Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Lunch Book Discussion


Join us for our friendly and lively book discussion on
Wednesday, January 21st at Noon. Copies of Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen are available for checkout at the front desk. Bring your lunch and a drink and we’ll provide dessert!

Monday, December 29, 2008

Best of 2008

Best Books of 2008 according to:
Amazon.com- This site has Top 100 Editor's Picks, Top 100 Consumer's Picks, and even the year's best book covers.
NPR- Lots of lists including Best Graphic Novels, Literary Letters, and Foreign Fiction
Goodreads.com- Add books to the list or vote for your favorites.
Cleveland.com- Check this out if you want to hear about some good books that have flown under the bestseller radar.
School Library Journal- A great resource which also has a list for picture books.
New York Times- This Top 10 List features editors' picks out of 100 Notable Books of 2008.

Other Helpful Links:
Top 10 Movies of 2008 from TopTenReviews.com
Best Films of 2008 from the New York Post
50 Best Websites from Time.com
Best Tech List from Infoworld.com
Best Albums of 2008 from Metacritic.com

Fingerplay of the Day

Dressing for Winter

(Perform Actions indicated by Rhyme)
This is how we dress on a cold Winter's day.
We put on our snowsuits to go out to play.
Then we put on our boots for walking in the snow.
Next, our hats and our mittens, 'Cause the wind begins to blow.
And now we're all ready to go out and play.
We'll stay nice and warm on this cold Winter day.

Saturday, December 27, 2008



Recycle your Christmas Cards!!

We will be collecting the front half of your Christmas Cards to send to St. Jude's. They re-use for creating Eco-Friendly cards to sell as fundraisers. We will accept them at the library until January 31st at which time they will be bulk mailed to the St. Jude Ranch in Nevada. Please cut off back half where writing may be. Go Green - Be Earth Friendly!!

BIG NEWS!! MCPL buys land for future site!

The Meade County Public Library has entered into an agreement to purchase five acres of land on Old Ekron Road. The parcel is situated across from the Meade County Extension Service and is within walking distance of both Meade County High School and Stuart Pepper Middle School as well as residential areas in Brandenburg. The land was purchased with an eye toward the future. “Purchasing the land is a positive step forward for building a new library,” said Rachel Baelz, director of the Meade County Public Library. “The building has served its purpose for many years, but we are outgrowing it. The annex is constantly booked, and we are shuffling materials all the time to make room for everything. With a new library, we’ll be able to offer more programs, services and materials for a growing county.”

The library is a standout in the state in terms of programs and patrons who utilize the facility. But it is woefully behind in terms of the physical plant. With square footage of 9,360 square feet, the library barely meets half of the Kentucky Department of Libraries and Archives (KDLA) minimum standard of 17,719 for 2010. In 2030, that minimum standard will be 19,714 square feet.

“I’m glad the library has been able to purchase property that will allow them to expand to meet the KDLA minimum facility standards and plan for additional expansions that might be needed in the future,” said state library construction consultant Chris Bischoff, who has advised the board during the land purchase process.

“Although a source for construction funding is still undetermined, securing a good property is an excellent first step,” continued Bischoff. “Should sources of construction grant funding become available, the library will be in a good position to apply.”

The five-acre parcel is to be purchased from Virginia Miller for $195,000. Brandenburg Mayor David Pace was instrumental in bringing the parties together, and local engineer Tim Smith worked with Pace in finding an appropriate site for the library. In addition to the sale of five acres to the library, the Millers have stated their intent to gift 3.7 adjacent acres to the city of Brandenburg.

“It will be a nice setting with almost nine acres for the library and a park,” said Pace, who stated his intention is to clear the underbrush for walking trails and leave as many trees as possible. “I think it will be a nice addition to the city landscape,” said Pace, “and it will be utilized by not only the citizens of Brandenburg, but by the entire community.”

“Part of our mission as a board is to deliver a modern, usable facility,” said Tony Black, vice-president of the library’s board of trustees. “This is the first step in doing that. It was a location we never would have considered attainable. However, when the mayor approached us with the opportunity, we realized it had all the elements we were looking for. It’s a great location with sufficient acreage and an attractive site within walking distance of schools and neighborhoods.”

Black went on to express his appreciation to the Miller family for their vision. “They weren’t going to give this property to just anyone. It is a compliment to the people of our county and honors the mission of the library that they wanted to work with us in making this dream a reality.”

This article is by Sandra Stone of Meade County Messenger.

Monday, December 15, 2008

Debt-Free Living Workshop Rescheduled

Due to the winter storm warning in Meade County, we have rescheduled tonight's Debt-Free Living Workshop for Monday, January 12th from 6-7 in the Annex. We apologize for any inconvenience, but the safety of our patrons is our highest priority. If you are unable to make the rescheduled session, feel free to call Megan Stith at 422-2094 and we can provide you with a copy of the presentation and handouts for you to look over at your convenience. Hope to see you in January!

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Fingerplay of the Day


Five Little Christmas Trees

5 little Christmas trees
Standing all alone
Their heart were very sad
'Cause they hadn't found a home.
Then chop went the ax
And down fell the tree
And off they went with a happy family!
(continue from 4-1 Christmas Trees)

No little Christmas trees
Standing all alone
Their hearts were very happy
'Cause they all found a home!!!

12/11 Lapsit

Theme: All About Me
Books: Toes, Ears, and Nose by Marion Dane Bauer
Whose Toes are Those? by Jarabi Asim
How a Baby Grows by Nola Buck
Fingerplays: Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes
Five Little Christmas Trees

Next week we will be learning about Christmas at this last Lapsit of 2008! Hope to see you there!

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

12/9 Story Hour

Theme: Reindeer
Book: Olive, the Other Reindeer by J. Otto Seibold and Vivian Walsh
Music: Jingle Bells
Activity: Pin the nose on Rudloph

Monday, December 8, 2008

Art Show

Enjoy pictures from the MCPL art show that was held last Friday night. More than 125 people attended to view the work of local artists. Special thanks to Main Street Cafe for providing refreshments!













Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Twilight Reader Resources

Are you a fan of the Twilight series? These links might interest you:

Book Tie-Ins to Twilight
The Top Twilight Sights on the Web
Author Stephanie Meyer's Website
Twilight Lexicon
Twilight Series Fan Club
Vampire Movies for Grown-Ups
Donate Blood With the Red Cross

Hope you enjoy the movie!

12/2/08 Story Hour

Theme: Helping Others
Book: The Peace Book by Todd Parr
Craft: Make a Christmas card to send to our troops!
Activity: Go to the library and watch us cut a loop off our "Countdown to Christmas" chain. Christmas is only 23 days away!

Our next Story Hour will be Tuesday, December 9th at 10:30. Thanks to all those who helped make a difference in the holidays of our brave men and women in uniform!

Monday, December 1, 2008

Family Holiday Craft and Story Night

Sponsored by the
Meade County Public Library
and the
Meade County Education and Career Center


Wednesday, December 17th
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
at the
Meade County Adult Education Center
(on the bypass across from Dairy Queen)


Cookies and Punch!
Christmas Crafts!
Holiday Stories!

Fingerplay of the Day

The North Pole Post Office now has a branch at the Meade County Public Library. Stop by the Children's section to send your letter to Santa!
Mailman
See the mailman, dressed in blue
(pretend to look)
He's walking, walking, walking
(walk in place)
Do you think he'll bring to you
Some postcards and a letter too?

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Library Closed Thanksgiving

The Meade County Public Library will close Thursday, November 26th for Thanksgiving Day. We will reopen Friday, November 27th at 9:00 a.m. Happy Thanksgiving!

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

11/25 Story Hour

Theme: Thanksgiving
Book: I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Pie by Alison Jackson
Flannelboard: Put together a turkey puzzle while singing our "Gobble, Gobble, Gobble" song
Craft: Make your own Thanksgiving meal! Kids cut out pictures of food from magazines and glued them on to paper plates to create delicious-looking feasts!
Activity: Help create a "Countdown to Christmas" paper chain that is now hanging in the Children's section.

See you on December 2nd when we will be making cards to send to our troops overseas!

Fingerplay of the Day

Five Little Pilgrims

Five little Pilgrims on Thanksgiving Day
(hold up hand and count off fingers with the rhyme)
The first one said, "I"ll have cake if I may."
The second one said, "I'll have turkey roasted."
The third one said, "I'll have chestnuts toasted."
The fourth one said, "I'll have pumpkin pie."
The fifth one said, "Oh, cranberries I spy."
But before the Pilgrims ate their turkey dressing,
They bowed their heads and said a Thanksgiving blessing.

Library Card


Your Meade County Public Library card opens the door to a world of information and entertainment. The library offers books, DVDs, CDs and videos for you to borrow to use and enjoy, with additional services available online through the library’s website.

We feel that the rights of our patrons to privacy and autonomy are of the utmost importance. In order to ensure accuracy, we ask that you present your library card whenever you want to check out materials. If you do not have your library card with you, staff will ask to see a photo I.D. This will prevent others from checking out materials under your name, which could possibly lead to unwanted fines. If you have misplaced your library card, please see a staff member at the front desk so they can reissue a new one.

Thank you for your cooperation!

Monday, November 24, 2008

Fingerplay of the Day

Run, Turkey, Run!

Five fat turkeys stand in a line. (Hold up fingers and thumb of one hand).
They wiggle their toes and are feeling fine. (Flip fingers back with base of palm extended. Wiggle baseof palm back and forth).
They look to the sky, (Raise hand and arm up “into the sky”).
They look to the ground. (Push hand and arm down “to the ground”).
Then they twist and turn and prance around. (Bring hand back to original position, twist aroundclockwise at the wrist, turn hand from side to side, andbounce it up and down). But they won't be prancing on Thanksgiving Day, (Child shakes his/her own head from side to side).
‘Cause when it comes, they’ll run away! (Quickly place hand behind back on the words “run away”).
(Place both hands up on either side of the head and wiggle them from side to side during the following chorus):
Run turkey, run.
Thanksgiving is fun.
It’s fun for most,
But not for the roast!
(Put one hand down to side. Keep other hand in position. Fold thumb into palm as the letter 5 is spoken. Pull down pointer finger as the letter 4 is spoken. This continues all the way down the line until the little finger is folded down as the letter 1 is spoken. If children have a hard time
folding their thumbs and fingers down, they can use their other hand to help in the process).
Five, four, three, two, one….
(Children have formed a fist. They will thrust that fist into the air each time the word “run” is said in the following)
So, run turkey,
Run turkey, RUN!

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Fingerplay of the Day

Fall Leaves

The trees are gently dropping,
Leaves onto the ground (flutter fingers down)
The flowers are all nodding,
Down and all around (turn around slowly)
The wind is blowing a chilly breeze (sway back and forth)
The birds are flying into the trees (flap arms like wings)

Lunch Book Discussion


Join us for our friendly and lively book discussion on Wednesday, December 17th at Noon. We will discuss The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs. Copies of the book are available for checkout at the front desk. Bring your lunch and a drink and we’ll provide dessert!

MCPL Quilting Group

Meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays Of Each Month
2:00 p.m., Library Annex
FREE!
All experience levels!
Learn how to quilt and meet new friends.
For more information contact the library at 422-2094.




Mother Daughter Book Club



This month we're reading The Princess Diaries by Meg Cabot. Copies of the book are available for checkout at the front desk of the library. We will meet Thursday, December 11th at 6:00 p.m. at the Main Street Café. Call the library at 422-2094 for more information.

Too much to do before the Holidays? Let MCPL help!

Thursday, December 18th, Library Annex


Holiday Gift Wrapping - 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Need to wrap some gifts away from prying eyes? Come to the MCPL Library Annex for an evening of gift wrapping and fun with friends. Bring your own supplies and we’ll provide you with a place to wrap gifts for family and friends

Cookie Swap-7:00 p.m.
Join us for our second annual Cookie Swap! Bring a batch of your favorite cookies and sample from all the other wonderful cookies. Bring 2 to 3 dozen cookies and their recipes. All cookies must contain an ingredient list for possible allergens.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Fingerplay of the Day

Autumn Leaves

Autumn Leaves are floating down,
(float arms and hands up and down)
They make a carpet on the ground.
Then swish, the wind comes whistling by,
(move arms to the side quickly)
And sends them dancing to the sky.

November 18th Story Hour

Theme: Turkeys
Book: The Perfect Thanksgiving by Eileen Spinelli
Craft: Make a hand turkey and decorate it with feathers
Activity: Play Goose, Goose, Turkey

Next week we will be reading I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Pie and making our own Thanksgiving feasts! Hope to see you there!


We will be having short computer "how-to" sessions for those interested. They will be on Wednesday mornings at 10:00 a.m. Space is limited so please call for reservations at 270-422-2094. These are great for beginners or those experienced who just want to expand on their knowledge. If there is a particular area you would like covered in future sessions, please feel free to suggest!


December 3rd - Email basics


December 10th - Ebay basics


December 17th - Search engines

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Fingerplay of the Day

Fee Fi Fo Fum

Fee, fie, fo fum (point to fingers one by one)
See my fingers (wiggle fingers),
see my thumbs (wiggle thumbs).
Fee, fie, fo fum
fingers gone- now the thumbs! (wiggle fingers and thumbs then hide behind back)

Monday, November 17, 2008

Holidays for Heroes


Holidays for Heroes is sponsored by the American Red Cross and distributes holiday cards to service members, veterans, and their families. Show your appreciation for our men and women in uniform by stopping by the library to make a card to send to a veteran recovering in a military hospital or one of our troops stationed in the U.S. or abroad. Supplies for your card are provided in the Children's area and at tables throughout the library. You are also welcome to bring in a card you made at home. Please sign your cards and drop them off at the front desk when you are finished. We must mail all cards by Friday, December 5th to ensure they are received in time for the holidays.

Our troops and their families sacrifice so much for each of us on a daily basis. We appreciate you taking the time to show them how much their service means to us!

Fingerplay of the Day

I Hear Thunder
(sung to Frere Jacques)

I hear thunder,
I hear thunder (pound hands gently on floor or lap).
Hark, don't you? (cup one hand by ear to listen)
Hark, don't you? (cup other hand by ear to listen)
Pitter, patter raindrops,
Pitter, patter raindrops (wiggle fingers in falling motion in front of face),
I'm wet through (shake body)
So are you! (point to child or give child a little tickle)

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Yum! 11/13 Lapsit Program

Today we learned about food as we prepare to eat our holiday feasts in a few weeks! Next week's theme will be Thanksgiving, so come join us at 10:30 on Thursday in the Annex.
Gobble Gobble!
Theme: Food
Book: Yummy Yucky by Leslie Patricelli
Rhyme: Pat-a-Cake
Book: Yum! by SAMi
Song: I'm a Little Teapot
Book: Yellow and Yummy from Disney Enterprises
Activity: Build towers with food boxes and play music on empty containers

Fingerplay of the Day

Sometimes I Am Tall

Sometimes I am tall (stand up straight).
Sometimes I am small (crouch to floor).
Sometimes I am very, very tall (stand and stretch arms over head).
Sometimes I am very, very small (bend down to floor).
Sometimes tall, sometimes small (stretch high, bend low),
See how I am now (stand up normally)!

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Researching Online: Who Do You Trust?

According to the Netcraft Web Server Survey, it is estimated that as of February 2007 there were 29.7 BILLION webpages accessible in cyberspace! Anyone can have a website and post their own content, whether it be opinions or facts. This can sometimes make researching topics on the internet difficult when the credibility of the page is unknown. So what can you do to make sure you are using a reliable source for your research?

Check out these links to learn more:

Assessing the Credibility of Online Sources from Literacy Education Online
Wikipedia's Credibility: Finding Reliable Online Sources for Students from Suite101.com
How to Research Credible Resources Online for a Paper from Wonderhowto.com
Evaluating Internet Resources from Virtualsalt.com
How to Evaluate the Credibility of a Source from Wikihow.com

Helpful search engines:

Recommended Search Engines from UC Berkeley
When Wikipedian Won't Cut It: 25 Online Sources for Reliable, Researched Facts from Collegedegree.com
Search Engine Reviews from Consumersearch.com
The Best Search Engines on the Web from About.com
Reference Extract (In development)
Knuru.com- Business information

"Knowledge is not what you know, but knowing where to find it!"

Hannah Montana Super Saturday

Saturday, November 15th from 1-3PM in the Annex

Are you in training to become the next pop superstar? Come work on your dance moves and play Dance Dance Revolution with other Hannah Montana fans.

Las Posadas Christmas Celebration


Tuesday, December 23rd
6:30-8:00 in the MCPL Annex

Join us as we celebrate the Mexican holiday of Las Posadas, which represents the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. All ages are welcome to come learn about the Spanish language and Mexican culture. We will be reading a story, making crafts, having a parade through the library, and enjoying Mexican cuisine provided by Miguel’s. Our fiesta will also include music and a piñata!

Fingerplay of the Day

Baby's Nap

This is a baby ready for a nap (hold up finger).
Lay him down in his mother's lap (place in palm of hand).
Cover him up so he won't peep (wrap other fingers to cover him).
Rock him 'til he's fast asleep (rock hands to and fro).

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Fingerplay of the Day

Two Little Birds

Two little birds (extend 2 index fingers)
Sitting on a fence (hold forearms horizontally with elbows sticking out)
Panchito flys away, (fly hands behind your back)
Pedrito flys away.
Panchito returns,
Pedrito returns (return hands to front with index finger still extended).

Dos Pajaritos

Dos pajaritos muy sentados
Enuna cerca muy alta:
Vuela Panchito,
Vuela Pedrito.
Vuelve Panchito,
Vuelve Pedrito.

Let's Eat! November 11th Story Hour


Theme: Food
Book: Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs by Judi and Ron Barrett
Craft: Make macaroni and cereal necklaces or artwork
Activity: Go grocery shopping! Our "shoppers" were given play money, a shopping list with a colored shape, and a grocery bag and were sent to the MCPL Grocery Store. Empty food and drink containers had been labeled with different colored shapes corresponding to the shapes on the shopping list. Shoppers had to find all 4 items that matched the shape on their list and then check out at the cash register. We had a great time learning about food, money, shapes, and colors!
Next week our theme will be Turkeys!

Monday, November 10, 2008

Native American Heritage Month


November is Native American Heritage Month! Hope these resources help you learn more about the culture of our Native American brothers and sisters.







Fingerplay of the Day

Apple Tree

Way up high in an apple tree (hold arms above head, fingers spread)
Two little apples did I see (make fists).
So I shook that tree as hard as I could (wiggle entire body),
Down came the apples (lower arms),
Mmmmm, they were good (rub tummy)!

Friday, November 7, 2008

Fingerplay of the Day

Up, Down, Over, Under

Up and down, round and round (draw circles in the air),
put your fingers on the ground.
Over (hold hands above lap) under, (below legs)
in between (you've hidden your hands in between your legs)
Now my fingers can't be seen!
Hands in front, hands behind , now my hands I cannot find.
Here's my left hand , here's my right,
Hands and fingers back in sight (wriggle fingers).

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Job Hunting in a Down Economy

Any American that goes shopping, stops to fill up at the gas station, or has watched their stock investments tumble knows that our economy is facing many challenges. Energy and food are becoming more expensive while the stock market is a daily roller coaster ride of volatility.

The latest news shows that planned job cuts are expected to hit five year highs; so what can you do to protect your job or find a new one in this difficult time?

Three Ways You Can Protect Your Job in Times of Economic Uncertainty from JobDig.com
How to Protect Your Job in a Recession from the Harvard Business Review
How to Protect Your Job When Layoffs Loom from PunnyMoney

Finding a Local Job in a Bad Economy from Suite101.com
Finding a Job in a Bad Economy from DirJournal.com
Finding a Job Despite the Economy from Newsweek

If you need help creating or improving your resume, searching online for jobs, writing a cover letter, preparing for an interview, or anything else related to yor job search, we're here to help! Stop by the library for a one-on-one workshop to help give you the edge in this competitive job market. Computer classes are also offered if you would like to improve your skills to become more desirable to employers. Best of luck in your search!

Fingerplay of the Day

Just a reminder that Lapsit will not be held tomorrow, 11/6 due to the book sale, but you are welcome to stop by the Annex and check out our great deals on books!

Five Little Turkeys

Five little turkeys by the barn door,
One waddled off, then there were four.
Four little turkeys out under the tree,
One waddled off, then there were three.
Three little turkeys with nothing to do,
One waddled off, then there were two.
Two little turkeys in the noonday sun,
One waddled off, then there was one.
One little turkey - better run away!
Soon will come Thanksgiving Day!

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Links for Readers

Wondering what to read?
Visit WhatShouldIReadNext.com, enter a book you like and the site will analyse our database of real readers' favorite books (over 47,000 and growing) to suggest what you could read next. You can also register on the website and build your own favorites list.

Want to see the latest list of best sellers?
The New York Times has 10 lists of best sellers in categories such as advice, children's books, and nonfiction.

Interested in book-oriented blogs?
Booklover's Blog is a reader's advisory written by the staff of the Greensboro Public Library.
Grumpy Old Bookman is a blog from the UK about books and publishing.
Reader's Read has the latest book news, plus excerpts, best seller lists, and trends.
Get a librarian's point of view with The Shifted Librarian.

Do you enjoy social networking?
On Shelfari you can build a virtual bookshelf, see what your friends are reading, and discover new books.
Meet the world's largest book club! Catalog your collection, share reviews, and connect with readers who enjoy similar books on LibraryThing

Do you like free books?
If your child enjoys online children's books or if you are looking for the best in international online literature resources for children aged 3-13, you need to know about the International Children's Digital Library (ICDL). Billed as the "Biggest Online Children's Library," the ICDL was established in late 2002. By early 2007, there were 1,500 free children's books, written in 37 different languages, available online on the ICDL website. Plus you can start teaching your children about computers while getting them excited about reading!

Fall Story Hour

Theme: Fall
Book: Fletcher and the Falling Leaves by Julia Rawlinson
Rhyme: 5 Little Leaves
Five little leaves so bright and gay (pick 5 kids to act this out)
Were dancing about on a tree one day (have them give their best leaf dance)
Then a strong wind blew through town (wave arms and wiggle fingers like the wind)
And one little leaf came tumbling down (tap one "leaf" on the head and have them crouch down)
Four little leaves...
Three little leaves...
Repeat until all leaves are gone, then "rake" up the leaves by getting the kids to make a pile.
Craft: Arm trees- trace lower arm and hand to look like a tree. Add cut-out leaves to the branches to make a pretty fall picture. We also did leaf rubbings which could also be added to the tree.
Activity: We decorated the Annex by having the kids create a tree on the wall. They added cut-out leaves, owls, and pumpkins to make a fall scene that we can enjoy all month!

Fingerplay of the Day

My Turkey

I have a turkey, big and fat
He spreads his wings, (Fan hands at hips)
And walks like that (Strut)
His daily corn he would not miss (Pretend to eat corn)
And when he walks, he sounds like this, ('Gobble, Gobble, Gobble')

Friday, October 31, 2008



Our semi-annual book sale will be Thursday, November 6 starting at Noon; Friday, November 7 9:00-5:30 and Saturday, November 8th from 9:00 to noon. All items will be 25 cents each and will include books in hardcover, softcover, audiobooks on CD and cassette, movies in DVD and VHS format, computer games, and more. Encyclopedia sets are just $5.00. Come early for best selection. Saturday will finish with our blow-out special of $1.00 a bag!

Christmas Card Making Workshop - We will be hosting two adult Christmas card making workshops on Thursday, December 4th @ 6:00 p.m. and Thursday, December 11th @ 6:00 p.m. in the library annex. Give someone you care about a handmade Christmas card this year! Stamp, color and decorate cards with all of the materials supplied. Your host, Tonda Baldwin, a Stampin' Up Demonstrator, will help you create a special card for this holiday season. This is a beginners workshop. Each day will feature a different project, you do not have to attend both days, pick one or come to both. Space is limited to 10 per session and reservations are required for both days. For more info and RSVP, call the library at 270-422-2094 or stop at the front desk.


Thursday, October 30, 2008

Book Signing - November 6th

Author Fred G. Wilson will be visiting the Meade County Public Library on Thursday November 6th at 5:00 in the Library Annex. He will be signing his new book Say What?.

Fred G. Wilson's childhood was set against the backdrop of The Great Depression and World War II, formative years that shaped his own character and the character of a nation. "Having a sense of humor seemed to ease the misery of those bygone days,' he writes, "and people poked fun at each other and sought to make light of the woes they were experiencing. Out of this era came some colorful, humorous, and enlightened sayings. In every part of our nation, there were colloquial expressions that summed up the feelings of the local region. This book contains some of these...Many of these expressions were learned at home from Mom and Dad. This was before television and we learned to amuse ourselves with 'homegrown' entertainment. Farm work, taking care of the livestock, and the many chores kept us busy. When I reflect back on those days, I wouldn't change them even if I could..." Country folk have a language all their own. In Say What?, author Fred G. Wilson has gathered many of these expressions in order to save them for future generations, shedding a light on what it was like to grow up during the forties and fifties in rural America.

Halloween Lapsit

Theme: Halloween!
Books: Boo Who? by Joan Holub
Snappy Sounds: Boo! by Beth Harwood, Richard Hawke, Jonathan Lambert, and Derek Matthews
Halloween
Fingerplays: See Fingerplay of the Day posts for how to do these rhymes
Five Black Bats
Five Little Leaves
Five Stuffed Scarecrows
Pumpkin, Pumpkin

Thanks to all who joined us today! It was so exciting to have several new faces and we hope to see you again soon! Due to the book sale, we will not be having Lapsit next Thursday but will resume on Thursday, November 11th at 10:30. We will be learning about food as we get ready to eat our Thanksgiving feasts!

Fingerplay of the Day

If You're a Ghost and You Know It

To the Tune of "If You're Happy and You Know It"
If you're a ghost and you know it just say boo, ("Boo")
If you're a ghost and you know it just say boo, ("Boo!")
If you're a ghost and you know it
and you really want to show it
If you're a ghost and you know it
just say Boo!

If you're a cat and you know it say meow
If you're a skeleten and you know it shake your bones
If you're a bat and you know it flap your wings
If you're a vampire and you know it show your fangs
If you're a werewolf and you know it give a howl
If you're a mummy and you know it give a groan
If you're a witch and you know it give a shriek

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Halloween Story Hour

At this week's Story Hour, the Annex was home to Cinderella, Cookie Monster, a lion, Spider Man, and even a racecar driver! Children dressed up and trick-or-treated at this last Story Hour before Halloween.

Story: The Hallo-Weiner by Dav Pilkey
Fingerplay/Flannelboard: 5 Black Bats
Five black bats hanging upside down
The first one said, "Don't make a sound."
The second one said, "I'll fly far tonight."
The third one said, "I don't like sunlight."
The fourth one said, "I want to eat some bugs."
The fifth one said, "Let me give you a hug!"
Five black bats hanging upside down,
Shhh! It's daytime; don't make a sound!
Craft: Make egg carton spider decorations and spider bracelets
Activity: Trick-or-treat!

Bedtime Story Night a Success!

Thanks to everyone who came out for our "Things That Go Bump in the Night" Bedtime Story Night!

If you would like to try this program at home, we listened to soothing music, lullabies, and read the following books:
What's Under My Bed? by James Stevenson
Penelope and the Monsters by Sheri Radford
There's a Nightmare in My Closet by Mercer Mayer
No Such Thing by Jackie French Koller

Our next Bedtime Story Night will be on the last Tuesday of the month, November 25th from 6:30-7:00 in the Annex. We will be reading bedtime stories about animals! Hope to see you there!

Fingerplay of the Day

Ten Red Apples

Ten Red apples growing on a tree, (hold hands up high)
Five for you and five for me. (shake one hand, then the other.)
Help me shake the tree just so, (shake whole body.)
And ten red apples down below. (Lower hands while fluttering fingers.)
One, two, three, four, five, (count fingers on one hand.)
Six. Seven, eight, nine, ten. (Count fingers on opposite hand.)

Monday, October 27, 2008

Fingerplay of the Day

Jack-O-Latern

Jack-o-lantern, jack-o-lantern, you are such a funny sight (form circle with fingers)

As you sit there by the window, looking out at the night (make square with fingers and point to eyes)

You were once a sturdy pumpkin growing on a vine (move finger like following vine)

Now you are a jack-o-lantern, see the light shine (form circle with fingers of one hand, place finger of other hand in center of circle)

Friday, October 24, 2008

Fingerplay of the Day

Leaves Are Falling

Leaves are falling all around,
(hands wiggle downward)
Red, yellow, orange, and brown,
(signs for colors)
Twirling, Swirling to the ground,
(do a twisting motion with body)
Look how many leaves I've found!
(jump up and throw leaves from hands)

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Bedtime Story Night


Come listen to Halloween-themed bedtime stories on Tuesday October 28th from 6:30 to 7:00PM in the Annex! Enjoy stories, lullabies, and get ready for bedtime. Children are encouraged to attend in their p.j.'s and bring a pillow, blanket or their favorite stuffed animal.

Yu Gi Oh Tournament

Join us this Saturday, October 25th from 9:30AM-2:00PM in the Annex to see who will take home the Grand Master Trophy from this tournament!

Fingerplay of the Day

One Little Ghost

One little ghost flew down the street.
(Wave hand through the air.)
"I wonder," he said, "what I will meet--
(Place finger to temple, thinking.)
One hairy spider,
(Hold up one finger, then move hand like spider.)
Two black cats,
(Hold up two fingers, then put two fingers from each hand on head for cat ears.)
Three wild witches with pointy hats,
(Hold up three fingers, then place fingertips of hands together to form hat.)
Four old owls in a hollow tree,
(Hold up four fingers, then form an oval with both hands for eyes to look through.)
And five brother bats to fly with me!
(Hold up five fingers, then hook thumbs of both hands together and flap fingers for bat wings.)

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Fingerplay of the Day

Halloween

Here's a witch with a tall, tall hat. (hands pointed over hat)
Two big eyes on a black, black, cat. (Hands around eyes)
Jack O Lanterns in a row, (make circles in front of you)
Funny Clowns are laughing. Ho, Ho, Ho. (hold stomach)
Bunny's ears flopping up and down. (hands at ears, tilt forward and back)
Fairy Queen wears a fairy crown. (put on pretend crown)
Gypsy plays a tambourine. (clap hands tougher)
Cowboy twirls a rope. (twirl one hand)
It's Halloween!

Family Reading Night Recap

Flaherty Elementary families came together for a fun-filled evening of books, crafts, and games at Family Reading Night on October 21st. Around 160 students and parents gathered to read together and get in the Halloween spirit with crafts provided by the Meade County Public Library. Students could make spider bracelets, masks, origami boxes, skeletons, and much more! The “Make a Mummy” station was also a big hit with students wrapping up their friends in toilet paper! A ring toss game, monster bowling, Halloween cornhole, and fishing for bugs and pumpkins rounded out the event. If you weren’t able to attend this program and would like more information on how to do the crafts from Family Reading Night at home, visit these links:

Spider bracelets

Egg carton spiders

Halloween finger puppets

Halloween masks

Make a skeleton

Origami pumpkin box

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Fingerplay of the Day

Five Stuffed Scarecrows

Five stuffed scarecrows in the corn rows, (stand straight and tall)
The first one said, "Go away crows!" (make waving motions)
The second one said, "I am very small." (crouch down low)
The third one said, "I am standing tall." (stand on tiptoes)
The fourth one said, "On my head I wear a hat." (put pretend hat on head)
The fifth one said "By my feet runs a cat!" (run in place)
Five stuffed scarecrows in the corn rows, (stand straight and tall)
Moving left and right as the autumn wind blows. (sway back and forth)

-Written by Rita Graef

Scarecrow Story Hour

In case you missed today's story hour, you can try our program at home!

Story: The Little Old Lady Who Wasn't Afraid of Anything by Linda Williams
Note: I brought in the pieces of clothing used to follow the old lady home in the story and gave each to a helper so they could act out the part. It helps to go through what each will do a few times before starting the story. For example, have them practice "the shoes go clomp clomp" by patting their hands on their legs while sitting. Try "two gloves go clap clap," etc. and encourage them to wiggle, shake, nod their heads, make their scariest "boos," and get involved!

Fingerplay and Flannelboard: Five Little Pumpkins Sitting on a Gate
See our first Fingerplay of the Day post to learn how to do this!

Song: Dingle Dangle Scarecrow
Craft: Color a scarecrow and take it home as a decoration

Play: Dress up in the clothes that were used as props in the story or play with the library's toys

Dinner and a Movie

On Tuesday, November 18, 2008 join us at 5:30 p.m. in the Library Annex for dinner and a movie! We will be watching "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2," which is rated PG-13. The program is open for teens ages 11 to 18 who like pizza, a good movie and lots of fun! For more info call us at (270) 422-2094 or stop by the Library.

All Library programs are accessible to people with disabilities. Please call and let us know what accommodations you need.

Monday, October 20, 2008

Early Literacy Workshop

Early Literacy Workshop for Parents and Caregivers
Monday, November 17th from 6-7PM in the MCPL Annex

Parents can begin at birth to help children learn important
pre-reading skills. Learn how to use books, programs
and other resources at your library to prepare your children
for reading success. Hear suggestions on what to read
and how to read to young children so they get the most
from the experience.

Give your children a lifelong advantage. Read to them often,
and ask today about how your library partners with parents
to get children ready to read.

All library programs are accessible to individuals with disabilities. Call 422-2094 to let us know what accommodations you need. Every Child Ready to Read® @ your library is a program of the Public Library Association and the Association for Library Service to Children,
divisions of the American Library Association. Every Child Ready to Read® is a registered trademark and is used with permission.

Fingerplay of the Day

Jack-o-Lantern
I am a pumpkin big and round (use arms to show size of pumpkin)
Once upon the time I grew on the ground (point to the ground)
Now I have a mouth two eyes, a nose (point to the features on your face)
What are they there for do you suppose? (right forefinger to forehead)
When I have a candle inside (hold up right forefinger)
Shining bright I'll be
a Jack-o-Lantern on Halloween night you'll see! (Thumbs in armpits bragging gesture)

Friday, October 17, 2008

How to Hear "You're Hired!"

Are you looking for a new job or hoping to start a new career? The Meade County Public Library will be hosting individualized career consultations starting in November. Learn skills to set yourself apart from the competition in this competitive job market and receive guidance in developing your resume, searching for jobs online, writing a cover letter, creating a portfolio, and completing a mock interview. Stop by the front desk to sign up for an appointment to meet with a career counselor who will discuss your goals and help you land the job of your dreams!

Fingerplay of the Day

Once There Was a Pumpkin
Once there was a pumpkin (Make small pumpkin with hands)
And it grew (Make bigger pumpkin)
And grew (Bigger)
And grew (Bigger)
Now it's a jack-o-lantern
And it smiles at you (Point to smile)
And you (Point to child)
And you! (Point to next child)
(Speed up and point to all the children)

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Lapsit Storytime

Today's lapsit program was all about trains! Two of our toddlers even came dressed in their own conductor's hats! Feel free to try this morning's program at home.

Books: That's Not My Train by Fiona Watt
Train by Chris Demarest
Thomas the Tank Engine by W. Awdry
Fingerplay: This is a choo choo train (arms at sides with elbows bent)
chugging down the track (pump bent arms up and down).
Now it's going forward (push both arms forward).
Now it's going back (push both arms backward).
Now the bell is ringing (ring imaginary bell).
Now the whistle blows (cup hands around mouth).
What a lot of noise it makes (cover ears with hands) everywhere it goes!
Music: I've Been Working On the Railroad
Activity: Get several children together and walk around in a line as a train. Take turns being the conductor and the caboose!

Fingerplay of the Day

October Time
October time is pumpkin time,
The nicest time of the year.
When all the pumpkins light their eyes
(encircle eyes)
And grin from ear to ear.
(big grin)
Because they know at Halloween
They'll have lots of fun,
Peeking through the windowpanes
(put hands over eyes and look)
Watching children run!

Blast off with this rocket project!


This week the children's librarians visited Payneville Elementary for an after-school BLAST! The students made rockets out of paper and launched them using 2 liter bottles attached to PVC pipe and rubber tubing. If you missed this program, click here to learn how to do something similar right at home!

MCPL Quilting Club Call Out Meeting

Whether you are an experienced quilter or want to learn, join us Wednesday, November 12th at 2:00 in the Annex for a call out meeting. We will have several quilts on display. Please let us know if you will be attending by signing up at the MCPL front desk. For more information contact the library at 422-2094.

All Library Programs are accessible to people with disabilities. Please call and let us know what accommodations you need to join us!

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Lunch Book Club

Join us for our friendly and lively book discussion on Wednesday, November 19th at Noon in the Annex. Copies of the book are available for checkout at the front desk. Bring your lunch and a drink and we’ll provide dessert! Call 422-2094 for more information.

Adult Beading Program


Come join us on Thursday, November 20th, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. in the Library Annex for a crafty evening! Learn how to make your own beaded creation or a special gift for someone else. This beginners class will teah you from start to finish how you can create with just a little imagination a unique piece of jewelry of your own. Space is limited, pre-registration required by November 14th, 2008. Call the Library at 270-422-2094 or just stop by to get your name on the list. Craft supplies are furnished or you can bring your own.

Fingerplay of the Day


Enjoy this fingerplay with your infants and toddlers! Since children have difficulty holding up fingers, this also works well as a flannelboard story.

Five Little Pumpkins
Five little pumpkins
Sitting on a gate
(Hold one arm horizontally with opposite hand on top showing five fingers)
The first one said,
(hold up finger)
"Oh, my, it's getting late!"
(put hands on cheeks)
The second one said,
(hold up second finger)
"There are witches in the air!"
(glide hands through air)
The third one said,
(hold up third finger)
"But we don't care!"
(shake head sideways)
The fourth one said,
(hold up fourth finger)
"Let's run and run and run!
(make running motion)
"The fifth one said,
(hold up fifth finger)
"I'm ready for some fun!"
(shake both arms)
OOOOOOOH, went the wind
(wiggle fingers through air)
And OUT went the lights
(clap on "OUT")
And the five little pumpkins
(hold up all five fingers)
Rolled out of sight.
(roll arms over each other)

En Español

Cinco calabacitas
Cinco calabacitas
Sentadas en la verja
La primera dijo:
"¡Ho! ¡se hace tarde!"
La segunda dijo:
"¡Hay brujas en el aire!"
La tercera dijo:
"No nos importa!"
La cuarta dijo:
"¡A correr, a correr, a correr!"
La quinta dijo:
"Estoy lista para divertirme!"
El viento hizo UH UH UHY
se FUE la luz (palmear en "fue")
Y las cinco calabacitas
Rodaron fuera de vista.

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Mother Daughter Book Club


Mother Daughter Book Club - November 13th, 6:00 p.m.

Join us for this new book club on November 13th at 6:00 p.m. The Meade County Library is hosting a Mother Daughter Book Club for grades 6th through 8th at the Main Street Café. We will be reading Bloomability by Sharon Creech. Copies are available at the front desk of the library. Call 422-2094 for more information.


October 14th Story Hour

In case you couldn't make it to this morning's story hour and would like to try our program at home with your kids, here is what we did today!
Story: We're Off to Find the Witch's House by Mr. Kreib. Read a review here.

Flannelboard: Make a face. The children helped us place eyes, nose, mouth, and a tongue in the correct places on a face.

Craft: Make a jack-o-lantern. Kids created their own face on a pumpkin cutout. Some were scary, some were silly, but they were all creative!

Activity: Play pin the nose on the pumpkin!

Hope to see you at next week's story hour on Tuesday October 21st at 10:30 in the MCPL Annex. Our theme will be Scarecrows!


Hello from the Children's Library!

Just wanted to pass along another warm welcome to our readers from your children's librarians, Ms. Donna and Ms. Megan! We are so excited to have this blog to help us keep in better touch with the children we serve and their parents. Check back often, as we will be posting information about upcoming programs, tips for helping develop your child's literacy, and the latest news in children's literature. We are always looking for programming ideas, so if there is something you would like to see done at the library, please pass along your suggestions! If you just can't get enough of the MCPL online, look for us on Facebook! Become one of our fans and stay updated about the many events going on at the library!

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Welcome!

Welcome to the first blog post at the Meade County Public Library! This is the place to find all of the latest news and events going on at the library. At this site you can read all about the fantastic programs we have, as well as the latest trends in the library world. As always, we love to hear your thoughts and suggestions on how we can serve the community better. Coming soon will be an "Ask the Director" section. If you have questions for the Director about library related issues, leave a comment at the front desk and check this blog to see the answers!

If you don't have a library card, we invite you to stop by the Meade County Public Library today to get one. They are free to residents and employees of Meade County. We hope to see you soon!