Blog
Discover a New Language at the Library
We are excited to announce that we now offer Transparent Language free to all library cardholders. Whether you’re looking to help your child practice a foreign language, prepare for an upcoming trip or simply eager to learn something new, Transparent Language has you covered.
Black History is American History
I remember being in school as a kid and wondering why we were only taught about historical Black figures during February. I then remember being confused because we only talked about well-known names like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks.
Tips for Back to School
The back-to-school season is upon us, bringing with it a blend of excitement, nervousness and anticipation. Whether you’re a student, a parent or a teacher, this time of year marks a fresh beginning and a chance to set the tone for the upcoming academic year. To help you navigate this transitional period with confidence, we’ve compiled a list of tips and tricks to ensure a successful start to the school year.
Full STEAM Ahead
You’re probably already familiar with the term STEM or STEAM as it’s become an educational buzz word in recent years. Science, technology, engineering, art and math, are considered the most important skills for life in the 21st century; and while it may sound intimidating, it doesn’t have to be.
Learning & Growing with Mother Nature
Chapin Branch Library is planting a pollinator garden. After receiving our Certified Wildlife Habitat® status from the South Carolina Wildlife Federation, we looked around and asked what else we could do to promote lifelong environmental learning. So much of our food comes from flowering plants — apples, cucumbers, watermelons, nuts and so much more.
Potty Training Like a Pro
It’s time to talk about that horrible “P” word — potty. When it is time for potty training, you can’t help being a little apprehensive. Even if you have previous potty training experience, you cannot predict how potty training will go this time.
Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Memorial Day isn’t the only major celebration in May. For the past 40 years, Americans have also honored the history and contributions of its Asian Americans and Pacific Islander.
Top 5 Checked Out Picture Books
Have you ever wondered what the most popular books are at your library? Well, look no further, we’ve got your answer. You can even make it a game, grab a pen and piece of paper and jot down your guesses to see how many you get right.
Black History Month
Every February, we celebrate the achievements and history of African Americans as part of Black History Month. Literature in particular has been a space for black authors to tell their stories and bookworms seeking good reads can choose from an array of …
Board Games Aren’t Just for Fun
Board games aren’t just for fun — they’re learning tools. Cooperation, strategy, math, science, literacy, critical-thinking … there’s a game for that. From classic to brand new, here are some board games to play with your family.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage
National Hispanic Heritage Month, from September 15 to October 15, traditionally honors the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic and Latino Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society. To celebrate Hispanic authors, illustrators and creators this month (and every month) be sure to check out some excelente books written by Latinx authors.
Hispanic Heroes You Should Know About
America is a beautiful melting pot of cultures, experiences and stories. Included in our great American narrative is the Hispanic and Latin American community. From September 15 to October 15, our country celebrates National Hispanic Heritage month. Hispanic culture has enriched the American way of life along with the way of the world from spicy cuisine, to the vibrant sounds of bachata, salsa and merengue.
Fairy Tales: Little Red & Cinderella
Fairy tales are an important genre in children’s literature and have been passed down from generation to generation. Usually ending “happily ever after,” fairy tales make for a perfect family read aloud. These favorites …
Sharks
We sing about an entire family of sharks to an incredibly catchy beat. We hum the Jaws theme in the pool. We know that some sharks declare that “fish are friends, not food.” We get excited every year for Shark Week. We’re still not sure why there are so many Sharknado movies.
Find Your Escape
One of the best things about being a reader is that even after we close the pages of a book, we don’t have to leave
Learn at Home
For supporting children’s continuous learning at home and for back-to-school plans, we’ve got you covered with virtual learning materials. Explore any interest, develop new skills, connect with others in the community.
A to Z Reading Challenge
It’s time to wrap up your 2019 resolutions and think about what you want to accomplish next year. Most of us consider the same resolutions
Study Skills 101
Of all the lessons we learn in school, teachers rarely cover how to study but study skills can make all the difference when it comes
Transitioning from J to YA
For parents of teens and tweens, moving from the juvenile section of the library to young adult can be intimidating. Young adult literature represents a
Reading Aloud
How often do you read with your children — once a day, once a week or maybe not at all? No matter your answer, anywhere is
