Listen to the woman talking about her schooldays and answer the questions below

I. 1. Read the article and say in 2—3 sentences what it is about.

BOOKS IN NEVER-ENDING MOTION

Librarians are saddened by the fact that young people tend only to borrow reference books rather than reading fiction for pleasure. Perhaps it's unfashionable to read these days. However, a new trend is developing, with literary lovers leaving their books in public places, to be picked up and 'borrowed' by others.

The Belarusian National Technical University was the first to support the idea in our country. Several years ago, the Director of its scientific library, Alexey Skalaban, passed an internship1 in Sweden. At the airport, he saw a huge glass case of books, which he learnt were available for anyone to read. It was a great idea. The question was only where such books might be kept in Minsk.

"Initially, we created a shelf in the reading hall of the University's scientific library. Later, we installed a case in the main building. It's available to everyone," explains Mr. Skalaban. "We want to encourage young people to read. Book-crossing is an easy way to do this." Alexey is looking at a website devoted to book-crossing. "Look, we've set free almost 700 books," he admits with pride. On the day I visited, I saw only two books in the case. The inside cover has a plate stating that it is part of the book-crossing programme, alongside a registration number showing who donated the book and when.

Library staff, students and even residents of neighbouring houses bring books. Additionally, publishing houses have donated some editions. Every year, more such 'safe' places are found. Not long ago, a Minsk night club installed a shelf of books. While some people dance, others gather by the shelves of books, magazines and discs. "We've subscribed to several magazines, while books are brought in by our guests, staff and musicians. This is how our collection grows," says Yan Busel, who co-owns the club.

Book-crossing is gaining popularity, with safe shelves found in many libraries, as well as cafes and educational establishments. No doubt, it's a great way to attract visitors.

1 an internship ['mt3:nfip] интернатура, стажировка

2. The author says what makes librarians unhappy. Find this extract and read it aloud.

3. Who was the first to introduce book-crossing in our country?

4. Why is book-crossing becoming more and more popular in Belarus?

II. Listen to the woman talking about her schooldays and answer the questions below.

1. What is the speaker talking about?

2. When did the speaker feel relieved?

3. Why did the speaker start crying?

III. Let's talk about family traditions.

Script №10

 

Listen to the woman talking about her schooldays and answer the questions below.

1. What is the speaker talking about?

2. When did the speaker feel relieved?

3. Why did the speaker start crying?

Woman:Oh yes, I remember my first day at school. I remember feeling very proud when my mother walked with me through the main gate. There was so much noise and so many children that I got quite scared! Anyway, my mum took me to see the teacher, Mrs Gossage was her name — very nice teacher — and I remember feeling very nervous watching my mother leaving but

Mrs Gossage looked after me and she sat me down with the other pupils in a big circle. Soon we started playing games so I got very excited. I think it was after lunch that I met Emily, who later became my best friend. She was in another class, but all new students were brought together to meet each other and... I was so relieved* to have a friend! Oh yes, and in the afternoon we went swimming, but I couldn't swim so I became very upset and started to cry. In fact, I wouldn't stop crying so Mrs Gossage phoned my mother and she came to collect me early.

I remember feeling very confused when I saw my mum! So much had happened! We went and had an ice cream and then I felt calm again. But what a day! I'll never forget it