May Menasha Readers Newsletter
Menasha Readers
May 2007
Introducing Playaways!
Ever been on your walk or run and your audiobook CD runs out? Wish you didn't have to change a disc while zooming along Hwy 41 at 65 miles per hour? Wish you could take an audiobook on that beach vacation but don't want the hassle of lugging around and keeping track of multiple discs? Then you may be interested in our newest audio collection - Playaways!
Playaways are audio books in a digital format (think your iPod or MP3 player). The size of a deck of cards, each Playaway title contains an entire audiobook in its small case. All you need is an AAA battery and your earbuds and hours of great listening are at your fingertips. If you have an adapter, you can listen to the book through your home or car audio system.
The Friends of the Library will be selling earbuds and batteries at $1.00 each at the Check-out Desks. Titles for both children and adults will be available starting this month.
Ladies Night Out Readers Group or Lit Lite Readers Group
The Library is sponsoring a special summer session for ladies interested in reading and discussing contemporary American fiction. The books will have substance without being too dark, perhaps featuring a touch of romance or a bit of humor. Explore new authors, share your views, or just escape for a few hours.
The group will meet June 11, July 9 and August 6 at 7 pm at the Library. The first book will be Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons by Lorna Landvik. Copies of the book will be available at the Reference Desk after May 10.
Sign up in person for the group at the Reference Desk, call 967-5166 x 3690 or email dalum@menashalibrary.org.
Watch Our Children's Garden Grow
Did you know that Menasha Public Library has its own Secret Garden? The Children's Department wants to keep it a secret no longer! Preschoolers and their parents participating in the Let's Grow story sessions will be planting sunflowers in the garden located in the northwest corner of the library right by the Children's Room. This year's garden theme is the "Read and Grow Garden." Be sure to check out the beauty and growth of our sunflowers throughout the summer as you make your visits to the library. Check out our garden as you check out your books!
It's Easy to "Get a Clue@ Your Library"
On-the-Go Group Summer Reading Materials
Are you planning to teach summer school or work with kids in a childcare, preschool or large group situation? If the answer is yes, then the Children's Dept has a deal for you! We have a free, simple do-it-yourself, in-classroom or care center summer reading incentive program that encourages kids to read and write. Each pre-packed kit comes complete-in-a-bag with a poster-sized chart; stickers to put on the chart; prizes for each child; and an easy sheet of instructions. The materials let you provide your students with the same fun reading and writing incentive program that we provide without needing to bring the kids into the library. Details and packets will be available in late May for pick-up for your summer classroom!
Let's Grow! Stories and Gardening Fun
Mondays, May 7 and May 14 9:30-10:15 a.m. in the Children's Dept.
Preschoolers and their parents or caregivers are invited to a free two-week session of super garden stories and planting fun. We'll read of pesky rabbits, grouchy gardeners, and wormy friends, plus you'll get a chance to plant flowers in the secret Library Garden. "Weed" be sad if you didn't join us!
Come Visit the "Eis Café"(the Ice Cream Café) in the Co E Room
Tuesday, May 8 6:30-7:15 p.m.
The German students at Maplewood Middle School will help children discover German culture through engaging stories, crafts, and songs all centered around the Ice Cream Café. Participants will learn to speak a few words "auf Deutsch," plus sing the smash hit song about a little crocodile named "Schnappi."
Blood Drive - May 29
The Community Blood Center will conduct a Blood Drive at the Library on Tuesday, May 29 from 3 - 6 pm. Walk-ins are always welcome! However, scheduling an appointment in advance helps ensure a speedy donation for all.
Call the Reference Desk at 967-3690, to reserve a time. A person never knows when they, or someone they love are going to need blood. It may be YOU!
Friends of the Menasha Public Library
The Library's Friends' group is a volunteer organization which provides an opportunity for community members to help make their library even better. Staff can always use an extra pair of hands. Even if you have just a few hours to spare, we would appreciate your help with:
• Used Book Sales
• Receptions for special events
• Gardening
• Adult & Children's Services programs. .
• Distributing Friends publicity throughout the community.
• Working on special projects that enhance the quality of service at the Library.
If you are interested in joining the Friends of the Library, please contact Kathy Hannah at 967-3692. Membership is free.
"As a Friend You Can Make a Difference "