Freedom Regional Library

The Library

2010-03-26T15:24:00.003-04:00

Team,

It's been an exciting last couple of weeks for the public library. Following a budget shortfall, lots of meetings and couple hard choices, the public library system of Charlotte has made some cuts to hours and programs.

Beginning April 5, the Freedom Regional Public Library will be open the following hours:

Monday - Thursday
10 am - 7 pm

Saturday
10 am - 5 pm

Closed Fridays and Sundays.

Library programs will be cut back as well, but I do not have specific information to share at this time. There are currently no Adult computer classes scheduled, so the Advanced Internet class on the 31st will be the last at Freedom for a little while.

I, for one, would like to thank everyone for their support, and the heart warming efforts of the community to keep libraries open. It has been very special to see the way so many people rallied to ensure the future of libraries in Charlotte.

Library Events

2010-03-16T17:16:00.001-04:00

Excel was our only special program this week- but that doesn't mean there aren't plenty of things going on in Charlotte Libraries.

Check out this page to see what the library has planned.

http://plcmc.org/About_Us/in_The_News/default.asp

Additionally, you CLICK HERE to view the March/April program as a .pdf.

MS Excel Basics next Monday Night

2010-03-10T15:02:00.003-05:00

Need to know more about .xls?

Monday, March 15 at 6:00 pm, Freedom Regional will be offering the last Microsoft Excel class based on 2000.

Computer classes will take a brief hiatus in April, and return in May with Office 2007. There will be some changes to the class and program but the basics of Excel will remain the same.

The Office 2000 version of Excel is sort of the classic version. 2007 introduces a new aspect to the visuals by using "ribbons" at the top to edit your work.

If you have an older version of Excel at home (98, 2000, 2003) this class will be a good one to attend. Also, if you have the Open Office program Calc.

The class will only be an hour and 30 minutes and no outside materials are required. We'll go over the basics, and explain the layout and formulas.

Looking Ahead With Freedom 3/8 - 3/13

2010-03-08T12:33:00.002-05:00

Tuesday

"Rise N Shine Storytime" 9:30- 10 am
- Get up and get moving with fun stories, songs and silly fun!

"Toddler Storytime" 9:30- 10 am
- Come and toddle with us as we share books, music and more that will delight your toddler.

"Invasion of the Afterschoolers" 5- 6 pm
- Crafts, movies and stories (ages 5- 11)

Wednesday

"Books and Babies" 10:30- 11 am
- Start preparing your child to read.

"Word Basics" 2:30- 4 pm
- How to use MS Word on the most basic level.

"Afterschool Gaming" 3:00- 5:00 pm
- Play Wii and XBox after school at the Library.

Thursday

"Preschool Storytime" 10- 10:30 am
- Fun stories and finger plays

"Operation College Launch" 6:00- 8:00 pm
- Advise and time for applying to FAFSA (Requires parent's W2)

Saturday

"Drumline" 11 am - 1 pm
- Incorporate reading and rhythm.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 3/1 - 3/6

2010-03-01T14:28:00.002-05:00

Tuesday

"Rise N Shine Storytime" 9:30- 10 am
- Get up and get moving with fun stories, songs and silly fun!

"Toddler Storytime" 9:30- 10 am
- Come and toddle with us as we share books, music and more that will delight your toddler.

"Invasion of the Afterschoolers" 5- 6 pm
- Crafts, movies and stories (ages 5- 11)

Wednesday

"Books and Babies" 10:30- 11 am
- Start preparing your child to read.

"Computer Basics" 2:30- 4 pm
- How to use a computer on the most basic level.

Thursday

"Preschool Storytime" 10- 10:30 am
- Fun stories and finger plays

Friday

"Cultural Exposure" 3:30- 5:30 pm
- Real Women Have Curves.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 2/15 - 2/20

2010-02-15T12:59:00.002-05:00

Monday

"All About Google" 6- 8 pm
- A new technology class for adults. This initial offering at this branch will be in conversational format, and demonstrate using Google as a news source and for software.

Tuesday

"Rise N Shine Storytime" 9:30- 10
- Little stories for little patrons. Registration required for groups.

Wednesday

"Word Basics" 2:30- 4
- A quick workshop designed for adults to get familiar with the interface of MS Word.

Thursday

"Chess Club" 2:30- 4
- For teens after school.

March 2010 Adult Technology Classes

2010-02-10T15:21:00.002-05:00

Computer Basics

March 3, 2:30- 4:00 pm
Computers are everywhere. Take this class to learn just what these beasts do and can do for you. For adults with limited or no experience using a computer. No registration required.

Word Basics
March 10, 2:30- 4:00 pm
A quick overview of what Microsoft Word is, and how to create, edit and save documents. No registration required.

Excel Basics
March 15, 6:00- 7:30 pm
A quick workshop on how Excel works, and what the spreadsheet program can do for you. For Adults with limited or no experience using Excel. No registration required. No additional materials required.

Resume Workshop
March 24, 2:30- 4:00 pm
The basic overview of how to write a resume. We'll use templates in MS Word to illustrate style and outline. Class time will include time for students to work on their resume. No registration required.

PowerPoint Basics
March 29, 6:00- 7:30 pm
How to create, edit and save a PowerPoint presentation. Class is for adults with limited or no experience using PowerPoint. No registration required. No additional materials required.

Advanced Internet
March 31, 2:30- 4:00 pm
More about what the internet can do for you. Class focuses on identifying and using RSS feeds, Clearing questions about Social Media and using the 'net as a phonebook. A Yahoo or Gmail email account is not required, but helpful. No registration. Audience: Adults

Looking Ahead with Freedom 2/8 - 2/13

2010-02-08T13:11:00.002-05:00

Monday

"Teen Fitness Challenge" 3:30- 4:30 pm
- Almost 14 million children in the US are obese, and another 8.6 million are at risk. Join other teens in making healthy changes in their lives.

"Advanced Internet" 6:00- 7:30 pm
- A new class exploring uses of the internet. Focusing on: RSS feeds, Social Media and using the 'net as your Phonebook

Tuesday

"Rise N Shine Storytime" 9:30- 10:00 am
- Cute stories and finger plays for little patrons.

Wednesday

"Anime Club" 3:00- 5:00 pm
- Watch and talk about anime.

Thursday

"Preschool Storyime" 10:00- 10:30 am
- Cute stories and finger plays for little patrons.

"Unplugged Gaming" 2:30- 4:00 pm
- Board and card games for teens after school in the library.

Friday

"Broken Hearts Club" 3:00- 5:00
- Forget chocolate and romance this Valentine's Day, and celebrate with candy sushi and a scary movie. (for teens)

African-American History, An A-Z Biography

2010-02-04T10:15:00.004-05:00

Currently on display at Freedom, on the second floor.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 2/1 - 2/6

2010-02-01T17:38:00.003-05:00

Tuesday

"Rise N Shine Storytime" 9:30 - 10 am
- Cute stories and finger plays for little ones (3- 5).

Wednesday

"Internet Basics" 2:30- 4 pm
- A class in what the internet is and how to use it.

Thursday

"PreSchool Storytime" 10- 10:30 am
- Little stories and songs for little children (3- 5).

"Wii Got Game" 2:30- 4 pm
- Video Game gaming in the library.

Friday

"Cultural Exposure" 3- 5 pm
- This month we'll watch the Invisible Children documentary, about children living in war-torn Africa.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 1/25 - 1/30

2010-01-25T20:12:00.002-05:00

Monday

"Excel Basics" 6- 8 pm
- A beginners guide to using Microsoft Excel.

Tuesday

"Financial Freedom" 4- 5 pm
- A program to teach teens about the inner workings of Credit.

Wednesday

"Anime Club" 3- 5 pm
- Just for teens, Anime watchin'. We'll watch some great Anime talk about our favorites.

Thursday

"Chess Club" 2:30- 4 pm
- Are you the next chess master? This event for teens is to get your mind going and your skills ready for world domination.

"FAFSA Workshop" 6- 8 pm
- This is for teens and parents. Parents, bring your W2 in, and we'll show you how to fill out FAFSA forms.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 1/19 - 1/23

2010-01-19T12:42:00.002-05:00

Tuesday

"Financial Freedom" 1:30- 2:30 pm
- **Special note, the time has been moved to 1:30 (from 4 pm) to better suit early dismissal today. A program to learn about credit and finances before it's too late.

Wednesday

"Internet Basics" 2:30- 4 pm
- How to use this thing we call the web.

"Craft for a Cause" 3- 5 pm
- A new club that uses crafts to benefit the larger community.

Thursday

"Unplugged Gaming" 2:30- 4 pm
- How social games were played before Nintendo.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 1/11 - 1/16

2010-01-11T14:10:00.002-05:00

Monday

"Mad Tea Party" 3- 4 pm
- A program for teens to learn about Tea, and its benefits.

Tuesday

"Rise n Shine" 9:30- 10 am
- Little tails for little ones.

"Word Basics" 3- 5 pm
- Learn to use the ubiquitous word processor.

"Financial Freedom" 4- 5 pm
- A program for teens to get a valuable lesson in credit.

Wednesday

"Anime Club" 3- 5 pm
- Watch Anime and talk about it.

Thursday

"Preschool Storytime" 1-- 10:30 am
- Storytime for children.

"Unplugged Gaming" 2:30- 4 pm
- Play board games sans power.

eBooks

2010-01-09T12:35:00.003-05:00

The Consumer Electronics Show is currently going on in Las Vegas, and if new product announcements are any indicator- tablet PCs and e-readers about to get even more popular.

The Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has put on its future seeing goggles and has ebooks ready and waiting for you.

Just visit our website (cmlibrary.org) and click on the Research/Homework tab in the top middle. There, you can browse for eBooks by selecting ABC-CLIO or Overdrive from the alphabetical list.

January Computer Classes

2010-01-06T09:17:00.002-05:00

Learning to use a computer isn't hard
When you've got a library card!

(a little cheesy- but it popped into my brain and I couldn't resist.)

January 6 2:30- 4 pm
"Computer Basics"

January 12 3- 5:30 pm
"Word Basics"

January 20 2:30- 4 pm
"Internet Basics"

January 25 6- 8 pm
"Excel Basics"

*Microsoft Office classes (Word & Excel) are taught using the 2000 version.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 1/4 - 1/9

2010-01-04T12:59:00.002-05:00

Tuesday

"Rise n Shine Story Time" 9:30- 10 am
- For Ages 2-5. Registration required. Call Derrian Jones at 704-416-4204 to register.

Wednesday

"Computer Basics" 2:30- 4 pm
- For adults. How to use these things we call computers.

Thursday

"Preschool Story Time" 10- 10:30 am
- For ages 3-5. Fun songs and fingerplays. Registration required. Call Derrian Jones at 704-416-4204 to register.

"Scholarship Workshop" 4- 6 pm
- For teens. Everything you need to know about getting money for college.

New Year's Library Hours

2009-12-30T12:43:00.001-05:00

Libraries in Charlotte will be closing early on December 31st at 4 pm. (Except Imaginon, which will remain open until 7 pm.)

All Libraries will be closed on January the first. All libraries will be back to normal hours on January 2.

A heads up for January- all branches will be closed on 1/18 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Looking Ahead With Freedom 12/28 - 1/02

2009-12-28T11:25:00.001-05:00

Wednesday

"Kwanzaa Celebration" 6:30- 8 pm
- Join in the celebration of the Kwanzaa principle "Nia." This is a cultural holiday tradition that on this day emphasizes the importance of restoring, building, and developing greater community spirit. Audience: Family/Youth & Caregivers

Looking Ahead with Freedom

2009-12-21T10:57:00.002-05:00

No Special Events this week;

All Branches will be Closed Thursday (12/24) and Friday (12/25). Libraries will be open for normal hours Saturday (12/26).

Its That Time of Year Again

2009-12-16T09:56:00.003-05:00

Exam Time.

There is help! Don't forget to make use of NC Live. NC Live is like an online, paperless library. You can use NC Live to search for scholarly journals that have been published by peer reviewed sources.

It's important to note, that while you might be using the internet to get to these sources, they're not on the "open internet." It is as if you read a book via your computer. It's the same pages you'd find in the library- just available 24 hours a day.

Most schools have a password or special login for NC Live, which can be obtained from your school's library. You can also use the chat window on the nclive.org home screen to find the password of the day!

You can search NC Live two ways: with the basic "E-Z" search, or the advanced search option. The Advanced search will allow you to narrow results by things like publication year, specific journals, and full-text online.

NC Live is pretty neat. Give it a shot, even you don't have any homework. Do an EZ search for your favorite topic and see if you learn something new.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 12/14 - 12/19

2009-12-14T11:01:00.002-05:00

Tuesday

"Hodgepodge for Seniors" 10:30 - noon
- Senior Citizens are invited to participate in a literary and cultural adventure of fun.

Wednesday

"PowerPoint Basics" 2:30- 4:00 pm
- Learn how to get started making slideshows using MS PowerPoint.

"Holiday Traditions" 6:30- 7:30 pm
- Join in a community celebration of holiday traditions of crafts, games, food and fun.

Kwanzaa!

2009-12-11T13:45:00.003-05:00

Join in a celebration of Kwanzaa, a non-religious African American holiday which celebrates family, community, and cultural.

On Wednesday, December 30, the library will host a special Kwanzaa Celebration. This year, we will focus on the principle "Nia." This is a cultural holiday tradition that on this day emphasizes the importance of restoring, building, and developing greater community spirit.

Nia is one of seven Zwanzaa principles and specifically represents Purpose.

The program is free and open to everyone who wished to attend. Starting at 6:30 pm, the celebration will last at the library until 8 pm.

For more information click the link here.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 12/7 - 12/12

2009-12-07T13:22:00.003-05:00

Wednesday

"Resume Basics" 2:30- 4 pm
- Learn how to get your resume started by using templates built into MS Word.

On a scale of 5 stars, I'd give this library a 5

2009-12-05T11:08:00.002-05:00

And I'm not alone in that.

The Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and Freedom Regional have once again been designated a “Five-Star” library. This is a due in large part to the support and patronage we receive from you, the people of Freedom.

Thanks!

Wondering what a Five-Star Library is? It’s the highest possible rating given out by the Library Journal, and it’s similar to the Michelin and Mobile guides used for restaurants and hotels. They’ve actually given it to use twice: first in February 2009, then again in November 2009.

Come on in to Freedom Regional or visit our website at www.cmlibrary.org to find out what’s going on at the Library.

Not only can you help us celebrate our five stars, but your very presence can help us keep our Five-Star designation in the future! How’s that, you ask? The Library Journal Index is based equally on four things: visits, circulation, program attendance, and public Internet computer use.

Computer Classes @ Freedom in December

2009-12-02T16:07:00.002-05:00

December 2 from 2:30 - 4 pm
- Computer Basics

December 9 from 2:30 - 4 pm
- Resume Workshop

December 16 from 2:30 - 4 pm
- PowerPoint Basics

Call 704-416-4221 for more info - no registration required.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 11/30 - 12/7

2009-11-30T09:15:00.002-05:00

Monday

"NaNoWriMo" 2:30- 4 pm
- The last meeting of the month. Be sure to join us to finish your novel and share your accomplishments.

"Put It On Paper" 6:30- 8:30 pm
- A special joint program with Beatties Ford Library where we recognize World AIDS day with local author DeVondia Roseborough, who shares her own personal perspective of AIDS within the African-American community.

Wednesday

"Computer Basics" 2:30- 4 pm
- The very basics of a computer and how to get started using one. For adults with limited or no experience with computers.

Thursday

"Teen Gaming" 2:30- 4 pm
- After school gaming for teens!

"Art NewVeau" 6- 7:30 pm
- Art NewVeau is a connection venue facilitated by local artists for aspiring artists. The artists will explore various are mediums.

Friday

"Cultural Exposure" 3- 5 pm
- Learn more about the different cultures that make up Charlotte.

Happy Thanksgiving (also Pirate Literacy)

2009-11-27T09:41:00.008-05:00

Yesterday, some folks from the library walked in the Thanksgiving Day parade in Charlotte. Here's the literacy van, in all its literacy goodness.

Candy and Jessica from Freedom were there!

And so was Devin. I wore a pirate hat and eye patch and carried a book about pirates. I was trying to promote literacy with Pirates.

Candy's book cart celebrated holidays while Jessica's cart highlighted the environment and positive "green" efforts.

My cart was a pirate ship. The small numbers on the side are "910.45" - the call number for a book about pirates. Read more about pirates in your local library!

We handed out coloring sheets and raised awareness of the library and our operating hours. The parade was a lot of fun. If you missed any of it, The Charlotte Observer has a slideshow of pictures on their site.

There's a picture of Pirate Devin on the Charlotte Observer website slideshow. Check it out: http://www.charlotteobserver.com/galleries/gallery/1077435.html?spill=1#?img=62

Looking Ahead with Freedom 11/23 - 11/28

2009-11-23T15:52:00.002-05:00

Monday

"NaNoWriMo" 3- 4 pm
- November is National Novel Writing Month!

Tuesday

"Hodgepodge For Seniors" 10:30- noon
- Senior Citizens are invited to participate in a literary and cultural adventure of fun.

"Teen Finances" 4- 5 pm
- A quick hour to teach teens about credit and finances.

Wednesday

** All Branches close at 6 pm

Thursday

** All Branches closed all day

Looking Ahead with Freedom 11/16 - 11/21

2009-11-16T17:19:00.002-05:00

Monday

"NaNoWriMo" 3- 4 pm
- National Novel Writing Month writing time in the library.

Tuesday

"Teen Finances" 4- 5 pm
- A program to help teens learn about credit and debt before they learn the hard way.

Wednesday

"Internet Basics" 2:30- 4 pm
- Get a start on using the internet! Included in this lesson are the basics of email.

Thursday

"Teen Advisory Council" 4- 5 pm
- How will you make a difference in your community?

"Fall Community Fest" 6- 8 pm
- Meet with Freedom Community people from the POB High School and Freedom Library.

Friday

"Books & Bites" 3- 4 pm
- A meeting for teens to talk about the books they're reading an enjoy a light snack.

What DID the dog see?

2009-11-12T10:18:00.003-05:00

Team, I've let you down. I did not tell you this book was coming out so you could line up. Instead, I can only say the book is out, and you should join me in the request line.

Malcolm Gladwell is the best selling author of the books Tipping Point, Blink and Outiers. Gladwell's most recent book, Outliers, is still listed by Library Journal as the most checked out adult non-fiction book from public libraries in the country. Still number one on the charts after being out for a year.

This "new" book is a collection of essays previously published in the New Yorker.

The opening essay, my personal favorite, describes taste, and how there is no such thing as perfect food, just perfect foods. Gladwell spoke about this as a presentation with the TED conference in 2007. The video of him talking is posted officially on youtube. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iIiAAhUeR6Y

(I would embed the video, but it will break the frame. Who doesn't love links?)

I highly recommend watching this video if you have not yet read any of Gladwell's books. It's a great introduction to his style and the kinds of things you'll learn by reading the book.

So if you're looking for an entertaining and enlightening read, check out the works of Malcolm Gladwell. Millions of library patrons across the country cant be wrong.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 11/9 - 11/14

2009-11-09T09:00:00.002-05:00

Monday

"NaNoWriMo" 3- 4 pm
- Can you write a novel in a month? Meet with us weekly for writing time and tips. This is the last day to sign up!

"Teen Fitness" 3:30- 4:30 pm
- Almost 14 million children in the U.S. between the ages of 2 and 17 are obese and another 8.6 million are at risk of becoming obese? Join other teens making healthy changes in their lives.

Tuesday

"Teen Finances" 4- 5 pm
- Learn about credit and financing before you learn it the hard way. This program is for teens, and gives sound advice for a healthy financial future.

Wednesday

"Resume Basics" 2:30- 4 pm
- A short workshop on writing a resume using MS Word templates, and how to start writing a resume so people will read it.

"Anime Club" 3- 5 pm
- Like anime? Spend some time with our club and talk with people who share your enthusiasm.

Thursday

"Teen Gaming" 2:30- 4 pm
- This week is Video Gaming. We'll have the Wii out, and a selection of games.

"Art NewVeau" 6- 8 pm
- Learn about art and art mediums from other local artists. It's fun!

Freedom Regional in the News!

2009-11-09T08:56:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, the AASL (American Association of School Libraries) concluded a four-day conference in Charlotte.

Last Thursday, a group of librarians from AASL took a tour of Freedom, and met to talk about our unique connection with the Berry High School.

WBTV in Charlotte stopped by to talk to Naima Hakim, our school media librarian!

Click here to read the story on their website and watch the video.

NaNoWriMo

2009-11-05T15:32:00.004-05:00

November is National Novel Writing Month!

Visit the NaNoWriMo website: nanowrimo.org to sign up, create characters and get plot ideas.

Freedom Library is hosting weekly meetings on Mondays in November to get your novel underway. The Monday sessions are for teens, and require that you first signed up. Sessions are from 3- 4 pm in the upstairs computer lab.

So what makes a "novel?"
NaNoWriMo uses word count to define a novel. The contest seeks entries that are at least 50,000 words. To give that some perspective, a full page typed using MS Word and font size 12 is roughly 1,000 words. So we're talking about 50 full pages. Click here to view the FAQ- specifically about submission deadlines and word count.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 11/2 - 11/7

2009-11-02T10:48:00.002-05:00

Monday

"NaNoWriMo" 3- 4 pm
- November is National Novel Writing Month. Sign up and join us for a weekly session on writing tips and getting your novel going. Registration is required for NaNoWriMo.

Tuesday

"Teen Finances" 4- 5 pm
- Learn about credit and how the banking world works. For high school students.

Wednesday

"Word Basics" 2:30- 4 pm
- How to create, open, edit and save documents with MS Word. Office 2000 edition.

Friday

"Cultural Exposure" 3:30- 5 pm
- Explore the different cultures that make up the city of Charlotte. Food, books, and movies.

How to Request and Item for the Library

2009-10-28T10:07:00.004-04:00

I've been asked a few times recently about how patrons can request items for the library to purchase.

Just click on the button for 'Catalog' in the home page's navigation bar.

On the Catalog page, below the field to enter a quick catalog search, you will find a group of other catalog related options.

In the left column, near the top, you'll see a button and link to 'Suggest a Purchase.'

Clicking there will take you to a form, asking for information about the item. The more information you have, the better we will be able to review your request.

Click here to see the form

Looking Ahead with Freedom 10/26 - 10/31

2009-10-26T13:06:00.003-04:00

Tuesday

"Hodgepodge for Seniors" 10:30 - 11:45
- Senior Citizens are invited to participate in a literary and cultural adventure of fun. For more information, call Dot Siler at 704-416-4206.
(UPDATE: this event will not be held in the library itself. A future event for seniors will be hosted in the library.)

Wednesday

"Intro to RSS" 2- 3
- An introduction to what RSS is and how it can benefit you.

"Anime Club" 3- 4:30
- Program dedicated to increasing the awareness of Japanese animation.

Thursday

"Art NewVeau" 6- 7
- Art NewVeau is a connection venue facilitated by local artists for aspiring artists. The artists will explore various are mediums.

Saturday

"Pajama-Rama" 10- 10:30 am
- Throw on your PJs and join us for books, stories and songs. All young children are welcome.

**Early Voting is taking place in our conference room all this week, from 11 am to 7 pm

'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' author answers fans questions

2009-10-24T11:04:00.002-04:00

Jeff Kinney, author of the 'Wimpy Kid' series has a great interview currently up on NPR's site.

Click HERE to read 'Wimpy Kid' Author Answers Kids' Questions.

The Diary of a Wimpy Kid book series began life as a web comic in 2004, before becoming a book in Spring 2007. Since, it has become on of the libraries most popular book series.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid 4; Dog Days is coming soon to the public library. Check out THIS LINK to see the book in our catalog and request your copy. Suggested reading age 9 -12.

Author Carrie Ryan visits to talk about Zombies and Writing

2009-10-21T11:13:00.005-04:00

With her book - The Forest of Hands and Teeth

She keeps a zombie finger puppet with her.

It's not easy to keep the attention of a room full of high school students- but Carrie pulled it off!

Looking Ahead With Freedom 10/19 - 10/24

2009-10-20T13:32:00.002-04:00

Monday

"Reel Life, Real Teens" 3:30- 4:45 pm
- Take a realistic look at the wide variety of issues teens face today and a look of how teens are portrayed in film.

Tuesday

"Author Visit: Carrie Ryan" 10:30- 11:45 am & 12:45- 2:00 pm
- Carrie Ryan speaks about writing, being an author and her book The Forest of Hands and Teeth. Be sure to check the PLCMC events page for her visits to other branches this month!

"Community Fair" 6- 8pm
- A celebration of the community and info fest of library services, the school and local businesses.

Wednesday

"Excel Basics" 2- 3:30
- A beginners' session in getting started using Microsoft Excel- the ubiquitous office spreadsheet software.

"After School is Cool" 3:30- 4
- Fun stories, finger-plays, and more for preschoolers.

Thursday

"Gaming in the Library" 2:30- 4
- This week is Board Games week. We'll be putting you to the test to see who can out checkers who. (hint: it's not me)

"Teen Advisory Council" 4- 5
- TAC is a group of teens who have the desire to create opportunities for a better world for the youth who live our community.

Friday

"Far Out Movie Night: Coraline" 3- 5
- To celebrate Teen Read Week 2009, we’ll be viewing the animated fantasy film Coraline. We’ll provide snacks! On your way out, check out a copy of Coraline by Neil Gaiman, Coraline: the Graphic Novel illustrated by P. Craig Russell, or a fantasy book of your choice!

Far Out Movie Night

2009-10-15T11:02:00.002-04:00

To celebrate Teen Read Week 2009, we’ll be viewing the animated fantasy film Coraline.

We’ll provide snacks! On your way out, check out a copy of Coraline by Neil Gaiman, Coraline: the Graphic Novel illustrated by P. Craig Russell, or a fantasy book of your choice!

Coraline-polooza takes place Friday, October 23rd, from 3- 5 pm. You don't want to miss this!

Looking Ahead with Freedom 10/13 - 10/17

2009-10-13T17:25:00.002-04:00

Wednesday

"Resume Basics" 2 - 3:30
- A free workshop to talk about what a resume is, and make one using Microsoft Word templates. For adults.

"Anime Club" 3 - 4:30
- The club now meets twice monthly do watch and discuss quality anime. For teens.

Chess Club

2009-10-07T10:07:00.004-04:00

This school year, Teen Gaming on Thursdays is going to be more specific. A specific Thursday each month will be for Chess. Before, Chess was just an option for board game play, now it's on its way to Club-ville.

Chess club will meet at the regular time for gaming: 2:30 - 4 pm. The next meeting of the Chess Club will be this coming Thursday- October the 8th. After that, the next meeting will be November the 12th.

Registration is not required for Chess Club.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 10/5 - 10/10

2009-10-05T16:15:00.002-04:00

Monday

"Parent University Class" 6- 7 pm
- Helping Your High School Student Prepare for College. Presented by CMS.

Tuesday

"Preschool Storytime" 9:30- 10 am

"Financial Freedom" 4- 5 pm
- A program that teaches and inspires responsible and effective money management and wealth building for teens.

Thursday

"Preschool Storytime" 9:30- 10 am

"Teen Gaming" 2:30- 4 pm
- Are you the next Bobby Fischer? Join our new chess club and test your skills every month!

"Art NewVeau" 6- 7 pm
- Art NewVeau is a connection venue facilitated by local artists for aspiring artists. The artists will explore various are mediums.

**Don't forget, all Library locations will be closed on Monday, October 12.**

Closing the Digital Divide

2009-10-03T09:39:00.002-04:00

Super Huge Awesome News:

Yesterday, the Public Library of Charlotte held a press conference to receive a grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.

How awesome is this grant? It's the largest foundation grant in the Library’s history. It will be used to improve technology access and help residents conduct job searches. This gift will impact the Main, ImaginOn, Freedom Regional and Mountain Island libraries.

That's right- Freedom is getting a part of this pie to help us improve technology and related resources.

If you listen to as much public radio as I do, you've probably heard of the Knight Foundation before. The Knight Foundation is a national group with local chapters that seeks opportunities to advance journalism and communities. Their generous organization has been doing great things to help communities and bring resources to close the "digital divide." Charlotte wasn't even the only library system they gave a grant to yesterday!

A grant was also given to the Leon County Public Library System in Tallahassee, Tenn. That grant will nearly double the amount of computers at its branches – significantly expanding residents’ access to the Internet.

If I may editorialize for a moment, as more and more information moves to a digital format, public libraries are becoming more indispensable. The library is becoming a place for many to gain access to the world wide web, and more many others to decode it's mystery. Just because information is on the web, does not mean that a majority of people are able to find it or make use of it.

Here at the Freedom Library, I like to think we do a great job of offering classes to prepare people for successful computer and internet use. With this grant, I feel we will be able to improve our services, and stay current with what job markets expect.

The press conference was held at 9 am @ Imaginon. Read the official PLCMC news release here.

Zombie author to visit Freedom

2009-09-30T08:59:00.004-04:00

Author Carrie Ryan will be visiting our humble branch on Tuesday, October 20th.

I am super excited, and I'll tell you why- her star reviewed book, The Forest of Hands and Teeth is about Zombies. Now, it's no secret that I love zombie books, but the fact that the author is coming here instantly catapults this book to my highest favors.

Carrie Ryan will be doing two talks on the 20th, one at 10:30 and one at 12:45. Both are for teens- but if you look young, I'm sure won't turn you away.

In this book, Mary (the main character) lives in a world of zombies and humans. The humans live in a protected village, surrounded by a fence and guarded by The Sisters. The zombies are the Unconsecrated. The kill and eat without mercy or reason. Mary's world comes crashing down after the fence is breached and her family is attacked by the Unconsecrated. What will happen for Mary? This book is as much suspense as it is thriller.

This book is not for the faint of heart- some depictions of death can be graphic. Suggested reading level is grades 9+.

Go ahead and reserve your library copy today. The line is growing fast.

Update about the Philadelphia Free Library

2009-09-28T14:43:00.003-04:00

In their own words;

"You Spoke, Harrisburg Listened

We are thrilled to announce that the Pennsylvania State Senate passed bill 1828 by a vote of 32 to 17. For all of you who have been following the saga over the city's budget crisis, this is the legislation that was needed for the City of Philadelphia to avoid the "Doomsday" Plan C budget scenario, which would have resulted in the layoff of 3,000 city employees and forced the closing of all libraries."

Congratulations!

Looking Ahead with Freedom 9/28 - 10/3

2009-09-28T13:20:00.002-04:00

Tuesday

"Financial Freedom for Teens" 4- 5
- A program that teaches and inspires responsible and effective money management and wealth building for teens.

Wednesday

"Banned Books and Bites" 3- 4
- Celebrate Banned Books Week by coming out to this event. Find out what books have been banned or challenged in the last year, while enjoying some snacks!

Thursday

"Call of Duty 2 (Video Game)" 2:30- 4
- We've got an XBOX with Call of Duty 2. PREREGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.
Learn More / Register Online

Friday

"Cultural Exposure" 3:30 - 4:30
- Explore the different cultures that make up the city of Charlotte. Food, books, and movies.

Theres an App for that - Library iPhone apps

2009-09-26T12:50:00.003-04:00

Yes, libraries and librarians are getting more digital everyday. So replace that mental image of the old luddite librarian with the image of a Twitter power user.

Here is the list of Library iPhone apps as best as I can find. If you know of others, please let me know. Click on the names of apps to find out more about them.

ALA2009 - The annual conference for American Libraries Association 2009 (held in Chicago) Sessions and Exhibitors guide. [Maybe a little outdated now, but think about it- the first library conference to have its own iPhone app.] Price - FREE.

WorldCat Mobile - THE library catalog. WorldCat allows you to search catalogs of libraries across the world, and find an item in the closest bibliotheque to you. Price - FREE.

DCPL - Washington DC's public library system app. Search the catalog, read reviews and find locations. Price - FREE.

Library - Finds the closest public library to right now! Designed for parents with small children. Price - FREE.

ICDL - International Children's Digital Library. They actually have TWO apps. One that is 4 children's books you can read from an iPhone and another that is a storykit. Price - FREE.

GTLogin - Not so much a library app, as one for Georgia Tech students. This program offers an easy way to login into the GT wireless internet. Built in to the app are library tools- such as finding available computers in the library. Price - FREE.

And Finally...

Shhh - Simply shhhes in a male or female voice. Price - FREE.

Unplugged Gaming

2009-09-23T12:05:00.002-04:00

This week, the Thursday afternoon Gaming is going to wireless. And I mean wireless in the least fancy way.

Sometimes, it's nice to step back from computer screens and projectors and remember how fun was had before Twitter. Unplugged gaming tries to capture that fun. That fun that works with the imagination.

Unplugged gaming features board games and card classics. Maybe even a round of Jenga. (One time, at Unplugged Gaming, I won at Jenga in one round.)

Looking Ahead with Freedom 9/21 - 9/26

2009-09-21T10:14:00.002-04:00

Tuesday

"Financial Freedom" 4- 5 pm
- A program that teaches and inspires responsible and effective money management and wealth building for teens.

Wednesday

"Anime Club" 3- 5 pm
- Program dedicated to increasing the awareness of Japanese animation.

Thursday

"Teen Gaming" 2:30- 4 pm
- Come play board games and other brain teasers at this wireless gaming event.

"Teen Advisory Council" 4- 5 pm
- TAC is a group of teens who have the desire to create opportunities for a better world for the youth who live our community.

Saturday

"Think College" 9a- 12:30 pm
- Think College is not a library service, but a part of Communities in Schools and is housed in the Freedom Library. Appointments can be made during the week by calling 704-416-4232. Saturday sessions are open public information services.

The Freedom Library is here for you

2009-09-12T10:15:00.004-04:00

This morning, library related web sites were a buzz with the sad news that the Free Library of Philadelphia will be closing. This news is nothing short of heart breaking to a librarian. If you would like to read more at this closing, visit the link HERE.

For those who feel so inclined, The Free Library of Philadelphia has posted a page with information about what you can do to try to help save their libraries. That link is HERE.

Philadelphia has an especially rich history with libraries. Benjamin Franklin is often credited with starting public libraries in this country, and founded the Library Company of Philadelphia. There, Franklin is said to have hired this country's first librarian. (It is important to note that Franklin's library was a "subscription library" and is not the same as the Free Library. The library founded by Franklin is not closing. I point out Franklin's library to illustrate Philadelphia's history with libraries.)

While this news is surely sad, and a departure from my usual weekend "fun" posting, I want to clear any possible misconceptions. The Freedom Library in Charlotte, NC is not closing. An internet search about the closing of the Free Library in Philadelphia may lead some to this blog (due largely to the similar URL freelibrary.blogspot.com / freelibrary.org and a recent post where I mention this branch will be closed for Labor Day).

Again, to be clear, The Freedom Regional Public Library in Charlotte, North Carolina is not closing.

I would like to make this a posting about hope. In many ways, a library represents knowledge. Knowledge is a tool. It is the tool that gives us hope for improvement in our selves and in our future.

In difficult times, the best investment you can make is to invest in yourself. These investments can be in the form of adding to your personal knowledge. Libraries are one way that people can invest in themselves. With a low barrier for entry, many libraries offer classes in job skills- such as writing resumes, using computers or becoming more skilled in common office software.

The Freedom Library here in Charlotte offers many such classes and will resume offering regular adult technology classes in October.

Libraries across the US are currently seeing an increase in use and demand, and we are working hard to meet that demand. CNN recently ran a story on the future of libraries and the growth in digital services. While that story predicted a shift from books, it still outlined strong future for libraries (in my eyes).

*Please note that editorial comments are the views of this blog post's author, and may not reflect the views of PLCMC.

Teen Fitness Challenge

2009-09-10T17:14:00.002-04:00

DID YOU KNOW: Almost 14 million children in the U.S. between the
ages of 2 and 17 are obese and another 8.6 million are at risk of becoming obese?

This coming Monday (September 14) Freedom is going to issues a Teen Fitness Challenge.
- Join other teens making healthy changes in their lives.

Monday, from 3:30 - 5 pm.

We'll focus on Teen Health. This program will run once a month to talk about nutrition and healthy choices. The goal is to see a progression over the school year. Will you be healthy at the end of this year? Take our challenge.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 9/8 - 9/12

2009-09-08T13:57:00.002-04:00

Wednesday

"Anime Club" starting @ 3 pm
- 'Inu-Yasha,' 'Yu-Yu-Hakusho' and 'GetBackers.' Anime and Japanese candy.

Super Popular Books

2009-09-04T10:56:00.003-04:00

On August 11, Pat Conroy released his first book in 14 years - South of Broad.

And here's the thing about that- Pat Conroy is a popular author. Seriously. His books that are older than me (but then, I am young by librarian standards) still have request lines.

Conroy's new tome has a line of requests 934 readers long! That still doesn't beat the sixth Harry Potter book, or Twilight in it's hey-day, but right now its the most prized book in Charlotte.

Don't worry, we've got a lot of copies, so if you're in line, it shouldn't be too long.

Cultural Exposure is Back this Fall

2009-09-03T16:21:00.002-04:00

Cultural Exposure is back this fall @ FRL.

The first meeting this school year is focused on the different cultures right here in Charlotte.

"Explore the different cultures that make up the city of Charlotte. Food, books, and movies."

See the event here.

Starts at 3:30, goes to 4:30.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 8/31 - 9/5

2009-08-31T09:27:00.002-04:00

Thursday

"Gaming" 2:30- 4 pm
- We're getting the new school year started out right with Guitar Hero in the library. Pre-registration is REQUIRED. Go here to register.

Friday

"Cultural Exposure" 3:30- 5 pm
- Learn more about a different culture. For teens.

* Computer classes that were occurring every Wednesday for the last couple months will be on hold for a few weeks for planning.

** The Library Closed on Monday the 7th.

Guitar Hero

2009-08-27T11:54:00.002-04:00

School is back in, which means its time for the return of Teen Gaming.

September 3 from 2:30- 4, we'll get the ball (rocking and) rolling with Guitar Hero.

Registration is REQUIRED.

Find out more and register by clicking HERE.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 8/24 - 8/29

2009-08-24T14:07:00.002-04:00

Wednesday

"PwerPoint Basics" 3- 5 pm
- The basic uses of PowerPoint, how to create, edit and save a slideshow.

"Anime Club" Starts at 3 pm
- Hang out and watch the Anime movie The Girl Who Leapt Through Time.

The Return of Anime Club

2009-08-19T12:13:00.003-04:00

The school year is upon us, and with it, comes more teen programs.

The first meeting of the Anime club for the school year will be August 26 starting at 3pm. We'll be watching the movie The Girl Who Leapt Through Time.

All Anime Club videos have been pre-screened by library staff to make sure content is not overly violent or graphic.

September Schedule:

September 9:

Inu-Yasha

Shows: Yu-Yu-Hakusho

GetBackers

September 23:

Movie: Bleach Movie 2: The Diamond Dust Rebellion

Looking Ahead with Freedom 8/17 - 8/21

2009-08-17T17:21:00.002-04:00

Monday

"Resume Basics" 3- 4:30 pm
- How to get started writing a resume using MS Word templates.

Tuesday

"Word Basics" 1- 2:30 pm
- The basics you need to know about getting started with Word. How to save, edit, copy, paste and reopen.

Wednesday

"Internet Basics" 2- 4 pm
- We'll get you started browsing and shopping on the web.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 8/10 - 8/15

2009-08-11T19:14:00.001-04:00

Wednesday

"Computer Basics" 2- 4 pm
- How to get started using a computer. We'll cover what you need to know to get started typing and using a mouse.

looking ahead tomorrow

2009-08-10T14:04:00.003-04:00

Team,

Your loving blogger will be working at a different library all day today (monday).

The usual Monday post (Looking Ahead with Freedom) will come tomorrow.

-devinwithani

North Carolina and Aviation

2009-08-07T15:02:00.005-04:00

This week I did my first program for young adults (usually I do adult technology programs).

I talked (briefly) about the history of aviation in North Carolina and its historical importance. Then I set up the projector to show a NOVA special about the Wright Brothers, while we field tested aviation with recycled paper.

We've got a pretty big conference room, but some of the airplanes built by the group were too good for the room size.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 8/5 - 8/8

2009-08-05T09:17:00.002-04:00

Wednesday

"Resume Basics" 11a - 1 p

Friday

"Wii Got Game" 11a - noon

We're going to have fewer programs in August as we plan for the coming school year and gear up for new programs and patron increase in September.

Don't forget to subscribe to this blog so you don't miss any of our news and announcements.

PLCMC on Twitter

2009-08-01T16:56:00.003-04:00

You can now follow the largest public library system in the Carolinas on Twitter. http://twitter.com/plcmc

Actually, that accounts be around for a little while, and its not specific to Freedom, or me. Still though, how many libraries use Twitter?

New Class Gets First Offering Today

2009-07-29T10:05:00.002-04:00

Intro to RSS goes live today @ 3!

Around four months ago I got the bright idea to write a new class for adult technology offerings. We had gotten some feedback that patrons wanted a more advanced computer class- as all the ones we offered were on the basic level. So I designed a class around using RSS as a more advanced class for the internet.

RSS is a cool function of some websites that allows you to "subscribe" to information, much like how you can subscribe to a magazine. RSS enabled sites update, and send the content directly to subscribers, the same way a new magazine comes out and is delivered to your mailbox.

The new class in using RSS feeds today will be an introduction to subscribing to webpages. We'll show you how to identify, subscribe to, and make use of RSS feeds.

The easiest way to identify RSS is with the orange symbol at the top of this post. With the FireFox webbrowser, RSS enabled sites will have that tag in the address bar.

Websites that have RSS are typically ones that update constantly- like news sources. CNN, NPR and BBC all have RSS enabled homepages. Sports teams and leagues use RSS to follow the news on games, scores and trades.

You can even subscribe to this blog using RSS. Just click on the RSS symbol in far right of the address bar. I happen to thing the Freedom Library Blog makes an excellent addition to any RSS stream.

So come to the Freedom Library today from 3- 5 pm. I'll be teaching this class for the first time in the student lab on the second floor. Seriously, it's going to be fun.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 7/27 - 8/1

2009-07-27T11:51:00.002-04:00

Monday

"Take The Stage Auditions" 4- 5:30 pm
- Take The Stage is a library system wide talent show for teens (age 12- 18). Auditions are being held at regional libraries where the top three will go on to compete at Imaginon on August 8th. Visit libraryloft.org to find out more, or check out the flyer here.

Tuesday

"Preschool Storytime" 9:30 am & 10:30 am
- For preschoolers, ages 3- 5. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

"School Age Reading Express" 2- 3:30 pm
- For children ages 5- 9. Activities and reading. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

Wednesday

"School Age Reading Express" 2- 3:30 pm
- For children ages 5- 9. Activities and reading. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

"Intro to RSS" 3- 5 pm
- A brand new class being offered for the fist time. This class will show you how to identify, subscribe to, and make use of RSS feeds. We'll cover what RSS is and how you can use it for news, entertainment, and job hunting.

"Mortal Kombat (1995)" starting at 6 pm
- July marks the return of the Freedom Film Series. This month, we will celebrate films based on video games.

Thursday

"Preschool Storytime" 9:30 am & 10:30 am
- For preschoolers, ages 3- 5. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

"School Age Reading Express" 2- 3:30
- For children ages 5- 9. Activities and reading. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

"Basic Drawing" 7- 8pm
- A class for seniors and adults. No matter your skill level, join us for a class in the basics of drawing. This class will be offered again on August 6th.

Friday

"Mad Hot Ballroom" starting at 11 am
- A 2005 documentary film about New York City public schools and dancing. For a teen audience.

1st Place team from ALA Book Cart Drills

2009-07-24T09:41:00.005-04:00

I knew this was something special when this video started showing on large, main-stream, non-library sites.

You see, librarians do strange things at the ALA conference. One of which is doing funny things with book carts. Once in graduate school, I designed a remote control book cart. (It didn't work very well, and never made it to ALA, but still.)

All that is to say, you should check out this video of the team that won the Book Cart Drills at ALA this year. It defies words.

I'm sorry the video is bigger than the frame.

The winning team is from the Oak Park Public Library in Oak Park, IL.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 7/20 - 7/25

2009-07-20T11:25:00.002-04:00

Monday

"Rockband Tournament" 2- 4 pm
- Pre registration required. Teens only. For more information, visit the Library Loft page.

"Resume Basics" 3- 5 pm
- We'll walk you through the steps of using Word templates to create an attractive resume.

Tuesday

"Preschool Storytime" 9:30 am & 10:30 am
- For preschoolers, ages 3- 5. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

"School Age Reading Express" 2- 3:30 pm
- For children ages 5- 9. Activities and reading. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

Wednesday

"School Age Reading Express" 2- 3:30 pm
- For children ages 5- 9. Activities and reading. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

"Internet Basics" 2- 4 pm
- For adults with limited to no experience using the internet.

"Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001)" starting at 6 pm
- July marks the return of the Freedom Film Series. This month, we will celebrate films based on video games.

Thursday

"Preschool Storytime" 9:30 am & 10:30 am
- For preschoolers, ages 3- 5. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

"School Age Reading Express" 2- 3:30
- For children ages 5- 9. Activities and reading. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

New Library Service - Make a computer reservation a day early

2009-07-17T11:48:00.006-04:00

Before this service, the only way to get a computer was to show up and make a reservation. Very first-come, first-serve. You also could not make a reservation for the future, only whe a computer became available.

Not anymore!

Now you can reserve a computer at Freedom (and actually all other Charlotte locations) for a more specific time, and up to one day in advance.

How To: (from home)

Go to the system homepage (plcmc.org) and choose the "locations" tab at the top.

Choose the location where you want to reserve a computer. Click on the library's name.

You'll see a page that looks something like this. Right under the hours of operation, there will be a link to reserve a computer.

Clicking on the link will take you to a page that will ask for your library card number, PIN, and your desired time.

It's that simple.

You can also make a reservation in the library. Just go up to any Public Access PC, and find the "reserve a computer" button on the kiosk screen.

You will have to enter your desired location, time, and library card number.

Have fun!

Looking Ahead with Freedom 7/13 - 7/18

2009-07-13T13:50:00.002-04:00

Tuesday

"Preschool Storytime" 9:30 am & 10:30 am
- For preschoolers, ages 3- 5. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

"Excel Basics" 1:30 - 3 pm
- For adults with limited or no experience using Microsoft Excel. We'll show you how to open, and save Excel workbooks, and the basics of entering data.

"School Age Reading Express" 2- 3:30
- For children ages 5- 9. Activities and reading. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

Wednesday

"School Age Reading Express" 2- 3:30 pm
- For children ages 5- 9. Activities and reading. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

"PowerPoint Basics" 2- 4 pm
- For adults with limited to no experience using Microsoft PowerPoint. We'll show you how to open and save a PowerPoint slide show, demonstrate uses of PowerPoint, and create a simple slide show together.

"Street Fighter (1994)" starting at 6 pm
- July marks the return of the Freedom Film Series. This month, we will celebrate films based on video games.

Thursday

"Preschool Storytime" 9:30 am & 10:30 am
- For preschoolers, ages 3- 5. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

"School Age Reading Express" 2- 3:30
- For children ages 5- 9. Activities and reading. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

Librarian Adventures

2009-07-11T09:26:00.002-04:00

So, there's this game show on NPR called "Wait, Wait... Don't Tell Me." It's great. It's a weekly news quiz, where people call in and answer questions about the week's news and win Carl Kasell's voice on their home answering machine.

It may not sound like much on paper, but trust me, it's great.

And this is a library adventure because?

Librarians, as it turns out, travel far and wide to meet with each other and talk about their libraries. I kid you not. I've been to a few. They're oddly fun.

Right now, this very moment (if you are reading this blog post as I am writing it) a BIG library conference is going on. The American Library Association summer conference in Chicago.

Tie this together for me Devin.

'Wait, Wait' is taped before a live audience in Chicago. The fine people at ALA (specifically ALTAFF) reserved the entire auditorium for librarians for this week's show. If you listen to this week's show (episode airing July 11 @ 1pm) everyone in the audience is a librarian.

The librarians have taken and adventure, and found themselves at a game show in Chicago. I'm not going to lie to you, librarians are kind of cool.

Altered Books this Friday

2009-07-08T09:09:00.002-04:00

Friday (7/10) from 11 - 12:30, we'll be doing a craft program for teens in altering books.

Altering books is an art form with it's own international society. Check out their website: alteredbookartists.com. They explain the art better than I can;

"It is any book, old or new that has been recycled by creative means into a work of art. They can be ... rebound, painted, cut, burned, folded, added to, collaged in, gold-leafed, rubber stamped, drilled or otherwise adorned ... and yes! It is legal!"

We will provide the books for you to alter. We'll also have tools and glue. The craft is free. All you need to bring is an artistic spirit.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 7/6 - 7/11

2009-07-06T10:00:00.002-04:00

Tuesday

"Preschool Storytime" 9:30 am & 10:30 am
- For preschoolers, ages 3- 5. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

"School Age Reading Express" 2- 3:30
- For children ages 5- 9. Activities and reading. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

Wednesday

"Resume Basics" 11- 1 pm
- How to write and format a resume using templates in Microsoft Word. Class is free, registration is not required.

"School Age Reading Express" 2- 3:30
- For children ages 5- 9. Activities and reading. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

"Final Fantasy (2001)" starting at 6 pm
- July marks the return of the Freedom Film Series. This month, we will celebrate films based on video games.

Thursday

"Preschool Storytime" 9:30 am & 10:30 am
- For preschoolers, ages 3- 5. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

"School Age Reading Express" 2- 3:30
- For children ages 5- 9. Activities and reading. Free and open to all, groups require registration.

Friday

"Altered Books" 11- 12:30 pm
- We supply the books, you supply the imagination. Altering books is an art form, where you are free to create. You can take pages apart and sew/glue them together. You can paint on the books. You can alter them in any way. This event is free and open but geared for teens.

Holiday Weekend

2009-07-02T09:17:00.002-04:00

Don't forget, all libraries will be closed this weekend- Friday, Saturday and Sunday (yes, even the main library).

Have a fun and safe holiday weekend.

July Freedom Film Series

2009-07-01T09:50:00.003-04:00

Through July, the Feedom Film Series will show movies based on video games.

July 1: Super Mario Bros., PG (1993)

July 8: Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within, PG-13 (2001)

July 15: Street Fighter, PG-13 (1994)

July 22: Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, PG-13 (2001)

July 29: Mortal Kombat, PG-13 (1995)

In Jonathan's words (from the Film Series Blog):
The Video Game Adaptation series will be held every Wednesday night in July. All screenings will start at 6:00pm in the Community Room of the Freedom Regional Public Library. All screenings are free and open to the public. There will also be free popcorn for those who attend the screenings. Hope to see you there!

Looking Ahead with Freedom 6/28 - 7/4

2009-06-29T16:50:00.002-04:00

Tuesday

"Daycare Storytime" 10- 10:30 am

"Poetry Club" 3:30- 4:30

Wednesday

"School Age Reading Express" 2- 3:30
- For children ages 5- 9. Registration is required for groups.

"Computer Basics" 2- 4 pm
- For adults with limited to no experience with a computer.

"Super Mario Brothers (1993)" starting at 6 pm
- July marks the return of the Freedom Film Series. This month, we will celebrate films based on video games.

Friday and Saturday

All PLCMC library branches will be closed in observance of Independence Day. Please note that while new summer hours will not effect Freedom, branches effected will begin not be open Sunday, July 5.

The Library has PBS videos

2009-06-25T08:55:00.005-04:00

Did you want to get/ receive that PBS dvd set of Ken Burns' The Civil War for Father's Day, but $100 was a little much? Well, The library has a treat for you.

PLCMC has some great databases of information, and even one or two for entertainment.

One of the more entertaining things we have to offer is a collection of PBS videos. And, boy, we've got a lot.

When you get to the PLCMC home page (plcmc.org), choose the Research/Homework tab as highlighted above. Scroll the alphabetical list of goodies until you find "PBS Video Collection," as highlighted below.

From a computer in the library, this will automatically take you to our video list. From home, you'll need your library card handy, as it will ask for your barcode number.

Once you're in, you'll notice the video collection is pretty complete. You can view all title, by series or by popular subjects.

I've been recommending this database of videos a lot recently. This summer, PLCMC is showing ways you can be creative at your library. Watching some quality, entertaining and educational videos is a great way to be creative and have fun in the public library this summer.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 6/22 - 6/27

2009-06-22T14:58:00.002-04:00

** Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this week we'll be having our Summer Reading Program from noon to 3:30 pm

Wednesday

"Computer Basics" 3- 5 pm
- A class for adults and seniors with limited to no computer experience.

Thursday

"Let's Get in Shape" 6- 8 pm
- Low impact aerobic exercise for adults and seniors. Seriously, this on is a lot of fun!

Library Stuff

2009-06-20T16:58:00.002-04:00

This past Thursday, I attended and gave a small poster presentation at a library conference here in Charlotte.

That's right, Librarians have conferences where they go and talk about being librarians. I know, I was surprised too.

The poster presentation I gave was about how librarians can use blogs (like this one) to effectively communicate with other libraries and follow successful business models from the for-profit sector.

While at the conference, I got my brain filled with ideas about assessing library instruction. Here at Freedom, I teach all but one of the adult technology classes and I think I now have the tools to make our classes stronger.

If you want to see the pdf of my poster, you can view it from the link below. I was going to post it here directly, but then I decided to keep it on my server to make sure I still owned the IP.

Blog Poster Presentation

(The .pdf may take a little while to load. It is poster size after all.)

Do you want to play Rockband? Because, I think you do.

2009-06-17T11:30:00.003-04:00

Rockband is going on tour in the library this summer!

On Tuesday, July 20 from 2- 4 pm, Freedom will be bringing the house down. Start a band, rock the library. (A band must be 2- 4 people.)

http://libraryloft.org/rockband2009.asp

That link. That link right there. Thats the link you want to click on. It has all the rules and information. Plus, videos- staring my friend Matt Roach from the Steele Creek library.

Now, here's the deal. If you want to play and be a part of the championship at the end of the summer, you need to register. But, if you just want to rock out and play with us here at Freedom that one day, we'll let you play. No registration required.

We'll see you there!

Looking Ahead with Freedom

2009-06-15T12:08:00.002-04:00

Monday

"Internet Basics" 6- 8 pm
- This session is for adults with limited or no experience using the internet. We'll show you how to use and navigate the web.

Tuesday

"Watercolor Painting for Adults" 10a- 12p
- Just a good ol' time.

"Summer Reading Program" 12- 3:30 pm
- Stop by and read. We got prizes for good readers.

Wednesday

"Summer Reading Program" 12- 3:30 pm
- Stop by and read. We got prizes for good readers.

Thursday

"Summer Reading Program" 12- 3:30 pm
- Stop by and read. We got prizes for good readers.

"Let's Get in Shape" 6- 8 pm
- Low impact aerobic exercise for adults and seniors. Seriously, this on is a lot of fun!

Extra Friday Blagg Post

2009-06-12T14:08:00.002-04:00

This upcoming Thursday (June 18), I'll be at the Metrolina Library Association conference on Information Literacy. There, I will have a poster presentation up about Library blogging.

I will post a pdf of my poster on this blog later. If you're going to be there, I'd love for you to stop by my poster and say hey.

The switch to digital television, as told by a librarian

2009-06-12T12:44:00.003-04:00

It's okay, you can trust me, I'm a librarian.

But, I have worn many hats. Did you know I have a college degree in television production? It's true! I also once had an illustrious career working at Target- selling TVs. Yes, TV was once my passion- before it morphed into libraries. Sort of an odd transition when you think about it.

So today (this morning), TV went all digital, kind of. Some channels changed over before today and some are actually still pumping out analog signals. I'm looking at you WJZY. (WJZY is purposely being held back in order to ease the transition for some viewers.)

Why did this happen?
The switch to "digital" TV signals was actually decided by Congress, 12 years ago. For real.

TV companies and cable are not behind this. You see, TV over the air takes up "bandwidth." Of which there is only so much to go around. Traditional over the air broadcasts are actually sent out via FM- just like a radio. Video was sent out over FM, while audio was made up of AM.

But there is only so much of that frequency to go around. And to be quit honest, it got full.

Congress regulates over the air frequencies. If you want a radio station, you have to get it from the government. (It didn't always used to be like that, but someone had to take control.)

More and more people wanted over the air frequencies for communications. Lots of communication devices want this magic air space. Cell phone companies especially.

So in 1996, Congress decided that the best way to free up some of this communication space was to change how television went out. Bold move. TV was hogging up a lot of this communication space, and wasn't really using it very well.

By forcing a switch to digital, the signal could be much stronger (thus higher in quality), and use less bandwidth.

What do I need?
These laws also provided for ways of making sure people did not lose TV. Since early 2007, it has been the law for TVs to have digital tuners.

So Devin, what is a tuner?

Think of this like a radio. If you want to listen to a station, you turn the dial to that station. But older TVs do not have a "dial" capable of turning to new digital signals. It would be like trying to turn your radio dial to station 200- but it stops at 108.

Digital tuners are just ways to tune to these different numbers. If your TV was purchased since 2007, it should have a DTV tuner built in (it does not have to be "HI-Def"). If not, you can buy DTV tuners. And regardless of income, you can apply for and get up to two DTV converting box coupons. The coupons are only for up to $40, but most boxes are only $40.

Connecting an antenna to a DTV box, then channel scanning will find digital channels, and get you all set.

How it benefits you!
If you get your TV over the air, you're in for a treat. The quality of DTV is significantly higher. Its even better than cable or satelite.

Thats right, NBC over the air is higher def, and higher in quality than that same NBC from cable- even Hi-Def cable. The signal from over the air is not compressed. Nothing can beat it.

And oddly, you may find you have more channels. Digital broadcasts allow for sub-channels. For instance, in Charlotte, you will find there are 4 UNC-TV channels. You may find there are weather sub-channels. And some sub channels give you options for best picture.

For instance, a channel may be "HD" or "DTV" on .1, but "SD" on .2 If you like your picture square, or have a square TV set, the "SD" (or standard definition) version may be best for you. If you have a wide screen TV or you prefer wide settings on a square set, the "DTV" setting is for you.

As much of a pain as it may seem now, changing TV signals was set in motion over a decade ago, and for the people's best interest. In the long run, the switch has many benefits.

Playaways

2009-06-10T11:49:00.003-04:00

So Devin, what is a Playaway?

A Playaway is a fancy little device that's becoming more popular in libraries. It is a preloaded digital book on tape (kind of like renting an iPod but with only one thing on it, and you can't add to it).

Some libraries in Charlotte have more in collection and on display then others. The Freedom Library is now increasing the visibility of Playaways- you'll find one on the cover of the most current "Freedom Flyer."

You can search the library catalog for Playaways just like normal books. If you are searching our catalog from home, use the power search feature. There, you can choose the option of limiting your search by collection. "Playaway" is an option under collection.

If you want to know more about Playaways, check out their website. From that link, you can also order your own Playaways, but lets face it, you'd rather check one out from the library.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 6/8 - 6/13

2009-06-08T11:53:00.002-04:00

Tuesday

"Wii Got Game" 1:30- 3 pm
- This will be the LAST Tuesday gaming event for the summer. Check back for the Teen Summer Read Program.

"Word Basics" 2:30- 4:30 pm
- Learn the basics of using the most ubiquitous program in all of computing.

Wednesday

"Anime Club" 3- 5 pm
- Join us for Anime watching and culture talking.

Thursday

"All That Jazz" 11:30 am- 4 pm
- Thursday is going to be a BIG day in the library system. All That Jazz is a whole family event for kick-starting summer reading, Black Music Month and increased children events.

"Resume Basics" 2- 4 pm
- We'll show you how to get started writing your resume using MS Word templates. You don't need to have taken the Word class to join in on this one. No registration required.

Teen Summer Reading @ The Library

2009-06-03T15:12:00.002-04:00

Is it summer already? Where did the time go? Seriously.

Teen Summer Reading begins next week on June 11, but Freedom has something special to help you jump start your readification.

Taking part in the Summer Reading Program gives teens a chance to have up to $20 in fines waived- assuming they have fines. There are also prizes!

At sign-up, up to $5 can be waived and teens will receive a coupon for a free junior bacon cheeseburger from Wendy's.

After hitting the 15 hours of reading mark, and other $5 can be waived and students get a recycled paper notebook.

And after completing 25 hours of reading, another $10 in fines can be waived and participants get a 512mb flash drive.

All in all, good stuff.

Okay, so, the Freedom learning more stuff: On Friday, June 5, we will be having an information session after school (starting around 1 pm). We'll get you signed up, give you information and suggest some books. The session will last until around 4 pm.

For more, visit libraryloft.org/tsr

Looking Ahead with Freedom 6/1 - 6/6

2009-06-01T13:38:00.002-04:00

The calendar may look a little thin this week- we're gearing up for big events starting the third week of June. On that note- make sure you don't miss the beginning of summer fun, "All That Jazz," June 11.

Tuesday

"Wii Got Game" 2:30- 4 pm

Thursday

"Teen Finances" 4- 5 pm
- A short session on understanding credit and how to avoid unnecessary debt.

Friday

"Summer Reading Kickoff" 12 - 4
- This event will be our information session about the Summer Reading Program going on in the library system this summer. We'll cover what the benefits are, how to reap those benefits and how to sign up. For more information, checkout www.libraryloft.org/tsr.

Super Fun Library Outreach

2009-05-28T14:24:00.004-04:00

Jessica from circulation.

Recently, the library had a team and raced in the Dragon Boat Race in the Asian Festival in Charlotte. Oh man it was fun!

Freedom Regional had a strong presence on the team. Jessica, Trilby and Devin were all there. Even though the team did not win, we still had a great time and rowed very well.

Trilby, our Branch Manager.

Devin (me) from reference.

Part of the library's presence was to promote outreach and hand out applications for library cards. We had a table with card applications and information about library events and summer programs.

Want to see more? Check out the whole set on Flickr.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/libraryinaction/sets/72157618546895606/

Special thanks to Varanrat Torok from Outreach Services for taking these beautiful pictures and then giving me permission to post them here.

New Classes coming in July

2009-05-27T09:50:00.002-04:00

As previously discussed, the library system has a great offering of free technology classes for adults.

In July, Freedom is going to be bringing back some classes that have been on the shelf for a litte while, and bringing in a new one.

July will see the usual suspects; Computers, Internet, Word, Resumes, but also classes in Excel Basics (July 14) and PowerPoint Presentations (July 15).

We will also be teaching an introduction class in RSS. I wrote the coarse pack for this one, so it is truly unique. The class will focus on identifying RSS feeds, how to subscribe and why that is useful.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 5/25 - 5/30

2009-05-26T17:45:00.002-04:00

Monday

All branches closed in observance of Memorial Day.

Tuesday

"Daycare Storytime" 10- 10:30 am
- A little story for little children.

"Wii Got Game" 2:30- 4 pm

Wednesday

"Freedom Film Series" 6- 8 pm
- May is classic comedy duo month at Freedom. Rush Hour starring Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan. Now, admittedly, Jackie Chan is not a comedian but still, funny movie.

Thursday

"Teen Finances" 4- 5 pm
- A short session on understanding credit and how to avoid unnecessary debt.

"Container Gardening for Seniors" 5:30- 7:30 pm
- How to grow great plants in a small place.

"Social Networking for Parents" 6- 7 pm
- How to keep your kids safe online.

Friday

"Poetry Club" 3- 4:30 pm

"Friday Cinema" 3- 4:30 pm

Big Bag of Awesome

2009-05-22T14:38:00.003-04:00

Have you seen Wolfram Alpha? Dude.

So, wait, what?

Wolfram Alpha is not a search engine, and its not an encyclopedia. It is a base for computable knowledge. For instance, in the top search field, you can put in a day- May 22, 2009 for example.

W|A will then tell you computable, factual information about that day, such as any famous events, lunar cycle, and date format.

A search for "Charlotte, NC" will tell you the population, elevation and current time.

Wolfram Alpha launched May 15, 2009.

Remember, this is not Wikipedia, so W|A is not the place to look for info about the current season of My Name is Earl. Only computable information, like math. In fact, when you visit the site, give math a try. Put in a large number, and then something like " - (minus) 5%" Math!

wolframalpha.com/

New Library Phone Service

2009-05-21T11:54:00.002-04:00

Sorry for the lateness, but this email is about a service that just launched.

PLCMC has a new phone service for patrons to call to renew library items. You can also get loan and card information.

Just dial 704-416-7363. (Actually, the last couple digits spell RENEW- well, kinda. Its 416-RENE(W). You don't really need to dial the W.)

Need to know more? Check this link out: http://plcmc.org/About_Us/policiesTelephone.asp

Although TeleCirc Dial Out may speak your name mention that you have items on hold or overdue, TeleCirc does not speak any title information. You have several options to find out the titles on hold or overdue.

Check your account thru the Online Catalog http://hip.plcmc.org
Calling a library location
Calling Telecirc (704) 416-7363. The service is available 24 hours, every day of the year.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 5/18 - 5/23

2009-05-18T08:54:00.002-04:00

Monday

"Da' Circle" 3:30 - 5 pm
- A group for teen girls to sit together and discuss issues going on in their lives.

Tuesday

"Daycare Storytime" 10- 10:30 am
- A little story for little children.

"Container Gardening for Seniors" 10 am - 12 noon
- How to successfully plant and grow a garden in a small space.

Wednesday

"Freedom Film Series" 6- 8 pm
- May is classic comedy duo month at Freedom. Tommy Boy, starring Chris Farley and David Spade. Not to be confused with Black Sheep- or maybe that confusion is okay.

Thursday

"Computer Basics" 3- 5 pm
- Continual learning class for adults with limited or no experience using a computer.

"Cultural Exposure" 3- 5:30 pm
- Learn more about Hispanic Culture. We'll be watching the 2001 film Tortilla Soup and talk about related issues.

The most excited I have ever been about a book!

2009-05-15T13:04:00.005-04:00

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies. The library just got it yesterday. I was the first librarian in the system to check in a copy- and then the first patron to check the book out.

Don't worry, there are 5 other copies in the system. There are even 65 people in line for the book! Wow! That's 13 requests per copy. To put that in perspective, the library system has 196 copies of Twilight by Stephanie Meyer. With 51 requests for Twilight, that means there is roughly 1 request per .25 of a copy.

By my bad math, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies is then 52 times more popular. (Again, bad math.) But Steve Harvey's Act Like a Lady, Think Like A Man still trumps all.

I have never in my life been so excited over a library book.

Act Like a Lady Booktalk

2009-05-13T10:38:00.003-04:00

This is one popular book. The library system has 123 copies- and they're all out. Not a copy to be had. In fact, the wait line to check out a copy is more than 400 patrons long. The book was popular before this, but on March 23, Oprah featured the book on her show. Its popularity skyrocketed.

Because there are so many requests for the book, the team at Freedom Regional decided a good way to help out to have a book discussion. No, we won't have copies for everyone, but people who have read it, read part of it, or even just heard about it can gather and discuss.

If you've read it, please come. If you haven't read it, but want to, please come. If you saw it in the bookstore and didn't buy but read the back of it, please come. This event is free and open to all. We just want give our patrons a way to get more from such a popular and current book.

The booktalk will be this Saturday! May 16 starting 2 and lasting to 4:30. You don't necessarily have to stay the whole time, but you'll want to. We'll have two librarians leading the discussion.

May 16, 2:30 - 4 pm. Free.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 5/11 - 5/16

2009-05-11T13:09:00.002-04:00

Tuesday

"Daycare Storytime" 10- 10:30 am
- A little story for little children.

"Wii Got Game" 2:30- 4 pm

Wednesday

"Anime Club" 3- 5 pm
- We'll watch some Anime and talk about our favorite shows and storylines.

"Freedom Film Series" 6- 8 pm
- May is classic comedy duo month at Freedom. Stir Crazy, staring Richard Pryor and Gene Wilder is playing. Patrons under 17 will need parental supervision or permission.

Friday

"Friday Cinema" 3- 4 pm

Saturday

"Think College" 9 am - 1 pm
- Call Think College @ 416-4232 to get in on the action.

"Steve Harvey Book Discussion" 2- 5 pm
- One of the most popular books in the library today is Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man. We'll be sitting down, talking about the book, impressions and what it really says. Call us for more information 704-416-4200.

Wolverine at the Library

2009-05-09T09:38:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, on my day off, I went to see the new movie Wolverine. I'll be honest about it- it was better than I thought it would be. If you go see it, there's a small scene after all the credits. And I mean all the way to the end. There's a scene kind of in the credits, and a second, more different one after. (Also, apparently there are two different final scenes- but only one gets played per screening (like the movie Clue).)

But this isn't about the movie.

I recently checked in some new graphic novels, and several of them were about wolfie. One of which really caught my eye- its the one pictured above. I am by no means a comic book (graphic novel) connoisseur, but I liked the visual style I saw in "Worst Day Ever."

Like I said, we actually have many Wolverine graphic novels- and not just ones new to this week.

At the Freedom Library, we have a whole shelf devoted to manga and comic books, and a section for graphic novels upstairs. Graphic novels have the dewey decimal number 741.5. (In cataloging speak that means comic books are decorative art drawings that are classified as visual novels.)

When you walk in the front door, the graphic novel shelf is the first shelf you might see, and a little to the right. There, you will find a good many Wolverine comics and graphic novels.

"Wolverine: Worst Day Ever" is actually currently checked in. 8 other libraries have a copy, but they're all checked out. If you want one, FRL is the only place to go right now.

Classic Comedy Duo Month

2009-05-06T12:00:00.002-04:00

The Freedom Film series is going strong in May.

We just finished a month of Mel Brooks comedy, and on those heels, we're rolling out Classic Comedy Duos.

May 6 we have Who Done It? (1942) starring Abbott and Costello.

May 13 Stir Crazy (1980) with Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor will be playing. *

May 20 Chris Farley and David Spade star in Tommy Boy (1995).

May 27 we round out the cast with Rush Hour (1998) featuring Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan.

If you don't come to these movies, you will be sad.

*All films rated R require parental guidance or permission for patrons under 17.

Looking Ahead with Freedom 5/4 - 5/9

2009-05-04T10:44:00.000-04:00

Monday

"Script Frenzy" 3- 4 pm
- The final meeting for the Script Frenzy Club. We'll review our scripts, and through a party!

"Financial Freedom" 6- 7:30 pm
- Learn the secrets of balancing a checking account and keeping a good credit score. This program is specifically geared for teens.

"Resume Basics" 6- 8 pm
- Need a resume? This class will show you how to use templates in Microsoft Word to quickly create attractive and informative resumes. No registration required for this class. Call Devin at 704-416-4221 for more information.

Tuesday

"Unplugged Gaming" 2:30- 4 pm

"Word Basics" 2:30- 4 pm
- New to computers? Have you never used Word before, or need a refresher? This class is for you. No registration required, just be there on time.

Wednesday

"Freedom Film Series" 6- 8 pm
- May is classic comedy duo month at Freedom. Checkout the buddy comedy Who Done It, starring Abbott and Costello.

Thursday

"Honoring Veterans" 6- 9 pm
- Join us as we salute veterans who live in Mecklenburg County. This will be a small tribute to those who have served this country.

Friday

"Friday Cinema" 3- 4 pm

Saturday

"Think College" 9 am - 1 pm
- Call Think College @ 416-4232 to get in on the action.