Homework Help Day is almost here and we're getting very excited. Here are a few things that you can do to get ready for September 26:

• Be sure to direct teens to the "Word of the Day" that will be
   found on Live-brary. This contest begins on September 19 and offers teens the chance to win $50 Friendly's gift certificates. 
• Check with your director about the availability of Homework Help promotional materials.
• Order a Homework Help Day promotional kit from SCLS-YS shown above (one kit per library please)
• Be ready for questions. Take a "Test Drive" on Brainfuse. 
• Download the free flyers from  SCLS website.  

Our September 22 YA meeting will be a program for anyone who knows or works with teens. Following brief presentations on the Hospital Visit and Wakanheza Project, we will be treated to two excellent programs.
Lisa Maldanado of Response will share information on this 24 hour hotline as well as information on meeting the needs of teens in crisis situations.
Then Lisa Caffrey will introduce us to four young adults, who have learned to cope with various disabiliites. They will share their stories of living with the challenge of a disability.
Join us for this excellent program.

The Battle of the Books wrap-up will immediately follow this meeting.

The first book in Maureen Johnson's fantastic new Shades of London series, The Name of the Star will be available this month!
A few fortunate ALA attendees were able to scoop up advanced copies of this story, with the gristly Jack the Ripper murders playing an important part of the story. This author who we know and love brings a whole new spin to horror and paranormal by adding a touch  of teen snark, humor, and romance.
I couldn't put this one down!  Want to try it for yourself? The first 78 pages are available online.

And here is the great part: There will be a book launch party at Books of Wonder on September 27 at 7 p.m. If a group is interested in going into NYC to attend, let SCLS-YS know.

The Smithtown Library, Commack and Nescaonset Branches have beautiful new facilities.  Both Will Salas and Amanda Lentino offered guided tours of their great new spaces for teens.  Both branches now feature more space for teens, providing a welcoming environment.
As additional furnishings arrive, these spaces will continue to evolve and grown in popularity. 
Kudos to The Smithtown Library for creating such great places for teens!

Battle of the Books was SO MUCH fun, that we have decided to keep the fun going with a special 15 year Battle of the Books celebration. YASD and SCLS-YS are joining together to offer Battle fans a chance to come and celebrate.