Guilderland Library Notes for Wednesday, March 2, 2022
Individualized computer coaching, for Apple devices or résumé preparation, with Learning Express is available virtually through Guilderland Public Library on Monday, March 7, 14, and 28 at 6:30 p.m. Sign up on the Events tab of guilderlandpubliclibrary.org.
Guilderland Public Library has been waiving late fees since the pandemic started in March 2020, giving patrons an extra boost as the library became a vital lifeline for many. We are pleased to announce, in conjunction with the Altamont Free Library, that we are officially fine-free, embracing a growing trend across America. At last count, 22 of the 29 Upper Hudson Library System libraries have switched to fine-free status.
“Library fines don’t get overdue materials back faster,” according to Guilderland Public Library Director Tim Wiles. “But they do create shame and anxiety among library users, particularly kids, and often contribute to lifelong negative associations with libraries. Eliminating fines fosters goodwill, brings overdue materials back, and, most importantly, increases library usage.”
“Patrons will still be billed for the replacement cost of unreturned items,” Wiles explained. “This method is a more effective way to keep borrowed materials coming back, and far less labor-intensive for library staff, which saves taxpayers money.”
In addition, all 29 local public libraries now offer auto-renewals for checked out items, further reducing fines at the libraries that still charge them. “Libraries are moving from a punishment model toward an honor system,” concluded Wiles. “These are welcome changes for patrons and staff alike.”
Libby
Are you familiar with the “Libby, by Overdrive” app? It’s your digital resource for eBooks, audiobooks, magazines, Kanopy (instantly streams TV and movies for all ages, plus The Great Courses), and ArtistWorks (learn how to play musical instruments from world-class musicians). “Libby, by Overdrive” succeeds the OverDrive app (which you can still use for now). We encourage you to download the enhanced “Libby, by Overdrive” app, which will carry over all of your Overdrive account information.
We’re offering an informative webinar, “Learn Libby with the Experts,” on Tuesday, March 22 at 10 a.m. to help you make the switch and get the most out of this extensive resource. This virtual class will be chock full of information about the Libby app, from the basics 10 to 10:40 a.m. to favorite tips and tricks 10:45 to 11:15. Want to learn more about Libby, but can't attend live? No worries – sign up anyway! Both sessions will be recorded and emailed to all registrants, 24 hours after the webinar. To register, please visit: https://bit.ly/guilderlandtrain.
Seeking
board candidates
The Guilderland Public Library Board of Trustees currently has four open seats for 2022: two five-year terms; and two one-year terms. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens, Guilderland Central School District residents, and at least 18 years of age.
Completed paperwork is due by Monday, April 18 for the GPL board candidate and budget vote on Tuesday, May 17. For more information, please request an information packet at our Circulation desk, or go to: https://bit.ly/GPL2022BoardCandidates.
Live Virtual
Story Time
Based on your feedback, we’ve added a new day and time for our Live Virtual Story Times on Zoom, alternating between Thursday mornings and Tuesday afternoons. We’ll read books, sing songs and enjoy a lively time together. Sign up on the Events tab of our website for Tuesday, March 8 at 4 p.m. or Thursday, March 17 at 10:30 a.m.
Genealogy help
Need a little help researching your family tree? Professional genealogist Lisa Dougherty is available to assist on a virtual basis on Wednesday, March 9 at 6 p.m. Please register in advance on the Events tab of our website to receive your meeting link.
March book talk
Night Owls Online meets on Monday, March 14, at 7:30 p.m. to talk about “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides, while Memoirs in the Morning meets on Wednesday, March 16, at 10:30 a.m. to discuss “Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive” by Stephanie Land.
Reserve a copy of the book desired, then register on the Events tab of our website. Look for GPL’s “Memoirs in the Morning” group on goodreads.com to join the online discussion anytime.
Blood drive
Blood donations are at their worst levels in over a decade. Can you help? Our next blood drive, administered by the American Red Cross and sponsored by Senator Michelle Hinchey, is scheduled for Tuesday, March 15, 1 to 6 p.m. Appointments may be made at redcross.org, and walk-ins are welcome.
Browsing hours
Curbside pick up in our lobby is available with 24-hours notice by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 2. Masks are required for patrons ages 2 and up. GPL policies based on current COVID conditions are outlined in our Pandemic Operations Plan, accessible on our website.
Current hours are: Monday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m; Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m.