ACPL Kids

We're Moving!

2011-12-07T14:00:00.000-05:00

We are in the midst of a system wide social media upgrade. Our Facebook presence has changed – and so will our blogs. Please join us at http://acplkid.wordpress.com/ for our new look and new name: One Book, Two Book, Old Books, New Books.

We hope you will find it full of information about children's books and events for children throughout the Allen Count Public Library system. Please check back often! We look forward to your feedback on our new look.

Poetry Contest Award Ceremony

2011-11-30T13:44:00.001-05:00


2009 ACPL Poetry Contest Winners

This Saturday, December 3, at 11:00 a.m., join us in the theater at the Main Library as winning poets from the library's annual Poetry Contest are honored with an award ceremony and reception. Over 800 students in kindergarten through grade 12 entered this year's contest with the theme Snowballs and Sandcastles: Poems of the Seasons.

Congratulations to the winners and their families, and many thanks to all who entered and supported our young poets!

Books so sweet you may cry

2011-11-21T08:16:00.001-05:00

After I had my first child, I was surprised at the intensity of emotions I felt. I loved that tiny baby more than I even realized I could. I felt very protective of him and fell even more in love with my partner. As I prepare to have my second child in the next few weeks, I'm remembering the books we read when our son was little. These titles are especially memorable to me, because I couldn't get through any of them at the time without crying.

Read to Your Bunny by Rosemary Wells

Little Gorilla by Ruth Bornstein

Everywhere Babies by Susan Meyers

Watching your children grow up is a wonderful, bittersweet experience. I try to remember to savor each day. I hope your family might enjoy reading these books together as much as we did.

******************************************************

Thanks, Sara Patalita - our Children's Librarian from the Georgetown Branch - for writing this post.

Wordless Books! Wordless Books! Wordless Books!

2011-11-16T14:47:00.000-05:00

Did you know...wordless picture books are a GREAT way to help your child with pre-reading and reading skills. When you share a wordless book with your child, try taking turns telling the story. This helps children learn how stories work AND helps teach new words! Pictured on the left are some of my favorite wordless books -- click on them to find their availability in the library's catalog.

Do you have favorite wordless books? Click here for a list of more titles!

Come see the dancers perform!

2011-11-14T15:04:00.001-05:00

Kids of all ages and their families are invited to join us for a special, mini-performance by the Fort Wayne Ballet on Tuesday evening, November 15th at 7:00 pm - doors open at 6:45. This special ballet presentation will feature Eric Carle's The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

You'll love watching this classic children's book dance to life! We will follow a caterpillar eating its way through a wide variety of foods before turning into a glorious butterfly. A delightful story of life with a very big appetite! This FREE mini-performance by the Fort Wayne Ballet will be held in the theater at the Main Library on Tuesday evening, November 15th, at 7:00 pm.

Doors open at 6:45 for the 7:00 pm performance.

(And did I mention that it's FREE?!?!)

Hey, Kids! Which Book is YOUR Favorite?

2011-11-07T06:00:00.000-05:00

All children in grades 3 to 6 are invited to participate in the ACPL Mock Newbery for Kids program -- to be held on Saturday, December 3, 2011, from 2:00-3:30 p.m in Children's Services at the Main Library.

So far, we have included the 4 titles pictured above on the Mock Newbery for Kids reading list --- with one more soon to come -- that we hope you'll read and then come to the library to talk about (snacks included). We'll also learn a little about the Newbery Award, and then you'll get to cast your vote to help pick the winner of the

2012 ACPL Kids' Mock Newbery Award!

Interested? Click here to register!

El Dia de los Muertos / Day of the Dead

2011-11-04T14:00:00.000-04:00

The sugar skulls and frosting have been prepared...

The papel picado has been strung...

It's time for Children's Services annual celebration of El Dia de los Muertos / Day of the Dead!! Join us and learn about this joyful Mexican holiday that celebrates the lives of the departed.

Decorate your own sugar skull to take home, add your memories to the community memory board, taste bread of the dead, make marigolds and masks, and bring your camera along to have your picture taken in our holiday photo booth. To learn more about Day of the Dead, check out this booklist!

Saturday, November 5th, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Sunday, November 6th, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Loopy Lessons to Live By!

2011-11-01T13:25:00.000-04:00

Fort Wayne Youtheatre

presents

STORYBOOK THEATRE

"Loopy Lessons to Live By"

A humorous trip through Aesop's Fables!

Come skip through the pages of Aesop's Fables with YOUTHEATRE!!

You'll meet a Wiley Wolf, a Bragging Rooster, a Lazy Bear and so many more!!

Don't cry wolf!! No sour grapes!! Join the fun!!

Main Library November 4 at 2:00 in the Globe Room

Woodburn Branch November 18 at 1:30

Day of the Dead/Dia de los Muertos Open House

2011-10-30T12:15:00.002-04:00

Saturday, November 5, 2-4 p.m.
Sunday, November 6, 2-4 p.m.

Families with children of all ages are invited to come to the Main library and learn about the joyful Mexican holiday that celebrates the lives of the departed. Although the official Day of the Dead occurs on November 2, we will spend some time together on Saturday and Sunday this week. Decorate your own sugar skull to take home, add your memories to the community memory board, taste bread of the dead, make marigolds and masks, and bring your camera along to have your picture taken in our holiday photo booth.

Meet the Artist: Michele Wood!

2011-10-21T12:42:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, October 22, from 2:00-4:00 p.m., visit the Krull Gallery to meet, live and in-person, award-winning artist and illustrator Michele Wood. Michele Wood was honored with the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award in 1999 for her book I See the Rhythm, written by Toyomi Igus. Come and see her amazing art, which will continue to be on display in the gallery through Sunday, October 23, 2011. This event is FREE and is open to families and patrons of all ages.

Below is a brief video featured on ACPL's You Tube Channel about Michele Wood's exhibit "Not to be Forgotten":

Rainy Day Destination!

2011-10-20T12:02:00.004-04:00

It's cold outside, and rainy and gray. Here in Children's Services, though, we're warm and cozy and colorful! When you and your little one can't go outside and discover the world, we invite you to make the Main Library a destination of discovery! We have one gaztrillion facts to soak up, stories to read and places to learn and play!

Come visit us any time! Find a comfortable spot with a delicious book and read until your heart is content.

Getting Ready for Day of the Dead

2011-10-12T09:03:00.000-04:00

Preparing for programs in Children's Services can be sweet work. Seriously!

In preparation for our upcoming Day of the Dead Program, Children's Services staff created hundreds of sugar skulls. These will be available for families to decorate in memory of loved ones who have died. We hope you will join us for our Day of the Dead Open House on Saturday, November 5 and Sunday, November 6 from 2:00 to 4:00.

Come learn about this joyful Mexican holiday that celebrates the lives of the departed.In addition to decorating your own sugar skull to take home, you can add your memories to the community memory board, make marigolds & masks, taste bread of the dead and more! We hope to see you!

Helping Your 1 to 2-Year-Old Get Ready to Read

2011-10-08T15:11:00.000-04:00

Parents and caregivers -- you've heard you should read to your toddler, do you feel you have no idea where to start? Are you wondering how you can get your active little person to sit down and read a book? Come to the downtown library Monday night, and learn how simple and fun it is to get your child ready to read. You'll learn more about the Five Practices:

Talking
Singing
Reading
Writing
Playing

...and how they can teach your child about letters and language and sounds and books -- and get them ready to read! All attendees will receive a free gift and certificate of completion, and door prizes will be given away. At the end of the program, we'll do a brief tour of the Children's Department and the Early Learning Center.

Ready to Read -- Toddlers!

Monday, October 10, 2011

7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

(Next month, November 14, from 7-8:00 p.m., there will be a session for parents & caregivers of preschoolers, ages 3 to 5. Feel free to come to both sessions!)

Read for the Record!

2011-10-04T12:16:00.000-04:00

On Thursday, October 6, 2011, we'll be joining with millions of others around the country who will be reading Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney. Help us set a reading world record AND call for an end to America's early education achievement gap.

We'll all have fun -- and we'll be standing up for kids! Join us for our special storytimes at any of the following locations this Thursday, October 6, as we participate in Jumpstart: Read for the Record.

Children's Services, Main Library, 10:00 a.m.
Aboite Branch, 10:30 a.m.
Dupont Branch, 10:30 a.m.
New Haven Branch, 10:30 a.m.
Shawnee Branch, 11:00 a.m.
Woodburn Branch, 1:00 p.m.
Little Turtle Branch, 1:30 p.m.
Grabill Branch, 7:00 p.m.
Hessen Cassel Branch, 6:30 p.m.
Waynedale Branch, 7:00 p.m.

Celebrate Your Freedom to Read!

2011-09-28T12:56:00.000-04:00

This week, September 24 through October 1, 2011, is Banned Books Week. Celebrate your freedom to read by reading a banned book. Click here to see a list of books challenged or banned in 2010-2011.

Tumblebooks!

2011-09-20T20:01:00.001-04:00

What's a Tumblebook, you ask? Tumblebooks are animated, electronic books that can be accessed directly from the Children's Services website. Simply look for the Tumblebooks icon, shown above, and click on it!

You can find early readers, such as Biscuit by Alyssa Capucilli...picture books, such as Doreen Cronin's Diary of a Fly...and classic titles like Frank Baum's The Wizard of Oz. Many books in the Tumblebooks Library include Lexile level and Accelerated Reader information, as well as reviews.

Readers may choose to listen to the story being read to them, or read along. Many titles include games and puzzles. There is even a section of titles available in languages other than English.

Happy Reading!

Have You Read To Your Child Today?

2011-09-16T13:21:00.001-04:00

Reading aloud to your children -- at any age, from birth on up -- is one of the most important thing parents can do to help your children's reading development. From sharing short, simple board books with your infant or toddler ... to sharing picture books with your preschooler...to reading snippets of chapter books with your school-age child ... reading aloud has been shown over and over again to be beneficial, in many, many ways. Just a few minutes a day is all it takes, but you may find you're enjoying it so much, you'll be spending more time reading together!

Checkout Reading Rocket's Top Ten Resources on Reading Aloud for some great tips.

One of my all-time favorite resources on reading aloud with children is the The Read-aloud Handbook by Jim Trelease.

Of course, you can always visit us at the library, where your friendly children's librarians will be happy to share their favorite read-alouds with you! Happy Reading!

Alphabet Fun!

2011-09-12T06:00:00.000-04:00

Children's Services is going Alpha-crazy this month with some special programs featuring letters of the alphabet!

Visit our Art Room and create some beautiful Alpha - Art! We have all the materials you need to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

Participate in our ABCs of Downtown Quiz -- check out the letters on display throughout the Children's Department, and figure out what downtown building they came from -- don't worry, we have a list of buildings to choose from! When you turn in your answer sheet, you will be entered in a drawing for a prize!!

Wednesday, September 14 is Letter A Playday! Preschoolers and their grown-ups can visit the Early Learning Center for special Letter A activities and attend storytime at 10:30 a.m. (We'll have a special storytime at 9:30 a.m. for daycare and preschool groups).

After all this alpha-fun, you may want to check out some alphabet books to take home with you. We hope to see YOU soon at the library!

Remembering 9/11

2011-09-09T13:34:00.002-04:00

America Is Under Attack
by Don Brown

Explaining the events of September 11, 2001 can be difficult, especially with children. Here are some books and websites that may be helpful for parents and teachers.

Books

14 Cows for America
by Carmen Agra Deedy with Wilson Kiimeli Naiyomah
illustrated by Thomas Gonzalez

Fireboat: The Heroic Adventures of the John J. Harvey
by Maira Kalman

Websites

9/11 Memorial: Teach + Learn
The official website of the 9/11 Memorial includes tips for talking with your children about the events.

PBS.org: America Responds
Provides information on the events of 9/11, as well as tips and resources for parents and teachers.

Help Is Available!

2011-09-06T11:12:00.007-04:00

Applications to receive free reading tutoring are available for children in Grades 1-3 who are reading below grade level. Projects Reads, an Allen County Education Partnership program, is partnering with ACPL to offer skill-building activities including one-on-one practice with trained tutors at three library sites:

Children's Services, downtown at the Main Library (Mondays, 3-4 p.m.)

Georgetown Branch Library (Mondays, 3-4 p.m.)

Dupont Branch Library (Thursdays, 3-4 p.m.)

Applications for both students and volunteers for these, and additional county sites, are available at the libraries or by contacting kbradley@abouteducation.org. Sessions will begin on Monday, September 19, and meet weekly when Fort Wayne Community Schools are in seesion, through April, 2012.

Labor Day Weekend!

2011-09-03T15:27:00.000-04:00

This weekend, many people in the United States are celebrating Labor Day, a day to honor American workers. Did you know...

...that Labor Day is celebrated on the first Monday in September?

BUT...the very first Labor Day was not celebrated on a Monday. To find out what day it was, and to learn more about this holiday, read this article from America's Story from America's Library (also known as the Library of Congress).

All locations of the Allen County Public Library will be closed on Monday, September 5, in honor of Labor Day. We will resume normal hours on Tuesday, September 6. See you at the library!

Football? Volleyball? Running? Baseball? What's YOUR Sport?

2011-08-29T06:00:00.000-04:00

Whether you are a player or a fan, we've got books for you! Visit us at the library and read up on your favorite sports, teams and players.

Floor-etry!

2011-08-26T11:32:00.007-04:00

There's something big and bright in the Children's Services Department! It's poetry on the floor!

Grown-ups, this is a fantastic way for little ones to interact with words!

Come on down to the Main Library, walk around the circle and enjoy some "floor-etry"!
A librarian would be delighted to direct you to our wonderful poetry collection for kids!

Another Successful Children's Chess Tournament

2011-08-23T08:30:00.000-04:00

The Children’s Services department sponsored an all-day chess tournament for kids on Saturday, August 20, 2011. The tournament was open to children in Kindergarten through grade 5. Each child played five rounds of chess beginning early Saturday morning. The tournament lasted until mid-afternoon.

Here are the winners in each division:

Winners in the Beginner Division – Grade 1 and under

1st Place Isaiah Stiver

Winners in the Beginner Division – Grade 2

1st Place Dontrell Johnson
2nd Place Gabriel Brown
3rd Place Jackson Palmer
4th Place Jacob Correll
5th Place Morgan DiClementi-Ross
6th Place Nicholas Weldy
7th Place Delaney Wilson

Winners in the Beginner Division – Grade 3

1st Place Ben Correll
2nd Place Kyler Kellogg
3rd Place Kristin Wilder
4th Place Jocelyn Willis
5th Place Lauren Butler

Winners in the Beginner Division – Grade 4

1st Place Isaac Brown
2nd Place Joseph Derrick

Winners in the Beginner Division – Grade 5

1st Place Mary Neuman
2nd Place Caleb Hogan
3rd Place Ben Wilder
4th Place Matt Lovinger
5th Place Eric Miller

Winners in the Intermediate Division

1st Place Aakash Saklani
2nd Place Graham Stiver
3rd Place Vinnie Lovvorn
4th Place Jesse Hamlin

Winners in the Advanced Division

1st Place Kevin Wang
2nd Place Teddy Tsai
3rd Place Tyler Li
4th Place Ben Fortney
5th Place Jacob Manley

Based on comments & nominations from the players themselves, the parents, and other adults who were watching the tournament, we also awarded Good Sportsmanship trophies in each grade level. The Good Sportsmanship winners were:

Grade 1 Isaiah Stiver
Grade 2 Morgan DiClementi-Ross
Grade 3 Lauryn Butler
Grade 4 Vinnie Lovvorn
Grade 5 Matt Lovinger

More pictures of the 2011 ACPL Children’s Chess Tournament are available online here. It was a GREAT day for playing Chess!

We Are the Ship -- Kadir Nelson Exhibit at Fort Wayne Museum of Art

2011-08-19T16:19:00.000-04:00

I'm so excited to share this news! Original paintings from Kadir Nelson's award-winning children's book We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball will be on exhibit at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art from August 20, 2011 through October 16, 2011.

If you've never seen original artwork created for picture books, this is your chance. I promise you won't regret it!
Mr. Nelson has illustrated and/or written many highly-acclaimed children's books. Click here to see a list of Kadir Nelson titles in the library's catalog.

Sign up for Storytellers on the Move

2011-08-16T14:53:00.000-04:00

Did you know that several times a year, children's librarians visit local daycares and preschools

to deliver boxes of great age-appropriate books and provide storytimes? Well, they do!

Call Children's Services at the Main Library -- 421-1220 -- and sign up for

Storytellers on the Move.

Our next deliveries are being scheduled from September 19 - 30. Call today!

Science Explorers: A Program for Homeschoolers

2011-08-13T11:42:00.000-04:00

Homeschool students in kindergarten through 5th grade are invited to take part in Science Explorers at the Main Library in Children's Services. At our first meeting, we'll have fun exploring the science of bubbles!

Tuesday, August 23, 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.: Blowing, Bouncing, Bursting Bubbles

Upcoming Science Explorer programs include:
Tuesday, September 13, 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.: Flying Things
Tuesday, October 25, 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.: Dramatic Static

We hope you'll join us as we have fun exploring the wonders of science. Think - Do - Learn!

Checking out books is so much fun!

2011-08-10T11:35:00.001-04:00

Four year old Rocco is very proud of himself for choosing and checking out books.

Here he is with his checkout list. It's almost as tall as he is!

Enjoy your books, Rocco! We'll see you the next time you visit the library!

Getting Ready for School

2011-08-09T18:59:00.000-04:00

The sun is setting a little earlier every day; cicadas and crickets are chirping louder at night; paper, pencils and backpacks are appearing in stores. The signs are all there - it's back to school time! Be sure to add a visit to the library to your to-do list as you prepare for this important time of year.

Radical Raptors!

2011-08-06T17:38:00.000-04:00

Visit Children's Services at the Main Library on Tuesday afternoon, August 9, to meet some awesome birds of prey -- up close and personal. Soarin' Hawk, a local bird rescue, will be with us to teach us about these amazing animals.

Radical Raptors
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
2:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Click here to find some great books about raptors in the library's catalog. We'll help you find them the next time you visit the library, or put some on hold to pick up at your nearest library branch.

Tie-Dye on the Plaza!

2011-08-05T14:37:00.000-04:00

Come downtown to the Main Library on Saturday, August 6 for Tie-Dye on the Plaza.

Bring your own white t-shirt or pillowcase; we'll be outside on the grass in front of the Library Plaza Stage with everything you need to create your own tie-dyed masterpiece.

Tie-Dye on the Plaza
Saturday, August 6
1:00-2:30 p.m.

Have YOU signed up for the Chess Tournament?

2011-08-03T21:50:00.000-04:00

This year's Chess Tournament for kids will be held on Saturday, August 20th. It's an all-day, "just for fun" tournament for kids in preschool through 5th grade. If you like playing chess, we'd love to have you join us!

Here are some pictures from last year's Tournament:

Created with flickr slideshow from softsea.

You can sign up for the tournament using this online form. And if you want to learn more about the game, check out this booklist!

Here comes...Olivia!!

2011-07-27T20:59:00.000-04:00

Yes, Olivia has been gracing Allen County Public Library locations with her wonderful presence. She will be in Children's Services, at the Main Library, on Thursday, July 28 at 10:30 a.m. and again on Saturday, July 30 at 2:00 p.m. Be sure to bring your cameras for pictures!

To see other locations, dates and times where you can meet this world-famous pig in person, click here.

Those Stuffed Animals Kept Us Up Late...

2011-07-22T22:52:00.000-04:00

...but we all had so much fun! Thanks to everyone who came -- we thoroughly enjoyed getting to meet and play with you and your stuffed friends. Below are some photos we took of our adventures in the library.

It's Time for Another Stuffed Animal Sleepover at the Library!

2011-07-21T15:00:00.002-04:00

Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear,

Turn around!

Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear,

Touch the ground!

Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear,

Turn out the light.

Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear,

Say "Goodnight".

Kids are invited to bring their stuffed animals to the Main Library in downtown Fort Wayne on Friday evening, July 22. Wear your pajamas! We'll have a bedtime storytime, and then we'll tuck your stuffed friends into bed for the night. Stuffed friends may be picked up anytime on Saturday during library hours, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., along with a memory book of their overnight adventures.

Crafts Around the World

2011-07-20T18:24:00.000-04:00

What's a didgeridoo? Ever heard of Kente cloth? What about matryoshka dolls? Visit Children's Services on Thursday, July 21 to learn about AND make these crafts -- and more. We'll have all the supplies you need, just come and craft away! We'll have programs from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. and 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Crafts Around the World is part of One World, Many Stories -- this year's Summer Reading Program for children. There's still time to participate! Pick up a time sheet at any library location, or print out your own.

Letter Play Day with Letters Q and U

2011-07-16T12:43:00.001-04:00

Visit the downtown library this Wednesday with your preschooler! We'll have storytime in the morning -- 9:30am for daycares and other groups; 10:30am for families -- and we'll have extra-special activities set up in the Early Learning Center, all about Letter Q and Letter U.

Learning about letters is an important pre-reading activity. Click on the links for more Letter Q and Letter U fun!

James Coffey LIVE in Concert!

2011-07-13T16:50:00.000-04:00

James Coffey -- Live in Concert
We're Travelin' the World!

July 14, 2011

10:30 a.m.

2:00 p.m.

7:00p.m.

Bring your family, a blanket, and sunscreen, and enjoy this great concert
outside on the Library Plaza
at the Main Library.

The James Coffey Concert is part of this year's

Summer Reading Program: One World, Many Stories
and
is affiliated with the Three Rivers Festival.

Listened to a good book lately?

2011-07-12T06:00:00.000-04:00

Check out Young Fredle by Newbery-Award-Winning-Author Cynthia Voigt. It's a sweet story about a house mouse who finds himself outside. Listen to his adventures as he tries to find his way home to safety -- and discovers that he's braver than he thought he was.

The library has a large selection of Books on CD and Playaways for your listening enjoyment. You may like to practice your reading by following along in the book.

Have you read to your child today?

2011-07-11T14:07:00.000-04:00

Adults -- be sure to pick up a Reading Partners Bookmark and complete at least 6 of the reading activities with your children. Then, fill out the bookmark and bring it back to the library by July 29, 2011 to be entered into the Reading Partners drawing! Three $100.00 gift cards will be given away in a drawing, but really, everyone who participates will be a winner, because they will have spent time reading with their children!

Read, read, read with your kids! Share your childhood favorites with them. Ask them about their favorite books. Make up stories with them. And when they start to learn to read on their own, keep on reading to them! Need ideas for great books to read aloud? Ask us!

Don't Miss the Fun!

2011-07-05T09:34:00.007-04:00

The Summer Reading Program is in full swing at all of our 14 library buildings and it continues through July 29th. There's lots of time to get started or to stop by your local branch to pick up a gift for reading you've completed.

Like most branches, Main Library has a full schedule of fun activities for kids this week:

Tuesday, July 5: A World of Games 2-3 p.m. and 7-8 p.m.

Wednesday, July 6: Storytime for Daycares/Preschools (call 421-1220 to register), 9:30 a.m.;
Storytime for Families 10:30 a.m.;
Lego Club 2-4 p.m.

Thursday, July 7: Music is Awesome! (Fort Wayne Philharmonic visits) 11 a.m.

Friday, July 8: Baby Storytime 10 a.m.; Toddler Storytime 10:30 & 11 a.m.;
Modern Pop Art Experience/New York Artist Michael Albert 1:30-3 p.m.
Learn about an artist's life and make a pop-art collage with his guidance!

Saturday, July 9: Get Creative at Barr Street Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Library Staff will have everything at Barr Street Market so that you can
create a food print.

We hope to see you soon!

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-04T03:00:00.000-04:00

All Allen County Public Library locations are closed today in honor of Independence Day.

But we'll all be open tomorrow, so come and visit one of our 14 locations -- maybe over the holiday, you can get some extra reading time in, and be ready to pick up your next gift at one of the Summer Reading Program sites shown here!

2011-07-02T16:48:00.004-04:00

Music is Awesome!

Music lovers won't want to miss this special opportunity to see and hear an ensemble from the Fort Wayne Philharmonic this Thursday. Percussion instruments and harp will be featured and children will have the opportunity to learn about the instruments, as well as hear the incredibly talented musicians from the Philharmonic play. To tie in with our summer reading program, One World, Many Stories, they will be playing songs from around the world. We hope to see you there!

What: Music is Awesome! with the Fort Wayne Philharmonic
When: Thursday, July 7, 11:00 AM
Where: Globe Room, Children's Services, ACPL

Coming This Week in Children's Services

2011-06-26T05:00:00.001-04:00

Here's what's happening this week at the downtown library -- to see what's going on at your local branch library, click here!

Monday, June 27, 2011
6:30 -7:00 p.m.: Butterfly Storytime and Release
All month, we've been watching our Painted Lady caterpillars grow and change into butterflies. Join us for this special storytime -- at the end we'll go outside to release the butterflies!

Wednesday, June 28, 2011
9:30 -10:00 a.m. : Smart Start Preschool Storytime for Daycares and Groups
Please call 421-1220 to register your group!
10:30 - 11:00 a.m.: Smart Start Preschool Storytime for Families
No need to register -- just come and have fun!
2 - 4:00 p.m.: Lego Club
Come and join a group of Lego-loving kids, sprawl on the floor, and build!

Thursday, June 30, 2011
2-3:00 p.m. AND 7-8:00 p.m.: Magician Daniel Lusk: Magic, Friends, and Laughter Around the World
Magician Daniel Lusk brings magic from around the world to share the amazement and teach us that no matter where you come from, we can all be friends.

Friday, July 1, 2011
10 - 10:20 a.m.: Babies and Books
Bring in those little babies for stories, rhymes and songs.
10:30-10:50 AND 11-11:20: Toddler Time
Stories, songs and rhymes for those active toddlers.

Fun for Kids This Week

2011-06-23T06:00:00.000-04:00

Don't miss the fun at YOUR library this week:
To see the Program Schedule for a branch close to your house click here.
Programs at the Main Library this week:
Monday, 2-4 p.m., Wii READ, Wii PLAY Read 20 minutes and get a ticket to play Wii or an assortment of board games for 20 minutes.
Tuesday, 2-3 p.m. and 7-8 p.m., STORIES IN CHALK Create your story in chalk on our Library Plaza Sidewalks!
Wednesday, 9:30-10 a.m., STORYTIME for PRESCHOOLS and DAYCARES (please call us at 421-1220 to register).
Wednesday, 10:30-11 a.m., SMART START STORYTIME for FAMILIES (no registration required).
Wednesday, 2-4 p.m., LEGO CLUB We have the LEGOs, you have the building talent, join us and create!
Thursday, 10:30-11:30 a.m., 2-3 p.m. & 7-8 p.m. MARK'S ARK Get to know a menagerie of animals with Mark as your guide in this interactive program.
Friday, 10 a.m., Babies and Books Stories, music, and other fun for babies birth through 18 months or so, and their grownup(s).
Friday, 10:30 & 11 a.m., Toddler Time Lots of stories, music and toddling around for toddlers from around 18 months to around three years old, and their grownup(s), of course.

Roz Puppets Photos

2011-06-22T20:17:00.012-04:00

A fun time was had by all when Roz Puppets visited the Allen County Public Library to perform "The Emperor's New Clothes", part of this year's Summer Reading Program!

Have you read the story of the Emperor's New Clothes? Originally written by Hans Christian Andersen, there are many adaptations available. Visit the library soon to check out some out today!

Share Your Stories and Artwork -- Online!

2011-06-21T05:00:00.001-04:00

Kids -- have you checked out the library's Summer Reading Program website, yet? You'll find some fun new things there, like...

...stories to read online... (don't forget to keep track of your reading time on your Summer Reading Program timesheet!)

...and a place to write your own stories and submit them to be published online...

...and a place to upload your own artwork that you've created on a computer, or that you've photographed with a digital camera, and submit it to be published online.

We'd love to see what you have to share!

Babies and Toddlers and Books!!

2011-06-17T09:00:00.003-04:00

Fridays are exciting days in Children's Services. Why? Because it's Baby & Toddler Storytime day! We have storytime for Babies -- newborn through 18 months -- at 10:00 a.m. on Friday mornings, AND we have storytime for Toddlers -- 18 months through 3 years of age -- at 10:30 and 11:00 a.m.

If you have a baby or toddler, we hope you'll join us for storytime. And be sure to get them started on the Summer Reading Program! Sharing books with babies is important -- and fun!

Roz Puppets are Coming to the Main Library!

2011-06-16T05:00:00.023-04:00

This morning at 10:00, the Children's Services department of the Main Library will have a special puppet show featuring the Roz Puppets. The program will be repeated at the Main Library at 2:00 this afternoon and 7:00 tonight. Come and enjoy this creative interpretation as the puppets bring the classic story, The Emperor's New Clothes, to life.

Roz Puppets are traveling around the Allen County Public Library system as part of this year's Summer Reading Program. Want to know dates and library locations for all of their performances? Click here.

Saying Farewell

2011-06-15T07:04:00.000-04:00

Today we need to say "fare thee well" to one of our staff who is leaving the Allen County Public Library.

Heather Acerro joined the Children's Services team just over six years ago. Since that time she has worked with babies, toddlers, preschoolers, school-age kids, and all types of adults - teachers, parents, college students, children's literature enthusiasts - in a wide variety of programs. She has presented arts, sciences, reading, and homeschool programs. She has been a strong advocate for early literacy, reading in general, kids of all ages, and the Library. She has helped the Children's Services department make many positive connections within our community. She has served not only as a supervisor, but also as a mentor, coach, and friend to staff. Offering excellent customer service has always been the cornerstone of Heather's work at the Library.

Join us between 3:00 and 5:00 pm today in the Globe Room at the Main Library to share some time with Heather, to thank her for her years of service to the Children's Services department & to the Allen County Public Library, and to wish her well wherever her life journeys take her.

Are You Looking for Great Kids Books...?

2011-06-11T08:25:00.018-04:00

Then don't miss our Mock Election Kick-off, coming up soon! School-age children and adults are invited to attend and hear some stories from award-winning books...find out how to find great books for kids...and learn more about our Mock Elections, in which you are invited to vote for YOUR favorite children's books.

It's all happening on Tuesday, June 14, from 2:00-3:00.

Hope to see you there!

Team Read!

2011-06-03T09:54:00.009-04:00

Reading through the summer time is important and fun -- in addition to the FREE Summer Reading Program offered at the library, parents will also want to explore Team Read. Team Read is a FREE reading program for children entering 1st - 3rd grade next year. Children are paired up with trained teen reading coaches for weekly summer reading activities.

Team Read runs from June 20 - July 28, 2011.

Fill out an application and turn it in at any Allen County Public Library location to attend the program at the New Haven or Georgetown branch libraries. There is limited space at library locations for this program, so turn in your application early!

Team Read will also be offered at local Boys & Girls Clubs, Old Fort YMCA and several local parks. For more information about Team Read, contact Nancy Magi at 260-421-1260.

We're Counting Down the Days...

2011-05-31T16:34:00.010-04:00

...till June 6. That's the day we've been waiting for! The day the Summer Reading Program starts!! Woo hoo!! We can hardly wait!!

Have you checked out the

Summer Reading Program website yet?
You'll find lots of great info there, like WHO can participate, HOW to get started, WHEN things are happening, and WHAT gifts kids and adults can receive. Coming soon, kids will find some fun interactive games and online stories, as well as a place to submit their own stories and artwork!

Gifts? Did I mention gifts? Yes, I did, and here's the scoop:

At Sign-up, children will receive a voucher for a FREE Tincaps baseball ticket.

Upon completing Level One, pre-readers (babies, toddlers and preschoolers) will receive an FREE egg shaker toy; readers (kids who can read on their own) will receive a FREE throw-yo toy!

Upon completing Level Two, children will receive a FREE tote bag!

Upon completing Level Three, children will get to pick out their own FREE book!

Adults may participate as well. Starting Monday, June 6, adults 18 and older may pick up a Reading Partners bookmark, complete 6 of the 14 reading activities with a child, and fill in and return the bottom portion of the bookmark to any library location for a chance to win a FREE $100 gift card to Walmart, Meijer or Target.

It's all about reading! It's all about fun! And it's all happening at the Allen County Public Library this summer! We hope to see YOU and your family!

Tarra & Bella

2011-05-25T16:55:00.008-04:00

One of the best things about working in a library is that I get to learn new things EVERY DAY! Today a young customer came in and wanted to find books about two unusual friends -- an elephant and a dog!

Tarra is a retired circus elephant who was the first to come live at The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee. Other elephants also came to live there, but Tarra couldn't find a friend until she met Bella, a stray dog who came to stay at the sanctuary.

Read Tarra & Bella: The Elephant and Dog Who Became Best Friends
by Carol Buckley
to learn more about this amazing friendship!

To read more about The Elephant Sanctuary and Tarra, try these books by the same author:
Travels with Tarra
Just for Elephants

LEGO Club!

2011-05-23T14:33:00.004-04:00

Calling all LEGO fans!
Don't miss LEGO Club in Children's Services at the downtown library!
Come and join other LEGO-loving kids and build to your hearts content.We have lots and lots and lots of bricks, so don't be shy!

Our next meeting is Tuesday, May 24:
10:00 - 11:30 a.m. (for homeschoolers)
3:30 - 5:00 p.m. (for all kids ages 6-11)

Great news about LEGO club -- during the summer,we'll be offering this super-cool program
EVERY WEEK at the downtown library!
Beginning June 15 and continuing through August 17, 2011, LEGO Club will be offered every Wednesday from 2:00-4:00 p.m.
So take some time during the summer to get out of the heat, visit us at the library and have some creative-building fun!

A Little Library Love

2011-05-16T08:00:00.000-04:00

We love it when our customers share their art with us.
Here's a piece that really touched our hearts!

Thanks, Carly, for the great picture of the Children's Department!
We're glad you enjoy visiting us!

Cherry Blossom Festival - this weekend!

2011-05-14T11:12:00.009-04:00

Don't miss the Cherry Blossom Festival,
taking place at the Main Library in downtown Fort Wayne
tonight and tomorrow -- May 14th & 15th!

Saturday's schedule includes Japanese anime films and live Japanese music. Sunday's activities include kamishibai storytelling, origami, and Japanese children's games. There are events appropriate for all ages!

For more information, including the schedule of events, see Japan in Fort Wayne.com.

Children's Choice Book Awards

2011-05-09T17:54:00.007-04:00

The Children's Choice Book Award winners were announced on May 2, as a kick-off to last week's Children's Book Week. Over 500,000 votes were collected from children from all over the United States! Winners included...

Author of the Year
Rick Riordan, for The Lost Hero, Book 1 in the Heroes of Olympus series

Illustrator of the Year
David Wiesner, for Art and Max

For a complete list of winners and more information about the Children's Choice Awards, see the Children's Book Week website.

2011 Summer Reading Program

2011-05-05T12:59:00.008-04:00

Suspense is building! Preparations are being made! Let the countdown begin for this year's Children's Summer Reading Program:

The summer reading fun starts on Monday, June 6. Watch this video for a sneak preview of what's coming, and look for information soon at a library near you!

Surprise Author Visit!!

2011-04-29T16:35:00.007-04:00

We were thrilled today to have a surprise guest visit us at the library! Author David Elliott was in the area visiting a school, and decided to drop in and say "Hello!" To say we were pleasantly surprised is an understatement!

David Elliott is the author of many great books, including In the Wild, a book of animal poems. In the Wild was listed on last year's Mock Caldecott reading list, which highlights the best picture books published each year.

Thanks for visiting, Mr. Elliott! And thanks for writing such wonderful books for children!

Happy Birthday Beverly Cleary

2011-04-28T09:44:00.009-04:00

A belated happy birthday wish goes out to children's author Beverly Cleary, who turned 95 on April 12 this year! Her wonderful stories have stood the test of time, remaining favorites through generations. Here's an article from the New York Times, singing Ms. Cleary's well-deserved praises.

I can remember my third grade teacher reading Ramona Quimby to our class, and favorites of my own children were Ralph S. Mouse and The Mouse and the Motorcycle. What are your favorite Beverly Cleary titles?

Have You Tried the Custom Collection Service?

2011-04-25T10:01:00.000-04:00

Are you a preschool educator looking for a collection of books about Spring?
Are you planning a unit study about Ancient Egypt for your homeschooling family?
Are you a parent looking for Potty Training resources to help your toddler?
Are you an teacher looking for a collection of poetry to share with your class?
Are you a busy dad looking for a wide variety of books about trucks for your four-year-old?
Are you a student looking resources on Queen Elizabeth for a report?

Have you taken advantage of the

Library's Custom Collection service?

Custom Collections ready to be picked up.

With one week's notice (at the Main Library) and two weeks' notice (at the Branches) we can prepare Custom Collections just for you. Give us the theme you are working on, the reading level & interest level of your students, and the formats (books, DVDs, magazines, books on CD, etc.) of material you would like and we will have your resources waiting for you to check out.

For more information, visit the Custom Collection form online or give us a call. We're waiting to hear from you!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T06:00:00.000-04:00

The library is closed today.

The Main Library will re-open at 9am tomorrow morning; branch libraries will open at 10am tomorrow.

Have a wonderful Easter!

ACPL Author Fair -- Saturday, April 23

2011-04-21T09:35:00.000-04:00

This Saturday, the library is providing a wonderful opportunity.

It's the first annual Author's Fair! Visit the downtown library on Saturday, April 23, to chat with local authors, including children's authors
Helen Frost and Lynn Rowe Reed,
and attend presentations and author readings.

Click here for more information.

Happy Birthday "I Spy"!

2011-04-20T08:00:00.000-04:00

Can you believe it? It's been 20 years since the publication of the first book in the popular I Spy series by Jean Marzollo and Walter Wick. To celebrate, visit the library and read some I Spy books! You will also find some fun activities on Scholastic's website.

Celebrate Urban Birds

2011-04-18T09:00:00.000-04:00

Calling all ornithologists! Here's your chance to contribute to science and learn about birds at the same time. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is offering free Celebrate Urban Birds kits to families who would like to learn about and observe 16 bird species in urban settings.

While you're at it, stop by the library to pick up some great bird books!

Happy Screen-Free Week!

2011-04-17T14:32:00.000-04:00

Screen-Free Week is a national celebration where children, families, schools, and communities spend seven days turning off entertainment screen media and turning on life. It's a time to unplug and play, read, daydream, create, explore, and spend more time with family and friends.

This week, why not turn off the TVs and computers in your house and grab a book instead? Need some other ideas of ways to fill your screen-free week? Check out this list of 101 Screen-Free Activities or stop by the library!

A Day in Allen County

2011-04-16T12:41:00.000-04:00

Grab your cameras!!

It's time for the
Day in Allen County Photo Survey!

Kids and adults are invited to participate -- on Saturday, April 16, 2011, simply go out, wherever you are in Allen County, and take some photos of what you see. Then email them to the library and we'll put them all together for our Spring 2011 edition in the Allen County Community Album.

To see last year's entries, click here.

PBS KIDS GO! Writers Contest

2011-04-13T15:47:00.001-04:00

Are you in Kindergarten through Third Grade?

Do you like to write?

Do you like to create original art?

Have you entered the PBS KIDS GO! Writers Contest?

Kids in Kindergarten to Grade 3 are invited to write and illustrate a story for the PBS Kids Go! Writers Contest. Entries will be accepted at the Woodburn Branch or the Main Library until 6:00 pm on Friday, April 15th.

Check this link for complete rules, an entry form, and a list of other participating locations.

Kids LOVE Graphic Novels

2011-04-12T13:04:00.003-04:00

This is what the graphic novel collection looked like after a busy Saturday. So many books were taken home that the rest were falling over. We love to see books go home with kids. We hope that you will come back next weekend and take home MORE books!

April is National Poetry Month!

2011-04-02T06:00:00.002-04:00

Jack Prelutsky -- Shel Silverstein -- Douglas Florian
Lee Bennett Hopkins -- Karla Kuskin -- J. Patrick Lewis

What do all of these people have in common? They're children's poets! Now is the perfect time to read -- aloud -- some poetry. We have plenty here for you at the library. But you can also look online. Check out some poets' websites, like Jack Prelutsky's, where kids can read some of his fun poems, and grown-ups can find activities and lesson plans.

Or, try this page from Scholastic.com, in which Jack Prelutsky leads children through the process of writing their own poetry. At the end, kids can even publish their poetry online, and read poems that other kids have written!

Who is your favorite poet?

Spring Break Smorgasbord!

2011-04-01T09:15:00.000-04:00

Looking for something fun to do during Spring Break? Check out the Spring Break Smorgasbord events in Children's Services. We'll have a different activity each day from 2 to 4pm. Don't forget our Art Room is available for you to use anytime the library is open - this Spring Break stop by to create a fantastic collage.

Monday, April 4th 2 to 4pm - Letterboxing at the Library
Tuesday, April 5th 2 to 4pm - Do You Like Legos?
Wednesday, April 6th 2 to 4pm - Games Plugged and Unplugged
Thursday, April 7th 2 to 4pm - Art Room Extended
Friday, April 8th 2 to 4pm - Swashbucklin' Search

We hope that you will spend some of your Spring Break with us!

What is happening on the Mock Caldecott blog?

2011-03-27T16:18:00.003-04:00

The discussion has started already over at the ACPL Mock Caldecott blog. New, wonderfully illustrated books are being released every day! Check out the blog to see the best of the best & join the discussion.

My favorite illustrated book (so far) of the year, is not on the blog yet, but I am going to suggest that the moderator add it. Can We Save the Tiger? by Martin Jenkins, illustrated by Vicky White is absolutely gorgeous! Be sure to suggest some of your own favorite books too.

Would YOU like a librarian to visit YOUR daycare/preschool?

2011-03-19T10:05:00.001-04:00

Now is the time for daycare and preschool teachers to schedule a day and time for...

Storytellers on the Move!

Between April 25 and May 6, 2011, Children's Librarians will be visiting local preschools and daycares, sharing special storytimes with the children and delivering boxes of books for teachers and children to use until our next visit.

Call today -- 421-1220 -- and schedule a time for us to visit YOU!

Earthquakes, Tsunamis and Other Natural Disasters

2011-03-17T09:34:00.015-04:00

Can a tsunami happen here? Or an earthquake?...these are questions many adults are hearing after the tragic happenings in Japan this past weekend.

Sharing stories of hope and goodwill in the midst of chaos, such as Tsunami! by Kimiko Kajikawa, or A Mama for Owen by Marion Dane Bauer, may be a help to some children.

Reading Rockets has just published a list of web-based resources, including kid-friendly news reports of the events in Japan, ways to help children cope with disasters, and basic information about earthquakes and tsunamis.

Several of Children's Services Booklists provide resources for children and adults on coping with with disasters:

Do you have other resources that you've found? How have you used them with your children?

Favorite Artists

2011-03-16T06:00:00.003-04:00

Over three hundred votes were cast for the favorite artist in the Fancy February Art Show in Children’s Services at Main Library. Winners in the three age categories were Jacob Gernhardt (5 and Under); Tala Shatara (6-8); and Kathryn Seelye (9-11). Participants were given a packet of materials to make a fancy collage. Congratulations to everyone who entered!

Rainy Day

2011-03-15T08:00:00.000-04:00

Now that our weather is (finally!) moving from snow to rain, it is time to enjoy some rainy day titles.

Join Sam, Pam, Will & Jill on a rainy, rainy, day. What will they do? Where will they go? You will never guess!

Rainy Day! by Patricia Lakin, pictures by Scott Nash

Our History is Our Strength: Women's History Month 2011

2011-03-06T12:22:00.010-05:00

Eleanor Roosevelt...Harriet Tubman...Dolley Madison...Rosa Parks...Susan B. Anthony...Mother Teresa...these are just a few of the many, many famous women who have made their mark on history.

March is Women's History Month, and is the perfect time to read up on the contributions women have made!

Visit us at the library to explore the biographies...

...or explore the Biography Center in World Book Online...

... or try some of the following websites:

Carnival of the Animals!

2011-03-02T06:00:00.001-05:00

Families: Don't miss this special performance

presented by the
Fort Wayne Ballet Youth Company!

Carnival of the AnimalsSaturday, March 5, 2011
11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Main Library Theater
Doors will open 15 minutes before each performance.

Carnival of the Animals this Saturday!

2011-03-01T09:25:00.002-05:00

The Fort Wayne Ballet Youth Company will be performing Carnival of the Animals at the main library on Saturday, March 5th at 11am & 2pm. Doors will open fifteen minutes before the performance, seating is limited.

Leapfrog Tag Books

2011-02-26T06:00:00.002-05:00

Library customers who own a Leapfrog Tag Reading System will be happy to know that they can now checkout Interactive Tag Books. Tag Books look like and can be read just like other books, but they can also be used with a Tag Pen, which can "read" the words and interact with different elements in the books.

Other Leapfrog items available for checkout at Allen County Public Library locations include:

Leapster games for Leapster and Leapster2 handheld devices
Leapfrog DVDs
LeapPad Backpacks, which include a LeapPad Unit and 2 cartridges/books
Leappad Kits, which contain 1 cartridge and book for use with a LeapPad Unit

Exciting Improvements in the Early Learning Center!

2011-02-25T06:00:00.002-05:00

Have you visited the Early Learning Center recently? We've made some changes in the books that "live" there.... Instead of having a hodgepodge of picture books, we are being much more selective in deciding what books go in this special space. All the books are designed to reinforce specific fundamentals of Early Literacy. Six color-coded types of picture books are available:

Counting Books
ABC Books
Favorite Stories
Rhyming Books
Books about Shapes
Books about Colors

And, of course, all books are available to be checked out so you can enjoy them with your child at home.

Visit us soon and check it out!

Fancy February Art

2011-02-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

This is the last week to pick up your collage kit in Children's Services at the Main Library. Use the fancy items in your kit and pencils, crayons, markers, glue and/or scissors to create a cool collage. Turn it back in on or before Monday, February 28. We'll display everyone's creations and during the first two weeks of March we'll allow voting for favorites. Artists in three age groups will be named favorites and receive gifts.

Peter Pan

2011-02-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

From now through April 10, the Foellinger-Friemann Botanical Conservatory in Fort Wayne has a special Peter Pan exhibit on display in the Showcase Garden.

Brush up on your knowledge of this classic story by visiting the library and picking up a copy of the
original story written by J. M. Barrie ...

... or one of the many adaptations that have been created over the years, such as this one by pop-up illustrator Robert Sabuda.

Happy Reading!

Science Explorers

2011-02-21T19:06:00.002-05:00

Homeschoolers, don't forget to come to Science Explorers at the Main Library on Tuesday, February 22, at 2:00 p.m. Should you believe everything you see? Explore OPTICAL ILLUSIONS with experiments, books and activities. Science Explorers is designed for students at K-5 grade levels. Be curious! Think - Do - Learn!

The Great Backyard Bird Count!

2011-02-18T06:00:00.001-05:00

Hey, friends! Here's a great chance to help scientists learn about birds.

It's the Great Backyard Bird Count!

To participate, simply watch and count the number of birds you see in your backyard or some other location from Friday, February 18 through Monday, February 21.
Then record what you see here. Anyone can participate -- kids and adults.

Invite a friend or two to get involved -- the more information the scientists can gather, the more will learn. How many birds do you think you will see?

World Book Online for Kids

2011-02-17T09:27:00.006-05:00

Recently, the library added a great new online resource for children: World Book Online for Kids. Published by the same folks who bring us World Book Encyclopedias, this collection of kid-friendly databases is a great source of info for school reports, but also so much more!

Early World of Learning provides help for beginning readers, as well as games and activities that help teach numbers, shapes, colors, and more.

World Book Online for Kids offers easy-to-read articles and engaging videos, games, science projects, and activities for younger students.

Info Finder is tailored for students in elementary and middle schools & includes all the articles from the print versions of the World Book Encyclopedia, plus thousands of additional articles, learning resources, and research tools.

World Book Discover includes engaging reference resources for students reading below grade level because of language or learning difficulties.

Enciclopedia Estudiantil Hallazgos is a beginner's Spanish language reference tool. The site offers World Book's editorial content, rich media, and engaging features in Spanish.

You may access World Book Online from any computer at the Allen County Public Library OR on your home computer by entering your ACPL library card number. Links are available on the Children's Services web page or under the Reference section of the ACPL Research Databases page.

Brush, Brush, Brush!

2011-02-15T06:00:00.001-05:00

Join us for storytime!

On Wednesday morning, February 16, join us for stories in celebration of Dental Health Month. We'll sing songs and read books. We will have a special visitor who will talk about how to brush your teeth and will even give out free toothbrushes!

We have two storytimes for preschoolers scheduled every Wednesday at the Main Library in downtown Fort Wayne:

9:30 Storytime for preschool and daycare groups (Call and let us know your group is coming!)
10:30 Storytime for families (No need to call; just come on in!)

We hope you'll join us for storytime!

National Library Week Bookmark Contest

2011-02-11T06:00:00.001-05:00

Have you created a bookmark yet for our annual National Library Week contest? This year's theme is...

Create Your Own Story @ Your Library

The contest is open to children of all ages and adults; winning designs will be made into "real" bookmarks and made available during National Library Week, April 10-16, 2011.

Contest entries may be turned in at any library location between now and February 28, 2011. So, print out the template, grab your markers, crayons, and colored pencils, and get creative!

Preschool Puppet Show Registration

2011-02-10T12:08:00.006-05:00

We still have a few openings available for preschool and daycare groups to register for our Preschool Puppet Show coming up next month.

Performances are scheduled Monday through Thursday, March 7 - 10, at 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Each show lasts about 30 minutes, and includes plenty of interactive fun!

Families do not need to register for the puppet show. Just mark your calendars, come when you can, and enjoy!

Learn Not To Burn!

2011-02-08T10:19:00.008-05:00

Join us on Wednesday morning, February 9th, for a Burn Awareness storytime with special guests from the St. Joe Hospital Burn Unit/Lutheran Health Network. We'll read a story, sing some songs, and practice being safe around things that are hot. After storytime, every child will receive a free Fire Safety Activity Book and a Fort Wayne Fire Department Fire Safety Coloring Book.

We have two storytimes for preschoolers scheduled every Wednesday at the Main Library in downtown Fort Wayne:

9:30 Storytime for preschool and daycare groups (Call and let us know your group is coming!)
10:30 Storytime for families (No need to call; just come on in!)

We hope you'll join us for storytime!

Celebrate African- American History

2011-02-08T06:00:00.001-05:00

We are well into February, which means we are well into African-American History Month! Whatever your age, take advantage of the information and resources that are available to learn more about the important contributions the African-American community has made in our country. A good place to start is our African-American History Booklist , where you will find great biographies and non-fiction books, as well as stories, folktales, music and poetry.

You may also want to investigate some of the following websites:

Time for Kids: Black History Month
Library of Congress: African American History
Kaboose.com: Black History Month Crafts and Activities

Have You Tried TumbleBooks?

2011-02-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

A new service of the Allen County Public Library, TumbleBooks are e‑books for kids ‑‑ animated, talking picture books which help kids learn the joy of reading.

You can listen to books, or read along at your own speed.
Both storybooks and nonfiction titles are included
You can play book-related games and work on book-related puzzles.
Books are available in English, French, and Spanish.

You can use TumbleBooks on any kids' computer at the Allen County Public Library or on your own computer at home. The TumbleBooks link is always available on the top, right-hand side of the Children's Services page, and is also available by clicking on the TumbleBooks link on the Books & Literature portion of the ACPL's Research Databases page.

Check it out!

Mischief -- Stuffed Animal Style

2011-02-05T09:01:00.009-05:00

Have you ever wondered what your stuffed animals do at night? After storytime yesterday evening, we tucked all of our friends into bed for the night. They didn't do much sleeping, but it does appear that they had plenty of fun! Check out the photos of last night's Stuffed Animal Sleepover!

Owners may pick up their friends anytime today between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

Stuffed Animal Sleepover TONIGHT!

2011-02-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

Tonight is our Stuffed Animal Sleepover!
Friday, February 4th @ 5:00 pm

Wear your pajamas, bring your stuffed friend and listen to a bedtime story at 5:00 pm tonight.
After our story time, you will tuck your stuffed animal into "bed" and wish her sweet dreams. While you return home to your own snuggly beds, your stuffed pal will get to have fun in the library overnight! Who knows what they will do ~ where they will go...
Come back on Saturday morning at 9:00 am to pick up your friend and "hear" about all the mischief they got into after hours at the library!
All stuffed participants will take home a photo memory book of their overnight adventures in the library.

Happy Chinese New Year!

2011-02-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

Today is the first day of the new year -- according to the Chinese calendar. Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit by learning more about this holiday. You could even make eggrolls or try your hand at a few crafts.

Chinese New Year begins on the first new moon between January 21 and February 20. On what date will it fall next year...?

The Library is Closed Today

2011-02-02T07:50:00.004-05:00

Due to the extreme wintry weather,
all locations of
the Allen County Public Library
are closed today,
Wednesday, February 2nd.

We hope you enjoy the snow!

Stay warm!

Snow! Snow! and More Snow!

2011-01-31T11:39:00.011-05:00

Folks here in northern Indiana are gearing up for yet another round of snowfall -- what do you do to prepare for snow days? I suggest you add a visit to the library to your list of destinations as you travel today to stock up on your supplies. Check out a cookbook and try a new recipe...or a craft book to learn a new skill or brush up on an old one...or a book of games to play together... or all of the above!

The possibilities are endless...

Happy Anniversary 900 Library Plaza!

2011-01-27T08:00:00.002-05:00

Today is the fourth anniversary of the Grand Opening of the beautiful new library at 900 Library Plaza! Happy Anniversary to all of us!

It has been a wonderful four years of fun here. Take some time to review the ACPL Kids Blog to see where we have been and what we have been doing. Another fun place visit is the ACPL's Flickr account.

Check out some of these photos from the past four years which highlight some of the awesome spaces here at the library:

Art Cars on the Plaza
2008 Poetry Contest Awards Ceremony in the Theater
Day of the Dead 2007 in Children's Services
Homeschoolers Sneak Preview in the Great Hall
Time 2 Chime Live in the Jeffrey R. Krull Gallery
EcoKids Club (featuring live worms) in the Program Room

Please visit the library soon to see what we are up to now!

No Storytimes at Main Library this Week

2011-01-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

Children's Services librarians are continuing the Storytellers on the Move program this week, delivering books and telling stories to area preschools and daycares, so there will be no storytimes held at the Main Library this week. However, you can still attend storytimes at one of our branch libraries -- click here for a calendar of times and locations!