Kayak Attack

So this weekend I got the chance to hang out with some members of the Pure Water Paddlers, the local kayaking organization. They came down to the library to help us put together a really great-looking display about kayaking.

I got the feeling that these are some physical folks. They were climbing ladders, drilling holes, sinking eye-bolts and moving big boats around. Apparently kayaking does the body--especially the upper body--good.

The Paddlers are hoping to drum up interest in what sounds like a very interesting, fun, healthful and not overly expensive hobby--I was told the cost range for a good kayak might start as low as $300.00 and stretch up to $3000.00. Well, it's cheaper than a motorcycle, anyway.

The display includes information on becoming a member of the club as well as some of the paraphernalia involved with being a safe and effective kayaker. So come by the Chippewa Falls Library and look up high on the wall for a kayak and head in that direction to see the full display.

By the way, I was told that the club will let newcomers borrow a boat during one of their outings so an informed decision can be made about whether to pursue the hobby further. Just so you know.

New Database Alert! Mango Languages!

Mango is FREE at the Chippewa Falls Public Library! Mango is an online language learning system that teaches real conversation skills for practical communication. Through fun and engaging interactive lessons, Mango makes learning a new language fast, easy and incredibly effective. The system is completely web-based and remotely accessible (if you have a library card), so you can learn anywhere you have an internet connection. As you listen to and repeat after native speakers, you'll learn more than just words and phrases. You’ll learn how those pieces can be rearranged and combined to make new thoughts, new conversations, and even more practical communication! In no time at all, you'll be able to navigate all sorts of everyday situations — get directions, order a meal, make new friends — the possibilities are endless!

Mango is FREE at your local library - learn more by visiting us online: http://libraries.mangolanguages.com/chippewa-falls/start.

New Database Alert! A to Z Maps

Starting today, the Chippewa Falls Public Library subscribes to two nifty WorldPress databases, called A to Z Maps Online and A to Z the USA.

Now, if you're in the library building, you don't have to log in to use them. Just click the link labeled A to Z Maps or A to Z the USA on the computer desktops and you'll go right to them. But if you're at home, you'll need to enter your library card number in the blank at the top right of the homepage. Do that, click "enter" and you'll be in.

A to Z Maps has more maps than can easily be discussed in the space of a blog, but I do have the time and room to tell you that it has country maps, state maps, county maps and even some amazing antique maps, including some of Wisconsin going back to the early 19th century. Also, the antique panoramic maps are really worth taking a look at...here's one of Chippewa Falls in 1886:



Most of the images are in the public domain and can be used for presentations and such with no copyright issues. For more information, contact the reference department.

A to Z the USA, on the other hand, is a more focused database, concentrating on the United States, with far more text-based information, although it, too, offers many maps. Just mouse over the map of the U.S. and click on the state you want to find out more about.

Should you click on Wisconsin, you'll see sidebars that offer to take you to more information about the animals and plants, the economy, the flag and seal, food and recipes, and even the natural hazards of the state. Just like A to Z Maps, you can log in from home, provided you have a library card.

If you don't have a card, get one.

Email me if you have any questions or requests regarding databases...I'll refer you to the right person.