Vote for Family Night Movies for July

We plan to show movies you choose on Facebook on the three Thursdays for Family Nights.  Dates for movies are July 11, 18, and 25 at 5:30pm.  They will take place in the Cardinal Room.  Bring the whole family!  Vote for your favorite movies from the choices on Facebook.  We'll show what the popular vote says you want!

KCG

Older Children's Program Tomorrow -- Please Register

For tomorrow's program "Dig In! Guests Galore", please register your school-aged child on the APL website or call 641-2448 and we will register your child.  We will have Nan Hodge from Master Gardeners who will be visiting and children will make a design on a paver for a garden or yard.  We will often have a special guest on Wednesdays exploring different themes that tie into our Summer Reading theme -- "Dig In, Read".  Each session there will be a snack!  Please note that the attendees must be between the ages of 6 years and 12 years old.
KCG

Our Summer Reading Kickoff is today at 1:00 PM!

Come in out of the rain and kick off Summer Reading in style!  Bring the whole family to celebrate the beginning of Summer Reading!  We will have Pixar "shorts" (short cartoons) playing, and surprises in our Cardinal Room on the third floor.

KCG

Lapel's Summer Reading Sneak Preview is tonight!

It's here!  5:30PM - 6:30PM at our Lapel Branch!

Join us for a Summer Reading Sneak Preview!  Be sure to sign up for our reading program to get a head start on all the fun!  Bring the whole family to enjoy an interactive magic show by Abracadabra.
Hope to see you all there!

KCG

Family Literacy Night Tomorrow has Spaces Open!

You and your family can still sign up for April 10th's Family Literacy Night!  Just give us a call at 641-2448 and we will be happy to sign you up!  Free dinner, activities, and books!

KCG

Spring Break Toddler / Preschool Play Dates

The week of Spring Break come with your Toddler or Preschooler to the "Park" in the Children's Department to play.  Visit while they play!

Come in with your 2 to 5 year old to the Story Hour Room to join in the fun!  There are two dates to choose from:

Tuesday, April 2 @ 10:30am

Wednesday, April 3 @ 10:30am

Please note:  This takes the place of the regularly scheduled Toddler Tango and Preschool Promenade programs.

KCG

Next Week is Spring Break for Anderson Schools!

Spring Break Fun!  for 6-12 years old

While you’re out on Spring Break, why not come in for a taste of Summer!  We will have something to do each day.

Monday, April 1

     2:00-3:00pm Joke Writing in the Children’s Department

Tuesday, April 2

     2:00-3:00pm Board Games in the Children’s Department

Wednesday, April 3

     2:00-3:00pm Paper Puzzles in the Children’s Department

Thursday, April 4

     2:00-3:45pm Movie

     Wreck it Ralph, Rated PG, 101 minutes c2012, in our new Cardinal Room

Friday, April 5

     2:00-3:00pm Craft in the Children’s Department

LAPEL Spring Break Fun!  for 6-12 years old

Wednesday, April 3   2:00-3:00pm   Bored?! Need something to do? Join us at the library for games and a craft.

KCG

Snow Cancellation of Family Literacy Night

Due to inclement weather we are cancelling Family Literacy Night tonight! We hope to catch some who would like to attend in Lapel on March 19!

KCG

Preschool Promenade returns!

Our weekly Preschool Promenade program begins at 12:30PM today in the new Cardinal Room on the third floor of the library.  Hope to see you then!

KCG

Toddler Tango is back!

Our weekly Toddler Tango program begins at 10:30AM in the brand new Cardinal Room on the third floor of the library.  Can't wait to see you there!

KCG

Winter Family Fun Night is tonight!

Come one, come all, to our first competition!
Tonight is our first Winter Family Fun Night, and it is a hat making contest!
Show up at 6:00pm so you can join a team for the hat making competition, there will be prizes!
Bundle up the whole family and join us for a fun night out!

KCG

There's Snow Place Like Your Library!

School is closed a little early for Winter Break, eh?  Why not stop by and see us!
When school is closed due to weather and the library is open, stop in for a little fun, especially for school aged children.  We will have puzzles, games, or other activities.  Some things will be available while supplies last, so it is first come first served.
Come in today to make a paper pinata that will hang on our wall in the entryway to the department.  Color, cut out, fun!

KCG

Tonight is Santa!

Holly Jolly Day is here!
Come and visit this evening beginning at 6:00pm in this open house style event!  It lasts until 7:30pm.  Come and go as you please!
Make Christmas crafts
Sing songs of the season
Stop by to visit with Santa and friends
See you there!

KCG

Holly Jolly Day This Thursday!

Join us Thursday, the 13th, for Holly Jolly Day!
We will begin at 6:00pm and wrap up at 7:30pm.

Join us for holiday fun in an open house style event!

• Make Christmas crafts
• Sing songs of the season
• Stop by to visit with Santa and friends

We hope to see you there!

KCG

This coming week promises to be an exciting one for Children's Services!  Check out our list of fun activities!

Tuesday, December 4

• The 4th Annual Toddler Tango/Preschool Promenade Holiday Special, for 2 to 5 year olds.
• Enjoy holiday stories and songs
• Make a festive keepsake
• Be entertained by Martha and the Elves
• Roll out some play dough cookies
• Snack on yum-yums
• Our bearded friend from the North will visit, too!
• The fun starts at 10:30am!
• Holly Jolly Day @ Lapel Branch Library
• Join us for holiday fun in an open house style event!
• Make a Christmas craft
• Sing songs of the season
• Stop by to visit with Santa and friends

Wednesday, December 5

• The 4th Annual Toddler Tango/Preschool Promenade Holiday Special, for 2 to 5 year olds.
• (A repeat of Tuesday's event!)

Friday, December 7

• Winterfest
• Downtown Anderson's 17th Annual kick-off to the holiday season
• Drop by the library to get warm
• Pick up some holiday reading
• Stop by Children's Services to get a free children's book for each child
• Get a holiday sticker and bookmark
• Hot chocolate
• (All items are while supplies last)

KCG

It's December 1st!

December 1st already!  We have been busy decorating the Children's Department!  If you haven't seen us in awhile, stop by for a visit!

KCG

Fiftieth Anniversary Circle of Lights Contests

The Circle of Lights is a holiday tradition.  More than 100,000 spectators are expected.   Live entertainment begins at 6 pm, with the TV show running 7:00- 8:00 pm.   Performers will share the stage with Indianapolis native Angela Brown.  The Indiana Soldiers and Sailors Monument will be lit and Santa will make his first appearance on Friday, November 23!

 

For over 20 years the Circle of Lights Coloring Contest has given one young winner, age 12 or under, the opportunity to "flip the switch" on the thousands of lights strung on the Monument.   Kids are invited to decorate an official coloring sheet.  One lucky winner will appear on stage at the Circle of Lights with Santa and receive a t-shirt and their coloring entry framed.

There is also a brand new Essay Contest for teens ages 13-18 years.  Those who submit an essay will be entered to win one of three $1,000 college savings accounts.  Entries will be judged by a panel of Circle of Lights partner organization representatives.

Entry forms can be found at any Quality Connection contractor office or Indiana Members Credit Union location, or may be printed from www.qc-indy.com. Coloring and Essay Contests entries must be received by 3 pm on Tuesday, November 13.
The Coloring Contest winner will be contacted November 16.

KCG 

Homework Tips on Kids.gov

To help children with homework and projects, check out Kids.gov

This website from the government is for children grades K through 8. Children aren't the only ones who will find it useful, however. Parents/caregivers and teachers can use the site in the following ways:

·         Homework help

·         Lesson plan access

·         Fun, educational games and more

Kids.gov is safe and free, so there is no worry about kids seeing inappropriate things while they explore the site.

If you've visited the site before, you will notice that it has been redesigned. The updated Kids.gov provides areas for 3 audiences:

·         Grades K-5, known as Kids

·         Grades 6-8, known as Teens

·         Grown-ups (teachers and parents)

 

Enjoy exploring all that Kids.gov has to offer, including:

·         How to Become President of the US

·         Videos Featuring Fascinating Careers

 

Make homework more pain-free, courtesy of the U.S. Government!

 

KCG

 

National Reading/Writing Contest -- Letters About Literature

Letters About Literature is an annual contest that is open to legal U.S. residents enrolled as a student in grades 4 -10 during 2012/2013 school year.  Entry forms can be found on the Indiana Center for the Book's website.  This reading/writing competition is sponsored by the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress and Target stores.

Entrants are to write a letter to an author, current or past, tellling how the author's work changed the way of thinking on the part of the student.   The author may work in any genre, which includes:

• Fiction
• Nonfiction
• Contemporary
• Classic, etc.

State contest winners will receive a cash award, plaque, and book from the Indiana Center for the Book at a Spring awards ceremony.  First-place winners advance to a national level competition and are eligible for $1,000 grand prize!  There are runner-up cash prizes.  Entries must be postmarked by January 11, 2013 for consideration.

Visit www.centerforthebook.org for contest updates as well as valuable teaching materials such as:

• lesson plans
• writing samples
• assessment checklists
• teacher tips

KCG

Library Card Sign-Up Month Almost Over!

Library Card Sign-Up Month is almost over?!?
Did you get a card yet?   They're free for most people living in Anderson!
Remember, once a child is born he/she is eligible to request a card!

• Parents/Guardians must co-sign for children.
• Students who are enrolled in ACS, APA, or Frankton-Lapel Schools are eligible for a card.
• Students in any non-public school located in the library district and homeschool students who reside in unserved areas of Madison County, may, with parental signature, be issued a student card at no charge.
• Proof of current enrollment in ACS, APA, FLSC schools, or any non-public school located in the library district such as a report card or mail from the school to the student from current school year, is required.
• Parent/Guardian must provide current photo identification and paper indicating current residential address. Parent or guardian identification also applies to homeschool students.
• All student cards and school personnel cards expire before the start of the following school year.

Also, replacement cards are just $2.00! Come up and get one today!
KCG

Library Card Sign-Up Month

Did you know September is Library Card Sign-Up Month? Do you have your card? They're free for most people living in Anderson!
Facts about children's cards:

• Once a child is born he/she is eligible to request a card!
• Parents/Guardians must co-sign for children.
• Students who are enrolled in ACS, APA, or Frankton-Lapel Schools are eligible for a card.
• Students in any non-public school located in the library district and homeschool students who reside in unserved areas of Madison County, may, with parental signature, be issued a student card at no charge.
• Proof of current enrollment in ACS, APA, FLSC schools, or any non-public school located in the library district such as a report card or mail from the school to the student from current school year, is required.
• Parent/Guardian must provide current photo identification and paper indicating current residential address. Parent or guardian identification also applies to homeschool students.
• All student cards and school personnel cards expire before the start of the following school year.

Also, replacement cards are just $2.00! Come up and get one today!

KCG

Statehood Day Essay Contest for Fourth Graders

The statewide "What Indiana Means to Me" Essay Contest for fourth graders is now accepting entries. The contest is sponsored by the Indiana State House Tour Office and the Indiana Center for the Book. The contest is held in conjunction with Indiana Statehood Day.
Who is eligible to enter:

• Any public fourth-grade student in the state of Indiana
• Any private schooled fourth-grade student in Indiana
• Any homeschooled fourth-grade student in Indiana

Other eligibility guidelines:

• Make the essay 100 to 400 words
• It may be handwritten or typed

All essays must be postmarked by October 29th, 2012. Contest finalists will be asked to read the essay at the Statehood Day Celebration on December 11, 2012. More contest information can be found at http://www.in.gov/library/statehood.htm
Groups or schools interested in attending Statehood Day at the Indiana Statehouse, contact Jennifer Hodge in the Statehouse Tour Office at 317-233-5293 or jhodge@idoa.in.gov.

KCG

Time to Collect Prizes!

The Summer Reading Program is officially over. There is still time to come and collect reading prizes, though! Now through August 13th!

KCG

Last Day to Enter Minutes on Summer Reading Program

Today is the last day minutes can be put into the online Summer Reading program! You can still collect prizes through August 13.

KCG

Let's Move Initiative for Healthy Lifestyles

Fruits and veggies are just one piece of the puzzle that brings about a healthy lifestyle. Another part is physical activity and “Let’s move!” is a nationwide initiative designed to fight childhood obesity and promote a healthy lifestyle for all.

Here are some ideas on how to live healthier:

Eat five fruits and vegetables every day for essential vitamins and to help you manage your weight. Mix them with other foods to get children to eat them.

• Add broccoli to rice, or vegetables to a sandwich.
• Blend them to make a nutritious, flavorful and natural juice.

Eat foods that are low in fat and sugar.

• Try low-fat milk, yogurt and cheese, as well as cereals low in sugar.
• Bake or grill instead of frying. If you fry food, use vegetable or olive oil instead of lard or butter.

Serve healthy snacks.

• Cut up carrots, strawberries or apples.
• Tell children to ask permission before eating a snack. That way it will be easier for you to decide how much sugar they eat.

Keep an eye on portion sizes. Avoid overeating by serving smaller portions. If children want more, they can ask for seconds. Avoid making them eat everything if are full.

Turn the TV off! Children should be moderately active one hour a day.

• Go to the park
• Ride a bike
• Run or walk

Get enough sleep. A study found that with children getting enough sleep can help to maintain proper weight. Keep in mind:

• Children five years or younger need 11 hours of sleep each day.
• Children 5 to 10 years need 10 hours of sleep each day.
• Children over 10 years need 9 hours of sleep.

KCG

Kramer Mobile Planetarium Will be Here Thursday!

APL Children's Department is excited to present shows from the Kramer Edu-tainment Dome! Join us for museum-quality shows in the multi-media mobile planetarium called the Kramer Edu-tainment Dome! People will enter the dome and sit on the floor to look above their heads to see a narrated display. Here are the shows we will have, their times, and their intended audiences:

1:30-2:00 & 4:30-5:00 Saturn, the Ring World II – about the Cassini Mission for all ages (30 minutes)

2:00-2:45 & 5:00-5:45 Secret of the Cardboard Rocket – a ride through space for very young children through grade 2 (20 or 45 minutes)

3:00-3:30 & 6:00-6:30 The Dinosaur Prophecy – where paleontologists show the death of dinosaurs through computer animation for grades K through 4 (30 minutes)

3:30-4:00 Passport to the Universe – see the universe outside of our solar system as narrated by actor Tom Hanks, geared towards grades 3 through 8 (30 minutes)

4:00-4:30 & 6:30-7:00 Night of the Titanic – puts you on the deck of the Titanic the evening of her demise, recommended for grades 5 through 8 (25 minutes)

KCG

4 Reasons to Visit the Library This Summer!

Since it has been so hot out, USA.gov has a list of fun things to at the library! Access to the library is easy and mostly free.

1) Digital books and ebooks. Many libraries offer ebooks which you can borrow for a certain time free of charge. You can check out ebooks the same way as you do regular books, except you need an electronic device (ereader). Besides print and digital books, you can also download audiobooks, music and videos. You can access many of these services online from your home. Check out the new eSEBCO books from the Children's Department!

2) Information in many languages. Be sure to check out the collections of books and music in languages other than English for adults and children. You can also find Rocket Languages on our website!

3) Programs and events for the whole family. We organize different types of programs and cultural events. We offer our Summer Reading Program for people of all ages, including stories for children, fun and educational games, activities, and more.

4) Specialized resources. For many people, the Internet is a necessity. We have a computer lab for people who do not have computers. We also have skilled professionals who can help you find what you’re looking for. They can recommend resources for practically anything! We offer computer classes and job search databases, too!

KCG

Tee-shirts are Being Given Away Like Candy!

The Summer Reading tee-shirts are showing up around town on children in every size! If you have not signed up for the Summer Reading program, be sure to come in soon! The program runs through the end of July. We'll be happy to have you join us!

KCG

First Family Fun Night is Tonight -- Snakehead Ed!

Snakehead Ed is returning with his slithering friends! He will be at Lapel Branch at 2PM. He will repeat his show at Main at 6PM. It is always a fun time at the library when animals visit! Bring the whole family and sit in the air conditioning for an hour!

KCG

Father's Day Fun

Check out the the Indiana Fathers and Families website contains information and resources for fathers and how their involvement affects not only their children, but also their communities at:
http://www.in.gov/dcs/2461.htm
More resources and research about fathers can found on:
http://fathers.com/
And there is even more information on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Promoting Responsible Fatherhood at:
http://fatherhood.hhs.gov/
For tips on being a good father, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services has created the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse, a great source of tips, anecdotes, and encouragement for fathers. Find it at:
http://www.fatherhood.gov/
Be sure to sign the Fatherhood Pledge to receive updates from leaders and tips on mentoring.
Finally, Indiana Dad's Expo can be found at:
http://www.indianadadsexpo.com/

However you spend it, Happy Father’s Day!

KCG

Enter the Get to Know Contest

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is having a “Get to Know Contest”. This is the first time for this contest and it will be open to children across the US. The idea behind the contest is to use art to help children feel connected to nature. Children ages 19 and under are eligible to enter the contest until July 16. You enter by submitting one of the following original works inspired by nature:

• Art
• Writing
• Photography
• Video
• Music

All youth are invited to Connect, Create, and Celebrate with the Get to Know Contest!

Entries can be submitted online at http://www.get-to-know.org/contest/us/ between now and July 16th, 2012. More information about the contest or Get to Know Program is available by contacting Mary Krupa-Clark at mclark@gettoknow.ca or call (250) 980-3969.

Partners of the contest in the US are:

• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
• U.S. Forest Service
• National Wildlife Federation
• National Recreation and Park Association
• Association of Zoos and Aquariums
• Wildlife Habitat Council
• Wildlife Forever
• Outdoor Afro
• Get to Know Program

KCG

Let's Go Outside program

Do you love the outdoors?  The US Fish and Wildlife Service has a great webpage for outdoor activities to do!  Their "Let’s Go Outside!" page has information about how good going outside is for the body, too.  You can find the site here http://www.fws.gov/letsgooutside/educators.html
There is a section of the site for lots of different people:

• Kids
• Families
• Educators
• Youth Group Leaders

Check out the Book of Stuff!  Here is a place where kids can learn:

• How to match animal tracks
• Create a leaf rubbing
• Go on a scavenger hunt

For families there is Conservation at Home, and for youth group leaders tips on planning an event.

 Check to see it there's anything going on in your area on the National Wildlife Refuge Events page.  You could even decide to make a trip up to Michigan for Children’s Fishing Day!  Summer plans should include the outdoors, so don’t miss this website!

 

KCG

Gearing Up to Dream Big READ!

The Anderson Public Library Children's staff has finished going to local schools to promote the Summer Reading Program, Dream Big READ!  We would like to thank these schools for inviting us to spread the word on the program:

• Anderson Christian
• Anderson Elementary
• Anderson Preparatory Academy
• East Side Intermediate
• Erskine Elementary
• Liberty Christian
• St. Ambrose
• St. Mary
• 10th Street Elementary
• Valley Grove Elementary

Thank you!


KCG

Anderson's Earth Day-ArborFest

The 2012 celebration for Earth Day-ArborFest will be Saturday, April 28, at Shadyside Memorial Park. The hours are 11:00am to 3pm. This is a family-friendly event! For further information go to the Earth Day-ArborFest web site http://www.mccog.net/Earthday_Arborfest/Home.html, or call 648-6853.

KCG

Recycled Runway!

For Anderson's Earth Day-ArborFest show your creativity in the fashion world! From 2:00 to 3:00pm, on Saturday, April 28, at Shadyside Memorial Park, all students and adults are invited to turn trash to treasure! All outfits must be from recycled or re-purposed materials. There will be one prize awarded to each category. All entires must be submitted to the Urban Forestry Office no later than Friday, April 20. All designs must be approved and given a time to be on the runway. Three guest judges will judge all entries. For more information email questions to tdoty@cityofanderson.com or call 648-6853.
Let the creativity begin!

KCG

What INSPIREs You Contest

The Indiana Center for the Books is accepting essay entries for "What INSPIREs You?" INSPIRE, Indiana's Virtual Library, is an online database for Hoosiers that is available 24 hours a day! Students of all ages may use INSPIRE to connect to reliable information from journals, encyclopedias, newspapers, and much more. The essay contest has three levels for Indiana residents, including grades 3 though 6! Winners will be notified by April 30. Complete contest rules and an entry form may be found at www.in.gov.library/essay.htm.
Entries must be postmarked by April 20, 2012.

KCG

Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana Authors Award

The fourth annual award entries need to be in by Friday, March 23. A panel from the state will select from nominations given by the public.
Who is eligible?
A living published writer who was born in Indiana.
A living published writer who has lived in Indiana for at least 5 years.
Categories
National Author
Regional Author
Emerging Author
Winners recieve a cash prize of up to $10,000. They will also be able to appoint their hometown public library as recipient of a $2,500 grant.
For more information visit indianaauthorsaward.org

KCG

If Your Family Needs Assistance with Basic Necessities

Although the economy is making a recovery, many may need help with the basic things in life. The Indiana State Department of Health's Indiana Family Helpline is a statewide referral program. It began in 1988 through the State Department of Health's Maternal and Child Health Division.
The Indiana Family Helpline has a network of services. This is accomplished through:

• Local communities
• State agencies
• Organizations
• Individuals providing health care and other services

The Helpline also offers information on resources such as the following:

• Clothing
• Food
• Housing
• Job Training
• Emergency shelter
• Substance abuse programs

For more information visit the website http://www.in.gov/isdh/21047.htm

KCG

Family Fun Night Thursday, January 12!

Join us for fun for everyone in the family!

Family Fun Night -- Movie with Snacks
Story Hour Room; 6pm
We will be showing Kung Fu Panda 2: The Kaboom of Doom and have popcorn and drinks. Kung Fu Panda 2 is an animated feature with voices by Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, and Jackie Chan. It is Rated PG; 90 minutes; 2011
Paramount Pictures/DreamWorks Animation; Directed by Jennifer Yu

See you there!

KCG

Indiana Department of Education has Updated Website

Have you been to the Indiana DOE website lately? It has been completely changed!
It is now touted as being more user friendly. There are four main menus:

• Outreach



• Achievement and Growth



• Innovation and Improvement



• Support

Also, there is a new "Trending Now" part of the site to clue people in to what others are looking at. There is a video gallery and an online calendar that has events you can search. See the updated site at
http://www2.doe.in.gov/

Since some of us are better at adapting to change than others, there is a way to view the site as it used to look by going to http://www.doe.in.gov/

KCG

Inexpensive Internet Access for Students

The Muncie Star Press recently had a story on how students on the free lunch program could be eligible for inexpensive Internet access through Comcast. See the whole story at this link:

http://www.thestarpress.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2011112120324

KCG

Holly Jolly Day at Anderson Public Library

It's the time of the year when you may see that man in red! So that means Holly Jolly Day is returning to APL's Children's Department!

• This year we have a real reindeer and other arctic animals coming with Silly Safari!


• Santa will be here!


• Take home a craft!


• 6pm in the Children's Department on Thursday, December 8

Bring the whole family for a night of fun! For ages 0-12 years and their families!

KCG

MyPlate Information (Formerly My Pyramid)

The USDA recently changed the food pyramid to a plate design. Have you taken a look at it?
There is also a video challenge to enter! There are three categories:

• Tips for Kids


• Tips When Eating at Home


• Tips When Eating Away from Home

Go to http://www.choosemyplate.gov/ for more information.
You could vote on the video you like best. There are even cash prizes!

KCG

It's Time to Fall Back!

This Sunday, November 6, remember to turn your clocks back one hour! It's time for Daylight Saving Time!

KCG

Pottermore has a Store!

Have you heard of Pottermore? It is an online space created for Harry Potter fans. You can go on it and wander in Harry's world online! You can also download ebooks. The site is in English, French, German, and even Spanish! Author JK Rowling wanted to give something more to the fans of Harry and the gang. If you want to know everything there is to know about Harry and Hogwarts, go to Pottermore!
See JK Rowling announce Pottermore on Youtube at http://www.youtube.com/jkrowlingannounces

KCG

Trick or Treat Hours in Anderson

Monday, 5:30pm to 8:30pm the trick or treating will be going on in Anderson. Be sure to watch for the children if you are driving!
The Children's Department will have treat bags from our recent Fall Fiesta to give out. There are several, but it will be first come, first served until they are gone. We will begin giving these out at 4:30pm, to not miss the children going out in their neighborhoods at 5:30.
Have a safe and happy Halloween!

KCG

Halloween Safety Tips

You can find lots of great things on Halloween on the government website

http://www.use.gov/Topics/Halloween.shtml

Look through pages on Halloween Safety, History and Facts, Recipes, and Fun!
Have a Happy Halloween!

KCG

We're on Facebook!

Did you know we are using social media in the Children's Department now? It's true! We are on Facebook! Look for us under Children's Department at Anderson Public Library. Like us or be our friend!

KCG

Fall Fiesta This Week!

Tuesday, October 18, 5:30-6:30pm at the Lapel Branch Library, Second Floor
Thursday, October 20, 6:00-7:30pm at the Main Library, Children's Department
Join us for fall fun! Enjoy stories, songs, and Science Geeks Library Style.

At Lapel -- from 5:30-6:00pm, listen to stories, sing songs, and watch spook-tacular science experiments! Then from 6:00-6:30pm play games or make a craft!

At the Main Library -- from 6:00-6:30pm, listen to stories, sing songs, and watch spook-tacular science experiments! Then from 6:30-7:30pm, children may choose two activities from games and crafts.

KCG

New Event Celebrates Science!

Do you like science? Then you will want to attend the first ever Celebrate Science Indiana, also known as CSI. Here are some highlights:

• Free admission to the event


• For families, friends, neighbors, and anyone interested in science fun


• Activities and presentations


• At the Indiana State Fairgrounds on Saturday, October 8, 2011, from 8am to 5pm


• Parking is $3.00

For more information, visit www.celebratescienceindiana.org

KCG

Get Ready Day, September 20th

Do you know about Get Ready Day? The American Public Health Association (APHA) has put together information on your family can be prepared in case of an emergency. Get Ready Day is Tuesday, September 20. Find out more information at

http://www.getreadyforflu.org/newsite.htm

There is a Kids section on their website. It has

• Games and Puzzles


• A Kid's Guide to Pandemic Flu


• Fun Links


• Family Checklist

It never hurts to be prepared!

KCG

Let's Go Lego!

The first session of the after school program, "Let's Go Lego", is tomorrow at 4:30pm. It will take place in the Story Hour Room in the Children's Department. It is for school age children 6-12 years old. There will be challenges and you could win a prize for completing the tasks!
Join us!

KCG

Calling All 4th Graders! Enter the Statehood Day Essay Contest

Indiana will be 195 years old this year, and all 4th graders can enter the Statehood Day Essay Contest! The essay is titled "What Indiana Means to Me". The Indiana State House Tour Office and the Indiana Center for the Book are supporting this contest.

Winners are honored at the Statehood Day Celebration on Friday, December 9, 2011. It will take place at the Indiana State House, 12-1PM.

Any Indiana fourth grade student may enter -- whether public, private or home schooled. Write an essay explaining what living in Indiana means to you. Your essay must be 100 to 400 words in length. For the contest guidelines visit www.in.gov/library/statehood/htm

Good luck! Essays must be mailed by October 28, 2011.

KCG

Back-to-School Bash is tomorrow night!

Come join us for the second annual Back-to-School Bash! It will be in the Children's Department from 6-7pm. Here are some highlights:

• A balloon twister here from 5:30-7:30pm


• School supplies will be given away while they last


• Games and prizes


• A sneak peak at the older children's programming for Fall

Bring the whole family to join us for all the fun!

KCG

Teresa's Bone Design

KCG

Victoria D's Bone Design

KCG

Victoria's Bone Design

KCG

Another Bone Design

Conner came in the other evening and put the bones into his own design. Take a look!

KCG

Only Two and a Half Weeks Left!

The Summer Reading Program is starting to wind down a little -- a good time for you to sign up!
We still have three more Family Fun Nights coming up, and two more Family Movies as well! Plus, we're air conditioned!!! We look forward to having you visit soon!

KCG

Family Fun Nights Have Just Begun!

There is a polka dance going on on the library's third floor! How fun! Next week's Family Fun Night will be Snakehead Ed. Be sure to join us at 6pm on Thursday, July 14!

KCG

Katie's Bone Design

KCG

Anna's Bone Design

KCG

"A Bone to Pick in France" Display

Have you come up to see the displays we have up for summer? We actually have one for each continent (that's 7 altogether)! The display for Europe is "A Bone to Pick in France" and there are plastic bones under the table! We recently had the pleasure of a couple of young ladies coming in and making designs with the bones. We are hoping for more young people to come in and try making a little ghastly fun -- so consider this an invitiation!

KCG

We've Moved Some Things Around!

When you return to the Children's Department you may find things in a different arrangement than before!
We recently moved the LeapFrog Tag sets and the new Playaway Views to the front of the department, across from the lab. The Children's music CDs are snuggled up next to them. To the right of the Playaway Views are the (regular) Playaways. Next come the books with CD and then the audiobooks. After the audiobooks are the fiction books. Last, by the windows, is the Easy Readers.
If you are not familiar with some of these materials, we will be happy to show them to you!

KCG

Smooth Takeoff for Summer Reading!

Some facts about this year's Summer Reading Program One World, Many Stories

596 children have signed up for Summer Reading the first week!
You don't have to come into the library to sign up, just logon to any computer!
There was a fabulous kickoff with a balloon twister, snacks, and crafts. Over 100 people came to it!
We had 21 come to the first Boogie Woogie Babies program!
We had 17 come to our first Family Movie!
The whole family can be in on the fun, with our Teen program and our Adult program!

There's a lot of reading going on, but since it's just the end of the first week, don't be shy! Sign up today!

KCG

Gearing Up for Summer Reading!

Things are changing in the Children's Department -- come and see!
We are currently decorating for the Summer Reading Program. This year's theme is "One World, Many Stories". Displays will include the seven continents. Airplanes, flags, and dragons are in the air! It's a must-see for the whole family!
Kickoffs are coming up June 1 and 4!

KCG

Enter the Wimpy Kid Contest

Do you doodle like Greg Heffley? Why not enter The Wimpy Kid Do-It-Yourself Comics Contest? The contest ends Friday, June 10. You could win a copy of the new "Do-It-Yourself Book", $500, and $1,000 for the library you choose to get the money! Kids 6 to 16 years old can enter. Create an original comic and send it in! Only one person can create the comic (no pairs of kids, etc.).
For more information visit http://www.wimpykid.com/contest/

KCG

Our Weekly Programs Have Ended, But...

We have officially ended our weekly programs. However, we still are abuzz in the Chlidren's Department as we prepare to go out to schools in May to promote our Summer Reading Program! Come in once a week and see how things progress as we decorate!

KCG

National Library Week Mad Libs

This week is National Library Week! Celebrate by coming up to the Children's Department each day and getting a Mad Lib. Thse crazy stories are famous fairy tales with words missing. Family and friends can fill in the blanks. Read it out loud for a funny story everyone will laugh about! The Mad Libs will be available until Saturday, April 16. KCG

Fun for Spring Break!

The YMCA of Madison County is offering free swimming lessons during Spring Break week (April 4 through April 8). Sounds like fun! You may contact them at 644-7796.

KCG

Thank you for all the great entries!

Thank you for all the Wonderful entries for the bookmark contest! Look for the winning designs at Main library and Lapel branch desks during National Library Week. This year it will be April 10 through 16. Don't forget to visit us for National Library Week's theme "Create a Story @ Your Library".
Speaking of National Library Week, there will be mad lib games to collect each day that week! Also, there will be a fairytale writing center to create your own fairytale.
Let the judging begin, and we hope to see you for National Library Week!

KCG

Wild and Wacky Spring Break

Haven't we had wacky weather this Winter? Why not celebrate the end of all the snow with Spring Break activities! There will be something different to do each day for ages 6 to 12.

• Monday, April 4 - Word Wizardry
• Tuesday, April 5 - Games
• Wednesday, April 6 - Movie
• Thursday, April 7 - Crafts
• Friday, April 8 - Party

Stop by soon to get a flyer outlining more about each day, or give us a call at 641-2448.

KCG

National Library Week Bookmark Contest

National Library Week is coming soon! It is April 10 through 16 and the theme is "Create Your Own Story @ Your Library". As a way to celebrate, Anderson Public Library is having a Bookmark Contest for all ages!

To enter, simply come into the library and pick up an entry form or print one from your computer by visiting www.andersonlibrary.net
There is a template on the form, and the designs must fit within that template. Designs need to focus on the theme, reading, or books.
Winners will be chosen in five age categories. For children the categories are:

• ages 0-4 years
• 5-8 years
• 9-12 years

Winning designs will be based on the following:

• creativity
• appropriateness of message
• ability to be reproduced as a bookmark

Winning designs will be displayed during National Library Week at all library locations. See an entry form for a complete list of rules. Entries are due by 5pm on Friday, March 11.
Have the whole family enter the contest as a fun family activity!

KCG

Black History Month Fun

Are you looking for something fun for Black History Month? We have many resources in the Children's Department for your review. Why not try these websites!

http://fun.familyeducation.com/black-history-month/holidays/32871.html
http://www.readingrockets.org/calendar/blackhistory
http://www.thehomeschoolmom.com/schoolroom/blackhistory.php

KCG

Black History Month Challenge

Enter the Black History Month Challenge!

The Indiana Historical Society and the Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library invites students and families to investigate the contributions made by African-Americans in Indiana. This year the focus is on rural communities. Take the challenge through February 28 by visiting
www.indianahistory.org/challenge

The first 5,000 entrants to the challenge will be awarded a pair of tickets to the Indiana Experience at the History Center. Answer 10 on the challenge correctly and be entered into a grand prize drawing! The grand prize includes:

• An overnight at the Omni Severin Hotel in downtown Indy
• An Indiana Historical Society household membership
• A $25.00 gift certificate to Weber Grill
• Four tickets to special exhibitions at the Indianapolis Museum of Art

For more information call 317-232-1882 or visit www.indianahistory.org

This program is brought to you by Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library, Indianapolis Indians, Printing Partners, and Indianapolis Downtown, Inc.

KCG

Family Fun Night This Thursday!

Do you have the Winter blahs? Visit us Thursday evening at 6pm for Family Fun Night! We will celebrate with balloon twisting and giant games. Bring the whole family! We hope to see you there!

KCG

Essay Contest for grades 4 through 12 -- Prizes, too!

The Indiana Family of Farmers and the Indiana Humanities Council are sponsoring an essay contest. The essay may be on paper or video! The essay contest is "Our Food, Our Farmers".
In the essay, students need to explain how Indiana agriculture plays a positive role in their lives and in others lives as well. Entires must be received by February 15, 2011.

A winner from each grade level (in each category) will receive a Flip Video Camcorder. The winners will be invited to a presentation at the Indiana Statehouse on March 7, 2011. The overall winner will receive an Apple iPad.

There are two categories of competition:

• video essay
• written essay

There are three grade levels:

• fourth through sixth
• seventh through ninth
• tenth through twelfth

For complete information on the contest, go to www.indianahumanities.org

KCG

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Educational Youth Summit

Keep Dr. King's dream alive! Indiana middle and high school students are invited to the 20th annual statewide Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Educational Youth Summit. The Indiana State Museum will be holding the summit on Thursday, January 13. Schools interested in attending need to register and fax it to the State Museum Call Center at 317-234-2489. For more information about the summit see the Indiana Civil Rights Commission at www.in.gov/icrc/
This summit is hosted by The Indiana Civil Rights Commission and the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Indiana Holiday Commission.

Registration Form www.in.gov/icrc/files/Youth_Summit_Registration_Form(1).pdf

KCG

Christmas Break in Full Swing!

Welcome to Christmas Break! Be sure to stop by and see us in the Children's Department while you are out of school!

However, the library will be closed on these days:

• Christmas Eve
• Christmas
• New Year's Eve
• New Year's Day

Happy Holidays!

KCG

Letters About Literature Reading/Writing Contest

The Indiana Center for the Book and the Library of Congress is partnering with Target stores to bring together a national reading/writing contest.

Letters About Literature Contest

• Students in grades 4 through 12 may enter.
• Write a personal letter to an author (living or dead). The author can write any genre.
• Explain how the author's work changed the student's way of thinking about the world or themselves.
• 3 Competition Levels
• Grades 4 through 6 (I)
• Grades 7 & 8 (II)
• Grades 9 through 12 (III)

State winners receive CASH! Winners are announced in March.
National winners receive prizes and earn LAL Reading Promotion Grants for their school or community library. These winners are announced in April.
More information may be found at www.lettersaboutliterature.org

The entry deadline is December 12, 2010.

KCG

This Week in Children's!

We are going to have a week of holiday celebrations in the Children's Department!

The 2nd annual Toddler Tango Holiday Special will take place on Tuesday, December 7 at 10:30am. If you happen to miss it, come to the repeat program on Wednesday, December 8 at 10:30am. Toddler Tango is for 2 and 3 year olds and their caregivers. The man in red will make a short appearance!

Holly Jolly Day is Thursday, December 9 at 6pm. An event for the whole family! There will be crafts, songs, Santa, and magic holiday fun! See you there and Happy Holidays!

KCG

Upcoming Holiday Fun

We have a couple fun programs coming up soon in the Children's Department!

• Winterfest is 12/3 from 10am to 5pm. Come in and get a candy cane, a holiday sticker, and an activity sheet to take home!
• Toddler Tango Holiday Special is on 12/7 & 12/8 at 10:30am for children 2-3 years old and their caregivers.
• Holly Jolly Day will be 12/9 at 6pm. This event is for the whole family! There will be crafts, songs, Santa, and magic holiday fun!

KCG

Programs Over so Holidays Must be Here!

Children's programming is over for now. While there is a lapse, why not come in and read some holiday books? We still have Movie Mondays going on. Our next movie will be in two weeks (12/6) and is Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore.

KCG

Tomorrow is Going to be a Busy Day!

Anderson Community Schools is officially on Fall Break now, and we have a lot of fun things going on at the library! Fall Fiesta will be tomorrow evening, 6:00pm to 7:30pm. We will have stories and songs at 6:00pm, and then Snakehead Ed's show will be at 6:30pm. At the same time we will have crafts to make and a bingo game for fun prizes!
But that's not all! We also are kicking off Our Heroes' Tree ornament making. Do you have a family member or friend who is serving in a branch of armed services? How about someone who did serve our country in the past? You can honor this person and help others be aware of how the military helps us to lead our lives of freedom. Come to the Children's Department and pick up some shapes to make an ornament. We look forward to seeing you!

KCG

Fall Fiesta is Thursday Evening!

Fall Fiesta is coming up Thursday, October 28, from 6:00 to 7:30pm. Come in and hear stories and sing songs. Then see Snakehead Ed with his snakes in the Story Hour Room OR play a game of bingo and make a craft or two! You may even dress in costume! We hope to see you there!

KCG

Fire Prevention at Funny Friday

Funny Friday will have a different format this week! As usual, Funny Friday will have stories, songs, and activities. But, this week only fire prevention awareness will be part of the storytime! Preschoolers will have the chance to visit the Fire Safety House on the third floor of the library. We look forward to seeing you there!

KCG

It's Beginning to Look Like Fall!

The Children's Department staff have been decorating for Fall! Now we have Halloween books on display for your reading pleasure. Come in and pick some apple books up, too! Let's celebrate! It's Fall!

KCG

Are You a 39 Clues Fan?

Did you hear the exciting news? The last book in the 39 Clues series is due out on shelves on August 31! Book Ten is Into the Gauntlet by Margaret Peterson Haddix. That same day at 4pm a live webcast will be held. All the authors of the 39 Clues series (7 in all) will be part of the webcast. You can take a bigger role by submitting a question at www.the39clue.com/accessgranted
To see even more information, visit http://onourmindsatscholastic.blogspot.com/2010/07/access-granted-39-days-until-final-book.html

KCG

Y-M-C-A!

So much to celebrate! Two of our librarians will be at the YMCA on Saturday, August 21, for their School Supply Giveaway. The giveaway will be from 12 to 4pm. Come visit us for a free book fro each child! See you there!

KCG

Summer Reading is Over, But There is Still Fun to be Had!

Summer Reading is officially over. However, we are going to celebrate going back to school, back to learning, and more reading! Join us on Thursday, August 12, for the Back to School Bash! It takes place 6:00 to 7:30pm in the Children's Department on the second floor of the library. There will be door prizes, a craft, games, a snack, and a paperback book for each child! Dr. Chow of Anderson Community Schools will be there, as well as other school personnel you may know. Bring the whole family!

KCG

Less Than One Week Left to Complete the Summer Reading Program!

Less than one week is left to enter minutes read into the computer for the Summer Reading Program. On Saturday, July 31, "Make a Splash" will have splashed it's last time!
We still have programs this week to attend, including one more Family Fun Night. This Thursday at 6pm will be Professor Steve with his Wild Water and Fantastic Fire Show. Professor Steve is new to the library, so we hope to give him a warm welcome. Bring the whole family! There will be a couple door prizes we will give away, too!
Remember to come in and pick up prizes for Summer Reading! They are first come, first served, and will be available until August 14.

KCG

Less Than Two Weeks Left to Make a Splash!

There are only 13 more days before the Summer Reading Program, "Make a Splash!" comes to an end. The last day is Sunday, July 31.
Come in for fun in our weekly programs this week and next week! We have two more Family Fun Nights. Thursday, July 22 is Minnetrista with their "Habitat-Tat-Tat" Performance. Thursday, July 29 is Professor Steve and his Wild Water & Fantastic Fire Show. These are sure to be a hit for all ages, and we give away a couple of door prizes at each performance! You have until August 14 to pick up your Summer Reading prizes.

KCG

New Water Table in Children's!

Have you seen the new water table in the Children's Department? We love using it during preschool age programs and so do the children! It is amazing to see the children's innovations and experiments as they play. Thanks to the Friends of the Library for purchasing this wonderful and useful tool! It is lots of fun!

KCG

The Fish Have Names!

Congratulations to the children who named our fish!
Thank you to all the children who gave us creative names that were hard to eliminate! Data, Sprocket, Liney, and Seafire are new additions to the Children's Department. Each of the children who named the fish have been called. A prize bag awaits each of them. The winners range from 4 to 9 years old. Our finned friends will be with us another month before they return to their owner. Be sure and come in and wave your fin at them soon!

KCG

How Things are Going

So far we have 1,281 children signed up for the Summer Reading Program "Make a Splash, Read!" The blue tee shirts are beginning to go out and are being worn right back into the library! We are getting close on naming our fish -- there are several finalist names being reviewed now. Programs are going well, but we still have room for more people to join us! Come visit us soon!

KCG

Help Name the Fish!

There are fish in the Children's Department! Just for summer, we have four fish on a temporary basis. The owner would like help in naming the fish. The winner will receive a prize. So please lend us a fin on some great names when you come up for a visit!

KCG

Summer Reading is Off to a Roaring Start

Hear the sound of the waves? It's the tide coming in to remind you to sign up for Summer Reading!
Make a Splash, Read! is off to a great start! There are approximately 800 children signed up so far! Baby programs had 16 in attendance, while today's Lego Island had 50! Today at Splish Splash Stories for preschoolers, there were 45 in attendance! Come and celebrate with us and join us for all the fun and activities! Why not try Wednesday night's Stories @ Sunset for ages 0 to 5 years. It is at 6pm and promises to be a time to unwind from the day and get ready for sleepy time. See you soon in the Children's Department!

KCG

Kau Wela Kickoff is Today!

Today is the first day all can sign up for the Summer Reading Program! This means ages birth through 100+! Catch a wave and join us for our Kau Wela Kickoff Luau from 3:00 to 6:00 pm. All children and their families are welcome to visit the luau activities, which will take place on the second floor landing and in the Children's Department. Sign up for the program, play games, and check out the Treasure Tiki Hut! All this fun is free!
Come on in and Make a Splash!

KCG

Gearing Up for Summer Reading!

We are in the process of decorating and preparing for Summer Reading 2010! Come see the liter bottle fish that are starting to dance in the air conditioning! See the cool blues of the plastic water hanging from the ceiling and on our window to the lobby! We have been going out to schools and telling all the children about the upcoming fun! Next Tuesday, June 1, is our Kau Wela Kickoff! Come up anytime between 3 and 6 pm and get your child's face painted. There will be shaped balloons, games, and lots of fun! Of course, it's all Free! See you there!

KCG

Blog Bulletin Board Display

The Children's Department blog is displayed on one of our bulletin boards. On the second floor landing, just outside the elevator there is a green and yellow display that describes the blog. Come in and check it out!

KCG

Snapshot Day Snapshots

Anderson Christian Educare was visited on Snapshot of Indiana Libraries day. Here is a picture of two of their great teachers in a toddler class. Thanks for letting us take your picture, ladies! We have other Snapshot Day pictures. We will be adding them soon!

KCG

A Free Book for Your Baby!

Have you come in to get your free book for your baby?

Anderson Public Library has partnered with Born Learning Connection to get books into the hands of babies. Simply come in and fill out a card! Take the card to the Children's Department and get your board book and a onesie. The board book has hard cardboard-like pages that take a pounding and hold up well. The onsie is for 6 to 9 month old size babies. Born Learning Connection is a service of United Way.

KCG

Come to the Library and Let Us "Snap" You!

Anderson Public Library, along with other Indiana libraries, is taking part in Snapshot of Indiana Libraries!

This promotion is during National Library Week, and takes place on Monday, April 12. This year's theme is "Communities Thrive @ Your Library." Snapshot of Indiana Libraries day is one of photos and feedback from you! It assembles the day-to-day library experience. The Indiana Library Federation and the Indiana Public Library Association back this Indiana State Library initiative.

How can you contribute? Visit us! Inform us as to how the library is an important part of your daily life. A survey will be available for some feedback. We may just take a “snap” of you, too! Come celebrate with us!

KCG

Spring Break Fun!

Today we continue our Spring Break fun by having a movie at 2pm! Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is showing in our Story Hour Room. What's better than watching a movie with friends in the afternoon?

KCG

Thanks for Making Love Your Library a Success!

Love Your Library was a great success! The online sign up and monitoring went well. Look for more on a computer near you, since the Summer Reading Program will also make use of the online system.
215 children signed up for the program. 121 were eligible for prizes. There were over 29,000 minutes of reading recorded in the system! That means a lot of children received donut holes and free books!

KCG