Award-Winnning Films At The SERC Library

With the winter break approaching and cold, wintery weather ahead, why not drop by and check out a few good movies to wile away the time and educate the mind. Here is just a small sampling of some of the wonderful movies at the SERC Library.

Accidental Hero - Room 408: 2001 winner of "Best Documentary" of the Ashland Independent Film Festival & 2002 Gold Eagle Award - CINE, this powerful film tells the story of an extaordinary public high school teacher who is changing lives by introducing his students to a little known academic sport called "forensics". This documentary has important messages about the tremendous potential that young people from diverse backgrounds can realize when they are given the support of good teachers and ample educational tools.

King Gimp: Winner of the 1999-2000 Academy Award for Short Documentary, this film follows Dan Keplinger (who has cerebral palsy) for 13 years as he moves from a special education school to the mainstream. Unable to communicate easily with words, Dan's emotional life explodes on to canvas when he discovers art.

Autism Is A World: Nominated for an Academy Award, this is a personal look at autism through the eyes of a young woman, Sue Rubin. It offers a rare and compelling voyage into Sue's mind, her daily world, and her struggles with autism. With the help of a new assistive technology technique, a letterboard, Sue was able to connect with the world. Now a junior in college with a top IQ, she is a tireless disability-rights activist.

Educating Peter: Down Syndrome In The Inclusive Classroom: Filmed over the course of the third grade year, this 1992 Academy Award-winning documentary vividly captures the achievements & frustrations of Peter (a child with Down syndrome) as he makes a place for himself among his peers.

Snowbound? Not to worry. The SERC Library has a generous 3-week loan period.

One child, two languages in action: A guide for early childhood educators by Patton O. Tabors IE 372.6521

Is your early childhood classroom linguistically and culturally diverse? Are you working with young children learning English as a second language? This 253 page book written for early childhood educators provides tools for working with the increasing number of young children learning English as a second language. Topics include assessment techniques for first and second languages, internationally adopted children, responding to linguistic and cultural diversity, working with parents and incorporating literacy practices that help all children.

Mastermind behind Wikipedia launches education video website

Larry Sanger, who co-founded Wikipedia, has started a new online community aimed at educators and students. The website, www.watchknow.org, features an extensive library of education-related videos for children from ages 3 to 18. It also offers indispensable advice to teachers through the video format. For example, a simple search on geometry, filtered for ages 17-18+, returns such results as: "Helpful Ways to Teach Geometry", "Quadrilateral Song" and "How to Solve Geometry Proofs". Users can create accounts that allow them to add videos and edit descriptions. Because of this reliance on users to both expand and organize the collection, Sanger himself has described WatchKnow as "YouTube meets Wikipedia". Though still in in its infancy, WatchKnow already has 11,762 videos (and counting!). Considering the scope of material available on sites like YouTube and Wikipedia, it is not unlikely to think that one day WatchKnow's collection could be truly powerful in its ability to harness the power of the internet by bringing together people and ideas on a global level. So bookmark WatchKnow, spread the word to your fellow educators, direct your children there, and most importantly, contribute your own unique talent and voice. And for now, check out these videos found by browsing the poetry section....

Shel Silverstein narrating his poem "Ickle Me, Pickle Me, Tickle Me Too":



T.S. Eliot narrating his poem "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock":



Langston Hughes narrating his poem "I, Too":

Connecticut Children's Book Fair - November 14-15th, 2009

The 18th Annual Connecticut Children's Book Fair will be held on November 14th and 15th at the UCONN campus in Storrs. The fair provides an opportunity for fans of children's literature to meet prominent authors and illustrators in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. In addition to presentations and book signings, the event will also feature storytelling sessions, crafts, and even an opportunity to have breakfast with Clifford the Big Red Dog! Lots of other popular characters will be present as well. On Saturday visitors will also be able to visit the Northeast Children's Literature Collection, housed at UCONN's Thomas J. Dodd Research Center, which features an extensive collection of original work by such noted authors as Richard Scarry and Tomie dePaola. For information on the collection go here, and for information on attending the fair go here.

And of course be sure to check out two of the newest additions to our very own Young People's book collection:

The Red Beast: Controlling Anger in Children with Asperger's Syndrome, by K.I. Al-Ghani (YP 618.92 ALG)
The picture book offers both an engaging story that children will enjoy and helpful anger management techniques for adults to employ when working with children prone to anger and temper tantrums. From foot massages to popping bubble wrap, these suggestions are sure to appeal to even the most stressed out child.


All Dogs Have ADHD, by Kathy Hoopmann (YP 362.196 HOO)
This book uses vivid full color photographs of dogs to illustrate many of the most common traits held by those with ADHD. This delightful and humorous book is great for helping to boost the self-esteem of kids who may be having a hard time and feeling different from their peers.

There's a crisp chill in the air, with falling leaves everywhere, but before going out...beware!

Halloween is one of America's most beloved holidays, as evidenced by stores filled with mountains of fun-size candy and an abundance of costumes, as well as the palpable air of excitement that surrounds October 31st. Whether you're going as Michael Jackson or Edward Cullen or a fairy princess, and whether you're going out or staying home to await trick-or-treaters, remember that safety is paramount. This year, with H1N1 on the rise, it is even more important to keep in mind the following general Halloween safety tips:

• Accompany your children trick-or-treating, or else send them out with another trusted adult or teen.
  
• If you're not going with them be aware of where your kids are going. Know their route and where they plan to be throughout the night. Check in with them using cell phones.
• Set a solid curfew ahead of time so that everyone is on the same page about when they're expected home.
• Keep to well-lit neighborhoods that you're familiar with, and use common sense guidelines for walking at night, such as toting a flashlight or reflective gear and being careful when crossing streets.
• Never consume candy or food that has an opened wrapper or that appears to have been tampered with.
• With the current prevalence of the H1N1 virus, take extra precaution when handling candy, as well as germ-riddled surfaces like doorknobs.

And last but not least....Happy Halloween!

Global Education: Using Technology to Bring the World to Your Students (370.116078 PET)

Eleventh graders in Bangladesh exchange video interviews with 10th graders in Georgia. High schools in Illinois have online discussions with students in six languages. Students across the globe contribute to a shared website on endangered animal species from their areas. This innovative book presents ideas which educators can use to integrate global education into lessons in their K-12 classrooms. A sampling of exciting global education projects from around the world demonstrate ways to help students connect with their peers across global boundaries. Read about the Flat Classroom Project, iEarn, the Global Schoolhouse Project, ePals and many more!

Children's Magazine Month

Have you ever studiously searched for hidden pictures in Highlights? Have you journeyed with Ranger Rick through new and exciting eco-systems (or your own backyard)? Or have you discovered a new favorite story in Cricket? Then you have been the recipient of the magic and knowledge that children's magazines can offer. Often overlooked in favor of books, today's magazines might surprise you with the abundance of literary richness they contain. Celebrate Children's Magazine Month in October by utilizing the comprehensive collections held by most school and public libraries, by subscribing yourself, or by utilizing them as teaching tools in your classroom. Check out the following links for ideas:

• How to Use Magazines in the Classroom
• Scholastic Classroom Magazines
• Highlights in the Classroom
• Weekly Reader Teacher Resources
• Magazines to Build Literacy Skills
  

Everyday Solutions for Life Conference

The Lifespan Autism Network Foundation will be putting on a conference called Everyday Solutions for Life on November 14th in Southington, Connecticut. Featuring sessions on how schools can assist parents in navigating the special education process, an overview and demonstration of Assistive Technology, and tips for important stress reduction techniques, this is one conference you don't want to miss! Visit their website for registration information and additional details.

Understanding Girl Bullying (371.58 FIE)

Girl bullying is a real and pervasive problem in schools today. It tends to be especially common in grades 5-8. What can educators do about it? This 133 page book was written for school counselors and discusses major issues on this topic. Relational aggression is a type of aggression in which harm is caused through damage to relationships or social status within a group rather than through physical violence. When it is directed at one particular victim it constitutes bullying and because acts of relational aggression are more common among girls it is often called girl bullying. This book provides a clearer picture of this type of bullying and addresses methods for assessment, prevention and intervention in schools.

Blogs, wikis, podcasts and other powerful web tools for classrooms, 2nd edition, by Will Richardson (371.33 RIC)

Are you befuddled by blogs? Wondering about wikis? Puzzled by podcasts? Then we have the resource for you! Check out this handy new resource guide by Will Richardson: Blogs, wikis, podcasts, and other powerful web tools for classrooms, 2nd ed. (371.33 RIC). This newly revised edition is full of current information on how to incorporate today's wealth of technology resources into your curriculum. With sections on internet safety, information literacy, and thorough definitions of web tools such as RSS feeds, social bookmarking and wikis, this book is both a how-to guide and a pedagogical approach to incorporating web resources into your classroom. It also includes many real world examples by K-12 teachers that are sure to both inspire and guide you. Using this technology appropriately will not only help to streamline and improve your existing classroom methods, but it will also help you to connect with your students, many of whom will have been immersed in this technology from a very young age. Speaking of new technology, what better way to familiarize yourself with our new online card catalog than by logging in and reserving this item for yourself? See this post here for instructions on setting up your account. Remember, the internet is one of the last great frontiers. So why not be a pioneer?

Banned Books Week

The last week of September is Banned Books Week, which is a time to celebrate and appreciate free speech and reading. The wonderful thing about reading is not only that there are so many different worlds one can enter by picking up a book, but that it is our individual choice that guides us on these journeys. You may delight in reading of the trials and tribulations of a quirky small town in the 1950s and your neighbor might love to get lost in a gripping political thriller, while I might devour an epic vampire love story. But when we allow individual choice to be limited we encroach on this great personal freedom, and we chip away at what makes reading so special in the first place. Many libraries use Banned Books Week as a way to highlight the maligned titles that fall into this category through special displays and programs that encourage people to read these books for themselves and form their own opinions.

Here in the SERC Library one of our most popular Young People's books holds the dubious honor of topping the list of most frequently banned books for the past two years: the absolutely delightful and heartwarming And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell (YP F RIC). This book depicts the true story of two Central Park Zoo male penguins who fall in love and form a family by adopting an abandoned egg and taking the baby penguin, Tango, under their wings (so to speak). This book is frequently challenged because of its open depiction of a homosexual relationship, despite the fact that the relationship is presented in a positive and loving manner. This dichotomy between the author's intention and the reader's interpretation is what lies at the core of most banned book controversies.

Or, as acclaimed author (and personal favorite of mine) Francesca Lia Block stated when asked how she felt about her books being censored: "I'm a bit surprised in one way, because the message of all of them is love, tolerance and self-expression. On the other hand, I am not surprised because the message is love, tolerance and self-expression."

So exercise your First Right Amendment and read a banned book!

Happy International Talk Like A Pirate Day!

Ahoy, mateys!

There are many different ways that the world can be brought together. One of the more creative attempts at bridging cultures is International Talk Like a Pirate Day. Established in 1995 by two guys who, frankly, thought the world could use a little more pirate lingo, September 19th is dedicated to putting a little more "Arrrr" in your day. For more information, including suggestions for pirate fun and games, pirate lingo, a pirate FAQ, and more pirate links than you can fire a cannon at, visit the Talk Like a Pirate website.

Avast! Here in the SERC Library we have an excellent resource that focuses on...you guessed it...pirates! Multiple Intelligences Centers and Projects by Carolyn Chapman and Lynn Freeman (IM 370.1523 CHA) features a host of classroom centered pirate activities that are specifically designed to work with multiple intelligences. Check out this little treasure the next time your ship docks at the Ole Port o' SERC Library!

Happy Swashbuckling,
Lucy Dagger (courtesy of the Pirate Name Generator)

Bookshare.org

Check out this great web resource for people with disabilities:

Bookshare

Bookshare's mission is to provides access to books and periodicals for readers with print disabilities. Membership is free for all U.S. students with qualifying disabilities (thanks to a grant from the U.S. Department of Education), and affordably priced for non-students. Members gain access to their online library of over 45,000 resources including digital books, text books, and assistive technology tools, as well as to an online community of volunteers, parents, publishers, and authors.

Iluminar is here!

As alluded to a few weeks ago, this is an exciting time for the SERC Library. Our new system is here and ready for you to explore! It is called AGent Verso Iluminar and can be accessed here, as well as from the sidebar on the left (and our homepage of course). To login the first time enter your patron barcode number (located on the back of your SERC Library card) as the username, and enter userpass as the initial password. You will then be prompted to create your own personal password. Be sure to keep it written down because SERC Library staff does not have access to your password. Once you're up and running you'll be able to:

• View your current circulation status anytime from any computer, including your current checkouts (and when they're due), reserves, and fines accrued
• Manage and update your account information online
• Create and save lists of your favorite resources
• Keep track of your search and checkout history
• Reserve and renew resources
  

That's right...renew. Many of you have been asking for the ability to renew your items, so we listened and are now happy to introduce the SERC Library renewal policy! All items, including tests, may now be renewed for a one-week period provided that no other patron has the item on reserve. You can renew your items online or by calling the library at 860-632-1485, option 4.

The Library staff is more than happy to provide a tutorial next time you come into the library...just ask! We can also provide you with a "cheat sheet" with all of the above information. We appreciate everyone's patience during this transition and hope you find the new system improves your SERC Library experience!

International Literacy Day!

Since 1967, September 8th of each year has been designated as International Literacy Day. Sponsored by the United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the International Reading Association, the day is meant to draw attention to the importance of literacy with a special emphasis on developing countries. There is no doubt that literacy is an issue that needs to be addressed on an international level, especially when considering the following statistics:

• There are over 860 million illiterate adults worldwide (two-thirds of whom are women) and nearly 115 million children who lack access to education.
• When mothers are taught to read the infant mortality rate can decrease by up to 50%.
• Countries whose literacy rate is below 55% have an annual per capita income of less than $600.
• 98% of all non-literates live in developing countries, with 52% in India and China alone.
• The continent of Africa's literacy rate is less than 60%.

Domestically there are also urgent literacy needs to be met, especially when it comes to the undeniable connection between low literacy and poverty:

• Only 15% of low-income 8th graders read at a proficient level, with only 3% of all 8th graders reading at an advanced level.
  
• In the U.S. children of professional families hear an average of 2,153 words per hour, children of working class families hear 1,251 words per hour, and children of welfare families hear a mere 616 words per hour.
• The average literacy proficiency levels of African American and Hispanic 12th graders is equal to that of white 8th graders.
• 50% of all incarcerated adults are illiterate and 85% of juvenile offenders have reading problems.
• Lower education and literacy levels coincide with the likelihood of women ending up in abusive relationships.

For more facts, idea starters, local events, posters, certificates of participation and more, visit the websites of UNESCO and the International Reading Association. Whether you participate on a local or an international level, your contribution to the greater community is both necessary and welcome. The only hope we have of conquering this overwhelming issue is to come together and make sure that no citizens of the world are left behind when it comes to possessing the crucial and self-empowering tools of reading and writing.

Facts taken from www.reading.org/downloads/meetings/ILD2007_literacy_facts.pdf and www.reading.org/downloads/meetings/ILD2007_facts.pdf

Farewell, Reading Rainbow

The year was 1983. The hair was big, the leg warmers were bright, and the music was cheesy. Amidst all this a little show by the name of Reading Rainbow began to air on PBS. Hosted by LeVar Burton, the show was special because it encouraged kids to read for pleasure, rather than out of obligation. From the moment the memorable theme song kicked off one felt like they were entering another world, much like the feeling of losing oneself in a favorite book. This was a world where words and illustrations sprung to life, where there were no limits on how far one's imagination could go, and where children ruled.
As the eighties have given way to the nineties and then to the new millennium, there has been a tangible shift in the way literacy is looked at. Today the focus is more on the mechanics of teaching children how to read rather than encouraging their innate love for a good book. Sadly, due to this changed educational climate and complications with funding, it was announced last week that Reading Rainbow is no more. Though the last episode aired on Friday, August 28th, the lasting impression this show had on its audience is undeniable, as evidenced by the outpouring of support for this underrated gem since the announcement. Say the name LeVar Burton to any child of the eighties and there is a very good chance they will think not of his work on Roots and Star Trek, but of this:



On a personal note, I was 2 when this show began and my voracious love for reading from such a young age is no doubt due at least a little to the wonder of Reading Rainbow and the good fortune I had in being able to watch it throughout my childhood. Thanks LeVar and company! Your presence will be missed.

School Supply Drive

As one of the many ongoing activities to commemorate our 40th Anniversary, SERC is collecting school supplies to be donated to local area schools. There is a collection box located in the Library. Suggestions for donations include:

• pens
• pencils
• rulers
• compasses
• protractors
• crayons
• colored pencils
• highlighters
• Post-it notes
• dry erase markers
• construction paper
• glue sticks
• scissors (left and right handed)
  
• tissues
• hand sanitizer
• erasers
• markers
• pencil sharpeners

Thank you in advance for your participation!

Women's Equality Day

It was a mere 89 years ago today (and almost 150 years after this country was founded) that American women finally gained the long sought after right to vote. Despite the enormity of that triumph, advancement has been gradual in the ceaseless struggle for equality. So on August 26th, Women's Equality Day, let us celebrate the progress that has been made while recognizing how far we still have to go:

• On average women only earn 76% as much as men do. This disparity increases for women of color, with Black women making 65% and Hispanic women a mere 53% of the average male's salary. The wage gap is pervasive across the spectrum, though as of 2000 two-thirds of all working women were segregated into only 21 of the 500 occupational categories, known as "pink-collar" jobs.
• For women over the age of 65 who are unmarried, Social Security makes up 52% of their total income, compared to retired single men for which it is only 38% of their income. If Social Security is taken away the poverty rate for older women would significantly increase from 12.4% to over 50%.
• America has no nationally mandated maternity leave policy and is ranked last in a recent study of 21 high-income countries' parental leave policies.
• Including the newly appointed Justice Sonia Sotomayor, only 3 of the 111 Supreme Court Justices have been female.

These facts merely touch on the vast gender inequality that still exists in the United States. Furthermore, women of color are disproportionately affected in negative ways when it comes to social issues. To celebrate Women's Equality Day consider signing a petition for reproductive justice, volunteering at a local women's center, or contacting your elected officials about the current healthcare crisis. Some helpful websites for taking action are the National Organization for Women, Planned Parenthood and Madre.

Facts taken from www.feminist.org and www.cepr.net

SERC Library featured on Connecticut library blog!

The SERC Library was profiled in the publication Connecticut Libraries in 2008, and there is now an online version of the article that can be read here on the Connecticut Library Treasures blog. Check it out, and while you're there take a peek at some of the other library gems Connecticut has to offer. Of particular note is the Northeast Children's Literature Collection, located at UCONN's Thomas J. Dodd Research Center, which has over 36,000 materials, including 450 different editions of Anna Sewell's beloved classic Black Beauty. Wow!

Supporting Early Literacy in Natural Environments: Language and Early Literacy Activities in English and Spanish (IM 372.4 NOT)

The Washington Research Institute developed this wonderful set of language and early literacy activities in English and Spanish for adults and children birth to three. The twenty activities are designed to encourage early language and literacy development in natural environments. Some pages have also been translated into Somali and Russian.

Children's Eye Health and Safety Month

With approximately 12 million school-age children in America experiencing vision problems, it is no wonder that August is Children's Eye Health and Safety Month. The promotion of eye health and safety is very important, and education and awareness in schools and libraries is essential not only during this month, but throughout the year. For more information on how you can get involved, visit Prevent Blindness America. You can also come into the SERC Library and check out some of the books we have on this important subject, including:

Blueberry eyes, by Monica Driscoll Beatty (YP F BEA)
This 32-page picture book, intended for children ages 4-10, is the true story of a young child's eye treatment, including eyeglasses, bifocals, eye patches, and surgery. It focuses on the heroine's positive self-image throughout her treatment, the care and guidance she received from her ophthalmologist, and the love and support of her family.



What if you couldn't? A Visual Impairment Unit (IE 371.911 GUR)

A multimedia kit designed to make students in grades 2-5 aware of the broad spectrum of visual problems ranging from minor disabilities which can be corrected by prescription lenses to total blindness. The kit allows children to investigate the ways that people with visual impairments compensate for their lack of sight and become functioning, independent individuals.

Surprising studies of visual awareness: Volumes 1 & 2 (IE 153.43 VIS)
This DVD can be used to teach about visual perception and awareness during presentations, workshops or inservice programs. It presents 15 striking demonstrations in which visual perception is explored, including some with footage from scientific experiments. Selective attention, failures of awareness and optical illusions are included.



The secret code, by Dana Meachen Rau, illustrated by Bari Weissman
(YP F RAU)
Using a word list of 69 words, this 32 page illustrated children's book introduces children to Braille. Oscar, a blind student, teaches his friend Lucy to read the secret code of Braille. She is curious about what he is doing when he opens his book and is interested to learn how Oscar can use Braille to do the same reading and writing tasks all the other classmates are doing.

Change is in the Air!

We've been very busy at the SERC Library this summer, implementing a whole host of changes to serve you better. Over the past two weeks we've been physically rearranging the front end of the library, with a whole new circulation set-up that we hope will be more convenient. You'll also see some welcoming new faces when you walk in. There will be even more changes coming in the month of August. Here's a look at some of our upcoming developments:

• Coming up very soon we will be transitioning to a brand new library software system called AGent VERSO in order to modernize and streamline our circulation processes. We are very excited about this and we hope you are too, because you will definitely notice a difference. You'll be able to log in to your own patron account from home and see the items you have checked out, any fines accrued, your borrowing history, and more. The new system will also automatically send you reminders a few days before your items are due, which we know some of you will appreciate! As always, feel free to ask any of us if you need assistance with using the new software.
  
• Over the next few months we will be revisiting a lot of our existing policies and updating them to better serve both your and our needs. As these policies are overhauled we'll keep you posted here and when you're visiting the library.
  
• As part of the agency's overall effort to be more environmentally conscious, the SERC Library will soon be offering our own reusable shopping bags. By purchasing one of these bags you'll not only be supporting us, but the earth as well. Both attractive and sturdy, these bags will be perfect for hauling all those heavy library materials around!
• In September SERC will be celebrating its 40th Anniversary. That's right...40 years of serving Connecticut's education community. Check back with us throughout the year as we will be updating our website and blog with special anniversary events and initiatives.

Whew! So much for summer being slow! We have some other ideas in the works as well, such as offering book groups, children's story time, and other community programs. Please feel free to weigh in via the comments or in person with your feedback on what you'd like to see at the library. Despite all the work involved during this period of transition we know that it will be worth it. We're looking forward to improving the SERC Library so that we can be there for you for the next 40 years. Come visit us soon!

English grammar in use: A self-study reference and practice book for intermediate students of English, 3rd edition, by Raymond Murphy (IM 428.24 MUR )

This 379 page book is an excellent and comprehensive self-study English grammar book to be used with middle and upper intermediate level students who have already studied the basic grammar of English. The book includes 145 units which each concentrate on a particular point of grammar. Exercises can be used individually, in class or as homework. An answer key and CD-ROM with further exercises are included.

Grammar practice activities: A practical guide for teachers, Second edition by Penny Ur (428.007 UR)

This 322 page book is a wonderful source of ideas for grammar practice with English language learners. The first section provides an introduction to grammar teaching in the ELL classroom. The second section provides nearly 200 communicative and gamelike practice activities in the main areas of English grammar. Reproducible pages are provided on a CD-ROM.

Games for language learning, 3rd edition by Andrew Wright, David Betteridge and Michael Buckby (418.0071 WRI)

This 193 page book was written for teachers who want to incorporate games in language learning. Games can be easily integrated into existing coursework and can provide meaningful and enjoyable language practice at all language levels. This updated edition included icebreakers and warmers and both group and solo games.

Making science accessible to English learners - Grades 6-12: A guidebook for teachers, by John Carr, Ursula Sexton and Rachel Lagunoff (372.35044 CAR)

This guidebook was written to help middle and high school science teachers reach English learners in their classrooms. The authors offer practical guidance and strategies, including sample lessons and assessment accommodations.

Olly olly oxen free! Fine Free Week June 15-19th, 2009

Give us your late, your overdue, your yearning to be returned! In an effort to make both your life and ours a bit easier, we are declaring June 15-19th Fine Free Week here at the SERC Library. We will waive the fines on any overdue items that are returned during this week, no matter how late they are. There will be a cart in the lobby so you don't even have to enter the Library. Just drop your items on the cart during our normal business hours. No questions asked. We hope that you'll take advantage of this opportunity!

Life.com Photo Archive

Life Magazine has recently made their extensive photo archives available to the public for free. The seven million images date back over one hundred years and document some of our nation's most important cultural milestones. Teachers and students will find this archive especially useful. Check out their online photo library at Life.com.

Educators' Night with the Rock Cats

SERC and CT PIRC will sponsor Educators' Night with the Rock Cats at New Britain Stadium on Wednesday, June 24, 2009. Bring the family for an exciting night of baseball, prizes and gifts, food and drink specials, and more!

All educators are eligible for complimentary tickets. Come into the library or click here for details and to get your voucher to request your free tickets. All educators in attendance will also receive a complimentary t-shirt!

We'll see you at the game!

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

Did you know that May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month? If you're looking for ideas on how to celebrate this unique and diverse culture, check out the SERC Library, where you'll find items such as:

Teaching about Asian Pacific Americans: Effective activities, strategies, and assignments for classrooms and communities, edited by Edith Wen-Chu Chen and Glenn Omatsu (IM 973.049522 WEN)
This invaluable 316-page guide is chock full of ideas to incorporate into your classroom, ranging from simple writing exercises to ideas for exploring your local city's Chinatown. In addition to activities, it also provides basic background information on the culture and history of the various ethnic groups that fit under the broader term Asian Pacific Americans.


Round is a mooncake: A book of shapes, by Roseanne Thong. Illustrated by Grace Lin (YP F THO)
This colorful 36-page picture book teaches and reinforces children's knowledge of shapes by having the young protagonist look at the objects that surround her. From the square-shaped tofu and radish cakes to the round paper lanterns and cups of Jasmine tea, the author and illustrator take the reader on a sweet little journey while also providing a valuable cultural lesson, complete with a glossary for the more unfamiliar terms.


Sixteen years in sixteen seconds: The Sammy Lee story, by Paula Yoo, illustrations by Dom Lee (YP B LEE)
This 32-page biography tells the story of Dr. Sammy Lee, the first Asian American to win an Olympic gold medal. Despite having to struggle against discrimination in his younger years as a Korean American, Dr. Lee pursued his dream of becoming an Olympic diver, and this moving story highlights his impressive life and accomplishments.



A kid's guide to Asian American history: More than 70 activities, by Valerie Petrillo (IM 973.0495 PET)
This handy 244-page book offers a wide variety of kid-friendly activities designed to teach and celebrate Asian American culture and history. Along with guidance for more commonly known aspects of Asian American culture, such as writing a haiku poem or conducting a Japanese tea ceremony, there are also more obscure offerings, such as how to cook Bibingka, a tradtional dessert of the Philippines and how to play pov pob, a Hmong ball-tossing game.

What better way to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month than with a book or two?? See you at SERC!

Children's Book Week May 11-17, 2009

This coming Monday marks the start of Children's Book Week. Whether you're a parent who enjoys reading to your child or a teacher who is actively involved with promoting classroom literacy, this is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate reading and children's books. Children's Book Week is sponsored by the Children's Book Council. Check out this website made just for the event, which is chock full of resources, including downloadable bookmarks and posters, suggestions for classroom activities, and story starters to encourage young people to write their own masterpieces.

Here at the SERC Library we have an entire collection devoted to young people's books (designated by YP in the call number). From fiction to non-fiction to biographies, from picture books to adolescent level, from English to French to Spanish to Hmong, we have quite a comprehensive range. The collection is especially strong in the areas of disability awareness and cultural diversity. To search our library for children's books only, go to our card catalog and simply enter the search term YP in addition to any other keywords, such as YP autism or YP fiction or YP African American. Or simply enter YP by itself to browse all 500+ titles.

To get you started, here is a list of staff favorites from this collection:

Sleepy River, by Hanna Bandes, illustrated by Jeanette Winter
(YP F BAN)
This gorgeous 32-page picture book chronicles a mother and child's nightime canoe journey down a "sleepy river". Along the way they encounter all the magical little critters that come out at night. With lush illustrations in shades of violet and teal, this book makes an enchanting bedtime tale.


Oliver Onion, written and illustrated by Diane Murrell (YP F MUR)
Subtitled "The Onion Who Learns to Accept and Be Himself", this 32-page book addresses the difficulty children can have with fitting in and feeling comfortable in their own skin. Though aimed specifically at children with autism spectrum disorders, the book's message of self-acceptance can be universally appreciated, and the included discussion guide makes it particularly handy for teachers to incorporate this into their reading programs.

Se Venden Gorras, relatado e ilustrado por Esphyr Slobodkina (YP-SP F SLO)
This is the Spanish version of the popular children's classic "Caps for Sale" about a peddler and a mischevious group of monkeys who love to cause him trouble. First published in 1940, this 32-page book has been delighting both children and adults for several generations. "Se Venden Gorras" and its English counterpart are both excellent for use in Reader's Theater.

Richard Wright and the Library Card, by William Miller, illustrated by Gregory Christie (YP B WRI)
This fascinating biography of prominent African American author Richard Wright is a fictionalized version of his childhood dream of obtaining a library card in an era before the Civil Rights movement. His eventual success in achieving this goal paved the way for his lifelong appreciation of reading, books and libraries. With full page acrylic and colored pencil illustrations this 32-page book is not only visually appealing, but also a truly touching story.

Life Lists for Teens, by Pamela Espeland (YP 646.700835 ESP)
This 264-page indispensable guide for adolescents covers a myriad of topics that are relevant to their lives with a conversational and often humorous tone that teenagers will easily relate to. Organized in list format, there are over 200 entries, including "How to Start a Book Group", "9 Tips for Changing Your Hair Color", "13 Things You Can Do To Promote Diversity", "11 Common Dream Symbols and What They Mean", and "10 Ways to Swear Off Swearing From the Cuss Control Academy".

Reach for the Moon, by Samantha Abeel, illustrated by Charles R. Murphy (YP 811.54 ABE)
This uniquely beautiful 44-page book of poetry was written by a thirteen-year-old girl with learning disabilities. Though she spent much of her younger years struggling in school, she was encouraged by caring adults to nurture her blossoming writing talent which led to her overcoming her initial academic struggles. Equally important in this book are the breathtaking watercolor paintings that accompany and inspire each poem. With themes focusing on nature, Native Americans, and family, this collection of poetry has a timeless quality that is well beyond the author's young age.

And Tango Makes Three, by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell, illustrated by Henry Cole (YP F RIC)
This 32-page picture book frequently lands on the American Library Association's banned book list, however we think that it deserves a spot in every library for its thoughtful and respectful approach to introducing children to the concept of same-sex couples. It is the true story of Roy and Silo, Central Park Zoo's famous gay penguins and their quest to raise a chick of their own, baby Tango. With beautiful watercolor illustrations, this award winning book is sure to both delight and teach.


Come into the SERC Library to check out these books and others. Happy Children's Book Week!

National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

In today's world we are inundated with stressful demands that take a toll on us not only mentally, but also physically. From the flailing economy to disease outbreaks to war, it's no wonder that the majority of Americans are too preoccupied to take proper care of themselves. Luckily the government has taken the time to designate May as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, with May 1st also marking the start of the 2009 National President's Challenge. The President's Challenge invites American citizens to pledge to be active for at least five days a week for six weeks. It is all inclusive, with information tailored to specific age groups, from kids to seniors. Visit the National President's Challenge website to register by May 29th and to find a wealth of information and resources on how you and your community can participate. There are even award certificates with President Obama's signature available to everyone who participates! So what are you waiting for? It's time to put aside our stressors, get motivated and get moving!

National School Nurses Day

Who among us hasn't found respite in the sanctuary like setting of the school nurse's office as children? Whether bandaging your boo boo, taking your temperature, or simply letting you lie down in their darkened office for an hour during gym class, school nurses have long been a welcome and sympathetic hero to children in need. That is why today, May 6th, is designated as National School Nurses Day. Visit the National Association of School Nurses website to get suggestions on how to show your appreciation to these vital members of our educational system. Some of our favorite ideas are to have students make cards for their nurses or to hold a celebration breakfast in their honor. They were always there for us...now let's be there for them!

Keymath-3

The Keymath-3 Essential Resources: Levels I and II are instructional kits and companion tools of the Keymath-3 Diagnostic Assessments available in the SERC Library. These kits enable teachers of students performing at grade levels 3-5 to provide math interventions directly based on a student's Keymath-3 DA results. A CD-ROM contains masters for guided and independent practice and assessment material for progress monitoring. This kit can be used independently of the Keymath-3 DA. Level I is for Grades K-2 and Level II is for Grades 3-5 (IM 513.2 CON).

English Language Learners (ELL)

The following are recent additions of English Language Learners (ELL) materials to the SERC Library’s master collection.

To view the summary of each item click on the Card Catalogue link and enter the call number in parentheses in the keyword section.

To see the library’s entire collection of ELL materials enter ELL or English Language Learners in the keyword section and the complete list of ELL professional books, instructional materials, inservice materials will appear.


50 strategies for teaching English language learners(3rd Edition).
By Adrienne L. Herrell and Michael Jordon, 2008. (428.24 HER)

102 content strategies for English language learners: Teaching for academic success in grades 3-12. By Jodi Reiss, 2008. (428.24 REI)

A course for teaching English learners. By Lynne T. Diaz-Rico, 2008.
(428.24 DIA)

Strategies for teaching English learners. By Lynne T. Diaz-Rico, 2008.
(428.24 DIA)

Teaching English language learners: A differentiated approach. By Carol Rothenberg and Douglas Fisher, 2007. (428.24 ROT)

Teaching English language learners, Grades K-5: Strategies that work. By Katherine Davies Samway and Dorothy Taylor, 2007. (428.24 SAM)

Teaching English language learners, Grades 6 and up: Strategies that work. By Katherine Davies Samway and Dorothy Taylor, 2008. (428.24 SAM)

Teaching English learners and immigrant students in secondary school. By Christian J. Faltis and Cathy A. Coulter, 2008. (428.24 FAL)

Picturing vocabulary!

Picturing vocabulary! By Nanci Bell, 2006. (IM 372.61 BEL)

This kit is designed to help students develop expressive oral vocabulary. It consists of a box of 255 picture cards, a 92 page picturing vocabulary book and a 48 page tracking chart booklet. The cards have concrete images in eight categories of words, including the areas of animals, clothing, food, the home, nature, shapes, sports and toys, and transportation. This kit is especially designed to help students with weak expressive vocabulary, young children ages 2 to 5 and English language learners.

Did you know...

...that you can reserve items ahead of time so that they're available when you get here? Simply visit our online catalog to look up item(s) and then give us a call at 860-632-1485 x4 to have the item(s) held for three business days. This is simply another way in which we strive to make using the SERC Library a convenient and enjoyable experience!

December 2008 Acquisitions - Reference

CADRE: Consortium for appropriate dispute resolution in special education. By CADRE, 2001. (REF 371.9 CON)

Tests: A comprehensive reference for assessment in psychology, education, and business. By Taddy Maddox (Ed.), 2008. (REF 150.28 MAD)

December 2008 Acquisitions - Young People's Books

The don't-give-up kid and learning differences. By Jeanne Gehret, 1996. (YP F GEH)

Dude, that's rude! (Get some manners). By Pamela Espeland and Elizabeth Verdick, 2007. (YP 395.122 ESP)

Elana's ears, or how I became the best big sister in the world. By Gloria Roth Lowell, 2000. (YP F LOW)

Leo the late bloomer. By Robert Kraus, 1971. (YP F KRA)

December 2008 Acquisitions - Tests

Developmental test of auditory perception (DTAP). By Cecil R. Reynolds, 2008. (T 128)

Wide range interest and occupational test (WRIOT 2). By Joseph J. Glutting and Gary S. Wilkinson, 2007. (T 127)

December 2008 Acquisitions - Inservice Education

A history of Hispanic achievement in America. By Ambrose Video, 2006. (IE 371.829680 AMB)

How to coach teachers who don't think like you: Using literacy strategies to coach across content area. By Bonnie M. Davis, 2008. (IE 372.6044 DAV)

How to teach students who don't look like you: Culturally relevant teaching strategies. By Bonnie M. Davis, 2007. (IE 370.117 DAV)

Meaningful mathematics: Leading students toward understanding and application. By ASCD, developed with NCTM, 2007. (IE 513.2 ASC)

Surprising studies of visual awareness. Vol. 1 & 2. By Viscog Productions, Inc., 2008. (IE 153.43 VIS)

Visualizing and verbalizing: Professional development videos (set of 5 DVDs). By Nancy Bell, 1997. (IE 372.47 BEL)

Whole-faculty study groups: Creating student-based professional development, Second Edition. By Carlene U. Murphy and Dale W. Lick, 2007. (IE 370.7155 MUR)