Bethlehem Library Notes for Wednesday, June 16, 2021

Summer Reading is right around the corner! Hang out with us outside on the library plaza Sunday, June 20, at 2 p.m. as we use paint, markers, and more to create big, colorful lawn signs to celebrate the start of Summer Reading.

When we’re done, we’ll display our signs on the library lawn for everyone to see! No registration is necessary. All ages are welcome to participate. Children under age 9 should be accompanied by an adult at all times. This program will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather. Visit our online calendar at bethlehem.librarycalendar.com to check the status. 

You’re invited

to a Listening Party 

On Thursday, June 17, at 2 p.m. we’ll be holding our annual “Be the DJ” edition of the Listening Parties series. That means you get to choose what the group listens to and discusses.

Send up to four selections of music to librarian and moderator Michael F. at . He will ask you for your comments during the discussion, but if you’re not comfortable speaking in public on Zoom, you can include your thoughts in the email.  

What are Listening Parties? They’re like a book club, but for music! Join fellow music lovers and share your personal impressions and memories, rediscover milestones in music history, and talk about the artists that have shaped the musical landscape. Visit our online calendar at bethlehem.librarycalendar.com to sign up. 

Due date reminder 

Remember to renew or return your overdue books before the end of the month to avoid late charges! The moratorium on late fees has been extended through the end of June, after which the library will once again start charging for overdue materials. 

For more information about our loan periods and fines, visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/borrow/loan-periods-and-fines

Pop-Up Library 

The Pop-Up Library on the Plaza takes place Tuesdays through June, from 1:30 to 6:30 p.m., weather permitting. Our Pop-Up Library is a fun, outdoor browsing experience on the entrance walkway that offers a low-contact way to look through new releases and popular titles for kids, teens and adults. The library building is open during the Pop-Up Library, so if you don’t see what you’re looking for outside — there are plenty more shelves to look through inside. 

Holiday hours 

Just a reminder: The library will be closed Saturday, June 19, in honor of the 156th anniversary of Juneteenth, a holiday that marks the day a Union regiment brought news to remote Texas that the Emancipation Proclamation had ended slavery – two-and-a-half years earlier. The day is typically celebrated with religious services, speeches, educational events, family gatherings, and festivals with music, food, and dancing. 

Our doors are now open seven days a week. Masks are strongly recommended for all library visitors age 2 and up. Masks are mandatory for unvaccinated visitors. For the latest information about library hours and building updates, visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/service-building-updates.