Warm Up With a Good Book @ the Amherst Public Library

New Year, New Books

2011-12-27T10:45:00.000-05:00

We're quickly approaching a new year which means time to flip another calendar page and also time to flip over a page in a new book. If you didn't get that book you wanted for Christmas check out our catalogue or browse our new book display for current titles and new reads.

If you recently took possession of a new ereader or downloaded a Kindle or Nook ap for your computer or tablet then check out some of the great ebooks available at the library. As always, bring your device to the library's reference desk if you need any help getting started or browsing available books. We've helped quite a few people get comfortable with their new device and hey....we want to try it out, too.

Last week we helped a gentleman with his new Kindle Fire to show him how to change network settings to use the library's wireless. And make sure you take part in our Winter Reading program and maybe you'll be the lucky person who will take home a new Kindle Touch.

Making a list, checking it twice

2011-12-08T13:04:00.001-05:00

The holiday season is upon us and our new winter reading program is set to begin. We've been checking off our list of things to get done before we start and most of the details are completed and we're ready to go. We have some small prizes, like earbuds, pencils, and hot chocolate, for reading and reviewing books as well as two grand prizes that someone will take home next February.

The Mermaid's Tale in downtown Amherst has donated a Vera Bradley set, Blue Lagoon, that would be perfect to win for yourself or as a gift. You'll also have the option of entering your name in a raffle to win a new Kindle Touch. Imagine downloading books wirelessly and taking advantage of the latest reading technology.

We will have paper forms available at the library's Reference Desk for you to log your reading and enter our contest or sign up now to manage your account online and print off your completion certificates to be entered to win. Online is the best way to take part and check out other people's reviews, track your reading on your smartphone, and maybe pick up a suggestion for a new book or author.

If only my Christmas shopping was all done!

Winter Reading

2011-11-10T13:00:00.000-05:00

Usually about this time of year the great state of Ohio sends me a giant manual listing out details of their upcoming summer reading program. While this is a thick and heavy package, the book is at least three inches thick, I've never found it a particularly useful tool and have taken to using it mostly for a bookend or to add to our recycle bin.

But when the monumental volume appeared this year, thoughts of next summer's programming was too far in the future to even comprehend but why wait. Why not a simpler form of summer reading available....in the winter?! Eureka.

So look for our first ever Winter Reading program. The program is being put together and will be availalbe exclusively online. Read six books and submit a short book review on each one and you'll be able to print off a certificate for a prize bag that you can pick up here at the library's reference desk. Your certificate will also be entered into a drawing for a special grand prize to be announced soon (think Vera Bradley and maybe something with a touch screen).

Winter months are the perfect time to warm up with a good book and hopefully add a little fun to your reading by checking out reviews and book suggestions by fellow readers. There has to be some benefit in enduring another Ohio winter....

Winning Weekend

2011-07-11T17:38:00.002-04:00

It was a "sweet" weekend with our library community room filled with more than 800 cupcakes when the judges, Tim Kiedrowski and Maggie Notley Gross, came to judge our first ever Amherst Cupcake Wars.The grand prize winner was Angela Bak, who took the first golden spatula with her recipe for Coconut Almond Cupcakes. Angela also won a patriotic cupcake cookie jar, free donuts from Kiedrowski's and some free cupcakes from Sweets By Maggie.

Two other golden spatulas went to Michelle Kissane for her Treasure Chest Cupcakes and Renee Bennett for her Banana Split Cupcakes.

Honorable mentions were awarded to
Susan Sailer's Panda Cupcakes and the baking duo of
Mackenzie Tyson and Marley Biczykowski for their Thin Mint Cupcakes.

Terri Belush won a free birthday cake from Kiedrowski's when her name was drawn from all the raffle entries. Mackenzie Tyson and Marley Biczykowski had their ticket drawn and won a free party for six at Sweets By Maggie.

Thirty five people entered our cupcake contest. When the crumbs cleared on Saturday after the bake sale we had raised just over $400 for the Amherst Food Pantry. Nancy Burls, Coordinator for the Amherst Food Pantry, congratulated everyone on their fundraising efforts.

"The library really goes all out to help support the work of our local food pantry", said Nancy. "This cash donation allows us to buy gift cards that can be used for produce and fresh items like eggs, milk and fresh vegetables."

Every single cupcake found a home last Saturday and thanks to the baking, and eating efforts of our library community, we all came together for a great cause, and had a lot of fun at the same time. Thanks to our judges who spent more than two hours deliberating over which cupcakes deserved the top honors. It was a very, very hard job. Congratulations to everyone who helped make the day extra special.

CUPCAKE MANIA

2011-07-08T12:22:00.001-04:00

Cupcakes have started arriving at the Amherst Public Library where Amherst Cupcake Wars is well underway. Everyone who enters fills out a registration form which acts as your entry into a drawing for a free birthday cake from Kiedrowski's Simply Delicious Bakery or a party at Sweets By Maggie.

If you're not baking cupcakes then plan on eating them. Saturday at 10 a.m. our Bake Sale opens where you can see the winners of the coveted Golden Spatula awards as well as purchase cupcakes to take home, or just eat.

All the proceeds go to the Amherst Food Pantry. Tim Kiedrowski and Maggie Notley Gross will be our judges this evening! Let the competition begin....where's my fork?

Countdown to Cupcake Wars

2011-07-05T17:31:00.002-04:00

Everyone who attended the Cupcake Demo last week with Chef Maggie Notley from Sweets By Maggie got some great ideas for Cupcake Wars. Maggie demonstrated how to make a fondant rose just using your hands, no special tools. Buttercream roses are a thing of the past now that we can all fashion flowers in bright vibrant colors.

Even the cupcakes were special as Maggie got into the whole retro historical theme and brought in 60 tie dyed cupcakes, all red, and blue. We also learned how to make ganache and home made caramel. Did you know that when Hershey first started his candy empire, caramel was one of the first candies he produced way before chocolate was even in the picture?

Once the pastry bags full of buttercream came out it got pretty quiet in the room as everyone concentrated on the perfect swirl. Each participant took home a recipe for Amherst Bicentennial Caramel and hopefully some great ideas for Cupcake Wars.

Have a minimum of two dozen cupcakes at the library before 5 p.m. this Friday, July 8. Judging takes place after closing and winners will be announced during the bake sale on Saturday, July 9. Remember all the proceeds benefit the local Amherst Food Pantry.

Up in the air with Matt Jergens

2011-06-28T08:22:00.002-04:00

There were a lot of things up in the air yesterday when the Amherst Public Library hosted comedian juggler Matt Jergens as part of the library's summer reading program. The air was not only filled with a bowling ball, scarves, balls and even raw eggs, but the air in the room filled with laughs and an almost electric current of fun that ran through each person there and transformed some of us into kids again.

Matt was juggling outside the building as people scurried to park and get to the show. Inside the music began and everyone took their seats, some kids wondering if they had sat too close, as bowling balls and even a seven foot unicyle came on stage. Volunteers helped out and after the show everyone got a hands on juggling lesson.

"The best part of my day is being able to pass on a love of juggling to the audience," said Matt. "Seeing that look of amazement on someone's face during that 'ah-ha' moment when it clicks that they are juggling is priceless."

Matt travels throughout the east coast, and wherever juggling is needed, performing at resorts, festivals, and business venues. "This was a great show," exclaimed one grandmother who was busy juggling scarves during the workshop. "You have to have him back again."

I think she's definitely right about that.

Learn to Juggle with Matt Jergens

2011-06-23T11:22:00.003-04:00

Juggling too many items on your agenda? I know I am. Monday, June 27 at 2 p.m. everyone is invited to enjoy the comedy juggling performance of Matt Jergens. And maybe afterward you can take part in a juggling workshop.

His show is a blend of incredible juggling tricks, kid-friendly comedy, and plenty of audience participation. Whether he's balancing a basket of eggs that's twenty feet in the air or riding on top of his tall unicycle, audiences can't get enough of Matt's crazy routines.

Matt learned how to juggle during his senior year in high school. While attending The Ohio State University his roomate turned out to be a professional magician who gave him insight on promoting his show and working within the entertainment industry.

Today, Matt performs over 300 shows a year, entertaining crowds at business venues, fairs, schools and on the big stage. But he still remembers what it was like the first time he discovered the thrill of accomplishment and after his performance on Monday, everyone will have the option of staying after the show for one of two 30-minute juggling workshops led by Matt.

Come on...you can juggle your schedule around to join us on Monday. Remember the Main Street Center is located at 255 Park Avenue in downtown Amherst. For more information on Matt Jergens visit his webpage and check out his photo gallery.

Can't Stop Storytime

2011-06-21T12:02:00.003-04:00

Neither asphalt, nor trucks, nor large men in orange vests can stop determined people from getting to storytime at Amherst Township Park. Today we had 22 people who hiked, biked, and even came by scooter to attend our Tuesday Storytime in the Park.

Mrs. Stanley was ready with stories about vacation and at some points the crowd had to help with some of the lines that repeated in the one book as we all shouted "summery, Saturday morning!" over the drone of the big construction equipment.

Kids who did make it to storytime saw an extra bonus as we spotted a rabbit hopping by and a bird flew into the shelter house to feed her three babies in the nest. It was a vacation from the library as we shared some nice stories in the park and marvelled at the joys of nature so close....even with all the noisy trucks.

Amherst Township Park will have a nice paved parking lot next week when we return for our next storytime in the park on Tuesday, June 28 at 10:30 p.m. Maybe some of the construction workers will stop by again. You know they really liked that last book we read!

Fairy Time Fun

2011-06-16T16:25:00.002-04:00

This has been a magical week at the library. Tuesday Zap the Magician gave us an inside look into the world of magic during our teen magic workshop. Everyone learned some great tricks and even some performance tips when showing magic to your friends and family.

Today we had more than 60 kids make a fairy house to take home. During the two hour workshop we had more than 100 people visit and construct some very cool houses that are sure to attract some fairies to local neighborhoods. Barb Toth and her group of volunteers helped everyone construct a fairy from simple materials and allowed each participant to pick out the hair color and skirt colors. There was even fairy food to put into the little dishes in order to attract hungry fairies.

Kids worked for hours and the results were amazing. You can make your own fairy house at home using things like pine cones, leaves, and things you find around your yard.

For more ideas on constructing fairy houses you might want to check out Fairy Houses by Tracy Kane or some of the other books and movies available at the Amherst Public Library.

Let the Reading Begin!

2011-06-10T15:56:00.001-04:00

Wow, it's been out of control here at the Amherst Public Library. It's four o'clock on Friday afternoon and I've just taken a moment to sit down. We've registered over 400 kids and teens for our summer reading program and some kids have already earned some prizes.

Thanks to everyone who waited patiently if there was a line.

We had a great time at craft day Wednesday when we had hundreds of people come in for our Founders Day Puppet craft. We soon "bagged" the whole idea of pioneer puppets as kids let there imaginations go wild producing alien puppets, Star War creatures, princess puppets and even an Abraham Lincoln puppet complete with money under his hat.

The best part of craft day is our "no rules" rule of anything goes as far as creativity.

With five days of summer reading complete we're off to a good start. Keep reading!

More sweet prizes

2011-06-02T16:56:00.002-04:00

There's more than donuts and cupcakes to our summer reading program. Many people have taken advantage of signing up early and beginning Monday you'll be able to track your reading online also.

We've got some great prizes this year in honor of Amherst's big bicentennial birthday. If you haven't already, check out our calendar for some of the many programs offered as part of our celebration.
Remember that storytimes begin next week as well as our popular craft day on Wednesday. We'll kick off with a great Famous Founders puppet craft. There's no rules when it comes to craft days.

The Countdown Continues

2011-05-26T13:56:00.001-04:00

Things are lining up for a great summer reading program here at the Amherst Public Library. Since we are celebrating the big Amherst Bicentennial this summer we thought it only fitting that we partner with Tim Kiedrowski of Kiedrowski's Simply Delicious Bakery to help us with the celebration.

Every person who completes our summer program, whether you are age 4 or 104, will recieve a coupon for a FREE DONUT at Kiedrowski's, 2267 Cooper Foster Park Road in Amherst.

We've got some other surprises in store so sign up early and read often.

Online registration begins May 31 and registration at the library begins Monday, June 6.

Sneak Preview

2011-05-05T15:21:00.000-04:00

We've been working on getting the web pages set up for online registration that begins May 31. If you'd like a peek at how things are coming together, log onto our Online Summer Reading site.

Some changes from last year include being able to share your reading and any reviews you write with your Facebook friends. It's even set up so you can log your reading or submit a book review using your Smartphone. Just finished reading a book by the pool and want to log it and share it with friends? Simply sign onto our site and enter your info right from your phone.

When you become eligible for a prize, simply print off the certificate and bring it into the library to claim your prize.

More about prizes later. Bookmark our site so you'll be reading when the program begins. Summer is almost here.

The Countdown Begins

2011-05-04T11:11:00.003-04:00

For many people flipping the calendar page to May means soccer practice, getting the ball glove out of the basement and watching for all this rain to bring on the May flowers.

Here at the library our Youth Services Department is busy getting ready for another season of Summer Reading. This year we are honoring the 200th birthday of Amherst by inviting everyone to "Join the Celebration" and take part in the best summer of reading yet.

We've got some great programs booked and some of the prizes are ordered. Hey, we've even ordered the cake!

Watch for online registration to begin on May 31, but you won't be able to start logging your reading until registration opens at the library on Monday, June 6. Watch for some improvements to our online site this year including being able to post your reviews and books you've read to your Facebook page and being able to access your summer reading account with your Smart Phone.

Check back often as the countdown continues.

Summer Fair Fun

2010-07-20T16:55:00.005-04:00

Another summer reading fair has come and gone. Despite the heat and humidity we had a great response and lots of kids and families showed up for the fun. Leapin' Little Ones set up the jump house and Zap Entertainment of Parma provided a balloon artist. Representatives of Sandstone Summer Theater manned the ice pop station handing out refreshments.

But the best part is the number of volunteers that help with the games. Kids who used to come to storytime are now old enough to help with summer reading! Thanks to Paul, Michael and Alex who worked the baseball game. That's the first game I worked when I began at the library and volunteered for the fair. Thanks also to all the kids who volunteered thoughout the summer helping us manage one of the best summer reading programs around.

And thanks to all the kids, teens and adults who had fun, read books, wrote reviews, and attended all our great programs. Thanks to the babysitter who brought all the kids here after they said our library was the most fun. Thanks to the dad who always brought his daughter in on Wednesday after work to attend craft day together. Thanks to the grandma who drove her grandkids to every storytime, craft day and special program. Thanks to all the kids who kept reading no matter what.

Sometimes there are moments between the craziness that reminds you there is still a chance to have a little fun, or to provide the mechanism to share that fun with others. Thanks to the more than 1000 summer reading club members, I know there still can be those special moments.

The Race is on - Scavenger Hunt forms now available

2010-07-03T13:16:00.001-04:00

Finally, after a long wait, the annual library scavenger hunt is now available at the Amherst Public Library. We provide you with 25 photos taken somewhere in downtown Amherst and you tell us the location. Completed forms need to be submitted by Saturday, August 21, to be entered into our drawing for a grand prize. We have a library bag filled with Amherst related prizes like movie tickets to the Amherst Cinema and pizza at Angelos.

So get up and visit our web site where you can view the form or stop by the library and pick yours up today.

Bubble-icious

2010-06-28T17:05:00.002-04:00

We packed the house when Sue the Bubble Lady visited Amherst on Friday, June 25, for a special summer reading show at the Main Street Center.

There was no more room as kids of all ages came to see some of the great bubbles Sue made using all sorts of gadgets. The crowd loved the bubbles made from such everyday objects as rubberbands, Pringles cans, and even a straw. Making a square bubble was interesting and how she inserted a straw into the bubble to make it expand...who would have know you could even do that!

At the end of the show some volunteers actually stood inside a real bubble. After the program Sue drew two lucky tickets out of the bucket and two kids won, what else, some bubbles!

We have over 1000 young people signed up to take part in our summer reading program so far. Join us the next time we get together for Pirate Magic (Arghhh...) on Tuesday, July 6 at 2:30 p.m.

The Story Continues

2010-06-24T15:23:00.001-04:00

Storytimes continue through the summer with Waddler Storytime each Monday at 10 a.m. and also regular storytime at 10:30 where every age is welcome. On Tuesdays at 10:30 you'll find Mrs. Stanley in the shelter house at Amherst Township Park where we share stories with our friends outside.

We read a great story about sharks and one about getting to the beach. Everyone enjoyed the bubbles at the end.

Bubble fans, don't forget that the Bubble Lady will be at the Main Street Center on Friday, June 25 at 1 p.m. She will show you all kinds of bubbles and some bubbles so huge that a person can stand inside. Don't think there's any such thing as a square bubble? Wait and see.

Summer Reading, can you keep up!

2010-06-24T15:09:00.003-04:00

It's been a busy week as summer reading continues at the library. Right now we have 670 kids signed up and more than 240 teens. Just over 85 adults have turned in reading slips to be entered in our drawing! It's been crazy!

Yesterday kids took part in a craft activity where they could write a story and make a scratch art sea creature. The stories were great as everyone described what they saw on their visit to the beach and especially what they had for lunch. I'm getting hungry just thinking about it.

The yo-yo workshops have drawn a crowd and last week kids took part in a magic workshop led by local magician Ron Price. We learned tricks like the "Professor's Nightmare" and the "Matrix". If you missed the magic workshop, stop at the library and pick up one of the great magic books we have on the shelf. There's always some kind of magic happening at the Amherst Public Library!

Gordon for President!

2010-06-15T17:57:00.005-04:00

The Main Street Center in downtown Amherst was packed with a capacity crowd when magician Gordon Russ visited to officially kick off our summer reading program this year. I lost count somewhere around 255 as people poured into the building. Kids sat on the floor and adults filled the chairs lined up in the back. Late comers squeezed in where ever they could find an opening as Gordon started the music and the show, of course, went on.

Pick me Gordon! Nathan was one of the volunteers who got to try on the magic hat and help Gordon with the set of magic rings. Keep in mind we have a magic workshop coming up on Monday, June 21. Grades 2-4 meet at noon and grades 5 and up begin their session at 1:30. Ron Price will be instructing kids on how to do some basic tricks using items you can find around the house. Call the library for more information. Magic is a great way to make friends. Look at all the friends Gordon has?

300 kids can't be wrong

2010-06-08T15:18:00.002-04:00

Well, we are one week into registration for summer reading and we have 300 kids registered! Add in the 80 teens and all the people who have registered online and the adults and we are well on our way to a huge success. For many, tomorrow is the last day of school and sure to be a busy day here at the library.

Wednesday, June 9, our craft days begin. Crafts will be available from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. each Wednesday. Stop by and check it out. We'll be making bag puppets the first session. It's fun to see what kids come up with when you get out the paper and glue. Maybe your puppet will look like a sea monster or a mermaid or maybe a pirate....ARhhh.

Magic things happen at the library....and especially on Thursday when Gordon Russ helps us kick off our program when he brings his show to the Main Street Center at 2 p.m. See you there!

Remember you can register online where you can submit book reviews and log your reading.

Let the fun begin!

2010-06-01T16:34:00.003-04:00

Summer reading registration began today at the Amherst Public Library.

Andrew Csanady, age 5, was the first person to be entered into the registration books signaling the official start of this year's summer reading program. Next in line was his sister Emily, age 4. Each picked out a squirter toy for signing up and received their reading log so they can start keeping track of the time they spend reading and earn some prizes.

We've got sun glasses for everyone who completes five hours of reading and for ten hours you get a flying disk toy that fits into its own travel pouch. The beach bag is perfect for stowing all your gear for the pool, the beach, or wherever you're going this summer.

Stop by the library or visit our online registration page.

Flipping out!

2010-05-27T20:19:00.001-04:00

Summer reading officially gets off the ground on Tuesday, June 1 when we open the registration desk at the library. But today we received a donation for our Flip Flops for Haiti campaign. Remember for each pair you donate your name is entered into a raffle to receive a free pedicure at A David Anthony Salon.

Thanks to everyone who made a donation today. We put Josie Katzbach a little closer to her goal of 2000 pairs of flip flops. The last day to donate is June 30 in order for Josie to organize shipment for her return trip to the Haiti in August.

Plus...you made my day. Thanks!

Online registration now open!

2010-05-25T14:40:00.001-04:00

Our online registration for summer reading is now open! Yes there are a few glitches, I need to read more computer programming books, but everything does seem to work.

The online program allows you to submit book reviews, track your reading, and this year there's even an option to post your progress to your Facebook page. Some people like to register online then stop in the library after the program officially begins on June 1 to pick up a reading log and other program information.

This year we have two partner organizations we're working with. The local Amherst Food Pantry located on Cleveland Avenue and Flip Flops for Haiti. We give kids credit on their reading logs for bringing in food donations and A David Anthony Salon has donated a free pedicure that will be raffled off to one lucky winner who donated a pair of flip flops by the deadline of June 30.

More info is available at the library. Mrs. Stanley and I are scrambling trying to get in a few more workouts at Anytime Fitness of Amherst before the official start of summer reading. You know these beach balls can be heavy.

We're staying up all night!

2010-05-24T14:02:00.005-04:00

Time is counting down till summer reading begins and we're here trying to take care of all the last minute details. Thank goodness Anytime Fitness of Amherst is open 24 hours a day so that Mrs. Stanley and I can keep up our fitness regimen.

Remember online registration begins tomorrow, May 25. We're going to get a few more workouts in then it's back to the library to run copies of the calendar. Everyone will get a calendar of summer reading events when you register. Check out the online calendar on the blog here for program updates.

We found it saves time to just wear our jammies to workout. Can't sleep? Join us at Anytime Fitness. We do some of our best work between 2 and 3 a.m.

Check back soon to learn more about one of our partner charities this summer, Flip Flops for Haiti and Josie Katzbach. We'll also be collecting food items for the local Amherst Food Pantry. Remember, we're the only library that will give you credit on your kids' reading log just for donating to the food bank.

Is it nap time yet?

Registration begins June 1

2010-05-14T16:45:00.004-04:00

Summer weather is bringing out all the bike riders, walkers, and summer time cruisers. Beach Party @ The Amherst Public Library will begin registration on June 1, or get a head start with online registration beginning May 25.

In the meantime, remember to always wear your bicycle helmet. Safety is important, even at the gym. I've upped my time on the exercise bike to 25 minutes every time. At Anytime Fitness of Amherst I can even watch TV or listen to music while I'm racking up the miles. Today I caught up on some beach reading to get me in the mood for summer. I've got my helmet on just in case.

We just got in some of the prizes for this year's summer reading program and I think these insulated coolers are going to be popular. Adults can read six books and take home one of two styles of insulated tote.

Pack your bag and wear your helmet and we'll be off to a great start. I've got seven minutes left on the bike and I'm all ready up to four miles! Keep peddling.

Count down to summer

2010-05-11T15:32:00.002-04:00

The official start of the Amherst Public Library's Summer Reading Program is June 1 when we open up registration here at the library. We usually open the online registration before Memorial Day so look to see if I get that up and running.

We've booked some great programs including Michael and Georgann Wachter, the authors of Erie Wrecks and several other books that chronicle some of the many shipwrecks they've discovered and explored while scuba diving in the Great Lakes. The calendar is filling up and I've also racked up quite a bit of time at Anytime Fitness in Amherst.

BMI, not weight, is a great way to analyze your fitness success story. My BMI, Body Mass Index, when I started over a month ago was 28.5. If you look at a chart you'll know that's not a good number. Calculate your BMI here.

Thanks to Anytime Fitness my number now is more like a 26. Still not great, but better. Check out the guns on the librarian. Hey, I need to stand by someone wimpier...it would make by bicep look much bigger. What a showoff.

Keep up the good work. Summer will be here soon and we want everyone to sign up for summer reading at the library where it's going to be one big Beach Party.

Fitness Help

2010-03-25T17:27:00.002-04:00

Okay, maybe it's because I bought Girl Scout cookies from every scout who stopped at my desk with her little sales form. Maybe it's because I keep thinking about all the other things I have to do besides being at a gym. Did I get the prizes ordered for the kids summer reading program? What kind of teen programs can I book for this summer? Will we have more adults sign up this year and when am I going to get the online registration page set up?

Sometimes you just have to have a little extra help. That's where Greg comes in. He's just one of the personal trainers at Anytime Fitness. He must know his stuff....I mean just look at him.

Greg walked me through the gym and came up with a work-out plan just for me. Cardio, like ride the bike and treadmill, on one day and focus on muscle groups with sets of different exercises on other days. He also made sure I knew the setting for each machine so I could perform the exercises correctly and have the machine quickly set for my height.

"Make sure you use your time here effectively and are exercising correctly", he said. Greg gets people ready for things like the Police Academy agility test and Army boot camp. I figure getting a librarian ready for summer reading will be a piece of cake. "By the way", said Greg. "Do you smell something like vanilla?" Crap....need to wash that yellow cake batter off my jacket.

Anytime Fitness Fits the Bill

2010-03-23T20:58:00.007-04:00

Okay, I figured if anyone could help me get in shape it would be Ginny Murphy. She has triplets that used to come to the library for storytime but now they come and check out the thick books, giving Ginny some time to squeeze in owning her own business, Anytime Fitness of Amherst.

There it is right under the yellow arrow, 7090 Oakpoint Road. Ginny showed me all the different machines and I didn't fall off the treadmill...yet.

Believe me, going to a gym can be intimidating, especially when you realize that you have yellow cake batter drips on your lycra zip up jacket. But Ginny and her staff were friendly and believe it or not, there were people there just like me! Just trying to fit in some time at the gym so they could fit in their pants again. Hey, I'm committed.

Now if I can just get past the Girl Scout cookie season and the bags of jellybeans at Target I'll stay on track. This is going to work. I have to be ready for the big Beach Party theme for our Summer Reading Program. If you want more information on Anytime Fitness of Amherst give them a call at 440-984-4961 or find them on Facebook.

Could be a tight fit

2010-03-21T21:27:00.003-04:00

Okay, maybe this tropical shirt has shrunk on the hanger. Getting ready for a beach party is going to take more than a flowered lei to make it work. Working here at a desk for hours at a time has done nothing to help get me ready for a beach party. Like many people, working at a desk, sititng at a computer has turned us into desk jockeys, multi-tasking but not ready for basking.

Perhaps those lycra sweat pants are meant to be worn for more than just late night grocery shopping. Maybe it's time to head the doctor's warnings, along with the many books that fill the library shelves written by good natured and thin nutritionists, and get in better shape so I can pull off this whole summer of intense beach partying. I mean it's a tough job so the tough should get going.

But time is going to be a factor. I don't take time for lunch, how I am going to find time for molding this winter form into sunshine shape? I don't have any time to read. I don't have any time to plan. Any time.....might just be my answer. I need the help of someone who understands my lifestyle, who understands kids, and most important...understands fitting life into a schedule and making it work.

Anytime Fitness of Amherst might just be my ticket. Will call....tomorrow.

Is it that time all ready?

2010-03-21T21:10:00.005-04:00

It seems like we were just lamenting the harshness of an Ohio winter and before you know it we have to spring our clocks ahead, setting our watches one hour closer to summer. We've just added another 19 sessions to our so-called winter storytime schedule that has now run into spring and according to the calendar, and vendor deadlines, I'm way behind planning for our popular summer reading program.

With more than 1000 people to plan for this requires serious study. The state of Ohio has come up with a theme, "Make a Splash - READ", and even offers a teen theme, "Make Waves @ Your Library". But we need something that will work with all ages from kids to adults and the whole splish splash theme just seems a little watered down.

I search the storage closet for ideas. Neon sunglasses, a tropical print shirt, a flowered lei...it seems the mood could be right for a tropical beach party! Stay tuned. This could be good.

Candyrama!

2009-06-18T18:10:00.003-04:00

It's finally here. I know you've been putting your tickets in the raffle not knowing what the candyrama even looks like but the wait is over. While Mrs. Ashton was putting in more chocolate Mrs. Stanley was trying to sneek in some healthy things. I think it turned out okay though. Teens keep reading and putting in those orange tickets. Who will win.....maybe we should include a toothbrush.

Creative Happenings at the library

2009-06-16T16:04:00.004-04:00

Wow, with just one week into our Summer Reading program we've already signed up over 700 kids and teens. That's awesome and just goes to show you what great families we have that come to the Amherst Public Library and get involved in all the fun summer activities we have to offer.

We've had two magic shows that everyone came out to see. Professor Zap was here to help us Create and Imaginate and escape artist Ron Price also entertained us with some great illusions. How he got that signed $20 bill into that bag on the ceiling I have no idea. If you're looking to learn some magic come out for our Create Your Own Magic Workshop on Monday, June 22, when Ron Price will return to give us all the inside scoop on magic tricks you can learn using simple items you probably already have.

Check the calendar for upcoming events like our Crochet Workshop, Cake Decorating Demo, Puppet Show, Craft Days......there's too many to list. Call us for more info at 440-988-4230. See you at the library!

If you have crafts - they will come.

2009-06-11T18:03:00.002-04:00

All's it takes is some paper, glue, and plain paper bags to draw 199 people to the Amherst Public Library for the first craft day of the summer. Each Wednesday during summer reading, the library provides a fun make-it take-it type craft where everyone is welcome to get creative.

There's not too many rules, few directions, and no wrong answers as kids create some of the coolest crafts ever. Last Wednesday was crazy hat day. Next Wednesday look for something new.

Summer Reading is Here

2009-06-02T10:59:00.004-04:00

If yesterday is any indication of the number of people who will be signing up for summer reading I'd say it looks like another record year. Even with school still in session we signed up 94 people yesterday and that doesn't include all the adult reading logs that were picked up or the people who registered online.

We've added some new programs and have a few yet to be announced so stop back often to see what's on the calendar. Remember you can register online and even submit book reviews, and log your reading.

Watch out for Mona Madness. More info on that later!

Teen Summer Reading - Express Yourself

2009-05-27T13:14:00.004-04:00

We've got a great teen program for those students who have completed grades 5 through 8.
Sure we still have prizes and lots of things on the calendar just for you.

This age group reads for points. There are lots of ways to earn points, like attending a special event or bringing in items for the Amherst Food Pantry. But the main goal is to read a book and earn one point per page. No, "Cat in the Hat" doesn't count. We give prizes for 250, 500, and 750 points. It's easy and adds up fast. Here's what you win:

250 points gets you a "READ" dogtag. One year we ran out of these but we think we've got plenty for this year....if you hurry.

500 points nets you a cool Media Pouch. It's perfect for carrying around a cell phone or iPod. We have a variety of colors to choose from.

750 points earns you our "Green" messenger bag. It invites you to "Renew, Reread, Recycle" when you head out to the library.

Kids Summer Reading - Get Creative a@ the Amherst Public Library

2009-05-27T13:04:00.004-04:00

It's time to "Get Creative" and "Get to the Library". Summer reading is upon us with just a few days till registration opens at the library. Registration is available online with options for tracking your time and submitting book reviews.

Our Kids Program is for those age 4 through those kids just completing grade 4.
Once you register you'll get a reading log to keep track of the time you spend reading, or being read to. Fill in your reading log. For every 15 minutes you read, color in a portion of the clock. Each clock represents one hour of reading.

Keep reading! We give prizes for completing 5, 10 and 15 hours of reading.

For 5 hours we have the paint set so you can get creative right away.
After 10 hours of reading you'll earn the green zip pouch for keeping your library card close at hand.
Keep reading and for 15 hours you get a great "Green" bag that invites you to "Save a Tree and Borrow a Book". It's great for all those items you'll be checking out of the library this summer!

Create your best summer ever.

2009-05-12T15:59:00.002-04:00

Sure we're going to get creative this summer but we can also think "Green" at the same time. Remember when you check out a book from the library you're saving money and saving trees.

Look for our earth-friendly slogans on most of our prizes this year. This logo appears on our prize for 15 hours of reading. It's a great bag for carrying your books, your groceries, your creative collection with you where ever you go. What color is the bag? Well, green of course.

Almost Time to Get Creative

2009-05-04T14:41:00.002-04:00

Everyone is counting the days till school's out and for some that day coincides with the start the Amherst Public Library's Summer Reading program. This year the library is hopping on board the state reading wagon by adopting the theme of "Get Creative".

But hey, we've always had a creative group of summer readers and this year is no exception. Look for the return of "Craft Wednesday" starting June 10. On Wednesdays you can stop by the library anytime and take part in a great, and yes very creative, craft activity.

Bug Free Zone at the Library

2008-05-20T14:12:00.008-04:00

Everything is underway for What's Cooking @ the Amherst Public Library, our 2008 summer reading program for ages 4 through 104. Many people calling or checking on our website are surprised to find out we're not participating in the State Library of Ohio's Summer Reading Program. As I tell all the kids, go to other libraries, get a card, but nothing beats Amherst Public Library for one of the best summer programs around.

The state seems to be obsessed with bugs, based on the giant 200 page manual they send out, and the countless themes directed at crawling creatures, such as "Trails to Tales" and now this year's theme "Catch the Reading Bug".

This year we're cooking up all kinds of fun. Remember to read a balanced diet including selections from mysteries, non-fiction, poetry, and magazines.

Online registration is available now through our website. Check out our upcoming programming by viewing our summer calendar.

Getting prepped for Summer Reading

2008-05-01T18:40:00.003-04:00

The Amherst Public Library is getting prepped for a great summer of fun this year. "Look What's Cooking @ the library" will help you check out all the ingredients for a great summer of activities.

Look for an early bird registration to begin in late May. Remember you can register and log your reading through our website. Registration at the library begins Monday, June 2, for all ages.

We offer three different reading programs. Our kid's program welcomes ages 4 through those students just completing grade 4. If you've just finished grades 5 through 8 then our teen program will feature the return of X-Box afternoon as well as the annual Scavenger Hunt. High School freshmen through those age 104 participate in our adult program.

Look for a calendar and other information very soon.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2008-03-17T09:26:00.001-04:00

Get Moving with Storytime

2008-03-06T16:11:00.003-05:00

Put that book down and let's get moving! Kids at storytime have been reaching new heights as they learn classics like "Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes" along with other rhymes to get them moving. If you're feeling the effects of too much Valentine candy or have already purchased those holiday jelly beans you might want to take a cue from storytime and get off the couch. With spring weddings on the horizon it might also be a good time to review that age old classic...the "Chicken Dance".

Cookie Caper

2008-01-09T10:46:00.000-05:00

How many kids can you fit in the storytime room? With two sessions to fill the answer was "a whole lot". Not only did we run short of cookies this year but with more than 70 people in the morning session and 140 people filling in the evening session it was a wild and crazy culinary time.

No one left without their share of frosting and sprinkles. With help from our Lorain County JVS Culinary Academy volunteers we managed to go through 10 pounds of frosting and dozens of sugar cookies. Wait... isn't that our volunteers...those cookies are for the kids! Oh well, everyone's a kid at cookie storytime.

Now what happened to those extra sprinkles?

Sun Sets on Another Summer Reading Fair

2007-07-27T08:23:00.000-04:00

More than 400 people gathered on the lawn for one last bash during the recent kids Summer Reading Fair at the Amherst Public Library. Each child received a bag with 15 tickets which they could use to play games like the bean bag throw and the duck pond. Ice pops and popcorn were also just a ticket away with cool, refreshing, lemonade being offered by the "Good Deeds Club" who were raising money for local kids undergoing cancer treatment.

The jump house was a big hit this year as kids lined up to take their turns, throwing off shoes and passing off prize bags to be airborn for just a moment. Even the baseball pitch game was lined up across the lawn. The weather which threatened to be a problem all day, held off and the real rain and thunder managed to skirt around the library with a few gusts of wind being the only real nuisance.

The Amherst Fire Department attended the fair this year and lots of kids sported red fire hats, also good for rain hats, and enjoyed climbing on the fire truck and getting a close up look at all the equipment. The firemen were great and handed out lots of free stuff. I hope they come back next year!

I hope everybody comes back next year. We don't need to "Get a Clue" as to why more than 900 kids and 250 teens took part in library programs this summer. There's no secret as to why almost 1000 kids took part in free craft activities during Wednesday craft days. The long line back to the parking lot of eager kids waiting to sign into the fair tonight is reason enough to know that this year's program was a success. Thank heaven for parents willing to drive kids to the library, to have patience to wait for magicians who've gotten lost, and Metro Park rangers who go to the wrong location, and who help mark off time on paper reading logs. Thank heaven for parents who ride with their kids in cars and on bikes, searching the downtown buildings for scavenger hunt clues.

As the sun sets on another year of summer reading fun I think about what I've told the kids for years, the Amherst Public Library really does have the best summer reading program around. It really doesn't have anything to do with our building, or what our prizes or craft will be that week, or how much money we have left in the budget. It's the kids and families who walk through the door each day...they make us number one. Thanks for a great summer.

See you at the library.
Love,

Ike

Jamboree Parade - A True Animal Fair

2007-07-20T07:41:00.000-04:00

I had a great seat for the Amherst Jamboree Parade. I really didn't know what to expect of the event and found out I had a lot in common with many of the participants. I expected marching bands but mostly there were a lot of people riding and lots of four-legged friends. I had no idea.

Check out the dog in the fire truck. He had a great seat but I noticed there wasn't a window so he could stick his head out. Walking alongside the firetruck was the strangest dog I ever saw. He looked friendly but his head was so big they must have had a hard time finding a hat for him.

There were a variety of horses in the parade. One was one horse following a lawn mower and he looked a little stiff. There were other horses, maybe they were younger because they were small and moved very well, who pulled a wagon.

There were lots of kids in the parade, too. We saw many of our summer reading friends who were riding in trucks, twirling batons, and just having a great time.

Lions and elephants, although not common in Amherst, were spotted in the Parade.

I noticed that there was a man with a cart and shovel who followed the horses but no one was following after the elephant which could have been a BIG problem, if you know what I mean. I should call the mayor....wait...there's Mayor Taylor now!

Oh well, it was a great day. I was getting a little hungry when I saw my friends from the new Mexican Restaurant downtown, Quesadilla. Ola, amiga! I think I'll head down and see what the lunch special is today. I love the Fajita special on Wednesdays and of course the two chicken tacos with rice and beans is my usual. Try the sauce on the "Angel" special, awesome! Well I better get back to the Amherst Library. It's been a long day and I may need a nap.

See you at the library, or maybe Quesadilla.

Love,

Ike

Ike Jams at the Jamboree

2007-07-16T21:34:00.000-04:00

What a weekend I had at the Amherst Jamboree. I wasn't the only dog jammin' downtown as many of my four footed friends came down for the pet show on Saturday. I don't know where some of these dogs do there shopping but they were decked out. I saw dogs in strollers, dogs with wings, dogs in wagons. It's important on hot afternoons like today to make sure your pet has enough fresh water. Some dogs will do anything for a dog treat. Me, I held out for the pizza eating contest. Here I am guarding boxes of pepperoni pizzas. I saw a lot of familiar faces, most of them covered in sauce. Let me tell you these kids can put away some pizza. There were a lot of summer reading friends in the crowd. Hey...were you guys really here to enter the pizza eating contest or just looking for a free dinner? Well it's off to the lemonade stand to wash down that last slice. I think they're skimping a little on the lemon this year.

Remember this Thursday is the big summer reading fair at the library. I'll see you there!

Love,

Ike

Ike Goes Under Library Spell

2007-07-13T11:16:00.000-04:00

Magic Mike visited the Amherst Public Library last night where he presented his program Trick-A-Nosis, an evening of magical mind games. I had never been hypnotized before and was curious to how the whole thing worked. Plus Mrs. Ashton had cookies and lemonade which was reason enough to be there.

Mike started off the program explaining how hypnotism works and a bit of history on the subject. Then he proceeded to hypnotize several volunteers. He had us singing "Happy Birthday" like opera stars and even speaking in alien languages. Mike even had me glued to my seat, literally! Wow, I just know that I woke up feeling like I'd been at the doggie spa for a week.

I think the audience had a good time and the volunteers even got a nice parting gift, just like on Jeopardy. I got a nice travel mug but I could have used a dog dish. In keeping with his stage name, Mike performed a bit of magic for us including a quick lesson in escape magic. After an audience member secured him into a strait jacket, Mike showed us his Houdini side by escaping in record time. Mrs. Ashton is consulting with him on the posibility of getting more strait jackets at the library.

For more info on Magic Mike check out his web site at http://www.magicmikeproductions.com/

See you soon at the library.

Love,

Ike

2007-07-10T14:27:00.000-04:00

Chilling Out With Ike
With temperatures moving from pre-heat to broil it was too hot to think about reading. I had to find someplace to cool off and even the pool was like a warm bath and reminded me of being at the dog groomers.

With heat like this I needed to find a place where I could really cool off and I found just the spot. Imagine if we had a big enough piece of ice to cool down the whole library. Well I found someplace where ice is no problem - a hockey rink!

Here I am watching a hockey game. This place was great. I brought my own stick along just in case they needed me to suit up. Check out the big picture up there on the wall. Anyone who can tell me the connection between hockey and Amherst Baseball wins 10 bonus points.

Between games the Zamboni came out and cleaned off the ice. What a great job that would be. Suddenly I got hungry for a snow cone.

I did go down to the skate rental but I couldn't decide if I should rent two skates or four skates....hmmmm.

Anyway, hockey is a great way to cool off.

Check out some of the great hockey books Mrs. Ashton has at the library. My favorite one is "The Magic Hockey Stick" by Peter Maloney.

Watch out! The Black team is about to score! Hey I have to get back to the game. Come see me soon at the Amherst Public Library!

Love,

Ike

Helicoptor Checks out Storytime

2007-07-03T15:25:00.000-04:00

The drone of a helicoptor along the treetops couldn't drown out the stories as the Amherst Public Library presented weekly storytime at Amherst Township Park today. Mrs. Stanley's voice rose to the occasion as she told stories about the babies who crawled away, a cookie mystery, a parade, and even Hank the snake to the more than 63 people who gathered in the shelter house.
Mrs. Ashton made a flag using a little magic and some red, white, and blue scraps of material. Mrs. Stanley added a white paper star and wrote "50" on the star with a pencil. When the flag magically appeared out of the bag we all said the "Pledge of Allegiance".

Thank goodness we didn't have to add 50 stars to the bag because we needed every star we had to make Fourth of July headbands. Even the dogs who were there all wanted a headband like mine. Someone noticed a cat trying to sneak up and hear the stories. I think it was a little intimidated by me, you know I've been working out.
Lots of kids, and a variety of animals enjoyed a great morning sharing stories, dodging helicoptors, and just having fun.

Eveyone left a little starry eyed today. See you at storytime next week!

Love,

Ike

Happy Fourth of July

2007-07-02T18:09:00.000-04:00

Have a happy and safe holiday while the library is closed.

Love,

Ike

Ike Sees Stars at Library

2007-07-02T17:45:00.000-04:00

I was seeing stars today at the library as more than 58 people listened to Mrs. Stanley tell stories at storytime today. We saw photos on the television that she had taken from last year's Amherst Jamboree Parade. Everyone made a hat to wear with crowns and red, white, and blue stars. Hey, you don't have to wait for a parade...come down and see us at the library. See you soon.

Love,

Ike

Scallywags beware! Ike is mapping a path to the library

2007-06-28T18:11:00.000-04:00

I hope you've been reading this summer or Mrs. Ashton will have you walking the plank. Here I am with Polly the parrot during our craft activity last Wednesday. Everyone made a great pirate map and lots of kids wrote pirate stories. Mrs. Stanley was laughing at all the great stories and names kids came up with for their pirate ship and what the pirates ate. Some of the pirates ate raw fish because no one knew how to cook. People wrote about flowers as big as skyscrapers and pirates even going to Disneyland.

Stop by the library and see me soon matey!

Love,
Ike

Ike Rocks the House !

2007-06-26T15:03:00.000-04:00

I have one word to say about Guitar Hero.......FREE BIRD!

Ike and I can both play at the same time. What a great place this is. Too bad Mrs. Ashton can't get past the beginning level. It must have something to do with her age.

ROCK ON!

Love,

Ike

High Flying Storytime

2007-06-26T12:32:00.000-04:00

Ike and I went out to Township Park for storytime today with Mrs. Stanley. We had more than 50 people there to hear stories about vacations. We traveled in a car to get there but talked about other ways to travel like boats, airplanes, trains.

After the stories Mrs. Stanley got out a parachute and man, what a ride that was. Ike got a little motion sickness but I loved it. One time I flew so high I did a back flip.

We like going to the park because we always see new friends. Maybe we'll see you next week at the park!

Come visit us at the library.

Love,
Ike

Storytime Rocks

2007-06-25T12:03:00.000-04:00

Can you believe we have more than 700 kids signed up for summer reading! That's not counting teens and adults. Today we had storytime and the room was filled with more than 80 people. Wow.

Mrs. Stanley told stories about going on vacation. We even saw a short video about a Ferryboat. I was a little tired from my long trip to the woods this weekend so I did nap a bit.

That's me sleeping on the cardboard box. Do you see me?

Next we all colored a picture of different ways to travel. Mrs. Stanley's niece, Jacquiline, was here with our friend Michael and they were great helpers. They even gave us a preview of one of the books because they remember it from when they were little. We colored a picture of a plane, like the one Jacquiline flew on from California.

We now have two kids from California signed up for summer reading. How cool is that?

Thanks for helping today.
See you at the library.
Love,

Ike

Weekend with Ike

2007-06-25T11:54:00.000-04:00

Hi Friends,

I spent the weekend doing some undercover work. I was trying to "Get a Clue" about local wildlife. Living in the wild can be tricky and you have to know your surroundings. Many birds love to eat wild berries like these I found here......I'd rather have a dog biscuit myself.

Here I am trying to blend into my surroundings. Many animals depend on camoflage to protect them from preditors. Wait a minute is that poison ivy? .... I better get back to the library.

I hope Mrs. Ashton has calamine lotion in the first aid kit.

See you at the library.

Love,

Ike

Yikes Ike!

2007-06-23T12:48:00.000-04:00

How's this for a disquise? Check out some of the great mystery books they have here at the Amherst Public Library. I really like the Nate the Great books and I'm just starting the Sammy Keyes mysteries.

Hey what's with that Nancy Drew? We had more than 114 Nancy Drew paperbacks check out last week. Wow...who writes her blog?

Shhhh....here comes the librarian now. I'll see if she recognizes me....

Love,

Ike

Biscuit Bonanza

2007-06-23T12:25:00.000-04:00

Remember I locked my dog biscuits in the safe? Well thank goodness my friend Alexandra dropped off some fresh dog biscuits for me last night at the library. Oops, I probably shouldn't be talking with my mouth full.

Be nice to your pet and give him a dog biscuit today.

See you at the library,

Love Ike

Scavenger Hunt is On!

2007-06-21T07:34:00.000-04:00

1 piece of paper, 25 picture clues....how many will you find? Teens get 75 points for this activity on your reading log. Turn in your completed form at the library. Look for the box upstairs in the YA section.

Everyone else- just have fun finding all the photos. You...on the couch. Turn off the tv and get moving. What are you waiting for? Don't have a form and the library is closed? Print or view a color copy at this link:

VIEW SCAVENGER HUNT

Happy hunting.

Bead-a-mania!

2007-06-20T16:55:00.000-04:00

As you can see there are only about 10 of the handmade African trade beads left. More than 175 kids have made Nature Necklaces today. See, I made mine into a collar. It has a spider stamp on it and some other decorations. Mrs. Ashton even had decorated pasta that looked like beads,

Can you believe they have crafts every Wednesday during summer reading and it's free! Don't worry about having your mom call in to reserve you a spot because crafts last all day! But get here early, we're running out of stuff!

See you at the library,

Love,

Ike

P.S. Check out the lizard pen Mrs. Stanley bought in Amish country. I didn't know they had lizards this big in Ohio.

Ike is "Safe" at Library

2007-06-18T20:23:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone!

Hey I finished reading my 15 hours and Mrs. Ashton gave me my prize, a combination safe. But I forgot my combination and now all my dog treats are locked inside! Is there a book here on safe-cracking?

Come see me at the library

Love,

Ike

Unusual Tracks Found at Amherst Library

2007-06-18T20:04:00.000-04:00

Kids arriving at the Amherst Public Library today spotted unusual tracks on the library grounds. At least three different types of animal tracks were identified by young readers, many of those readers seen with a magnifying glass in hand. Of all the tracks the most unusual were the blue tracks that went right up to the book drop.

Janna Tucker from the Lorain County MetroParks arrived about 2 p.m. and shared ideas about clues that animals leave behind. More than 108 animal detectives braved the heat to learn about animal habitats, tracks and camoflage. We learned that scat is a cool word for "droppings" and that you can tell alot about an animal from looking closely this stuff. Later she let loose a box turtle that moved faster than any turtle we've ever seen. We also learned how to tell how old a turtle is and how to tell the difference between a male and female box turtle just by looking into their eyes.

If you missed the program stop by the library to check out one of the many animal books available so you can be an animal detective!

KIDS FLOCKING TO LIBRARY

2007-06-15T16:11:00.000-04:00

We've finished up one full week of registration for summer reading programs at the Amherst Public Library. Right now we have 568 kids, 164 teens and 158 people who have registered online!. Add to this the number of people in the adult program and it's no wonder I've started to wear glasses. This is a lot of paperwork.

Keep coming in because I love to see what you've been reading.

See you soon.

Love,

Ike

2007-06-14T15:19:00.000-04:00

Have you seen the graphic novel section they have here. Wow. They even have comic books. Mrs. Ashton just got in the new Justice League and we just started a new book about this funny cat named Garfield. Have you ever heard of him? He is soooooo funny!

Ike is in the House

2007-06-14T15:13:00.000-04:00

Ike and I just wanted to let you know that we've moved into the Amherst Public Library. This place is so great. That Mrs. Stanley and Mrs. Ashton are so fun to live with. They work hard all day but they always have time for us. Mrs. Stanley is here even when the library is closed so we are never lonely. Mrs. Ashton is always eating lunch over the sink and gives us the rest of her Subway sandwich when she doesn’t have time to eat it.

We have met many new friends here. The Berenstain family is just great to us and we went to dinner one night at their tree house. All kinds of people come to the library. We’ve met dogs, who aren’t the same color as us, but come in all colors. There’s this big guy Clifford who is fun to play with. We had never seen a red dog before but once we got to know him he was a lot like us. There are another couple dogs named Max and Annie. One has a disability but you’d never know it. She runs up and down the steps to the kitchen after we’re closed while the penguins have to use the elevator, and they’re birds!

Madeline is a girl here from France. She is a little hard to understand because she still speaks a lot of French but we found some books here to help us. There is this dude Elmer who is every color in the book and has a very long nose. And the best thing is that now we know “Where the Wild Things Are.”

This weekend, after the library is closed, all of us are meeting in the community room for a Homeward Bound movie marathon. There really is a lot going on at the Amherst Public Library. What a magical place.

This weekend, after the library is closed, all of us are meeting in the community room for a Homeward Bound movie marathon. There really is a lot going on at the Amherst Public Library. What a magical place.