It's one of the worst nightmares parents have-violence at school.

And it's a problem that will be addressed by Dr. Al Mata, Professor of Sociology at the University of Oklahoma 's Department of Human Relations, at the Midwest City Library on July 6, 2006 from 6:30-7:30 pm . His talk, "Predicting and Preventing School Violence," is for parents, teachers, school administrators, and public safety officials.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for parents, and others, to reflect on these topics as they prepare and plan for next year,"   said Midwest City librarian Rich Antonisse.

Al Mata is a nationally-recognized expert on the culture of youth gangs generally and Hispanic youth gangs in particular. His areas of expertise include outreach techniques, recruitment, and methodology. Dr. Mata will touch on a variety of topics during the hour-long

program, including issues in creating more positive school environments, establishing crisis response teams, increasing security measures, and improving school/community collaboration.

"We are excited to host Dr. Al Mata for this program," Antonisse added. "This program provides a great forum for the Mid-Del and Oklahoma City area community to learn about and openly discuss this very important topic before the coming school year."

Seating for the program is limited so pre-registration is requested. To register, sign up at the Midwest City Library's information desk or call 405-732-4828.

The Midwest City Library is located just NE of the intersection of Reno Avenue and Midwest Boulevard at 8143 E. Reno , Midwest City .

The Metropolitan Library System of Oklahoma County includes 12 libraries and five extension libraries. Libraries include Belle Isle, Capitol Hill, Ralph Ellison, Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library and Southern Oaks in Oklahoma City, as well as Bethany, Choctaw, Del City, Edmond, Midwest City, Village and Warr Acres. Extensions are located in the communities of Harrah, Jones, Luther and Nicoma Park and include Wright Library in Oklahoma City . You can also reach us at www.metrolibrary.org.