Yay, Summer!

I was in the library briefly this morning as families worked on their Russian nesting dolls, known as "matryoshka" dolls, and everyone seemed to be producing beautiful work! It got me thinking about the fun and unique programs we've had so far this summer, from our kick-off Frisbee show, to the safari-in-the-library, yoga, our butterfly program, all the drop-in storytimes, and drop-in crafts. And everyone seems to be enjoying their passports! There's still more to come, but I hope all the families that are enjoying the library this summer will remember to keep coming to see us in the Fall. We understand that working families might find it hard to come in for regular storytimes, especially ones that occur during the day; so let us know what we can do to accommodate you. At some point we'll circulate a survey to get your input, but until then if you see Nancy or Eileen or me (Ms. Patty) let us know. We enjoy seeing you all so much in the summer, we don't want to have to say goodbye in September.

Stories in the Shade: A Hot One

We're supposed to hit 105 tomorrow, but that won't stop my intrepid stories-in-the-shade-kids! It will be cool under the trees at 10:30 in the a.m., so have no fear, our storytime will be comfortable. And afterwards you can spend some time in the cool, cool library. I'll share some more of the new picture books in our library, some summer day stories, and a game. See you there.

Did You Miss These?

We have so many wonderful pictures books coming into the library lately that I think it's possible you may have missed some.

"Disappearing Desmond", by Anna Alter is charming. Desmond and his entire family like to disappear into the background. They blend in and fade into Anna Alter's beautifully patterned illustrations. Desmond takes shyness to a new level until Gloria, the new kid (rabbit) in school takes notice of Desmond and brings him out of his shell. I have a fondness for books about moving from timidity to confidence, and about friendship, making "Disappearing Desmond" one of my new favorites. Best for 4 and up.

"Chicken Big", by Keith Graves is one of those books that will make both parents and children laugh. The illustrations, side-comments, and great expressive language in this twist on the Chicken Little story make this a book to read over and over. Fans of Mo Willems will appreciate its quirkiness and I think everyone will appreciate it's subtle message of acceptance. Best for 3 and up.

A Beautiful Day for Stories

It's Stories in the Shade this morning at 10:30 and what a beautiful day it is. We will be outside so bring a blanket (although there are some available). Today's stories will feature some of the new books just arriving at our library including the adorable "How Big is the World", by Britta Teckentrup. Little mole asks the question to all he meets and finds some surprising answers. Ms. Teckentrup lives and writes in Germany so this book hits on our "Many Stories, One World" theme in two ways.

Also I'll share Mo Willem's newest Elephant and Piggie adventure!

Our Wonderful World and Beautiful Earth

On Friday, Stories in the Shade did start in the shade but ended up inside when the thunder came. It was an adventure. Thanks for all who came out and joined in the fun. We had a wonderful group with new and old friends, so thank you.

Our books centered around our wonderful world, our beautiful earth, including the gorgeous "All the World" by Liz Scanlon, illustrated by Marla Frazee. The words literally choke me up and the pictures are beautiful and expansive. Books featuring photography are always a big hit at storytime and "You and Me Together", by Barbara Kerley and the National Geographic Society was no exception. This book is a great way to share the universality of families with your child.

Let's see what next week brings, but hopefully NOT rain!

Earth Friends Discovery Yoga

Excuse while I finish my salutation to the sun. Ohmmmmm. That's better. I enjoy yoga and I know many of you do too. If you haven't tried it, now's your chance. This Monday, we host our special guest, Jen from Earth Friends Discovery, to share yoga and stories. Here's what Jen has to say:

The practice of yoga can be a cherished gift in the lives of earth friends of any age. EFD strives to bring this ancient art to those who think it is something serious and mysterious. Wild imaginations and listening ears are the only prerequisites to explore the world of Earth Friends Discovery Yoga.

Come and have fun, Monday at 10:00. Best for ages 4-10
This event is sponsored by the Marlborough's Women Club. Thank you, thank you, thank you, and namaste!

Stories in the Shade

Stories in the Shade start tomorrow. Bring a blanket (although we do have some available) and come sit in the cool of the shade as we share stories and songs. We've been lucky enough to have good weather the last few years for most of the time. If it is rainy though we meet inside.

I'm looking forward to seeing you all Friday at 10:30.

One World, Many Stories

Here is a link to the Connecticut State Library's very excellent summer reading page. There you'll find book suggestions and fun games, as well as other goodies. Our librarians at the State Library do wonderful things, most of it behind the scenes, to serve the community of librarians and readers. This is just one example. Click HERE FOR CT SUMMER READING and have fun!

World Crafts

Ms. Eileen designed several global crafts as part of her "Lunch Bunch" storytimes in June. If you missed the storytimes, you can still make the crafts. The supplies and instructions for the various crafts are set up in the storytime room. As the summer progresses, we'll be adding new craft projects as well. Drop-in anytime and have fun. You'll find some beautiful and interesting things to make. Just the thing for a day when you need to spend some time in the air conditioned splendor of the library!

Where Has the Time Gone?!?!?

I can't believe it's July and I never posted in June. What happened, Ms. Patty!? Well, it was a busy month with our fantastic summer reading program kicking off and my son graduating from high school. But now we're ready for a great summer of library fun and I'm back on the job, blog-wise.

Ms. Eileen has out-done herself this year with our fantastic summer reading program featuring a passport to adventure. Each week "visit" another continent and earn your passport stamps and a prize. You can read a book, listen to music, learn about a country and its traditions and history, you could make a recipe or draw a picture of a native animal or famous landmark...it's up to you. Just be sure to cover all the six major continents throughout the summer and come see us each week.

There are also many fun activities this summer. We had our first event, "Safari Kids", which was a great success. In our safari adventure we read some fun books, made a unique craft, and traversed the library on the hunt (with our own binoculars) for African animals. What fun.

Look for more updates soon, but for now, hello again.
Ms. Patty