Wednesday, May 16, 2007

News from the Director

"The three locations of the libraries recorded a total of 70,477 people coming through the doors in April. 37,820 items were checked out.

"Two self-checkout machines were installed, at La Farge and Southside, and patrons are beginning to use them on a regular basis. These machines allow staff to devote their time to patrons with questions or other duties.

"The Summer Reading Program is gearing up for a summer of reading, special programs and fun. The theme of "Claws, Paws, Scales and Tails" will feature pets, real and imagined. The program is funded by the Friends of the Santa Fe Public Library, which provide entertainers, rewards and a special end of Summer Reading Parties for all participants. The program runs from June 11- August 3rd. A calendar of events and more information will be available sooon.

"The Southside branch is partnering with the Santa Fe Institute (funded by the National Science Foundation) to offer "Project G.U.T.S.—Growing Up Thinking Scientifically" (see flyer)(and website) August 6-17 at the Library. The project is free to any student entering the 7th or 8th grade this fall who has an interest in science, technology, and engineering careers and is interested in developing computer skills. It is free. The program will be taught by Spanish and English speaking instructors. For more information call 988-9685.

"Power Readers, a new program for encouraging kids to read over the summer, is being funded by the Buckaroo Ball, Los Alamos National Laboratory Foundation and the Santa Fe Community Foundation. The 6 week program will pair middle and high school students with reluctant readers to encourage reading. The students will receive a stipend for their mentoring work. Both La Farge and Southside Branch will host the program. The grant includes a half time, contract librarian to create and coordinate the program, select materials and supervise the mentors. Another outcome of the program is to create Teen Advisory Boards at both locations to help guide the library in selecting materials and planning programs relevant to teens."


posted by pch at the Main Library

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