The Best Things In Life Are Free!

Everyone loves free stuff!

This week, Kiplinger.com published its “Fabulous Freebies 2008” article, highlighting some fantastic free resources, such as free office software, free diet and fitness help, free furniture, and even free language lessons!

As the authors mention, one of your best free resources is the public library.  It’s always free to check out books, movies, and music, and our programs are free as well.  Check out our event calendar to see what’s going on!

**Britta**

Dancing with the Librarians

Well, the season for Dancing with the Stars is over, so now what do you do? Hmm, I think I know the answer to this one – you can come out to the West Palm Beach Public Library and learn how to dance for yourself!

‘Tis true, the world’s most awesome library is hosting free Argentine Tango dance classes at the library in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. George, from Exclusively Argentine Tango @ George’s will be here the first three Thursdays in September (the 4th, 11th, and 18th) from 6:00 to 8:00 pm to teach us how to dance!

So, if you think you can dance (or not) come out to the library and take advantage of this wonderful program!

Annya

We Have Landed on Facebook!

I am pleased to announce that West Palm Beach Public Library now has a presence on Facebook!  From here you will be able to view all of our events, see pictures from past events, and interact with other library patrons.

If you already have a Facebook account, just search for West Palm Beach Public Library and become a “fan!”

If you do not have an account, set one up at http://www.facebook.com.  It’s a great tool for reconnecting and interacting with friends, classmates, and co-workers.

**Britta**

Dogs help kids read!

Taylor

For those of you who have not yet met Taylor, please be sure to bring the kids for a Saturday morning “Tutoring with Taylor” reading session.  Taylor is a gentle yellow labrador retriever trained to “listen” to children read.  Be sure to contact the Children’s Department at 561-868-7786 or email hillbergj@mycitylibrary.org to reserve a spot with Taylor. 

Many libraries and schools are now bringing canines to their facilities to improve literacy skills by having children read aloud to dogs.  These types of dogs also help children develop confidence in reading by listening in a nonjudgmental way and smiling with a wagging tail.  Last night on NBC Nightly News a segment was shown on a special reading program developed in Chicago in which school kids are reading to trained dogs.  According to the program children’s reading levels have significantly improved!

Now if I could only train my dog to fetch the newspaper without chewing a hole in the front page.  I think its about time I check-out some of the following dog-training books available from the Library!

Dog Training in 10 Minutes by Carol Lea Benjamin

The Everything Dog Training & Tricks Books by Gerilyn J. Bielakiewicz

Theresa