— Photo from Luanne Nicholson
Teens assisting with the Guilderland Public Library’s Summer Reading Program registration were part of a group of 61 teenaged volunteers devoting 820 hours to assist at the library from June through August.
September signals back to school, and Library Card Sign-up Month. The American Library Association and libraries nationwide join together to remind parents, caregivers, and students that signing up for a library card is the first step toward academic achievement and lifelong learning.
Library cards open up a world of infinite possibilities, providing access to resources and services that help people pursue their passions and give students the tools to succeed in school and beyond. Stop in for your library card!
Better Angels
On Saturday Sept. 7 at 10 a.m., Better Angels is holding a Mock Debate for future chairpersons and attendees to practice running a real debate. The topics will be straightforward for this test run, and everyone is welcome to attend.
Now that the presidential election cycle is heating up, this type of interaction within our community is more important than ever. For further details: www.better-angels.org/what-is-a-better-angels-debate.
Baby Yoga
On Mondays, Sept. 9 and 16, at 10:30 a.m., join Rebecca Morris-Kencsan, L.M.T, M.A for baby yoga exercises to strengthen growing muscles, aid in digestion, promote better sleeping patterns and support your infant’s growth and development.
Caregivers will guide their little ones (aged one-12 months) into gentle yoga poses combined with developmental exercises, guided movement, song, and play. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Expedition Party
Anyone who took part in the Library Expedition, or is a fan of libraries, is welcome to come visit the Upper Hudson libraries all over again at The Crossings in Colonie, Tuesday. Sept. 10, from 4 to 7 p.m. Enter from Albany Shaker Road and follow the signs to the very back of the park.
There will be doughnuts, cider, music, activities for kids, and a whole lot of fun! Bring your lawn chairs (and a picnic supper if you like) and enjoy the evening with us. In case of rain, we’ll be in the buildings by the front of the park. Be sure to stop by the Guilderland Public Library table! Please register at: https://tinyurl.com/ExpeditionParty if you plan on attending.
Autumn Marketplace
We’re hosting a fall vendor fair once again this year on Saturday Sept. 28 from 9:30 a.m to 3 p.m. featuring a variety of goods, which could include health & beauty products, fashion accessories, home décor, kitchenware, candles, jewelry and more.
We have a few vendor tables remaining at a cost of $25. If interested, please contact Carol Kott at or 518.456.2400, ext. 115.
Gala
Guilderland Library Foundation’s Fourth Annual Gala, a Feelin’ Groovy Celebration, is planned for Saturday, Sept. 28 at Albany Country Club, beginning at 6 p.m.
Attendees are welcome to come dressed in 1960s- or 1970s-themed attire if desired. Chris Aldrich, former Guilderland Public Library Trustee and 2018 Upper Hudson Library System Trustee of the Year, and Susan Novotny, owner of the Book House of Stuyvesant Plaza, will be honored. Cash bar and silent auction begins at 6 p.m., followed by dinner, honoree presentation and live auction starting at 7 p.m.
Tickets for this fundraiser benefiting the library are $75 each, and the event is expected to sell out. To purchase tickets online via PayPal, please see the Guilderland Library Foundation Facebook page or www.guilderlandlibrary.org/gala. Checks made out to Guilderland Library Foundation may be mailed to: GLF, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland, NY 12084, Attention: Gala.
For questions regarding honorary committee opportunities, auction item donations and tickets, please contact GLF President Steve Wacksman at , or GPL Director Tim Wiles at 518.456.2400 ext. 113.
Summer Reading Recap
Our 2019 Summer Reading Program theme, A Universe of Stories, coincided with the 50th anniversary of the momentous moon landing. Summer reading results were, by all accounts, rather spectacular in their own right – and not just for kids! Here are the July/August stats:
— Pre-K-Grade 12: 411 registrants, 8,033 books logged, 1,353 hours of reading;
— Teen Volunteers: 61 teens dedicated 820 hours;
— Adults: 116 adults read 577 books; and
— All Ages: 3,548 people attended 69 programs.
By The Guilderland Library Foundation’s Fourth Annual Gala, a Feelin’ Groovy Celebration, is planned for Saturday, Sept. 28, at Albany Country Club, beginning at 6 p.m.
Attendees are welcome to come dressed in 1960s- or 1970s-themed attire if desired. Chris Aldrich, former Guilderland Public Library trustee and 2018 Upper Hudson Library System Trustee of the Year, and Susan Novotny, owner of The Book House of Stuyvesant Plaza, will be honored.
The cash bar opens and the silent auction begins at 6 p.m., followed by dinner, the honoree presentation, and a live auction starting at 7 p.m. Tickets for this fundraiser benefiting the library are $75 each, and the event is expected to sell out. To purchase tickets online through PayPal, please see the Guilderland Library Foundation Facebook page or www.guilderlandlibrary.org.
Checks made out to Guilderland Library Foundation may be mailed to: GLF, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland, NY 12084, Attention: Gala. For questions regarding honorary committee opportunities, auction item donations, and tickets, please contact GLibrary Foundation President Steve Wacksman at , or Guilderland Library Director Tim Wiles at 518-456-2400, ext. 113.
Holiday
Please note that the library will be closed Saturday, Aug. 31 through Monday, Sept. 2 for Labor Day weekend. We will resume regular hours on Tuesday, Sept. 3: 9:30 a.m to 9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday; 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday.
Blood drive
The American Red Cross is hosting a blood drive at the library on Tuesday, Sept. 3 from 1 to 6 p.m. Donors may pre-register for a specific time if desired at www.redcross.org. Walk-ins are always welcome.
Board-game success
Ever wonder what goes into creating a successful board game? Come find out! Local expert Peter McPherson will be here Tuesday, Sept. 3 at 6:30 p.m. to describe how his new board game, Tiny Towns, evolved from a rough idea into a successful product with excellent reviews and ratings on both Boardgamegeek.com and Amazon.
Peter will share his knowledge and advice about the process, and perhaps inspire you to get your own game produced. Tiny Towns is one of the 80 board games you can borrow from us, in addition to 11 lawn games.
Quick & Easy Pickling
If you’re accumulating a surplus of summer produce, consider pickling those fresh vegetables. The process is straightforward, and the results are flavorful. We’ll walk you through the simple steps on Wednesday, Sept. 4 at 6:30 p.m. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Baby Yoga
On Monday, Sept. 9 and 16 at 10:30 a.m., join Rebecca Morris-Kencsan, L.M.T, M.A for baby yoga exercises to strengthen growing muscles, aid in digestion, promote better sleeping patterns and support your infant’s growth and development.
Caregivers will guide their little ones (ages one-12 months) into gentle yoga poses combined with developmental exercises, guided movement, song, and play. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Library Card Sign-up Month
September signals back to school, and Library Card Sign-up Month. The American Library Association and libraries nationwide join together to remind parents, caregivers and students that signing up for a library card is the first step towards academic achievement and lifelong learning. Library cards open up a world of infinite possibilities, providing access to resources and services that help people pursue their passions and give students the tools to succeed in school and beyond.
Your library card grants you access to a wealth of free resources year-round, and during Library Card Sign-up Month it also gives you a chance to win $100! Simply snap a picture with your library card and post it to Instagram or Twitter with the hashtag #GetLibraryCarded.
You'll be automatically entered in a drawing to win a $100 Visa gift card! Entries can also be submitted by posting as a comment or wall post on the “I Love Libraries” Facebook page. Please make sure any personally identifiable information is not visible in the photo.
This promotion begins Sunday, Sept.1 at 1 p.m. and ends Sunday, Sept. 22 at 1 p.m. All library cardholders are encouraged to participate. Visit: http://www.ala.org/conferencesevents/celebrationweeks/card for more information.
— Photo from Luanne Nicholson
Think you’ve cultivated the best tomato? Bring it and other garden delights to Guilderland Public Library on Monday Aug. 26, at 6:30 p.m., for tasting and judging.
“They grow so fast!” Most likely, your child has outgrown last year’s school clothes. So it’s time to trade them in for something new (to you!).
First, bring clothing items in “like new” condition (no stains, rips, stretching; no socks, underwear, or swimwear; and recently cleaned) on Drop-Off Day on Thursday, Aug. 29, from 2 to 6 p.m. Please keep in mind that we cannot accept clothing others would not be pleased to receive.
You’ll get credit for each item brought in, which may be redeemed on Shopping Day, Friday Sept. 30, from 2 to 6 p.m., with a 10-item maximum per family. Leftover clothing will be donated to Goodwill, and we’ll have crafts available to keep little ones occupied while you shop.
Share the Summer Harvest
Bring your homegrown bounty of tomatoes and other self-cultivated fruits and vegetables, or your favorite dish that incorporates seasonal produce, on Monday, Aug. 26 at 6:30 p.m. We’ll award a prize for the most delicious tomato, judged by popular choice.
Whether you have a green thumb or not, we need tasters for this harvest feast, so please stop by! Sample the summer bounty, introduce your kids to homegrown healthy options, and help us crown the best tomato.
Book talk
“Gorilla and the Bird: A Memoir of Madness and a Mother's Love” is the subject of our pop-up book discussion on Monday, Aug. 26 at 7 p.m. Participants will take home a free copy of the book, courtesy of our sponsor, National Network of Libraries of Medicine.
Zack McDermott’s unflinching memoir describes how he came to terms with his bipolar disorder, and how his mother's unwavering support helped him through the process. This account is described as “glorious” by the New York Times, and “rueful, funny, and utterly authentic” by Kirkus Reviews. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Closed for Labor Day Weekend
Please note that the library will be closed Saturday, Aug. 31 through Monday, Sept. 2 for Labor Day weekend. We will resume regular hours on Tuesday, Sept. 3: open 9:30 a.m.to 9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday; 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and 1 to -5 p.m. Sunday.
Game On!
Are you a board game fanatic? Ever wonder what goes into conceptualizing and creating a successful board game? Perhaps you have an idea of your own?
Local expert, Peter McPherson, will be here Tuesday, Sept. 3 at 6:30 p.m. to convey how his new board game, Tiny Towns, germinated from a rough draft to a marketed product with excellent reviews and ratings on both Boardgamegeek.com and Amazon.
Peter will share his tips, tricks, and knowledge about the process from start to finish, and perhaps inspire you to do the same! You can also borrow Tiny Towns from us.
Pickling primer
Pickling rivals freezing, canning and drying for preventing foods from spoiling. It also lends unique flavor to fresh vegetables while retaining nutrients.
If you’ve got a surplus of summer produce and would like to preserve the harvest for months to come without delving into hardcore canning, plan to be here Wednesday, Sept. 4 at 6:30 p.m. for hands-on quick and easy pickling instruction. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Shoe drive
Guilderland Public Library is participating in Brady’s K9 Saviors Shoe Drive for the next three weeks. Brady Arnold is an 11-year-old boy from Ravena who started this Capital Region effort to help defray the cost of equipment for police dog units.
He and his family have raised over $50,000 for this cause over the past three years by selling candy bars, leaving donation jars at diners, conducting restaurant fundraisers and performing stand-up comedy.
Brady received an award from Albany County Sheriff Craig Apple for his efforts. Shoes, boots, sneakers and slippers may be dropped off in the marked box in the library’s lobby through Sept. 6, with all proceeds benefiting local police dogs.
Baby yoga
On Monday, Sept. 9 and 16 at 10:30 a.m., join Rebecca Morris-Kencsan, L.M.T, M.A for baby yoga exercises to strengthen growing muscles, aid in digestion, promote better sleeping patterns and support your infant’s growth and development.
Caregivers will guide their little ones (ages one-12 months) into gentle yoga poses combined with developmental exercises, guided movement, song, and play. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Zack McDermott’s “Gorilla and the Bird: A Memoir of Madness and a Mother’s Love,” will be the subject of a pop-up book discussion Monday, Aug. 26, at 7 p.m. Participants may keep the book, thanks to the National Network of Libraries of Medicine.
Not sure how to get started crafting your college admissions essays? Looking for a second opinion? Take advantage of this opportunity to get a jump on the process before school starts!
Kelly Linehan, a National Board-certified teacher and independent educational consultant, will be available at the Guilderland Public Library on Tuesday afternoon, Aug. 20, and Wednesday evening, Aug. 21, to meet with students entering grades 11 and 12 for a one-on-one 15-minute session.
Bring your questions, plus any essay drafts if you have them, to help make your submissions the best they can be. Please register for one session online, by phone, or in person.
Celestial Candleholders
On Thursday, Aug. 15 at 4 p.m., take an ordinary glass jar and transform it into something special using a variety of paint and glitter techniques. The simply stellar results might just amaze you! This program is for ages 12 to 17. Please register online, by phone or in person.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
Our space movie Thursdays conclude on Aug. 15 at 6:30 p.m. with an epic film: “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.” A lonely boy befriends a homesick alien stranded on Earth and attempts to help him find his way home, while a group of government scientists attempt to capture the gentle visitor for research.
Serving double duty as both an exciting sci-fi adventure and a poignant portrait of childhood, Steven Spielberg's remarkable tale is an enduring slice of movie magic for all ages. Rated PG; popcorn will be served.
Library Club
Join us Friday, Aug. 16 at 2:30 p.m. for a summer meeting of Library Club to talk about our plans for programs and projects for the school year, and of course - our favorite books! For grades 3 to 5. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Magician Jim Snack
We’re excited to welcome back veteran Magician Jim Snack Monday, Aug. 19 at 6:30 p.m. for a summer reading grand finale performance that’s sure to amaze and delight all ages. Arrive early for a good seat, and bring the whole family!
Ukulele jam
Whether you play ukulele, or want to learn, all skill levels are welcome to join the fun on Aug. 22 at 6:30 p.m. for our inaugural jam! Thereafter we’ll meet the fourth Thursday of each month for this family-friendly program.
Bring your own ukulele (or check one out from us!). No registration is required, just drop in.
Share the Summer Harvest
Calling all gardeners and gourmets! Bring your homegrown bounty of tomatoes and other homegrown fruits and vegetables, or your favorite dish that incorporates seasonal produce, on Monday, Aug. 26 at 6:30 p.m. date was rescheduled).
We’ll award a prize for the most delicious tomato, judged by popular choice. No green thumb? No problem, we still need tasters for this harvest feast. Sample more types of tomatoes than you knew existed, introduce your kids to some healthy treats, and help us pick the best tomato.
Pop-Up book discussion
Thanks to our sponsor, National Network of Libraries of Medicine, we’re inviting eight people to participate in this “pop-up” book discussion, Monday, Aug. 26 at 7 p.m. Participants get to keep a free copy of “Gorilla and the Bird: A Memoir of Madness and a Mother’s Love.”
The author’s unflinching memoir of coming face-to-face with his bipolar disorder, and his mother’s unwavering support during his odyssey, is described as “glorious” by the New York Times, and “rueful, funny, and utterly authentic” by Kirkus Reviews. Please register online, by phone, or in person.
Back-to-School Clothing Swap
Has your child outgrown last year’s school clothes? Trade them in for something new to you!
First, bring clothing items in “like new” condition (no stains, rips, stretching; no socks, underwear, or swimwear; and recently cleaned) on Drop-Off Day, Thursday, Aug. 29 from 2 to 6 p.m. Please keep in mind that we cannot accept clothing others would not be pleased to receive.
You’ll get a credit for each item brought in, which may be redeemed on Shopping Day, Friday, Sept. 30 from 2 to 6 p.m. (ten items maximum per family). Any leftover clothing will be donated to Goodwill. Crafts will be available to keep little ones occupied while you shop.
— Photo from Luanne Nicholson
Lisa Dougherty, a professional genealogist with 20 years of experience, provides personalized family research assistance at the Guilderland Public Library on the second Wednesday of each month from 6 to 8 p.m.
Out of This World Carnival: Come on down to your favorite fun and free destination, the Guilderland Public Library, on Friday, Aug. 9, anytime between 3 and 6 p.m. for carnival games, face-painting, sno-cones, popcorn, and other out-of-this world surprises! This is a family-friendly, all-ages event.
Better Books Sale
Those in the know mark the second Saturday of the month on their calendars for this epic treasure trove of deals galore, next happening Saturday, Aug. 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come early for the best selection of books, DVDs and CDs!
Can Ducks Ride Bikes?
Join WMHT's Barbara Lukas Saturday, Aug. 10 at 10:30 a.m. for a fun family literacy program based on the classic kids' book Duck on a Bike. Kids entering pre-Kindergarten through grade 2 will enjoy a morning of reading, crafting and fun! All children must be accompanied by an adult caregiver. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Ultimate Tournament
Let’s get ready to rumble — video game-style! Show off your Super Smash Bros. skills as you compete against other gamers in head-to-head rounds. The winner of each round advances until The Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Champion emerges victorious.
This game is rated Everyone 10+, and this tournament is for those entering grades 3 to 12. Please register online, by phone. or in person.
Books in the Barnyard
Look for us at the Altamont Fair Tuesday, Aug. 13 as GPL librarians share special animal-themed story times at noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. See you at the fairgrounds!
Starlab
The Dudley Observatory at MiSci (the Museum of Innovation and Science) will fascinate us with multiple programs accessing their portable Starlab planetarium on Wednesday, Aug. 14.
At 1:30 p.m., children entering grades Kindergarten through grade 5 become “Seasonal Stargazers,” discovering why the sun and other stars appear to move through the sky in predictable patterns, both daily and seasonally.
At 2:45 p.m., kids entering grades Kindergarten through grade 2 look for patterns and make predictions based on the rotation of the Earth with “As the Earth Spins.”
At 4 p.m., grades 3 to 5 learn about the connection between Greek mythology and seasonal constellations with the “Andromeda to Zeus” segment.
At 5:45 p.m., the Seasonal Stargazer program repeats for grades kindergarten through grade 5.
Then at 7 p.m., “Andromeda to Zeus” gets more in-depth for grades 6 to 12, as participants predict the regular motion of celestial objects. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Drop-in genealogy
Would you like to dig a little deeper to uncover your family roots, but aren’t sure how to get started? Or perhaps you’re at a standstill researching your lineage?
Professional genealogist and Guilderland resident Lisa Dougherty is here to help. Lisa brings 20 years of experience and provides free family history consultations on a drop-in basis the second Wednesday of each month.
The next session is slated for Wednesday, Aug. 14 from 6 to 8 p.m. Bring your questions and challenges for help finding answers. Also, see her website: http://www.upstatenygenealogy.com.
Celestial candleholders
On Thursday, Aug. 15 at 4 p.m., take an ordinary glass jar and transform it into something special using a variety of paint and glitter techniques.
You may be amazed by the simply stellar results! This program is for ages 12 to 17. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Space Movie: “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial”
Our space movie Thursdays conclude on Aug. 15 at 6:30 p.m. with an epic film: “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.” A lonely boy befriends a homesick alien stranded on Earth and attempts to help him find a way home. Forces collide when a group of government scientists attempt to capture the benevolent visitor for research.
Serving double duty as both an exciting sci-fi adventure and a poignant portrait of childhood, Steven Spielberg’s remarkable tale is an enduring slice of movie magic for all ages. The film is rated PG and popcorn will be served.
Library Club
Join us Friday, Aug. 16 at 2:30 p.m. for a summer meeting of Library Club to talk about our plans for programs and projects for the school year, and of course — our favorite books! The club is for kids in grades 3 through 5. Please register online, by phone, or in person.
— Photo from Luanne Nicholson
Think your garden variety tomato is the best? Put it (and any other homegrown produce) to the test, Wednesday, Aug. 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the Guilderland Public Library.
During August, we’re screening a series of family-friendly space-themed movies, plus providing the popcorn. First up is “Space Jam” on Thursday, Aug. 1, at 6:30 p.m.
Synopsis: An evil alien theme park owner (Danny DeVito) seeks a new attraction, and decides kidnapping Bugs Bunny and the Looney Tunes will fill the bill. Bugs challenges the bad guys to a basketball game to determine their fate. The aliens steal the powers of NBA basketball players Larry Bird and Charles Barkley, so Bugs enlists Michael Jordan to help thwart their evil plan.
The film is rated PG.
Explore gravity
Can you defy gravity? Let’s find out!
On Tuesday, Aug. 6 at 6:30 p.m., the Children’s Museum of Science and Technology will lead us on a scientific journey as we experiment with hands-on learning activities revolving around planets, moons and stars. This program is for Grades 3 to 5. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Sci-Fi Craft Night
Teens: grab your companions and harness the Force within to boldly go where no craft night has gone before! Be here Wednesday, Aug. 7 at 6:30 p.m. for multi-dimensional inspiration.
We’ll provide the supplies and some ideas, while you bring your sci-fi fandoms and creativity! Please register online, by phone or in person.
Tomato-tasting
Calling all gardeners and gourmets!
Bring your homegrown bounty of tomatoes and other homegrown fruits and vegetables, or your favorite dish that incorporates seasonal produce, on Wednesday, Aug. 7 at 6:30 p.m. There will be a prize for the most delicious tomato, judged by popular choice.
No green thumb? No problem, join us for this harvest feast. Sample more types of tomatoes than you knew existed, introduce your kids to some healthy treats, and help us pick the best tomato.
Toddler Art Lab
On Thursday, Aug. 8 at 3 p.m., toddlers from 18 to 36 months are invited to explore materials and techniques in this hands-on sensory program. Each toddler must be accompanied by a caregiver. Please dress for a mess, and register online, by phone or in person.
Out of This World Carnival
Come on down to your favorite fun and free destination (your local library) on Friday, Aug. 9 anytime between 3 and 6 p.m. for carnival games, face painting, sno-cones, popcorn, and other out-of-this world surprises! This is a family-friendly all ages event.
Better Books Sale
Those in the know mark the second Saturday of the month on their calendars for this epic treasure trove of deals galore, next happening Saturday, . Aug. 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come early for the best selection of books, DVDs and CDs!
Can ducks ride bikes?
Join WMHT's Barbara Lukas Saturday, . Aug. 10 at 10:30 a.m. for a fun family literacy program based on the classic kids’ book “Duck on a Bike.” Kids aged pre-K through grade 2 will enjoy a morning of reading, crafting and fun!
All children must be accompanied by an adult caregiver. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Tournament
Let’s get ready to rumble — video game-style! Show off your Super Smash Bros. skills as you compete against other teens and tweens in head-to-head rounds.
The winner of each round advance until The Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Champion emerges victorious. This game is rated Everyone 10+, and this tournament is for grades 3 to 12.
Please register online, by phone or in person.
Books in the Barnyard
Look for us at the Altamont Fair Tuesday, Aug. 13 as GPL librarians share special animal-themed storytimes at noon, 3 and 6 p.m. See you at the fairgrounds!
Starlab
The Dudley Observatory at MiSci (the Museum of Innovation and Science) will fascinate us with multiple programs using their portable Starlab planetarium on Wednesday, Aug. 14. At 1:30 p.m., children entering grades kindergarten through grade 5 become “Seasonal Stargazers”, discovering why the sun and other stars appear to move through the sky in predictable patterns, both daily and seasonally.
At 2:45 p.m., kids entering grades kindergarten through grade 2 look for patterns and make predictions based on the rotation of the Earth with “As the Earth Spins.” At 4 p.m. , grades 3 to 5 learn about the connection between Greek mythology and seasonal constellations with the “Andromeda to Zeus” segment. At 5:45 p.m., the Seasonal Stargazer program repeats for grades kindergarten through grade 5. Then at 7 p.m., “Andromeda to Zeus” gets more in-depth for grades 6 to 12.
Participants will also predict the regular motion of celestial objects. Please register online, by phone or in person.
— Photo from Luanne Nicholson, public information specialist for the Guilderland Public Library
Jedi Academy is seeking new recruits to harness The Force, on Thursday, July 25, at 6:30 p.m. at the Guilderland Public Library.
Master the ways of the Jedi on Thursday, July 25, at 6:30 p.m. Your cosmically comic Master of Ceremonies, Panniken Moonjumper, will guide your mission of intergalactic fun and adventure.
Young Jedi Warriors, Princesses, and Darth Vaders will enjoy comic antics, exciting physical challenges, magical mayhem, lightsaber lessons, and a visit from a furry alien sidekick at this family-friendly variety show.
Come dressed as your favorite Star Wars character if you wish, and may the Force be with you! See http://www.davidengel.biz/jedi-academy for further information.
Out of This World Family Jam
Kids and kids-at-heart alike will enjoy this toe-tappin’ session with the Hilltown Ramblers on Saturday, July 27 at 2 p.m., featuring folksy bluegrass tunes, traditional songs, original compositions, and sing-alongs.
The Hilltown Ramblers have been delighting audiences for over 25 years, and this hand-picked repertoire of planetary songs aligns perfectly with our “Universe of Stories” Summer Reading Program!
Red’s Planet Book Party
First, register for this program designed for kids entering grades 3 to 5 online, by phone or in person. Next, pick up a free copy of this graphic novel. Enjoy reading the book, then join us Monday, July 29 at 2:30 p.m. for activities and space food. You can even keep the book; consider sharing the wealth by passing it along to a friend!
Paint with your friends
Use our space to craft your own version of space!
Ages 12 to 17 are invited to join us, solo or with a companion, on Monday, July 29 at 6 p.m. to design your own unique interplanetary landscape. Please sign up in advance online, by phone or in person.
Galaxy tote bags
Ages 12 to 17 are invited to get cosmically creative with us on Tuesday, July 30 at 6:30 p.m. The Studio for Art and Craft will lend their expertise as we experiment with various paint effects, decorating tote bags with a colorful galaxy scene. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Space Movie Thursdays
During August, we’re screening a series of family-friendly space-themed movies, plus providing the popcorn. First up is “Space Jam” on Thursday, Aug. 1 at 6:30 p.m.
Synopsis: An evil alien theme park owner (Danny DeVito) seeks a new attraction, and decides kidnapping Bugs Bunny and the Looney Tunes will fill the bill. Bugs challenges the bad guys to a basketball game to determine their fate.
The aliens steal the powers of NBA basketball players Larry Bird and Charles Barkley, so Bugs enlists Michael Jordan to help thwart their evil plan. Rated PG.
Book Party
Calling all youngsters from pre-kindergarten through second grade: You’re invited to a book party!
Join us on Friday, Aug. 2 at 11 a.m. for “Are We There, Yeti?”, a fun read-aloud, followed by music, movement, a yummy road trip snack and just maybe — a silly summer snowball fight!
Please notify us of any food allergies, and register online, by phone or in person.
Adult/Teen Spelling Bee
We’re offering several combined teen/adult programs this summer, including this fun night of word-based competition on Friday, Aug. 2 at 7 p.m.
This is not your average spelling bee! Assemble a team of up to six friends or family members ages 13 and up and match wits for top honors. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Museum passes
Summer means road trips for many. If you can save on museum admission at the destination of your choice, all the better!
Any Upper Hudson Library system cardholder can get free or discounted admission to several museums located in New York, Massachusetts and Vermont by borrowing a museum pass from us.
As with any of our Library of Things offerings, we can hold an available pass for one hour while you drive over to pick it up from us.
Here are the museums: Albany Institute of History and Art; The Bennington Museum; The Berkshire Museum; The Children’s Museum of Saratoga; The Children’s Museum of Science & Technology (CMOST); Clark Art Institute; Empire State Aerosciences; The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art; The Farmer’s Museum; The Fenimore Art Museum; Grant Cottage; and Hancock Shaker Village.
Also: Hildene; The Hyde Collection; Mass MoCA; Museum of Innovation and Science (MiSCi); Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame; Norman Rockwell Museum; Olana; The Old Stone Fort Museum; Schuyler Mansion; Springfield Museums; USS Slater; The Tang Art Gallery; The Wild Center; World Awareness Children’s Museum.
See our website for details: https://guilderlandlibrary.org/library-of-things.
The critically-acclaimed 2019 documentary “Apollo 11,” featuring never-before-seen footage, will be shown at the Guilderland Public Library on the 50th anniversary of this historic space mission, Saturday, July 20, at 2 p.m.
The Hilltown Ramblers have been delighting audiences of all ages with their folksy bluegrass blend for over 25 years. They will perform an “Out of This World Family Jam” at the Guilderland Public Library on Saturday, July 27, at 2 p.m.
Join us at the Guilderland Public Library for a special event on Saturday, July 20, at 2 p.m. as we commemorate the 50th anniversary of an extraordinary feat of technology and bravery: The first person to set foot onto the surface of the moon.
This compilation, which premiered at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival, chronicles the groundbreaking Apollo 11 mission helmed by Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins by artfully repurposing archival footage, including 70-millimeter film previously unreleased to the public.
This film has garnered critical acclaim, including a 99-percent approval rating on rottentomatoes.com. Relive — or discover for the first time — this pivotal moment in human history! Rated G; popcorn will be served.
Iroquois Storytelling
Experience this family-friendly storytelling event Monday, July 22 at 6:30 p.m. highlighting the rich Native American tapestry of tradition. Brenda LaForme, cultural interpreter at the Iroquois Indian Museum in Howes Cave, will weave compelling tales and share intriguing insights.
Ms. LaForme is a member of the Onondaga Beaver Clan. Her family is from Six Nations Reserve near Brantford, Ontario.
Cosmic Fairies
Let your imagination take flight Tuesday, July 23 at 7 p.m. as you create one-of-a-kind fashionable fairies. Make them in several different colors to create a magnificent fantasy world. This program is for ages 12 to 17. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Alien Slime and Space Rocks
We’ve read that outer space can be a gooey endeavor. We’ll imagine what it’s like while making our own alien slime, moon sand, and space rocks on Wednesday, July 24 at 2:30 p.m.
Kids entering grades 3 to 5 are invited to join the fun! Please dress for a mess, and register online, by phone or in person.
CRASE Course
The Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events: Join Guilderland Police Department Community Outreach Officer Matt Hanzalik for an informative presentation on handling an active shooter situation, Wednesday, July 24 from 6 to 9 p.m. Arming yourself with knowledge and training can greatly increase your chances of survival.
Participants will watch video simulations of active shooter events in the workplace, Officer Hanzalik will demonstrate the best strategies to reduce risk, and we’ll conclude with a Q&A period. Please note: This is an informational training session, not a simulation exercise.
Up, Up & Away
One of our favorite frequent flyers here at GPL, WMHT’s Barbara Lukas, will be here Wednesday, July 24 at 6:30 p.m. to explore the principles of flight with us.
We’ll experiment with all sorts of things, including hair dryers and ping pong balls, for a fun time of learning how objects stay airborne. This program is designed for kids entering grades 2 to 4. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Toddler Art Lab
Our second Toddler Art Lab of the summer for ages 18 to 36 months happens Thursday, July 25 at 3 p.m. Pint-sized Picassos are invited to explore materials and techniques in this hands-on sensory program. Each toddler must be accompanied by a caregiver. Please dress for a mess, and register online, by phone or in person.
Jedi Academy
Master the ways of the Jedi on Thursday, July 25 at 6:30 p.m. with Panniken Moonjumper, a true master of intergalactic fun and adventure!
At this family-friendly variety show, young Jedi Warriors, Princesses and Darth Vaders will enjoy comic antics, exciting physical challenges, magical mayhem, light saber lessons, and a visit from a furry alien sidekick. Come dressed as your favorite Star Wars character, and may the Force be with you!
Out of This World Family Jam
Kids and kids-at-heart will enjoy this family jam with the Hilltown Ramblers’ “northern blend” of folksy bluegrass tunes, traditional songs, original compositions and singalongs. Join us Saturday, July 27 at 2 p.m. for a repertoire of songs about the earth, sun, and moon — the perfect complement to our “Universe of Stories” Summer Reading Program!
— Photo from Luanne Nicholson
Food donations are especially needed during the summer months. Non-perishable donations to the Guilderland Food Pantry may be dropped off in the lobby of the Guilderland Public Library. Look for this cart to the right, by the display cases. For more information, visit https://guilderlandfoodpantry.com or call 518-930-1001.
Join us Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 10:30 a.m. at the Guilderland Public Library for books, songs, rhymes, puppets, music and movement, and more sensational summer fun! This interactive story time runs through Thursday, Aug. 15, for babies up to age 5 with a caregiver; older siblings are welcome.
Toddler Art Lab
On Thursday, July 11 at 3 p.m., toddlers aged 18-36 months are invited to explore materials and techniques in this hands-on sensory session. Please dress for a mess, and register online, by phone or in person.
3 Little Birds
Our popular 3 Little Birds: Music & Movement program returns Fridays, July 12, 19 and 26 at 10:30 a.m. for children ages birth to 5 years old and their caregivers. Sing, dance and join Penny, Poppy & Pete for a dynamic and interactive class worth tweeting about!
Escape the Starship
Teens: We’re counting on you (no pressure)! Your mission on Friday, July 12 at 3:30 p.m., should you choose to accept it, is to escape the Starship, save yourself, and the rest of the crew in only 60 minutes. Up for the challenge? Let’s find out! This program is for Grades 7 to 12. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Better Books Sales
Our monthly market of modestly-priced merchandise is sure to please both your intellect and your wallet. Stop by Saturday, July 13, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., to snag some deals!
50th Anniversary of Moon Landing
On July 20, 1969, approximately 600 million people were glued to their TVs as a NASA crew landed on the moon – a seemingly impossible feat at the time. Join us on Saturday, July 15 at 4 p.m. for a live webcast event to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Mission, courtesy of the American Museum of Natural History. This webcast will feature a guided re-creation of the monumental voyage that landed the first two astronauts on the Moon, something only 12 people have achieved to date.
Book Party with Willie Deane
On Tuesday, July 16 at 2:30 p.m., meet local kids’ author Willie Deane. Mr. Deane grew up in Schenectady and played professional basketball for 15 years. He’ll share the inspiration for his book, “Love” (his young daughter, Sara), and answer questions about becoming a real published author. We’ll also share a snack based on the book. For Grades 3 to 5. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Becoming a healthy vegan
A plant-based vegan diet -- perhaps this sounds appealing to you, but you’re wondering how you could actually pull it off. On Tuesday, July 16 at 6 p.m., we’ll cover the four most common issues that keep people from truly “owning” their nutrition, taking charge of their wellness, and addressing their health issues the healthy vegan way.
Presenter Kristin Kulow is an Oneonta-based health and wellness coach with certificates in plant-based nutrition and diabetes prevention lifestyle coaching. For teens and adults. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Pizza Shop Book-Tasting Party
Hungry for some new material? Join us Tues. July 16 at 6 p.m. for pizza and a “taste” of new books that you can check out for your summer reading! For Grades 6 to 9. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Kawaii DIY Felt Pouches
Grades 6 to 8 are invited to join us on Wednesday, July 17 at 3 p.m. to make an adorable Kawaii style pouch for your iPhone, glasses, or to hold your change. Get creative and practical at the same time! Please register online, by phone or in person.
Writing Workshop with Donna Liquori
Love to write? Bring your ideas for essays, short fiction and poetry to a three-part writing workshop entitled “Write it Down: A Writing Workshop” with Times Union book columnist Donna Liquori. The first of three sessions is slated for Wednesday, July 17 at 6:30 p.m. Suitable for ages 12 through adult. Please register online, by phone or in person for all three sessions: July 17, 24 and /31.
— Photo from Luanne Nicholson of the Guilderland Public Library
Celebrating among the stacks: Assemblywoman Pat Fahy, left, speaks at the Guilderland Public Library on June 25 about reinstatement of the $20 million state library construction fund. Upper Hudson Library System Executive Director Tim Burke, center, also spoke as did Altamont Library Director Joe Burke. The speakers also noted the importance of summer reading programs, and the approval of Guilderland's library renewal referendum in May.