September 10, 2022

September is World Kid Lit Month! What is that, exactly? It's an annual month-long initiative that promotes children's literature from around the world, with an emphasis on reading books from other countries, especially those that have been translated into English from other languages. By reading some of these stories, young readers can see the world from a global perspective, learn about other cultures or maybe even become interested in learning a foreign language! This month, use the library to find some great translated books! A few recommendations are listed below. Find even more on this list that we created. We also have many bilingual books available in Spanish and English, Hmong and English, and...

Authors Books Children Early Literacy Reading Recommendations Teens Tweens

July 5, 2022

Did you know July is Harry Potter's birth month? You can celebrate by immersing yourself in other magical stories that are simliar! If you enjoyed the fantastical world of J K Rowling's Harry Potter series, you might just enjoy the novels listed below. They're a lot like the Harry Potter series, except...  

Authors Books Reading Recommendations Teens Tweens

June 13, 2022

This winter and spring, the Marathon County Public Library hosted a youth poetry contest. Students between the ages of 9 and 18 submitted their best work, and submissions were judged by Wausau Poet Laureate Dawn Anderson. Anderson said: “Thank you for this privilege to read these wonderful poems where young people pour out their hearts, joys, struggles and creativity. It confirms my resolve that poetry is a wonderful way to process thoughts and feelings, and share wonders.” MCPL is pleased to announce the winners in each of the two age groups. In first place, in the 9‒12 age group: “Spring is a Spring” by Macy Rentmeester. Second place went to “The Sea Emotions” by Paige Mathies, and in third...

Children Contests Events Poetry Teens Tweens Writing

June 4, 2022

I previously wrote about the advantages of handwriting letters and as a follow up, I wanted to talk about decorating letters and envelopes. It’s easy to do, can be a lot of fun and makes the final product a little more unique. You can start off simple, soaking the paper in coffee, tea or food coloring to ‘age’ the paper and to add a light scent. Making your own envelope is fairly easy as well, which you can do using patterned or colored paper. 1. Start with a square piece of paper. I found it helpful to fold it corner to corner so I could see where the center was. 2. Take one corner and fold it to the center, fold the opposite corner so they meet in the middle. 3. Fold the...

Adults Arts and Crafts Children Teens Tweens Writing

May 31, 2022

Summer will be here soon! As a teen, you may not be any less busy when school is out. Maybe you’re working more hours at your job, visiting family or spending time with friends. Whatever you're up to, make sure to include reading great books in your summer plans! In addition to visiting your local Marathon County Public Library location or participating in our Summer Reading Club, here are three other ways to access free digital materials for teens this summer: With Sync, patrons can use a Sora account to read two different audiobooks per week. The program runs from April 28 until August 17. If you don’t have a Sora account through school, you can sign up for a free account. Please note, these books...

Audiobooks Books E-books Libraries Online Resources Summer Library Program Teens Websites

April 4, 2022

Poetry is all around us. It’s in the shape of the spoon you used for breakfast, your brother's missing tooth, and that dingy mitten left behind when the snow melts. Inspiration for a poem can appear any place. But how do you catch it? Read on for simple ways that kids and teens can practice poetry every day and develop those poetry skills. Then, consider submitting your poetry to our Youth Poetry Contest. We have two age categories - ages 9-12 and ages 13-18 - and entrants can submit up to two original poems to the contest. Submissions will be accepted at poetry@mcpl.us or in person at any Marathon County Public Library location through May 27, 2022!  To help jumpstart your creativity...

Children Contests Learning Poetry Teens Tweens Writing

January 6, 2022

Teen library patrons now have the opportunity to participate in a new challenge called 100 Books Before Graduation! This challenge encourages high school students to read a wide selection of books before they graduate and head on to further education. Progress is logged using the Beanstack app, which is free on the Apple App Store or in the Google Play Store. Rewards are earned for every 20, 50, 70, and 100 books that are read, and rewards include book bags, books, and a gift card upon completion of the program! Any book can count toward the total goal of 100 books! They can be fiction or non-fiction, poetry or prose, published this year or 200 years ago. They can be books that are read for fun and...

Books Education Libraries Reading Recommendations Teens

October 13, 2021

Are you looking for fun, STEAM projects to do with the family without it feeling like a boring class? Look no further than this science experiment, where you can grow your own salt crystals overnight using simple household ingredients! Supplies:•  Epsom salts•  Glass jars or cups•  Hot water•  Bowl or spoon•  1 pebble or small rock•  Food coloring (optional) Steps:1. Measure out an equal amount of water and Epsom salt and pour just the water into a glass jar or cup. Heat the water for 45 seconds in a microwave, then stir in the Epsom salt until the salt is mostly dissolved (don’t worry if a little salt remains unmixed.)2. Add a few...

Adults Children Learning Teens Tweens

April 22, 2021

Earth Day is an annual event celebrated around the world on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. Since I love to craft, I wanted to make something but also be environmentally-conscience. I chose to upcycle a t-shirt. Upcycling is taking something you already have and transforming it into something else.  I hope you join me and try this very simple project: a reusable t-shirt bag! Best of all, no sewing or skill of any kind is required to make! Supplies needed: - T-shirt -Scissors   Steps: 1. Find a t-shirt that you no longer want to wear. Maybe use that one that has gone out of style, or one that has a small stain on it. 2. Cut the sleeves...

Adults Holidays Teens Tweens

April 15, 2021

Recently, I came upon a word I’ve never seen before; I discovered it while doing a bit of research on a book I was about to read. The word seemed so odd, so I switched my attention to finding a definition for it. The word is Bildungsroman. It is a literary term for a genre describing a protagonist’s formative growth, both physical and psychological, often through painful or trying life experiences. The word itself originates from the German word “bildung” meaning “education” and “roman” meaning “novel.” So a “Bildungsroman” translates to “a novel of education” or “a novel of formation.” Though stories and details vary, the Bildungsroman often has a particular structure. According to masterclass.com,...

Adults Books Learning Teens Tweens

January 27, 2021

This is the time of year that every librarian, book seller and youth educator waits for. Will their favorite book be picked for an award by the American Library Association? What winning books flew under their radar this year? For teens, this year brings a new crop of awesome young adult literature, showing the continued growth of teen books. Starting with the Michael L. Printz Award for literary excellence in young adult literature, the winner this year is Everything Sad is Untrue by Daniel Nayen. Daniel’s story reaches across decades and miles to help his classmates understand who he is and where he came from. This book would definitely entertain younger teens as well as older teens struggling to find...

Authors Awards Books Reading Recommendations Teens Youth Media Awards

November 20, 2020

In my opinion, everyone should read The Lord of the Rings at least once in their life. Or, at the very least, watch the extended edition of the movies. Why, you ask? It’ll make you feel a lot of things (AKA, it’ll make you cry) Many of the parts not included in the movies are the funnest parts In the age of easily digestible books (and shorter attention spans), modern readers have a harder time putting in the time that a trilogy requires. The way Tolkien writes is rich and dense, and every detail seems important Personal relationships are very important in the books There are 5 million different types of fear in the books, with just as many reactions to that fear or ways of handling it. It’s...

Adults Books Movies Reading Recommendations Teens Tweens

November 17, 2020

As winter approaches and the COVID-19 pandemic continues, many folks are focusing on mental health. Journaling has been shown to have really positive mental health benefits, and can be a positive outlet for getting out your thoughts and feelings. Plus, with a new year approaching, it’s also a great time to get organized and think about goals going forward. Here are two options to make your own homemade journal or notebook, using common household materials:   Basic Homemade Journal: Supplies: Plain paper or cardstock Patterned scrapbook paper or cardstock Scissors or paper cutter Hole punch Twine, string, or yarn Steps: 1. Cut pieces of regular printer paper or cardstock...

Adults Arts and Crafts Teens Tweens

September 30, 2020

In recent weeks, the Marathon County Health Department has reported a record number of positive COVID-19 cases. With the number of positive cases continuing to rise locally, and out of an abundance of caution, the Marathon County Public Library has decided to postpone the opening of its Student Learning Lab until further notice. The lab was originally set to open October 5. Students in need of high-speed Internet access can still make an appointment to use a computer at any of the nine MCPL locations across the county. For more information on making a computer appointment, click here. Do you have a child that needs a quiet place to study? Or do you have an unpredictable internet connection...

Community COVID-19 Education Learning Libraries On-Site Services Technology Teens Tweens Wausau Headquarters

August 28, 2020

This summer, teens from throughout Marathon County participated in "Write Your Story," the 2020 Teen Short Story Writing Contest. We received some extraordinary pieces and have been impressed with the talent and creativity we've seen!   After careful reading, evaluation and discussion, the judges have made their final decisions, and it's time to announce the winners! For the 12-14-year-old age group, the winners are: 3rd place: (tie)     "The Day I Lost Everything" by Whitley Johnson     "The One-Horned Buck" by Jackson Nechuta 2nd place:     "The House on Maple Street" by Avery Kessen 1st place:  ...

Contests Teens Writing

August 18, 2020

A lot of events in the news recently, including that regarding institutional racism and the protests held by the Black Lives Matter movement and other groups, can bring up a lot of questions. It did for me, even as an adult. Why is this happening? What happened in the past, and how did we get here? Those questions got me thinking about other social issues we’re currently facing right now, including immigration and transphobia. Why is life hard for so many immigrants, when we’re an entire nation of them? What’s the difference between gender and sexuality? As you start to examine history, you start to see that it’s a story created and controlled by the winners of wars and other conflicts. This got me...

Books Community E-books Education Reading Recommendations Teens

July 31, 2020

Much like fairy tales, myths have been retold over many years. Sometimes there are different variations of a story, making it interesting to read and compare across the versions. Mythology is ripe for retellings, whether realistic, like Seven Deadly Shadows, fantastic, like The Never Tilting World, or with elements of science fiction, like The Dragon Pearl. Sometimes in order to get the full impact of a retelling, you need to know the original story, so consulting Edith Hamilton’s “Mythology” can be very helpful, as can Neil Gaiman’s recent retelling of Norse Myths. Enjoy the rich diversity of mythology that has influenced writers and authors for thousands of years.

Books Reading Recommendations Teens

July 25, 2020

July 31st is Harry Potter’s Birthday, and if you’re a fan like me, it’s a great excuse to celebrate all things Harry Potter! Since I became the Mosinee Branch Coordinator, I’ve tried to bring my love of the Harry Potter series to our branch. At the end of the July, we typically host a week-long celebration of crafts and activities (with costumes very welcome!) including a crowd favorite, wand making! While we can’t do our usual in-person programming this year, below are instructions on how to make your very own wand at home, along with some links for other activities to celebrate! Instructions for Younger Children (No Hot Glue Involved!) Supplies needed: Short stick, chopstick or unsharpened...

Adults Children Teens Tweens

July 8, 2020

A few weeks back, we posted a list of fairy tail retellings for teens. These novels retold the stories of Sleeping Beauty, Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, and other famous tales in modern times, or with new twists to the stories. Since there were so many good recommendations to share, we had to split the list into two parts. Below, you'll find the second list, which features retellings for such tales as Little Red Riding Hood, The Frog Prince, Rumpelstiltskin, and others.  Enjoy these young adult and middle-grade (MG) novels that use fairy tales as the basis for the story, and let us know - what's your favorite fairy tale adaptation or retelling?​

Audiobooks Books E-books Reading Recommendations Teens Tweens

July 6, 2020

Even though its summer, now is a great time to prepare for the ACT, PSAT or the SAT! The Grandview Heights Public Library in Ohio will be offering a fast paced ACT prep course on July 11 form 12-4:30 (CDT). Taking a test preparation course is a great way to prepare for these tests. Even though this course will focus on the ACT, this prep course will help prepare you for both the PSAT and the SAT.  Follow the link below to register for the course, and GOOD LUCK!   ACT CRASH COURSE Date: Sat, July 11, 2020  Time: 12p-4:30p ONLINE, Central time  For: High school students. Cost: FREE Length: 4 hours of online instruction (plus 30-minute break midway through the...

Computer Classes Education Learning Online Resources Teens

April 26, 2019

This year, MCPL will transport kids into the cosmos with its Summer Library Program! This year’s theme is “A Universe of Stories,” and we’ve planned three months of fun, entertaining and educational events for kids, tweens and teens!  May 28 through August 30, kids, tweens and teens can read books and submit reviews containing their thoughts about what they read. (Adults can do this, too!) Participants will receive a reward for each review they turn in. Younger children (pre-K) can instead complete a reading and activity sheet with their parent/caregiver and receive a prize once their sheet is complete! We also have a ton of great events scheduled at all nine MCPL locations, including visits...

Summer Library Program Events Children Teens Books

November 21, 2018

This time of the year is the perfect time to start a series—it’s cold outside, there are upcoming holidays and books make great presents! And I’ve got some great recommendations for you! A lot of my recent (and not so recent) favorite books are part of a fantasy series. And while I could fill up a whole book case with what I think is awesome when it comes to fantasy, I also realized that there were probably fantasy series that I haven’t heard of, let alone read, yet.  I reached out to my co-workers, and here is a small sampling of fantasy series that we think are fantastic.  (No pun intended. Ok, maybe pun intended.) Our list covers everything from urban fantasy/horror with Lili St. Crow’s “...

Reading Recommendations Books Teens

April 12, 2018

Spring is here and, in spite of the great weather, the season also brings with it the time for AP testing. Sudents have spent their entire school year focused on improving their skills and learning content, trying to get a 4 or a 5, which equals college credits for them. But sometimes you need a little boost to get that elusive high score, and the library is here to help! Our collection development specialist and young adult librarian have gotten together and created a list of all the AP study materials available at the Marathon County Public Library's Wausau Headquarters. Students can visit the library here in Wausau to pick up materials or can request them to be sent to another one of our branch libraries...

Books Teens Learning

March 28, 2018

Last month, the American Library Association announced its 2018 Youth Media Award Winners! These titles are considered to be the best current books for children, tweens and teens in literature. Take a look at this year's winners (and some of the runners-up) and see which ones appeal to you most. The John Newbery Medal for the most outstanding contribution to children's literature was awarded to Hello, Universe by Erin Entrada Kelly. Three Newbery Honor Books also were named: Crown, and Ode to the Fresh Cut by Derrick Barnes, Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds and Piecing Me Together by Renee Watson. The Randolph Caldecott Medal for the most...

Awards Books Children Reading Recommendations Teens Youth Media Awards

August 7, 2017

If you’re like us, you’ve been eagerly anticipating the total solar eclipse that will happen on August 21, 2017. This out-of-this-world event is something that’s a long time coming, with the last total eclipse to be visible across the entire contiguous United States having happened in 1918 (and not since 1979 has a total eclipse been visible from the mainland United States). The next one will not occur until 2024, and who wants to wait that long to see one again? We here at MCPL have been talking about and planning our own Solar Eclipse Viewing Party for over a year and have tons of fun activities planned for patrons of all ages! Beginning at 11 a.m. on August 21 at our Wausau Headquarters, we’ll show...

Events Adults Children Teens Libraries

July 6, 2017

Escape rooms are all the rage these days and the Marathon County Public Library is getting on board by offering its very own escape room for teens and adults! Will you be able to stop a zombie virus outbreak before it's too late?? Join us and find out! Dr. Johnson (who has been briefing you and your group about the important scientific experiments she's been conducting), has left her office to speak with a colleague. After snooping through the doctor’s files, you discover that Dr. Johnson has something more nefarious up her sleeve—a full-on zombie virus that she’s planning to unleash on the unsuspecting public! Worse yet…it’s airborne, and anyone who comes in contact with this virus is guaranteed to...

Libraries Events Teens

May 15, 2017

Join our Summer Reading Club to track your reading and other activities, and you’ll receive a reward at the end of summer!  Registration for all ages opens 5/30 at all MCPL locations and online at www.mcpl.us/slp. Children (Birth-Grade 5)  Calling all kids! We challenge you to read and perform acts of kindness this summer. Track your efforts on the reading log you’ll receive at registration. Show your log to library staff throughout the summer and turn it in by 8/12 to earn rewards! www.mcpl.us/kids Teens (Grades 6-12) Hey, teens! This summer, we’re challenging you to read, explore and improve your community. Upon registration, you’ll receive a BINGO-style reading and activity...

Children Newsletter Summer Library Program Teens

March 30, 2017

Reading is a developmental process that every child reaches at their own pace. Not every six year-old is ready to learn to read, while some four year-olds are. Early reading instruction is something that most parents do naturally by reading to their children on a regular basis and inviting them to handle books.  By doing this, young children learn that there is a right way to read a book (i.e. reading left to right, top to bottom), as well as how a story is structured (i.e. beginning, middle and end).  They begin to match pictures with the words that Mom or Dad say. Some children even memorize a favorite book and are delighted to “read” it to their parents.  But what happens if you grow up in...

Reading Recommendations Books Children Teens

February 21, 2017

So, let’s say you’re a teen and you need a place to work on a poster or on a group project. Someplace where you can chat while you work or can take a break to do something else when you just can’t look at your homework one more second. The Marathon County Public Library knows that teens need a place all their own to hang out and be, well, teens! Enter Teen Time. With our Wausau Headquarters’ current second floor remodel, our TeenZone was relocated and lost a bit of space, but don’t let that stop you from coming to the library!  Twice monthly, we’ll offer teens a place to do whatever they need to do – work on homework and projects, socialize, learn new hobbies and skills, and more. Every two weeks we...

Teens Education Events

August 31, 2016

School is back in session, and with this comes all kinds of tests, projects and reports. What better place to gather research and study materials than your local library? In addition to books on everything from anthropology to Zentangle, MCPL has study guides for tests like the GED, ACT and LSAT that can be checked out. MCPL also has online resources for study purposes, including access to Explora, Britannica, LearningExpress and multiple databases via EBSCOhost. Need someone to administer proctored exams? MCPL has got you covered there, too, with trained staff members on-hand to set up and oversee your testing. Study rooms accommodating one to 10 people can also be reserved for private and group study...

Newsletter Children Teens

August 30, 2016

Hey Teens! Every year the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) posts nominees selected by teen book groups and invites teens (meaning you!) to choose their favorites. You can see the nominees and vote for your favorites at http://www.ala.org/yalsa/teenstopten. You can also view book trailers for the books. MCPL’s Wausau Headquarters also has a display of the nominees in the second floor Teen Zone. This year’s selection has something for everyone, including Holly Black’s latest book “The Darkest Part of the Forest,” dealing with a fairy mystery hidden deep within suburban America, Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff’s highly anticipated “Illuminae,” a sci fi story told through...

Teens Top 10

September 30, 2015

Marathon County Public Library is excited that we will be taking part in OverDrive’s Big Library Read program featuring two young adult e-books. Library card holders will be able to borrow and read "The Door in the Hedge" by Robin McKinley and/or "In the Shadow of Blackbirds" by Cat Winters starting midday Wednesday, October 7 and concluding at midnight on Monday, October 21 (U.S. EST) by visiting http://mcpl.us/catalogs/overdrive.   "The Door in the Hedge" opens a door into an enchanted world in this collection of original and retold fairy tales. Four short stories, two original and two cherished classics, take you into a magical world of whimsy, wonder, princesses and talking frogs. "In the...

Teens Books Wisconsin's Digital Library

April 8, 2015

There are plenty of things to celebrate in April, but one of my favorite is poetry. Here at MCPL in Wausau, we’ve got two activities to encourage you to experience poetry every day.  Come and build a poem with LEGO poetry in the TeenZone. Each LEGO has a word on it and you are invited to create a poem by using the words on the LEGOS.  It’s like magnetic poetry, but in three dimensions.  When you are done, take a picture with your phone, name the picture with the title of the poem (and your name if you want) and send it to us at teenzone@mcpl.us. We’ll post the poems to our Facebook page, so remember to like MCPL on Facebook to see your poem. Don’t have time to build a poem here?  Take...

Teens Poetry National Poetry Month

April 6, 2015

Teens, have you ever felt like your voice wasn’t heard?  Or were there times when you spoke out about your truth?  Now you have the opportunity to share these by submitting an essay, poem, graphic novel or photograph about these times to Never Counted Out, a website created to connect teens with artists and writers.  Never Counted Out is the brain child of novelist, e.E. Charlton-Trujillo, the author of Fat Angie.  e.E created the website after connecting with a depressed teen writer, after his teacher shared is creative writing sample with her.  When e.E. talked with young writer, she felt like she had made a special connection with him and wanted to create opportunities for other...

Arts and Crafts Teens Writing

October 20, 2014

Earlier this month, teens had an opportunity to create their own urban legends using materials found in the library. This terrifying story was inspired by a picture of the Island Mill in Wausau (c. 1900-1919) from the Marathon County Historical Society, found in the Central Wisconsin Digitization Project.   The Mill By Damian Wendorf   My best friend, Devon, was talking to me about a story his dad told him. The story concerns three boy who were murdered in the 1960’s. The murder occurred on the Wisconsin River by the old saw mill.  First, the police found a bloody saw blade and a pool of blood on the floor of the mill. In the pool of blood lay a body of a fourteen year old boy...

Wisconsin Teens

May 27, 2014

Dreading assigned summer reading?  Have to spend hours in the car with your annoying younger siblings?  Mowing thousands of lawns this summer?  I may have a solution as close as your headphones and smartphone.  As I was scrolling around the internet this week, I discovered that Sync, sponsored by AudioFile Magazine is giving away free young adult audio books paired with either a classic or required reading book.  Sync is powered by Overdrive, so you will need to make sure that you have Overdrive downloaded to your computer, tablet or device. (Get Overdrive from your preferred app store or here.)  The files are in MP3 format and each pair is available for one week only, but the...

Audiobooks Wisconsin's Digital Library Teens

December 11, 2013

Need help finding resources for your National History Day project?  The Marathon County Public Library Reference Desk staff at MCPL Wausau are always ready to help you with your research. Contact the MCPL Wausau Reference Desk at 715-261-7230 to make an appointment with one of our reference desk staff for personalized help and recommended resources for your topic. Appointments are recommended, but not necessary. If you can't make it to the library, you may email ref@mcpl.us, chat with us online or take a look at some of our recommended online resources. How to access MCPL’s Online Resources for your research: Go to the Marathon County Public Library Website: www.mcpl.us Find “...

Teens Education National History Day

July 16, 2013

The long wait is over! The 2013 edition of Pixels & Pages features works of art and creative writing from teens all across Marathon County. Print copies are available at your local library. Click the image to the left to access the new issue online. After you’ve finished reading this year’s magazine, don’t forget to submit your work for next year.  During the past year, teens from Marathon County submitted more than 100 pieces of creative writing and visual art. Teen and staff judges selected a variety of pieces to be published in this magazine. Students from Wausau East High School's Graphic Communications III class prepared the material for publication. The magazine,...

Arts and Crafts Writing Teens

January 29, 2013

The American Library Association (ALA) announced the top books for children and young adults this week. Recognized worldwide for the high quality they represent, the awards encourage original and creative work. Please note this is a partial listing. Use the link at the bottom of this post for a complete list.   This Is Not My Hat by Jon Klassen -- Winner: Caldecott Medal for most distinguished American picture book for children.       Creepy Carrots by Illustrated by Peter Brown, written by Aaron Reynolds -- Honor Book: Caldecott Medal for most distinguished American picture book for children.        ...

Awards Books Reading Recommendations Youth Media Awards Children Teens

November 3, 2012

Nintendo Wii is now available for students 8-12 years old in the Tween Scene at the Wausau Library!  The new gaming system offers tweens a new way to learn and experience gaming.   "Why do libraries celebrate gaming? Library gaming programs encourage interaction between patrons of all ages and cultures. As games have evolved over the years to become more dynamic – requiring more interaction and socialization amongst players – so have libraries, by re-energizing themselves as community learning centers. Libraries still provide traditional services, but continue to change by offering new formats like video games and programs like family gaming nights...." states the American Library...

Children Technology Teens

September 18, 2012

A creative writing contest and workshop for grades 6-12. Teens throughout Marathon County are invited to submit their best original spine-chilling tales to be featured on the MCPL website! Winning entries will be featured in the 2013 edition of "Pixels & Pages," the library's annual magazine of teen creative writing and art, and excerpts two entries will be published in the October 18th issue of the City Pages!   Stories may be submitted online at www.mcpl.us/scarystory. (Stories should be at most 1,500 words, original and not published elsewhere.)   Plus, teens can attend our Scary Story Writing Workshop (Sat., 10/13, 2:00pm @ MCPL...

Newsletter Teens Writing

July 19, 2012

The following free movies will be shown at the MCPL Wausau Headquarters in July! Due to licensing restrictions, we cannot advertise the movies' titles online, but if you call 715-261-7200 or email us, we'll tell you. Otherwise, sign up for our monthly "Featured Events" email newsletter!  TEEN MOVIE NIGHT / Tue., 7/3, 6:00pm | Rated PG-13 (2012) 132 min  (film details) (request this DVD) (request the book) TEEN MOVIE NIGHT  / Tue., 7/31, 6:00pm  | Rated PG-13 (2012) 99 min (film details) (request this DVD)  

Movies Teens

March 23, 2012

If you liked The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, try one of these dystopian young adult novels.   Variant by Wells, Robison E.           Blood Red Road by Young, Moira           The House of the Scorpion by Farmer, Nancy           Hole in the Sky by Hautman, Pete   Exodus by Bertagna, Julie             Dark Life by Falls, Kat             The Supernaturalist by Colfer, Eoin  ...

Teens Books

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

January 26, 2012

The American Library Association (ALA) announced the top books for children and young adults this week. Recognized worldwide for the high quality they represent, the awards encourage original and creative work. Please note this is a partial listing. Please use the link at the bottom of this post for a complete list.   Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos -- Winner: John Newbery Medal for the most outstanding contribution to children's literature. In the historic town of Norvelt, Pennsylvania, twelve-year-old Jack Gantos spends the summer of 1962 grounded for various offenses until he is assigned to help an elderly neighbor with a most unusual chore involving the newly dead, molten wax,...

Awards Books Reading Recommendations Youth Media Awards Children Teens

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

June 14, 2011

Improve your creative writing! Join us on Tuesday, 6/28, 6-8pm @ MCPL Wausau for a fun and helpful video chat session with Sarah Beth Durst, author of "Ice, Enchanted Ivy, Drink, Slay, Love" and other books for young adults. We will also have a few writing activities to help kick-start your inner creativity.  Both adults and teens are invited to this event. Bring your writing questions! View Sarah's website: www.SarahBethDurst.com Find Sarah's books in the Library Catalog: www.mcpl.us?author=Sarah Beth Durst Find books about "Creative Writing": www.mcpl.us?subject=Creative Writing  

Teens Writing

December 9, 2010

MCPL is proud to announce: OverDrive's app for iPhone® & Android™ now supports eBooks. With the free OverDrive Media Console app, you can download both EPUB eBooks and MP3 audiobooks directly to your device. Get the app today and download library books on the go! E-books from the library are available for a variety of portable devices, and e-readers. Click here to see if your device is compatible. Go to MCPL's OverDrive Catalog to access e-books, audiobooks, and more! If you have questions, or would like help, call 715-261-7200 or email info@mcpl.us

E-books Teens Audiobooks

December 6, 2010

Give us your best work for Marathon County Public Library's Teen Publishing Project! Submit artwork, poetry, stories, and essays for publication on our website and the chance to be featured in our second annual magazine. (Click here to see last year's magazine).   Hurry! Time is running out! Entries must be in by December 31, 2010. Click here to submit your work online, or if you'd rather submit a paper copy, click here for a printable submission form. You can check out the entries we've already published online, and see the complete rules at http://www.mcpl.us/teenzone/publishing/ Call (715) 261-7200 or email teenzone@mcpl.us for more info.

Teens Writing Arts and Crafts

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

November 17, 2010

Our friendly staff are happy to help during our regular hours of operation. If you can't make it to the Library in person, call the Reference Desk in Wausau at (715) 261-7230. You can also email us at ref@mcpl.us or use the "Ask a Librarian" window to communicate "live" with our Reference Staff. Be sure to check out our National History Day Help page with lots of great online resources and links to help with your project!

Teens National History Day

November 17, 2010

Teens are invited to submit their poetry, stories, essays, and artwork for publication on our website and the chance to be included in our second annual magazine! We’ve received dozens of entries to date, but we want more! General Guidelines: (complete rules: www.mcpl.us/teenzone/publishing) Include your full name (only first name, last initial will be published), grade, school, address, phone, title of your entry, and category (poem, story, visual) Entrants must be in 6-12th grade at time of entry. Entrants must be residents of Marathon County, WI. Entries must be newly-created original work of the entrant, must not infringe upon copyright laws. Entries must not have been previously...

Teens Writing Newsletter

October 30, 2010

Sat., 11/13, 1-4pm @ MCPL Wausau (Grades 6-12) -- Visit the Library for an afternoon of board games and video games! Plus, Johnny Cee Cards will be on-hand for awesome gaming demonstrations!  

Teens

September 10, 2010

The MCPL Teen Advisory Group (TAG) is a great opportunity for teens to make a difference at the Library! As part of TAG, teens recommend new materials for the library’s collection, assist with events, write reviews, create book displays, and help with other projects as needed. Members are asked to attend monthly meetings at the Marathon County Public Library in Wausau and volunteer for one hour each month. If you would like to join TAG, please complete and submit an Interest Sheet, Letter of Recommendation, and a Marathon County Volunteer Application. Please submit your applications by Friday, October 29th. Our next TAG meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday, November 16th from 6:30-8:00 at MCPL...

Teens

June 24, 2010

Did you know the Library offers video games for checkout? This collection is only a few years old, but it's been growing rapidly in size and popularity. We offer video games for Nintendo Wii, Playstation 2, Playstation 3, X-Box, X-Box 360, Nintendo DS, PSP and PC. We've just added a large number of video games for all platforms and age levels, so even if you've browsed this collection before, you'll want to look again today! The main collection is held at the MCPL Wausau Headquarters, but you can request these games for pickup at any of our nine convenient locations throughout Marathon County! Video games may be kept for up to 14 days, with the ability to renew once for an additional 14...

Teens

April 30, 2010

For Tuesday, May 11th, the Teen Book Club at MCPL Wausau will be reading Life as We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer! "When a meteor hits the Moon, Miranda must learn to survive the unimaginable. Told in journal entries, this heart-pounding story chronicles Miranda's struggle to hold on to the most important resource of all--hope--in an increasingly desperate and unfamiliar world." Click here to request Life as We Knew It. Click here to view other books by Susan Beth Pfeffer. Click here to read a more in-depth book review at BookPage.com --- For future Teen Book Clubs, plus other teen events, watch www.mcpl.us/teenzone For adult book clubs, visit www.mcpl.us/events/bookclubs

Teens Reading Recommendations Books

July 29, 2009

Are your kids and teens looking for something to do? Join us for these upcoming events in Wausau! Read to a Dog! for Young Readers. Thurdsay, July 30th from 1-3 pm at the Wausau Library.  Practice your reading with the most adorable friends. Certified Therapy Dogs from Therapy Dogs International will be on hand to listen to young readers. Hip-Hop and Modern Dance for Teens with professional choreographer and dancer Brenton Wildman. Tuesday, August 4th from 6-8 pm at the Wausau Library. Join us to learn some new moves. Afterwards, challenge your friends on DDR. Read to a Dog! for Young Readers. Thurdsay, August 6th from 1-3 pm at the Wausau Library.  Practice your reading with the...

Book Clubs Children Teens

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

May 29, 2009

How your children spend their summer matters. Research shows that how students spend their summer has an impact on their academic achievement during the school year. Reading this summer will help your teen succeed next fall. So how do you get them to read? Our recommendation: help them find something they want to read. Our staff at every location are are always happy to help you or your teen find a great book or graphic novel - stop in, call, email, or meebo!  You can also visit our teen page to find new books for teens available at MCPL. This summer MCPL is offering an added incentive for teens who read: a chance to win awesome prizes! Here’s how it works: Read books and/or graphic novels....

Teens Summer Library Program Reading Recommendations

February 27, 2008

Now is your chance to use your talent and WIN! In celebration of Teen Literature Day on April 17th, we are holding a short story writing contest. The contest will be open to Marathon County students grades 7-12, with prizes being awarded in four categories: winner for grades 7 & 8; winner for grades 9 & 10; winner for grades 11 & 12; and one overall contest winner. Submissions for the contest should be ten pages or less, include your full name, phone number, current grade and school, and must be received at the Wausau Headquarters library by April 11th or a branch library by April 4th. Prizes will be in the form of gift certificates.  You can also submit electronically by emailing a Word...

Teens

September 26, 2007

Wausau Library customers will have noticed several changes at the Library. First of all, the TeenZone has been relocated to the Second Floor. Teens should enjoy the newopen, airy location as it offers lots and lots of space to chill!   Secondly, the Short Story collection has been moved next to the Adult Fiction shelves on the 1st Floor. The move creates a one-stop shopping destination for Fiction lovers. Other changes are in the works as the Library re-invents itself to better serve our customers. So stop in and have a look at the changing face of MCPL!

Teens

September 12, 2007

Check out our Teen Zone. It has moved to the second floor.  There are still many great updates to come - but this is the first part of the transition. There is more space to spread out, open shelving, and lots of sunlight. What are you waiting for? Come and hang out! It is a great place to do homework, read, or just relax. And don't forget, we're wireless, so you can bring your portable devices with you!

Teens