By: Mona Clark

     During its rise to unprecedented popularity, the Internet has been vilified for many reasons, not the least of which is the concern that it has a negative effect on reading habits and literacy levels.  In reality, Internet use has made the world a more literate place.  Whether or not an Internet user is an avid reader of books, they are reading hundreds of words every time they log on to their favourite websites.  People who regularly use e-mail, message boards or chat rooms are also rediscovering the art of written communication.  The novelty of the world wide web has made it necessary for users to read and write as frequently as they did during their school years, even though they may not be aware of it!

     The Internet has also become a wonderful tool for the promotion of books.  Not only can readers access the websites of their favourite authors to find booklists and other bibliographic information, they can also take part in online discussion forums.  Book clubs and reading groups have sprung up all over the Internet and they encompass a wide variety of material from popular fiction to literary classics.  While some of these forums operate in conjunction with local literary discussion groups, because online participants remain anonymous, people who might be reluctant to attend a book club in their own town might very well express their ideas online. Technology can never replace the power of a great book, but thanks to the Internet, there have never been more opportunities for authors to advance their work, or for readers to share their favourite books.  This has lead to a renewed interest in reading for many people.  More books are published today than in the years before the Internet existed, and a study by Princeton University found that there was a 36% increase in book sales between 1997 and 2004.

     While the Internet is a wonderful tool when used responsibly, it still presents risks to users, particularly children.  Jason Illian’s new book, My Space My Kids, addresses parents’ concerns regarding this trendy site that is frequented by over 100 million users.  The book is a valuable resource for everyone who uses this, or similar sites such as Facebook.  It sheds light on the amount of personal information passed on through this website and explains ways of using this type of communication without leaving virtual footprints that could leave a child or teenager vulnerable to online predators.  Another current non-fiction selection that focuses on children is Lisa Rivero’s The Homeschooling Option.  If you have ever considered this educational alternative for your family, this book will answer many of your questions regarding home study curriculum, social implications as well as education laws. 

      In recognition of Children’s Mental Health Week (May 3-10), your library is featuring a display of books addressing problems unique to the complexities of being young in today’s world.  A few of the issues discussed in our featured books are eating disorders, self-mutilation, substance abuse, bullying, depression and autism. 

     I would like to remind patrons that the library has updated versions of the official MTO handbooks pertaining to bus, airbrake, truck and motorcycle, as well as the latest driver’s handbook.  Updated driver and airbrake manuals are also available in French.

     From May 2 until May 17, the library is exhibiting the work artist John da Rosa.  Mr. da Rosa began painting in his retirement and his effervescent acrylic works encompass a variety of subjects, including local and tropical landscapes, still life and portraits.  Celebrate the vibrant colours of spring by taking in this exhibit.