Bethlehem Library Notes for Friday, March 25, 2016

Mold your world: Despite advances in animation that can blur the lines between fantasy and reality, there’s an old-school technique that retains a quirky charm: claymation. On Friday, March 25, at 2 p.m., kids in grades two and up can get hands on with this art form when they work with others to create an original stop-motion short using the library’s play dough and iPads.

Will the next Gumby or Shaun the Sheep emerge from these efforts? Registration for the program is required. Sign up online at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org or call 439-9314.

Business cents

Having that great spark of an idea for a new product or service is only part of the equation in getting a business up and running. The next step? That’s the real challenge. One of the biggest questions for would-be entrepreneurs is how to find the needed financing to get their good idea off the ground. On Tuesday, March 29, at 7 p.m., Bethlehem Public Library will host a panel of experts that might just have the answer.

Featuring representatives from The Community Loan Fund of the Capital Region, New York Business Development Corporation, the Capital Region Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Development Center, the “Financial Resources for Businesses” program will discuss financing options available to business start-ups and expansions from a variety of sources, including conventional banks and non-traditional lenders. Topics will include credit, business planning, financial projections, do’s and don’t’s, and more. Get some great information from people who know the process inside and out.

This program is co-sponsored by the Bethlehem Department of Economic Development and Planning and the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce.

Reach for the stars

Don’t forget, the library now has Orion StarBlast 4.5” telescopes for loan. When you borrow one, you get everything you need to start stargazing – the telescope itself, a carrying bag, lens brush, Celestron flashlight, guides to the night sky, and an easy-to-follow user manual. Telescopes are available to borrow for one week at a time.

Local author event

If you are a published Albany County author interested in participating in our local author event on April 10, there is still time to register. Fill out the form at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/authorfair.asp. The deadline is March 31.  For more information, contact Natalie McDonough at 439-9314, ext. 3023.