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Summer Reading Tips for Picky Readers

For families with kids of all ages finding a “just right” book can be tricky. Handley Regional Library System staff offer numerous ways to help you and your reader try new genres or authors of books. Specifically, we have a service called BookMatch Junior! for ages 12 and under, which matches your reader with books to try based on a quick survey form you fill out. However, a generally good practice when helping to build strong readers in your home is the following:

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Nontraditional Novels

I love a good novel, but sometimes I want something a little different. That's where books like these come in. Novels in verse, graphic novel retellings, diaries, and novels told through letters--these picks may not be traditional, but they are still great reads. Find my top picks below.

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Database Spotlight: "NoveList K-8 Plus"

It's a New Year, and a perfectly good new time to learn about the Handley Regional Library System Digital Library! We are kicking off 2022 with our continued monthly series called "Database Spotlights" where we will highlight one of our databases, specifically focusing on youth and families. Do you want support when it comes to Homework Help? Are you looking to build your research skills? Let us share the wonders of our Digital Library with you and your family! Learn about some of our online databases that you can access for free with your library card. 

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Appreciate a Dragon

Have you ever wanted to ride a dragon? Dragons have been important to the world of fantasy for years. They have inspired many different stories, and they continue to do so today. In honor of Appreciate a Dragon Day that happened on January 16, here are some great picks all about dragons. Click the title to view the book in our catalog.

 

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Celebrate Sweet Treats

Celebrate Sweets This Month

 

Happy National Cocoa Day! The month of December has many special days to celebrate sweet treats. Some have already passed and you’ll need to stick them on your calendar for next year. December 1 was Peppermint Bark Day and December 8 was National Brownie Day.  December 12 was National Gingerbread House Day. We are still celebrating at the Handley branch and you can still stop by the Youth Services Department to help us color our gingerbread house.

 

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Aviation History Month

Did you know that November is Aviation History Month? Aviation covers all things aircraft, from hot air balloons to helicopters and everything in between. It also discusses famous aviators or pilots. With that in mind, here are some nonfiction books about the world of aviation.

 

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Read this, Try That!

By Lydia Mathers

 

As much as I love to read, I'm also big on crafting. Making something with your hands can be so rewarding, and there are tons of ideas hidden in the Young Adult (YA) fiction section. With that in mind, I made this "Read This, Try That!" list that combines fictional stories with related nonfiction craft advice and inspiration. Keep reading to find your next creative outlet!

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Database Spotlight: "Infoplease"

We are kicking off another school year with our monthly series called "Database Spotlights" where we will highlight one of our databases, specifically focusing on youth and families. Do you want support when it comes to Homework Help? Are you looking to build your research skills? Let us share the wonders of our Digital Library with you and your family! Learn about some of our online databases that you can access for free with your library card. 

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Database Spotlight: "Gale in Context- Elementary"

It's a New Year, and a perfectly good new time to learn about the Handley Regional Library System Digital Library! We are kicking off 2021 with a monthly series called "Database Spotlights" where we will highlight one of our databases, specifically focusing on youth and families. Do you want support when it comes to Homework Help? Are you looking to build your research skills? Let us share the wonders of our Digital Library with you and your family! Learn about some of our online databases that you can access for free with your library card. 

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Back to School Help from Your Local Library

We want you to know that Handley Regional Library System is HERE for you this Back to School season. Whether your child is homeschooling or attending public or private school and even college, we can help. Are you an educator wanting to make the most of the digital content you are sharing with your students? Are you a caregiver that is new to assisting with at-home instruction? Or, are you a student that is anxious about this new school year? Our librarians have compiled the best library resources to support your Back to School journey. 

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Social Justice Education Reads for Grades K-12

If you and your family are wanting to read more diverse books with a central theme around Social Justice Education, then look no further than your local public library! We've compiled a list of books for Elementary, Middle School, and High School readers. You can find these books in our library catalog here and/or in our digital library in Hoopla here. All you need is a library card!

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Celebrating Children's Book Week: May 4-10

Children’s Book Week is the annual celebration of books for young people and the joy of reading.

Established in 1919, Children’s Book Week is the longest-running national literacy initiative in the country. Every year, events are held nationwide at schools, libraries, bookstores, homes—wherever young readers and books connect! Children’s Book Week is not only a celebration of books, but of connection.

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Virtual and Live Programs for Kids & Teens

Take a break with your library by participating in these free, interactive virtual programs. There is something for everyone in the family! Registration may be required, so check the library calendar for more information. Our Youth Services team has been hard at work planning to bring the library world to you virtually during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Check back monthly for more interactive programs.

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Stuck at Home?

Stuck at Home? Your Library is Here to Help.

For families of all ages, a global pandemic can be alarming and confusing. The Coronavirus (COVID-19) has been spreading throughout the United States now, specifically, and has led to school and public closures. The uncertainty of this national and global situation can induce more anxiety in our kids. However, learning how to talk about what is going on and what to do next can be the first step that grown-ups can take to lead to better understanding for families with kids.

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A Library Card: More Than Books

Although the American Library Association's "Library Card Sign-Up Month" has officially passed, your library card is better now than ever! Did you know that using your FREE library card is worth more than just books? Our special collections are as easy to check-out as your average library book! Which collections below have you checked out? 

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