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Jack and her gender fluid brother, Birdie, are siblings who have to move in with their stoic and no-nonsense uncle after their eccentric uncle proves that he is not a good caretaker after their mother's sudden death. The constant upheaval, new scenery, school, and bullying in their new life throw them through a loop. Through grieving, confronting bullies, and confronting comfort zones -- Birdie, Jack, and both their uncles learn to love and accept each other for who they are.

Think Library, Kids, Reviews , Coming of Age, Diversity, Family, Inclusiveness, LGBTQIA+, Read, Realistic
January 6, 2021

It’s been a long year and you’ve done a lot of reading! And watching. And listening! As we enter 2021 we thought it would be fun to take a look back at some of the media that carried us through 2020. Here are our top circulating items of the year!

 

 

2020 Top Circulating Items: Adult Fiction

Think Library , eLibrary, Library News, Literacy, Read
January 5, 2021
Celebrate LGBTQIA+ Voices
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This booklist features titles written about and by members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Stories of the LGBTQIA+ community's experiences are significant because they allow children to see themselves in stories and know the person behind the words are similar to them. It means that not only is the story important, but also who tells that story.

Celebrate Identities
January 4, 2021
December Teen Social Round Up

Did you know that we have an Instagram account JUST for teens? We post fun things like craft ideas and book recommendations along with announcements for special programs. Here is a roundup of some of the topics and events from December. If you like what you see, give us a follow on Instagram @mcplindianateen so you do not miss out!

Think Library, Teens , Create, Read
December 28, 2020
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We can usually see the benefit of fairy godmothers’ gifts - after all, who wouldn’t like to be graced with the gift of wisdom, beauty, or humor? But what would happen if a fairy godmother gave the gift of being ordinary?

Think Library, Kids , Adventure, Fantasy, Friendship, Graphic Novels & Manga
December 22, 2020
A tween girl uses an iPad during a children's program.

We are pleased to share that the Library is the recipient of two grants to support access to digital resources in Monroe County. The City of Bloomington Information & Technology Services Department has awarded the Library a Digital Equity Grant of $10,500, and the Wahl Family Charitable Trust has gifted the Library $5,300.

Think Library, Adults, Teens, Kids , Accessibility, Computers & Technology Help, Connect, Create, Diversity, eBooks, eLibrary, Grants, Learn, Library News, Library of Things, Lifelong Learning, Literacy, Read
December 18, 2020
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Hobbies are activities you do in your leisure time for enjoyment, and they can be just about anything. From a sport, to knitting, to painting, or even building things try a new hobby, or reacquaint yourself with an old favorite.

Topical Guides
December 15, 2020
A photo of Bicentennial Art Contest winner Rebecca Mueller's drawing held in front of the Friends of the Library bears.

In 2020 we turned 200! Although our year-long birthday bash didn’t go exactly as planned, we still have many achievements to celebrate. 

Think Library, Adults, Teens, Kids , Bicentennial, Connect, Create, Friends of the Library, Library News, Read
December 15, 2020
Black Experiences
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This booklist features titles written about and by the Black community. Stories of the Black community's experiences are important because they allow children to see themselves in stories and know the person behind the words are similar to them. It means that not only is the story important, but also who tells that story.

Celebrate Identities
December 9, 2020
Citizenship Preparation
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Do you have what it takes to pass a United States citizenship test? If you are new to the United States, or want to brush up on your knowledge, these books are for you! Learn about the process for becoming a U.S. citizen and review American history and civics core concepts.

Find even more citizenship help with our Citizenship Resources

English Language Learning
December 9, 2020
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In this picture book, a Black family explores the wonders and challenges of camping! Ernestine lives with her single dad in the city. When her aunt Jackie and cousin Samantha invite her to go camping with them she eagerly accepts. With dad's help, Ernestine gathers and packs all the essentials needed for an outdoor adventure. She imagines what camping will be like and can't wait!

Think Library, Kids, Reviews , African American, Family, Picture Book
December 7, 2020
The Coiled Crown

Journey into a ruined fantasy world in search of an ancient queen's crown. Inspired by games like Dark Souls, Mortal Shell, and Metroid, you'll need to unearth the forgotten lore of haunted places like the Netherworld Forest, Scorched Keep, and Lost Catacombs in order to solve the adventure's puzzles.

Think Library, Adults, Teens , Adventure, Connect, Fantasy, Gaming, Library Events
December 3, 2020

Follow along to learn how to make a light-up winter card! Watch the video then use the step-by-step instructions listed below for additional guidance in creating your card! This project uses supplies included in our Light-Up Winter Card: A Take & Make Teen program. If you weren't able to snag a kit you can still create a card, you'll just need the supplies listed below!

Think Library, Teens , Create, DIY, Library of Things
December 1, 2020
Get To Know Your Family!

For many of us, connecting with friends and family has been especially challenging this year. If you’re unable to spend time with loved ones in person this holiday season, here are some tools to help you connect with them online! 

To access these resources you’ll need your library card number and password. If you’re not sure where to find that information, visit our eLibrary access guide to get started.

Think Library, Adults , Connect, eLibrary, Family, History, Holidays & Cultural Celebrations, Learn, Lifelong Learning, Local & Family History, Local Interest
December 1, 2020
November Teen Social Roundup

Did you know that the Library has an Instagram account JUST for teens? We post fun things like craft ideas and book recommendations along with announcements for special programs. Here is a round up of some of the topics and events we posted in November, if you like what you see, give us a follow at instagram.com/mcplindianateen so you do not miss out!

Think Library, Teens , 3D Printing, Graphic Novels & Manga, LGBTQIA+, Native American, Read, Staff Picks
November 28, 2020