Bethlehem Library Notes for Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Sheep’s crook in hand, Gary Kleppel poses with his dog, Tory. Kleppel who raises grass-fed lamb in Knox and who teaches at the University at Albany, will discuss his book, “The Emergent Agriculture: A New Paradigm in Food Production,” on April 26 at the Bethlehem Public Library.

Author and University at Albany professor Gary S. Kleppel, Ph.D, will discuss his latest book, “The Emergent Agriculture: A New Paradigm in Food Production” at 2 p.m., on Sunday, April 26, at the Bethlehem Public Library. The book examines a new model of agriculture based on fundamental ecological principles as a viable alternative to industrial food production.

Dr. Kleppel is a professor of biology who has spent the past decade studying sustainable agriculture and the ecology of human-dominated landscapes. He will discuss and provide examples of how ecology-based agriculture is gaining traction in areas along the Hudson Valley.

Kleppel and his wife operate a small farm west of Albany that produces grass-fed lamb, wool, free-range poultry, and eggs, and artisan breads.

A question-and-answer period and book signing will follow the discussion.

This program is free and open to everyone. For more information, call 439-9314 or visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Study hall at the library

May and June are big months for studying, with the AP exams and Regents taking place in that two-month span. The library has noticed a huge increase in the number of people using the library as a study space during that time and has responded in recent years by opening up our community room and additional spaces to accommodate the crowds.

From May 1 through10 and May 31through June 23, space will be available for drop-in study during non-school hours. Students are welcome to come alone, with a tutor, or in a group. A complete schedule will be posted in the lobby, and is available online at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org and at the library information desk.

Preschool math

On Friday, April 24, from 10 to 10:45 a.m., come to the library and explore measurement with fun activities. This program is for children age six and up with a caregiver.

World Tai Chi Day

Join people all over the world as they gather to practice tai chi and Qigong on Saturday, April 25, at 10 a.m. This event will take place on the Library Green, weather permitting.

New library catalog

Learn about the library’s new catalog, including how to search for books, DVDs and other materials at the library on Monday, April 27, at 2 p.m. Check our website www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org and the information desk for additional dates..

Wii Sports Night

On Monday, April 27, from 7 to 8 p.m., drop in for some Wii Sports fun. This program is for children in kindergarten through grade 12 plus families.

Cyber security

On Tuesday, April 28, from 7 to 8 p.m., UAlbany professor Brian Nussbaum will discuss recent cyber threats that have made the news and how federal, state, and local government, as well as private organizations, are responding to them.

Lego Club

On Tuesday, April 28, from 3:30 to 5 p.m., we supply the Legos; you supply the imagination. This program is for kids and families.

Tai Chi for Health

Learn the ancient Chinese art that benefits health and wellness at the library on Tuesday, April 28, at 10 a.m. This program offers instruction in basic movements for people of any age. No prior experience is required. Wear loose clothing and smooth-soled shoes. 

Salad potluck

On Wednesday, April 29, from 6 to 7 p.m., we provide the lettuce and you bring your favorite topping to share. Call 439-9314 to sign up and for more information. This program is for kids and families. 

Book Buddies

On Wednesday, April 29, with sessions at 6:30 and 7 p.m., Little Buddies read and do activities with Big Buddies to build reading skills and self-confidence. Call 439-9314 for more information and to sign up. For kids in kindergarten through grade five.

Homework Helpers

On Wednesday, April 29, with sessions at 6:30 and 7 p.m., our Homework Center is a great place to do homework, with teen volunteers on hand to help out. Call 439-9314 for more information and to sign up. For kids in kindergarten through grade five.

Balloon Decathlon

On Thursday, April 30, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., stop by the community room and use your brains and body to compete in all 10 stations. This program is for kids and families.

Paws to Read
On Thursday, April 30, from 3:45 to 4:45 p.m., kids in grades one through five can bring a book and read to a gentle dog who loves stories.