It’s now 10 days and counting to the biggest media event of the year – the wedding of Prince William and Catherine (Kate) Middleton. They will say “I do” in Westminster Abbey, London, on Friday April 29th.
The British royalty may have a long history, but this couple isn’t your traditional, stuffy pair of talking heads with stiff upper lips and “what-ho, old chap” remarks. Just check out all the 2.0 ways with which they are reaching out!
They’ve established an official website, and provide materials for YouTube. The Royal Channel on YouTube also has a clock counting down to The Broadcast event. Of course, BBC keeps tabs on everything wedding-related. Also Westminster Abbey, the location for the wedding ceremony, provides information on their website. Even the British government has a web page for the wedding.
Here in the library, we’re following the story and counting down as well.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Monday, April 18, 2011
Keyboard Shortcuts
Have you ever been frustrated about how slow it is to operate a web browser with a mouse? There are a number of keyboard commands you can adopt to speed things up.
For example, to select just one word, double click it. To copy a highlighted section, press CTRL and C; to paste, press CTRL and V. To select everything on a web page (or in a document), press CTRL + A. CTRL + O opens and CTRL + S saves a file.
Use the F5 key to reload and CTRL + F to find something on the current page. Navigate quickly to the top or bottom of your web page (or document) with HOME and END. If you’ve opened several applications (several windows), you can move between them with ALT + TAB; CTRL + TAB switches between browser tabs.
Some of these shortcuts work not just with browsers, but also in a Windows environment (Word, Excel, etc.) – try them out!
Friday, April 15, 2011
Grandparents Day 2011
Today we welcome grandparents to the campus!
They can attend classes with their grandchildren. At midday, there is a lunch reception in the Whiston-Bragdon arena with a musical performance and a student reflection.
We hope everyone enjoys our school and this gorgeous weather!
They can attend classes with their grandchildren. At midday, there is a lunch reception in the Whiston-Bragdon arena with a musical performance and a student reflection.
We hope everyone enjoys our school and this gorgeous weather!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
The Light in the Library
Now that spring is finally here student life will take to the great outdoors. However the floor to ceiling windows in the reference section of the library makes sitting inside and doing homework a lovely event. The sunlight and fresh air fill the library as we open our windows to the beautiful weather. After you’ve had your fill of walking outside and it’s time to study or curl up with a good book come to the library when you can sit and enjoy the view from all our windows.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Poetry at Circ Desk
The latest donation to our library is of the anonymous kind.
This poem at the circulation desk was left behind by a creative student (we think). What better way to spend a rainy afternoon than with your favorite literature!
This poem at the circulation desk was left behind by a creative student (we think). What better way to spend a rainy afternoon than with your favorite literature!
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Check out what we've been collecting - maybe it's yours!
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| Can you guess the correct number of headphones in this photo? How about find the button? Who’s ID tag and key is that….? Which white plug is the Apple plug? Do we have to find new homes for ALL these items, or do they belong in yours??? |
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Here’s three calculators, two with their covers, and three lonely covers. All the students here at the Academy appreciate their fellow students’ generosity in sharing their scientific calculators, but, in the event you need your own back for exams, this is what we have here! |
Monday, April 11, 2011
Civil War Scrapbooking
Did you know that the Governor’s Academy’s archival collection holds many military-related items? One of them is the Civil War-era scrapbook of Captain William White Dorr. Born in 1837, Dorr entered the army at age 25 and served in the battles of Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, the Wilderness, and at Spottsylvania Court House. His scrapbook holds a number of letters from the battlefield, journal entries, newspaper clippings, sketches, pressed flowers, and memorabilia from the Civil War era.
Read more at The Governor's Academy Archives blog.
Thursday, April 07, 2011
New Study Room
This spring, we were able to convert an office on the first floor into a study room. We know how much demand there is for an enclosed space for working with a small group, or for tutors to meet their students in. Step in and make yourself comfortable!
Wednesday, April 06, 2011
Lost and Found Desk
You'd be surprised how many little odds and ends people forget in the library. To reunite these possessions with their owners, we've set aside a convenient corner of the front desk.
Tuesday, April 05, 2011
Latest Reviews: April 2011
Looking for something to read other than textbooks or assigned reading?
The latest reviews linked to our "virtual collection" include Flirting with Pride and Prejudice by Jennifer Crusie, Wench: A Novel by Dolen Perkins-Valdez, and Give Me Your Heart: Tales of Mystery and Suspense by Joyce Carol Oates.
You can always find even more reviews through our LibraryThing profile.
Monday, April 04, 2011
Revisit Days 2011
We welcome all those revisitors! After visiting classes, students had a scavenger hunt. In the library, Mr. Ramos-Glew taught the intricacies of tying a bowtie.
Friday, April 01, 2011
National Poetry Month Begins!
To celebrate the start of National Poetry Month, listen to one of our Common Book Authors read "Rain."
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Museum Blog: Van Gogh
When doing research on a specific artist, it's a good idea to check whether there is a museum or another type of institution dedicated to the artist's work. If there is, it's worth checking out the museum's web site. Nowadays many institutions offer superb materials and links on their sites, available for free. There certainly are good, authoritative sources available for the world's most famous artists.
For example, the Van Gogh Museum in the Netherlands has established a blog. The Van Gogh’s Studio Practice provides access to collaborative research projects in art history, technology and natural science. The objective is to gain new insights into Van Gogh’s working method by investigating every facet of his creative process and his works of art, and through comparison with his contemporaries.
Browse the blog for fascinating images from van Gogh's sketchbooks, details of the latest van Gogh research, and more.
For example, the Van Gogh Museum in the Netherlands has established a blog. The Van Gogh’s Studio Practice provides access to collaborative research projects in art history, technology and natural science. The objective is to gain new insights into Van Gogh’s working method by investigating every facet of his creative process and his works of art, and through comparison with his contemporaries.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Haiku PoeTree for April
Japanese haikus, those mesmerising 17-syllable poems, have fascinated the West since the nineteenth century. We start the National Poetry Month by paying tribute to haikus with a poetry tree, complete with origami cranes.
Originally a part of the 5-line poem tanka, the haiku almost always contains the name of the season, or a key word with which to infer the season. This short-cut method allows the reader to immediately comprehend the weather, the foliage, the animal life, and the emotions that go with the season in question. More than a statement of feeling or a picture of nature, a haiku connects two seemingly different things and creates an implied identity between them.
Remember also that Friday, April 1st, is Jeans Day. A small donation will let you wear jeans that day, and the money raised will go to buy socks for victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan.
Originally a part of the 5-line poem tanka, the haiku almost always contains the name of the season, or a key word with which to infer the season. This short-cut method allows the reader to immediately comprehend the weather, the foliage, the animal life, and the emotions that go with the season in question. More than a statement of feeling or a picture of nature, a haiku connects two seemingly different things and creates an implied identity between them.
Remember also that Friday, April 1st, is Jeans Day. A small donation will let you wear jeans that day, and the money raised will go to buy socks for victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Revisit Day Reads
The revisit days are almost here! We've set out a selection of short stories, novels, and poetry in the lobby with a connection to teenagers or writing by teens.
The tall pyramid in front of the circulation desk displays the latest acquisitions. The front desk corner shelf has poetry. You can find even more books at the ends of the fiction shelves, where we've showcased some of the older young adult stories. We've already checked out several, so if you want your share, hurry in!
The tall pyramid in front of the circulation desk displays the latest acquisitions. The front desk corner shelf has poetry. You can find even more books at the ends of the fiction shelves, where we've showcased some of the older young adult stories. We've already checked out several, so if you want your share, hurry in!
Monday, March 28, 2011
Melville and Whaling Display
One hundred and sixty years since the publication of Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick, and our fascination with all things whaling endures. Books and articles continue to be published, new discoveries made, and Moby Dick is secure in his spot on the AP English Literature reading list. What makes whaling all the more fascinating for us here in Byfield is our proximity to the origins of many great whaling vessels. The whaleship Essex was built just up the road in Amesbury. The Essex was captained by George Pollard Jr., of Nantucket. This was the whaleship that went down with more than half of its crew after being attacked by a whale. And therein lies the tale of Moby Dick. We have a number of excellent non-fiction reads on the sinking of the whaleship Essex. It’s intriguing to contemplate the extent to which the anthropomorphisation of the whale played a role in drawing men to the sea in this harshest of jobs. Archaeologists announced just last month that they have discovered the remains of another 1800’s whaler just north of Hawaii, the Two Brothers, which may very well have also been made in Amesbury, and was also captained by Mr. Pollard.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
U.S. History Display: 1960s
Our Display series featuring the different decades of the 21st century in American History has reached 1960s. Check out the table in the back of the reference area for a taste of the spirit of the sixties.
We have sources on the life of Muhammad Ali, for example, and on the days of the peace marches, Woodstock, and psychedelic music. Read how post-World War II comfort turned into yet another war, how a new, rebellious youth culture shook the existing conventions, and how feminism and civil rights transformed the society. There's also a book on the Kent State shootings of 1970, where guardsmen killed four students and wounded nine after a student protest against the invasion of Cambodia went awry. This decade is like no other, and will leave no-one cold!
We have sources on the life of Muhammad Ali, for example, and on the days of the peace marches, Woodstock, and psychedelic music. Read how post-World War II comfort turned into yet another war, how a new, rebellious youth culture shook the existing conventions, and how feminism and civil rights transformed the society. There's also a book on the Kent State shootings of 1970, where guardsmen killed four students and wounded nine after a student protest against the invasion of Cambodia went awry. This decade is like no other, and will leave no-one cold!
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Archives Poster - Dummer Work Squad
Our latest poster celebrating Academy history looks at the work squads of the past. In the '30's students built an outdoor wooden running track and a new skating rink and enlarged the playing fields. In the '40's students picked up the work done by men who had left to serve in the war. Read more about the squads and what they accomplished on Mrs. DiModica's Archives blog - parts one and two.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Social Networking Hazards
Welcome back from spring break! We hope everyone feels refreshed and energetic to tackle the rest of the spring semester.
Whether you're cruising the Byfield backroads or the information superhighways, it pays to mind your manners. Did you know that Facebook malware has become a serious threat to IT security? Due to phishing and clickjacking activities, some colleges and universities are even isolating student computers before they infect the rest of the school network.
Our IT department recently sent out a reminder about Facebook threats. It's very easy to click on interesting stories and catch up on gossip on any social networking site, especially if it looks like a friend recommends the link. Unfortunately, it's equally easy to fall pray to malware programs. At the very least, they will spam your profile - and your contacts' profiles - with annoying links. At worst, you'll be stuck with very real cell phone or credit card bills.
One of the latest Facebook scams is called "My Top Stalkers". Users are directed to an external site that claims to reveal the top people checking out their profile. Of course, somewhere along the way users are asked to provide their information, and a charge will appear on their cell phone bill. You can read more about the "My Top Stalkers" scam at All Facebook: The Unofficial Facebook Resource.
So do yourself and your friends a favor. Educate yourself. Google before you click. A quick web search will often reveal a scamming attempt. Remember also to check your Facebook account settings. Make sure no rogue applications are active, because just deleting the spam posts does not get rid of malware.
Whether you're cruising the Byfield backroads or the information superhighways, it pays to mind your manners. Did you know that Facebook malware has become a serious threat to IT security? Due to phishing and clickjacking activities, some colleges and universities are even isolating student computers before they infect the rest of the school network.
Our IT department recently sent out a reminder about Facebook threats. It's very easy to click on interesting stories and catch up on gossip on any social networking site, especially if it looks like a friend recommends the link. Unfortunately, it's equally easy to fall pray to malware programs. At the very least, they will spam your profile - and your contacts' profiles - with annoying links. At worst, you'll be stuck with very real cell phone or credit card bills.
One of the latest Facebook scams is called "My Top Stalkers". Users are directed to an external site that claims to reveal the top people checking out their profile. Of course, somewhere along the way users are asked to provide their information, and a charge will appear on their cell phone bill. You can read more about the "My Top Stalkers" scam at All Facebook: The Unofficial Facebook Resource.
So do yourself and your friends a favor. Educate yourself. Google before you click. A quick web search will often reveal a scamming attempt. Remember also to check your Facebook account settings. Make sure no rogue applications are active, because just deleting the spam posts does not get rid of malware.
Friday, March 04, 2011
Last Moments Before Break
Students catch up with each other in the library for the last time, and print out their tickets or last papers before break. In an hour it's vacation time; even better, we have gorgeous weather to start it off with!
We hope everyone has a great spring break!
We hope everyone has a great spring break!
Thursday, March 03, 2011
Latest Reviews: March 2011
Looking for something to read over the March break for a well-earned respite?
The latest reviews linked to our "virtual collection" include Loneliness: Human Nature and the Need for Social Connection by John T. Cacioppo, Lives Like Loaded Guns: Emily Dickinson and Her Family’s Feuds by Lyndall Gordon, and Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers by Mary Roach.
You can always find even more reviews through our LibraryThing profile.
The latest reviews linked to our "virtual collection" include Loneliness: Human Nature and the Need for Social Connection by John T. Cacioppo, Lives Like Loaded Guns: Emily Dickinson and Her Family’s Feuds by Lyndall Gordon, and Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers by Mary Roach.
You can always find even more reviews through our LibraryThing profile.
Wednesday, March 02, 2011
March Break Travel Abroad
Each year, students from The Governor’s Academy travel abroad during the March break to participate in formal student exchanges. In 2011, 14 members of the junior class were selected to visit four sites.
Read more in the Governor's Academy Blog from Aboard!
The photo to the right contains a collage of memories from last year's exchanges. Come visit the library to see them in full. We're sure that this year's visits will create memories just as incredible!
Read more in the Governor's Academy Blog from Aboard!
The photo to the right contains a collage of memories from last year's exchanges. Come visit the library to see them in full. We're sure that this year's visits will create memories just as incredible!
Tuesday, March 01, 2011
Latest New Books
Just in time for the spring break, we have a batch of new books available. Check out these just added titles - and more! - in the new books nook on the first floor.
P.S. Remember to check out the awesome Ronald Reagan display in the hallway display case!
P.S. Remember to check out the awesome Ronald Reagan display in the hallway display case!
Monday, February 28, 2011
American Experience Online
Last week we introduced two online video sites. This week we'll bring you the American Experience Online by PBS.
This highly acclaimed site premiered in November 1995, and features over 200 films at the moment. The series brings to life the incredible characters and epic stories that have shaped America’s past and present. Films include the Presidents collection, videos on political events, natural phenomena and how they affect us (e.g. hurricanes, the Hoover Dam), professions and making a living (whaling, the gold rush), economics, wars and weaponry (D-Day, the atomic bomb, biological weapons), religions in America, and much, much more.
Below each video on the screen there are links for example to further information, people and events, a timeline, and maps. Browsing this amazing site will surely be worth your time.
This highly acclaimed site premiered in November 1995, and features over 200 films at the moment. The series brings to life the incredible characters and epic stories that have shaped America’s past and present. Films include the Presidents collection, videos on political events, natural phenomena and how they affect us (e.g. hurricanes, the Hoover Dam), professions and making a living (whaling, the gold rush), economics, wars and weaponry (D-Day, the atomic bomb, biological weapons), religions in America, and much, much more.
Below each video on the screen there are links for example to further information, people and events, a timeline, and maps. Browsing this amazing site will surely be worth your time.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Raindrops Abound
Last week's mild temperatures gave our students and staff a much-longed for taste of spring. Alas, snow and rain have returned. We were greeted with this vision in the reference area today.
Fortunately neither snow nor rain deter students when there are places to be. Lunch time in the library is as busy as ever, and the homework chatter is accompanied by the pitter-patter of rain. And by next week this time, spring break will have started!
Fortunately neither snow nor rain deter students when there are places to be. Lunch time in the library is as busy as ever, and the homework chatter is accompanied by the pitter-patter of rain. And by next week this time, spring break will have started!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
(Dis) Connect
Is your cell phone in your pocket right now?
How many times have you checked Facebook today?
In only the last few years younger generations have become so connect that it is nearly impossible for them to disconnect. Often forgetting a cell phone or being without internet is almost unimaginable to middle school, high school and college kids. This constant need to feel connected is somewhat empty because it is cutting down on real social interaction in favor of technological interaction. News travels faster and is no longer quickly forgotten, there is a permanent record of status updates and texts on phone and online. How does this affect us? The trouble is it is such a new phenomenon that we do not know the full effects yet. However, we are starting to see kids needing more and more stimuli to stay engaged. Social interaction is changing and it is becoming in both easier and harder to escape your peers. Come check out the (Dis) Connect display here at the library and see the many ways that technology is affecting our lives both in positive and negative ways.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Video Sources for Self-Education
Are you interested in keeping up with the latest in science, but don't enjoy reading? Would you like to be up to date with developments in the academia, yet prefer visual sources over text? Below are two sites which lovers of visual media and intelligent content might find useful.
FORA.tv is a video publisher which aggregates academic, think tank, and thought leadership conferences. In other words, they gather video clips and programs on people, issues, and ideas changing the world, and offer an easy access portal to them (either for free, pay per view, or with a membership). You can search their offerings by keyword, or browse topics. Other ways of discovering videos include a a tag cloud, a list of the week's most watched, commented or rated, and a list of recently featured clips. Below each video on the screen there are links to more information, a short biography of people involved (journalists, speakers, artists, etc.), a list of chapters, highlights, a link to download the file, and even read a relevant Encyclopedia Britannica article. All this information is available free. They also offer free previews of for-fee material.
Another interesting source is TED. TED is a non-profit organisation devoted to ideas worth spreading. The name TED stands for technology, education, and design, and their activities include two annual conferences. Probably the best known aspect of the organization is TEDTalks, a free video site through which TED shares the best talks and performances from themselves and their partners. All talks are subtitles in English, many also in other languages. Besides subtitles, translations are also available. You can search the clips by subtitle language, event and video length, or browse by theme or speaker. What's best, the TEDTalks videos are released under a Creative Commons license, so they can be shared and reposted (as long as it's non-commercially, and the videos are unaltered with attribution to TED).
FORA.tv is a video publisher which aggregates academic, think tank, and thought leadership conferences. In other words, they gather video clips and programs on people, issues, and ideas changing the world, and offer an easy access portal to them (either for free, pay per view, or with a membership). You can search their offerings by keyword, or browse topics. Other ways of discovering videos include a a tag cloud, a list of the week's most watched, commented or rated, and a list of recently featured clips. Below each video on the screen there are links to more information, a short biography of people involved (journalists, speakers, artists, etc.), a list of chapters, highlights, a link to download the file, and even read a relevant Encyclopedia Britannica article. All this information is available free. They also offer free previews of for-fee material.
Another interesting source is TED. TED is a non-profit organisation devoted to ideas worth spreading. The name TED stands for technology, education, and design, and their activities include two annual conferences. Probably the best known aspect of the organization is TEDTalks, a free video site through which TED shares the best talks and performances from themselves and their partners. All talks are subtitles in English, many also in other languages. Besides subtitles, translations are also available. You can search the clips by subtitle language, event and video length, or browse by theme or speaker. What's best, the TEDTalks videos are released under a Creative Commons license, so they can be shared and reposted (as long as it's non-commercially, and the videos are unaltered with attribution to TED).
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Books Everyone Should Read
We asked the Faculty and Staff to share their thoughts on “Books Everyone Should Read…”. We were delighted with both the number and range of responses. The recommendations included everything from Children Make Terrible Pets to Freedom, Jonathan Franzen’s new novel, and everything in between. There are some classics, Dr. Zhivago, The Odyssey and Joseph Conrad’s Lord Jim, along with, perhaps, some surprises, such as The Devil’s Teeth about Great White Sharks in all their primeval and gorey glory. Humor is clearly an important part of our lives with a nod to David Sedaris (Me Talk Pretty One Day) and Neil Gaiman/Terry Pratchett (Good Omens). There’s something for everyone in this collection of books everyone should read!
Monday, February 21, 2011
Edward Gorey on Display
The Boston Globe featured the art of Edward Gorey in their supplement last weekend in honor of a Gorey exhibition at the Boston Athenaeum. We were inspired, too, to make a display.
The Boston Globe staffer Sebastian Smee writes:
Visit the library to read the whole text, and to browse our Gorey collection.
(The Athenaeum exhibition runs through June 4. Visit the Boston Athenaeum for more information.)
The Boston Globe staffer Sebastian Smee writes:
"Some people have literary sensibilities. Others are more inclined to be visual. Edward Gorey, the magnificient illustrator who died on Cape Cod in 2000, was lucky enough to have the two faculties perfectly combined, and better yet, supplemented by a level of schadenfreude so shot through with innocent mirth as to make it seem almost magnanimous."
Visit the library to read the whole text, and to browse our Gorey collection.
(The Athenaeum exhibition runs through June 4. Visit the Boston Athenaeum for more information.)
Friday, February 18, 2011
Lobby Guest Trojan Horse
Oliver is the creation of Imogene Robinson who won "Best in Show 2011" with him in the juried student art show "Secrets and Lies." The plaque on his front reads:
“Oliver with a Twist”
Secrets and lies are the objects of the corrupted. However, horses are one of the only incorruptible beings on Earth. They are simple in composition, transparent in their emotions. Oliver, here, is composed of objects as simple as cardboard and as clear as plastic bottles. No secrets or lies lurk as shadows within Oliver; for light shines through him.
We are delighted to have him spend time with us!
“Oliver with a Twist”
Secrets and lies are the objects of the corrupted. However, horses are one of the only incorruptible beings on Earth. They are simple in composition, transparent in their emotions. Oliver, here, is composed of objects as simple as cardboard and as clear as plastic bottles. No secrets or lies lurk as shadows within Oliver; for light shines through him.
We are delighted to have him spend time with us!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Parents Weekend Winter 2011
The Governor’s Academy looks forward to seeing you at its Parents Weekend, February 18-19, 2011. The schedule of events includes two art shows, presentations by faculty, a wine & cheese reception for parents, athletics contests, and two performances of the musical Wedding Singer.
We in the library are busy making sure that the premises look neat and nice for everyone's enjoyment. You can find more information, including the weekend schedule, on the school web site.
We in the library are busy making sure that the premises look neat and nice for everyone's enjoyment. You can find more information, including the weekend schedule, on the school web site.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Go Govs Students!
Governor’s Academy students entered the Boston Globe Scholastic Writing Awards for the first time last fall. Twelve students took part in the competition.
Out of 22 works submitted by our students, 10 won awards. The awarded works include poetry, short stories, and personal essays / memoirs. One of the students, Andrew Coleburn (class 2012), won four recognitions. It is a fantastic achievement considering that this was the first time Governor's students submitted written works to the contest.
You can read more in The Governor's Academy Blog. Congratulations to all the participants!
Out of 22 works submitted by our students, 10 won awards. The awarded works include poetry, short stories, and personal essays / memoirs. One of the students, Andrew Coleburn (class 2012), won four recognitions. It is a fantastic achievement considering that this was the first time Governor's students submitted written works to the contest.
You can read more in The Governor's Academy Blog. Congratulations to all the participants!
Monday, February 14, 2011
Happy Valentine's Day!
Roses are red
violets are blue
come visit the library
you have books over due
(just kidding, we love you!)
Wednesday, February 09, 2011
How Many Kisses?
Four more days to go! How many kisses are there in the cube?
Come to the library and leave your guess (up to three) in the box! The approach is up to you: measuring and calculating the volume, visually estimating, throwing out a wild guess...
The winner will be announced on Valentine's Day, Monday 14th, at lunchtime. Good luck!
Come to the library and leave your guess (up to three) in the box! The approach is up to you: measuring and calculating the volume, visually estimating, throwing out a wild guess...
The winner will be announced on Valentine's Day, Monday 14th, at lunchtime. Good luck!
Tuesday, February 08, 2011
Green Cup Challenge
Members of the school’s G3 team created a display in the library to remind students of the Green Cup competition happening this month. They have also placed “tips” around the library to give each other ideas of ways to save energy and the environment. As part of our convocation series, the entire community met in the performing arts center today to listen to a presentation from the Alliance for Climate Education about climate change and what we can do to make a difference. Everyone was challenged to text D-O-T to 30644. DOT stands for “do one thing.” We were challenged to find one thing we don’t already do to save fossil fuels and to do it.
Monday, February 07, 2011
Latest Reviews: February 2011
Looking for something to read to give your brain a break, and break up your routine?
The latest reviews linked to our "virtual collection" include The Third Sister by Julia Barrett, Spook: Science Tackles the Afterlife by Mary Roach, and Jane Austen’s Novels: Social Change and Literary Form by Julia Prewitt Brown.
You can always find even more reviews through our LibraryThing profile.
The latest reviews linked to our "virtual collection" include The Third Sister by Julia Barrett, Spook: Science Tackles the Afterlife by Mary Roach, and Jane Austen’s Novels: Social Change and Literary Form by Julia Prewitt Brown.
You can always find even more reviews through our LibraryThing profile.
Friday, February 04, 2011
Thomas Jefferson and sheep
Thomas Jefferson was known for many things, both personal and political, but not so many people are aware of President Jefferson’s avid ovine interests. He actively pursued the acquisition and breeding of sheep that he hoped would both improve his crop fields when fallow, and satisfy a growing concern for improved wool and mutton. He collected sheep as gifts from all over the world and was particularly desirous of the Merino sheep. This highly coveted Spanish breed could only be acquired through various smuggling antics for many years. He started out with the “common country sheep” from the Virginia mountains, a breed most like the Southwest Churro. He also kept Tunis (hailing from Tunisia, North Africa), and Shetland (from the Shetland Islands of Scotland) sheep. Jefferson was instrumental in improving the quality of wool bred in the United States, and would keep a flock of sheep on the White House lawn, until one day an aggressive territorial ram actually killed a boy.
Thursday, February 03, 2011
Counting Kisses
We're counting our blessings quite literally! Ms. Driscoll and Ms. Patten prepare for a chocolate kiss display.
We've filled a sealed, see-through cube with chocolates. Set beside it are paper slips for guessing how many chocolates there are in the cube. You can make up to three guesses. The person to get closest to the actual total wins the whole lot!
Come by the library to learn more!
We've filled a sealed, see-through cube with chocolates. Set beside it are paper slips for guessing how many chocolates there are in the cube. You can make up to three guesses. The person to get closest to the actual total wins the whole lot!
Come by the library to learn more!
Wednesday, February 02, 2011
How high will it get?
The library is open although there are no classes or afternoon activities today. We feel like Bill Murray endlessly reliving Groundhog Day - shovel, sleep, repeat! But, unlike poor Bill, we are having a better time with that pesky rodent. Today, Groundhog Day 2011, Punxsutawney Phil was not frightened by his shadow and an early spring is promised! Woo hoo!
Tuesday, February 01, 2011
Polite Graffiti
One of the tasks here in the library is making sure that the premises stay clean and comfortable. Sometimes it means wiping scribbles and graffiti off the tables.
Most of the times we see pencil stripes that are clearly accidental. On occasion there are ambitious artistic works, calculations or other messages on our surfaces.
I was almost tempted to leave this graffiti alone for a day or two. Would you have? Why?
Most of the times we see pencil stripes that are clearly accidental. On occasion there are ambitious artistic works, calculations or other messages on our surfaces.
I was almost tempted to leave this graffiti alone for a day or two. Would you have? Why?
Monday, January 31, 2011
Best Books 2010
We've pulled some of the best books in 2010 for this display. If you're looking for an enticing read, please feel free to browse the selection on the first floor, right by the circulation desk. Everyone will surely find something of interest!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
February Faceoff
The Governor's Academy is facing off 9 other ISL schools in a challenge next month. The goal is to increase young alumni participation in the annual fund in February. The alumni participating are from the classes of 2000 - 2010.
Take a look at this great video:
P.S. How many library scenes can you spot? (I found four.)
Take a look at this great video:
P.S. How many library scenes can you spot? (I found four.)
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Governor's Blog
Welcome back after the semester break!
Did you know that in addition to the library blog, the Governor's community has other blogs? The school blog, pictured right, records the life on campus. Both faculty and students contribute, so you're sure to get a balanced view.
Did you know that in addition to the library blog, the Governor's community has other blogs? The school blog, pictured right, records the life on campus. Both faculty and students contribute, so you're sure to get a balanced view.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Snow behind the library
On this last day of the semester, students were busy in the library finishing final projects. While most of the schools in the area were closed due to snow, we’re looking outside at sunshine reaching the playing fields. The snow is nearly up to the bottom glazing bar on the windows in the back of the library. There should be good skiing for the weekend trip, and for those who will spend the semester break skiing with their families. Have a great time – we look forward to seeing everyone rested and ready for semester two next Wednesday morning.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
E. A. Poe's Birthday
Yesterday was the anniversary of the birth of a tragic but admired American author, Edgar Allan Poe. Born on January 19, 1809, in Boston, he is famous for stories of mystery and the macabre, and excelled in writing poems and short stories. He is also considered the inventor of the detective story as a genre.
If you're interested in reading more about Poe, please check out our poetry section (specifically 811, 813, 818) and biographies (921) upstairs, the story collection section (SC) downstairs by the front desk, or this display.
If you're interested in reading more about Poe, please check out our poetry section (specifically 811, 813, 818) and biographies (921) upstairs, the story collection section (SC) downstairs by the front desk, or this display.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
New in the Library: Stack-End Displays
One of the improvements we instituted after the holiday break is these new display shelves. They live at the end of our fiction stacks downstairs, and highlight a rotating selection of interesting reads - and eye candy!
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
A. A. Milne's Birthday
Today is the anniversary of Alan Alexander Milne's birthday. Milne is, of course, the creator of Winnie-the-Pooh, one of the most beloved story characters of our time. The book Winnie-the-Pooh has been translated into over 25 languages, including a Latin translation (Winnie Ille Pu).
Our Milne collection includes these books and videos, among others. Please feel free to browse these and more at JFic MIL, for example.
Our Milne collection includes these books and videos, among others. Please feel free to browse these and more at JFic MIL, for example.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Take a moment and remember why you had Monday off
"Hello Birmingham"
By: Ani DiFranco
hold me down
i am floating away
into the overcast skies
over my home town
on election day
what is it about birmingham?
what is it about buffalo?
did the hate filled wanna build bunkers
in your beautiful red earth
they want to build them
in our shiny white snow
now i've drawn closed the curtain
in this little booth where the truth has no place
to stand
and i am feeling oh so powerless
in this stupid booth with this useless
little lever in my hand
and outside my city is bracing
for the next killing thing
standing by the bridge and praying
for the next doctor
martin
luther
king
it was just one shot
through the kitchen window
it was just two miles from here
if you fly like a crow
a bullet came to visit a doctor
in his one safe place
a bullet ensuring the right to life
whizzed past his kid and his wife
and knocked his glasses
right off of his face
and the blood poured off the pulpit
yeah the blood poured down the picket lines
yeah, the hatred was immediate
and the vengence was divine
so they went and stuffed god
down the barrel of a gun
and after him
they stuffed his only son
hello birmingham
it's buffalo
i heard you had some trouble
down there again
and i'm just calling to let to know
that someone understands
i was once escorted
through the doors of a clinic
by a man in a bulletproof vest
and no bombs went off that day
so i am still here to say
birmingham
i'm wishing you all of my best
oh birmingham
i'm wishing you all of my best
oh birmingham
i'm wishing you all of my best
on this election day
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Soulless 2010
If you enjoyed Twilight and you also enjoy Jane Austen, then Soulless is the perfect read for you. Gail Carriger blends the supernatural world and Victorian England’s high society in such a way that vampires are simply considered rude when they try and drink your blood. This novel hits many interesting notes; it has mystery, humor, murder and an amazing sense of fashion. Carriger goes in to great detail when describing the Victorian fashion in the slightly off-kilter world she creates. It is the subtle attention to detail and sense of humor which makes Soulless one of the best reads of 2010.
You can check out Soulless and a litany of the Best Reads of 2010 now on display at the library.
Friday, January 14, 2011
DVD from television - January 2011
New DVDs have been added to the collection to augment our very popular TV series, Mad Men and House. Day students, dorm residents, and faculty alike enjoy checking out a DVD or two to watch over the weekend.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
New Year, New Displays - New You?
One of our latest displays showcases popular topics for new year's resolutions. Did you resolve to pick up a new hobby, or vow to adjust your spending? Or are you perhaps one of the many who want to live healthier in 2011?
Have a look! You can find these books on the "tree" display in our lobby. If you'd rather surf your way to a new you, check out the popular new year's resolutions at USA.gov.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Latest Reviews: January 2011
Looking for something to read to give your brain a break, and break up your routine?
The latest batch of reviews linked to our "virtual collection" include The Road to Dune by Frank Herbert et al., What Jane Austen Ate and Charles Dickens Knew by Daniel Pool, and Packing for Mars by Mary Roach.
You can always find even more reviews through our LibraryThing profile.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Mice in the Library
Students who have trouble navigating laptop touchpads can now borrow computer mice to use with library or personal laptops. Since upgrading our wireless network this summer, we've found that even more students are bringing laptops, notebooks and even iPads to the library. Not everyone is adept at using keyboard mouse buttons and touchpads can be over-reactive, so students have begun asking for the mice. We thank them all for keeping food (and the live variety of mouse) out of the library!
I've recently been advised that "mouses" is the correct plural for mouse, as it is an acronym for manually-operated user-select equipment. The Oxford English Dictionary quotes someone who calls himself "Deadmeat" as using the term "mouses" in 1997, and lists many different forms of the plural of mouse throughout history (meese, myse, etc.).
Monday, January 10, 2011
The World War II Years
This month’s 20th century display highlights the World War II years. While a search of our catalog for World War 1939-1945 informs the user that we have 592 books on the subject, we’ve chosen to display part of the collection that highlights how the war affected and was affected by ordinary citizens. Books are displayed on life in the U.S. during the war including prisoner of war camps on American soil, the Hollywood propaganda efforts, poets of World War II and Japanese internment. Life on the war-front is depicted through books on baseball in the military, Japanese American soldiers, Navajo code talkers, and the Tuskegee Airmen. Part of our extensive collection of primary source documents includes the records of the American concentration camps, letters from the battlefront, and books like The D-Day experience which give background information to help students understand the newspaper articles, maps, letters, signal logs and war handbooks contained in the books.
Friday, January 07, 2011
Elementary, Doctor O
Dr. Oleszko’s chemistry students were in the library today, beginning work on brochures and presentations about the elements. They discovered that reference books can provide faster and more reliable access to basic facts than many Web searches.
They also had a chance to use our two new online science resources: Science in Context and Science Reference Center.
They also had a chance to use our two new online science resources: Science in Context and Science Reference Center.
Thursday, January 06, 2011
Celebrating Academy History
In 2013, the Academy has its sestercentennial celebration. In honor of this auspicious event, we are producing posters on aspects of the school's history with recommended readings from the library. The first poster was The Little Red Schoolhouse : All the Firsts (name - Dumm'r Charity School, location - north side of Mansion House lawn, subjects - Greek, Latin, scripture, natural science, mathematics). The second was Famous Early Dum'r Academy Graduates (Theophilus Parsons -author of the Essex Result and Massachusetts Chief Justice, Rufus King - signer of Constitution, Samuel Phillips - founder of Phillips Academy, Edward Preble - Commodore of the USS Constitution and hero of the Tripolitan campaign). The current one highlights clubs and focuses on Nordic Skiing with pictures from the '30's, '40's, '70's, and '80's.
Look for the posters on bulletin boards and doors around campus. And, if you want to read more about the academy's history, check out Mrs. DiModica's Archives Blog.
Look for the posters on bulletin boards and doors around campus. And, if you want to read more about the academy's history, check out Mrs. DiModica's Archives Blog.
Wednesday, January 05, 2011
Common Book for Spring of 2011
This year’s Common Book is Walking to Gatlinburg by Howard Frank Mosher. The author will visit our school in late April. The story is about a young man from Vermont who sets off to find his older brother, missing after the Battle of Gettysburg. According to Mr. Searles, it is "a fascinating tale full of strange and wonderful events."
We have a copy at the library, but as it is sure to be in high demand, bear in mind that the book store can also provide you with a copy of your own.
We have a copy at the library, but as it is sure to be in high demand, bear in mind that the book store can also provide you with a copy of your own.
Tuesday, January 04, 2011
Researching Indigenous Cultures
Mr. Falconer's Advanced Placement Spanish class has begun research on indigenous American cultures. They were in the library today learning to use the various databases we subscribe to, including Latino American Experience, Informe, and World History in Context. Other websites they may find helpful include http://indigenouspeoplesissues.com/ and the Center for World Indigenous Studies.
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