Guilderland Library Notes for Thursday, October 18, 2018

By a unanimous vote, the 11 members of the Guilderland Public Library’s Board of Trustees, on the evening of Thursday, Oct. 11, approved a plan to renovate the quarter-century old library building, and provide a modest increase in the size of the children’s and young-adult areas.

“This right-sized plan is the result of an 18-month process of listening to the community to determine what’s needed and wanted in Guilderland,” said Library Director Tim Wiles. “We worked hard to develop the concept, and I am pleased that the Board is unanimous in its desire to move ahead.

“Now that the board has approved a conceptual design, we have a lot of work to do before placing this project before the public at our annual library election on May 21.  While the conceptual design can be found on our website at www.guilderlandlibrary.org/renewal, it’s just that: a concept.

“Having the board’s approval, we now begin developing the actual construction plans, including architectural and engineering work, fund-raising efforts, grant applications, selecting a construction manager, financing, and effects upon taxpayers  … all steps that must be taken before we submit the detailed plan for the public’s approval.

“We will keep the public informed through our website, social media, in-house events, and outreach to community groups. Guilderland residents who would like me to speak to their neighborhood association, P.T.A., social club, church, and other community groups should feel free to give me a call at the library.  I look forward to speaking with you.”

Gay and Lesbian Rights in the 20th Century

Most Americans rightly view the changing status over the last two decades of gays and lesbians in the United States as nothing short of remarkable. They are not wrong to think this.

In his talk, How We Got to Today, at the library on Thursday, Oct. 18, at 7 p.m., University at Albany Professor Carl Bon Tempo explores the longer story of gay and lesbian rights in the United States, from the late 19th Century to the present. What emerges from that history is a more nuanced — and interesting — understanding of how we got to today.

Safe and Seen

Safe and Seen, at the library on Monday, Oct. 29, at 7 p.m., addresses an issue facing friends and families today: As awareness and acceptance around gender and sexuality grows, more youth and adults are questioning, disclosing, and embracing their LGBTQ identities.

For parents, families, and friends, this can be both joyous and stressful. Many do not always know how to best support LGBTQ friends and family, or what they need to thrive.

Whether struggling or feeling very supportive, this presentation, by Lyndon Cudlitz (who has 17 years of experience in LGBTQ services, sexual health education, and social justice training) provides an opportunity for loved ones to learn more about LGBTQ identities, and a safe space to ask tough questions.

This program is geared toward adults. Seats are limited. Please register by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3.

Jeanne O’Connor performs

On Sunday, Oct. 21, at 2 p.m., Jeanne O’Connor and the New Standard will perform at the Guilderland Public Library. This jazz sextet of superb musicians breathes new life into ’60s and ’70s standards.

Are you a “36er” yet?

Assemblywoman Pat Fahy stopped by the Guilderland Public Library on Thursday, Oct. 11, to take part in the Library Expedition, a program that encourages people to discover and explore all that the libraries of Albany and Rensselaer Counties offer.

She was on a tour to visit all the libraries in her Assembly District: Altamont Free Library, the Albany Public Library’s Pine Hills and Bach branches, and the public libraries of Bethlehem and Voorheesville. While at GPL, she spoke with librarian Maura Lynch, who was key to the success of the 36er program at Guilderland.

The Expedition runs through the end of November. Stop by your library and start the tour!