This blog post was written by Miranda Lanier, our new Youth Services Assistant.
Hi there! My name is Miranda and I’m the new Youth Services Library Assistant here at Derby Public Library. I will be helping out behind the desk in the Youth Services Department and with the Adventures in the Library program for K – 2nd Graders on Thursdays at 4 p.m.
I’m currently working on my Masters of Library Science at Emporia State and am thrilled to be learning so much through their program. I grew up in Douglass, KS and live in Rose Hill with my husband and two boys who are eight and three. When I’m not doing all the mom things or studying, I enjoy reading, going on walks, or making the occasional wreath.
Right now, audio books are my go-to because they are hands free! I can listen as I drive or do housework, and it’s the only way I can read a good novel. If you haven’t looked into the Libby app I highly recommend it! Currently, I’m listening to Expiration Dates by Rebecca Serle.
Some of my favorite classic children’s books to read aloud include:
- Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
- Cat in the Hat and Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss
- Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown
Some of my favorite children’s books written in more recent years include:
- What Do You Do With An Idea? by Kobi Yamada. This delightfully animated story encourages young children to not give up on their ideas, but to let them grow. A wonderful book for nurturing the ideas of the young and young at heart.
- The Moonlight Zoo by Maudie Powell-Tuck. This magical story will tug at heartstrings with the message of love for lost animal friends. But don’t worry, this tale has a happy ending! Every page has beautiful illustrations and fun cut- outs.
- Beaky Barnes: Egg on the Loose by David Ezra Stein. This graphic novel is a favorite of my eight year old. A wonderfully weird story about humanized and human sized animals on a chaotic chicken run and is filled with age-appropriate slapstick comedy. It will have your child reading and laughing from cover to cover!
- Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds. This book is only recommended for young adults. Written entirely in free verse, it tells the story of a teenage boy who seeks revenge for his older brother’s murder. He has a critical decision to make all within an elevator ride to the first floor. This is a great pick for the reluctant reader.
I’ll wrap up my introduction with a quote I came across recently that meant something to me, and I hope it does to you too.
“Whenever you read a book or tell a story to your kids, read it with enthusiasm and all the voices. It’s a gift that they will grow up and pass on to their own children. And in your own little way, you will have made the world a better place.” -Unknown
I am so excited to be at Derby Public Library, and I can’t wait to meet you and your child!
- Meet Miranda, our new Youth Services Assistant! - September 10, 2024
- Writing Challenge Winner: Iason Whitlock and the North Star by Aine Strange - August 28, 2024
- Writing Challenge Winner: West to Nowhere, East to Adventure by Layla Mendoza - August 27, 2024
