NYPL Blogs: Posts by Shauntee Burns /blog/author/536 en Finding Wonder Women at the Library: Online Biographies and Encyclopedias https://www.nypl.org/blog/2016/03/02/biographies-women-history Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <div style="text-align:center"> <figure class="caption caption caption"><img alt="Amelia Earhart in Kids InfoBits" class="media-element file-default" height="452" src="//www.nypl.org/sites/default/files/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-02%20at%2010.55.27%20AM.png" title="Amelia Earhart in Kids InfoBits" width="500" /><figcaption>Find information on Amelia Earhart in Kids InfoBits</figcaption></figure></div> <p>March is Women’s History Month! Here are some databases that can help with your assignments and projects:</p> <ul><li><strong><a href="http://www.nypl.org/node/336106">American History</a></strong> - highlighting the Women’s Rights Movement</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/biography-resource-center"><strong>Biography in Context</strong></a> - look up anyone from Betsy Ross to Beyonce</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/freedomflix"><strong>FreedomFlix</strong></a> - under the “Our Democracy” tab you will find the “Women’s Right to Vote” information</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/kids-infobits"><strong>Kids InfoBits</strong></a> - go to the “People” section and click on “Historical Figures” you will find information on Florence Nightingale, Amelia Earhart, and many more</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/node/332329"><strong>Pop Culture Universe: Icons, Idols, Ideas</strong></a> - this is cool for a student who wants to look up Marilyn Monroe or Wonder Woman</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/trueflix"><strong>TrueFlix</strong></a> - has a “Biography” section you will find a book and video on Malala Yousafzai, the youngest person to ever be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/history-resource-center-united-states"><strong>U.S. History in Context</strong></a> - look up a person or time in history using this database</li> </ul><p>Learn more at <a href="http://www.nypl.org/blog/2011/03/02/how-to-research-womens-history-month">How to Research a Report for Women's History Month</a>.</p> <div style="text-align:center"> <figure class="caption caption caption"><img alt="Malala Yousafzai in TrueFlix" class="media-element file-default" height="345" src="//www.nypl.org/sites/default/files/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-02%20at%2010.59.22%20AM.png" title="Malala Yousafzai in TrueFlix" width="500" /><figcaption>Find information on Malala Yousafzai in TrueFlix</figcaption></figure></div> Biography https://www.nypl.org/blog/2016/03/02/biographies-women-history#comments Wed, 02 Mar 2016 11:27:16 -0500 Research 101: Primary Sources https://www.nypl.org/blog/2016/02/09/research-101-primary-sources Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p>What is a Primary Source? A primary source is an original document or object that was created at the time of your study.</p> <div style="text-align:center"> <figure class="caption caption caption"><img alt="Primary Source in ABC-CLIO" class="media-element file-default" height="335" src="//www.nypl.org/sites/default/files/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-09%20at%201.37.55%20PM.png" title="Primary Source in ABC-CLIO" width="500" /><figcaption>Example of a Primary Source in ABC-CLIO</figcaption></figure></div> <p>Try these databases for Primary Source information:</p> <h2>Recommended Databases for Primary Sources</h2> <p><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/african-american-experience">African-American Experience</a><br /> Full-text digital resource exploring the history and culture of African Americans, as well as the greater Black Diaspora.</p> <p><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/american-indian-experience">American Indian Experience</a><br /> Full-text digital resource exploring the history and culture of American Indians.</p> <p><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/biography-resource-center">Biography in Context</a><br /> Look up anyone! Provides biographical information on anyone you can imagine.</p> <p><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/freedomflix">FreedomFlix</a><br /> Defining moments in American History in an electronic book format.</p> <p><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/latino-american-experience">Latino American Experience</a><br /> Focused on the history and culture of Latinos from the pre-Columbian Indigenous civilizations of the Americas to now.</p> <p><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/literature-resource-center">Literature Resource Center</a><br /> Information on literary figures from all time periods.</p> <p><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/new-york-state-newspapers">New York State Newspapers</a><br /> Have a project about a current event? Search the major New York newspapers.</p> <p><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/opposing-viewpoints-resource-center">Opposing Viewpoints</a><br /> Articles presenting both sides of controversial issues.</p> <p><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/history-resource-center-united-states">U.S. History in Context</a><br /> Has a variety of historical data, including photographs, illustrations, and maps.</p> <p><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/world-history-context">World History in Context</a><br /> Search a broad collection of events, movements, and individuals that have shaped world history.</p> <h2>How to Access Databases</h2> <p>Here’s how to access library databases:</p> <ol><li> <p>Go to <a href="http://www.nypl.org">nypl.org</a> </p></li> <li> <p>Click on ‘Research’</p> </li> <li> <p>Click on ‘Articles and Databases.’ Databases are listed in alphabetical order.</p> </li> <li>If you are not accessing the database from inside the library, enter the number on the back of your library card.</li> </ol><h2>Primary Sources in the Public Domain</h2> <p>Did you know that more than 180,000 of the items in our Digital Collections are in the <a href="http://publicdomain.nypl.org">public domain</a>?</p> <p>That means everyone has the freedom to enjoy and reuse these materials without restrictions. The Library now makes it possible to download such items in the highest resolution available directly from the <a href="http://digitalcollections.nypl.org" target="_blank">Digital Collections</a> website.</p> <p>Learn more about <a href="http://www.nypl.org/blog/2016/01/20/public-domain-in-the-classroom">Using Public Domain Resources in the Classroom</a>.</p> Education https://www.nypl.org/blog/2016/02/09/research-101-primary-sources#comments Tue, 09 Feb 2016 13:40:54 -0500 Searching Databases for African American History Month: Frederick Douglass https://www.nypl.org/blog/2012/02/24/frederick-douglass Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p><span class="inline inline inline-right inline-right"><a title="Frederick Douglass., Digital ID 1103290, New York Public Library" href="http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/id?1103290"><img width="205" height="300" title="Frederick Douglass., Digital ID 1103290, New York Public Library" alt="Frederick Douglass., Digital ID 1103290, New York Public Library" src="https://images.nypl.org/?id=1103290&amp;t=w" /></a><span class="caption caption caption">Frederick Douglass., Digital ID 1103290, New York Public Library</span></span>February is African American History Month! The New York Public Library's databases have loads of information on influential African Americans. Let's take a look at Frederick Douglass as an example.</p> <!--break--> <p><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/african-american-experience">The African American Experience</a><br /> This database explores the history and culture of African Americans.</p> <ul><li>Type "Frederick Douglass" in the bar labeled Quick Search. Click on the link under <strong>Topic Guides</strong> to get an overview of his life. To the left of the page you will find links that will provide time lines, primary documents, and lesson plans.</li> </ul><p><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/biography-resource-center">Biography in Context</a><br /> Provides biographical information on more than 335,000 people from throughout history, around the world, and across all disciplines</p> <ul><li>Type "Frederick Douglass" in the search bar. You will find biographies, websites, magazines, and newspaper articles about him.</li> </ul><p><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/grolier-online">Grolier Online</a><br /> Includes access to the <em>Encyclopedia Americana</em>, <em>New Book of Knowledge</em>, and <em>Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia</em>, as well as <em>Roget's II: The New Thesaurus </em>and the <em>American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition</em></p> <ul><li>Type "Frederick Douglass" in the search bar for results. You can also scroll down to the bottom of the page to the <strong>teachers</strong> link to find lesson plans that include Frederick Douglass.</li> </ul><p><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/history-resource-center-united-states">U.S. History in Context</a><br /> Has a variety of historical data from primary sources and reference documents, including photographs, illustrations, and maps</p> <ul><li>Type "Frederick Douglass" in the search bar for results. You can scroll down and at the bottom right you will find a video on Frederick Douglass’s life. This database also has a <strong>Resources</strong> link, where you can find lesson plans.</li> </ul><p><a href="http://www.nypl.org/locations/tid/64/node/62877">The Black World: Research Tools</a> from the Schomburg Center<br /> These selected sites offer access to free, high-quality research tools, and large databases of books, articles, oral histories, images, maps, interviews, and television programs. Some sites are specifically devoted to Africa and/or the African Diaspora, while others are more general, but include materials of interest to research in the history and cultures of the black world.</p> https://www.nypl.org/blog/2012/02/24/frederick-douglass#comments Fri, 24 Feb 2012 16:27:43 -0500 Teaching World War I: Treaty of Versailles (Databases for Use in Creating Lesson Plans) https://www.nypl.org/blog/2012/01/10/teaching-wwi-treaty-versailles-databases Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p><span class="inline inline inline-center inline-center"><a title="Celebrations - Parades - Municipal events - World War I - [Squadron &quot;A&quot; returns from the border.], Digital ID 731313F, New York Public Library" href="http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/id?731313F"><img width="300" height="195" alt="Celebrations - Parades - Municipal events - World War I - [Squadron &quot;A&quot; returns from the border.], Digital ID 731313F, New York Public Library" title="Celebrations - Parades - Municipal events - World War I - [Squadron &quot;A&quot; returns from the border.], Digital ID 731313F, New York Public Library" src="https://images.nypl.org/?id=731313F&amp;t=w" /></a><span class="caption caption caption">Celebrations - Parades - Municipal events - World War I - [Squadron "A" returns from the border.], Digital ID 731313F, New York Public Library</span></span>To help in your lesson planning, we've highlighted some databases that feature information on the Treaty of Versailles:</p> <!--break--> <ul><li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/funk-wagnalls-new-world-encyclopedia-ebscogrades-5-8">Funk &amp; Wagnalls New World Encyclopedia</a> — type in "Treaty of Versailles" or search "World War I" for more results</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/grolier-online">Grolier Online</a> — Type in "Treaty of Versailles." In the list of results, you'll find a document that includes extracts from the military, reparations, and financial clauses.</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/kids-search">Kids Search</a> — type in "Treaty of Versailles" or search "World War I" for more information</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/middle-search-plus">Middle Search Plus</a> — Type in "Treaty of Versailles." The list of results will include reference articles, government documents, and images.</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/history-resource-center-united-states">U.S. History in Context</a> &amp; <a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/world-history-context">World History in Context</a> — both databases will provide information on the Treaty of Versailles and World War I</li> <li><a href="http://edsitement.neh.gov/lesson-plan/great-war-evaluating-treaty-versailles#sect-thelesson" rel="nofollow">The Great War: Evaluating the Treaty of Versailles</a> (from the National Endowment for the Humanities)</li> </ul> World War I https://www.nypl.org/blog/2012/01/10/teaching-wwi-treaty-versailles-databases#comments Tue, 10 Jan 2012 09:05:17 -0500 Discover a World of Information on Explorers https://www.nypl.org/blog/2012/01/06/discover-world-information-explorers Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p><span class="inline inline inline-center inline-center"><a title="Christopher Columbus , Digital ID 423930, New York Public Library" href="http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/id?423930"><img width="202" height="300" alt="Christopher Columbus , Digital ID 423930, New York Public Library" title="Christopher Columbus , Digital ID 423930, New York Public Library" src="https://images.nypl.org/?id=423930&amp;t=w" /></a><span class="caption caption caption">Christopher Columbus , Digital ID 423930, New York Public Library</span></span>The New York Public Library’s databases will unveil loads of information on these pioneers.</p> <ul><li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/bookflix">BookFlix</a> — Go to the “People and Places” link. On the last page, you will find a story and lesson plan on Christopher Columbus.</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/kids-search">Kids Search</a> — Type in "Explorers" and you will get results like “Name the Explorers Crossword Puzzle.” Also, click on the “Books &amp; Encyclopedias” and “Biographies” links to get more information.</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/searchasaurus-grades-1-3">Searchasaurus</a> — Go to the “Encyclopedia” link, type in "Explorers" and you will find information on various voyagers.</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/world-book-online-reference-center">World Book Online</a> — Click on the “World Book Online for Kids” link and type in "Explorers" to see a list of results. From Lewis and Clark’s expedition to Henry Hudson, there is enough information here to include in your lesson plan.</li> </ul> https://www.nypl.org/blog/2012/01/06/discover-world-information-explorers#comments Fri, 06 Jan 2012 08:39:23 -0500 Teaching Prohibition: Databases for Use in Creating Lesson Plans https://www.nypl.org/blog/2012/01/05/teaching-prohibition Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p><span class="inline inline inline-center inline-center"><a title="Distilled Spirits - Prohibition mural, Digital ID 1669401, New York Public Library" href="http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/id?1669401"><img title="Distilled Spirits - Prohibition mural, Digital ID 1669401, New York Public Library" alt="Distilled Spirits - Prohibition mural, Digital ID 1669401, New York Public Library" width="300" height="239" src="https://images.nypl.org/?id=1669401&amp;t=w" /></a><span class="caption caption caption">"Distilled spirits — Prohibition mural." NYPL. Digital ID 1669401.</span></span>To help in your lesson planning, I've highlighted some databases available at the Library that are related to Prohibition.</p> <ul><li><a href="http://go-passport.grolier.com/" rel="nofollow">Grolier Online</a> — type in "Prohibition" and find articles on the topic in various reading levels and in Spanish.</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/kids-search">Kids Search</a> — click on the “images” link and type in "Prohibition." You will find primary source information on the topic.</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/middle-search-plus">Middle Search Plus</a> — type in "Prohibition" to find various articles. To find information on the Volstead Act of 1919, click on the “primary source documents” link (on the left side of the screen).</li> <li><a href="http://ic.galegroup.com/ic/uhic?userGroupName=nypl" rel="nofollow">U.S. History in Context</a> — type in "Prohibition" and you will find a quick overview, including images, audio recordings, and related topics.</li> <li><a href="http://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/volstead-act/" rel="nofollow">Teaching with Documents: The Volstead Act and Related Prohibition Documents</a> (from the National Archives)</li> </ul> History of North America https://www.nypl.org/blog/2012/01/05/teaching-prohibition#comments Thu, 05 Jan 2012 10:00:26 -0500 Hey! Got Homework? https://www.nypl.org/blog/2010/02/22/hey-got-homework Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p><span class="inline inline inline-right inline-right"><a title="[Fox Writing With A Quill Pen.], Digital ID 822655, New York Public Library" href="http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/id?822655"><img title="[Fox Writing With A Quill Pen.], Digital ID 822655, New York Public Library" alt="[Fox Writing With A Quill Pen.], Digital ID 822655, New York Public Library" width="216" height="300" src="https://images.nypl.org/?id=822655&amp;t=w" /></a></span>Does the word homework make you <em>cringe</em> in your seat?</p> <p>Well, you can find complete, trustworthy information a lot faster using the Library's databases.</p> <!--break--> <p>Here’s how to access NYPL’s databases:</p> <ul><li>  Go to <a href="http://www.nypl.org">www.nypl.org</a></li> <li>  Go to "Research"</li> <li>  Click on "Articles and Databases" (databases are listed in alphabetical order)</li> </ul><p>If you are not accessing the database on site at the Library, simply enter the number on the back of your library card.</p> <p>Highlighted here are a few popular databases you may find useful for assignments, research papers, projects, etc: <a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/biography-resource-center">Biography in Context</a> gives bibliographical information on anyone you can imagine. <a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/history-resource-center-united-states">U.S. History in Context</a> searches various topics in history, for example, the American Revolution, Women's Rights, 9-11, and much more. <a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/grolier-online">Grolier Online</a> is a bilingual encyclopedia that also suggests magazines and websites. <a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/learning-express-library">Learning Express Library</a> provides exercises and practice tests for major exams, like the SAT. <a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/new-york-state-newspapers">New York State Newspapers</a> will allow you to search all the major New York newspapers without having to sit in front of the dreadful microfilm machine. <a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/opposing-viewpoints-resource-center">Opposing Viewpoints</a> provides articles on controversial issues, but the cool thing is you can download the articles to your MP3 player or translate the article for someone else to read in another language. And last but not least is <a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/science-online">Science Online</a>. This database covers various fields of science and provides diagrams, essays, and even experiments. Attached to this blog post is a handout providing even more information about the Library's site.</p> <p>Take a look at the databases provided by The New York Public Library — I guarantee it will make your homework easier to do!</p> <p><a href="//www.nypl.org/sites/default/files/blog_attachments/HH_brochure2.pdf" rel="nofollow">Download printable PDF</a></p> Education https://www.nypl.org/blog/2010/02/22/hey-got-homework#comments Thu, 15 Sep 2011 15:11:22 -0400 Digital Defense: Strategies to Avoid Cyberbullying https://www.nypl.org/blog/2011/07/21/cyberbullying-safety Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p><span class="inline inline inline-left inline-left"><a title="Carnera-Meen big fight., Digital ID 1640238, New York Public Library" href="http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/id?1640238"><img width="300" height="168" title="Carnera-Meen big fight., Digital ID 1640238, New York Public Library" alt="Carnera-Meen big fight., Digital ID 1640238, New York Public Library" src="https://images.nypl.org/?id=1640238&amp;t=w" /></a></span>We are all familiar with physical bullying: on the playground, after school, on the street. When we see it, we stop the bully from behaving in such a negative manner. Cyberbullying does not happen in the physical realm. Cyberbullying occurs “when a child, preteen or teen is tormented, threatened, harassed, humiliated, embarrassed or otherwise targeted by another child, preteen or teen using the Internet, interactive and digital technologies or mobile phones” (definition from <a href="http://www.stopcyberbullying.org/what_is_cyberbullying_exactly.html" rel="nofollow">WiredKids</a>).</p> <!--break--> <p><strong>Here are a few safety tips we can share with students to prevent cyberbullying from happening to our children:</strong></p> <ul><li>Don’t respond or retaliate. Often, cyberbullies want a reaction, so don’t give it to them.</li> <li>Block the bully. If someone is sending mean messages, take them off your friends list and block them.</li> <li>Save and print out the bullying messages. This is important proof to show parents, teachers, or authorities if the bullying doesn’t stop.</li> <li>Tell a “trusted” adult. A “trusted” adult is someone who will listen and has the skills, desire, and authority to help. This can be a school counselor, music teacher, even a parent of a friend. Some kids may not go to their parents/teachers out of shame or humiliation, so talk to your kids about other trusted adults.</li> <li>Help your kids to be an “upstander” and not a “bystander.” Many kids watch while another child is being bullied, afraid if they say anything the bully will focus on them. It’s important for kids to tell an adult what’s going on. It isn’t tattling, it’s standing up against the bully.</li> <li>Make sure students understand the line between being funny and being mean. Online communication can easily be misinterpreted, causing students to go from friend to foe. Before an argument escalates, have the child call or speak face-to-face with their friend to clear it up.</li> </ul><p>Online communication tools are part of our students’ lives. We need to help our children understand how to behave when online or on their cell phone. By providing them with information, we will show them how to be a good digital citizen.</p> https://www.nypl.org/blog/2011/07/21/cyberbullying-safety#comments Thu, 21 Jul 2011 16:56:15 -0400 Beach, BBQs, and Books! Summer Reading Activities for Young Readers https://www.nypl.org/blog/2011/07/11/beach-bbqs-and-books-summer-reading-activities-young-readers Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p><span class="inline inline"><a title="Marjorie and Margaret., Digital ID 1698251, New York Public Library" href="http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/id?1698251"><img title="Marjorie and Margaret., Digital ID 1698251, New York Public Library" alt="Marjorie and Margaret., Digital ID 1698251, New York Public Library" width="211" height="300" src="https://images.nypl.org/?id=1698251&amp;t=w" /></a></span>It’s summertime! Children are out of school, and I'm sure the only things on their mind are amusement parks, camp, swimming, beaches, and BBQs! But in between activities and adventures, be sure to remind them to <strong>READ</strong>.</p> <!--break--> <p>“Summer Slump” is a phrase describing the decline in students learning skills over the summer months. As educators, we must make sure this doesn’t happen to our children. Here are some ways to make reading an important part of the summer day:</p> <ul><li><strong>Visit the Library</strong> — Have the family join this year's Summer Reading program. This will allow children to read, keep a list of what they've read, and write a review for others to read. You can even have a friendly competition to find out who has read the most books in your family. Sign-up at <a href="http://summerreading.org" rel="nofollow">summerreading.org</a>.</li> <li><strong>Books to Go</strong> — Going on a vacation? Bring your books along. Libraries offer <a href="http://ebooks.nypl.org/0811928F-F0A2-4CB0-9CA6-003A156F29BC/10/257/en/Default.htm">ebooks</a>, so you can download and return books from wherever you are.</li> <li><strong>Build a Book</strong> — Collect day-to-day keepsake items and have children create a book about their summer. They can add text to pictures they draw, to photographs, or even cut and paste flyers and pamphlets from the programs they've attended. It will be fun to read the book again during the cold winter months.</li> <li><strong>Cooking up Fun</strong> — Let children help in the kitchen. Have them read the recipe out loud or measure the ingredients for you. This will make mealtime extra exciting.</li> <li><strong>Put on a Performance </strong>— Children will have a great time putting together a play using characters from the books they've read over the summer.</li> <li><strong>You’ve Got Mail</strong> — Get a family member (grandparents, or even a cousin their age) to be a pen pal to your child. They can write about and share their summer plans.</li> <li><strong><a href="http://www.booktrailersforreaders.com/" rel="nofollow">Book Trailers for Readers</a> </strong>— This free website gives a sneak peek into the book, just like a movie trailer does for a movie!</li> <li><strong>Read-A-Longs</strong> — Databases like <a href="http://www.tumblebooks.com/library/asp/home_tumblebooks.asp" rel="nofollow">Tumblebooks</a> and <a href="http://bkflix.grolier.com/splash" rel="nofollow">BookFlix</a> are fun ways for young readers to read a story.</li> <li><a href="http://www.librarything.com/" rel="nofollow"><strong>LibraryThing</strong></a> — The whole family can create a virtual bookshelf of what they read over the summer, and children will be so excited to see all the books they've read.</li> </ul><p>Let your child know you are interested in what they are reading. Reading books aloud, listening to audio books, or just talking to them about what they are reading will demonstrate your genuine interest and help make reading a natural part of summer fun.</p> https://www.nypl.org/blog/2011/07/11/beach-bbqs-and-books-summer-reading-activities-young-readers#comments Mon, 11 Jul 2011 12:16:36 -0400 "Say What?" Look at What the Library Has in Your Language https://www.nypl.org/blog/2011/05/02/say-what-look-what-library-has-your-language Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p><a title="Statue of Liberty by night, New York City., Digital ID 836991, New York Public Library" href="http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/id?836991"><img width="300" height="469" title="Statue of Liberty by night, New York City., Digital ID 836991, New York Public Library" alt="Statue of Liberty by night, New York City., Digital ID 836991, New York Public Library" src="https://images.nypl.org/?id=836991&amp;t=w" /></a>In the "melting pot" of New York City, people from all over the world come to visit The New York Public Library. Luckily, New Yorkers can get information in languages from all around the world. Check out these databases, available from home.</p> <!--break--> <p><br /> Here’s how to access NYPL’s databases:<br /> 1. Go to <a href="http://www.nypl.org">www.nypl.org</a><br /> 2. Click on ‘Find Books, DVDs, &amp; More’<br /> 3. Click on ‘Articles and Databases’<br /> 4. Databases are listed in alphabetical order. If you are not accessing the database from the library, enter the number on the back of your library card.</p> <ul><li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/academic-one-file">Academic One File</a> search results can be translated into Arabic, Chinese (simplified), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portugese, Russian, and Spanish</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/biography-resource-center">Biography in Context</a> search results can be translated into Chinese (simplified), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portugese, and Spanish</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/bookflix">BookFlix</a> English/Spanish stories available</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/career-cruising">Career Cruising</a> Database translated for Spanish speakers; click the link labeled “Espanol” at the top of the page</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/chinese-e-journal-collection-qikan">Chinese E-Journal</a> Chinese</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases?subject=&amp;location=&amp;audience=&amp;language=&amp;keyword=&amp;limit=1">Consumer Health Information</a> This database is available in Chinese (traditional), Russian, and Spanish</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/credo-reference">Credo Reference</a> Interface language can be translated into Arabic, Chinese, French, Polish, and Spanish</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/custom-newspapers">Custom Newspapers</a> search results can be translated into Arabic, Chinese (simplified), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portugese, Russian, and Spanish</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/node/32651">Enciclopedia Estudiantil Hallazgos</a> Database is only in Spanish</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/general-one-file">General One File</a> search results can be translated into Arabic, Chinese (simplified), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portugese, Russian, and Spanish</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/history-resource-center-world">History Resource Center</a> search results can be translated into Chinese (simplified), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portugese, and Spanish</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/node/73418">La Nueva Enciclopedia Cumbre</a> Spanish</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/learning-express-library">Learning Express Library</a> This database has resources for Spanish speakers, click on the link at the bottom (left side) labeled, “Recursos para Hispanohablantes”</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/literature-resource-center">Literature Resource Center</a> search results can be translated into Chinese (simplified), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portugese, and Spanish</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/mango-languages">Mango Languages</a> This database features ESL lessons for Brazilian Portuguese, Polish and Spanish speakers. A text translator is also provided.</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/node/32725">Nueva Enciclopedia Cumbre Enlinea</a> Spanish</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/opposing-viewpoints-resource-center">Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center</a> search results can be translated into Chinese (simplified), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portugese, and Spanish</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/tumblebooks">Tumblebooks</a> Database can be translated for French and Spanish speakers, the link labeled “Choose A Language” is in the top right corner </li> </ul> Germanic Literature https://www.nypl.org/blog/2011/05/02/say-what-look-what-library-has-your-language#comments Mon, 02 May 2011 17:02:58 -0400 Teacher's Take-Out! (Sampling menu of library databases) https://www.nypl.org/blog/2011/03/08/teachers-take-out-sampling-menu-library-databases Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <!--break--> <p>Here's how to access NYPL's databases:</p> <ol><li><span class="inline inline inline-right inline-right"><img src="//www.nypl.org/sites/default/files/images/databaseskey.inline vertical.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image image image-inline image-inline vertical vertical" width="196" height="300" /></span>Go to <a href="http://www.nypl.org">www.nypl.org</a></li> <li>Click on 'Find Books, DVDs, &amp; More'</li> <li>Click on 'Articles and Databases'</li> <li>Databases are listed in alphabetical order. If you are not accessing the database from the library, enter the number on the back of your library card.</li> </ol><p>Try these databases:</p> <ul><li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/african-american-experience">African-American Experience</a> - Click on the link labeled "Analyze" for classroom resources</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/american-indian-experience">American-Indian Experience</a> – Click on the link labeled "Analyze" for classroom resources</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/ap-multimedia-archive">AP Multimedia Archive</a> – Use this database for current photos that NYPL's Digital Collection does not have</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/credo-reference"><span class="inline inline inline-right inline-right"><img src="//www.nypl.org/sites/default/files/images/credohoriz.gif" alt="" title="" class="image image image-inline image-inline vertical vertical" width="282" height="50" /></span>Credo Reference</a> – Information and reference sources on various subjects in different languages for students whose native language is not English</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/electronic-enlightenment">Electronic Enlightenment</a> – Is a network, interlinking letters in a way not previously possible and bringing together a uniquely connected collection of primary documents from the making of the modern world</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/grolier-online">Grolier Online</a> – At the bottom of the page is an area that is labeled "For Educators" click on the picture. Scroll down and on the left side of the page is a section labeled "Lesson Plans" you can choose by subject or grade. On that same page underneath is a box labeled "Printables" click on that. This is where you can print out graphic organizers and maps for your students.</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/latino-american-experience"><span class="inline inline inline-right inline-right"><img src="//www.nypl.org/sites/default/files/images/Picture_2.inline vertical.png" alt="" title="" class="image image image-inline image-inline vertical vertical" width="300" height="45" /></span>Latino-American Experience</a> – Click on the link labeled "Analyze" for classroom resources</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/learning-express-library">Learning Express Library</a> – Improve math, reading, writing skills, study for the SAT and other tests with practice exercises and tests</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/new-york-state-newspapers">New York State Newspapers</a> – Have a project about a current event? Search the major New York newspapers here</li> <li><a href="http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/index.cfm">NYPL Digital Gallery</a> – NYPL Digital Gallery provides free and open access to over 700,000 images digitized from The New York Public Library's vast collections, including illuminated manuscripts, historical maps, vintage posters, rare prints, photographs and more</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/opposing-viewpoints-resource-center"><span class="inline inline inline-right inline-right"><img src="//www.nypl.org/sites/default/files/images/title_ovrc_nonplus.inline vertical.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image image image-inline image-inline vertical vertical" width="300" height="28" /></span>Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center</a> – Articles presenting both sides of a controversial issue</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/node/62663">Professional Development Collection</a> – Provides a highly specialized collection of full-text journals, designed for professional educators</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/world-book-online-reference-center">World Book Online Reference Center</a> - Click on "World Book Online Reference Center" scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on the link that's labeled "For Educators and Homeschoolers" this will give you the link for lesson plans</li> </ul><p>Hint: Save the stuff you find on these databases to read later. <br /> Either: Copy and paste the text into a Word document and save it in Rich Text Format (.rtf) to a flash drive. Rich Text Format files can be read by any word processor, so you don't need MicrosoftWord to read it.<br /> Or: Email the article to yourself. Most databases have a button on the page to help you do this.</p> <p><strong>Database Terminology</strong>:<br /> Periodicals: newspaper, magazine, journal<br /> Full Text: entire article is available<br /> Citation: bibliographic information about the article<br /> Abstract: a summary of the article is available<br /> Scholarly/Professional Journal: original research in a specific field and have been reviewed by other scholars<br /> Peer-Reviewed Journal: is an academic periodical that has a review process to ensure its accuracy</p> https://www.nypl.org/blog/2011/03/08/teachers-take-out-sampling-menu-library-databases#comments Tue, 08 Mar 2011 20:29:24 -0500 What is Boolean Search? https://www.nypl.org/blog/2011/02/22/what-boolean-search Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p>Boolean searching is built on a method of symbolic logic developed by George Boole, a 19th century English mathematician.</p> <!--break--> <p>Boolean searches allow you to combine words and phrases using the words AND, OR, NOT (known as Boolean operators) to limit, broaden, or define your search. A good researcher should know how to do a Boolean Search.</p> <p> </p> <p><span class="inline inline inline-left inline-left"><img src="//www.nypl.org/sites/default/files/images/and.gif" alt="" title="" class="image image image-inline image-inline vertical vertical" width="213" height="136" /></span></p> <p><strong>"AND" logic</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>AND : Using AND narrows a search by combining terms.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><span class="inline inline inline-left inline-left"><img src="//www.nypl.org/sites/default/files/images/or.gif" alt="" title="" class="image image image-inline image-inline vertical vertical" width="217" height="134" /></span></p> <p><strong>"OR" logic</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>OR : Using OR broadens a search to include results that contain either of the words you're looking for.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><span class="inline inline inline-left inline-left"><img src="//www.nypl.org/sites/default/files/images/not.gif" alt="" title="" class="image image image-inline image-inline vertical vertical" width="216" height="138" /></span></p> <p><strong>"NOT" logic</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>NOT : Using NOT will narrow a search by exclusion. (Some search engines, like Google, recognize the minus (-) symbol, instead of the word NOT).</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Quotations : Placing quotations around a specific phrase will help you narrow results in order to find information containing that exact wording.</p> <p><strong>Boolean Searching on the Internet</strong><br /><a href="http://www.internettutorials.net/boolean.asp" rel="nofollow">http://www.internettutorials.net/boolean.asp</a></p> <p><strong>Power Searching with Boolean</strong><br /><a href="http://www.butterscotch.com/tutorial/Power-Searching-With-Boolean" rel="nofollow">http://www.butterscotch.com/tutorial/Power-Searching-With-Boolean</a></p> https://www.nypl.org/blog/2011/02/22/what-boolean-search#comments Tue, 22 Feb 2011 17:22:30 -0500 Electronic Resources for our Young Researchers https://www.nypl.org/blog/2011/01/03/electronic-resources-young-researchers Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p><span class="inline inline inline-right inline-right"><a title=" older girl with books on one side of table in playground, other children on the other side. , Digital ID 434224, New York Public Library" href="http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/id?434224"><img title=" older girl with books on one side of table in playground, other children on the other side. , Digital ID 434224, New York Public Library" alt=" older girl with books on one side of table in playground, other children on the other side. , Digital ID 434224, New York Public Library" width="250" height="232" src="https://images.nypl.org/?id=434224&amp;t=w" /></a></span>The New York Public Library has loads of resources available just for kids. From storytelling to searching, nothing is left to the imagination when using our resources. </p> <!--break--> <ul><li><strong><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/bookflix">BookFlix</a></strong>- plays the narration while highlighting the words of the story across the screen (PreK-3)</li> <li><strong><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/kids-search">Kids Search</a> </strong>- an easy-to-use database for students; search by keyword or by topic to find the most useful information (K-8)</li> <li><strong><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/learning-express-library">Learning Express Library</a> </strong>- provides practice tests in Math and Reading, starting with grades 4-College</li> <li><strong><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/searchasaurus-grades-1-3">Searchasaurus</a> </strong>- includes a dictionary and encyclopedia geared for young researchers, full-text articles from over 80 magazines and pamphlets appropriate for children in grades 1-3</li> <li><strong><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/tumblebooks">TumbleBooks</a> </strong>- includes animated-talking picture books, story books, and books in other languages, puzzles and games; each story provides the appropriate grade level</li> <li><strong><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/world-book-online-reference-center">World Book Online</a> - </strong>go to 'World Book Online for Kids' link and there you will find games, science projects, maps, and more</li> </ul><p><strong>Parents: if you are looking for additional library resources or homework help please go to </strong><a href="http://homeworknyc.org" rel="nofollow"><strong>homeworknyc.org</strong></a><strong>. </strong><strong>This website gives additional information.</strong></p> <p><strong>Junior-High and High-school students check-out our “<a href="http://www.nypl.org/blog/2010/02/22/hey-got-homework">Hey! Got Homework?</a>” handout available on </strong><a href="http://homeworknyc.org" rel="nofollow"><strong>homeworknyc.org</strong></a></p> <p>Here’s how to access NYPL’s databases:</p> <ol><li>Go to <a href="http://www.nypl.org">www.nypl.org</a></li> <li>Click on ‘Find Books, DVDs, &amp; More’</li> <li>Click on ‘Articles and Databases’ in left sidebar</li> <li>Databases are listed in alphabetical order. If you are not accessing the database from the library, enter the number found on the back of your library card.</li> </ol> Education https://www.nypl.org/blog/2011/01/03/electronic-resources-young-researchers#comments Mon, 03 Jan 2011 12:23:06 -0500 Now That's History! https://www.nypl.org/blog/2010/10/19/now-thats-history Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p><span class="inline inline inline-left inline-left"><a href="http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/id?ps_grd_005" title="Columbus witnessing lunar eclipse in Jamiaca, 1504.,Columbus appealing to the superstition of the natives., Digital ID ps_grd_005, New York Public Library"><img width="250" height="195" src="https://images.nypl.org/?id=ps_grd_005&amp;t=w" alt="Columbus witnessing lunar eclipse in Jamiaca, 1504.,Columbus appealing to the superstition of the natives., Digital ID ps_grd_005, New York Public Library" title="Columbus witnessing lunar eclipse in Jamiaca, 1504.,Columbus appealing to the superstition of the natives., Digital ID ps_grd_005, New York Public Library" /></a></span>Ancient History, Middle Ages, Industrial Revolution... Does history homework make you feel like you are in the Dark Ages? Well be enlightened by the library's resources!</p> <!--break--> <p>You can find complete, trustworthy information a lot faster using the library’s databases and apps.</p> <p>Here’s how to access NYPL’s databases:<br /> 1. Go to <a href="http://nypl.org">www.nypl.org</a><br /> 2. Click on ‘Find Books, DVDs, &amp; More’ in the top menu<br /> 3. Click on ‘Articles and Databases’ in the left sidebar<br /> 4. Databases are listed in alphabetical order. If you are not accessing the database from the library, enter the number on the back of your library card.</p> <h3>Legend:</h3> <div class="content"> <div id="dod-legend"> <div class="item onsite">Accessible only at select Library locations</div> <div class="item offsite">Accessible outside the Library with your NYPL card</div> <div class="item web">Free Web resource - available anywhere</div> </div> </div> <h2>Try these databases: (all available from home or in the library)</h2> <ul><li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/african-american-history-online">African-American History Online</a> – 500+ years of African-American history features biographies, primary sources, images, timelines, maps and charts</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/american-indian-history-online">American Indian History Online</a> – 5,000 years of culture, over 500 Native American groups</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/american-womens-history">American Women’s History</a> – Biographies, speeches, maps, primary sources, and photographs</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/ancient-medieval-history-online">Ancient &amp; Medieval History Online</a> – Global view of the ancient world</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/biography-resource-center">Biography in Context</a> – Look up anyone! Provides biographical information on anyone you can imagine</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/credo-reference">Credo Reference</a> – Bilingual information and reference sources on various subjects</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/grolier-online">Grolier Online</a> – Bilingual encyclopedia  that also suggests magazines and websites</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/history-resource-center-united-states">History Resource Center</a> – Variety of historical data from primary sources and includes maps and illustrations</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/lands-peoples">Lands and Peoples</a> – Encyclopedia of countries, cultures, and current events</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/middle-search-plus">Middle Search Plus</a> – Full text access to magazines covering general topics for middle and junior high school students</li> <li><a href="http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/new-york-state-newspapers">New York State Newspapers</a> – Have a project about a current event? Search the major New York newspapers here</li> </ul><p>Hint: Save the stuff you find on these databases to read later.<br /> Either: Copy and paste the text into a Word document and save it in Rich Text Format (.rtf) to a flash drive.<br /> Rich Text Format files can be read by any word processor, so you don’t need Word to read them.<br /> Or: Email the article to yourself. Most databases have a button on the page to help you do this.</p> <h2>Database Terminology:</h2> <p>Periodicals: newspaper, magazine, journal</p> <p>Full Text: entire article is available</p> <p>Citation: bibliographic information about the article</p> <p>Abstract: a summary of the article is available</p> <h2><br /> Need Pictures or Maps?</h2> <p><a href="http://www.nypl.org">www.nypl.org</a> has over 700,000 scanned images online for free- you don’t even need a library card to access them! They are searchable by subject and you can find neighborhoods or even specific addresses sometimes.</p> <p>On the library’s website and after you click “Find Book, DVDs  and more” Click on the link that says, “eBooks, Digital Images, and More,” you will find the Digital Gallery as the very first link.</p> <h2><br /> HomeworkNYC.org</h2> <p>Find out about Apps for Facebook and iGoogle that can help with homework, and from October to May, get one-on-one live help by phone or online from a New York City teacher.</p> <p>Check it out! <a href="http://www.homeworknycbeta.org" rel="nofollow">www.homeworknyc.org</a> </p><p>Attached to this blog is a handout</p> Education https://www.nypl.org/blog/2010/10/19/now-thats-history#comments Tue, 19 Oct 2010 11:45:58 -0400 September is National Library Card Sign-Up Month! https://www.nypl.org/blog/2010/09/21/september-library-card-sign-up-month Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p><img hspace="15" align="left" src="/sites/default/files/images/librarycardholder.jpg" style="margin-right: 15px; margin-bottom: 15px; width: 200px; height: 193px;" alt="" /><a href="http://www.ala.org/ala/conferencesevents/celebrationweeks/card/index.cfm">September is National Library Card Sign-Up Month!</a> Make sure everyone in your family has their own "smartest card." A library card provides access to not only books but movies, music, computers, and a variety of electronic databases.</p> <!--break--> <p>From young to old, everyone can enjoy the resources of the public library. The library provides the best-sellers to the classics, board books to graphic novels, as well as paperbacks to eBooks. All your reading desires can be met.</p> <p>You can also access the library from home by going to the library’s website:</p> <p><a href="http://nypl.org">NYPL.org</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.nypl.org/help/library-card">Learn more about library cards</a></p> <p><a href="https://catalog.nypl.org/screens/selfregpick.html">Apply for a library card!</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.ala.org/ala/conferencesevents/celebrationweeks/card/52ways.cfm">52 Ways to Use Your Library Card</a> (from ALA) </p> <p>Photos from ALA's <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/showusyourlibrarycard">Show us your library card!</a> group on Flickr</p> <p><object height="405" width="540"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&amp;lang=en-us&amp;page_show_url=%2Fgroups%2Fshowusyourlibrarycard%2Fpool%2Fshow%2F&amp;page_show_back_url=%2Fgroups%2Fshowusyourlibrarycard%2Fpool%2F&amp;group_id=1495780@N20&amp;jump_to=&amp;start_index=" /><param name="movie" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed height="405" width="540" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="offsite=true&amp;lang=en-us&amp;page_show_url=%2Fgroups%2Fshowusyourlibrarycard%2Fpool%2Fshow%2F&amp;page_show_back_url=%2Fgroups%2Fshowusyourlibrarycard%2Fpool%2F&amp;group_id=1495780@N20&amp;jump_to=&amp;start_index="></embed></object></p> https://www.nypl.org/blog/2010/09/21/september-library-card-sign-up-month#comments Tue, 21 Sep 2010 13:19:26 -0400 Back-to-School Tips https://www.nypl.org/blog/2010/09/02/back-to-school-tips Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p><span class="inline inline inline-left inline-left"><a title=" School children get in the scrap., Digital ID 1260413, New York Public Library" href="http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/id?1260413"><img title=" School children get in the scrap., Digital ID 1260413, New York Public Library" alt=" School children get in the scrap., Digital ID 1260413, New York Public Library" width="300" height="244" src="https://images.nypl.org/?id=1260413&amp;t=w" /></a></span>It’s that time of the year. Kids sharpen their pencils, pick up the backpack, and head off to school. Here are a few tips to get your child ready for the new school year.</p> <!--break--> <p>• <strong>Re-establish school routines.</strong> About a week before school starts get your child used to going to bed early, waking up early, picking out their clothes the night before, and start talking about what is expected from them this upcoming school year.</p> <p>• <strong>Prepare.</strong> It’s extremely important that your child has all their school supplies when heading into the classroom. But don’t forget about making sure your child knows how to get home from school. Show bus and train routes pointing out safe zones, such as stores, libraries, etc around the school’s neighborhood.</p> <p>• <strong>Communicate.</strong> Talk to your child about any kind of anxiety he/she may be feeling about going to school. If your child has any special needs, inform the teacher and school administration before school begins to avoid any issues.</p> <p>• <strong>Be Positive.</strong> When talking about school always be enthusiastic; it will keep your child motivated during the school year.</p> <p>• <strong>Make Copies.</strong> Have a copy of all emergency and health information for your school. It’s also important to have a copy of all dates for things going on at the school, i.e. parent/teacher’s conference, science fair, etc.</p> <p>• <strong>Designate Homework Area.</strong> Your child needs to have an area that is well lit, quiet, and comfortable for reading and writing.</p> <p>Here are a few helpful websites to read:</p> <p>1. <a href="http://www.teachervision.fen.com/education-and-parents/resource/3730.html" rel="nofollow">Teacher Vision</a> <br /> 2. <a href="http://www.aap.org/advocacy/releases/augschool.cfm" rel="nofollow">American Academy of Pediatrics</a> <br /> 3. <a href="http://kidshealth.org/kid/feeling/school/back_to_school.html" rel="nofollow">KidsHealth</a><br /> 4. <a href="http://kidshealth.org/teen/school_jobs/school/back_to_school.html" rel="nofollow">TeensHealth</a><br /> 5. <a href="http://organizedhome.com/seasonal-spin/back-to-school-tips-get-organized" rel="nofollow">Organized Home</a><br /> 6. <a href="http://www.nasponline.org/resources/home_school/b2shandout.aspx" rel="nofollow">NASP Resources</a><br /> 7. <a href="http://www.amazingmoms.com/htm/bts_main.htm" rel="nofollow">Amazing Moms</a></p> <p>Don't forget that the library also supports children’s learning. Staff members are aware of many of the upcoming school assignments and can suggest materials, websites, and programs that can assist with student’s achievement. Check-out the “Parent” section of  <a href="http://homeworknycbeta.org/" rel="nofollow">HomeworkNYC.org</a> to learn more.</p> Education https://www.nypl.org/blog/2010/09/02/back-to-school-tips#comments Thu, 02 Sep 2010 10:45:32 -0400 How to Get Students to Believe in Themselves https://www.nypl.org/blog/2010/07/27/how-get-students-believe-themselves Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p><span class="inline inline inline-center inline-center"><a title="Cyprinus Auratus, The Gold-Fish., Digital ID 403929, New York Public Library" href="http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/id?403929"><img height="164" width="300" alt="Cyprinus Auratus, The Gold-Fish., Digital ID 403929, New York Public Library" title="Cyprinus Auratus, The Gold-Fish., Digital ID 403929, New York Public Library" src="https://images.nypl.org/?id=403929&amp;t=w" /></a></span>How many times do you hear students in your classroom or library say, “I can’t”? Doesn’t that phrase make you cringe? I always tell students, "Don’t say that because you can,” and help them figure out ways to reach their goals.</p> <!--break--> <p>That’s one way to help, but sometimes a person is not always around to reinforce a positive way of thinking. After doing some reading, I came across “The Fish Story” (this story works with various age groups).</p> <p>When the students walk in your classroom or programming room, greet them and hand them a small plastic snack bag with a few goldfish crackers inside.</p> <p>"Cool, can we eat them?" at least one of them, if not all of them, will usually say.</p> <p>"Not just yet," is your reply. Then begin the fish story.</p> <p>This is a story about a fish. It's not an exaggerated "fish tale." It's a true story about a fish that was living in a large tank in New England. This fish was inside the tank because he was being studied by scientists. He was perfectly content. All his needs were being met. At feeding time the scientists would drop some minnows down into his tank. The fish would happily gobble them up. It was a good life.</p> <p>One day the scientists changed their routine. Instead of dropping the minnows freely into the tank, they placed the small fish inside of a glass tube. The tube was designed so that water could flow freely through it. The large fish swimming in the tank could easily see the tiny fish inside the tube. As the big fish grew hungry he began to try to get to the small fish inside the tube. This was his meal! He pushed the tube against the side of his tank. Of course, the hungrier he became the harder he tried. He knocked that tube with his tail and then with his whole body. Harder and harder he swatted at that tube as his hunger became overwhelming. But eventually the fish learned that he could not get to the minnows, no matter how hard he tried he simply couldn't open the tube. So he gave up.</p> <p>After watching the big fish for a while longer, the scientists changed their plan again. They pulled the tube full of small minnows up out of the tank and then dumped them freely right into the large tank alongside the big fish. The poor minnows! Can you imagine what happened next? (Pause to let them think about how fast the big fish would eat those minnows.) The large fish starved to death. (Disbelief fills the room.) With minnows swimming freely all around him, he starved to death.</p> <p>Why? How could that possibly happen? The answer isn't obvious, but it is simple. He no longer believed he could eat the fish. Once he stopped believing he could eat the fish, he no longer tried.</p> <p>When you tell this story to students, at first they accuse you of making it up. But it is a true story. Then one of them will talk about how incredibly stupid that fish was. No human would be so silly, they say. But we are. We are just like that big fish that starved to death. In fact I think that fish is a perfect analogy for life. And I can prove it. “Now," I say to my students, "eat the fish." Usually they just stare at me. They have become so engrossed in the story of the fish that starved to death that they will have forgotten about the goldfish crackers you gave them when they walked into the room. They already have become just like the big fish.</p> <p>"Eat the fish!" you will have to repeat. Slowly they begin to eat.</p> <p>As they eat you say, "Any time you put limitations on yourself, needless limitations, which keep you from reaching your goal, remember — those limits are all inside your head. I want you to remember that fish — the one who starved to death with minnows swimming all around him. I want you to remember him and not make the same mistake. You have possibilities all around you! Eat the fish!"</p> <p>It's a symbolic way of reminding students that they have to reject pointless limitations. They have to be diligent about rejecting the negative messages that surround them every day. You want them to remember that they are in charge of their own destiny. Maybe making them eat the fish is a little silly, but it is also memorable. Many students will not forget this activity or the important message it illustrates. Refer to it many times throughout the rest of the year. If someone is voicing self-doubt, another student may say, "What are you saying? Eat the fish!"</p> <p>The fish story is a way to illustrate to students in a very concrete way that beyond the facts and despite the reality that others may doubt their dreams, there still are many wonderful opportunities "swimming" all around them. They still always have the power to create their own future. All they have to do is eat the fish.</p> <p>This wonderful story and activity came from Dauna Easley, in <em>Techniques</em> (May 1, 2004).  <a href="http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&amp;db=aph&amp;AN=13027666&amp;site=ehost-live" rel="nofollow">Access via Academic Search Premier</a>.<br />  </p> https://www.nypl.org/blog/2010/07/27/how-get-students-believe-themselves#comments Tue, 27 Jul 2010 13:31:58 -0400 Meeting of the Minds: Youth, Social Media, and Education https://www.nypl.org/blog/2010/07/15/meeting-minds-youth-social-media-and-education Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p><a title="Cinnamon Madrepore; Muricated Madrepore; Mushroom Madrepore; Gorgonia Cerebrum or Brain Madrepore., Digital ID T000843, New York Public Library" href="http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/id?T000843"><img width="200" height="310" title="Cinnamon Madrepore; Muricated Madrepore; Mushroom Madrepore; Gorgonia Cerebrum or Brain Madrepore., Digital ID T000843, New York Public Library" alt="Cinnamon Madrepore; Muricated Madrepore; Mushroom Madrepore; Gorgonia Cerebrum or Brain Madrepore., Digital ID T000843, New York Public Library" src="https://images.nypl.org/?id=T000843&amp;t=w" /></a>Monday, June 21, 2010 HomeworkNYC presented “Meeting of the Minds: Youth, Social Media, and Education” a panel discussion with guest speaker danah boyd.</p> <!--break--> <p>Dr. boyd is a researcher at Microsoft Research and a fellow at Harvard's Berkman Center for Internet and Society. Her research investigates everyday practices involving social media, with specific attention to youth engagement. She recently co-authored <a href="http://www.worldcat.org/title/hanging-out-messing-around-and-geeking-out-kids-living-and-learning-with-new-media/oclc/314840580" rel="nofollow"><em>Hanging Out, Messing Around, and Geeking Out: Kids Living and Learning with New Media</em></a>. She is currently co-directing the Youth and Media Policy Working Group, funded by the MacArthur Foundation. She blogs at<span> </span><a href="http://www.zephoria.org/thoughts/" rel="nofollow">zephoria.org/thoughts</a> and she is on Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/zephoria" rel="nofollow">@zephoria</a>.</p> <p>As an audience member and a user of social media, I found the presentation interesting and insightful. So many questions were answered:</p> <ul><li>Why do teens really use social networking?</li> <li>Myspace vs. Facebook?</li> <li>Do teens use twitter?</li> <li>Who is looking online?</li> </ul><p>So, I’m sure you are reading this wondering, “okay, great program, why write a blog about it?” I wrote this blog because of the overwhelming responses from this event. I figured I should keep the conversation going, create a forum for questions, and hopefully move us all in the same direction.</p> <p>If you missed the discussion, watch the video here: <a href="http://www.nypl.org/audiovideo/meeting-minds-youth-social-media-and-education">Meeting of the Minds: Youth, Social Media, and Education</a>.</p> <p>A handout with everyone's bio information is available at the bottom of the page.</p> <p><strong>Message from danah boyd</strong>:<br /> Thanks so much for a fun day! Let me share some links that might be useful for folks:</p> <ul><li>Internet Safety Technical Task Force Report (including a complete literature review of safety data):<br /><a href="http://cyber.law.harvard.edu/pubrelease/isttf" rel="nofollow">http://cyber.law.harvard.edu/pubrelease/isttf</a></li> <li>Hanging Out, Messing Around, and Geeking Out<br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hanging-Out-Messing-Around-Geeking/dp/0262013363" rel="nofollow">http://www.amazon.com/Hanging-Out-Messing-Around-Geeking/dp/0262013363</a></li> <li>My articles and conference talks:<br /><a href="http://www.danah.org/papers/ " rel="nofollow">http://www.danah.org/papers/ </a></li> </ul> https://www.nypl.org/blog/2010/07/15/meeting-minds-youth-social-media-and-education#comments Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:18:49 -0400 Summer Reading+HomeworkNYC: Get Your Badge!!!! https://www.nypl.org/blog/2010/07/12/summer-reading-homeworknyc-get-your-badge Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p><a href="http://summerreading.org" rel="nofollow">S<span class="inline inline inline-left inline-left"><img src="//www.nypl.org/sites/default/files/images/hmwknyc.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image image image-inline image-inline vertical vertical" width="110" height="92" /></span>ummerreading.org</a> has launched a great interactive website that allows everyone, young or old to participate in summer reading!</p> <!--break--> <p>In case you haven’t checked it out, go to <a href="http://summerreading.org" rel="nofollow">summerreading.org</a> and click where it says, “Register now!” (When registering you do not have to fill-in first name, last name, or email address).</p> <p>Once you have created your account the fun begins. You get to create your virtual person, by dressing it, changing the hair, and picking facial features (trust me, time will escape you when doing this).</p> <p>The next great part is getting your badges. Everyone receives a badge when signing-up. Other ways in getting a badge is by logging in the times you read, going to library programs, etc.</p> <p>HomeworkNYC has recently created a badge for students and parents to add to their summer reading page.</p> <p><strong>Here is how to get the HomeworkNYC badge</strong>:<br /> • Students must add a homeworknyc app to their social networking page</p> <p><strong><em>How to get the Apps in 3 easy steps</em></strong>:</p> <ol><li><em>Sign-up for i-Google (if you have a gmail account then you already have an i-Google account)<br /></em></li> <li><em> Click on the link “add stuff” type in homeworknyc in the “search for gadgets” bar and click “search”<br /></em></li> <li><em> The HomeworkNYC app will appear. Click on the “add it now” button</em></li> </ol><p>That is it! The apps will appear on your i-Google page.</p> <p>• Parents must look at the new HomeworkNYC website <a href="http://homeworknyc.org" rel="nofollow">http://homeworknyc.org/ </a></p> <p>The badge code is <strong>HomeworkApp</strong></p> <p>**You can also watch screencasts on how to add the HomeworkNYC Apps to your Facebook page on YouTube- type homeworknyc**</p> Education https://www.nypl.org/blog/2010/07/12/summer-reading-homeworknyc-get-your-badge#comments Mon, 12 Jul 2010 10:43:46 -0400 Writing a Book Report https://www.nypl.org/blog/2010/05/04/writing-book-report Shauntee Burns, Outreach Librarian <p><span class="inline inline inline-left inline-left"><a href="http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/id?115822" title="Drilled books, Mar. 27, 1913, Digital ID 115822, New York Public Library"><img width="300" height="236" src="https://images.nypl.org/?id=115822&amp;t=w" alt="Drilled books, Mar. 27, 1913, Digital ID 115822, New York Public Library" title="Drilled books, Mar. 27, 1913, Digital ID 115822, New York Public Library" /></a></span>The key to a great book report is to choose a book you like! You may have to look at a few books to find one that interests you but it is time well spent. It will make the difference between making this a fun and rewarding experience or just another chore. How you feel about the book is sure to come through in your report as well. If you like the book, then writing the report is so much easier.</p> <!--break--> <p>Here are some ideas for finding a good book:</p> <ul><li>Visit your library and browse the shelves. Read a page or two of books that look interesting.</li> <li>Ask your librarian for recommendations. Librarians help students pick books all the time and they are usually pretty good at picking ones they like.</li> <li>Look for awards on the books like the Newbery or Caldecott Medals.</li> <li>Read book reviews on the back cover.</li> <li>Ask your friends or family what books they liked reading.</li> <li>Look for lists of recommended books in your library and on library web sites.</li> </ul><p>Of course, your teacher may have assigned you a book to read. It may be about something you don’t think is interesting. Give it a chance. You may be surprised at how good it is. If you still don’t like it that’s OK, too. Nobody is going to like every single book.</p> <p><strong>Writing Your Report</strong></p> <p>There are lots of different ways of writing a book report. Your teacher may have given you instructions about how to do it. They may have told you how long they want it to be or what topics you are supposed to include. If so, then follow their instructions.</p> <p>If not, here are some things to consider when writing a book report:</p> <p>Where does the story take place?</p> <p>The setting could be a real place like New York City or a farming village in Siberia. Or it could be an imaginary one like a spaceship on an interplanetary voyage. Sometimes an author doesn’t actually tell you where the story takes place. Can you find any clues in the story that would help you make a guess?</p> <p>Who are the main characters?</p> <p>Tell about the characters in the story. Was there a hero or a villain? Was it a story about a family and their feelings about each other? Introduce your readers to the characters of your story.</p> <p>What is the plot?</p> <p>What happened to your characters? Why did they do the things they did? Was there a surprise ending? Just remember not to make your report a detailed retelling of the whole story. If your teachers wanted to know everything that happened in the story they could just go and read the book themselves.</p> <p>What did you think of the book?</p> <p>Did you like it? What was your favorite part? Did you like some parts and not others? Why? This is your chance to put your own thoughts down about the author’s work.</p> <p>Who is the author?</p> <p>Do you know anything about their life? Can you see how something that happened to the author in real life is included in the book? Many authors have their own web sites. Take a look and see what you can find out.</p> <p>Good luck with your report!</p> Language and Literature https://www.nypl.org/blog/2010/05/04/writing-book-report#comments Tue, 04 May 2010 10:52:44 -0400
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