A message from your Local Library

Do you live close to the library in your town, city or berg?  Well, when is the last time you paid your library a visit?

We stop by our local library about twice a week.  We use the library to meet people, use the computer or listen to a lecture.  The library we visit has a large collection of foreign titles, extensive research materials, DVDs, Books-on-Tape, downloadable books, tons of periodicals and of course, books to check out.

I love using the library for a place to catch up on e-mails, open a huge stack of mail, cut coupons and read magazines.  I use the online service to search for books and items that can be saved for me on the On-Call shelf.  And when I visit the library, I always have a least one son with me.  While I run around and take advantage of all the library has to offer, our son gets to spread all his work on a table and catch up on homework between carpool and after-school activities.

One of the best gifts I can give our sons is the opportunity to learn in a quiet and conducive environment.  Keeping in mind that each student may have different needs and preferences, a moment of peace without interruptions will help students enhance the ability to focus while doing their homework.

Stopping by the library gives us a chance to do many things.  While our sons tackle their homework, they may find they need more reference materials.  The library is the perfect place.  As a parent, I get to monitor the amount of time needed to complete the assignment while providing strategies to plan and organise their workload and tasks.  Our weekly trips to the library not only offer the ability to use strategies but they also provide practice to work independently.  No two students have the same learning style.  And every student has a unique combination of strengths and weaknesses.  But stopping by the library is a valuable tool toward the end goal to develop independence while increasing their knowledge and understanding.

If you pass your library often, make time to visit - especially with your child - you definitely won't regret it!