Wallingford Library Teen Zone

Teens' Top 10 Announced!

2011-10-20T14:53:00.003-04:00

The votes have been tallied and the Teens' Top 10 results are in! Thanks to all who voted. Click on the image above for the official announcement video.

And the winners are...

1. Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

2. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

3. Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick

4. I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore

5. The Iron King by Julie Kagawa

6. Matched by Ally Condie

7. Angel: A Maximum Ride Novel by James Patterson

8. Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

9. Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

10. Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

Happy Hobbit Day!

2011-09-22T14:23:00.003-04:00

Bilbo and Frodo Baggins celebrate a birthday today!

"The Hobbit" was first published this week in 1937.

This is the 30th celebration of Hobbit Day. The movie version of "The Hobbit", directed by Peter Jackson, is in production right now.

So go barefoot today as the Hobbits do!

Jennifer

The Hunger Games Movie

2011-09-17T11:11:00.002-04:00

The Hunger Games movie has just finished filming in North Carolina. Click here to watch the trailer. It is scheduled to hit the big screen on March 23, 2012 so you still have plenty of time to read the books. Reserve a copy today!

Are you excited for the Hunger Games movie?

Jennifer

Yoga!

2011-06-22T10:06:00.002-04:00

Yesterday in New York City thousands flocked to Times Square for an all day Yoga Fest to celebrate Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year. You too can find tranquility and peace on the lawn of the Library on July 12th at 2:00. Please call the library, visit the information desk, pick up the latest copy of the Words newsletter or a Summer Reading brochure for more details.

Jennifer

Did You Know....

2011-06-10T16:02:00.002-04:00

There are 80658175170943878571660636856403766975289505440883277824000000000000
different ways in which a standard deck of cards can be arranged. If a deck is shuffled properly there is a very high likelihood that no deck of cards has been arranged the same way in the history of the world.

Jennifer

Indianapolis 500

2011-06-01T10:11:00.004-04:00

Dan Wheldon of Great Britain won the Indianapolis 500 last weekend. This is the second time he has won. Rookie J.R. Hilldebrand was so close to winning until he wiped out on the last turn.

This is a picture of the winner from 1916! This car reached a top speed of 79 miles per hour!

Did you know that the cars in the Indy 500 run on ethanol instead of gasoline, the winner of the race drinks a bottle of milk, and this year was the 100th race?

Did you watch the Indianapolis 500 this year?

Jennifer

Justin Bieber visits Japan

2011-05-18T11:09:00.004-04:00

Justin Bieber visited with teen victims of the recent Japan tsunami. Click on Justin's picture to read about it and watch a video.

Teen Movie Suggestions

2011-05-11T12:43:00.001-04:00

We will be showing movies for Teens over the Summer. What do you want to see? You may post them here on the blog or e-mail me your suggestions at jnash@lioninc.org .

Jennifer

Space Shuttle Launch

2011-02-25T16:09:00.003-05:00

The space shuttle discovery launched from Cape Canaveral yesterday. Amazing! Click on the picture to watch a video of the take off.

Jennifer

Play Yahtzee!

2011-02-19T10:23:00.002-05:00

Click on the picture to play!

Try to beat my score of 215!

Jennifer

Teen Nutmeg Winner Announced!

2011-02-15T17:41:00.003-05:00

Unwind by Neal Shusterman was named the 2011 Teen Nutmeg Winner. The London Eye Mystery by Siobhan Dowd came in second. The totals are posted below. Unwind won by a landslide! What do you think of the results?

Jennifer

Vote Totals: 5,266

All of the Above 235

Alphabet of Dreams 117

Chains 443

The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks 249

Home of the Brave 228

The Last Dragon 422

The London Eye Mystery 741

Unwind 1536

Waiting for Normal 663

The Wednesday Wars 632

2012 Nutmeg Nominees Announced!

2011-02-02T15:14:00.003-05:00

The 2012 Teen Nutmeg nominees are now on the Nutmeg display in the Teen Area.
Check one out today!

2012 Teen Nutmeg List of Nominees:

"The Compound" by S.A. Bodeen

"The Hunger Games" by Susanne Collins

"I Am a Genius of Unspeakable Evil and I Want to Be Your Class
President" by Josh Lieb

"The Maze Runner" by James Dashner

"Ostrich Boys" by Keith Gray

"Pop" by Gordon Korman

"The Princess of the Midnight Ball" by Jessica Day George

"The Rock and the River" by Kekla Magoon

"Scat" by Carl Hiaasen

"Viola in Reel Life" by Adriana Trigiani

What do you think of the list?

Jennifer

Nutmeg Voting!

2011-01-15T11:50:00.002-05:00

It is time to vote for your favorite Teen Nutmeg book of 2011! Ballots are available in the Teen Area until January 31st. Come in and cast your vote today! 2012 nominees will be announced on February 1st.

2011 Nominees

All of the Above by Shelley Pearsall
Alphabet Dreams by Susan Fletcher
Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson
The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart
Home of the Brave by Katherine Applegate
The Last Dragon by Sylvia De Mari
The London Eye Mystery by Siobhan Dowd
Unwind by Neal Shusterman
Waiting for Normal by Leslie Connor
The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt

What was your favorite Nutmeg book of 2011?

Jennifer

Anime Night!

2011-01-14T16:12:00.003-05:00

Anime Night is back!! Join us on Thursday, January 20th from 6-8pm when we will be watching D. Gray Man! Miso Soup will be served. So come and hang out! Looking forward to seeing everybody there!

Jennifer

QWOP!

2010-12-18T14:25:00.001-05:00

Click on the picture to play. Post your scores!

My best distance is 2.2 meters.

Jennifer

Hatsune Miku

2010-11-19T13:14:00.003-05:00

16 year old Hatsune Miku is selling out music venues in Japan. The only thing is she is not a real person. Take a look at this YouTube from a recent concert in Japan. Would you pay to go see a hologram in concert? Any Hatsune fams out there?

Jennifer

Jennifer Nash will be back soon!

2010-10-14T10:20:00.002-04:00

Great News!
Jennifer Nash, our wonderful teen librarian, will return to the Library on November 1. She is looking forward to seeing her teen friends: the manga lovers, the Nutmeg readers, the Wii fans, and any teen who enjoys all the great programs Mrs. Nash sponsors. Stop by and say hello.

2010-06-09T10:54:00.002-04:00

Last night 21 year old Steven Strasburg made his major league pitching debut with the Washington Nationals. He stuck out 14 batters (every member of the Pittsburgh Pirates) walked no one, threw one bad pitch, and hurled several fast balls which were over 100 miles per hour!

Click here to watch a video of this amazing feat.

Too bad he is on the Nationals (I am a Mets fan and they are in the same division).

Jennifer

GO METS!!

2010-05-25T13:47:00.003-04:00

So the Mets won 2 out of 3 games against the Yankees this weekend. In honor of the "Subway Series" Champs the Empire State Building was lit up in orange & blue last night! How cool. I wish I could have gone and gotten on the roof.

Has anyone ever been up to the top of the Empire State Building?

Jennifer

2010 Teen's Top 10 Nominees Announced

2010-05-22T15:18:00.002-04:00

The 26 nominees for the Teens' Top 10 just came out. We have all of the books and auidiobooks on a special display in the Teen Area.

The titles are listed on the left hand side of this blog with a link to our catalog, you can place a hold from home and then the book will be ready for you when you get here!

The Teens' Top 10 are voted only by Teens. No teachers, librarians or parents have a say in the nominations. You will have a chance to vote for your favorite online beginning on August 23rd. Read as many as you can so you can make an informed choice!

Have you read any of the nominees yet? What do you think of the list?

Jennifer

The Owl Box

2010-05-17T11:44:00.003-04:00

Have you heard of the owl box? A family in San Marcos, CA built an owl box in their backyard 15 feet off the ground. A mother barn owl laid 6 eggs in it and 4 of them hatched! You can watch a live feed from inside the owl box at http://www.ustream.tv/theowlbox . The baby owls are named Max, Pattison, Austin, & Wesley. They are too cute!

Jennifer

Happy Earth Day!

2010-04-22T13:51:00.003-04:00

Happy 40th Birthday Earth Day!

I hope you had a great day. Did you do anything green today to help the planet?

Jennifer

Learn, Create, Share @ Your Library: YOU Could Win A Camera!

2010-02-26T12:49:00.002-05:00

March 7-13, 2010 is Teen Tech Week, when teens, parents, and teachers are encouraged to try out some new technology at the Library. To celebrate this special time, WPL is inviting teens in grades 6-12 to participate in a Picnik Photo Tweaking Contest. The winner will receive a new Kodak camera courtesy of Walmart!

To participate, select one photo of your choice, and alter it using the free online software Picnik. Picnik is an awesome, easy-to-use photo editing site accessible online at www.picnik.com. You are welcome to use the Library’s computers to complete the project.

For those unfamiliar with Picnik, we are offering an instructional class on Monday, March 15th from 3-4pm. Please contact the Library to register for the class.

Please e-mail your photos for submission to Teen Librarian, Jennifer Nash, at jnash@lionnc.org . Please include the original photo as well as the altered version. Be sure to include your name, phone # and school grade in the e-mail.

All entries must be received by 5:00pm on Friday, April 9th.

Contestants will be judged on creativity and originality.

If you need assistance, please do not hesitate to come and talk to the folks at the Information Desk.

Good Luck!

Jennifer

Nutmeg Winner Announced

2010-02-19T15:34:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Life as We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer, the 2010 Teen Nutmeg Award Winner. Life As We Knew It received 1309 votes to earn victory. It really is a great book. There is a companion book, The Dead and the Gone, written about the same event from another character's perspective.

The list of the 2011 nominees is in a list to the left, you can hold a copy by clicking on the link!

Did you vote for the Nutmeg Award? Do you agree with the winner?

Jennifer

Snowflakes!

2010-02-09T12:26:00.001-05:00

So they say it is going to snow tomorrow.... I hope they are right! You can make your own snowflakes on this really cool web site, just click on the picture of the snowflake on the top. You can post your creations to the web site. Some of them are unbelievable.

Are you a snow fan?

Jennifer

Wii Pizza Party!

2010-02-01T14:57:00.002-05:00

Bored over February vacation? Come to the Library for pizzas and Wii. All Teens in grades 6-12 are welcome stop by the Community Room on Thursday, February 18th between 1 & 4pm.

What games we play is up to you. Beginning February 1st you can vote here on the blog for the toppings you think we should get for the pizza. See you at the pizza party! Be sure to bring a friend.

You can make game suggestions here on this post.

Jennifer

2011 Nutmeg Award Nominees Announced

2010-02-01T09:54:00.002-05:00

All of the Above by Shelley Pearsall
Alphabet of Dreams by Susan Fletcher
Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson
The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart
Home of the Brave by Katherine Applegate
The Last Dragon by Silvana de Mari
The London Eye Mystery by Siobhan Dowd
Unwind by Neal Shusterman
Waiting for Normal by Leslie Connors
The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt

Have you read any of the nominees? If so, what did you think? Look for the announcement of the 2010 winner soon!

Jennifer

King of the Ring in Full Swing

2010-01-29T16:07:00.002-05:00

We are down to 8 books/series in the King of the Ring... the search for the best in the Teen Area. Your votes count. The last few tallies have been really close. You may vote on the blog in the poll to the left or in person by ballot in the Teen Area. Don't let your favorite get knocked out!

Which are you pulling for?

Jennifer

WWE Wresltmania Reading Challenge Winner!

2010-01-27T13:20:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to John Silverstri, the local level winner of the WWE Wrestlemania Reading Challenge! John read 10 books and created an awesome bookmark which qualifies him for the regional competition. John won a WWE DVD and certificate. Let's all root for John to win the tickets to Wrestlemania in Phoenix Arizona! Thank you for all of your entries and hard work. It was a tough decision!

Jennifer

Eliminated!!

2010-01-11T15:40:00.003-05:00

The first nominee for King of the Ring was eliminated. It is the Blue Bloods series by Melissa de la Cruz. Thanks to all of you for voting. The next ballot is ready for your vote. You may vote here on the blog or by ballot in the Teen Area.

How do you feel about the decision?

Jennifer

It's Nutmeg Voting Time!

2010-01-08T16:57:00.003-05:00

It is time to vote for your favorite Nutmeg title. There are ballots on the Nutmeg display in the Teen Area. I have to turn the tallies in by January 31st, so come on in and vote!

Here are the titles, just to give you a heads up:

Drums, Girls and Dangerous Pie
Jeremy Fink & the Meaning of Life
Code Orange
Life as We Knew It
Eyes of the Emperor
Skulduggery Pleasant
Crackback
Accidental Love
Pieces of Georgia
Epic

And don't forget to vote for the King of the Ring while you are in!

What is your favorite Nutmeg nominee?

Jennifer

King of the Ring!

2010-01-04T10:14:00.002-05:00

Voting begins today for the King of the Ring. Here's how it works. Every week you get to vote for your favorite books or series (you can vote on the blog or by ballot in the Teen Area). Every Friday the book with the fewest votes gets knocked off. Ultimately one book will remain. The King if the Ring will be announced on Friday, March 19th. Vote today!

King of the Ring Nominees:

The Hunger Games Series By Suzanne Collins

The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini

The Alex Rider Series by Anthony Horowitz

Blue Bloods Series by Melissa de la Cruz

Vampire Academy Series by Richelle Mead

Cirque de Freak Series by Darren Shan

Maximum Ride Series by James Patterson

Percy Jackson & the Olympians Series by Rick Riordan

The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod Series by Heather Brewer

Ranger's Apprentice Series by John Flanagan

House of Night Novels by Kristin & P.C. Cast

Peeps Series by Scott Westerfeld

Which are your favorites? Any you think should not be on the list?

Jennifer

Call for Books!

2009-12-23T09:47:00.003-05:00

There is a contest coming up! We are going to determine the best book or series in the Teen Area. I need your nominees for the list. Please feel free to e-mail them to me at jnash@lioninc.org or post them here on the blog. Thanks for your help.

Jennifer

Harry Potter Trivia!

2009-12-15T17:57:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Rachel Mellon, the winner of the trivia contest. Rachel won a $10 iTunes gift card. Here are the answers...

1. The four Quidditch positions are: beaters, chasers, keepers, and seekers.

2. Harry's middle name is James.

3. Rita Skeeter turned into a beetle.

4. Devlin's Cakes & Sweets is not located in Hogesmeade.

5. Bank vault #713 contains the Sorcerer's Stone.

6. Moaning Myrtle haunts the girl's bathroom.

7. Aunt Marge's dog is Ripper.

8. Harry's patronus is a stag.

9. Voldemort's real name is Thomas Marvolo Riddle.

10. A parselmouth is someone who can talk to snakes.

11. Cedric Diggory is in Hufflepuff.

12. Viktor Krum was Hermione's date for the Yule Ball.

13. Harry's mother's maiden name was Evans.

14. Members of the Order of the Phoenix: Dumbledore, Sirius, Molly & Arthur Weasley, Tonks, Mad-Eye Moody, Kingley Shacklebolt, the Longbottoms, Snape, Hagrid, Maxime, Mundungus, Sturgis, Podmore, Arabella Figg, and Remus John Lupin.

15. The Quibbler published Harry's interview with Rita.

16. There are 6 goals on a Quidditch pitch.

17. Pine Fresh is the password for the prefect's bathroom.

18. Weasley children: Ginny, Ron, George, Fred, Percy, Bill, & Charlie.

19. A squib is a person born into a wizarding family, but with no powers.

20. Nagini is Voldemort's pet snake

Thanks for playing!!

Jennifer

It's Harry Potter Week!

2009-12-10T14:03:00.005-05:00

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince came out on DVD on Thursday. We have 11 copies here at the Library for you to check out! We will also be showing the movie in surround sound on our high definition screen tomorrow night (Friday 12/11) at 6:30.

There is a Harry Potter Trivia quiz at the display in the Teen Area. Answer all the questions and hand them in for your chance to win an iTunes gift card. All entries must be in by Monday, 12/14.

Click here to watch Harry Potter: The Fan-Made Musical!

Jennifer

Wii Home Run Derby Results

2009-11-19T09:36:00.002-05:00

Everyone had a great time at the Wii Home Run Derby last night. Congratulations to our winners, T.J. Romano and Desi LeClair.

T.J. was the overall champion of the night hitting a grand total of 42 home runs He hit 24 in Round 2! T.J. earned an iTunes gift card for his effort.

Desi had the longest home run of the night, 543 feet! He won a Pralines Ice Cream gift basket.

The next Wii event will be on December 9th. We will have a Harry Potter duel! Sign up today.

I always take suggestions for Wii and other program ideas you have. Feel free to talk to me!

Jennifer

Teen's Top 10 Announced!

2009-10-22T09:54:00.003-04:00

More than 11,000 teens voted in this year’s Teens’ Top 10. Click here to view the watch the official announcement from World Wrestling Entertainment. Congratulations to the winner Paper Towns by John Green. All of the nominees are available in the Teen Area.

1. Paper Towns by John Green
2. Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer
3. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
4. City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare
5. Identical by Ellen Hopkins
6. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
7. Wake by Lisa McMann
8. Untamed by P.C. and Kristin Cast
9. The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart.
10. Graceling by Kristin Cashore

Thoughts on the results? Which was your favorite?

Jennifer

New Moon Tune Released

2009-10-09T12:52:00.002-04:00

Click here to check out the video for “Meet Me on the Equinox” by Death Cab for Cutie. This is the first single from the New Moon soundtrack.

I love Death Cab for Cutie, saw them not too long ago at the Oakdale...

What do you think??

Jennifer

Fun With Numbers

2009-10-07T13:42:00.001-04:00

Pick any number.

Multiply it by 2.

Add 10.

Divide by 2.

Subtract the number you originally picked.

Post your answers here.

Jennifer

Dance Dance Revolution Results...

2009-10-01T20:15:00.004-04:00

Congratulations to Amanda Mendoza, the winner of last night's Wii DDR Tournament!

Amanda's dancing skills earned her an iTunes gift card.

Jennifer

It's Banned Books Week!

2009-09-29T12:18:00.007-04:00

Celebrate Banned Books Week !

Banned Books Week in an annual campaign which celebrates our freedom of speech and the freedom to read. Over 1,000 books have been challenged since 1982. Pick up a banned title today. There is a display filled with banned books in the Teen Area. Curious about why a certain book is restricted? Stop by the Information Desk and we will let you know. Some new additions to the list are the Twilight Series by Stephenie Meyer and Gossip Girl by Cecily von Ziegesar, both are among the most circulated items in the Library!

Click here to see a map of book challenges around country over the last two years. Click on the blue markers to see the books and reasons for challenges.

What are your thoughts on banning books?

Jennifer

Teen Nutmeg Book Club

2009-09-21T10:16:00.002-04:00

The Wallingford Library Teen Nutmeg Book Club is looking for a few good members. This very informal club is a great way to enjoy awesome books and meet new friends. All Teens in grades 6-12 are welcome to attend. The October selection is Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life by Wendy Mass. Looking forward to seeing you at the meeting! Please register and pick up your book at the Information Desk.

Wednesday, October 21st
7:00 pm
Charlotte Collins Meeting Room

Jennifer

Have You Voted for Teens' Top 10 Yet??

2009-09-14T11:54:00.002-04:00

The polls are still open for the 2009 Teens' Top 10. Voting will continue through September 18th. Cast your vote today! You may click on the vote sign above or visit one of the computers in the Teen Area. You may vote for three of your favorite books. All of the nominees are on a Teen display. Winners will be announced during Teen Read Week (October 18-24) in a webcast featuring WWE Superstars!

What is your favorite Teens' top 10 nominee?

Jennifer

Teens Top Ten Voting Polls Open!

2009-08-25T20:24:00.002-04:00

Vote for the Teens' Top 10! You may choose 3 books from the list of 25. Look for the display in the Teen Area with the books as well as bookmarks. The Teen catalog computer has a link directly to the voting page or you can click on the picture of the voting booth and vote from home!

The book nominators or "galleys" are 15 libraries and schools around the country. The Teens' Top Ten is only decided by Teens, no teachers or librarians. There are some really great titles on the list this year. Read one today!

What nominee is your favorite?

Jennifer

Best Vampires

2009-08-11T11:59:00.003-04:00

Entertainment Weekly just came out with a list of the 20 greatest vampires of all time. Ann Rice's Lestat came in on top. Christopher Lee as Dracula was 2nd, Bela Lugosi 3rd, Edward Cullen 4th and Bill & Eric from True Blood were 5th.

Do you agree with the rankings? Did you know that you can read Entertainment Weekly for free every week on our web site through the CT Digital Library? Call us or come in and we will show you how!

Jennifer

Guitar Hero Results!

2009-07-22T20:33:00.002-04:00

Congratulations to the big winner of the Wii Guitar Hero tournament, Clarissa Sola. Clarissa defeated the field and won a Guitar Hero t-shirt and iTunes gift card.

Join us for the next Wii tournament, Ping Pong, on August 26th. Sign up today!

Clarissa you rock!

Jennifer

Twilght, the Graphic Novel

2009-07-17T11:33:00.002-04:00

There is no publication date yet, but a Twilight graphic novel is definitely in the works. The above picture is a sketch from a biology class scene. Korean artist Young Kim is doing the artwork and Stephenie Meyer is involved as well. For a sneak peak at illustrations of Bella, Edward, and Jacob come to the Library and look at the newest Entertainment Weekly Magazine.

What do you think about Twilight becoming a graphic novel?

Jennifer

First Summer Reading Prize Winner

2009-07-14T10:00:00.001-04:00

Congratulations to our first Summer Reading prize winner, Jessica Bennett. Jessica won a huge 5 pound bar of Hershey's chocolate.

Prize drawings are every Wednesday at 1pm through September 1st. Earn one prize drawing entry for each book you read or Library event you attend. Full details on the web site, or stop by! Hope to see you soon!

What Library events are you excited about?

Jennifer

Summer Reading Begins Today!

2009-07-01T10:11:00.003-04:00

Book Your Summer @ the Library, the Teen Summer Reading program begins today. For each book you read or Library event you attend you get entered into a weekly prize drawing. Prizes include movie tickets, free pizzas, Tiger Woods' autograph, and a 5 pound block of Hershey's chocolate!

All Summer long we are booked with free, fun air conditioned events! Anime Night (Naruto), 80's Movies, and live Major League Baseball games. Everything is on the web site and I will keep the blog updated.

I look forward to seeing you guys soon!

By the way, you can use your school summer reading books for the weekly drawing too and audio books count!

Jennifer

Meteor Day!

2009-06-29T10:01:00.004-04:00

June 30th is Meteor Day! Hopefully it will be a clear night and you can see some meteors in the sky! A meteor is a particle of matter that gets into the earth's atmosphere. Have you ever seen a really cool shooting star or meteor?? Click on the picture above to play a meteor game!

Jennifer

p.s. Try to beat my score of 48!

Wii Tennis Results

2009-06-25T11:17:00.004-04:00

We had a great time last night celebrating the 132nd anniversary of Wimbledon. We snacked on strawberry sundaes.

Dale Hettrich came out on top of the double elimination tournament. At one point his match went to Deuce 11 times! Dale's victory earned him an iTunes gift card. Great job Dale! Thanks to all who participated.

Jennifer

Twilight News Update

2009-06-19T17:27:00.003-04:00

So the next movie installment of the Twilight series, New Moon is due out in theaters on November 20th. Click on the picture above to watch the trailer. What have you heard about it so far??

Also related to Twilght, "Edward Cullen" Robert Pattison was apparently hit by a taxi in New York City while trying to escape a mob of fans! Relax, he is ok. Pattison is in New York filming his new movie Remember Me . Click here for a link to the news article about the incident.

Jennifer

2009 Spelling Bee

2009-05-29T09:39:00.002-04:00

Ok I have to admit that I am a Spelling Bee freak. I absolutely love to watch it. Those kids are so amazing. The winner last night was 13 year old Kavya Shivashankar. She knew every word she had to spell and made it look so easy.

All of Kavya's hard work paid off. As the winner she receives $30,000 in cash and $7,500 in scholarships. This was her 4th bee.

For a list of all the words the kids spelled correctly click on Kavya's picture at the top of this post.

Two really good Spelling Bee movies are Spellbound and Akeelah and the Bee. The library has both of them you should check them out (especially Spellbound, it is SO good.)

Are you a fan of the Spelling Bee?

Jennifer

Hubble Space Telescope

2009-05-11T10:11:00.003-04:00

Today a space shuttle is going into space. The goal of the crew aboard is to repair and maintain the Hubble Telescope. The picture above is just one of the amazing pictures Hubble has sent to Earth. This is a picture of the Cat's Eye Nebula. It is 3,000 light years away! Click on the picture to see a slide show of more unbelievable pictures that have been transmitted from space.

Jennifer

Don't Wear Socks Tomorrow!

2009-05-07T09:53:00.002-04:00

May 8th is no socks day! So wash your feet and and forget about covering them up tomorrow. You will be way more comfortable and a little less laundry is good for the environment!

Did you wear socks??

Jennifer

.....-.--..--..-. -......-.-....-...--.-- ....---..-..-.. -----.-.....

2009-04-27T15:27:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday Samuel Morse!!

Samuel Finley Breese Morse was born on this date in 1791 in Charleston, Massachusetts. He attended Yale University to study electricity. He later went to Art School. His biggest passion was painting, he was really good at it. Morse was very excited when he found out that he would be able to paint murals in the Capitol Building in Washington D.C. As it turns out he was not allowed to do the artwork and he never painted again.

Instead, Morse went on to invent the telegraph as well as Morse Code. He also was the inventor of the fire engine pump and a marble cutting machine.

The first phrase ever "spoken" over telegraph was "What hath God wrought!" which looked like this: .--.....-- .....--.... --.----.. .--.-..-..---.....-

You can translate phrases into Morse Code by visiting the web site http://www.brownielocks.com/morse_code.html

Jennifer

Don't Wash Your Hands!

2009-04-24T10:10:00.002-04:00

These unbelievable works of art are done on hands! The artists name is Guido Daniele, he lives in Italy. To look at more of his artwork go to his website:

http://guidodaniele.com/bodypaint01.htm

Which one is your favorite? I really like the turtle.

Jennifer

Fishing Tournament Results!

2009-04-23T09:54:00.002-04:00

Last night was the Wii Fishing Tournament in honor of Earth Day and opening of the 2009 fishing season.

Congratulations to Desi LeClair for reeling in the most fish (5). Desi won a WalMart gift card.

The biggest fish of the night (3 lbs 10 oz) was a three way tie between Arjun Kuttala, Dale Hettrich Jr., and Colin Brady.

The next Wii tournament will be on Wednesday, May 13th. Bowling is back by popular demand!

You can sign up today by visiting our website http://www.wallingford.lioninc.org/ and clicking on the calendar. You can always call us at 265-6754 or stop by the Information Desk.

Hope you are all enjoying your vacation!

What other games do you think we should try??

Jennifer

Teen Book Swap

2009-04-14T16:37:00.003-04:00

We will be having a Teen Book Swap here at the library on Saturday, May 16th from 10am until 1pm. You may begin dropping off your lightly used books today at the Information Desk. Each book earns you one coupon for a "new" book. The Children's Room will be having a swap at the same time. Feel free to use your coupons in there if you wish. We have gotten some really great titles so far. See you then!

Jennifer

Great Scavenger Hunt Contest

2009-04-11T11:27:00.002-04:00

I am totally psyched about this new program we are running in the Teen Area. It is called the Great Scavenger Hunt Contest. What you do is read selected YA books (the list is online at www.kaycassidy.com/hunt) . When you have finished the book answer the trivia questions about the book. If you get at least 8 out of 10 correct, you are entered to win a $50 Barnes and Noble gift cars. There are tons of titles to choose from and there is a prize drawing once a month.

What are you waiting for, start reading to win!

What do you think??

Jennifer

Vampires in Boston???

2009-04-08T16:17:00.002-04:00

This is hysterical... The principal of a private high school in Boston had to send a letter to parents informing them that there were no vampires attending his school. Rumors began circulating that some students were vampires and parents were concerned for the safety of their kids. I would love to get a copy of that letter!

Do you think the extreme popularity of the Twilight series has anything to do with this? Silly parents... How psyched are the kids at the school?

Click here to read the article.

Jennifer

Your Input Needed!

2009-04-07T14:38:00.002-04:00

What should the May Wii Tournament be? Please use the poll on the side of the blog to vote.

Jennifer

Our New Sign!

2009-04-02T14:14:00.003-04:00

We got a sign in the Teen Area today! Come and check it out, it is pretty cool. What do you think?

Jennifer

Falling Up Stairs!

2009-03-31T20:27:00.002-04:00

Come and check out local Teen band Falling Up Stairs! We will be showing a DVD of their recent show at Toad's Place on the big screen in the Library's Community Room. So stop by and bring your friends on Friday, April 24th at 3:30 pm. You can visit the band's MySpace page by going to www.myspace.com/fustairs .

See you there!

Jennifer

Little Corn Island, Nicaragua!

2009-03-30T13:59:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to Sarah Bennett who was the first to correctly answer that I was in Nicaragua on vacation. Little Corn Island is about 50 miles off the east coast in the Caribbean Sea. It is absolutely gorgeous.

Sarah won a Half Moon gift certificate. Thanks to all those who responded. Stay tuned for more chances to win just by reading the Teen Blog!!

Jennifer

Where in the World Was I??

2009-03-23T15:14:00.004-04:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a while. I just got back from the most wonderful vacation. My husband and I went to Little Corn Island. What country was I in? The first Wallingford Library Teen in grades 6-12 to e-mail me the correct answer will win a prize! My e-mail address is jnash@lioninc.org . Be sure to include your name and grade. You may also stop by and give me your answer in person.

Jennifer

Anime Night!!

2009-03-03T15:16:00.008-05:00

All Teens are welcome to join is tomorrow night (March 4th) at 6pm for Anime Night @ the Wallingford Library!

We will be watching the anime Ouran High School Host Club. Stop by and discuss anime, manga, and all things Japanese.... like Ramen!

Really hope you can make it, bring your friends.

If you would like a reminder about the next Anime Night you can e-mail me at jnash@lioninc.org and I will be sure to shoot you an e-mail before our next meeting.

What is your favorite anime?

Jennifer

Essay Contest Winners!

2009-02-25T14:11:00.003-05:00

We recently held an essay contest for Teens here at the library. The assignment was to read the book "Freedom Road" by Howard Fast and then write an essay on race relations after the Civil War.

1st Prize: Lindsey Clark ($500)
2nd Prize: Sarah Bennett ($300)
3rd Prize: Samantha Pelletier ($200)

The judges were delighted with the caliber of the essays submitted and found it very difficult to choose among them.

We were also very pleased that we received submissions from Lyman Hall High School, Sheehan High School, Choate Rosemary Hall, and one home-schooled student.

Congratulations to the winners and thank you to all who participated!

Jennifer

TypeRacer!

2009-02-20T15:43:00.003-05:00

Now that school vacation is over get back into the groove with TypeRacer. To play this fun game where you race against other players go to http://play.typeracer.com/ . You can invite your friends to challenge you as you type quotes from popular songs and books. Record your scores here!

Jennifer

February Vacation!!

2009-02-19T18:38:00.003-05:00

I hope you all are having a great February vacation.

We just wrapped up our week of Teen vacation programs.

On Tuesday we had a Dance Dance Revolution pizza party. Congratulations to Olivia Gauntlett who had the high score of the afternoon and won a $20 iTunes gift card.

Wednesday was the Jonas Brothers concert. The Community Room was filled with kids, balloons, glow sticks, and the sounds of the Jonas'!

Today we showed the film Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist.

I hope you had a chance to come and spend your vacation at the library!

Jennifer

And the 2009 Nutmeg Award winner is...

2009-02-17T18:36:00.004-05:00

Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin!

Thanks to all who voted. Have you read Elsewhere? If not, reserve your copy today. You can check our catalog by clicking on the picture above.

Don't forget that the 2010 Nutmeg Award nominees are now on display in the Teen Area.

Do you agree with the winner??

Jennifer

Your Birthday Song...

2009-02-13T13:36:00.003-05:00

Do you know what the #1 song was on the day you were born??

I found this really cool web site where you can figure it out! Just go to http://www.joshhosler.biz/NumberOneInHistory/SelectMonth.htm and enter your birthday.

You can also listen to a part of the song.

What was the number one song when you were born??

Mine was a Barbara Streisand song. I am getting old!

Jennifer

Best in Show

2009-02-12T13:33:00.003-05:00

The 133rd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show was held this week in New York City. The winner was 10 year old Sussex Spaniel, Stump.

Stump is the oldest dog to ever win Best in Show. He almost died five years ago from a medical condition. What a comeback!

Click on Stump's picture to watch his YouTube.

Have you guys ever seen the movie "Best in Show"? It is absolutely hysterical.

Jennifer

Today is White Shirt Day!

2009-02-11T09:53:00.002-05:00

White Shirt Day honors the men and women who participated in a sit down strike at General Motors in Flint, Michigan 1937. The strike began on December 30, 1936 and lasted for 40 days. The men went without food for the first 24 hours and there were no lights or heat in the building. Then their wives came and brought them food over the fence. They mainly ate bean soup an apples!

These autoworkers helped the United Auto Workers (UAW) union to become the sole bargaining agent for General Motors autoworkers. The strike ended on this day in 1937.

The idea of the white shirt comes from equality in the work place. The message is that the factory worker and the foreman are equally important.

With all that is going on in the car industry today we owe a lot to these men who did this so long ago.

Did you wear a white shirt today?

Jennifer

The Grammy's

2009-02-09T14:01:00.002-05:00

Did you guys watch the Grammy's last night??

My favorite part was when Jay Z came out and did Lost with Chris Martin from Coldplay. And, it was nice to see Jennifer Hudson win.

Speaking of Coldplay... Do you remember the post when I asked you guys if you thought they copied their song Viva La Viva?? You can get to the post by clicking here.

Well, I don't think that they copied Joe Satriani. Do you?

What was your favorite/least favorite part of the Grammy's?

Jennifer

Wear Red!!

2009-02-06T12:09:00.002-05:00

Today is National Wear Red Day!! Americans nationwide are showing their support for women's heart disease awareness. I am wearing some crazy red pants.

Did you wear red today??

Jennifer

A snake as big as a school bus???

2009-02-05T11:58:00.003-05:00

That's what scientists are saying...

Titanoboa Cerrejonensis lived 60 million years ago and ate crocodiles whole!! Click on the picture above to read an article about this amazing discovery and listen to the feature story on NPR.

What would you do if you saw a 42 foot snake??

Jennifer

Coming Soon!!!

2009-02-04T16:12:00.003-05:00

Have you seen the big empty table in the Teen Area near the computers???

Well... you guys are getting 4 new computers!! More terminals for you to game, MySpace, YouTube, or whatever.

Congratulation!

Jennifer

Happy Groundhog Day!!

2009-02-02T10:56:00.003-05:00

Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow this morning! This means 6 more weeks of winter!! Does this make you happy? To learn all about this crazy tradition click on the photo above. Pick up a Groundhog Day word search in the Teen Area or at the Information Desk!

Jennifer

Nutmeg Voting Period Extended!

2009-01-30T14:04:00.003-05:00

The Nutmeg Awards voting period has been extended! You now have until February 6th to vote on the blog or with the ballot available in the Teen Area.

2009 Nominees:

Al Capone Does My Shirts by Gennifer Choldenko

Ask Me No Questions by Maria Budhos

The Case of the Missing Marquess by Nancy Springer

Dairy Queen by Catherine Gilbert Murdock

Day of Tears by Julius Lester

Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin

Heat by Mike Lupica

The Schwa Was Here by Neal Shusterman

Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

Wolf Brother by Michelle Paver

Which is your favorite??

Jennifer

Snow Day!!

2009-01-28T10:35:00.005-05:00

I hope you are all enjoying your day off. Lucky!!

Would you prefer to have a snow day or to go to school so you don't have to make up the days at the end of the school year??

Jennifer

Mario Kart Tournament Results!!

2009-01-27T11:53:00.006-05:00

We had a blast last night at the Wii Mario Kart Tournament. The final round came down to a photo finish with winner Dale Hettrich, Jr. pulling into the lead on the home stretch. Dale won a Game Stop gift card.

Second place went to Mitchell Stenquist, in third place was Colin Brady, and Renee Bourassa came in fourth.

Join us for pizza and Dance Dance Revolution on Tuesday, February 17th from 2-4pm in the Community Room. No need to register, just stop in and play. The high score of the afternoon will win an iTunes gift card.

Jennifer

If you love Stephenie Meyer...

2009-01-23T11:23:00.002-05:00

Check out the new display in the Teen Area. It is loaded with Twilight series read alikes. There are lots of vampire stories as well as a collection of short stories with one by Stephenie Meyer. I am always looking for suggestions to add to this list so feel free to post your other favorites!

Jennifer

The Inauguration in Legos!

2009-01-22T13:49:00.002-05:00

Click on the photo above to watch a YouTube of the Lego inauguration which is at Lego Land in California. So neat. I would love to go to Lego Land, has anyone ever been?

Jennifer

Jonas Brothers Play for Obama Girls

2009-01-20T14:19:00.003-05:00

The Jonas Brothers and Miley Cyrus played the Kids' Inaugural Concert, "We Are the Future" Monday night. The show was for military families. The Jonas Brothers are a favorite of Sasha and Malia Obama. Mom Michelle (out First Lady!) also seemed to like them. Click here to view a YouTube of the Obama ladies dancing at the concert.

You can see a Jonas Brothers concert here at the library on Wednesday, February 18th. We will be showing the DVD of their sold out concert from New York City. Join us in the Community from at 2:00pm. With our high definition surround sound system you will feel like you were really at the concert.

The event is part of our "Spend Your Vacation at the Library" week. Additional events include a Wii Dance Dance Revolution Tournament as well as the movie Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist.

Did you know that the library owns copies of all of the Jonas Brothers CDs as well as books and the DVD for you to check out?

Are you a Jonas Brothers Fan?

Jennifer

Would You Eat a 140 Year Old Lobster??

2009-01-11T13:44:00.002-05:00

Click on the picture of the lobster to learn about the fate of a 140 year old lobster found in a restaurant's lobster tank in New York City this weekend.

Do you agree with the story? Are you a lobster eater?

Jennifer

Anime Night!!

2009-01-08T15:27:00.002-05:00

All Teens are welcome to join us for Anime Night at the Library~ Monday, January 12th from 6-8pm.

We will be watching Death Note, eating adamame, and sharing artwork and stories we have written. If you don't have anything to bring, come anyway! Looking forward to seeing you there!

Jennifer

It's Time To Vote For The Nutmeg Awards!

2009-01-06T14:34:00.004-05:00

Stop by the Teen Area for your chance to vote for the 2009 Nutmeg Award Winner. You don't have to read all of the nominees in order to vote. You can also vote right here on the blog (upper left hand corner!)

Stay tuned for the announcement of the 2010 list.

What was your favorite? Feel free to discuss here!

Jennifer

THE RESULTS ARE IN!

2009-01-02T17:45:00.003-05:00

You voted and the winner is MARIO KART WII!!!

Sign up today for the January 26th Tournament.

Jennifer

Teen Book Review: The King's Shadow by Elizabeth Alder

2008-12-22T15:50:00.005-05:00

Evyn, a poor peasant, dreams of bettering his position using his beautiful voice. In a terrible turn of events his uncle's rash behavior causes Evyn to lose his tongue and father. Needing money to pay for killing a noble-born youth, Uncle Morgan sells the boy into slavery.

Some good returns to Evyn's dreary life when he learns to read and write. This skill later helps him to secure a place as Earl Harold of Wessex's squire. The two form a close bond, as if father and son.

Shortly after he is crowned king, Harold makes Evyn, now called Shadow, his foster son. Harold's wishes for a peaceful reign are not to be, however. England faces tumultuous times, ending in the Battle of Hastings.

Will Evyn survive? Even if he does, will he lose all he holds dear?

Thanks to Leah G., age 13 for the awesome review!

Click on the picture of the book to see the availability of the item or to place a hold.

Interview with Catherine Hardwicke!!

2008-12-19T11:59:00.002-05:00

Click on the picture to read an interview with Twilight Director Catherine Hardwicke. She says there will be 12 deleted scenes on the DVD!

I can't wait to show it here at the library when it comes out.

Jennifer

YOGA!

2008-12-16T12:05:00.003-05:00

All 6th-12th graders are invited to participate in our Yoga for Teens! We will meet on Fridays beginning on January 9th from 3:30-4:15 in the Collins Room. Did I mention that it is free???

Come and relax as well increase your flexibility, balance, and strength with certified Yoga instructor Zorayda Cocchi, OTR/L, YKA.

Sessions will run for 8 weeks. Sign up today by visiting our web site , call us at 203-265-6754, or stop by!

What a great way to begin your weekend!

Jennifer

Did Colplay Rip Off Joe Satriani??

2008-12-09T18:28:00.004-05:00

Are you a Coldplay fan?? Well they are being sued by guitarist Joe Satriani. Satriani thinks that their new song Viva La Vida is a little too similar to his song If I Could Fly.

Take a listen and see what you think.

Jennifer

Twilight Director Calls It Quits

2008-12-08T15:22:00.003-05:00

Twilight director Catherine Hardwicke has announced that she will not be directing New Moon, the second book in the Twilight Series. Click here to read the article. What do you think? Is this a good thing? Who do you think the next Director should be?

Jennifer

Check out this Teen Band!

2008-12-05T13:04:00.002-05:00

They are called the McLovin's and they are really good. Here is a YouTube clip of them playing one of my favorite songs. I will be seeing the guitarist perform with another band called Stanley Maxwell at a charity event in January. Check it out and let me know what you think!

The McLovin's playing You Enjoy Myself

Jennifer

Send A Soldier A Holiday Card!

2008-12-03T13:34:00.005-05:00

This holiday while you and your family are making out your holiday cards consider sending one to a U.S. soldier. The Red Cross helps to distribute these cards to various military hospitals and military families each holiday season. Send your cards to:

A Service Member

Holiday Mail for Heroes

P.O. Pox 5456

Capitol Heights, MD

20791-5464

Jennifer

Twilight Movie!

2008-11-24T10:29:00.001-05:00

Well, what did you think? I would love to hear your reviews and favorite parts. What should have been different?

Jennifer

You Decide The Next Wii Event!

2008-11-24T10:00:00.000-05:00

I am leaving it up to you guys to decide the January Wii event. There is a poll on the left side of this blog where you can vote on the game of your choice. If you do not like any of the games listed post your request here!

Jennifer

Einstein's Riddle

2008-11-18T14:11:00.009-05:00

There are 5 houses in 5 different colors. In each house lives a person with a different nationality. The 5 owners drink a certain type of beverage, smoke a certain brand of cigar, and keep a certain pet. No owners have the same pet, smoke the same brand of cigar, or drink the same beverage.

The question is: Who owns the fish?

Hints:

The Brit lives in the red house.
The Swede keeps dogs as pets.
The Dane drinks tea.
The green house is on the left of the white house.
The green homeowner drinks coffee.
The person who smokes Pall Mall rears birds.
The owner of the yellow house smokes Dunhill.
The man living in the center house drinks milk.
The Norwegian lives in the first house.
The man who smokes Blend lives next to the one who keeps cats.
The man who keeps the horse lives next to the man who smokes Dunhill.
The owner who smokes Bluemaster drinks beer.
The German smokes prince.
The Norwegian lives next to the blue house.
The man who smokes Blend has a neighbor who drinks water.

Einstein wrote this riddle early during the 19th century. He said 98% of the world could not solve it. Its not hard, you just need to pay attention and be patient.

Share your answers here! There are copies of the riddle as well as an answer sheet behind the Reference Desk if you would like to check yours.

Jennifer

Free Twlight Movie Passes!

2008-11-14T13:27:00.003-05:00

Today in the Record Journal on page 12 there is an ad to get complimentary passes to the advanced screening of Twilight on Tuesday, November 18th. You have to bring the ad to the Record Journal between 3 and 5 pm. The tickets are on a first come first serve basis.

How cool would it be to see it before everyone else, and for free! Perfect for those of you who have your Homecoming Dance on Friday night!

Let us know if you got tickets!

Jennifer