Berne Library Notes for Thursday, August 16, 2018

— Photo from Donna Gwin

“Bells and Motley” performed recently at the Berne Public Library, playing 19th-Century musical instruments and telling and singing about life on board a canal packet boat. Audience members sang along and some danced onstage with the performers. One of the children pictured is wearing a mask to look like a mule. The program was funded by the Stewart’s Holiday Match Program and the Berne Historical Society.

Yes indeed, the weeks are numbering down and it’s time to think about getting those school supplies piled up. The Friends of the Berne Library are sponsoring a donation bin, located in the library, to fill with pencils, markers, highlighters, notebooks, folders, and binders of all sizes.

You will also find a bin at the East Berne Post Office. Share what you can and help fill these bins to capacity for distribution to the scholars in the Hilltowns.

Rupeka’s art on display

While you are dropping off those school supplies, there’s a new art exhibit hanging out in the community room. Rich velvety colors bouncing out of their frames are the handiwork of JoAnne Rupeka.

A swaying birch nestled against a gently tiered waterfall. Rolling waves hitting a beach under the watchful lighthouse. Glows of light showing life signs in a cabin planted near meadow and forest. Ten paintings in all for your viewing pleasure. Be sure to capture the beauty on display through the end of the month.

Stay tuned

Events coming soon from the Berne Library near you include a Library Expedition challenge and The Incredible Heldercon. Stay tuned for further details. Teaser hint for the Expedition: Think treasure map, Mo Willems’s Piggy and Elephant characters, and new territories to be explored. Pencil in Aug. 28 for the challenge and Sept. 22 for Hellllllderrrrrcon! Save the dates for a rousing new spin dial.

Reading wrap-up

Challenges at the library abound for adults and youngers. Reading 500 minutes was a goal met by many youth in the summer reading program. Those hitting their mark by Aug. 11 receive a gift and a chance to read even more because it is just that much fun!

Adults working their reading, listening, writing, and observation muscles are asked to complete 5 of 11 challenges. There is still time to join the reading race with the Sept. 7 end date a few weeks away. Call the library at 518-872-1246 or stop by and step up to the reading plate.