Join youth services staff from around Florida as they share ideas to get you started on planning for the 2012 Summer Reading Program.

Friday, October 7, 2011, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon EDT in the online classroom  

The session will cover:

• How your library can make the most of your membership in the Collaborative Summer Library Program.
• Ideas for managing volunteers.
• Ways to develop partnerships.
• A sneak preview of three night-themed programs presented by Chris Culp from Manatee County Public Library.

 Register for this session.

Joyce Nelson, a librarian in Virginia, tells how she used simple objects like an empty aquarium to create a literacy center. Read about her  Programming A-Z concept on the FLYP Materials website.

Why plan scavenger hunts? For you, the hunts can be low cost and either a scheduled or a passive program.  For the tweens, the hunts can help them practice teamwork and reasoning skills plus be creative. Most importantly, they are fun! View scavenger hunt program ideas on the FLYP Materials website.   

Aha! Use: From To-Go Cup to No-Spill Paint Cup

Think twice before sending that Starbucks cup to the recycle bin! The frappuccino variety-preferably in the tall size-makes a great no-spill paint holder. The lip of the lid actually creates a downward slope so the paint slides back towards the bottom. Test to make sure the lid will not pop off with prolonged use or a strong squeeze. Or to be safe, glue it on. Also, try sealing the lid opening and storing the paint cups in a six-pack Starbucks (or beer) cardboard container.

This paint holder idea is from the Muffin Tin Mom who has nearly 1,500 followers reading her "ideas, tips and hacks for all of life's little compartments." Visit her website for other mom-tested ideas, such as her simple instructions using only yarn and a manila folder to make a sewing card activity for pre-readers to increase their fine motor skills.

(above) Flamenco dancers at the Panama City Beach Library. Notice part of the hanging balloon basket with traveling books and animals.