January 8, 2019

Under the sea is an exciting place to be, so bring your young children to MCPL Wausau to experience the ocean-themed activities and books in the Early Literacy Center (ELC) during the months of January and February!  Some of the activities we have available include puzzles for learning colors and matching animal shapes, a fish felt board featuring the Dr. Seuss book One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish (you can read the book together, too) and felt ocean animals paired with their names. Our magnetic boards have ocean animals and words kids learn together, too.  And, of course, there are a few nets, fish bowls with toy fish and other animals to play catch-and-release with! A fun...

Aquarium Children Early Literacy Learning Libraries

July 24, 2014

Beginning this fall, together with our usual literacy offerings, we are incorporating more S.T.E.A.M. into our children’s programs! What’s S.T.E.A.M.?  It is an approach to education that focuses on science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics by providing kids with lots of hands-on activities and experiments. Each program will be designed to engage the imagination and stimulate the curiosity of our future computer programmers, scientists, mathematicians, artists and engineers. S.T.E.A.M. Exploration Stations are planned for preschool children (ages 3-5) at 10:30am on the second Wednesday and the following Saturday of each month at our Wausau headquarters. Occasionally, other Preschool...

Newsletter Early Literacy Children

January 24, 2014

Helping your child get ready to read is easy! Just do one fun activity from this calendar each day: http://wla.wisconsinlibraries.org/images/yss/2014_Early_Literacy_Calendar.pdf Plus, sign up for our 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program! Ask your children's librarian for more tips and ideas to promote pre-reading skills in your child.

Children Early Literacy

July 31, 2013

Exploration Station is a new program being offered for children at the Wausau Headquarters Library beginning this September. It is a hands-on curriculum based class for preschool children ages 4-6 that features rotating lab activities in the core areas of math, science, reading, and writing. It is a participatory class where a child and his/her parent/caregiver work together as a team. It is not a storytime. Each class begins with a discussion and stories about the theme and then breaks into smaller groups that rotate to lab stations to complete activities at each of the 5 stations. Children spend 5-6 minutes at each station. Caregivers are given the tools that they need to create a dialogue with the child...

Children Events

July 22, 2013

The Marathon County Public Library is challenging parents to read more books aloud with their children! The "1,000 Books Before Kindergarten" initiative is meant to introduce children to a wide range of literature, encourage families to spend quality time together and promote pre-literacy and learning so children enter school ready to read, listen and learn. Although 1,000 books sounds like a huge number, consider this: If you read one book a day, you could finish in less than three years. Ten books per week? Less than two years. We’ll give you more tips and suggestions, too. Families who register will receive a folder with a sheet to record each 100 books, a garden sheet, and instructions. Incentives...

Newsletter Children Book Clubs

May 23, 2013

It’s time to get ready to “Dig Into Reading” @MCPL this summer.  The Summer Library Program starts June 8 and ends August 24.  We have lots of fun activities, programs, therapy dogs to listen to kids read, and a summer reading club all ready to go for children and families at all MCPL locations. Children can register for the reading club and pick up the Excavation Site Map @ any MCPL location.   For every 15 minutes children read, visit the library, attend a library program and complete a suggested activity, they cross off or color a rock.  When all 7 rocks are colored, the site map can be brought to the library and children can claim their treasure.  Children will need their...

Children Summer Library Program

July 14, 2012

This list is modified from the New York Public Library's "100 Picture Books Everyone Should Know." 1. Hug – Jez Alborough 2. Old Black Fly – Jim Aylesworth 3. Ten, Nine, Eight – Molly Bang 4. Machines at Work – Byron Barton 5. Madeline – Ludwig Bemelmans 6. The Mitten: a Ukrainian Folktale – Jan Brett 7. Goodnight Moon – Margaret Wise Brown 8. Bad Kitty – Nick Bruel 9. Mr. Gumpy’s Outing – John Bunting 10. Little Cloud – Eric Carle 11. The Very Hungry Caterpillar – Eric Carle 12. Maisy Goes to the Library – Lucy Cousins 13. Ten Black Dots – Donald Crews 14. Freight Train – Donald Crews 15. Click Clack, Moo: Cows That Type – Doreen Cronin 16. Good Dog, Carl – Alexandra Day 17. Jamberry –...

Children Reading Recommendations

June 27, 2012

Start reading to your child early; read board and picture books to your baby, repeat nursery rhymes, and sing and talk to them often. Set aside some special time daily to read to your child separately and together with your family. Ask your child questions about books that they are reading; read the same book and discuss it with them. Get them hooked on books in a series; there are lots of good series books,  like the Magic Tree House series, that will keep them interested and reading for a long time (48th book to be released this July) Discover what type of books they like and help them find similar books and authors. Find books and magazine articles about anything that your child is interested...

Summer Library Program Children

May 16, 2012

Dreams and wishes and sleepy-time kisses!  It’s Dream Big-Read, the Summer Library Program @ your MCPL library.  We have so much fun planned this summer for kids, teens and families that you just have to stop in, grab some good reading and go to a program or two. Visiting a Marathon County library near you this summer are musicians/songwriters Tom Pease and Rich Baumann, juggler Bob Kann, the Raptor Education Group with large raptor birds, magician Professor Marvel a.k.a. Rob Halbrook,  and more.  You can also join us for a pool party at Memorial Park, meet us at the ballpark for a Woodchucks game, read to (and pet) therapy dogs, do some dreamy crafts, and bring the family (in your “...

Summer Library Program Children

May 8, 2012

Sadly,  well-known children’s author and illustrator, Maurice Sendak, recently died at age 83.  Fortunately for all children, and everyone who loves children’s literature,  he left us so many wonderful, unforgettable  books to enjoy over and over again. Sendak’s more than 50 works have evoked praise and criticism, sometimes both for the same books.  His best-loved work, Where the Wild Things Are, was also criticized for being too scary for children, and his Caldecott Honor book, In the Night Kitchen, was frequently challenged or banned for the depiction of a nude child.  His recently published book Bumble Ardy is about an orphaned pig and his birthday party.  My Brother...

Reading Recommendations Children

May 2, 2012

Children's Book Week is May 7-13. We are celebrating @MCPL Wausau with a special "Mother Goose is on the Loose" program and some of the earliest children's literature-nursery rhymes, on Saturday May 12 at 10:30am. We will have stories and rhymes, crafts, food and other activities for children and their families. Mother Goose and her goose may also make an appearance. Children's Book Week began in 1919 to celebrate literacy, books for children, and the joy of reading. It was founded with the belief that literacy and children's books are life-changers. Regular storytimes are held @ all MCPL locations and are an excellent way to build early literacy, social skills, and help develop a love of books, reading...

Events Children

March 31, 2012

Don’t miss these fun events scheduled for National Library Week  2012, “You Belong @ Your Library. Help us celebrate libraries with some free, fun, educational programs for you @MCPL Wausau. Monday April 9 11:00am-3:00pm- National Library Week kicks off with a reception and refreshments for customers. 6:30 pm--A Light-hearted Look at Wausau/Marathon County History--Gary Gisselman, historian with the Marathon County Historical Society will take us on an interesting tour of some of the stranger parts of our hometown history.     Tuesday April 10 6:00pm—Movie Night—“Courageous”—When tragedy strikes four policemen struggle with faith and their roles as husbands and fathers....

National Library Week Children

March 15, 2012

These books are on my e-reader and in my book bag. I heartily recommend all of them. If you can suspend reality for a while you will enjoy these fun, absorbing adventures. Happy reading!   Dragonswood by Janet Lee Carey -- In 1192 A.D. on Wilde Island, Tess, the daughter of a cruel blacksmith, is accused of witchcraft and must flee, but when she meets a handsome and enigmatic warden of Dragonswood who offers her shelter, she does not realize that he too harbors a secret that may finally bring about peace among the races of dragon, human, and fairy. Janet Lee Carey definitely knows how to tell a story; you won’t be disappointed.         Dragon's Keep by Janet...

Children Teens Reading Recommendations

March 1, 2012

Beautiful, colorful student artwork from Wausau School District’s Art Cluster 2012 is transforming the Children’s area @MCPL Wausau.  The students this year were challenged to create self portraits.  The fourth graders did acrylic paintings on canvas and fifth graders made life masks using plaster tape.   The life masks were painted after formation and many students incorporated many found objects in their sculptures.   Several of the self portraits include mixed media and are wonderful to see.  The reception is Saturday, March 3 beginning at 11:30.  This artwork will be displayed during the month of March.   You won’t want to miss this opportunity...

Arts and Crafts Children

February 22, 2012

Hurry in. It is Youth Art Month.  You will not want to miss the Northcentral Region Art Exhibition on the second floor @MCPL Wausau.  Represented are works of art from students in grades K-12.  You are invited to a reception that will be held this Saturday, Feb 25 from 1:00-3:00.   Winning artwork will go to Madison.  Pictured artwork is by Andrew Murdaugh (12th grade, Stratford) titled “B-Man the Tractor Man”. 

Children Arts and Crafts

February 3, 2012

Castles, wizards, witches, dragons, ogres, knights, princesses, adventure, mystery--all of my favorite ingredients blended into wonderful stories that hook me every time. Here are a few flights into fantasy that have kept me up late at night turning pages.   The Emerald Atlas by John Stephens -- Kate, Michael, and Emma have passed from one orphanage to another in the ten years since their parents disappeared to protect them, but now they learn that they have special powers, a prophesied quest to find a magical book, and a fearsome enemy.           Ogre of Oglefort by Diane Stanley -- When the Hag of Dribble, an orphan boy, and a troll called Ulf are sent...

Reading Recommendations Children

January 11, 2012

On Saturday, January 21 @MCPL Wausau we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the publication of the children’s picture book, The Snowy Day, authored and illustrated by Ezra Jack Keats (1916-1983).  In 1963 Keats received the Caldecott award for his illustrations in The Snowy Day, published in 1962.  This award is given annually to an artist of the most distinguished American Picture Book for Children published in the previous year.  The Snowy Day was one of the first children’s picture books to feature an African American child as the main character.  It is the story of a boy named Peter experiencing the simple enjoyment of the first snowfall. The Snowy Day Anniversary Party...

Children Reading Recommendations

December 12, 2011

Recently the MCPL mission changed and our spaces are changing too.  A new children’s Learning Center is debuting this Saturday @ MCPL Wausau. Join us at 10:30, Saturday, December 17 @ the Wausau location as we celebrate the Grand Opening of the new Children’s Learning Center/Story Room.  Perhaps you too will be transported to the seaside while looking at the wall art by our very own Kitty and Deb.  Stories, cake, fun and learning for all. Don’t miss it! 

Children Facility Improvement Meeting Rooms

November 22, 2011

On Saturday morning, December 10 at 10:30, at MCPL Wausau, join us for a free surprise birthday party for Frosty the Snowman. The whole family is invited. Frosty’s Magic Birthday Party is guaranteed to have everyone rolling with laughter as they help our presenter, Bob Halbrook get ready for this fun-filled winter event. Magic, story-telling, comedy, and songs will all combine to bring this very magical birthday party come to life. During this highly interactive show, lots of kids will be chosen to help Bob Halbrook with his silly tricks and crazy antics, and all of the kids will help make this Frosty’s best birthday ever. Watch for a couple of very magical creatures who are sure to be dropping by....

Children Events

October 27, 2011

We want your LEGO® and Duplo® blocks!  Please consider donating building blocks in all shapes and sizes to the library at Wausau. We promise that we will be kind to them and let lots of children play and learn with them. A regular Lego Club and other special events for children with Lego and Duplo blocks is in the planning. Unfortunately we have one rather big problem; we have no blocks.  Lego and Duplo blocks can be dropped off at the main desk, in Children's, or at the library drive-thru all hours that the library is open.  Please help us out and donate some today. We, and the kids in Marathon County thank you.   

Children Events

October 18, 2011

Have you or a member of your family ever dreamed of being a writer?  Then don’t miss hearing nationally recognized author,  Marion Dane Bauer on Tuesday, October 25, 6:30pm at the John Muir Middle School auditorium in Wausau.  “My Story, Your Story:  Creating Stories Together” is a free, family-friendly presentation blending short readings from some of her books with tips for beginning writers.  Marion Dane Bauer has written 81 books, receiving a Newbery Honor Award for her book, On My Honor in 1987.  She has written books ranging from baby board books and picture books, to novels for tweens and teens, and books on writing for young people. Her books will be...

Children Writing Teens

September 27, 2011

Ahoy mateys. Well blow me down! If ye landlubbers and me harties are wantin’ to talk pirate, here’s yer chance. Mango Languages is offering a free Pirate Language Course again, available until November 2011. So ye can have some swashbucklin’ good fun and start learning from the Library's Online Resources page here. After you are proficient in pirate, you may want to try some Spanish, Arabic, German, Greek, Russian or any one of the 29 foreign language courses for English Speakers. Mango Language courses are available to you for free year-round through the Library’s subscription to Mango Languages. Use your library card to login each time, or create your own user login and password to help track your...

Language Learning Children

September 15, 2011

Storytimes are great opportunities for learning and growth for children,  and give parents and caregivers time to connect with each other as well. New this fall @Wausau for families is a Play and Learn session on Fridays, 9:30-11:00, available through a partnership with the Marathon County Family Resource Center.   Drop in and participate in all or part of the weekly activities.  Book Babies (children 0-23 months), Tales for Twos (children 24-35months) , Preschool storytimes (children 3, 4, and 5  year olds not in kindergarten), and family storytimes for all ages are some of the other regular storytimes offered.  Storytimes consist of stories, songs, rhymes, and other...

Children Story Times

August 26, 2011

Congratulations Marathon County!  You made reading and learning a priority this summer.  Over 4,000 people in Marathon County participated in the Summer Library Program Reading Club.  Prizes have been drawn for the Summer Reading Club.   Congratulations to winners of the Children's prizes: David B., Latylia R., Anna B., Mikala B., Katherine G., Ethan C., Ashley B., Brianna L., and Selena E.   Teen prize winners are: Marissa H., Colton L., Jimmy D., Sarah H., and Ava G.  Thank you to all of the sponsors for the Summer Library Program.  It would not have been possible without the support of our community and the Friends of the Library...

Children Summer Library Program

August 16, 2011

You will be amazed at the wonderful, imaginative colorful murals that have hit the walls in the Children’s area @Wausau.  These tempera paint murals were created collaboratively by students in grades K-5 at Hawthorn Hills Elementary School, under the direction of art specialist, Steve Loftus.  Students were challenged to integrate their themes with illustrations from story books and include science, social studies, history, and math.  All students needed to contribute by drawing or painting. Older fourth and fifth grade students drew animals, people, objects, architectural elements and natural objects like flowers, birds,  and fish.  Third and fourth grade students painted and...

Arts and Crafts Children

July 15, 2011

There is still plenty of summer left to soar through the clouds and have adventures galore—all by visiting your library, attending programs, and reading.  One World, Many Stories, the Summer Library Program, is still operating at full speed.  It’s not just for kids. All ages are encouraged to participate, including babies, teens, and seniors. Because reading and learning are important parts of the Summer Library Program, a Reading Club is part of the summer fun.  After you have read ten books or 25 pages, cross off a symbol on your reading ticket and turn it in.  Children 12 and under receive a small prize bag for their first ticket. July and August are prime vacation months. ...

Summer Library Program Children

July 11, 2011

The ribbon-cutting ceremony officially opened the exciting, new entrance to the Children's area @MCPL Wausau, generously funded by the Wausau Noon Optimists.  The artwork for the project was donated by artist Dorie Klassen.  Come and see this exciting new entrance, featuring 6 chidlren's tales on the wall, and of course the yellow brick road from the Wizard of Oz.  Bring your chidlren and walk or skip down the yellow brick pathway to lifelong learning and discovey, all for free @ your public library.  Help us thank the Wausau Noon Optimists and help support their fund-raising efforts.  They will be at the Wisconsin Valley Fair, so visit their...

Children

July 11, 2011

Join us on Tuesday, July 12 for children’s musician, Randy Peterson @MCPL Wausau for two shows: 2:00pm and 6:30pm.  Randy will be performing @MCPL as part of the Summer Library Program, One World,  Many Stories. Please note:  there will not be a morning performance.  An afternoon performance @2:00 pm and an evening performance @ 6:30pm are the correct times.  There were some errors on other listings in the community.   Escape the summer heat and come and sing along with Randy.  You will not want to miss these free performances, funded by the Friends of the Library. Bring the whole family, have some fun, and learn some things too.  See you there! If you can...

Summer Library Program Children

July 5, 2011

Follow the yellow brick road, but not to see the wizard, to enter the Children’s area @ MCPL Wausau.  The new “yellow brick road” leading to the Children’s area is only one part of the new entrance that has been generously funded by the Wausau Noon Optimists.  A colorful wall mural, featuring characters from children’s folktales, fairytales, an Aesop’s fable, and a nursery rhyme is the other piece. Look for these six stories when you visit: "Hey diddle, diddle, the cat and the fiddle, the cow jumped over the moon,..." nursery rhyme Jack in the Beanstalk, folktale Rapunzel, fairytale The Three Little Pigs, fairytale Tortoise and the Hare, Aesop’s Fable Bremen Town...

Children

June 28, 2011

The holiday weekend is coming, and I am packing my bag, my book bag that is. I have quite a few children's books in it for a first read, and some for re-reads. The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane and the The Magician's Elephant by Kate DiCamillo are in the read again category. I love her warm, interesting characters, beautiful prose, and tales where love conquers, maybe not all, but a lot. She clearly writes for all ages, or for at least for all who have their imaginations and belief in love and magic still intact. Okay, I'll admit it. I love dragons. So, Tooth and Claw by Jo Walton, where all the characters are dragons is also in my bag. What's a holiday read, without a villain, so...

Children Reading Recommendations

June 17, 2011

Returning your books @ the Wausau Headquarters location just became easier, more efficient, and lots more fun.  Instead of dropping them into a return bin, you can use the new 3M Intelligent Return and Sorter system,  or self-check-in machine and sorter.   What is the advantage of using this machine to you?   You can print a receipt and immediately see that your library materials are checked in and off your library card.   Because library materials are checked in more quickly and sorted into shelving areas, books can be shelved faster and your reserves can get filled more quickly.  Come in and see this new technology.  We will be happy to...

Technology

June 14, 2011

“There’s music, there’s music, there’s music inside of you,"   as today’s participant's, young and old, discovered today with Bill Kehl as our guide.   In his program, One Earth, Many Sounds, kids discovered musical instruments from around the world made from found objects in nature.  They learned the instrument's history, and even had the chance to play them.  Today was the kickoff for the Summer Library Program @ Wausau.  At MCPL Spencer Branch, Randy Peterson captivated an audience of 240.   If you missed Bill Kehl or Randy Peterson, there’s still time to see them.   They will be at other MCPL locations this summer.  Check out the...

Summer Library Program Children

June 2, 2011

Stories, stories, stories;  what would we be like without them?   What would the world be like without them?   One World, Many Stories is the theme for the 2011 Summer Library Program! Stories from all cultures and all parts of the world help us make sense of the world, enable us to understand and relate better to each other,  try on different occupations, experience different situations.  Few of us will ever get a chance in our lifetime to travel around the world and immerse ourselves in all cultures.  But all of us can travel through the pages of books, glimpse another’s world,  imagine another universe, and escape ours for a while. As well as improving...

Children Summer Library Program

May 16, 2011

Summer is coming,  and with it “One World Many Stories”, the Summer Library Program @ MCPL,  and changes to the storytime schedules. The next two weeks we will be very busy with school tours, so there will be no storytimes May 16-28.   There will also be no storytimes July 4-9. Family Storytimes, Saturday’s @ MCPL Wausau are not held during the summer months; they will resume again in the fall, on Saturday, September 24. Books for Babies @MCPL Wausau will be held per the usual schedule this summer on Monday at  9:45 and 10:30. Tales for Twos @MCPL Wausau will be held on May 31 and the rest of the summer on Tuedays' at 9:45 and 10:30 except on the following dates...

Children Story Times Summer Library Program

May 13, 2011

Ahoy mateys.  Well blow me down!  If ye landlubbers and me harties are wantin’ to talk pirate, here’s yer chance.   Mango Languages is offering a free Pirate Language Course.  So ye can have some swashbucklin’ good fun and start learning from the Lirbary's Online Resorces page here. After you are proficient in pirate,  you may want to try some Spanish, Arabic, German, Greek, Russian or any one of the  29 foreign language courses for English Speakers.    Mango Language courses are available to you for free year-round through the Library’s subscription to Mango Languages.    Use your library card to login each time,  or create your own...

Language Learning Children

May 2, 2011

Happy Children's Book Week! Children's Books Change Lives.  This initial idea began the countrywide celebration of Children's Book Week beginning in 1919.  Literacy and reading are essential for all children from birth onward, not only for their own pleasure and enrichment,  but for their future success.  The library has a wide, wonderful collection of quality children's books for you to share with your child,  or have your child check out and read to you.  As well as building literacy, reading together helps bring your family closer together. In honor of Children's Book Week all MCPL locations are giving out the bookmark by Jeff Kinney, author of Diary...

Children Reading Recommendations

April 25, 2011

How did the Hmong become embroiled in a war not of their own making?  What role did they serve during the Vietnam War?  What forces propelled them from their homeland to the refugee camps of Thailand and ultimately here to the United States?  Dr. Paul Hillmer, author of A People’s History of the Hmong, will discuss these and other topics during a free presentation this Thursday, April 28, 6:30pm  @MCPL Wausau.   Hillmer is a professor of American History at Concordia University in St Paul, MN and Director of the Hmong Oral History Project.  He and his students interviewed and recorded stories from over 200 Hmong individuals.  These interviews form the foundation of...

Events Reading Recommendations Community

April 16, 2011

As National Library Week draws to a close for this year,  the “Create Your Own Story @ Your Library” drawing sheets from Culver's will continue throughout the month of April.  Pictured is a drawing by  Mya P.,  11 years old,.  from the book Arthur's Nose  by Marc T. Brown.  This drawing is part of the Culver’s National Library Week  drawing contest . There’s still time for kids to draw their picture and submit it to the Library.  Kids can pick up a Culver’s sheet @ any MCPL location,  draw a picture from  a book ( character, event, or scene), return the sheet to the Library  for a coupon for free single scoop of...

Children National Library Week

April 8, 2011

We want to hear your library story. Is the Marathon County Public Library an important part of your life?  Has your library helped improve your life, "saved your life" by helping you complete a term paper, helped you get a job, learn a new skill, helped your child learn to read, changed your life, whatever. If you have stories about your library, we would love to hear them.    We have made it easy for you to create your library story now, during National Library Week, by providing a place online and in-house for you to do it.  Share your story, choose a picture if you like, and click on submit. You can share your story here: www.mcpl.us/...

Libraries National Library Week

March 20, 2011

Spring has sprung, and with it  the National Library Week celebration @ your library.  Create Your Own Story @ Your Library is the theme for the 2011 celebration.  During National Library Week we celebrate the importance of libraries.  You won't want to miss these FREE, fun programs for you and all members of your family.  Sunday 4/10:  Opening Celebration  @ Wausau Headquarters 1:30pm, MCPL Wausau--Library Director officially pronounces National Library Week 2:00pm., MCPL Wausau--Mr Steve (Lundquist) , "Master Facilitator of Fun"--fun-filled  family program of music, magic and ballooning Monday  4/11: 6:30pm, MCPL Mosinee --Family...

National Library Week Libraries Children

March 11, 2011

The old entrance to the children’s area @ Wausau headquarters was taken down this morning before the Library opened.  A wonderful new one will be coming soon, thanks to the Noon Optimists who are funding this project as a part of their 50thanniversary celebration.    What will the new entrance look like?   Keep your eyes and ears open as the magic unfolds.   Think nursery rhymes, fairytales, and a wee sprinkling of pixy dust.

Children Libraries

March 11, 2011

Is this cat yours?  This beautiful kitty wandered into the Wausau Headquarters Library today.  We all fell in love with this very gentle, sweet, lovable, orange  longhair cat.   If you are missing your best friend,  you can find her/him at the Humane Society of Marathon County.   If unclaimed, this adorable “baby” will probably be available for adoption.  Alas, no Dewey library cat for us.

Libraries

March 5, 2011

You won't want to miss the beautiful bird artwork in the Children's area.   The bird paintings and metallic bird sculptures are @ the Wausau location courtesy of the students (and teachers) who participated in the Gifted and Talented Art Cluster, 2010-2011, Wausau School District. The Fourth Grade students painted their interpretation of a bird using acrylic paint on canvas.  They repeated the bird's color and pattern.  The individual paintings are hung together to form one large bird scene. The Fifth Grade students were inspired by the artist Helen Ward.  They created a metallic bird sculpture out of paper mache' material and other found...

Children Arts and Crafts

February 16, 2011

Mr. Pig is all decked out in his “Cat in the Hat” party hat and is ready to party. Spread the word, because everyone is invited to come to the early birthday party for Dr. Seuss. The party begins at MCPL Wausau on Saturday, February 26 with a sharing of Dr. Seuss stories at 10:30, followed by “Seussical” crafts, and of course a birthday cake. At 1:00 join us for the classic Dr. Seuss movie about a mischievous cat, wearing a red and white striped hat and bowtie, who visits the home of two bored children on a cold, wet day. Dr. Seuss was named Theodor Seuss Geisel at birth, and was born was born on March 2, 1904 in Massachusetts. His first children’s book, “And To Think That I Saw it On Mulberry Street “ was...

Children

January 7, 2011

Resolve to learn a new language this year. It's easy with Mango Languages, the new language learning program that is available to you for free with your library card.29 foreign languages for English speakers are available including Arabic, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Croatian, Czech, Dari, Dutch, Farsi, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hindi, Indonesian, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Pashto, Portuguese, Russian, Slovak, Spanish, Tagalog, Tamil, Thai, Turkish, Ukrainian, Urdu, and Vietnamese.  To use it, just login with your library card each time, or create your own unique user login using your library card, email address, and password to help you track your progress.Mango will get you...

Language Learning

December 9, 2010

During this holiday season, the Library at Wausau is doing a Tribute to the Troops.   How can you be a part of this tribute? Bring in a picture of your family member(s) who is in the military. Pictures will be positioned on a star on the flag, and will be displayed in the main lobby display case at the Library.   Pictures can be brought or sent to the Wausau location until December 31st. Your picture will be returned to you.   Please let us help you honor your loved one in the military.   Questions?  Please contact the library @Wausau.

Libraries

November 24, 2010

Thanks to students in Ryan Priebe’s art class at John Muir Middle School in Wausau,  the Library @ Wausau  has wonderful, original artwork to mark sections of Fiction books in the Teen Zone.    The letters  “A” by Danielle K. and “B” drawn by Alex S. are pictured here.   Other artists’ alphabet works on display are by Adam B., Renee H., Rachel S., Brad H., Miranda B., PJ Y., Tanner B., Curtis B., Patrick H., Samantha N., Kirsten M, Zenas L., Sydney H., and Miranda C. The artistic “letters” will be on display through the end of the school year, and new creations  will be in MCPL Teen Zone the following school year. Come and see these, and the rest of the...

Arts and Crafts Teens

October 14, 2010

The world awaits your discovery.  Apply for your U.S. Passport at the Marathon County Public Library and take the first step toward your journey.  It’s fast, it’s easy, and it’s convenient.   The Library has certified Passport Acceptance Agents ready to help you all hours that the Wausau location is open. To apply for a U.S. Passport you will need to bring the following: Passport Application—available at the Library or online Proof of U.S. citizenship--a certified, county or state issued birth certificate, naturalization papers,  or previous (expired) U.S. passport Proof of identity—current, valid driver’s license or state-issued ID card 2 Passport Photos—may be taken at...

Passports

September 29, 2010

This week is Banned Books Week; time to celebrate the freedom to read. The theme this year is Think for Yourself and Let Others Do the Same. See the list of books that were challenged the most often in 2009, and read a banned or challenged book today!. Top 10 Most Frequently Challenged Books of 2009 (Out of 460 challenges as reported to the Office for Intellectual Freedom, American Library Association) ttyl; ttfn; l8r, g8r (series), by Lauren Myracle -- Reasons: drugs, nudity, offensive language, sexually explicit, unsuited to age group And Tango Makes Three by Peter Parnell and Justin Richardson -- Reasons: homosexuality The Perks of Being A Wallflower by...

Challenged Books Top 10

September 14, 2010

Free Computer Classes for the absolute beginner and beyond are available @ the Wausau location. Classes are held in the Gates Computer Lab on Monday mornings, 10:00-11:30, Tuesday nights 6:30-8:00, and Thursday afternoons 2:00-3:30.   Introduction to Computers, Searching the Internet, classes on Microsoft Office 2007 programs--MS Word, Publisher and Excel, and Editing Digital Photos round out the classes offered. Classes are filling fast, so contact the Wausau library and sign up today!  

Computer Classes

July 29, 2010

The eagles have landed on your library's shelves.    Come and check out these wonderful new books on eagles.   An Eagle Named Freedom:  My True Story of a Remarkable Friendship by Jeff Guidry.  Guidry shares his story of nursing a baby eagle (Freedom) back to health at the Sarvey Wildlife Care Center.  His bond with Freedom helped him during his own fight with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma . Eagle  Watchers: Observing and Conserving Raptors Around the World edited by Ruth E. Tingay and Todd E. Katzner—stories shared by 29 leading eagle researchers about their experiences studying 24 species of eagles on 6 continents Just Eagles by Alan...

Reading Recommendations

July 7, 2010

There has never been a better time to get your U.S. passport.  The U. S. Department of State has announced price increases effective July 13, 2010 for Passport Books, Cards, and Passport renewals. Department of State Fees: Passport Book for an Adult (age 16 and over)-- from $75.00 to $110.00 Passport Book for a Minor (under age 16)--from $60.00 to $80.00 Passport Card for an Adult (age 16 or over)--from $20.00 to $30.00 Passport Card for a Minor (under age 16)--from $10.00 to $15.00 Acceptance, or Execution fees for first- time applicants are remaining the same--$25.00. The Library is a Passport Acceptance facility.  We can also take your passport...

Passports

June 30, 2010

Over 800 people of all ages were thoroughly entertained by singer, songwriter Tom Pease @MCPL Wausau yesterday.  His utra-enthusiastic mixture of sign language, songs, humor and audience participation is infectious.   Tom Pease's programs are part of "Make a Splash, READ" Summer Library Program  at the Marathon County Public Library.    If you missed Tom Pease's performance  yesterday, you can still catch him this summer.  He will be @Marathon Branch, performing at Marathon Elementary on 7/21 @10am, @Mosinee Branch on  7/28 @10am,  and also on @Stratford Branch on  7/28 at 1:30pm.  There is still lots of...

Children Summer Library Program

May 25, 2010

Come to MCPL Wausau and see the "Pulp to Paper" artwork display from students from area schools. More than 50 students, primarily with disabilities, learned the art of papermaking and paper arts sculpture. Using the theme, "Around Our Mountain", students created artwork responding to the question, "What does Rib Mountain say to you about the environment?" Their answers are depicted by their artistic creations as well as embossed into their creations. Participating schools in the VSA Arts of Wisconsin project include Franklin Elementary School, John Muir Middle School, Horace Mann Middle School, and D.C. Everest Senior High School. The mission of VSA Arts of Wisconsin is to expand the capabilities,...

Arts and Crafts Children

May 20, 2010

Please help MCPL welcome Wisconsin northwoods author Brett Champan back to Wausau this Saturday, May 22.   Brett will be at MCPL Wausau from 11:00-3:00.  Brett Champan is the author of the novel, Rearview Sunset.   He will be happy to converse with you in person during this time period.  He will not be doing a formal presentation. Brett grew up in Wausau.  While in grade school he decided that he was going to be a writer.  In addition to writing, Brett loves the outdoors, riding his horse,  and has a passion for teaching and helping people grow.    Come and spent some time chatting with Brett about writing, horses, teaching, Wausau memories...

Reading Recommendations

May 10, 2010

Looking for a book that you can read in a weekend, or an evening, that will inspire your life forever, maybe even change it?  Then do what I did; read Mandela’s Way: Fifteen Lessons on Life, Love, and Courage by Richard Stengel.      Over a three year period author Richard Stengel spent many hours interviewing Nelson Mandela, eating with him, accompanying him on walks, watching him work, and campaign.  The result is a wonderful book that shows a rare glimpse into the world and wisdom of this extraordinary man. The African concept known as ubuntu—“the profound sense that we are human only through the humanity of others; that if we are to accomplish anything in this world, it will...

Reading Recommendations

April 15, 2010

Look who joined us last night at MCPL Wausau for El Dia de los Ninos/El Dia de los Libros celebration as a part of National Library Week.  He/she didn't eat much food or candy though.  Many thanks to El Mezcal who donated the delicious food and to all who came to the Library and had fun. 

National Library Week Children

April 15, 2010

"What happens in the telling of a story? What happens after it? Come meet writer Kao Kalia Yang talk to the Hmong story." Kao Kalia Yang tells the powerful story of her family's journey from Laos after the Vietnam War, a time when Hmong families were no longer welcome. She relates her parents treacherous journey across the Mekong River on foot, to Ban Vinai Refugee Camp in Thailand where she was born, and finally to Minnesota, a place that they could call home. Please join us in welcoming award-winning author Kao Kalia Yang, author of The Latehomecomer: a Hmong Family Memoir, to Wausau. You will not want to miss her presentation this Saturday, April 17 at 1:00 at the John Muir Middle School Auditorium...

National Library Week

April 14, 2010

Today, Wednesday April 14 is the first ever National Bookmobile Day during National Library Week.  To coincide with this, Marathon County Bookmobile history is on display at MCPL Wausau throughout April. The first bookmobile arrived in Marathon County in December 1949, as a result of much petitioning and urging by rural school teachers and Kay Biwer, the head of Marathon County Library, located in the courthouse, serving the rural areas of Marathon County.  Marathon County’s bookmobile became the 4thbookmobile in Wisconsin. Bookmobile service began in Marathon County as way to provide additional books to children in the rural schools, later branching out to stops in communities and...

National Library Week History

April 13, 2010

How important are libraries to the communities that they serve?  As we celebrate National Library Week, Libraries are the Heart of the Community, a report , " How Libraries Stack Up: 2010" was recently issued from OCLC illustrating some answers to these questions: Every day 300,000 Americans get job-seeking help at their public library. Nearly 12,000 libraries offer wireless Internet access. 2.8 million business owners and employees use public library resources to support their business. Library cards are almost as prevalent as credit cards--two-thirds of Americans have library cards. 5,400 libraries over technical training classes. 2.1 million DVD's are borrowed from...

Libraries

April 11, 2010

The picture above show Librarian Mike O’ Connor awarding prizes at the opening celebration of National  Library Week at MCPL Wausau, Sunday April 11. Day 2 of National Library Week, Monday April 12 you won’t want to miss master gardener,  Cathy Matel’s free program, “Ideas for your Garden. at 10:30am. Also on Monday,  free  Book Bucks ($1.00 coupons)  for the Friends of the Library Book Sales will be given out at all locations.  Supplies are limited so you will want to come early to get yours. MCPL Edgar has a Teen Game night Scheduled for Monday, at 7:00pm which I am sure teens won’t want to miss. Come and participate in one or all of the National Library Week...

National Library Week

April 6, 2010

Join us this Sunday, April 11, as we celebrate the opening of National Library Week at MCPL Wausau.  "Why I Love My Library" art contest winners, like Bronte's picture above, will be announced, displayed, and prizes awarded.  Fun crafts for kids and refreshments for all.  Free customer appreciation coupons and library card replacement for lost and damaged cards will be given.  And this is just the beginning.  Don't miss the week long celebration culminating in award-winning author, Kao Kalia' Yang's  free presentation on Saturday, April 17 at  the John Muir Middle School Auditorium, Wausau. More details about all of the National Library Week events here.

National Library Week

March 31, 2010

Set your clocks, mark your calendars! National Library Week is almost here. Join us in celebrating, "Libraries are the Heart of the Community," a week of FREE, fun-filled activities for all members of the family. April 11, Sunday MCPL MCPL Wausau: 2:00pm, National Library Week Opening Celebration —"Why I Love My Library" art contest entries displayed and winners announced, crafts for kids, and refreshments. April 12, Monday MCPL Wausau: 10:30am, Ideas for your Garden : program by Cathy Matel, Master Gardener. MCPL Edgar: 7:00pm, Teen Game Night. All MCPL Locations: Book Bucks Give Away, $1.00 coupons to use at the Library’s Book Sale. April 13, Tuesday MCPL Hatley: 4:...

National Library Week

March 19, 2010

    Come in and see what paint and some original ideas by our in-house "designer", a.k.a. Kitty, have accomplished.  Enter the Wausau Library on the first floor, keep on walking past the check-out desk, past the computer lab, round the corner, and you're here. Artwork documenting the history of the library is on the burgundy painted square in this photo.  To the left, in the white  "gutters", is artwork waiting for you to check-out.  Yes, you can check out artwork just like a DVD, CD, or book, and enjoy at home. We're proud of this wonderful “new” area.  Please come and see, relax and enjoy the space, check out some artwork, glance at...

Libraries

March 10, 2010

On Saturday, March 27, 9:00am-4:00pm, the Library at Wausau is participating with other passport acceptance facilities in the 2nd annual Passport Day in the USA.  This is a national passport acceptance and outreach event sponsored by the U.S. Department of State.   More than 2,000 facilities, including the Marathon County Public Library, participated last year. U.S. citizens are required to present a valid passport book when entering or re-entering the United States by air.  When entering or re-entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda at land borders and sea ports of entry, a Passport Book or Passport Card are required.  Unlike the Passport Book, the...

Passports

February 28, 2010

The Friends of the Marathon County Public Library Team, the "Dewey Decimals", took home the gold Sunday at the Marathon County Literacy Council’s 6th annual Adult Spelling Bee. They won by spelling the final two words "muskeg" and "brolly" correctly.  Competing with them for the top spot was Aspirus Hospital’s team, "Word Warriors",  who received second place. Nine teams competed, had fun, and helped fund the work of the  Literacy Council, to improve literacy in Marathon County. Other teams competing were DC Everest, Wausau Early Bird Rotary, Greater Wausau Evening Kiwanis, Wausau Noon Optimists, "Birds and Bees", Marathon County Retired Educators, and "We Bee Spielers...

Community Literacy Council

February 26, 2010

The Dewey Decimals, the Library's own spelling bee team, is matching their spelling prowess against other area teams this Saturday, February 27 in the Marathon County Literacy Council's Adult Spelling Bee.  Due to the efforts and generosity of the Friends of the Marathon County Public Library, the Library is able to support the Literacy Council's important work and have fun. Come and cheer on the Dewey Decimals!  The Spelling Bee is being held at the Health Sciences Building, Northcentral Technical College (directions here).  The Bee starts at 1:00pm and is free.  Food is available and raffles will be held.  Come and join us.

Community Literacy Council

February 18, 2010

Teams are ready and waiting to spell their hearts out at the Marathon County Literacy Council’s Spelling Bee on Saturday, February 27.   And yes, this includes a team from the Marathon County Public Library.  Our Library Team, staff members Chris and Alissa, and Friends member Bill Dovenbarger are ready to match their spelling knowledge against other area teams in this fun event.  The annual Marathon County Literacy Council’s 6th annual Adult Spelling Bee is Saturday, February 27, 1:00-4:00pm at the Health Science Building, Northcentral Technical College.  The Spelling Bee is the annual fund raiser that helps support the important work of the Marathon County Literacy Council to...

Community Literacy Council

January 27, 2010

If you are searching for trustworthy health and medical websites, check out the 2010 list of Top Health Websites that you Can Trust.  This list is published annually by CAPHIS, the Consumer and Patient Health Information section of the Medical Library Association.  These websites have been evaluated and meet their standards for trustworthy health information.   Some of the Top General Health Websites included are: Cleveland Clinic Health Information Center Familydoctor.org Healthfinder--U.S. Department of Health and Human Services MayoClinic MedicineNet.com --part of WebMD network Medline Plus --National Library of Medicine Check...

Health Resources

January 5, 2010

Looking for free electronic books but unsure of what library online resource you can use? NetLibrary is a collection of e-books that you can read on your computer after you have established an account. Set up your NetLibrary account on one of the computers at the headquarters library in Wausau or at any of the 8 branch libraries.   Then you will be able to login and read NetLibrary ebooks from any computer with Internet access. E-books from NetLibrary can only be viewed on your computer. These electronic books cannot be downloaded to an e-book reader or any other portable device.  OverDrive is a collection of e-books, music, audiobooks, and videos that you can download for...

E-books Online Resources

December 14, 2009

You can now use OverDrive, the free digital media download resource, to download ebooks in two formats—Adobe PDF and EPUB format. You can download these ebooks to your computer (Windows or Mac) or to your Sony ebook reader.   Currently they cannot be downloaded to an Amazon Kindle or a Palm/Pocket PC device. New features let you rate titles on a scale of 1-5 stars and share your favorites via FaceBook and Twitter.  In addition, you can also use OverDrive to download music, videos, and audiobooks to your computer and transfer them to your portable device—all for free.   OverDrive is funded by Wisconsin public libraries and public library systems who participate in...

Wisconsin's Digital Library

November 23, 2009

Finding official government information can be difficult using regular commercial search tools like Google, Bing, and Yahoo. Using the official U.S. government search portal, www.usa.gov, it will not only be much easier for you to find the wealth of federal, state, and local government information,  but you can be confident that you are accessing legitimate government websites and information. What can you find using the government’s search portal, www.usa.gov? Government grants and jobs, passport and travel information, census reports, tax information and forms, consumer information, health and nutrition, ways to contact your elected government officials, food stamp program, veteran affairs, all...

Government Information

October 19, 2009

Looking for some deer hunting tips and techniques? If you are, you won’t want to miss Jeffrey Foytek’s free program on whitetail deer hunting at the Library in Wausau this Thursday night (10/22) at 6:30pm. Foytek, who has never missed an opening day, will share some of the wisdom that he has acquired during over 40 years experience successfully hunting deer. He will be talking about his deer hunting strategies and tracking techniques, demonstrating hunting aids, and sharing some hunting stories.  Jeffrey Foytek has written a book detailing his hunting experience titled True Adventure Stories of a Whitetail Deer Hunter: 40 years of Successful Hunting.   His book will...

Events Nature

October 13, 2009

This Saturday, October 17th 10:00 am to 2:00pm, the Library is holding a Passport Event at the Mosinee Branch Library (Joseph Dessert Memorial Library).  New and renewal applications will be available. Several of the Library’s Passport Acceptance Agents will be able to assist you with your passport applications and answer your questions. How much does a passport book cost?   For an individual 16 years old and older: $75.00 (payable to the U.S. Department of State) plus an execution fee of $25.00. Fees for children under the age of 16 are: $60.00 (payable to the U.S. Department of State) plus an execution fee of $25.00. A check or money order will be needed to pay the U.S....

Passports

August 29, 2009

If you want to brush up your skills or take a practice test for a new or current job or school, improve your basic math, reading and writing skills, or just continue your life-long learning, check out Learning Express Library, the new online resource that is available to you for free through a Wisconsin Valley Library Services LSTA “Bridge to Job Hunting Success” grant.   You will discover many review tests and exercises to improve basic skills to help you with your daily life and help you get a better job. There are over 800 online courses, tests, and e-books to assist you. Some of the practice tests available at Learning Express Library are: Basic math, reading, grammar, vocabulary...

Online Resources

August 10, 2009

New in 2010! The Library has subscribed to Mango Languages, a language learning program that teaches practical conversation and cultural awareness for the world's most popular languages, including Arabic, Chinese, Croatian, Czech, Dari, Dutch, Farsi, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hindi, Indonesian, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Pashto, Portuguese, Russian, Slovak, Spanish, Tagalog, Tamil, Thai, Turkish, Ukrainian, Urdu, Vietnamese and more!For access, visit our Online Resource webpage: www.mcpl.us/research/online.Looking for some free internet sites to help you learn another language? Here are a few resources that may help you get started.*Annenberg Media Programs—Language Learning — Free video language...

Language Learning

August 5, 2009

The Marathon County Public Library's subscription to  the Auralog "Tell Me More" online language learning product expires this Saturday August 8, so it will no longer be available to library card holders after this date.  We apologize for the short notice and for any inconvenience that this may cause to our users. The library is currently looking at other online language products that will be helpful and user friendly for the language learners in our community.  

Online Resources Language Learning

July 22, 2009

Randy Peterson brought smiles to kids and adults alike as he performed at  the free program at the library.  His program is part of the many activities planned for the Summer Library Program. He sang many funny songs.  "Don't squash that bug' was my favorite, and everyone participated by singing and moving along with him.  The songs were infectious; I left the performance singing to anyone and everyone "I'm Gonna Read a Book Today" and "whatcha gonna do today?---READ"! There are still lots more programs and lots more summer to participate in the Summer Library Program.  Participation is free and open to everyone.  Express Yourself is the summer...

Summer Library Program

July 9, 2009

Yes, the Marathon County Public Library has its very own pig.  We are participating with other Wausau downtown businesses and Wausau Area Events in celebration of the Big Bull Falls BBQ Ribfest "Pigs on Parade",  in conjuction with all the other activities this weekend.  It promises to be a fun-filled weekend with the hot air balloon rally, Chalk Fest, kayak races, RibFest,  and of course the Pig Parade. Our very talented staff painted our pig and outfitted him with his very own hot air ballon so that he is ready and waiting for the hot air balloon rally.  See our pig here at the library thru Saturday.  On Saturday afternoon he will take his place with the other...

Community

June 23, 2009

The temperatures were in the 90's today, but many adults and children found a fun, free, wonderful way to cool off and have fun at the library. Bill Kehl  (pictured here) delighted enthusiastic audiences at morning and afternoon programs today at the library with his mix of jokes, juggling, music, songs, and natural instruments that children from the audience played.  Facts about the earth and space were intermingled in this program titled Earth, Music...Magic!.   Ice cold ice cream, donated by the Farm Bureau concluded today's program.  Don't miss out children, adults and teens! Teen and children's summer library programs with cool prizes and fun activities are waiting...

Summer Library Program Children

June 16, 2009

Bob Kann captivated children and adults alike with juggling, magic tricks, tongue twisters, and games.  In this photo from the 2:00pm program he is teaching the audience how to juggle .  He is doing another program tonight at 6:30pm and at the Rothschild Elementary School this Thursday, June 18 at 11:00am and 1:30pm Don't miss out!  There are lots of fun, exciting programs planned for the Summer Library Program.  Check out the programs and activities for Children and for Teens this summer.  These programs are the best deal in town--they are FREE of charge.  And don't forget all of the books, DVD's, CD's, games and other items that are available for you...

Teens Summer Library Program

June 8, 2009

Confused about where to find good quality health and medical information on the Internet?  Try these consumer health information websites sponsored by the U.S. government. Healthfinder (www.healthfinder.gov) U.S. Department of Heath and Human Services selected sites from over 1,500 health-related organizations. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (www.cdc.gov) broad coverage of the major chronic and infectious diseases, birth defects, vaccine and immunization information and more. Medline Plus (www.medline.gov) 18,000 links to medical information evaluated by the National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health.  Interactive tutorials, clinical...

Online Resources Health Resources

June 1, 2009

Today, June 1,  the U.S. government has implemented the second phase of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative.  All U.S. citizens 16 and over entering  the United States by land or sea  need to have a passport book or passport card.  This means if you are planning to travel by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean region you now need a passport book or passport card.  This is an addition to the requirement that  all U.S. citizens traveling outside of the United States by air need to present a valid U.S passport book to enter or re-enter the United States. The Marathon County Public Library is a Passport Acceptance...

Passports

May 17, 2009

Looking for a good book to read for yourself, your teen, or child? NoveList Plus is a great place to start.    This online resource is available to you for free with your library card. Check out what makes NoveList Plus such a great reader’s advisory resource for you:  159,000 fiction titles for Adults, Teens, and kids Authoritative Reviews and articles about books Author Read-alikes—find authors who write like the authors of books that you like Recommended “Reads”—suggested reading lists annotated and compiled by librarians, covering a wide variety of subjects Series information so that you can read your favorite books in order  Book Discussion Guides—...

Reading Recommendations Books

April 28, 2009

If you saw our earlier blog post titled   "Your Library is Showing Its Colors”, here is a photo of the other side of the room. This is the view from the top of the stairs on the second floor at Wausau. This area is where the new-nonfiction books live until you take them home. The picture shows the new wood display shelves that were recently purchased.  By using these small units instead of one long shelf like we had previously,  several cozy browsing areas have been created.  There are lots of new books changing places on these shelves every day. Stop in and see the changes at your Library, and while you are here check-out something good to read, watch, or listen...

Libraries

April 21, 2009

See the new colors of your library.  Library staff members Kitty, Deb, and Paula  have been busy with their paint cans and rollers again.  Here is a small sample of their work. This is the computer area on the 2nd floor of the Wausau location which they recently completed painting.  Computers are free for anyone to use.  And don't forget that  there are many relaxing places in the library where you can use your laptop with free wireless Internet access.  Wireless Internet access is available for free at all 9 locations. See you here.

Libraries

April 20, 2009

Karen Land, Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race veteran and her Alaskan Husky dog, Borage, (in the photo above) fascinated and enthralled a crowd of about 125 people at MCPL Wausau during National Library Week. Karen Land mentioned several books in her talk that you, and those who attended her presentation, may want more information about. "Winterdance: the fine madness of running the Iditarod" by Gary Paulsen. Karen said that this book inspired her to try sled dog racing and enter the Iditarod "Adventures of the Iditarod Airforce" by Ted Mattson. This book is out of print but may be able to be obtained on interlibrary loan. "Balto"—there are several books with varying titles about this sled dog who...

National Library Week

April 14, 2009

National Library Week is proclaimed in Marathon County by  (right to left) James Tipple, Mayor of Wausau, Brad Karger, Marathon County Administrator, and Phyllis Christensen, Director of the Marathon County Public Library, on Monday, April 13, 2009. National Library Week 2009 Worlds Connect @ Your Library Proclamation WHEREAS, our nation’s school, academic, public, and special libraries make a difference in the lives of millions of Americans, today more than ever; WHEREAS, librarians and library workers help people of all ages and backgrounds find and interpret the information that they need to live, learn, and work in a challenging economy; WHEREAS, libraries are part of the American...

National Library Week

April 12, 2009

Today is Easter and also the start of  National Library Week.  National Libary Week begins today, April 12  and runs through Saturday, April 18.  We are giving you lots of good reasons to visit your library this week with free 50 cent coupons, treats, free library card replacement this week, a scavenger hunt for kids 3-8 .  Stop in tomorrow, Monday at  Wausau at 1:00pm, and hear Brad Karger, Marathon County Administrator, and Jim Tipple, Mayor of Wausau, officially proclaim National Library Week.  And don't miss the programs this week, in particular, Karen Land, this Thursday, April 16 at 6:00 pm.  She will be...

Libraries National Library Week

April 7, 2009

National Library Week celebrates the importance of libraries across the country.  Join us as we celebrate libraries in Marathon County. Kicking off the celebration, on Monday, April 13 at 1:00pm, Brad Karger, Marathon County Administrator, and James Tipple, Mayor of Wausau, will officially proclaim National Library Week at the Wausau location. Two programs will highlight the weekly celebration. April 14 at 7:30pm at Stratford Branch—Carol Brey will  present a program on Container Gardening April 16 at 6:00pm at the Wausau location Karen Land will share her experiences in the Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race  During National Library Week, April 12-18, at all 9 of the Marathon...

National Library Week

March 17, 2009

The top of the day to you! Looking for some good stories and information on Ireland? If you are planning a trip, are interested in Irish history, or just want to kick your heels up, here are some of my favorites. "Princes of Ireland: Dublin Saga" by Edward Rutherfurd "The Rebels of Ireland": conclusion of Dublin Saga; sequel to Princes of Ireland "Ireland: a Novel" by Frank Delaney "Tipperary" also by Frank Delaney is also excellent. His most recent book,"Shannon", is my next read. "An Irish Country Doctor" by Patrick Taylor Edward Rutherfurd has been described as the history teacher that you wished you would have had in high school. His books are wonderful epics that take you from the...

Books Music Reading Recommendations

February 19, 2009

Readers Are More Likely To... Do well in school Communicate effectively Have confidence Be productive Concentrate well Solve problems Seek out and develop new ideas Be lifelong learners Utilize technology Get ahead in their careers Earn a higher salary Get a promotion or a raise Cope well with life's challenges Know how to relax and unwind Be creative Be well-rounded Attend cultural events Volunteer and do charity work Be better conversationalists Achieve rewarding relationships Find common humanity Be thoughtful, engaged citizens Vote Live longer, healthier lives Be happy From the book: Raising Bookworms: Getting Kids Reading for Pleasure and...

Reading Recommendations

January 6, 2009

Apply for your U.S. Passport today.  This coming June 2009, the U.S. government is implementing the second phase of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative requiring all U.S. citizens entering  the United States by land or sea to have a passport book or passport card.  This means if you are planning to travel by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean region on or after June 1st you will need a passport book or passport card.  This is an addition to the current requirement that  all U.S. citizens traveling outside of the United States by air need to present a valid U.S passport book to enter or re-enter the United States. The...

Passports

December 15, 2008

Dewey is the heartwarming story of an ordinary cat who finds himself freezing cold, starving, and homeless in an extraordinary place on a bitterly cold January day—in the book drop of the Spencer Public Library.  Fortunately for him, and for the town of Spencer Iowa, he is rescued by library director, Vicki Myron, who needs some rescuing herself.  Dewey in turn rescues the library staff, and all the patrons of the library. He seems to have an uncanny sense of who needs his rescuing the most, jumps on their lap and gains their attention.  Bequeathed Dewey Readmore Books, his home and playground are the public library.  He became famous world-wide; people from all over came to see ...

Books Reading Recommendations

April 16, 2008

It's April and Spring is finally here and with it National Poetry Month sponsored by the Academy of American Poets.  Poems speak to us in different ways, affecting our heart and soul. I know that I easily become engulfed in a poem, lingering, enjoying the sound and play of the words, drinking in its meaning. Poems often find a way into our busy lives when mere words are not enough, when we find it difficult to express the depth of our feelings and need something to soothe us, inspire us, give us hope—weddings, funerals, when we fall in love.  Some of my favorite collections of poetry that you may also enjoy are: Good Poems—selected and introduced by Garrison Keillor—a nice...

Poetry National Poetry Month Reading Recommendations

April 16, 2008

It's April and Spring is finally here and with it National Poetry Month sponsored by the Academy of American Poets. Poems speak to us in different ways, affecting our heart and soul. I know that I easily become engulfed in a poem, lingering, enjoying the sound and play of the words, drinking in its meaning. Poems often find a way into our busy lives when mere words are not enough, when we find it difficult to express the depth of our feelings and need something to soothe us, inspire us, give us hope—weddings, funerals, when we fall in love. Some of my favorite collections of poetry that you may also enjoy are: "Good Poems"—selected and introduced by Garrison Keillor—a nice collection of...

National Poetry Month Poetry Reading Recommendations

January 30, 2008

Major Passport Application changes as of Friday, February 1. Passport Cards—applications for new wallet-sized Passport Cards will be accepted, which will be issued this April or May. Passport Cards may be used for land and sea travel between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean.  They cannot be used for international travel.  The Passport Card will cost $20.00 plus a $25.00 execution fee for individuals 16 and over, and $10.00 plus an execution fee of $25.00 for those individuals who are under the age of 16.  Find more information on Passport Cards at the U.S. Department of State website. Applicants Under the Age of 16--All people under the age  of 16 (changed...

Passports

January 24, 2008

Have you discovered the digital audio books, videos, and music that you can download and listen to or watch for FREE with your library card?  Check out the large collection of digital audio books, and the newer collections of downloadable video and music.  Pump up your exercise program with a Yoga video, and brush up on your Spanish by listening to Instant Immersion Spanish while you exercise.  Then relax and listen to a Mozart concerto, all for free with your valid library card..  Titles can be downloaded to your computer, some can be burned to a CD, or transferred to your portable device.  To access, go to the Library's home page and choose OverDrive (...

Wisconsin's Digital Library

January 8, 2008

Free Computer Classes begin next week, January 14, at the Wausau location for beginning and intermediate computer users.  Classes are free and open to the public.  Classes are scheduled for Monday mornings at 10:00AM, Tuesday evenings starting at 6:30PM, and Thursday afternoons beginiing at 2:00PM.  To register, please call the Library's Reference Desk at 261-7230, email the Library at mcplref@wvls.lib.wi.us, IM us or stop in.  For a complete list of classes and times please see the Computer Class Schedule here.

Computer Classes

November 20, 2007

NoveList is now available for you to use at home, school, work, or on the go for free with your library card.  NoveList is a fiction database covering 135,000 titles.  Find books that you like on certain subjects or that take place in certain time-periods, books that have similiar plots,  or readlikes--books similar to others that you have read and enjoy.  Books that have received awards and honors are listed, as well certain types of books--romances, mysteries, horror, and more.  Find books for  young adults, adults, and children.  The "Grab and Go" lists  of books for children are conveniently grouped by age levels.  Check it out.   It is a great...

Books

November 1, 2007

With Halloween behind us, we have the excellent opportunity to do some early gobbling at Wausau this weekend. The Friends of the Library are holding a Book Sale this weekend at the Wausau location. Sunday, November 4 is the special bag sale where you can cram your bag full for only $5.00.   What a deal! And while you are here, be sure to bid on several of the magnificent baskets that the Library Foundation has in the entrance of the Library.  Bids close on November 4,  so come in today and gobble up these deals.

Book Sale

October 3, 2007

Apply for your passport at the Marathon County Public Library, Wausau Headquarters Library . The time for processing a routine passport application has returned to 6-8 weeks, and 3 weeks for expedited passports.  Effective October 1,  all U.S citizens traveling by air to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda must present a valid passport to enter or depart from the United States.  Customers who have applied for passports will receive two mailings from U.S. Passport Services--the issued passport and a separate return mailing of submitted citizenship documents, such as birth certificates.  These mailings may occur days apart from each other. The Marathon County...

Passports

September 16, 2007

Have you been wanting to learn another language or brush up on vocabulary that you may have lost through the years? Rosetta Stone, the new online language learning resource, is a wonderful way to fulfill these dreams. Spanish, French, Italian, Manadarin Chinese, and English languages are all available for you to learn, free of charge, thanks to a 3 year grant from the Siebecker Foundation.  500 hours of instruction are available to you as cardholders of the Marathon County Public Library.   And you can learn at your own pace.  Rosetta stone keeps your place in your current course, so you can simply continue where your left off when you log on again.  Your learning...

Language Learning Online Resources

August 5, 2007

Are you renting an apartment and wonder what your rights are?  Do you need to give notice when you decide to move out?   Are you worried about whether you will get  your security deposit back when you move out?  These and many other questions can be answered with the newly revised, Tenant Sourcebook . It is available from the BadgerLaw website without the Wisconsin State Statutes here.  The Tenant Sourcebook is also available with the State Statutes included here.  A print copy will also be available at the Library's Reference Desk. Have other legal questions?  The BadgerLaw website may be able to help you.  It is by their own description...

Landlord And Tenant Laws And Legal Issues

July 16, 2007

If you're like me, and millions of other fans, you are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the new Harry Potter book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, due out June 21, this Saturday.  To help me get through this rough time period, I went to see the new movie, "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix"  that was released this past weekend. If you are looking for other fixes before, or after you get your hands on the new book, or get to the new movie, try these suggestions:  Waterboro Public Library in East Waterboro, Maine,  list of Harry Potter Readalikes. Madison Public Library in Madison, Wisconsin also has a nice list of "What to Read while Harry's at...

Reading Recommendations Books

July 3, 2007

Have you wondered what libraries might be like in the future?  You can now experience a virtual library and imagine what libraries will look like and be like in the future.   How?  See the Libraries of the Future Display at the Wausau Library in the new customer area on the second floor, and let your imagination soar. The Libraries of the Future display will be up  throughout the summer.  Have fun dreaming! 

Libraries

June 9, 2007

If you haven't yet discovered the State of Wisconsin's Digital Collection  you are in for a huge treat.  And if you glanced at this resource a while back, please re-visit it.  It is well worth your time. The State of Wisconsin Digital Collection includes about 29 collections of materials in a variety of formats relating to the history and development of the State of Wisconsin. Books, manuscripts, photographs, sound recordings, letters, maps, and other materials were put in a digital form so that they could be easily shared.  It is a part of the University of Wisconsin Digital Collections. Of particular interest to those of us who live in Marathon and Lincoln...

Wisconsin Online Resources

May 28, 2007

Here are a few authors of adventure stories, historical fiction, fantasy, and thrillers that men I know love and discuss with gusto.  You may like them too.  Enjoy! Dan Brown--The DaVinci Code, others Tom Clancy—any Stephen Coonts--any Bernard Cornwell—any Harold Coyle—White Star, 10000 Spartans Vince Flynn--any C.S. Forrester—any Frederick Forsyth—any George McDonald Fraser—Flashman series Daniel V. Gallery-submarines, WWII WEB Griffin—Aviators Louis L’Amour-- any Patrick O’Brien--Master and Commander Edward Rutherfurd—Princes of Ireland, Rebels of Ireland, Russka (Russia) Sarum (England) J.K. Rowling—Harry Potter books, (eagerly awaiting the July...

Books Reading Recommendations

May 12, 2007

If Spring cleaning has left you with far more "treasures" than you want, and you don't know if they are valuable or not, the Library has just the tool to help you. The p4A Antiques Reference database, available for use at the Marathon County Public Library, will easily help you discover the current market value of these and many other items. Every record has a picture, description, condition, dimensions, pre-sale estimates, price when sold, date of sale and auction house information which helps you determine if you have a similar item. Use this database at any one of the 9 library locations in Wausau, Athens, Edgar, Hatley, Marathon, Mosinee, Rothschild, Spencer, and Stratford.

Antiques

April 19, 2007

The new schedule for Spring/Summmer computer Classes is available. Classes are free and open to the public. Classes are taught by library staff and cover most of the Microsoft Office programs, the Internet, and Email. Classes are geared toward people with little or no knowledge of computers but with an eagerness and committment to learn. Registration for classes is on a first come basis; no waiting lists are maintained. To sign-up for classes contact the Library Reference Desk (click here). See the calendar of classes and descriptions here.

Technology

April 10, 2007

The income tax filing deadline is fast approaching, but this year you have two extra days to file. Taxes are not due until April 17. Why? April 15 falls on a Sunday so an extra day is given for Sunday. Monday, April 16 is Emancipation Day, a legal holiday in the District of Columbia, so another day was added. So, Wednesday April 17 is the the tax filing date this year. The Library has tax forms but our supply is running low. We also have reproducible forms for filing Federal and State individual income taxes that can be photocopied. The Library's 100 Year Birthday Party is on Sunday April 15 at the Wausau Library and we anticipate that it will be busy, so Sunday may not be the best day to pick up your...

Taxes

April 4, 2007

Library staff donned birthday hats, many of them hand-made creations, on April 3 to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the dedication of the first library building in Wausau on April 3, 1907. Dancing, food, and frivolity was had by all. See more photographs here. And don't forget to come and help us celebrate the 100th Birthday of the Library on April 15 with live music, birthday stories and storybook characters, trolley rides, and of course birthday cake, punch and fun, fun, fun for the whole family. Activities start at 1:30 on April 15. Come join us!

Centennial

February 9, 2007

The Marathon County Public Library will be 100 Years old on April 3. Come and help us celebrate on April 15, 1:30-4:00 at the Wausau location. Listen to the music of Andy Z. and the Spankin' Monkeys Band,the Golden Glow Barbershop Quartet and storybook characters telling stories to families. Hop aboard the trolley for a fun ride and view of the city, have some birthday cake and treats, and join in the other fun activities for the whole family.

Centennial Events History Libraries