Libraries are gold mines for the curious. Those who visit the public library are able to find out how something works or why an event occurred. Books, internet, and magazines help to answer questions. American author Bryant H. McGill said, “I have never read for entertainment, but rather for understanding and to satisfy my eager curiosity.” For those who look for entertainment, the library has that too!
Have you ever wondered what would happen if terrorists and their hostages got to know each other during a crisis situation? That is the premise of the novel Bel Canto by Ann Patchett. The book club will be discussing this work of fiction on Sunday, June 1 at 7 p.m. The meeting is open to anyone interested in having conversations about books.
Curious George is the focus of story time on Tuesday, June 3 at 11 a.m. Preschool children and their caregivers are invited to visit “The Man with the Yellow Hat”, a.k.a. Ms. Kathy. There will be stories, activities, and a craft during this program. Develop literacy skills without squashing your child’s natural curiosity.
The original series of seven books about Curious George were written and illustrated by Margret and Hans A. Rey from 1939 to 1966. Since that time, this childhood favorite was made into a television series, short movies, and a video game. The books still circulate frequently from the library.
While curiosity usually led George into trouble, it is often the basis of creativity. Are you curious as to what the Friends of the Library are planning next? Be a part of the creative process as the group discusses the ways and means for supporting the library. Their next meeting is Wednesday, June 4 at 7:30 p.m. in the community room of the library.
Curiosity may have killed the cat, but satisfaction brought him back.
According to U.S. Representative Doc Hastings, the spirit of Memorial Day has not changed. It remains a day to honor those who died defending our freedom and democracy. The Kiwanis Club acknowledges this sacrifice by organizing Memorial Day Parades in Berne and Knox. The town of Berne parade begins at the Hilltown Senior Center at 9:30 a.m., on Monday, May 26. Route 443 will be closed for this event so please plan accordingly.
Library closed
The library will be closed on Monday, May 26, in observance of Memorial Day, but, you will see our float in the parade. Please join us in honoring our fallen heroes by attending the parade and ceremonies. Story time kids are invited to ride on the library float. Be at the senior center no later than 9:15 a.m. dressed in red, white, and blue.
Book club
Hostages and their captors are the subject of this month’s book club novel. Read Bel Canto by Ann Patchett in order to contribute to the conversation. The group will be discussing the book on Sunday, June 2, at 7 p.m.
Story time
On Tuesday, May 27, join us for story time at 11 a.m. Preschool children and their caregivers are invited to join Ms. Kathy in exploring tadpoles. Real tadpoles will be held captive briefly for children to observe. Stories, activities, and a craft are all part of this literacy program.
Many thanks
The library staff feels gratitude daily. Thanks to Amy Anderson for lending her talents to our oil art workshop last week. Thanks to Avery Stempel for leading the sessions of the Together Book Talk for Kids and Parents. Thanks to the Friends of the Berne Library for their financial support. The indoor miniature golf fund-raiser was possible because of contributions from many community members.
This weekend we are especially thankful for members of our armed services. We salute those soldiers who laid down their lives to preserve our freedoms.
Be cool at the Berne Public Library. Despite the refreshing breezes in the Hilltowns, indoor temperatures can be quite warm during the summer months. The Friends of the Library are working on raising funds for a matching grant to install air conditioning in the library. Please support them in this effort.
Their next fund-raiser is this Saturday, May 17. Nine holes of indoor miniature golf will be set up among the book stacks of the library. A taco dinner will be available in the community room. Enjoy either or both events between 4 and 8 p.m.
Lego League
The Lego League meets on the third Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to noon. Children, ages five to 12, are invited to use the library’s Legos to create masterpieces. On May 17 the group will be making obstacles for the golf holes.
Library project
The fourth grade classes at Berne-Knox-Westerlo School learned local history through state historical markers found in Berne, Knox, and Westerlo. Donna Gwin and Kathy Stempel worked with the classes during an outreach library project. The students signed replicated mini-markers that will be on display at the mini-golf event.
Knit Wits
Knots of Love has received 126 hats from the Knit Wits. Now the group would like to contribute to a local project. If you know of a non-profit group that needs knitted hats or scarves, please contact Jodi at the library at 872-1246. The Knit Wits meet at 7 p.m., on Sunday, May 18, for conversation while they crochet or knit their own projects.
Story time
Memorial Day is Monday, May 26 and Berne and Knox are having parades. During story time on Tuesday, May 20, preschoolers will hear stories about parades and participate in fun activities that develop literacy skills. The craft this week will be something to wear on the float during the parade. Join Ms. Kathy at 11 a.m.
Libraries help build a community and the community helps build the library. Activities this week demonstrate our symbiotic relationship. Hope you will choose to participate.
Playing dress-up with their mother’s hats and shoes is a lot of fun for children. At this young age, there is little understanding of all that is involved in being a good mother. Show your appreciation for moms on Mother’s Day this Sunday and every day.
Teen Advisory Group
Drop your teens off at the Berne Public Library and enjoy some peace at home. The TAG meets Friday, May 9, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. In addition to playing, the teens will be working on personalizing a golf hole for the miniature golf fund-raiser.
Board games
Mothers may want to join other interested adults in playing board games on Sunday, May 11. It is Game Night at the library beginning at 7 p.m.
Story time
Shoes are the focus for story time on Tuesday, May 13, at 11 a.m. Enjoy stories, activities, and a craft with Kathy. Preschool children develop literacy skills in an atmosphere where you can kick off your shoes.
Writing class
Do you remember things about your mother that you would like to pass on to the next generation? Our memoir writing class meets on Tuesday, May 13, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Any adult interested in writing and sharing stories is invited to attend.
Oil painting
Whether or not you inherited artistic talents from your mother, you can create an oil painting worth hanging in your home. Amy is teaching oil painting at the library from 1 to 5 p.m., on Thursday, May 15. There are still openings for this class due to cancellations. Register by calling the library at 872-1246. Take home a completed picture using a wet on wet oil painting technique.
Knit Wits
The Knit Wit group just mailed 126 hats to the Knots of Love organization. Thanks to all who contributed to this worthwhile cause by knitting or crocheting hats for patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Miniature golf
Bring the entire family to the Indoor Miniature Golf event on Saturday, May 17. The Friends of the Berne Library are holding this fund-raiser from 4 to 8 p.m. Enjoy 9 holes of miniature golf inside the library but, please, no golf shoes on the carpet. Tacos, drinks, and baked goods will be available for purchase. All proceeds will go toward a matching grant to install air conditioning in the library.
John J Plomp said, “The one thing children wear out faster than shoes is parents.” Be sure to give mom some time to rest on Mother’s Day.
As part of National Park Week, national parks will have free admission on April 19 and 20. Consider traveling to Hyde Park and touring the homes of Franklin D. and Eleanor Roosevelt, National Historic Sites. On your way home, stop at the Berne Public Library for books about these interesting individuals. Our admission is always free.
Legos
Children ages 5 through 13 are invited to be creative during Lego League on Saturday, April 19, at 11 a.m. This month the group is building obstacles for a miniature golf course in the library. The golf fund-raiser is scheduled for Saturday, May 17, from 4 to 8 p.m. Your help will be appreciated.
Story time
It seems appropriate that Earth Day is in the middle of National Park Week. Both emphasize the importance of preserving our planet. Preschool children and their caregivers will explore Earth Day during story time on Tuesday, April 22. Join Kathy at 11 a.m. for stories, activities, and a craft.
Writing class
Do you have a story about visiting a national park? The Memoir Writing class decided to continue meeting twice a month to write and share stories. The format is informal and interested adults are encouraged to drop-in. The next session is on Tuesday, April 22, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Computer help
Use the books and computers at the library to plan your next trip to a national park. If you need help with computer skills, set up an appointment by calling the library at 872-1246.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt said, “There is nothing so American as our national parks. .... the country belongs to the people.” Make an extra effort on Earth Day to clean up our country.
Ann Landers said, “It is not what you do for your children, but what you have taught them to do for themselves that will make them successful human beings.” This week is National Library Week and the library is the perfect place for your children to learn a multitude of skills. We will be open normal hours during the school’s spring vacation along with special program hours.
Open Mic
Expressing your feelings and thoughts so others can relate to them is a skill. Poetry helps do just that. The Middleburgh Public Library is holding an Open Mic on Friday, April 11, from 7 to 9 p.m. Teens, young adults, and those young at heart are invited to read and listen to poetry. Choose a favorite poem or lyric to read, share your own poem or lyric, or just enjoy listening to others.
Story time
Spring chicks will be the theme for story time on April 15. Preschool children and their caregivers are invited to join us at 11 a.m. for stories, activities, and a craft. This is a great way to develop literacy skills in a relaxed atmosphere.
Makerspace
A special Makerspace program is scheduled for Thursday, April 17, at 1 p.m. Make a wooden planter after learning woodworking skills that include measuring, sawing, and hammering. This hands-on event is designed for ages 9 to 16. Everything you need for the project will be provided by the library, including a plant.
Fund-raiser
The Friends of the Library are planning their May fund-raiser so mark your calendars. Play miniature golf in the library on Saturday, May 17, between 4 and 8 p.m. Teach putting skills to your children during this fun event. The Lego League will be creating obstacles for the golf course on Saturday, April 19, at 11 a.m. This is a drop-in program for interested children ages 5 to 12.
“Lives change @ your library” is the theme for National Library Week. We encourage you to tell the story of how the library has changed your life. Tweet using the hashtag #LivesChange or write down your story and give it to the library staff. What did you learn that made you successful?
Before a dollar bill will tear, it can be folded back and forth about 4,000 times. That’s because it is made of fabric instead of paper. The fabric is composed of approximately 25 percent linen and 75 percent cotton with red and blue synthetic fibers woven throughout. More fun facts plus games and publications about money can be found at the FederalReserveEducation.org website.
“Money Smart Week @ your Berne Public Library” is April 5 through 12. This national initiative between the American Library Association and the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago is designed to help community members by providing financial literacy programming. If there is a money program you are interested in, let us know.
Save at your library
How much can you save by using the library? Use the calculator on our web page, www.bernepubliclibrary.org, to find out. Attending free library programs instead of taking your children to the movie theater will result in big savings.
Family Movie Night at the library is on Friday, April 4, at 6:30 p.m. This month’s movie is an animated, Disney film with a PG rating. Refreshments will be served.
Book club
The Sunday Book Club would have paid at least $250 in order for each person to have a copy of The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton. Because the books were requested from the Upper Hudson libraries, no money was needed. A discussion of this book takes place on April 6, at 7 p.m. New members are always welcome.
EBay program
To contribute to your financial knowledge, the library is sponsoring a program “Make $ on Ebay”. Terry Schinnerer, an experienced eBay user, will explain the process on Monday, April 7, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. No need to bring a computer but you will want to take notes. Terry has lots of tips on how to make the most of this Internet marketplace.
Story time
If Goldilocks had paid the three bears for the damage she caused, they would not have been so angry. The three bears will be the focus of story time on Tuesday, April 8. Preschool children and their caregivers are invited to join Kathy at 11 a.m. for stories, activities, and a craft.
Trustees meet
The Library Board is entrusted with obtaining and budgeting library funds. The trustees hold their monthly meeting on Thursday, April 10, at 6:30 pm. This is an open meeting and community members are encouraged to attend.
Poetry month
Poet Robert Graves said, “There’s no money in poetry, but then there’s no poetry in money, either.” The library is celebrating Poetry Month with an open mic on Friday, April, 11 from 7 to 9 p.m. Teens, young adults, and those young at heart are invited to read poems or lyrics during this program. Find your favorite poem in a book or read your own creation.
The largest note produced today is the $100 bill. The largest bill ever printed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing was the $100,000 gold certificate. Of course, the library is worth much more as a community resource.
There are oodles of books, puzzles, movies on DVD and VHS, music CDs, and cassettes, and audio-books sitting on tables and shelves at the Hilltown Senior Center, 1360 Helderberg Trail, Berne. These items are ready to be purchased at great bargains. Come to the Friends of the Berne Library Book Sale on Saturday, March 29, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Sunday, March 30, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Browse through novels, children’s books, history books, cookbooks, gardening books, biographies, craft books.
Homemade soup, beverages, and baked goods will be available for purchase. All proceeds will go toward a matching grant to provide air conditioning in the new library building.
Game night
Due to the April school break, April’s Game Night will be held in March. No kidding. Meet with other adults interested in playing board games on Sunday, March 30, at 7 p.m.
April Fool’s Day
April Fools’ Day is April 1. According to the Museum of Hoaxes, the number one hoax occurred in 1957. A BBC news show announced that thanks to a very mild winter and the virtual elimination of the dreaded spaghetti weevil, Swiss farmers were enjoying a bumper spaghetti crop. It accompanied this announcement with footage of Swiss peasants pulling strands of spaghetti down from trees. Many viewers called the BBC wanting to know how they could grow their own spaghetti tree.
Story time
Preschool children and their caregivers are invited to celebrate April Fools’ Day on Tuesday at 11 a.m. Think of a way to trick Kathy during story time. Stories, activities, and a craft are included in this fun literacy program.
Friends meet
The Friends of the Library will meet on Wednesday, April 2, at 7:30 p.m., to discuss ways to support the library. Hear the results of the book sale and help make plans for the miniature golf fund-raiser in May. Don’t be fooled by the amount of work this group has accomplished; they need more volunteers.
Movie night
Family Movie Night at the library is on Friday, April 4, at 6:30 p.m. This month’s film is an Academy Award winner, rated PG. The animated, musical comedy will leave you ice-cold. Admission is free and refreshments will be served.
As you face chicanery on April Fools’ Day, remember the words of American writer Max Eastman: “It is the ability to take a joke, not make one, that proves you have a sense of humor.”
— Photo from Judy Petrosillo
“Making caps and brightening the lives of people who are suffering from the ravages of cancer is such a small thing to do, but the results have made a big impact on the patients,” says the founder of Knots of Love, Christine M. Fabiani, of California. Her not-for-profit group has volunteers stretched across the country. These hats were made by women at the Berne Library.
Springtime inspires people to clean out their homes with zeal. A good guideline is to only keep things that are useful or bring you joy. Consider donating your unwanted books to the Friends of the Berne Library for their book sale. They are accepting book donations on Saturday, March 22, at the Hilltowns Senior Center between 9 a.m. and noon.
Since books do bring zest to life, replace your discarded books with those you have not read. The Friends Book Sale is Saturday, March 29, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Sunday, March 30, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Senior Center, 1360 Helderberg Trail, Berne. Enjoy a soup luncheon before or after browsing through tables of books. All proceeds will go toward a matching grant to install air conditioning in the new library.
Story time
There are zero zoos that have zebras and zombies. Preschool children and their caregivers are invited to learn about the letter Z during story time on March 25. Join Kathy at 11 a.m., for a zany time with stories, activities, and a craft.
Book club
On Sunday, April 6, the book club will be discussing The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton. Request a copy of the book soon so you can participate in a conversation full of zing. The group meets at 7 p.m., and new members are always welcome.
Add more zip to your life by participating in activities at your local library.
As the hours of daylight lengthen, thoughts turn to spring. American journalist Doug Larson aptly stated, “Spring is when you feel like whistling even with a shoe full of slush.” Spring is more than a season; it represents rebirth and rejuvenation. Reinvigorate your mind with the resources and programs available at the Berne Public Library.
Teen group
The library is open only for teens on Friday, March 14. Join Kathy from 6:30 to 8 p.m., for an evening of exploring the technology available at the library. Plan on playing video games during this TAG program.
Lego League
The Lego League challenge for this month is to make a scene representing spring. Children ages five to 12 are invited to use the library’s Legos on Saturday, March 15, at 11 a.m. Projects will be displayed in the library until they are disassembled for next month’s program.
Knit Wits
The Knit Wits meet on Sunday, March 16, at 7 p.m. In addition to working on individual projects, the group is making hats for the Knots of Love organization. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by bringing projects made with green yarn for show and tell. Any adult interested in knitting or crocheting is welcome.
Story time
Songbirds return north in the spring to lay their eggs. Yucky, yellow yolks will introduce the letter Y to preschool children during story time on Tuesday, March 18. Stories, activities, and a craft are included in this program which begins at 11 a.m.
Maple festival
The maple sap is running. After enjoying a pancake breakfast during the Maple Festival. Travel to the Hilltown Senior Center, 1360 Helderberg Trail, Berne for book browsing. The Friends of the Library are holding a book sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., on Saturday, March 29 and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 30. A homemade soup luncheon and bake sale are also planned.
If you have books to donate to the sale, please bring them to the senior center on Saturday, March 22, from 9 a.m. to noon. Also, volunteers are needed to help run the sale. Contact Donna at 872-2161 or e-mail . All proceeds will go toward a matching grant to install air-conditioning at the library. Hot summer weather will be here and the slushy spring will be gone eventually.