle School

Silver Key
Rachel Herman
Blind Faith
Dramatic Script Group 1
Grade 8
Mrs. Kimberly Petrosky

Kelsey Nolan
Backpacks are Hurting Straight “A” Students
Journalism Group 1
Grade 7
Ms. Diane Anderson

Certificate of Merit
Sarah Broadwell
Diagnosis
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 1
Grade 7
Ms. Diane Anderson

Veronica Edkin
Beach
Poetry Group 1
Grade 7
Mr. Scott Feifer

Joseph Evans
Tristan
Personal Essay/Memoir Group1
Grade 7
Ms. Diane Anderson

Rachel Herman
Just Ride Away
Short Story Group 1
Grade 8
Mrs. Kimberly Petrosky

Alissa Le
Colors of the Heart
Short Short StoryGroup 1
Grade 7
Ms. Diane Anderson

Kayla Miller
Night; Love; Snow; Fall; Spring
Poetry Group 1
Grade 7
Ms. Diane Anderson

Alexa Ressler
Getting There; The Ocean, My Ocean
Poetry Group 1
Grade 7
Mr. Scott Feifer

Robert Shreiner
A Day in the Mines
Short Story Group 1
Grade 7
Mr. Scott Feifer

Sam Sweeney
Ski Racing
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 1
Grade 7
Ms. Diane Anderson

Sarah Thompson
The Clock Shop
Short Story Group 1
Grade 7
Ms. Diane Anderson

Lauren Weaver
Circle of Life; Elements; Friend; You; Music
Poetry Group 1
Grade 8
Mrs. Kimberly Petrosky

Linden Hall School

Silver Key
Oge Erechukwu
That Fateful Night
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 1
Grade 8
Mr. Kenneth Trani

Certificate of Merit
Abigail Milnor-Swetser
Old Friends; Candles for a Composer; On Becoming Anne; Hello, Hello, My Name is Flo; Position!; Straight Ahead; Every Minute, Every Day
Nonfiction Portfolio Group 2
Grade 12
Mrs. Jan Snyder Hess

Regena Reyes
My Life’s Passions
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 10
Mr. Kenneth Trani

Penn Manor High School

Gold Key
Jenna Dutton
William Shakespeare:Lord, What Fools These Mortals Be
Humor Group 2
Grade 11
Mrs. Lisa May

Silver Key
Alexandra Adams
Dreams Do Come True
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 2
Grade 11
Mrs. Lisa May

Emma Bushong
Original
Short Story Group 2
Grade 11
Mrs. Cece O’Day

Aaron Gochnoauer
Get Rid of the Penny
Journalism Group 2
Grade 10
Ms. Holly Astheimer

Amanda Kennedy
My Body is Not an Etch-a-Sketch
Journalism Group 2
Grade 11
Mrs. Lisa May

Julia Scheib
Epiphany; Mortal Leaves; Hallway; Hallucination for the Coast Guard
Poetry Group 2
Grade 11
Mr. Scott Hertzog

Certificate of Merit
Julia Dunn
Imprint; Depravity; City Girl; Division; Equivalent
Poetry Group 2
Grade 12
Mr. Scott Hertzog

Gregory Greenawalt
Show Me the Internal Self
Poetry Group 2
Grade 10
Mrs. Lisa May

Lucas Huber
The Harder You Work, He Luckier You Get
Journalism Group 2
Grade 11
Mrs. Lisa May

Katelyn Wolf
Recess Rampage
Humor Group 2
Grade 12
Mr. Brian Reinking

Reynolds Middle School

Silver Key
Medoza Ameen
Of City Lights and Teddy Bears
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 1
Grade 8
Ms. Valerie Nauman

Jalimar Martinez
Into the Abyss
Personal Essay/Memoir Group 1
Grade 8
Ms. Sheryl Roche

Solanco High School

Silver Key
Nicole McVey
The Beast
Short Short Story Group 2
Grade 11
Mrs. Kristin Testerman

Swift Middle School

Certificate of Merit
Brandon Thomas
Ancient Evil
Short Short Story Group 1
Grade 8
Ms. June Shultz

GoodSearch Helps the Library

You can now help the library by using GoodSearch. It's that easy! Just choose "Lancaster Public Library" as your charity and go on searching the internet as you usually would. Each search donates a penny to our library. It may not seem like much, but pennies add up rather quickly.

Local History Contest for Young Writers

Our history in your words...

Open to all students in grades 5 though 8 who live in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, or York counties.

Students may submit a factual account, fictional narrative, short story or poem about a person, era or event in history.

Deadline for entries: February 15, 2008

For contest guidelines, call Hershey Museum at 717-520-5587

or visit HersheyMuseum.org

Winning entries will recieve:

• a $200 savings bond
• 10 pounds of chocolate
• Family membership to Hershey Museum

New Year - New Stuff

Happy New Year everyone!

We're back at work here in the youth services department and we wanted to pass on some information for families looking for new fun and educational things to do.

Jan 22nd: Lancaster Science Factory

The Lancaster Science Factory will be opening Tuesday, Jan. 22nd at 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. With construction now completed, and the interior industrial space transformed into a bright, open environment, the former industrial space will become an exciting learning place for all ages.
The Lancaster Science Factory, 454 New Holland Ave, http://www.lancastersciencefactory.com/

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!