Good Reads: Knuffle Bunny Free: An Unexpected Diversion

On Wednesday, September 29th we celebrated the release of the last book of the much-loved Knuffle Bunny series by Mo Willems. Our celebration included a storytime, Knuffle Bunny look-a-like treats and a craft! If you stop by the library or log on to our website you can reserve Knuffle Bunny Free: An Unexpected Diversion to enjoy at home. Mo Willems has created a humorous, bittersweet ending for our beloved characters that should not be missed!

The ABC's of Early Literacy

It is never too early to start developing a healthy reading habit.

For the youngest of infants and toddlers select board books, books with sturdy cardboard pages, they may feature “lift the flap” and tactile elements. Sharing these books with a loved one or caregiver allows children to bond with those individuals who are special in their lives, and also books.

Some of our favorite board books are:

Baby Happy, Baby Sad

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See

Good Night Moon

Where's My Sweetie Pie

Moreover, it is important for parents and caregivers to be positive reading role models. As a grown up in your child’s life, you are the equivalent of a rock star, super athlete and movie star all rolled into one! Children want to imitate the adults they are surrounded by, create an environment with plenty of reading material not only for children, but yourself. When children see thier parents and caregivers reading, this will encourage them to be readers for life at an early age.

Early literacy programs at your library also aid in the development of emergent reading and language skills. Programs such as Book Babies, Mother Goose, One is Fun and Wonderful Ones introduce children to stories, songs, finger plays and rhythmic activities that are the building blocks of literacy. Moreover, these programs allow children to develop socialization skills. Check out our children's program schedule, remember you can even register for programs online, with your library card!

Art on Display: Eric Carle, Wayne Thiebaud and Monet!

This summer the kids of Smithtown learned about their favorite authors and artists and recreated some popular artwork. Using paints, pastels, colored pencils and other supplies these budding artists were able to come up with some beautiful results! Stop by the community room and check out our display. Be sure to check our newsletter for upcoming autumn art programs!

Good Reads: More Ramona!

We caught Erin reading Ramona's World by Beverly Cleary at the Nesconset Branch of the Smithtown Library. If you and your children are fans of spunky Ramona and her sister Beezus, check out some of these titles:

Clementine

Judy Moody Goes to College

Step Fourth Mallory

Just Grace Goes Green

Otherwise Known as Shelia the Great

Moxy Maxwell Does Not Love Writing Thank-You Notes

Good Reads: The Strange Case of Origami Yoda

Of course Origami Yoda is real, however are his magic powers? Can he predict the future? Is his advice really helpful or jibberish from a galaxy far, far away? You can form your own opinion when you read The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger (2010, Amulet Books). Follow Tommy and his sixth grade classmates as they write in journal entries about their experiences with the Origami Yoda. Recommended for students in grades 3-6, and is sure to please fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Frindle.  With your Smithtown Library Card, reserve your copy online here.

September is Library Card Sign Up Month!

A library card is the smartest card you can carry! It is the ultimate school supply. This month, children who sign up for a new library card may select a prize from our treasure chest.

In order for a child to receive a library card, the child must go to the library with their primary caregiver, and the care giver must present proof of residency, such as a driver’s license, automobile registration, or two pieces of mail (address may not be a P.O. Box)

With a library card, you can:

-Check out books, DVDs, music, magazines and audio books

-Use free online homework help and online resources, perfect for school assignments

-Download audio books and e-books to your home computer or protable device

-Find something to do! To register for programs and activities, a library card is required