SEPTEMBER 2, 2010
Aspiring Authors...Mark Your Calendar!
Who amongst all of us would-be authors hasn't fantasized about writing that chart-topping, award-winning, million-dollar bestseller?!? And who hasn't mulled over how to get started writing? Or how you get your magnum opus published? Or possible pitfalls along the way? Well, Marathon County Public Library and the Wausau Area of Wisconsin Romance Writers may have just what you need!
On Saturday, September 11, four published authors from the Romance Writers Group will be presenting a program -
'So You Want to be Published?' - that should help many prospective authors regardless of the genre they write in.
Lyn Cote, Helen Johannes, Renee Wildes and Laurel Bradley will offer an overview of the current publishing scene. They will discuss modern publishing options ranging from traditional book publishing to self-publishing, Print-on-Demand and ebooks; opportunities available; common mistakes and pitfalls; scams to avoid; etc.
Along with presenting their own publishing experiences, the authors will be happy to answer any questions from the audience.
The authors will also have copies of their books for sale and signing.
The one-hour program begins at 11:00 in the Wausau Room, Headquarters Library, 300 North 1st Street. The meeting is free and no pre-registration is needed.
So, all would-be Stephen Kings, Danielle Steels or Stephen Ambroses should mark their calendars. Come on down to the Marathon County Public Library on September 11th and take the first steps to becoming a published author!
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posted by Mike@ Reference |
Category: Books
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SEPTEMBER 1, 2010
LinkWISCONSIN: Broadband Survey
In order to better understand specific broadband availability, needs, uses and barriers to adoption, the LinkWISCONSIN team will conduct consumer surveys beginning July 12 and continuing throughout the summer. Households will be selected randomly to participate in the 10-12 minute telephone survey.
If you have not been contacted and would like to participate in the consumer survey, please submit your contact information or take our secure online survey.
All individual responses, whether obtained through telephone or online survey, will remain confidential. Collectively, responses will provide important feedback as we move forward with the planning phase of this statewide project.
If called to participate in the survey, we hope you will take a few moments to provide open and honest feedback on your broadband needs. Your input will provide critical insights into how and why Wisconsinites use high-speed Internet, as well as what needs may exist within your community.
This quantitative study will be available to regional planning teams in the fall of 2010.
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posted by Ben Krombholz / MCPL Customer Services |
Categories: Government Information,
Websites
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AUGUST 30, 2010
An Aquarium for Casey!
Congratulations to Casey C., the winner of the aquarium kit donated by Ace Hardware in Weston. Casey was one of over 1300 reading club participants at the Wausau Headquarters Library. His ticket was drawn from tickets from all the library locations in Marathon County, so he is a very lucky boy!
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posted by Diane Peterson, Librarian @ Children's |
Categories: Children,
Summer Reading Program
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AUGUST 27, 2010
Where is the Bathtub?
I have had this question from many children in the last couple weeks. So--here it is--sitting in the library's garage, in the middle of a much-needed makeover. Kitty has completed the painting (look at the snazzy gold feet!), and Olson Carpet One will soon be replacing the old, worn carpet. Our thanks to Christine Bremer-Zoromski, who is funding the tub's makeover.
What's that in the tub? All the Summer Library Program reading tickets from throughout the county, waiting for the drawing of the grand prize. Wow, what a lot of reading our customers did this summer!
And the Grand Prize winner is...
...stay tuned...
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posted by Diane Peterson, Librarian @ Children's |
Categories: Children,
Summer Reading Program
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AUGUST 27, 2010
Challenging Kids, Challenged Teachers
September means back to school with both new challenges and exciting opportunities for students, their teachers and families. However, according to mothers and authors Leslie E. Packer, Ph.D. and Sheryl K. Pruitt, M.Ed., ET/P, who wrote Challenging Kids, Challenged Teachers (now in our collection), for those children diagnosed with multiple neurological disorders, school-related problems increase exponentially.
If your child or student has been diagnosed with overlapping disorders such as Asperger's Syndrome, Sleep Deprivation, Tourette Syndrome, Attention Deficit Disorder and Anxiety Disorder, for example, this book will help you to move forward with greater understanding. The authors make sense of the alphabet soup of confusing ACRONYMS; teach how to reframe our thinking, language, parenting and teaching skills as we react to unintentional misbehaviors and suggest "sanity-saving premises" that take us from chaos to awareness.
The greatest portion of the book is devoted to providing practical tools and strategies for teachers, parents and care-givers in areas of math, behavior modification, homework and motivation.
Find it in our Library Catalog (V-Cat):
http://mcpl.us/?title=Challenging+Kids+Challenged+Teachers
Click here for more books about Inclusive Education.
Category: Children
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AUGUST 26, 2010
Bubbles, Bubbles for Quinn!
Congratulations to Quinn B, the winner of the Bubble Package, including a bubble flyer, a Buzz Lightyear bubble wand, and loads of bubble solution. Quinn won his prize by listening to stories and turning in tickets during our Summer Library Program. Thank you to the Friends of MCPL for donating this prize. Have fun with all the bubbles, Quinn!
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posted by Diane Peterson, Librarian @ Children's |
Categories: Children,
Summer Reading Program
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AUGUST 24, 2010
Congratulations, Ian!
Congratulations to Ian W, one of the prize winners in our Make a Splash summer reading club. Ian won the "Baby" prize, with bathtub letters, towels, and, Ian's favorite, a rubber ducky. Thank you to the Friends of the library for donating this prize!
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posted by Diane Peterson, Librarian @ Children's |
Categories: Summer Reading Program,
Children
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AUGUST 18, 2010
Time is Running Out for Reading Tickets!
It's not too late to turn in a ticket for the summer reading program--but time is running out soon! All tickets must be turned in by 1:00 this Saturday, August 21 to be included in the prize drawings.
We have had a record number of participants at the library in Wausau. Thank you for making this our best summer ever!
{{2010-08-21}}
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posted by Diane Peterson, Librarian @ Children's |
Categories: Children,
Summer Reading Program
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AUGUST 9, 2010
Pool Party!
I can't think of a better way to wrap up our "Make a Splash" summer reading program than with a pool party on one of the hottest days of the year!
The pool party will be held Tuesday, August 10 at Memorial Park pool in Wausau. Kids received a free family admission pass in their "goody bags" when they turned in their first completed reading ticket. Teens also received free admission with their first completed reading ticket. These admission passes may be used for Memorial Park Pool anytime between 1:00 and 7:50 pm Tuesday. You can also show your library card for free admission that day.
Children's craft activities will be featured from 1:00 to 3:00. I also have a few prizes to give away, so the first 50 or so children who come up to me (in my red T-shirt) and tell me the summer theme will receive a small prize.
Lawn games and other activities for teens will be featured after 6:00. Come and join the splashy fun!
{{2010-8-10}}
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posted by Diane Peterson, Librarian @ Children's |
Categories: Programs,
Children,
Summer Reading Program
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AUGUST 3, 2010
New Career Titles at MCPL!
Marathon County job-seekers should check out the following new titles that have been added to the Headquarters Library's Career Connection collection:
Purchase of these and other recent career titles was made possible by grants from the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin.
Career books and AV materials are available at all MCPL Branch locations.
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posted by Mike@ Reference |
Category: Jobs
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AUGUST 2, 2010
Understanding Biomass Energy
In early 2010, WE Energies applied to build a Biomass facility in Rothschild, which had a lot of our community-members wondering "What the heck
is Biomass?" ... and perhaps more importantly "How will this affect us?" Fortunately, the Library has a number of resources that can help you make sense of it all, plus a few links that will allow you to communicate your opinions to the powers that be.
- MCPL | Books about Biomass: http://bit.ly/drybUv
(for help understanding the science and history of biomass)
- WE Energies | Biomass Energy Project: http://bit.ly/1B8pjF
(from the WE Energies website; includes fact summaries and all application materials pertaining to the proposed facility; a printed copy of these materials is available for public viewing at MCPL Wausau)
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory | Biomass Basics: http://bit.ly/asOZfy
(general information about biomass from the U.S. Dept. of Energy)
- Public Service Commission of Wisconsin | Submit Your Comments: http://bit.ly/do0pKf
(submit your comments about the proposed biomass facility; the "comment period" ends 12/31/10, so you still have time to let your opinions be heard!)
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posted by Ben Krombholz / MCPL Customer Services |
Categories: Government Information,
Websites
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JULY 29, 2010
Eagles On Library Shelves
The eagles have landed on your library's shelves. Come and check out these wonderful new books on eagles.
Come and check out these, and the other many "good reads" about the special bond we share with our non-human friends.
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posted by Sharyn Heili, Librarian |
Categories: Reading Recommendations,
Reading Recommendations
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JULY 28, 2010
Congrats to Writing Workshop Winners!
Congratulations to Briah, 6, and Austin, 8, state-level winners in the 2010
PBS Kids Go Writers Contest. Briah’s story, “Barbershop Bella,” earned First Place in the Kindergarten Division and has been entered in the national competition. You can see a slide show of Briah’s story at this Wisconsin Public Television link:
http://www.wpt.org/kids/writerscontest.cfm Austin’s story, “The Thug Get-Away,” earned a Judge’s Choice award in the Second Grade Division. Briah and Austin were two of the participants in a 5-week writing workshop at the Marathon County Public Library. The library’s writing workshop was funded by a materials grant from Wisconsin Public Television. Thank you to Rachel Cornelius and volunteers Sara Klawitter, Chari Fish and Karyn Powers for their help at the workshops!
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posted by Diane, Librarian @ Children's |
Categories: Writing,
Children
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JULY 22, 2010
Browse & Request Our Newest Books!
There's more to our collections than what you'll find on the shelves!
Popular books are often in demand (and therefore, unlikely to be found just sitting on the shelf), but you can preview and request most of our new books by using our "New & Forthcoming Books" webpage! www.mcpl.us/catalogs/books
(also accessible from our website's main menu under "Catalogs")
These books represent our most recently-ordered Adult Fiction, Adult Nonfiction, Teen Books, Children's Books, and New York Times Best-Sellers. Many of them haven't even arrived at the Library yet, so it is an excellent opportunity for you to get on the request list ahead of time. Once you're on the request list, we will contact you when the book becomes available for pick-up at the MCPL location of your choice.
(Please note that many of these items will be "On Order" for several weeks (or more) before they are released... so if you're looking for something to read in the immediate future, you might want to browse our current holdings in our Library Catalog (V-Cat).)
The "New & Forthcoming Books" webpage is updated sporadically, so if you're interested in being notified as soon as new books have been added, join the Marathon County Public Library's Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/MCPL.Wausau
Happy Reading!
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posted by Ben Krombholz / MCPL Customer Services |
Categories: Books,
Reading Recommendations,
Websites
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JULY 14, 2010
ARRRRR! Craft Day was Splashy Fun!
James and Evie were happy to model the pirate hats, fishbowl necklaces and "fish sticks" that they made at Tuesday's craft afternoon at the Wausau Headquarters library. One hundred fifty kids visited our craft stations, where volunteers helped kids make an array of splashy items to celebrate our "Make a Splash" summer. Thank you, volunteers!
Recording artist Randy Peterson will present a "Beach Party" family concert at the Wausau Headquarters library next Tuesday, July 20, at one show only--2:00 pm. Come and join us for more splashy fun!
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posted by Diane Peterson, Librarian@Children's |
Categories: Children,
Summer Reading Program,
Summer Reading Program
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JULY 13, 2010
Tips for Resume Writing!
Resumes can aid a job-seeker in getting their foot in the door. Resumes, though, need to be top-notch to get noticed, especially now that some companies are using resume-reading technology to speed resume screening. Here are some helpful resume tips.
When you're working on your resume, use keywords appropriate for the position you're applying for. Read through the position description and jot down words/phrases used in it. Mirror that language in your resume and cover letter.
Use variation of keywords. If you're looking for an accounting position, for example, use 'accountant' and 'accounting' in your resume.
Use keywords correctly and smartly. Don't just list the keywords; use them in complete sentences.
Make your job title generic. If your present job title differs for the job you're applying for, include your present job title in parentheses.
Don't go overboard in listing your job skills; just list key skills.
Folow the directions on the job site that's accepting your resume.
The Library's Career Connection area has many books on resume-writing that can help you turn out a job-winning resume.
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posted by Mike@ Reference |
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JULY 7, 2010
Passport Fees Increase July 13
There has never been a better time to get your U.S. passport. The U. S. Department of State has announced price increases effective July 13, 2010 for Passport Books, Cards, and Passport renewals.
Department of State Fees: - Passport Book for an Adult (age 16 and over)-- from $75.00 to $110.00
- Passport Book for a Minor (under age 16)--from $60.00 to $80.00
- Passport Card for an Adult (age 16 or over)--from $20.00 to $30.00
- Passport Card for a Minor (under age 16)--from $10.00 to $15.00
Acceptance, or Execution fees for first- time applicants are remaining the same--$25.00.
The Library is a Passport Acceptance facility. We can also take your passport pictures for an additional fee of $10.00. Stop in @MCPL Wausau and apply for your passport today before the July 13 increase. Passport applications are processed @MCPL Wausau by certified Passport Acceptance Agents all hours that the library is open.
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posted by Sharyn Heili, Librarian |
Category: Passports
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JULY 6, 2010
Sign Up Now for the Talent Show!
We had a blast at last year's talent show! David (pictured here) presented a karate demonstration with Escrima sticks; other kids performed dances, and instrumental and vocal solos. It was so much fun, we have decided to have another Talent Show this year--Tuesday, July 27 at 2:00 pm at the library in Wausau.
I have five acts signed up to perform so far--but we need more! School age children may perform a solo or group act. Performances must be four minutes or less in length, and will be presented to an all-ages audience (toddlers through grandparents). Every performer will receive a "thank you" gift for their participation.
So come on and do your thing--Sing! Dance! Karate! Perform Magic Tricks! Sign up by stopping by the Children's Desk at the Wausau library or call us at 715-261-7220.
Our performers will need an audience, too, so come and cheer on your friends!
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posted by Diane @ Children's |
Categories: Children,
Summer Reading Program,
Programs
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JUNE 30, 2010
Tom Pease Delights
Over 800 people of all ages were thoroughly entertained by singer, songwriter Tom Pease @MCPL Wausau yesterday. His utra-enthusiastic mixture of sign language, songs, humor and audience participation is infectious. Tom Pease's programs are part of "Make a Splash, READ" Summer Library Program at the Marathon County Public Library.
If you missed Tom Pease's performance yesterday, you can still catch him this summer. He will be @Marathon Branch, performing at Marathon Elementary on 7/21 @10am, @Mosinee Branch on 7/28 @10am, and also on @Stratford Branch on 7/28 at 1:30pm.
There is still lots of summer left and lots of free summer fun for the whole family @MCPL. Check out all the additional programs this summer. Programs are funded by the Friends of the Marathon County Public Library.
And don't forget to take time and read this summer, and turn in your Summer Reading Tickets for prizes. All ages are invited to participate.
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posted by Sharyn Heili, Librarian |
Categories: Children,
Summer Reading Program
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JUNE 24, 2010
Check Out Our Video Game Collection!
Did you know the Library offers video games for checkout? This collection is only a few years old, but it's been growing rapidly in size and popularity. We offer video games for Nintendo Wii, Playstation 2, Playstation 3, X-Box, X-Box 360, Nintendo DS, PSP, and PC.
We've just added a large number of video games for all platforms and age levels, so even if you've browsed this collection before, you'll want to look again today!
The main collection is held at the
MCPL Wausau Headquarters, but you can request these games for pick-up at any of our
nine convenient locations throughout Marathon County! Video games may be kept for up to 14 days, with the ability to renew once for an additional 14 days (unless someone else has requested it in the meantime). You may only check out one game at a time, and there's a $1.00 per day late fee. (
Click here to view our complete
Check-Out Policies.)
You may browse our complete Video Game Collection online at the following link:
www.mcpl.us/teenzone/games
Plus, if you're at
MCPL Wausau and have some time to kill, don't forget about the Gaming Corner in TeenZone on second floor! We have a PS2 connected to a big-screen TV and two networked computers for instant gaming action!
{{2010-08-23}}
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posted by Ben Krombholz / MCPL Customer Services |
Category: Teen Zone
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JUNE 21, 2010
Sharing Fun Memories with an Old Friend!
Carol Burnett was a welcome visitor to American households for decades. First appearing on The Garry Moore Show, she made us laugh with her limber body and rubbery face not to mention a fine singing voice. Yet what impressed most was her innate sweetness and naturalness. What you saw what was you got: a talented singer-comedienne who didn't take herself seriously, someone who was so glad we had those times together. That impression was only reinforced when she hosted her own variety show -
The Carol Burnett Show - which many rate as the finest, funniest variety show ever. Burnett shares some of the most meaningful - and usually hilarious - moments in her long career in her appealing and entertaining biography,
This Time Together: Laugher & Reflection.
In short chapters Burnett takes the reader through her life and the many people she met along the way. She recalls friends and colleagues with obvious delight and affection. She gives unstinting credit to so many people who helped her personally or professionally. And there's scarcely an unkind word or trace of self-pity in sight.
Some of Burnett's most revealing and funny stories are the ones she tells on herself. For instance, the first time she met Cary Grant, her childhood idol, she was so in awe of him she tried to bolt from the party! Turns out he was a big fan of hers! Once, on an airplane, the in-flight movie was 'The Front Page,' one of Burnett's lesser performances. After the film was done, Burnett asked the stewardess for the P.A. and apologized to the other passengers for her bad acting! The laughs come quick and easy in this book.
This Time Together is a perfect summer reading selection. You can read the book straight through or pick a chapter at random and jump in. So, if you want to share some memorable moments with a classy, funny lady, pick up a copy. You won't regret it!
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posted by Mike@ Reference |
Categories: Books,
Reading Recommendations
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