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Barb Fisher

Barbara “Barb” Fisher, a dear friend of the VITAL program, passed away on April 1, 2021. Barb’s love of reading led her to VITAL in 2008, when she participated in training to teach English as a New Language to Bloomington newcomers. Over the next 12 years, Barb was a regular fixture at VITAL. As a one-on-one tutor, she volunteered with nine different English language learners, helping them improve their language skills and confidence while adjusting to life in the US.

Think Library, Adults, VITAL - Volunteers in Tutoring Adult Learners , Connect, VITAL, Volunteering
April 19, 2021
National Volunteer Week

National Volunteer Week is an opportunity to recognize and thank the volunteers who lend their time, talent, and voices to make a difference in our community! We are fortunate to have so many volunteers who are passionate about the Library’s mission and generously share their skills in a variety of long-term and short-term commitments.

Think Library, Adults, VITAL - Volunteers in Tutoring Adult Learners , Bookstore, Connect, Friends of the Library, VITAL, Volunteering
April 16, 2021
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With the passage of the American Rescue Plan individuals can enroll or change their current Federal Health Insurance Marketplace plan now through August 15, 2021. Individuals are qualifying for substantial savings in a new plan or on the same plan with lower monthly premiums.

Think Library, Adults , Connect
April 14, 2021
1,000 Books Before Kindergarten

Babies and toddlers are like little sponges, hungrily soaking up everything around them. Curiosity to understand, explore, observe, and taste everything around them is crucial to early brain development.

Think Library, Kids , Caregiver/Teacher Resource, Family, Learn, Library Events, Literacy, Picture Book, Story Walk, Storytelling
April 10, 2021
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When children experience trauma, we encourage them to seek out the helpers in their lives. The people who work at Susie’s Place are among the helpers in our community providing support for children who have been harmed.

Think Library, Adults , Caregiver/Teacher Resource
April 7, 2021
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Cici loves cooking with her A-ma (grandmother) in Taiwan; it makes her feel like she belongs. But when Cici’s family moves to America and away from A-ma, Cici suddenly feels out of place. She misses Taiwan, but especially misses her A-ma. Cici wants A-ma to visit, but A-ma cannot afford the plane ticket to America. When Cici sees a cooking contest for kids offered at a local store for a cash prize, she enters right away. But will the judges be interested in her Taiwanese cooking?

Think Library, Kids, Reviews , Family, Graphic Novels & Manga, Read
April 5, 2021
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Even if you aren’t able to travel right now you can sit back and let one of these titles take you on a journey.

Topical Guides
March 31, 2021
YA Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
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Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month by reading young adult books written by contemporary AAPI YA authors! Learn more about AAPI Heritage Month.

Special Topics and Award Books
March 30, 2021
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This list is to better understand those facing homelessness, or to provide resources to help those in need.

Topical Guides
March 11, 2021
1,000 Books Before Kindergarten
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We want to help you read 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten with your child! We have a wide array of picture and board books for you to read with your child, and we'll be sharing these titles weekly so that at the end of one year, you can actually have read 1,000 books together. If you're interested in learning more, please contact an MCPL staff member. In the meantime, put these books on hold so you can get started right away!

Special Collections
March 10, 2021
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Growing up as a young boy in the Indian state of Rajasthan, Sundar Paliwal experienced several difficult things such as hunger, poverty and the loss of his mother at a young age. He continues to look at his community as he grows up, gets married and eventually has his own two daughters and one son. He teaches his children about the beauty and importance of all living things. But Sundar’s community and land is being destroyed by mining companies, where he works.

Think Library, Kids, Reviews , African American, Civil Rights, Diversity, Environmental, Inclusiveness, Nonfiction, Staff Picks
March 5, 2021
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Snapdragon, who goes by Snap, is kind of a loner who doesn't believe in witches and magic like other kids in town. But even she's slightly nervous when she visits the Town Witch to rescue her dog. It turns out that the grumpy Town Witch, whose name is actually Jacks, isn't so bad at all and has actually fixed up Snap's dog. Snap is instantly taken with Jacks' mysterious and strange ways and decides to enter into a deal with her.

Think Library, Kids, Reviews , Fantasy, Fiction, Graphic Novels & Manga, Magic, Read
February 17, 2021
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Some books to inspire your office at home--your bedroom, sofa, or kitchen. Whatever creative space you are using to Zoom or room-share, these coffee table books and practical guides can improve your space for optimal productivity and comforting style at your fingertips, showing you how to try something new or indulge in therapeutic color, modern design, and traditional art styles. 

Even More Staff Picks
February 11, 2021

Imagine you’re wearing your favorite shirt. You love this shirt because it makes you feel great! The material is just the right softness, the cut is perfectly loose and comfortable, and when you wear it, you are certain you are taller and more confident. This is a cool shirt! 

Think Library, Kids , Create, DIY
February 10, 2021