CRDL Events

CRDL Teen Night tonight...

2009-07-14T09:50:00.002-04:00

After today's CRDL Computer Class, and CRDL Storytime & Kid Stuff Crafts at the Weidman branch we'll order the pizza and sit down with Inkheart.

CRDL Pizza & Pages is a book discussion group for teen in grades 7-12.

Click crdl.org for more fun @ your library

Wow!!!!

2009-07-09T09:10:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was an amazing day at your library. We had a bunch of fun at CRDL Storytimes and Kid Stuff crafts in Rosebush and Weidman. The "Drummunity" program at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant was amazing. If you didn't get a chance to attend check out some of the pictures and a quick video on our facebook page.

We're rested up and ready for another day of CRDL Summer Reading Program fun. You can bring the kids to a CRDL Storytime @ 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library. There's a CRDL Storytime plus Kid Stuff Crafts at 1:30pm in Shepherd. And CRDL Kid Stuff crafts at 2pm in Mt. Pleasant.

At Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush you can meet all the artists displaying their masterpieces in the library tonight at 7pm.

Need more details about the CRDL Summer Reading Program? Click our website.

Summer Reading Program fun today at your library

2009-07-08T09:11:00.002-04:00

Lots of CRDL Summer Reading Program fun today. CRDL Storytime & Kid stuff crafts at 11am at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush and at the Rolland Township Library in Blanchard.

Or you can join us for a special hands on CRDL Summer Reading Program performance from "Drummunity" at 11am at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant.

Click http://www.crdl.org/ for more CRDL Summer Reading Program fun.

It's Monday...

2009-06-29T09:16:00.002-04:00

The CRDL Teen Battle of the Bands was AMAZING. The two finalists put on a great show Saturday. Our judges, Elizabeth Hansen & Mitch Anderson from B's Music and Scott Harding and Carol Hebert from CMU's School of Music, had a tough time deciding. In the end Strength in Numbers was our runner up and Shock was our winner. See pictures and a few video clips on our facebook page.

It's a pretty light week at your CRDL, but there's still CRDL Summer Reading Program fun. Today at 10:15am bring the kids to a CRDL Storytime at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant.

Carol Miller will present The Gardens of France today at noon, as part of your CRDL Brown Bag Artist Series.

There's a free class at 2pm in the CRDL Computer Training Center: Excel Charts & Formulas.

CRDL Summer Reading Program this weekend

2009-06-26T09:28:00.002-04:00

We'll open the doors to the CRDL Cinema today at 2pm. We're showing "Hotel for Dogs" on the big screen. We'll pop the popcorn, all you have to do is stop by and grab your seats.

Stop in Saturday for some great music. The 1st ever CRDL Teen Battle of the Bands starts at noon.

See you there.

Lots of CRDL Summer Reading Program fun today!

2009-06-25T09:23:00.002-04:00

Bring the kids to a CRDL Storytime @ 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant or CRDL Storytime & Kid Stuff Crafts @ 1pm in Shepherd. Later in the afternoon stop by for CRDL Summer Reading Program Kid Stuff crafts at 2pm at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant.

Tomorrow we'll open the doors to the CRDL Cinema. We're showing "Hotel for Dogs" on the big screen in the CRDL Annex Meeting Room at 2pm. We'll pop the popcorn all you have to do is grab your seats.

Click http://www.crdl.org/ for more CRDL Summer Reading Program details.

CRDL Summer Reading Program fun today!!

2009-06-23T09:05:00.002-04:00

Free (air conditioned) fun today. CRDL Storytime & Kid Stuff Crafts today @ 2 in Weidman. CRDL Teen Night (Henna Tattoos) at 6pm in Mt. Pleasant. http://www.crdl.org/ for more details and to register for the CRDL Summer Reading Program.

CRDL Summer Reading Program Fun!!

2009-06-22T09:24:00.002-04:00

Hmm...what are we going to do today? How about CRDL Storytime at 10:15am in Mt. Pleasant, CRDL Brown Bag Artist Series (local musician Tim Mocny) at Noon in Mt. Pleasant, CRDL Storytime & Kid Stuff Crafts at 1pm in Winn. All part of your CRDL Summer Reading Program. Register, read, and win at http://www.crdl.org/

CRDL Teen Battle of the Bands

2009-06-10T08:55:00.002-04:00

The registration deadline for the CRDL Teen Battle of the Bands has been extended. Teens can click http://www.crdl.org/ and register their band TODAY!!

Counting Down To Registration

2009-06-04T08:03:00.002-04:00

CRDL Summer Reading Program registration starts Monday the 8th. You can register in person at any CRDL branch or online at crdl.org.

Make sure you click the CRDL Summer Reeading Program page at crdl.org for a complete list of all the fun free events we have planned for kids, teens, and adults.

Friday at your CRDL

2009-05-29T08:17:00.002-04:00

The TRACES BUS-eum "Held in the Heartland" will be parked outside of Veterans Memorial Library today (Friday) from 10am-1pm. Admission is FREE.

It's hard to believe that Monday is June 1st and that school is almost out. But what's really exciting is the fact that we're only a week away from the start of your CRDL Summer Reading Program. Registration starts Monday June 8th!

Express Yourself @ Your Library

2009-05-19T14:50:00.002-04:00

This year's CRDL Summer Reading Program is all about being creative and expressing yourself through the arts, so this summer we're giving teens from around central Michigan a chance to express themselves musically. The first ever CRDL Summer Reading Program Battle of the Bands is on the calendar for Saturday June 27th at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system. We are proud to have Today's Best Music 95.3 CFX, B’s Music, and the Isabella County Coalition to Reduce Underage Drinking join us in giving teens an avenue to showcase their musical talents in a safe environment.

Join us on Saturday June 27th as we give teens from throughout central Michigan a chance to get out of their parents basements and garages and perform in front of an audience in a safe and encouraging environment. Registration forms for the first ever CRDL Summer Reading Program Battle of the Bands can be picked up at B’s Music, any CRDL branch library, or online at crdl.org.

The Battle of the Bands isn’t the only way teens will be able to express themselves during this year’s CRDL Summer Reading Program. Teens can register for the CRDL Summer Reading Program starting Monday June 8th at any CRDL branch or online at crdl.org. Accumulate points by reading and checking off items from your SRP To-Do list”. Points add up to prizes, and yes we’re throwing in chocolate again this year. After prize number 6 we’ll toss your name in the hat for a chance to win an Ipod Shuffle generously provided by the Isabella County Coalition to Reduce Underage Drinking.

One way to accumulate points is by attending CRDL Summer Reading Program events and activities. On Tuesday June 16th at 6pm Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant will host an ice cream social and paperback book exchange. If ice cream’s not your thing, Faith Johnston Memorial Library will have a CRDL Teen Gaming Night at 6:30pm on the 16th.

Tuesday June 23rd Veterans Memorial Library will welcome Henna Tattoo artist Anshu Varma at 6pm. Don’t worry Mom, there are no needles and no they’re not permanent.

Michigan resident and graphic novel artist Jane Irwin will return to Veterans Memorial Library on Tuesday July 7th at 6pm. At CRDL Pizza and Pages we’ll be discussing Inkheart by Cornelia Funke while munching on free pizza. CRDL Pizza and Pages is set for Tuesday July 14th at 6pm at Veterans Memorial Library.

He started with bookmarks and wallets and eventually made his own prom tuxedo and his date’s prom dress. William Beacom will show you how to create with duct tape on Thursday July 21st at 6pm at Veterans Memorial Library.

We’ll open the doors at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush for another CRDL Teen Gaming Night on Thursday July 21st.

Some events have space and size limitations, some events require registration, but all events and activities are free. The easiest thing to do is click the CRDL Summer Reading Program at crdl.org and see why everybody is saying I Love My Library.

Counting down to SRP

2009-05-13T08:14:00.001-04:00

We’re just about ready to dot the I’s and cross the T’s on your CRDL Summer Reading Program schedule of events at your Chippewa River District Library. Besides the list of special performers visiting your library that we went over last week, there’s a full schedule of fun activities for all ages.

CRDL Storytime and Kid Stuff Crafts take place each week at all six CRDL branch locations. In Mt. Pleasant bring the kids to a CRDL Storytime on Mondays and Thursdays at 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library. Kid Stuff Crafts happen each Thursday at 2pm at Veterans Memorial Library.

Other CRDL Storytimes and Kid Stuff Crafts to put on your calendar: Mondays at 1pm at the Fremont Township Branch Library in Winn, Tuesdays at 2pm at the Weidman Public Library in Weidman, Wednesdays at 11am at the Rolland Township Library in Blanchard, Wednesdays at 11am at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush, and Thursdays at 1:30pm at the Coe Township Library in Shepherd. This summer we’re going to Be Creative at your Library with fun Kid Stuff crafts such as Now You See It: Collage, Ham It Up, I’ve Got Rhythm, Crafty Creations, Build It, and Quick Quilts. Kid Stuff crafts are recommended for children in grades Kindergarten and up. Space is limited; Kid Stuff crafts will be available to the first 40 children on a first-come-first-serve basis.

CRDL Summer Reading Program Music and Movement should be on your calendar for Wednesday June 3rd, Wednesday July 1st, and Wednesday August 5th all at 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant. CRDL Music and Movement is for children up to 5 years old.

Teens around Central Michigan will enjoy more events this summer than ever. An Ice Cream Social and Paperback Book Exchange and Gaming Gabbing & Good Food on June 16th, Henna Tatoos with Anshu Varma on June 23rd, the first ever CRDL Battle of the Bands on June 27th, Graphic Novel Art with Jane Irwin on July 7th, CRDL Pizza and Pages on July 14th, William Beacom ‘the Duct Tape Guy’ on July 21st, and another Gaming Gabbing & Good Food on July 21st. Click events at crdl.org for times, details, and locations of teen events at your Chippewa River District Library.

For Mom and Dad we’ve put together the CRDL Brown Bag Artist Series. Each Monday at Noon a different artist will share their talent with you at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant. Needle Felting and Wool Rolling with Lavana Shurtliff, the Marimba with musician Tim Mocny, the Gardens of France with Carol Miller, local metal sculptor Rose Wunderbaum Traines, and Michigan musician Mike List are just some of the events you’ll enjoy this summer as you Master the Art of Reading.

With Summer Reading Programs for children, teens, and adults, the whole family can participate and stay engaged in reading and learning. Click events at crdl.org for a full schedule of CRDL Summer Reading Program events and to see why everybody is saying I Love My Library.

Countdown to CRDL Summer Reading Program

2009-05-12T08:19:00.002-04:00

We are less than a month away from your CRDL Summer Reading Program. Registration starts June 8th at crdl.org or at any CRDL branch. Register, read, and earn prizes.

Click crdl.org for more information on your CRDL Summer Reading Program.

Special Performance TODAY!!!

2009-05-11T07:50:00.001-04:00

Don't miss a special performace by the Storytellers. Today, 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library, 4pm at Faith Johnston Memorial Library.

2009-05-07T08:06:00.001-04:00

Studies show that students who don’ t read during the summer can experience “summer set-back”, losing ground in learning and returning to school less ready for the next year than when they began their summer break. So, yes there is an educational benefit to exercising your mind as well as your body this summer, but it’s also fun. Not only will the stories contained in the pages of a book take you on a journey to far off places, but a series of programs and special performances happening throughout the summer at your library will add to the journey.

On Wednesday June 17th at 11am Joel Tacey will bring his Circus Creatus Comedy Show to your library for two shows. Amazing tricks, books, music, and art come together at the library during Joel’s exciting new show. Featuring dazzling juggling and a creative whirlwind of new tricks and audience favorites, Joel’s Circus Creatus Comedy Show has something for everyone. Kids and parents alike will have BIG fun at the library at hear positive reading messages throughout the show. Catch Joel’s free show at 11am at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant, or at 3pm at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush.

Then join us at Veterans Memorial Library on Wednesday June 24th at 11am. Using puppetry, music, laughter, poetry, imagination, audience participation, and humor, Kevin Kammeraad will share his love of writing, reading, music, and art with us during his show.

Lori Fithian and Drummunity visit your Veterans Memorial Library at 11am on Wednesday July 8th. Drummunity is a unique, interactive program where everyone participates. Using hand drums, percussion, and simple drum circle games. Lori will bring her collection of instruments from all over the world and create a positive experience that will leave everyone smiling.

You can Be c-READ-active at your library on Wednesday July 15th. The Acting Up Theater Company will perform at 11am at Veterans Memorial Library and at 3pm at Faith Johnston Memorial Library. What if you were paid ten million dollars and all you had to do was paint a picture? That’s what the famous artiste Pate’ Brushe’ has been assigned to do, but unfortunately he has lost all of his creativity, imagination and inspiration so he has spent the last 6 months playing Guitar Hero instead of painting. But today is the day the museum is expecting the painting to be done so Pate’ is then visited by some friends who help him to “BE CREATIVE”. His friends then leave him with a bit of advice and creativity and at the very end each of them is transformed by not only their own imaginations but through the power of BOOKS as well. The show “Be c-READ-ative!” has all of the Acting Up Theatre Company staples that have been with them since their very first production ten years ago. Revolving colorful characters, fast moving action, comedy, pop-culture references, a moral and of course the audience participation that will have everyone in the place yelling: “BE CREATIVE!” With the audience’s help, a few books and some imagination the painting is done, the book is written and the opera is sung and the “Creativity Emergency” is all fixed.

Wednesday July 22nd Baffling Bill the Magician will show us the Magic of Reading. Baffling Bill’s show is an effective educational program that uses magic as a medium to teach the importance of reading. See magical effects used to emphasize the fun and importance of reading in everyday life. Showtime is 11am at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant.

Each Friday throughout the summer we’ll pop some popcorn and open the doors to the CRDL Cinema. Each movie will start at 2pm at Veterans Memorial Library. Click events for a full schedule of movies and to see why everybody is saying I Love My Library.

The Storytellers are coming to your Library

2009-05-05T08:04:00.002-04:00

If the date isn't circled on your calendar yet it should be. Monday May 11th your Chippewa River District Library system will welcome The Storytellers and their Be Creative: Musical Folktales Concert. Be Creative: Musical Folktales uses out of the ordinary musical instruments together with the imaginative talents of Audrey and Robert Allison to create interactive stories, beautiful music, and humor.

Audrey’s uncanny vocal effects and multiple voices distinguish her as one of today’s finest storytellers. Robert has performed with Diane Carroll, Della Reese, Andy Williams, Buddy Rich, Barry Manilow, even the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.

The Storytellers use instruments from around the world; rhumba box, m’bira keyboard, djembe, berimbau, udu, didgeridoo cuica, dondo, even steel drums to create Brazilian melodies, familiar American songs, Caribbean tunes, Australian melodies, original compositions and more to accompany their stories.

On Monday May 11th The Storytellers will bring their unique show to Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant at 10:15am and to Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush at 4pm. Grab your family, friends and neighbors and get ready for a one of a kind performance. Both shows are family friendly and free but seating is limited, so get there early.

Click events at crdl.org and see why everybody's saying I Love My Library.

1 Month and Counting...

2009-04-30T08:12:00.002-04:00

Ask any child. They’ll tell you exactly how many days of school are left. Some even have it down to minutes and seconds. Now just because the school books are closing for the summer doesn’t mean others shouldn’t open. Studies show that students who don’ t read during the summer can experience “summer set-back”, losing ground in learning and returning to school less ready for the next year than when they began their summer break. Read this summer, and win prizes while you’re doing it! Registration for your Chippewa River District Library’s Summer Reading Program starts June 8th.

With Summer Reading Programs for children, teens, and adults, the whole family can participate and stay engaged in reading and learning. The kids will Be Creative at Your Library, teens can Express Yourself at Your Library, and adults can Master the Art of Reading. By reading with our families and sharing a love of learning with them, we can help support the growth of our children and teens. Books are the perfect companion to take along to the park, take an audio book along on a long car trip, even break out the comic books. People of all ages can have fun reading and earning prizes this summer. Register in person at any branch of the Chippewa River District Library, or online at crdl.org starting June 8th.

Participating in your Summer Reading Program is easy. Register, read, and win prizes from: Doozies, Riverwood, Spinning Wheels, the Isabella County Coalition to Reduce Underage Drinking, Bennigan’s, Big Boy, Big Apple Bagels, Italian Oven, Pixie, Ponderosa, Let’s Do the Dishes, even La Senorita.

Our summer schedules seem to fill up fast, and while stealing away for a few minutes with a good book is pretty easy, finding affordable events and activities can be a little more challenging. That’s why your Summer Reading Program has a summer full of FREE fun for all ages. No matter what your age, schedule, or availability there’s always something going on. There are Storytimes and Kid Stuff crafts, the CRDL Cinema will be open all summer long with free movie events for all ages, CRDL Summer Reading Program performers, special Teen Nights…they happen all summer long. The easiest thing to do is to pickup at CRDL Summer Reading Program schedule at any CRDL branch or click events at crdl.org, see what’s happening and make your plans to join us for CRDL Summer Reading Program Fun.
Each summer, more and more groups, businesses, and organizations realize the importance of reading as it relates to lifelong learning. Each summer our list of those who help make your Summer Reading Program possible grows. With the generosity of The Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, Art Reach of Mid Michigan, Logos Galore, and the Friends of the Veterans Memorial Library, this year’s Summer Reading Program promises to be the best yet.
Need help deciding what to read? That’s easy, new releases land on the shelves almost daily. Your old favorites are always available, and reference librarians are always willing to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Be Creative at Your Library this summer and see why everyone is saying I Love My Library.

CRDL Mad Science Lab

2009-04-29T07:57:00.002-04:00

Another one of the CRDL Mad Scientists crazy experiments has escaped and he’s run off after it...leaving the door to the CRDL Mad Science Lab wide open. Stop in anytime today (Wednesday) between 3pm and 5pm and have fun with all the wild whatchamajiggies and crazy
concoctions he’s left lying around.

CRDL Dinner & Discussion Tonight at 6pm

2009-04-28T08:06:00.001-04:00

CRDL Dinner and Discussion is a book discussion group for children in grades 5th-7th. Tonight we’ll discuss Zach’s Lie by Rolland Smith while munching on some free pizza. CRDL Dinner and Discussion happens tonight at 6pm at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system.

Children and teens who actively participate in discussions about books they find interesting develop into critical and careful readers. They learn how to express their opinions in a group setting while developing the skills needed to articulate their own ideas about a variety of subjects.

Children’s and teen book discussion groups offer the opportunity to share and consider differing viewpoints and develop comprehensive and empathetic thinking skills in a relaxed setting.Participating in book discussion groups at an early age develops today’s readers into tomorrow’s leaders.

CRDL Adult Literacy Tutor Training

2009-04-24T10:26:00.002-04:00

Hopefully you're already signed up. Free adult literacy tutor training starts tonight (Friday) at 6pm and again tomorrow (Saturday) morning at 9am at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system.

We'll see you there.

CRDL Mad Science Lab

2009-04-23T08:04:00.002-04:00

One of the CRDL Mad Scientists crazy experiments has run off again and he's gone after it...leaving the door to the CRDL Mad Science Lab wide open. So we're inviting you to have some fun with the weird concoctions and crazy whatchamajiggies he's left lying around.

Stop by the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system Wednesday anytime between 3pm and 5pm on Wednesday April 29th and have some fun in the CRDL Mad Science Lab.

The CRDL Mad Science Lab is appropriate for all ages, but parents are encouraged to help their children with the experiments. Experiments are available on a first come first serve basis while supplies last.

Free Adult Literacy Tutor Training

2009-04-22T08:23:00.002-04:00

Learn the skills necessary to help adults in our community improve their reading skills. There's still room. Call Linda at 989.773.3242 ext. 20 and tell her you want to become an adult literacy tutor.

CRDL Holiday Closing

2009-04-06T13:43:00.001-04:00

All branches of the Chippewa River District Library system will be closing at Noon on Friday April 10th and will be closed all day on Sunday April 12th so that our Patrons and staff can spend the holiday's with their families and friends.

CRDL Dinner and Discussion...Tonight

2009-03-24T08:39:00.002-04:00

CRDL Dinner and Discussion is a book discussion group for children in grades 5th-7th. Tonight we’ll discuss Chasing Vermeer while munching on some free pizza. CRDL Dinner and Discussion happens tonight at 6pm at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system.

Children’s and teen book discussion groups offer the opportunity to share and consider differing viewpoints and develop comprehensive and empathetic thinking skills in a relaxed setting.
Participating in book discussion groups at an early age develops today’s readers into tomorrow’s leaders.

What do you want from your library?

2009-03-17T08:44:00.002-04:00

2008 was an eventful year for the Chippewa River District Library. The millage passing in August means that basic operations have been secured for the next 10 years but many decisions still need to be made on how to best utilize the library’s limited resources. The needs of the community as well as the ability of the library to meet those needs have changed since our last plan in 2002. Throughout 2009 the CRDL will be looking for community input to help the library Board of Directors decide how to best maximize library resources to meet current community needs. To do this, we will be undertaking the Public Library Association’s Strategic Planning for Results to develop a plan for the next three years.

We will rely on a committee that will be a combination of people who can speak for all the constituencies in our community and who can reflect the demographics of the community. The focus of the planning committee will be to defne a vision for the community, identify what needs to happen to reach that vision, and how the library can make a contribution toward achieving that vision.

We are also fortunate to have the Central Michigan University Center for Applied Research and Rural Studies working on a community wide survey about library services and community needs to help collect more statistical information. The results of that study will be used by the Strategic Planning Community Committee to help make their recommendations to the Library Board of Directors.

If you're interested in more information about the library's Strategic Planning, click the Strategic Planning button at crdl.org, and click to read the article from the Morning Sun.

CRDL Twilight DVD Premiere

2009-03-13T08:23:00.001-04:00

The best selling book by Stephenie Meyer turned blockbuster movie is being released to DVD on Saturday March 21st and your Chippewa River District Library is celebrating. Saturday the 21st, we’re going to keep the lights on after hours and show Twilight on the big screen in the CRDL Annex Meeting Room.

The CRDL Twilight DVD Premiere is free, but seating is limited. The doors to the CRDL Annex Meeting Room will open at 5:30pm. We’ll pop the popcorn, you just come and enjoy Twilight on the big screen.

At the end of the night someone will go home with their own copy of the DVD so don’t forget to register to win.

Celebrating March

2009-03-12T08:35:00.002-04:00

Chocolate-chip cookies, Kevlar, potato chip bags and windshield wipers. What do these things have in common? Each was invented by a woman!

Last week, we at CRDL told you March is National Reading Month. Did you know March is Women’s History Month, too? The best part is CRDL has resources for you to learn all about it!

We promise history can be interesting. For example, Hillary Clinton is widely recognized for her campaign for President, but she wasn’t the first to make the run. Way back in 1872, Victoria Woodhull ran for President of the United States–and this was before women could vote! You can read all about her in “A Woman for President: The Story of Victoria Woodhull,” by Kathleen Krull.

I bet there’s a lot more you might not know about women’s history. Luckily, CRDL has many exciting books for you to check out!

Tonya Bolden’s “33 Things Every Girl Should Know About Women’s History” uses poems, essays, letters and photographs to help you learn tons of great facts and important female figures throughout American history.

Other great books to look for include Louise Bernikow’s “The American Women’s Almanac: An Inspiring and Irreverent Women’s History,” Virginia Law Burns’ “Bold Women in Michigan History” and Constance Jones’ “1001 Things Everyone Should Know About Women’s History.”

It’s fun to learn even more about all the well-known women in history, too. CRDL has lots to choose from, including books on Rosa Parks, Susan B. Anthony, Madame C.J. Walker, Amelia Earhart, Pocahontas and tons more.

With so much to read for Women’s History Month, it should be easy finishing your four books for CRDL’s Books Are Lifesavers. Don’t forget to pick up your log sheets today at Veterans Memorial Library or Faith Johnston Memorial Library. After completing and logging four books, bring in your sheet, because you’ll be very sweetly rewarded.

As always, great books, fun events and awesome activities can be found by visiting our newly-designed Web site at crdl.org. You’ll see why everyone’s saying, “I Love My Library!”

CRDL Music & Movement "Dance Party"

2009-03-10T08:19:00.002-04:00

It's a CRDL Dance Party. We'll open the doors to this special edition of CRDL Music and Movement on Wednesday March 11th at 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant.

Children are born with the ability to respond to music and sound. That means that before a child learns to speak, they connect with song and sound. Active participation in musical activities alters the anatomy of the brain. Early musical experiences intensify the development of interconnections between brain cells (neuronal synapses). Essentially, early musical experiences enhance a child’s ability to think, learn, reason and create.

For music to have a profound effect on brain development, a child must physically engage in musical activities. They need to feel, make, hear, and memorize sounds and patterns; they need to sing, clap, dance, and remember movements. Musical training physically develops the part of the left side of the brain known to be involved with processing language.

Young children with developed rhythm skills perform better academically.

Music is now being recognized as a form of intelligence, not just a manifestation of it.

Music enhances brain development

Music improves your child’s memory, problem solving techniques, understanding and recollection

Dancing, clapping and other choreographed physical movements develops a child’s fine and gross motor skills

Music aids language development

CRDL Music and Movement for children up to 5 years old.

CRDL Music and Movement happens the second Wednesday of the month at 10:15am at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library System (dates may occasionally vary, call 989.773.3242 or click http://crdl.org/ to verify)

March is National Reading Month

2009-03-05T10:42:00.002-05:00

March is National Reading Month. There's no better time to introduce young children to the early literacy skills they will need to succeed as adults. Early literacy is what children know about reading before they can actually read and write. Research shows that children get ready to read years before they start school. You, as parents, set the first example your child has at learning important skills that will help them become great readers. There are six pre-reading skills that children start learning from birth. They are:

Narrative skills - Being able to describe things and events and tell stories.

Print motivation - Being interested in and enjoying books.

Vocabulary - Knowing the names of things.

Phonological awareness - Being able to hear and play with the smaller sounds in words.

Letter knowledge - Knowing letters are different from each other, knowing their names and sounds and recognizing letters everywhere.

Print awareness - Noticing print, knowing how to handle a book and knowing how to follow the words on a page.

At each different variation of CRDL Storytime, we pick one or two of the six pre-reading skills and put together a series of stories, music and activities designed to develop those particular skills. While we can't focus on all six skills at once, we make it a priority to spotlight at least one or two of the skills at each CRDL Storytime and give parents ideas of how to work on developing those skills at home. CRDL Storytime, designed for preschool aged children, happens each Monday and Thursday at 10:15 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant, and each Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush. CRDL Lapsit Storytime happens the last Wednesday of each month at 10:15 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant. CRDL Lapsit Storytime is designed for children up to two years old. CRDL Music and Movement, an additional variation of the CRDL Storytime, is designed for children up to five years old and happens the second Wednesday of each month at 10:15 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Library.

To help celebrate March is National Reading Month, we're asking you to read as if your life depends on it. In fact we're claiming that Books are Lifesavers. You can pick up your reading log sheets at either Veterans Memorial Library or Faith Johnston Memorial Library and start reading. Finish four books during the month of March, and we'll reward you with free Lifesavers candy, kind of a sweet way to celebrate National Reading Month. Stop by either branch to pick up your log sheets today and start reading as if your life depends on it, because Books are Lifesavers.

There are a lot more fun events and activities on the calendar at your Chippewa River District Library. Click events on the newly redesigned crdl.org website and see why everyone's saying "I Love My Library".

Special CRDL Create Make & Take

2009-03-04T08:34:00.002-05:00

Since our winter chill hasn't gone away just yet, we're planning some after school fun inside today at your CRDL. We'll open the doors to the CRDL Community Rooms at Veterans Memorial Library at 3pm for a special Create, Make & Take. Stop in anytime between 3pm and 5pm for a variety of fun after school crafts.

We hope to see you there.

Books are Lifesavers

2009-03-03T08:55:00.003-05:00

March is National Reading Month. There’s no better time to introduce young children to the early literacy skills they will need to succeed as adults. Early literacy is what children know about reading before they can actually read and write. Research shows that children get ready to read years before they start school. You, as parents, set the first example your child has at learning important skills that will help them become great readers. There are six pre-reading skills that children start learning from birth. They are: 1. Narrative skills – Being able to describe things and events and tell stories, 2. Print motivation – Being interested in and enjoying books, 3. Vocabulary – Knowing the names of things, 4. Phonological awareness – Being able to hear and play with the smaller sounds in words, 5. Letter knowledge – Knowing letters are different from each other, knowing their names and sounds and recognizing letters everywhere, and 6. Print awareness - Noticing print, knowing how to handle a book and knowing how to follow the words on a page. At each different variation of CRDL Storytime, we pick one or two of the six pre-reading skills and put together a series of stories, music and activities designed to develop those particular skills. While we can’t focus on all six skills at once, we make it a priority to spotlight at least one or two of the skills at each CRDL Storytime and give parents ideas of how to work on developing those skills at home. CRDL Storytime, designed for preschool aged children, happens each Monday and Thursday at 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant, and each Wednesday at 11am at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush. CRDL Lapsit Storytime happens the last Wednesday of each month at 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant. CRDL Lapsit Storytime is designed for children up to two years old. CRDL Music and Movement, an additional variation of the CRDL Storytime, is designed for children up to five years old and happens the second Wednesday of each month at 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library.
To help celebrate March is National Reading Month, we’re asking you to read as if your life depends on it. In fact we’re claiming that Books are Lifesavers. You can pick up your reading log sheets at either Veterans Memorial Library or Faith Johnston Memorial Library and start reading. Finish four books during the month of March, and we’ll reward you with free Lifesavers candy, kind of a sweet way to celebrate National Reading Month. Stop by either branch to pick up your log sheets today and start reading as if your life depends on it, because Books are Lifesavers.
There are a lot more fun events and activities on the calendar at your Chippewa River District Library. Click events on the newly redesigned crdl.org website and see why everyone’s saying “I Love My Library”.

Stupendamazfastic LEGO Fun!!

2009-02-26T13:33:00.002-05:00

Last night we opened the doors to the CRDL Annex Meeting Room and it seemed like all of Central Michigan poured into to view and vote for their favorite LEGO Creation. If you recall, nearly two months ago we put out the call for the young and young at heart to build their own one of a kind LEGO creation for our 1st ever CRDL LEGO contest. With this being our first year we weren't expecting a whole lot of response, maybe a few buildings here...a couple spaceships there...maybe a car or two. What we actually got was a whole lot more....A WHOLE LOT MORE!! When the submission deadline hit and we closed the doors, there were 56 entries in 6 different age groups. Our judges didn't know what they were in for and toiled for a good hour and a half rating each creation based on creativity, originality, artistic merit, difficulty, and following the guidelines. Once all was said and done, we had our winners....well all but one. When we opened the doors back up at 5pm it was your turn to pick your 1 favorite, the one that you though captured the spirit of the competition. That winner was.....Nathanial Gall with his "Laboratory of Imagination". You can view the rest of the winners and some pictures at crdl.org.

Thank you for making our first ever CRDL LEGO contest such a huge success and we hope to see you next year at our 2nd annual CRDL LEGO contest.

CRDL LEGO Contest

2009-02-24T13:39:00.002-05:00

2 months of 'build time' come to a close tomorrow as we put the final pieces of our 1st ever CRDL LEGO contest together. Patrons from throughout Central Michigan have today and tomorrow until 1pm to drop their own one-of-a-kind LEGO creation off at Veterans Memorial Library for a chance to win.

Our judges are going to look for creativity and originality as they score each piece.

The doors to the CRDL Annex Meeting Room will open at 5pm (on Wednesday the 25th), and we invite you to stop, view the creations, and cast your vote for the Peoples Choice.

CRDL Lapsit Storytime

2009-02-23T09:59:00.002-05:00

Put a hat and mittens on the kids and trudge over to the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system Wednesday February 25th forCRDL Lapsit Storytime.

Early literacy is what children know about reading before they can actually read and write. Research shows that children get ready to read years before they start school. Developing important skills now will help children become great readers.

There are six pre-reading skills children can start learning from birth, they are:

Narrative skills – Being able to describe things and events and tell stories

Print motivation – Being interested in and enjoying books

Vocabulary – Knowing the names of things

Phonological awareness – Being able to hear and play with the smaller sounds in words

Letter knowledge – Knowing letters are different from each other, knowing their names and sounds and recognizing letters everywhere

Print awareness - Noticing print, knowing how to handle a book and knowing how to follow the words on a page

DuringCRDL Lapsit Storytime, we pick one or two of the “six pre-reading skills” and put together a series of stories, music and activities designed to develop those particular skills. While we can’t focus on all six skills at once, we make it a priority to spotlight at least one or two of the skills at each CRDL Lapsit Storytime and then give parents ideas of how to work on developing those skills at home.CRDL Lapsit Storytime is free, open to the public, and happens the last Wednesday of each month. For more information about CRDL Lapsit Storytime, or more information about events and activities happening at your CRDL call 989.773.3242 or click crdl.org.

A busy week at your CRDL

2009-02-20T08:16:00.002-05:00

Not only do we have CRDL Storytime on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, but we also have:

CRDL Dinner & Discussion on Tuesday
CRDL Faith's Book Sense on Tuesday
CRDL Lapsit Storytime on Wednesday
CRDL Create Make & Take on Thursday
CRDL Computer Classes on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday
The 1st ever CRDL Teen YouTube contest
A chance to win Celebration Cinema gift cards

...and...

Judging and the awards ceremony for our 1st ever CRDL LEGO contest this coming Wednesday. Remember, your entries need to be dropped off to the Veterans Memorial Library on Tuesday between 10am and 9pm or Wednesday between 10am and 1pm. The doors will open at 5pm for you to check out all the amazing creations and vote for the People's Choice Awards.

Our Judges will rank the creations based on a number of factors and determine our winners in each age category.

The awards ceremony will start at 6:30pm.

Hope you see everybody there.

CRDL Lapsit Storytime coming Wednesday the 25th

2009-02-18T10:32:00.002-05:00

Put a hat and mittens on the kids and trudge over to the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system Wednesday, February 25th for CRDL Lapsit Storytime.

CRDL Lapsit Storytime is designed for children from birth to 2 years of age. Exposure to the rhythms of language and music can help introduce very young children to books and reading. Traditional rhymes, basic finger plays, bounces, and activity songs, as well as circle activities that utilize both large and small motor skills are incorporated in the Lapsit program. In addition, caregivers work with their children to help build the bond between them.

There are six pre-reading skills children can start learning from birth, they are:

Narrative skills – Being able to describe things and events and tell stories

Print motivation – Being interested in and enjoying books

Vocabulary – Knowing the names of things

Phonological awareness – Being able to hear and play with the smaller sounds in words

Letter knowledge – Knowing letters are different from each other, knowing their names and sounds and recognizing letters everywhere

Print awareness - Noticing print, knowing how to handle a book and knowing how to follow the words on a page

DuringCRDL Lapsit Storytime, we pick one or two of the “six pre-reading skills” and put together a series of stories, music and activities designed to develop those particular skills. While we can’t focus on all six skills at once, we make it a priority to spotlight at least one or two of the skills at each CRDL Lapsit Storytime and then give parents ideas of how to work on developing those skills at home. CRDL Lapsit Storytime is free, open to the public, and happens the last Wednesday of each month. For more information about CRDL Lapsit Storytime, or more information about events and activities happening at your CRDL call 989.773.3242 or click crdl.org.

CRDL After School Homework Help

2009-02-17T09:37:00.002-05:00

The Chippewa River District Library System is continuing its CRDL After School Homework Help program a year after its launch, offering homework assistance from CMU students enrolled in the College of Education and Human Services.

Homework help is available now through April 30th

Tuesdays 3pm-6pm
Wednesdays 3pm-6pm
Thursdays 3pm-6pm

The pilot program, which originated last school year (2007-2008), was met with open arms from students and parents throughout Central Michigan. After analyzing the pilot program, library leadership found there was a demand for homework assistance beyond the times offered and adjustments were made to accommodate families who couldn’t get to the library until later in the evening.

CRDL After School Homework Help is staffed by volunteer CMU students enrolled in the College of Education and Human Services. They are available each Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday between 3pm and 6pm at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library System.

The Chippewa River District Library has received much positive feedback on the program, which is provided in conjunction with CMU’s College of Education and Human Services. For more information on CRDL After School Homework Help or other events and activities available at your Chippewa River District Library, call 989.773.3242 or click http://www.crdl.org/.

CRDL Teen Night: Forget the Romance

2009-02-16T10:19:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow night (2/17/09) teens from around Central Michigan will be able to skip all the Valentine's hoopla and skip right to the good stuff....CHOCOLATE!!

We'll break our the fondue pot and a huge pile of goodies for dipping and dive into a Valentine's favorite, the chocolate, without all the mushy gushy smoochie stuff.

Space is limited, so if you want to attend, you need to register at the Children's Desk at Veterans Memorial Library, or call 989.773.3242 ext. 13.

CRDL Teen Nights are for teens in grades 7-12.

After School Homework Help is Back

2009-02-13T09:01:00.002-05:00

The CRDL After School Homework Help program is back again, offering homework assistance from CMU students enrolled in the College of Education and Human Services.

Homework help is available now through April 30th, 2009
Tuesdays 3pm-6pm
Wednesdays 3pm-6pm
Thursdays 3pm-6pm

The pilot program, which originated last school year (2007-2008), was met with open arms from students and parents throughout Central Michigan. After analyzing the pilot program, library leadership found there was a demand for homework assistance beyond the times offered and adjustments were made to accommodate families who couldn’t get to the library until later in the evening.

CRDL After School Homework Help is staffed by volunteer CMU students enrolled in the College of Education and Human Services. They are available each Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday between 3pm and 6pm at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library System.

The Chippewa River District Library has received much positive feedback on the program, which is provided in conjunction with CMU’s College of Education and Human Services. For more information on CRDL After School Homework Help or other events and activities available at your Chippewa River District Library, call 989.773.3242 or click http://www.crdl.org/

1st ever CRDL YouTube Contest

2009-02-12T10:08:00.002-05:00

Think about all the great things your CRDL has to offer; DVD’s, CD’s, audio books, downloadable books and videos, computer access, video game events, graphic novels, books, magazines, and much much more. Since the American Library Association’s Teen Tech Week theme this year is “Press Play @ Your Library” we’re asking teens to make a YouTube Video showing the many ways you can “Press Play @ Your Library”. You can pickup CRDL Teen YouTube Contest rules at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system or click here and print them from crdl.org starting Monday February 16th. Grab your cameras and start shooting. Deadline to have your videos submitted is Tuesday March 3rd by 5pm.

2 chances at early childhood literacy today

2009-02-11T08:09:00.002-05:00

We have 2 programs available today that both focus on early childhood literacy.

The first is CRDL Music & Movement @ 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant

- Young children with developed rhythm skills perform better academically.
- Music is now being recognized as a form of intelligence, not just a manifestation of it.
- Music enhances brain development
- Music improves your child’s memory, problem solving techniques, understanding and recollection
- Dancing, clapping and other choreographed physical movements develops a child’s fine and gross motor skills
- Music aids language development

The second is CRDL Storytime at 11am at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush

Early literacy is what children know about reading before they can actually read and write. Research shows that children get ready to read years before they start school. You can help your child learn important skills now so they can become great readers.Six pre-reading skills you child can start learning from birth are:

1. Narrative skills – Being able to describe things and events and tell stories
2. Print motivation – Being interested in and enjoying books
3. Vocabulary – Knowing the names of things
4. Phonological awareness – Being able to hear and play with the smaller sounds in words
5. Letter knowledge – Knowing letters are different from each other, knowing their names and sounds and recognizing letters everywhere
6. Print awareness - Noticing print, knowing how to handle a book and knowing how to follow the words on a page

During CRDL Storytime, we pick one or two of the “six pre-reading skills” and put together a series of stories, music and activities designed to develop those particular skills. While we can’t focus on all six skills at once, we make it a priority to spotlight at least one or two of the skills at each CRDL Storytime and give parents ideas of how to work on developing those skills at home.

Taxes...gotta do 'em

2009-02-10T08:57:00.002-05:00

Will Rogers once said, “Income tax has made more liars out of the American people than golf.” Unfortunately it is that time again when the income tax forms must be filed.

The library cannot assist you with your actual tax preparation, but we do have many resources to assist you. Both IRS and Michigan tax forms are available at your CRDL. A variety of common tax forms are provided such as IRS 1040, 1040A, and 1040EZ instructions and forms, the various schedules, and other forms such as Earned Income Credit, Education Credits, and Noncash Charitable Contributions. If you can’t find the forms you need, nearly all Federal and Michigan tax forms are available online through the IRS (http://www.irs.gov/) and the Michigan Taxes, Department of the Treasury (www.michigan.gov/taxes). You can visit these sites directly or find the links on the CRDL.org website or have our reference staff find the form you want. You can also order tax forms from the IRS by calling 800-829-3676.

You can also file your taxes online at the library. This is faster, cheaper and more accurate for the government and for taxpayers. Go to the IRS and Michigan Taxes websites, click on the e-file links. Both sites offer extensive instructions on getting started, including selecting an e-file partner. Both the IRS and Michigan Taxes have help lines; IRS (800-829-1040) and Michigan Taxes (800-827-4000).

CRDL Family Science Night...TOMORROW!

2009-02-09T10:08:00.002-05:00

CRDL Family Science Night is a free event, but supplies are limited. Experiments will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis. Experiments are appropriate for all ages and parents are encouraged to help and interact with their children while participating. CRDL Family Science Night is for families, no adults will be permitted without a child chaperone.

When 1,500 school children in a national study were asked what they thought made a happy family, they didn't list things like money or cars, their number-one answer was doing things together. Children want parents to show interest in their activities, do things with them, and talk with them. Giving time is an important way of showing love and appreciation. A strong family finds that opportunities for quality time emerge from quantity time: the more time you spend together, the better chance you have of sharing quality experiences. Eating meals together, talking about the events of the day, sharing joys and defeats, doing household chores together, and spending some evenings popping corn and watching movies are examples of shared activities. Some families even schedule one evening every week for special family activities. Healthy families keep a good balance between "too much" and "not enough" time together. They spend enough time to satisfy all family members. Children learn to bring balance to their lives when they see their parents setting aside time for what they value.

What will we be doing at CRDL Family Science Night? We have 4 experiments planned, however, sometimes our CRDL Mad Scientists get a little carried away and...we'll let's just say things don't go as planned. Sometimes we have to switch experiments, but as of right now here's what we have planned.

Atomic Slime. Slime is a great way to introduce children to the chemistry behind cross-linking solutions. Thelong-linking chains of molecules are called polymers; the other solution acts as a cross-linking agent for these polymers and helps the chains connect. Slime solution is also a great illustration of what scientists call a “Non-Newtonian Fluid”… when you apply pressure it forms a sort of solid and breaks. When you let it flow like a liquid it easily stretches. All of these science secrets are made even better with the addition of a special coloring agent that fluoresces under black light. When the energy from the black light “excites” the fluorescent dye, you end up with a brightly glowing, very exciting, ooey, gooey experiment!

Tornado in a Bottle. Create a tornado in a bottle! This exciting experiment is a hands-on demonstration of "VORTEX ACTION." Use this experiment to study kinetic and potential energy, as well as the atmospheric conditions needed to create a tornado vortex. Introduce yourself to kinetic energy and potential energy. Discover how air pressure and density work together to create an incredible force of nature. Learn about the science of vortex energy, the swirling, twisting and spiraling action that can be found everywhere in nature.

The Amazing Windbag. How many breaths does it take to inflate an 2 meter (8 ft) Windbag? 70 breaths, maybe? With a simple science secret you can amaze your family and friends by blowing up your Windbag in one breath! Learn about the properties of air molecules and how they move. Demonstrate the scientific principle called the Bernoulli Effect, which explains why you can blow up the amazing Windbag with only one breath!

Grass Hair Planters. Have fun with plants. Create the most hilarious, most bizarre planters you've ever seen out of nylon, sawdust and grass seed. This project will inspire gardeners of all ages.

* Experiments may be subject to change without notice

The experiments have limited quantities so plan on getting to CRDL Family Science Night early and see why everybody's saying "I Love My Library"

CRDL Storytime - More than just stories

2009-02-05T10:12:00.004-05:00

There are six pre-reading skills you child can start learning from birth, they are:

1. Narrative skills – Being able to describe things and events and tell stories

2. Print motivation – Being interested in and enjoying books

3. Vocabulary – Knowing the names of things

4. Phonological awareness – Being able to hear and play with the smaller sounds in words.

5. Letter knowledge – Knowing letters are different from each other, knowing their names and sounds and recognizing letters everywhere

6. Print awareness - Noticing print, knowing how to handle a book and knowing how to follow the words on a page

During CRDL Storytime, we pick one or two of the “six pre-reading skills” and put together a series of stories, music and activities designed to develop those particular skills. While we can’t

focus on all six skills at once, we make it a priority to spotlight at least one or two of the skills at each CRDL Storytime and give parents ideas of how to work on developing those skills at home.

Come enjoy a CRDL Storytime with us. CRDL Storytime happens each Monday and Thursday at 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library, and each Wednesday at 11am at Faith Johnston Memorial Library

Taxes and more at your Library

2009-02-04T08:50:00.003-05:00

Will Rogers once said, “Income tax has made more liars out of the American people than golf.” Unfortunately it is that time again when the income tax forms must be filed.

CRDL Jazz and More at the Library returns to the library on Feb. 8th from 3:00-4:00
pm with a performance by Dan Kirchner and Ted Bailey followed by a social hour hosted by the FOL.

Computer classes include Greeting Cards w/Publisher on Friday, Feb. 6th from 1:00-2:30 pm, Windows Basics on Monday, Feb. 9th from 2:00 – 3:30 pm, Basic Internet on Tuesday Feb. 10th from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm, Basic Word Processing on Wednesday, Feb. 11th from 1:00 – 2:30 pm, and Email Basics on Thursday, Feb. 12th from 11:00 am – 12:30 pm. Please call the Computer Training Center to register 773-3242.

The CRDL Lego contest continues through Feb. 25th. Completed projects will be accepted at the Library Annex meeting room on Tuesday, Feb. 24th, between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m. and on Wednesday, Feb. 25th, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Judging will be the afternoon of Feb. 25th with an awards ceremony at 6:30 pm

CRDL Storytime is on Monday, Feb. 9th and Thursday, Feb. 12th from 10:15 – 11:00 am. CRDL Family Science Night is Tuesday, Feb. 10th from 6:00 – 7:30 pm. Stop in anytime for four different hands-on family-fun science experiments. Experiments are appropriate for all ages and parents are encouraged to help and interact with their children while participating. CRDL Family Science Night is for families, no adults will be permitted without a child chaperone. CRDL Music & Movement is Wednesday, Feb. 11th from 10:15 – 11:00 am.

Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush has CRDL Creative Minds on Tuesday, Feb. 10th from 6:30 – 8:00 pm. Chef Chris Bair will be sharing culinary secrets for anyone who would like to prepare something extra special for their someone special this Valentine's Holiday. CRDL Cook & Book is on Thursday Feb. 12th from 6:30 – 8:00 pm. It is a teen book discussion and cooking group for teens in grades 7-12 at FJML in Rosebush. Also on Thursday Feb. 12th from 4:00 – 5:00 pm is CRDL Create, Make & Take an opportunity for children to gather after school and create crafts, make memories, and take them home.

CRDL Family Science Night..next week.

2009-02-03T08:47:00.002-05:00

Turn off the video games, turn off the cell phones, and spend some fun family time together. On Tuesday, February 10th at 6pm, the doors to the CRDL Science Lab will open for CRDL Family Science Night. Stop into the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library System anytime between 6pm and 7:30pm for 4 different hands-on family-fun science experiments. CRDL Family Science Night is a free event, but supplies are limited. Experiments will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis. Experiments are appropriate for all ages and parents are encouraged to help and interact with their children while participating.

CRDL Family Science Night is for families, no adults will be permitted without a child chaperone.

Atomic Slime
Slime is a great way to introduce children to the chemistry behind cross-linking solutions. The
long-linking chains of molecules are called polymers; the other solution acts as a cross-linking agent for these polymers and helps the chains connect. Slime solution is also a great illustration of what scientists call a “Non-Newtonian Fluid”… when you apply pressure it forms a sort of solid and breaks. When you let it flow like a liquid it easily stretches. All of these science secrets are made even better with the addition of a special coloring agent that fluoresces under black light. When the energy from the black light “excites” the fluorescent dye, you end up with a brightly glowing, very exciting, ooey, gooey experiment!

Tornado in a Bottle
Create a tornado in a bottle! This exciting experiment is a hands-on demonstration of "VORTEX ACTION." Use this experiment to study kinetic and potential energy, as well as the atmospheric conditions needed to create a tornado vortex. Introduce yourself to kinetic energy and potential energy. Discover how air pressure and density work together to create an incredible force of nature. Learn about the science of vortex energy, the swirling, twisting and spiraling action that can be found everywhere in nature.

The Amazing Windbag
How many breaths does it take to inflate an 2 meter (8 ft) Windbag? 70 breaths, maybe? With a simple science secret you can amaze your family and friends by blowing up your Windbag in one breath! Learn about the properties of air molecules and how they move. Demonstrate the scientific principle called the Bernoulli Effect, which explains why you can blow up the amazing Windbag with only one breath!

Grass Hair Planters
Have fun with plants. Create the most hilarious, most bizarre planters you've ever seen out of nylon, sawdust and grass seed. This project will inspire gardeners of all ages.

* Experiments may be subject to change without notice

The experiments have limited quantities so plan on getting to CRDL Family Science Night early and see why everybody's saying "I Love My Library"

CRDL Jazz & More at the Library

2009-02-02T11:25:00.002-05:00

This Sunday, February 8th, we're going to make some noise at your Library. CRDL Jazz & More at the Library returns this Sunday at 3pm with a free performance by the guitar duo of Ted Bailey and Dan Kirchner. Each has played guitar for over 55 years in ensemble, duo, and solo modes.

Ted and Dan have been influenced and inspired by guitar giants such as Chet Atkins, Johnny Smith, Tony Mottola, Les Paul and Tommy Emmanuel to name just a few.

The Two Guitars repertoire ranges from country and folk to jazz and classical. It is normal fare for Ted and Dan to move from Autumn Leaves to Summertime to Malaguena and so on. Both players have created compositions to add to their already extensive repertoire.

Ted tends to play the melody with more of a straight approach while Dan bends the melody to suit his creative needs. Between the two players you will hear and see mastery of a wide variety of musical interpretations and guitar techniques.

CRDL Jazz & More at the Library is free, but space is limited. Get your seats in the CRDL Annex Meeting Room early for CRDL Jazz & More at the Library featuring the guitar duo of Ted Bailey and Dan Kirchner.

CRDL Jazz & More at the Library will be followed by a social hour hosted by the Friends of the Library.

CRDL Jazz & More at the Library is made possible by the Friends of the Library, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, and Art Reach of Mid Michigan.

Wii Bowling, next Tuesday

2009-01-29T09:27:00.002-05:00

This coming Tuesday, February 3rd, we'll fire up the Wii's for another CRDL Teen Night at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system. Our Teen Wii Bowling Tournament will start at 6pm in the CRDL Annex Meeting Room. Space in the tournament is limited, so pre-registration is required. Teens in grades 7-12 can register at the VML Children's Desk or call 989.773.3242 ext. 13 to register.

If you don't want to compete in the tournament we'll have other game systems set up that you can play just for fun.

Why does your library ofer video gaming?

Read A Revolution in Library Service - Gaming is more than just a lure into the library by Kelly Czarnecki -- School Library Journal

Read Gaming the Way to Literacy by Betha Gutsche

Read New ways librarians can support learning and literacy by Kit Ward-Crixell -- School Library Journal

If you need more information or have questions, just call 989.773.3242 and tell them you want more info on CRDL Teen Nights.

CRDL Lapsit Storytime tomorrow

2009-01-27T09:44:00.002-05:00

Put a hat and mittens on the kids and trudge over to the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system tomorrow (Wednesday, January 28th) for CRDL Lapsit Storytime.

There are six pre-reading skills children can start learning from birth, they are:

Narrative skills – Being able to describe things and events and tell stories

Print motivation – Being interested in and enjoying books

Vocabulary – Knowing the names of things

Phonological awareness – Being able to hear and play with the smaller sounds in words

Letter knowledge – Knowing letters are different from each other, knowing their names and sounds and recognizing letters everywhere

Print awareness - Noticing print, knowing how to handle a book and knowing how to follow the words on a page

CRDL Lapsit Storytime is free, open to the public, and happens the last Wednesday of each month. For more information about CRDL Lapsit Storytime, or more information about events and activities happening at your CRDL call 989.773.3242 or click http://www.crdl.org/.

CRDL Food For Fines

2009-01-23T08:33:00.002-05:00

Starting Monday, January 26th, we're teaming up with Today's Best Music 95.3 CFX and their CFX Caravan of Care. All week long CFX will be gathering items and food to benefit the Isabella County Red Cross Food Pantry, the Salvation Army, and the Isabella Community Soup Kitchen. To help CFX and to help you, all next week we'll be offering CRDL Food for Fines. Bring your canned goods to any CRDL branch. For each can you drop off we'll deduct $1 off your overdue fines. The best part of the deal is that all the food donated will be given to the CFX Caravan of Care to benefit those in our community who need a little extra help in these tough economic times.

You can drop off canned goods at any CRDL branch Monday through Friday (January 26th - January 30th).

CRDL Lapsit Storytime, next Wednesday

2009-01-22T08:59:00.002-05:00

Bundle the kids up, buckle them into their carseats, and spend some quality time with them at CRDL Lapsit Storytime next Wednesday, January 28th, at 10:15am at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the CRDL.

Six pre-reading skills children can start learning from birth are:
Narrative skills – Being able to describe things and events and tell stories
Print motivation – Being interested in and enjoying books
Vocabulary – Knowing the names of things
Phonological awareness – Being able to hear and play with the smaller sounds in words
Letter knowledge – Knowing letters are different from each other, knowing their names and sounds and recognizing letters everywhere
Print awareness - Noticing print, knowing how to handle a book and knowing how to follow the words on a page

CRDL Dinner & Discussion, next Tuesday

2009-01-21T08:54:00.003-05:00

Gregor the Overlander is our book for this coming Tuesday, January 27th. CRDL Dinner and Discussion is a book discussion group for children in grades 5-7. This month we're discussing Gregor the Overlander. If you haven't registered yet, you still have time. You can register and get your copy of this months book. Register at the Children's Desk at Veterans Memorial Library or call 989.773.3242 ext. 13.

Children and teens who actively participate in discussions about books they find interesting develop into critical and careful readers. They learn how to express their opinions in a group setting while developing the skills needed to articulate their own ideas about a variety of subjects.

Children’s and teen book discussion groups offer the opportunity to share and consider differing
viewpoints and develop comprehensive and empathetic thinking skills in a relaxed setting.

Participating in book discussion groups at and early age develops today’s readers into omorrow’s leaders.

CRDL Pizza and Pages

2009-01-20T08:47:00.003-05:00

Teens, bring your favorite book tonight. We're discussing our favorites while we munch of free pizza tonight during CRDL Pizza and Pages at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library.

CRDL Pizza and Pages is a book discussion group for teens (we throw in the free pizza because everybody loves pizza).

Children and teens who actively participate in discussions about books they find interesting develop into critical and careful readers. They learn how to express their opinions in a group setting while developing the skills needed to articulate their own ideas about a variety of subjects.

Teen book discussion groups offer teens the opportunity to share and consider differing viewpoints and develop comprehensive and empathetic thinking skills in a relaxed setting.

Participating in book discussion groups at and early age develops today’s readers into tomorrow’s leaders.

The fun continues

2009-01-18T13:51:00.003-05:00

Jim Gill's show on Saturday was amazing. If you had a chance to join us, I hope you had as great a time as I did. It's always wonderful to see not only the kids laughing and having fun, but their parents joining in right along side.

Just because Jim's show is over, doesn't mean the fun is over. We're still in the middle of Build Time for our 1st ever CRDL LEGO Contest. Rules and entry form can still be picked up at any CRDL branch or downloaded from the crdl.org website.

You can still take our CRDL Diary of a Wimpy Kid Quiz at the Veterans Memorial Library Children's Desk. Someone is going to win their own copy of the newest book in the series, Diary of a Wimpy Kid The Last Straw.

This coming Tuesday, January 20th, the teens are in for a treat. CRDL Pizza and Pages starts at 6pm at Veterans Memorial Library. This month we'll discuss our favorite books while munching on free pizza. If you haven't done it yet, you can register at the Children's Desk at Veterans Memorial Library or call 989.773.3242 ext 13 (by registering before the program, we know how much pizza to get).

As always you can click EVENTS at crdl.org to see a complete list of events and activities happening at your Chippewa River District Library.

Children's Performer Jim Gill This Saturday

2009-01-15T08:44:00.003-05:00

This Saturday, January 17th, we're welcoming children's performer Jim Gill to the Veterans Memorial Library branch of your Chippewa River District Library system. Jim is known as a musician and author, but he is also, by training, a child development specialist whose goal has always been to promote active play between adults andchildren with his music. Rather than perform for the children and parents, Jim leads them to sing and play together.b In concert, Jim bangs out energetic rhythms on his banjo while everyone claps, jumps, dances and even sneezes along.

The program is free and open to the public but space is limited so get there early.

Your Imagination is Calling...

2009-01-14T08:46:00.002-05:00

The first of the year marks the beginning of our first ever CRDL LEGO Competition. Now I could go on for pages reciting a bunch of medical jargon, full of six and eight syllable words that explain how building with LEGO is good for one's mind. I could tell you how it develops fine motor skills in young children, stimulates learning through imagination, strengthens hand-eye coordination and spatial relations, but the real reason we're doing this….it's fun. I can't think of one parent I know that doesn't have a tub of LEGOS tucked away somewhere. In fact, I can think of quite a few people I know who don't have kids, that still have a tub of LEGOS tucked away somewhere.

So crack open your LEGOS, crack open your imagination, and start building. The competition has six different age groups: Preschool, K-2nd grade, 3rd-5th grade, 6th-8th grade, 9th-12th grade, and over 18. You can build on your own, build as a team, even build as a family; what a great way to spend some quality time with your children. Turn off the TV, put down the cell phones and Nintendo DS's, shut down the computer and build together. There are really only two things we ask of you. One, keep it within the size limitations, and two, it has to be your own, original creation, no directions from kits or the Internet. You can pick up entry forms and rules at any CRDL branch location or print them from http://www.crdl.org/. On Wednesday, Feb. 25, our guest judges will be on hand to select winners in each age group; however we still need your help selecting the CRDL People's Choice Award. All the LEGO creations will be available for public viewing starting at 5 p.m. Feb. 25 at Veterans Memorial Library so that you can cast your vote. Good luck and good building!

Of course LEGO isn't the only thing happening at your Chippewa River District Library this new year. We wrapped up 2008 with a packed house performance by the Boogie Woogie Babies and we plan on making 2009 even more brilliant. All your favorites are still happening: CRDL Storytime each Monday and Thursday at Veterans Memorial Library and Wednesday at Faith Johnston Memorial Library, CRDL Music & Movement and CRDL Lapsit Storytime at the beginning and end of each month, CRDL Teen Nights, your CRDL Brown Bag Book Discussion Group, CRDL Faith's Book Sense, CRDL Pizza and Pages for the teens and CRDL Dinner & Discussion for those that aren't quite teens. We still have CRDL Cook n' Book, CRDL Create, Make & Take and, as you know, the best way to find out about everything happening at your Chippewa River District Library is to either click, sign-up, or just stop in. You can click "Events" at http://www.crdl.org/ to see what's happening. You can sign up for the CRDL Library Pages e-newsletter to find out what's happening. Or, you can just stop in and pick up a list of this month's events and activities.

Another date to circle on your calendar is this Saturday. Children's performer Jim Gill is stopping by the Veterans Memorial Library for some free family fun. Trained as a child development specialist, Jim takes his goal of promoting active play between adults and their children one step further. Instead of singing and dancing for you, he'll lead you to sing, dance, clap, jump, and even sneeze with your child. Jim's remarkable performance starts at 10 a.m. on Saturday and is free, but space is limited. As always we invite you to visit any CRDL branch or visit us online at http://www.crdl.org/ and see why everybody is saying "I Love My Library."

CRDL Lapsit Storytime tomorrow

2009-01-13T09:04:00.002-05:00

Put a hat and mittens on the kids and trudge over to the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system tomorrow (Wednesday, January 14th) for CRDL Lapsit Storytime.

Win the new Diary of a Wimpy Kid book

2009-01-12T09:11:00.002-05:00

You can win your very own copy of Diary of a Wimpy Kid The Last Straw. Ask for your CRDL Diary of a Wimpy Kid Quiz at the Children's Desk at Veterans Memorial Library. Everybody who takes the quiz will take home a Diary of a Wimpy Kid bookmark or tattoo (while supplies last) and will have a chance to win their very own copy of the newest book in the series, Diary of a Wimpy Kid The Last Straw. Quizzes must be turned into the Children's Desk at VML by Sunday, Feburary 1st. Good Luck.

Win the new Diary of a Wimpy Kid book at your Library

2009-01-09T09:43:00.002-05:00

Want to win your own copy of the upcoming 3rd Diary of a Wimpy Kid book? Ask for your CRDL Diary of a Wimpy Kid Quiz starting Monday January 12th at the Children’s Desk inside Veterans Memorial Library. Everybody who takes the Quiz will take home a Diary of a Wimpy Kid bookmark or tattoo and will have a chance to win their very own copy of the newest book in the series, Diary of a Wimpy Kid The Last Straw.

Quizzes must be turned into the Children’s Desk at Veterans Memorial Library by Sunday, February 1st. Winners will be chosen randomly from all entries and contacted the week of February 2nd.

Good Luck.

Fun stuff coming up

2009-01-08T08:33:00.003-05:00

We're pretty excited about some upcoming events at your CRDL. As part of our CRDL Health Notes series, Amy Jo Howard from Herbs Etc. will show you Natural Ways to a New You tonight at 6:30pm at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush.

Good Company performs during CRDL Jazz and More at the Library this coming Sunday, January 11th, at 3pm at Veterans Memorial Library. Jazz and More at the Library is made possible by the Friends of the Library, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, and Art Reach of Mid Michigan.

CRDL Music and Movement is back next Wednesday, January 14th, at 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library.

And on Saturday January 17th, we're welcoming children's performer Jim Gill to Veterans Memorial Library. Jim Gill is known as a musician and author, but he is also, by training, a child development specialist whose goal has always been to promote active play between adults and
children with his music. Rather than perform for the children and parents, Jim leads them to sing and play together. In concert, Jim bangs out energetic rhythms on his banjo while everyone claps, jumps, dances and even sneezes along.

As always, everything is free but space is limited so get there early.

Today at your Library

2009-01-06T11:35:00.002-05:00

We have a couple events tonight that'll get the teens out of the house.

We'll open the doors to another CRDL Teen Night: Video Game Open Play at 6pm at Veterans Memorial Library.

Then at 7pm, CRDL Knit One Chat Too will start at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush.

None of these events would be possible without help from our CRDL Teen Advisory Board. The TAB helps decide the direction of Teen events throughout the library district. If you'd like to be part of the decision making process, there's a CRDL TAB meeting tonight at 5pm at Veterans Memorial Library. We'd love to see you there.

1st ever CRDL LEGO Contest

2009-01-05T09:03:00.005-05:00

We're starting 2009 with something new, your first ever CRDL LEGO Contest. We invite everybody to break out your tub of LEGO pieces, start up your imagination, and create your own original LEGO creation.

Don't think it's for you? It sure is. There are 6 different age groups, and prizes will be awarded in each group.

You can pickup rules and entry forms at any CRDL branch or by clicking here.

Good luck and happy building.

1st Ever CRDL LEGO Contest

2008-12-23T09:58:00.003-05:00

Something fun that we've never done before starts Monday January 5th. Our 1st ever CRDL LEGO Contest. On the 5th you can either pickup entry forms and rules & guidelines at any CRDL branch or online at http://www.crdl.org/.

Then start building. We have it broken down into 6 different age groups based on grade: preschool, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12, and 18 or older.

Prizes will be awareded in each age group.

Dump that bucket of LEGO onto the floor and start building!!

Holiday Reminder

2008-12-22T09:31:00.003-05:00

Just a reminder, all branches of the Chippewa River District Library system will be closed on Wednesday December 24th, Thursday December 25th, Wednesday December 31st, and Thursday January 1st so that our Patrons and staff may spend the Holidays with their families and friends.

Happy Holidays!!

Boogie Woogie Babies

2008-12-18T09:49:00.002-05:00

Tonight's the night. The Boogie Woogie Babies perform live at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of your Chippewa River District Library system tonight at 6:30pm.

The Boogie Woogie Babies will combine three of their favorite shows into one amazing high-energy performance. The Boogie Woogie Babies will perform the swing sounds of WWII from their show Boogie Woogie Babies – a 1940’s Music Review featuring the fabulous harmonies of the Andrews Sisters. You’ll love reminiscing and celebrating their tribute to Broadway with their Boogie Down Broadway show featuring the sounds of: South Pacific, Wonderful Town, Hair, Annie Get Your Gun, the Sound of Music, Chess, Follies, Cabaret, a Chorus Line and More. Your favorites will be back with their tribute to girl groups and girl singers throughout pop music history as the Boogie Woogie Babies perform portions of their show Beehives & Beyond featuring the songs of the McGuire Sisters, the Shirelles, the Cookies, Debbie Reynolds, Carol King, Diana Ross and more. We are very excited to be able to bring the Boogie Woogie Babies back due to a generous donation from the Mount Pleasant General Federated Women’s Club.

There are no tickets needed, no pre-registration, but seating space is limited. So get there early.

Boogie Woogie and Build at your Library

2008-12-16T08:19:00.001-05:00

Don’t finalize those Holiday plans or ship that wish list off to St. Nick just yet, there’s a couple events happening at your Chippewa River District Library system that you may want to add. Thursday December 18th at 6:30pm the Boogie Woogie Babies will combine three of their favorite shows into one amazing high-energy performance at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant. The Boogie Woogie Babies will perform the swing sounds of WWII from their show Boogie Woogie Babies – a 1940’s Music Review featuring the fabulous harmonies of the Andrews Sisters. You’ll love reminiscing and celebrating their tribute to Broadway with their Boogie Down Broadway show featuring the sounds of: South Pacific, Wonderful Town, Hair, Annie Get Your Gun, the Sound of Music, Chess, Follies, Cabaret, a Chorus Line and More. Your favorites will be back with their tribute to girl groups and girl singers throughout pop music history as the Boogie Woogie Babies perform portions of their show Beehives & Beyond featuring the songs of the McGuire Sisters, the Shirelles, the Cookies, Debbie Reynolds, Carol King, Diana Ross and more. “We are very excited to be able to bring the Boogie Woogie Babies back due to a generous donation from the Mount Pleasant General Federated Women’s Club. When the Boogie Woogie Babies were here in 2006, the CRDL Annex Meeting Room was packed. They always put on a fun nostalgic show that reminds those attending of the Andrew Sisters” said CRDL Community Services Librarian Sue Ellen Deni-Owen. There are no tickets needed, no pre-registration, but seating space is limited. So circle Thursday December 18th on your calendar and pencil in the Boogie Woogie Babies at 6:30pm at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant.

Now on to that wish list of yours. You might want to ask old St. Nick for an extra box or two of LEGO®. Starting January 5th your Chippewa River District Library will invite you to put your imagination to the test and build your own one-of-a-kind LEGO® creation. Take your time, make sure every piece is in place, and then on Wednesday February 25th judges will review all the entries and hand out awards for the best original LEGO® creations in 6 different age groups; preschool, grades K-2, grades 3-5, grades 6-8, grades 9-12, and 18 years and older. The rules, regulations, and entry forms will be available at the library or online at http://www.crdl.org/ starting on January 5th. So put that tub of LEGO® pieces that’s sitting in the basement and your imagination to good use. Your creation could earn you prizes from your Chippewa River District Library.

Looking for more fun free events for everybody in the family? Visit your library. For a complete list of events and activities happening throughout your Chippewa River District Library system you can stop at any branch or click the events tab on the http://www.crdl.org/ website.

Boogie Woogie Babies this Thursday

2008-12-15T10:43:00.001-05:00

Get ready to jump, jive, and wail with the Boogie Woogie Babies, an entertaining, high-energy vocal trio coming to the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system this Thursday, December 18th, at 6:30pm. Boogie Woogie Babies is an original 1940's music review, featuring the swing sounds of WWII, Boogie-Behives-&Beyond, and Boogie Down Broadway. The program is made possible by the GFWC.

Hope to see you there.

CRDL Jazz & More at the Library this Sunday

2008-12-12T08:40:00.002-05:00

Shhhh is one thing you won't hear this Sunday (December 14th) at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of your Chippewa River District Library system. Jazz and More at the Library returns with a free performance by David Schock and Bernie Meltsner at 3pm in the CRDL Annex Meeting Room.

Bernie Meltsner brings with him a 75-plus year playing tradition. Although initially schooled in classical piano, Bernie broke the mold, watched and listened to the greats in New York City (his hometown), and honed his talents. His stride left hand is reminiscent of Art Tatum’s performance. Before helping to form the Usual Suspects, Meltsner played at Vanelli’s, once a popular nightspot in downtown Detroit. And while Meltsner has always performed, his vocation for most of his life centered around chemistry. He holds a bachelor’s degree from CCNY and a master’s from Brooklyn Polytechnic. Before his retirement, he worked as a chemist for Ethyl Corporation. Since his retirement, he’s served as a volunteer researcher with Dr. Tom Delia in Central Michigan University’s Chemistry Department.

Trumpeter David Schock is a frequent performer on the west side of the state, where he now lives. Schock grew up in Midland and, from high school, moved into playing professionally with small groups. In the legitimate field, he has performed with the Saginaw Symphony, the Midland Symphony, and has taught at the Conservatory of Lebanon. Schock holds a bachelor’s degree in Religion from Albion College, a master’s in Journalism from Central Michigan University, and a doctorate in Creative Writing and Literary Criticism (under the tutelage of the late Dr. Russell Kirk) from International College. He is a writer and film producer. With saxophonist John Nichol he started the Jazz at the Library series eighteen years ago.

Jazz and More at the Library is made possible by the Friends of the Library, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, and Art Reach of Mid-Michigan.

Warm & toasty in your library

2008-12-11T09:05:00.002-05:00

After a couple snow days the CRDL After School Lounge is back open today (Thursday 12/11). We start the day with a CRDL Storytime at 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library, CRDL Create Make & Take starts at 4pm at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush, the free CRDL Computer Class "Google: Even the Kitchen Sink" starts at 6:30pm in the CRDL Computer Training Center.

Don't forget to circle Thursday the 18th on your calendar and pencil in the Boogie Woogie Babies. The free concert starts at 6:30pm at Veterans Memorial Library in Rosebush.

Library events cancelled

2008-12-09T13:39:00.002-05:00

Due to the weather, all after school and evening activities have been canceled. Stay safe!

2008-12-08T11:49:00.003-05:00

Getting ready for the Holidays can make your life a little crazy. Don't forget to make some time for yourself. Jazz and More at the Library featuring Bernie Meltsner and David Schock starts at 3pm this coming Sunday at Veterans Memorial Library. CRDL Holiday Tea starts at 4pm This Wednesday (Dec. 10) at 4pm at Veterans Memorial Library.

For the kids there's CRDL Storytime Mondays and Thursdays at 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library and Wednesdays at 11am at Faith Johnston Memorial Library. CRDL Music and Movement starts at 10:15am this Wednesday (Dec. 10) at Veterans Memorial Library.

And don't forget to add the Boogie Woogie Babies to your calendar. The free family show starts at 6:30pm on Thursday Dec. 18th at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant.

Looking for more free fun? There's always something happening at your CRDL, click the crdl.org website to see what's happening next.

Isabella County 1859-2009

2008-12-04T11:34:00.003-05:00

Local author Jack Westbrook will present materials from his book Isabella County 1859-2009 tonight at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system. Jack's free program will start at 6pm tonight.

2008-12-01T14:37:00.003-05:00

Shhhh is one thing you won't hear on Sunday December 14th at your Chippewa River District Library. Jazz and More at the Library returns to Veterans Memorial Library with a free performance by David Schock and Bernie Meltsner at 3pm in the CRDL Annex Meeting Room.

Jazz and More at the Library is made possible by the Friends of the Library, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, and Art Reach of Mid-Michigan.

Mario Kart Kompetition

2008-12-01T14:18:00.002-05:00

I'm not sure if you already have this on your calendar or not, but on Tuesday December 16th we're holding our first evern Mario Kart Kompetition. We'll fire up the Wii's at 6pm and won't stop until we have our champion. Space in the Kompetition is limited, so if you want to race, make sure you register either by stopping at the Children's Desk, or by calling 989.773.3242 ext 13.

The Mario Kart Kompetition is for teens in grades 7-12, and will be held in the CRDL Annex Meeting Room at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant.

See you at the starting line!

Holida

2008-11-25T10:27:00.003-05:00

Just a reminder, all branches of the Chippewa River District Library will be closing as of 6pm on Wednesday November 26th and will remain closed the 27th and 28th for the holiday. Library services will resume on Saturday the 29th.

CRDL Teen Night: Video Game Open Play

2008-11-24T09:30:00.002-05:00

Put it on your calendar. Tuesday, December 9th we're opening the CRDL Annex Meeting Room for another CRDL Teen Night. This time there's no tournament, no specific game, we're just going to turn on the video game systems for a couple hours and go to town. We've got a couple Wii's, an X-Box, and a couple Nintendo Game Cubes that we'll have hooked up and ready. There's no registration for this one, just a free-for-all for the teens.

Just remember that CRDL Teen Nights are for teens in grades 7-12.

Bring your friends and we'll see you there.

Bats on the Brain

2008-11-20T12:13:00.002-05:00

I just checked with the Organization for Bat Conservation and they're all set to present "Bats of the World" on Saturday at Veterans Memorial Library. The presentation starts at 2pm, it's free and open to the public, but seating space is limited (you might want to get there a little early). And incase you were wondering, yes they will be bringing live bats with them.

We hope to see you Saturday

CRDL Teen Pizza Taste Off - and the winner is..?

2008-11-19T11:39:00.001-05:00

This past Tuesday, teens from throughout our community sacrificed their time and put their taste buds on the line to determine who, in their opinion, makes the best pizza. The tension in the room was so thick you could cut it with a pizza wheel. They nibbled, pondered, savored, made notes, and nibbled again. Some nodded, confirming their previous impression; others shook their heads as preconceived beliefs were changed. And in the end one pizza restaurant emerged victorious.

Yea, you’re right, I don’t think it was that torturous for a group of teens to eat a bunch of free pizza and vote for what they thought was the best. All in all it was a fun evening, a chance for teens to gather in a safe and structured environment, a chance for them to grow socially and emotionally…just don’t tell them that. They still think it was all about the pizza.

Once all the tables were wiped down, and the empty boxes were thrown away (according to the county website, they don’t accept pizza boxes for recycling), we had our winners. Before we tell you who the teens picked, I want to say that all the pizza contributions were mouth-watering, and the results were very close. But the teens cast their votes and the award for Best Crust went to Papa John’s. Domino’s took home the award for best sauce. The Award for Best Cheese went to Papa John’s. And the coveted Best Overall Taste award went to…here’s where the drum roll goes)…Papa John’s. We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to all the pizza restaurants that took the time and put their pizza on the line to help provide teens in our community an opportunity for social, emotional, cognitive, and cultural growth. While every pizza restaurant we could find was invited, only a handful stepped up to the challenge; Domino’s, Papa John’s, Hungry Howie’s, the Pixie, the Bird Bar & Grill, Marrita’s, and Cottage Inn, your support is greatly appreciated. The next time pizza’s your choice for the evening (or any other time), I urge you to consider supporting those who have stepped up to support our community.
Wouldn’t it be great if we could have free pizza every day? Unfortunately we can’t, but your Chippewa River District Library has a lot of other fun and free events on the calendar. This Saturday the 22nd the Organization for Bat Conservation is presenting Bats of the World at Veterans Memorial Library at 2pm, and yes they’re bringing live bats with them. The teens probable already have the Super Smash Brothers Brawl tournament on Nov. 25th and the Mario Kart tournament on Dec. 16th on their calendars. Jack Westbrook will present Isabella County 1859-2009 A Pictorial History on Thursday December 4th at 6pm at Veterans Memorial Library. Jazz and More at the Library returns on Sunday December 14th with a free performance by David Schock and Bernie Meltsner. Jazz and More at the Library is made possible by the Friends of the Library, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, and Art Reach of Mid Michigan. Then on Thursday December 18th you can jump, jive, and wail with the Boogie Woogie Babies at 6:30pm at Veterans Memorial Library.

For a complete list of events and activities happening throughout your Chippewa River District Library system click http://www.crdl.org/

2008-11-17T09:37:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow teens from around Central Michigan will put their taste buds on the line to determine who makes the best pizza. CRDL Teen Night: Pizza Taste Off will start at 6pm in the Chippewa River District Library Annex Meeting Room at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant.

CRDL Teen Night: Pizza Taste Off is open to teens in grades 7-12 and is free, but space is limited. Pre-registration is required. Register at the Veterans Memorial Library Children’s Desk, or call 989.773.3242 ext. 13.

Tomorrow night Dominoes, Papa Johns, Hungry Howie's, the Pixie, the Bird Bar & Grill, Marrita's, and Cottage Inn Pizza will all put their pizza to the test.

Tomorrow night teens in grades 7-12 will vote on crust, sauce, cheese, and overall flavor. They will then award honors to those they’ve chosen as the best in each category. Check http://www.crdl.org/ on the 19th for a complete list of participants and winners.

CRDL Holiday Closing - November 2008

2008-11-12T09:56:00.003-05:00

All branches of the Chippewa River District Library system will close at 6pm on Wednesday
November 26th and remain closed on Thursday November 27th and Friday November 28th 2008 so that our patrons and employees may spend the holidays with friends and family. Library services will resume on Saturday November 29th.

Click for individual branch locations and hours

CRDL Lapsit Storytime on November 26th

2008-11-12T09:17:00.002-05:00

CRDL Lapsit Storytime is designed for children from birth to 24 months of age. Exposure to the rhythms of language and music can help introduce very young children to books and reading. Traditional rhymes, basic finger plays, bounces, and activity songs, as well as circle activities that utilize both large and small motor skills are incorporated in the Lapsit program. In addition, caregivers work with their children to help build the bond between them.
Early literacy is what children know about reading before they can actually read and write. Research shows that children get ready to read years before they start school. Developing important skills now will help children become great readers.

Six pre-reading skills children can start learning from birth are:

Narrative skills – Being able to describe things and events and tell stories
Print motivation – Being interested in and enjoying books
Vocabulary – Knowing the names of things
Phonological awareness – Being able to hear and play with the smaller sounds in words
Letter knowledge – Knowing letters are different from each other, knowing their names and sounds and recognizing letters everywhere
Print awareness - Noticing print, knowing how to handle a book and knowing how to follow the words on a page

During CRDL Lapsit Storytime, we pick one or two of the “six pre-reading skills” and put together a series of stories, music and activities designed to develop those particular skills. While we can’t focus on all six skills at once, we make it a priority to spotlight at least one or two of the skills at each CRDL Lapsit Storytime and then give parents ideas of how to work on developing those skills at home.

CRDL Lapsit Storytime is free, open to the public, and happens the last Wednesday of each month. For more information about CRDL Lapsit Storytime, or more information about events and activities happening at your CRDL call 989.773.3242 or click http://www.crdl.org/.

Super Smash Brothers Brawl Tournament

2008-11-10T10:32:00.002-05:00

With Wii controllers in hand, teens from around Central Michigan will battle it out to see who will be our Super Smash Brothers Brawl Tournament.

WHEN: Tuesday November 25th 6pm-8pm
WHERE: At Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant
WHO: For teen in grades 7-12
WHAT: Space is limited, pre-registration is required. Call 989.773.3242 ext 13.

Are you registered yet? Why not? Register at the Children's Desk at Veterans Memorial Library or call 989.773.3242 ext 13. before the tournament is full.

Upcoming Events at your CRDL

2008-11-07T08:58:00.002-05:00

CRDL Storytime

Monday & Thursday, 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library

Wednesday, 11am at Faith Johnston Memorial Library

CRDL Music and Movement

Wednesday, 10:15 at Veterans Memorial Library

Read more about CRDL Music and Movement and Lapsit Storytime in the Morning Sun

Family Photo Tree: CRDL Adult Crafts

Wednesday, 4pm at Veterans Memorial Library

CRDL After School Programs

CRDL After School Lounge

Open 2:30pm-5pm Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday in the CRDL Annex Meeting Room

CRDL After School Homework Help

Available Wednesday and Thursday 3pm-6pm at Veterans Memorial Library

CRDL Create, Make, & Take

Thursday, 4pm at Faith Johnston Memorial Library

After school crafts for the kids to create, make, and take home

In the CRDL Computer Training Center

Basic Word Processing - Monday, 6:30pm in the CRDL Computer Training Center

Build a Web Page - Thursday, 6:30pm in the CRDL Computer Training Center

Spreadsheets: Charts & Formulas - Friday, 11am in the CRDL Computer Training Center

Classes in the CRDL Computer Training Center are free but space is limited, pre-registration is required. Call 989.773.3242 ext 33 to register.

Thursday Events at your CRDL

2008-11-06T14:26:00.002-05:00

CRDL Storytime happens today at 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant. CRDL Storytime is designed for pre-school age children.

The CRDL After School Lounge is open from 2:30pm-5pm in the CRDL Annex Meeting Room. Yesterday we set up the projector and everybody picked a movie.

CRDL After School Homework Help is avalable today from 3pm-6pm at Veterans Memorial Library. Homework help is avaiable from volunteer CMU students enrolled in the College of Education and Human Services.

CRDL Create, Make, and Take after School Crafts starts today at 4pm at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush.

Response to the Craft of Dollmaking program with CMU's Museum of Cultural and Natural History has been so overwhelming we've decided to open up a second sessions. The first session starts tonight at 6pm in the CRDL Library Annex Meeting Room. Session 2 will start at 7:30pm and go until 9pm

As always, you can get the full schedule of events and activities happening at your Chippewa River District Library online at http://www.youseemore.com/chippewa/calendar.asp.

CRDL Health Notes "Healthy Food for the Holidays"

2008-11-05T15:20:00.002-05:00

Cookies, cakes, pies, candy....you can't get thru the holidays without them, but we're going to show you how to put together fun and healthy holiday foods.

On Thursday November 20th Vivian Pifher from the MSU Extension Office will show us that healthy foods and the holidays do mix. See what foods can be created while still making the holidays delicious.

CRDL Health Notes is a free fun family program, starts at 5pm, and will be held at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush.

CRDL Mad Science "Owls From the Inside Out"

2008-11-05T14:59:00.003-05:00

The response to our CRDL Mad Science program series has been outstanding. Watching the kids faces as they experiment with cow eyeballs, slime, even water really reminds us of why we do what we do. Our upcoming program is no exception.

On Wednesday November 19th we're teaming up again with the Ann Arbor Hands On Museum to present "Owls from the Inside Out". Kids in grades 3-6 will get up close as an avian expert uses live owls to show us the characteristics that help owls adapt to a predatory way of life. We'll dissect owl pellets to investigate the diet of a barn owl, learn about food chains and the role of avian predators in an ecosystem and gain an introduction to skeletal anatomy and prey identification.

CRDL Mad Science "Owls from the Inside Out" starts at 4:15pm on Wednesday the 19th in the CRDL Community Rooms at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant. The program is free and is designed for children in grades 3-6. Space is limited, therefore, pre-registration is required. Register at the Veterans Memorial Library Children's Desk or call 989.773.3242 ext 13.

CRDL Mad Science "Owls from the Inside Out" is a distance learning program offered by the Ann Arbor Hands on Museum in which we use videoconferencing technology to share science demonstrations and activities with children, engaging them in an active, hands-on experience.

CRDL Mad Science "Owls from the Inside Out" is made possible by a grant from the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation.

Today's Readers are Tomorrow's Leaders

2008-11-04T11:27:00.001-05:00

Early childhood literacy is what children know about reading and writing before they can read and write. Research shows that our kids actually get ready to read years before they start school, and you’ll never guess where they learn it….yep, right at home. Every time you read to your young child, you teach and reinforce six pre-reading skills: Print Motivation (being interested and enjoying books), Narrative Skills (being able to describe things and events and tell stories), Vocabulary (knowing the names of things), Phonological Awareness (being able to hear and play with the smaller sounds in words), Letter Knowledge (knowing letters are different from each other, knowing their names and sounds and recognizing letters everywhere), and Print Awareness (noticing print, knowing how to handle a book and knowing how to follow the words on a page). So when they ask for an extra story or two at bedtime go ahead, you’re not only making them smarter, you’re getting them ready to become tomorrow’s leaders. Didn’t know you were imparting so much knowledge into your little ones just by reading Goodnight Moon did you?

Have your kids ever spent time singing, clapping, and dancing? What child hasn’t? Next time join them, they’re actually making themselves smarter. Children are born with the ability to respond to music and sound. That means that before they can talk, they connect with sound. Singing, clapping, and dancing alters the anatomy of the brain. Early musical experiences intensify the development of interconnections between brain cells (neuronal synapses). Essentially, early musical experiences enhance a child’s ability to think, learn, reason and create. But for music to have a profound effect on the brain, your child must actively participate in the musical activities. They need to feel, make, hear, and memorize sounds and patterns; basically they need to sing, clap, and dance.

Having said that, have you ever attended CRDL Lapsit Storytime or CRDL Music & Movement at your library? CRDL Lapsit Storytime is a time for you and your little one to bond over books, rhymes, and music. For the first part of the program, we explore different ways to share books with your child, play with nursery rhymes, and move to some music. After that, parents get a chance to chat with other parents as they all play with their children with library provided age-appropriate toys. During CRDL Lapsit Storytime, we pick one or two of the six pre-reading skills and put together a series of stories, music and activities designed to develop those particular skills. While we can’t focus on all six skills at once, we make it a priority to spotlight at least one or two of the skills at each CRDL Lapsit Storytime and give parents ideas of how to work on developing those skills at home.

CRDL Music & Movement gives you a chance to sing and dance with your child! Wave some ribbons, play with scarves, tap some rhythm sticks, and shake some shaker eggs. Let your inner child come out and play as you help your child develop interconnections between brain cells and develop their ability to learn.

Lifelong learning starts from the moment we first open our eyes. Are you giving your children the opportunity to become tomorrow’s leaders?

CRDL Teen Night: Gaming, Gabbing, and Good Food

2008-11-03T14:43:00.002-05:00

On Tuesday November 18th 2008, the Faith Johnston Memorial Library branch of your Chippewa River District Library System will host CRDL Teen Night: Gaming, Gabbing, and Good Food starting at 6:30pm. CRDL Teen Night: Gaming, Gabbing, and Good Food is open to teens in grades 7-12 and is a free event.

CRDL Teen Night: Gaming, Gabbing, and Good Food gives teen a chance to gather, play video and non-video games, enjoy some teen approved snacks, and build relationships with other teens in our area.

For a complete list of events and activities happening at your Chippewa River District Library call 989.773.3242 or click http://www.crdl.org/.

CRDL Teen Night: Pizza Taste Off

2008-11-03T14:28:00.003-05:00

On Tuesday November 18th 2008, teens from around Central Michigan will put their taste buds on the line to determine who makes the best pizza. CRDL Teen Night: Pizza Taste Off will start at 6pm in the Chippewa River District Library Annex Meeting Room at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant. CRDL Teen Night: Pizza Taste Off is open to teens in grades 7-12 and is free, but space is limited. Pre-registration is required. Register at the Veterans Memorial Library Children’s Desk, or call 989.773.3242 ext. 13.

Pizza restaurants throughout Central Michigan were invited to participate. To date, the Pixie in Mt. Pleasant, Papa John’s in Mt. Pleasant, Cottage Inn Pizza in Mt. Pleasant, Hungry Howies in Mt. Pleasant, and Marrita’s in Shepherd have stepped up to the challenge with more to follow.

The night of the CRDL Teen Night: Pizza Taste Off, teens in grades 7-12 will vote on crust, sauce, cheese, and overall flavor. They will then award honors to those they’ve chosen as the best in each category. Check http://www.crdl.org/ on the 19th for a complete list of participants and winners.

Freedom, Slavery and the Roots of American Music

2008-11-03T13:18:00.003-05:00

On Monday November 17th, 2008 the Chippewa River District Library will present Freedom, Slavery and the Roots of American Music starting at 2pm in the Chippewa River District Library Annex Meeting Room at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant. Freedom, Slavery and the Roots of American Music is a free program and is open to the public.

During the program, Ray Kamalay will trace the development of early American music from its links to slavery up to the early jazz age. Mr. Kamalay will discuss freedom, ancient and modern slavery, liberty, spirituals, blues, minstrel shows, ragtime and jazz. Being a longtime professional musician, Mr. Kamalay will include performances of the various genres.

Ray Kamalay is a Detroit native, with a degree in philosophy from the University of Detroit. He has made a living as a musician since 1974 and has performed at such prestigious venues as, Edinburgh, Interlochen and the Philadelphia Folk Festival. In 1998, his work with Howard Armstrong, a National Heritage Fellow, was nominated for the W. C. Handy Award.

CRDL Veterans Day Closing

2008-11-03T13:03:00.002-05:00

All branches of the Chippewa River District Library system will be closed on Tuesday November 11th, 2008 in observance of Veterans Day and will use this day for staff in-service training.

November and December are certainly busy holiday months and much is done and said about Thanksgiving and Christmas but not much attention is given to Veterans Day. This holiday is especially meaningful to the Chippewa River District Library as our main branch building is named Veterans Memorial Library. It has been our library’s tradition to close the all branches of the Chippewa River District Library system once a year for a staff in-service on or near Veterans Day. This year the library will be closed on Tuesday, November 11. We take closing the library very seriously and try to utilize this day to the utmost. Staff training is very important as we strive to bring you the best service possible.

The significance of Veterans Day is that a cease fire went into effect for World War I on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918. And so this began our tradition of thanking and honoring all those who served honorably in the military – in wartime or peacetime, with Armistice Day on November 11, 1919. Then on June 1, 1954 President Eisenhower signed legislation changing the name of the legal holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day. From 1971 to 1978 Veterans Day was celebrated on the fourth Monday of October but due to public demand the holiday was returned to November 11.

CRDL Music & Movement at your Library

2008-10-28T11:38:00.001-04:00

Sing and dance with your child! Wave some ribbons, play with scarves, tap some rhythm sticks, and shake some shaker eggs. What do music and paper plates have in common? Find out! Let your inner child come out and play as you help your child develop the ability to learn!

On Wednesday November 12th the Youth Services staff at your Chippewa River District Library invites you to CRDL Music and Movement at 10:15am in the CRDL Community Rooms at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant. CRDL Music and Movement is free and designed for children up to 5 years old.

Children are born with the ability to respond to music and sound. That means that before a child learns to speak, they connect with song and sound. Studies show that young children who play music or sing on a regular basis perform better in math and reading when they enter school. Singing, dancing, and playing music increases fine motor skills, helps develop hand-eye coordination, and builds self-esteem in young children.

Active participation in musical activities alters the anatomy of the brain. Early musical experiences intensify the development of interconnections between brain cells (neuronal synapses). Essentially, early musical experiences enhance a child’s ability to think, learn, reason and create. From birth to age two, the proliferation of neuronal synapses it at its peak, however the number remains elevated until a child is around 10 years old, so the benefits of music can still be realized in older children.

For music to have a profound effect on brain development, a child must physically engage in musical activities. They need to feel, make, hear, and memorize sounds and patterns; they need to sing, clap, dance, and remember movements.

Musical training physically develops the part of the left side of the brain known to be involved with processing language.

- Young children with developed rhythm skills perform better academically
- Music is now being recognized as a form of intelligence, not just a manifestation of it.
- Music enhances brain development
- Music improves your child’s memory, problem solving techniques, understanding and recollection
- Dancing, clapping and other choreographed physical movements develops a child’s fine and gross motor skills
- Music aids language development

CRDL Music and Movement engages children in a number of stimulating musical activities. Singing and rhyming of both recorded and live music and motivating the children to make controllable musical sounds encourages them to follow patterns in the rhythm and melody of the music and allows them to respond to the music through movement.
For more information on CRDL Music and Movement or any other CRDL program, call 773-3242 or click ‘events’ on the http://www.crdl.org/ website

Create your Photo Family Tree

2008-10-28T10:39:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday November 12th, your Chippewa River District Library Adult Crafts group will show you how to make your own Photo Family Tree in the CRDL Community Rooms at the Veterans Memorial Library branch starting at 4pm. Bring photos or copies of photos that you want to use and leave with a unique showcase of a branch of your family lineage.

CRDL Photo Family Tree is for adults and free, but space and supplies are limited. Pre-registration is required. Call 989.773.3242 ext. 10 to register.

For more events and activities happening at your Chippewa River District Library call 989.773.3242 or click www.crdl.org

Free Adult Literacy Tutor Training

2008-10-27T14:41:00.003-04:00

Your Chippewa River District Library is offering free Adult Literacy Tutor Training this November. As a volunteer Adult Literacy Tutor, you will learn the tools and techniques to help other adults in our community improve their reading skills and their ability to function in our modern society. Adult Literacy Tutor Training takes place Friday November 14th from 5pm-8pm and continues Saturday November 15th from 9am-5pm. Training is free and takes place at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system. Space is limited, therefore pre-registration is required. Call Susan at 989.773.3242 ext. 49 to register for free Adult Literacy Tutor Training. Attendance at both sessions is mandatory to achieve Adult Literacy Tutor Certification.

Over 20% of adults in the U.S. are functionally illiterate. That means one out of every 5 American adults can’t read road signs, can’t read the instructions on a bottle of medication, and don’t have the minimum reading skills required to earn a living wage in our society. You can make a difference in our community by becoming a volunteer Adult Literacy Tutor.

If you are interested in helping people in our community gain the skills they need to get ahead in life, register for free Adult Literacy Tutor training today. Call Susan at 989.773.3242 ext. 49 and tell her you want to become an Adult Literacy Tutor.

Free Adult Literacy Tutor training is made possible by a grant from the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation.

Jazz and More at the Library this November

2008-10-24T08:26:00.002-04:00

Live music at your library? That’s exactly what’s happening Sunday November 9th as “Jazz and More at the Library” continues its 18th year at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library System.

On Sunday October 12th bring the family to a free performance of the Carlos Melendes Trio starting at 3pm. The performance will be followed by a social hour hosted by the Friends of the Library.

Carlos Melendez is the third generation of musicians in his family and after listening to ART BLAKEY, ELVIN JONES, PHILLY JOE JONES, JOE MORELLO, MITCH MITCHELL, GINGER BAKER, CHARLIE WATTS, and MAX ROACH, decided to become a drummer at the age of 15.... He currently records, tours, and performs with the fabulous organ trio "Organissimo" as well as freelances and teaches drum lessons.

“Jazz and More at the Library” takes place every 2nd Sunday of the month through Sunday April 5th, 2009 (the first Sunday of the Month due to the Easter Holiday). All performances start at 3pm at the Veterans Memorial Library, are free and open to the public, and are followed by a social hour hosted by the Friends of the Library.

For a complete list of Jazz and More at the Library dates and performers, call 989-773-3242 or click events at www.crdl.org.

“Jazz and More at the Library” is made possible by The Friends of the Veterans Memorial Library, the Chippewa River District Library, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, and Art Reach of Mid Michigan.

The Craft of Dollmaking at your Library

2008-10-22T10:37:00.001-04:00

On Thursday November 6th, children from throughout Central Michigan will get first hand experience with CMU’s Museum of Cultural and Natural History’s Beyond Barbie: Dolls, Dress and Culture in Global Perspective exhibit at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system. Sally Coohon, from Dolls and More in Northport Michigan, will bring all the parts and pieces for children to cut, sew and stuff their own doll to take home. A veteran teacher and expert craftswoman, Sally will lead the children step by step so that they can make a work of art and a new friend at the same time. Space and supplies are limited, therefore, pre-registration is required. Families with children ages 6-12 can register them in person at the Children’s Desk at Veterans Memorial Library or call 989.773.3242 ext. 13.

Who: The Chippewa River District Library, CMU’s Museum of Cultural and Natural History and the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation
What: The Craft of Doll making
Where: Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant
When: Thursday November 6th at 6pm

The Beyond Barbie: Dolls, Dress and Culture in Global Perspective exhibition is based on the collection of more than 350 dolls assembled by former CMU faculty member Barbara Bissot. Bissot taught at CMU from 1962 to 1992, first as a fourth grade teacher at the university lab school and then as a professor of elementary education. Bissot's brother, Father Robert Bissot, donated the collection to the CMU Museum of Cultural and Natural History following her death in 2007.

Bissot's passion for collecting dolls began while teaching at a U.S. military school in Germany in 1956, and she added to her collection nearly every year until 2006 through her international travels. She made a point to seek out dolls crafted by local artisans to ensure their ethnic accuracy and representation of their countries and local cultures. She often used them as teaching tools in her classes.

In addition to the display of dolls, the exhibit includes a children's educational activity room and special programs, complemented by the museum's Web site, http://www.museum.cmich.edu/, where visitors can view the dolls and learn about each one online. A portion of the dolls are also on exhibit in the Children’s Area at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system.

The Craft of Doll Making is a free event, is open to the public, and will start at 6pm on Thursday November 6th at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library System.

November Events At Your C.R.D.L.

2008-10-20T09:49:00.001-04:00

A full list of November events and activities happening at your Chippewa River District Library (Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant and Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush)

CRDL Storytime – Music, stories and fun for preschool age children.
- Every Monday & Thursday at 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant
- Every Wednesday at 11am at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush

CRDL Create, Make, & Take – Creating crafts, sharing stories, making memories, take them home. After school crafts for school age children.
- Thursday 11/6 at 4pm at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush
- Thursday 11/13 at 4pm at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush
- Thursday 11/20 at 4pm at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush

CRDL Book-A-Boo – A fun fall reading program for children 1-10 years old. Registration started in October, the program finishes on Thursday, November 13th at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush.

CRDL Knit One Chat Too – Teen knitting group
- Tuesday 11/4 at 7pm at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush
The Craft of Doll Making – A program in cooperation with the CMU Museum of Cultural and Natural History and the Beyond Barbie: Dolls, Dress and Culture in Global Perspective” exhibit. Children will stuff and sew together their own dolls. Space is limited, pre-registration is required. Call 773-3242 ext 13 to register.
- Thursday November 6th, 6pm-7pm, at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant
Made possible by a grant from the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation

CRDL Jazz & More at the Library – A free performance by the The Carlos Melendez Trio followed by a social hour hosted by the Friends of the Library. Jazz & More at the Library is made possible by grants from Art Reach of Mid Michigan, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, and the Friends of the Library.
- Sunday 11/9 at 3pm at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant

CRDL Music & Movement – Dancing, singing and fun for children up to 5 years old
- Wednesday 11/12 at 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant

Photo Family Tree – A unique way to showcase a branch of your family lineage. Bring family photos or copies of the photos you would like to use. Pre-registration is required. Call 773.3242 ext. 10 to register
- Wednesday 11/12 at 4pm at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant

CRDL Adult Tutor Training – Receive free training to become an adult literacy tutor. Space is limited, pre-registration is required. Call 773-3242 to register today
- Friday 11/14 at 4:40pm at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant
- Saturday 11/15 at 9am at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant

Freedom, Slavery and the Roots of American Music – Ray Kamalay, a Detroit native with a degree in philosophy from the University of Detroit, will trace the development of early American music from its links to slavery up to the early jazz age.
- Monday 11/17 at 2pm at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant

CRDL PIECES – Piece together fabric, piece together stories, become part of the fabric of our community (A quilting group making quilt squares to put together for infants in intensive care units)
- Tuesday 11/18 at 1pm at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush

CRDL Teen Advisory Board Meeting – Help shape teen events and activities at your library
- Tuesday 11/18 at 5pm at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant

CRDL Teen Night: Gaming, Gabbing, & Good Food – For teens in grades 7-12
- Tuesday 11/18 at 6:30pm at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush

CRDL Teen Night “Pizza Taste Off” – Who has the best pizza in town? Sample the contestants and cast your vote. For teens in grades 7-12. Space is limited, pre-registration is required. Call 773-3242 ext. 13 to register.
- Tuesday 11/18 at 6pm at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant

CRDL Yarn by the Yard – Adult knitting group having skeins of fun
- Tuesday 11/18 at 7pm at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush

CRDL Brown Bag Book Discussion Group – Adult book discussion group. This month we’re discussing The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne
- Wednesday 11/19 at Noon at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant

CRDL Mad Science – “Owls from the Inside Out” with the Ann Arbor Hands on Museum. Get up close to owls as an avian expert uses LIVE birds to show you the characteristics that help owls adapt to a predatory way of life. Students will dissect owl pellets to investigate the diet of a barn owl, learn about food chains and the role of avian predators in an ecosystem and gain an introduction to skeletal anatomy and prey identification. This program is made possible by a grant from the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation. Space is limited, pre-registration is required. Call 773.3242 ext 13.
- Tuesday 11/19 at 4:15pm at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant

CRDL Health Notes – Healthy Foods for the Holidays
- Thursday 11/20 at 5pm at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush

CRDL Cook & Book – Teen book discussion and cooking group
- Thursday 11/20 at 7pm at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush

CRDL Teen Night: “Super Smash Brothers Brawl” Video Game Tournament – For teens in grades 7-12. Space in the tournament is limited, pre-registration is required.
- Tuesday 11/25 at 6pm at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant

CRDL Faith’s Book Sense – Get a sense of a good book at this adult book discussion group. We’re discussing Firstlight by Sue Monk Kidd
- Tuesday 11/25 at 7pm at Faith Johnston Memorial Library in Rosebush

CRDL Lapsit Story Time – Stories, music and fun for children up to 2 years old
- Wednesday 11/26 at 10:15am at Veterans Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant

Holiday Closing – All branches of the Chippewa River District Library System will close at 6pm on Wednesday November 26th and remain closed Thursday November 27th and Friday November 28th for the Thanksgiving Holiday. Library branches will re-open on Saturday, November 29th.

IN THE CRDL COMPUTER TRAINING CENTER

Free computer classes offered by your Chippewa River District Library. Classes in the CRDL Computer Training Center are free but space is limited. Pre-registration is required. Pre-register by calling 773.3242 ext. 33.
Basic Computing – Monday 11/3
2pm at Veterans Memorial Library

Windows Basics – Wednesday 11/5
2pm at Veterans Memorial Library

Basic Internet – Thursday 11/6
11am at Veterans Memorial Library

Greeting Cards – Friday 11/7
11am at Veterans Memorial Library

Basic Word – Monday 11/10
6:30pm at Veterans Memorial Library

Build a Web Page – Thursday 11/13
6:30pm at Veterans Memorial Library

Spreadsheets: Charts & Formulas – Friday 11/14
11am at Veterans Memorial Library

Advanced Access – Monday 11/17
11am at Veterans Memorial Library

For a complete list of events and activities call 773.3242 or click www.crdl.org

Michigan Author coming for Story Telling

2008-10-15T10:54:00.001-04:00

On Friday October 24th, Michigan author Margaret Willey will share her gift of story telling at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system. Story telling will start at 10:15am, the event is free, and open to the public. This fall Margaret is presenting a lovely, haunting peace fable--something very authentic--a folktale she found while doing research on French Canadian folklore. The folktale, set during the Napoleonic Wars in France, was called Les Sept Belle Demoiselles. She retells the story in her own voice and searched for the right way to send it back into the world with its timeless message of peace. Eventually she found a wonderful artist who created highly original folk art illustrations. Along with a team of other creative souls, they have produced a book that is intended to wage peace in a time of war. All proceeds for the book go to peace related events and projects at Christ Community Church in Spring Lake, Michigan. The book is titled The Forest Boy. It is a story for all ages, beautifully illustrated by the artist Jane Leonard.

For thirty years, Margaret Willey has written in many different genres. Most recently, she has published the picture book The 3 Bears and Goldilocks (Atheneum 2008), illustrated by Heather Solomon. With this book, her love affair with folktales and fairy tales continues... Earlier in the decade, she wrote 3 folktales for children, all of which featured the character Beatrice, a very brave and very clever girl from the north woods. Each of these books is illustrated by the amazing Heather Solomon. To learn more about them, and to discover a website designed for her youngest readers, visit cleverbeatrice.com.

For the past decade, she has been writing and rewriting A Summer of Silk Moths, hoping that it would eventually become her re-entry into the genre of young adult fiction, which is where she first began publishing, back in the early eighties. Her earlier novels for teenagers include The Bigger Book of Lydia (Harper and Row 1981), an ALA Best Book for Young Adults, and Facing the Music (Delacorte 1998), an ALA Quick Pick. A Summer of Silk Moths is a tribute to a novel she loved as a girl--A Girl of the Limberlost, by Jean Stratton Porter. Both stories feature a fatherless but fearless girl and a moth collection. Stratton's classic novel is set in the Limberlost swamps of Indiana. Her novel unfolds on the banks of the St. Joseph River in Buchanan, Michigan. Like Limberlost, her novel showcases the great North American Silkmoths. They are presented as symbols of creativity, mystery, dream life, and regeneration. Her novel also reflects her long-standing belief that damaged children can find emotional healing in the natural world. It is also a love story, and a mystery. A Summer of Silk Moths will be published by Flux, an exciting new press for young adult fiction, in Fall 2009. She is currently working on another novel for teenagers, a collection of autobiographical essays, and several more folktales.

For more events and activities happening at your Chippewa River District Library, call 989.773.3242 or click www.crdl.org.

CRDL Lapsit Storytime

2008-10-14T10:44:00.002-04:00

The Chippewa River District Library will offer CRDL Lapsit Storytime on Wednesday, October 29th at 10:15am at the Veterans Memorial Library branch of the Chippewa River District Library system.

CRDL Lapsit Storytime is designed for children from birth to 24 months of age. Exposure to the rhythms of language and music can help introduce very young children to books and reading. Traditional rhymes, basic finger plays, bounces, and activity songs, as well as circle activities that utilize both large and small motor skills are incorporated in the Lapsit program. In addition, caregivers work with their children to help build the bond between them.

Early literacy is what children know about reading before they can actually read and write. Research shows that children get ready to read years before they start school. Developing important skills now will help children become great readers.

Six pre-reading skills children can start learning from birth are:

Narrative skills – Being able to describe things and events and tell stories
Print motivation – Being interested in and enjoying books
Vocabulary – Knowing the names of things
Phonological awareness – Being able to hear and play with the smaller sounds in words
Letter knowledge – Knowing letters are different from each other, knowing their names and sounds and recognizing letters everywhere
Print awareness - Noticing print, knowing how to handle a book and knowing how to follow the words on a page

During CRDL Lapsit Storytime, we pick one or two of the “six pre-reading skills” and put together a series of stories, music and activities designed to develop those particular skills. While we can’t focus on all six skills at once, we make it a priority to spotlight at least one or two of the skills at each CRDL Lapsit Storytime and then give parents ideas of how to work on developing those skills at home.

CRDL Lapsit Storytime is free, open to the public, and happens the last Wednesday of each month. For more information about CRDL Lapsit Storytime, or more information about events and activities happening at your C.R.D.L. call 989.773.3242 or click http://www.crdl.org/.