Book of the Month - Hunger games

I am so excited that the book of the month for February is The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. At first glance, you may have hesitations about reading the book because it is after all a young adult novel. Do not let this dissuade you at all! I had been eagerly anticipating this book back in the Fall of 2008. The moment I got my hands on it, I devoured it (which included neglecting my family at supper). I walked in the next day at work and raved about this book to many of the staff and patrons. Everyone who has picked this book up has loved it.
Now, let me tell you why I enjoyed the book immensely. It was a quick read, had a disturbing plot and it was well written. Imagine yourself in the future, living in a district controlled by an overpowering State where if you are between 12-18, you may end up in a survivor like battle. The twist is that at least in survivor, you live......

School Services

Where does the time go? It is already October! Leaves are falling, the weather’s cooling and summer’s just another memory. The kids have all gotten back into their school routines. While teachers are busy preparing their lesson plans which usually includes a project in mid-October.

In our quest to make life easier for both the student and the teacher, the Library has developed a wonderful school service program. For example, we can prepare project material for teachers so that their class will have access to the information that they need. Teachers are welcome to bring their classes into the library to do research on their topics or to learn research techniques. Last year we had quite a few classroom visits which were all very successful.

I’ve always found it rewarding to locate the right book that a child needs for their project. You can’t help it, their excitement is very contagious. I encourage all Côte Saint-Luc Schools and teachers to call or come in. We’re here to help.

Hogwarts at the Library

The countdown has begun and as I write this, there are 9 days left till the new Harry Potter book, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows”, is released. My son and I are very excited to read this book. There will be a big tug of war in our house over this book and who gets to read it first. I’ll actually have it in my hands on the 21st but sadly I will be unable to start reading the book right away. Why? The library is hosting a Harry Potter extravaganza on this day to celebrate the release of the book and I will be working at this party, which promises to be lots of fun. I will be reading snippets of the book during the party as well as helping everyone make potions and crafts. The best part is that everyone can dress up as their favorite character….you will have to come to the party to see who my favorite character is. I invite everyone to come over the Children’s point of service desk to discuss Harry Potter with me and while you are here, pick up the ultimate Harry Potter quiz (you could win the book). Alright, only 8 days, 10 hours and 34 minutes to go (but who is counting)!

Books to grow up on

Working in the youth department allows me to re-live my childhood everyday. I can pick up certain books on a shelf and remember exactly when I read them as a child and young adult. Throughout elementary school, I was fortunate to work in our school library. I loved going through the new books and putting away familar books. Discovering a new book to read was always a thrill. You could never go wrong with Dr. Seuss, Judy Blume or Carolyne Keene(especially if you were just hankering for a mystery to solve!).

I encourage all the children to visit the youth department and find that special book which will provide wonderful memories down the road. Our collection has been growing over the past few months, so I know that there is a book waiting for you right now. So, put down your game controller and pick up your library card. See you soon!

Kids corner

The Youth Department is an exciting place to be these days. The biggest news is that we finally have DVD’s. Everyone is quite excited- both patrons and staff alike. My favorite DVD (probably for nostalgic reasons) is “The Goonies”. I brought it home and my kids got a real kick out of it even though that girl with the strange hair is really weird (Cyndi Lauper).

We have many children’s programs but we also have programs for “tweens” as well. Last week we had Royalty story time. We had a huge turnout and the girls were all dressed up as Princesses. It was a grand time and the kids did a terrific job on their tiara’s and crowns. To find out about our programs, a program flyer can be picked up at the desk or visit the library website. There are some activities planned for March break, which our children’s librarian will be conducting. She has some amazing ideas so I encourage all the kids to come to her workshops. If you are feeling Irish on Sunday, March 11th, come by the department for Sunday Stories at 3:30.