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First Steps to the Library: Where is Thumbkin? Here I Am!

  • Heather M.
  • Thursday, September 14

First Steps to the Library highlights the skills young children need to be ready for school and helps caregivers understand how they can grow these skills.  This month's school readiness skill is about building your little one's social skills through conversation.  

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Richland Library Main

First Steps to the Library: Do You Need Directions?

  • Heather M.
  • Friday, September 08

First Steps to the Library highlights the skills young children need to be ready for school and helps caregivers understand how they can grow these skills.  This month's school readiness skill is about growing your child's knowledge of early math concepts like direction, size and shape.  

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Richland Library Main

First Steps to the Library: Big Words & Big Dreams

  • Heather M.
  • Friday, July 07

First Steps to the Library highlights the skills young children need to be ready for school and helps caregivers understand how they can grow these skills. This month's school readiness skill is about growing your child's proficiency with your home language.  

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Richland Library Main

First Steps to the Library: You Did It! I Did It!

  • Heather M.
  • Tuesday, May 23

First Steps to the Library highlights the skills young children need to be ready for school and helps caregivers understand how they can grow these skills.  This month's school readiness skill is about growing your child's self-esteem and confidence through connection.  

The Clam
Crabs!
Staff Picks

Level 1 Decodable Chapter Books: Magic Belt Series

  • Emily J.
  • Tuesday, May 16
Looking for action and adventure? The Magic Belt series follows Zak’s quest to save his grandfather’s life. He sets out on a magical quest to collect hidden gems that will unlock the cure for grandfather illness. Zak races against time as he hurdles through obstacle after obstacle. 
Attack at Nightfall
A Cry in the Dark
Staff Picks

Decodable Chapter Books: Talisman Series

  • Emily J.
  • Tuesday, May 16
The night before his 14th birthday, Zak has a strange dream. A mysterious lady appears before him bearing an important message: "The Dark Master is creating a new talisman, even more powerful than the first. All of mankind is at risk. You must resume your quest and stop him!" she tells him. Together with Mim and a skinny, old mule, Zak sets off to Volcano Island to confront the Dark Master. Will he be able to reach him before it is too late? Will he be able to save humanity?
Chasing Henry
Cobweb the Cat
Staff Picks

Decodable Readers: All About Reading

  • Emily J.
  • Friday, May 12
All About Reading are designed for students in the first stages of reading. New readers feel empowered because they can sound-out unfamiliar words without guessing and steadily build their reading skills. These books are completely “decodable” meaning that they use simple words and only short vowel sounds as the first stepping stones into reading.
I Am Sam. Emergent Reader 1
Am I Lucky. Emergent Reader 34
Staff Picks

Decodable Readers: Flyleaf Beginning Readers

  • Emily J.
  • Thursday, May 11
Flyleaf Readers are designed for students in the first stages of reading. New readers feel empowered because they can sound-out unfamiliar words without guessing and steadily build their reading skills. These books are completely “decodable” meaning that they use simple words and only short vowel sounds as the first stepping stones into reading.  
Dark Tunnels
Dog Sledding
Staff Picks

Decodable Readers: High Noon Sound-Out Chapter Books Level 5 & 6

  • Emily J.
  • Thursday, May 11
High Noon Chapter Books are designed for new readers who are ready to dive into chapter books. These stories are completely “decodable” meaning they use simple words and short vowel sounds as the first stepping stones into reading. Levels 5 and 6 are for new readers ready to tackle multisyllabic words and longer sentences. 
Chase the Wind.
Lost in the Dunes.
Staff Picks

Decodable Readers: High Noon Sound-Out Chapter Books Level 3 & 4

  • Emily J.
  • Thursday, May 11
 High Noon Chapter Books are designed for new readers who are ready to dive into chapter books. These stories are completely “decodable” meaning they use simple words and short vowel sounds as the first stepping stones into reading. Levels 3 & 4 build foundational reading skills that will prepare a reader for more challenging concepts in levels 5 & 6. 
Cole and Finn
Get the Vet
Staff Picks

Decodable Readers: High Noon Sound-Out Chapter Books for New Readers

  • Emily J.
  • Thursday, May 11
High Noon Chapter Books are designed for new readers who are ready to dive into chapter books. These stories are completely “decodable” meaning they use simple words and short vowel sounds as the first stepping stones into reading. Levels 1 & 2 build foundational reading skills that will prepare a reader for more challenging concepts in levels 3 & 4. 
The Bad Hiss
The Check-up
Staff Picks

Decodable Readers: Whole Phonics Level 2 Series

  • Emily J.
  • Wednesday, May 10
Whole Phonics Early Level 2 Series are designed for early readers who are ready to tackle more advanced concepts.  New readers feel empowered because they can sound-out unfamiliar words without guessing and steadily build their reading skills. These books are completely “decodable” meaning that they use simple words and only short vowel sounds as the first stepping stones into reading. Decodable readers series slowly progress into more complex reading concepts moving from simple one-syllable words (fan) to multisyllabic words (fantastic). 
Buzz, Buzz
Get Up!
Staff Picks

Decodable Readers: Whole Phonics Level 1 Series

  • Emily J.
  • Wednesday, May 10
Whole Phonics Early Level 1 Series are designed for students who know all the consonant and short vowel sounds. New readers feel empowered because they can sound-out unfamiliar words without guessing and steadily build their reading skills. These books are completely “decodable” meaning that they use simple words and only short vowel sounds as the first stepping stones into reading. Decodable readers series slowly progress into more complex reading concepts moving from simple one-syllable words (fan) to multisyllabic words (fantastic). 
A Cap
The Fab Cab
Staff Picks

First Decodable Readers: Whole Phonics Off We Go Series

  • Emily J.
  • Wednesday, May 10
Whole Phonics Early Readers are designed for students in the first stages of reading. New readers feel empowered because they can sound-out unfamiliar words without guessing and steadily build their reading skills. These books are completely “decodable” meaning that they use simple words and only short vowel sounds as the first stepping stones into reading. Decodable readers series slowly progress into more complex reading concepts moving from simple one-syllable words (fan) to multisyllabic words (fantastic). 
Blog
Richland Library Main

First Steps to the Library: It's Okay to Play

  • Heather M.
  • Monday, April 24

First Steps to the Library highlights the skills young children need to be ready for school and helps caregivers understand how they can grow these skills.  This month's school readiness skill is about the importance of play.  

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Richland Library Main

First Steps to the Library: Learning is Never Far Away

  • Heather M.
  • Tuesday, March 28

First Steps to the Library highlights the skills young children need to be ready for school and helps caregivers understand how they can grow these skills.  This month's school readiness skill is about spatial awareness.  

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Richland Library Main

First Steps to the Library: Movers and Shakers

  • Heather M.
  • Wednesday, February 15

First Steps to the Library highlights the skills young children need to be ready for school and helps caregivers understand how they can grow these skills.  This month's school readiness skill is about self-expression and creativity.  

To Look a Nazi in the Eye
The Light in Hidden Places
Staff Picks

International Holocaust Remembrance Day for Teens

  • Richland Library
  • Thursday, January 26
"Oskar Groening, the man accused of aiding and abetting in the murder of more than three hundred thousand Jews in the Auschwitz-Birkenau death camp, was about to enter the German courtroom."--To Look a Nazi in the Eye:  A Teen's Account of a War Criminal Trial by Kathy Kacer with Jordana Lebowitz
Stars of the Night
The Story of Bodri
Staff Picks

International Holocaust Remembrance Day for Young Readers

  • Richland Library
  • Thursday, January 26
“There will be times when you'll feel lonely and homesick.  Let the stars of the night and the sun of the day be the messenger of our thoughts and love.”― Stars of the Night:  The Courageous Children of the Czech Kindertransport by Caren Stelson | illustrated by Selina Alko
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Richland Library Main

First Steps to the Library: Feeling the Feelings

  • Heather M.
  • Thursday, January 12

First Steps to the Library highlights the skills young children need to be ready for school and helps caregivers understand how they can grow these skills.  This month's school readiness skill is about identifying, managing and expressing feelings.  

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Richland Library Main

First Steps to the Library: Cuddle Up with a Good Book

  • Heather M.
  • Thursday, January 12

First Steps to the Library highlights the skills young children need to be ready for school and helps caregivers understand how they can grow these skills.  This month's school readiness skill is developing an interest in books and a motivation to read.  

The People Remember
Too Small Tola and the Three Fine Girls
Staff Picks

2022 Holiday Gifts for Early Elementary

  • Richland Library
  • Sunday, December 04
Did you know that reading every day from an early age helps expand your child’s attention span? The early elementary ages are a great time to develop those skills by reading both novels and picture books aloud to your child. Whether reading independently or together, being surrounded by books will nurture their reading and will help them go from beginning to read to reading fluently. 
The Universe in You
The Complete Baking Book for Young Chefs.
Staff Picks

2022 Holiday Gifts for Upper Elementary

  • Richland Library
  • Sunday, December 04
Children at this age are branching out into longer books.  Novels can echo their real life experiences, but they can also tell new stories, boosting their imaginations and building their empathy.  Books for tweens can be their way of fitting in or standing out.  These books can also offer comfort during this time of transition and help them discover who they might grow up to be. 
Twelve Dinging Doorbells
Little Green Donkey
Staff Picks

2022 Holiday Gifts for Preschoolers

  • Richland Library
  • Sunday, December 04
Preschoolers are primed for discovery and books are no exception. Treating books with loving care is something preschoolers are also beginning to learn.  They will take pride in their growing library when you give the gift of books. Looking for even more good books?  Check out our personalized recommendations or call us at 803-799-9084. 
I Love You a Latke!
Global Baby Playtime
Staff Picks

2022 Holiday Gifts for Babies & Toddlers

  • Richland Library
  • Sunday, December 04
Babies and toddlers are getting an introduction to the world of books.  Reading to them on a daily basis helps them develop a routine where they begin to associate love, interaction, and family with books. Looking for even more good books?  Check out our personalized recommendations or call us at 803-799-9084. 
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Richland Library Main

First Steps to the Library: Growing Healthy Habits

  • Heather M.
  • Thursday, January 12

First Steps to the Library highlights the skills young children need to be ready for school and helps caregivers understand how they can grow these skills.  This month's school readiness skill is developing healthy eating habits.  

Music is a Rainbow
An Ordinary Day
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Death, Loss & Grief

  • Heather M.
  • Monday, November 07
"Son, life is full of holes. You may want to close them up to keep out the storm. But make sure to leave room for that rainbow to find you." --Music is a Rainbow by Bryan Collier
You're Not Listening
Listen!
Staff Picks

Are You Listening?: Self Improvement Books on Communication

  • Chantal W.
  • Tuesday, August 16
One of the 2022 #BroaderBookshelf Challenge prompts this year is to read a self improvement book.  Are you looking to be a better communicator?  Then these books about mindful listening, communication and how to have hard conversations with family, friends, coworkers and community members might be for you and you get to check off a #BroaderBookshelf prompt at the same time.
Dragons in a Bag
Going Down Home with Daddy.
Staff Picks

Great Books for Ages 7, 8, 9 | 2021

  • Richland Library
  • Thursday, July 14
Mama smiles sweetly and places her palm against the door. She speaks slowly and politely. “It’s just us, Ma. I called this morning and told you we were coming. Remember?” The woman behind the door barks at Mama, “Course I remember. You called and asked if you could leave the boy with me and I said NO!”--Dragons in a Bag by Zetta Elliott
Samira Surfs
The Maps of Memory
Staff Picks

Great Books for Ages 11, 12, 13 | 2022

  • Richland Library
  • Wednesday, May 11
Middle school readers are still figuring out the world while trying to figure out themselves.  They may look for books that reflect their experience or give them a window or sliding glass
Stuntboy, in the Meantime
Ancestor Approved
Staff Picks

Great Books for Ages 9, 10, 11 | 2022

  • Richland Library
  • Wednesday, May 11
"This is Stuntboy. This guy, right here. Him. You can't tell just looking at him, but he's the greatest superhero you've never heard of."  --Stuntboy, in the Meantime by Jason Reynolds
Too Small Tola
Too Small Tola
Staff Picks

Great Books for Ages 7, 8, 9 | 2022

  • Richland Library
  • Wednesday, May 11
"Tola is the youngest in her family. And the smallest. And everybody calls her Too Small Tola, which makes her feel too-too small."  --Too Small Tola by Atinuke
When Lola Visits
I Talk Like a River
Staff Picks

Great Books for Ages 5, 6, 7 | 2022

  • Richland Library
  • Wednesday, May 11
"Summer feels like the last golden hour of the day drifting into an indigo night."  --When Lola Visits by Michelle Sterling
Eyes That Speak to the Stars
Bright Star (read Along)
Staff Picks

Great Books for Ages 3, 4, 5 | 2022

  • Richland Library
  • Wednesday, May 11
"My eyes gaze into space and glimpse trails of light..."  --Eyes That Speak to the Stars by Joanna Ho Preschoolers are listening to longer books and asking LOTS of questions.  They are growing their independence along with their attention spans.  Bring your book lover to Richland Library and pick up one of these terrific titles today.  
Change Starts with Us
On the Go with Mother Goose
Staff Picks

Great Books for Babies | 2022

  • Richland Library
  • Wednesday, May 11
"Change starts with learning about the world."--Change Starts with Us  by Sophie Beer Snuggled in your lap, babies love books with photographs, simple, bright illustrations, rhyming and the sound of your voice.  Find your little one's new favorite story from our list of books to share.  
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Richland Library Main

On the Streets Where We Live

  • Bland L.
  • Wednesday, April 27

If you’ve ever walked or biked around downtown Columbia, you’ve probably encountered impatience from drivers waiting for you to clear a crosswalk or pedal through an intersection.  The unspoken assumption in this scenario is that streets are primarily for cars, and any other uses take a back seat (so to speak) to this imperative.

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Richland Library Main

How to Talk to Your Kids About COVID

  • Anika Thomas
  • Wednesday, May 25

When the 2020 lockdown began to lift and our new normal beckoned for us to finally leave our homes I didn’t know what to do or what to expect. Information changed so rapidly, it made it hard for me, as a parent, to create consistency in my approach to COVID-19 so I reverted to basics. Here are some things I learned.