Weekly Shhhout-Out

             We’re now just days away from yet another new year (and the last one according to the Aztec calendar). If 2012 really is the be all and end all, why not let your local MCPL branch help you make the most of it?  Here are some surefire ways to get the most out of the new year.

 

 

MCPL has plenty of online and offline resources to help you get in touch with your inner linguist.

 

Mango Languages offers online courses in over 44 languages (plus English learning courses for speakers of over 13 different languages). Believe it or not, they can even teach you how to speak like a pirate. Ahrrr, matey! 

 

iPad and iPhone users – there’s an app for that too, just visit the website and set up your account before going to the App Store and downloading the app. (Android users, a Mango app for your device is currently under development.)

 

Both of our eLibrary resources also offer downloadables fopr language learning. EBSCOHost Audiobooks has downloadble versions of the popular Pimsleur Language Learning series. However, you must have a PC with Windows Media Player to listen to them. The Maryland Digital eLibrary Consortium has several language learning e-books and eaudiobooks which are compatible with several portable or smart devices.

 

And of course, you might find the language learning textbook or CD Book that you’ve been looking for on the shelves at your local branch.

 

2.                  Visit an uncharted territory!

 

Make use of that new language you just learned by planning a trip to somewhere new. The 914s-919s offer an array of guidebooks to help you on your way. Some of the more popular guides even have online equivalents (these include http://www.fodors.com and http://www.lonelyplanet.com). Check out http://www.tripadvisor.com to get the lowdown on places from your fellow travelers.

 

3.                  Discover a new you!

                Did you eat too much of the local cuisine on your travels? Did that hike in the mountains show you just how out of shape you really are? Visit the 613.71s for fitness ideas and 641.563 for healthy cooking tips. Be sure to check out Montgomery County’s RecWeb (http://www.recweb.montgomerycountymd.gov) to sign up for a heart-pumping aerobics class or to make a splash in your local pool.   For technophobes, limited copies of the Department of Recreation’s print course guide are available at most library branches, community recreation centers, and county aquatic centers. If you’re free on a weekday afternoon, why not take in a session of Bone Builders at Potomac Library.  (If exercise isn't your thing, you can also learn a new skill or augment an old one.  The Rec Department offers arts & crafts and cooking classes, among many others. )

 Chris B.