Libraries branch out with computers, poetry contest

Libraries are no longer just places to check out books or to go to read a book, magazine or newspaper.

Many libraries have scores of computers that can be used to find information about almost any subject.

But people in charge of the two public libraries in McKinney are taking library services another step further. They want to encourage people not only to read, but also to write.

Beth Scudder, McKinney library director, said, "The library is not just about reading. We host a variety of programs and activities that foster creativity in the community and foster a sense of community. We want to inspire the community not just through reading, but through writing and expression of creative ideas, which is especially important for our youth."

One major effort to accomplish this is through the McKinney libraries' sponsorship of a teen poetry contest that kicks off later this month.

Students in grades 6-12 in public, private and home schools are invited to express themselves in poetry and submit their entries at one of McKinney's two libraries beginning Monday.

Winners will be chosen from two levels, middle school students in grades 6-8 and high school students in grades 9-12.

An awards ceremony is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 15 at the Roy and Helen Hall Memorial Library.

Winners will be recognized, awarded and given an opportunity to read their poems. First, second and third places receive awards.

Poems should be submitted at the Judy Gay Library at 6861 W. Eldorado Pkwy., or at the Roy and Helen Hall Memorial Library at 101 E. Hunt St., both in McKinney.

Each contestant may enter a poem of original work written in any style on any subject. The poem must have a title, be written in English and be no longer than 28 lines. Each contestant may submit up to two entries. Copies should not be stapled.

Scudder said this is the third year that the McKinney library system has sponsored the teen poetry contest and that students typically write about a wide variety of subjects.

For more information, call Wendy Turner, youth services librarian, at 972-547-7319, or email her at wturner@mckinneytexas.org.

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