Children's Happenings

This Week in the Kids' Department (1/30/12)

2012-01-28T09:05:00.001-08:00

Tuesday, January 31, 2012
10 AM or 11:12:15 AM
Mother Goose on the Loose

Wednesday, February 1, 2012
10:30 AM
Preschool Storytime

New Books!

2012-01-26T11:35:00.000-08:00

We just got in new books. Check them out - http://childrenshappenings.blogspot.com/p/new-books-january-2011.html

This Week in the Kids' Department

2012-01-23T09:35:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, January 24th
Mother Goose on the Loose
10 AM or 11:15 AM

Wednesday, January 25th
Preschool Storytime
10:30 AM

Saturday, January 28th
Lego Club
9:30 AM

What's Happening This Week (1/16/12)

2012-01-13T09:01:00.000-08:00

Here's what's coming up:

Monday, January 16, 2012
Library closed in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Mother Goose on the Loose
10 AM or 11:15 AM
Drop-In
For children age 3 and younger but big brothers and sisters are always welcome!

Wednesday, January 18, 2012
10:30 AM
Preschool Storytime
Drop-In
For Children Age 3 and Older

Friday, January 20, 2012
10:30 AM
Family Storytime
Drop-In
All children and their grownups are welcome

Family Storytime on Friday

2012-01-12T07:05:00.001-08:00

Don't forget we've got a family storytime this Friday (1/13/12) at 10:30 AM. All children and their grownups are welcome - even babies and toddlers!

Events: Week of January 9, 2012

2012-01-06T08:03:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

Tuesday, January 10th

Mother Goose on the Loose Storytime
10 AM or 11:15 AM
This drop-in storytime is for children age 3 and younger but big brothers and sisters are always welcome. Please note: To accommodate everyone we ask that families choose to attend one storytime. Thank you!

Wednesday, January 11th

Preschool Storytime
10:30 AM
This drop-in storytime is for children age 3 and older.

Friday, January 13th

Family Storytime
10:30 AM
All children and their grownups are welcome to come to this drop-in family storytime - yes, even babies and toddlers!

Winter 2012 Programs

2011-12-22T09:23:00.000-08:00

Don't forget to check out our Winter 2012 Programs page! (that includes Mother Goose on the Loose and Preschool Storytimes)

New Books December 2011

2011-12-21T12:21:00.000-08:00

We just got in some new books! Check out our "New Books - December 2011" link to see the list. There are lots of great titles but may we especially recommend:

Mother Goose Picture Puzzles by Will Hillenbrand
Bart's King-Sized Book of Fun by Bart King
Three Hens and a Peacock by Lester L. Laminack
Ferret Fun by Karen Rostoker-Gruber
Those Darn Squirrels and the Cat Next Door by Adam Rubin
Press Here by Herve Tullet
Fuddles by Frans Vischer
Scaredy Squirrel Has a Birthday Party by Melanie Watt
Amanda and Her Alligator by Mo Willems

Happy Reading!

LEGO Club

2011-12-21T11:22:00.001-08:00

Come see our awesome LEGO Club creations at the library! We will be meeting again on January 28th @ 9:30

The Change of Seasons

2011-12-21T11:00:00.000-08:00

Thank you for participating in our Fall bulletin board display: "What is Your Favorite Fall Activity" in the picture book room. We had over 150 children color leaves, pumpkins, and turkeys! Ask at the Children's Reference Desk for mittens and crayons to help us decorate our new display: "Winter Wonderland!"

Holiday Surprise

2011-12-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas surprise this morning. Students from St. Patrick School came caroling. It made our morning and put us all in the Christmas spirit. They did a lovely job. Many thanks to St. Pat's students and staff.

Winter 2012 Programs

2011-12-19T06:40:00.000-08:00

Check out our Winter 2012 programs! Make sure to check it periodically as we do add programs!

Graphic Novel Pick

2011-12-12T09:52:00.000-08:00

Super Amoeba (Squish series)
by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm
Grades 2-4
Random House
Released May 2011

Summary:
Squish is just an average grade school amoeba that loves comic books and Twinkies. He goes to school, sits through boring classes, and has a best friend named Pod who likes to mooch lunch money off of Squish for cafeteria tacos. One day, a school bully tries to force Squish to cheat on a test. If he doesn't cooperate the bully will...gulp...eat his cheerful paramecium friend Peggy. Yep, that's right, single-celled bullies in the microscopic world do not threaten to beat up geeks, they eat them. While Squish is a small amoeba, he has always tried to follow his favorite comic book hero's code by finding: "the courage to do what's right!". Will Squish be able to find the courage to stand up to his bully and save Peggy? Find out in the highly anticipated new series, Squish!

Review:
From the creators of the popular Babymouse series, Jennifer Holm and Matthew Holm introduce a new series that features a cute microscopic blob and comic book nerd that readers will love! Children will easily identify with Squish's school life, cast of loyal friends, and problems with bullies. This book also highlights facts about the microscopic world that are informative and entertaining to the reader. For instance, when the bully attempts to eat Peggy the author ads a side-note: "Seriously, this is how amoebas eat paramecia. Cool, huh?" There is even a section at the back of the book where Pod teaches kids how to do a science experiment. My only criticism of this book is that the authors decide to make the solution to the bully problem humorous instead of allowing Squish to confront his bully. However, overall this is an amusing and attractive graphic novel that kids will not be able to keep their pseudopods (or hands) off of! The illustrations are simple and easily accessible to new graphic novel readers. Recommended for grades 2-4.

A Very Special Santa

2011-12-12T08:00:00.001-08:00

There must be LOTS of good girls and boys in Lowell because this December Santa Claus has made 3 visits to the Pollard Library. On Saturday Santa took time out of his very busy schedule to visit with some friends on the autism spectrum. He told me he had a wonderful time and is always happy to see such terrific kids.

Holiday Fun

2011-12-12T07:45:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful time at our holiday family storytime. We celebrated Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa with stories, songs, and games. We even had a special visitor - Santa Claus!
Happy Holidays to All!

Dec. 28th Family Storytime

2011-12-12T07:43:00.000-08:00

Please note: Due to a staff family emergency we have had to cancel our Dec. 28th family storytime. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Holiday Sing Along 2011

2011-12-07T13:49:00.000-08:00

We had a very merry time at our annual Holiday Sing Along. Santa was so impressed with our singing that he made a trip all the way from the North Pole!

This Week's (12/5/11) Kids' Activities at the Pollard

2011-12-03T07:39:00.000-08:00

Please join us for these fun holiday events!

Annual Holiday Sing-Along
Tuesday, December 6th at 10:30 AM
All children and their grownups are welcome!

Sensory Santa
Saturday, December 10th
Children on the autism spectrum and children with sensory issues are invited to this special visit with Santa. The lights will be low and the carols playing softly. Children can stop by any time between 9:30 AM and 11 AM to visit with Santa. Bring a camera to capture a memory! This event is specifically for special needs children. We appreciate your understanding!

Holiday Storytime
Saturday, December 10th at 11:30 AM
All children and their grownups are welcome!

Lego Club

2011-11-29T07:36:00.001-08:00

Our next Lego Club meets this Saturday, December 3rd at 9:30 AM. All kids in grade one and older are welcome.

December Programs at the Pollard

2011-11-29T07:29:00.000-08:00

We've got a busy December here at the Pollard. Check out our December Activities page to see what we're doing!

Thanksgiving Storytime

2011-11-10T09:27:00.001-08:00

Join us on Saturday, November 19th at 10:30 AM and come count your blessings with us at this special Thanksgiving storytime. All children and their grownups are welcome.

Family Storytime

2011-11-10T08:12:00.000-08:00

November is Family Literacy Month!
Come to our special family storytime on Wednesday, November 16th at 10:30 AM. All children and their grownups are welcome (yes - even babies and toddlers!)

Graphic Novel Pick of the Week

2011-11-10T06:55:00.000-08:00

Sidekicks
By Dan Santat
Ages 10+
Arthur A. Levine Books (Scholastic)
Released July 2011

Summary:
When Metro City's hero Captain Amazing decides to recruit a new sidekick, he never imagined who would interview for the job....his pets! Meet Metal Mutt, Static Cat, Chameleon, and Fluffy (the hamster). Who will Captain Amazing choose to be his next sidekick? Will the sidekicks be able to defeat Captain Amazing's arch nemesis Dr. Havoc and save Metro City? Find out in Dan Santat's Sidekicks.

Review:
This superhero graphic novel is action-packed with crime-fighting, sibling rivalry, and pet super powers. Children will eagerly follow along with sidekick newbies Fluffy the hamster and Shifty the gecko when they go up against their first criminals and dream of a day when they will have a "decked-out super car". But what really makes this graphic novel a great read is when these pets put aside their sibling rivalry and learn what it really means to be a superhero and a family. This is a humorous and heartwarming tale that kids will not be able to put down! Recommended for readers 10 and up.

*Ask at the Children's Reference Desk for Sidekicks by Dan Santat and other new graphic novels!

LEGO Club

2011-11-07T11:37:00.001-08:00

Thank you for joining us for the LEGO Club Fall Session. Check the calendar on the library website soon for the Winter LEGO Club dates!

This Week at the Pollard (Oct. 31st)

2011-10-31T09:17:00.000-07:00

Monday, October 31st
10:30 AM
Child and Me Playgroup

Tuesday, November 1st
Mother Goose on the Loose
10 AM or 11:15 AM

Wednesday, November 2nd
Preschool Storytime
10:30 AM

Thursday, November 3rd
Movin' and Groovin'
3 PM

Saturday, November 5th
Lego Club
9:30 AM

For more information about these events check out our Fall Programs link.

Trick or Treating in Lowell

2011-10-31T09:12:00.000-07:00

Due to the unexpected snow storm and resulting power outages, Trick or Treating in Lowell has been postponed to Sunday, November 6th from 6PM - 8 PM. Happy Halloween!

Help for Families

2011-10-27T13:30:00.000-07:00

I received this from LifeLinks:

HALLOWEEN

Do you need HALLOWEEN Costumes for your children?
Come join us at OUR FREE COSTUME GIVE-AWAY! We have HUNDREDS OF Costumes available * free of charge!
Children may keep their costume and can enjoy wearing them while trick-or-treating on Halloween!
DATE: SATURDAY October 29th
TIME: 11AM-3PM
Location: UMASS Lowell Inn and Conference center
50 Warren Street Lowell, MA 01852

THANKSGIVING

If you will be unable to have a Thanksgiving dinner this year please contact the Lifelinks Family Support Center. All requests will be taken under consideration, quantities are limited. Email: familysupport@lifelinksinc.net with the number of people and your family and a brief description of need.

CHRISTMAS

· For families with children under the age of 13, who need assistance with gifts. Lifelinks Family Support Center will be organizing a ‘giving tree’ to sponsor children in need. Please email: familysupport@lifelinksinc.net with the gender, age and gift request of the child (limit 3 things). These need to be submitted by November 4 in order to be considered.

· Sun Santa: Applications will be accepted from October 31 – November 18 through CTI. The office handling applications is located at 17 Kirk Street, Lowell. You can go directly there during the dates above to apply. I believe you will need proof of residence (a bill mailed to the house), Social Security Numbers and birthdates of children and possibly income verification.

Graphic Novel Fans

2011-10-25T13:36:00.000-07:00

Check out our new graphic novels and graphic novel series at the Children's Reference Desk.

*Please ask at the Children's Reference Desk for assistance with the graphic novels.

New Graphic Novels

Action/Adventure
Bakugan (series) by Cartoon Network
Tower of Treasure by Scott Chantler
Yu-Gi-Oh!: GX (series) by Naoyuki Kagayama
Panda Man (series) by Sho Makura

Animals
Owly and Wormy, Friends All Aflutter by Andy Runton
Robot Dreams by Sara Varnon

Mystery
Nancy Drew New Case Files: Vampire Slayer by Stefan Petrucha

School Stories
Babymouse: Mad Scientist by Jennifer Holm
Squish: Super Amoeba by Jennifer Holm
Smile by Raina Telgemeier

Science Fiction/Fantasy
Fairy Idol Kanon (series) by Mera Hakamada
Zita the Space Girl: Far From Home by Ben Hatke
Big Adventures of Majoko (volume 4) by Tomomi Mizuna
Taro and the Magic Pencil by Sango Morimoto
Tall Tales by Jeff Smith
The Quest for the Spark by Tom Sniegoski
Magic Trixie and the Dragon by Jill Thompson
Magic Trixie Sleeps Over by Jill Thompson
Swans in Space (series) by Lun Lun Yamamoto
The Warrior's Trial (Vermonia series, volume 5) by Yoyo

Superheroes
Tiny Titans (series) by Art Baltazar
Batman: The Story of the Dark Knight by Ralph Cosentino
Wonder Woman: The Story of the Amazon Princess by Ralph Cosentino
Super Friends (series) by Sholly Fisch
Billy Batson and the Magic of Shazam! by Mike Kunkel
Sidekicks by Dan Santat
Marvel Adventures: Thor (series) by Louise Simonson
Marvel Adventures: Spiderman (series) by Paul Tobin
Marvel Adventures: Iron Man (series) by Fred Van Lente
Supergirl: Cosmic Adventures in the 8th Grade by Landry Walker

This Week at the Library (Week of Oct. 24th)

2011-10-24T07:43:00.001-07:00

Monday, October 24th
10:30 AM
Child and Me Playgroup

Monday, October 24th
11:45 AM
Early Childhood Screenings conducted by South Bay Early Intervention

Tuesday, October 25th
10 AM or 11:15 AM
Mother Goose on the Loose

Wednesday, October 26th
10:30 AM
"Unscary" Halloween Celebration
All children and their grownups are welcome!
Get in the spirit and wear a costume!

Thursday, October 27th
3 PM
Movin' and Groovin'

For more information about any of these programs please check our "Fall Children's Program" link.

Fall Festival 2011 Photos

2011-10-17T11:36:00.000-07:00

The Pollard Library's Fall Festival was a success! The Children's Department activities featured a children's performer, Elaine Kessler and her friend Stinky Goat. The Girl Scouts and teen volunteers helped with crafts and face painting.

Elaine Kessler, children's performer

Uh oh, Stinky Goat stole some laundry!

Arts and Crafts with the Girl Scouts

Face painting

Thank you so much for joining us and we hope to see you next year!

Unscary Halloween Celebration!

2011-10-14T09:08:00.000-07:00

Halloween is here
Let's all give a cheer
For ghosties, goblins, and trick or treating
Halloween is here!

Join us for our annual "unscary" Halloween celebration. We'll sing songs, dance, and make a Halloween craft to take home. Get in the Halloween spirit and wear your costume. All children (yes - even babies and toddlers!) and their grownups are welcome.

Wednesday, October 26th at 10:30 AM
This is a drop-in program. No sign up is necessary.

What's Going on at the Library - Week of Oct. 17th

2011-10-14T09:02:00.000-07:00

Monday, October 17th
10:30 AM*
Child and Me Play Group
* Beginning Oct. 17th Child and Me Play Group will meet at 10:30 AM.

Tuesday, October 18th
10 AM or 11:15 AM
Mother Goose on the Loose

Wednesday, October 19th
10:30 AM
Preschool Storytime

Thursday, October 20th
3 PM
Movin' and Groovin'

What's Going On the Week of October 10th

2011-10-08T10:34:00.000-07:00

Due to the Columbus Day holiday, the library is closed, Monday, October 10th. That means no "Child and Me" group at 9:30 AM that day.

Here's what's going on for the rest of that week:
Tuesday, October 11th
Mother Goose on the Loose
10 AM or 11:15 AM

Wednesday, October 12th
Preschool Storytime
10:30 AM

Thursday, October 13th
Movin' and Groovin'
3 PM

For more details on these programs, check out our "Fall Programs" page.

What's Going on the Week of October 3rd

2011-10-03T10:26:00.000-07:00

Monday, October 3rd
9:30 AM
Child and Me Playgroup

Tuesday, October 4th
10 AM or 11:15 AM
Mother Goose on the Loose Storytime

Wednesday, October 5th
10:30 AM
Preschool Storytime

Thursday, October 6th
3 PM
"Movin' and Groovin'"

Saturday, October 8th
9:30 AM
Lego Club

*Please check out our "Fall Programs" page for more details on these programs.

Program Change

2011-10-03T10:22:00.000-07:00

Please note:
The start time for Monday morning's "Child and Me" playgroup has changed from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM. This new time change begins on October 17th. (There is no playgroup on Oct. 10th as that is Columbus Day.)

Fall Festival

2011-09-29T09:19:00.000-07:00

Don't forget that our Fall Festival is this weekend! The festival runs from 10 AM to
2 PM. Activities for kids are 10 AM - noon. The featured children's performer is Elaine Kessler (and her stinky goat!) Elaine performs at 10 AM. Her program is geared for children ages 3 years and older.

We will also be holding a "Food for Art" raffle during the festival. Due to the struggling economy, the demands on food banks is quite high. With this in mind we designed our "Food for Art" raffle. Pollard reference librarian and professional artist, Monica McDermott, has painted an original piece of artwork for the raffle. To enter the raffle, bring in nonperishable food items, one raffle ticket per item.

We hope to see you on Saturday!

This Week at the Pollard (September 26th)

2011-09-26T10:28:00.000-07:00

Don't miss out on these fun activities!

Monday, September 26th
9:30 AM
Child and Me Playgroup

Tuesday, September 27th
10 AM or 11:15 AM
Mother Goose on the Loose Storytime

Wednesday, September 28th
10:30 AM
Preschool Storytime

Thursday, September 29th
3 PM
Movin' and Groovin'

Saturday, October 1st
Fall Festival, 10 AM - 2 PM
Come join us for music, crafts, and more!
The featured children's performer is Elaine Kessler. If you are age 3 and older, celebrate fall with Elaine and her stinky goat!
This program starts at 10 AM and sign up is required.
For more information about our first ever Fall Festival see our brochure.

For more information about any of our programs, check out our Fall Programs' link.

Literacy and Laughter Program

2011-09-26T10:23:00.000-07:00

We certainly had both at this program! Courtesy of the UFund, Miss Lynda shared the story of the "Three Little Pigs." After the story the children got to pretend to be little piggies and acted out the story. But the highlight of the program was a visit from Elmo!

Rainy Weekend!

2011-09-23T13:46:00.000-07:00

They are predicting a rainy Saturday. We've got a fun and free activity for Saturday morning! Join us for a morning full of stories and fun and a surprise special guest. All children will leave with their own books to take home. This program begins at 10 AM and is for children ages 3 years to 6 years.

This Week at the Pollard (Sept. 19th)

2011-09-16T12:29:00.000-07:00

Here's what's going on this week in the Children's Department:

Tuesday, September 20th
10:00 AM or 11:15 AM
Mother Goose on the Loose

Wednesday, September 21st
10:30 AM
Preschool Storytime

Thursday, September 22nd
3 PM
Movin' and Groovin'

Saturday, September 24th
10 AM
Literacy and Laughter Program

Check out our Fall Programs link for more details on these fun activities!

New Books - September 2011

2011-09-13T12:45:00.000-07:00

We've just received in some new books! Check out our New Books - Fall 2011 page to see a list of titles.

LEGO Club Pictures!

2011-09-13T08:53:00.000-07:00

Come join at the next LEGO Club meeting on October 8th!

Upcoming Events

2011-09-06T09:54:00.000-07:00

Summer Reading is over but the fun at the library definitely is not! Look what we've got coming up:

Saturday, September 10th at 9:30 AM
Lego Club
For children in grades 1 - 6
Drop-In

Wednesday, September 14th at 10:30 AM
Autumn Jamboree
Come join us for fall themed stories and activities.
This program is for ALL children and their grownups.
Drop-In

To see more of our fall schedule check out our "Fall 2011 Programs" link.

Animal World Experience

2011-08-17T07:58:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun with Matt at the Animal World Experience program!

Wow, what a brave boy!

The crowd went wild when the tree frog climbed up the post in the meeting room!

The newest member to the Animal World Experience program, a hedgehog

Matt with Clementine, the Corn Snake

Thank you so much for joining us in this amazing program at the Pollard Memorial Library!

Fall 2011 Children's Programs

2011-08-16T11:46:00.000-07:00

It's still summer but we're already thinking fall! Check out what we have going on this autumn.

Update

2011-08-15T12:59:00.001-07:00

We've updated our list of "If you like Diary of a Wimpy Kid try these!"

Weekly Question Results

2011-08-08T07:03:00.000-07:00

This week's Quick Question results:

My favorite animal from another land is...

Giant Panda (China) 24
Tiger (Asia) 19
Zebra (Africa) 8
Kakapo (New Zealand) 4
Kangaroo (Australia) 4
Llama (South America) 2

Library Events Week of August 8th

2011-08-05T12:57:00.000-07:00

Here's what's coming up this week at the library!

Monday, August 8th at 10:30 AM
Lego Club
For kids grade 1 and older

Tuesday, August 9th
Mother Goose on the Loose
For children age 3 years and younger but big brothers and sisters are always welcome.
To accommodate everyone, we ask that you attend either the 10 AM storytime or the 11:15 AM storytime.

Wednesday, August 10th at 10:30 AM
Summertime Storytime
For children ages 4 to 7 years
Sign up is required

Wednesday, August 10th at 1 PM
Graphic Novel Club
For kids grades 3 - 5
Sign up is required

Week of August 8th - Kids who met the summer reading goal can come in this week to pick up their special summer reading prizes!

LEGO Club!

2011-08-02T06:30:00.000-07:00

Our kid builders have been having lots of fun at LEGO Club this summer!

Last Week's Quick Question Results

2011-08-02T06:21:00.000-07:00

What sport from another country would you like to try?

Hurling (Ireland) - 8
Curling (Canada) - 7
Handball (Iceland) - 5
Pato (Argentina) - 4
Arnis (Philippines) - 3
Jianzi (Vietnam) - 2

Make sure to answer this week's question!

Time is Running Out!

2011-07-28T12:51:00.000-07:00

The clock is ticking and August 5th will be here before you know it! That's the last day you can log your summer reading hours. Remember - you have to have read at least 20 hours over the summer and gotten your log checked by August 5th to qualify for a special end of summer reading prize. Get reading!

Upcoming Events, the Week of August 1st

2011-07-28T12:44:00.000-07:00

Monday, August 1 at 10:30 AM
Lego Club
For children grade 1 through grade 6

Tuesday, August 2
Mother Goose on the Loose Storytime
For children age 3 and younger but older siblings are most welcome!
Please choose to attend either the 10 AM or 11:15 AM session.

Wednesday, August 3 at 1 PM
Graphic Novel Book Club
For children grades 3 - 5
Sign up is required.

Friday, August 5 at 10:30 AM
Passport Pals
G'day, mate! Come explore the "Land Down Under!"
For children Kindergarten and older
Sign up is required

International Sports

2011-07-25T11:05:00.000-07:00

Here's a description of each sport listed in our online poll:

Arnis (Philippeans)
Filipino Martial Arts

Curling (Canada)
Players slide stones across a sheet of ice to a target area

Handball (Iceland)
Players attempt to pass or throw a ball through their opponents' goal

Hurling (Ireland)
Players use hurley sticks to pass the ball through their opponents' goal

Jianzi (Vietnam)
Players try to keep a heavily weighted feather ball in air using their feet and other body parts but not their hands

Pato (Argentina)
Game played on horseback that contains elements of polo and basketball

Upcoming Events - Week of July 25th

2011-07-21T09:26:00.000-07:00

Monday, July 25th
Lego Club
10:30 AM
For kids grades 1 - 6

Tuesday, July 26th
Mother Goose on the Loose
For children age 3 and younger but big brothers and sisters are always welcome.
So that we can accommodate everyone we ask that you come to either the 10 AM or 11:15 storytime.

Wednesday, July 27th
Summertime Storytime
10:30 AM
For children ages 4 - 7
Sign up is required!

Wednesday, July 27th
Graphic Novel Club
1 PM
For children grades 3 - 5
Sign up is required!

Weekly Question Food Descriptions

2011-07-18T13:10:00.000-07:00

This week's Weekly Question is muy delicioso! Since some of the food may be new to you, below is a description of each dish.

Bon Appetit!

Bobotie (South Africa)
Spiced meat, baked with an egg on top

Bryndzove Halusky (Slovakia)
Potato dumplings with goat cheese

Cachupa (Cape Verde)
Stew made of corn, beans, and meat or fish

Gado-Gado (Indonesia)
Salad with peanut sauce

Kimchi (Korea)
Pickled cabbage

Mansaf (Jordan)
Lamb cooked in a sauce and served over rice

Pelmeni (Russia)
Dumplings with meat or fish inside

Weiner Schnitzel (Germany)
Meat covered in bread crumbs and fried

Upcoming Programs and Events

2011-07-08T13:27:00.000-07:00

Don't Miss Out on These Upcoming Programs!

Monday, July 18th at 10:30 AM
Lego Club
For kids grades 1 - 6

Tuesday, July 19th
Mother Goose on the Loose
This program is for children age 3 and younger but big brothers and sisters are most welcome. We will be offering two sessions - one at 10 AM and one at 11:15 AM. So that we can accommodate everyone, we ask that you choose one session to attend. We appreciate your cooperation!

Wednesday, July 20th at 1 PM
Graphic Novel Book Club
For kids grades 3 - 5
Sign up is required

Friday, July 22nd at 10:30 AM
Passport Pals - Lets Go to China!
This program is for children grades Kindergarten and older.
Sign up is required.

Candy Guessing Contest - Winner!

2011-07-08T11:41:00.000-07:00

And the winner of our Candy Guessing Contest is -
Brenda S.!

There were 306 pieces of candy in our jar.
Brenda guessed 305.

Way to go, Brenda!

Weekly Question Results

2011-07-05T06:43:00.001-07:00

What language do you want to learn?

Chinese - 7
Spanish - 6
Cambodian - 4
French - 4
Greek - 2
Other - 2
Algonquin - 0
Yoruba - 0

Our Next Summer Reading Activities

2011-06-30T08:47:00.001-07:00

Don't miss out on two upcoming summer reading activities:

Candy Guessing Contest
July 1 - July 7
Can you guess how much candy is in our glass case?
The kid that guesses closest without guessing over, wins ALL the candy!
For kids age 12 and younger
One guess per child

Summertime Storytime
July 6th at 10:30 AM
This storytime is for children ages 4 - 7 years.
Sign up is required.

Last Week's Quick Question Results

2011-06-28T06:15:00.000-07:00

Last week we asked, "How many languages do you speak?" Here are the results:

One Language - 7
Two Languages - 13
Three Languages - 3
Four Languages - 1

Make sure to check out this week's Quick Question! You can answer in the library or online.

A North American Celebration!

2011-06-24T07:08:00.000-07:00

Our next activity is our "North American Celebration!" Come join us on an Imagination Vacation. We're visiting Canada, Mexico, and the United States. We'll learn a bit about each country, play some games, and make a souvenir to remember our "trip."

North American Celebration
Wednesday, June 29th at 10:30 AM
Sign up Required
For Children Kindergarten and Older

Summer Reading Kick-Off and Pumpernickel Puppets

2011-06-23T08:38:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun at the Summer Reading Kick-Off event on Wednesday, June 22nd! We watched an AMAZING puppet show by the Pumpernickel Puppets and registered for the 2011 Summer Reading program. Come to the library and register for summer reading at the Children's Reference Desk!

Spring LEGO Club Pictures

2011-06-23T08:27:00.000-07:00

Summer LEGO Club starts on Monday, July 18th @ 10:30 A.M.!

Summer Reading Kick Off

2011-06-13T13:35:00.000-07:00

Summer Reading Kick-Off!

Join us on Wednesday, June 22nd at 7 PM for a special puppet show featuring
Pumpernickel Puppets.

Get your free tickets by stopping by the Children's Desk or calling 978-970-4122.

Tickets are available on a first come, first serve basis while supplies last.

Summer Reading Program 2011

2011-05-27T13:07:00.000-07:00

It's almost summer which means it's almost summer reading time! This summer the theme is "One World, Many Stories." Check out our "Summer Reading Program" page for all the details.
We'll see you this summer!

Toe Jam Puppet Band

2011-05-23T13:29:00.000-07:00

Tonight's concert featuring the
Toe Jam Puppet Band is sold out.

Don't despair!
Join us for the June 11th puppet show featuring
Sparky's Puppets.
The show is at 10:30 AM.
Sign up is required.
Call 978-970-4122 to reserve your spots!

New Nonfiction Reads

2011-05-12T12:38:00.000-07:00

Check out our new nonfiction reads! Click the New Books - Spring 2011 link.

Child and Me Group - May 5th

2011-05-03T06:45:00.001-07:00

Please note that the May 5th "Child and Me" group facilitated by South Bay Early Intervention has been canceled. The
April 28th session was the last session until next fall.

Upcoming Spring Concerts!

2011-04-29T11:30:00.001-07:00

Don't forget about these upcoming music programs* at the library!

Sing-Along with Marina Iranzi
Thursday, May 12th at 10:30 AM
Sign up begins April 21st

Toe Jam Puppet Band
Monday, May 23rd at 6:30 PM
Sign up begins May 2nd

Sparky's Puppets
Saturday, June 11th at 10:30 AM
Sign up begins on May 27th

*Funding for this activity is provided by the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) in collaboration with the Lowell Public School's CFCE grant.

"Sleep Over at the Library"

2011-04-21T09:47:00.000-07:00

We had a terrific time at our library "sleep over." Before we tucked our cuddly friends into bed we had a bedtime storytime. Some things we did: we made a graph about what we do to get ready for bed, we played some bedtime games, rocked our cuddly friends to sleep, and did a special dance so that they would have good dreams. I don't know about our cuddly friends, but we were exhausted!

The next morning we returned to pick up our cuddly friends from their sleepover and to share breakfast.

The Winners are In!

2011-04-21T09:39:00.000-07:00

Announcing the winners of our National Library Week Poster Contest!

Grade PK/K : Kaitlin K.
Grade One/Two: Dillan F.
Grade Three/Four: Katherine H.

Congratulations!

LEGO Club Pictures

2011-04-21T06:23:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at LEGO Club!

Come join us again on Saturday, May 7th at 9:30 a.m.!

Don't Forget About Our April Vacation Activities!

2011-04-15T12:43:00.000-07:00

Celebrate Iceland's First Day of Summer!
Tuesday, April 19th at 10 AM
Come join us for a celebration of stories, games, and a craft!
For children grades 1 - 4

April Vacation Lego Club
Wednesday, April 20th at 10 AM
For Children Grades 1 - 6

Sleepover at the Library
Wednesday, April 20th at 4 PM
Come to a special afternoon storytime at the library! Bring a doll or stuffed animal friend. At the end of storytime we will "tuck in" our dollies and cuddly friends for their sleepover at the library. Come back the next morning (April 21st) at 10 AM to pick up your special friend and we'll all have breakfast together at the library!
For children age 4 +

New Books!

2011-04-13T13:53:00.001-07:00

We got in some new books! Check out our "New Books - April 2011" link to the left to see the titles.

Friendship Bracelets

2011-04-11T08:52:00.000-07:00

Come join Girl Scout Troop 60837 and make new friends and friendship bracelets on Wednesday, April 13th at the library from 3:15 PM - 4:30 PM. This activity is for children age 6 and up. No sign up necessary.

LEGO Club Pictures

2011-04-10T07:34:00.000-07:00

Oh, what fun we had at LEGO Club! Here are some pictures from LEGO Club's meeting on Saturday, April 9th.

Come join us again for a special LEGO Club during April Vacation on Wednesday, April 20th!

"Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one." - Dr. Seuss

YOUR VOTE COUNTS!

2011-04-09T12:29:00.000-07:00

In celebration of National Library Week
(April 17 - April 24), the library is conducting a poster contest for children Preschool through Grade 4. During the week of April 11th, the public can vote for their favorites. The entries are posted in the Children's Department. Get your ballot at the Children's Desk. Everyone can vote - even grownups! ONE VOTE PER PERSON!

LEGO Club

2011-04-07T22:09:00.000-07:00

Lego Club meets this Saturday at 9:30 A.M. Children in grades 1-6 are welcome.

More Programs

2011-04-07T08:07:00.001-07:00

Check out our "Spring Programs" page. We've added some family programs such as concerts and puppets shows. Sign up is required for these programs. Make sure to reserve your spots!

April Vacation at the Library

2011-04-07T07:33:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to include us in your April Vacation Plans!

Tuesday, April 19th at 10 AM

Celebrate Iceland's First Day of Day!

Join us for Icelandic stories, some festival games, and a craft!

Drop-In

For kids grades 1 - 4

Wednesday, April 20th at 4 PM

Sleepover at the Library!

Bring a doll or stuffed animal with you to storytime. At the end of storytime we will tuck our dolls and stuffed animal friends in for their sleepover at the library.

Come back the next morning (Thursday, April 21st) at 10 AM and we'll all have breakfast together at the library!

Drop-In

For Children age 4 +

Special Needs Sibling Group

2011-04-04T09:10:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, due to low enrollment, we have had to cancel the Special Needs Siblings support group. We will try again in the fall.

April is Autism Awareness Month

2011-04-01T07:24:00.000-07:00

In recognition of Autism Awareness month the library has planned some events:

On Saturday, April 2nd at 10:30 AM there is a storytime for special needs families. All are welcome!

April's quick question is, "How many people (adult or child) do you know on the Autism Spectrum? Patrons can participate in the library by putting a sticker on the question poster or online. To the left of this posting is the online survey. We hope everyone will participate. Let's show Lowell how many friends with Autism are in our community and how many people are touched by Autism.

In addition we put up an Autism Awareness display.

Upcoming Events for Special Needs Families

2011-03-28T08:33:00.000-07:00

This Saturday (April 2, 2011) at 10:30 AM there is a storytime for special needs kids and their families. No sign up is necessary. Come share stories and music in a comfortable environment. It is also an opportunity to meet other special families from the area. On Tuesday afternoons in April the Thom Anne Sullivan Center will be conducting a support group for siblings of special needs kids. The group is for children in grades 1 - 4. Sign up by calling 978-970-4122. We look forward to seeing you at the library!

Roger Tincknell Concert

2011-03-25T09:13:00.000-07:00

Roger Tincknell's concert on Saturday, March 26th is sold out!

But don't worry, we do have other programs and concerts throughout the spring. Check out our "Spring 2011" page for a calendar of events.

Special Friends Storytime: A Storytime for Special Needs Kids and Their Grownups

2011-03-16T12:02:00.000-07:00

Please join us for this storytime for Special Needs kids and their families! Stimming children are welcome! Children who have a hard time sitting still are welcome! Brothers and sisters are welcome too!
Come join us for stories, movement, and music.
Come meet other special families from the area.
Saturday, April 2nd at 10:30 AM
We look forward to seeing you!

Poster Contest

2011-03-14T13:46:00.000-07:00

It's time for our annual poster contest to celebrate National Library Week!

This contest is open to children Preschool through Grade 4.
All posters must be drawn on the official entry form. Get your entry form at the Children's Desk.
One entry per child
Entries must be received by noon on Monday, April 4, 2011.
All entries become the property of the Pollard Library and will not be returned.
Posters will be displayed at the library during National Library Week (April 10 - April 16) during which time the public will view and vote for their favorites. Votes will be accepted until 5 PM on April 16, 2011.
Winners will be announced during the week of April 18, 2011.
Schools may enter a maximum of 20 posters per school

Special Needs Siblings Support Group

2011-03-08T10:12:00.000-08:00

This April, the Thom Anne Sullivan Center will be conducting a support group for special needs siblings in grades 1 -4. This is an opportunity for siblings to share their unique experiences of living with a sibling who has special needs. For more information see our "Winter and Spring 2011" page to the left.

Spring Programs

2011-03-08T10:09:00.000-08:00

I've added spring programs to the blog! Check out the "Winter and Spring 2011" page to see what we have going on this April and May. And don't forget to check it regularly as we do add programs!

Family Concert

2011-03-07T10:20:00.000-08:00

Calling all families! Come join us for a musical morning! Roger Tincknell will be performing at the library on Saturday, March 26th at 10:30 AM. The concert is free but space is limited and sign up is required. Reserve your spot by stopping by the Children's Desk or call 978-970-4122.

Funding for this activity is provided by the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC)
in collaboration with the Lowell Public School’s CFCE grant.

LEGO Club

2011-03-07T09:53:00.000-08:00

Lego Club meets this Saturday at 9:30 AM. Kids grades 1 - 6 are welcome.

It’s Never Too Early: Parents should talk to their young ones long before they can speak

2011-03-04T09:35:00.000-08:00

Talking to your baby is important in language development. Read this recent article in School Library Journal:
It’s Never Too Early: Parents should talk to their young ones long before they can speak

March into Fun at the Pollard!

2011-03-04T06:23:00.000-08:00

We've got lots of activities in March. Check out the Winter 2011 Programs link to the left for a list of events.

Storytimes start the week of March 7th.

Remember the Ladies

2011-03-02T10:43:00.001-08:00

It's Women's History month and we've put a book list together for you. Check out the Book List for March, Women's History Month page to the left. We've also included some women's history web sites.

Autism Support Group

2011-02-22T06:17:00.000-08:00

"Putting the Pieces Together" an autism support group meets tonight at the library at 6:30 PM. All those touched by autism are welcome!

Don't Forget

2011-02-17T13:29:00.000-08:00

About our February Vacation activities! Check out our "Winter 2011 Programs" page to see what's going on.

March Madness!

2011-02-14T07:53:00.000-08:00

We're mixing things up at the library this March! Mother Goose is taking a well deserved vacation. Have no worries! We still have lots of fun planned. Join us for a Baby/Toddler storytime or a family storytime. Check out our "Winter 2011" page for a list of March activities.

New Book - 21 Thumbs Up

2011-02-03T08:16:00.000-08:00

I visited the 2nd grade at St. Monica School today for their Career Day and I read a brand new book that we got in - Librarian on the Roof by M.G. King. It got 21 "thumbs up" and 1 "thumbs down." I think that's a very good review!

Autism Support Group

2011-01-31T09:22:00.000-08:00

Starting on February 8, 2011, South Bay Early Intervention will be facilitating "Putting the Pieces Together" a support group for parents, grandparents, caregivers, and others touched by autism. The group will meet at the library every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at 6:30 PM. Some meetings will feature guest speakers. For more information contact Judith Hahn at South Bay at 978-452-1736.

New Books - January 2011

2011-01-28T12:43:00.000-08:00

Need a good read for a snowy day? Check out our "New Books - January 2011" page.

He's Here!

2011-01-27T07:43:00.000-08:00

Geronimo Stilton, that is. Read all about the adventures of the best newspaper mouse in New Mouse City in his book series.