Glogster

I recently revamped the Library's Toolbox Pro page using Glogster, a tool for creating digital collages. The Library's page is located at http://www.elmiracityschools.com/shs/library

You can click on any of the pictures that are circled in pink when you mouse over them. For example, if you click on the Castle Learning Online picture, you will go directly to the site--no more typing in web addresses!

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers Glogster EDU - 21st century multimedia tool for educators, teachers and students: "A web 2.0 platform that easily allows users to upload photos, videos, text, audio and more to create a unique online, interactive poster.
A new and creative digital outlet for educators to help keep students ENGAGED and make learning more fun!
A simple and easy interface designed to introduce basic concepts to students.
A series of teamwork mechanisms to allow users to publish and share their creations and to collaborate with other users on joint efforts.
A secure, private, safe platform that can be monitored directly by teachers.
A valuable learning tool that can be integrated with several core subjects including math, science, history, technology, art, photography, music and more.
A tool that fosters advancement of skills as students progress through grade levels.
A virtual, digital, educational platform that transcends age, gender, background, subject matter, grade level, school type, location, etc."

Book Review: The Red Pyramid

The Red Pyramid is by the author of the Percy Jackson series. For this new series, Rick Riordan brings the Egyptian gods to life.

Carter and Sadie Kane are siblings who have been raised separately since their mother's death under mysterious circumstances. Carter travels this world with his father, the famous Egyptologist Julius Kane. Sadie lives with her maternal grandparents in England.

The book starts with Julius and Carter visiting Sadie in London on Christmas Eve. Julius has arranged a special private tour of the British Museum. In an attempt to summon an Egyptian god, Julius apparently destroys the Rosetta Stone and unleashes five gods, including Set, the family's mortal enemy. Julius disappears, and Carter and Sadie are left to rescue their father. Along the way, they encounter additional gods in human form and learn a secret about their heritage. This is a very entertaining book. While reading, I learned a lot about the gods of Egypt. I am looking forward to reading the second book in this series.

Good News About Reading!

Teens are still reading for pleasure.

This is not a surprise to me. I have had students (and staff) absolutely swarming (pun intended) the new book carts all this week, waiting for the books to be shelf-ready!

I love it!

What's New

I could have called this post "Why I'm the Luckiest Librarian in Elmira." The picture on the left is the new library circulation desk which was installed on 10/27. It's a beautiful piece of furniture with lots of storage space. We were very excited to "move in" to all of the drawers and cabinets! Thanks to Mr. Krantz and Southern Tier Contracting for making it happen!

I Know You Like a Book

One of my favorites quotes about readings is from Alice Hoffman: "Books may well be the only true magic." This quote is painted on the wall outside our library.

Here are some other quotes about reading. What's your favorite?

Quotes about Reading

View more presentations from gbeirne32.

Books with Beat

The theme for Teen Read Week 2010 is "Books with Beat."
Here are some books about teens and music:



This video was created using a very cool online tool called Animoto. Want to learn how? Ask your librarian.

Teens' Top 10

1. Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

2. City of Glass by Cassandra Clare

3. Heist Society by Ally Carter

4. Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

5. Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick

6. Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl

7. Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen

8. If I Stay by Gayle Forman

9. Fire by Kristen Cashore

10. Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson