It’s been another busy year at Bethlehem Public Library, and we’d like to thank you for all the ways you have supported us in 2015.
The library means so many different things to different people in our community, and we aim to meet those varied needs by offering a wide range of services — from our perennially popular music series and book talks to innovative programs focused on careers and technology. This year, we’ve also grown our collection to include non-traditional items for checkout, such as fishing poles and electronic tablets for kids
Keep watching for more exciting developments in this area in the coming weeks. Further cementing our role as a community hub, we added a permanent outdoor bicycle maintenance station that can be accessed 24 hours a day.
In 2015, we expanded our service beyond our doors by offering WiFi at the Bethlehem town pool — a feature that continues year-round. And you may have seen us at the local farmers markets and community events like the Rail Trail Summer Solstice Festival. We also continued our frequent visits to the Bethlehem schools, often bringing along new technology to share like our 3D printer and 3Doodler pens.
This spring we rolled out a new online catalogue, which presented an updated interface and more intuitive searches. It was a big change for both staffers and patrons, but everyone worked together to make the transition as painless as possible.
In another exciting change at the beginning of the year, we began offering more than 100 titles of downloadable magazines — the list continues to grow. Later in the year, we opened up online registration for programs that require sign up — like our wildly popular sewing programs for adults and teens, which we significantly expanded in 2015.
This year presented us with a development that required patience from staffers and patrons alike — the extended road construction project along Borthwick Avenue. As the town’s contractors worked through the summer and well into fall, we did our best to keep you updated about changes that would affect access to the library, and you responded with grace and good humor despite the inconveniences. Fortunately, a mild winter has allowed the town to finish paving this month, and this is not expected to be an issue in 2016.
As the new year approaches, we continue to explore how to help our community in relevant and engaging ways. We thank all of you for your support, and wish you a safe and happy holiday.
Holiday hours
The library will be closed on Thursday and Friday, Dec. 24 and 25, for the Christmas holiday. We’ll close at 3 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 31, and remain closed until 10 a.m., on Saturday, Jan. 2. We’re always open online at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
Bethlehem Public Library’s annual winter concert series, A Little Sunday Music, continues Dec. 6 with cellist Will Hayes performing Brahms and Mozart with a clarinet quintet.
Hayes is a Cincinnati Conservatory of Music graduate and past student artist at Chautauqua Institution and the Aspen Music Festival. He has appeared in concerts with Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and Grammy living legend Rod Stewart, Johnny Mathis, Eileen Ivers of Riverdance fame, and has held numerous positions in orchestras across the United States, including the Middletown Symphony in Ohio; Richmond Symphony in Indiana; Lawton Philharmonic and Enid Symphony in Oklahoma; Wyoming Symphony; Las Cruces Symphony in New Mexico; and the Schenectady Symphony.
After a short break in January, the music series resumes Feb. 7 with The River Trio. A Little Sunday Music concludes March 6 with a flower-themed recital with soprano Bien Baez and returning pianist Michael Clement. All concerts take place on a Sunday at 2 p.m.
A Little Sunday Music is generously underwritten by Friends of Bethlehem Public Library.
Chorus at town hall
December is a musical month. The Bethlehem Senior Chorus presents “Questions in Song” this Friday, Dec. 4, at 1 p.m., in the Bethlehem town hall. Directed by Claudia Summers, the chorus is a mixed group of about 60 senior citizens who have enjoyed singing and entertaining folks in the community for almost a decade.
Open to all, the concert is cosponsored by Bethlehem Senior Projects, Inc. Please note that this event does not take place at the library.
Library schedule change
The library will open at 1 p.m., on Friday, Dec. 4, to accommodate a staff development session in the morning. Our bookdrops will be open, but there will be no telephone service in the morning.
Babies and self-soothing
On Friday, Dec. 11, at 10 a.m., caregivers and infants can learn how to both soothe an infant and encourage self-soothing to promote good sleeping habits. The snow date is Monday Feb. 8, at 10:30 a.m. Presented by the Capital District Child Care Council.
Teen SEWcial
On Friday, Dec. 11, from 3:30 to 5:45 p.m. boys and girls in grades six through 12 are welcome to join us to make a pair of pajama pants. You need to bring three yards of fabric, and coordinating thread optional. Sign up online or call the library.
Time Out for Tales
On Saturday, Dec. 12, at 11 a.m., join us for stories and fun for children up to age six and families.
Origami Club
On Saturday, Dec. 12, from 3 to 4:15 p.m., bring your own project or fold something with us. This month we’ll create an evergreen.
Decorating with greenery
On Sunday, Dec. 13, from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m., join us for Outside In: Decorating with Greenery.
Learn how to use natural materials to create stunning centerpieces and decorative items for the home with master gardener Denise Maurer.
Tiny Tots
On Monday, Dec. 14, at 9:30 a.m., and then again on Tuesday, Dec. 15, at 9:30 and 10:30 a.m., join us for stories, songs and fingerplays. This program is for children up to age 35 months with caregiver.
Book discussion
On Monday, Dec. 14, at 1:30 p.m., join our DayBook discussion of “The Vacationers” by Emma Straub. Copies of the book are available at the information desk. Audio and downloadable copies may be available.
Board meets
On Monday, Dec. 14 at 6 p.m., the library’s board will meet in the library’s board room. All are welcome.
Family story time
On Wednesday, Dec. 16 and 17, at 9:30 a.m., enjoy stories, songs, and activities. This program is for children up to age six with family.
Family playtime
On Wednesday, Dec. 16 at 10 a.m., free play and socialization with toys, blocks, balls, and more. For children up to age six with family.
Card Game Club
On Wednesday, Dec. 16, at 4 p.m., kids in grades six through 12 join us to play cards, from classics like Uno to newer games like Fluxx. There are also snacks.
On My Own
On Thursday, Dec. 17 at 10:15 a.m., join us for stories, songs, and fun for children age three to six while parents wait at our café tables.
— Bethlehem Public Library staff
A battle of wits took place on Nov. 9 at Bethlehem Public Library for the “Are You Smarter than a Librarian?” challenge, and this year, it appears the challengers were, indeed, smarter.
The Listening Parties music appreciation series continues with a special program on Thursday, Nov. 19, called “Renditions,” where participants will explore the fluid boundaries between jazz and other musical genres. The discussion, which begins at 7 p.m., will close out the series for 2015. More Listening Parties return in 2016, kicking off with Antônio Carlos Jobim, primary creator of bossa nova, on Thursday, Jan. 21, at 7 p.m.
Listening Parties at the library are a great way to meet up with 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. Bethlehem librarian, Michael Farley facilitates the discussions.
Drop in for one session or all of them; everyone is welcome. For more information, visit HYPERLINK "http://www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/"www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org or call 439-9314.
Game on
Swing by the library on Saturday, Nov. 21, between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. and bring your game face. BPL is joining other libraries across the globe for a celebration of gaming during International Games Day @ Your Library. Board games and more will be available for use in the library, and all ages are encouraged to participate.
In recognition of the library’s changing and dynamic role and the increasing value of gaming to literacy improvement, the American Library Association founded International Games Day in 2009. The event continues to grow, with more than 1,000 libraries around the world joining ours to showcase gaming programs and services. Gaming of all types at the library encourages young patrons to interact with a diverse group of peers, share their expertise with others (including adults), and develop new strategies for learning.
Register online
Don’t forget, you can now sign up online for library programs that require registration. To get started, simply click on the “events” tab on the library’s home page at HYPERLINK "http://www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/"www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org. Browse the calendar and locate the event you would like to attend. Programs that require registration will be underlined. When registration is complete, a screen will pop up letting you know your information has been received. If the program is full, you may be added to a waiting list.
We still accept registration by phone or in person at the information desk or the Children’s Place desk. Give us a call at 439-9314 if you have any questions.
Holiday hours
Thanksgiving is almost here. Just a reminder that the library will close at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, and remain closed Thursday, Nov. 26, for the Thanksgiving holiday. The library will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 27. Of course, we’re open all the time online at HYPERLINK "http://www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/"www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
Time Out for Tales
On Saturday, Nov. 21, at 11 a.m., join us for stories and fun for children up to age 6 and families.
Stories and play
On Monday, Nov. 23, at 9:30 a.m., and again on Tuesday, Nov. 24, at 9:30 a.m., stories and songs in the community room, followed by free play for children up to age 6 with family and friends.
Sewing
On Monday, Nov. 23, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. come to the library and learn the basics of sewing on a machine, and try out our sewing machines and serger, or just drop by to use one for your own project. This program is for adults and teens in grade 6 and up.
On Tuesday, Nov. 24, at 9:30 a.m. stories and songs in the community room, followed by free play for children up to age 6 with family and friends.
Watch and build
On Wednesday, Nov. 25, at 2 p.m. enjoy “The Lego Movie” rated PG and 101 minutes long, and you can build as you watch. This program is for kids and families.
We all know librarians are good at finding the answers, but how do they measure up when they don’t have their reference materials at hand? Find out Monday, Nov. 9, at 6:30 p.m. when the Bethlehem Public Library hosts “Are You Smarter Than a Librarian?” a trivia tournament that will test the random knowledge of BPL’s best.
Come on down and match wits with our team of librarians. Put together your own team of three to five people, or sign up solo and be placed on a team. They’re up for the challenge … are you?
Refreshments will be served, and prizes will be awarded. Sign up online or give us a call at 439-9314. We hope to see you there.
Mountain ranges near and far
Author and outdoorsman Alan Via has been a familiar face at the library in recent years, entertaining audiences with stories and snapshots from his many outdoor adventures. He returns Wednesday, Nov. 4, at 7 p.m. for a brand-new slide show titled “The Mountains are Beautiful —Everywhere.”
Via will take guests on a virtual tour of mountain ranges near and far, from the Adirondacks and the Catskills to the Dolomites and Alps. The spectacular photography will be accompanied by his stories and observations.
This is Via’s fourth presentation at the library. Past programs have included last year’s “Off the Beaten Path: A Celebration of the Catskill ‘Hidden Peaks’ in Four Seasons,” “Hiking in Utah” in 2012, and “Climbing the Catskill Peaks” in 2011. On more than one of those occasions, a canine companion has joined Alan for his talk.
He is a Slingerlands resident, winter 46er and author of the hiking guide
“The Catskill 67: A Hiker’s Guide to the Catskill 100 Highest Peaks Under 3,000 Feet.” He has hiked extensively throughout the United States and Canada.
This program is free and open to the public.
The write stuff
NaNoWriMo may be a silly word, but the goal of National Novel Writing Month is serious – create the first draft of a 50,000-word novel during the month of November. The library is here to encourage that creative endeavor by offering writing and collaboration space in our board room for adults taking up the NaNoWriMo challenge.
Join other would-be authors in this exciting literary pursuit on Fridays, Nov. 6 to 20, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 8, from 1 to 4 p.m.; and Saturday, Nov. 28, from noon to 4 p.m. Drop in for one or more sessions at your convenience; instruction is not provided. Visit nanowrimo.org for more details and tips for getting started.
Time Out for Tales
On Saturday, Oct. 31. at 11 a.m. join us for stories and fun for children up to age 6 and families.
Tiny Tots
On Monday, Nov. 2 at 9:30 a.m., and on Tuesday, Nov. 3, at 9:30 and 10:30 a.m., the library will have stories, songs, and fingerplays. This program is for children up to age 35 months with caregiver.
Book Buddies
On Monday, Nov. 2 at two sessions, 6:30 and 7 p.m. children from kindergarten to grade 5 are matched with a teen volunteer to practice reading skills and build confidence. Bring a book or choose one at the library. Sign up online or call.
Tabletop gaming
On Monday, Nov. 2 at 6:30 p.m. we provide Dominion, Munchkin, and Ticket to Ride with its USA 1910 Expansion Pack. Bring your own favorites. Snacks will be served. For adults and teens age 16 and older.
Family story time
On Wednesday, Nov. 4, and Thursday, Nov.5, at 9:30 a.m. join us for stories, songs and activities. This program is for children up to age 6 with family.
Family playtime
On Wednesday, Nov. 4 at 10 a.m. free play and socialization with toys, blocks, balls, and more. This program is for children up to age 6 with family.
Lego Technic
On Wednesday, Nov. 4 at 4 p.m. kids in grades 3 to 5 will work with partners to explore some of the projects in the Lego Technic series. Sign up online or call.
On My Own
On Thursday, Nov. 5 at 10:15 a.m. join us for stories, songs and fun for children age 3 to 6 while parents wait at our café tables.
Paws to Read
On Thursday, Nov. 5 from 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. children in grades 1 to 5 bring a book and read to a gentle dog who loves stories.
Teen writing workshop
On Nov. 5, 12, and 19 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. learn creative writing techniques and participate in a peer review group. Just bring paper and pen. Presented by Matt Galletta for kids in grade 8 to 12. Sign up online or call.
A group of dancers dropped by for the Bethlehem Public Library’s Just Dance Wii program on Wednesday, Oct. 7. The ample floor space and big screen in the community room make it easy to get a groove on. Similar programs are held at various times throughout the year.
Bethlehem
By Kristen Roberts
We’ve got more treats than tricks for you this year as we gear up for some super Halloween fun at the Bethlehem Public Library.
There’s still time to take part in our costume swap this Saturday from 11a.m. to 4 p.m. Drop off your gently used costumes from now until Friday and receive a ticket to pick out one that’s new to you on the day of the swap. It’s a great way to recycle and repurpose those outgrown get-ups and save some money while you’re at it. We are accepting costumes in all sizes — from infant to adult.
Pumpkin fun
What makes a pumpkin great? Your very own artistic touch. On Wednesday, Oct. 28, at 4 p.m. kids 3 and up and their families are invited to the library to watch an animated Halloween classic and decorate a pumpkin. It’s BYOP — bring your own pumpkin — but we’ll provide the decoupage supplies.
Halloween parade
Our Halloween festivities culminate with one of our most popular events of the year — the Halloween Parade through the library for children up to age 6 and their families. The parade is so popular, in fact, that we have scheduled two of them, at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29. Festivities will kick off with some seasonal movie shorts and a craft before trick-or-treaters make their way through the library. Costumes are optional.
Roadwork update
The library has been informed by the town’s contractors handling the roadwork along Borthwick Ave. that paving of the road will likely take place sometime in the coming weeks. When this happens, the lack of access and parking means the library will be forced to close on that day. We do not yet know when paving will occur, but we hope to have enough warning to allow us and our patrons time to reschedule any activities or events that were to take place at the library that day. We understand the inconvenience this causes, and we appreciate your patience and understanding as we accommodate the detours, delays, and closings related to this road construction project.
As always, we will do our best to keep you informed about last-minute changes that affect access to the library. Check Facebook and Twitter (which also appears on our website’s home page) for the latest, or give us a call at 439-9314. We’d also like to remind you that you can always search our catalog, make requests, renew items and access our databases 24 hours a day at HYPERLINK "http://www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/"www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
Antiques appraisals
Tickets are still available for the Friends of Bethlehem Public Library Antiques Appraisal on Saturday, Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. to1 p.m. This year, appraisals will take place in the Tawasentha Room at the Normanside Country Club. Moving the venue outside of the library means that appraisers may now offer a purchase price for some items. Get your timed tickets at the library information desk for $5 per item.
Sew together
On Friday, Oct. 16 with sessions at 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. kids and parents will work together to make a stuffed toy. Basic sewing machine experience recommended for the parent. This program is for kids ages 3 to 6 with a caregiver. Sign up for one session by calling 439-9314.
Personal digital archives
On Friday, Oct. 16, at 1 p.m. learn how to preserve digital photos, e-mails, documents, or videos. Sign-up is required by calling 439-9314.
Teen SEWcial
On Friday, Oct. 16 at 3:30 p.m. kids in grades 6 thorugh 12 make a tri-pocket tote with room for all of your stuff. Basic sewing machine knowledge is recommended. Bring one-and-a-half yards of fabric with coordinating thread optional. Sign-up is required by calling 439-9314.
Friends meet
On Monday, Oct. 19 at 6:30 p.m. the Friends of the library will meet. New members always are welcome.
3D Printer demonstration
On Monday, Oct. 19 from 11 a.m. to noon join us for a demonstration of the library’s MakerBot 3D printer. These demos will demystify the cutting-edge technology. Learn how the printer works and what can be created with it. Sign-up is required, call 439-9314.
STEM Night: Engineering a Bright Future
On Tuesday, Oct. 20 from 7 to 8 p.m. learn more about the jobs of the future and what Bethlehem Central School District is doing to help prepare students for these lucrative careers.
Card game club
On Wednesday, Oct. 21 at 4 p.m. join us to play cards, from classics like Uno to newer games like Fluxx. This program is for kinds in grades 6 to 12.
Fuse bead art
On Wednesday, Oct. 21 at 4 p.m. let your imagination take shape with fuse bead art to make and take. This program is for school-age kids with a caregiver.
Friends of Bethlehem Public Library is once again sponsoring an antiques appraisal event in October — with a couple of notable changes. This year, appraisals will take place in the Tawasentha Room at the Normanside Country Club on Saturday, Oct. 17, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Moving the venue outside of the library means that appraisers may now offer a purchase price for some items.
Tickets are required and go on sale at the library information desk on Friday, Sept. 11, until all are gone. The timed tickets are $5 per item, with a maximum of three tickets per person. They may be purchased in person only, by cash or check; no phone purchases, no credit cards.
The following appraisers have donated their services:
— Mark Lawson, specializing in estate jewelry, coins, paintings, fine antique decorative arts, rare collectibles;
— Dennis Holzman; specializing in historically significant items, traditional antiques and fine art, stylish objects, rare and out-of-print books, printed ephemera, manuscripts, photographs; and
— Nancy Toomer; specializing in china/glassware/silver, buttons, jewelry, paintings/prints, Adirondack/fishing lures, art glass/pottery, rugs, toys/dolls/mechanical banks, books/ephemera.
Space for the event was generously donated by the Normanside Country Club.
Sunday hours resume
Regular Sunday hours resume this Sunday, Sept. 13. The library is open from noon until 5 p.m.
Time Out for Tales
On Saturday, Sept. 12 at 11 a.m., join us for stories and fun for children up to age 6 and families.
Book Buddies
On Monday, Sept. 14 at two sessions 6: 30 and 7 p.m., childrenin kindergarten through grade 5 are matched with a teen volunteer to practice reading skills and build confidence. Bring a book or choose one from the library. Call 439-9314, option 4 to sign up.
Food pantry
On Monday, Sept. 14 through Sunday, Sept. 20 drop off your donations of toothpaste, canned fruit, cleaning supplies, and more to support the Bethlehem Food Pantry and pick up a sticker or bookmark as a reward.
School’s Out Cinema
On Monday, Sept. 14 at 2:30 p.m. bring a blanket and get comfy for a film. This program is for kids and families.
DayBooks
On Monday, Sept. 14 at 1:30 p.m., DayBooks will discuss “China Dolls” by Lisa See.
Back-to-School Crafts
On Monday, Sept. 14, from 2 to 2:30 p.m. stop by the teen area to outfit yourself for the school year with fuse bead keychains, bottlecap magnets, and more. This program is for grades 6 through 12.
Board meets
The library’s board will meet on Monday, Sept. 14 at 6 p.m. in the board-room.
Tiny Tots
On Tuesday, Sept. 15 at 9:30 and again at 10:30 a.m. join us for stories, songs and fingerplays for children up to age 35 months with a caregiver.
Family Storytime
On Wednesday, Sept. 16 at 9:30 a.m. stories, songs and activities for children up to age 6 with family.
Family Playtime
On Wednesday, Sept. 16 at 10 a.m. free play and socialization with toys, blocks, balls, and more. This program is for children up to age 6 with family.
Card Game Club
On Wednesday, Sept. 16 at 4 p.m. our card game club meets. This group meets monthly to play cards, from classics like Uno to newer games like Fluxx. For grades 6 through 12.
September STEM
On Wednesday, Sept. 16 from 4 to 4:45 p.m. kids will team up, brainstorm, and document their solutions to save Fred the gummy worm in this classic science activity. For kids in kindergarten through grade 5.
Pajama-Rama
On Wednesday, Sept. 16 at 7 p.m. wear your PJs and bring a stuffed friend to enjoy some fun and stories before bedtime. Up to age 6 with family and friends.
Family Storytime
On Thursday, Sept. 17 at 9:30 a.m. stories, songs and activities for children up to age 6 with family.
On My Own
On Thursday, Sept. 17 at 10:15 a.m. join us for stories, songs and fun for children age 3 to 6 while parents wait at our café tables..
Tai Chi for Health
On Thursday, Sept. 17 at 11:15 a.m. practice the ancient Chinese art that promotes health and wellness while focusing on the core movements in the Tai Chi for Arthritis form. All ages and abilities are welcome.
Lego Club
On Thursday, Sept 17 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. we supply the Legos; you supply the imagination. For kids and families.
Listening parties
Listen to the quirky genius and a founder of modern jazz Thelonious Monk on Thursday, Sept. 17 at 7 p.m.
This fall, the Bethlehem Public Library is reprising the Rape Aggression Defense course presented by the Office of the Albany County District Attorney’s Office and the Albany County Sheriff’s Office.
The program, which takes place on Fridays, from Sept. 11 to Oct. 2, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., and is a comprehensive, women-only course in rape aggression defense. The aim is to promote awareness, prevention, and risk-avoidance strategies through basic, hands-on defense training.
R.A.D. is not a martial-arts program; the goal is escape and survival. The idea behind R.A.D. training is to instruct women in techniques that will help them harness the body’s natural fight or flight instinct during an attack.
The R.A.D. program is open to adults and teens 16 and older. This is an active participation class. Parental consent forms for minors and health release forms for all participants are required, and will be completed at the first session.
Call 439-9314 for more information and to sign up. Classes tend to fill up quickly, so early registration is encouraged.
Holiday hours
The library will be closed from Saturday to Monday, Sept. 5 to 7, for the Labor Day weekend. You can access services and information anytime on our website, www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
The trustees and staff wish you a safe and happy holiday.
Regular Sunday hours resume on Sunday, Sept.13.
Summer cinema
On Friday, Sept. 4, at 2:30 p.m., bring a blanket or pillow; we’ll provide the popcorn for a summer movie. This event is for kids and families.
Creation Station
From Tuesday, Sept. 8 through Sunday, Sept. 13 join us to make a craft in the Children’s Place with the theme of “Apple Trees.”
Tiny Tots
On Tuesday, Sept. 8 at 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. Tiny Tots will have stories, songs, and fingerplays for children up to age 35 months with a caregiver.
Family story time
On Wednesday, Sept. 9, at 9:30 a.m. join us for stories, songs, and activities for children up to age 6 with family.
Family play time
On Wednesday, Sept. 9, at 10 a.m., come for free play and socialization with toys, blocks, balls, and more. This program is for children up to age 6 with family.
Book discussion
On Wednesday, Sept. 9, at 7 p.m. AfterDinner Books will discuss “The Invention of Wings” by Sue Monk Kidd. 7 p.m.
Family story time
On Thursday, Sept. 10, at 9:30 a.m. stories, songs and activities for children up to age 6 with family.
On My Own
On Thursday, Sept. 10 at 10:15 a.m. join us for stories, songs, and fun for children age 3 to 6 while parents wait at our café tables.
Tai Chi for Health
On Thursday, Sept. 10 at 11:15 a.m. practice the ancient Chinese art that promotes health and wellness while focusing on the core movements in the Tai Chi for Arthritis. All ages and abilities are welcome. Class will take place outside; there is no rain location.
Lego Club
On Thursday, Sept. 10 from 3:30 to 5 p.m., we supply the Legos; you supply the imagination. This program is for kids and families
— Photo by Kristen Roberts
Getting hooked on fishing: Concentration is evident in the face of this girl as she tries her hand at casting. On Tuesday, July 28, children gathered on the Bethlehem Library Green for a casting clinic with library Director Geoff Kirkpatrick. They were using the library’s new fishing poles, donated by local pro fisherman Dennis LaGrange with reels from Bass Pro Shops. Fishing poles of all sizes are now available to check out at the library.
Nothing says summer like spending a lazy afternoon dropping a line in the water and hoping for a nibble. Now you can try your hand at fishing or introduce a little one to the sport without investing in a pricey fishing pole that may or may not be used more than once.
New to the Bethlehem Public Library, would-be anglers of all ages can check out ready-to-use fishing poles of every size. The poles, given to the library by local bass fishing pro Dennis LeGrange, are outfitted with reels donated by Bass Pro Shops. They can be checked out for 28 days at a time, with one renewal allowed.
Last week, some of our young patrons took the fishing poles for a spin at a casting clinic on the Green, where they honed their skills and competed for prizes.
Included with each fishing pole are two hooks and a bobber that you get to keep, along with information about local fishing spots and suggested titles to read up on before you head out. Please remember that anyone over the age of 15 needs a license to fish in the state of New York.
Fishing licenses may be purchased at any town hall, Walmart stores, Dick's Sporting Goods and online at the state Department of Environmental Conservation’s website (www.dec.gov).
Tai Chi on the Green
Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese art that enormously benefits health and wellness. The gentle movements are said to help focus and calm the mind. On Friday, Aug. 7, at 9:15 a.m., Cathy Brenner, who has studied Tai Chi for many years and is certified by the Tai Chi for Health Institute, will lead a session of Tai Chi on the Green outside the library. As many of you know, she is also a librarian here at the library.
The program is accessible to people of all ages and abilities. No prior Tai Chi experience is needed. Wear loose clothing and smooth-soled shoes. Tai Chi on the Green will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather.
Free WiFi
Through a partnership with the town, the library is now providing free WiFi access at the Elm Avenue Park pool complex. It will appear on electronic devices as “Free Library WiFi” and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Construction continues
As construction on Borthwick Avenue continues, we will do our best to provide frequent updates about the best way to access our parking lot. You can find the latest news via Facebook and Twitter, which also scrolls live on our website, or give as a call at 439-9314.
Community contacts
Copies of the 2015-2016 Community Contacts are now available at the information desk literature rack. Groups are indexed by subject and cover a wide range of skills and interests. The list can also be accessed through our website by clicking on the “more” tab and selecting “community contacts” from the menu.
Summer cinema
On Friday, Aug. 7, at 2:30 p.m., bring a blanket or pillow, and we provide the popcorn to our summer cinema. Call 439-9314 for details. This program is for kids and families.
Story time
On Monday, Aug. 10, at 9:30 a.m., tiny tots can enjoy stories, songs and fingerplays. This program is for children up to age 35 months with a caregiver.
On my own summer story time
On Monday, Aug. 10, at 10:30 a.m., and Thursday, Aug. 13, at 9:30 a.m., children age 3 to 6 can enjoy stories, songs and fun while parents wait at our café tables.
Jack and the beanstalk
On Monday, Aug. 10, at 2 p.m., come to the library and listen to a story about Jack and the beanstalk, learn about the life cycle of a real bean, and then plant one to grow at home. For kids and families. Sign up is required. Please call 439-9314.
Book Buddies
On Monday, Aug. 10, at 3 p.m., children are matched with a teen volunteer to practice reading skills and build confidence. Bring a book or choose one from the library. Call 439-9314, option 4 to sign up. This program is for kids in kindergarten through grade 5.
Board meets
On Monday, Aug. 10, at 5 p.m., the board of trustees will meet. This meeting is open to the public.
Book Buddies
On Tuesday, Aug. 11, at 3 p.m., and Wednesday, Aug. 12, at 7 p.m., children are matched with a teen volunteer to practice reading skills and build confidence. Bring a book or choose one from the library. Call 439-9314, option 4 to sign up. This program is for kids in kindergarten through grade 5.
Maker Week: Sharpie Lab
On Tuesday, Aug. 11, from 10 to 11 a.m. get creative with the library’s huge collection of Sharpies. Make art, toys, and more. This program is for kids in grades six through 12. Sign-up required, please call 439-9314.
Make a game
On Tuesday, Aug. 11, at 2 p.m., make and label your own I Spy Bottle game to take home. This program is for age 3 and up with a caregiver.
Maker Week: Fabric arts
On Thursday, Aug. 13, from 10 to 11 a.m., join us for some hand-sewing projects, including customizable cozies for your digital device. This program is for kids in grades six through 12. Sign up required, please call 439-9314.
Family summer story time
On Thursday, Aug. 13, at 10:30 a.m., join us for stories, songs and activities for children up to age 6 with family.
— Photo by Kristen Roberts
Teens at last week’s Sew-cial made snazzy pajama pants. The Bethlehem Public Library holds a number of sewing programs for teens and adults during the year.
A super whodunit: What do you get when a bunch of superheroes gather to discuss the capture of a criminal mastermind? Most likely mayhem and murder.
On Monday, July 20, at 6 p.m., the Bethlehem Public Library is the scene of the crime as the Assassination at the Annual Superhero Assembly, a murder mystery game for grades six through 12, unfolds.
Teens will take on the roles of uber personalities such as Blue Blaze, who has the power of fire; The Red Wonder, who fights crime with the power of rap; and Nerdon, whose brains give him the edge on evil. It’s up to this group of heroes to show what they’re made of and band together to find the traitor in their midst.
And no one gets out of there until the notorious Da Bomb is stopped.
Sign up for this program is required. Call 439-9314 or drop by the information desk to register.
Animal heroes
There are so many amazing real-life superpowers to be found in nature. Some animals can navigate in the dark using only sound, others have the uncanny ability to blend in with their surroundings, and still others have adaptations that allow them to jump high or run fast (although not quite over tall buildings or at the speed of sound).
Nature educator George Steele will be at the library on Friday, July 17, to talk about some of these talented animals. The program starts at 10 a.m., and is for children in grade one and up with their families.
Honeybee Heroes
Later on in July, drop by the library for a program about some small creatures that have a big impact. Honeybee Heroes takes place Wednesday, July 22, at 2 p.m. Hear the buzz about these hardworking ecological heroes and how to keep a hive happy, and stick around for a honey tasting and craft. All ages are welcome.
Reminder
During the summer, the library will be closed on Sundays, with regular Sunday hours resuming Sept. 13. You can access the library catalog and other library services online anytime at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
Summer cinema
On Friday, July 17, at 2:30 p.m., bring a blanket or pillow; the popcorn is provided. Call 439-9314 for details. This program is for kids and families.
Story time
On Monday, July 20, at 9:30 a.m., join us for stories, songs, and fingerplays for children up to age 35 months with a caregiver. 9:30 a.m.
On my own summer
story time
On Monday, July 20, at 10:30 a.m., join us for stories, songs, and fun for children age three to six while parents wait at our café tables.
Book Buddies
On Monday, July 20, at 3 p.m., children are matched with a teen volunteer to practice reading skills and build confidence. Bring a book or choose one from the library. Call 439-9314, option 4 to sign up. This program is for kids in kindergarten through grade five.
Book Buddies are offered again on Tuesday, July 21, at 10 a.m. Children are matched with a teen volunteer to practice reading skills and build confidence. Bring a book or choose one from the library. Call 439-9314, option 4 to sign up. This program is for kids in kindergarten through grade five.
Family Yoga
On Tuesday, July 21, at 2 p.m., join yoga instructor Janine Murphy for fun yoga poses, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques. Bring a mat or a towel. This program is for kids and families.
Evenings on the Green
On Wednesday, July 22 at 7 p.m., Cosby Gibson and Tom Staudle perform acoustic, folk, Americana, and blues-style originals and favorites.
On my own summer
story time
On Monday, July 23, at 9:30 a.m., join us for stories, songs, and fun for children age three to six while parents wait at our café tables.
Family summer story time
On Thursday, July 23, at 10:30 a.m., join us for stories, songs, and activities for children up to age six with family.
Lego Club
On Thursday, July 23, from 3:30 to 5 p.m., we supply the Legos; you supply the imagination. For kids and families.
Book Buddies
On Monday, July 23, at 7 p.m., children are matched with a teen volunteer to practice reading skills and build confidence. Bring a book or choose one from the library. Call 439-9314, option 4 to sign up. This program is for kids in kindergarten through grade five
The sound of summer: Ready for some music to your ears?
The Bethlehem Public Library’s annual summer concert series, Evenings on the Green, kicks off on Wednesday, July 1, with a performance by Three Quarter North, an ensemble of homegrown musicians performing bluegrass, folk and roots music.
The rest of the month features an equally strong lineup with family-friendly performances by Mother Goose Jazz Quintet on July 8, Skip Parsons on July 15, Cosby Gibson and Tom Staudle on July 22, and Moonshine Holler closing out the series on July 29. You’ll find the schedule online at www.bethlehempubliclibray.org, in the latest issue of our Footnotes newsletter, or at the library information desk.
The Evenings on the Green series has been entertaining the community for more than four decades. Join us this July for one or all of these great performances. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, pick a spot on the Green, then sit back, relax and enjoy. Concerts will move indoors if it rains.
Evenings on the Green concerts are always free, appropriate for all ages, and they take place every Wednesday in July at 7 p.m.
Ice cream social
To further sweeten the experience, the Friends of the Library will be holding an ice cream social and membership drive at the July 8 concert. Nothing says summer like a cool treat and some outdoor tunes.
Farewell
At the June 15 board of trustees meeting, library staffers and fellow trustees bid farewell to President Jeremy Martelle and Vice President John McCarthy, whose terms wrap up at the end of the month. The library is grateful for the time and energy they have devoted to the board over the years — a five-year term is no small commitment —and we wish them the best in all their future endeavors.
Reading program
Our Summer Reading Program is under way. Sign up online and in the library. Get all the details in the July/August issue of “Footnotes.”
Holiday and summer hours
The library will be closed on Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day.
The library is also closed Sundays in July and August, beginning July 5.
Preschool films
On Friday, June 26, from 10 to 10:30 a.m., join us in the Community Room for short films based on picture books. This program is for children up to age six with family.
Time Out for Tales
On Saturday, June 27, at 11 a.m., come to the library for stories and fun. This program is for children up to age six and families.
I Forgot Day
On Thursday, July 2, at 10 a.m., join us to create a card for an important birthday or holiday? This is the perfect time to celebrate. Don’t forget to stop by the library to create a card or craft for someone special. For kids and families.
Teen SEWcial
On Thursday, July 2, at from 1:30 to 4 p.m., bring three yards of fabric to the library and make a custom pair of pajama pants. Both boys and girls are welcome. For kids in grade six through 12. Sign up required, call 439-9314.