— Photo by Kathy Stempel
Artwork by Berne-Knox-Westerlo students is on display at the Berne Public Library.
Just a few more days and you can turn the page. The calendar page, that is. It’s time to get out the day planner and fill it up with April fun at the Library. Here’s a poem by Sandra Leigh that tells what’s in store:
Snow, snow go away
We’ve got a lot to do
Like glazing bowls
And making crafts,
Constructing paper planes.
We have stories to read,
Stories to hear
And soup to be enjoyed.
All this and more at
Berne’s Public Library.
Story time
During a meeting 10:30 a.m. in the community room on April 3, Kathy will be rolling out some “April Fun.” She’ll pull another feat of magical story time out of her hat for kids 5 and under — adventurers along with their caregivers. Wear your fun T-shirts as you wiggle and waggle through the library.
STEM program
From 2 to 3 p.m., on April 4 interested 6 to 12-year-olds are encouraged to check out the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) program, “What’s in the Air?” You only have to glimpse a sunbeam on a counter for a view of dust particles. Smells from baking or smells from newly-mown grass can float near you — in the air.
Join in as paper planes are folded into shape and tested against one another for distance prowess. Close your eyes and think of other fun or unusual matter wavering about your airspace.
Thanks
Friends of the Berne Library sent out a friendly call for book donations. Their call was answered as boxes filled books arrived fast and furious for their book sale fundraiser last weekend.
They sorted and sold and packed and piled with volunteers a many. Helping as a member or volunteer is decidedly appreciated. For questions about joining or to request notices about Friends activities, e-mail bernelibraryfriends@yahoo.com.
Friends meet
The all are welcome Friends monthly meeting will take place 7 p.m. this April 4 as they discuss “April Fun” fundraisers. This includes the carving, then glazing and finally supping at the “Bowls for Books” event April 14.
Glazing workshop
After carving the bowls this past week, a glazing workshop fires up April 9 with 2 one-hour workshops starting at 5 p.m. Please register and indicate which session works for you.
Bluebird houses, books, turtles, and bowls have one thing in common. Can you guess what it is? They all have a starring role in this week’s events at the Berne Public Library. You can always tap into our website at www.bernepubliclibrary.org for a full listing of current happenings.
Build a birdhouse
Do you know when the Eastern Bluebird landed its state bird status? A “Build Your Own Bluebird House” workshop fires up March 23 at 6:30 p.m. Follow the “Bluebird Fun Facts” trail to the community room and hammer your bluebird house into shape. Refreshments served.
Friends book sale
Fly over to the Berne Community and Senior Center March 24 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and March 25 from 10a.m. to 2 p.m.for the Friends of Berne Library’s annual book sale. Jewelry, books, media and more await your inspection. Pick up bargains to enjoy while waiting for snow drifts to fade away.
Storytime
Are you a turtle or a tortoise? Is a tortoise the same as a turtle? You might be surprised. Storytime, March 27 at 10:30 a.m., Kathy will be exploring the world of turtles. Five and under humans, grab your caregivers for the ninja turtle dance after book and craft action.
Pottery carving workshop
Another “Friends of Library” event wheels in on March 27 when BKW art teacher Colleen Skiff throws 30 bowls for the pottery carving workshop. Each workshop is an hour. Register by calling (518) 872-1246 or stop by library front-desk central. Interested carvers, indicate the 5 to 6 p.m. or 6 to 7 p.m. time slot.
Visit the new art display in the community room. Compliments of talented students from BKW high school, there is a full wall depicting various mediums. You may be inspired to pick up your own set of paints and brushes to splash a canvas or two.
There’s a shift in the air. Do you feel it? You can almost hear buds bursting from the tree tops. It’s time for snow to leave and crocuses to leap. Taste buds will soon be delighting in this year’s maple syrup run. Rounding the corner from winter to spring is pure magic as each day reveals subtle changes.
Story time
With daylight savings nearly a week old, spring officially bounces into view at this weeks 10:30 a.m. Storytime on March 20. The 5 and under crowd, with caregivers in tow, are invited to join Kathy as she shines a light on the wonders of spring. A book and a craft, added to playtime, roll into sprinkles of growth and sharing. Remember those Leprechaun’s from last week’s Storytime? They are still on the prowl for a bit of mischief.
Friends
Joining the Friends of the Berne Library over at the Berne Community/Senior Center, the wee men sporting green hats will be watching the action. Wistfully looking forward to any books, media, games, puzzles and jewelry people may drop off between 9 a.m. to noon this Saturday, March 17. These donations will enhance the growing assortment of reading and playing finds available at the Friends book sale March 24 and 25. Maybe there will be items related to shoe mending or gardening or how to make a kite or where to look for the Leprechaun’s hidden pot of gold.
Knit Wits
Are you interested in learning to knit or crochet? The Knit Wit team is willing and able to impart their knowledge in this realm. Stop by with questions for the crafty crew members assembling in the library’s community room Sunday, March 18 at 7 p.m.
As we plow through the month of March, keep in mind our state bird. This is the time of year for Eastern Bluebirds, and many other winged creatures, to migrate north for breeding, scouting for nesting sites
Marching through this third month of 2018 sends us snippets of weather that keeps us guessing. When it comes to the Berne Library’s new manager, the guessing is over. It’s full speed ahead and let the weather do what it will. If you missed the headlines: Kathy Stempel now dons the manager’s hat while simultaneously whipping together those lively story-time slots.
Story time
Children up to age 5 and caregivers, gather up your favorite green outfit and strut your Irish at story time this Tuesday, March 13, at 10:30 a.m. Leprechauns may be leaping about, leaving clues of their visit as Kathy shares stories of St. Patrick’s Day and green color schemes.
Also, keep your eyes peeled for a possible pot of gold hiding in the stacks as you search for books to bring home.
Sale on horizon
Friends of the Library are sporting plans for their yearly Books, Media and Jewelry Sale. The sale itself roars into action March 24 and March 25.
Major stuffing for the sale comes with your donations before the event. At the Berne Community Center on Saturday, March 17, betwixt 9 a.m. and noon, the Friends invite drop-offs of used books, media, and jewelry to maximize browsing choices during the sale event. It’ll be St. Patty’s Day, so remember to wear your green.
Voice Your Choice!
As you visit the library over the next month check out the “Voice Your Choice!” voting booth. This is an opportunity for children and teens to explore, read, and choose book favorites from those on display.
This event springs out of “Children’s Book Week” — a national literacy initiative that’s been around since the last century. We invite the 18-and-under crowd to read and vote from now until May 6, 2018. Stay posted as “Children’s Book Week” quickly approaches.
Heldercon planning
Anyone interested in sharing ideas for the second annual Heldercon (Hilltown Comicon) please join us on Tuesday, March 13, at 6:30 p.m.
— Photo from Judy Petrosillo
Chef Teagan is the 2018 Junior Master Chef at the Berne Public Library.
— Photo from Judy Petrosillo
Eight chefs competed in the annual Junior Master Chef competition at the Berne Public Library, which was judged, from left, by Chuck Batcher, Ann Hein, and Sunita Chowfin. Chef Teagan, seated with the judges, at right, was the winner.
A wooden plaque was given to me by Kathy Stempel after I announced my retirement. The quote is from the book “365 Days of Wonder: Mr. Browne’s Book of Precepts” by R. J. Palacio. Hanz, age 13, said “I’ve learned that life is like a book. Sometimes we must close a chapter and begin the next one.” I end my chapter as manager of the Berne Public Library with this article.
In the same Palacio book, Dustin said, “You were born an original. Don’t become a copy.”
Original and creative photos were submitted to the Friends of the Library Photography Contest. Winners, including People’s Choice, will be announced during a reception at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 3. All are invited to attend.
“The Other Einstein”
Imagined lives are found in copies of fiction books. Discussing how those lives are important to us is part of a book club conversation.
The Sunday Book Club meets at 7:00 p.m. on March 4. The talk this month is about Mileva Maric from the novel “The Other Einstein” by Marie Benedict.
“What Pet Should I Get?”
Although retirement is associated with old age, Dr. Seuss said, “You’re never too old, too wacky, too wild, to pick up a book and read to a child.” Story time is at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 6.
The focus for this week is on the picture book “What Pet Should I Get?” by Dr. Seuss. Children ages 1 month to 5 years are invited to join Ms. Kathy Stempel for stories, activities, music, and a craft. Bring your favorite stuffed animal or a picture of your pet.
My next life chapter includes being a member of the Friends of the Berne Library. These volunteers support the library with their time, skills, and fundraising efforts. Their next meeting is at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 7.
The agenda includes the upcoming book sale on March 24 and 25. Start boxing up books, jewelry, puzzles, movies on DVD, and games that you would like to donate. Drop them off at the Town of Berne Community and Senior Center from 9 a.m. to noon on March 17.
If needed, the items may be brought to the library during hours. Please do not leave them outside the doors.
Welcome, Manager Stempel
Kathy Stempel is also beginning a new chapter. I am pleased to inform you that the library board appointed her as the new library manager. She brings experience and a creative flair to the job as well as a love of community.
Her first official meeting with the trustees is on Thursday, March 8. A core training for trustees and director is scheduled from 6 to 7:30 p.m. followed by the monthly open meeting.
Teen Hangout
Kathy has arranged with the Berne Youth Council to offer afternoons of Teen Hangout. The community room of the library will be reserved for teens from 2:45 to 5 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays beginning March 7.
Enjoy refreshments, playing video games or board games, using the WiFi, and hanging out with your peers after school.
Tax help
Only in the early chapters of life can you avoid paying taxes. If you need federal or state tax forms, the library staff will print them for you at no cost.
Unfortunately, we cannot supply printed instruction manuals. They may be viewed online on the library’s computers or iPads.
Bittersweet
Thank you for your support over the last nine years. It has been a pleasure serving the community. The things I will miss the most are not things at all. They are the people: co-workers, patrons, volunteers, and board members. Each person enriched my life and made work enjoyable.
I am starting my next chapter with a bittersweet feeling. But as American comedian GloZell said, “There will be another book, more stories, more life experiences, so I'm ready; bring it on!”
Don't worry, I will not start wearing green lipstick!
— Photo from Judy Petrosillo
Stuffed-animal olympians bounce on a colorful parachute during story time at the Berne Public Library.
The 2018 Merriam-Webster dictionary defines a library as “a place in which literary, musical, artistic, or reference materials are kept for use but not for sale.” If you think libraries just loan books, it is time to stop in a public library and see how it is evolving to meet the needs of the community.
Story time
Story time provides a free class for children ages one month to five years. Children are invited to join Ms. Kathy Stempel at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesdays to develop pre-literacy skills.
Stories, activities, music, and a craft are all part of this program. A lively library is the focus on Feb., 27.
Vote for your favorite photos
The annual photography contest is sponsored by the Friends of the Library. The artistic expression in the photos of local residents is amazing.
The photos are on display in the community room of the library. Votes will be tallied on Tuesday, Feb. 27, so there is still time to vote for your favorite picture in the adult and junior division.
Winners will be announced during the reception at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 3.
“The Other Einstein”
If you enjoy exchanging ideas regarding books, join our Sunday Book Club. The group will be meeting at 7 p.m. on March 4 to discuss “The Other Einstein” by Marie Benedict.
The historical novel is about Einstein’s first wife, Mileva Maric, who was also a talented physicist. Benedict starts with the facts and delves into the possibilities of Mileva’s life.
Book sale
Bibliophiles (lovers of books) will be thrilled to hear that the annual book sale at the Town of Berne Community and Senior Center is next month. Books, jewelry, puzzles, games, DVDs, and CDs will be accepted from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, March 17.
The sale will be held on Saturday, March 24, and Sunday, March 25. This is a great way to refresh your personal library so save the dates.
Fine-free February
To celebrate Library Lovers Month, your late fees for the month of February are being waived. That gives you one more week to return Berne library items to the Berne Public Library with no fine. We hope to see you soon.
“The ultimate victory in competition is derived from the inner satisfaction of knowing that you have done your best and that you have gotten the most out of what you had to give,” said sportscaster Howard Cosell. Cosell, who died in 1995, helped cover the Olympics for ABC from the 1960s to the 1980s.
Knit Wits
Hats and scarves are welcomed accessories at the Winter Olympics in South Korea. If you like to knit or crochet warm winter items, attend Knit Wits on Sunday, Feb. 18.
Participants meet at 7 p.m. to work on their own projects while sharing ideas, problems, solutions, and conversations.
Open on Presidents’ Day
Howard Cosell was a lawyer by training. Twenty-five of the 45 presidents of the United States were also lawyers. Abraham Lincoln was one of them while George Washington was not.
We celebrate these two historical leaders of our country on Monday, Feb. 19. The Berne Public Library will be open on Presidents’ Day from 4 to 8 p.m. for your convenience.
Story time
Library Olympics are the focus for story time on Tuesday, Feb. 20. Children ages 1 month to 5 years should join Ms. Kathy Stempel at 10:30 a.m. for stories, activities, music, and a craft.
This pre-literacy program is a great time for families to interact without competition.
Junior chefs compete
If creating tasty food is something that gives you satisfaction, enter the Junior Chef Competition. This event takes place on Wednesday, Feb. 21, and is designed for ages 8 to 12.
Each person is supplied a secret ingredient and must choose other ingredients to make a culinary masterpiece. Register at the library no later than Monday, Feb. 19. There is a limit of 10 participants.
Vote for your favorite photos
The judges of the Friends’ Photography Contest have chosen the victors in each category but People’s Choice is yet to be determined. View the photographs and vote for your favorite in the adult and junior divisions before Feb. 25.
The prize winners will be announced at an open reception at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 3.
Fine-free February
The library loves loaning out materials but it’s important that items are returned so others may borrow them. February is fine free for Berne items returned to the Berne Public Library. Do your best to find library books and movies at your house and drop them off before the end of the month.
Help with devices
If you have given your most toward figuring out your digital device but still need help, make an appointment at the library. We offer one-on-one assistance with smartphones, tablets, and computers. Call 518-872-1246 or email .
Save at the library
There is a library value calculator that determines how much money you save in a year by using the public library. Instead of paying for continuing-education programs or purchasing items, use the library at no cost to the consumer.
Items include e-books, e-audiobooks, magazines, movies, all types of books, museum passes, and fishing poles. One family saved over $16,000 in 2017 by using the library.
Have you gotten the most out of what we have to give?
According to cartoonist Charles M. Schultz, “All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt.” Keep that in mind for Valentine’s Day.
Higher, faster, sweeter
Teens are invited to participate in the Chocolate Olympics at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 9.
How tall can you make a tower with Oreo cookies? How fast can you sort M&Ms by color?
Compete against other teens in numerous chocolate activities. Just show up at the library or let Kathy Stempel ( ) know you are coming to ensure adequate supplies.
Book talk
If you love talking about books, you should join our Sunday-night book club. This month's meeting is on Feb. 11 at 7 p.m.
The discussion revolves around the novel “Cutting for Stone” by Abraham Verghese. All adults are welcome.
Vote for your favorite photos
The photographs for the Friends' contest are now on display in the community room. Stop by and decide which is your favorite picture in the adult and junior divisions.
The photos with the most votes will receive prizes for People’s Choice. Winners will be announced during the open reception at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 3.
Have a heart
Valentine’s Day is the theme for story time on Tuesday, Feb. 13. This pre-literacy program is for children from 5 months to 5 years old and their caregivers.
Join Ms. Kathy at 10:30 a.m. for stories, activities, and songs. Make a Valentine's Day card for someone special.
Cook for glory
Looking for a fun activity over the school winter break and love food? The library is having a Junior Chef Competition on Wednesday, Feb. 21 at 2 p.m.
This program is designed for kids ages 8 to 12 and involves culinary creations using a secret ingredient. Sign up at the library soon. Registration is limited to t10 children.
— Photo from Judy Petrosillo
In a blur of motion, a boy at the Berne Library’s story time on Tuesday emulates Jack jumping over a candlestick.
“One of the greatest gifts my brother and I received from my mother was her love of literature and language. With their boundless energy, libraries open the door to these worlds and so many others. I urge young and old alike to embrace all that libraries have to offer,” said Caroline Kennedy.
February is Library Lovers Month. That gives you an entire month to embrace your library.
The Berne Library Board of Trustees has also deemed the month as Fine Free February to show appreciation for our customers. Berne items returned to the Berne Public Library will have late fees waived.
It is the perfect time to return that book found under the couch or on your bookshelf. Maybe you have a DVD or a summer reading book that you forgot to return. It doesn't matter when you checked it out; it will be fine-free if returned in February.
Take Your child, To the Library Day
Saturday, Feb. 3, is a special day for families to see what the library has to offer. Celebrate Take Your Child to the Library Day by coming to the library between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Planned activities include rabbit bowling and paper bunny ears. Ms. Kathy Stempel will be reading “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” by Beatrix Potter at 12:30 p.m. A Peter Rabbit T-shirt may end up belonging to you.
Book talk
Members of the Sunday Book Club cherish reading and discussing books.
The conversation on “Cutting for Stone” by Abraham Verghese will take place at 7 p.m. on Feb. 11. Please note that this is a week later than usual.
Make jewelry
With Valentine's Day rapidly approaching, now is the time to make unique gifts for loved ones.
Adults and teens are invited to a jewelry-making workshop at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 5. Create earrings with instructor Cheryl Jones. Please register by Friday, Feb. 2. There is a material fee for this program.
Story time goes underground
Story time opens the door to an underground world on Tuesday, Feb. 6.
Children from birth to age 5 and their caregivers are invited to investigate groundhogs. Join Ms. Kathy at 10:30 a.m. for stories, activities, songs, and a craft. Develop pre-literacy skills and socialization in an accepting environment.
Friends meet
Friends of the Berne Library includes people who love the library so much that they are willing to work at fundraisers. This group meets at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 7.
The conversation will focus on the photography contest and the book sale. New members are always welcome.
Photos on display
Pictures in the photography contest are now on display in the community room of the library. Let us know which photographs you like the best by voting for People's Choice in the adult and junior divisions.
Stop in during the month of February to view the photos and cast your vote. The winners will be announced at a reception on March 3.
Book sale
You don't have to love books to love your library because it offers much more. However, if you do love books, the Friends of the Berne Library are having its annual book sale on March 24 and 25. Start gathering books, jewelry, puzzles, and games that you would like to donate to this annual event. Stay tuned for more details.
Annual report
If you are interested in library statistics, the 2017 annual report on the library will be given at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 8. The report will be followed by the open monthly meeting of the Berne Library Board of Trustees.
Chocolate Olympics
Teens are invited to the library when it is closed to the public. The teen action group is holding a Chocolate Olympics from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 9.
Please let Kathy know if you plan to attend by emailing . If it involves chocolate, what is not to love!
There was an old woman
who lived in a shoe.
She had so many children,
she didn't know what to do;
She gave them some broth
without any bread;
Then whipped them all soundly
and put them to bed.
This English nursery rhyme was recorded in 1794 but may be older. Over the years, the version has softened.
In the 1901 Mother Goose version, the woman gave the children plenty of bread. Instead of whipping them, she kissed them all fondly and sent them to bed. Which version did you learn?
Knit Wits
If you need a place to escape from your family for a short period of time, Knit Wits is the perfect opportunity. Bring your own project to knit or crochet on Sunday, Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. Share problems, solutions, ideas, and adult conversations. If you don't know how to knit or crochet, members of this group can show you how.
Children welcome
Fortunately libraries know what to do with many children. We welcome them with open arms. We have children's books and movies on DVDs that may be borrowed at no cost with a free library card. Children may play with toys, Legos, puppets, and puzzles while at the library. There are also computers and ipads for their use.
Do you have ideas for children programs? Share them with the staff or any of the library trustees. Chuck Batcher and Emilie Wright are our new trustees joining President, Marion Burghart, Vice-President, Lisa Raymond, Secretary, Becky Waldenmaier, Treasurer, Ted Borys, JoAnne Brady, and Missy Worden.
Storytime
Storytime is one of the free programs for children ages birth to five years old. Ms. Kathy teaches pre-literacy skills in a fun and accepting environment at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesdays. The class on Jan. 23 includes activities, stories, music, and a craft about the old woman who lived in a shoe.
Book discussion
Twins were the only children born to an Indian nun in the novel “Cutting for Stone” by Abraham Verghese. The Sunday Book Club will be discussing this book at 7 p.m. on Feb. 11. This is a week later than usual because of the Super Bowl. That gives you plenty of time to request this book if you would like to participate in the interesting conversation.
Join us
Save the date for Take Your Child to the Library Day on Saturday, Feb. 3It is the perfect day to introduce your family to this community resource if you have not yet done so.