The 2011 North Dakota Education Association Ready Child Community-Based Award was presented to the Minot Public Children's Library on Jan. 26.
According to Bel Air Elementary teacher Marlene Srock, a Minot Education Association member, the Minot Public Children's Library is more than a place to read books.
"Under the direction of Paulette Nelson," said Srock in a press release, "the staff has created programs that enable learners of all ages to fall in love with literacy and learning."
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Andrea Johnson/MDN - - North Dakota Education Association president Dakota Draper, left, presents the North Dakota Education Association Ready Child Community Based Award to the Minot Public Children’s Library, represented by children’s librarian Paulette Nelson.
Children ages 18 months to 2 years and their caregivers are invited to participate in a side-by-side story time. Children ages 3 to 6 have the opportunity to choose to attend story time for independent children or story times at which the care giver accompanies them. This age can also enjoy holiday puppet shows.
Children ages 4 years to grade five and parents interested in building with LEGOS have the opportunity to join the LEGO Club and meet to create different structures and vehicles with LEGOS.
Fun activity-based programs are planned for school-age children on days when children are not in school. Workshops such as "By the Light of the Marvelous Moon" and "Mad Scientist" allow children to do all kinds of wacky science activities.
Fact Box
Nominations sought for next year
The North Dakota Education Association is currently seeking nominees for next year's School-Based Award and Community-Based Award. The nomination deadline is June 15. Both awards honor programs that provide caring adults, early literacy, safe environments, good health, resilience, self discipline, opportunities to give, marketable skills and hope.
The After School Kids Programs are offered each week during the school year. The library also offers free computer classes for children in grades three to five.
"Guys Read Programs" at the library are scheduled during the evening so dads can join their sons for an evening of fun.
Some of the "Guys Read Programs" include martial arts, gaming, model airplanes and various sports teams from the community.
In addition, the library uses some of the school vacation days to hold family movie days which have been well received by the community. Children of all ages and their parents are invited to attend.