10 Ways Kids Connect @ The Library

(from the American Library Association, www.ala.org)

1. Answers. . .How fast can a dog run? What is the moon made of? What happened to the dinosaurs? No question need go without an answer. One mom reports keeping a list and taking it with her to the library to help her child find the answers.

2. Books. . . The Monroe County Public Library (MCPL) offers more books than any family can afford. Books to help stretch a child's mind and imagination. Old favorites like Amelia Bedelia and new favorites like the Goosebumps series tempt children of all ages to pick up a book and read.

3. Computers. . .Kids who aren't logged-on and literate will be lost in the 21st century. The MCPL provides computers to search their databases and the Internet. Businesses in the region offer computer classes to help kids (moms and dads, too) master computer skills. If you are computer literate, consider volunteering in Highland Park’s computer lab.

4. Fun. . .Check out the MCPL’s free programs for children. Today's public libraries offer a wide gamut of programming from movies and puppets to clowns and magicians to sleepovers.

5. Homework help. . .The local community offers several homework centers some of them specially staffed and equipped with computers and other reference materials to assist children. Check with the MCPL and the Herald-Times newspaper for the locations and center times.

6. Librarians. . .Librarians are experts at answering questions and helping kids connect with books to appeal to their special interests. Be sure to introduce your children to the MCPL librarians and encourage them to ask for assistance. They can also ask for assistance from the school library media specialist.

7. Magazines. . .The MCPL also offers a selection of popular children's magazines with stories, games and other fun activities.

8. Preschool learning. . .Getting kids ready to learn starts at birth. The MCPL offers preschool story hours and other programs to introduce children to the fun of reading and stimulate mental development.

9. Tapes. . .Borrow books, stories and songs from the MCPL to play in the car, while brushing teeth, before nap or bedtime.

10. Videos. . .Check 'em out. The MCPL offers videos on loan at no or nominal fees. Choose from Sesame Street, Shirley Temple, The Black Stallion and other classic children's films as well as current features.