Altamont Library Notes for Friday, January 15, 2016

Now that the holidays are behind us, many of us are left trying to figure out how the heck to use the new techno-goodies we’ve received. For every one of us who takes to new technologies like a fish to water, there are five of us who are utterly befuddled by new devices.

But fear not, that’s what the Altamont Free Library is here for. Whether it’s a new phone, laptop, tablet, or eReader that won’t do what it’s supposed to do, we can probably help. Call the library at 861-7239 to book an appointment to sit down with a librarian for up to a half-hour and sort out your gizmo issues. And hey, if we can’t help you, it just means that you’re not alone in your confusion. 

Dress-up and sing-along

On Monday, Jan. 18, at 2 p.m., we’ll be showing the sing-along version of “Frozen.” The young folks will be home from school, so what better way to spend it than at the library singing along with friends to your favorite movie? Wear your Anna or Elsa dress if you like and sing your heart out. We’ll even make icy treats for all.

Book discussion

On Monday, Jan. 18, at 7 p.m., the Penultimate Monday Book Club will meet to discuss the phenomenal 2014 novel “Ordinary Grace” by William Kent Krueger. A coming of age story set in rural Minnesota in 1961, the book tells the story of a boy’s first encounters with death, secrets, and the adult world. There’s much to discuss about this book, and it comes highly recommended, so please join us. 

Energy efficiency

If you own or manage a business or non-profit, you know how important it is to increase your energy efficiency. On Jan. 26, at 6:30 p.m., we’ll be holding a workshop on making your business more energy efficient. This program will be led by Mark DeChiro, a technical expert from L&S Energy Services who has been doing great work with our library. He will discuss the improvements you can make to your workplace to save energy and save money. 

Thailand potluck

On Monday, Jan. 25, at 6 p.m., we’ll hold our first Eat Around the World potluck of the year. This is always a fun opportunity to try a new cuisine, make a new friend and connect with the community. This month, we’ll be sampling the hot and spicy food of Thailand. If you don’t have a favorite Thai recipe on hand, feel free to check out a few of the many cookbooks we’ve got here at the library. Bring a friend and a dish to share and join us, won’t you?

Book signing

On Thursday, Jan. 28, at 6:30 p.m., we will be hosting a very special event: Authors Everett Rau and Laura Shore will be discussing and signing copies of their new book, “Stand Tall Against the Odds.” Everett was born in Altamont in 1919 and has seen many changes here in his 96 years here.

He was nearly 90 years old when he designed and supervised construction of a Dutch barn on his farm using antique tools and old techniques and has much to teach us about the important farming heritage that made this area what it is. Co-author Laura Shore worked with Everett for two years to preserve his stories and memories and this book is the result of their efforts. Please join us for this unique and exciting event.

Library gala

Tickets are now available for the library's annual I Love My Library! Gala, which will be taking place on Saturday, Feb. 6, at 5:30 p.m., at the Altamont village hall. Contact the library to reserve your tickets now, because this is the social event of the season, and it always sells out.