This month's Author's Spotlight in the Children's section of the library, is focusing on books about Asian Americans and written by Asian American authors. It is often said that books are like mirrors and windows. Mirrors help reflect familiar experiences and surroundings while windows open readers up to a whole new awareness of other people … Continue reading Author Spotlight: Celebrating Asian American Voices
OFPL Staff Recommends Halloween Films Part 1, Kasey K.
Tis the season for getting nervous about what might be hiding in the dark spaces. And it's perfect weather for honoring the Halloween tradition of scaring the tarnation out of ourselves. Here we offer Part 1 of Kasey's Halloween Extravaganza - a line-up of film titles ranked according to fright-potential. When you see her, ask … Continue reading OFPL Staff Recommends Halloween Films Part 1, Kasey K.
Mystical Traditions-Witches and Sankthansaften
As we progress further into October and approach Halloween, I thought it might be interesting to talk about another holiday that revolves around magic and witches. In America, we typically think about witches and even dress as them during the month of October as they are closely associated with Halloween. However, the end of June marked a holiday known as Sankthansaften, or Saint John’s Eve … Continue reading Mystical Traditions-Witches and Sankthansaften
Vote To Read!
This month the "Special Selections" in the children's area features books about elections, United States presidents and our government. Young children can learn more about making choices as a community, having a respectful disagreements, and the importance of working together. Older children can learn about the process and history of elections, interesting facts about our … Continue reading Vote To Read!
Books to Promote Social Emotional Learning
Social and emotional learning (SEL) has always been a significant part of a child’s development. Last week the Wall Street Journal published an article about the importance of SEL which is “the process by which children learn to understand and manage feelings, develop empathy for others and acquire problem-solving skills.” With remote learning and the ever changing reality, teaching and practicing social and emotional skills are both extremely challenging and vitally important. … Continue reading Books to Promote Social Emotional Learning
Famous Friday-Mary Wickes
Mary Wickes was born Mary Isabella Wickenhauser in St. Louis on June 13th, 1910. She graduated from Beaumont High School in St. Louis and then graduated from Washington University with a double major in English literature and political science. Acting and drama was not a career consideration for her until her later years of college. As … Continue reading Famous Friday-Mary Wickes
OFPL Staff Recommends – Sean B.
This is where we give OFPL staff members an opportunity to write about some of their favorite books - or in this case, movies. This month, Sean in Circulation suggests a laugh-out-loud film sure to entertain. FYI, Sean makes the Binge-Boxes of DVDs, so let him know your appreciation and requests. A Million Ways to … Continue reading OFPL Staff Recommends – Sean B.
Famous Friday-Rosalind Keith
Rosalind Keith was born on December 6, 1916 in Belleville, Illinois. Little details are known about her private and professional life. However, she starred in several Columbia and Paramount films from 1934-1944. Despite her being adored for her roles in these films, she went on to become a singer after her filming days were done. She … Continue reading Famous Friday-Rosalind Keith
OFPL Staff Recommends
This is where we give OFPL staff members an opportunity to write about some of their favorite books. This month, Angie in Circulation shares some thrilling suggestions. Next time you're in the library, be sure to ask Angie for more pulse-quickening titles. One of my favorite parts about pandemic reading has definitely been the thrillers … Continue reading OFPL Staff Recommends
Under the Sea
Are you holding on to the last bits of summer? Do you want to enjoy the sights of the ocean without getting sand everywhere? Do you need some ideas for helping your student with learning at home? The new Special Selections in the Children’s Department is full of books about the ocean and creatures that live there. … Continue reading Under the Sea