Call Carson Daly! It’s Time to Kick Off the Library’s Own “TRL”

Tired of the same old book discussion? Join the crowd–the crowd at the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s Teen Reading Lounge events, that is!

Sponsored by the Pennsylvania Humanities Council, the Teen Reading Lounge is a way to talk about books while learning fun new skills, engaging all parts of your brain while getting you active in the PA Core Curriculum standards your parents & teachers are probably be talking about.

The following Teen Reading Lounge events are currently scheduled. Make sure you call one of the numbers above and place a VOTE for your #1 way to rock literacy. And keep checking our events page for TRL at our Allegheny, Beechview, Brookline, Carrick, and Hazelwood locations:

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TRL (Teen Reading Lounge) Kickoff Party!
Monday, February 18, 2013
3:30 PM – 4:30 PM

Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh has been chosen to sponsor PA Humanities Council Teen Reading Lounge, an interactive book club designed exclusively for teens! CLP-Brookline will be holding a kickoff party on Monday, Feb.18 at 3:30 PM to introduce you to this amped up book club, which includes: free books, food, parties, creative activities and plenty of teen opinion on what makes these books good or bad. For 3 months we’ll focus on COMIC BOOKS and GRAPHIC NOVELS.

Space is limited, so be sure to register by calling 412-561-1003 or complete online registration form. When registering, please commit to be an active participant, with intent to attend the majority of the sessions. Participation is reserved for teens age 12-18.

TRL Sessions will be held Mondays bi-monthly:

February 18th Kickoff Party
March 4th
March 18th
April 8th
April 22nd
May 6th
May 20th Final Party!

Event web site: http://www.facebook.com/events/584593388221702/
Location:
Brookline
708-710 Brookline Blvd.
Pittsburgh, PA 15226

Contact:
Georgiana Deming
412-561-1003
demingg@carnegielibary.org

Registration is required for this event.

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Teen Reading Lounge – Kick Off Party
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Help us kick off this exciting, new, non-traditional book club featuring three graphic novels. Teens who sign up will receive copies of the books to take home.
Meet back at the Library two evenings a month with other North Side teens for a discussion session and a hands-on exploration of the book’s themes. This
special series is supported by the Pennsylvania Humanities Council, and will run from February through May. Contact the Library for more details.
Event fee: Free
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Humanities Council
Location:
Allegheny
1230 Federal Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15212

Contact:
Tim Yates
412-237-1890
yatest@carnegielibrary.org

Registration is required for this event.

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Teen Reading Lounge Kick-Off Party
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

It’s the official TRL Kick-Off Party to celebrate the start of our new, non-traditional teen book club! Get your FREE copy of the program’s first graphic novel: Coraline, adapted from Neil Gaiman’s novel of the same name. Eat food, meet the other TRL readers and learn about the awesome workshops and activites that are happening with TRL in the weeks to come!

NOTE: This is an exclusive AFTER HOURS library event, which means you must register with J.J., the Teen Specialist at CLP-Beechview, to get on the TRL guest list!
Event fee: Free
Location:
Beechview
1910 Broadway Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15216

Contact:
J.J. Lendl
412-563-2900
lendlj@carnegielibrary.org

Registration is required for this event.

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~Joseph
Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, Main

Teen Time: Black History Month Edition

So, you may have heard that February is Black History Month and the teen specialists have created several events just for teens to help you celebrate the abolitionists, activist & innovators who changed history.

The Northside is the place to be on Tuesday, February 5, 2013 if you want to speak your mind or acquire some quilting skills.

Open Mic Night 4:00PM – 7:00 PM

Electret Condenser Microphone
Source: Google Images

Celebrate the innovation of Dr. James West, an African-American inventor who improved the microphone, by participating in our Open Mic Night to kickoff Black History Month. James West’s research in the early 1960s led to the development of foil-electret transducers for sound recording and voice communication that are used in 90% of all microphones (and cell phones!) built today.  Bring a poem you wrote, read from a favorite book or bust a rhyme! Cookies & hot chocolate will be served.

Location: Woods Run

Quilting & The Underground Railroad 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Look into the historical debate surrounding quilting and its significance in relation to the Underground Railroad. Also, create your own quilt square and combine it with other teens!

Location: Allegheny

If you are free on Thursday, February 7, 2013 head up to Mt. Washington!

African-American Hero Buttons 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Make your own button to celebrate an African-American Hero: Artists, Civil Rights Leaders, Inventors, Military Leaders, Scientists, oh my!
All materials will be provided. For grades 6-12. Refreshments will be provided!

Location: Mt. Washington

Have you always wanted to rock your natural curls but aren’t quite sure where to begin? Maybe you’ve proudly sported your Afro for years, but are still struggling to find the right products. Head over to Woods Run on Saturday, February 9, 2013 for a presentation on natural hair care.

Natural Hair Care Class 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
In this class we will explore healthy hair practices for those interested in natural hair, discuss simple yet effective hair regimens and affordable products and the best way to protect your hair during the cold months. Please bring questions and concerns.

Presented by: Whole Foods Market, East Liberty

Location: Woods Run

The Teen staff at Main has a whole day planned full of literary awesomeness and crafting!  On Saturday, February 16, 2013 come for book club, then stay for a quilting workshop.

Booked for Lunch: Panther Baby and The Rock and the River: A Book Club for Teens 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Bring some snacks or a lunch and join us for this month’s book discussion.  In celebration of Black History Month we’re choosing two related titles.  You can read one of the books or both, it’s up to you!

 The Rock and the River by Kekla Magoon takes place in 1968 Chicago.  Fourteen-year-old Sam Childs is caught in the middle of a family fight.  Sam’s father works with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and believes in a nonviolent approach to seeking civil rights for African-Americans.  Sam’s older brother thinks Dr. King’s movement is taking too long to bring about change and chooses joins the Black Panther Party.

In Panther Baby Jamal Joseph shares his true-life experiences as one of the youngest members of the Black Panther Party.  Joseph joined the Panthers as a high schooler and eventually landed in prison because of his connection to the organization.  Years later, during another stint in prison Joseph earned two degrees and began writing plays.  Joseph eventually became the chair of Columbia University’s film division, a university he once encouraged students to burn to the ground.

Location: Teens – Main

Teen Quilting Workshop 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM

Blocks, Strips, Strings and Half Squares. Mary Lee Bendolph (2005). Cotton. 84″ x 81″ Courtesy of Matt Arnett. Photo by Pitkin Studio.

From the Underground Railroad to the Gee’s Bend Quilts, quilting is an art form that has deep roots in Black history and culture. Teens are invited to this hands-on quilting workshop to celebrate Black History Month. All materials provided. Participation is limited and registration is required.

Location: Teens – Main

Ready to test your knowledge of Black History while chowing down on pizza? Head to the Hill District on Saturday, February 23, 2013 for trivia and food!

Black History Teen Trivia Challenge 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM

Teens, test your Black History knowledge-Jeopardy style! Pizza for participants courtesy of Vocelli!

Location: Hill District

There are many more events planned for this month. Please check out the entire list!

lauren @ WoodsRun

The Labs’ October Workshop: The Scary Story Filmmaking Challenge

Hi, everyone, it’s Corey here with more information about The Labs (Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s digital media lab program just for teens) and our featured October program: The Scary Story Filmmking Challenge.

Each month, The Labs will offer a featured workshop based on a theme or subject. This month that theme is filmmaking, and, since it’s October, we’re focusing on horror movies in our Scary Story Filmmaking Challenge (dates, times, and locations of all Labs programming can be found here).

The workshops started last week, but there’s still time to stop by your favorite Labs location (hours and locations here) to join in. Teens who take part in the Scary Story Filmmaking Challenge will work on crafting one scene of a scary movie as well as a trailer to advertise their film.

Perhaps the most exciting part of each month’s themed Labs workshop is that, if you complete the program (like, this month, if you make a scary movie and learn how to use our equipment and software) you’ll earn a badge! What’s the badge? Well, it’s like a merit badge, but it allows you to stop by The Labs and use our equipment and software on your own. It shows that we know you’ve got the basics down and you are now allowed to use our gear with little supervision–basically we’re saying we trust you. Back to this month’s project.

So, last week, Andre and Molly were mostly brainstorming with teens at our Allegheny, South Side, East Liberty, and Main (Oakland) libraries, watching clips from classic horror movies and discussing basic filmmaking skills of composition (the way you actually frame a shot or what your camera is pointed at).

Want to get up to speed? Try watching this video from Substream’s Film Lab for a great beginner’s tip and maybe Google some classic horror movie scenes while you’re at it. The Scary Story Filmmaking Challenge will run for the rest of the month!

The Rule of Thirds – The Rule of Thirds is super important. It’s a basic rule of composition that’s been used in painting, photography, and filmmaking by masters in each of those disciplines. You simply imagine that your screen or canvas is divided into three sections both vertically and horizontally. Now, when you frame your shot (in the case of filmmaking and photography) you will want to align objects that deserve special attention along the areas where two of your imaginary vertices intersect. Confusing? Just watch the video–they’re better at explaining it than I am.

- Corey, Digital Learning Librarian

The Labs @ CLP: Teen Digital Media Labs

Hello, everyone,

Just a quick note from your friendly neighborhood librarian to let you know, one more time, about the launch  of a brand-new, exciting, ongoing teen library program–The Labs @ CLP.

So what is The Labs?It’s Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s teen digital media lab program. And what’s a digital media lab? Well, it’s a computer lab of sorts, but full of equipment and software specially designed to help you create.

We’re launching the program with a big party this Wednesday at CLP-Main and mini Launch events at the other three locations next week. (For in-depth information on the program as well as dates and times for each launch, go HERE.)

About the program: From iMacs to music production equipment (M-Audio Fast Track Pro and Apple’s GarageBand) to graphic design (the full Adobe Creative Suite) and filmmaking (HD Canon Vixia camcorders plus a green screen), plus plenty more, The Labs is your resource for getting creative in the library.

We’ll be offering weekly themed programming at all four Labs locations as well as open Labs time where you can explore and create with the help of Labs mentors–digital media artists and librarians who will be on-hand leading programs and acting as a resource for creation. Each month the theme will change. This October, for example, we’ll focus on filmmaking. Then, in November, we’ll focus on Audio/Music Production with podcasting and music recording. Check back for our ongoing schedule.

Why simply consume media when you can create it? You can use The Labs as a resource for creative multi-media school projects or as a place to do something completely separate from your school work–something based on your own personal interests. Work on a podcast with friends, film a scary movie scene (that’s what we’ll be doing this October!), or get help recording your music in the library. There are so many options!

And where are The Labs? There will be four digital media labs located throughout the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh system. Here are their hours and a link to the first day of October’s program: The Scary Story Filmmaking Challenge.

CLP-Main, Teen Dept.
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 3-7PM
Friday, 3-5PM
Workshops: Wednesday and Thursday 4-6PM starting in October
October Workshop: Scary Story Filmmaking Challenge 

CLP-Allegheny
Hours and Workshops: Monday, 4-7PM
October Workshop: Scary Story Filmmaking Challenge

CLP-South Side
Hours and Workshops: Tuesday, 4-7PM
October Workshop: Scary Story Filmmaking Challenge

CLP-East Liberty
Hours and Workshops: Wednesday, 4:30-7:30PM
October Workshop: Scary Story Filmmaking Challenge

That’s all for now; I have to run and get everything ready to go!

- Corey, Digital Learning Librarian

Sticks and Stones (No Name Calling Week)

January 23 – 27 is No Name Calling Week , a national initiative started to combat bullying in schools and help prevent teen suicide.

Reading the stories of others offers insight, comfort and a much needed escape when faced with bullies, drama, and stress. The Library carries many titles that tell stories of bullying, harassment, survival, and triumph.

Check out the books below to see if one of them speaks to you! And always know there is a Teen Specialist at every CLP location if you need someone to talk to!

Have you ever felt different because of how you look? Age. Weight. Gender. Complexion? The Skin I’m In by Sharon Flake talks about the self-esteem issues black girls face when they are darker skinned. Maleeka is self conscious of her complexion until her whole life is changed when she meets a teacher with a rare skin condition. Check out this book if you want to hear about how Maleeka finds love with a boy named Caleb, overcomes her bully Charlese, and learns to love the skin she’s in!

Darell Mercer moves from Philadelphia to California. There he finds a new life, a new school, and a new bully. After spending months in fear, he is faced with a big decision. He can either keep running from his bully or find some way to fight back. To find out what happens to Darell check out The Bully by Paul Langan.

Thirteen-year-old Vladimir Tod really hates middle school. Bullies harass him, the principal is watching him closely, and the girl he likes prefers his best friend. And Vlad has a big secret: His mother was human, but his father was a vampire. With no idea of the extent of his powers, Vlad struggles daily with his blood cravings and growing fangs while trying to hide his identity. On top of everything he is being stalked by a vampire hunter! Check out The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod by Heather Brewer and read all five books in the series to find out what happens to Vlad!

Much like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, The Loser List tells the oddball story of Danny Shine. He is a geek who loves reading comics, trading comics, drawing comics, and buying comics. Find out how he loses a best friend, gets humiliated in front of the whole school… and somehow still manages to save the day!

In 50 Cent’s book Playground he uses his life experiences to tell the story of a 13 year old bully named Butterball. In the story, Butterball finds himself overweight and unhappy in a new school. One day, in an angry haze, he fills two socks with D batteries and heads to a fight at the playground. You will have to read to find out what happens to Butterball and how he finds redemption.

-Michael @ CLP Hazelwood

Smoothie Snacks

I don’t know about you but I’m fending off left over Halloween candy and cookies well into November. And with a few of the biggest gastronomic events of the year still on the horizon I’m doing my best to keep it cool with the calories.  It’s not easy. I love to cook and eat, and to me this is the best time of year for both.

One of my favorite ways to get lots of vitamins without empty calories is by making a smoothie. Smoothies can include tons of different ingredients with room to adapt for all types of dietary concerns, and personal taste. My basic smoothie recipe includes fruit and yogurt, but there are tons of options. I usually freeze my fruit because that creates a thick smoothie without the ice. Depending on the fruit you use, you might decide to add a little sweetener like honey or agave nectar. Using fruit flavored yogurt could kick the sweetness up too. Try using soy based yogurt or plain soy milk if you want to go dairy free, and keep in mind that there are no rules!

If you want a more filling smoothie consider adding some oatmeal, oat bran, or flax-seed for a fiber boost.  Don’t just limit yourself to fruit either, a wide variety of vegetables would add great nutrition to your smoothie. Try any type of greens, carrots, peppers or tomatoes, or for a richer smoothie put in some peanut butter or chocolate.

It seems like I’m not the only one who likes to have a smoothie snack now and then. There are tons of books on how its done.

Or if you’re looking for a smoothie with the flavors of the season check out his one I stumbled across on the terrific cooking blog called The Pioneer Woman Cooks.

Pumpkin Smoothie Ingredients

• 1 can (15 Ounce) Pumpkin Pie Filling
• 3 cups Whole Milk (more If Needed
• 1/2 cup Vanilla Yogurt (up To 1 Cup)
• A Few Dashes Of Cinnamon
• Cinnamon Graham Crackers, Crushed

Preparation Instructions

Well ahead of time, place pumpkin pie filling into a freezer-safe container. Freeze for a few hours or until frozen solid.

To make the smoothie, add milk, and yogurt to a blender. Drop in the frozen pumpkin pie filling and blend until the frozen filling is completely pulverized. Add more milk or yogurt as needed to get it the consistency you’d like.

Pour into individual glasses and sprinkle the tops with graham cracker crumbs. Serve immediately!

*Note: Make a lower-calorie smoothie by using unsweetened/unflavored pumpkin puree, non fat plain yogurt, and the sweetener of your choice.

*Can also sprinkle with cinnamon and/or nutmeg instead of graham cracker crumbs.

Happy Blending

-Brooke

Just kickin’ it

They go by lots of names:sneaks, trainers, kicks or tennies and just about everyone has a pair.  You may use them to mow the lawn, to keep in shape, or to show your style; but did you know some people take shoes to a whole different level?

Sneakerheads, the name given to people who own and purchase sneakers for the purpose of collecting them, are a part of a collecting subculture that’s been active since the 80s.  Starting with the influence of Hip Hop style and the appearance of more stylish sneakers in sports like Basketball and Skateboarding the hobby of “Sneakerology” or Sneaker Collecting was born.

Brands like Nike’s Air Jordan’s,  Air Force Ones and Reebok Pumps are among the most collectible styles going for $1000s a pair but many Sneakerheads collect whatever styles move them.  Just like any collector, Sneaker collectors look for the rarest sneakers to add to their collection.  Shoes that are in perfect condition from a store or other seller might fit into a collection and many shoe companies now make customized shoes for buyers in specific colors and styles.  Many Sneaker collectors NEVER EVER wear their shoes.
The Internet is a great resource for Sneaker Collectors.  With websites, blogs, and guides readily available, anyone can learn more about collecting shoes.  Here are only a few to get you started:

Sneakerpedia

Sole Collector

Sole Survivor Detroit

Kixionary

Sneaker Maniac

If you want to get a look at some really crazy Sneaker creativity check out these books at the library.

Or if you’d like to get a first hand look at some of the most sought after shoes out there check out the Sneaker Museum.

There’s even a  film featuring Sneakerheads who are famous, or fanatical, or both.  And if you’re really interested in turning your passion into a career try and reinstate this course in Sneakerology at Carnegie Mellon University.

-Brooke, South Side/Allegheny

Meet Coe Booth and Lisa McMann

It’s (almost) Spring.  Okay, not really, but it’s at least time to start THINKING about Spring.  And, this spring, there are two fantastic authors coming to speak at Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh locations.  Here are the basics, but you can find more information on the Behind the Book website.  I get really excited about author visits, so I’ll probably blog about this more in the coming weeks…

Click on the date to register!

March 11, 2010
7:00 PM
Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh – Allegheny
1230 Federal St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15212

Coe Booth (author of Tyrell and Kendra)

April 28, 2010
7:00 PM
Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh – Main
4400 Forbes Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15213

Lisa McMann (author of Wake, Fade and Gone)

Hope to see you there!

Karen

CLP Quick Flix – Contest Deadline Extended!

Did you totally mean to enter the CLP Quick Flix Teen Video Contest but time got away from you?  Did you film some stuff, but not get around to editing it?  Well, I have good news for you: we extended the deadline!  The new deadline is Friday, August 8th…but if you get it in by the end of the weekend, you’ll probably be okay.

If you already entered and are wondering who won, you’re going to have to wait a little longer: winners will be announced at the CLP Quick Flix Film Screening and Award Ceremony on Saturday, August 30th from 3-5pm at CLP – Main, Teen.

I’m looking forward to seeing your flix!

Karen

North Side Library Groundbreaking

You’ve been waiting and now there’s news about the NEW North Side Library.  Groundbreaking is Friday, May 9 at 9 a.m. The site is 1210 Federal St. (just north of North). Hope to see you there!

Barb

Mt. Washington and Allegheny Regional Libraries