Energy and Water Assistance for Hoosiers

Winter Utility Financial Assistance from SCCAP

Energy Assistance Program

South Central Community Action Program (SCCAP) is once again providing financial assistance with winter fuel/heating bills for households in Monroe County for the upcoming 2021–22 season.

The Energy Assistance Program (EAP) is an annual program that assists members of our community who have household incomes at or below 60% of the State Median Income. This program is available to Hoosiers renting and for those who own their home. You do not need to have fallen behind on your heating or electric bills to qualify.

The EAP offers a direct-pay benefit to a household's utility company, or a benefit in the form of a check from the State for those households whose utilities are included in rent.

Eligibility for the program is based on total household income. For program year 2021–22, income limits by family size are as follows:

  • 1 Person: $27,012
  • 2 People: $35,324
  • 3 People: $43,635
  • 4 People: $51,947
  • 5 People: $60,259

“The program is intended to keep everyone safe and healthy, and to assist them in achieving energy self-sufficiency and avoiding utility disruptions,” said Julie Wilson, Energy Assistance Program Manager at SCCAP. “The average benefit our clients received in 2020–21 was over $600.”

 

Heat and Electricity Supplemental Benefit

Additionally, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) is providing supplemental benefits in response to the pandemic. All EAP-eligible households will be awarded $175 toward heat and $175 toward electricity for a total benefit of $350, in addition to the household’s standard EAP benefit.

 

Water Assistance Supplemental Benefit

Indiana’s Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) is a temporary emergency program to help low-income households and families afford water and wastewater services during the COVID-19 pandemic. LIHWAP is a one-time benefit that helps with past due bills of $50 or more. This program is only available when you apply for EAP; applicants cannot apply for water assistance at a later date.

 

Apply Online or at the Library

Applications are being accepted now, however the program doesn’t officially begin until November 1. You can apply online at home, or use a public computer at the Downtown Library or Ellettsville Branch. A direct link is available on all public computers. Library staff are also available to assist you. Applicants will be required to scan and upload documents and identification. Scanners are free to use at both Library locations.

Beginning October 4, you may call 2-1-1 for assistance navigating the EAP application system. Indiana 2-1-1 offers free and confidential support for Hoosiers. 

To request a paper application be mailed to you, please call 812-339-3447 or email eap [at] insccap.org with your name and address.

Halloween Fun at the Library

Spooky season is upon us and we’re here for it! This October our calendar is packed with Halloween events for all ages. Join us for a month of creepy crafts, murder mysteries, and lots of haunting stories!

 

Recommendations

But first, set the spooky scene with recommended books and movies! Stream these horror and thriller films on Kanopy or choose a classic horror flick from this list. Did you know that we have a collection of Halloween books for kids? Browse early––they check out quickly! Visit our staff picks page to find lists full of recommendations. Including this list of nonfiction titles all about supernatural encounters. From “not too scary stories” to “guaranteed to keep you up at night” we’ve got something for everyone!

Teen Librarian, Sam, recommends “The Witch Boy” by Molly Ostertag.

In thirteen-year-old Aster's family, all the girls are raised to be witches, while boys grow up to be shapeshifters. Anyone who dares cross those lines is exiled. Unfortunately for Aster, he still hasn't shifted... and he's still fascinated by witchery, no matter how forbidden it might be. When a mysterious danger threatens the other boys, Aster knows he can help––as a witch and it will require all of his courage to save his family... and be truly himself.

It’s our Tween Reads Book Club pick for October!

 

 

Events for Kids

Learn how to cross stitch while creating a cute Halloween-themed bookmark on October 6 at the Ellettsville Branch! For ages 7–12. Sign up now!

Join us on October 27 for Black Cat Day at the Downtown Library! You'll meet Yorik, a black cat and education ambassador at the Monroe County Humane Association, and his handler Grace. Learn about the stigma and myths surrounding black cats. You'll have a chance to ask questions and read aloud to him too! For ages 5–12. Please register.

At Halloween Fun at the Ellettsville Branch on October 30, we'll enjoy a safe and not-so-scary Halloween-themed storytime and craft! Costumes are encouraged! Participants will receive a small bag of treats. Ages 3–6 and families. Register here.

 

Events for Teens Ages 12–19

Join us for an after-hours murder mystery party featuring all your favorite monsters from Universal lore! We'll provide the pizza and the clues, but it's up to you to solve the mystery. Register for the Ellettsville event on October 22 or the Downtown event on October 29.

Feeling crafty? We’re making no-sew Kawaii ghost plushies at the Teen Artist Club on October 11 (Downtown Library) and 18 (Ellettsville Branch). Then, at Frankentoys on October 26 (Downtown Library), we’ll take apart recycled toys and plushies then put them back together in exciting new ways! Drop in.

At Spooky D&D Club, adventure through fantastic realms, then leave when you want! These sessions of Dungeons and Dragons are designed to be short, fun, and evolving adventures that anyone can play. All skill levels are welcome! Drop in on October 6 at the Downtown Library or October 20 at the Ellettsville Branch. Or play virtually on our teen Discord server (ages 13–19) on October 13.

At Comics and Cookies on October 25, we'll discuss all things Abby Howard and other favorite horror graphic novels. Come for the cookies, stay to share your feels on the books! Events will occur simultaneously at both the Downtown Library and Ellettsville Branch.

Saturdays are the perfect day to hang out and watch movies with friends! Our October 16 flicks at the Downtown Library are still TBD, but we’re planning something spooky!

 

All-Ages Events

Join the Bloomington Flute Choir, led by musician Leighann Daihl Ragusa, for a selection of autumnal and Halloween-themed songs, paired with oral storytelling and rhymes for young children. All ages are welcome! Register here for the October 24 Downtown Library event.

On October 29, visit the Downtown Library from 5–8 PM as part of your Downtown Trick or Treat route! Stop by the Kirkwood entrance and get some Halloween goodies! All ages. Please note the rest of the Library will close at 6 PM.

A Halloween-time tradition for over 30 years, the Festival of Ghost Stories features haunting tales of ghosts and horror that tingle the spine! This year the Bloomington Storytellers Guild will present an evening of live storytelling beneath the stars at Bryan Park on October 29. In the meantime, enjoy this recording from 2020, filmed by Community Access Television Services!

Finally––on Halloween only, we’re casting a spooky spell to transform the Bookmobile into the Boo-Mobile! Visit any stop on Sunday, October 31, for a treat and an activity sheet. Normal browsing and holds pickup will be available. Have a safe and happy Halloween!

Returns at the Downtown Parking Lot Entryway

We’ve updated the materials return drops in the parking lot entryway of the Downtown Library. Watch the video to see how they work!  Here's the process:

  1. Scan one item to unlock the door.
  2. Pull open the door then put up to five items in the chute.
  3. Close the door.
  4. If you have more items, wait for the light to turn blue, then repeat the process.

Earlier this year we updated our drive up window to be contactless! If you’d prefer not to enter the Library, you can walk, bike, or drive up to the contactless pickup window to return items and pick up holds.

Indiana’s High School Equivalency Testing Changes

Preparing for the High School Equivalency Test

What is a High School Equivalency Credential?

In the United States, adults who leave high school before graduation have another way to secure a high school equivalency credential. Through testing, you can demonstrate you have the same skills and knowledge as a high school graduate.

The High School Equivalency (HSE) is a high school diploma alternative aligning to current Indiana high school academics, preparing you for continuing education or employment. The assessment is based on five subject areas: math, reading, writing, science, and social studies. Workers with this credential earn an average of $10,000 per year more than those without, helping them create a whole new future.  

 

Testing Changes on September 30

Are you currently preparing for the TASC™ (Test Assessing High Secondary Completion)? Be aware that all five sections of the TASC™ must be completed by September 30, 2021, as it is being replaced by a new test, the HiSET® (High School Equivalency Test) soon. Students who have completed part of the TASC™ have until September 30 to pass all five subjects. 

 

Types of Tests

TASC™, HiSET®, and the GED® (General Educational Development) are all nationally recognized high school equivalency tests. Anyone who has currently completed the TASC™ or GED® in full has a valid high school equivalency. 

 

How can I prepare for the test? 

Free Pumpkin Spice Library Card Stickers

Text says "Pumpkin Spice Library Card Sticker Available Now" with images of a fall themed MCPL card and a pumpkin spice keychain card.

What’s sweeter than a pumpkin spice latte? Free stuff!

Want to win a fun gift set from the Friends of the Library Bookstore? Stop by the Downtown Library, Ellettsville Branch, or Bookmobile and get one of our pumpkin spice library card stickers! Then, post a pic of you and your sticker on social media, tag us @mcplindiana and use the hashtag #MCPumpkinLibrary to be entered to win!

We'll choose our favorite photos as winners––one entry per person! Each tote includes a mug, socks, notecards, pin, and Friends of the Library mask!

This contest runs through September 30. Make sure your post is public or we won't be able to see it! Your photo may be used in Library promotions.

prizes
 

Tales and Tails of Summer Reading

Tails and Tales Community Reading Goal 1 Million Minutes

This summer we challenged you to read one-million minutes during Tails and Tales, our animal-themed summer reading games. Even better, the Friends of the Library Foundation pledged to donate $1,000 to the Monroe County Humane Association if that goal was achieved! Not only did you smash the goal in early July, but you kept on reading for a total of 1,894,485 minutes!

In celebration of all the tales you read (and tails you read about), the Friends presented a check to the Monroe County Humane Association, supporting animals in our community! The Friends also provided generous summer reading game prizes, books, and events to readers.

We offered a combination of virtual and in-person events, which participants earned points for attending. Among the most popular were a virtual visit with Rikki, a golden retriever animal ambassador from the Monroe County Humane Association, a July storytime at Switchyard Park, and an outdoor showing of the movie “Babe” at Karst Farm Park.

By the end of the summer, 2,756 participants (1,014 children, 184 teens, and 360 adults) completed challenges, reviewed books, and logged their minutes read. Children and teens who completed their game earned a paperback prize book, and all readers earned tickets towards prize drawings!

Check out this album of happy prize winners!

Summer Reading 2021 Prize Winners

Prizes for adults included an Ankor Soundcore Motion+ Bluetooth Speaker or gift cards to The Common Room, Cup & Kettle Tea Co., or Jiffy Treet West–Ellettsville.

Teen participants had the chance to win a Nintendo Switch, a Wacom Drawing tablet, a 3-month subscription box, or gift cards for The Common Room and The Game Preserve.

Prizes for children included gift certificates to The Book Corner and themed bundles, like a science exploration bundle, which featured a robot, terrarium kit, telescope, astronomy book, and a LEGO Mars set. To encourage participation by beginner and newly-independent readers, all children who had just completed kindergarten and first grade were also given a beginner reader book! Do you have a pre-reader? Make sure to check out our 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten year-round reading challenge, a self-paced program that encourages you to read 1,000 books with your child before they start school!

Congratulations to our prize winners and thanks to all readers for joining us this summer! We’ll see you next year!

 

Audiobooks are "Real Reading"

Audiobooks are an excellent way to bring even more stories into your life. There are audiobooks in every genre and on a wide range of reading levels. So why do some people think of audiobooks as “cheating” or “not real reading”?

As noted in “The Benefits of Audiobooks for All Readers” by Deborah Johnson of Reading Rockets, it comes down to one’s definition of reading. If you only define reading as its core definition––to decode symbols into language––then you may feel audiobooks aren't real reading. However, while we shouldn’t ignore the important role of decoding in reading, it can be argued that reading is more than just decoding, it is “understanding the message, thinking critically about the content, using imagination, and making connections”. These elements are critically important because they are what make kids fall in love with reading at a young age which helps them to become lifelong readers and learners.

There are many other benefits to “ear reading” audiobooks. Audiobooks can help listeners easily explore new genres and read books beyond their reading level, expanding the options of what one would normally select to read. They are also great tools for increasing vocabulary as listeners become exposed to new words. Listeners also learn from the act of listening to books in the same way that readers do when they read a book. And, as we know, “the more one reads, the better reader one becomes and the more knowledge one accrues."

Audiobooks are also wonderful tools for individuals with reading differences like dyslexia, a neurological condition that makes it more difficult for an individual to process language. You can read more about dyslexia in this dyslexia awareness blog post. Dyslexic individuals may not be interested in reading books as the act of decoding the words can be much more challenging (and understandably frustrating) for them. By introducing audiobooks to dyslexic readers, we can keep them engaged in the same books their peers may be reading, exposing them to the same stories, knowledge, and vocabulary. This exposure will help the individual’s self-esteem as well as keep them on level in the classroom, a sentiment echoed in Dr. Joanne Pierson's article “Keep ‘em Reading: The Importance of Audiobooks for Dyslexics”, in which they identify that audiobooks "simply level the playing field for dyslexic students so that they have the same opportunities as their peers who can read with ease."

Another great feature of audiobooks is that they are often read by professional actors. For example, the series Wizards of Once is read by the actor David Tennant (Dr. Who fans don’t need to be told that he plays The Tenth Doctor). Tennant does an excellent job of reading with expression as well as using different voices and accents for the various characters. Listening to actors and authors isn’t just fun, it can help listeners learn how to read with expression and increase exposure to a variety of accents.

You can sometimes also find audiobooks narrated by the author! Roald Dahl recorded several of his books including Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, James and the Giant Peach, The Enormous Crocodile, Fantastic Mr. Fox, and The Magic Finger. There is something indescribably magical about hearing the author read their own work!

Audiobooks come in a variety of formats, including books on CD, eAudiobooks, and Playaways. Playaways are self-contained, including a small MP3 audio player. To play one, you will need a AAA battery and a set of headphones, or you can plug it into your car using an AUX cable. Playaways are small enough to slip into your pocket and are great for listening to when you are taking a walk or working on other tasks.

There are so many different ways to listen to audiobooks and they have so many wonderful benefits! If you’ve never given audiobooks a shot, why not try one today? Look for your favorite titles in our Audiobook eLibrary, search the catalog for Playaways or Books on CDs. Not sure what to choose? You can ask for audiobook recommendations using our personalized recommendation service! Happy listening!

Genesis Begins Again

Not only does Genesis have to deal with the typical struggles of being in middle school like making friends or getting good grades, she also  has to deal with poverty, eviction, and witnessing addiction. Her family members, although caring, occasionally let her down or use hurtful words. All of this added to the unique challenges facing African American girls everyday, leaves Genesis hating who she is.

When she meets people who show her kindness and acceptance, she begins to learn her own strengths and discovers the healing power of music.

Genesis's story can be heart-breaking and difficult to read at times but her journey toward self-love is empowering and will leave you cheering for her through it all.

Recommended for ages 10+

Reviewed by Christa S., Senior Information Assistant

Narwhal Appreciation Post

Team Narwal Kids

"Tails and Tales" summer reading games may be over, but we'll love that narwhal mascot for life! If you’re not ready for the end and want to learn more about narwhals, we can help!

Did you know that you have access to World Book Online with your library card? World Book Online helps you find answers and learn at any reading level––both at school and at home! You can find info on narwhals here! Did you know that the narwhal’s tusk is actually a long tooth?! You can also find resources for early literacy, student research, beginner’s Spanish language tools, eBooks, and more!

 

Fact Tracker: Narwals and other Whales Perhaps you’re already familiar with Mary Pope Osborne’s popular Magic Tree House series, but did you know about the nonfiction companions to her fantastical first chapter books? You can find the fact tracker companion to book #33, Narwhal on a Sunny Night, in our juvenile nonfiction collection! Dig deeper into facts about narwhals after reading about Jack and Annie’s exciting rescue mission! 

 

Unusual Creatures Interested in all kinds of weird animals, including narwhals? Check out Micheal Hearst’s Unusual Creatures: A Mostly Accurate Account of Some of Earth’s Strangest Creatures. Funny and fun to look at, this book will appeal to a variety of ages! 

 

Narwal and JellyAnd finally, for the graphic novel enthusiasts, be sure to check out the Narwhal and Jelly series by Ben Clanton. Less about narwhals and more about friendship, these books are silly and heartwarming, which is something we could all use more of!

 

Happy post-summer reading! If you need more ideas on what to read next, visit us at the children’s information desk, catch us on the Bookmobile, or fill out our personalized recommendations form and you'll get up to 10 title recommendations for you to consider!

Everything Sad is Untrue: (a True Story)

Indeed this is a true story of a boy named Khosrou, who became known as "Daniel" when he and his mother and sister immigrated to the United States. Author Daniel Nayeri writes from his perspective as a child who loved his relatives and his ancient house in Iran, but was forced into a long immigration process when his mother, a doctor, converted from Islam to Christianity and was thereafter considered a criminal in her own country. The fictionalized account makes many references to the storytelling of the legendary Persian queen Scheherazade, and Nayeri writes as if his own survival depends on telling the many small stories and captured memories, whether poignant, mundane, or traumatic, that make him the person he is today. Humor and also sadness abound, and there is some blood and violence.

This book won the Michael L. Printz Award for literary excellence in young adult literature, in 2021.

If you enjoyed Other Words for Home, by Jasmine Warga, or Front Desk, by Kelly Yang, you will most likely appreciate this lyrically written title as well. Recommended for ages 9-12, and teens, too.

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