First Posted: 4/11/2012

Bernard is a sea otter who lives in a zoo. He loves living there and best of all, he loves naptime, curling up with all the other sea otters, except for one little problem: Bernard snores, he snores loudly, and keeps all the otters awake, so he tries on his own to find a solution. His search for a different place in which to sleep is told in the picture book story, “Stop Snoring, Bernard,” written and illustrated by Pennsylvania author, Zachariah Ohora. The book had the distinction of being chosen as the featured book for this year’s Pennsylvania Early Literacy Initiative, “One Book, Every Young Child.” Mr. Ohora will be at the Abington Community Library on Thursday, April 26, at 10 a.m. to read the story aloud and do otter crafts with the children in attendance. Children will also receive free “Bernard the Otter” bookmarks, stickers, and activity booklets. Registration is now taking place at the library for this special program which is recommended for children of pre-school and kindergarten age. Call the library at 587.3440 to register.

“The Story of Ireland: a History of the Irish People,” written by Neil Hegarty, is a new addition to the adult non-fiction collection at the library.

The book reexamines Irish history, challenging the accepted stories and long-held myths associated with Ireland, beginning with the first settlement in 433 A. D. Hegarty presents a fresh perspective, examining how world events, including Europe’s 16th century religious wars, the French and American Revolutions, and Ireland’s policy of neutrality during World War II have shaped the country over the course of its long and fascinating history. In an up-to-date afterword, he details the present state of affairs in the country. A review in “Publisher’s Weekly” hails the book as a “finely researched and timely celebration of Ireland’s turbulent history and conservative people.”

UPCOMING EVENTS

Wednesday, April 11 After-School Program 4 – 4:45 PM “Titanic: 1912” will be the theme as we take a look at books from the non-fiction collection and get together for an activity. Ages 5 – 10

Thursday, April 12 PA FORWARD DAY All day. Drop by to see our displays and get to know the 5 literacy building blocks PA libraries now stand upon. Cake cutting at 2:30PM! All ages

Friday, April 13 “One Book” Presentation 10:30 – 11 AM A special Story Hour for pre-schoolers (age 2 – 5) presented by Cindy Reynolds to promote “Stop Snoring, Bernard”

Friday, April 13 Spontaneous Debate 7 – 9 PM What’s your opinion on hot topics? Share it and persuade us! The Judges will have the final word. Or, just come and be a part of the audience. Grades 7 – 12

Saturday, April 14 Friends of the Abington Community Library Book Sale / Bake Sale 9 AM – 2 p.m. At the Clarks Summit United Methodist Church. Pick up some fresh baked goods provided by members of the Library Teen Leadership Committee. All ages