Tigers in the Library

This year our library has been facilitating Breakout Box experiences in various middle school and high school classrooms. If you are unfamiliar with Breakout Boxes, they are very similar to the idea of an Escape Room--but in this case, participants are trying to "break into"a box. First, participants are group together with a box. Breakout Box experiences have been subject centered, themed or random depending on the preferences of the teacher.  Once grouped, participants have a set amount of time to gather their clues and find the codes to open their locks. Locks consist of 3-4 digit numbered codes, 4-5 letter codes, directional codes, and/or keyed locks.  Sometimes the group is competing for a winning prize, while at other times, it's just a matter of bragging rights to be the first to open the box.   Groups often have various tools at their disposal. Sometimes it's a UV LED flashlight for invisible ink. Clues may include symbols/icons, mazes, scrambled w

New books are entered into our library catalog daily. It's exciting to see our collection build with new and binge worthy reading options. We still love our classics and older reads, but getting new books is a necessity that keeps our library up-to-date and patron friendly.  Here are some of our new Spring reads. Stop by today and check them out!     

LIVING LIFE UNPLUGGED  Do you ever feel as if your phone or tablet is glued to your hand 24/7? Or that technology is invading your life...often as an unwanted guest? I know I sometimes feel as if I need to take a break with my phone or tablet. Both are constantly by my side. And while I use them for many purposes, work included, I feel as though I need a breather from the constant distraction and stimulation of such devices. Did you know that March 9th is the National Day of Unplugging? This day is a day to disconnect, and possibly reconnect with people and activities that might be otherwise discouraged by technology.  One day of disconnecting may not be enough for most of us, but it's a starting spot for reflecting as to why a device doesn't always have to be so readily nearby.        IDEAS for UNPLUGGING So, what can you do if you have a day unplugged?  Here's a list of ideas to do with your time if you need inspiration: *Build something new or fi

One of the new additions at MHS Library Media Center is our 8th Grade Digital Literacy class. It is the first time I personally have taught the class as well, but I've been inspired by the need for the class as students are learning valuable digital discerning and creation skills. First, we've focused on lessons about different types of media, including digital. Our lessons and discussions have been revolving around being a consumer--what that means, and how advertising and media messages can affect us. Currently we've moved on to the second "C" of our class, which is the "Creation" mode of using mostly digital, but sometimes paper, mediums.  Our last component of the class will be focused on the third "C" of being a Digital Connector--basically an immersion into Digital Citizenship and connecting responsibly via the interwebs and other social media platforms. Today's lesson is inspired by the Doodle 4 Google Challenge. On it's