Bethlehem Library Notes for Friday, September 16, 2016

Bestselling author Ann Leary, whose writing credits include “An Innocent, A Broad,” “The Good House,” and “Outtakes From a Marriage,” will be stopping by the library on Sunday, Sept. 18, at 2 p.m. to discuss her creative process and her latest book, “The Children.”

Leary’s novels have always had a certain New England sensibility to them, and “The Children” continues that tradition with the story of a wealthy but unconventional Connecticut family.

Leary’s work has been translated into 18 languages, and she has written for “The New York Times,” “Ploughshares,” “National Public Radio,” “Redbook” and “Real Simple” among other publications. “The Good House” is currently in development for a feature film. She and her husband, Denis, live on a small farm in northwestern Connecticut.

Copies of her books will be available for purchase at the event through I Love Books. The author will also be signing copies following her talk. Because space is limited, this free event is first-come, first-admitted, and doors will open at 1:45 p.m. Leary’s talk is a Writers and Friends program underwritten by Friends of Bethlehem Public Library.

Clear out clutter at book donation event

The library is once again partnering with Grassroot Givers, a local nonprofit, to collect books for donation to local organizations and individuals in need. Collection day is Saturday, Sept. 17, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the library garage.

Donations to the Book Project must fit the following criteria: current adult paperback fiction and nonfiction; current adult hardcover fiction and nonfiction; current children’s board books; current children’s hardcover and softcover picture books; current elementary and middle school chapter books; current adult biography, self-help, cookbooks, history books.

Grassroot Givers will not accept books older than 10 years; torn or moldy books; encyclopedias; videos, tapes or CDs; magazines; computer books older than three years; test prep books older than the current year; textbooks of any kind, including law and medical books.

Donations that do not meet these criteria, and donations brought before 10 a.m. or after 1 p.m., will not be accepted.

Sewing volunteers

Are you handy with a sewing machine and willing to share your knowledge with others? Experienced sewers are needed to help patrons with their projects on library machines. An ongoing commitment is preferred. Call the library at 439-9314 to find out more.

Stamp sampler

In our display cases in the library hallway this month we highlight selections from the stamp collection of Richard Covuoto of Bethlehem. Over approximately three decades, Mr. Covuoto amassed a robust collection that was representative of important milestones in American history. On display is just a small part of it, but every stamp has a story to tell. Check them out from now until the end of September.