Bethlehem Library Notes for Wednesday, March 17, 2021
— Photo provided by the Bethlehem Public Library
Pollinators and the important work they do will be the subject of the Bethlehem Public Library’s virtual Skype a Scientist program on Wednesday, March 24, at 4 p.m. with Amy Geffre from the Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego. This talk is for everyone — from kindergarteners to senior citizens. Go to our online calendar at bethlehem.librarycalendar.com to sign up.
Our seed library is back and ready to put down some roots with a variety of open-pollinated vegetables, herbs, and some flowers. New this year is an online “shopping” portal that makes it easy for you to select your seeds for curbside pickup.
On our seed library webpage, you’ll be able to browse different categories and learn more about the varieties through links to the Hudson Valley Seed Co., where our seeds are sourced from.
You can choose up to 10 seed packets per household, and when you check out, you’ll be asked for your name, contact information and library card number. We’ll get in touch with you when your seeds are ready to be picked up. The seed library is currently available to Bethlehem cardholders only.
To see what’s available, visit webapps.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/seeds/categories.asp.
Welcome back
We’ve got some great news! We’re gearing up for a return to in-person browsing, scheduled for Monday, March 22. Although we have worked hard to bring the library to you while our doors have been closed, we are looking forward to this next step in our phased reopening so we can reach even more of our community.
We are still ironing out some details, such as the days and hours that the building will be open, but rest assured our current curbside hours will not be affected by this change.
Just a reminder:
— Masks that cover noses and chins will be required for everyone. Bandanas, neck gaiters, and face shields without a mask are not acceptable. Masks will be mandatory regardless of a person’s vaccination status. If you are not feeling well or running a fever, please visit us when you are feeling better;
— We have installed touch-free faucets in our public restrooms and have located hand sanitizer dispensers throughout the library. Everyone will be asked to sanitize their hands before browsing;
— We will be limiting the number of patrons inside the library at one time. It might also mean there could be a short wait before entering;
— Because others might be waiting, we are asking you to limit your time inside to simply selecting and checking out materials;
— Children under 12 must be accompanied by a caregiver;
— Inside seating, children’s toys, and public computers are not available at this time. A limited-use printing station will be set up;
— Programs, board meetings, and other events will continue to be virtual at this time. To find out what’s coming up, check out our online calendar at bethlehem.librarycalendar.com; and
— In coordination with the other libraries in the Upper Hudson system, returned materials are quarantined for 48 hours. You can drop them off in the designated sheds in the library parking lot.
A copy of our phased reopening plan, which is updated as new information becomes available, may be viewed on our website (www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org).