If you are like me, magazines can reflect more of a love hate relationship. I love it when a new month of magazines arrive in the mail. However, after a few days of immersing myself within its pages, reading and then re-reading the articles, I am left with the question-what next? I had stacks of magazines formed by months and even years of filled subscriptions. So, two months ago I contacted my local librarian to see if the library would be interested in the publications. She instructed me on the types of magazines her customers would most likely be interested in. This left me with a smaller, but still sizable, stack of unwanted magazines. This month I found a site that gave me 100+ inspirational tips (decor, make your own supplies, accessories, crafts for kids, etc.) on how to re-purpose these once loved glossy pages. I found many applications for my personal collection, who knows what this article might inspire in you or for your library? Take a moment to search for some new ideas-just for fun!
In browsing the top 50 e-learning sites, FunBrain is a very simple website with both content and games for grade school children. The information is divided into basic categories for viewing books where you can sample a chapter or two online, follow comic strips and select from a variety of skill building games. It is just another tool that can be used to continue to facilitate learning. As a component of the Family Education Network, Pearson Education, it is a free resource that does not require registering a user name and password to access the online information.
This Free App from Educreations blends the functionality of a traditional dry erase board with standard presentation software. The user can easily create quick tutorials and how-to videos. With multiple applications in and out of the media center or classroom you might want to add this APP to your list of must haves!
There are only three weeks left to nominate someone you know with a proven track record in bringing creative and quality programs, projects and/or services to your library! The Minnesota Library Association (MLA) is accepting nominations until Thursday February 28, 2013. Click here for more information and nomination materials.
Are you a trainer seeking training? In January, CMLE highlighted an organization call WebJunction. As a learning site for libraries they provide online, self-paced courses to all members of the Minnesota library community. Each month you can elect to add a new course(s) to your professional development portfolio at no cost.
Here is a sample of this month’s FREE program:
Image provided by WebJunction
How Libraries can meet the Evolving Needs of Patrons in the Digital Age
The Future of Online Learning: a changing landscape
Self-Directed Achievement: if you give library staff an hour…
You can also take a sneak peek at the complete list of more than forty courses offered by WebJunction.
Partnering with libraries for visioning, advocating, and educating
