Mesa County Libraries

Guys Read

2012-01-10T09:26:00.005-07:00

Hi Everyone,

It's Trevor from Youth Services. Sometimes it can be a challenge to spark boys’ interest in reading, especially the reluctant ones. I believe that if we can help boys find the right books, they’ll figure out that reading is cool and they’ll really enjoy it! I wanted to start providing some cool resources to spark boys' interest in reading, to help those reluctant readers. Recently, I found this great website - www.guysread.com. I can’t believe I haven’t checked out this website until now; it has so much cool stuff on it - lots of great tools to get boys interested in books. Also, we have a Guys Read display up at Central right now, and we are brainstorming about what next to do in “The War Against Boys Not Reading”! We will keep you posted…

Trevor

Introducing Junior Scientist Series

2012-01-09T10:44:00.006-07:00

Hi Everyone,

I hope you had a wonderful holiday season! With the new year, the Youth Services Department is pleased to launch a science series for older children (ages 8-12). We're calling it "Junior Scientist Series", and each month we will be visited by a professor from Colorado Mesa University, who will host a program highlighting his or her speciality. The series will occur the last Monday of each month at 6:30PM in the Youth Services' Department at the Central branch. For now, we're planning on running the series into April.

This month, on January 30th, join us for "Unearthing History" with Dr. Rick Dujay, who will talk about his work with students and the Museum of Western Colorado as part of the Western Investigations Team. This team finds historical sites and uses metal detectors to locate artifacts. High-tech microscopes are then used to test the artifacts and fill in the gaps in Colorado history. Their work was recently featured on the Travel Channel regarding their insights into the Alferd Packer story.

Hope to see you there! No registration is required.

Diana

New Book Review

2011-12-05T10:38:00.008-07:00

Fans of The Invention of Hugo Cabret will love Brian Selznick's much anticipated Wonderstruck. Similar to Hugo Cabret, Selznick alternates his storytelling styles, using the written word to track Ben's quest to find his father, and intricate pencil drawings to show Rose's mysterious fascination with a movie star. Watch with wonder as the two stories, separated by time and space, connect in the most amazing ways. Put Wonderstruck on hold today!

Diana

Parade of Lights Float

2011-11-22T08:46:00.009-07:00

Howdy!

I hope you will be able to make it to the Parade of Lights on December 3. Mesa County Libraries will be showcasing a float this year! The Parade of Lights theme is the Wild West, and we've named our float "What's Your Story, Pardner?" so come see what we've wrestled up! Kids will get a little treat, too.

See you there.
Diana

Puppet Show and "Trick or Treat" at the Library

2011-10-27T10:24:00.006-06:00

Hi all,

If you didn't have a chance to see our Halloween puppet show this week, we have one more performance you could attend. It will be this Saturday, October 29 at 10:00 AM, at the Central branch. The free puppet show is called, "Clifford's Halloween." Emily Elizabeth and Clifford have been invited to be in a big Halloween Parade! But, poor Clifford can’t decide what costume to wear. Help Clifford pick out the perfect costume.

Also, kids, be sure to wear your Halloween costume, because you will be able to "Trick or Treat" at the Library! We'll start the fun right after the puppet show. Have a happy and safe Halloween!

Bye for now.
Diana

New Book Review - The Strange Case of Origami Yoda

2011-10-07T14:13:00.008-06:00

Finger puppets can't really have special powers - right? They couldn't talk on their own or even give good advice - could they? But what if the finger puppet were Yoda?

In the first book of his Origami Yoda series, author Tom Angleberger offers older kids a quirky and hilarious collection of case files compiled to discover the truth about Origami Yoda. Tommy, the main character, and his group of friends journal their personal experiences after asking Yoda questions. Dwight, the eccentric and nerdy kid at the school, who created Origami Yoda, swears the finger puppet channels Yoda from Star Wars. Find out if Origami Yoda is real. Place a hold on The Strange Case of Origami Yoda today.

*The book include instructions on how to make your own Origami Yoda!

Back-to-School Reader's Theater

2011-09-09T09:07:00.013-06:00

Join us for our most terrifying reader's theater ever - "Is This Really My Teacher?!" You'll meet the teachers from the books: "Miss Nelson is Missing!"and "The Teacher from the Black Lagoon". Let's have a few laughs as you start your new school year. Watch teens act out both books at these branch locations:

Tues, Sept 13 - Central at 6:30 PM
Wed, Sept 14 - Central at 4:00 PM
Thurs, Sept 15 - OM at 6:30 PM
Sat, Sept 17 - De Beque at 10:00 AM
Sat, Sept 17 - Fruita at 2:00 PM

Hope to see you...if you dare!

New Tween Reading Space

2011-08-27T08:53:00.001-06:00

Check out our new reading space in the Children's Center at the Central library! It's a great place for older children and their families to relax and explore great books. Enjoy!

Central Finales and Grand Prize Drawings!

2011-08-08T10:44:00.000-06:00

Hi Readers,

Did you see Aman and his amazing yo-yo tricks during our finale party week? I hope so, because Aman Tice is a genius with a yo-yo! He performed at our Neighbors Read program on Tuesday night and on Wednesday at Kids Club for our "One World, Many Stories" finale parties. We hope to have him back!

And now...for the winners of the Kids' Grand Prizes!

Our lucky winners are:

Lorelai, winner of Central's light-up globe!
&
Moraya, winner of the dragon ship!

Congratulations, you two!

Thanks to all the readers for making this a fun summer. There were some really good readers this year! I hope you had a blast, read some delightful books, and loved traveling to some awesome places.

Bye for now.
Diana

Storytimes at Central

2011-07-29T14:37:00.014-06:00

Hi Readers,

I just wanted to remind you that there are three storytimes each week during the day at the Central branch. Ms. Cheryl offers a preschool storytime every Tuesday at 10:00, and an infant/toddler storytime on Thursday at 10:00. This summer Ms. Cheryl and the kids traveled to different parts of the world, learning about different animals, singing fun songs from all over the world, and reading good stories as well.

We even had guest visits us. On July 5, Mathias Mulumba came to a storytime about Africa. The kids played his drums, learned about the flag from Uganda, and sang a few songs. We also had some coworkers from another department - Public Service - come and do storytimes on Mexico on July 19 and 21. Laurie, Grace, Jessica, and Joe hosted a full-on fiesta! The kids learned some Spanish, talked about some of the things you would find if you traveled to Mexico, and danced in a conga line. They had a blast!

Also during a week of storytimes, we put on a puppet show called "Monkey Face." All the animal puppet in the show were performed by Library staff, as we always do. I hope you were able to make to the show; it was pretty cute. And last week we traveled to Europe during our storytimes. We danced the Chicken Dance and wore Edelweiss hats. There is always something fun to do at a storytime.

And, let's not forget the bilingual storytimes that Ms. Grace offers each Friday at 10:00. Kids learn Spanish vocabulary, hear fun stories in both Spanish and English, sing songs, and do fun activities, such as flannel board stories. This is a great way for children to practice both Spanish and English.

Have a good day.
Diana

P.S. Here are few photos from some storytimes in July for you to enjoy.

Visiting Africa with Mathias:

A Mexican Fiesta:

Chicken Dance in Edelweiss Hats

Traveling to the Branch Libraries

2011-07-16T15:36:00.000-06:00

It has been several weeks since I last blogged about what's happening at the
Branch Libraries in Mesa County. I will try to get you updated
on the programs that will be taking place next week.

We are going to start our trip on the eastern side of Mesa County.
Collbran Branch: Tuesday, July 19 at 3:00 pm the teens of Collbran can
                                        come to Game Day.
                                        Friday, July 22 at 10:30 am the children will be having a
                                        Japanese Tea Party.

DeBeque Branch: Thursday, July 21 at 10:30 am the children will be visiting
                                       with Native North American Indians.
                                       Friday, July 22 at 11:30 am Aman, the Yo-Yo Guy will be
                                       showing us some tricks with his yo-yo.

As we head back to Grand Junction our next stop will be,
   Palisade Branch: Tuesday, July 19, at 10:00 am storyteller, Cheryl, will bring
                            her ukulele to story time. The theme for this story time
                                      will be "I Love my Country, America".
                                       Friday, July 22 at 4:00 pm the kids in Palisade are going
                                       to "Travel to Egypt". There will be a craft of making a
                                       necklace with hieroglyphics on it. Also, if you are brave
                                       you can become a mummy. Lots of Fun!

When we leave Palisade our next stop is,
      Clifton Branch:    Wednesday, July 20 at 2:30 pm is Kids' Activity Day
                                       for tweens and teens.
                                      Thursday, July 21 at 10:00 am is Story Time for children.

As we head through Grand Junction on our way to our next destination,
we can all wave to the staff at the Central Branch. "Hi everyone!"

Here we are at the Orchard Mesa Branch:
   Monday, July 18 at 10:00 am is Story Time for children.
   Friday, July 22 at 3:00 pm is programming for teens.

Let's head off to our final destination.
        Fruita Branch: Tuesday, July 19 at 2:00 pm
                                      "Meet a Peace Corp Volunteer".
   Wednesday, July 20 at 2:00 pm
                                      Teen Bistro & Teen Henna activity.
                                 Thursday, July 12 at 10:00 am is Story Time for children
                                   and at 2:00 pm is Kids Club for tweens and teens.

Every year the Mesa County Libraries bring so many fun and interesting programs
for people of all ages. So if you are sitting at home saying, "I'm bored, I don't
have anything to do!", just check out one of your local libraries. We are bound
to have something that will make your day!

Have a safe weekend and happy reading.

Your blogger from the east end of Mesa County,
Miss Barbara

Kids Club

2011-07-15T09:46:00.053-06:00

Hello,

I hope you've been able to come to Kids Club some time this summer. We've had a blast so far! Every Wednesday from 2:00 - 4:00, children between the ages 7-11 can experience all types of fun activities.

We started this summer with ladies from Japan teaching us how to do some origami figures. Then, the Math and Science Center conducted experiments with us, and the next week, an artist showed us how to draw animals from around the world. We've also pretended to fly to Africa, Europe, and Australia, and sing, dance, and listen to stories once we reached those destinations. Last week, we traveled to Egypt, writing hieroglyphic symbols on necklaces and turning ourselves into mummies. And this week, we had special guest, teen and children's author, Laura Resau, talk about the inspirations for her books. She also read passages from her novels The Star in the Forest and What the Moon Saw.

I recommend coming to Kids Club the next two weeks. The "Monkey Face" puppet show is on July 20th, and for our summer reading finale party on July 27, Yo-Yo Man, Aman Tice will be demonstrating his amazing skills.

Enjoy the pictures!
Bye for now.

Diana

Math and Science Center:

Asian Arts:

Drawing World Animals:

Fly Around the World:

Travel to Egypt:

Author Laura Resau:

One World, Many Stories: A Book Review

2011-07-06T18:47:00.004-06:00

Hi Readers,

Ready to travel? Great! The best thing about this trip is that you won't be needing luggage, tickets, passports, or reservations. All you need is your library card and a bit of curiosity, because we'll be exploring the world through books. So, from time to time, I'll be including children's book reviews.

Recently, I journeyed to Africa and met an amazing scientist in the book "Seeds of Change" by Jen Cullerton Johnson. This is a true story, or biography, about a girl named Wangari, who grows up in Kenya, learns how special her land is, especially the trees, and decides to study biology in America when she is old enough. After she earns her degree, she travels back to her home country, and shows how powerful one person can be with a few seeds and a lot of determination.

Learn more about Wangari, and don't miss Sonia Lynn Sadler's vivid illustrations. Check out "Seeds of Change" today.

Diana

It has been a busy summer!

2011-06-29T16:31:00.000-06:00

It feels like yesterday all you kids were getting out of school. Wow, the summer is going by fast. Are you all enjoying your summer of traveling to exotic places through the great programs offered by your libraries?
Here are a few pictures from events that have happened at your local library. See you you know anyone in these pictures.

Ann Lincoln, with her magic show
that included Cleopatra, the rabbit.

I'm sure everyone that attended this program had a ripe roaring good time!

Kick off party for the Collbran Branch.

Collbran children getting ready for their kickoff party in Mother's Park.

Storyteller, David Novak, performing at Mother's Park in Collbran.

Palisade Branch taking a flight around the world.

Head of Technical Service was the pilot for "Fly Around the World".

DeBeque children traveled to Russia!


While the children from DeBeque had tea and cookies, a world traveler told stories about what it is like to live in Russia.

Two teens playing a game of chess with a
hand craved set that came from Russia.

Mummies at the Fruita Library

The kids at Fruita look like they are having a good time having themselves turned into mummies. Everyone also made a hieroglyphic necklace to take home.

Mummies came to DeBeque too!


Miss Diane from the Central Library came to the DeBeque Branch with "Travel to Egypt". She had the children make themselves into mummies. They even tried dates, most of the children did not care for this fruit.

Oh my! Can anyone guess who this is? She was showing the children how to walk like an Egyptian.

Kids club in Fruita.


Stories about Australian animals were told at the Fruita Branch.

Well by my estimate we have four more weeks of the Summer Reading Program. Hope everyone has gotten their passports stamped. If not ask your local library lady how you can get this done.

Have a fun and safe holiday weekend!

2011-06-28T09:37:00.002-06:00

Neighbors Read: Family Story Night

2011-06-22T11:58:00.007-06:00

Well, I hope you're all having a nice summer, and have been able to attend some great programming at Mesa County Libraries. We've been so privileged to have very talented guests visit us here in the children's center. Every Tuesday night at 6:30 PM, for our Neighbors Read: Family Story Night, local guests come and share their expertise, interests, or talents with us.

We started the month out with Timothy Trujillo playing his Native American flute and singing songs. Then, the next Tuesday, Mathias Mulumba played African drums, sang songs, and told us about Uganda. And last night, Ballet Folklorico dancers performed traditional Mexican dances for us. We have amazing talent right here in Grand Junction!

Join us for next Tuesday's program. Anna Stout will tell us about Grand Junction's sister city, El Espino, El Salvador, and the kids in the audience will be creating a gift for the children living there.

Central Kick Off Parties

2011-06-14T15:07:00.011-06:00

Hello SRP Blog Followers!

Wow, what a great two weeks this has been! This is Diana here, from the Youth Services Department. I'll be your tour guide to all the exciting programs and events happening at Central Library, while Miss Barbara from De Beque will be your guide to all the branch happenings.

Join us for all the fun during our summer reading program, "One World, Many Stories." We'll meet new people from all over the world, explore various cultures and destinations, and discover the magic of stories. I hope that you can sign up for the reading program, also. As you read, you'll win prizes and help your school earn points in the school competition. The elementary school with the students reading the most hours will win a beautiful trophy.

Well, we had fantastic kick off party guests! Ann Lincoln came back this year and entertained us on June 1 at Kids Club with her magic, humor, and energy. She turned a white balloon into her bunny rabbit named Cleopatra. I was blown away when she juggled two bowling balls and an apple. But that wasn't all - in between the juggling, she managed to catch the apple with her mouth, eat some, and then spray the kids in the front row. (Nothing like an apple shower to start your day off right!) Ann Lincoln can really entertain a crowd! And speaking of crowd - wow!

Then on Saturday, June 4, the Central Library had a Storytellers Celebration, featuring local spellbinders and national storyteller, David Novak. It was a three-hour celebration full of talent! We were all absorbed in the stories. David Novak was so animated, and I was really impressed by his impersonations. At the end of the celebration, he told stories using all kinds of string, explaining that it can be used as a type of book. I was amazed when he told the story of "Jack and the Beanstalk." He made the complicated string tricks look effortless. We were so lucky to have David Novak share his talent with us!

Have you packed your bags for another fun summer of reading at the Mesa County Libraries?

2011-06-10T16:56:00.000-06:00

Let me introduce myself, the kids in my library call me, Miss Barbara. I will be your tour guide for the branch libraries in Mesa County. If you haven't joined in the fun of the "Summer Reading Program" you still can sign up at any of your local Mesa County Libraries. There are seven more weeks to get in on all the activities that have been planned for this year.

All of the branches have had successful Kick Off Parties.

Ann Lincoln with her magic & juggling show appeared at Palisade, DeBeque, Clifton & Fruita branches. The kids in my library are still trying to figure out how the rabbit appeared when Ann popped a balloon. Ann likes to involve the audience in her shows and the children really seem to enjoy hamming it up!

Palisade Branch

David Novak

David Novak, a national story teller, appeared at Collbran, Clifton and Orchard Mesa branch libraries. Sharon Jordan, the library assistant in Collbran said, "David Novak was fabulous and very inspiring. He kept boys that are 8 to 10 years old quiet and attentive for an hour." Now that really is an amazing fit!!

Worry Dolls from Guatemala

I saw that the kids at the DeBeque Branch have already learned how to make worry dolls and why the Ancient Mayas started this tradition. You still can find out the story behind these cute and helpful little worry dolls. Maybe even make one to give to a friend who needs some extra special care. You could go to the Palisade Branch on Saturday, June 11 to make one of your own.

The Math & Science Center made a visit to both the Palisade and Clifton branches this week.

I have also heard that there was some "Flying Around the World" in Collbran. If I am not mistaken I believe that Mesa County Libraries Head of Technical Services was one of the pilots for this flight. Watch out you never know where she might be flying to next. Keep your eyes open for her next visit to one of the branches.

Nice flying!

Some kids just walked into my library to let me know that down in Palisade there is a lady that is doing Henna Tatoos. It is really hard to believe that a library can provide so much fun and interesting things for kids of all ages to do this summer.

Now to let you know the events that are happening next week in your neighborhood.
        Orchard Mesa Branch will have a story time on Monday, June 13th at 10:00 am with Cheryl, a story teller from the Central Branch. You really don't want to miss hearing Cheryl tell stories.
         Palisade Branch has a story time at 10:00 am on Tuesday, June 14th. This is your chance to hear "Flying Around the World". I really wish I could attend this program, let me know what you think of it.
          Clifton Branch has Teen Time on Wednesday, June 15th at 2:30pm. Go check it out and enjoy the air conditioning.
          Clifton and Fruita Branches have story times on Thursday, June 16th at 10:00 am.
          At 10:30 am the DeBeque Branch childrens hour on Thursday, June 16th will be "Let's Visit Russia" with the library assistant from the DeBeque School Library telling stories and showing items from Russia.
          Also on Thursday, June 16th, at 2:00 pm at the Fruita Branch you can "Travel to Egypt". You'll have fun turning yourself into a mummy, making a hieroglyphic symbol necklace, hearing stories from Egypt and maybe you can dance like an
Egyptian.
           On Friday, June 17th you can head out to Collbran and/or DeBeque to see a Colorado Mesa University art student Aaron Herrera, teach school age children how to draw various animals from around the world. At 10:30 am he will be at the Collbran Branch, then at 12:30 pm he will be at the DeBeque Branch.

Check out some books to read over the weekend and we'll start another tour next week. Bye for now from Miss Barbara. Have a safe weekend.

2011-06-09T12:39:00.038-06:00

Kickoff Party Schedule

2011-05-20T12:28:00.017-06:00

ANN LINCOLN
May 31st 10:00 Palisade
June 1st 10:00 Debeque
June 1st 2:00 Central
June 2nd 10:00 Fruita

DAVID NOVAK
June 3rd 10:30 Collbran
June 3rd 2:00 Clifton
June 4th 10-2 Central Storytelling Celebration with NOVAK & Spellbinders
June 4th 2-4 Teen Kickoff Party- Central with live teen bands
June 4th 7:00 DAVID NOVAK Public Performance @ Moss Recital Hall
June 6th 10:00 Orchard Mesa

2011 Mesa County Libraries Summer Reading!

2011-04-23T15:00:00.013-06:00

Mesa County Libraries Summer Reading Program is a fun way to include reading and related activities into summer family time. It helps children maintain and improve reading skills.

How the Program Works:

Children and their families can register for a variety of programs.
You may pre-register for the reading program any time after May 16th.
The program begins the week after school is out. Come to the fun Kick-Off Parties!!

May 31st @ 10 am Palisade Kickoff ANN LINCOLN
June 1st @ 10 am Debeque Kickoff ANN LINCOLN
June 1st @ 2 pm Central Kickoff ANN LINCOLN
June 2nd @ 10 am Fruita Kickoff ANN LINCOLN
June 3rd @ 10:30 am Collbran Kickoff DAVID NOVAK
June 3rd @ 2 pm Clifton Kickoff DAVID NOVAK
June 4th 10-2 Central Storytelling Celebration with DAVID NOVAK & Spellbinders
June 4th 2-4 Teen Kickoff Party- Central with live teen bands
June 4th 7 pm DAVID NOVAK Public Performance @ Moss Recital Hall
June 6th @ 10 am Orchard Mesa Kickoff DAVID NOVAK
You’ll receive a logbook to track your reading progress this summer.
We’ll be offering a variety of programs, give-aways, and contests all summer pick up a list of events and drop in as often as possible.
The library welcomes children of all abilities.

You may use the following picture to promote the Summer Reading Program.

For more information, call the library at 243-4442.
Or, visit our Web site at www.MesaCountyLibraries.org.

SLP Finale Party with The Littleague

2010-07-23T11:12:00.016-06:00

This week at Central, "Mr. Neil" from The Littleague busted us some rhymes with his funny, fresh, and family-friendly hip-hop. He rapped about tea parties, riding the bus, Dr. Seuss, and manners. "Mr. Neil" played "The World's Smallest Trumpet" (a funny vocal effect) and his real harmonica, as well. The kids loved rapping and dancing with "Mr. Neil", and many of the library staff, even outside of Youth Services, thought he was cool, clapping and laughing along.

Make a Splash - Read This!

2010-07-19T10:45:00.005-06:00

If you're looking for a funny picture book about rabbit pirates (who isn't?!), you might want to check out, "Henry and the Crazed Chicken Pirates" by Carolyn Crimi. Henry, the son of Captain Barnacle Black Ear, finds a note in a bottle that warns, "We're coming to steal all yer loot. We'd appreciate yer complete cooperation. BOWK! Sincerely, yer worst enemies".

Henry can't stop thinking about the note, but the other Buccaneer Bunnies ignore him, bowling with coconuts and digging for lost treasure. Henry, on the other hand, decides to write a book detailing what the Buccaneer Bunnies should do in the event of an attack. He names it: "Henry's Plan for Impending Danger from the Unknown Enemy Who Wrote the Scary Note." To find out if Henry's book is helpful and if he can defeat the "enemy," put "Henry and the Crazed Chicken Pirates" on hold.

FUN IN EASTERN MESA COUNTY

2010-07-10T13:23:00.011-06:00

Now that I have taken a short vacation I am feeling refreshed and revived. So we will get ready for another exciting week of traveling eastern Mesa County.

Let's start at the Collbran Branch on Tuesday, July 13th @ 4pm to make some wearable art. Teens and tweens will get to embellish a pair of flip flops with ribbons, fabrics, buttons, shells, etc. I've made several different pairs, they are awesome!
The DeBeque Branch has already made flip flops. So if you happen to see someone with cool flip flops on they are probable from DeBeque.

On Wednesday, July 14th at 10am, head on over to the Clifton Branch and check out some experiments that Diane "the scientist" LaCount does with H2O, also known as water.

Then on Thursday, July 15th at 10:30am the children at the DeBeque Branch will be having a story time about "Don't Tease a Crocodile". If you decide to come up for this program you'll hear stories and make a craft.

The final place to get a "Henna Tattoo" will be at the DeBeque Branch on Friday, July 16th at 11am. The famous artist Shannon Smith who you probably know as the Librarian from the Central Library will be painting wonderful Hawaiian Tattoos.

Have fun everyone and drive safely.

"Just Kidding" puppet show at Central

2010-07-06T11:05:00.010-06:00

Children of all ages are welcome to join us at our special black light puppet show called "Just Kidding". Come follow the antics of Bubbles the fish and his ocean friends. "Just Kidding" is playing five times next week on:

-Tuesday, July 13 at 10:00 AM, following the preschool storytime
-Tuesday, July 13 at 6:30 PM, at Neighbors Read! Family Story Night
-Wednesday, July 14 at 2:00 PM, at Kids' Club
-Thursday, July 15 at 10:00 AM, following the infant/toddler storytime
-Saturday, July 17 at 10:00 AM

Hope to sea you there!

Make a Splash - Read This!

2010-07-02T10:28:00.007-06:00

Have you ever explored an island on your own? Do you like to go boating on lakes and do a little fishing? If you answered yes to either of these questions, you might want to check out Kyle's Island by Sally Derby.

Thirteen-year-old Kyle can't wait to spent the summer at his favorite place in the world - his grandma's cottage nestled near a small lake in Michigan. He knows every spot on the lake, what fish it contains, and where to catch them. Plus, this is the summer he's going to explore the island. Once he arrives, though, everything changes. The cottage is for sale, his dad left, grandma passed away, and to top it off, his mom and siblings don't seem to understand him. What will Kyle discover on the island? And how can he save the cottage? To find out, place Kyle's Island on hold.

Kids' Club at Central

2010-06-25T16:59:00.015-06:00

What are you and your 7-11 old doing on Wednesdays from 2-4? If you're looking for something fun, free, and about the summer's best topic - water, you might want to join us at Kids' Club.

Two weeks ago we panned for gold. We spent the afternoon swirling sand and water around and around and then swishing it out. We repeated our steps over and over until we found the special black sand. The black sand is heavier and if you're lucky, contains gold. Three kids were lucky and found some gold flakes.

Besides panning for gold, local historian Dave Fishell told us stories about the Colorado Gold Rush, and Danny Agajanian played his banjo and sang turn-of-the-century songs. Plus, we enjoyed cold pork and beans, which surprisingly, the kids loved, asking for seconds even. It was a fantastic day!

Last week, meteorologist John Carroll, from news station KREX, visited and talked to us about the weather and how he does his job. He also acted-out/read his children's book, "Robbie the Raindrop." The kids had great questions for John Carroll and they learned about the water cycle as well.

This week Sheriff Tim Orr will be coming to talk to us about water safety. For other program information visit MCL's calendar.

SUMMER TIME AND THE READING IS FUN!

2010-06-23T14:39:00.002-06:00

With the 4th of July holiday coming up we are going to be busy. So we are off on our trip through the eastern part of Mesa County.
Starting on Thursday, June 24th you can take a ride up the De Beque Canyon to the small town of De Beque for a little fishing in the library. There will be stories at 10:30 am then everyone can make a fish with recyled CD's.

Then on Friday, June 25th you have your choice of going to Collbran or De Beque.
In Collbran at 10:30 am is childrens story time with a special storyteller from the Central Library in Grand Junction. Cheryl Moe will be telling stories that are about "I Love the Water".
At the De Beque Branch, also at 10:30 am, there will be a family program with Dave Fishell and Friends, "Panning for Gold". Mr. Fishell will talk about gold panning in Colorado and his friends will demonstrate how to pan for gold using a slouce box. Tomorrow is Saturday so let's take a branch tour break.

On Tuesday, June 29th let's head back to the Collbran Branch at 4 pm. Shanna Smith from the Central Library in Grand Junction demonstrating "Henna: Temporary Tattoos". I know I have been waiting for this program as Shanna said she would give me a sunflower or ladybug tattoo. Which one do you think I should get? Let me know by commenting to this post. Then after I get the tattoo I'll let you know which I have, or maybe I'll just post a picture of it.
Since I will be taking a short vacation I am going to going to continue with our trip to include the first week in July.

If you did not get to see "I Love the Water" with Cheryl Moe or "Panning for Gold" with Dave Fishell and his merry band of friends. This will be your last chance to see either of these programs on this end of the county, so plan on attending now!
Cheryl will be at the Clifton Branch on Thursday, July 1st at 10 am.
Mr. Fishell will be at the Palisade Branch on Friday, July 2nd at 4 pm.

Now let's get closer to the big city, the Clifton Branch will be hosting a program for Teens/Tweens with Gail Yerbic presenting "River of Words". If you like poetry and water color than you won't want to miss this program. It starts at 2:30 pm on Wednesday, July 7th.

Then on Friday, July 9th let's take another trip up the Plateau Canyon to Collbran for "Experiments with H2O" . Diane LaCount from our Central Branch will be presenting some awesome experiments that she does with H2O, also known as water. My branch has already had this program and we enjoyed it.

I really hope that everyone is enjoying this summer library program as much as I am! It's not just the reading that's fun, the crafts are great and I have been meeting a lot of wonderful kids and adults too.

Make a Splash - Read This!

2010-06-17T17:17:00.007-06:00

Have you ever grabbed a magnifying glass and studied the lines on your fingertips, a chunk of quartz, or a freshly cut blade of grass? In "Looking Closely Around the Pond," author/photographer Frank Serafini provides a series of up-close and vibrant photographs that turn everyday pond life into a playground for a child’s imagination. Who knew that a pond could be so magical? Not only does this book spark young creativity, but each picture of a plant or animal is accompanied with a simple, but factual description. To place "Looking Closely Around the Pond" on hold, click on MCL’s catalog.

More Summer Fun for Clifton, Collbran, DeBeque & Palisade!

2010-06-15T11:14:00.008-06:00

Are you ready for another week of exciting programs that Mesa County Libraries has for our local branches? I am, so let's get started!

On Wednesday, June 16 at 2:30 pm teens and tweens need to stop at the Clifton Branch for Henna: Hawaiian Style! Henna is a temporary ink that stains the skin. You must be 12 or over to receive a henna tattoo.

Then on Thursday, June 17 at 10:30am make a trip up to the DeBeque Branch for a children's program with a guest story teller. On the drive up the canyon you can look for wildlife on the river, or maybe there will be people rafting.

Friday, June 18 will be rather busy with three different programs. In the morning take a ride up Plateau Canyon to "Pan for Gold!" In Collbran at 10:30am in Mother's Park, local historian Dave Fishell will tell stories about the Colorado Gold Rush. Then learn how to pan for gold the old-fashioned way!

If you are artistic you may want to go to the DeBeque Branch at 11am there is going to be "Squirt Bottle T-Shirt Painting" a program with squirt bottles, paint and t-shirts for teens and tweens.

If you still have time, at 4pm the Palisade Branch has "River of Words" Poetry Project. This program is about poetry and water colors.

A Little Drama, Science, and Literature

2010-06-15T11:09:00.024-06:00

Last week was busy at Central! It started with our Reader's Theater troop performing "Fairy Tales and Nursery Rhymes." Monday was the last show, and our teen actors pulled off a hilarious production of the classic fairy tales and Mother Goose that we all know and love. I really hope you can make it to their production of "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" in September. I know Amanda, who works in Youth Services and directs of the productions, and our teen actors are getting excited to start practicing! Here they are having a little after-show fun:

On Wednesday during our afternoon Kids' Club, we were privileged to have our friends from the Math and Science Center visit. The kids designed foil boats with tape, wooden craft sticks, and string. Then they floated them in kiddie pools and kept dropping pennies into them until they sank. One boy told me he counted up to 198 coins before his boat sunk! The kids also had fun with dry ice and liquid soap, which created super-bubbles. They enjoyed tapping glass beakers filled with water to create musical tones and other water activities, as well. Thanks again to the Math and Science Center for helping us discover how fun science can be!

On Friday the Esperanza Rising Book Club had its second meeting. The club meets weekly from 11:30 to 12:30 to discuss Pam Muñoz Ryan's popular book. Although each session is progressive, they can be joined on a stand-alone basis as well, so children from 7-11 are welcome anytime.

To learn more about the children's programs at Central, visit MCL's calendar.

A Rockin' Beginning!

2010-06-10T10:39:00.017-06:00

Hi everyone! After reading Miss Barbara's post, I realized I neglected to introduce myself. My name is Diana and I work in Youth Services at the Central branch. I will be your guide to all the children's summer library programs unfolding at Central. I will also be reviewing just a few of the many wonderful new children's books joining our collection this summer.

Well, with my introduction out of the way, I just wanted to say how great Leonardo was last week! He rocked all three of our kick-off parties! The best part for me was watching the kids dance and "play" blow-up toy guitars on stage with Leonardo. They had a blast! Trevor, who also works in Youth Services, was able to entertain us with his mad drumming skills.

Folks from the Horizon Sunrise Rotary Club were also able to attend one of our kick-off parties and sign up children for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. If you're not familiar with Imagination Library, this program allows children from birth to their fifth birthday, and who live in zip codes 81501, 81503, and now 81506, to receive a new book sent to their home each month. The Horizon Sunrise Rotary Club is happy to sponsor the children in zip code 81506, and they were thrilled to join us in all the kick-off fun. Claudine Bogart, Bob Delavan, Kristi Adams, and Jim Widdows from the Rotary Club and our own Development Director, Lois Becker, were all there to celebrate the expansion of the Grand Junction Imagination program.

For those of you interested in signing up your child for the Imagination program and haven't done so yet, you can pick up applications at the Youth Services desk at the Central branch.

Summertime has started @ the library...

2010-06-05T12:10:00.004-06:00

I want to introduce myself, I'm Miss Barbara the library lady and I will be your guide this summer for the Mesa County Library Branches in the eastern part of the county, which consists of Clifton, Palisade, Collbran and DeBeque.
I've heard through our special library communication network, that we've had a great turn out for the "Kick-off Parties with Leonardo". I attended one of his performances and had so much fun, I got to dance, played the tambourine and even sang along with the band. It was awesome! Who knew you could have this much fun in a library.
Each week I will take you to visit some of our branch libraries and then you can make plans for the following week.
So here we go... on Tuesday, June 8th at 4:30pm the first place you can stop at is Collbran. The T3 group of teens and tweens are having a guest with a poetry and watercolor program, "River of Words".
Thursday, June 10th at 10:30am you can go to Clifton for their story time. Or maybe you'd like to take a trip up the canyon to DeBeque, they are having "A Day at the Beach". Come build a sand castle or you might like to do a sand casting.
It's going to be a busy day on Friday, you can choose from several branches to visit. In the morning at 10:30am Collbran's children will be having stories and a craft about "Sea Shells at the Seashore". If this doesn't interest you or maybe you are a teen or tween you can visit Palisade at 11am for "Henna" a temporary tattoo.
If you are into something along the science theme, come to DeBeque at 11am for "Experiments with H2O".

Make a Splash - Read This!

2010-06-02T11:47:00.016-06:00

In honor of our summer library program Make a Spash - Read!, Youth Services has ordered many exciting children’s fiction (chapter and illustrated books) and non-fiction all about water, pirates, ocean, and fish. These books are arriving weekly, so throughout the summer, come check out these new water-related books!

One imaginative picture book showcasing bright, bold etches is “Dear Fish” by Chris Gall. Imagine one day that all the fish, sharks, whales, and other sea creatures visit your town, performing tasks for your neighbors! What could a whale do for humans? How could jelly fish help? The sea creatures don’t just show up, they are invited by a boy named Peter Alan. He writes them a letter, drops it into a bottle, and throws it out into the sea. The next morning, while brushing his teeth, he hears a strange “dripping, flipping, flopping, and gurgling” behind the shower curtain. Peter Alan finds a large green fish in the bathtub, which is just the beginning of the many wonderful surprises he, the town, and you have yet to see! Click on MCL's catalog to put "Dear Fish" on hold.

Download tracks from Leonardo!

2010-05-26T10:36:00.003-06:00

Make Waves With Leonardo! Download tracks from the upcoming performer for free here.

Sail Away to Fun!

2010-05-14T15:05:00.003-06:00

Mesa County Libraries' Summer Library Programs

Please enjoy Part 1 and Part 2 of our Summer Library Program, "Sail Away to Fun!" Captain Book and others tell you what you need to know... arrrgh!

Part 1

Part 2

Summer Library Programs 2010

2010-04-27T11:29:00.000-06:00

Welcome to this year's Summer Library Programs! This year's theme for kids is "Make a Splash" and the theme for teens and adults is "Make Waves." Registration starts on May 25 and the entire program runs June 1 - July 31, 2010.

If you have questions call 970-243-4442.

Kick Off Party Dates

2010-04-27T10:41:00.007-06:00

Join us for the Summer Library Programs Kick Off Parties! Make Waves with musician Leonardo.

Central Library - 6:30 p.m., June 1
Central Library - 10 a.m. & 2 p.m., June 2
Clifton Branch - 2 p.m., June 4
Collbran Branch - 10:30 a.m., June 4
DeBeque Branch - 12:30 p.m., June 3
Fruita Branch - 10 a.m., June 3
Orchard Mesa Branch - 1 p.m., June 1
Palisade Branch - 10 a.m., June 1

Tunes and Tissues

2009-07-11T14:21:00.001-06:00

We had a great time last Wednesday decorating pinatas with live Spanish music playing in the background. Kids and their grown-ups worked together in most cases making these wonderful creations. See more pics on Flicker...More Photos!

A Month to Go!

2009-06-25T10:24:00.000-06:00

Mesa County Libraries Summer Library Programs are nearing the half way point. As we move into July there is only one month left to go. If you've been reading and filling out your logs, great! Keep it up. Remember there are prizes available at all levels for children, teens, and adults. Also check with your local branch library for upcoming programs and events tied to Summer Library Programs. Don't forget to Be Creative and Express Yourself!

School Outreach... Raccoon Rap!!

2009-06-23T09:33:00.000-06:00

Drum roll please... here's the rap we promised! This mp3 is the combination of all the schools singing the raccoon rap. The voices of thousands of Mesa County students are singing these words:

Head to the library for loads of fun,
Head to the library everyone!
There are lots of books and prizes, too,
Fun for me and fun for you!

Thank you to Mesa School District 51, Plateau Valley and Debeque schools for fitting us into your waning school year schedule. We hope our Mesa County young people feel inspired to make public library use a regular part of their lives. Click on the title of this post... Raccoon Rap to listen and download. Enjoy!

Check out Jeff Kagan

2009-06-22T11:39:00.000-06:00

Those looking for something fun to do this Tuesday night will not want to miss Jeff Kagan. Boulder resident Jeff Kagan will entertain the crowd with acoustic guitar and kid props such as funny hats, etc. Kagan will take the stage at 6:30 p.m., June 23, in the Central Library Children's Area. For more information visit http://cdbaby.com/cd/jeffkagan.

Check out Peter and the Wolf

2009-06-17T11:02:00.000-06:00

This Thursday we have a very special event planned. The Children's Center presetns "Peter and the Wolf" puppet show featuring narration by Grammy award winner Barry Tuckwell and a live score by the Barry Tuckwell Institute Horn Choir. "Peter and the Wolf" starts at 6:30 p.m., June 18 in the Central Library Children's Area. There will only be one presentation so don't miss it!

Express Yourself Through Blogging

2009-06-11T12:31:00.001-06:00

Mesa County Libraries is offering a special computer class based on this year's Summer Library Program theme of "Express Yourself." Express Yourself Through Blogging will teach you everything you need to know to set up your own blog, much like the one you are reading now. If you've ever thought about creating your own blog then this class is for you. Express Yourself Through Blogging is scheduled for 9 a.m., June 18. See you there!

Upcoming SLP Events

2009-06-08T16:14:00.000-06:00

The next couple weeks of Summer Library Programs are going to be fun. Special events for all ages are right around the corner. Teen and adults can take a paper making class in Orchard Mesa on June 17. Teens are also welcome at the Bistro Book Club, meeting Wednesdays at the Central Library. A special computer class, Express Yourself Through Blogging, is also scheduled for June 18.

The Central Library is hosting two fun events for kids. First check out a showing of Peter and the Wolf puppet show on June 18, then learn how to make Father's Day cards on June 20.

Creative Cartooning with Don-Paul Benjamin

2009-06-02T12:41:00.000-06:00

As part of the Summer Library Programs, cartoonist Don-Paul Benjamin will be visiting Mesa County Libraries. Benjamin will show us how to "Be Creative" with pen and pad by demonstrating the basics to drawing characters and backgrounds. Benjamin will visit the Central Library on June 10 and travel to various library locations throughout the next couple of weeks. For exact date and times click here.

2009-05-19T11:50:00.000-06:00

The Summer Library Programs are officially under way! You can register for the game online or in person at any Mesa County Libraries location. Stop by your local branch library and pick up your reading log and start tracking your points. Remember, have fun and be creative!

Raccoon Rap!

2009-05-10T09:42:00.000-06:00

Mesa County Libraries' Youth Services department along with very cool rappers from other library departments have begun our outreach to the elementary schools in Mesa County. We take our tunes and tails and rouse the crowd with information about the 2009 Summer Library Program.

The room rocks with the Raccoon Rap while we record the kids singing. Soon, very soon, we will mash up all the tracks from all the schools into one so kids can make tracks to the library website and find their voices. Watch for the podcast on our website--the first week of summer vacation -- the week we throw SLP kick off parties--right after Memorial Day... check it out!

Summer Library Programs at Mesa County Libraries

2009-05-08T14:30:00.000-06:00

Don't fall victim to the summer heat block, join Mesa County Libraries for the Summer Library Programs. Registration starts May 18 with programs for children, teens, and adults. Read a book, attend a program, win prizes. Enough said.

Kick Off Party Dates
Central Library - 10 a.m., 2 p.m., May 27
Clifton Branch - 2:30 p.m., June 3
Collbran Branch - 2 p.m., May 29
Fruita Branch - 10 a.m., June 4
Palisade Branch - 10 a.m., June 2

Join the program.