Ms. Nancy's Library & Technology Blog

“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” — John Dewey

I found out late last week where my placement will be this year for my library work. Yesterday I stopped by the school and got to see my new library! But no library is ever, ever “yours” or “mine,” it’s always “ours.” Our books, our computers, our posters and tables and chairs.

One of my kindergarten students a couple of years ago loved the library. She would come in every morning and greet everything.

“Hello, liberry. Hello, chairs. Hello, tables. Hello, books. Hello, Ms. Nancy.”

Then a friend would call out her name.

“Oh! Hello.”

I know exactly how she feels.

See you in September…

— Ms. Nancy

“Read a book and take a look at the TV in your head.” -– O.G. Readmore

10 Tips for Choosing Books for Children of All Ages
Source: Reading is Fundamental (RIF)

Family of Readers Advisor’s Guide

Ages:

5-8, 9-12, 13+

* Have children choose their own books as soon as they start showing a preference for one over another.

* Find the children’s section of your local library. Get to know the librarian, who can be a great resource. (Yes, please do! — Ms. Nancy)

* Find out what your child is interested in, and help choose books that are related to his or her interests.

* Ask friends, family, and teachers what books their children have enjoyed; try a book swap.

* If your child does not like a book you are reading together, put it away. Reading is a fun time to share, not a time to fight.

* Again, Again, Again! Children may want to read the same book many times, even if you think they have outgrown it.

* Use book lists generated by various literacy organizations; they usually have good suggestions. For example: American Library Association, International Reading Association, Children’s Book Guild

* Look for books that you will like reading aloud. Your enjoyment will shine through and become contagious.

* Try out different kinds of books to see what appeals to your children.

* Have fun! Show your children the joy of reading and how it can open up a brand new world!

I’m just wondering what all the middle-grade students are reading lately? And the high school students, too? So far I’ve heard the names of a few classics, and some new titles, too…

* The Hunger Games

* Lord of the Flies

* The Outsiders

* The Great Gatsby

* The Crucible

* Their Eyes Were Watching God

* True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

* American-Born Chinese

* The Grapes of Wrath

If you have any others, please leave notes in comments, thank you!

— Ms. Nancy

Have a great weekend!

— Ms. Nancy

…you will please remember that not everyone is lucky enough to have a local library.

Just sayin’.

— Ms. Nancy

JULY

“Chicken Soup with Rice,” by Maurice Sendak

Hello, all you readers,

I know, I know. You’re probably too busy out running around, swimming, or sleeping in late to look at this library blog. But just in case you’re ready to take a break from brushing up on your math skills… Maybe you’d like to do a bit of reading? Or practice your typing?

* Barnes & Noble’s summer program features “The 39 Clues.” Read and record eight books on your passport and earn a free book.

* Powell’s Books presents the Reading Rocks Summer Reading Club. Read at least five books and be entered in a drawing to win a set of books, and receive a discount coupon for Powell’s.

* Borders Books is hosting the Double-Dog Dared contest. Read 10 books and earn a free book.

(The county libraries, of course, are running their programs. Drop by and talk with the librarians.) Have some fun! Looking for more? How about…

Kid’s Reads: Find info about authors, books and series.

Read Kiddo Read: You’ll find “The Ultimate Summer Reading List” here.

TumbleBooks: Online stories read out loud. You’ll find links under “Databases” and “T” right here, or try “Little Kids” and “Stories” using this link.

Starfall: Practice reading and early literacy skills.

PBS Kids: Check out the links for Between the Lions and Arthur.

Practice typing at:

Free Typing Game

or…

BBC.CO.

“Knowledge frees the spirit.” — Eileen & Jerry Spinelli