Want to update your resume?

A quick guide to updating your resume:

1. Get rid of Objective; use Summary & write 2-3 sentences about your skills specific to the job you’re applying for.

2. Delete unrelated work experience: List only the experience related to your current application. If you have none, list jobs that most closely parallel the skills necessary for this job.

3. Don’t list personal information: It’s illegal for an employer to ask for marital status, religious preference, age, and Social Security numbers.

4. One page resume: Put in only what’s relevant to your current application.

5. Don’t include your hobbies. It’s not important to your job. Also don’t include generic terms like ‘hard worker’ or ‘dedicated’—they’re overused and mean nothing to potential employers.

6. Remove all dates from your resume. They only date you and aren’t necessary to the resume.

7. Write your resume in first person—I did...I supervised…

8. Don’t include references, and don’t use valuable page space to say references available upon request. A potential employer knows this and will ask for them if they’re interested in you.

9. Make a professional email account that includes your full name. If you have to include numbers at the end of it, that’s perfectly OK, but your very first email you created in high school isn’t going to work.

10. Don’t include current business contact information. It’s unprofessional and may just get you fired from your current job.

Library Closing

The Vineland Librar will be closed Saturday December 24, Sunday December 25, and Monday December 26, 2011 for the Christmas holiday. We will be open Tuesday December 27, 2011 at 10 am. See you then! And Happy Holidays.

Search Newspapers Through the Vineland Public Library Webpage

Vineland Public Library is now making the Daily Journal as well as national newspapers such as the New York Times and the Philadelphia Inquirer available through its website: www.vinelandlibrary.org. The library has contracted with ProQuest to allow Vineland Public Library cardholders to search its Newsstand database and print out articles published during the last decade or even earlier. For example, the Daily Journal is available back to August 1999, while the Philadelphia Inquirer goes back to January 1983 and the New York Times to June 1980. The database covers 1309 publications including 941 newspapers and 101 trade journals.

Library patrons can access the Newsstand database from the library or remotely from their home or office computers with Internet access. The database contains national, international and leading regional newspapers that may be of interest, including NJ Business, The Press of Atlantic City, the Courier Post, USA Today, Barron’s, the Washington Post, the Chicago Tribune and many others.

The Newsstand database can be easily searched to locate specific articles or articles on a given topic. It also includes a special search option for finding obituaries.

Contact the library Information Desk at 856-794-4244 ext. 4243 for further information or help with using the Newsstand database. Library cards can be obtained free of charge at the library’s Front Desk by showing a driver’s license with a Cumberland County address and filling out a short form.

The Vineland Public Library is located at 1058 E. Landis Avenue and is accessible to the disabled. Call 794-4244 to request special accommodations.

FREE books this week!

Our book sale ended but we still have some books. So, all this week the books in the Tripp Room are FREE. Please come and help yourself. And tell all your friends.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid

Diary of a Wimpy Kid 6: Cabin Fever is the newest in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. When asked where he came up with the idea for his series, author Jeff Kinney said he wanted to write about the fun stuff of growing up, not the serious stuff.

If you want to read the series, the first book is Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Greg's Journal. If you want to place a hold on this title, simply call the Children's Department (856) 794-4244 ext. 4246. We also have 2 copies of the movie based on this bestselling title, also located upstairs: DVD 7640 and 7641. Our DVDs can't be put on hold, but you can call the library to check if a copy is in.

Book sale!

November is the Vineland Library's annual book sale. This year we have hundreds of wonderful books to choose from. Looking for gift ideas for children? Check out our extensive children's book section along the walls. We also have many large print books in a variety of genres.

If you wish to donate books to our sale, please bring them in during normal library hours. They can go directly into the book sale room. All proceeds benefit the Friends of the Vineland Library and help us continue many of the programs you've come to love.

Getting in touch with your local library

Saturday we had no incoming phone service, but we were here as usual. Now, our phones are back but the message is incorrect. If you call us at 794-4244 and press 3 for the main (circulation) desk, or 4 for the information desk, staff will be able to direct you to the appropriate department.

The Cumberland County Library is still suffering the effects of a car accident which occurred Monday morning in front of their building. Their phones are still out.

Crochet

Do you crochet? Are you interested in joining a library crochet club?

Right now the Vineland Library doesn't have one, but we're intersted in forming one. If you want to share your experiences, patterns, and knowledge, please contact the Information Desk (856) 794-4244 ext. 4243.

Columbus Day

Today the library will be open from 10-5 pm because of the Columbus Day Holiday.

This week, we'll be open from 10-8 Tuesday-Thursday, 10-5 Friday, 11-4 Saturday.

If you have any questions, please call the library at (856) 794-4244.

Writer's Society

Interested in becoming a writer? Intersted in joining a critique group? The 3rd Thursday of every month our writer's society meets from 5-7:30 pm. Registration isn't required, so please feel free to join in!

Writer's Society

Thursday, October 20 from 5:00 – 7:30 p.m. for a the New Jersey Writer’s Society gathering with a special Halloween theme. Members of the group will dress up in Halloween costumes and read from their stories. The public is invited and refreshments will be served.

The program will be held in the Community Event Room located on the first floor of the library. Registration is not necessary. For additional questions call the library’s Information Desk at 794-4244 ext. 4243.

Bayada nurse on site offering free health screening

A nurse from Bayada is stationed inside the entrance of the Vineland Public Library every other Monday to provide FREE testing. Want to check your blood pressure, or evaluate your blood sugar? Come to the library today between 10 - 12 in the lobby. She will also test the level of oxygen in your blood. If you miss it today, she will be here again on Monday, October 17th.

More New Children's Books

We've got lots of new books! Here are some more of my favorites.

Martha Doesn't Share! by Samantha Berger-Martha has a new favorite word: mine! She says it about all her things and she doesn't want to share any of them. But she soon learns that it's lonely playing with all her things by herself. A good introduction to children about sharing. (JE B)

Handa's Surprise by Eileen Browne-Handa puts seven delicious fruits in a basket for her friend Akeyo. As she walks to Akeyo's village, she wonders which fruit Akeyo will like best. Both Handa and Akeyo will be surprised by the end of the story. This story will work well in story time and one-on-one. Children will have fun reading along while Handa journey's to Akeyo's village. (JE B)

Little Pig Joins the Band by David Hyde Costello-Little Pig didn't always like being little, or being called Little Pig. When his older brothers and sisters start a marchining band, he's too little to play any of the instruments. (JE C)

The Sniffles for Bear by Bonny Becker-Poor Bear is sick. He doesn't think anyone has ever been as sick as he is now. Luckily, he has Mouse to take care of him. But nothing Mouse does helps Bear feel better. (JE B)

Flora's Very Windy Day by Jeanne Birdsall-This is a beautifully illustrated book. When the wind picks up her annoying little brother Crispin and blows him away, Flora gives up her super-special heavy-duty red boots to go after him. While a dragonfly, a sparrow, the man in the moon and even the wind itself offer to take Crispin away, she decides it may be better to keep him. (JE B)

Ten Little Caterpillars by Bill Martin Jr-From the author of Chick Chicka Boom Boom, comes a new book about caterpillars. Ten caterpillars are on the go and children will have fun looking for them on each page. Each caterpillar is different and readers will see which each one turns into at the end of the story. (JABC Martin)

See the Children's Librarian for the exact location of these books and check out the new books display for other new great titles.

New Children's Books

We've got some new picture books. Here are some of the ones I really like!

Follow the Line series by Laura Ljungkvist-Follow the line through school, the world and home in this fun series. In Follow the Line Through the House, the reader is invited to turn the page and explore different parts of the house. While in the kitchen, you'll explore the refrigerator. Readers are asked simple questions, such as "which foods are green?" and "what would you choose for a snack?" Readers will visit other common places in the house. In Follow the Line Around the World, readers will explore different countries and places such as Kenya, Greenland and the Sahara Desert. This interactive series will be a fun one-on-one read for preschool and elementary aged children. (JE L)

Be Quiet, Mike! by Leslie Patricelli-Mike is a monkey who has a lot of rhythm. He can't help but drum all day long on whatever surface he can find. But poor Mike only hears one thing from all the people around him: "Be quiet, Mike!" As hard as he tries, he just can't stop the rhythm. One day, as he's walking pass a music shop, he sees an ape drumming on a drum set and knows that's just what he wants. Toddlers and preschoolers will love this read-aloud and will be drumming along with Mike: "Boom Chick, Boom Chick, Zat Zoom Crash!" (JE P)

Good Night, World by Willa Perman-It's time for bed and a young child says good night to all the things that make up the universe and world. The last page introduces the reader to 16 different ways to say good night. (JE P)

Check the new bookshelf for other new books!

Prom and Prejudice by Elizabeth Eulberg Book Review

Prom and Prejudice is a modern retelling of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Elizabeth "Lizzie" Bennett is a scholarship student at the prestigious Longbourn Academy. It is the goal for all female students at Longbourn Academy to get a prom date, preferably from the equally prestigious Pemberley Academy (the male equivalent of Longbourn). The other girls at Longbourn make life difficult for Lizzie (throwing slushies in her face, stealing her winter jacket from a party, etc). Her only friends are her roommate, Jane, and Charlotte Lucas, another scholarship student. The book opens with Jane being excited about the return of Charles Bingley, who has spent the last semester in London. Will Darcy accompanies Charles on his return to Pemberley. As in Pride and Prejudice, the relationship between Lizzie and Darcy is complicated. Darcy initially doesn't like Lizzie because she is a scholarship student and Lizzie thinks that Darcy is a snob who only cares about money. Young fans who have read Pride and Prejudice, will probably enjoy this modern retelling of the original book. The book is an easy read and readers who enjoy this book may want to add the original to their "to read" list.

Back to School Books

Beginning school can be a scary experience for your little one. Here is a list of books that you may find helpful. Books are located in the Parent/Toddler section of the Children’s Department alphabetically by the first letter of the author’s last name unless otherwise noted. Please ask the Children’s Librarian for assistance in finding the exact location of the books.

Bourgeois, Paulette Franklin Goes to School
Franklin is nervous about the first day of school, but his teacher, Mr. Owl, knows just what to do.

Capucilli, Alyssa Biscuit Goes to School
School looks like so much fun! Biscuit wants to go to school and meet the teacher—but dogs don’t go to school! What will the teacher do when Biscuit sneaks in anyway? (J Rea 1 Cap)

Danneberg, Julie First Day Jitters
The first day of school is scary for everyone, even the teacher who is new to the school. Children may be surprised to see that even adults get nervous sometimes.

Goodman, Joan Elizabeth Bernard Goes to School
On Bernard’s first day of school, he is only interested in going home, while the rest of his family finds joy in the blocks, paints and dolls to which he pays no attention until he makes a new friend.

Harper, Jessica Place Called Kindergarten, A
Wondering why their friend Tommy has not come to the barn at his usual time, the animals become alarmed when the dog tells them that he has gone to a place called "Kindergarten."

Hest, Amy Off to School, Baby Duck
It is Baby Duck's first day of school and she is scared. She likes all the new important things in her book bag, but what if her teacher is mean or she doesn't have any fun or make any friends? Luckily, Grampa knows just what to say and do. And Baby Duck feels much braver after she meets her teacher and makes a new friend.

London, Jonathan Froggy Goes to School
Froggy is nervous about his first day of school. First, he has a nightmare about the first day of school. On the morning of the first day, he is so nervous he has trouble pouring milk on his bowl of flies. At school he must learn to keep his voice down and pay attention. And he leaves his lunch box at school. His mom says, "Oh Froggy. Will you ever learn?" He replies "That's why I'm going to school, Mom!"

McGhee, Alison Countdown to Kindergarten
Ten days before the start of kindergarten, a pre-kindergartner cannot tie her shoes by herself and fears the worst.

McQuade, Jacqueline At Preschool with Teddy Bear
It is off to school with Teddy Bear. He is excited about learning new things and meeting new friends. (ABC cube)

Pak, Soyung Sumi’s First Day of School Ever
When Sumi first arrives at school on her first day, she thinks that school is a lonely, scary, mean place. For Sumi, the first day is extra hard because she doesn’t know the same language as everyone else. But with some help from a kind teacher and the fortunate acquaintance of a friendly girl at recess, Sumi realizes that school isn’t as lonely, scary or mean as she thought.

Poydar, Nancy First Day, Hooray!
Kindergartener Ivy Green can’t wait for school to begin tomorrow, but she’s also a little worried. What if she misses her bus? How will she find her classroom? Readers will discover that not only does Ivy anticipate the first day of school, but so do her teacher, the janitor and even her principal. They are all scrambling to prepare for the first day of school.

Rockwell, Anne Welcome to Kindergarten
Tim visits his future kindergarten class and learns what he will be doing during his first year of schoool. The classroom may seem a little big at first, but after finding out about all the fun things he'll learn, it doesn't seem so big at all. In fact, maybe it's just the right size.

Rosenberry, Vera Vera's First Day of School
Vera is looking forward to her first day of school. When the day finally arrives, she is bursting with excitement, until she sees all the children in the school yard. She becomes frightened and runs home. Vera's mom walks her back to school and Vera discovers school isn't as scary as she thought and decides she will like the second day much better.

Rouillard, Wendy Barnaby Goes to School
Barnaby loves to explore. But the new challenge of the first day of school lies ahead and Barnaby isn’t sure he is ready. Soon he learns that school is the greatest adventure of all!

Scotten, Rob Splat the Cat
A nervous Splat finds his first day at Cat School much better than he expected.

Slate, Joseph Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten
Miss Bindergarten and her students get ready for the first day of kindergarten. The children are introduced alphabetically as they appear. This is a fun way to learn the alphabet and also learn about the first day of school from both students' and teacher's perspective.

Thompson, Lauren Mouse’s First Day of School
Mouse hides in a child’s backpack and discovers all the fun to be had in a kindergarten classroom full of books, paints, blocks and more.

Wells, Rosemary Timothy Goes to School
Timothy is excited about the first day of school until he meets Claude. Not only is Claude the smartest and the best at everything, but he also wears all the right clothes and has all the friends. Timothy can’t stand it! But when Timothy meets Violet he learns that he’s not alone after all.(Also available in audio CD/BK 018)

Woodruff, Elvira A Dragon in My Backpack
Bumps the toy dragon helps his friend Ben deal with his first day of kindergarten apprehension in this back to school adventure. (JEPB W)

The Sixty-Eight Rooms by Marianne Malone (Audiobook Edition) Book Review

Nothing exciting ever happens to Ruthie until the day her class visits the Art Institute of Chicago and sees the Thorne Rooms for the first time. The Thorne Rooms are a collection of sixty-eight exquiste and realistic miniature rooms, each designed in the style of a different time and place. Ruthie can't believe how wonderful these rooms are and wants to spend the entire class trip looking at the rooms. The rooms are so realistic that Ruthie thinks it would be wonderful to explore each room firsthand. The unthinkable happens when Ruthie's best friend Jack find a mysterious key which turns out to be magical.

The audiobook edition includes an interview with author, Marianne Malone.

I would recommend this book to readers in 3rd through 5th grade. Readers who have read and enjoyed The Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler and Blue Balliet's mysteries will find The Sixty-Eight Rooms an exciting read.

Computer Tutors needed!

Interested in helping others learn how to use a computer? Willing to commit to one hour per week? Call the library (856) 794-4244 ext. 4243 to learn how to become a computer tutor volunteer!

The library is open 6 days a week and tutors are needed for every one of those days. Help someone learn how to search for a job, email their grandchildren, or learn to type a letter today!

Stotan! by Chris Crutcher Book Review

It's the last swimming season for Walker, Nortie, Lion and Jeff and their swimming coach has asked them to participate in a voluntary weeklong program of four-hour-a-day continual training that will test their self-discipline and swimming skills during their holiday break. This week also becomes a week of bonding between the four friends, learning secrets that they never knew about each other. While it's a difficult week, they come away from it stronger individuals They'll draw on their strengths in ways they didn't know were possible when hit with adversity.

I'd recommend this book to high school students reluctant readers and anyone who likes to read about sports. Chris Crutcher touches on some difficult topics, but the book is very realistic and like his other books, you can't help but root for these four friends.

Top Summer Readers at the Vineland Public Library

Participants of our summer reading program were busy reading this summer! Ninety-five children ages 6 months through 12 years read a total of 2,215 books. Our top reader was Tanisha Mori, age 11, who read 140 books.

In addition, here are the top readers for each age range:

Ages 2 & younger - Akeem Mills, age 2: 72 books
Ages 3-5 - Syerra-Lynn Mills, age 4: 113 books
Ages 6-8 - Anastazja Astacio, age 8: 91 books
Ages 9 & up - Tanisha Mori, age 11: 140 books

Congratulations to our top readers and thank you to everyone who participated this summer!

Princess in Pink by Meg Cabot Book Review

Mia Thermopolis is just about finished her freshman year. Things are looking up: she's passing algebra, she's about to turn 15 and she has a boyfriend! Since Michael is a senior, Mia is very excited about attending the prom. If Michael ever asks her!

As usual, things don't go as expected in Mia's life. Her birthday dinner with her family (her mom, step-father & algebra teacher Mr. G., her dad, her grandmother and Michael) ends in chaos; her birthday party ends abruptly and Mia is starting to think that Michael will never ask her to the prom.

Fans of Cabot's Princess Diaries series won't be disappointed with the fifth book in the series.

Ironman by Chris Crutcher Book Review

Chris Crutcher may be my new favorite author. I'll be the first to admit I'm not a sports fan. I don't have a favorite sport or a favorite team. Usually I don't even know who is playing. Since Crutcher's books revolve around sports, they would normally be the last thing I'd probably pick up to read. But his books are also so much more than about sports. His books are about the characters who participate in sports and it's really the characters that I care about.

Bo Brewster has an anger problem. He is close to being expelled his senior year of high school because he doesn't see eye to eye with his English teacher and former football coach, Mr. Redmond. After his second suspension, the only way to keep from being expelled is to join the school's anger management group which is run by a Japanese cowboy, Mr. Nakatani (Mr. Nak). The anger management group consists of the worse kids in the school and Bo doesn't really believe he belongs there.

Bo is training for an Ironman triathlon,the Yukon Jack, which consists of biking, running and swimming. Despite receiving no support from his father, he works towards this goal. You can't help but root for Bo to succeed.

I would recommend this book to high school students who are reluctant readers. Young adults who enjoy sports books will also enjoy this book.

Review: The fault tree by Ure Louise

Pros                                                                                                    Cons
It's a page tuner                                                                                    It's a little confusing at first
It has lot's of action                                                                            
It's not that long

Reviews by: Lashonda M. as apart of the Adult Summer Reading Giveaway.

Review:The Parrot Who Thought She Was A Dog by Nancy Ellis Bell

Sarah, the one legged blue & gold Macaw, Adopted by Nancy Ellis Bell Adjusts to the loving care she is given-enjoys freedom of a careless life indoors & outdoors as she adjusts to people and other pets.

Review by: Jeannette C. as apart of our Adult Summer Reading Giveaway.

Review: Girl in translation by Jean Kwok

Chinese girl attends special school in a white SanFrancisco neighborhood. She becomes good friends with a japanese girl & white american boys. Grows up to be acepted at Yale School.

Review by: Jeannette C. as apart of our Adult Summer Reading Giveaway.

Review: Swim Suit by Ure Louise

Pros                                                                                                         Cons
Good action book                                                                                    Climax don't get there fast enough
Full of suprises                                                                                         Overall it was a good book

Review by: Lashonda M. as apart of our Adult Summer Reading Giveaway.

What I'm Reading

Ever wonder what your local children's librarian is reading? Here's a list of books I'm currently reading in my free time when I'm not working at the library.

Athletic Shorts: Six Short Stories by Chris Crutcher - I've heard that Chris Crutcher is one of those authors that all children's/young adult librarians should read. Admittedly, this is the first book I've read by him, but I'm thoroughly enjoying it and will definitely be reading more books by him. In Athletic Shorts Crutcher brings back characters from his novels. In the introduction, he writes that he often gets letters asking what happens to his characters after his books end. He said that once the book ends, he leaves it to the readers to decide that happens to his characters. But sometimes the characters don't leave him and this is how he wrote Athletic Shorts. I would recommend this book to young adults who like sports and are reluctant readers.

Princess in Waiting by Meg Cabot - I'm listening to the 4th book in the Princess Diaries series on my way to and from work and on long drives. The narrator is Clea Lewis and while she isn't Anne Hathaway, she does a good job. I've read all of the books in this series except #10, Princess Mia, and I decided to re-read them all before reading the last book. What better way to re-read them but to listen to them! The book starts out with Mia making her debut in Genovia. She can't wait until she returns to New York City to see her new boyfriend Michael.

13 Little Blue Envelopes by Maureen Johnson - I'm reading this on my Kindle. When Ginny's Aunt Peg unexpectedly passes away, she leaves Ginny 13 letters. The first letter begins a scavenger hunt type trip in which Ginny must go to different countries and perform a task as specified by her Aunt Peg. As she completes each task, she can open the next envelope. Her journey begins in London, England and takes her all over Europe. Teens who enjoy Sarah Dessen and Megan McCafferty's books will enjoy 13 Little Blue Envelopes.

How do I keep all these books straight and not get them confused with each other? Good question! I've always read more than one book at a time and I'm usually able to keep them all straight. But sometimes I do get things mixed up, so I just try to read different kinds of books. There's a couple other titles I just recently started, but I'll blog about them another day!

So, what are you reading? Leave a comment and let me know!

Dork Diaries series by Rachel Renee Russell book review

Fans of Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, particularly girls, will enjoy the Dork Diaries series by Rachel Renee Russell. This series follows the every day life of Nikki Maxwell as she attends Westchester Day School. Nikki just wants to fit in but popular girl, Mackenzie, whose locker is right next to Nikki's makes life difficult for her. In the third book of the series, Tales from a Not-So-Talented Pop Star Nikki must decide whether to tell her two BFFs, Chloe and Zoey, her deep dark secret. The only person who knows her secret is archnemesis Mackenzie. The only reason she can attend Westchester Day School is because her father is the school's exterminator and he worked out a deal for her to get a scholarship to the school. Her secret may get out when the school becomes infested with bugs. Nikki has a dilemma when the school principal calls and leaves a message for her father. Does she give her father the message and risk everyone finding out her secret or does she hope the school finds another exterminator?

This is a very popular series which will widely appeal to young girls, ages 8-12. Boys who have read Barbara Park's Junie B. Jones series may also enjoy reading this series.

Review: Don't Blink by James Patterson

Pros                                                                                              Cons
It's very exciting talking about the mob                                            It's long in chapters
It was a new suprise at every chapter                                              It's a little boring at the introduction part
It was a great book I would advise someone to read it                     It's not a lot of bad Things

Review: Liars anonymous by Ure Louise

Pros                                                                                         Cons
It's a great book                                                                        It's a long book
It's a page turner                                                                       It's dry
It has lot's of conspiracy

Review by: Lashonda M. as apart of the Adult Summer Reading Giveaway.

                                      

Review: Fearless, Imagine your life without fear by Max Lucado

We all live with fear these days, and as we go through life would'nt it be nice to recognize it when it comes. Max exposes the fears and helps us to overcome those fears to have a life filled with joy and happiness.

Review by: Pam C. as apart of our Adult Summer Reading Giveaway.

Review: Push (Precious) by Sapphire

The book was great-but graphic. Be prepared for language and sexual content. I watched the movie before/ ordered the book, as usual it was so much better for me the book had to be read in stages. it was to to take in all at once. The characters seem so real and sad. Great book, there is hope at the end.

Available in the fiction section FIC Sapphire on DVD: DVDE 7205, 7206, 7207



Review completed by Mary L. as apart of our Adult Summer Reading Giveaway.

Princess in Love by Meg Cabot (audiobook version) Book Review

Mia is back and she finally has a boyfriend! Unfortunately it isn't Michael but Kenny her biology lab partner. Kenny is a really nice guy, but she doesn't love Kenny. How is she supposed to break up with Kenny without hurting his feelings. And she can't tell Michael her true feelings because 1) Michael is her best friend, Lilly's older brother and 2) Michael has a girlfriend, Judith Gershner. At least Mia has a date to the cultural diversity dance. That is if Kenny ever gets around to asking her!

Not only does she have this to worry about, but finals are approaching and Mia is worried about flunking algebra. And after finals, she has to leave for Genovia where she will be officially presented as the heir to the throne. Could life be more stressful?

What's a girl to do and how does she get the boy she really loves to notice her?

Anne Hatheway narrates the third book in this series by Meg Cabot and continues to do an excellent job of bringing the book to life.

Big Nate in a Class By Himself by Lincoln Peirce Book Review

Fans of Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid series will get a kick out of this new series by Lincoln Peirce. Nate knows he is destined for great things. It might just take him a while to get there. But one day, he gets the following fortune in his fortune cookie: Today You Will Surpass All Others. Nate just knows that means something good is going to happen today, something that is going to be better than everyone else. Maybe his art will be in the spotlight or maybe he'll break a world record. As Nate's day gets worse and worse, he doesn't see how his fortune could come true. Recommended for grades 3-6.

Review: God Ain't Through Yet by Mary Monroe

Pros                                                                                          Cons
Full of love action.                                                                      Didn't like the drama too much cursing this
Good for someone who love romance dramas.                            time, good author though.

Review by: Lashonda M. as apart of our Adult Summer Reading Giveaway.

Scrabble Night!

6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Play Scrabble (Doris Tripp Room)

DVDs

July's television series DVD winner is Private Practice! We'll be adding the first 4 seasons of that to our collection over the next few weeks.

August's DVD poll is posted. This month the choices are comedies. Please only vote once for your favorite show.

The Other Half of My Heart by Sundee Frazier Book Review

Minni and Keira King are twin sisters and best friends who live in Port Townsend, Washington. The day they were born, they made news around the world: Keira is black like their Mama and Minni is white like their Daddy. They may look like a checkboard to the rest of the world, but they are a close-knit family.

When they turn 11, their Grandmother Johnson wants them to come to North Carolina to participate in the Miss Black Pearl Preteen of America program. Keira is excited to participate but Minni wants nothing to do with it. The girls, who have done everything together, decide they can get through this experience together. Grandmother Johnson can be quite formidable, but the girls often find ways to get back at her for her meanness. But as the week progresses, Minni learns how Keira feels living in almost all-white Port Townsend and their relationship grows tense. Will they make it through the week together or will the bond they've always shared be shattered?

Recommended for children ages 9 and up.

Writer's Society

Every 3rd Thursday of the month the Writer's Society of New Jersey meets in the library. They talk about their stories or poems, critique each other's work, and help each other on the road toward publication.

Interested? It's free and everyone is welcomed! Come on in tonight from 5-7:30pm and join the society!

Interview workshop!

Job Interview Workshop will be held on Monday, July 18 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. where Bob Marino will teach you the most important tips to acing the job interview.

Lilian Jackson Braun display

Stop in and check out our Lilian Jackson Braun table display. I was sad to learn that she passed away in June at the age of 97. I am a fan of her "cozy mystery" series, The cat who..... Her protagonist, Jim Qwilleran, was a journalist, inheritor of great wealth, solver of mysteries and owner of two Siamese cats, Coco and YumYum. Also, he dated the local librarian, Polly (what's not to like?) I enjoyed the small town ambience, the kooky characters, and, yes, the predictability. Did I mention that the cats help to solve the mysteries? There are 29 books in the series, written between 1966 and 2007. I especially recommend the audiobook versions.

Jinx by Meg Cabot book review

I finished another Meg Cabot book today. Jinx is a stand alone book and not a part of a series. As usual Meg did not disappoint.

Wherever Jean "Jinx" Honeychurch goes, bad luck seems to follow her. From the day she was born, when lightning hit the hospital where she was born, trouble has always followed her. Something or someone always gets broken or hurt (especially Jinx)whenever she is around. She hopes her bad luck will end when she moves from Iowa to New York City to live with her aunt and uncle and to finish out the school year at her cousin Tory's school. She soon realizes that she can't escape her bad luck and her cousin has an interesting theory about why she has such bad luck.

Recommended for teens who have read other Meg Cabot books, particularly teens in high school.

Notes From a Totally Lame Vampire by Tim Collins book review

Older fans of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series will enjoy reading the first book in Tim Collins's series, Notes From a Totally Lame Vampire.

Nigel is a teenage vampire who is approaching his 100th birthday. His vampire parents tell him that his family, which includes his parents and little sister, are the only vampires that have survived. Life for Nigel is quite disappointing and as the title says "lame." He doesn't have the strength or speed of most vampires; he's unable to mesmerize humans and he is not beautiful or attractive to humans. When new girl Chloe starts at Nigel's school, he falls in love with her. But can he share his secret with her and will she return his love?

Recommended for grades 8th and up.

Blood Pressure and Glucose Screening

Did you know that every other week the Bayada Nurses come into the library to offer free screening? They'll take your blood pressure and test your glucose levels. This month they'll be in the library on Monday July 11 and Monday July 18 from 10-12.

Come on in: it's free!

What's going on today

2:00 – 3:00 p.m. Young Writers Club, ages 9-13 (Register – Children’s)
To register call (856) 794-4244 ext. 4246

5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Resume Workshop with Bob Marino (Community Event Room)

Need resume and interview help? We have the programs for you!

Bob Marino will host 3 workshops during July designed to help you. Please bring our resume and cover letter for individual help.

Russian books

Some new fictional books in Russian have arrived. See the Community languages aisle and look for the "new book" sticker.

Princess in the Spotlight by Meg Cabot (audiobook version) Book Review

I haven't come down from my Meg Cabot high and I plan to read or re-read as many of her books as possible. I recently finished listening to Princess in the Spotlight which is narrated by Anne Hatheway. As in The Princess Diaries, Anne Hatheway does a spectacular job bringing the book to life.

Princess Mia is back in Princess in the Spotlight. The excitement hasn't calmed down since she found out she is the Princess of Genovia. First she has her first exclusive TV interview with Beverly Bellerieve which she is strongly protesting against. Then, a surprising announcement from her mother who is dating Mr. G, Mia's algebra teacher. And, Mia has a secret admirer. Could it be her crush, Michael?

Recommended to readers who read the first book as well as anyone who enjoys reading princess stories. I would recommend this series for those in 7th grade and up.

What's going on today

2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Resume Workshop with Bob Marino (Community Event Room)

Need resume and interview help? We have the programs for you!

Bob Marino will host 3 workshops during July designed to help you. Please bring our resume and cover letter for individual help.

6:00 p.m. Play Scrabble (Doris Tripp Room)

Smokin' Seventeen by Janet Evanovich book review

I just finished the latest Stephanie Plum book and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed it. Number sixteen (Sizzling Sixteen) was a little bit of a disappointment and how long can a series go before it fizzles. But I thought Janet Evanovich did a good job with Smokin' Seventeen. Stephanie Plum (personally my favorite bounty hunter) is back. The bail bonds office is being rebuilt after it was burned down at the end of Sizzling Sixteen. During construction, they're working out of Mooner's mobile home. Nothing ever seems to go right for Stephanie: one of her FTAs may be a vampire; her mom is trying to set her up with Dave, a guy from high school; bodies keep getting dumped on the site of the new office and possibly the biggest surprise of all: someone wants Stephanie Plum dead. Definitely recommended to fans who have read the rest of the series. And if you like humorous mysteries, make sure to check out book 1, One for the Money.

What's going on today

6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Puppy Tales, ages 6-12 (Children’s Department)
For more information call (856) 794-4244 ext. 4246

Olive Kitteridge: Review

Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout

I read this book as part of the monthly book club here at the library. I liked it a lot even though at times the format of short stories connected through the title character was a little hard to keep track of. I liked Olive's proving of self-awareness. The author gives insight and point of view without over-interperting, so that the reader can relate (especially to Olive) from many directions.

Would you recommend this book? YES

Available at the library in regular print and large print as well as a downloadable audio. For more information on downloadable audios, click here.

This review was submitted as part of the Vineland Public Library's 2011 Adult Summer Reading Giveaway.

Week 2 winner!

Week 2's winner of the 2011 Adult Summer Reading Giveaway is Lashonela Murray! She'll receive a $5 gift certificate to either Rita's Water Ice or Friendly's, her choice.

Week 1 winner!

The winner of our first week of the 2011 Adult Summer Reading Giveaway is Eloise Sulzman! The prize is 1000 Dollars & an Idea: Entrepreneur to Billionaire by Sam Wyly

Library Closed

The library will be closed Saturday July 2, Sunday July 3, and Monday July 4 due to the 4th of July holiday. We'll reopen at 10am on Tuesday July 5. See you then!

Library Closed

The library will be closed Saturday July 2, Sunday July 3, and Monday July 4 due to the 4th of July holiday. We'll reopen at 10am on Tuesday July 5. See you then!

Library Closed

The library will be closed Saturday July 2, Sunday July 3, and Monday July 4 due to the 4th of July holiday. We'll reopen at 10am on Tuesday July 5. See you then!

July DVD list

This month's choices are located to the right. Please only choice one television show you'd like to see added to our collection.

If you have suggestions you'd like to see voted on, please email the Reference staff and we'll add it to a future poll.

Time For New Books!

We just got some new books today! Here are some of my favorites.

Are You Awake? by Sophie Blackwell
Edward just can't sleep which causes a long night for his mother. Asking his mom if she's awake, she answers no. "Why not?" he asks. "Because it's still nighttime," she answers. This story contiues in this vein until finally they've stayed awake almost long enough to see the sun. Parents with non-sleepy children will sympathize with Edward's mom. (JE Bla)

How to Hug by Maryann Macdonald
Do you know how to hug? This book introduces lots of different types of hugs. The colorful pastel illustrations with children and animals show how much fun hugging can be. (JE Mac)

Back of the Bus by Aaron Reynolds
This is the story of Rosa Parks, told from the point of view of a young boy. He and his mother are riding at the back of the bus one day when it comes to a stop. While he doesn't understand what's going on, he realizes something bad is happening. This is a simple introduction to Rosa Parks. (JE Rey)

Mirror Mirror by Marilyn Singer
Fans of fairy tales will enjoy this clever book of poetry. As the title suggests, each page contains two poems which are mirror images of each other. It's amazing how wording affects the meaning of a story and shows that there really are two sides to every story! (J 811.54 Sin)

Remember to ask the Children's Librarian for the exact location of these books!

Bad Kitty Meets the Baby by Nick Bruel Book Review

Bad Kitty is back! When we last left her, Uncle Murray was cat & dogsitting Kitty and the "beast" while her owners went away and promised to bring Kitty back a surprise. Her owners have returned with Kitty's surprise, but she isn't all that impressed. It's big, it's stinky and it drools! Kitty thinks it's another "beast" but the neighorhood cats are convinced it's another cat and decide to enter it into the Kitty Olympics. We all know this new "kitty" is actually a baby, but will Bad Kitty be able to accept this new member of the family? This hilariously funny book is perfect for children in grades 2 through 5.

Not familiar with Bad Kitty? Make sure to check out Bad Kitty vs. Uncle Murray.

What's going on today

2:00 p.m. Reception for Cumberland County Older Americans Art Exhibit (Community Event Room and Doris Tripp Room)

Oodles of audiobooks!

If you like to listen to your books, check out the display next to the bistro. At the end of audiobook month (June), the new audiobooks will be moved to the "New books" area.

What's going on today

6:00 – 7:00 p.m. Reading Buddies Meet-n-Greet (Register – Children’s) To Register: (856) 794-4244 ext. 4246

Tea with Meg Cabot at the Palm Court at the Plaza Hotel

I had the most amazing time today having tea with Meg Cabot at the Palm Court at the Plaza Hotel with two of my co-workers, Helen and Kelly, and my mom, Debbie. It was truly an opportunity of a lifetime. We met Meg outside the Palm Court and while we were waiting for our tea, had our pictures taken with Eloise.




Tea at the Palm Court was delicious. The menu included The Classic, The New Yorker, The Chocolate Tea and the Eloise Tea, plus your choice of tea. Check out their afternoon tea menu here! I decided on The Classic: Truffled Quail Egg Salad; Maine Lobster, Sturgeon Caviar; Roast Beef, Horseradish; Cucumber, Radish, Basil; Smoked Salmon, Endive. Simply to die for. Plus scones with lemon curd and clotted cream! Not to mention the desserts! THEN, we shared the Chocolate Tea which included chocolate fondue which included strawberries, poundcake, house-made marshmallows, pretzels and golden pineapple and MORE scones. It was delicious and we did not go home hungry!

There were no lulls in conversation during our tea. We talked about everything! Meg told us she was working on a new Heather Wells book, which I'm very excited about because Heather Wells is one of my favorite characters. Meg was very interested about the library and asked what a regular day was like. It was very casual and just felt like spending time with good friends.

Before we knew it, it was time to go home. But first we had to take a few more pictures and I had my own personal book signing. Meg graciously signed some books that I had brought with me and I was presented with a bag of books as well. It was very exciting.



Then one on one pictures before a final group picture.








I'm having trouble finding the words to describe this experience. I've already used amazing and opportunity of a life time, but Meg Cabot is amazing. She is one of the most down-to-earth people I have ever met. She was really interested in learning about us. She was so happy to be there-I think she had a smile on her face the entire time. I know I did. Before meeting someone, you have an idea of how that person is going to be. I knew Meg was funny-all you have to do is read her books and her blog. She appears to love what she does. When you meet her in person, it's refreshing to find that everything you believed is really true. Thank you so much Meg for this experience. I will never forget it.