PARTY WITH THE PIGEON!

On October 27, 2007, a small but lively group of participants enjoyed an afternoon with Mo Willems' Pigeon character. As participants arrived, they were given car-shaped nametags (Ellison die) by Children's Librarian Barb Scott. It only figures that since the Pigeon wants to drive the bus, he'd like to drive a car as well!

Participants then watched a short Powerpoint presentation on Mo Willems and his Pigeon character, which highlighted the books in the series, as well as other books that the author has written. The Pigeon character actually first appeared in the margins of a book Willems was working on, and, as Willems tells it, the Pigeon pretty much demanded his own book! It is interesting to note that in Willems' newest book Knuffle Bunny Too, the name of the main character is Trixie. This just happens to be the name of Mo's own daughter!

Then, participants were released to work on five different Pigeon-themed crafts. They were:

PIGEON AND DUCK STICK PUPPETS
Participants first colored the puppet patterns, which were copied off onto construction paper. Then these were cut out, using the examples (pictured above). Large/jumbo craft sticks were then added to the back of each and a goggly eye was glued onto the Pigeon puppet!

PIGEON'S BUS CRAFT
This colorful bus is just perfect for Pigeon to ride and such a friendly face, to boot! Participants colored all of the pieces that made up the bus and then cut them out and assembled them according to the example (pictured above).

HOT DOG! IT'S A CRAFT!
This hot dog is just too cute for anyone to eat, even Pigeon or Duckling! Participants first colored all of the pieces and then cut them out. The hot dog was glued to the bun and then the arms, legs, eyes, nose, and mouth were added, according to the example.

CREATE YOUR OWN PIGEON DOOR HANGER!
This door hanger is double-sided. Participants first colored the Piegon and the background, if they wished. The hanger was then cut along dotted lines, glue applied to the back of one piece, and then folded.

COLOR THE PIGEON!
A coloring page was provided for participants to color and turn in for display in the library.

Snacks were also provided for those present.

Each participant received a goodie bag before leaving for the day. These goodie bags contained Rubber Duck necklaces (purchased from U.S. Toy) and Gummi Hot Dogs (purchased from Candy Direct).

Handouts were also provided for participants to take home. These included word searches, coloring sheets from other Willems' books, and arecipe for the cookies included in Mo's book Edwina, The Dinosaur Who Didn't Know She Was Extinct.

ALA also has a complete reading program with Pigeon and his friends available in their catalog!

AN AFTERNOON WITH GERONIMO STILTON!

Geronimo Stilton and his books were the focus of the afternoon of September 22, 2007, with a program presented at the Bucyrus Public Library. As participants arrived, they were given a mouse-shaped nametag (Ellison die-cut).

Children's Librarian Barb Scott began the program by reading the first chapter of the first Geronimo Stilton book to be published, Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye. This was followed by a short Powerpoint presentation on the Stiltson, as well as other characters appearing in his books. Participants learned that this series was first published in Italy and became best-sellers there. Scholastic is the American publishing agent for this series and maintains a page at www.scholastic.com/geronimostilton At this site, readers can see issues of Geronimo's newspaper, The Rodent's Gazette. Sadly, the newspaper site has not been updated since spring of 2006, but readers can look at back issues. The site does seem to be fairly current on the books, however.

As part of the Powerpoint, there was a short quiz on the books incorporated to test the reader's knowledge of the series.

Once these two activities were finished, participants were released to craft tables to make 6 different Geronimo Stilton-themed crafts! They were:

1. Heart-Shaped Mouse Craft--This adorable mouse craft was found on-line at www.first-school.ws The craft is made completely of heart shapes and very easy to assemble! Participants colored and cut out the heart shapes and them assembled them into adorable-looking mice!

2. Benjamin Stilton Toilet Paper Roll Craft--Benjamin is Geronimo's favorite nephew, and this TP roll craft reminded me of him! The base of the craft is a toilet paper roll. The template for the craft was found on-line at www.dltk-kids.com Since TP rolls come in different sizes, participants might have to make the piece covering the roll a big bigger, or in my case when I made the example, I simply trimmed the roll down to the size of the piece that covered it. This little guy holds a piece of cheese (Geronimo's favorite food!) in one of his hands.

3. Flag of Italy--Participants learned earlier in the program that the Geronimo Stilton books were first published in Italy. So, it was only natural that they make an Italian flag to celebrate that fact! The pattern for the flag was found on-line at www.enchantedlearning.com This is a great site where many of the patterns used to be free, but now, lots of them can't be accessed unless you are a member. But--GOOD NEWS! The membership cost for one year for access is ONLY $20.00! This gets you a log-in name and password. Once you are logged into the site, the log-in lasts.....seems like forever! If you are interested, check out the information at the top of the home page. As an added bonus, site members have access to a banner-free version of the site with printer-friendly pages. It's a great deal for a site that you will use a lot!
Back to the flag! The flag of Italy is a green, white, and red vertical tri-color, and was officially adopted in 1946, when Italy became a republic. Participants colored the flags as the arrows and colors indicated and then cut them out.
Participants also learned, at this station, that "topo" is the Italian word for mouse....remember Topo Gigio on the old "Ed Sullivan Show"? Hence, the name!

4. The Big Cheese Craft--Geronimo's favorite food is cheese, so it was only natural that I include a craft that featured it. The pattern for this "cheesehead" was found on www.dltk-kids.com in their Alpha-Buddies section. Participants colored a block of cheese, and then added a face, arms, and legs that had been colored and cut out!

5. Geronimo Stilton Paper Bag Puppet--This pattern for Geronimo was sort of a mish-mash of different patterns from several sites. The base idea came from www.dltk-kids.com site once again with a mouse paper bag puppet they featured. I used the ears, eyes, and nose, but adapted it by adding a shirt, tie, hands, and a pair of glasses to put on Geronimo's nose! It turned out quite cute and resembled Geronimo a lot! Pieces were colored and then assembled on the bag. It is important that the sides of the bottom of the bag were folded under to form more of a "snout" for the nose.

6. Newspaper Scavenger Hunt--This was a break from the tradition craft, but did involve some cutting and pasting. Since newspapers are a part of Geronimo's life, participants were asked to scour some old newspapers that were on hand, and find 10 items. Once they were found, they cut the items out and glued them onto a piece of construction paper provided. The 10 items that they had to find were:
1. A classified ad
2. The number 5
3. A picture with someone smiling in it
4. Sports story--once found, cut out the score of the game
5. The letter K
6. Ad ad for food
7. Picture of any kind of animal
8. The name of the newspaper
9. A date other than today
10. A face with glasses
This activity proved to be a lot of fun!

Participants were also treated to snacks as part of the program. Even the snacks took on a cheese theme: Cheese-Its, Cheese Puffs, and also sugar cookies, pretzels, and punch. You might want to have different types of cheese for your participants to taste as part of your program!

A Geronimo Stilton costume is available from Costume Specialists in Columbus, Ohio. Their website is www.costumespecialists.com It is one of the Scholastic costumes available for a shipping price of $60.00. It's a very cool looking costume! You will want to have someone fairly thin and of average height wear this costume.

Door prizes (books) were also given away at the conclusion of the program, as well as goodie bags with Smartie candies (since Geronimo is such a smarty!). You might be able to pick up paperback copies of the books themselves cheaply through your vendor, the local Wal-mart or bookstore, or perhaps Scholastic book orders through a local school!

IT'S KATIE KAZOO AND YOU!

Katie Kazoo is a popular series with 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders, and that is the core audience that you may get for this program. The titles lend themselves to a variety of craft ideas, much like the Magic Tree House series.

Here's the scoop on Kate: she's an ordinary third-grader, except for one very extraordinary problem...she wishes on a shooting star to be anyone but herself. What Katie wishes comes true with regularity, as she trades places with characters in each of her books!

First, check out the Katie Kazoo website at www.katiekazoo.com
Here, you can download (in PDF format) a number of Katie Kazoo Classroom Crew kits. They've got great ideas, activities, and things like word searches, puzzles, etc. that you could include as part of your program. I like to use the word searches and puzzles as handouts for the participants to take home.

I did a Powerpoint presentation on the series and characters, along with author information on Nancy Kruhlik that I can send to anyone interested.

Here are the craft ideas that I chose to use as part of my program and the books that I paired them with:

1. Snowman Paper Plate Craft--Use with the book It's Snow Joke! The base of this craft is a small white paper plate. The plate is doused with glue and then covered with cotton balls to simulate snow. On top of the cotton balls are glue the following items (cut from construction paper): carrot nose, two eyes, and derby hat.

2. Take a Hike Door Hanger--Use with the book Camp Rules! The base of this craft is the Ellison door hanger die cut. This was colored whatever color the participant desired. Then, a smaller paper with the slogan "Take a Hike! I'm Reading!" was glued to the front. These could be made fancier by the use of scrapbooking scissors, as we did. Once that was glued on, then participants could also affix to the front an evergreen tree and campfire (also Ellison dies).

3. Valentine Monkey Bookmark--Use with the book Love Stinks! These bookmarks were kits purchased from Oriental Trading Company. These come in packs of 12 bookmarks (and all the pieces with which to make them) for $4.95. These turned out really cute!

4. Heart-Shaped Dog Craft--Use with the book Doggone It! This adorable little doggie is made entirely of heart shapes. The pattern can be found on the www.dltk-kids.com site, one of my favorite sites to find patterns for my programs! I have the pattern in my file. You might want to provide an example for participants to follow in gluing the hearts together correctly!

5. Make Your Own Pizza Craft--Use with the book Any Way You Slice It! The base of this craft was a crust shape copied off on white constructon paper. Participants could color and then add toppings as they desired. I had a number of "toppings" (also done on white construction paper to color) available, such as pepperoni, sausage, cheese, onion, mushroom shapes. Once these were colored, they were placed on top of the colored crust. I had each of the "toppings" in separate baggies to make them easier for participants to find.

As usual, snacks were served. If your local Wal-mart carries the Katie Kazoo book in their magazine/book section, why not purchase several to give away as door prizes for your program?

As I stated before, the titles in this series open up lots of possibilities for crafts! Enjoy!

MADELINE PROGRAM

We originally received a publisher's kit that detailed a "Madeline Says Merci" event, a tea in which visitors learn all about manners. This kit has reproducible sheets that can be the basis for many of the following crafts or activities. This program could also be a great Christmas program, tying in the book Madeline's Christmas. Along with the book's chartacters, French Christmas customs could be highlighted, as well as form the basis for crafts and/or snacks for the event!

The publisher's kit provided nametag patterns, word searches, coloring sheets, and crossword puzzles that could be used.

The kit begins with a two-page instruction sheet on how to prepare for the "tea". One suggestion has decorating the area with green vines, just like "the old house in Paris". Use French flags as decorations (making a construction paper pattern of a French flag could also be a craft!). Ellison offers an Eiffel Tower die that could be used as well! If you choose to do the tea program, think about serving punch and cookies, or small tea sandwiches as snacks!

A game that is included is a twist on the game "Simon Says". "Madeline Says" has participants acting out different types of manners.

The kit comes with nametags that could be used, as well as an activity that goes with them.

A "Fun with Finger Puppets" sheet features four characters from the books that could be used as a craft.

A sheet detailing how to make a "Consideration Flower" (basically a paper flower) is included.

We had done stick puppets with 4 of the characters from the books: Madeline, Miss Clavel, Pepito, and Genevive. These were colored, cut out, and placed on popsicle sticks.

Author information is also included with a timeline. It is interesting to note that Bemelmans' daughter, Barbara, was the inspiration for Madeline. The character Madeline was named after Bemelmans' wife, Madeleine Freund.

Also part of the file that I have on-hand is from The Family Channel and is a "Madeline in the Classroom" booklet. It has a few ideas that could be adapted for crafts for this program!

IF YOU GIVE A PIG A PANCAKE PROGRAM

Most of these ideas were adapted/came from a kit that was provided by the book's publisher. I do not know if this kit is still available, but I do have copies of the patterns used.

The program started out with sharing the book by Laura Numeroff. Biographical information on the author and showing her other books could be done as well.

A game that could be played as part of your program is "Pin the Pancake on the Pig". We made a larger version of the pig and individual pancakes on colored construction paper. The pig pattern came from a coloring page that was provided.

Another game that was provided in the kit was a Scavenger Hunt. 9 items appear on the sheet that appear in the book. Divide participants into teams. Photocopy enough pictures so that each team can find one of each to complete the hunt. Provide a master sheet that teams can affix the pictures to (provide teams with scotch tape as well). Hide the pictures in your library. Provide small prizes for teams as they finish!

Pig Mask--This mask pattern can be found in the book Paper Hat Tricks II.

Pig Coloring Page--This coloring page can be colored and handed in by participants.

Any number of other cute pig crafts could be used to supplement this program.

A word search and maze were included in the publisher's packet.

AN EVENING WITH ARTHUR!

Demco has a large amount of items that can be used to supplement this program! Their website is www.demco.com. Toll free phone number is 1-800-356-1200. We purchased bookbags, bookmarks, balloons, and the Arthur glasses/tie/library card items.

I began the program with a trivia game called "The Brain's Brain Game". This trivia game asked questions about the Arthur series of books, but had multiple choice answers. The actual game is quite lengthy, so I selected questions I thought that participants would readily know.

Coloring sheets and handouts were available for the taking.

Several crafts were available to do, as well. They were:

1. Arthur Glasses--This was a purchased craft through the Demco site. Glasses, bow tie, and libary card punched out of a pre-printed sheet.

2. Arthur Doorhanger--The Ellison doorhanger die was used as the base for this craft. A pattern for the doorhanger bottom that features the slogan "Please Don't Disturb I'm Busy Reading with Arthur" was found (I think it might have come from an older issue of CopyCat Magazine) that fit perfectly to the bottom area. This was colored, cut out and glued onto the doorhanger.

3. D.W. and Arthur Party Crowns--This craft originally came from the PBS site, but I am not sure if it is still available. I have patterns, however. Pattern sheets were printed twice, colored, and cut out along dotted lines. Pieces were then taped together along a side edge, then sized to the child's head and taped again to complete.

4. Arthur Paper Bag Puppet--This pattern came from the November/December 1994 issue of CopyCat Magazine. Patterns of Athur's head and body were colored and cut out. The head was glued to the bottom of a paper lunch bag. The head was lifted up and the body was glued below it.

5. Arthur Mask--This pattern came from a PBS booklet. Pattern was colored and cut out. A paint stick was attached to make a mask the child could hold in front of his or her face.

Another craft that would work well for this program was the Pooh Bear Ears from the Winnie the Pooh program that I did. They look very much like Arthur's ears, as well!

WINNIE THE POOH PROGRAM

Our program was done in celebration of Winnie the Pooh's 75th birthday, but these ideas could be adapted to any type of Pooh program!

Approximately 50 children with parent(s) in tow attended our program at the library. The vast majority of participants were pre-registered. Several showed up and were not aware of the pre-registration, but there was enough room, as we had several no-shows (not unusual).

Participants started out watching a short movie, "Winnie the Pooh and a Day for Eeyore". After that, they were dismissed to either craft or game areas. The two games available to play were "Pin the Tail on Eeyore" and "Pooh's Pinecone Toss". The Eeyore game was essentially "Pin the Tail on the Donkey", except the donkey was a large colored pattern of Eeyore. The Pinecone Toss consisted of a large-mouthed crock and actual pinecones that participants could try to toss into it.

In the crafts area, six different crafts were available to do. They were:

1. Make a Newspaper Hat--This craft was simply folding a large piece of newspaper to make a hat. I had a example display showing the folds for the hat.

2. Make a Pooh Bear Hat with Ears--Ear patterns were run off on brown construction paper and then cut out. The hat part consisted of strips that went around the child's head and across the top to make an area to which the ears were affixed. These turned out to be very, very cute!

3. Pooh's Sweet Spot Bookmark--These bookmarks were cut out, folded, and laminated. A hole could be punched in the top to accomodate yarn or ribbon, if desired.

4. 3-D Hanging Pooh--This pattern of Pooh was colored, cut out, and assembled to make a hanging item. Yarn was added to the top.

5. Pooh Coloring Page--This page was just simply a coloring sheet.

6. Make a Pooh Birthday Card--This card was colored and folded.

Snacks were also served as part of the afternoon. They were: cupcakes, Teddy Graham snack crackers, ice cream, and fruit punch. Door prize drawings were also held.

Handouts and puzzles were also available to take.

We heard many positive comments on the party from both parents and children. The only downside was that there were some children who were simply too young to do the crafts or the games effectively.

AN AFTERNOON WITH MAISY!

Maisy's birthday is February 10th, so that month is a great time to do a program with this popular character! I did not hold my program that month, however, as we could not get the costume until April!

My program was held on April 28, 2007. 26 participants converged on the Library's community room to enjoy snacks, crafts, and fun!

I opened the program with a short Powerpoint presentation on Maisy, her friends, and her creator, Lucy Cousins.

Participants were them released to the craft tables to make 5 Maisy-themed crafts. They were:

1. Let's Make a Maisy Stick Puppet!--Participants colored a picture of Maisy riding her tricycle (adapted from a coloring page I found online) and attached a small craft stick to the back to make a puppet.

2. Let's Color Maisy!--Participants did their best coloring jobs on a simple picture of Maisy. These were then handed in to be displayed with photos taken of the day's event.

3. Let's Make Maisy Paper Dolls--Participants colored pictures of Maisy and several articles of clothing with small tabes that made th clothing fit onto her. Baggies were used to keep everything in on place!

4. Make Maisy's Panda Bear--This cute panda bear pattern was made mostly of cirlces. Googly eyes were added for a nice effect!

5. Let's Make Maisy Ears!--Color copies of Maisy's ears were copied from an Internet site (www.maisyfunclub.com) and then printed (in color) on construction paper. These ears were then cut out and affixed to strips of paper that were sized to fit the child's head.

While the children worked on crafts, a VERY special visitor showed up: Maisy herself! Many children made a beeline to Maisy for hugs. Maisy stayed long enough to have pictures taken with nearly all of the children present. The costume was rented from Costume Specialists of Columbus, Ohio.

Snacks were also served as part of the afternoon. They consisted of gingerbread men, fruit snacks, pretzels, and lemonade.

Handouts of puzzles, coloring pages, and booklists were also available.

Both of the following websites have additional crafts that could be used as part of a program:

www.maisyfunclub.com
www.noggin.com

CHARLOTTE'S WEB PROGRAM

My Charlotte's Web program was done prior to the opening of the movie. When participants arrived, they were given an Ellison nametag (spider web).

I prepared a Powerpoint presentation on the book, its author (E.B. White) and the upcoming movie. This is available for anyone who would like it.

Participants had the opportunity to make 5 different crafts based on the movie. They were:

1. Wilbur the Pig Mask--The mask itself was take from www.enchantedlearning.com Participants colored the maks, cut it out and also cut out the eye holes. A craft stick was glue to the bottom of the mask, behind the area where the mouth is located.

2. "Some Pig" Coloring Sheet--This was a simple coloring sheet with a line drawing of Wilbur, with the slogan "Some Pig" at the top. Participants colored these sheets and then turned them in to me. They were displayed along with photos taken of the day's event.

3. Charlotte the Spider Craft--Participants colored and cut out all pieces. The rectangle piece of the patterns was curled into a cylinder shape and glued or stapled. Legs were then glued or staped to the bottom of the body. Participants drew a mouth on Charlotte and added stick-on eyes to complete her!

4. Let's Make a Farm Wreath--These pre-packaged kits were purchased from S and S Crafts. The kits contained the cardboard circle (which formed the base of the wreath), foam pigs, foam cows with faces, foam horses, foam ducks, and foam barns. These pieces were glued into a pattern of the participant's choice on the circle.

5, Mr. Zuckerman and Lurvy Stick Puppets--Line drawings of both of these characters from the book were colored and then cut out around dotted lines that surrounded them. A small craft stick was glued to the back of each.

Participants also received a variety of handouts, as well as a bookmark entitled "If You Enjoyed Charlotte's Web...Try These..."

Participants enjoyed snacks and drawings for door prizes were held at the conclusion of the program.

Walden Media, when the movie was first out, had an Educator's Guide available online. I do not know if this is still available, but I do have a copy in my program file if anyone would like it!

SISTERS GRIMM PROGRAM

This program was cancelled due to poor sign-up...other issues with things going on the weekend that it was planned (I had planned to do it toward the end of October--the community had Halloween parades and other activities). Be that as it may, here are some ideas for those of you wanting to do a program on this popular series!

Michael Buckley, the author of the books, is a native of Ohio (Akron), now living in New York City. The books feature two sisters, Sabrina and Daphne Grimm. Sabrina is 11 and Daphne is 7. They have been placed (and run away from) more foster homes than you can count, since their parents mysterious disappearance. Enter Granny Relda, the girls' grandmother, who is also a world-class detective. She takes the girls to Ferryport Landing, the town where the Ever Afters (all of your favorite fairy take characters) live ever since Wilhelm Grimm (yes, THA T Grimm) brought them there in an attempt to save them.

As of this writing, there are 5 books in the series. They are:

#1 The Sisters Grimm: The Fairy-Tale Detectives
#2 The Sisters Grimm: The Unusual Suspects
#3 The Sisters Grimm: The Problem Child
#4 The Sisters Grimm: Once Upon a Crime
#5 The Sisters Grimm: Magic and other Misdemeanors (due out 12/2007)

I had prepared a Powerpoint presentation using information from Michael's site (http://www.sistersgrimm.com/), which introduced the characters of the series and the plot like. This presentation is available if anyone would like it.

The crafts that I had planned for the afternoon were:

1. Jack in the Beanstalk Craft--Use Styrofoam cups, potting soil, and 3-4 bean seeds. Fill the cup halfway with potting soil. Plant the seeds and then cover with soil until the pot is 3/4 of the way full. Water the plant. Have participants take this home and place in a sunny spot and keep watered. They will be surprised how quickly their plants grow with a little TLC!

2. Snow White Toilet Paper Tube Craft--Participants were to color and cut out all of the peices that made up Snow White and her outfit. Pieces were glued to the TP tube to create a lovely Snow White figure. Snow White, in the Sisters Grimm series, is a school teacher at the Ferryport Landing Elementary School. This pattern can be found in both black and white and color at http://www.dltk-kids.com/

3. Let's Make a Wolf Paper Bag Puppet--Mr. Canis is the friend of Relda Grimm, who is the Sisters Grimm's grandmother. For those who know Latin, "canis" is the word for wolf or dog! Pieces comprising the wolf's body are colored and then glued onto a paper bag. Googly eyes or sticker eyes were to be used to cover the black pupils to make cool eyes for the wolf!

4. Let's Color Prince Charming!--Prince Charming is the Mayor of Ferryport Landing, the town where all of the Ever Afters (fairy tale folk) live. This craft was one that would have been turned in as participants finished it. This was simply a coloring page of Prince Charming (from Cinderella) in his royal best. These coloring sheets would have been displayed with pictures taken of the days event.

5. Let's Make a Royal Crown--Crown kits were purchased from J and A Handy-Crafts, Inc (165 S. Pennsylvania Avenue, Lindenhurst, PA 11757; 1-888-252-1130. Website: www.JAcrafts.com) These great kits come with gold crowns that can be adjusted to size, along with feathers, jewels, and stickers with which to decorate them.

I have since ran across a cool-looking Pretty Princess Mask craft project from the book 101 PaperPlate Art Projects. The craft is a large face of a princess that is colored and secured to a large paper plate, which is laced with yarn to tie on the child's head.

A great simple recipe that I was going to use as a snack for the party was one that I ran across called "Goblin' Good Gorp". Adjust the amounts for your group:

2 cups peanuts
1 cup miniature creme-filled chocolate sandwich cookies
1 cup candy corn
1/2 cup cheese flavored tiny fish-shaped snacks
1/2 cup raisins

Mix all ingredients together and story in a tightly covered container. This amount makes 10 servings. You could do this as a snack to eat at the program, or do up small snack bags to take home.

JUDY MOODY PROGRAM

A small, but lively group enjoyed a program featuring juvenile book character Judy Moody on Saturday, January 27, 2007 at the Bucyrus Public Library.

As participants arrived, Children’s Librarian Barbara Scott gave each one a nametag in the shape of an Ellison smiley face and encouraged them to sign up for door prizes, which were given away later in the program.

She began the program by sharing the first chapter of the book Judy Moody (was in a mood. Not a good mood. A bad mood) which is the first book in this popular series by Megan MacDonald. This was followed by a short Powerpoint presentation that highlighted characters from the books as well as facts and trivia from the author’s life.

Participants were then released to work at five different craft tables, each with a Judy Moody-themed craft. Crafts available were:

1. Make a Judy Moody Fortune Teller!—Cootie catchers/fortune tellers were preprinted for participants. I adapted one that appeared on an Arthur website and replaced the Arthur characters with Judy Moody ones. Copies were made on our color printer. Participants were given folding instructions that were color-coded.

2. A Me Collage!—As a way to get to know each other, the students in Judy’s third grade class make collages that tell about them. Participants were given magazines to use to cut out words, names, pictures, etc. that told about them. If they could not find pictures, they were free to draw. This collage was done on 11 by 17 paper.

3. Design Your Own Bandage—Before Judy Moody sets out to save the world, she simply wants to win a contest—a Crazy Strip contest! For this, she needs to think up a colorful design and add a message that goes with it. Participants were given a large bandage outline and were free to create their own design and message on it. This craft was also done on 11 by 17 paper.

4. Judy Moody Coloring Page—Participants each colored a picture of Judy Moody that I put together using Microsoft Publisher. These pictures were displayed along with pictures taken of the day’s event.

5. Uncle Sam Tubey—This was a really cool craft whose base was a toilet paper roll. It was to go along with the book Judy Moody Declares Independence.

Participants enjoyed refreshments, which consisted of Rice Krispie treats, pretzels, popcorn, and punch. While participants ate, Children’s Librarian Barbara Scott shared chapters from two more of the Judy Moody series, Judy Moody Predicts the Future and Judy Moody, M.D.—The Doctor is In

Before the end of the program, drawings were held for three door prizes.

Before leaving, each participant received a small goodie bag which contained candy, and two stretchy frogs. The tops of the bags were secured by a small mood ring. The “”What Mood Are You In?” guide from Judy Moody Predicts the Future was run off and distributed, so that participants could tell what the colors on their rings meant!

THE CAT IN THE HAT 50TH BIRTHDAY PROGRAM

On March 24th, 2007, 45 children and their parents, grandparents, and caregivers converged on the Community Room of the Bucyrus Public Library for a program honoring the 50th birthday of Dr. Seuss's beloved character, The Cat in the Hat.

As each participant arrived, he or she was given a hat-shaped nametag (Ellison hat die) with a red-and-white CITH sticker attached. Participants also placed their names into a drawing for door prizes, which were given away later in the program.

Children's Librarian Barb Scott opened the program by presenting a short Powerpoint presentation on Dr. Seuss, his life, and books. Some parents (and grandparents) were not aware that Seuss wrote under the name Theo LeSieg as well. LeSieg is Geisel (Seuss's real last name), only spelled backwards! They also learned that Seuss's first book And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street was almost not published. It was sent to and rejected by 27 different publishers!

At the end of the Powerpoint presentation, participants were released to the craft tables. There were six crafts available to make, with the instructions for the crafts written in--what else--rhyme!. They were:

1. The Cat in the Hat Stick Puppet--Participants colored and then cut out a Cat in the Hat shape and then glued this shape to a craft stick.

2. Hats Off to Reading Door Hanger--This craft came from an older issue of CopyCat magazine. Participants colored and then cut out the doorhanger (shaped like the Cat's hat) and then cut the slit and circle out that allowed the piece to hang over the doorknob.

3. Design You Own Fantabulous Hat!--These kits were puchased for (but not used) the Katie Kazoo program. They can be seen at http://www.handsonfun.com/, part of Oriental Trading Company. Each package of 24 hats had 12 of two different designs. Participants were supplied with crayons, markers, adhesive star stickers, colorful pom poms, feathers, and an assortment of foam shapes (purchased at the local Wal-Mart) with which to decorate the hats.

4. The Cat's Coloring Page--At each program, one craft is used as a display piece along with photos taken of the day's event. This coloring page was found on-line at http://www.thecatinthehat.com/

5. The Cat in the Hat Treat Bag--This craft was found on-line at http://www.dltk-kids.com/
Participants colored and cut out both sides of the treat bag, then glued them together to form a bag to take home their goodie bags in!

6. The Cat in the Hat Toilet Paper Roll Craft--This craft was also found on-line at http://www.dltk-kids.com/ Participants were provided with pieces that made up the Cat's body, head, tie, feet, tail, and hands, along with an example of how to place them on the TP roll.

While participants worked on crafts, music from a CD entitled "Songs of Dr. Seuss and More" played in the background.

Snacks were also served during the program. They consisted of iced cookies, pretzels, fruit snacks, and Goldfish crackers (in honor of the Fish).

Of course, the program would not have been complete without a visit from the guest of honor! He was escorted to a corner which had been set up with a soft sculpture brought in by Barbara Dolch and her husband. The soft sculpture was a life-sized rendering of her husband seated in a chair, holding a Cat in the Hat stuffed toy in one arm and a copy of the book in the other. He sported, among other articles of clothing, a red-and-white striped Cat in the Hat hat! Once in the corner, the Cat (and the sculpture) were available for photos! The Cat was quite a hit with young and old alike!

Each child, before leaving, received a goodie bag that was filled with a Cat in the Hat bookmark, several Cat in the Hat stickers, several Dum-Dum lollipops, and gum.

Drawings were held for door prizes toward the end of the program.

MAGIC TREE HOUSE PROGRAM

On September 24, 2005, 20 participants enjoyed an afternoon of fun at the Bucyrus Public Library in a program based on the Magic Tree House books by author Mary Pope Osborne.

When participants arrived, they were given a tree-shaped namedtag cut from an Ellison Die. Children’s Librarian Barb Scott then presented a short Powerpoint presentation on Mary Pope Osborne and the Magic Tree House series. The author experimented with several different magic devices that would make the Jack and Annie (the book’s main characters) be able to travel through time. One day, while on a walk in the woods with her husband, they came across an old dilapidated tree house. The rest is history!

Participants were then invited to make the following crafts based on the books:

Design and Color a Lakota Tepee (from the book Buffalo Before Breakfast)—Participants were asked to draw and then decorate a Lakota tepee on a sheet that was handed in to be displayed with the pictures that were taken at the program.

Ninja Puppets (from the book Night of the Ninjas)—Participants were given a ninja figure pattern to cut out. They then used markers to decorate the figure with a face and ninja clothing. Craft sticks were glued to the back of the puppets to allow for manipulation.

Dinosaur Rubbing Craft (from the book Dinosaurs Before Dark)—Plastic rubbing plates were purchased from Smilemakers, Inc. Participants were able to place the plates underneath a piece of white construction paper and rub with the side of a crayon to produce a rubbing of both complete dinosaurs and their skeletons!

Cartouche-shaped Bookmarks (from the book Mummies in the Morning)--
Prior to the program, each participant’s name had been looked up on the website www.virtual-egypt.com. This site has an area where names can be entered in and the resulting page spells the name out in Egyptian hieroglyphics. Scrapbooking scissors were provided for the children to trim out both their names and the construction paper pieces that the names would be mounted on. Once they were cut amd glued, the bookmarks were run through the laminating machine before being hole-punched and threaded with ribbon at the top.

Hawaiian Leis (from the book High Tide in Hawaii)—First lengths of yarn were cut long enough to make a decent length lei. Plastic needles were provided to thread the yarn into. Then participants alternated pieces of cut drinking straws and small Ellison dice-cut flowers that were hole-punched. Once their yarn was full, the lei was tied off and worn!

Mummy Craft (from the NEW book Season of the Sandstorm)—Patterns were provided for the mummy’s head, arms, and legs. Toilet paper rolls were then slathered with glue and covered with actual toilet paper which was twisted and scrunched to look like a ropey strand. Once the roll was completely covered with the scrunched toilet paper, the head, arms, and legs were glued on.

Once participants were done with all crafts, they were invited to the refreshment table. Refreshments were cupcakes, pretzel sticks, fruit snacks, and punch.

At the conclusion of the program, a drawing for door prizes was held.

Each child attending received a goodie bag with a pirate hat, compass rings, dinosaur stickers, DumDum suckers, and Smarties!

CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG PROGRAM

On February 26th, 2005, 45 participants and their parents gathered in the library's Community Room for a belated birthday celebration for everyone's favorite dog, Clifford! Clifford's actual birthday is February 15th, 1963. As they arrived, each participant was given a red dog bone nametag and encouraged to sign up for door prizes.

After welcoming everyone to the program, Children's Librarian Barbara Scott presented a short Powerpoint introduction to Clifford and his author, Norman Bridwell. It is interesting to know that Emily Elizabeth in the Clifford books is named after Mr. Bridwell's own daughter and that he originally wanted to name his dog character "Tiny"!

After this presentation, participants could move at their own pace through six different craft tables to make Clifford-themed crafts. These crafts were:

1. Clifford Toilet Paper Tube Craft--Participants used a toilet paper roll as the base onto which to glue colored patterns to form a Clifford dog.

2. Clifford Treat Bag--Two identical sheets were colored and glued together to form a small treat bag. Each participant received a small baggie with a Clifford bookmark and sticker selection to put into these bags when they were completed.

3. Clifford Stick Puppet--Patterns for body and ears were colored and cut out, then glued together to form Clifford's body. Googly eyes and a pompom nose were added and eyebrows and mouth were drawn on. Finally, the body was glued onto a paint stick to make a stick puppet.

4. Puppy Love Necklace--This adorable necklace was made up of different sizes of hearts. Googly eyes were glued on after the face was formed. Holes were punched, a piece of plastic lanyard was laced through, and red beads were added, if desired.

5. Let's Make Clifford's House--A small doghouse shape was colored, then cut out, folded and glued to form a doghouse with Clifford's name above the door.

6. Clifford Coloring Page--Participants were asked to do their best coloring jobs on this page which said "Happy Birthday, Clifford". These pages were handed in to be displayed with pictures of the event in the library.

After finishing with crafts, participants enjoyed a table full of snack items and punch. Snack items included Clifford Teddy Grahams, pretzels, and cupcakes.

Several door prizes were given out at the conclusion of the program.

BOB THE BUILDER PROGRAM

On March 26th, 2005, 19 participants and parents gathered in the library's community room for an afternoon of fun and crafts with a Bob the Builder theme. Each child received a primary-colored (Ellison) puffy star name tag as they arrived.

Children's Librarian Barb Scott welcomed the participants and presented a short Powerpoint presentation that introduced the characters as well as tested the knowledge of the participants with a short quiz on the show.

Once this was completed, participants were given the chance to make five different Bob the Builder crafts. They were:

1. Bob the Builder Jigsaw Puzzle--Participants colored a picture of Bob that was marked through with lines for a jigsaw puzzle. These puzzles were then ran through the laminator and then given back to parents to cut them out. Individual pieces were then stored in a baggie.

2. Bob the Builder Door Hanger--A pictures of Bob was colored and cut out. A slogan which read "Can we have fun reading? YES, WE CAN!" was also cut out. Door hanger shapes were colored if desired and the picture and slogan glued onto them.

3. Bob the Builder Mask--A large mask shape of Bob's face was colored by participants. These were then affixed to a paint stick so that they could be held up in front of the face!

4. Bob the Builder Toilet Paper Roll Craft--Pattern pieces that made up Bob the Builder were colored and glued onto toilet paper rolls. This turned out to be a very cute craft!

5. Bob the Builder Coloring Page--Participants were urged to do their best coloring on this picture of Bob and Wendy that was handed in to Mrs. Scott for display in the library along with pictures taken of the event.

Once crafts were completed, it was time for snacks! Participants and parents enjoyed fruit snacks, cupcakes, and Frito's Scoops chips along with punch.

At the conclusion of the program, a drawing was held for a variety of Bob the Builder prizes.

Each participant received a goodie bag at the conclusion of the program. These bags contained a toy piece of construction equipment, tattoos, hammer and saw bookmarks, and a variety of stickers. Participants also received a construction-themed doorhanger.

A SERIES OF UNFORTUNATE EVENTS/LEMONY SNICKET PROGRAM

"A Series of Unfortunate Events" program was held in the Bucyrus Public Library's Community Room on Monday, January 24th, 2005. This program had originally been scheduled for Saturday the 22nd, but due to inclement weather, had to be rescheduled.

21 participants bravely endured cold weather and snow showers to attend. As participants arrived, each was given a nametag that said "My Name is Not..." with their name written in.

Children's Librarian Barb Scott then presented a short Powerpoint trivia quiz on the books. The attendees proved to be experts on the stories as they answered question after question correctly.

Once the quiz was over, participants were given the opportunity to make five different themed crafts. Each craft table was designated by a huge unflatable eyeball that hung over it! They were:

1. The Incredibly Deadly Viper Snake Bracelet Craft--Participants colored and cut out a snake pattern. Different colored sequins were provided to decorate the snake. Velcro pieces were then added to the tail and head to secure the snake around the wrist.

2. Unwanted Poster of Count Olaf--Participants colored and turned in this "Wanted" poster of the Count to be displayed with pictures of the evening's event.

3. A Series of Unfortunate Events Trading Cards--Participants cut out and trimmed down eight trading cards featuring characters from the popular books. The cards had pictures of the character on one side and vital statistics on the other. These cards were then covered with clear contact paper.

4. You Decide the Next Unfortunate Event Book Cover Craft--Participants were given a mock-up of one of the book covers, called "Book the Next" and invited to use their imaginations to draw what the cover of that book would look like. My favorite title was "The Worst Waffle". If nothing else tonight, the kids all learned what alliteration was!

5. An Unfortunate Door Hanger--The Ellison door hanger die was used to cut the hangers that were the basis for this craft. Participants colored the hanger, added a small verse that said "Read...if you dare..." and then could choose several Ellison animal shapes to decorate the hanger. Shapes used were a bat, a snake, a frog, and a spider.

After participants were finished with the crafts, they could partake of refreshments. Served were cupcakes, pretzels, gummi worms, and lemon drops and peppermints, as well as lemonade to drink.

Several prizes were given away at the conclusion of the program, including a jar of lemon drops. As participants came in and any time during the program, they were invited to guess the number of lemon drops in a clear plastic jar. Other prizes that were given away were several eyeball straws (purchased from Oriental Trading Company), a "Trouble" game (since the Baudelaire orphans always seem to be in trouble), and several copies of books from the series.
Goodie bags were given to all participants. These bags contained a pair of glasses for disguise, a Series of Unfortunate Events bookmark, eye stickers, frog tattoos, eyeball gum, a toy spider and snake. an eyeball bouncy ball, a peppermint, a piece of bubblegum, and a cough drop.

POLAR EXPRESS PROGRAM

On November 27, 2004, nineteen participants enjoyed craft activities and snacks as part of a Polar Express program presented at the Bucyrus Public Library.

Children's Librarian Barb Scott began the program by presenting a short Powerpoint summary of the book, along with some biographical information on author Chris Van Allsburg and short summaries of some of his other books.

Participants could then move around to five craft tables set up in the library's community room and make the following crafts:

1. Polar Express Coloring Page--This table had a picture of The Boy from the book The Polar Express. Participants were to color it and turn it in before the end of the program to be placed on display with photos taken of the day's event.

2. Polar Express Jingle Bell Necklace Craft--Participants strung red beads and jingle bells on red lanyard to create their own jingle bell necklaces!

3. Reindeer Ornament Craft--Participants used 3 craft sticks to form a triangular reindeer head. A large red pompom nose and two googly eyes were then glued on. As a final touch, brown pipe cleaners were twisted around the top stick to form antlers. Yarn was added to make an ornament.

4. Beaded Spiral-Shaped Ornament Craft--These kits were purchased from Oriental Trading Company. Each bag contained wire, beads, and ribbon needed to complete the craft.

5. Decorate a Jingle Bell Craft--Participants were given a jingle bell shape printed on construction paper to cut out. They could color the background or leave it white. The table was stocked with pompoms (plain and glittery), glitter pens and glitter, foam shapes and foam stars. These items could be used to decorate the bell shapes in any way desired.

Christmas music was played while participants worked on the crafts and while snacks were enjoyed. Snacks consisted of iced Christmas cookies, animal crackers, pretzels, and punch. The snack table was decorated with candy canes and candy bells left from filling the goodie bags.

Drawings were held at the end of the program for prizes.

Each participant received a goodie bag at the end of the program that contained a candy cane and chocolate candy bells.

STINKY CHEESE MAN PROGRAM

On September 25, 2004, 16 participants enjoyed fun, food, and good times at the library's Stinky Cheese Man program!

Children's Librarian Barb Scott opened the program by reading the story "The Stinky Cheese Man" from the book The Stinky Cheese Man and other Fairly Stupid Tales by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith. She then shared a Powerpoint presentation that highlighted biographical information on the author and illustrator as well as cheese facts.

After this presentation, the group was released to 6 craft tables. Crafts available to make were:

1. "I'm A Little Stinker" Party Hat--participants were given a pattern that made a hat featuring the Stinky Cheese Man on the front.

2. The Official Stinky Coloring Page--each participant colored this large page that was turned in for display at the end of the program.

3. The Other Frog Prince 3-D Frog Craft--This featured a cute 3-D frog seated on a lily pad!
4. Little Red Running Shorts Toilet Paper Roll Craft--This craft was originally a Little Red Riding Hood craft, but we added the red running shorts to her costume!

5. The Other Frog Prince Bookmark--this cute bookmark was made with different colors of felt, grograin ribbon, glue, staples,. and googly eyes!

6. The Really Ugly Duckling Paper Plate Craft--this craft made a large duck using one large and one small paper plate with construction paper glue-ons.

Once crafts were underway, a visit was made by the Stinky Cheeseman himself!

Participants enjoyed snacks of cheese puffs, Cheeze-It crackers, peanut butter and cheese crackers, cupcakes and lemonade as Children's Librarian Barb Scott shared the story Math Curse with the group.

After the snacks and story, participants finished their crafts.

DORA THE EXPLORER PROGRAM

On Saturday, March 27th, 35 participants and parents gathered at the Bucyrus Public Library for a Dora the Explorer program.

After Children's Librarian Barb Scott welcomed the group, they proved to be expert Dora watchers as they successfully answered question after question in the Dora Trivia Quiz, done in Powerpoint.

After the quiz was completed, it was time to adjourn to 5 different craft tables set up for the afternoon. Crafts available were:

1. Dora Coloring Page--Participants colored and handed in a picture of Dora to be used with a picture display of the day's event.

2. Dora Treat Bag--Participants colored and glued together a treat bag featuring Dora and Boots.

3. Dora Toilet Paper Roll Craft--Features for Dora were colored, cut out, and pasted onto a toilet paper roll.

4. Super Map Craft--Features of Map were glued onto a piece of paper, complete with a super hero cape!

5. Dora Maze Booklet--Simple booklet of mazes with Dora and her friends was assembled and then stapled together.

Once participants had finished crafts, it was time for refreshments. They enjoyed cupcakes, tortilla chips, popcorn, fruit snacks, and punch.

Each child received a small goodie bag with Dora stickers, tattoos, and small magnifying glasses.
A drawing was held for four Dora prizes.

THE CAT IN THE HAT PROGRAM

On November 22, 2003, 20 out of an initial sign-up of 28 participants converged on the Bucyrus Public Library’s Community Room for a program to honor The Cat in the Hat. This was in celebration of the live action movie with Mike Myers being released on November 21.

Children’s Librarian Barb Scott, dressed as the Cat, welcomed participants and led them in a Powerpoint quiz on The Cat in the Hat and other Dr. Seuss books.

Then, it was off to the five craft tables set up around the room. Crafts available were:

1. BARTHOLOMEW CUBBINS HAT—In keeping with The Cat in the Hat theme, participants made a simple folded newspaper hat, which they could then adorn with feathers and color.

2. HATS OFF TO READING DOORKNOB HANGER—This doorknob hanger was in the shape of the Cat’s Hat. Participants colored it, added their names on their hangers and then cut them out.

3. DESIGN A HAT FOR THE CAT—At this craft table, participants were invited to design a new hat for The Cat in the Hat to wear. The design could be of their own choice. These hats were kept to be used for an in-house display with pictures of the program.

4. CAT IN THE HAT TOILET PAPER ROLL CRAFT—Participants were invited to make their own miniature Cat in the Hat with a toilet paper roll as the base.

5. COUPONS FOR HUGS—Each participant was given three coupons which they could fill out to give to parents, grandparents, etc. Each coupon was good for one hug with no expiration date!
Then it was time to enjoy snacks! Provided were punch, Sun Chips, fruit snacks, Cat in the Hat cereal (made by Kelloggs), and cupcakes with small striped hat favors stuck in the top of each one.

After snacks, Children’s Librarian Barb Scott shared the book Mr. Brown Can Moo…Can You? The children enjoyed making all of the great sounds in the book!

Then it was time for drawings for prizes.

Each participants received a goodie bag to take home as a remembrance of the day. The goodie bags contained two Cat in the Hat stickers, a small plastic figurine, and a snow globe bottle topper, courtesy of the local Pepsi distributor, who also provided Cat in the Hat and Thing #1 and #2 cardboard standups for the event.

LAURA INGALLS WILDER PROGRAM

On February 28th, 2004, 11 participants gathered in the Bucyrus Public Library's Community Room to celebrate the birthday and the works of author Laura Ingalls Wilder.

Children's Librarian Barbara Scott began the program by welcoming participants and reading the book Laura Ingalls Wilder by Alexandra Wallner. Then, it was on to a Powerpoint quiz in which participants showed their knowledge of the Little House series of books.

Five craft tables were then offered:

1. Quilt Blocks--Participants made a simple nine-patch quilt block using construction paper and pictures cut from magazines from templates provided and then glued onto the construction paper. These were turned in to Mrs. Scott for use in a display with pictures of the day.

2. Let's Make a Shoofly Box--Participants cut, folded, and glued a small construction paper box with the shoofly quilt block on top.

3. Let's Make a Buzz Saw Toy!--Participants made a simple toy with a length of string and a button.

4. Corn and Beans Recipe Folder--Participants cut, folded, and pasted a small recipe holder that featured a quilt pattern on the front. Two pre-done recipe cards and two blank ones were then added.

5. Let's Make Fresh Butter!--Participants had the opportunity to make butter using whipping cream, baby food jars, and some music to shake by! Each got to enjoy a taste of their homemade butter on a cracker.

Refreshments of homemade gingerbread, popcorn, iced oatmeal cookies, and lemonade were served to all present.

A drawing was held at the conclusion of the program for Checkers game.

MYSTERY DAY AT THE LIBRARY

After an initial sign-up of 27, 23 participants attended our October program, "Mystery Day at the library".

Children’s Librarian Barb Scott opened the program by sharing the book Jack Gander, Storyville Detective: The Case of the Greedy Granny by George McClements. This book is a fractured fairy tale that retells the story of "Little Red Riding Hood". After that, participants viewed a "Famous Detective Quiz" done in Powerpoint. Picture were shown of famous fictional detectives and their job was to guess who they were.

At this point, each participant was invited to take a pencil and "detective" notepad that would be used for the next few games. After that, it was time for a game called "Touch and Tell".

Participants passed around 10 wrapped items (marked Exhibits 1-10)and tried to guess what was inside, simply by feeling them. Then it was time for a game called "Mystery Candy". Parts of 10 different candy bars, marked Exhibits A-J) were set out on paper plates and participants had to guess what type of candy bar it was. The next game was called "Mystery Plate". Participants briefly viewed a platter with 10 items, then had to try to remember what the 10 items were.

Next, it was time for members of the Teen Advisory Board to read short mysteries taken from the game "30 Second Mysteries". Participants were given clues and had to guess 2 parts of the mysteries given. It was clear we had some budding detectives in the house as in most cases, they had the mystery solved before the final clue!

After this, participants were invited to go to two craft tables. At one table, bookmarks were made using white paper and stamp pads. The stamps done on the paper were of a detective with a magnifying glass (left over from the Ohio Summer Reading Program "Who Made the Splash?" several years ago!) and the participants thumbprints! After participants decorated the paper bookmark, they were laminated, a hole punch in the top and ribbon inserted. The second craft was coloring and cutting out a Scooby-Doo doorhanger. Each participant was given a lunch-sized paper bag to put their goodies in! The teens also helped man these craft tables.

Snacks were served to all those present. The table was decorated with Scooby-Doo napkins and co-ordinating plates, as well as several Pound Puppies hound dogs! Snacks consisted of small iced cakes, pretzels, and punch. While the participants were eating, all those who wished to had pictures taken with the skeleton who was just "hanging around" the Community Room.

As participants finished up, drawings were held for 3 mystery paperbacks and a Clue game.

Before participants left, each received a small magnifying glass, a small plastic skeleton, and a hound dog keychain!

CROCODILE HUNTER PROGRAM

On April 26th, 2003, 25 participants gathered in the Bucyrus Public Library's Community Room for a program featuring Steve Irwin, The Crocodile Hunter. As each participant arrived, they received a kangaroo nametag.

Barb Scott, Children's Librarian, began the program by sharing the book Where the Forest Meets the Sea by by Jeannie Baker. She then presented a short Powerpoint presentation on The Crocodile Hunter and the Australian language.

Participants were then released to five craft tables for Australian/Crocodile Hunter-themed crafts. Crafts were:

1. Crocodile Toilet Paper Tube Craft: Participants colored crocodile body pieces that were then glued onto a toilet paper tube.

2. Australian Sand Paper Art: Participants used sand paper pieces sized for a hand sander. Stencils were provided for them to lay over the sandpaper piece. Once the stencil was in place, crayons were used to color in the shape.

3. Koala Heart Craft: This construction paper koala was made entirely of heart shapes glued together. Participants colored the pieces before gluing them together.

4. Kangaroo Paper Bag Puppet Craft: Pieces were glued onto a brown paper bag to form a mama kangaroo with a little joey riding in her pocket!

5. Let's Color An Australian Flag!: Participants colored and cut out a replica of the Australian flag. These flags were collected to be used as part of a display in the Children's area of the library. Participants could take a second copy home to color later.

Participants then enjoyed snacks and punch. Snacks were: Fruit Rippers, The Crocodile Hunter Fruit Snacks, cinnamon Teddy Grahams, and pretzels.

Once snacks were finished, participants then had time to finish up any crafts. Drawings were then held for several door prizes.

FROGGY PROGRAM

On Saturday, October 25, 2003, 36 participants gathered in the Bucyrus Public Library’s Community Room to celebrate the book character Froggy, and the birthday of his creator, Jonathan London, whose birthday was mid-October.

Children’s Librarian Barb Scott welcomed participants and parents to the program. First on the agenda was a Powerpoint presentation on Froggy that highlighted some of the different books in the series. This was followed by Barb sharing the book Froggy’s Halloween.

Participants were then invited to visit five craft stations that were set up around the room. A sixth station featured a "Leap Frog" game with bean bags and lily pads worth differing amounts of points.

The craft stations were:

Frog Fact Booklet—This idea was taken from a back issue of CopyCat magazine. Participants made what is called a "slit book" whose shape was cut out, slit in the middle and then folded into successive pages.

Froggy Paper Bag Puppet—Participants colored a paper bag and then cut out arms, eyes, and a rolled up tongue to complete this cute craft!

Froggy Toilet Paper Roll Craft—Toilet paper rolls were the basis of this craft. Pattern pieces were colored and cut out and pasted around and onto the toilet paper roll to make a frog.

Draw Froggy—Participants were guided by a "How to Draw Froggy" page displayed at this station. Each participant handed in their drawing of Froggy for display outside of the Children’s Room at the library.

Accordion Arm and Leg Frog—Frog body, feet, and hand pieces were cut out. Feet and hand pieces were attached to the body with accordion-folded pieces of green construction paper.

While participants worked on crafts, a special visit from Froggy was made. He made the rounds shaking hands and giving hugs to those in attendance.

Once crafts were finished, refreshments were served. The refreshment table featured Froggy Cupcakes, fruit snacks, French Onion flavored Harvest Chips, and punch. The cupcakes were patterned after some in an article in an issue of Family Fun magazine.

Drawings were held at the end of the program while participants either finished with refreshments or with crafts. Given away were two copies of Froggy’s Activity Book.

Before leaving, each participants received a goodie bag with a "Read It" frog sticker, a small plastic frog, and an Ellison frog finger puppet, as well as a trick-or-treat bag from the library to put completed crafts in.

NOTE: Just found this coolest Froggy Uno game that you might want to use as a craft for your program: The URL is http://kidscrafts.suite101.com/article.cfm/froggy__gets_dressed_uno

JAN BRETT PROGRAM

An initial sign up of 17 participants yielded a group of 11 who braved the cold weather (and a November snow, not to mention the Ohio State vs. Michigan game) to attend the Jan Brett program held November 23, 2002 in the Community Room of the Bucyrus Public Library. As they arrived, each participant received a nametag in the shape of a gingerbread man. These were done with an Ellison die with brown construction paper.

Children’s Librarian Barb Scott opened the program by talking with participants about which Jan Brett book was their favorite. Many mentioned The Mitten. After that, she shared Jan Brett’s newest book, Who’s That Knocking on Christmas Eve? This story of Kyri and the trolls who raid her house every Christmas Eve had everyone laughing.

She also shared a Powerpoint presentation of selected Jan Brett titles, which also included a brief biography of the author. The participants were familiar with many of the books mentioned.

Participants were then invited to make-and-take six different crafts based on Jan Brett books. These crafts were:

1. "Buzzer the Bee" Puppet–This craft was adapted from a"Buzzer" bookmark that appeared in CopyCat magazine. The bee pattern was glued onto a chenille stem.

2. Gingerbread Baby Refrigerator Magnet–These "Gingerbread Babies" were done with pre-made craft foam gingerbread man kits purchased from Oriental Trading Company. Instead of making them as ornaments, small pieces of adhesive backed magnet were added to make them adhere to a metal surface.

3. Christmas Tree Cone–This craft was taken from Jan Brett’s website, The pattern was printed out on a color printer and participants assembled it by forming it into a cone that was then taped together. Ribbon was stapled on as a hanger and then candy was available to fill the cones with. These cones could then be taken home and hung on the Christmas tree!

4. County Mouse Bookmark–The pattern for this bookmark is just one of the ones that appears on Jan Brett’s site. Participants colored in the bookmark which was later laminated.

5. Make Your Own Story of The Mitten–This pattern was also printed from the Jan Brett site. Each participant received two sides of a mitten pattern which were cut out, paper punched, and then sewn together with yarn. Small patterns of each of the animals in the story were provided to color, cut out, and place inside the mitten.

6. Design Your Own Hat!–A pattern from Jan Brett’s site invited participants to make a hat of their own creation! The pattern was provided as well as pom poms, foam stars, markers, and crayons. Each participant designed their own hat which was then handed in and will become part of a display along with pictures from the day’s event.

Then it was time for refreshments! Participants enjoyed fudge-striped cookies, pretzels, and punch. The refreshment table itself was decorated with a large gingerbread man soft sculpture (a find on eBay!), as well as a couple of Jan Brett books and other items that would remind readers of her stories, such as a single mitten. A basket filled with cinnamon scented pine cones gave the room a wonderful smell!

Before they left, each participant received a bag of candy, a gingerbread man pencil, and two sheets of gingerbread man stickers. The pencils and stickers were purchased from Oriental Trading Company.

For the small turnout, I think everyone had a great time! The crafts seemed to take longer (probably at least a whole hour for most), as some of them were more involved (sewing the mitten, assembling the foam gingerbread man for the magnet, deciding on a design for the hat that was handed in). Parents who arrived early ended up waiting on their children to finish. There was also a nice age range for the event, ranging from around five to middle school age.

SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS PROGRAM

The Bucyrus Public Library's first K-6 program of the 2003 year was held on January 25th, 2003 in the library's Community Room. This party featured the ever-popular Nickelodeon character, SpongeBob Squarepants. 37 participants enjoyed the afternoon! Each participant received a nametag (done with an Ellison puffy star die) with a SpongeBob stick attached upon arrival.

To begin the program, participants were encouraged to sing along with the show's theme song as it was played on a CD. Then, it was on to the SpongeBob Trivia Quiz, presented by Children's Librarian Barb Scott, and done as a Powerpoint presentation. All of those present proved to be HUGE fans of the show, as they shouted out answer after answer!

Once the trivia quiz was finished, participants were invited to pick one of four craft tables to work at, as well as one game station. This game station was "Pin the Squarepants on SpongeBob", played like "Pin the Tail on the Donkey".

The craft stations were:

1. Spongebob Door Hanger--participants colored and cut out a door hanger that featured the character of SpongeBob on it.

2. SpongeBob Treat Bag--participants colored and constructed a small treat bag that could later be used to hold other crafts and handouts.

3. SpongeBob Paper Craft--this station had a SpongeBob figure for participants to cut out and assemble. SpongeBob was also given a chef's hat so that he would be ready to work at The Krusty Krab!

4. Let's Design New Pants for Patrick--this station featured a large pink starfish shape (done with the extra-large Ellison puffy star die) and a pants pattern. Participants were invited to design new pants for Patrick and glue them onto the starfish shape. They were also provided with googly eyes and markers to make Patrick's face. These crafts were handed in, as they will be made part of a wall display along with pictures from the program.

While participants were busy working, Teen Advisory Board member (and daughter of our director!) Katie Wilkins made an appearance as SpongeBob, complete with costume! Many children (and teens) took the opportunity to get their picture taken with SpongeBob!

Once everyone was done with crafts, it was time for snacks! Participants enjoyed punch and the following munchies: Goldfish snack crackers, SpongeBob fruit snacks, Trolli Sour Gummy Octopus candies, and cookies.

After snacks, participants either finished up with crafts or enjoyed another game, along with the "Pin the Squarepants on SpongeBob". Several teen helpers manned a "Crab Race" which proved to be a lot of fun!

Before the program ended, a group picture was taken and drawings were held several SpongeBob prizes.

CAPTAIN UNDERPANTS PROGRAM

On March 23, 2002, 15 participants (mostly boys and some girls) gathered in the library’s community room for our Captain Underpants party.

The party opened with participants sitting in a circle and passing around a roll of toilet paper. They each had to take anywhere from 1-5 pieces. Once the roll was passed, this was the icebreaker game. Each person had to tell as many things about themselves as they had taken pieces of toilet paper. At this point, Children's Librarian Barb Scott shared a short, humorous biography of Dav Pilkey, author of the Captain Underpants books.

Next, it was on to the Professor Pippy P. Poopypants "Name Change-O-Chart 2000". With the help of a live internet connection, all participants' names were entered to see what their changed names would be. This was done by Children's Librarian Barb Scott (otherwise known as Lumpy Pizzasniffer), aided by her assistant Sarah Scott (otherwise known as Snotty Pizzasniffer). The kids had a great time with this, roaring with laughter as one funny name after another came up.

Then, it was one to the Dav Pilkey fact and trivia presentation. Done in Powerpoint, this presentation first shared photos and little-known facts about Dav and his books, then tested participant's knowledge of the Captain underpants books. It was evident that there were Captain Underpants scholars in the room, as they shouted out answer after answer for the trivia quiz!

Next, four craft tables were set up and the participants were directed to these. Crafts done were:

George and Harold's Flip Books--participants were given a pattern to make their own flip book (or simple moving picture book).

Participants were invited to decorated a pair of underwear for Captain Underpants, as we're sure he gets tired of wearing those white ones all the time. Once finished, these were used to display with the pictures from the event.

Perfectly Portable Pilkey-Powered Paper Pilot Pug Planes--this station let participants color and fold their own paper airplanes with Captain Underpants at the controls.

Superhero Masks--participants were given materials to make their own superhero masks. You will see some of the results in the picture above. Many of the kids are also wearing the goofy glasses and holding the whoopie cushions they received as favors!

Once participants had finished the crafts, they were invited to check out Dav Pilkey's website on several laptop computers that had been set up for the event. They enjoyed the sliding puzzles, the on-line coloring, and many other items.

Then, it was time for refreshments! Participants were treated to Toxic Slime Cupcakes and Day Old Bathwater punch, both of which they pronounced excellent!

While participants munch on the snack, Children's Librarian Barb Scott solicited words that were then put into a Captain Underpants Mad Lib that was read aloud.

Once everyone was finished with the snack, it was time for games. Two games were offered: beanbag throw and an Underwear Toss. The object of the two games was to win either pieces of candy or coupons. The Underwear Toss was particularly fun, as a large toilet set had been cut from foamboard and mounted on a large white crate, making a milk crate potty. The object was to get all three pair of underwear (yes, real, CLEAN underwear) into the crate. They could not hang from the rim of the seat. Both games proved to be tons'o'fun with the participants!
To end the program, a drawing was held and three winners were selected to receive Captain Underpants books.

Once the drawing was held, participants continued to play the games until picked up by their parents.

SHREK 2 PROGRAM

On Saturday, May 22, 2004, 28 participants attended a Shrek 2 program that was held in the library's Community Room from 2:00-4:00 p.m.

The afternoon began with Children's Librarian Barb Scott presenting a Shrek Powerpoint presentation. This presentation consisted of a quiz on the first movie, plus a preview of the second movie and fun facts from the making of the first one! All those present proved to be "Shreks-perts" on the first film!

After that, five craft/activity tables were offered. They were:

1. SHREK PAINT STICK PUPPET--Shrek puppet shape was first colored and then adorned with large googly eyes. The puppet shape was then glued onto a paint stick.

2. GINGERBREAD MAN REFRIGERATOR MAGNET--The kits for these were purchased from Oriental Trading Company, originally to be tree ornaments. Sticky-backed magnet strip was purchased to put onto the back to make magnets.

3. SHREK COLORING PAGE--Participants received a picture of Shrek to color and turn in to Mrs. Scott. These pictures will be displayed along with pictures of the day's event.

4. SHREK TOILET PAPER ROLL CRAFT--Pieces were colored and cut out, then glued onto a toilet paper roll to assemble a Shrek character.

5. PAPER BAG PRINCESS PUPPET--A paper bag formed the basis of a princess character to which participants added facial features, a dress, hair, a crown, and arms.

After crafts, it was time for refreshments fit for an ogre! Cupcakes, Shrek M&Ms, green punch, sour cream and onion potato chips, and Shrek fruit snacks were served.

Drawings were held for three door prizes, two Shrek posters and one Shrek framed picture.

Each participant received a goodie bag to take home that contained a gingerbread man pencil, a green mood pencil that changed colors, and two Shrek stickers.

STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE PROGRAM

On Saturday, October 23, 2004, 27 participants (out of an initial sign-up of 32) attended a special Strawberry Shortcake program in the Community Room of the Bucyrus Public Library. As each child entered the room, they were given a pink cupcake nametag.

Children's Librarian Barb Scott began the program with a short Powerpoint presentation on the history of Strawberry Shortcake, who was first popular in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

After this presentation, the participants were free to choose from four craft tables provided. The crafts were:

1. Strawberry Bookmark--Participants traced patterns onto felt and cut them out, placing grograin ribbon between felt pieces, and then decorating the outside to look like strawberries. Green felt leaves were also added.

2. Strawberry Shortcake Paper Dolls--Participants were given a doll pattern to color and cut out, as well as a page with clothing and hats.

3. Strawberry Shortcake Coloring Page--Participants colored a picture of Strawberry Shortcake reading a book. These papers were handed in to Barb to be used as part of display along with pictures of the day's program.

4. Strawberry Shortcake Lanyard Necklace--Participants first cut a piece of plastic lanyard and then strung red and pink pony beads onto them in any pattern they desired.

Once participants had finished up crafts, snacks were enjoyed. Strawberry cupcakes with strawberry icing and sprinkles, creme wafer cookies, fruit snacks, and strawberry punch were available for everyone.

Following snack time and finishing up crafts, drawings were held for a variety of Strawberry Shortcake prizes. Prizes included a pencil pouch, plastic drinking cup, stickers, sticker book, Strawberry Shortcake doll, coloring book.

CHINESE NEW YEAR PROGRAM

On January 17th, 2004, a small but intrepid group braved the cold weather to gather in the Bucyrus Public Library's Community Room for an afternoon of learning about Chinese New Year, which officially began January 22.

Children's Librarian Barbara Scott presented a short Powerpoint presentation on the history of Chinese New Year for those present.

After that, participants could choose to make any or all of seven crafts available:

1. Let's Make a Dragon Mask--Participants colored and cut out a dragon face and taped it to a paint stick to form a mask.

2. Let's Make a Chinese Flag--a small replica of the Chinese flag was provided for participants to color along with a short history of the flag.

3. Year of the Monkey Coloring Page--Downloaded picture of monkey with banner was colored and turned in to Mrs. Scott to be displayed with pictures of the day's event.

4. Chinese New Year Fireworks--Glue was spread on black construction paper in fireworks shapes. Glitter was sprinkled onto the glue to color the firework.

5. Dancing Dragon Toy--Dragon head and tail were colored and then attached to accordion-folded paper and barbeque skewers taped to the back to move the toy.

6. Chinese Lanterns--Participants folded and cut construction paper to make lantern body and added strip for handle.

7. Let's Make a Tangram Puzzle--Tangram square shape (with smaller pieces inside) was given to be cut apart. A sheet of tangram patterns was also available for participants to take to form figures, as well as a small sheet that told the legend of the tangram.

After the crafts were finished, participants were invited to the refreshment table. Pretzels, chow mein noodles, gummi/marshmallow sharks, fruit snacks, brownies, and punch were served.

One participant was the lucky winner of a set of small Chinese character stamps.

Each participant received a goodie bag with two sheets of Chinese panda stickers, two small notepads shaped as Chinese coats, a set of chopsticks, and a red good luck envelope with a play $1.00 bill inside.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TOMIE DEPAOLA

On September 27, 2003, a small but eager group gathered in the Bucyrus Public Library's Community Room to celebrate the birthday of well-known author Tomie de Paola. Tomie's actual birthday was September 15th, and he was 69 years old.

Children's Librarian Barb Scott, dressed as Strega Nona, first shared the story of the same name with participants. She invited them to take pieces of pull-and-peel licorice piled on a plate to resemble spaghetti to enjoy during the story, as well as have them help to blow three kisses during the story (which is how Strega Nona stops the pasta pot). The costume came from Costume Specialists of Columbus, Ohio.

Once the story was finished, participants were invited to five craft tables:

1. Big Anthony's Pasta Necklace--To honor the character of Big Anthony, a main character in Strega Nona, participants were invited to string different types of pasta onto a piece of yarn to form a necklace.

2. Charlie Needs a Cloak Lamb Craft--Participants colored and cut out a lamb shape, which was then glued to piece of posterboard for strength. The lamb shape was then covered with cotton balls. Two clip clothespins were then attached to the bottom to form legs.

3. The Knight and the Dragon Dragon Mask Craft--Participants colored a large dragon mask shape. This shape was then cut out, as were the eye holes. A paint stick was then attached to the bottom so that children could put the mask in front of their faces!

4. Bill and Pete Crocodile Craft--An alligator pattern was provided to fold, color, and cut out. Diagonal cuts were made on the top of the folded alligator to form scales. Eyes and mouths were then added.

5. A Birthday Card for Tomie--Participants were invited to use crayons, markers, etc. to make a birthday card for Tomie. Cards were collected and will be sent to him, along with a picture of the group.

Once the crafts were completed, participants were invited to eat snacks provided. Punch was available, as well as fruit snacks, pretzels, popcorn (Tomie's favorite food!), as well as the leftover pull-and-peel spaghetti.

A second story, Little Grunt and the Big Egg, was shared.

Before leaving, each participant received a baggie with a miniature crocodile, mini crayon keychain, and a Strega Nona tattoo. Each child also got to take home either a plastic crayon mug or a plush star which were part of the room and table decorations.

HANK THE COWDOG PROGRAM

From 2:00-4:00 p.m. on April 27th, 11 participants attended a Hank the Cowdog party at the Bucyrus Public Library. 15 were signed up prior to the event, so this was a good turnout.

The program began with Children’s Librarian Barb Scott reading a short biography of Hank creator John R. Erickson. Then it was on to a Hank the Cowdog trivia quiz. This quiz was created in Powerpoint and shown on the wall. Participants proved quite adept at answering questions about the characters and plots in the books.

Once the trivia quiz was done, the participants were taken around to 6 different craft tables, where Barb explained how the crafts were to be done. Then they were allowed to begin on the crafts.

Hank himself then made an appearance at the party and participants were allowed to come up one by one and have their pictures taken with him using the library’s digital camera. While the party went on, these pictures were taken upstairs and printed out and autographed by Hank! To "autograph" the photos, a stamp of a dog's paw was used. Each participant got to take their photo(s) home as a souvineer of the event.

The six craft tables were:

1. My Favorite Character–Each participant colored in a large cowboy hat that had in the center "My favorite Hank the Cowdog character is......., because......" . These hats will be used as a display for the wall on the second floor along with the pictures from the event.

2. Make a Bolo (String) Tie–the Ellison machine was used to make shapes (boot, covered wagon, bull) that the participants could cover with foil (to make it look like metal), tape a straw to the back, and string colorful craft yarn through. The bolos were tied at the bottom to prevent the shape from falling off. You will see many of these in the group picture.

3. Cowboy Vests–this was the age-old paper bag vest idea, decorated as the participant wished, fringed at the bottom, and topped off with an Ellison die sheriff’s badge. Several of these can also be seen in the group picture.

4. Paper Bag Cow Puppet–I wanted to use white paper bags but couldn’t come up with them. The pattern was downloaded from the Internet and the pieces were simply glued on to a lunch-sized brown paper bag. Participants added extra spots to their cows if desired.

5. Cowboy Hat/Cowboy Boot Magnets–participants had the choice of making one or two magnets. They colored the hat and boot shapes provided, decorating them as they wished. The shapes were then covered with contact paper and sticky magnet pieces were added so that these could be taken home and hung on the refrigerator.

6. Ranch Patrol Game–this game and all the pieces were in a packet we received. There was a gameboard and playing pieces, cards, and instructions. Participants were given two plastic bags, one small one for the cards, and a larger gallon size to fit all the other pieces into.

Once crafts were done, it was time to relax with snacks. Refreshments consisted of baby carrots with ranch dressing, ranch and cheddar cheese crackers, Texas Twister punch (red fruit juice and 7-Up combined), and Puppy Chow, served up in a large dog bowl! The Puppy Chow, in its large red bowl, was quite a hit!

Participants received their autographed Hank the Cowdog photos, and two lucky ones took home Hank the Cowdog posters.

Each participant received a gold or silver sheriff’s badge to take home, along with three Hank the Cowdog temporary tattoos. The tattoos were provided by Costume Specialists of Columbus, Ohio, from whom we rented the costume.

FRANKLIN THE TURTLE PROGRAM

On Saturday, March 22, 2003, 17 participants, ages 3-5, attended the Bucyrus Public Library's Franklin the Turtle program.

The program began with a Powerpoint presentation on Franklin and his creators done by Children's Librarian Barb Scott. After that, she shared the book Franklin's Bad Day.

Then, participants were invited to the craft tables to make and take several crafts. They were:

1. Franklin Bookmarks: Participants colored both sides of the bookmark which was then folded and laminated.

2. Franklin Toilet Paper Tube Craft: Participants received a sheet with Franklin "pieces" to color and cut out. These pieces were glued onto a toilet paper tube and the result was a cute Franklin, complete with shell.

3. Franklin Coloring Page: Participants colored a line drawing of Franklin. These were turned in to Mrs. Scott for display with the pictures taken of the day's events.

4. Franklin Door Hanger Craft: The Ellison door hanger die was used, along with a picture of Franklin in his "Franklin-stein" Halloween costume. The picture of Franklin was colored, then cut out and glued onto the door hanger shape.

5. Footprints of Franklin and His Forest Friends: Stamps were provided for Franklin and 7 of his forest friends for participants to ink up and stamp onto a piece of construction paper.
The animal track stamps are available from Museum Products. Their website is www.museumproducts.com The ones I used are the Replitracks Sampler #1. It has 18 tracks and costs $60.00.

Once crafts were done, it was snack time! Snacks included cookies, punch, pretzels, and goldfish crackers. Participants viewed 2 short Franklin videos while munching on snacks.

The highlight of the afternoon was a visit from Franklin himself! Many children had their picture taken with Franklin, who walked from table to table as the crafts were made.

Before they left, each child received Franklin coloring pages, a Franklin bookmark, and two pages of Franklin stickers.

MARDI GRAS PROGRAM

Approximately 22 people attended the Mardi Gras Party held in the Bucyrus Public Library’s Community Room on February 23, 2002.

As participants arrived, they were each given three Mardi Gras bead necklaces, one in each color of the Mardi Gras (green, gold, and purple).

Participants first enjoyed a story entitled Jolie Blonde and the Three Heberts: A Cajun Twist to an Old Tale by Sheila Hebert Collins. This is a Cajun retelling of the story of Goldilock and the Three Bears. Then, a Powerpoint presentation was done that presented facts about Mardi Gras, as well as pictures of costumes, floats, and items connected to it.

Participants then had their choice of 5 craft tables to make Mardi Gras related crafts. The crafts were:

*Mardi Gras Noisemaker–made with paper plates, rice and streamers.

*Mardi Gras Masks–participants could choose from all sorts of decorations to make their very own masks .

*Mardi Gras Treasure Sacks–these were decorated paper bags used to hold other crafts and the tattoos and doubloons given out at the end of the program.

*Fruit Loop Necklaces–participants strung Fruit Loops cereal on yarn to make colorful necklaces.

*Mardi Gras Party Popper–this craft utilized toilet paper rolls covered with tissue paper (in purple or gold). The rolls were first covered, then filled with candy. Once filled, the ends were tied with colorful ribbon.

Once participants were finished with the crafts, they could enjoy a snack of punch and Little Debbie Honey Cakes (representing the King’s Cake) at their leisure. After snack, participants could either finish up crafts or participate in a game.

The game played was "Pass the Baby". The same Zydeco music that had played during the craft time was played in this adapted version of Musical Chairs. A small baby doll (representing the tiny doll that is placed inside the King’s Cake) was used. Participants passed the doll around a circle while the music played. Once the music stopped, the person holding the doll was out. They were thrown a Mardi Gras bead necklace once they were out, and play continued.

At the end of the program, participants received tattoos and doubloons in Mardi Gras colors to put in their bags, as well as getting to take home one of the balloons that had decorated the Community Room for the party!

Everyone had a great time, and we heard many positive comments from both parents and children!

CURIOUS GEORGE PROGRAM

Curious George celebrated his 61st birthday at the Bucyrus Public Library on September 28, 2002! An initial sign-up of 23 yielded 19 participants .

Each participant received a nametag , when they arrived, which said: "My name is _________, and I love to READ!" This nametag also featured a picture of Curious George reading a book.

The program opened with Children’s Librarian Barb Scott giving a presentation in Powerpoint that told the story of Curious George and his authors, Hans and Margret Rey. After that, she shared the very first Curious George story, entitled Curious George.

After that, participants were released to enjoy 6 different craft tables that were set up in the Community Room. Crafts were:

1. Curious George Upper and Lower Case Concentration Game: Participants were given handouts with all 26 letters of the alphabet, both in upper and lower case. Participants cut all squares out, along with a small picture of Curious George. All pieces were placed in a small ziplock bag.

2. Curious George Bookmark: A color bookmark was printed off the HoughtonMifflin site. Participants used pinking shears to cut out the bookmark, which was then encased in contact paper. Once the excess contact paper was cut off, a whole was punched in the top and 2 ribbons, one red and one yellow, were inserted through the hole and tied.

3. Curious George Toilet Paper Tube Craft: Pattern for the body, arms, head, and hat were printed on construction paper. These were colored, cut out, and glued onto a toilet paper tube.

4. Curious George Coloring Sheet: Each participant colored a picture of Curious George, which were then turned in to the Children’s Librarian. These will be used as part of an in-house display with photos of the event.

5. Make Your Own Curious George!: A basic outline pattern of a monkey was provided. Participants drew on a face and colored the pattern. Bottom was stapled into a circle so that the monkey could stand up.

6. Make a Banana Face!: A construction paper banana pattern was provided, as well as a variety of arms with hands, eyes, and mouths. Participants could choose what their banana’s face was to look like, as well as choose hands for it. These were glued onto the banana.

Once crafts were finished, it was snack time! Participants enjoyed punch, banana muffins, yellow-iced doughnuts, and pretzels. While participants were eating, each had his or her picture taken in front of a Curious George poster. A group photo was also taken to be included with a display.

A table was also provided with a variety of handouts, which included puzzles and other activities, all related to Curious George.

As each participant left, they received an "Award Winner" sticker, a Curious George bookmark, and a gold medal necklace.

Participants ranged in age from 3 to 13. It was a great afternoon and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.