Bicycle Path?

Family Place Training Institute

Before my journey to Long Island, I took a look at the directions to one of the locations I'll be visiting during the Family Place Training and it literally says "make a left onto Bicycle Path..." I'll keep you updated whether or not I have to go off-roading to reach the Middle Country Public Library Selden Building which is hosting the training. I'll reach JFK at 6pm on Sunday, then make my way eastwards using the GPS on the rental car as my guide to reach the Holiday Inn in Centereach, Long Island. Hopefully they'll have good wi-fi, so I can easily add to my blog during my 3 and a half day institute.

The Family Place coordinator sent a prelimary packet and on-line curriculum which I completed today. During the last couple of weeks Archibald reopening excitement, I admit I let the pre-assessment work sort of slide but got most it done - whew! Most of the material explained the history of the Family Place movement and how the Middle Country Public Library started this trend towards early learning programming, education and environments in 1996. Currently, the Family Place Libraries network includes more than 220 sites in 24 states and will continue to grow.

The Rancho Cucamonga Public Library has most of the ingredients for what makes a great Family Place Library - our children's services are awesome! We'll be the first library in the San Bernardino County to have the Family Place designation (correct me if I'm wrong Renee.) I spent many years as an adult services librarian and am a fairly new children's librarian, so I'm learning a very great deal. Having the opportunity to travel to Long Island for the Family Place Libraries Training Institute is a really unique opportunity. I work for such a great organization! I am very excited to be heading down the Bicycle Path and seeing where it leads!

- Margaret