How do they dress, anyway? Probably a lot like children’s librarians when it comes right down to it! Wear something “scientific” to the CHILIS spring conference on March 6 and receive a discount on raffle tickets. Join in the fun and support CHILIS at the same time.

Hello fellow children’s librarians,

This past October, I was lucky to be able to attend the NELA Annual Conference in beautiful Portland, ME.  One of the best parts of the conference was getting to see Portland’s gorgeous library and their amazing Maurice Sendak exhibit, as well as the city’s bookmobile service! Here are some photos to share for those who weren’t able to see.

This gorgeous mural and much more of Sendak’s artwork was painted on the walls:

Here’s a small sampling of some of the artwork on display, which included not only work from his children’s illustrations, but his theatrical designs, and even drawings from a high school Shakespeare project.

I’m a bit of a wild thing, so I couldn’t help myself.

The NERTCL Luncheon hosted author/illustrator Melissa Sweet, who is one of my favorites, so I was excited she wasn’t camera shy.

And here’s a visit to the Portland Public Library’s bookmobile (one of them, anyway!)

They had a huge selection, mostly of popular books and movies.  I spoke to the staff, who were very enthusiastic to talk up the service.  They reported that they serve a wide variety of ages, including school kids, families, and the elderly.  While they keep most popular stuff shelved, they also take their “regulars” into account and stock up on their favorites too.  They pack a lot of materials into one van!  The service desk, as you can see, is right behind the driver and passenger seats, for easy “swivel” access!  It was a highlight of the trip.

Thanks for reading!
- Liz, Merrimack Public Library

The 2014 Kids, Books and the Arts Roster includes 12 presenters who will do programs for NH libraries during the “Fizz Boom Read!” summer reading program. Libraries can apply for grants to bring these presenters to their communities this summer by completing an application by Friday, March 28 at 4 pm.  For information about the presenters and their programs as well as the grant application, please visit the Kids, Books and the Arts page on the State Library website.

The manuals for the 2014 CSLP Summer Reading Program were distributed at the CHILIS Fall Conference.  Librarians who have not received a set of manuals should contact Ann Hoey at Ann.Hoey@dcr.nh.gov

Enjoy!  And don’t forget to fill out the Conference Evaluation if you attended!

Photos from the 2013 CHILIS Fall Conference

Common Core Presentation

Roman Arch STEM Activity

Conference Evaluation Form

Thank you, Gail Bourn and Beth Strauss, for the informative presentation on Common Core and the School-Library connection!

Here’s the presentation: Common Core Presentation