The Port Library

Radio Spots are back!

2011-05-04T17:07:00.000-05:00

Until 2009 then director Pat Heidrick was hosting a weekly radio spot for the library called "Book Notes." Starting May 7th, current director Rachel Malay has taken over that spot and renamed it "Port Picks." The two to three minute radio spot will run around 8:30 on Saturday mornings on KVSV radio, 105.5. The text of the first radio spot is pasted below for your reading pleasure.

PORT PICKS – May 7, 2011
This is Rachel Malay, director of the Port Library, with Port Picks. Each Saturday I’ll be telling you about great items available for check out at the Port Library.

This week’s feature is a book that defies classification, called “Holmes on the Range.” Author Steve Hockensmith has crafted a fast paced tale that is part comedy, part western, part mystery, and all action. Brothers Old Red and Big Red Almlingmeyer are out of work and out of luck cow hands on the Montana range in the 1870s when a job opportunity opens on the least favored ranch in the area. After humorously suffering through usual ranch chores, the brothers come across an accidental death… or is it? Old Red can’t help but apply his deducifyin’ skills learned from reading Sherlock Holmes mysteries in the newspaper, and before long bother brothers are up to their ankles in clues.

You can get this book and more great titles to read, listen to, watch, or play with at the Port Library at 311 W. Main in Beloit. Our summer library program sign ups are coming later in May, and this will most likely be the last program in the old building. If you have questions about materials, programs, or any thing else library related, call the library at 738-3936. This is director Rachel Malay saying, “Thanks for checking us out!”

Automation again!

2011-01-21T12:55:00.002-06:00

Have you wondered what those bar codes that have appeared on library books is all about? Since September 2010 the Port Library has been undergoing an automation project. Starting Tuesday, February the 8th, the library will close again on Tuesdays only to continue the project.

On Tuesdays, the library has been closed so that staff can automate the collection. This means affixing bar codes to books, videos, CDs, and more, and then matching up the barcode number with a record stored on the computer.

The information on the computer is the same as what is in the paper card catalog now. The computer records will be accessible to the public in much the same way as the paper records once the project is completed.

The new computer system will be available for the public to use in the library, and also through the Internet at home. The staff will be able to answer questions about overdues, fines, and checkouts much faster. Also, patrons will receive a library ID card to check out materials.

Eventually, patrons will be able to search for a book from home at any time of day or night, and each time patrons check out books or anything else they’ll receive a receipt with all their checkouts.

Because the Port Library has never had records on the computer of their materials, the librarians have to find and check each item in the library. At the start of the project last September, Director Rachel Malay estimated the library had about 26,000 items. In December after reviewing what has been automated, that estimate had grown to nearly 35,000 items.

At first, volunteers were needed to affix bar code stickers. Now the work has gotten more technical, requiring volunteers have knowledge of library cataloging techniques and a willingness to learn the computer system.

Over the last four months of automation, the staff has reviewed over 11,000 items. This has included about one third of the books and most of the audiovisual materials.

The library board and the staff want to see this project completed as soon as possible so that by the time the library moves to a new home the system will be up and running. The library needs time to work out any problems and wants to see most of the patrons comfortable using the new online catalog and checkout system.

The Library Board has approved closing the library on Tuesdays again for six months, starting in February. In addition, the librarians will be working a few extra hours during the week while the library is closed.

The library staff has appreciated the understanding of the patrons while this huge project is completed, and looks forward to helping the patrons more efficiently once the project is complete!

If anyone has questions about how the automation process works or wants to know how the staff are progressing, they can contact the director, Rachel Malay at 738-3936 or e-mail portlib@nckcn.com.

The Port Library is automating!

2010-08-05T11:08:00.000-05:00

The Port Library is automating! Beginning Tuesday, August 24^th the Port Library will close its doors on Tuesdays to the public so that the staff can concentrate on automating the library. The library hopes to have the project completed enough to use the system in every day service in about four and a half months and reopen on Tuesdays to the public by Christmas. With the exception of Tuesdays, regular library service on other days of the week will not be affected.

The automation process is happening in two major steps: putting bar code stickers on the books, DVDs, CDs and other circulating material, and then matching the bar code number with a computer record. Library board members and volunteers have been helping to affix bar code stickers, but library staff will complete the second step of matching bar codes with computerized book records on Tuesdays when the library is closed to the public. The library appreciates all the volunteers' efforts so far and continues to welcome any volunteer willing to help bar code materials.

Once automation is completed, records for all the circulating materials in the library will be stored on computer. Checking out a book will also happen by computer. Patrons will be able to browse the collection of the Port Library from an internet-connected computer at home to check and see if a title is available before leaving their house. The library will also be able to more promptly tell patrons how many books they have checked out, recite individual due dates, and accurately relay overdue or fines information upon request over the phone or in person.

Patrons already registered at the Port Library will be able to transfer their registrations to the new system in about five minutes during a short visit to the library. At this time, the library does not plan on issuing cards as the system can function without patrons scanning a card to check out. At checkout, patrons will also receive a printed receipt with all their checkouts. The overdue and fines notification system and rates will continue as it is now, with the addition that outstanding fines will be able to be printed for patron reference immediately on request.

After the automation system is in place patrons at the library will be able to use a dedicated computer kiosk to search the library catalog electronically. The paper card catalog will still exist for patron reference; however, it will not be updated once the computer system goes into effect. The library plans to slowly phase the paper card catalog out of public use.

This process will involve patience as both library staff and patrons learn new library habits and adjust to circulation procedure changes. However, the staff is very excited about the improvement in various areas of customer service this automation project will bring. As has happened in the past, the library will be keeping interested patrons up to date on changes and improvements to service and materials. The Port Library is located at 311 W. Main in Beloit and can be contacted by calling 738-3936 or e-mailing portlib@nckcn.com.

Tea Party & Title Preview!!!

2010-06-15T13:41:00.000-05:00

We've planned a second Tea Party & Title Preview! This one will be held Monday, June 21st at 7 PM to accomodate those working ladies and gentlemen. We'll sip hot and iced gourmet tea out of real china cups, and have a chocolate tasting. There is no cost to attend, but you'll need to call the library or stop by to sign up. (785-738-3936 or 311 W. Main, Beloit KS) Signups end Saturday, June 19th. Hope to see lots of thirsty people there!

A presentation!

2010-04-07T10:07:00.001-05:00

This week I'll be presenting at the Kansas Library Conference in Wichita. The presentation is embedded below:

My sister, Kate Wise, and I will be running the online teen summer library program again this summer, and if you know a teen who would be interested, let the library know! Also, if you have any questions about this program, don't hesitate to call the library or e-mail us at portlib@nckcn.com

Finally! An activity for adults

2010-03-03T16:18:00.001-06:00

Okay, so maybe this one will appeal a little more to the ladies, but guys are welcome too!

Come to the first Port Library tea party! Sip one of several flavors of gourmet tea served in fine china, nibble on cute hand made petit fours, and listen to preview book talks of upcoming titles available at the Port Library. After the tea the party guests will have first nab at the titles previewed during the tea, plus more new and new-to-the-library titles. The party is free, but space is limited to 12 guests. Register starting March 15th by responding to our facebook event listing, e-mailing the library at portlib@nckcn.com, or calling 785-738-3936.

And, due to a Facebook request, we may be planning another tea party in the evening to include those ladies who work during the day. If you think you'd like to attend but can't make a morning tea, contact the library and let us know!

Take our survey! Please!

2010-01-14T11:09:00.001-06:00

New Video Games!

2009-11-18T15:32:00.017-06:00

Upstairs in the YA room, there are new video games! There are 8 new-t0-us PS2 titles, and now XBOX360 TITLES!!! The covers are shown below:

The PS2 titles we got are:

Finding Nemo
Cars
The Spongebob Squarepants Movie
Major League Baseball 2K8
NBA 2K8
Meet the Robinsons
Shrek Smash n' Crash Racing
Kingdom Hearts: Re: Chain of Memories

Come on in and check them out!

Celebrate Teen Read Week at the Port Library!

2009-10-13T15:25:00.005-05:00

Read Beyond Reality @ your library®!

October 18-24.

Stop by the Port Library during Teen Read Week to read beyond reality! Check out materials to change your world, take you somewhere unlike your world, or learn about other cultures. Stop by and talk to the Youth Services Librarian, Rachel Malay about what titles you’d like to see added in the young adult collection. Teens age 13-18 can also enter to win a mini MP3 player, or a copy of James Patterson’s Dangerous Days of Daniel X. Stop by today and pick up a page turner that you can read or listen to, just for the fun of it!

You can also listen to an announcement about Teen Read Week recorded by Nancy Cartwright, the voice of Bart Simpson.

Learn more about Teen Read Week on the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) website.

And, in honor of Teen Read Week, the Port Library will have the following new Young Adult titles available for checkout:

How to Catch and Keep a Vampire by Diana Laurence
Night World No. 1: Secret Vampire, Daughters of Darkness, Spellbinder by L. J. Smith
Night World No. 2: Dark Angel, The Chosen, Soulmate by L. J. Smith
Blue Moon by Alyson Noel
Once Dead, Twice Shy by Kim Harrison
The Missing Book 1: Found by Margaret Peterson Haddix
Pop by Gordon Korman
Airman by Eoin Colfer
Necropolis by Anthony Horowitz
Max: a Maximum Ride Novel by James Patterson
If the Witness Lied by Caroline B. Cooney
Pendragon Book 10: The Soldiers of Halla by D. J. MacHale
Glass by Ellen Hopkins

Booknotes - Special Web Edition!

2009-09-11T14:09:00.003-05:00

Booknotes are a short book blurb given by the Port Library's Director, Pat Heidrick, Saturday mornings around 8:30 AM on KVSV 105.5 radio. Below is an exclusive web edition for you to enjoy!

Sophie Kinsella, author of the wildly popular Shopaholic series, takes an unconventional turn in the latest novel. Lara Lington is nursing a broken heart and trying to keep her business afloat, but - not so typically - she is also dealing with the ghost of her great-aunt Sadie. Sadie appears as a young woman, a feisty flapper, who wants Lara's help finding a treasured beaded necklace.

Lara's search leads her to London's National Gallery, where a famous portrait holds the key to the necklace's origins - and to her wealthy uncle, whose rapid rise to success may have received an unexpected boost.

As Lara helps Sadie find her peace, Sadie helps Lara learn to enjoy life again. With Sadie's urging, Lara embarks on a new romance, wears vintage flapper clothing, and even learns the Charleston.

Kinsella's Twenties Girl juggles romance, mystery, and a spirited spirit with thoroughly charming results.

Story Program this fall! (Story Port)

2009-08-11T15:36:00.002-05:00

It’s time once again for Story Port at the Port Library in Beloit!

Story Port is an after school story and activity time for children in the Beloit area, ages 4 through 5^th grade. Each week we will read a story and do an activity related to the story or a near holiday. Some authors included this fall include Tomie dePaola, Herman Parish, and Ian Falconer. Children will enjoy favorite characters such as Olivia the Pig and Amelia Bedelia.

This fall we will meet at the library most Wednesdays from 3:45 - 4:15, starting August 26^th and ending December 2^nd. There will be another semester of Story Port offered during the first part of 2010. Parents may sign their children up for the fall session at the Port Library starting Monday, August 17^th through the third session of Story Port on Wednesday, September 9^th. A calendar will be included with registration. Both the parent's notes and a booklist/calendar can be accessed by clicking on the underlined links.

There is no cost to attend, but due to space restrictions at the library only the first 10 children registered will be guaranteed a spot in Story Port. Come in right away if you’re interested.

If you have any questions about this program or other children’s services offered by the Port Library, you can call the Youth Services librarian at 738-3936.

Puppet Shows and Wrap-Up

2009-07-22T15:43:00.004-05:00

***This post is longer than most and has a couple slideshows plus a video. It will take a while to load. Please be patient.***

This will be the last post for summer library program 2009! A few reminders first:

Pre-schooler families in the program have until Friday, July 31st to pick up at-home packets. They are waiting at the front desk.

Regular program attendees (age 5-5th grade) had until this Saturday, July 25th to turn in reading goal charts for their certificate and prize. All crafts left at the end of the last program have been tossed. A few children turned in charts but didn't get their certificate and prize. Those are still waiting at the front desk.

Teens have until next Friday, July 31st to finish their reading goal charts or submit anything to the teen website.

Below is what we have been doing the last two weeks. Enjoy the slide shows and video!

Pre-Schoolers:

July 13-17th was arts and crafts week. The little ones had supplies for a touch and feel book in their packets. Leona Breeden from SHPTV came July 17th for a special story-video-and-craft-time. She handed out Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andrae to all the attendees.

July 20-24 was story week. Included was a page for parents to write a story with their little ones, supplies to make foam stick puppets, and a t-shirt and book from MCPC.

We hope everyone enjoyed this year! We will probably do the pre-school program in July again next year.

Regular Program:

July 15th we met for "Ham it up!" also known as puppet week. The story this week was a puppet show telling an underwater version of The Three Little Pigs. Although the volunteers had little time to practice, everyone still enjoyed the show. During craft time we made finger puppets from stretchy gloves, monster puppets from kleenex boxes, and edible puppets from banana slices on bamboo skewers. Below is the slide show:

July 22nd was our last program, themed "Imagine It, Create It". This week we read Silly Tilly by Eileen Spinelli. Although the story was short, the kids enjoyed all the silly situations Tilly got into. I was very "creative" during craft time, using up two different catch games from previous summer programs, as well as some magnet and pencil topper crafts from National Library Week earlier this year. Our snack was an old favorite: frosting on animal crackers. Here are the pictures:

Teen Program:

Our Teen Program that met at the library ended in June, but the Teen Online Summer Library Program (TSLP2009) ends on Friday, July 31st. You can visit the website by clicking here. Our final week's theme was "Express Yourself...with Technology!" Brandi Watson made the winning entry in our contest, a video library ad for the children's and YA department. Check out the awesome video below!

Another Week of Arts & Crafts!

2009-07-09T12:50:00.002-05:00

This week's theme was "Now You See It" and focused again on arts and crafts. This time the kids did sand art from a kit. We also painted "magic" pictures by coloring with a white crayon on white paper and then painting over it with thin black paint.

Our story this week was well known by several kids: How I Became a Pirate by Melinda Long. If anyone particularly liked this week's story, the library also has the sequel: Pirates Don't Change Diapers.

I have had 4 reading charts turned in so far, but the kids have until July 24th to turn in reading charts for their pizza certificate. In addition to the pizza certificates, I also have a limited number of gift certificates to the Solomon Valley Cinema and for movie rentals at Catlins. The movie certificates will be given out based on who turns in their reading charts first. Good luck and happy reading!

The preschoolers also focused on art this week. In their packets was a paintbrush craft, and a paint-with-water page from the themed materials made available to libraries this summer. The pre-schoolers have two more weeks to pick up packets (until July 24th) and until July 31 to turn in materials for prizes from the Port Library and Mitchell County Partnership for Children.

Hop, hop, hop!

2009-07-01T16:19:00.002-05:00

Today, Wednesday, July 1st, was the 5th summer library program of the year. We danced our way through two stories:

Saturday Night Jamboree by Lee Wardlaw

Saturday Night at the Dinosaur Stomp by Carol Diggory Shields.

Then, the kids watched dancing raisins at snack time (and ate the raisins and drank the lemon-lime pop), and learned the bunny hop out in the backyard. It was pretty hot, so the bunny hop lasted only 10 minutes or so, but the kids caught on to the dance steps pretty quickly!

Here are pictures from our program!

Our pre-schooler at-home program also started this week. There are 6 enrolled this year. In the take home packets the participants got coloring pages, activity pages, and a kids song mix CD created by the librarian. All the songs on the CD were taken from the Free Kids Music website.

Half-way through!

2009-06-24T16:33:00.003-05:00

Week 4 of the summer library program has come and gone! There is a presentation below showing pictures from our program, "The Sweet Sounds of Reading." We read a story by Christine Schneider called "Saxophone Sam and His Snazzy Jazz Band" and did crafts and activities related to rhythm. 42 kids attended this week.

Our teen summer library program has ended, but the online portion of the program continues through July. You can access the website for that by clicking here. There are videos, contests, links, and content created by the teens on that website, so check it out!

Summer Library Program - Ham it Up!

2009-06-20T12:32:00.002-05:00

Last Wednesday was our third week of Be Creative @ Your Library, and the theme for the week was "Ham it up!"

We made finger puppets for an interactive story of Little Red Riding Hood. Our usual craft and snack time was taken up by one more complicated activity: we made hand puppets from felt figures already sewn together. The kids could grab the snack of marshmallows and pretzels as they found time during the craft.

The last picture in the slideshow below is of the recycled crayons from week 2. The kids picked out what colors they wanted in their recycled crayon and a librarian melted them in an oven off-site.

Check back here next week for more pictures of future programs!

Second week of Summer Library Program

2009-06-11T15:34:00.003-05:00

This week, called "Splash of Color" was all about art! We painted, we made recycled crayons, we mixed different colored Kool-Aid...and had a good, messy time. The reading room recovered, but here's evidence of our fun:

We'll be back next week with more photos!

Summer Programs!

2009-06-04T11:17:00.005-05:00

Wednesday, June 3rd, the Port Library began their summer programs with "Be Creative @ Your Library." The program was for kids ages 5 through 5th grade. See the slideshow below for pictures from the program:

Thursday, June 4th the teens met for pizza, pop, and a lively book discussion. In addition to face-to-face meetings, the teens can also participate in a online summer library program, "Express Yourself ."

Click here to go to the online teen program's web page. The online program is new this year, so let us know how we can improve the program, what to leave out, or if it is worthwhile at all!

Look for more pictures from the regular program here next week!

Port Library Celebrates National Library Week!!!

2009-04-14T16:31:00.003-05:00

The Port Library is celebrating National Library Week this week with several special events:

Free apple pie Tuesday, April 14th
No fines on returned late material this week (must return this week, undamaged)
Library-wide scavenger hunt
Drawing for book set giveaways (8 sets of about 7 books each)
Make and take (or just take) crafts in the children's department

The scavenger hunt winner and book drawing winners will be announced Monday, April 20th.

So come on in and see what the Port Library has to offer!

We need your help!

2009-03-03T12:31:00.006-06:00

Planning for the collaborative summer library program, "Be Creative @ Your Library" is underway! We need help collecting craft supplies, both purchased new and recycled items. The following is a list of what we need:

Each item links to an example of what we would like. The colors and brands represented are not necessarily what the library wants or what is available in our area. Of course, the library also welcomes monetary donations to help with the summer library program. We also encourage craft help or guest readers too!

New Magazine Subscriptions!

2009-02-13T15:36:00.012-06:00

Every year, the Port Library evaluates our magazine circulation. We've added some new titles, three of which are detailed below. For a full listing of magazines the Port Library currently subscribes to, click here. Click on the magazine covers to be taken to the magazine's website. (Please note: the Port Library does not subscribe to any magazine online.)

Real Simple

From the publishers of People, Health and Cooking Light. Real Simple is the new magazine for the way you want to live today. You'll find actionable solutions to streamline the way you manage your life. Systems for reducing clutter, saving time, and reducing stress.

Outdoor Life

Outdoor Life is an outdoors magazine that has been a leading publication in its category ever since its launch back in 1898. The magazine's intention was to be a magazine for sportsmen, written by sportsman, and to touch on all topics of the outdoors lifestyle. Every full-color issue contains photographs of and information on fishing, boating, hunting, aviation, motor vehicles, and more. Outdoor Life provides the most up-to-date tips and techniques pertaining to all outdoor sports, and lists reviewed testing of the newest gear and equipment.

Men's Health

Men's Health, the world's largest men's magazine, is an essential read for individuals who want to look, feel and live better. Professionals and experts from diverse fields of psychology, fitness, fashion and health team up with journalists to give you interesting features on the issues that matter most to men of all ages. With research-based articles filed into sections including "Health," "Sex & Relationships," "Nutrition," "Fitness," and "Guy Knowledge," Men's Health is your go-to guide for all of your important questions and concerns.

(Magazine descriptions taken in part from magazine-agent.com.)

There's Still Time!

2009-01-22T15:39:00.003-06:00

The enrollment for the Spring 2009 session of Story Port ends this coming Tuesday, January the 27th. If you want your children (ages 4 through 5th grade) to attend, simply come and sign them up on or before the 27th. Enrollment is limited to 10 this semester, and we already have 7 registered. If you read this announcement after the 27th, don't worry! As long as enrollment limits haven't been reached you can (unofficially) sign up any time during the semester. If you and your children happen to be in the building during Story Port, you are welcome to come upstairs and sit in for story time too.
Story Port happens Tuesdays this semester, from January 22nd through April 21st, running from 3:45-4:15 PM. At the library we'll read a story, do a short craft or activity, and leave a few minutes for book checkout. We may even have snacks a time or two!

Whether or not you sign up, you can still keep up with our book list by viewing our bookmark, here. If you're considering Story Port for the future, here are parent notes for those signed up. We'll try to have pictures posted of some of our craft projects half way through the semester, or possibly a video of one of our stories being read aloud.

NEW VIDEO GAMES!!!

2008-11-05T15:45:00.006-06:00

(At least new to us!)

The following video games have been added to the Port Library and are available for checkout now. For a full list of video games at the Port Library, click "Services, Policies, Materials Listings, etc." under "Links" in the left sidebar.

Video games may be checked out for two weeks at a time, with a limit of 3 titles per family at one time. We do accept donations of video games for PS2, GameCube, XBox, XBox360, Wii, GameBoy, GameBoy Advance, Nintedo DS, and Nintendo DS Lite. Don't hesitate to call the library with any questions!

We have this book!

2008-10-01T13:55:00.003-05:00

This post will profile 3 YA books currently at the Port Library:

1. The Diamond of Darkhold by Jeanne DuPrau. This is the fourth and final installment of the Ember series.

The movie of Ember is coming soon, but if you want the back story, check out the Port Library's copy of "The City of Ember."

2. Brisingr is the third book of the Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini. While neither the author nor the series has an official website, the following website from Australia is very good.

3. Breaking Dawn by Stephanie Meyer. The Twilight movie coming out soon seems to cover all four books in the series. For the latest news on the movie, you can visit the youtube channel, or official movie website.

Ms. Meyer was set to publish a fifth in the series, but a rough draft was leaked on the internet, and publishing of that final book was put off indefinitely.

Feel free to call the library about any of these books! We can reserve them for pickup within a few days, or add your name to any waiting list.

New Books! And a new way to access the library...

2008-08-20T13:45:00.004-05:00

There are plenty of new books on the bookshelves at the Port Library. As an experiment, four of the new young adult titles are featured in a podcast linked below. The titles featured on this post are:

Artichoke's Heart by Suzanne Supplee
Ranger's Apprentice, Book Four: The Battle for Skandia by John Flanagan
Newes from the Dead by Mary Hooper
Airhead by Meg Cabot

Click here for the podcast:

You can also read a transcript of the podcast here.

The library always appreciates feedback. Let us know what you like, what you don't like, and any other opinion in person, by telephone, by e-mail, or by commenting on any blog post.

Summer wrap-up

2008-07-29T14:44:00.002-05:00

The Port Library Summer 2008 Reading Program officially ended last Saturday, July 26th. Thanks to everyone who made this summer program a success! We had 44 different children attend, and about 70% of those met their reading goal. A slideshow below shows what we did the last week. The theme was "beetles and ladybugs."

Our last teen summer program was Thursday, July 24th. We had pizza and talked about what the group would like to do next year. I had only one person turning in a reading goal, but 6 different teens came over the course of the three week program. We had fun, and will definitely try to meet for lunch again on Thursdays next July.

I will be on vacation the next week and a half, but look for advertising for Story Port at your school starting soon after school begins!

Just a quick update and a question...

2008-07-21T14:48:00.003-05:00

Hello to all!

Only one more week to go in the summer reading program! I've had several young readers turn in their completed goals already, but many more have yet to claim their prize. July 26th is the final day to turn completed goals in for a prize.

I forgot my camera last week, so no pictures. I'll have pictures from this week posted after Wednesday. Children can come in their pajamas or dressed as a bug if they want to. This is completely voluntary.

The second teen summer library program went well! We had a scavenger hunt through the bookshelves, ending with a book giveaway for the prize. We then settled down to make duct tape things. I made a duct tape checkbook cover, and hope to post a picture of it and some other completed projects this week.

This Thursday is the last teen summer library program. We'll have a drawing for a 51/2 " TV/Radio. Any teen who comes to that program is eligible for the drawing. We'll have prizes for those who turn in a reading goal.

And finally, a question: We are now able to post podcasts (pre-recorded radio-type segments) to this blog. The user should be able to click on a link and hear the podcast without any software other than internet explorer. Is this a service users would like? The podcasts would probably be book reviews or reader's advisory on titles of interest. If this sounds like a good idea to you, leave a comment at the bottom of this post.

Thanks!
Rachel

Teen Summer Library Program, week 1

2008-07-12T12:04:00.002-05:00

This is a quick post to say our first teen summer library program met Thursday, July 10. We had pizza, pop, and cookies at noon in the reading room. 6 people attended.

Next week, we'll have a scavenger hunt, make duct tape wallets and purses, and eat pizza again. Any teen in the Beloit area between the ages of 13 and 18 is welcome. You do not have to sign up for the teen summer reading program to come.

If you want to come, call the library before next Thursday and tell us your favorite pizza topping. 785-738-3936. Ask for Rachel.

Ants, Butterflies, Moths, and Worms. Weeks 4-6 of the Summer Library Program

2008-07-12T11:45:00.004-05:00

I can't believe I missed a week updating! The summer is just flying by. We've had good attendance at all our programs, even with harvest the last few weeks. I hear stories all the time from the young readers about family vacations they'll be taking in the next few weeks, so we may have smaller groups then. I still have a few craft projects left from last week's programs, so stop by the children's department desk to pick them up.

Week 4 was about ants, but we read The Very Quiet Cricket by Eric Carle. The kids enjoyed participating in the story, and we all were able to hear the sound chip built into the back of the book, despite the book being well worn, and the battery on it's last legs.

Week 5 brought butterflies and moths. Continuing the Eric Carle theme, we read The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Even though most of the kids had heard this story, all still wanted to hear it again.

Week 6 focused on worms. Our book was Diary of a Worm by Doreen Cronin. We were able to make "worm prints" among other crafts. Although I offered jello worms, (colored jello molded in a straw) few of the kids tried them. Wonder why? :)

The program only has two weeks left, although the readers can turn in their readng goal charts any time now for their prize. The last week we'll be having a pajama/dress up party. Kids can come dressed as their favorite bug, or in comfy pajamas.

Here's a slide show of our activities!

Dragonflies, Fireflies, and Bees

2008-06-24T17:20:00.003-05:00

The last two weeks of the summer library program have flown by!

Week 2 we learned about dragonflies and fireflies, ate snacks, and read In Enzo's Spendid Garden by Patricia Polacco.

Week 3, special guest Mr. Gary Reynolds from Concordia came and talked to us about bees and beekeeping. He left strawberry and cinnamon honey snacks for us to enjoy. Mr. Reynolds sells the honey he harvests locally in Concordia and at the Concordia Farmer's Market on Thursday evenings in Concordia.

Enjoy the slide show below!

From the butterfly net - Port Library 2008 SLP "Catch the Reading Bug" - Week 1

2008-06-05T13:37:00.007-05:00

Our first Wednesday program of Port Library 2008 summer library program happened last Wednesday, June 4th. About 31 children attended. 43 are registered. We had activities, snacks, and read "The Bugliest Bug" by Carol Diggory Shields.

One of our activities was a bug-themed mad lib. To read the 4 versions we created, click here. Thanks to volunteer Kathryn Williams for helping the kids create the mad libs.

To view a gallery of pictures from last Wednesday, see the box below. This is in a google slide show, and the pictures may take a little bit to load. Also, to protect privacy, captions will NOT include names. Thanks to volunteer Patrick McGee for taking the pictures.

Several program participants forgot to pick up activity pages or craft projects. These will be kept one week at the library! Also, some participants still need to set their reading goal and pick up reading charts.

I look forward to the next 7 weeks!

Book Notes

2008-05-21T16:16:00.000-05:00

From the desk of the director!

"Book Notes" are a series of talks given by the Port Library director over the radio at our local station, KVSV radio. Printed below are previews of two new books at the Port Library. If you are interested in either book, please call the library at the number listed at the upper left corner of the blog main page.

The 6 Sacred Stones by Matthew Reilly.

The follow-up to Matthew Reilly's the 7 Deadly Wonders manages to be even more over-the-top than its predecessor, no small feat in a series that makes the DaVinci Code seem mighty tame by comparison.
In Reilly's vision, Earth is in peril once more as a voracious Dark Star approaches. The only defence agains Armageddon is an elaborate series of secret rituals involving six diamond pillars spaced around the globe. Enter metal-armed superhero Jack West, Jr., his faithful peregrine falcon Horus, and a ragtag band of adventurers who speed around the world in a black 747 named Halicarnassus, flown by a pilot named Sky Monster.
Whisking readers through wave after wave of nonstop action on a cloud of exuberant improbabilities, Matthew Reilly really makes readers feel like a kid again - and it's a blast!
Teens who say books can't hold a candle to movies or video games need to take a look at The 6 Sacred Stones.

If You Didn't Bring Jerky, What Did I Just Eat? by Bill Heavey

If you have never read or even glanced at Field & Stream...worse yet, if you don't know or care what it is, please stop reading this right now. BUT, if you not only know what it is, but enjoy every page right to the back page, then you'll want to read on.
Bill Heavey has written a humorous column on the back page of this magazine for nearly a decade, but is more than a mere humorist. He also possesses a deep and infectious love f nature, and his writing evokes the pleasures of hunting and fishing as well as their perils. The stories in If You Didn't Bring Jerky, What Did I Just Eat? offer important lessons about 1) why children make perfect decoys; 2) how to cook your brain with hand warmers; 3) why you should always sleep with your your pants on in camp to name a few.
Heavey is a master of blending pathos with humor. We've all been there...outdoor folks or not. If You Didn't Bring Jerky, What Did I Just Eat? is a gem.

Summer Library Programs!

2008-05-21T15:22:00.007-05:00

The Port Library is pleased to announce signups for it's summer library programs are now open, and will run through the 31st, with the exception of the teen program, whose signups will remain open through June. See below for a listing of programs offered this summer, and how to sign up.

Ages 5 Through 5th Grade

Our regular program is for readers age 5 through 5th grade. Program times are Wednesdays from 1-2 PM, from June 4th through July 23rd. The program is free, but parents do need to come to the Port Library to sign their children up. Signups end May 31st. Parents can click here to see a handout with more information and a tenative schedule.

Birth Through Age 5

We also have a program for children ages birth through 5, following the same theme as above. This program is in partnership with Mitchell County Partnership for Children, and will be an at-home program. Parents may come to the library to sign their little readers up through May 31st. Starting the first week in June, parents come to the library once a week to pick up a craft and activity packet, weekly reading chart, and to check out books. The program runs through June 28th. On June 28th, the library will host a special program from Smoky Hills Public Television especially for pre-schoolers. Those who sign up for the Pre-K program will recieve more information.

Teenagers (13 Through Graduated Seniors)

Teens will have their own program starting Thursday, July 3rd. We will meet at the library at or around noon and have pizza, pop, and cookies, talk about books, do a craft, and just hang out. Teens can advise the librarian on additions to the YA section of the library, and get prizes for reading this summer. Teens can stop by the library any time from now until the end of June to sign up. The last Thursday for a free lunch will be July 24th.

For more infomation on any of these programs, please contact the library via the information at the top left of the main blog page.

Story Port Wrap-Up

2008-05-21T13:34:00.007-05:00

The final session of Story Port for spring 2008 ended May 7th. We meet a total of 13 times a semester. Of our 5 participants, we had an average attendance of 10 programs for each child. Below is a short list of what we did for the last 9 programs. The titles link to that book's amazon.com listing. Some activites listed link to an online resource. The pictures are of the librarian's art/craft from the weekly activities.

5. (March 5th) We read Wings: a Tale of Two Chickens by James Marshall. In activity time, we made origami balloons and attached them to a self-drawn picture of a hot-air balloon basket.

6. (March 12th) We read Beauty and the Beaks: a Turkey's Cautionary Tale by Mary Jane and Herm Auch. Our activity page can be accessed by clicking here.

7. (March 19th) We read A Fish Named Spot by Jennifer P. Goldfinger, and made pompon pets, pictured below.
8. (March 26th) We read A Trip to Dinosaur Time by Michael Foreman. We "hatched" dinosaur "eggs" (dinosaur shaped sponges in dissolving capsules), and made sponge print paintings with them, pictured below.
9. (April 2nd) We read Gregory, the Terrible Eater by Mitchell Sharmat. Afterwards, we enjoyed a healthy snack of jello-dipped bananas.

10. (April 9th) We read Grandpa's Teeth by Rod Clement. The children especially enjoyed the windup walking teeth given away, and also colored a picture of an oversized smile, both pictured below.

11. (April 23rd) We read Iva Dunnit and the Big Wind by Carol Purdy and made pinwheels.

12. (April 30th) We read Aunt Minnie and the Twister by Mary Skillings Prigger. Out back, we taped together tornadoes in a bottle, and filled them with water and glitter. Unfortunately they leaked, and I wasn't able to keep the one I made!

13. (May 7th) Our last session! We read Diary of a Fly by Doreen Cronin, and used activities from the publisher's website.

Hurray for Hats!

2008-03-17T13:33:00.004-05:00

The Port Library is pleased to be displaying a selection of hats. These hats are from various members of the community, and are available for viewing in the reading room. The display will run through the end of this week.

Come and See!

2008-03-10T14:52:00.006-05:00

The posters of the revised plan for the new building are now on display at the Port Library!

There are three views: an outside, top-down view, an outside view looking at the front of the proposed building, and a floor plan. All three views are in color and the floor plan has labels. The plans are poster board size and are on display in the reading room of the library, or smaller versions are also viewable through the picture window at the entrance to the library. You may view the plans in the reading room during normal library hours, or through the picture window any time you like.

The vote for this new library plan is Tuesday, April 1st, but advance voting begins Wednesday, March 12th.

If you have questions about the plan, are unsure of our hours, or wonder when to vote, don't hesitate to call the library at 738-3936.

Story Port Activities

2008-02-27T13:30:00.006-06:00

(Don't forget you can click on any underlined text for a weblink to a related webpage. The book titles will take you to their Amazon.com listings, while other links will take you elsewhere. Explore and have fun!)

Story Port has been fun the last few weeks! We have 5 kids signed up this semester. Most of them are around kindergarten age. Here's what we've been doing the last few weeks:

1. The first week we read The Great Turtle Drive by Steve Sanfield. For our activity, we made stained glass turtles by melting crayon shavings between to pieces of wax paper. Here's a couple of pictures:

2. The second week we read Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel by Virginia Lee Burton. The Houghton Mifflin website has wonderful activities posted for use with this book. We used a few of them.

3. The third week we listened to a CD of the author reading Lu and the Swamp Ghost by James Carville. We fingerpainted pictures of our own versions of swamp ghosts. The recipe for fingerpaint was found online and can be made at home from ingredients you probably already have in your cupboard! Here's a picture of my fingerpainting:

4. The fourth week we read The Hungry Thing and The Hungry Thing Returns by Jan Slepian and Ann Seidler. We did an activity page created especially for this book. If you missed this week and would like to have a copy of the activity page, contact the library.

Spring 2008 Session of Story Port

2008-02-04T13:23:00.000-06:00

The Port Library is pleased to offer the spring 2008 session of Story Port. Enrollment is open to kids aged 4 through 5th grade. This free after school reading program is scheduled for Wednesdays from 3:45 to 4:15 PM, starting February 6th, and ending May 7th. Parents may register their children at the Port Library beginning now and through the first session of Story Port.

This semester we will be revisiting some popular classics such as Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel and The Hungry Thing, as well as new picture books like Beauty and the Beaks: A Turkey’s Cautionary Tale, and Diary of a Fly. Parents may pick up a full reading list at registration.

Each Wednesday program will include a reading time with the Youth Services Librarian. Some weeks there will be a craft and activity time, and some weeks a second book will be read. At the end of each program will be an opportunity to check out books with assistance from the librarian. Parents or guardians may stay for the duration of the program and enjoy other services the Port Library has to offer.

To attend Story Port, parents and guardians can register their children in person at the Port Library beginning now and ending February 6th. Or, parents may download the registration form using the link below, and bring the completed registration to the library. At the bottom of the registration form is a printable bookmark with a reading list. The program is limited to 15 participants, and registration status is guaranteed only after a completed form is turned in.

The first program is February 6th, and parents are encouraged to enroll before the start of the first program. If you have any questions, call the Port Library at 738-3936, or stop by 311 W. Main in Beloit.

Spring 2008 Story Port Registration Form