LBPL KIDS BLOG

ILLUMINART IS HERE!

2011-06-18T07:00:00.000-07:00

Next time you visit the Main Library, make sure to check out our visiting display in the Children's Department! The Illuminart is visiting for the summer, thanks to our friends at the Rancho Cucamonga Library. The Illuminart is part of a larger family of displays called Play and Learn Islands. For more information on playing and learning in the library, please visit the Rancho Cucamonga Library website.

www.lbpl.org

DISPLAY YOUR COLLECTION @ THE LIBRARY!

2011-06-11T07:00:00.000-07:00

SILLY BANDZ

ERASERS

SQUINKIES

Recent displays have included Silly Bandz, erasers, and Squinkies. Different items are featured each month at the Main Library in the Children's Department. If you are interested in having your collection displayed at the library, please contact us at (562)570-5644.

www.lbpl.org

2011 SUMMER READING PROGRAM

2011-06-04T07:00:00.000-07:00

2011 SUMMER READING PROGRAM

Begins Saturday, June 18, 2011
For All Ages!

Are you ready to explore new destinations, faraway places, and stories from around the world? Readers of all ages are invited to join the Summer Reading Program at their Long Beach neighborhood library! Read a new book about new worlds and exotic places, or reread a favorite novel. Also, check out the fun and exciting programs, crafts, and prizes awaiting you at your local library!

Visit the LBPL Website Summer Reading Program page for more information.

www.lbpl.org

SWALLOWS RETURN TO SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO -- TODAY

2011-03-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

Song of the Swallows

By Leo Politi

The miracle of the "Swallows" of Capistrano takes place each year at the Mission San Juan Capistano, on March 19th, St. Joseph's Day.

As the little birds wing their way back to the most famous Mission in California, the village of San Juan Capistrano takes on a fiesta air and the visitors from all parts of the world, and all walks of life, gather in great numbers to witness the "miracle" of the return of the swallows.
Each year the "Scout Swallows" precede the main flock by a few days and it seems to be their chief duty to clear the way for the main flock to arrive at the "Old Mission" of Capistrano.

With the arrival of early dawn on St. Joseph's Day, the little birds begin to arrive and begin rebuilding their mud nests, which are clinging to the ruins of the old stone church of San Juan Capistrano. The arches of the two story, high vaulted Chapel were left bare and exposed, as the roof collapsed during the earthquake of 1812.

This Chapel, said to be the largest and most ornate in any of the missions, now has a more humble destiny--that of housing the birds that St. Francis loved so well.

After the summer spent within the sheltered walls of the Old Mission in San Juan Capistrano, the swallows take flight again, and on the Day of San Juan, October 23, they leave after circling the Mission bidding farewell to the "JEWEL OF ALL MISSIONS" San Juan Capistrano, California.

[ Information from: www.sanjuancapistrano.net/swallows ]

JAPAN IS WITH US

2011-03-12T16:59:00.000-08:00

Our condolences go out to the people of Japan and those who have been impacted by these recent catastrophic events.

Explaining these types of situations can sometimes be a challenge. Below are links to a few news sites that are appropriate for children to view and access:

Scholastic News Online

Time for Kids

DOGO News!

National Geographic Kids

And, don't forget to search the Library Catalog where you can child level information on Japan, tsunamis and related topics.

www.lbpl.org

SLIME KIDS WEBSITE

2011-03-05T17:04:00.000-08:00

Check out Slime Kids!

Packed with book trailers and language arts-related games, School Library Media Kids is designed to provide an interactive learning experience to get students motivated to learn on their own! Students can choose from exceptional literacy-related resources such as author and book review websites as well as superb educational tools including reference works and search engines.

www.lbpl.org

MATH IS EVERYWHERE

2011-02-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

MATH IS EVERYWHERE

Did you know that your child is practicing basic math skills when she helps you set the table or pick out apples at the grocery store? Or even when she matches socks from the laundry? That’s right. From the minute your child wakes up until the second she goes to sleep at night, her day is filled with potential math moments—and you can bring these moments to life.

It’s easy to do math at home or on the go with your preschooler. Look for simple objects to count, measure, and organize. There are numbers and shapes to see, sizes of things to compare, and problems to solve. You can even find math in your child’s favorite books!

Making math a part of your daily routines right from the start helps your child know that math is fun—and important.

MATH IS EVERYWHERE

(A Sesame Street Website)

www.lbpl.org

RAINY DAY BOOKS

2011-02-18T07:00:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder that all LBPL locations will be closed Saturday, Sunday, and Monday for the President's Day holiday... But you can always find us online 24/7 @ www.lbpl.org

FUN RAINY DAY BOOKS!

The Patterson Puppies and the Rainy Day

By Leslie Patricelli

Are you ready to play outside?: an Elephant & Piggie book

By Mo Willems

Rain School

By James Rumford

Want more books about rain and rainy days?
Just search in the LBPL Catalog!

www.lbpl.org

CELEBRATE PANWAPA!

2011-02-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

www.panwapa.com

PANWAPA, created by the educational experts behind Sesame Street, is a multimedia, global initiative that is designed to inspire and empower a new generation of children, ages four to seven, to be responsible global citizens.

Check out Panwapa, where children can:

* Develop awareness of the Wider World
* Appreciate Similarities and Valuing Differences

* Take Responsibility for One’s Behaviours

* Become Responsive to Economic Disparity

* Understand Community Participation and Willingness to Take Action

www.lbpl.org

READY KIDS FROM FEMA

2011-01-29T07:00:00.000-08:00

BE PREPARED IN EVERY SITUATION

www.ready.gov/kids

Are you ready to put your planning skills to good use? Are you ready to help your family get prepared for the unexpected? Your family can use the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Ready Kids Web site to create a plan that will help you be ready for many different kinds of unexpected situations!

www.lbpl.org

HOORAY FOR HUGS!

2011-01-20T07:00:00.000-08:00

Did you know....

Friday, January 21st

National Hug Day!

Hug by Jez Alborough

Find more children's books about hugs

by searching the LBPL catalog

www.lbpl.org

10 RESOLUTIONS FOR RAISING A READER -- HOW TO RAISE KIDS THAT LOVE READING

2011-01-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Want some simple tips to help foster a love of reading with your child? Check out the following about.com article by education expert, Elizabeth Kennedy:

10 Ways to Help You Raise Kids Who Love Reading

www.lbpl.org

GIVE HOLIDAY GIFTS BY PLAYING GAMES ONLINE

2010-12-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

Celebrate the holidays by helping those in need. The Free Rice game gives quiz questions where every correct answer donates 10 grains of rice through the UN World Food Program to help end hunger.

www.freerice.com

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

www.lbpl.org

ITS A WRAP!

2010-12-18T07:00:00.000-08:00

Got bubble wrap? Wrap some bubble wrap around an empty toilet paper role, dip it in some paint, and roll it around on a piece of butcher paper to create customized wrapping paper. Sponge painters and other household items can also be used.

Pictures are of gift wrap projects

created at the Los Altos Library

Tie it all together with a fun book...

Mooseltoe

by Margie Palatini

www.lbpl.org

BOOK ADVENTURE WEBSITE

2010-12-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

www.bookadventure.com

Book Adventure is a FREE reading motivation program for children in grades K-8. Children create their own book lists from over 7,000 recommended titles, take multiple choice quizzes on the books they've read, and earn points and prizes for their literary successes. Book Adventure was created by and is maintained by Sylvan Learning.

www.lbpl.org

HAPPY HANUKKAH!

2010-12-04T07:00:00.000-08:00

HAPPY HANUKKAH!

Find library materials including stories, crafts, and more by searching the LBPL catalog

www.lbpl.org

HAVE A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY!

2010-11-24T07:00:00.000-08:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Four turkeys sitting on a fence @ Main Library

All Long Beach Public Library locations are CLOSED on Thursday, November 25 and Friday, November 26, 2010. Our online services are always available. We resume normal library hours on Saturday, November 27, 2010.

www.lbpl.org

VETERAN'S DAY... FOR KIDS

2010-11-11T07:00:00.000-08:00

United States Department of Veterans Affairs

VA KIDS

Great website explaining Veterans Day

for kids in grades K-5, 6-12, and teachers

http://www4.va.gov/kids/

www.lbpl.org

COMIC CONTEST WINNERS

2010-11-06T07:00:00.001-07:00

A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL WHO PARTICIPATED

IN THE SUPER COMIC DIALOG CONTEST!

Three winners between the ages of 6 and 16 each received tickets to Long Beach Comic Con 2010 AND a huge stack of comic books.

Special thanks to Pulp Fiction Comics for providing the prizes!

WANT TO CREATE YOUR OWN COMICS ONLINE?

VISIT MARVELKIDS.COM

www.lbpl.org

ENJOY SOME YUMMY HALLOWEEN TREATS!

2010-10-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

Easy Edible Tombstones: Using a graham cracker, frosting, and black icing make a tasty treat to enjoy with your favorite Halloween story!

www.lbpl.org

WIN TICKETS TO LONG BEACH COMIC-CON 2010!

2010-10-22T07:00:00.002-07:00

Long Beach Public Library and Pulp Fiction Comics present:
Super Comic Dialog Contest

Make up a dialog for a chance to win tickets to

Long Beach Comic-Con 2010!

ALL AGES

Pickup entries at:

MAIN LIBRARY

Long Beach Pubic Library

101 Pacific Avenue

562-570-7500

Return entries to:

Any Long Beach Public Library location by 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday, October 27th, 2010

for a chance to win tickets to the

Long Beach COMIC-CON or other prizes!

www.lbpl.org

Long Beach Comic-Con is October 29-31st

at the Long Beach Convention Center

NEED BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS?

2010-10-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Looking for some good Halloween reads?

Perhaps parents are looking for book suggestions of their own?

Try Book News, where you can sign up for monthly updates on your favorite genres of books.

Step 1: Click on the icon on the LBPL website homepage

http://www.lbpl.org/

Step 2: You are now using the Dear Reader program. Here you can sign up for online book clubs, get latest author buzz and find our Book News Newsletters. Scroll down to the bottom to find Book News.

Step 3: After clicking on the Book News Newsletter icon, you will find different newsletters and lists of books you can subscribe to. By selecting Children's Picture Books, you will find that the books featured this month have a Halloween theme.

www.lbpl.org

OCTOBER 5th IS WORLD TEACHERS' DAY

2010-10-02T07:00:00.000-07:00

Celebrate teachers by sending an e-card for

World Teachers' Day

Teacher Appreciation Day

by Lynn Plourde

Thank you, Mr. Falker

by Patricia Polacco

Miss Nelson is Missing

by Harry Allard

www.lbpl.org

LEMONADE STAND -- ECONOMICS FOR KIDS

2010-09-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

Lemonade Stand is a free educational game online that teaches economic principles to kids. Experiment by using an allowance to set up your lemonade stand and purchase needed materials... then see what happens! Depending on sales, you might need to make some changes. The goal is to keep your stand open for a full 30 days, rain or shine!

Need an afternoon project? Try making your own lemonade stand @ home!

Max's Bunny Business
by Rosemary Wells

The Lemonade War
by Jacqueline Davies

INTERACTIVE ART FOR KIDS @ MAIN LIBRARY

2010-09-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

Check out the interactive art on display at the Main Library in the Youth Services Department by artist Jaye Whitworth! There are many items that you can touch and play with including a calliope piano, percussion painting and block puzzle. All of the items on display are all in the "altered art" format.

"The New & Improved Piano/Calliope"

By Jaye Whitworth

Want to get in touch with your own creative side?

Browse some art books in the LBPL Catalog!

IT'S THAT TIME AGAIN...

2010-09-10T15:00:00.000-07:00

It's back to school time!

Help your child succeed in school by utilizing your local library. Long Beach Public Library is more than just books... Try exploring the LBPL Website, where there are tons of resources for kids that you can access right from your computer!

LBPL WEBSITE KIDS PAGE

Here you can find information on:

Family Learning Centers
Homework Help
Recommended Reading
Games, and more!

Great Web Sites for Kids
This website from the American Library Association includes lots of great web links for kids (and parents) on MANY different subjects!

Get the Smartest Card @ Your Library!

September is Library Card Sign-Up month. Long Beach Public Library wants to make sure that everyone in Long Beach has the smartest card of all - a library card. Getting a library card is easy. For more information on how to sign-up for a library card visit any Long Beach Public Library location or visit the library online at www.lbpl.org.

WHERE DOES OUR WATER COME FROM?

2010-09-02T14:00:00.000-07:00

Want to learn more about one of

Earth's most precious resources?

You can check out some of the

books (featured below) @ a library near you.

You can also try this project @ home,

courtesy of PBS KIDS.

Make Your Own Water Filter

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A Cool Drink of Water

By Barbara Kerley

Ryan and Jimmy:

And the Well in Africa That Brought Them Together

By Herb Shoveller

Spish, Splash, Splosh!

By Mick Manning and Brita Granstrom

The Trip of a Drip

By Vicki Cobb

HIGHLIGHTS OF SUMMER READING 2010 (slideshow)

2010-08-27T16:45:00.000-07:00

Enjoy the slideshow of pictures that highlight all of the fun activities Long Beach Public Library youth participated in during the Summer Reading Program this year.

RAMONA: A GREAT MOVIE FROM A GREAT BOOK!

2010-08-21T12:00:00.000-07:00

With the Ramona and Beezus movie now in theaters, don't forget where it all started... with the book Beezus and Ramona by Beverly Cleary.

Big fan? Take the Beverly Cleary QUIZ!

FUN CRAFT: PAPER BAG FISH

2010-08-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

A young girl shows off her creation
after story time @ Main Library

What You Will Need:
- Paper Bag
- Rubber Band
- Crayons or Markers
- Glue
- Yarn, Feathers, Googly Eyes and other embellishments

Directions:
Decorate paper bag using crayons or markers. Grab bag by end and blow in air to “puff” out bag/fish and secure with a rubber band. Use glue to add feather fins, yarn mouth and googly eyes. Or, be creative and use other household craft items to decorate.

MAIN LIBRARY ALIVE WITH MUSIC!

2010-08-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, August 4th, 2010, Musical Theater West entertained an audience of all ages in the Main Library Auditorium. The group performed from famous musicals, including Wicked, Seussical, Big River, and You're a Good Man Charlie Brown. Check out the video clip and picture featured below.

Video clip of Musical Theater West performing from the musical You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown

Picture of Musical Theater West performing from the musical Big River Make sure to visit the LBPL Website to view our event calendar!

TEENS CREATE MINI ROBOTS @ MAIN LIBRARY

2010-08-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

Artbot

Bristlebot

Check out the video clips of the mini robots teens made recently at the Main Library. These types of robots are known as "vibrobots" and include the Artbot/Drawbot (made from cups and markers) and the very tiny Bristlebot (made from a toothbrush). Click on the names of each robot for instructions on how to make these @ home. LED lights and motor parts can be found @ Electronics Goldmine.

For more fun events @ a library near you
Visit the LBPL Website Events Calendar

BOY SCOUTS CELEBRATE 100th ANNIVERSARY

2010-08-03T10:00:00.000-07:00

Visit the Boy Scouts of America website for more info,
OR Search the LBPL catalog for books on scouting!

AUGUST 2ND IS ICE CREAM SANDWICH DAY

2010-08-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

This video clip from FamilyFun Magazine shows how to make homemade ice cream in just 5 minutes. It is especially fun to put gloves on and toss the baggies back and forth between two people to make the ice cream.

Want more? Try searching the LBPL catalog
for some great cookbooks for kids!

"PIGEON" BOOKS ARE A HIT WITH YOUNG READERS

2010-07-31T15:00:00.000-07:00

A young artist shows off her painting which includes, The Pigeon and The Duckling, who are characters from Mo Willem's popular "pigeon" book series.

Want to check out some books by Mo Willems?
Try searching the LBPL catalog!

COOL OFF @ THE LIBRARY

2010-07-23T14:17:00.001-07:00

A young boy enjoys a snow cone after a craft program
@ The Bay Shore Neighborhood Library.

GOING CAMPING THIS SUMMER?

2010-07-22T11:00:00.000-07:00

LBPL has lots of camping books for kids
Just search our catalog!

FUN SUMMER CRAFT: SHELL PAINTINGS

2010-07-21T10:00:00.000-07:00

Visit Disney's Family Fun website for some simple beach themed crafts.

WHO LOVES SHARK BOOKS?

2010-07-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

Find these stories and more
in the LBPL Catalog!

Baby Shark Song

2010-07-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

Remember this one? Check out more silly camp songs
@ ultimatecampresource.com

Found on Google Videos

GOOOOOOOOAAAAAAL!

2010-07-09T16:00:00.000-07:00

SUNDAY 7/11/2010
11:30 AM (PT) on ABC

SPAIN VS. NETHERLANDS

The final World Cup game is this Sunday. Want to learn more about SPAIN and THE NETHERLANDS? Click on the highlighted links to seach for books in the LBPL Catalog.

HAVE A FUN AND SAFE INDEPENDENCE DAY!

2010-07-03T13:00:00.000-07:00

Star Crafts
Find fun crafts online @extremecards, like these festive stars.

Holiday Events
Search the Press-Telegram for 4th of July event listings.

More Outdoor Fun
Check out local park concerts with the Long Beach Municipal Band.

ENJOY SOME DELIGHTFUL RECIPES THIS HOLIDAY WEEKEND

2010-07-02T18:00:00.000-07:00

Yummy Flag Cake
You can find the recipe for this Red, White and Blue Strawberry Shortcake on allrecipes.com. Also, try searching the LBPL Catalog for some great books about cooking with kids!

Pair your holiday eats with some fun Fourth of July inspired books. In McDuff Saves the Day, Fred, Lucy, the baby, and McDuff go to the lake for a Fourth of July picnic, but when ants consume all of their food it's up to McDuff to find something for them to eat. Find more stories at a library near you, check out Encore to search.

McDuff Saves the Day
by Rosemary Wells

LOTS TO DO THIS SUMMER @ YOUR LIBRARY!

2010-07-01T13:30:00.000-07:00

Pictures (above) from the Beach Bag Eco Craft
recently held at the Bay Shore Library

There are lots of fun activities scheduled at libraries throughout Long Beach. Not only can you sign up for the Summer Reading Program and get rewarded for reading, but there are many events scheduled at each library
JUST FOR KIDS!

FOR A LISTING OF ALL LIBRARY ACTIVITIES
CHECK OUT THE LBPL EVENTS CALENDAR!

SPECIAL THANKS TO:
ECOBAGS and NANCY'S YOGURT
(for donating the canvas bags for this awesome project!)

FUN HERMIT CRAB CRAFT AND STORY

2010-06-24T11:00:00.000-07:00

Seashell Hermit Crab

Supplies Needed:
- seashells
- glue
- small googly eyes or pompoms
- feathers
- pipe cleaners

Directions:
Use the supplies listed above and other miscellaneous small items to glue onto the shell... and Voilà! You have created your own seashell hermit crab!

Pair your seashell hermit crab with Eric Carle's A House for Hermit Crab, a wonderful story that combines the ocean, friendship, growing, months of the year, and landscaping -- a great story to share with younger children.

For more books by Eric Carle
Try searching the LBPL catalog!

SUMMER IS OFFICIALLY HERE!

2010-06-21T09:00:00.001-07:00

Cool off with some fun summer coloring sheets that you can print and color at home. And, visit the Long Beach Public Library Summer Reading website to find out about events and more at library locations throughout Long Beach.

Beach Coloring Sheet

High Dive Coloring Sheet

Reading Cat Coloring Sheet

Water Slide Coloring Sheet

Free at Last: Celebrate the end of Slavery

2010-06-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

Juneteenth is on June 19th and is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. For more information on this celebration, visit the Juneteenth website.

JUNETEENTH JAMBOREE
by Carole Boston Weatherford

JUNETEENTH: FREEDOM DAY
by Muriel Miller Branch

JUNETEENTH: A DAY TO CELEBRATE FREEDOM FROM SLAVERY
by Angela Leeper

Want more books celebrating African American heritage?
Try searching the LBPL catalog for some great books to read!

CELEBRATE DADS THIS SUNDAY!

2010-06-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

Father's Day is Sunday, June 20th.
Celebrate by reading a book with your dad
or reading a great book about dads!

Want to make something special for dad?
Check out Kaboose.com for some great ideas!

Because Your Daddy Loves You
by Andrew Clements

Daddy Hug
by Tim Warnes

Good Night, Good Knight
by Shelley Moore Thomas

Guess How Much I Love You
by Sam McBratney

In a Minute!
by Virginia Miller

Just the Two of Us
by Will Smith

My Dad
by Anthony Browne

Papa, Do You Love Me?
by Barbara Joosse

Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me
by Eric Carle

Piglet and Papa
by Margaret Wild

The Daddy Book
by Todd Parr

The Father Who Had Ten Children
by Benedicte Guettier

Up!
by Kristine O'Connell George

What Dads Can't Do
by Douglas Wood

For more books about Father's Day
Try searching the LBPL Catalog!

THE SUMMER READING PROGRAM STARTS TODAY!

2010-06-17T09:00:00.001-07:00

High and dry for something to do this summer?

Readers of all ages are invited to join the Summer Reading Program at their local library. Make waves with programs, games, and prizes for everyone from babies to adults.

Surf over to our Summer Reading page, Facebook page, and YouTube channel for more information.

TWILIGHT FANS... Read The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner Online for FREE!

2010-06-16T13:02:00.000-07:00

www.breetanner.com

Fans of The Twilight Saga will be enthralled by this riveting story of Bree Tanner, a character first introduced in Eclipse, and the newborn vampire world she inhabits. In another irresistible combination of danger, mystery, and romance, Stephenie Meyer tells the devastating story of Bree and the newborn army as they prepare to close in on Bella Swan and the Cullens, following their encounter to its unforgettable conclusion.

This site will be live from noon EST on June 7th until midnight EST on July 5th. Please keep in mind that you can only read the book here – you won’t be able to download it to your e-reader or phone. And you can’t print it out.

Try searching the LBPL catalog
for more Twilight materials!

WORLD CUP 2010 BEGINS JUNE 10th!

2010-06-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

Game 1: Mexico vs. South Africa
Friday, June 11th @ 4:00pm

Team USA plays England on Saturday, June 12th
Visit the FIFA website for more information on World Cup 2010!

Soccer
by Hugh Hornby

Goal!: The Fire and Fury of Soccer's Greatest Moment
by Mark Stewart and Mike Kennedy

Goal!
by Mina Javaherbin

Want more SOCCER books?
Search the LBPL catalog!

The Summer Reading Program starts Thursday, June 17th!

2010-06-09T12:10:00.000-07:00

Start Date: Thursday, June 17th

To find out more information, including a list of events,
check out the LPPL website Summer Reading page.

Parents - Help your kids make the most of the Summer Reading Program.
Download the a Parents Guide (2 page PDF guide in English, Spanish, & Khmer).

GO LAKERS!

2010-06-03T13:07:00.000-07:00

In the picture above, true Los Angeles Lakers
fans are gearing up for the first game of the
NBA finals playoff series by reading basketball (and fairy)
books at the Main Library in the Reading Bathtub.

Want more basketball books?
Try searching in the LBPL catalog!

Fight "June Gloom" with some beach books...

2010-06-01T11:00:00.000-07:00

Beach Day!
by Patricia Lakin

I'm the Biggest Thing in the Ocean
by Kevin Sherry

Ballyhoo Bay
by Judy Sierra

Scaredy Squirrel at the Beach
by Mélanie Watt

Wave
by Suzy Lee

Dear Fish
by Chris Gall

Flotsam
by David Wiesner

Beach Day
by Karen Roosa

Bebé Goes to the Beach
by Susan Middleton Elya

Want more beach themed books?
Try searching the LBPL catalog!

California Mission on Display @ Bay Shore Library

2010-05-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

Mission San Lowell de Quince
This make believe mission was made by all the 4th graders in Miss Parker's class in Room 15 at Lowell School. As part of the California history unit, students studied the Mission Period and wrote reports about one of the actual twenty-one missions. They learned that a typical mission would have thick adobe walls, a red tile roof, a church, rounded arches, an outdoor corridor, and a bell tower or wall. Students applied this knowledge to create this make-believe mission and named it after their school and room number.

This fictionalized mission is on display at the Bay Shore Neighborhood Library. Each year, 4th graders throughout Long Beach study California history, including a unit on missions. Many students even have to build a mission on their own! The Long Beach Public Library is a resource to students looking for information on missions, as well as all other subject needs for school.

Did you know that Long Beach Public Library even has actual models of real California missions on display at several library locations?

Long Beach Public Library also has a Family Learning Center at each location where students can work on assignments and get help from our Homework Helpers!

Want books on California Missions?
Try searching the LBPL catalog!

Don't forget about Love In The Mirror!

2010-05-14T09:20:00.000-07:00

In the picture above, children from the Jelly Bean Book Club @ Main Library pose for a picture in front of the Love In The Mirror display. The Jelly Bean Book Club kids discussed youth homelessness and helped decorate the library display. Many vowed to return with items to help the Love In The Mirror campaign to help other children in Long Beach.

May 1- May 31
All 12 Long Beach Public Library locations and Love In the Mirror are partnering in May for a month-long drive to collect personal hygiene items for homeless children in Long Beach. Stop by any LB Public Library to drop off a donation and help a child in need today.

Benefiting organizations like:
Long Beach Rescue Mission
Precious Lamb Preschool
His Nesting Place
Children Today
and more.

Check out the LBPL Facebook and Love In the Mirror website for a list of requested items and more information on this project!

To find a library near you,
please visit the LBPL website.

Coming this Sunday... Mother's Day!

2010-05-07T09:00:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is just around the corner and the thought of a gift can be overwhelming! Not to fear, kids can make fun and inexpensive gifts from items found around the house. Check out the featured video on how to make beautiful paper flowers using tissue paper, chenille sticks (craft pipe cleaners), and scissors.

There are many craft books that can be found @ your local library
and more craft videos can be found online @ YouTube.com.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

2010-05-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

Cinco de Mayo celebrates the victory of the historical battle of 1862 between Mexico and France. This holiday is a symbol of Mexican pride and unity and includes great festivities.

This 5th of May, join in the celebration with our selection of Cinco de Mayo crafts, history lessons, recipes, games, printables and more!

** All of these wonderful Cinco de Mayo celebration ideas were found @ Kaboose.com

Celebrate El día de los niños/El día de los libros!

2010-04-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

Celebrate!
El día de los niños/El día de los libros (Children's Day/Book Day), known as Día, is a celebration EVERY DAY of children, families, and reading that culminates every year on April 30. The celebration emphasizes the importance of advocating literacy for children of all linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

Celebremos!
El 30 de abril es una fecha muy significativa para los niños. Se celebra el día de los niños y de los libros. Esta celebración se conoce como El día de los niños/ El día de los libros, y celebra la alegría y las maravillas de la infancia y la importancia de los libros en nuestra vida.

Check out The Official El día de los niños/El día de los libros Facebook Page! Every Day in April, the Dia Facebook page posted a different idea to celebrate, from cool crafts to fun books to read.

Dia is sponsored by the American Library Association.

Love in the Mirror Drive Begins May 1st!

2010-04-29T17:00:00.000-07:00

The Long Beach Public Library and Love in the Mirror drive begins May 1st, 2010!

Please join the Long Beach Public Library and Love In the Mirror as they kick off a month-long drive to collect personal hygiene items for homeless children in Long Beach. Love in the Mirror founder, 6-year-old Jonas Corona and others will be speaking about homelessness in Long Beach.

Saturday, May 1st
11:00 am
Dana Neighborhood Library
3680 Atlantic Avenue
Long Beach, CA 90807
(562)570-1042

Visit the LBPL website for a complete calendar
of upcoming youth events @ a library near you!

Celebrate National Poetry Month @ Your Library!

2010-04-28T09:00:00.002-07:00

While April is coming to an end, its not too late to celebrate National Poetry Month by checking out some of these titles @ your local Long Beach Library!

The Adventures of Isabel
by Ogden Nash

A Book of Nonsense
by Edward Lear

Brats
by X. J. Kennedy

The Dream Keeper and Other Poems
by Langston Hughes

Insectlopedia
by Douglas Florian

Joyful Noise
by Paul Fleischman

Love That Dog
by Sharon Creech

Neighborhood Odes
by Gary Soto

The Paper Doorway
by Dean Koontz

Polkabats and Octopus Slacks
by Calef Brown

Roald Dahl's Revolting Rhymes
by Roald Dahl

Something Big Has Been Here
by Jack Prelutsky

Where the Sidewalk Ends
by Shel Silverstein

[List from infoplease.com compiled by Holly Hartman]

HAPPY EARTH DAY!

2010-04-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

". . . on April 22, 1970, Earth Day was held, one of the most
remarkable happenings in the history of democracy. . . "
-American Heritage Magazine, October 1993

April 22nd marks the 40th anniversary of Earth Day - a worldwide celebration, designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth's environment. To celebrate Earth Day, the Cool Crafters at Main Library made eco-friendly crafts out of recycled materials. [photos below]

Find Earth Day, eco-craft, and more craft books for kids
@ your local Long Beach Public Library location.

Bringing the Rain to Kapiti Plain
by Verna Aardema

The Lorax
by Dr. Seuss

TumbleBook Library: e-books for e-kids!

2010-04-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Visit the TumbleBook Library website to read books online!
- Read along, listen and watch animated books
- Play fun online puzzles and games
- Great for listening and language skills
- Use it in the library and at home

The Mini Page Celebrates Libraries This Week!

2010-04-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

For almost 40 years, The Mini Page has been a valuable newspaper resource for kids, parents and teachers. Each week, The Mini Page features news stories, sports, fun and games - just for kids! In honor of libraries, The Mini Page for this week features award winning authors. [Click for PDF version]

On your mark, get set, READ!

2010-04-13T09:00:00.000-07:00

April 16-18, 2010 is the 36th Annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach. The Long Beach Public Library has a variety of materials on automobile racing and race cars. Check out our featured race themed books and cool craft ideas!

Hot Rod Hamster
by Cynthia Lord

The Racecar Alphabet
by Brian Floca

Racer Dogs
by Bob Kolar

The Wheels on the Race Car
by Alexander Zane

Cars at Play
by Rick and Ann Walton

Find race themed craft ideas @ Kaboose.com!
Try making the licence plate or race car .

Seen the Movie? Read the Book!

2010-04-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

Many of the movies currently showing in theaters are based on books! And, you can find these popular "books turned movies" @ your local Long Beach Public Library!

Diary of a Wimpy Kid
by Jeff Kinney

How to Train Your Dragon
by Cressida Cowell

Percy Jackson & the Olympians:
The Lightning Thief
by Rick Riordan

Alice in Wonderland
by Lewis Carroll

Celebrate National Library Month

2010-04-06T09:00:00.000-07:00

We invite you to explore the many ways that "Communities Thrive @ Your Library" during the month of April. Join us for entertaining and informative free programs that show there really is something for everyone @ Long Beach Public Library! Click here for a complete list of what's happening during National Library Month.

Helicopter Bunny!

2010-04-03T09:00:00.000-07:00

Try this incredibly easy craft idea that will provide kids with hours of entertainment!

Materials:
Paper
Scissors
Paper Clip
Crayons/Markers

Instructions:
Use scissors to cut a bunny shape from construction paper and cut a slit between the ears. Fold one forward and one backward. Add a paper clip to the bottom for ballast. Toss the bunny up and watch him twirl down.

Favorite Bunny Tales:
Max's Chocolate Chicken
by Rosemary Wells

Runaway Bunny
by Margaret Wise Brown

Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane
by Kate DiCamillo

Magic Rabbit
by Richard Jesse Watson

Want more bunny books?
Try searching the LBPL catalog!

Stand Up and Be Counted!

2010-04-01T09:00:00.001-07:00

Today is National Census Day! It is important to be counted in the Census so that communities get enough federal funding. These funds go to programs like school lunches and highway construction. The United States Census is done every 10 years and consists of 10 questions.

Did you know that LBPL has a
variety of concept books for children?
Subjects like ABC's, shapes, colors,
and even counting!

Over in the Jungle: a Rainforest Rhyme
by Marianne Berkes

Celebrate Women's History Month

2010-03-27T15:20:00.000-07:00

March is Women's History Month. Long Beach Public Library offers many online databases where you can do research to find out more about famous women in history. Try searching in World Book Online for Kids or Biography Resource Center (LBPL library card may be required for access outside of the library).

Want to learn more about famous women?
Try searching for book in the LBPL catalog!

SPRING into Books!

2010-03-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

The first day of Spring 2010 is today!

Welcome Spring by enjoying the weather, starting a new project, or by checking out Spring themed books from your local library.

You can find Spring Coloring Pages online (picture @ right), along with many other types of coloring sheets by searching Google Images. Just type in what you are looking for, plus the term "coloring pages" [e.g. "spring coloring pages" or "bunny coloring pages"]~ enjoy!

Mouse's First Spring
by Lauren Thompson

Bear Wants More
by Karma Wilson

Happy Saint Patrick's Day!

2010-03-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Bay Shore Neighborhood Library celebrated Saint Patrick's Day
by making these festive hats out of construction paper and green hearts,
along with this fun rhyme (below).

Five Green Shamrocks
One green shamrock, in the morning dew
Another one sprouted, and then there were two

Two green shamrocks, growing beneath a tree
Another one sprouted,and then there were three

Three green shamrocks, by the cottage door
Another one sprouted, and then there were four

Four green shamrocks, near a beehive
Another one sprouted, and then there were five

Five little shamrocks, bright and emerald green
Think of all the luck these shamrocks will bring

Want to check out some books on
Saint Patrick's Day and Leprechauns?
Try searching the LBPL catalog!

Celebrate Long Beach Reads One Book with Books for Children

2010-03-13T15:00:00.000-08:00

Sunday concludes Long Beach Reads One Book, where all over Long Beach, people have been reading and discussing The Soloist by Steve Lopez. While this book is aimed at an adult audience, The Soloist has many themes that can be shared with children.

Themes:
Friendship, Music, Art, Homelessness, Mental Health, Journalism

Charlie Parker Played Bebop
by Chris Raschka

Jazzmatazz!
by Stephanie Calmenson

Zin! Zin! Zin! a Violin
by Lloyd Moss

My Family Plays Music
by Judy Cox

Mole Music
by David McPhail

Music Is
by Lloyd Moss

My Friend the Piano
by Catherine Cowan

Mama Don't Allow: starring Miles and the Swamp Band
by Thacher Hurd

Barn Dance!
by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault

Berlioz the Bear
by Jan Brett

Reading Rainbow: Music, music, everywhere (DVD)

More Picture Books to Share:
Fly Away Home by Eve Bunting; illustrated by Ronald Himler.
A homeless boy who lives in an airport with his father, moving from terminal to terminal and trying not to be noticed, is given hope when he sees a trapped bird find its freedom.

The Lady in the Box by Ann McGovern; illustrated by Marni Backer.
When Lizzie and Ben discover a homeless lady living in their neighborhood, they must reconcile their desire to help her with their mother's admonition not to talk to strangers.
(Also available in Spanish:)
La Señora de la Caja de Carton por Ann McGovern; illustraciones de Marni Backer; traduccion de Ana Peluffo

Mutt Dog! words and pictures by Stephen Michael King.
A lonely dog finally finds a home after he makes friends with a woman who works at a homeless shelter.

Sometimes my Mommy Gets Angry by Bebe Moore Campbell; illustrated by E.B. Lewis.
A little girl copes with her mother's mental illness, with the help of her grandmother and friends.

The Teddy Bear written and illustrated by David McPhail.
A teddy bear, lost by the little boy who loves him, still feels loved after being rescued by a homeless man.

You and Me and home Sweet Home by George Ella Lyon & Stephanie Anderson.
Third-grader Sharonda and her mother help volunteers from their church to build the house that will be their very own.

Books for Older Kids:
Darnell Rock Reporting by Walter Dean Myers.
Thirteen-year-old Darnell's twin sister and the other members of the Corner Crew have doubts about his work on the school newspaper, but the article he writes about a homeless man changes his attitude about school.

The Dream Bearer by Walter Dean Myers.
During a summer in Harlem, David relies on his mother and a close friend and on an old man he meets in the park to help him come to terms with his father's outbursts and unstable behavior.

How to Steal a Dog: a novel by Barbara O'Connor.
Living in the family car in their small North Carolina town after their father leaves them homeless and virtually penniless, a young girl persuades her younger brother to help her in an elaborate scheme to get money by stealing a dog and then claiming the reward that the owners are bound to offer.

Monkey Island by Paula Fox.
A classic by Newbery author Paula Fox. Forced to live on the streets of New York after his mother disappears from their hotel room, eleven-year-old Clay is befriended by two people who help him survive.

The Song Shoots Out of my Mouth by Jaime Adoff; illustrated by Martin French.
An illustrated collection of twenty-four poems that celebrates the power of music, and its integral role in the lives of teenagers

What a Song Can Do: 12 riffs on the power of music edited by Jennifer Armstrong.
Twelve stories describe the power of music in young people's lives, from forming a community of individuals in a high school band to helping a young man connect to his Indian heritage through ancient songs.

Spring Forward... Don't forget to change your clocks this weekend!

2010-03-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

Daylight Saving Time begins for most of the United States at 2 a.m. on the second Sunday of March. This year, that date is Sunday, March 14th.

Want to learn more about clocks and telling time? Check out the LBPL catalog for some book ideas!

The clock struck one: a time-telling tale by Trudy Harris

Make Your Own Guitar with Household Items!

2010-03-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

As we continue to celebrate Long Beach Reads One Book featuring The Soloist by Steve Lopez, try this musical craft idea at home. While The Soloist is a book for grownups, adults can share many of the book's themes with children, especially the importance of music.

Shoe Box Guitar

Materials:
Shoe Box
Paper Towel Tube
Popsicle Sticks
Tape/Glue
Scissors
Rubber Bands (try with various widths/colors)
Markers
Stickers (optional)

Directions:
Find an old shoe box, tissue box, or other cardboard box. Have an adult cut an oval-shaped hole in the top. Stretch a few rubber bands around the box and over the hole. Glue a popsicle stick or pencil under the rubber bands on one side of the box. Tape on a paper towel tube, add popsicle stick pegs, decorate and enjoy!

Want to make more crafts like this at home?
Try searching the LBPL catalog for some book ideas!

Celebrate National Nutrition Month @ Burnett Library

2010-03-05T08:00:00.000-08:00

March is National Nutrition Month! Celebrate with a special Bookworm Buddies program presented by the CSULB Dietetic Internship Program. Enjoy stories, games and crafts as we learn about healthy eating habits and the power of exercising.

When: Wednesday, March 10th at 2 p.m.
Where: Burnett Neighborhood Library Community Room
Ages: 5-12

Burnett Neighborhood Library
560 E. Hill Street
(562) 570-1041

For more on healthy eating, check out the
American Dietetic Association website

Visit the LBPL website for a complete calendar
of upcoming youth events @ a library near you!

Happy Birthday Vivaldi!

2010-03-04T09:00:00.000-08:00

Antonio Lucio Vivaldi
March 4, 1678 – July 28, 1741

Antonio Vivaldi was a famous composer and violinist. Vivaldi was born and raised in Venice, Italy. The Four Seasons is Vivaldi's best known work, but he also composed over 500 instrumental concertos, choral works, and operas.

Fun Fact: Vivaldi is known as "The Red Priest" because he had flaming red hair and he also was a priest.

Want to learn more about musical instruments?
Try searching the LBPL catalog for some book ideas!

Celebrate the Winter Olympics at Home

2010-03-03T15:00:00.000-08:00

Just because the 2010 Winter Olympics are over doesn't mean you can't celebrate at home by playing ice hockey in your very own homemade mini-rink!

Materials Needed:
- drinking straws
- scissors
- tape
- baking pan
- buttons
- small stick

Cut a straw in half and then cut twice partway up the straw to create four splits. Flatten those against the bottom of the pan and tape them down, these are your goalposts. Next, fill the pan almost full with water. Place in the freezer for a couple of hours. Remove from freezer and place on top of a table. Use small buttons for hockey pucks and a craft stick for a hockey stick.

Play until it melts.

Want to read a hockey story at home?
Try Dino-hockey by Lisa Wheeler.

Long Beach Reads One Book

2010-03-03T09:00:00.000-08:00

Parents and Teachers: Participate in Long Beach Reads One Book from March 3 - 14. The selection for 2010 is The Soloist: a lost dream, an unlikely friendship, and the redemptive power of music by Steve Lopez.

Check out scheduled events at Long Beach Public Libraries and around the city.

About the book:
Steve Lopez, a columnist for the L.A. Times spots a homeless man performing beautiful music on a shabby violin. Over the next few days, Lopez discovers that the homeless man, Nathaniel Ayers, was once a promising student at Juilliard, but various pressures - including schizophrenia and being one of the few African-American students - caused him to drop out. Enlisting the help of doctors, mental health professionals and professional musicians, Lopez attempts to help Ayers move off Skid Row, regain his dignity, develop his musical talent and free himself of the demons induced by his schizophrenia. --Adapted from Publishers Weekly review

Themes:
Friendship, Music, Art, Homelessness, Mental Health, Journalism

Celebrate Read Across America Day - March 2nd

2010-03-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

www.seussville.com

March 2nd is Dr. Seuss' birthday and is also known as Read Across America Day, where children across the country celebrate by reading books by Dr. Seuss. Visit the Seussville website for some online Seuss fun or check out some books by Dr. Seuss from your local library.

The Cat in the Hat

Green Eggs and Ham

The Lorax

Horton escucha a Quién!

Un pez, dos peces, pez rojo, pez azul

More books by Dr. Seuss are
available @ your local library

NEW – Betwixt and Between Book Club at El Dorado, starting March 5th!

2010-02-23T09:00:00.000-08:00

Betwixt and Between Book Club

Join Miss Laurie the 1st Friday
of every month at 4:00pm
at the El Dorado Library!

Age: Grades K-3
Date: 3/5/2010
Time: 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM

El Dorado Neighborhood Library
2900 Studebaker Rd.
(562) 570-3136

Each month Miss Laurie will introduce a new beginning chapter book. The group will start with round-robin reading and then book club members will finish the book at home. There will be a discussion of the selected book title when group meets the next month. Each month a new chapter book will be started together.

Visit the LBPL website for a complete calendar
of upcoming youth events @ a library near you!

Happy Mardi Gras!

2010-02-16T15:06:00.000-08:00

Celebrate Mardi Gras by making your own decorative mask.

Materials Needed:
- paper
- scissors
- glue
- crayons/ markers
- pencil, drinking straws, or large craft stick
- sequins and feathers (optional)

* Check out DLTK's website for detailed instructions and templates for making a Mardi Gras mask.

Happy Valentines Day

2010-02-12T09:00:00.000-08:00

Did you know that each year over 8 billion candy hearts are manufactured?

MAKE YOUR OWN SWEETHEARTS ONLINE
@ www.mysweethearts.com

Want to learn more about how candy is made?
Visit the Necco Candy website to learn more!

Check out some Valentine's Day books @ your library!

Valentine's Day Is
by Gail Gibbons

Roses are Pink, Your Feet Really Stink
by Diane deGroat

Love You the Purplest
by Barbara M. Joosse

Chinese New Year Craft

2010-02-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

Craft: Dragons on Parade
from Kaboose

Materials Needed:
- Template printed on cardstock paper or regular printer paper glued to a thicker backing
- Paint/paint brushes, markers, or crayons
- Crepe paper streamers
- Tape and glue
- Large craft stick (optional)

* Visit the Kaboose website for full instructions and more holiday craft ideas!

Chinese New Year is February 14, 2010

2010-02-10T09:00:00.000-08:00

新年快乐
xīn nián kuài lè
Happy New Year!

Want to learn more in Mandarin Chinese?

Mango Languages is an learning tool features a one-of-a-kind teaching approach. Offers a range of language courses including Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, English, and more.
(LBPL library card required for login)

Six more weeks of winter, according to Punxsutawney Phil...

2010-02-02T15:15:00.000-08:00

Every February 2, people all across America wonder about the groundhog Punxsutawney Phil. Will he see his shadow or won't he? Will spring come early or late? According to folklore, if a groundhog emerging from its burrow on this day fails to see its shadow, it will leave the burrow, signifying that winter will soon end. If on the other hand, the groundhog sees its shadow, the groundhog will supposedly retreat into its burrow, and winter will continue for six more weeks. Folks from Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania are reporting six more weeks of winter because Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow today. Will the weather still feel like winter for 6 more weeks? Spring does not officially begin until March, but we will all just have to wait and see what the weather will be like in the meantime!

Check out some Groundhog's Day books @ your library!

ABC SOUP Valentine’s Day @ Dana Library

2010-01-29T12:37:00.000-08:00

ABC SOUP Valentine’s Day

Join in the ABC Soup Club fun
as they celebrate Valentine’s Day!!

Friday, February 12 @ 3:30pm

Dana Neighborhood Library
3680 Atlantic Ave
562-570-1042

This program is presented by Poly High School’s Alphabet Soup Club. It is free and open to children age 5 and up. Attendance capacity may be limited.

Visit the LBPL website for a complete calendar
of upcoming events @ a library near you!

ALA Awards 2010: Newbery, Caldecott Medal Award Winners & List | The News is NowPublic.com

2010-01-27T17:31:00.000-08:00

Check out the complete list here:
ALA Awards 2010: Newbery, Caldecott Medal Award Winners & List The News is NowPublic.com

Caldecott Medal for Illustration

The Lion and the Mouse
by Jerry Pinkney

Newbery Medal for Literature

When You Reach Me
by Rebecca Stead

One of the best books of 2009…

2010-01-21T11:21:00.000-08:00

A Season of Gifts
By Richard Peck

"...one of Peck's best novels yet - and that's saying something."
--Kirkus, starred review

"Irresistible, independent, and unorthodox as ever, Grandma Dowdel makes a welcome return...she's entered that rare pantheon of unforgettably great characters."
--Horn Book

"Peck has once again created a whole world in one small Illinois town, a place where the folksy wisdom and generosity of one gruff old woman can change lives."
--School Library Journal

[From Amazon.com]
Grandma Dowdel is back! She's up to her old tricks of bestowing her "gifts" upon the unsuspecting, this time her new neighbors, a young minister and his family. Peck's story portrays life in a small American town in 1958.

The eccentric, forceful, big-hearted Grandma Dowdel is the star of the Newbery Medal–winning A Year Down Yonder and Newbery Honor–winning A Long Way from Chicago. And it turns out that her story isn’t over—not even close.

It is now 1958, and a new family has moved in next door to Mrs. Dowdel: a Methodist minister and his wife and kids. Soon Mrs. Dowdel will work her particular brand of charm—or medicine, depending on who you’re asking—on all of them: ten-yearold Bob, who is shy on courage in a town full of bullies; his two fascinating sisters; and even Bob’s two parents, who are amazed to discover that the last house in town might also be the most vital.

As Christmas rolls around, the Barnhart family realizes that they’ve found a true home—and a neighbor who gives gifts that will last a lifetime.

A Long Way from Chicago

A Year Down Yonder

Check out World Book Encyclopedia
for more information on award winning author
Richard Peck

More books by this author are available
@ your local library

COMMUNITY EVENTS

2010-01-15T12:58:00.001-08:00

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY PARADE
DATE: JANUARY 16, 2010
TIME: 10:30a.m. - 5:30p.m.
CONTACT: (562) 570-6816
The 22nd annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Peace and Unity Parade Celebration will begin on Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue at the Anaheim Street intersection. It will be followed by a multi-cultural celebration at King Park, 1950 Lemon Ave. There will be music, dance performances, and a children's play area. There also will be food vending booths and nonprofit community service information.

Celebrate a Great Leader!

2010-01-14T17:09:00.000-08:00

Martin Luther King, Jr.

January 15, 1929 – April 4, 1968

Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life by checking out some books from your local library!

Martin's Big Words : the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
by Doreen Rappaport

A Picture Book of Martin Luther King, Jr.
by David A. Adler

I've Seen the Promised Land: the life of
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
by Walter Dean Myers

My dream of Martin Luther King
by Faith Ringgold

Martin Luther King
by Malcah Zeldis

Martin Luther King, Jr.
by Amy Pastan

Martin Luther King, Jr.: civil rights leader
by Robert Jakoubek

Martin Luther King Jr.:
civil rights leader and Nobel Prize winner
by Andrew Santella

* * *

Want to learn more about Martin Luther King?
Check out World Book Enclyclopedia online!

Or, check out this article to learn more about the
Civil Rights Movemement.

What's Happening This Month?

2009-12-12T16:28:00.000-08:00

Check out the Youth Services Calendar to see what's happening for kids this month. Find a story time to attend or a holiday craft event at a library near you. Happy Holidays!

Happy Fall, Happy Halloween, Happy Dia de los Muertos, Happy Library!

2009-10-08T13:26:00.000-07:00

Hi Kids! Please join us at any Long Beach local library and gather up your books for the season. October is, among other things; Carmel Month, Cookie Month, Dinosaur Month, Roller Skating Month, Sarcastics Month, Vegetarian Awareness Month, National Hispanic Heritage Month, Pretzel Month, and Month of the Pumpkin Festival. Pick up and read books on these topics at your local library. Be a detective. See if you can locate books on these topics at your local library.

Trick or Treat! Don't forget to Read! Reading for fun while in school can help improve your reading skills. It's also a creative and fun way to spend your time, while gaining knowledge about things you may have never known about. Pick up a good book today at your local library.

Halloween Poem:

A-camping we will go,

with monster friends in tow -

Hi ho the scary-O,

we dare you to say no.

We'll gather 'round the pit.

We'll growl, snort, and spit.

Hi ho the scary-O,

now grab a log and sit.

We'll sing a song or two.

We'll belch and barbecue.

Hi ho the scary-O,

here, try the witches' brew.

We'll rip your tent and sneer.

We'll fill your nights with fear.

Hi ho the scary-O,

we're glad you made it here.

(From Sipping Spiders Through a Straw: Campfire Songs for Monsters. Lyrics by Kelly DiPucchio)

Have a good night tonight! From all your friends at the Long Beach Public Library :)

Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf?

2009-09-10T16:31:00.000-07:00

The big bad wolf, the big bad wolf?

People who BAN BOOKS, that's who!!

Banned Books Week: Celebrating the Freedom to Read
September 26−October 3, 2009

To see a list of banned or frequently challanged books, visit:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_books_banned_by_governments

or take a look at the ALA (American Library Association) website for banned books for 2009: http://www.ala.org/ala/issuesadvocacy/banned/bannedbooksweek/index.cfm

Here is a quote from ALA about Banned and Challenged Books:

"A challenge is an attempt to remove or restrict materials, based upon the objections of a person or group. A banning is the removal of those materials. Challenges do not simply involve a person expressing a point of view; rather, they are an attempt to remove material from the curriculum or library, thereby restricting the access of others. Due to the commitment of librarians, teachers, parents, students and other concerned citizens, most challenges are unsuccessful and most materials are retained in the school curriculum or library collection."

In regards to intellectual freedom, ALA states, "ALA actively advocates in defense of the rights of library users to read, seek information, and speak freely as guaranteed by the First Amendment. A publicly supported library provides free and equal access to information for all people of that community. We enjoy this basic right in our democratic society. It is a core value of the library profession."

Our library in Long Beach supports intellectual freedom. Come in today and pick up a copy of Little Red Riding Hood by Jacob Grimm, a Harry Potter book from J.K. Rowling's series, or Blubber by Judy Blume. These books, along with others on display have often been banned or challenged by various organizations and groups. Join us and support banned books week at your local library.

This little train...

2009-09-03T14:37:00.000-07:00

Hello,

I recently showed a train storytime flannel story at the Main Toddler Time program. The rhyme goes like this:

This little train, painted black

It comes chugging down the track

With a "Choo-choo; Toot-toot"

Hear the whistle blow