Check out display case at the Beach Library
This Week’s Activities
Preschool Story Hour on Wednesday, Aug. 14, at 10:30 a.m. in the Children’s area.
Growing Orchids in Southwest Florida also on Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. in Community Room.
Apps for iPad/iPhone, Thursday, Aug 15, at 11:30 a.m. Pre-register.
Upcoming
If you want to feel more comfortable about using your desktop and set- up features of your computer, consider the Windows 8 demo and class on August 21. Pre-register.
Journaling has so much offer and enables one to create personal narratives. For pointers and tips, join Anna Withrow on Aug 22, at 10:30 a.m. Pre-register.
You may have heard about the Byron Katie who offers helpful pointers relating to having less stress in one’s life and approach to living. Join the presentation on Aug 23, at 10:30 a.m. to learn more about her step-by-step way to discover how to achieve less stress. Pre-register.
Friend’s Bookstore
The bookstore, operated by the volunteers of the Friends of the Library, has many treasures. We are blessed to receive donations on a daily basis and there are always titles to be found unavailable on one’s last visit. The costs are so minimal that it is a wise practice to stop on a regular basis. We are glad if you do so too, as the proceeds from the sales enable the library to do projects beyond the regular budget.
Note that all staff that assist in the bookstore are volunteers. Anything you can do to make their time more pleasurable is also appreciated.
He Isn’t Reading
“He isn’t reading with his grade level and never wants to read.” Sound familiar? Helping a child to read is priceless. If you have a child or know of a friend’s child who is in this situation, consider these resources:
Look into unabridged audiobooks, e.g. “Joe Sherlock, kid detective” (CD J M KEA) or “The End” (CD J SNI). The fact that they are unabridged means the child can read along. Allowing a child to listen and read along to a book that would normally be too much of a challenge for them can help build confidence. To a young person intimated by books, instilling confidence can be half the battle. This practice also allows kids to read books that are at or even above their reading level, which exposes them to a higher-level vocabulary. This week I spoke with a gentleman in his 20s who indicated that he would likely not be reading today had he not gotten into audiobooks at age 12. It spurred his interest and when reading became less of a chore, it added to his perspective of himself and his world. Quite a tribute if one thinks of it!
Another recommendation is to consider a graphic novel, as they can be a valuable tool for creating an insatiable reader. Today, graphic novels tell complex stories that can rival traditional novels. At their core, both media accomplish the same thing: storytelling. Graphic novels are a less intimidating medium for a challenged reader and will allow them to explore more ambitious narratives. Again, this will build confidence. In the catalog, type in “graphic novels” and you’ll get a list of 200 titles to get started.
While I have highlighted the value of audiobooks and graphic novels for children, there is also value for adults. More seniors could be stimulated by listening to audiobooks when eyes are tired or not seeing as well, or get into a story by seeing graphics with the variation it provides.
ALA
The annual American Library Association days went very quickly as is usually true when there’s lots of excitement. On the last day of the convention we listened to two-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Janis Ian. She made clear to us that “Libraries and librarians saved my life, truly, and I would not be the person, or writer, I am without them.” She received the 2013 Grammy for Best Spoken Word Album. This fall she will be coming out with a children’s book, “The Tiny Mouse,” which is built around her song by the same name. We are getting a new copy of her autobiography “Society’s Child,” which you can put on hold and enjoy soon.
Smokers
We appreciate that you do not smoke anywhere on the library grounds. A few people are discourteous now and then, smoking from or to their vehicle or in the parking garage. This is unnecessary. Please go to the sidewalk on Estero Blvd, walk in the direction of traffic and smoke there.
Displays
All three cases on the second floor are in full array with respective collections. If you have not lingered in seeing them in the last two weeks, consider making time to do so.
Have you been an avid collector of particular artifacts or collectibles on a theme or subject that gives you passion and excitement? We would consider offering the opportunity to put your collection on display for a month or more.
Library Hours
When you call 765-8162 or 765-8163 during closed hours, a message gives the open hours. Summer open hours are Monday andWednesday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9 to 5; and Saturday 9 to 1.