Seekonk Public Library - Seekonk Public Library News for Fri, 25 Jun 2010

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 16:40:44 EST

Seekonk Public Library News

Sibling revelry

Beverly Cleary's endearing Quimby family hits the big screen on July 23 with the release of the movie Ramona and Beezus. The film features Joey King as adorable but mischievous Ramona Quimby and Disney Channel star Selena Gomez as Ramona's older sister, Beezus. Although the movie is only loosely based on the original book, it stays true to the characters while introducing some modern variations. To brush up on your Beverly Cleary or to introduce these unforgettable characters to your children, remember that the movie switches the names--Cleary's book is titled Beezus and Ramona. The film version promises to be a fresh take on this childhood classic of sisterhood--proving that history really can repeat itself.

It's time to monkey around!

Curiosity may have killed the cat, but it also made a star out of one special little monkey. In 1941, H.A. and Margaret Rey introduced the world to Curious George, a lovable simian scamp who has delighted children of all ages. Along with his protector, the man in the yellow hat, this duo has been charming young readers with their adventures and devotion to each other for almost 60 years. To mark this momentous occasion, a special commemorative edition of The Complete Adventures of Curious George will be released this month so young readers can rediscover and share the magic of this intrepid and mischievous monkey in a single volume.

Success in school

As the dog days of summer slowly fade away and the start of school looms on the horizon, why not help your children approach the new academic year with practical advice for sure-fire success? In That Crumpled Paper Was Due Last Week, educational consultant Ana Homayoun focuses on "disorganized and distracted" boys, who score well on standardized tests but don't make good grates. The author outlines her special organizational system that will give preteen and teenage boys the foundation they need to get back on track. From cutting back on technological distractions to getting a good night's sleep, Homayoun's tips will help slackers climb to the top of the class.

Sate your hunger with Mockingjay

The final installment in Suzanne Collins' scorching hot Hunger Games trilogy is almost here! Even without vampires, this is one Young Adult series with plenty of bite, gaining a fervent following of fans around the world. Be the first to request a copy of this thrilling conclusion and find out what the Capitol has in store for courageous Katniss and her friends. With twists and turns aplenty, Mockingjay will have you turning the pages with sweaty palms and a pounding heart. And If you've never experienced the series before, there's no better time to dive into the first two books in the trilogy, Hunger Games and Catching Fire.

Eat, Pray, Love hits the big screen

Elizabeth Gilbert's debut memoir, Eat, Pray, Love, recounting her travels around the globe in an attempt to mend her newly broken heart, enamored readers the world over. This bona fide publishing blockbuster spent 158 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list and earned lengthy library holds across the country. On August 13, mega-star Julia Roberts graces the screen as Liz Gilbert, trekking through Italy, India and Bali on a journey of enlightenment and empowerment. Poised to follow in the book's footsteps, this film is guaranteed to be one of summer's hottest hits.

Seekonk Public Library News 9.8 August 2010
A monthly newsletter about the Seekonk Public Library
www.seekonkpl.org

Greetings from the Director, Sharon St. Hilaire
Home Depot has them. Stop and Shop has them and now the Seekonk Public Library has a Self Check Out machine for a trial period. We are testing a software package for the SAILS network that allows customers to check out their own materials. So far the response has been exceptional.
The question everyone is asking though is does this mean the staff will be reduced. The answer is not necessarily. Our use has risen to over 350,000 items borrowed and every year our request for additional staff has been denied. In 2010 our use was up on average 7% with over 400 people per day using our services. New technology is a way to maintain our service without adding additional staff. This machine will only be available through the end of August. Come in, give it a try and be sure to give us feedback!!!!!

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Summer Concerts
Wednesday Nights, 6:30 - 7:30pm

Mark your calendars on Wednesdays, August 4 and 11 from 6:30 – 7:30pm for the final two concerts of the summer. Join friends and family in the library’s backyard and enjoy great tunes by local musicians. The concerts are free and open to all. Be sure to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. In the event of rain the performance will be moved indoors.

August 4 Rock a Blues
This group calls itself a “classic new-rock band.” The sounds of such influences as the Beatles, Bruce Springsteen, and Matchbox 20 will be sure to keep everyone jumping. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library

August 11 Bill Harley
Seekonk’s own Grammy winner will have fun songs and stories that kids can identify with. The songs will bring back childhood memories for moms and dads too! Sponsored by Sturdy Memorial Hospital

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Summer Reading Time is Here!!!
It's time to Go Green at Your Library! This year's program features online tracking of time spent reading. Weekly reading incentives include free books. Family night celebrations, storytimes, and other special programs round out the festivities. Our summer reading program is fun and it helps children retain their reading skills throughout the summer.

Sign up in person or online at www.seekonkpl.org. Once you've registered keep track of the time spent reading. It's that easy!

Summer reading is for all ages and grades, infants - grade 12. If you have any questions call the Youth Services Department at 508-336-8230, ext. 140.

Go Green at Your Library is sponsored by the Seekonk Public Library, the MA Regional Library Systems, the Boston Bruins, and the MA Board of Library Commissioners.

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Adult Summer Reading Program - Great Prizes to Be Given Away!
Summer reading is not just for kids! Ask the adults who took part in our prior adult summer reading programs. They enjoyed sending us the titles and reviews of books they read. Best of all they were eligible to win prizes. So, it pays to read! Just ask our winners so far:

Barbara Craveiro - Starbucks Gift Pacakge
Valeria Silva - Panera Bread Gift Certificate
Lisa DeBlois - TGIFridays Gift Certificate
Dawn Aguiar-Finnegan - Applebees Gift Certificate

There are more prizes to be drawn! Go to our website www.seekonkpl.org where you will see a link to Go Green at Your Library. Sign up, and then login each time you read a book. The book reviews you send in will be shared with other readers online.

Don't forget, the more you read the better your chances of winning one of several prizes will be. We thank our sponsors, Applebees, King's Oak Pizza, Panera Bread, Starbucks, TGIFridays, and Outback Steakhouse. Enjoy the lazy days of summer with a good book from the Seekonk Public Library. For more information contact the Adult Services Department at 508-336-8230 ext. 130.

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Paw Sox Tickets Available

The Library has added Pawtucket Red Sox discount tickets to its collection of passes for discounts to museums and popular attractions in the local area. This pass offers a great opportunity for the family to spend time together and root on the Paw Sox.
The Pawtucket Red Sox pass admits 1 to 6 people to General Admission seating for a flat fee of $18.00. The available game dates are listed on our website at www.seekonkpl.org. Go to Museum Passes, then click Book a Pass to see the dates.
The Friends of the Seekonk Public Library have sponsored this pass as well as all of the passes the library has to offer you throughout the year. Enjoy attractions such as  Boston Children's Museum, Museum of Science, Providence Children's Musuem, Museum of Fine Arts, Roger Williams Park Zoo, Plimoth Plantation, Mystic Aquarium, Mystic Seaport, and RI School of Design Museum, Slater Mill, and the Massachusetts State Parks and Beaches Parking Pass. For more information contact the Adult Services department at 508-336-8230, ext. 130.

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Printing Fees have Changed
The library has increased the fees for printing from its computers due to increases in color cartridge prices. The new fees are: Black and White printing - 15¢
Color printing - 50¢

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Got a Question? Text it to the Library
Text a Librarian allows you to text a question to Adult Services.  Start by texting the word "seekref" to number 66746. You will receive an introductory message. Add us to your contacts using 66746 as the phone number and "seekref" as the contact name.   Usage charges may apply depending on your carrier.

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Family Night
On Monday, July 12 at 6:30pm, we will have Ed the Wizard present Reading Magic. Using many volunteers, Ed the Wizard weaves reading and magic together using a bit of comedy and suspense. The result? Full-fledged laughter! (Ed also reminds children to read, read, read, because it's the key to success!)
This event is sponsored by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency and supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

On Monday, July 26 see Sparky's Puppets performing Stories in Trees at 6:30pm. What's greener than a tree? Sparky Davis says oak, apple, and pine! There's a tree in every tale with a lively medley of stories celebratig the world of forest and field.
Sponsored by the Friends of the Seekonk Library.

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Teens and Money
Do you have a teen at home who is working this summer?  Do they know how to budget their money?  Are they putting some away in savings?  If they are going off to college maybe they will need a checking account. Join Andy Liles of American Credit Counseling Service on Thursday, August 26 at 6pm to get the answers. This program is geared to both parents and teens.

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Rainy Days are Fun at the Library
Sprinkling? Downpour? Torrential rain? Whatever the wet weather, children and families are invited to stop by the Library any rainy day this summer and take a break with a drop-in craft. So cross your fingers for rain and we'll see you here for a great project! All ages. Registration is NOT required.
Don't forget, any rainy day, Monday, July 12 - Saturday, August 21 between 10am - 4pm.

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Staff Picks

Maria - The Mayo Clinic Diet ~ Eat Well. Enjoy life. Lose Weight.
I was drawn to this book because of the cover. The words "enjoy life" caught my attention. Isn't that something we all want?
Once I flipped through the pages and saw the quick read to read format, I was hooked. I could randomly open to any page, and gleen something useful. The book offers insightful tips and techniques, along with an encouraging vibe for living a healthier life. I feel the title is misleading because it infact is not about "dieting". The premise of the book is that small changes add up and make a difference! Move more, make healthy food choices, smaller portions, and turning around the negative thoughts, all come into play. Even though I did not read this book cover to cover, I went through it and gathered the information and motivation I needed to continue my path on a healthy and happy lifetyle. (and even lost a few pounds)

Mary Ellen - Billy Twitters and His Blue Whale Problem by Mac Barnett
“A Blue whale is longer than thirty dogs lined up nose to tail. Its tongue weighs as much as four hundred cats. Blue whales make terrible, terrible pets. Just ask Billy Twitters.” So reads the inside jacket cover of my new favorite book, Billy Twitters and His Blue Whale Problem by Mac Barnett. When he fails to do his chores, his parents follow up with their threat to buy him a Blue Whale! The "FedUp" truck (Delivering Punishment Worldwide, it reads on the side) pulls up in front of Billy Twitters' house carrying an extremely large delivery. Thus begins the wonderful adventures of Billy and his Blue Whale as Billy tries to tow the whale on his skateboard with his bike, hide him at school, or use him as transportation for his classmates when the school bus breaks down. I love the illustrations in this book. Adam Rex’ art brings to life the enormous “problem” in depictions that show the whale just seems to endure it all, while Billy’s faces life as a kid with his new “pet.” The artwork makes the book, which is funny and educational at the same time. Other than a minor censoring issue with the word “stupid,” (which comes up only once but quick) I look forward to reading this book to The Book Bunch school-aged kids in the fall. It’s a great balance between story and facts with hilarious portrayals of the whale. And remember to look under the dust cover on the back for a special offer from the publisher!

Carol - Boneman’s Daughters by Ted Dekker
Bethany Ryan is kidnapped by a serial killer named boneman, who breaks the bones of his victims without breaking their skin. Bethany’s father Ryan Evans an intelligence officer has had a life changing experience in Iraq. He tries to rescue his daughter and win back her trust and love. The novel is full of suspense and is about the classic battle between good and evil.

Anne - Caught by Harlan Coben

Peter - War by Sebastian Junger
I just finished War by Sebastian Junger who also wrote The Perfect Storm.
It's an excellent book about the war in Afghanistan and what is like to be a
combat soldier there.

Marge - Making Toast by Roger Rosenblatt
A hauntingly lovely memoir written as a collection of journal-style entries this is the
tragic story of Rosenblatt's daughter, Amy who dies suddently at the age of 38. Rosenblatt
and his wife move into their daughter's home to help her husband care for their three young
children. Rosenblatt avoids the sentimentality that might have weighed down the story; he
writes with humor and an engagement with life that makes the occasional flashes of grief all
the more telling. This is a story of grief, pain, sorrow, and grace, love within a strong
family, support of friends and the laughter of small children, as well as their own unique
and heartbreaking ways of grieving. In the end, Making Toast is just as much a celebration
of life as a reckoning with death.

Pauline - Favorite CD's
My favorite music CD's to exercise to in the last six months are:

The E.N.D. by Black Eyed Peas
The Fame Monster by Lady Gaga
One Love by David Guetta
Bionic by Christina Aguilera
The Oracle by Godsmack
Plastic Beach by Gorillaz

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Homebound Delivery
The library offers home delivery of all types of circulating materials to those Seekonk residents who are not able to leave their homes due to permanent or temporary physical limitations. The Adult Services librarians select materials based on the participant's needs and preferences. Volunteers deliver and return materials on a scheduled basis. If you are in need of this service or know someone who is please contact the Adult Services Department at 508-336-8230, ext. 130.

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Volunteer Opportunities for Friends of the Library
The Friends are always looking for new volunteers for various tasks. To become a Friends of the Library volunteer, interested residents/patrons should stop by the Library to fill out a Volunteer application form. On the form, potential volunteers are asked to state hours of availability and interests. We now have 50 residents who have offered to volunteer.

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Friends of the Library Elect New Officers
Elections were held at the recent annual meeting of the Friends of the Seekonk Library. The elected slate of officers are: Priscilla DuVally - President; Kim Sluter - Vice President; Joleen Vatcher - Secretary; Sue Rutter - Treasurer.
Directors of the Friends are: Cynthia Corbett; Laura Pielka; and Deborah Bostian (liaison with the Board of Library Trustees.)
Committee Chair appointments are: Jeanne Dunn - Volunteers; Jane Damiani - Membership.

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Join the Friends!
The Friends of the Seekonk Public Library are an important component to the success of the library. Their fundraising efforts make it possible to bring you the programs all ages enjoy. This past year our membership has grown by almost 30%. Become a member today. Call or stop by the library for a membership form.

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Library Trust
The Seekonk Library Trust's annual New Century Fund Campaign is on. The Trust exists as a vehicle to accept gifts and bequests. Consider adding something in your will for the Seekonk Library Trust. More information is available on our website.

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Follow Us on Facebook and Twitter!
The numbers grow with each passing month. It shows that more and more people are using Facebook as another way to keep up with everything going on at the library. It also allows our fans and followers to tell us how they feel about the library. Look for fun facts and info on new materials and happenings coming up. Friend us on Facebook by typing Seekonk Public Library in the Facebook Search box.

Check out our Seekonk Library Youth Services Facebook page! Talk about books you've read, learn fun facts, and find out what's going on in the Children's Room. Become a fan.

Follow us on Twitter for fresh and relevant information about the library. Find us on Twitter by typing Seekonklibrary (no spaces) in the Search box.

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Program Highlights

Adult Services - Upcoming Programs

Contemporary Book Club
Monday, June 14 from 6:30 - 7:30pm
The group will be discussing The Angel's Game by Carlos Ruiz Zafon

Concerts
The Black and White Band
Wednesday July 21 from 6:30 - 7:30pm

Greg Hodde
Wednesday July 28 from 6:30 - 7:30pm

Moneywise Financial Series: Teens and Money
Thursday, July 29 from 6 - 7:30pm

Computer Classes
Library computer classes scheduled for July and August:

July 7 1:30 - 3 pm Internet III: Magazines & More
July 13 6 - 7:30 pm Excel 2007 II: Formulas & Functions
July 21 1:30 - 3 pm Computer Basics III: Files & Applications
July 22 6 - 7:30 pm Word 2007 II: Editing & Columns

August 3 1:30 - 3pm Excel I: Basics
August 4 1:30 - 3pm Internet IV: Downloading
August 10 6 - 7:30pm Computer Basics I: Desktop and Mouse
August 12 6 - 7:30pm Word 2007 III: Adding Images

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Youth Services - Upcoming Programs

Library Lapsit
Mondays at 10:30am followed by optional playgroup.
July 12, 19, 26, August 2, 9, 16
Books, finger plays, simple rhymes and songs create a program that focuses on language-building play for children birth to 2½
Registration is required

Toddler Storytime
Tuesdays at 10:30am
July 13, 20, 27, August 3, 10, 17
Stories for children with a reading -related craft. Ages 2½ to 3½
Registration is required

Preschool Storytime
Wednesdays at 1:30pm
July 14, 21, 28, August 4, 11, 18
Thursdays at 10:30 am
July 15, 22, 29, August 5, 12, 19
Stories for children with a reading-related crafts. Ages 3½ to 5½
Registration is required

The Green Team
Wednesdays 3 pm
July 14, 21, 28, August 4, 11, 18
Listen to wonderful stories (including books about nature and animals) then create great crafts by reusing and recycling different and unique materials.
Grades K - 3
Registration is required

Family Nights -
Ed the Wizard, "Reading is Magic"
Monday, July 12 at 6:30 pm

Sparky's Puppets, "Stories in Trees"
Monday, July 26 at 6:30 pm

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Library Statistics : May 2010
Items Circulated: 21,464
Children's programs: 18 Attendance: 406
Adult programs: 5 Attendance: 63
Reference Questions: 830

FEATURING: The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread, Kate DiCamillo . . . Away, Amy Bloom . . . Arctic Drift , Clive Cussler . . . Fire and Ice, Julie Garwood . . .

Seekonk Public Library News