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From: "PUBYAC: PUBlic librarians serving Young Adults and Children" <pubyac@prairienet.org>
To: "PUBYAC: PUBlic librarians serving Young Adults and Children" <pubyac@prairienet.org>
Sent: Thursday, January 15, 2004 7:29 PM
Subject: PUBYAC digest 1315

    PUBYAC Digest 1315

Topics covered in this issue include:

  1) From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankeweiler
by carole petro <csp6329@yahoo.com>
  2) thanks for the story time help
by "Catherine Kyle" <ckyle@mcls.rochester.lib.ny.us>
  3) Awards announcement
by "Suzanne Hall" <suzanne@putnam.lib.in.us>
  4) Re: Programs vrs Book Circulation
by Smith <lsmith@suffolk.lib.ny.us>
  5) summer job fair
by "Karen Brown" <BrownK@ci.monterey.ca.us>
  6) Fwd: Re: Parent of special-needs child
by "Dawna L. Rumball" <dawnarumball@yahoo.com>
  7) "do not reshelve" signage - how do YOU do it?
by "Kapila Sankaran" <ksankaran@springfieldpubliclibrary.com>
  8) retiring cutter numbers question
by Jennifer Baker <jbaker93711@yahoo.com>
  9) googlefight
by "Sharon Lawrence" <sharonl@downersgrovelibrary.org>
 10) Re: Programs vrs Book Circulation
by "Carol and Gary Levin" <cglevin@access4less.net>
 11) Re: Programs vrs Book Circulation ... the question may be ...
by Terrill <trumpeter2@shaw.ca>
 12) Re:  Programs vs. Books
by Christina Johnson <marionthelibrarian@yahoo.com>
 13) Newbery Honor Disappointment instead
by CKehoe@bettendorf.lib.ia.us
 14) The best children's and YA web sites
by "Joan Enriquez (ocln)" <joane@ocln.org>
 15) Newbery winner caution
by Selma Levi <slevi@mail.pratt.lib.md.us>
 16) Thanks for Reponses to the Shopping Cart Query
by "Rob Reid" <reid@ifls.lib.wi.us>
 17) Dave as Otis
by "Cheryl D." <whirlee@hotmail.com>
 18) Re: Newbery winner (disappointment)
by Jennifer Baker <jbaker93711@yahoo.com>
 19) RE: Newbery Winner (a Disappointment)
by "Stacey Boycik" <stacey.boycik@medina.lib.oh.us>
 20) budding teen writer - publishers?
by "Ahern, Kathleen" <Kathleen@neill-lib.org>
 21) Newbery winner (disappointment) - not
by "Marge Loch-Wouters" <lochwouters@menashalibrary.org>
 22) circulating toys with batteries
by "Mary D'Eliso" <mdeliso@monroe.lib.in.us>
 23) Re: Newbery winner (disappointment)
by "Kathleen Conger" <kathleen.conger@ci.stpaul.mn.us>
 24) analyzing poetry ... 4th grade
by "Ahern, Kathleen" <Kathleen@neill-lib.org>
 25) Programs vrs Book Circulation
by "April Mazza" <AMazza@minlib.net>
 26) Caldecott Winners and children's responses
by "Carol and Gary Levin" <cglevin@access4less.net>

----------------------------------------------------------------------
From: carole petro <csp6329@yahoo.com>
To: pubyac@prairienet.org
Subject: From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankeweiler
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 19:45:44 CST


Greetings to everyone.  For some reason I am having a difficult time
thinking of a 10-15 mins. craft to do with a book discussion for Grades 3-5
for the above book.

If anyone can think of a project to go along with to promote this book,
please e-mail me at cpetro@frankfortlibrary.org.

If I receive numerous suggestions, I'll post them to this ListServ.

Thank you.

Carole Petro
Frankfort Public Library
Frankfort, IL  604423

------------------------------
From: "Catherine Kyle" <ckyle@mcls.rochester.lib.ny.us>
To: "PUBYAC" <PUBYAC@prairienet.org>
Subject: thanks for the story time help
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 19:46:00 CST

I wanted to thank everyone for their responces. Between my local =
librarians and you guys I received almost one hundred messages. As soon =
as I can sift through all the emails I will post them. Needless to say, =
changes will be made. I'm already getting worn out and I've hardly =
begun. After May I will completely be revamping my story times. Five =
story times is too much, especially when I want to do other children's =
programming and young adult programming as well.=20

Thanks again!
Catherine Kyle
Youth Services Librarian
Parma Public Library
7 West Ave=20
Hilton, NY 14468
585-392-8350
ckyle@libraryweb.org

------------------------------
From: "Suzanne Hall" <suzanne@putnam.lib.in.us>
To: <pubyac@prairienet.org>
Subject: Awards announcement
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 19:46:14 CST



Was anyone else frustrated on Monday by not being able to learn of the =
Caldecott and Newbery winners and honors right away?  It was my day off =
and I'm afraid I spent way too much time hitting the refresh button on =
the ALA site and cruising through Google trying to find out who won.  =
Finally, at about 6 pm, I found the info in a very interesting New York =
Times article.   Short of having a friend at the meeting, did anyone =
else get the news more readily than I?  OK, so maybe this is a little =
obsessive, but this is the information age, isn't it? =20

Suzanne Hall
Children's Librarian
Putnam County Public Library
Greencastle, IN  46135

------------------------------
From: Smith <lsmith@suffolk.lib.ny.us>
To: Tara Mendez <TaraM@mail2tara.com>
Subject: Re: Programs vrs Book Circulation
MIME-Version: 1.0
Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 19:46:27 CST

Re: Programming--If book circulation is going down WITH active
programming, just watch it drop like a stone if you stop bringing people
in for the programs.

If you do not have room for "face out" book displays, you might check
catalogs for a free-standing unit that you could have frequent changes of
display on.  I find that helps.

Our book circulation is down and DVD circulation is up 50% from last year.
Correlation is not causation, I know, but it makes you wonder.

Re: Crafts
I have a catalog which has some very nice things that would make a lasting
item:
J&A Handy-Crafts Inc.
1-888-252-1130

www.JAHandyCrafts.com


Lisa Smith
Lindenhurst, NY

------------------------------
From: "Karen Brown" <BrownK@ci.monterey.ca.us>
To: <pubyac@prairienet.org>
Subject: summer job fair
MIME-Version: 1.0
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII
Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit
Content-Disposition: inline
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 19:46:41 CST

I couldn't get the personal email to work, so I am replying to the
entire list. 

I had a workshop.  We had representatives from major employers speak
for
about 15 minutes, giving tips on what they want to see in an
applicant.

Then we had experienced babysitters speak, giving tips on promotion
and
job success.  Then a person from Junior Achievement spoke giving some
tips on how to make something simple and sell it.  I also booktalked
some of the library books on making money. I distributed a list of
ideas
for making money that I culled from the books and a list of contacts
for
key employers.  Since most of our active "teens" are actually too
young
to work, this  seemed to be the way we could be most helpful.


Karen Brown
brownk@ci.monterey.ca.us
Youth Services Manager
Monterey Public Library
625 Pacific Street
Monterey, CA 93940
831-646-3744

------------------------------
From: "Dawna L. Rumball" <dawnarumball@yahoo.com>
To: pubyac@prairienet.org
Subject: Fwd: Re: Parent of special-needs child
MIME-Version: 1.0
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 19:46:53 CST

My apologies for assuming it was Ms. Kale that wrote
the original message.  This message is for the
original poster.

Thank you!

--- "Dawna L. Rumball" <dawnarumball@yahoo.com> wrote:
> Date: Wed, 14 Jan 2004 18:54:11 -0800 (PST)
> From: "Dawna L. Rumball" <dawnarumball@yahoo.com>
> Subject: Re: Parent of special-needs child
> To: Bonita.Kale@euclidlibrary.org
>
> Ms. Kale:
>
> I happen to have a graduate degree in both library
> studies and in special education.  I am very
> familiar
> with the situation you just described.  It is all
> too
> common that parents of children with special needs
> want to "drop off" their child/ren with special
> needs
> at the library.
>
> As someone questioned elsewhere on the listserv,
> libraries are not baby sitters.  I continue to be
> baffled and even horrified at parents that simply
> "drop off" their child/ren and get all huffy and
> complain when they are told they need to be there to
> supervise their child/ren.
>
> As for providing special programs for children with
> disabilities, it is very good publicity for a
> library
> with a good children's library program to provide
> such
> services, but they often are not feasible nor
> practical in fiscally constricted times.
>
> What I always do for library programs for children
> is
> I ensure that there is visible publicity about the
> library program (i.e., story time, read along,
> etc.)with specific information saying the library is
> wheelchair accessible, if a sign language
> interpreter
> is required to contact this number, etc., and to
> register your child beforehand so staff can ensure
> accessible reading materials such as captioned
> videos, descriptive videos, braille books, "feely
> touchy" books, etc.  It is very important to require
> that this is a program where parents or caregivers
> need to be there with the child/dren that has
> special
> needs.
>
> I would not provide specific programs for specific
> disabilities because as you said very aptly in your
> message, "special interest groups" will demand such
> library programs and that simply is not possible
> seeing as so many libraries have to cut back, even
> close. 
>
> My thinking is this is an inclusive world and
> everyone, regardless of disability or not, should
> all
> be able to enjoy library story times, etc. together
> with their parents or caregivers there for
> supervision.
>
> I hope this helps you with your situation!
>
> Regards,
> Dawna
>
> --- Bonita Kale <Bonita.Kale@euclidlibrary.org>
> wrote:
> > Jen Marin wrote:
> > We had a parent complain recently that we do not
> > have any programs that
> > she can just drop her special needs child off
> > in.....
> >
>
==============================================================
> >
> > I don't know--where does it end?  Do you have to
> > provide programming for
> > everyone who wants it--adults with severe
> dementia,
> > schizophrenic young
> > people?  How can you be expected to do that?
> >
> > When you say "special needs"--does the child rock
> > and scream, wander and
> > poke, is s/he in a wheelchair, can s/he use the
> > toilet alone?
> >
> > I'd suggest a respite care program, but the only
> one
> > I can find in Suffolk
> > is for old people.
> >
> >
> >

------------------------------
From: "Kapila Sankaran" <ksankaran@springfieldpubliclibrary.com>
To: <pubyac@prairienet.org>
Subject: "do not reshelve" signage - how do YOU do it?
MIME-Version: 1.0
Content-Type: text/plain;
Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 19:47:06 CST

dear pubyac,

i know some libraries put out signs every here and there asking patrons to
refrain from the urge of reshelving books they've pulled off the shelves. i
was thinking of doing the same here at my library.

but, please, help! i can't come up with wording that is to the point, and
gentle, or poetic, humourous, or is in other ways creative. can you?

what, if any signage, do you use at your library? i would love to receive
suggestions...

looking forward to hearing from some of you!

cheers,

kapila


=====================================
Kapila Sankaran, Youth Services Librarian
Springfield Free Public Library
66 Mountain Ave. Springfield NJ 07081
tel: 973.376.4930 x.232  fax: 973.376.1334
email: ksankaran@springfieldpubliclibrary.com
=====================================

------------------------------
From: Jennifer Baker <jbaker93711@yahoo.com>
To: pubyac@prairienet.org
Subject: retiring cutter numbers question
MIME-Version: 1.0
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 19:47:20 CST

hello everybody & happy new year!

i am working on a project to recommend that our
library discontinue use of the old fashioned cutter
number system in favor of using the author's last name
on spine labels.

one of the big questions we are addressing is whether
or not we should retroactively change existing books.
it seems to me that it while it would be a major
undertaking it would be far more confusing (for both
staff & patrons) to try to have two systems interfiled
on the same shelf.

have any of you worked in a library that has made this
change? if so, did you do a retro switch also? any
advice?
~j.

=====
~jenniferbaker
fresno co. public library

"I may not be an explorer or an adventurer or a treasure seeker or a gun
fighter Mr. O' Connell, but I am proud of what I am." "And what is that?" "I
am a librarian!"
~ Evelyn, The Mummy

------------------------------
From: "Sharon Lawrence" <sharonl@downersgrovelibrary.org>
To: <pubyac@prairienet.org>
Subject: googlefight
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 19:47:33 CST

Good morning:  I was on desk with a colleague yesterday and she
mentioned she was going to "googlefight" something.  I asked her what
she meant and found it so interesting that I wanted to share it with
you.  I think there is some real potential for teaching kids about
keywords and search terms.

You may already know about it, Amanda said she's been using the site for
awhile.  It's called googlefight.com <http://www.googlefight.com/>  and
it takes two search terms and compares the google results.  For instance
I just did a googlefight with Tolkien and Rowling.  Tolkien had1.8
million results on Google and Rowling had 787,000 results on Google.
(Tolkien wins!!)

We've been having fun with it, (I pitted Hugh Grant vs. Cary Grant-Hugh
won) but this morning I was thinking that there is some real use here...
I think it's a great tool to help people think about the things they're
asking for...  Enjoy it!


Sharon

Sharon Lawrence
Children's Reference Coordinator
Downers Grove Public Library
1050 Curtiss Street
Downers Grove, Illinois  60515

Downers Grove Library <http://www.downersgrovelibrary.org/>  ... The
Place to Go, When You Need to Know!

------------------------------
From: "Carol and Gary Levin" <cglevin@access4less.net>
To: <pubyac@prairienet.org>
Subject: Re: Programs vrs Book Circulation
MIME-Version: 1.0
Content-Type: text/plain;
Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 19:47:47 CST

While we haven't had this problem of dropping circulation, I can't help but
feel that "charging" a book has entirely the wrong feel.  I like displaying
books (and other media) related to the program and  brief book-talking "If
you liked this book, here are other ones "by the same author", "about cats",
or whatever .  Usually whatever I display is taken if I mention it and
people usually want to check out what I've used in the program as well.

As for the programs, I make sure that all of ours are book-based in some
way...our baby times and rhyme times don't actually use many books, but the
nursery rhymes (puppets, flannels, props) are clearly derived from
literature...even our "craftacular spectacular" begins with a book and song
or fingerplay or some other rhyme before the kids go to the tables and the
glue.  Nothing we do involves any materials that are very
expensive...construction paper, glue sticks, markers, googly eyes, feathers,
etc. are our stock-in-trade.  As for the nature of useful crafts...I try to
make all my crafts open-ended so that kids aren't merely gluing together
precut pieces but adding their own individuality to the project .  As an
example, for a snow-based craft, we made snowmen (women/children/dogs) in
the tradition of Lois Ehlert's "Snowballs" -- we gave them white paper and
lots of bits and pieces (feathers/buttons/sequins/scraps of
stuff/pompoms/etc.) and let them create.  As a fall craft, I had them make
paper wreaths tracing their handprints on construction paper for "leaves."
For dinosaurs, we got some coloring sheets, glued them to cardboard, spread
more glue for kids to attach pasta "bones", then dipped the whole thing in
playground sand.  Yes, many crafts will be tossed in a couple of weeks but I
like to think of crafts as a process, not a product.  The kids are
developing fine motor skills, learning about colors, shapes, etc. and
exercising creativity.  And, of course,  the more personal crafts may be
saved and treasured.

Hope this helps.


Carol Levin
Somerset County Library/BridgewaterEnjoy Life! This is not a Dress
Rehearsal!
----- Original Message -----
From: "Tara Mendez" <TaraM@mail2tara.com>
To: <pubyac@prairienet.org>
Sent: Wednesday, January 14, 2004 4:06 PM
Subject: Programs vrs Book Circulation


>
> Fellow Pubyacers
> I have two dilemmas the first is that while we are offering all kinds of
> both adult and children's programs our circulation is dropping. We have
> gone as far as "charging one book circulation per program" but still our
> numbers are dropping. I wonder am I wasting time doing the programs? I
> love programming and find it personally fun and exciting but wonder
> about the benefits of the programs if no one comes back or takes out a
> book.
> Second problem... We spend all kinds of money on glue and pretty paper
> etc. for crafts to allow the children to create a project in 20 minutes
> or less that they take home and toss out. I am thinking that we should
> create more useful crafts. One parent told me she still has the pencil
> holder her daughter made for her in the beginning of the summer. I would
> like to see the kids making something functional that will last more
> than a day. I am not looking at creating little carpenters but something
> of lasting value I think is more beneficial for all. I value feedback on
> this and any functional craft ideas ( for adults and kids) as well.
> Thank you
> Tara Mendez
> taram@mail2world.com
>

------------------------------
From: Terrill <trumpeter2@shaw.ca>
To: pubyac@prairienet.org
Subject: Re: Programs vrs Book Circulation ... the question may be ...
MIME-version: 1.0
Content-type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1
Content-transfer-encoding: 7BIT
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 19:48:01 CST

Tara et al

Before mixing these two issues in together, circulation and programming,
could we keep them in separate lists on the paper. If circulation is down,
may I suggest you look just at the circulation issue? Are you a stand alone
library? Regional type? Could it be your collection is read out or more
dated than current, not enough new stuff to excite and entice your community
of readers? Could it even be times that the library is available not being
suitable to the members of the community, has the demographics of your
region changed and your collection is not in sync with it?  .... there are
lots of questions, very basic ones that may help you address your
circulation fall-off. May I say that communities are not static, so
libraries can not be either. I hope my few suggestions help you figure this
out. I like the charging a book for the program .... great idea in general!
Are your programs book oriented? That aspect of programming may help circ
figures. Please forgive me if I'm stating things that you've already
considered, but many minds sometimes come up with an answer or two.

As far as programs go, I understand your concern on the short-lived craft.
And if you can come up with simple ones that last longer great, and I'm sure
you can. But I just want to point out that some crafts, like art, are for
the moment. The joy of glitter, the fun of folding paper and gluing it in on
other paper, colouring and scratching and such things. Sometimes its just
the doing it too, Tara that is fun. Yes they may see the recycle bin in a
few days, but it was fun for the kids to do them and feel creative at the
moment. The small motor skills that benefit, the colour, shape concepts ....
there are lots of things to be said for the basic glue and paper crafting.
It may be more noticeable to us adults who have done a lot of these crafts,
but it may be rather new and exciting to some kids. As I say however, I'm
sure you will come up with functional crafts too, as long as the skills
required to do them don't leave someone in the group frustrated or left out
feeling incompetent.

Great questions, thanx for letting us bounce some thoughts your way.

Terrill Scott
Fraser Valley Regional Library
British Columbia         Canada


----- Original Message -----
From: "Tara Mendez" <TaraM@mail2tara.com>
To: <pubyac@prairienet.org>
Sent: Wednesday, January 14, 2004 1:06 PM
Subject: Programs vrs Book Circulation


>
> Fellow Pubyacers
> I have two dilemmas the first is that while we are offering all kinds of
> both adult and children's programs our circulation is dropping. We have
> gone as far as "charging one book circulation per program" but still our
> numbers are dropping. I wonder am I wasting time doing the programs? I
> love programming and find it personally fun and exciting but wonder
> about the benefits of the programs if no one comes back or takes out a
> book.
> Second problem... We spend all kinds of money on glue and pretty paper
> etc. for crafts to allow the children to create a project in 20 minutes
> or less that they take home and toss out. I am thinking that we should
> create more useful crafts. One parent told me she still has the pencil
> holder her daughter made for her in the beginning of the summer. I would
> like to see the kids making something functional that will last more
> than a day. I am not looking at creating little carpenters but something
> of lasting value I think is more beneficial for all. I value feedback on
> this and any functional craft ideas ( for adults and kids) as well.
> Thank you
> Tara Mendez
> taram@mail2world.com
>

------------------------------
From: Christina Johnson <marionthelibrarian@yahoo.com>
To: PUBYAC <pubyac@prairienet.org>
Subject: Re:  Programs vs. Books
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 20:24:27 CST

I have a slightly similar personal problem with all of the programming we
are expected to do.  When did the library become the entertainment center
for its community?
We do many things to make our circulation look higher than it would be
otherwise.
Our children's programs are well attended and I enjoy doing most of them,
I'm just wondering how this all got started.
--Frustrated with my job at the moment, can you tell?

------------------------------
From: CKehoe@bettendorf.lib.ia.us
To: pubyac@prairienet.org
Subject: Newbery Honor Disappointment instead
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 20:27:02 CST

I was more displeased about the choice of Olive's Ocean by Kevin Henkes as
an Honor winner. While I love the author, I thought this title to be
somewhat worn out and unoriginal.

Crystal Kehoe
Youth Services Assistant
Bettendorf Public Library
344-4178  ckehoe@bettendorf.org

 

------------------------------
From: "Joan Enriquez (ocln)" <joane@ocln.org>
To: "'pubyac@prairienet.org'" <pubyac@prairienet.org>
Subject: The best children's and YA web sites
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 20:27:16 CST

Hello all,

Will you please send me your suggestions for examples of Children's and YA
web sites that do a particularly good job with function and/or design.  I do
think I remember such a list being compiled on Pubyac in the past, but I
can't locate it.

This is an ASAP request from my directior, so I'd be very grateful for your
reply.

Thanks.

Joan Enriquez
Children's Librarian
Kingston Public Library
6 Green Street
Kingston, MA 02364

------------------------------
From: Selma Levi <slevi@mail.pratt.lib.md.us>
To: PUBYAC@prairienet.org
Subject: Newbery winner caution
MIME-Version: 1.0
Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 20:27:29 CST

Hi, Just a reminder that the criteria for choosing the Newbery Award has
nothing to do with whether children will like the book.  It is based on
literary merit alone.  Just the facts...

Selma K. Levi
Supervisor, Children's Department
slevi@epfl.net
410-396-5402

------------------------------
From: "Rob Reid" <reid@ifls.lib.wi.us>
To: <pubyac@prairienet.org>
Subject: Thanks for Reponses to the Shopping Cart Query
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 20:27:43 CST

When I asked if anyone uses a type of shopping cart at their library for =
kids to sit in while parents gather their books, I got several great =
responses ranging from liability issues to space problems. Many =
libraries already provide hand-carried baskets. Some offer strollers for =
the public - some have compartments below, some mesh pockets or cargo =
bags. Heather in Lewiston (ID) told me about the "shopping carts" from =
Highsmith and Anne and Berni at Dakota County in Eagan (MN) informed me =
about SmartCarte Inc which provides the type of carts seen in airports. =
SmartCarte's number is 1-800-838-1176 ext 3036 (ask for Carolyn) for =
more information about brochure/library purchases. Thanks to all! - Rob

Rob Reid
Youth Services/Special Needs Coordinator
Indianhead Federated Library System
1538 Truax Blvd, Eau Claire, WI 54703
715-839-5082, ext. 14
Fax: 715-839-5151
reid@ifls.lib.wi.us

------------------------------
From: "Cheryl D." <whirlee@hotmail.com>
To: goodnightmoon-list@goodnightmoon.connix.com
Subject: Dave as Otis
Mime-Version: 1.0
Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 20:27:57 CST


Hi All!

Just finished reading the latest Rolling Stone interview with Dave
Matthews....seems he is playing the character of Otis in the movie version
of Because of Winn-Dixie.  Hmmmm, can't wait to catch this flick!  How can a
movie be a clunker with Dave's music in the sound track?!?!  This is Dave's
second film appearance...his first is Where the Red Fern Grows which has yet
to be released.

I smell another book vs movie discussion group in the works!  I wonder if
the dog will look as we envisioned!  I think they've wisely chosen an
unknown to play Opal.  Her name is Anna Sophia Robb.  The role of a life
time...let's hope it works!


Cheryl Donahue
Canton (CT) PL

------------------------------
From: Jennifer Baker <jbaker93711@yahoo.com>
To: PUBYAC@prairienet.org
Subject: Re: Newbery winner (disappointment)
MIME-Version: 1.0
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 20:28:09 CST

i haven't had opportunity to read this one yet but i'm
planning on it. i think at the end of the day though
it's just like the academy awards: some of it's
political and some of it's personal preference. it's
all pretty subjective.
~j.

=====
~jenniferbaker
fresno co. public library

"I may not be an explorer or an adventurer or a treasure seeker or a gun
fighter Mr. O' Connell, but I am proud of what I am." "And what is that?" "I
am a librarian!"
~ Evelyn, The Mummy

------------------------------
From: "Stacey Boycik" <stacey.boycik@medina.lib.oh.us>
To: PUBYAC@prairienet.org
Subject: RE: Newbery Winner (a Disappointment)
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Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 20:28:22 CST

<<I would like to express my disappointment in this year's winner of the

Newbery and this seemed like the most appropriate place to do that.  I
tried
to read DiCamillo's book, but couldn't get through it.  After about 80
pages
(more than Nancy Pearl's minimum length), I had to throw it down in
disgust.>>

I disagree!  I read this book before the Newbery announcement, really
enjoyed it, and recommended it to my staff.  I'll be interested to hear
if they liked it.

--
Stacey Boycik
Children's Department Supervisor
Brunswick Community Library
3649 Center Road
Brunswick, Ohio 44212
Phone: 330-273-4150
Fax: 330-225-0310
E-mail: stacey.boycik@medina.lib.oh.us

------------------------------
From: "Ahern, Kathleen" <Kathleen@neill-lib.org>
To: "Pubyac Pubyac (E-mail)" <pubyac@prairienet.org>
Subject: budding teen writer - publishers?
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Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 20:28:34 CST

I have a very talented teen who is writing a young adult novel ... do =
any of you have sources/recommendations regarding publishers who =
specifically solicit this type of work?  Thanks much!  I will post!=20

Kathleen Ahern
Youth Services Librarian
Neill Public Library
210 N. Grand Avenue
Pullman, WA  99163
(509) 338-3258
kathleen@neill-lib.org

When I read a book I seem to read it with my eyes only, but now and then =
I come across a passage, perhaps only a phrase, which has meaning for =
me, and it becomes a part of me.
-----W. Somerset Maugham

------------------------------
From: "Marge Loch-Wouters" <lochwouters@menashalibrary.org>
To: pubyac@prairienet.org
Subject: Newbery winner (disappointment) - not
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Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 20:28:48 CST



> We are wondering if DiCamillo won because she should
>>have won for Winn-Dixie.


Just a note folks....

The American Library Association's Association for Library Service to
Children Caldecott and Newbery committees each year only consider the
books of that particular year - not an author's body of work.  That is
just one small part of their very specific and precise set of charges and
guidelines.  Each committee is appointed or elected for one year only and
each year's committees are made up of an ever-changing group of
librarians, madia specialists, bookstore staff, teachers of children's
literature and others who are ALSC members and children's book lovers. The
committees are made up of fifteen members each.  Seven on each are
appointed by the president of ALSC and seven plus the chairs are elected.
Having served on both committees in the course of my 25 years of library
work, I can assure you that the folks on these committees take their work
seriously. They discuss and think and ponder and read and read and read
and re-read - and listen to children and colleagues in school & public
library settings as well as colleagues in bookstores to gather input and
opinions to take to the final discussions and voting at ALA midwinter.

Its important to keep in mind that just as every book will find its
reader, every Newbery and Caldecott will find its admirers and detractors.
 Whether any title in any year is one that I think is "the" best, there is
never a doubt in my mind as I read it that I have my hands on a very
distinguished book. Let's celebrate the fact that an organization cares
enough to stress distinguished literature for children.  It HAS made a
difference to the kinds and quality of books published for children and
keeps a market open for books that are not aimed at a mass market or the
lowest common denominator. Authors, illustrators and publishing houses
respond by supporting and reaching out to create the finest lit for the
kids.  And that's something worth saying "Huzzah!!" for.

Marge

Marge Loch-Wouters
Head of Children's Services
Menasha's Public Library
440 First St
Menasha WI  54952
920 967-5166, ex 700
lochwouters@menashalibrary.org

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From: "Mary D'Eliso" <mdeliso@monroe.lib.in.us>
To: pubyac <PUBYAC@prairienet.org>
Subject: circulating toys with batteries
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Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 20:29:01 CST

Dear fellow librarians:

The Monroe County Public Library is considering adding some electronic
toys to its circulating toy collection. For those of you who are already
doing this, can you advise:
a.) Do you circulate the toys with batteries
or
b.) require that patrons use their own batteries?

Thank you for sharing any insights on circulation of electronic toys.
Please reply to lchampel@monroe.lib.in.us

We will compile replies to share with the list.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Mary D'Eliso, Children's Librarian      Monroe County Public Library
mdeliso@monroe.lib.in.us                Bloomington, Indiana
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

------------------------------
From: "Kathleen Conger" <kathleen.conger@ci.stpaul.mn.us>
To: <pubyac@prairienet.org>, <kmlib@yahoo.com>
Subject: Re: Newbery winner (disappointment)
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 20:29:16 CST

In defense of the Pigeon:
I nearly split my sides laughing every time I read this book. I never
pegged it as an award winner because of those "I could have done that at
home" illustrations, but I did recommend it to everyone who walked past
my desk! And it's a fabulous book to read to groups, so I'm holding
tight to my copy to use in storytime and for visiting a local
kindergarten. Here's a short review I just wrote for a local newsletter:

==================================================================
Caldecott medal winners get all the attention, while the honor books get
virtually forgotten. I'd like to call attention to one of this year's
Caldecott Honor books, Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!  by Mo
Willems.

As the title implies, the readers are left with a charge: "Don't let the
pigeon drive the bus!" Laughs abound as a charismatic little pigeon
tries to wiggle his way into the driver's seat. The deceptively simple
line drawings manage to convey a myriad of expressions as the pigeon
tries a variety of approaches, from politeness to tantrums, guilt to
indignation. Children practice resisting temptation (and some fall to
the bribery approach!) as this charming friend tries to convince them to
let him drive the bus.

Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!  is great for storytimes and group
atmospheres, where children can reinforce each other as they shout "NO!"
to that naughty pigeon.
========================================================================

Yes, I'm sad that Roller Coaster got no recognition this year, but
please don't trash the Pigeon for it!

Thanks!
Kathleen

Kathleen Conger, Librarian
Saint Paul Public Library
St. Paul, MN

------------------------------
From: "Ahern, Kathleen" <Kathleen@neill-lib.org>
To: "Pubyac Pubyac (E-mail)" <pubyac@prairienet.org>
Subject: analyzing poetry ... 4th grade
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Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 20:29:31 CST

Would appreicate any resources/recommendations you have regarding the =
topic of "analyzing poetry" for 4th and 5th graders.  I have a patron =
who's son is required to do this for his class, yet his teacher can't =
provide any resources for his parents to help him at home with this =
"skill".  TIA and I will post! =20

Kathleen Ahern
Youth Services Librarian
Neill Public Library
210 N. Grand Avenue
Pullman, WA  99163
(509) 338-3258
kathleen@neill-lib.org

When I read a book I seem to read it with my eyes only, but now and then =
I come across a passage, perhaps only a phrase, which has meaning for =
me, and it becomes a part of me.
-----W. Somerset Maugham

------------------------------
From: "April Mazza" <AMazza@minlib.net>
To: "PUBYAC" <PUBYAC@prairienet.org>
Subject: Programs vrs Book Circulation
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 20:29:45 CST

Hi all,
I also share Tara's problem of a drop in circulation (her email is below)
with an increase in programming.  While I do not do programs in an effort
to increase circulation I know that it can draw people in and then they
may choose materials.  My problem is that the "higher ups" are way more
concerned with the circ drop than I am.  I am not a number driven person
(otherwise I would have gone into sales and even though I didn't I am
getting this Glen Gary Glen Ross vibe lately) yet I feel like terrible
things will happen if I don't personally up the youth services circ!!! 
So I guess I am expressing my frustration here but also looking for maybe
a little coaching and support.  Every piece of advice my director gave is
already in place....displays, programming (a great increase from the
past), outreach to schools (though I am still working on daycares...you
can check the archives!), loads of new books and extra copies of
the "hot" titles....we even have (way too) many videos and DVDs....so i
am just at a loss and while part of me could care less how many books
people take out (since I know they are coming and they get excellent
customer service-my 2 important criteria for a successful library) I also
don't want to look as if I am not doing my job and/or lose my job.
Any thoughts are appreciated!

April Mazza
Youth Services
Wayland Public Library
(508) 358-2308
AMazza@minlib.net


<<<From: "Tara Mendez" <TaraM@mail2tara.com>
To: <pubyac@prairienet.org>
Subject: Programs vrs Book Circulation
Date: Wed, 14 Jan 2004 15:06:25 CST


Fellow Pubyacers
I have two dilemmas the first is that while we are offering all kinds of
both adult and children's programs our circulation is dropping. We have
gone as far as "charging one book circulation per program" but still our
numbers are dropping. I wonder am I wasting time doing the programs? I
love programming and find it personally fun and exciting but wonder
about the benefits of the programs if no one comes back or takes out a
book. >>>

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From: "Carol and Gary Levin" <cglevin@access4less.net>
To: <pubyac@prairienet.org>
Subject: Caldecott Winners and children's responses
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Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2004 20:29:59 CST

People have been asking about our responses to the Caldecott announcements,
so I thought I'd share my experiences.

Last week, I held mock Caldecott elections with 8 school groups and 1 public
library group  (a total of over 250 K-4th grade children).  Each hour-long
program consisted of a 15 minute introduction to the award and past winners,
20 minutes for them to look at about 20 contenders (culled from other mock
Caldecotts - Thank you PUBYACers!) and place their initials in those they
considered "awesome" (a kindergartner suggested that one-word description!)
Then I read aloud ones with the most initials for 20 minutes and they then
voted for the winner and runner ups.  The major winners were:

Diary of a Worm by Doreen Cronin & Harry Bliss
4 Golds, 1 Silver

What Are You So Grumpy About? By Tom Lichtenheld
2 Golds, 4 Silvers

The Day the Babies Crawled Away by Peggy Rathman
1 Gold, 3 Silvers

Roller Coaster by Marie Frazee
1 Gold, 2 Silvers

The Hidden Alphabet by Laura Vaccaro Seeger
4 Silvers


Clearly, funny and graphically interesting books got the most kid votes.
"The Man Who Walked Between the Towers" and "Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the
Bus" each got one silver.  "What Do You Do With A Tail Like This?" never got
enough initials to be read aloud and I didn't have "Ella Sarah Gets Dressed"
among the contenders.

HOWEVER, today I ran a program with the same school groups called "And the
Winner is..." and read aloud the 2004 Caldecott books.   "Towers" mesmerized
them -- they were absolutely silent (open-mouthed, big-eyed) as a read it
(and they LOVED that it was TRUE).   They adored the wierd facts and great
pictures in "Tail,  and roared "no" at every opportunity in "Pigeon" (some
classes made me read it twice).  "Ella Sarah" was enjoyed but did not get
the same level of response as the others.  So though I don't necessarily
agree that the committee made all the best choices, I can say that the books
chosen work very well with kids.  Interesting, now we have two Caldecott
award-winning books about tightrope walkers!

Incidently, if any of you are planning to do this, there is some good
background info. about "Towers" in the NYT newspaper article reporting the
Caldecott and a great passage about writing in the author's website
http://www.mordicaigerstein.com .

(Since,  after two weeks, NYT charges for access, here is the passage (from:
http://www.nytimes.com/2004/01/13/books/13CALD.html))

The Gerstein book, published by Roaring Brook Press, a division of the
Millbrook Press, is a spare narrative illustrated with ink and oil
paintings. It begins with "two towers side by side" and explains in
pictorial detail how Mr. Petit suspended a cable and then triumphantly moved
between the towers. One fold-out illustration looks down from above at the
young man holding his balancing pole; another looks up at him from the
perspective of people in the street.

The Caldecott Medal has occasionally been given to books that deal with
nonfiction subjects. Few children's books have addressed the 9/11 attacks,
but "The Man Who Walked Between the Towers" concludes: "Now the towers are
gone. But in memory, as if imprinted on the sky, the towers are still there.
And part of that memory is the joyful morning, August 7, 1974, when Philippe
Petit walked between them in the air."

Mr. Gerstein, in a telephone interview from his studio in Massachusetts,
said he started the book immediately after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

"I had lived in New York," he said, "and the towers were part of my
furniture. I had a 1987 New Yorker profile of Philippe on my shelf. I went
right to it, reread the profile and wrote the book."

"It was a difficult book to sell," he said, "so immediate and so raw. Some
publishers thought it had negative connotations."

While he was making the illustrations, Mr. Gerstein spoke to Mr. Petit, and
after the book was published, he sent him a copy. He received a three-page
letter in calligraphy in reply, he said, and he met Mr. Petit for dinner in
New York. To Mr. Gerstein's delight, Mr. Petit did magic tricks throughout
the meal.


Carol Levin
Somerset County Library/Bridgewater NJ
Enjoy Life! This is not a Dress Rehearsal!

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End of PUBYAC Digest 1315
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