Bethlehem Library Notes for Wednesday, September 8, 2021
— Bethlehem Public Library staff photo
September is Library Card Sign-up Month, and at the Bethlehem Public Library, you can choose from a couple of card options — including one featuring Baby Yoda.
There is nothing more empowering than signing up for your own library card. Through access to books, technology, and media resources, a library card gives people of all ages the opportunity to pursue their dreams and passions.
At the Bethlehem Public Library, that card is also your ticket to adventure. Stream a movie, borrow a pass to area museums and state parks, or check out a board game for a family fun night. We also loan karaoke machines, wildlife cameras, telescopes, and so much more.
September is Library Card Signup Month, so if you know someone who hasn’t gotten theirs yet, be sure to share all the great perks that come with being a library cardholder. And here’s one more perk: For a limited time, you can get a Bethlehem library card featuring The Child (aka Baby Yoda). This is the way.
Sign up for a library card in person or online at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/borrow/online-library-card-application. (P.S. The Child card is available to current cardholders, too!)
Meet Libby
The Libby app makes it easy to borrow OverDrive ebooks, audiobooks and magazines to read on your phone or tablet. Download and setup is simple for new users and a streamlined experience for current OverDrive app users. Learn more at overdrive.com/apps/libby.
Beginning in early 2022, the legacy OverDrive mobile app will no longer be available to download and will eventually be phased out. Current OverDrive app users are encouraged to switch to Libby. Need help making the switch? Give us a call at (518) 439-9314.
Fall book sale
Mark your calendar for the Friends of Bethlehem Public Library’s Pop-Up Book Sale on the library plaza Saturday, Sept. 18, from noon-4 p.m. For sale will be books and other materials that have been removed from the library collection and are in excellent condition.
Pricing will be cash-only by suggested donation; the Friends will not be able to make change. The book sale is weather-permitting and a rain date of Sunday, Sept. 19, has been scheduled.
Share the music
Have you been hanging on to a musical instrument from your or your child’s past that is no longer being used? Vanguard, a group of volunteer supporters of the Albany Symphony Orchestra, is seeking donations of instruments for low-income Capital District children whose families aren’t able to cover the rental or purchase fees. They will be on the library Green Saturday, Sept. 25, from 1-4 p.m. for a special collection event. Donated instruments should be gently used and in good condition.
More than 270 instruments have already been donated to the cause, and these tax-deductible gifts enable hundreds of children to participate in their schools’ band and orchestra programs.
Back to school support
As your kids get ready to head back to school, we’re here to help. Bethlehem cardholders have access to HelpNow by Brainfuse, a learning resource for all ages with personalized homework help in core subjects, as well as SAT preparation. Live one-on-one online tutoring is available for elementary, middle school, high school and college students. Find HelpNow on the library’s Research page at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/webapps/research.asp.