Bethlehem Library Notes for Thursday, November 15, 2018
With our Library of Things at the Bethlehem Public Library, we make it easy to explore a new hobby, experience nature, play a game, be a do-it-yourselfer, investigate new technology, and so much more.
Borrowing a “thing” from the library is a great way to “test drive” an item, and it gives everyone equal access to new products that might not necessarily fit their budget.
Since its humble beginning just four years ago with a couple of GoPro cameras and accessories, our Library of Things has grown exponentially — and we’re adding new equipment all the time — with support from the Friends of Bethlehem Public Library.
With dozens of “things” to check out, you may be wondering where to begin. You can start by asking yourself what it is you’d like to learn or try or do.
Do you want to explore your musical side? We’ve got bongos, electronic drum kits, keyboards, ukuleles, xylophones, and more that can be borrowed for 28 days at a time.
Are you looking to be handy around the house? Borrow one of our household tools like a laser level or home-inspection kit. We’ve even got diagnostic code readers for your car and a Kill A Watt meter that can help you identify ways to reduce your energy bill.
Are you up for some entertainment? Check out a karaoke machine or a digital projector and Bluetooth speaker, and host an evening in with friends. You can also borrow a virtual-reality headset or a Nintendo Switch and the games to go with it. We’ve got lawn games, too, for some outdoor fun when the weather warms back up.
Do you need to connect to the Internet? We can help. We loan Wi-Fi hotspots, Chromebooks, solar chargers, and power banks.
Would you like to digitally capture and preserve your memories? Our Library of Things includes GoPro cameras, digital camcorders, film and slide scanners, as well as analog video and cassette converters.
How about something for the kids? They can borrow everything from Ozobots to American Girl dolls, along with kits for juggling and bird or bug watching.
Are you interested in the great outdoors? Our newest addition to the Library of Things is a motion-activated trail camera that will capture the hidden lives of the critters in or near your backyard. We also loan out binoculars, telescopes, metal detectors, and fishing poles.
Library of Things items are available on a first-come basis to library cardholders. To see what’s available, visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/borrow/library-of-things.
A doughboy remembers the Great War
Our World War I 100th Anniversary series continues Sunday, Nov. 18, from 2 to 4 p.m. with “Sammy Doughboy Remembers.” Military curator at the New York State Museum Robert E. Mulligan Jr. will use images from the New York Times rotogravure section to highlight the sights, places, and events of World War I as experienced by the soldiers from New York.
For more information about the series, go to: www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/end-of-wwi-anniversary-series.
Holiday hours
The library will close at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 21, and remain closed Thursday, Nov. 22, for the Thanksgiving holiday. The library will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 23.