Does school success require more than intelligence? Listen to the September 14th episode of radio show This American Life which discusses ideas from Paul Tough's book, How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character. Education Watch also addresses the topic and speaks to the author in its podcast, "Is Intelligence Really the Key to Success?"

Learn the basics of free publicity at this Southdale Library program and how to use it to get the word out on your business to potential clients. Neil F. Anderson, national speaker, published writer and owner of The Courage Group Inc. will share his expertise gained in working with entrepreneurs over the past 20 years. Saturday, October 13, 10:30 a.m. to noon. Free - no registration necessary.

Teaching children about the United States goverment can be fun and easy at Kids.gov. Newly redesigned, this kid-friendly site has something of interest to kids, parents, and teachers. Find interactive games, videos, history, science and art projects, lesson plans and homework tips.

CNN has a list of intriguing activities taking place during the UN General Assembly this week.

The New York Times reports on a joint Stanford and New York University study of the effects on civilian populations of drone attacks in Pakistan. The complete study, “Living Under Drones”, is available online.

See the finalists in the Tekne Award, honoring those who play a significant role in discovering new technologies that educate, improve lifestyles and impact people's lives and futures.

Create your own cookbook by adding recipes you select on the USDA's Recipe Finder database. Recipes are submitted by nutrition and health professionals.

For the first time ever, the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office will allow third parties to participate in the review of pending patent applications.

Hawk Ridge Bird Observatiory in Duluth MN is one of the premier locations in North America to witness the fall migration of raptors. If you can't get there in person, visit their website to learn more about raptor research, migration and bird banding in Minnesota.

A poor economy and a drop in impulse buying resulted in a 10 percent decrease in magazine newsstand sales for the first six months of 2012. Although most magazine categories suffered a decline in sales, food and home publications showed some improvement.

Connect to online tutors 7 days a week from 1 to 11 p.m. on the library website or find tutors in library buildings. Our Homework page gives you the details. Be sure to check the right sidebar for more suggestions for independent study.

U. S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan recently recognized 269 schools across the nation as Blue Ribbon Schools for their high performance and significant improvements in academic achievement. The list includes seven Minnesota schools. Congratulations!

In honor of Hispanic heritage month, we spotlight materials available in Spanish. Whether you are a native speaker or just beginning your language journey, the library has a fantastic collection of books, DVDs, ebooks and audiobooks en español for your reading, viewing and listening pleasure. ¡Disfruta!

Autumn is one of the best times to enjoy Minnesota! Whether you are looking for local events, day trips, and weekend adventures, Minnesota has so much to offer, and the Library has plenty of material to help you plan for maximum enjoyment.

Celebrated each year on September 17th, this day commemorates the signing of the United States Constitution in 1787 and recognizes all who have attained US Citizenship. The Law Library of Congress tracks the history of this annual observance with primary documents from the Legislative and Executive Branches.

The Hennepin County Library now has online access to Canadian residential listings through the database, Reference USA. Link to Reference USA through this subject guide or through the list of Databases A-Z. You will need to enter your library barcode number if you want to access the database outside the library.

Music Online American Song allows you to listen to and create playlists of music from a large historical collection of people, events and genres from America's past. Liner notes are available in PDF.

With busy schedules, it's not realistic to consider sewing everything from scratch for your next trip. Threads Magazine developed a strategy for the crafty DIY-er to focus sewing time where it counts: on key pieces.

Economic policies are central to this year's elections. To be a better informed voter, visit the Economic Policy Institute or the American Institute for Economic Research, both dedicated to independent research and educating the general public.

Safely dispose of unused medicines at Hennepin County's green medicine drop boxes located in the lobby at each of the six locations.

Chris Stevens expressed in a letter to friends the positive direction he observed in Libya as he settled into his new position.

Join us as we celebrate Vietnamese history through the arts at the Mall of America®. Enjoy photo and art exhibits, music, cultural performances, cooking demos, storytelling, a dragon dance, hands-on activities, a talent show, and mid-autumn festival!

In Minnesota you can register to vote on election day, but why wait? Voter registration applications can be found at any Hennepin County Library or can be printed from Minnesota Votes. Also at Minnesota Votes find your polling place or how to vote absentee. If you decide to wait until election day, find out what you need to bring with you from the Minnesota Office of the Secretary of State.

Are you interested in a computer class at HCL? Here is our full list of classes. Happy learning!

Whether creating more space or remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, consider these tips from the National Association of Remodeling Industry (NARI). Also check out the HomeMods.org web page on Home Modification Resources: a Consumer Guide For Home Adaptation.

Planning to buy a car? Note the clues at the website, Car Buying Tips.

The Paralympics are on in London and the US is doing great!

The first Presidential Debate will be held in Denver, Colorado on Wednesday October 3. The first Vice Presidential Debate will be on Thursday October 11 in Danville, Kentucky.
See the Commision on Presidential Debates for all the details.

September 15-October 15 is Hispanic Heritage Month. Learn more about your Latin heritage through Cyndi's List-Mexico, Cyndi's List-Central & South America, and Cyndi's List-Spain.

Celebrate September 15 - October 15 by attending one of the many library events or by learning more about Latin culture.

Want to know what other consumers have to say about a product?
Find out at Viewpoints.com.

Tips for parents and students on School Health from the National Library of Medicine.