Guilderland Library Notes for Wednesday, January 29, 2020
Enterprise file photos — Melissa Hale-Spencer
Albany native Stephen Myers, shown above on top, portrayed in a bust made from the only known photograph of him, is regarded as an important Underground Railroad agent by many noted abolitionists, including Frederick Douglass. Local connections to fugitives seeking freedom will be explored as “The Underground Railroad of the Capital Region” is presented on Saturday, Feb. 1, at 2 p.m. at Guilderland Public Library by Mary Liz and Paul Stewart, co-founders of the Underground Railroad History Project of the Capital Region Inc. The Stewarts have been instrumental in restoring the Stephen and Harriet Myers residence, shown above on bottom, in Albany, an Underground Railroad hub in the mid-1850s.
Wondering how to unlock the secret to a more zen-like existence?
On Thursday, Jan. 30, at 6:30 p.m., local professional organizer Jes Marcy will present “The Answer is Less,” examining underlying reasons why we over-consume, and outlining practical streamlining strategies. Please register at the Guilderland Public Library online, by phone, or in person.
Take Your Child to the Library Day
We’re planning an exceptionally fun-filled family day on Saturday, Feb. 1, and we hope you’ll join us. It’s national Take Your Child to the Library Day, and our theme is “The Library is Super!” We’ll have engaging activities planned throughout the day, plus a special visit from Spider-Man from 10 a.m. to noon. All ages welcome!
Underground Railroad
Our neighborhoods were visited by thousands of fugitives seeking freedom in the pre-Civil War era. On Saturday, Feb. 1 at 2 p.m., learn how local citizens helped these freedom seekers, facing daunting dangers and risking everything in their quest.
Presenters Mary Liz and Paul Stewart are co-founders of the Underground Railroad History Project of the Capital Region, Inc. and have been instrumental in the restoration of the Stephen and Harriet Myers Residence in Albany, a headquarters for Underground Railroad activity during the mid-1850s.
Family STEAM Night
Representatives from area schools and colleges lead hands-on activities during our educational and entertaining Family STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) Nights. On Monday, Feb. 3 at 6:30 p.m., the RPI Science Ambassadors will be on hand for grades 2 through 6 and their families. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Paying for college
Contemplating how to manage the cost of tuition? You’re certainly in good company. On Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 6:30 p.m., a representative from the State Employees’ Federal Credit Union will cover the hidden costs of college, how to navigate the financial aid process, methods and strategies to cover costs, and additional financial resources available.
A SEFCU membership is not required to attend, and teens and their guardians are strongly encouraged to participate together. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Winter diorama
Tiny things are irresistible! On Wednesday, Feb. 5 at 3:45 p.m., students in grades 4 to 12 are invited to create a unique seasonal scene using miniature creatures and other cute accessories. Please register online, by phone or in person.
He Read/She Read Book Club
Calling all book lovers! We’re kicking off our new He Read/She Read Book Club with a Meet & Greet on Friday Feb. 7 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Visit our table in the lobby to survey the selections for our upcoming book club, and enter our prize drawing: a Library Lovers’ gift basket!
Librarians Dustin and Josalyn Wilder will alternate selecting a title and leading the discussion each month. Tuesday, March 3 at 7 p.m. will feature “He Read” (Dustin’s selection) — “The Chain” by Adrian McKinty.
Better Books Sale
Savvy shoppers routinely snag frugal treasures at our Better Books Sale, the second Saturday of each month. The next bargain bonanza is slated for Sat. Feb. 8, 10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Happy hunting!
Missing Piece Board Game Club
Games, food and fun are on the agenda for our twice-a-month adult Missing Piece Board Game Club, Sat. Feb. 8 at 2:00 p.m. Come solo, or bring a friend or two…bring your favorites from home, or play a game from our collection of 100+ offerings. Fill our giant table with your favorites…game on!
Take a Break Teen Reader Boxes
Personalized “Take a Break Teen Reader Boxes” for February school break are available for grades 8-12. Participants will receive a specially-selected library book to check out and an advanced reader paperback book to keep, plus some fun surprises. When done, return the box and sign up again for April school break.
Streaming service
Explore RBDigital, our new library streaming service! Your Guilderland or Altamont library card grants you a seven-day loan. Call 518.456.2400, extension 3 for more information, or visit https://guilderlandlibrary.org/e-library-landing-page/#watchtv to get started.
Seeking exhibitors
We currently have a few openings for local artists, crafters, photographers and collectors to display their wares. Please contact Luanne Nicholson at 518-456-2400, ext. 112, or for more information.