Bethlehem Library Notes for Thursday, March 1, 2018
The planned upgrade to the library's aging heating and cooling system has begun. We expect some minor disruptions during the project, but we are doing our best to minimize their impact. As construction progresses, we will keep you informed through a dedicated construction page on our website (www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/hvac-project-updates), in-house postings and through social media.
Recently, library staff have begun relocating their workspaces to the Storyhour Room in preparation for the internal phase of the HVAC project, which is expected to begin March 5 and last approximately eight weeks. As a result of this move, regular storytimes may take place in the community or board room, or inside the Children's Place. Please note that some meeting rooms may not be available for limited times during the HVAC project, and construction noise may be audible during business hours.
The long-awaited HVAC improvements will increase comfort and efficiency throughout the library and are the result of a multi-year planning process. The construction is partially funded by a $289,467 New York State Library Construction Grant through the Upper Hudson Library System. The additional funding allows us to continue making necessary capital improvements to the building while minimizing the impact on taxpayers.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we do our best to minimize the impact on library users.
Chris Gibson discusses “Rally Point”
Chris Gibson, a former Army colonel and Republican Congressman who served from 2011 to 2017, will discuss his vision for America outlined in the book "Rally Point: Five Tasks to Unite the Country and Revitalize the American Dream" at the library Saturday, March 3, from 2:30 to 4 p.m.
Gibson, a lifelong resident of Kinderhook from a working-class background, rose from private to colonel in the U.S Army before running for Congress in 2010. "Rally Point" is his analysis of the current political environment and a conservative roadmap to moving beyond a nation divided.
Gibson’s talk will take place in the Community Room and is free and open to everyone. A book signing will take place afterward.
Board candidate information
Nominating petition forms and informational packets are available at the library for candidates interested in serving on the Bethlehem Public Library Board of Trustees.
There are three seats on the 2018 ballot. Two, currently held by incumbents Harmeet Narang and Mark Kissinger, come with five-year terms. The third seat, currently held by Caroline Brancatella, has a partial term of three years. All three trustees are seeking re-election.
Board meetings are held at the library monthly and are open to the public. Meetings begin at 6 p.m. and last about two hours. Trustees are expected to regularly attend.
Petitions must contain at least 58 signatures of voters residing in Central School District No. 6 of the towns of Bethlehem and New Scotland. Petitions must be filed with the District Clerk, Bethlehem Central High School, 700 Delaware Ave., Delmar by 5 p.m. on April 16.
The election and budget vote will be held on Tuesday, May 15, from 7 a.m.-9 p.m. at Bethlehem Central High School.