Monday, December 30, 2013

SCLLN Literacy Tutor Workshop Calendar: January 2014

SCLLN Literacy Tutor Workshop Calendar: January 2014

Volunteer  Literacy  Tutor

For Local, California and National
Literacy or Library Conferences and Events
Southern California Library Literacy Network
Calendar

Jan. 2  Literacy Tutor Orientation - South Bay Literacy @Torrance Library 7p
Jan. 6  Literacy Tutor Training = READ/San Diego Public Library 6p
Jan. 8  Literacy Learner Training = READ/San Diego Library 5:45p
Jan. 9  Literacy Tutor Orientation - READ Orange Co Library 1p
Jan. 9  Literacy Tutor Orientation - READ Orange Co Library 6p
Jan. 11 Literacy Tutor Orientation - San Bernardino Co Library 10a
Jan. 11 Literacy Tutor Training - Santa Barbara Library 1p
Jan. 15 Youth Literacy Training = Santa Fe Springs Library 6p
Jan. 18 ESL Tutor Training - San Gabriel VLC Pasadena 9a
Jan. 18 Literacy Tutor Training = S Bernardino Co Library 9a
Jan. 18 Literacy Tutor Training = Whittier Area Literacy Council 9a
Jan. 18 ESL Tutor Training = San Diego County Library 10a
Jan. 22 Literacy Learner Orientation = Newport Beach Library 6p
Jan. 24 Literacy Learner Training - READ/San Diego Library 9:45a
Jan. 25 ESL Tutor Training - Laubach Literacy, Ventura 9a
Jan. 25 Tutor Workshop = READ Orange Co Library 9a
Jan. 28 Literacy Tutor Orientation = Newport Beach Library 6p

Info about local Tutor Training Workshops is always Scrolling in the Right Frame.

Sunday, December 29, 2013

National & International Literacy Events: January 2014

National & International Literacy Events: January 2014

SCLLN
Literacy & Library Events & Conferences
- Local, California and National -
Southern California Library Literacy Network
for more information
Jan. 5+  Hawaii International Conference on Education, Honolulu HI
Jan. 25   Sensory Friendly Films - NUT JOB @AMC Theaters 10a
Jan. 27   Family Literacy Day - Canada
Jan. 27+ Literacy Action Week: SCALE = Nation Wide
Jan. 29+ ATIA Conference & Exhibition, Orlando FL

Saturday, December 28, 2013

Southern California and California Literacy Events: January 2014

Southern California and California Literacy Events:
January 2014


SCLLN
Literacy & Library Events & Conferences
- Local, California and National -
Southern California Library Literacy Network
for more information
Jan. 17+ Asilomar Reading Conference, Pacific Grove
Jan. 17+ California Kindergarten Conference, Santa Clara
Jan. 23   Library Advocacy Party, Red Rock Cafe, Mountain View 7p
Jan. 25   Sensory Friendly Films - NUT JOB @AMC Theaters 10a
Jan. 25   Dyslexia for a Day, Win-River Resort & Casino, Redding
Jan. 27+ Literacy Action Week: SCALE = Nation Wide



Books, Comics, Poetry, Storytelling, Writing and more !
Charlotte S. Huck Children's Literature Festival, Redlands: Jan 24-25
LA Art Book Fair: Jan 30-Feb 2

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Orange Co Library - Reading the Holidays

HOLIDAY TIME IS FUN FAMILY LEARNING TIME!

Reading the Holidays
READ Writes Newsletter: 12.2013


This time of year is great for families learning together! Here are a few ideas to consider for the entire family to celebrate reading and lifelong learning.


Read and write family recipes for holiday meals and treats, and then share with family and friends.


Read the holiday greetings your family receives in the mail (and write holiday greetings to mail or email to friends and family.  Even the younger members of your family can help with names on gift tags and add their special artistic touches!)


Read about holiday traditions and write a family holiday story about yours.


If books are among gifts you receive, make time to read some to one another or together as a family.


Write and send holiday and thank you messages to family and friends.

Monday, December 23, 2013

Learning Gap in Time & Money

Tracking the 'Learning Gap' in Time and Money
Education Week: 12.19.2013 by Erik Robelen

It surely comes as no surprise to hear that children from low-income families typically enjoy fewer opportunities for learning and enrichment than those in more affluent households.

A new commentary and illustration published this week by Education Week drives that point home, and makes put those disparities in tangible terms. The analysis by the After-School Corporation aims to quantify—in both hours invested and dollars spent—the learning advantages that accumulate for children beyond the regular school day who grow up in middle- and upper-class homes.

By age 12, the analysis concludes, disadvantaged children have received about 6,000 fewer hours of learning time than their more-affluent peers, and their families have been outspent by about $90,000 on learning and enrichment activities.  READ MORE !

 

Thursday, December 19, 2013

Everylibrary California - Reminder

Everylibrary
Everylibrary California
A little reminder for people who say that they don't need libraries because of e-content.




You don't own your Kindle books, Amazon reminds customer
NBC News: 10.24.2012 by Joel Johnson

On a dark and stormy night, an employee of your local bookstore strolls into your home, starts tossing books you'd purchased over the last few years into a box, and — despite your protest — takes them all away without saying a word.

Thankfully that's not what happened to Linn Jordet Nygaard. Well, not exactly. The Norwegian woman found herself on the wrong side of bureaucracy, but the outcome was much the same (without as much mud on the carpet): Amazon turned off her Kindle account, blocking her from her own books. And they wouldn't tell her why.

.     .     .     .     .     .     .

The core issue might actually be a simple matter of semantics: when we click a digital button that is labelled "Buy," we expect that we're actually buying something. But we're not buying anything, we're licensing it. Just last year, the Supreme Court ruled that the first-sale doctrine does not apply to software — or e-books. Or apps. Nor pretty much everything you "Buy" online that doesn't get shipped to your home in a cardboard box.

Those long End User License Agreements you have to read before you use a new piece of software? Those are are legally binding, because you've clicked a button labeled "Agree." But for some reason, online retailers can label their buttons "Buy" when they actually mean "Rent," and there's nothing we can do about it save filing a lawsuit.  READ MORE !
 

Monday, December 16, 2013

Literacy Jobs: California

Literacy Jobs: California

Tutor Interns - PT
Spring session, afterschool literacy program designed for at-risk children in 2nd through 6th grades.
Deadline: Jan 10, 2014

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Computer Science Education Week: Dec 9-15


Computer literacy key to middle class jobs in California
California Economic Summit: 9.19.2013 by Matthew Grant Anson


If you pull out your iPhone and ask Siri if a dog can jump over a house, chances are it’s just going to direct you to a kennel. So says a new paper from economists Frank Levy and Richard Murnane entitled “Dancing with Robots: Human Skills for ComputerizedWork.”


The general consensus has been that the rise of technology and globalization has hollowed out the middle class as the jobs they’ve historically relied upon increasingly employ computers over humans. But all is not lost. While computers have certainly taken the reins in some respects, Levy and Murnane both stress the fact that computers still don’t match up with humans when it comes to problem solving abilities, as shown by their iPhone example. Humans still come with abilities that computers, at least right now, can’t measure up against – but these skills need to be coaxed out of people by tweeking our education system.


“The most important skill is to learn how to learn efficiently,” Murnane said recently in a webinar on their paper presented by the Hewlett Foundation. “Very few of us are going to be able to earn a decent living doing the same thing decade after decade. The world of work is changing rapidly, and people are going to have to learn.”


Most importantly, people are going to need to learn a new kind of literacy. “Back in 1965 if you learned to read well enough to follow directions, there were a great many jobs in the U.S. that paid a reasonable wage,” Murnane said. “Those are the easiest kinds of jobs to compertize or to send to lower wage countries. Reading is still important, but the definitions for literacy have dramatically increased.”


Not only does literacy now include being able to read directions, says Murnane, but one must also be able to do a web search and be able to make sense of the millions of responses to a query.  READ MORE !

#CSEdWeek promotes the importance of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, and is expected to engage millions of students in hands-on computer programming and coding activities.
Computer science is a foundational field for every 21st century career or field of study. Learning the basics of computer science prepares students for a world that is increasingly dominated by technology. Research shows that students who study computer science also perform better at math.

Computer science is where the jobs are. More than 50% of all jobs in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) are computing jobs. Some other stats:

• Computer science is one of the highest-paid college degree for new graduates.
• Computer programming jobs are growing at two times the national average -- but there aren’t enough graduates to fill these jobs.
• Nine out of 10 K-12 schools do not offer computer programming classes.
• In 35 out of 50 states, computer science does not even count toward high school graduation

Be a maker, a creator, an innovator. Get started now with an
Hour of Code.

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Los Angeles Public Library - It’s a Match Part II Tutor Story


It’s a Match Part II Nora’s Story
READ Newsletter: Fall 2013 by Tutor Nora Novak

Two years ago, I found myself unemployed and growing depressed. After months of agonizing over what to do with my life and wondering how to pull myself out of my funk, it occurred to me that my energy might be better spent helping others. I had plenty of time on my hands after all, and for years I had been interested in volunteering.

I Googled “Los Angeles Volunteer Opportunities” and combed through the hundreds of organizations seeking assistance. I came across LAPL’s Adult Literacy Program and thought it would be a good way to dip a toe into volunteering waters. That’s when my coordinator, Carolyn, introduced me to my learner.

Blanca, a bright and mature twenty-something, received a late diagnosis of Dyslexia. She had learned her ABC’s and could read enough to function independently (in a number of exciting and varied careers, no less). However, she revealed to me that she was constantly looking for ways to improve herself, and she decided it was time for her to dive in and work on her reading and writing.

We’ve been meeting for almost a year now and though our lives have changed with the seasons, we still look forward to our lessons twice a week. We laugh, we share stories, and we learn from each other. Blanca has made remarkable progress of which we are both extremely proud.  READ MORE !

Friday, November 29, 2013

California & National Literacy Library Calendar: December 2013

Literacy Tutor Workshop Calendar: December 2013


SCLLN
Literacy & Library Events & Conferences
- Local, California and National -
Southern California Library Literacy Network
for more information

Literacy Tutor Workshop Calendar: December 2013
Dec. 2  Tutor Workshop - Santa Barbara Public Library 5:30p
Dec. 5  Literacy Tutor Orientation - South Bay Literacy, Torrance Library 7p
Dec. 7  Literacy Tutor Training - San Luis Obispo Library 9a
Dec. 7  Literacy Tutor Training - San Diego Co Library Vista Branch 10a


Southern California and California Literacy Events: December 2013
Dec. 5 Literacy Night - Million Dollar Quarter, San Diego Literacy 7:30p
Dec. 7 Sensory Friendly Film - FROZEN 2-D AMC Theaters 10a


National & International Literacy Events: December 2013
Dec. 4+ Getting In Touch With Literacy, Providence RI
Dec. 4+ LRA National Reading Conference. Dallas TX
Dec. 5  International Volunteer Day
Dec. 7  Autism Sensory Friendly Films: FROZEN 2-D 10a
Dec. 9+ Head Start Parent Conference, Atlanta GA
Dec. 11+ TASH Annual Conference, Chicago IL
Dec. 11+ Zero to Three Institute, San Antonio TX
Dec. 17  I Love My Librarian Award, NY NY 6p


Books - Comics - Poetry - Storytelling - Writing & More !
Dec 7:  Santa Clarita Literacy & Arts Festival
Dec 13-15:  Monterey Cowboy Poetry & Music Festival

Monday, November 25, 2013

Huntington Beach Library - Family literacy program thrives in Oak View

Family literacy program thrives in Oak View
OC Register: 11.20.2013 by Annie Zak


Imelda Bernal used to have to go without knowing what her kids said when they spoke in English.
Now, though, through a literacy program at the Oak View branch of the Huntington Beach Public Library, that’s no longer her reality.


“Before this class, I couldn’t understand my kids speaking to each other,” said Bernal, who came to the U.S. 12 years ago from Mexico, speaking only Spanish. Now, she can participate in conversations with them and have conferences with their teachers in ...


The Family Literacy Program at the Huntington Beach Public Library's Oak View Branch has a long waiting list, and Amy Crepeau, the program's coordinator, said it's not open to new students at the moment.


However, the program is usually looking for new tutors. If you're interested in being a tutor, you don't have to have a background in teaching or speak Spanish.


Crepeau said there is a need for people who can make a weekly commitment, have patience and a good sense of humor. Those interested in tutoring should contact Crepeau at 714-375-5104. READ MORE !

Sunday, November 24, 2013

EveryLibrary: Building Voter Support for Libraries

EveryLibrary
Building Voter Support for Libraries

Libraries need to talk to voters directly about the bonds, levys, milliages, and referendum that build, renovate, or expand library services for the next generation. Any library initiative anywhere matters to every library everywhere. Make your pledge today.


EveryLibrary grew out of the need for a politically active organization dedicated exclusively to supporting local library initiatives at the ballot box.  Many library associations – both at the national and state level – are organized as 501(c)3 educational associations.  Current law and regulations prohibit these associations from engaging in direct voter advocacy or funding political campaigns. As a 501(c)4 organization, EveryLibrary can act where these associations cannot.  The opportunity to fundraise and directly support library ballot initiatives will be unique in the library world.

Saturday, November 23, 2013

How Much Do You Know About Dyslexia?

NCLD Asks, ‘How Much Do You Know About Dyslexia?’
By NCLD Editorial Team: 11.19.2013


National Center for Learning Disabilities visited Madison Square Park in New York City to separate fact from fiction when it comes to dyslexia.

from Dr. Kelli Sandman-Hurley, Dyslexia Training Institute

Thursday, November 21, 2013

Should school kids still learn cursive writing?

Should school kids still learn cursive writing?
Question of the week
Whittier Daily News:  11.18.2013

When it comes to the ways people communicate, the writing is on the wall — and it isn’t handwriting.

Each new generation relies less on pen and paper to put down words and more on keyboards and keypads. The trend is reflected, even encouraged, by U.S. educators. Once a staple of elementary school, learning cursive isn’t part of the new Common Core curriculum adopted by 45 states.

California is one of seven Common Core states where efforts are being made to keep cursive in the lesson plans.

Our Question of the Week for readers is: Should school kids still learn to write in cursive, or is flowing penmanship no longer useful?  READ MORE !


Cursive handwriting: Seven states fight for cursive writing in school (+video)
Cursive handwriting: In the digital age, has good handwriting become obsolete? Why seven states are fighting to return cursive writing to the Common Core curriculum.
C S Monitor: 11.14.2013 by Julie Carr Smyth, Associated Press November 14, 2013

That's why at least seven states — California, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Massachusetts, North Carolina and Utah — have moved to keep the cursive requirement. Legislation passed in North Carolina and elsewhere couples cursive with memorization of multiplication tables as twin "back to basics" mandates.  READ MORE !

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Carlsbad Library :: Learning Connections - My Important Things


My Important Things
Learning Connections: Nov/Dec 2013 by Brenda G.

I have learned many things this year. But I have learned one thing that is very important for me. Also, I have one important thing that I have not learned yet.

The most important thing that I have learned this year is to speak English a little bit. For many years speaking English had been a big problem for me. I didn’t know how to ask or answer a question. For this reason I always avoided speaking English. I used to ask my son for help every time that I needed to speak English with anyone. Now I try to speak English every time that I have the opportunity, and I say to people that I am learning English and if they can speak slowly when I don’t understand something. I know that my English is not perfect and that I need to learn a lot, but I think this is the beginning of learning.
Another thing that is very important for me and I have not learned yet, is I would like to learn to be fluent when I speak English. It is very difficult for me because I am in the process of learning. Many times I need to stop when I am talking and to translate in my mind from Spanish to English. Also, on some occasions I need to stop and think if I am talking in the present, past, or future. Another thing that makes it difficult is when I don’t know the word in English that I want to say. I understand that I need to learn more vocabulary and to practice speaking every day to be fluent. To be fluent in English will be my goal for next year.
In conclusion, I feel very good because I have started to speak English a little bit. Although I don’t speak fluently yet, I think it is good to start with something. Starting to speak, and to be fluent in English are both very important for me because I would like to communicate with English speakers. Also, it is important because I live in a country where everybody speaks English and it is very necessary.

Friday, November 15, 2013

Newport Beach Library - Volunteerism


Volunteerism
Literally Speaking: Nov/Dec 2013

Volunteers have an enormous impact on the health and well- being of communities worldwide. Think about how our own community would be affected if there was a day without volunteer help. It certainly would not run as smoothly as it does. According to the Corporation for National and Community Service, 64.3 million individuals in the United States contributed 7.9 billion hours of volunteerism in 2008 alone. The economic value of all this volunteering? $171 billion U.S. dollars in 2011. WOW!

Here at Newport/Mesa ProLiteracy (NMPL), the success of our program depends on the dedicated tutors, board members, office support and special events committee, all of whom are volunteers. In FY 2013, this group contributed approximately 9,000 hours to the program. And, based on research from the Independent Sector newsletter, this time would be valued in California wages as $24.75 per hour or $222,750 — more than twice our annual budget! It is obvious that NMPL would not be able to fulfill its mission without this dedicated group of people. To get involved, or to get more involved, please call the literacy office. We are always in need of tutors, assessors, and board members. Remember, volunteers do make a difference.

Unlock the potential. Become a tutor.

Join us on January 28 at 6:00pm at the Newport Beach Public Library for our Prospective Tutor Orientation.

• No Experience Necessary • Flexible Hours • We Prepare You and Supply All Materials • Be Part of Your Community
Check out our website for more information: You’ll be glad you did!

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

National Young Readers Week: Nov 11-15

National Young Readers Week
November 11 - 15


Celebrate National Young Readers Week by watching a free story every day from One More Story, an online library of the best classic and contemporary children's picture books.

The 2013 lineup:

11/11 Ladybugs Can't Be Tall

11/12 The House in the Night

11/13 The Emperor's Egg

11/14 The Little Red Hen and the Ear of Wheat

11/15 Epossumondas
National Young Readers Week is an annual event that was co-founded in 1989 by Pizza Hut and the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress. It always takes place the second week of November.