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Friends of the Library
Do you love your Library? There are many ways to show it!
Think Library , Connect
January 30, 2020
English Conversation Groups
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Have fun teaching English as a New Language. These resources have practical activities for teaching conversational English in a group setting. Help your students learn practical phrases, vocabulary, and conversation strategies to improve their communication skills.

English Language Learning
January 30, 2020
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January 27 is International Holocaust Remembrance Day, commemorating the tragedy of the Holocaust and the millions of people killed by the Nazi regime during World War II.

History
January 28, 2020
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Honor the stories of African Americans with one of these recent books from history to poetry to literary fiction.

Even More Staff Picks
January 28, 2020
Prizon Support Zines

Prisoner support encompasses a variety of activities aimed a providing assistance to prisoners. There are a variety of ways to support prisoners: letter writing, visitations if possible, providing financial support, and, here in Monroe County, donating books for the jail library.

Zines , Civil Rights, Crime, Library Events, Local Interest, Read
January 24, 2020

At their meeting on Wednesday, January 15, the Library Board of Directors approved a policy to eliminate overdue fines, effective March 1. The policy waives all unpaid overdue fines and collection agency fees charged prior to implementation, and eliminates fines for all late returns moving forward.

Think Library , Connect
January 15, 2020
The Library offers a white elephant staff picks display with books patrons can surprise themself with.

By Chantal Cagle, Information Assistant

Last year, one night in December, a gentleman pulled up to the Downtown Library drive-up window to pick up his holds. I scanned his card and saw he had 13 books waiting for him.

"You have a lot to pick up!" I said.
"It's the best part of Christmas," he replied.

Think Library, Reviews , Connect
December 19, 2019

The Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County (CFBMC) awarded the Library a grant for equipment, appliances, and supplies to establish a 600-square foot teaching kitchen as part of the construction of the forthcoming Southwest Branch Library. Scheduled to open in 2022, the kitchen will provide free, hands-on cooking and nutrition programs for all ages, increasing food security and advancing literacy, math, and science.

Reviews, Think Library , Learn
December 16, 2019
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When the wind howls and the snow piles up try whipping up a new comfort food recipe. This list has everything from traditional comfort food recipes to vegan comfort food to healthy comfort food. Once your food is ready curl up under your blankets, crack open your library book, and enjoy a warm cozy dish.

Cooking
November 22, 2019
Teaching Beginning English
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Learning a new language can be difficult, especially for beginners! These resources help teachers plan lessons that inspire skills and confidence for English language learners. Visit VITAL’s Volunteer Resources for more tools, tips, and training.

English Language Learning
November 8, 2019
English Pronounciation
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Pronouncing words correctly can be one of the hardest parts of learning English. The best way to learn is by listening and practicing! Gain confidence in your speaking skills—from ordering a cup of coffee to making a presentation. Check out the popular “ESL Lab” and other online resources at VITAL Online Learning.

English Language Learning
November 5, 2019
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Growing your own food can be a very satisfying endeavor. These books will help you with everything from planting seeds to harvesting your produce.

Topical Guides
November 4, 2019
Mental Health Zines

Due to the prevalence and need for mental health services, and a general lack of them in many communities, zines on mental health serve a special need. Zines can help frame mental health in both a frank and gentle way, while also providing tips and encouragement for self-care. Many mental health zines are based around an individual's personal experience, so they provide a first-hand account of the associated trauma and healing processes.

Zines , DIY, Nonfiction, Read
October 28, 2019
Seed Library

According to the National Gardening Association, 35% of households in the US grow food either at home or in a community garden, up 200% in the last ten years. In keeping with the trend, the Library recently applied for and received two generous gardening grants.

Think Library , Create, Gardening, Learn
October 24, 2019
It could be your lucky day!

Skip the waitlist for new, in-demand titles through the Libby app from OverDrive! Libby now offers select eBook and audiobook titles on a first-come, first-served basis. Browse the app’s “Lucky Day” section for available books. The selection will change as titles are returned and new books are added, so check back often!

Think Library , Read, Science
October 21, 2019