July-August 2013 LIBRARY LINK
meet Walter Dean Myers August 6, 6pm CEN August 7, 3 pm POW When Walter Dean Myers decided to drop out of high school, it was a teacher who told him to keep writing, no matter what. “It’s what you do,” she said. It was something the young Myers took to heart and years later, while working construction, he decided to start writing and hasn’t stopped since. Myers' books are inspired by his own challenging upbringing in Harlem and chronicle the lives of many urban teenagers, primarily young, poor African-Americans. His works include poetry, nonfiction and picture books for children. Myers was named the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature in 2012. With this honor, Myers will travel for two years speaking at schools about reading and literacy. During his visit to Kalamazoo Public Library, Myers will speak about his upbringing, his books and the vital importance of reading to children. Books are not, in Myers’ words, “A Victorian pastime,” but rather integral for the intellectual development of all children, especially for our at-risk youth. Myers will also sign copies of his books. Refreshments provided.
summer = family fun @kpl Summer means spending quality time with the family. This issue of Link is full of fun programs and events sure to thrill all ages. Why go to the zoo, when the zoo can come to you? Kalamazoo Public Library is the summer destination spot for all creatures furred, feral or feathered. All summer long, join us at your local branch as we bring you up close and personal to all kinds of birds, ponies, llamas, ferrets, bats, and many other little critters. KPL staffer Beth Timmerman will introduce her pet pig Pipsqueak. Everyone’s favorite Schnoodle dog Bailey will be on paw to read to his two-legged friends. The Binder Park Zoomobile will also visit the Washington Square branch for even more animal fun! Check the Kids section for scheduled times and locations. While these events are all free, some require registration and/or tickets due to limited space. Grab blankets, popcorn, bug spray and a flashlight and join us for some big-screen fun at Movies Under the Stars at the Oshtemo branch. On July 18, bring a date and enjoy the golden era of Hollywood with the classic romance Casablanca. “Hey you guuuuys!” Relive your childhood and share the cult phenomenon Goonies with your own children on August 15th. Details on page 2. First Saturday this summer is all about creation! On July 6, explore STEM activities and stories with library staff. In August, professional artists from the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts will lead children in an art-themed program. Thank you for including KPL in your summer plans.
kpl’s 2nd annual lego building contest Enter your original LEGO creations in the KPL LEGO Building Contest. Be creative, have fun, and win great prizes! The whole family can enter the contest! Age brackets are: 0-5 years, 6-10, 11-14, 15-18, 19+. Entries accepted August 9-10 in the Central or Oshtemo Children’s Room. LEGO creations will be displayed August 12-17 for public voting. Winners will be announced on KPL's website Monday, August 19. Official contest rules are available at www.kpl.gov/lego/
contents books & more
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tween/teen 3-4 kids 5-7 director’s note
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Summer Reading Games Prize Pick-up Deadline We hope you have been keeping up with your summer reading! Please note that the deadline to redeem your prizes is Saturday, August 31 by 5 pm (sorry, no exceptions).