Bethlehem Library Notes for Wednesday, January 29, 2020

— Photo by Kate Lambert

All About Me: Kids make self-portrait collages at the Bethlehem Public Library on Monday, Jan. 20,  to celebrate the things that make them special.

Of course you can (and should) take your child to the library any day, but on Saturday, Feb. 1, we are celebrating Take Your Child to the Library Day with a special performance by magician Doug Bartels at 2:30 p.m.

Stop by to discover all there is to borrow and enjoy at Bethlehem Public Library and then stay for Bartels’ fun, interactive show. When you and your child spend the day with us, you will find that libraries are magical places — with or without a magician on hand! Seating for the magic show may be limited.

Bartels has been performing magic for kids and adults in the Capital District for over 40 years. He has won many awards for his magic and is a member of the prestigious magic society known as The Magic Circle.

Take Your Child to the Library Day was founded in 2012 by a Connecticut librarian, with libraries across the country joining in the following year. It is held on the first Saturday in February and is meant to showcase what libraries do for children and families, as well as raise awareness of the services we offer.

Pop in to make pop-up cards

February can be cold and dreary, but you could brighten someone’s month with a cool pop-up card. Stop by the Community Room Monday, Feb. 3, at 6:30 p.m. and we’ll show you how to much a whimsical pop-up card for Valentine’s Day or any other special occasion. Oh, and there will be snacks! This program is intended for adults.

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. At Chess Club, teen volunteers play chess with school-age children of all experience levels.  Our next Chess Club is Tuesday, Feb. 4, with sessions at 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. Sign up for one timeslot per night at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org. See the website for additional Chess Club sessions.

Support for dementia caregivers

Caring for a loved one with dementia is challenging on the best of days, and it can be hard to know where to find answers to your many questions.

On Wednesday, Feb. 5, beginning at 11 a.m. social workers from Eddy Alzheimer’s Services will be available at the library to speak one-on-one with caregivers of individuals with dementia. This is a regularly occurring event funded by a grant from  the NYS Department of Health.

Storm and ice warning

In the event of inclement weather, the library’s telephone system will provide information on a closing or delayed opening. Weather conditions can occasionally cause icing near the entrances that could lead to closure even when the town roadways are clear. Call ahead at (18-439-9314 if you are unsure. Information may also be available on our website at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org.