THE PUBLIC LIBRARY- STILL NEEDED

We have a most remarkable Public Library.  We go often- at least once if not twice a week.  As a mother, it allows me an evening or a weekend day "date" with my children.  I have been taking them to the Library since they were small children.  When we lived in Fort Smith, NWT, Canada, we not only went to the library for the books, but to see authors such as Robert Munsch.

We may think that libraries are no longer necessary in this age of technology and the internet.  But take a moment and think about what going to the library teaches your children:

• Learning what a library is - so many books to read, so little time!
• Teaches them how to ask for help
• Teaches them how to find books on their own
• Provides so much more than books- music cd's, mp3, audio cd's, dvd's, vhs, classes, 'how many gumballs in the jar"- hahaha
• Consequences for not recording the day books are due back on the calendar and ensuring they go back!
• Responsibility- property that must be respected and taken care of
• Systems- computer, where books are found, how to order a book, how to search for a book
• They can check out the paintings, displays, etc
• How to give constructive praise, criticism and have a say: The Suggestion Box!
• Family time

Staff at the library are an essential ingredient.  The staff at our library go out of their way to help the kids and are very patient.

I love our library so much I wrote a letter to our Mayor to tell him.

Oh yes, there are times I have to take the kicking and screaming...yet, without fail they leave with a cloth book bag  so chock full they can barely carry it.  When we get home, we all snuggle on my 1960's sectional couch with blankets and pillows.  I put on some cd's such as Reiki Chants- Jonathon Goldman and Enya - well, anything instrumental and relaxing.  I love these moments were we are all quietly reading.  Inevitably, bed time comes and when I tell them it is time to put their books away...'Ahhh, can't we just read a little longer!'

A rule in our house- one hour of electronics every day and then one hour of reading.

Tip:  Audio book cd's are perfect for the trips in the car with the kids- whether it just be errands, going to school, or on a long trip.  Our fav author right now is Kenneth Oppel.  I absolutely LOVE LOVE his books!  My fav is Airborn- my hats off to you, fellow Canadian!

Love and all good things!

The Peacful Matriarch