The Advocate

Spring 2005

 

A newsletter from the Martin County Library System,

keeping you informed about events and happenings at your local libraries.

 

Did You Know: The library’s old automation system, PALS, was designed and programmed in the early 80’s (remember the old Apple II computers?). I think it was time for an upgrade!

 

 

Library Happenings:     

   On May 9th, the MARTIN COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM will be migrating to a new automation system. This system will affect everything that we do, from checkouts at the front desk to our ordering of new materials. For the patron the most noticeable change will be with the ONLINE CATALOG (iBistro) that you may access via the Internet. The new system will be much easier to use, similar to a Barnes & Noble website or Amazon.com. Staff computers have been updated and receipt printers will print out a copy of your materials as you checkout. (No more date- stamped cards!) SO, please be patient! The staff will be learning the new system too, and it will be a new learning experience for all of us!

 

   On May 20 Traci DePree's new book Apron's on a Clothesline will be available. Traci was an author who visited our library during the 2004 Adult Reading Program. Her other books, A Can of Peas & Dandelions in a Jelly Jar are available at the Library.

 

   The I'd Rather be Reading Program results are in and 182 patrons signed-up with 101 people finishing the program. The favorite prize was once again the McDonalds salad coupon. Thanks McDonalds!

 

   The SUMMER HOURS for the Main Library in Fairmont will begin after Memorial Day (June 1st)
The Summer Hours are:             Mon 9-9     Tues 9-6     Wed 9-6     Thur 9-9     Fri 9-5     Sat 10-2     Sun Closed

 

   International Interest-----I was able to visit with several libraries in Russia this past March, and once again I met with some interesting individuals. I was part of a group of Ministry Officials and Librarians who helped open a new library in the Kozlovka District of Chuvashia (where Marina Soldatikhina from our 2003 group of visitors works), and I was asked to give a presentation about Intellectual Freedom. During my visit I was also able to meet with Vyacheslav Platonov, who is a facilitator and interpreter for the Open World Program. Last year he helped facilitate a group of American’s who visited Chuvashia, and together he and I are putting together a tour group to visit Chuvashia in the summer of 2006. Plans are still being made, and more information will be forthcoming, but I will be taking a group of interested individuals to Russia next summer. AND, once again we will be hosting Russians this summer, from June 27th to July 2nd.  Look here next issue for more information!

 

  Star Wars Episode III ‘Revenge of the Sith’ will be out in movie theatre’s this May 19th. The library has a number of Star Wars books available for checkout, and we will be able to order many other titles for you from other libraries in the system. Star Wars Celebration III was in Indianapolis this past April, and according to Producer/Director Rick McCallum, “This will be the best film in the 6 part series. The production crew held nothing back and you will be truly amazed.” Judging by the never before seen footage that they showed to us in Indianapolis, this will be one of the best Star Wars films. The footage was Spectacular! I can’t wait!


 

Summer Library Program: What’s Buzzing at Your Library!

   Summer Reading Program  "WHAT’S BUZZING at your Library" will begin in June and run until August. Once again the program will be geared for children, with a special format for Young Adults.

Sign-up begins on June 6th, with the program running until August 6th.

 

Activity and Storytime programs begin the week of June 13 and continue for 6 weeks. Stop in or call 238-4207 to register after MAY 16.

            Ages 6 & up- Tuesday or Wednesdays 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm

            Ages 3-5 - Wednesdays 10:30 am - 11:15 am or Thursdays 1:30 pm - 2:15 pm
 

Special Programs for June are:
     
Tuesday, June 7 -  Science Museum " BUZZ AROUND SOUND - THE SCIENCE OF SOUND"
      Fairmont - 1:30 pm
      Truman ---3:30 pm

      Wednesday, June 29 - Rick Chrustowski - author / illustrator
      10:30am - Trimont
      1:30 pm - Fairmont
      3:30 pm - Sherburn

 

Branch News:

 Ceylon has been chosen as one of the participants in the BOOK START program from the Southern MN Initiative Foundation. Ceylon will be receiving 120 books in July to distribute to children in the Early
Childhood and Family Education program, the Summer Reading Program at the Library and the Girl Scouts, Daisy Troop in Ceylon. The books were chosen from the Picture Window Books Catalog. Look for more information and publicity in July.
  The Ceylon Branch Library will have Summer Reading Program activities from June to August. Story time will be on Thursdays at 3:30 pm. Call Sharon at 632-4496 for more info. 

Dunnell’s Library program will be held on Tuesdays beginning June 7 at 3pm.

  The Sherburn Branch Library will have special days at the library Monday thru Friday.

    Story times will be on Thursdays at 3:30 pm beginning June 9.
    Mondays: Mystery Monday - Solve the mystery of the day
    Tuesdays: Tickle me Tuesday - Tell your favorite joke
    Wednesdays: Workin' Wednesday. Helpin' out at the Library! Sign -up to help!
    Thursdays: Take -n-Make
    Fridays: Food on Friday! Treats, treats, treats!!!!

    Call Becky at 764-7611 for more information.

The Trimont  Branch Library program begins on Monday, June 6. The fun - filled activity session is scheduled for every Thursday from 2:00 – 3:30 beginning June 9th, for all kids, pre-school through 6th grade.

The Trimont Branch Library FOOD for THOUGHT book club meets at the Library on the 1st Thursday of the month at 12:00 noon for a one-hour discussion and some food! The book for May is “Life of Pi” by Yann Martel, and the book for June is “The Summer I Dared” by Barbara Delinsky. The club is open to the public, however, registration is required.

The Truman Branch Library will hold Storytime on Wed. afternoons starting on June 8 for 6 weeks.

  Contact Jan at the Library for book bags that will be available for day-care providers. They will contain 15 or more books, each on a different theme, and can be picked up and returned in a quick no-hassle transaction! 

Call Jan at 764-7611 for more information.

The Welcome Branch Library will hold Summer Program projects on June 8, 15, 22, 29 & July 13, 20 & 27.

Please contact the Branch Library for more information.