Babies (newborn to 2 years)
Back To School
Backpack - check. Six notebooks - check. Ten pencils - check. Crayons - check. Highlighters - check. Pens - check. Six folders - check. Markers - check. Paper towels - check. Tissues - check. Hand sanitizer - check. Ear buds - check. Flash drive - check. New shoes - check. Lunch bag - check. Lots of money spent - CHECK! Going back to school is expensive. Tutoring in all subjects, language learning programs and reading help is also expensive but it doesn't have to be. There is no need for expensive homework help services when the Kenton County Public Library can help you for free. You can Book a Librarian for children in grades K-5 at the Covington Branch most days. Librarians are available (by appointment only) to help with homework, study skills, projects and more. Call 962-4077 to book an appointment. Young children are encouraged to grab a parent and attend Family or Play Art storytimes. These programs encourage the love for reading and interacting with books in young children, which is important for school. Check out the full schedule. Puppy Tales, offered at all three branches, can boost a child's reading level and make them a more relaxed reader. Students in grades 1-6 can read to a real dog. Studies show that reading to a dog boosts children’s confidence and tests scores. Reading Buddies, for children ages 2-12 at the Erlanger location, allows children to read books with an adult reading buddy. We'll even save you money on dinner by providing pizza! The Library can even help the kindergarten families save a little money on supplies. We will once again arm every kindergartener in the county with a kindergarten pack. This pack includes a pencil, [...]
Balancing School Work
I am mother of two school-aged children and I was not surprised when I came across an article about the importance of parental involvement in school success. According to a recent study “while both school and family involvement are important; the role of family involvement is stronger when it comes to academic success.” Family involvement includes prioritizing school and homework as well as a healthy family relationship. For my family, the library plays an important role supporting academic work. Many schools use the Accelerated Reader program. After you’ve used www.arbookfind.com to find a book for your child, put it on hold at www.kentonlibrary.org. You can even request to pick up your books at a drive through and pick them quickly on busy days. Having trouble finding an AR book your child will enjoy? Stop by or call the children’s department at any location and the children’s staff will help you and your child find a book. Of course we have the books your child needs for research, but you can access a wealth of resources from your home computer with your library card at www.kentonlibrary.org. At our house, we’ve used Culture Grams Kids for country reports, watched volcanoes erupting on Grolier Encyclopedia and found an in depth explanation on Access Science. Someday, I’m sure we’ll use the test prep on Learning Express. These quality resources are accurate and reliable and a great way to teach your children that research does not begin and end with a search engine. Every time I go to our website, I find a new way to use those databases! Finally, research shows that children who see their parents reading for pleasure develop into stronger readers themselves. Make sure you are [...]
Birthday Party Planning Made Easy
Balloons, clowns, magicians, cakes, cupcakes, comedians, bouncy houses, character visits, oh my! Planning a birthday party for your child, whether they are 1, 8, or 16, can be really overwhelming but I’ve got you covered! If I thought I could truly make a living at planning kids’ birthday parties, that’s what I’d be doing. I LOVE it! And thankfully, the Kenton County Public Library has plenty of resources to help me plan birthday parties for my children. My children have a very nice birthday party every year. I enjoy throwing themed-parties at my home but we have had parties outside of the house as well. If you are looking to host a party at a location, you should check out Family Friendly Cincinnati’s post on birthday parties but if you are looking to host at home on a budget, read on and check out our cool video! Welcome to the Oscars My son had an Oscar party for his 6th birthday. Everyone received an invitation telling them to come as their favorite actor or musician. I found some inexpensive red fabric at a local fabric store to use as the red carpet. As each child entered, I took their photo on the red carpet. Music from my son’s favorite movies played in the background. Hannah Montana, Superheros, Indiana Jones and other celebrities, or a bunch of kids dressed as celebreties, enjoyed the afternoon playing Paparazzi Dance (instead of freeze dance). When the music stopped, the kids fell to the ground to dodge the paparazzi. The movie theater style cake was a huge hit! Instead of doing traditional goody bags, each child received a box of their favorite movie-style theater candy and a bag [...]
Booker Buddy Club Celebration
As a child, I could never wait for my birthday. Not because I got a birthday cake or because my parents threw me a party, but because I got a key to open up the castle at the local toy store. It was a magical experience twisting that key and walking into the castle to pick out a free toy for my birthday. At the library, we’ve designed a birthday program just for kids so that they can pick out a special treat for their birthday. We don’t have a castle, but we have a giant dog bone filled with prizes just waiting for birthday boys and girls! Become a Booker Buddy! You may be asking “Who is Booker?” Booker is our lovable, furry mascot for the library. Becoming one of his buddies gives you access to fun birthday festivities and a special party each year in April! It's easy to become a member: Sign up any time! Just stop by the Children’s Desk at any of our locations for an application. Treasure Bone Children ages 0-12 are eligible for the club. Children will receive a birthday card during the month of their birthday. They can bring in their card to pick out a cool prize, like a glow-in-the-dark cup! In April, you’ll be invited to our Booker Bash, a special birthday party for our mascot, Booker, and all of his buddies! Check out Visit Booker’s website for coloring sheets and more fun! Members are invited to join us on April 18 at 7:00 PM at the Durr branch in Independence or April 19 at 6:30 p.m. at the Erlanger Branch to celebrate Booker’s birthday! We’ll have a visit from Wild Thing, from Maurice [...]
Four Weeks of Giveaways
Yes, you read that right; The Library will have four weeks of giveaways! This week we are starting off with an awesome tote bag filled with books, a library card holder, a Kenton County Public Library coffee mug, $5 Starbucks gift card and $5 off any purchase at Joseph Beth. The books are: "Make a Gingerbread Man" by Conni Medina, an advance copy of "The Bell Bandit" by Jacqueline Davies, a great read for boys and girls 9 and older, an advanced copy of "The Last PoliceMan" by Ben Winters, an adult fiction murder mystery story, an advance reader's copy of "Laugh With the Moon" by Shana Burg, a young adult book about a teen dealing with loss and finding her way, "Hey, That's Not Trash" by Renee Jablow, a great book for young readers about recycling, and "Drawing and Learning about Fashion" by Amy Bailey Muehlenhardt, a fabulous how to book for tweens and teens interested in fashion. There really is a book for everyone in this prize pack. The winner can keep them for the family or give them as gifts. Details on how to enter are below. In addition to setting you up with a fabulous bag of books, the Library can help with the holidays in so many other ways. Let's start with shopping. Are you looking for an e-reader, a computer, a car, TV or other item that has many choices and you aren't sure what to buy? We have staff who can teach you how to use Consumer Reports Online and it's free. You can even access this online service from your home. We also have staff who can explain the difference between e-readers and teach you how to download books for free. Did you buy someone an [...]
Great audiobooks for road trips with the whole family
CDs, Overdrive audiobooks, and streaming from Hoopla A Bear called Paddington (Overdrive) The Tale of Despereaux (Overdrive) Rabbit Ears Stories by Beatrix Potter (Hoopla) Rabbit Ears Treasury of Fairy Tales Rabbit Ears Treasury of Tall Tales Rabbit Ears Treasury of Fables Winnie-the-Pooh (Hoopla) The House at Pooh Corner (Hoopla) The Tale of Despereaux Just So Stories including the Jungle Book (OneClick) (Hoopla) James and the Giant Peach The Mouse and the Motorcycle Olivia (Hoopla) The Strange Case of Origami Yoda (Hoopla) Fantastic Mr. Fox & other Animal Stories The Bippolo Seed and Other Lost Stories Flora & Ulysses (Overdrive) Little House on the Prairie Sample streaming Hoopla titles (includes many popular kids books) Cinderella, The Frog Prince, And Rumplestiltskin The Wind in the Willows Beauty And The Beast & East Of The Sun, West Of The Moon Alice's Adventures In Wonderland The Wizard of Oz Don't Let The Pigeon Stay Up Late! Wynken, Blynken And Nod Stuart's Cape Find more audiobooks: Compact discs for children. Hoopla audiobooks for children More Tips for Road trips
Guest Post: Alia Jones’ Ten Best Picture Books of 2016
We’re experiencing a renaissance in children’s literature; never before has there been such a large pool of talented authors & illustrators. Though we’re getting more diverse books, we still have a long way to go. There simply are not enough books that feature diverse perspectives for children and we especially need more books written by authors of color and marginalized voices. Why are diverse books so important? They’re important because they give children the chance to see themselves in stories and they nurture open-mindedness. Children’s book characters are still mostly white, straight, cis-gender, non-disabled, humans…and cute animals/creatures. 2016 produced many exceptional books but these are ten that left an impression on me. They all have great stories, amazing illustrations and lots of heart! 1) Plants Can’t Sit Still written by Rebecca E. Hirsch & illustrated by Mia Posada This is a beautiful and creative book! Just like antsy children, plants can’t sit still and move around as they grow and thrive. Strong roots creep, brave seedlings fly and plants climb high! Posada’s collage and watercolor illustrations are pretty, delicate and realistic. Her art reminds me of Lois Ehlert’s. If you have a child who loves nature and learning about plants, they’ll love this book. 2) Thunder Boy Jr. written by Sherman Alexie & illustrated by Yuyi Morales A spunky Native American boy wants a name that is uniquely his own, a name that celebrates how cool he is! This is Sherman Alexie’s first picture book and his writing is heartfelt and funny. This book is excellent storytelling and makes a great read aloud. It’s encouraging to see more positive portrayals of modern Native peoples in children’s literature. Yuyi Morales’ mixed media art [...]
Haunt Your Library Writing Contest 2014
Writing Contest for Grades 1-6 Enter an original poem or tale in the Library's 12th annual Spooky Writing Contest (700 word limit).Winning stories will be featured in the Community Press! Submit entries to the Covington Children's Department or email a Word document to writingcontest@kentonlibrary.org. Winners will be announced and awarded prizes on October 17. Winning stories will be featured in the Community Press paper. Entries must be received by October 10. Entries must include child's name, age, address, phone, email address,school, grade and a color photo of the child.
Joel’s Book Blast – March
Dog Man Unleashed by Dav Pilkey The second installment of the Dog Man series! Dog Man does battle with Petey the Cat, a paper cut out version of Petey the Cat named, Flat Cat and a mysterious stranger driven to spread havoc throughout the city. Can Dog Man focus long enough to pursue his adversaries or will he succumb to distractions like rubber balls and bones? Great stuff here! Awesome for you reluctant readers out there! Dav Pilkey includes the usual Flip O Ramas and How to Draw sections found in the Captain Underpants series. Sneeze of the Octo-Schnozz by Troy Cummings Sneeze of the Octo-Schnozz is the 11th book in the series, The Notebook of Doom. The Super-Secret Monster Patrol is on high alert! They are still without their Notebook of Doom, a top secret guidebook about monsters. To make matters worse, an eight nosed creature called Octo-Schnozz has begun terrorizing their beloved hometown of Stermont with its horrible smells and high-powered snot-filled sneezes. Lots of fast paced action with buckets full of corny humor! The questions and activities section at the end of the book was nice for a little reading comprehension quiz. Fun illustrations. A quick read. Number 12 is on the way. Where Do Pants Go? by Rebecca Van Slyke ; illustrated by Chris Robertson Indeed. Just where do pants go? On your arms? On your neck? Certainly not! They go on your legs. Despite the title, Van Slyke delves into other mysteries of getting dressed. The reader will discover the answers to conundrums such as: Where do hats go? Where do jackets go? And of course, where does underwear go? A good participation [...]
The Kenton County Public Library is Spooktacular!
I love October. I think it’s my favorite month of the year. The weather is cooler – perfect for jeans and sweatshirts. The leaves turn beautiful colors, it’s the perfect time for making smores over a bonfire, I enjoy the flavors of fall including pumpkin spiced anything, children are getting excited about Halloween and the programming at the Library is spooktacular! I love helping my kids design their costumes and decorating my house and yard. “How to Create Spectacular Halloween Costumes” by Louann Brown,” Paper Crafts for Halloween” by McGee, Randel and “Haunted House Adventure Crafts” by Anna Llimos Plomer are great books to assist with decorating and costumes. Having Zinio online has made cooking, decorating and making costumes even easier! Zinio is an online service available through the Library that offers thousands of magazine subscriptions for free. I love “Taste of Home Holiday,” “Family Circle,” “Country Living,” “Parenting” and “Women’s Day” for holiday ideas, recipes and more. The Library offers great fall/Halloween programs this month – all for free. There is a Haunt Your Library contest taking place at the Covington Branch Library for grades 1-6 until October 10. Winning stories will be featured in The Recorder Newspaper and prizes will be awarded. The Halloween storytimes are definitely the cutest thing we see all year – babies in costume! The Boo Bash, Octoberfest and Pumpkin Carving Party are sure to be a good time. The Haunted Library at the Durr Branch on Friday, Oct. 26 and Sat., Oct. 27 promises to offer thrills, chills and laughs. This is suggested for those 6 and older. The Durr Branch has a few Dracula themed events this month as well as a presentation by the Paranormal Investigators [...]
New Parents
So, you're ready for your new arrival! The nursery is freshly painted, crib assembled, pictures hung, stuffed animals in place, baby clothes folded and put away...everything is ready for the wee one to make their place in your home. You've attended childbirth classes, got your breathing down and are all set for the big day. Your hospital bag is packed with all the essentials and by the door to make the dash to the hospital when it's time. As a new parent the Kenton County Public Library has been an invaluable resource for my family. I prepared for my son's birth by reading as many Childbirth/Pregnancy books as possible. My favorites were the ever-popular What to Expect When You're Expecting, and Pea In A Pod. We make his baby food and have found many great recipes in baby food cookbooks especially Start Fresh: Your Child's Jump Start to Lifelong Healthy Eating. It's never too early to start reading up on parenting techniques. When we can find the time we enjoy taking him to baby storytime. It's a great way for babies and their parents to be social, build comaraderie and instill a love of reading. Finding the time is the difficult piece but it is so worth it. Building baby's first library is easy using this booklist; these books are great selections to read to your little one. The Kenton County Public Library has a selection of links for developing early literacy on our Pinterest page. Baby book recommendations are there too! Great Parenting Websites and Blogs to check out: A Round of baby blogs featuring all sorts of parents and philosophies. Family Friendly Cincinnati has great ideas about activities to share with children in Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati. The family oriented restaurant reviews and park reviews are [...]
New Year Resolutions
Prize Pack As we kick off the New Year, many of us think of resolutions we'd like to fulfill. The Kenton County Public Library has a lot of free programs, materials and services that can help you keep those resolutions. We will even get you started with your Healthier New You resolutions by giving away a Bob Roncker's gym bag, $10 gift card to Bob Roncker's, a 2012 Racing to Read T-shirt and a KCPL water bottle. See below for your chance to win but first... Many people resolve to improve their health. The Durr Branch Library offers Wellness Walkers in Northern Kentucky and a Diabetes Support Group each month. The Erlanger Branch will offer a class on Exercise Myths and How to Really Get Fit. Of course the Library offers a plethora of healthy cookbooks and how to exercise, as well as exercise DVDS and video games. Maybe finding a new job, improving your job skills or advancing your education is on your list of resolutions. The Library offers basic computer classes like First Time Computer Users, Microsoft Word and Excel. We also offer GED, resume writing and job searching classes. Registration is required for most. Taking up a craft like knitting, quilting, scrapbooking, jewelry making might be on your list. We have programs and books at all three branches to help discover your creative side. One book some of our staff members recommend is “Junk box jewelry : 25 DIY low cost (or no cost) jewelry projects” by Sarah Drew. Reading more, writing, exposing your children to books, doing more as a family or learning another language are things many people resolve to do. You and/or your children can learn a [...]
New Year, New Attitude for School
The Library has a lot of resources for homework help. Many of which can be accessed through our website with your Kenton County Public Library card, even from home. On our home page, under Research and Homework, there are a couple of resources that can help with homework as well as build your students’ confidence level. First, there is the database page. This page lists all of the databases, or online resources, that our library users have access to, as well as a description of the information you can find in each resource. There is also a link titled Test Prep. This leads to the Learning Express Library. Here you will sample practice tests for all ages as well as skill building exercises. You can also watch a video on how to use Learning Express. You can also help your child brush up on their foreign language classes with Mango and Little Pim online. Did you or your student receive an e-reader or tablet over the holidays? If so, we have digital books available for check out from home. On our homepage, right above the Research and Homework link there is a link called eBooks & eAudio. Overdrive eBooks features a few picture books and many chapter books for children. OneClickDigital is our audio book catalog. Many students find it helpful to listen to a book while they read it. Many students today find it fun to read on an electronic device! It also helps encourage your children to read if they see their parents reading traditional books or on e-readers. Check out our collection of relaxation and meditation CDs or perhaps you would prefer a comedian on CD or DVD. We also offer the service Freegal which allows [...]
NKY Fandom Fest
Each year the Teen Librarians at KCPL, BCPL, and CCPL get together to host an event celebrating anime, cartoons, and comics! In the past it was known as NKY Cosplay, and is now called NKY FANDOM FEST! Continue reading about Fandom Fest
Our Favorite Children’s Books of 2014
The days are counting down on not only the holiday season, but the end of the year. If you're still looking for that final, perfect gift for the special child (or children) in your life, check out some favorite picks of this past year from Covington Children's Librarians , Amy Schardein & Krista King-Oaks. For children ages 0-4: Flashlight - Liz Boyd A child explores the night with his flashlight - cleverly illuminating a partially hidden world. Lovely details and a simple storyline make this book one to be enjoyed again and again. Mix It Up - Herve Tullet Herve Tullet is the master of playful interactive books and this one does not disappoint. Young readers are invited to touch and rub and tilt colors together in this clever book. Tickle- Leslie Patricelli This sweet little board book simply shows a baby enjoying a tickle fest with the family and presents an irresistible opportunity to tickle your own little one. For children ages 5-8: Ivan: The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla - Katherine Applegate Author Katherine Applegates won the Newbery award for her novel The One and Only Ivan. Now readers can learn the facts behind the novel in this fascinating look at a captive gorilla. Lily the Unicorn – Dallas Clayton If you are a fan of Elephant and Piggie, then you will fall in love with Lily and her penguin friend Roger in their colorful adventure of learning about feelings and friendship and all their favorite things that make the world "awesome". Weasels – Elys Dolan If I-Spy and Where's Waldo made a book, but filled it with mischievous critters, it would be Dolan's quirky masterpiece; so many zany and hilarious illustrations fill this [...]
The Perfect Holiday Gift
By Amy Schardein, Children’s Librarian Contributed by Several Kenton County Library Staff Members Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the children in your life? Books are always the right size and can be enjoyed over and over again. You might even win a Joseph Beth gift card in order to buy a book as a gift (see below). But first, here are a few of our top picks for gift giving in 2012. 2012 Picture Books Rocket Writes a Story by Tad Hills Rocket the dog loves reading stories so much that he wants to create his own. He searches for words until he is inspired by a new friend. A perfect choice for growing readers and writers! Goldilocks and the Three Dinosaurs by Mo Willems Three hungry dinosaurs insist they are not conveniently leaving a tidy house prepared to capture a little girl with gold locks. A funny twist on an old favorite sure to tickle both children and parents. This is Not My Hat by Jon Klassen A minnow has taken a hat – it fits him perfectly and was entirely too small for its former owner, but the owner wants it back! Oh No! by Candace Fleming One after another animals fall into a deep hole as a tiger plots their demise. At the last moment, an elephant appears to save the day! This tale is just suspenseful enough and features lush illustrations by Eric Rohman. Step Gently Out by Helen Frost Luminous photographs paired with a lyrical poem turn backyard insects into beautiful works of art. A perfect choice for the nature-loving child. 2012 Chapter Books Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Third Wheel by Jeff Kinney Fans of Greg [...]
Preparing Your Child For Preschool
The summer can be a busy season for most preschool teachers and parents. We've been cooped up with the kids all winter long and even in the spring (as I write this April, 15th there is snow on the ground). As the mom of 4-year-old and 8-month-old boys I know how much energy has been stored up through the winter and needs to be released. My 4-year-old Aiden wants to run, play and get as dirty as possible outside so I have to get creative about reading and preparing my son for preschool. Five Tips to Prepare Your Child For Preschool 1. Take Reading Time Outside - We read in our yard and at the park so we can get our outside and reading time in. I try to select books that are about nature, animals or include a summer activity…..like riding a bike. One of our favorites to take outside is “Froggy Rides a Bike” by Jonathan London. My son was ready to learn to ride his bike after reading about how Froggy gets his first bike. 2. Take Advantage of Down Time - Early childhood literacy skills can be taught through activities, not just reading. We take advantage of our time when going for walks or driving in the car. I ask Aiden what different things we see are so that he can learn new words and associate it with an image. Our favorite game is saying the letters on street signs. Aiden says the letters, I tell him what the word is and he repeats it. 3. Sing - We sing a lot. Songs and rhymes can help build vocabulary and develop sound discrimination. Both skills are crucial to the development of literacy. The size [...]
Programs for Building the Brain and Keeping it Sharp
Homebound and Racing to Read Staff As the Coordinator of Outreach Services at the Kenton County Public Library it is mine and my staffs’ privilege to bring programs and materials to local child care and assisted living facilities throughout Kenton County. Our programs differ at each facility and are based on the needs of our patrons.If you sat in on a program at a child care facility you would find a story time filled with music, finger plays, puppets, wonderful books that are building the child’s imaginative skills, listening and reading skills, and increasing their phonic awareness. You would also see children interacting with the programmers and developing their social skills. Homebound brings programs, which assist with keeping the brain sharp through reminiscing type exercises, to assisted living facilities. Some centers choose slide show presentations that take the residents on a trip down memory lane. Other centers opt for more intense brain exercises involving crossword puzzles and answering trivia questions. Whatever the program might be the main goals are to provide entertainment for our patrons and to help exercise their minds through building new skills or helping them maintain current skills. Do you know someone who lives in a senior facility? What types of programs do you think they would enjoy? Do we visit your child? Do they like the Racing to Read program? By Kari Jones, Coordinator of Outreach Services Call Homebound at 859-962-4062 for more information.
Rhythm and Rhyme: Sensory Storytime
Rhythm and Rhyme: Sensory Storytime is a monthly interactive and educational program. It is specially designed for children ages 2-6 with sensory integration challenges. It combines the books, rhymes and music of other storytimes along with physical activities to promote learning in a sensory friendly environment. Many children with Sensory Processing Disorders are extra sensitive to loud noises, bright lights, or other strong sensory environments. In this program, the lights are dimmed, the music is not as loud, and there are minimal distractions while the program is taking place. There is repetition from month to month so the children know what to expect. We also go over the activities for the day before beginning each program. After we share a short book, rhymes, and songs there is social time where interactive experiences are offered to the children. These activities include sensory tubs to search through, toys to play with, sidewalk chalk, bubbles, and other activities to stimulate tactile learning. Although this program is aimed at children with Sensory Processing Disorders, if your child has difficulty sitting through one of the library’s other storytimes, this inclusive program of stories, songs, and activities may be a better fit for him or her. If you would like to register for the program, please check our Event Calendar. If you would like further information, please feel free to contact me at julie.mills@kentonlibrary.org regarding the Erlanger Branch programs or Joel Caithamer at joel.caithamer@kentonlibrary.org regarding the Durr Branch programs. We look forward to seeing you there!
Season’s Readings
It's time for Season's Readings at the Kenton County Public Library! Beginning December 1, children ages 2-12 can visit any Kenton County Public Library location and pick up a "Season’s Readings” book log. Read or listen to five books and return your log to the Library for a prize and raffle entry. Complete as many book logs as you like for more chances to win.
Seasons Readings
All the children in my life know I will give them books every year for Christmas. Here are a few of my favorite books from 2013 that I would be proud to give any child. I know that for my own children, books are the gifts that keep on giving as we pass them down and reread treasured favorites for years. Can’t afford all of these gems? Click on the covers and you can borrow them from the library. Season’s readings! ~Amy Schardein Battle Bunny by Jon Scieszka and Mac Barnett. Simon & Schuster for Young Readers, 2013. $14.99 When Alex receives a sentimental birthday bunny book he turns it into a book he might actually enjoy using his pencil and formidable imagination. A hysterical, empowering choice for young readers (and writers) ages 5-9. The Real Boy by Anne Ursu. Walden Pond, 2013. $16.99 Oscar, an orphaned shop boy, spends his days helping Caleb, the last magician in the city. When the children around him fall ill Oscar must leave his small world so save the greater one. This is beautifully written magical storytelling for ages 8-12. Fortunately, the Milk by Neil Gaiman and Skottie Young. HarperCollins, 2013. $14.99 Father leaves to get milk and takes him ever so long to return. Why? Aliens, time travel dinosaurs and adventure are all part of a hilarious, witty story sure to be enjoyed by readers ages 8-12. Flora & Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures by Kate DiCamillo and K. G. Campbell. Candlewick, 2013. $17.99 Master storyteller Kate DiCamillo will win your heart again with the story of Flora and the newly super-empowered squirrel Ulysses. Ages 7-11 Journey by Aaron Becker. Candlewick, 2013. $15.99 [...]
Sensory Storytime – Erlanger Branch
Rhythm & Rhyme: Sensory Storytime Sensory Storytime is an interactive and educational program that is especially designed for children with sensory integration challenges. It combines activities to stimulate all five senses and promote learning. If your child has difficulty sitting through one of the library’s other storytimes, this inclusive program of stories, songs and activities may be a better fit for him or her. For Agest 2-6
Summer Travel: Far and Wide or Right at Home
Whether you are planning a trip abroad, across country, locally or fantasizing about a dream vacation; the Kenton County Public Library has your ticket to information. Begin your research with the library catalog. Browse your local branch library (Covington, Durr, and Erlanger) in the travel section beginning in the 900’s. Top travel guides are Fodor’s, Frommer’s, Rick Steves’, National Geographic Traveler, Insight Guides, Lonely Planet, and Let’s Go. Take a look at the magazine section at the library or the magazine database, Zinio for travel magazines such as National Geographic Traveler and Sierra. Or visit the Culturegrams database to learn about the culture, language and much more about countries all over the world. Need to learn the language to get by while traveling? Look in the 400’s on the library shelves or visit Mango, the language database. New travel websites to use: Trippy; Oyster; Hipmunk; Jetsetter; TripIt; Wanderfly; or Gogobot. Watch foreign movies or travel documentaries to visually travel. Get a flavor of the place you’ll be visiting, check out ethnic cookbooks like these: Staying at home? The library offers numerous programs for you to enjoy. Interested in local events? Check out Cincinnati.com or CityBeat for up-to-date local happenings. Here's a list of recommended travel reads available at the Kenton County Public Library. Finally, don’t forget to stock up on great reads while vacationing this summer through our e-book sources. Plan your whole trip with your Kenton County Public Library card and have a fun summer! Blog written by Erin DeSantis, Young Adult Librarian