North American music is what it is today largely because of the contributions of Native Americans and Colonial people as they shared their traditions. The diversity of vocalizations, dances, and instruments enriched their culture, transmitted their beliefs, strengthened them when weary, and enlivened and soothed their spirits.

Come and experience these musical traditions on Friday, Sept. 24, at 1 p.m. with Dawn Collins, a certified music practitioner, as we kick off our Friday afternoon Coffee and Conversation series. 

Next up in the series, on Oct. 1 at 1 p.m., we’ll be hosting Rick and Marilyn for an afternoon of music tentatively scheduled to take place outside on the Green. Please dress accordingly.  

Coffee & Conversation is co-sponsored by Bethlehem Senior Projects. Please visit our calendar at bethlehem.librarycalendar.com for details. 
 

Thousands of magazines

at your fingertips 

E-book and digital audiobook users have long taken advantage of the extensive collection available through OverDrive and the Libby app, but did you know there are literally thousands of magazine titles to download from there as well? Cardholders can find niche publications that cater to specific crafts or hobbies, as well as popular titles focusing on travel, entertainment, technology and more. Even better, many have back issues available through 2018. 

To look for a specific magazine, visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/online-content-through-overdrive-and-libby and click on the OverDrive/Libby icon. Start with a title search. Magazines will be designated as a series. You can then narrow down your search by choosing “Magazine” as one of the filters. If back issues are available, you’ll see that option once you click on your selection. 

If you don’t have anything specific in mind, you can browse the entire collection by selecting “Magazines” in the drop-down menu under “Collections.” From there you can use filters to narrow it down by interest. 

Can’t find what you’re looking for through OverDrive and Libby? Bethlehem cardholders can access even more magazine titles through Flipster, available here: www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/borrow/flipster

 

Books to People 

Our Books to People free delivery service is available to homebound residents of the Bethlehem Central School District and can be especially helpful to those who need to take extra precautions to avoid exposure to the Coronavirus. With Books to People, selected materials are delivered (no contact!) every other week via the library van. If you or someone you know would like to learn more about this service, call the library at 518-439-9314 or visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/services/books-to-people
 

Donate a

musical instrument 

Vanguard, a group of volunteer supporters of the Albany Symphony Orchestra, is seeking donations of musical 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  to 4 p.m. for a special collection event. Donated instruments should be gently used and in good condition.

— Photo by Kristen Roberts

A brand-new book drop has been installed in the Bethlehem library parking lot, replacing the temporary drop-off sheds. The high-capacity book drop is open 24/7. 

As the 2021-22 school year begins, we’re bringing back our Just for Me: Teen Book Boxes as a special pick-me-up for teens facing yet another unconventional year of learning. The boxes are filled with books and fun novelties for teens to keep and enjoy. 

Teen Book Boxes are only available to Bethlehem Central School District residents in grades 6 to 12; one box per household. Books are being chosen from a limited stock and specific requests cannot be accommodated.

Registration for the fall box is open through Sept. 24. In October, participants will be contacted when their box is ready for pick-up or delivery. Supplies are limited. To sign up for your Book Box, visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/teen-book-boxes

Our Teen Book Boxes are generously co-sponsored by the Friends of Bethlehem Public Library.  

Get to your roots 

The library has a number of tools to help you dig deep into your family history, chief among them is Ancestry.com, which is available remotely to Bethlehem cardholders through Dec. 31, 2021, after which it must be accessed using the WiFi inside the library building or on our grounds, including the parking lot.

With Ancestry.com, you can search billions of records, including census, military, and immigration records, to discover your family’s story.  

You might also find what you’re looking for with HeritageQuest, which gives you access to United States census data and over one million genealogy and local history articles. On our Local History webpage you’ll find even more resources, including our Spotlight newspaper archive and the New York Heritage digital collections. Find all of these resources linked from our “Research” page on our website (www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org). 

Have you hit a genealogical “brick wall” in your own search that you need to break through? Email us at with your genealogy research questions so we can point you in the right direction. 

COVID-19 info

Do you have questions about COVID-19 and your health? Our librarians have compiled a list of resources to help you find the answers. To learn more, visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/covid-19-wellness-resources

Buy a book,

help the Friends 

The Friends of Bethlehem Public Library’s Pop-Up Book Sale on the library plaza will be held Saturday, Sept. 18, from noon to 4 p.m. 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. 

Donate a

musical instrument 

Vanguard, a group of volunteer supporters of the Albany Symphony Orchestra, is seeking donations of musical 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 to4 p.m. for a special collection event. Donated instruments should be gently used and in good condition. 

Sunday hours resume 

The library is once again open Sundays. Drop by from noon until 5 p.m., or get your items to go with curbside pickup from 1 to 5 p.m. For more information about library hours and services, visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

— 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.

 

The September/October Footnotes has been mailed and is filled with exciting upcoming events for all ages — including the return of Coffee and Conversation, Great Give Back volunteer opportunities, and a four-week Forces of Nature series for kids ages 8 to12. You can also find the latest issue online at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/about-us/library-newsletter-footnotes.

In light of new COVID-19 safety concerns, some of these events will now be taking place outside on the Green. For the most up-to-date information on location and weather delays, please visit the library calendar at bethlehem.librarycalendar.com

Tincture time 

Adam Elabd, cofounder of Yesfolk Tonics in Troy, will be joining us Tuesday, Sept. 14, at 6 p.m. to discuss the basics of making tinctures, bitters, syrups and several other herbal preparations using locally available medicinal herbs. Elabd has been making and teaching others how to make herbal medicine and fermented foods for the past decade. There will be a demonstration, as well as a tasting, and you will go home with all the knowledge you need to make these tonics for yourself. 

This program will be held outside on the Green. Please dress appropriately and feel free to bring a chair or blanket. Visit our calendar at bethlehem.librarycalendar.com to sign up. 

Fall book sale 

It’s almost time for the Friends’ fall book sale at the library! Make some space on your bookshelves and stock up on some new-to-you books and DVDs at the Friends of Bethlehem Public Library’s Pop-Up Book Sale on the library plaza Saturday, Sept. 18, from 1 to 4 p.m. For sale will be books and other materials that have been removed from the library collection and are in excellent condition. Many are duplicate copies of popular titles. Book donations are not being accepted. 

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, Oct. 19, has been scheduled. 

The Friends are an all-volunteer organization that supports some of the library’s most popular events and activities. They’ve also helped fund the Library of Things, including museum passes, and have underwritten many of the library’s concerts and community events. For more information, visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/about-us/friends-of-bethlehem-public-library

Summer reading

wrapping up  

Don’t forget: The last day to log your summer reading is Sept. 3. Make sure you have all of your activities checked off and have spent all of your prize store points before the program ends. Call us at 518-439-9314 or email the Information Desk if you need help spending your points. 

Holiday

Bethlehem Public Library will be closed for the Labor Day holiday Saturday to Monday, Sept. 4 to 6. Access the library catalog and other library services online anytime at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org

Regular Sunday hours resume Sept. 12.

— Photo by the Bethlehem library staff

The new library mobile app lets you search the catalog, manage your account, browse the calendar, and check out books at Bethlehem Public Library — all from your own phone. 

With the new Upper Hudson mobile app, you can find the books, movies, and music you’re looking for with a simple, mobile-friendly search from your own phone or handheld device. The app makes it easy to manage your account on the go — place holds, pay fines, and more.

You can also browse upcoming events and sign up for what interests you — all from your phone. The app lets you see the new items at all Upper Hudson libraries or locate a library near you. You even have access to digital library resources like Ancestry.com

No more digging through your wallet to find your library card — with the UHLS app, it’s always at your fingertips. You can also store more than one account on the app. 

But here’s the best part: You can use the self-checkout function to scan and borrow items at Bethlehem Public Library right from your phone, which is perfect for those grab-and-go moments or when the kids are ready to leave right now. 

To get started, search for “UHLS Mobile App” in your device’s app store. Once you download the app, you’ll select “Bethlehem Public Library” from the options. On the app’s homepage, click “My Account” and then “Manage Accounts,” where you’ll be prompted to enter your card number and personal identification number. After that, you’re ready to explore all of the app’s features. 

Summer reading

wrapping up 

The last day to log your summer reading is Sept. 3. Make sure you have all of your activities checked off and have spent all of your prize store points before the program ends. Call us at 518-439-9314 or email the Information Desk at if you need help spending your points. 

Stream the

Great Courses 

You don’t have to be heading back to school to learn something new. Check out The Great Courses on Kanopy and further your lifelong learning goals with a robust selection of college-level video courses on a number of topics including economics, fine arts, music, history, literature, philosophy, science, mathematics, social sciences, professional development and better living. 

Use your Bethlehem library card to access the streaming video service. In addition to The Great Courses, Kanopy offers a catalog of more than 30,000 indie films, documentaries and hard-to-find foreign films.  

Films can be streamed from any computer, television, mobile device or platform by downloading the Kanopy app for iOS, Android, AppleTV, Chromecast or Roku. Visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/borrow/kanopy to see what’s available. 

Mask up

Just a quick reminder that the library is once again requiring masks for all indoor visitors ages 2 and up regardless of vaccination status. This decision is based on current recommendations from the Centers for disease Control and Prevention and rising COVID-19 transmission rates in the Capital Region.

Visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org to view a copy of the library’s phased reopening plan. We know that everyone is eager to have this pandemic behind us, but until that time, we are taking the necessary steps to prevent the spread.

The library is once again requiring masks for all indoor visitors ages 2 and up regardless of vaccination status. This decision is based on current recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and rising COVID-19 transmission rates in the Capital Region. Visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org to view a copy of the library’s phased reopening plan. 

We know that everyone is eager to have this pandemic behind us, but until that time, we are taking the necessary steps to prevent the spread. Thank you for doing your part to protect the health and safety of our community. 

Your library outside 

When the weather’s nice, please check out one of our many outdoor spaces for reading and relaxing. At this time, masks are not required outside on library grounds.  

Enjoy a picnic at one of our shaded accessible tables, or tap into our Free Library WiFi while working or studying al fresco. Kids will love an interactive stroll around the grounds while enjoying our latest Storywalk featuring “Fox and the Bike Ride” by Corey R. Tabor. Or just chill out on our Ian Boegel Memorial Patio, a welcoming outdoor nook just off the Children’s Place filled with fun-sized furniture and whimsical decorations. 

In the right light 

Borrow a ring light from the library for your next video conference or remote interview and you’ll be more than ready for your close up. Ring lights are designed to cast an even light on the subject, minimizing shadows and blemishes for a picture perfect image. They are ideal for portraits, selfies, live streaming, virtual meetings, and social media videos. 

The library’s ring light setup includes everything you need to get started: light, stand, filter and accessories. Search for it in the library catalog. 

More fun

at the park 

Catch the one-and-only Jester Jim at our rescheduled park program Tuesday, Aug. 24, at 7 p.m. This is not your ordinary juggling show! With a trunk full of props and a looping machine, you will be glued to every sight and sound. 

The performance takes place at Elm Avenue Park on the special events lawn. It is presented in partnership with Bethlehem Town Parks and Recreation and co-sponsored by the Friends of Bethlehem Public Library. Space is available on a first-come basis. 

Get crafty 

Creativebug, a new online resource just for Bethlehem cardholders, provides thousands of high-quality, on-trend arts and crafts instructional videos. At Creativebug, you’ll find fun and engaging classes for artists and makers of all skill levels. In addition to instructional videos on drawing, painting, sewing, knitting, crochet, quilting, baking and more — all taught by experts — you’ll have access to downloadable patterns and supply lists. As part of the Creativebug community, you can also share your own images and tips with your fellow crafters. 

Creativebug delivers expert instruction and inspiration straight to your favorite device so you can learn at your own pace – anytime and anywhere. You will need your library card to start an account so you can revisit past projects or pick up where you left off on a current one. New classes are added daily. Get creative at www.creativebug.com/lib/bethlehemlibrary.

 

Gretchen Sorin, author of “Driving While Black: Race, Space and Mobility in America,” and filmmaker Ric Burns will participate in a virtual conversation with patrons of the Bethlehem Public Library on Aug. 26, at 7 p.m., talking about the documentary based on Sorin’s book about African-American travel and the road to Civil Rights. 

When the documentary “Driving While Black: Race, Space and Mobility in America” debuted on PBS last fall, NPR TV critic Eric Deggans said it offered “an idea that’s both eye-opening and surprisingly simple — that much of the nation’s turmoil over slavery, racial issues, and civil rights connects to the ability of Black people to move freely through the country.” 

On Thursday, Aug. 26, at 7 p.m., you’ll have the opportunity to join author Dr. Gretchen Sorin and filmmaker Ric Burns virtually in a lively and important conversation about the documentary, which is based on Dr. Sorin’s book about African-American travel and the road to Civil Rights. 

Registration is being handled by the Upper Hudson Library System. You will receive the Zoom link on the day of the program. To sign up, go to bit.ly/Sorinlibraryprogram

Dr. Sorin’s book “Driving While Black: African American Travel and the Road to Civil Rights” is available to borrow from our catalog, and the digital audiobook can be downloaded without any wait through Hoopla.   

This program is presented in collaboration with the Upper Hudson Library System, International Coalition of Sites of Conscience, The Cooperstown Graduate Program, and Steeplechase Films.

Paint Your Own Llama 

Who doesn’t llove llamas? They’re cute, they’re soft, and they’re smart. And, while real llamas generally come in shades of black, gray, brown, red, or white, when you join us for our “Paint Your Own Llama” program on Saturday, Aug. 14, the sky’s the limit when it comes to your llama’s color scheme! The finished ceramic llamas will add a cute decorative touch to a bookshelf or desk. 

This program is open to grades K-5 and will take place outside on the library Green at 3 p.m. Visit our online calendar at bethlehem.librarycalendar.com to sign up. 

Family entertainment

in the park 

The weather hasn’t been very cooperative with our past Thursdays in the Park events, but we’ve been able to reschedule those family favorites that were rained out in July. See the schedule below for the new dates and times:

— Andy the Music Man: Thursday, Aug. 19, at 6 p.m.; and

— Jester Jim: Tuesday, Aug. 24, at 7 p.m.

Shows are held at Elm Avenue Park in partnership with Bethlehem Town Parks and Recreation and co-sponsored by the Friends of Bethlehem Public Library. They take place on the special events lawn at the park, with space available on a first come basis. 

Bookmark contest 

Don’t forget to make your mark this summer. Our all-ages bookmark contest is open through the end of the month, so break out those colored markers and get drawing! Entries in our Summer Reading Bookmark Contest can be submitted through Aug. 31. The contest is open to all ages, so pick up an entry form at the library or find one with the Summer Reading information online at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

— Photo by Kate Lambert
Swoop sitters: The Bethlehem Public Library is once again a community gathering place with lots of cool spots to chill out with friends — inside and out.

Do you love to end your work week relaxing at the library? Good news! Evening hours on Fridays have returned.

Stop by for some quiet reading or study time, or get some printing and research done at one of our public computer stations. Stock up on some books, video games and DVDs, and get a jumpstart on your weekend planning by picking up one of our museum passes or Library of Things items like an outdoor projector or karaoke machine. Friday nights at the library make all of this possible. 

The library is now open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Regular Sunday hours will resume in September. Curbside pickup is also available Monday through Saturday. For hours and details: www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/service-building-updates

Walk on the wild side 

Head out for some fresh air and enjoy an outdoor story at one of the following StoryWalks in the Town of Bethlehem: 

— On Bethlehem Public Library grounds, starting at the Delaware Avenue entrance; 

— Pine Hollow Arboretum in Slingerlands; and   

— The Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy’s Normans Kill West Preserve.   

StoryWalks promote literacy, physical activity and time together for caregivers and children as you follow a story along on a numbered path.  

Looking for even more StoryWalks? For a list of StoryWalks hosted by other libraries in the Upper Hudson Library System, visit bit.ly/StoryWalkUHLS

StoryWalk are supported by funds from the New York State Library’s Family Literacy Library Services Program and by Upper Hudson Library System. The StoryWalk Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Vermont Bicycle & Pedestrian Coalition and the Kellogg Hubbard Library. 

Summer Reading 

It’s not too late to be a part of our Tails and Tales Summer reading challenge for all ages. Sign up today and start checking off those milestones right away – there’s plenty of summer left to fill your game card for a chance to win some great prizes sponsored by the Friends of Bethlehem Public Library. Visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/summer-reading-2021 to get started. 

Be in the know 

For the most up-to-date library information delivered to your inbox, subscribe to our weekly e-newsletter, which also includes information about library tools and resources you may have not heard about. We promise to keep it short and sweet, and we won’t overload your inbox! Sign up here: mailchi.mp/bethpl.org/e-newsletter.  

Get your Internet to go 

When it comes to free Wi-Fi at the library — you can take it with you. Bethlehem Public Library loans out WiFi hotspots that provide “Internet to go.” Use the device to stream music or your favorite show or do some online research on your own time and in your own space – there are no restrictions as long as cell service is available.  

The devices are portable and can be borrowed for two weeks at a time. Bethlehem cardholders can even request them through the catalog. Go to behlehempubliclibrary.org and search the catalog for “WiFi” to see what’s available.

It’s game on at the library! Thinking about hosting an epic game night with friends or family? Make sure you stop by the library first to check out the extensive board game collection available to borrow through our Library of Things.  

Borrow a classic like Uno or Yahtzee, or get strategic with Risk or Settlers of Cataan. If you’re looking for something silly that the little ones can enjoy along with the grandparents, we’ve got Apples to Apple, Bananagrams, Dogman: Attack of the Fleas, and so many others. 

We’re also adding new games all the time, like Trekking the National Parks, where you get points for “visiting” these natural wonders, and Kids Against Maturity, which is an age-appropriate version of Cards Against Humanity. If the weather is nice, we’ve even got outdoor games like bocce and badminton.  

Ready to choose your next challenge? Visit our Library of Things webpage (www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/borrow/library-of-things) and click on the “Board Games” icon, or stop by the library to see what’s available on our Library of Things shelf. Games are available to borrow for two weeks at a time. All you need is your library card. 

Our games collection is a perfect example of the sharing economy in action. Don’t take up your own shelf space with a bulky board game you only bring out every once in a while. Borrow it from the library instead! 

Speaking of fun and games, there’s even more fun stuff for you to check out in our Library of Things, including:

— Karaoke machines;

— Portable wireless projectors for an outdoor movie night;

— Video games and consoles;

— American Girl dolls; and

— Musical instruments like guitar pedals and ukuleles. 

Visit with Jeff Mack 

Children’s author and illustrator Jeff Mack will be at the library Friday, July 30, to talk about why and how he makes his books. Get an inside look into his drawing process and then use some of the drawing materials we’re providing to create your own inspired illustrations! A session for pre-K to first-graders will take place at 4:30 p.m. A second session for kids grades 2 through 6 is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Books will be available for purchase; cash only. 

Jeff Mack fans can continue the discussion at a Thursday, Aug. 12, family book talk about “Mr. Monkey Takes a Hike,” the third in the author/illustrator’s Mr. Monkey series. The discussion will take place over Zoom and begins at 7 p.m. Visit our online calendar at bethlehem.librarycalendar.com to sign up. 

Read all summer long 

Summer reading is going strong, and there’s still time to sign up! Registration for the 2021 Summer Reading Challenge is happening now and open to all ages. Once you sign up, you can track your progress through challenge cards for a chance to earn some great prizes. Visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/summer-reading-2021 to get started. 

Not sure what to read this summer? Check out our reading list resources at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/borrow/what-to-read-next to help you narrow down your choices.  

Summer hours 

The library is closed Sundays in July and August.

— Photo by Kate Lambert 

Families gathered outdoors in the sunshine on Thursday, July 15, for a program at the Bethlehem Public Library where they customized stepping stones with colorful paints.

Weather can change our outdoor plans with very little notice, and we’ve certainly had our fair share of rain-related cancelations in the past couple of weeks. We’re so grateful to our community and our performers for being flexible and understanding when that happens. 

That said, we’re planning for clearer skies for our upcoming Thursdays in the Park performances, including the one Thursday, July 22, with Image Quilt Dance Theater, whose repertory includes modern dance; flamenco; and dance from Haiti, Cuba, Nigeria and Senegal. The show starts at 7 p.m. 

And we are happy to announce that we’ve been able to reschedule two of your favorites that recently got rained out of our Thursdays in the Park series — Jester Jim and Andy the Music Man. Both performers will return in August, with Andy the Music Man scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 19, at 6 p.m. and Jester Jim dropping by on Tuesday, Aug. 24, at 7 p.m. 

Other upcoming shows include:

— July 29: Ratboy Jr.; and

— Aug. 5: Magician Ron Cain. 

The Thursdays in the Park series takes place at Elm Avenue Park and is a partnership between the library and Bethlehem Parks and Recreation. It is co-sponsored by the Friends of Bethlehem Public Library.   

Farmers’ Market 

Look for us out and about at the Delmar Farmers’ Market on Saturday, July 24, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Stop by our booth to explore some popular new titles, learn more about what we do, or just to say hi. The Farmers Market is held in the parking lot of Bethlehem Central Middle School. 

Library of Things 

Do you have some great family footage languishing on Super 8 and 8mm film that you are no longer able to watch? Preserve those important archives and make old home movies new again when you borrow the Super 8 and 8mm film converter from our Library of Things collection.

The stand-alone MovieMaker Pro, will transform your aging film into modern digital video that can be saved to an SD card up to 32GB in size. Visit our website at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org and search the catalog to borrow the MovieMaker Pro or place a hold. 

Officers chosen

At their July organizational board meeting, library trustees approved the 2021-22 slate of officers:

— Mark Kissinger, president;

— Michelle Walsh, vice president;

— Caroline Brancatella, secretary;

— Sharon Whiting, board treasurer; and

— Lisa Scoons, board representative to the Upper Hudson Library system. 

Up for a challenge?

Summer reading is going strong, and it’s not too late to sign up! Registration for the 2021 Summer Reading Challenge is happening now and open to all ages. Once you sign up, you can track your progress through challenge cards for a chance to earn some great prizes. Visit our website (www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org) and click on the summer reading icon to get started. 

Summer hours 

Please note, the library is closed on Sundays in July and August. You can access the library catalog and other library services online anytime at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

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