Winter is here, and while it may not last long, it is a wonderful time to create lasting family memories.

With the New Year here, you can choose a new hobby. Learn to knit socks and scarves. Check out the Madison Library for the Glitter Knitter meetings. We have lots of hobby books in the 745 section of your library. Old Music for New Ears is a new DVD ,soon to be available, that is just wonderful. It introduces children to a wide variety of instruments and songs. Don’t miss it!

With the days getting shorter and cold, opportunities are there to be inside the house with the kids. Let them put on a puppet show. Search “puppet plays” in our system and see all we have to offer from making puppets to providing the plays. Put on a storytelling night. Let your children tell you stories. Find out about the new Storytelling Club at the Madison Library. Have them build a fort of cushions , tables, and sheets—go inside and read to them. This is a great time of year to create family storytimes. Let the temperature be “coolish” so snuggling feels good; make a fire or light candles; cook some popcorn or bring cookies—everyone gather for the story. We’ve got some great books enjoyed by all ages. The third book in the “Peter Pan” series by Dave Barry is in. If you haven’t been introduced to this series, it is a must. It begins with Peter and the Starcatchers. This series is a great read aloud and is fun for all ages. The audio CD of The Misadventures of Maude March has been a big hit. Books one and two of this series have been ordered. The Water Horse by Dick King-Smith is very sweet and on its way to being a movie—as is Wee Free Men by Terry Pratchet. Boys will love our new Captain Raptor books as well as the popular Alex Rider Adventures, beginning with Stormbreaker. Boys and girls alike love the series by Erin Hunter, Warriors and Warriors: The New Prophecy.

I could go on and on. And so can you. Visit your nearest library and find out how 2008 can be a great year for your family!