Library News
February 2010
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Storytime and Baby Time Take a Break
Renton's popular preschool Storytime program and new Baby Time program will take a short break in February and first part of March. The last storytime and baby time sessions before the brief hiatus will be the week of February 8. Both programs will resume again the week of March 8. The time off will allow the librarians time to plan for the next round of programs and begin preparation for the Summer Reading programs.
Wireless Printing is now Available!
Printing is now available for computers connected to CROWN, the City's Wireless network. Once connected to CROWN, the user visits a web page to download a temporary print utility to their computer. This installs a virtual printer on their computer that sends print jobs to the selected branch of the Renton Public Library. Once they close the print utility or shutdown their computer, the printer and print utility are removed. Users have 90 minutes to visit the library to pay for and pick up their print job. Printing is only available in black and white, on 8.5" X 11" white paper, and is single-sided. Cost is 5¢/page and paid by cash or check only. More information or instructions are available from the Library Services web page or at either branch of the library.
Tax Forms and Tax Help Available
Are you over 50 or have low to moderate income and need help filing your taxes? Tax aide is available from January 12 through April 15, 2010, and electronic filing is available for faster refunds! Volunteers trained by the IRS and AARP-Tax Aide are available at various locations throughout the city including the Highlands Library. They can help prepare basic Form 1040 tax returns, including Schedule A for itemized deductions, claims for the Earned Income Tax Credit and other tax credits. Income tax forms are available at the Renton Main Library, the Highlands Library, the Renton Senior Activity Center, or can also be found online at www.irs.gov. For tax help location, schedule, and contact information, see the Tax Aide flyer (PDF format).
Library Election - Please Vote!
On the February 9, 2010 ballot, Renton residents will be asked to decide whether they want the Renton Public Library to remain an independent city run organization or annex to the King County Library System. Earlier this year, the City conducted an informal survey to find out how Renton residents feel about the future of library services in the community. The information from the survey was used to create a new web page which contains people's frequently asked questions about the future of libraries in Renton and the answers to the same. It is hoped that this information will help people make an informed decision for the vote. To see this information or print off a copy, visit the Library Annexation FAQ page.
Drop Everything and Read (D.E.A.R.)
Tuesday afternoons, 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. - Main Branch
Beginning in January, you can sign your child up for a 20-minute session of sustained reading with the children’s librarian on Tuesday afternoons. This service is designed especially for English language learners and children just starting to read independently who need a helping hand in discovering the wonderful world of books. Call 425-430-6825 to register.
Family Game Days
Saturday, February 6, 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. - Main Library
Bring the whole clan to the Renton Main Branch on the first Saturday of the month to enjoy Playstation 2 and board games. Believe it or not, research shows that gaming can be a very powerful tool for literacy and learning.
Computer Tutoring @ the Library
Monday, February 11, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. - Main Branch
Are you a new computer user? Get free, personal, one-on-one help with things like: setting up your first email account, surfing the Internet, applying for a job online, writing a resumé or other basic computer skills. Advance registration is REQUIRED and can be done in person, by email, or by calling the Information Desk at 425-430-6824. New sessions are being added all the time, so be sure and call to find out the latest schedule.
Library Book Group Meeting
Thursday, February 18, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. - Main Library
The Library Book Group's next meeting will discuss the book "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury. It is not necessary to have attended a previous meeting to join the group, interested people are encouraged to join at any time. For more information about how you can participate, please contact Laurie Finlayson at 425-430-6610 or via email.
Puppets Please In-the-Round Marionette Show
Tuesday, February 23, 6:00 p.m. - Highlands Branch
Join mother and daughter team Shirley and Terry McManus as they present an interactive puppet show in which everyone gets to meet the marionettes up close and personal. Family fun for all ages.
Teen Tuesdays @ Highlands Library
Tuesday, February 23, 3:00 to 4:30 p.m - Highlands Library
Last Tuesdays are teen days at the Highlands library. For February, we will be hosting Anime club! We will watch Japanese anime-style cartoons (rated TVPG), fold origami, draw manga, and eat real Japanese snacks and treats (they're tasty). So drop in for a special activity as well as snacks, free stuff, and more, just for teens.
Paws to Read
Saturdays, 2:00 to 3:30 p.m., Main Library
Ages 5 and up. Dogs are very good listeners. By reading to a dog, children can develop their reading skills and build confidence in a relaxed and non-judgmental environment. Children may bring a book from home or choose a book from the library. Sustained reading sessions with a furry companion are 20 minutes. To register, call 425-430-6825.
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