As I mentioned in my last post that the Summer Reading Program is quickly approaching. Rhode Island participates in a collaboaration of states that have pools resources to be able to afford better marketing supplies and build a handbook of ideas and activities relating to the summer reading program.

Well, I volunteered along with another teen librarian to help critique and help in constructing the manual for next summer. Our them then will highlight the arts and be called "Express Yourself." Well, I got to work on my first set of tasks. We were sent some sample clip art that has been created to be used in conjunction with the program.

I actually liked the art a lot. I can't share any of the art with you, but here are the comments I made to be sent in:

I feel all special being able to be on the inside and see these early! I like the imagery a lot. It definitely hones in on the "cool" factor with tech-related images. I would have liked to see a little bit more having to do with writing/poetry reading. I was glad to see the theater represented, and there is definitely a good amount for music and tech. (I have to say that I had trouble figuring out the cell phone being used for txt messaging because I thought it was a calculator . ;)!) How about campy modeling (Think Madonna in her "Vogue" video)? I like the feel/style of the illustrations. They will definitely have appeal since they seem to have a bit of a manga-meets-Disney feel to them. They definitely "scream" fun and exciting to me.

How about having some stylized emoticons that fit the style of art available as part of the illustration package? Actually, that would make a cool program! Show the kids various emoticons (in ASCII-style key strikes) and maybe have the kids help create new ones to express themselves in chat. Anyway, that is a tangent.

Sign language related illustrations would be a perfect way to include some diversity in relation to those with disabilities. This would also make another great program idea for next summer.

The artwork really was cool, though!!!!