Bethlehem Library Notes for Thursday, January 10, 2019

— Photo by Kristen Roberts

Little ones rang in the New Year at the Bethlehem Public Library with some dancing and fun, along with a countdown — at noon on Monday, Dec. 31.

If you are looking to grow your business or seek out new career or marketing opportunities in the new year, get a head start with Bethlehem Public Library’s powerful digital research tool, ReferenceUSA, a big data resource that grants access to continuously updated business and residential information in the United States and Canada for research, marketing, job-seeking and more.

Local small business owners and marketing professionals can get a leg up and optimize marketing prospects using the data on ReferenceUSA, as well as the site’s sophisticated mapping tool that helps identify potential customers. Beyond the marketing and business possibilities, ReferenceUSA is a valuable tool for general research, such as locating individuals or information about healthcare professionals.

To access the site through Bethlehem Public Library, visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org and click on the “Research” tab. On the research page, you’ll find ReferenceUSA listed in alphabetical order. The service is free for anyone to use on-site at the library, where the data collected can be downloaded and saved. Bethlehem patrons can also access the site remotely using a library card.

Research tools

Speaking of database resources at the library, Bethlehem cardholders also have access to Scholastic Go!, where students can search a collection of more than 115,000 articles, newspapers, videos, atlases and more in one go. The information will come back intuitively organized and easy to cite.

Scholastic Go! also features an Internet index that includes more than 80,000 carefully selected websites to provides additional, reliable information on any given subject.  Start your next research assignment with Scholastic Go! Access the link on the BPL Research webpage at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/webapps/research.asp.

Ready to relax

Did you resolve to be more mindful in the new year? We can help. Join us Friday, Jan. 11, at 10 a.m. for an introduction to Qi Gong, an ancient Chinese art that promotes health and wellness. De-stress with the gentle flowing movements and breathing exercises of qi gong.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. All abilities welcome. The class is taught by certified instructor and Bethlehem librarian Cathy Brenner.

Study hall

The library has set aside dedicated group study space for Regents test prep from Tuesday, Jan. 15, through Thursday, Jan. 24.  Most study halls will take place in our community room, unless otherwise noted.

Students and their tutors are welcome to drop in and stay as long as needed during scheduled hours. The full schedule is available at the library and online at www.bplteens.org.

Check mates

Do you know a kid who loves to play chess or wants to learn how? Tell them to sign up for one of our Chess Club sessions in January and February.

At Chess Club, teen volunteers play chess with school-age children of all experience levels.  Upcoming Chess Clubs will be held Jan. 15 and 29, and Feb. 5 and Feb. 19, at 5:30 p.m. Sign up at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org.