tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234Sun, 08 Jul 2018 08:06:46 +0000programstechnologychildrencollectioncommunityteensFriendscirculationvirtual librarySummer Readingjoy of readingschedulefundraisingaudiobooksvolunteersDorothyreaders advisorypolicieslifelong learningreferencedatabasesstaffauthorschildren's servicesdigital mediaLibrary 2.0book salesebooksfamilybook groupsawardsspecial servicesartstatisticsNutmegbuildingresource sharingmuseumsBoardeventsgreenlanguagesprofessionalschoolaward winnersparentspartnersspecial needsstateChristieComic Conbook groups. The Big Readcatalogmagazinesseniorsspecial eventssupportsurveyCommunity spaceSTEAMbusinesseslibrary cardmusicreading programsstoretrainingwise resourcecommunicationsmissionresearchvaluevideosBOTCDVDs.GayleGeriKristinacontestscraftsdonorshealth and wellnessmakerpersonal storiespoetrystaff trainingwritingBanned BooksBrendaLYLMOOCsPapa FundRidgefield WritesSontaartsinter-library loanlarge printmobile libraryservice alertsstormstudentsEricaLyme ConnectionRidgefield PlayhouseThe Big ReadVictoriaadvocacyappealdefinitionsdiscussionsintroductionmovemuralpicture bookspublishingservice changessocial mediatrendswebsitewish listLibrary LinesA weekly round-up of news by the staff of the Ridgefield Library in Ridgefield, CT. Also appears in print in the Ridgefield Press.http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/noreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)Blogger500125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-1032029544960323753Mon, 26 Mar 2018 15:23:00 +00002018-03-26T11:23:42.559-04:00circulationpoliciesprogramsTell Us What You Want<br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Hoping to read a new release but it is never on the shelf? We always encourage people to place a hold for a desired item rather than just wait to strike it lucky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>You can do this yourself online anytime or ask us to do it for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>The more holds on a popular item, the more copies we will buy (our goal is to have at least 1 copy for every 4 names on the waiting list). <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">We now request registration for most adult programs and appreciate knowing if you plan to attend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>Some technology classes, for example, can accommodate only as many participants as we have available computers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>For larger gatherings, we want to make sure we have enough chairs set up and enough refreshments!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>And, in winters like this one, it is helpful to be able to contact all expected attendees in the case of weather cancellations. We also ask that you cancel if you are unable to attend a program for which you have registered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>This allows us to offer a spot to someone on the waiting list and make sure we have a full house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>Registration (and cancellation) can be done online or by calling us.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />Thanks for your help!<o:p></o:p></div><br />http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2018/03/tell-us-what-you-want.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-8248392408051133518Fri, 23 Feb 2018 22:37:00 +00002018-02-23T17:37:53.380-05:00craftshealth and wellnessThe Big ReadThe Corrigan Connection<div class="MsoNormal">What do Maureen Corrigan, Pat Corrigan and Kelly Corrigan have in common?&nbsp; As far as I know, these three extraordinary women have no family ties, but together they demonstrate the quality and range of the Library’s adult programming.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Maureen Corrigan, book reviewer for NPR’s Fresh Air, came to Ridgefield in 2014 to share the insights in her newly released book “So We Read On: How the Great Gatsby Came to Be and Why It Endures,” adding a fresh and timely element to our community-wide Big Read that fall of the Fitzgerald masterpiece.&nbsp; <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Pat Corrigan does not have the nationwide fan base Maureen enjoys as a radio celebrity, but she has a very loyal following among Ridgefield Library patrons. A retired high school art teacher from Pawling, NY, Pat teaches regular crafting and sewing programs that fill up as soon as they are announced.&nbsp; <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">Acclaimed speaker, best-selling author and cancer survivor Kelly Corrigan will be appearing at the Ridgefield Playhouse on March 8<sup>th</sup>as part of the Library’s Noreen L. Papa – Mothers: Live your Life health and wellness series. Admission is free but registration at the Library’s website at www.ridgefieldlibrary.org is required for this inspirational presentation by our latest Corrigan connection.<o:p></o:p></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2018/02/the-corrigan-connection.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-5238368082106006375Wed, 14 Feb 2018 19:02:00 +00002018-02-14T14:02:31.685-05:00digital mediaebooksLibrary Remedies for Cabin Fever<div class="MsoNormal">As I write, we don’t yet know what the groundhog will have to say about how much more winter to expect, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warn that flu season could last another 11-13 weeks and that the disease is especially virulent this year.&nbsp; Along with schools and workplaces, public gathering places like our building can be hubs for flu germs, so we urge you to avoid the Library as well if family members are feeling under the weather.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">Did you know that when you can’t come to the Library, the Library can come to you?&nbsp; You can listen and read along to TumbleBooks online selection of illustrated children’s books.&nbsp; More eBooks and downloadable audiobooks for all ages are available from OverDrive – take advantage of downtime to check out Libby, their new user-friendly app for reading/listening on your phone or tablet. Hoopla provides instant access with no waiting lists to streaming music, movies and TV shows as well as audiobooks and eBooks.&nbsp; Chase away cabin fever with their great selection of your favorite comics!&nbsp; There’s lots more, so stop by <a href="http://www.ridgefieldlibrary.org/">www.ridgefieldlibrary.org</a>even if you can’t come to 472 Main Street.<o:p></o:p></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2018/02/library-remedies-for-cabin-fever.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-6846791613859676865Thu, 01 Feb 2018 22:49:00 +00002018-02-01T17:49:56.435-05:00communitysurveywebsiteRe-Designing our Virtual Branch – With your Help<br /><div class="MsoNormal">Now that we are settled into our improved physical facility, it is time to turn our attention to our “virtual branch” – the Library’s website.&nbsp; A lot has changed since this site was created back in 2010. To start, library offerings have expanded significantly, including the explosion of digital and downloadable content, new programming streams and many other new services. Equally impactful is the transformation of technology over the past 7 years.&nbsp; When our website debuted, almost no one had a smartphone or other personal device.&nbsp; Online research and communication happened solely on desktop or full-size laptop computers, often with dial-up Internet access.&nbsp; In 2018, we need a site that accommodates mobile devices, faster loading of files that are many times larger, and an unprecedented level of interactivity and customization.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">With the financial support of the Friends of the Ridgefield Library, we are embarking on a complete re-design, and one of our first steps is to get input from users of the current site.&nbsp; Tell us what you do on the site, what you like and what you don’t, what new content or functionality you would like to see. Just go to ridgefieldlibrary.org and follow the link to take a very short survey.&nbsp; Thanks for your input!<o:p></o:p></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2018/02/re-designing-our-virtual-branch-with.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-1229297001671080027Wed, 10 Jan 2018 15:58:00 +00002018-01-10T10:58:11.723-05:00children's servicescollectioncraftsfamilyspecial servicesSTEAMMake STEAM @ Home<div class="MsoNormal">Looking for fun and educational activities when the family is stuck inside during the winter weather? Now you can Make STEAM @ Home with the Ridgefield Library’s new STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) Kits for children ages 4-11. The Library is developing a series of fun, interactive, thematic learning kits about a variety of topics and skills that relate to STEAM and literacy.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Make science at home with Snap Circuits or Osmo. Learn coding with Bee-Bots or Dash &amp; Dot. Engineer with K’Nex or dominos. Make art with a Spirograph or Cursive kits; make math with the Money Kit or the Telling-Time Kit. Drama, knitting and Ozobot kits will be coming in February.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">Stop into the Lodewick Children’s Library to see the available kits and bring one home for seven days with the use of your Ridgefield Library Card. STEAM kits are only available for check out from the children’s information desk (and must be returned there) and cannot be reserved. One per family, please; late fees $2.00 per day, up to a maximum of $20. STEAM kits at the Ridgefield Library are made possible by the McGovern Family.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: red;">Contributed by Kristina Lareau, Head of Children's Services</span></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2018/01/make-steam-home.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-3834468634840176320Tue, 26 Dec 2017 15:46:00 +00002017-12-26T10:46:33.625-05:00appealfundraisingspecial eventsSupporting your Library<div class="MsoNormal">Planning for 2018 at the Ridgefield Library is well underway, and we have some exciting activities on tap that will be announced soon. As the clock ticks down on 2017, we wanted to take this opportunity to remind you that everything you enjoy at the Library is only possible due to the generosity of our donors. &nbsp;Here’s how you can help.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Tax-deductible donations to our Annual Appeal can still be made and counted in 2017. Checks can be postmarked or hand-delivered through Saturday the 30th, and online donations may be made through the 31<sup>st</sup>. With the implications of the new tax bill still being unpacked, it may benefit donors to do their annual charitable giving before the end of this calendar year.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Escape Room Adventure tickets have been big sellers, but some spots are still available in sessions throughout January.&nbsp; Give yourself a post-holiday treat and get yours today.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">It’s not too late to purchase an upcoming release by your favorite author from our Wish List and earn the privilege of being the first to read it when it arrives.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">More information about all these opportunities is available at ridgefieldlibrary.org or by calling 203-438-2282 x11029.&nbsp; Thanks for your support!<o:p></o:p></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/12/supporting-your-library.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-2838277838069409297Fri, 15 Dec 2017 21:28:00 +00002017-12-15T16:28:54.758-05:00awardscommunityspecial servicesvolunteersPaccadolmi Honorees Announced<div style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica&quot;,sans-serif;">The Ridgefield Library is pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s Paccadolmi Awards for volunteer service, which were given out at a festive reception on December 3<sup>rd</sup>.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica&quot;,sans-serif;">Former Library Board member Lisbeth Kelly was honored for her service on the Board from 2009-2015, as well as her continuing dedication, as she has lent her significant skills to our ongoing work, notably as co-chair of the Search Committee tasked with hiring a new Library Director.&nbsp; Still willing to contribute, she once again answered our call and has joined our Strategic Planning Committee which is currently developing long-range goals and priorities for the Library.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica&quot;,sans-serif;">Also honored were the individuals who collectively have provided the backbone of our Homebound Delivery Service since its inception in 2008: <strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Andrea Heap, Julia Bruce, Hannah Barber, Michele Brooks, Melissa Brady, Lynn Dinisi, Valerie Cosgrove and Tori Dinkel.&nbsp; These dedicated individuals have delivered thousands of books, DVDs and other library materials to dozens of people who are</span></strong> housebound due to long-term or short-term illness or disability.&nbsp; They truly provide a vital connection to the outside world for those unable to get to the Library on their own.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><br /><div style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica&quot;,sans-serif;">You can learn more about the Paccadolmi Awards and about the Homebound Delivery Service at </span><a href="http://www.ridgefieldlibrary.org/"><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica&quot;,sans-serif;">www.ridgefieldlibrary.org</span></a><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica&quot;,sans-serif;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/12/paccadolmi-honorees-announced.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-5423054170579145987Fri, 01 Dec 2017 17:54:00 +00002017-12-01T12:54:23.222-05:00collectionfundraisingBuy a Book for the Library<div class="MsoNormal">We are pleased to introduce a new way for library supporters to help us maintain an up-to-date and attractive collection for all ages – one book at a time! For a modest tax-deductible donation, you can select a specific title to add to our holdings.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Just go to our website at <a href="http://www.ridgefieldlibrary.org/">www.ridgefieldlibrary.org</a> and click on the Wish List link.&nbsp; Select the Books tab and browse through the items our staff have picked out. These include fresh editions of classic picture books to replace copies that have been “loved to death,” missing titles in popular series for young readers and projected adult bestsellers due for publication in the next few months. Donate to purchase a new release, and you can be the first one to read it! The wish list includes fiction and nonfiction and even DVDs and audiobooks.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">Books may be purchased to honor a special occasion (birthday, Christmas, terrific report card) or person (relative, teacher, favorite librarian!). When appropriate, a bookplate will be included in the item purchased, and a card will be sent notifying your honoree. This is a great alternative for those who don’t need any more “stuff” – or consider it a gift to the entire community that relies on the Library for reading choices.<o:p></o:p></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/12/buy-book-for-library.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-5989731666295458011Thu, 09 Nov 2017 18:25:00 +00002017-11-09T13:25:10.965-05:00BOTCfundraisinglibrary cardLibrary Days Returns to Books on the Common<div class="MsoNormal">If you are one of the more than 200 people who enjoyed Roz Chast’s presentation last week, you know exactly how precious is the partnership between Books on the Common and the Ridgefield Library. Together we bring Ridgefielders and other readers dozens of author and book events each year, an extraordinary treat for a town our size. Now the time is nigh for you to support both the bookstore and the Library to ensure that these wonderful opportunities continue.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The annual Library Days at Books on the Common will take place Thanksgiving weekend.&nbsp;&nbsp; Just show your Ridgefield Library card at the cash register, and 15% of the proceeds of your purchase will be donated by the bookstore to the Library.&nbsp; <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Store hours are Friday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM and Sunday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; call 203-438-9100 for more information about the store.&nbsp; Ridgefield residents who do not have one may register for a library card at the Circulation Desk; all that is needed is proof of residence.&nbsp; <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">Your support of local businesses like Books on the Common, and the bookstore’s support of the Library, &nbsp;&nbsp;help keep Ridgefield an exceptional place to live, at the holidays and year-round.<o:p></o:p></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/11/library-days-returns-to-books-on-common.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-30798805168320322Mon, 06 Nov 2017 16:07:00 +00002017-11-06T11:07:14.023-05:00catalogcirculationservice alertsComputer System Upgrade Coming November 9-10<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">Our circulation and catalog system, known as Evergreen, will be offline from 9:00 PM on Thursday, November 9 through 9 PM on Friday the 10<sup>th</sup>&nbsp; for a major upgrade.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: SymbolMT;">• </span>Checkout will be possible only upon presentation of your library card (look-ups will not be possible). We will not be able to accept fines or lost item payments, check items in or issue new cards or card renewals. Self-checkout machines will not be functioning.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: SymbolMT;">• </span>Library catalog and account features will be unavailable both remotely and at the Library, so you<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">will not be able to search our catalog, place a hold or renew items you have out. No notices of<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">overdues or holds ready for pick‐up will be sent.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: SymbolMT;">• Print and time management for </span>the Library’s computer workstations will not be able to recognize library card barcodes, so please ask at the desk for a guest pass. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: SymbolMT;">• </span>Remote and onsite connection to some databases and downloadable and streaming content that requires your library card number for log‐in may be affected. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">Staff will be happy to offer alternative resources and to assist in locating items in the Library. We also look forward to sharing with you the resulting improvements to catalog searching and other functions once the upgrade is complete!<o:p></o:p></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/11/computer-system-upgrade-coming-november.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-261255199825121019Thu, 19 Oct 2017 21:33:00 +00002017-10-19T17:33:09.042-04:00book salesFriendsprogramsFriends in Need<div class="MsoNormal">As the old saying goes, a friend in need is a friend indeed.&nbsp; Multiply that by dozens of dedicated volunteers, and you get our wonderful Friends of the Ridgefield Library.&nbsp; With a mission of “serving and supporting” the Library, the Friends are truly a good friend to everyone who enjoys and benefits from our many programs and services. Essential partners in the capital campaign to build our new facility, they remain committed to helping us add new services like 3D printers and technology instruction while maintaining many well-loved programs such as Book Club Corner selections and Summer Reading Programs. If you enjoy free or discounted museum passes, Ridgefield Folk concerts or intensive literary series like our current Jane Austen programs, then you have the Friends to thank.&nbsp; These and so many other offerings are only possible because of their generous financial and volunteer support.&nbsp; So, we are pleased to thank and applaud them publicly during this year’s National Friends of Libraries Week (October 15-21).<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">You can support the Friends, and through them the Library, by shopping at their big fall used book sale this weekend (through Monday), visiting their online store at amazon.com/shops/forl or becoming a member (forms available at the Library Circulation Desk).<o:p></o:p></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/10/friends-in-need.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-287697112588258716Thu, 05 Oct 2017 20:09:00 +00002017-10-05T16:09:39.678-04:00lifelong learningprogramsLearning at the Library<div class="MsoNormal">School has started, and our young people are embarked on an exciting journey of exploration and discovery. Don’t let them have all the fun of gaining new knowledge and mastering new skills.&nbsp; The Ridgefield Library is your center for lifelong learning.&nbsp; Here are a few ways you can take advantage of this resource.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Learn a language.&nbsp; Our new online language learning program Pronunciator makes it easy for you to go from beginner to advanced proficiency in over 80 languages, from Italian to Icelandic.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Learn at your own speed.&nbsp; Lynda.com offers thousands of online video tutorials covering business and computer skill topics.&nbsp; Take a full course or just search for the answer to a specific question about how to do something in Excel or WordPress.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Learn from the best.&nbsp; Our Great Courses collection includes audio (and some video) lecture series by highly rated professors who are experts and excellent educators on everything from astronomy to French literature. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">Learn from each other. Book discussions, our Adult Maker Group and other interactive programs offer wonderful opportunities for participants to share their own insights and knowledge, enriching the learning experience for the whole group.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/10/learning-at-library.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-2601863304705032707Thu, 21 Sep 2017 15:17:00 +00002017-09-21T11:17:20.435-04:00Banned BooksKristinaGet Caught Reading a Banned Book<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: #4e4e4e; font-family: &quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">This year’s Banned Books Week celebration of the freedom to read, organized since 1982 by a coalition including the American Library Association (ALA), the American Booksellers Association and the National Council of Teachers of English, is September 24-30. This event highlights the need for free access to information and ideas without censorship regardless of personal views. From “A Brave New World” to “Harry Potter” to the Bible, ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom reports the books are challenged, censored and banned every year.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: #4e4e4e; font-family: &quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: #4e4e4e; font-family: &quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">To raise awareness of the effects of censorship on communities, the Ridgefield Library is featuring an interactive “Get Caught Reading a Banned Book” display. Patrons may take a selfie, or pose for a photo in front of a “mugshot” backdrop with a favorite challenged or banned book. Check our displays or browse banned book lists at our service desk to help make a selection – you may be surprised at some of the titles on the list. The Library encourages patrons and visitors to share their images on social media with the hashtags: <i>#rebelreader </i>and <i>#ireadbannedbooks</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: #4e4e4e; font-family: &quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: red;">Contributed by Kristina Lareau, Head of Children's Services</span></span></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/09/get-caught-reading-banned-book.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-3595538200864505986Thu, 07 Sep 2017 17:48:00 +00002017-09-07T13:48:40.377-04:00childrenComic ConfamilyprogramsGame On!<div class="MsoNormal">Our annual RidgeCon pop culture celebration has become so popular that we have decided to continue the fun throughout the year. The first RidgeCon “spin-off” will be the launch in September of two recurring gaming programs.&nbsp; <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">We Got Games is a tabletop gaming meet-up for adults and teens on the 2<sup>nd</sup> Tuesday evening of the month. Family Game Day will meet on the fourth Saturday of each month and is an afternoon drop-in program for families with children aged 4 and up. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">What does playing Apples to Apples or the Settlers of Cataan have to do with libraries? Experts in many disciplines now recognize the importance of play in childhood development, in aiding the retention of mental acuity in later years and in fostering collaboration and teamwork for all ages. Not only do tabletop games offer friendly competition, but many require strategy, planning, critical analysis, storytelling and creative thinking. Playing games with children can help their social development, literacy skills and better recognition of cause-and-effect. These skills are many of the same ones libraries introduce and reinforce in storytimes, book discussions and other programs, as well as through tools such as Kindle Fires for kids and Lynda.com and other online tutorials for adults.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/09/game-on.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-8055494497328485830Thu, 31 Aug 2017 20:55:00 +00002017-08-31T16:55:59.894-04:00childrencollectioncontestsreaders advisoryTransforming the Lodewick Children's Library<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">The Library staff is always seeking better ways to help our patrons find what they need, whether it is a satisfying leisure read or information to fulfill a homework assignment. In the Children’s Library, for example, collections are divided into separate sections for different ages, reading levels or purposes, such as the Holiday collection and the Early Reader section, further divided into 3 subgroups to correspond to level ranking used in the schools.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Over the summer, we have been making a number of additional changes. When complete, one of the most noticeable will be the creation of a separate location for “Chapter Books,” previously mixed in Juvenile Fiction right next to the huge volumes by J.K. Rowling and Rick Riordan.&nbsp; These are books geared to those just moving beyond Early Readers, such as the Magic Tree House and other popular series.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">To help folks become familiar with where things are now located in the Lodewick Children’s Library, we are hosting a Back-to-School Scavenger Hunt the week after Labor Day. Kids in Kindergarten through Grade 5 are invited to drop in any time the Library is open on September 5-9 and pick up a scavenger hunt form. &nbsp;All who complete the hunt will receive a small prize.<o:p></o:p></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/08/transforming-lodewick-childrens-library.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-8456157514733148901Thu, 24 Aug 2017 17:49:00 +00002017-08-24T13:49:22.480-04:00LYLscheduleSummer ReadingSee You in September<div class="MsoNormal">Congratulations to all who participated in the 2017 Build a Better World Summer Reading Program.&nbsp; Teen and adult programs have wrapped up, but children through grade 6 can continue to log their reading and collect prizes until August 31<sup>st</sup>(the day before school starts). A very special thank you to our long-time Summer Reading sponsors: &nbsp;the Friends of the Ridgefield Library, Books on the Common, Deborah Ann’s Sweet Shoppe and The Toy Chest.&nbsp; We couldn’t do it without them!<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">After the excitement of RidgeCon and the Solar Eclipse, our staff will be taking a brief break to catch their breaths before fall activities start up.&nbsp; The Library will be open on Saturday, September 2nd from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM but closed on Sunday and Monday for the Labor Day holiday.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Good news for students, commuters and others who have difficulty getting to the Library during the week!&nbsp; Sunday hours from 1:00 to 5:00 PM start up again on September 10<sup>th</sup>.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">The coming of fall will also see our Love your Library Day events (including mini-golf in the stacks!) on September 15<sup>th</sup> and 16<sup>th</sup>, the launch of a season-long series of events devoted to Jane Austen, and much more.&nbsp; Check <a href="http://www.ridgefieldlibrary.org/">www.ridgefieldlibrary.org</a> for details. See you in September!<o:p></o:p></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/08/see-you-in-september.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-8945355468109592405Thu, 17 Aug 2017 21:59:00 +00002017-08-17T18:00:29.335-04:00DorothyFriendslanguagestechnologyvirtual libraryLearning a Language Just Got Easier<div class="MsoNormal">Pronunciator, an online language learning product that provides instruction for all ages in over 80 languages, is now available to Library cardholders.&nbsp; With its wide range of features, Pronunciator replaces Mango, our previous online offering, and is made possible by the Friends of the Library.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Pronunciator provides instruction for learners ranging from beginners to those seeking advanced conversational skills. For structured learning, Pronunciator includes eight-week interactive courses at all levels that offer five days of study each week consisting of one to two 30-minute sessions per day.&nbsp; For those who prefer to customize their own learning, Pronunciator makes it easy to select areas of focus such as core vocabulary, essential verbs or conversational practice along with the flexibility of mastering a language by topics of interest.&nbsp; When using a microphone-enabled device, feedback on pronunciation skills is available.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">Also included are units specifically geared toward both early learners (3 to 6-year-olds) and young learners (7 to 12-year-olds) and for those seeking to master vocabulary targeted toward travel, workplace or English as a second language.&nbsp;&nbsp; Download lessons with apps for Apple and Android phones and tablets for access on the go. &nbsp;Pronunciator also offers a wide range of special features such as movies, music and poetry to enhance study.&nbsp;&nbsp;<o:p></o:p><br /><br /><span style="color: red;">Contributed by Dorothy Pawlowski, Head of Adult Services</span></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/08/learnign-language-just-got-easier.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-7012031550130928378Wed, 09 Aug 2017 21:39:00 +00002017-08-09T17:39:34.794-04:00circulationtechnologyWhy One at a Time?<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Your family has taken out lots of books for Summer Reading, and now it is time to return them to the Library. You station yourself at the return slot, and the sign instructs you to drop in one item at a time and wait for the green light before proceeding.&nbsp; What’s up with that, you sigh, as you look at the huge stack of items in your tote bag?<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">All materials sent through the slot go on to a conveyor belt and are checked in electronically using a Radio Frequency Identification tag, then sorted automatically by category. This system helps us to get items back on the shelves for the next user quickly with the least amount of handling by staff.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">&nbsp;It can only process one thing at a time, which is why each item should be sent through separately. Jumbles of multiple items put through the slot together cannot be distinguished and are passed to the end of the belt, where they must be handled manually.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Please note: The new Kindle Fires for kids must be returned directly to the Children’s Services desk.&nbsp; We ask also that certain oversize volumes be brought to the Circulation Desk, as they can jam and be damaged in the sorting mechanism (you will find special instructions located on the cover).&nbsp;&nbsp;<o:p></o:p></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/08/why-one-at-time.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-7114714917660198617Fri, 04 Aug 2017 17:22:00 +00002017-08-04T13:22:31.260-04:00Comic ConLYLprogramsSTEAMIt's Definitely Not your Grandfather's Library<div class="MsoNormal">Sure, we have 100,000 books and other traditional library materials available for check-out.&nbsp; We do scores of storytimes and other programs each year designed to aid in early childhood literacy skills development, and dozens of old-fashioned book discussions.&nbsp; We offer familiar reference and readers’ advisory service and now-expected technology access.&nbsp; But at the Ridgefield Library, there is always something completely unexpected on the horizon as well, all intended to bring the community together to read, discover, question, connect and thrive.&nbsp; Mark your calendar now for some of the more exciting and unusual offerings coming in the next few months (more details about all will be publicized as event dates draw near, or visit <a href="http://www.ridgefieldlibrary.org/">www.ridgefieldlibrary.org</a> or our Facebook page for updates).<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">August 11 &amp; 12 – the 3<sup>rd</sup> Annual RidgeCon celebration of pop culture<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">August 21 – Activities at the Library and in Ballard Park on the rare occasion of a solar eclipse.&nbsp; Along with Parks and Rec, we will be organizing safe eclipse viewings, educational presentations, crafts, games, music and more.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">September 15 &amp; 16 – Love your Library (LYL) returns, bigger and better – and featuring a teen playwriting contest and an 18-hole mini-golf course created in the Library!<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">Hope to see you at these events, or any day, at the Library!<o:p></o:p></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/08/its-definitely-not-your-grandfathers.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-6256071114162300677Thu, 27 Jul 2017 17:17:00 +00002017-07-27T13:17:24.799-04:00BoardFriendsstaffCongratulations Are in Order<div class="MsoNormal">We are pleased to extend warm wishes and heartfelt thanks to the following members of the Ridgefield Library family:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">To Ginny Canfield and Kirby Klump, winners of the Friends of Connecticut Libraries Individual Achievement Award for their tireless work fulfilling Internet sales orders for the Friends of the Ridgefield Library since 2014.&nbsp; In that time, they packaged and shipped 12,521 items that netted over $156,000 the Friends can use to support Library programs and services.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">To Circulation Clerk Megan Klein, who has left the Library to finish up the student teaching requirements for her Masters in Library Science; to shelver Fran Walton who has been promoted to take Megan’s place; and to long-time volunteer Anne Kain who has taken up Fran’s shelving duties.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">To Bob Whitton and Mary Mann Smith, who are retiring from the Library Board at the completion of two, three-year terms of service.&nbsp; Each was an invaluable part of the team that made our New Ridgefield Library a reality, and they will be missed.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">To Karena Landler and McKinley Walsh, the Library’s 2017 Ridgefield High School interns, and all of their classmates, on their graduation and move onwards and upwards to college, career and other adventures.<o:p></o:p></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/07/congratulations-are-in-order.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-8339174888505229841Thu, 20 Jul 2017 17:16:00 +00002017-07-20T13:17:58.775-04:00artchildren's servicesfundraisingSontaArt in the Lodewick Children's Library<div class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #212121; font-family: &quot;arial&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">You may notice several new familiar faces in the Lodewick Children’s Library the next time you visit. Thanks to a grant from the Ridgefield Woman’s Club, we have added artwork depicting some of our favorite characters from children’s literature to the walls. Not only did we want to add more visual interest and recognizable friends for children to enjoy, we wish to continue exposing children to art, creativity, and visual information, essential components of their literacy development.</span></div><div class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #212121; font-family: &quot;arial&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;">The Library continues to offer opportunities for children to create and experiment with new mediums, stretch the limits of imagination, and nurture new skills. Recently, children created art inspired by Caldecott Award-winning illustrators. This summer they are enjoying</span><span class="xcontextualspellingandgrammarerror"><span style="font-family: &quot;arial&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> the </span></span><span class="xnormaltextrun"><span style="font-family: &quot;arial&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Cardboard&nbsp;</span></span><span class="xnormaltextrun"><span style="color: #212121; font-family: &quot;arial&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;">Challenge and&nbsp;Art&nbsp;at the Aldrich. Families can also borrow a museum&nbsp;pass and get acquainted with the work of historical and contemporary artists.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #212121; font-family: &quot;arial&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;">Another new addition to the Children’s Library is an empty frame, to be filled on a rotating basis with art created by your children. What better way to encourage creative expression than to celebrate their accomplishments by showcasing their visual inventions? Ask the Children’s Library staff for details and start creating!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="xmsonormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></div><br /><div class="xp1" style="background: white; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="xs1"><span style="color: #232323; font-family: &quot;arial&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;">“Creativity is contagious, pass it on” - Albert Einstein<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="xp1" style="background: white; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="xs1"><span style="color: #232323; font-family: &quot;arial&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="xp1" style="background: white; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="xs1"><span style="font-family: &quot;arial&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: red;">Contributed by Children's Services Library Assistant Sonta Frindt</span></span></span></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/07/art-in-lodewick-childrens-library.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-6732982535102482331Fri, 07 Jul 2017 14:38:00 +00002017-07-07T10:38:51.488-04:00children's servicesdigital mediaebooksKristinaIntroducing Kindle Fires for Kids<div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Just in time for summer leisure time - the Ridgefield Library is pleased to bring you six Kindle Fires for Kids! Released in June, this new Kindle tablet is available to our patrons at the Children’s Services desk. These supplement the LeapPad devices we have had available for some time.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">There are four Kindle Fires available for in-house use in the Children’s Library, and two that can be checked out and brought home! One Kindle Fire can be checked out per family for 7 days with a current Ridgefield Library card.&nbsp; They cannot be reserved or renewed and must be returned to the Children’s Services desk. For in-library use, you will need to leave keys or other valuables as collateral.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Each of the Library's Kindle for Kids is equipped with Amazon’s FreeTime Unlimited which offers unlimited access to over 13,000 kid-friendly books, educational apps, games, movies, and TV shows from top brands like Disney, Nickelodeon, PBS, Amazon Originals for Kids, and a child-safe web browser. There are three age profiles for children to use: Ages 3-5, 6-8 and 9-12. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">Stop by the Lodewick Children’s Library to bring Bumbersnoot or Bilbo (yes, your children’s librarians named them) home with you!&nbsp;<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: red;">Contributed by Head of Children's Services Kristina Lareau</span></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/07/introducing-kindle-fires-for-kids.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-8243445220492088025Wed, 05 Jul 2017 14:30:00 +00002017-07-05T10:30:22.068-04:00children's servicescirculationtechnologySelf-Check Now Even More Convenient<div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">In response to popular demand, we have moved one of our self-check stations into the Lodewick Children’s Library for the convenience of parents and caregivers who wish to check out their selections while a child is attending a program.&nbsp; This is also a boon for those with curious children who tend to wander off while mom or dad are checking out, as it keeps the whole family safely together inside the Children’s Library until they are ready to leave.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Two self-check kiosks remain in the Bossidy Commons near the Circulation Desk, and there is also one on the Upper Level, to accommodate those using the Main Street door to come and go.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">It’s easy - all you need is your Ridgefield Library card. Scanners electronically read Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags in the books, so you don’t even need to locate and scan the barcodes and can process a stack of several items at a time.&nbsp; Please note that you will still need to go to the Circulation Desk to clear up fines or lost items or to pick up a reserve item. Ask a staff member for a quick introduction, and then check yourself out!<o:p></o:p></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/07/self-check-now-even-more-convenient.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-5974996743131618216Wed, 21 Jun 2017 22:48:00 +00002017-06-21T18:48:54.017-04:00circulationinter-library loanresource sharingTemporary Interruption to Inter-Library Delivery Service<div class="MsoNormal">Once again, we are experiencing some temporary interruption to Inter-Library Loan availability due to changes at the state level.&nbsp; From June 19 through mid-July, we will not be able to process any requests for items that are not owned by the Ridgefield Library (i.e. Inter-Library Loans).&nbsp; The statewide library delivery service is being re-vamped and will not be accepting new items for delivery as the State Library transitions to a new system.&nbsp; Service is expected to resume later this summer with a new delivery schedule and guidelines.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you are interested in an item that does not appear in our catalog, please speak to any member of our staff about alternatives – we are here to help you obtain what you are looking for. These may include locating and securing a copy for you to pick up at another library; assisting you in finding and downloading an eBook or digital audio version of a title; or fast-tracking purchase of additional or replacement copies of selected items missing from our collection.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">Please note: It is possible that we will receive shipment during this transition period of items you previously requested under the old system, but we will not be able to initiate any new Inter-Library Loan requests.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/06/temporary-interruption-to-inter-library.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7247036873598467234.post-2509571949791643284Thu, 15 Jun 2017 16:35:00 +00002017-06-15T12:35:56.156-04:00children's servicesKristinastaffIntroducing our New Head of Children's Services<div class="MsoNormal">I am so pleased to be welcomed to the Ridgefield Library and the Ridgefield community!<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I received a BA in English and Education at Worcester State College (MA) and earned my MA in Children’s Literature and MS in Library &amp; Information Sciences from Simmons College in Boston. I’ve worked in various Massachusetts libraries-from the Bibliothèque at the Alliance française to the Boston Arts Academy to the Westfield Athenaeum-though most recently, I was a Children’s Librarian at the Fairfield Public Library (CT) for four years. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I love to laugh and be silly, talk about books, recommend books, review books and read books with children. I am a proud Gryffindor who loves playing board games, listening to audiobooks, and critiquing picture books. I cannot live without coffee. Or cheese.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I also have 2 cats, 2 dogs (Hermione &amp; Houdini, Mercedes &amp; Lana) and a well-trained husband named Matt. I am a Steampunk who loves to dress up and consequently own more petticoats than actual coats.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">My favorite book right now is Ben Clanton’s “Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea.” Stop by the Children’s Library to say “hi” and talk about <i>your</i> favorite children’s book!<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">I’m the one with the purple hair.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: red;">Contributed by Kristina Lareau, head of Children's Services</span></div>http://ridgefieldctlibrary.blogspot.com/2017/06/introducing-our-new-head-of-childrens.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mary Rindfleisch)0
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