Guilderland Library Notes for Wednesday, May 11, 2022
“Navigating Your Social Security Benefits” will be presented virtually through Guilderland Public Library on Tuesday, May 24, at 6 p.m. Please register on the Events calendar at guilderlandlibrary.org to receive the link to this program.
If you have a sneaking suspicion that your outdoor surroundings could be improved, particularly from an environmental standpoint, we have a program for you. On Monday, May 16, at 11 a.m., Michele Chalice from Healthy Home Habitats will present “Creating a Sustainable Backyard” via Zoom.
Michele will cover problems associated with traditional landscape design, plus five steps that can save you time, money, and resources and boost soil fertility. Sign up on the Events tab of our website to receive the link.
Early literacy
On Saturday, May 14 at 10:30 a.m., we welcome back Barbara Lukas of WMHT for a virtual literacy program for preschoolers. Caregivers are asked to pick up a kit from us beforehand containing a free copy of the book “Mouse Count” by Ellen Stohl Walsh, plus craft and activity supplies.
Scissors and crayons will be needed at home as families follow along with Barbara on Zoom. Please register on the Events tab of our website.
Our story times for ages birth through age five feature special themes incorporating books, music and lots of fun! During May, live (and lively) storytimes are held Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. on Zoom.
Budget vote
The annual budget and board candidate vote for Guilderland Public Library is scheduled for Tuesday, May 17. Voting will occur at the five Guilderland elementary schools, in conjunction with the school budget vote. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The proposed 2022-23 operating budget for Guilderland Public Library is $4,164,265, a slight increase from the 2021-22 approved budget of $4,055,000. Current interim trustee Elish Melchiade is seeking a full term on the ballot. For more information, including a breakdown of budget figures and candidate bio and statement, please see: https://guilderlandlibrary.org/2022vote.
Blood drive
On Tuesday, May 17 from 1 to 6 p.m. the American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at GPL, which typically occurs every other month. The need remains dire, and it only takes a little time out of your day to save lives. Sign up for a donation appointment on redcross.org, or simply walk in. As a bonus, everyone who donates by May 19 gets a $10 e-gift card plus a chance to win a travel trailer camper, powered by Suburban Propane.
Memoirs in
the Morning
Our next selection is “Crying in H Mart” by Michelle Zauner. We’ll meet online to talk about this book on Wednesday, May 18 at 10:30 a.m. Can’t make it to our virtual meeting, but still want to chat about the book? Look for our “Memoirs in the Morning” group on goodreads.com to participate in the discussion whenever it works with your schedule.
Board news
The Guilderland Public Library Board of Trustees is currently seeking a treasurer to prepare monthly financial statements. The time commitment averages approximately five to 10 hours per month. Please contact Mike Hawrylchak at or Tim Wiles at to learn more about this role.
The next regular monthly board meeting will be held Thursday, May 19, 6 p.m., streamed live on our YouTube channel and archived for later viewing. Public comment may be submitted at any time to: .
Foundation news
The Guilderland Library Foundation welcomes new members to help coordinate fundraising activities, including an annual golf tournament on Monday, Aug. 22 at Pine Haven Country Club in Guilderland. Please contact Foundation President Steve Wacksman at with interest in volunteering, or for more information on golf tournament sponsorship opportunities.
GHS Art Exhibit
Innovative artwork created by Guilderland High School students is on display in our Helderberg Room and display cases through Friday, May 27. The library is closed Saturday, May 28 thru Monday, May 30 for Memorial Day weekend.
General Information Overdue fines have been eliminated at GPL; patrons will be billed for the replacement cost of lost items. Curbside pickup is available with 24-hours notice by calling 518-456-2400 ext. 2. We’re asking everyone inside the building to please wear a mask – if you need one, just ask. Please refer to the Pandemic Operations Chart and links on our website for updates: https://bit.ly/GPLPOP. Contact us at 518-456-2400 or ask.librarian@guilderlandlibrary.org.