Transcript Staff

The Norman Public Library, 225 N. Webster, has activities planned for teens Tuesday through Friday during spring break.

A group of anime enthusiasts, aNIMe fREAKs, will meet and host a screening of "Nausicaa: Valley of the Wind" at the library 5 p.m Tuesday. The film is a classic fantasy film created by Hayao Miryazaki and is a "must-see" for all anime fans, according to Rebecca Spence, teen librarian.

"Teens will watch the film and discuss their thoughts on the history of anime and changing world of Japanese animation. Of course, there will be free snacks, too," Spence said.

Members of aNIMe fREAKs must be at least 12 years old and in the seventh grade. However, for this special screening non-members are welcome as long as they are in the seventh to 12th grade. Information about the group that meets monthly on the third Tuesday at the library will be available.

On Wednesday, teens will have the opportunity at 2 p.m. to join the experts from Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service for a hands-on Southwest cooking class titled "Teen Cuisine Southwest Cooking." They will learn about the foods of the Southwest and the spices that make them kick. Supplies will be provided. Registration is required and limited to 12. This program is part of The Big Read.

The Big Read is a project of the library system and an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts, in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and in cooperation with Arts Midwest.

On Thursday, another Big Read program titled "Teen Dreams" is planned at 2 p.m. Teens will talk about dreams in the Big Read's, "Bless Me, Ultima" novel and craft personal dream pillows to take home. Supplies will be provided. Space is limited. Parents who bring their teen younger than 18 may register for the "Bless Me, Ultima" Ultimate Altima Give-Away at these two official Big Read events.

Friday Night Flicks for teens starts 6 p.m. at the library. "Stardust," rated PG-13, will be playing. Admission is free but a ticket is required. Teens in grades seven through 12 who have a valid library card may pick up a ticket at the library's information desk beginning Monday or get one at the door. Teens also will be treated to free popcorn and a drink during the show.?

Supplies and snacks are provided through the support of the Friends of the Norman Library. For more information about these or other spring break activities at the Norman Public Library, 225 N. Webster Ave., visit the Web site www.justsoyouknow.us or call the library at 701-2600.