Give Mango Foreign Language Learning System a Try

Interested in learning or becoming more proficient in a foreign language?   The Ridgefield Library is here to support your efforts.  Responding to the proliferation of new products and formats, we are continually looking to expand our language learning collection to serve you better.  

Pimsleur language learning selections are no longer available as part of our NetLibrary downloadable audiobook service.   We are exploring several other options, including interactive computer-based programs, and would like your input.

This month, we are running a trial of Mango Languages, an online language-learning system offering instruction in speaking skills for a wide variety of languages.  Mango uses real-life situations to teach a new language.  By listening to and repeating material from native conversations, the user learns the language and how to use it in practical situations, while being introduced to elements of grammar and conjugation.

You can access the Mango Languages trial by visiting our website at www.ridgefieldlibrary.org, or you can try it at the Library.  Once you have sampled Mango Languages, e-mail your feedback to dlpawl@RidgefieldLibrary.org.  Please include reactions to the Mango 2.0 Technology Preview when commenting about whether this is a resource the Library should consider purchasing. Thanks for your help.

H1N1 Preparedness @ the Library

Along with many others, the Ridgefield Library is preparing to minimize risks to its patrons and staff from the anticipated onset of H1N1 virus, or swine flu.

First and foremost, if anyone in your family shows symptoms that resemble those associated with swine flu – stay home!  Renew items you have out online or by phone; call to let us know you won’t be coming to storytime.  As with any illness, if you are too sick to go to work or school, you are too sick to come to the Library.

Exercise sensible precautions when handling library materials or computers. Have your child wash his or her hands after using a “games” computer, or take advantage of one of the dispensers of sanitizing gel located throughout the building. Use a sanitizing wipe to clean off computer keyboards or tabletops before use.  Our maintenance staff works hard to make sure the Library is thoroughly cleaned each morning, but with more than 1,200 people coming through the doors each day, we can’t keep up with the continuous activity.

Visit our website at www.ridgefieldlibrary.org and click on “H1N1 Information” for the latest from the Town of Ridgefield, the state Dept. of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Mystery Book Discussion Group to Launch in November

Murder by the Book – that’s the name of the Library’s newest book discussion group, set to launch next month.  Responding to popular demand, it will be dedicated exclusively to the enjoyment and exploration of the mystery genre.

Meeting on the first Thursday of each month, the group will alternate between traditional book discussions and other mystery-related programs, such as film screenings, author talks and more. Library Assistant Director Mary Rindfleisch will serve as facilitator.

The first session will be on Thursday, November 5^th at 1:00 PM in the Library’s Dayton Program Room, when we will discuss “Shroud for a Nightingale” by P.D. James. This title was selected for our inaugural meeting because of the author’s unique position in the transition between Golden Age writers like Agatha Christie and Ngaio Marsh and the more contemporary sensibility of Sue Grafton, Elizabeth George and others.

As with all Library book groups, copies of the selection are available at the Circulation Desk, or check Books on the Common to purchase at a 15% book club discount.

If you are a mystery fan, join us in November to help choose forthcoming selections and programs!