Mundo Nuevo will perform warm and wonderful sounds from the Latin American songbook, at the Guilderland Public Library on Sunday, Dec. 9, at 2 p.m.
For anyone feeling powerless and uncertain about our planet's future, Healthy You/Healthy Earth, at the Guilderland Public Library on Tuesday, Nov. 27, at 7 p.m., is the program for you.
Author, researcher, and former University at Albany Professor Maia Boswell-Penc has a message of hope and empowerment, stressing self-care and environmental justice in the face of a changing climate. This talk will discuss the ways that you as an individual can have a positive effect on our climate.
Start and run a successful business
If you’re looking to start or grow your own business then you need to come to the library on Thursday, Nov. 29, at 6:30 p.m. for How to Start and Run a Successful Business, a 90-minute class packed with practical and proven techniques and advice.
You will learn about several key topics including Working for Yourself, Start-Up Considerations for Your Area, and Business Planning. This free workshop brought to you by the Community Loan Fund of the Capital Region, in partnership with the Guilderland Public Library.
Please register for this workshop by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3, or go the Programs calendar at www.guilderlandlibrary.org.
Depolarizing America
If any of the following situations sound familiar, then come to Depolarizing America: Better Angels information session, at the library on Thursday, Nov. 29, at 7 p.m.: Tired of walking on eggshells with your relatives on the other side of the political divide? Annoyed at being called a heartless bigot or an elitist snowflake? Wondering how on earth good, smart people can believe things that seem so wrong to you? And, do you want to do something about the polarization in our country, without giving up your own values and positions?
Then come learn about Better Angels, a national, grassroots movement to detoxify and heal American political polarization. Their name derives from Abraham Lincoln's First Inaugural Address, just before the start of the Civil War. Find out what Better Angels offers, what their members are accomplishing locally and across the country, and how you can get involved.
Light refreshments will be provided. No registration; just come on in.
The Nutcracker
On Saturday, Dec. 1, at 3 p.m., and again on Sunday, Dec. 2, at 3 p.m., The Marcus Rogers Dance Company, a dance training school in Guilderland Center, is putting on its first production of “The Nutcracker,” in the library’s Helderberg Room.
The Nutcracker is the story of a young girl's favorite Christmas toy that comes alive and whisks her away to a magical kingdom populated by dolls. This holiday classic is directed and choreographed by Marcus Rogers. Recommended for children ages 5 and older.
Mundo Nuevo Latin Jazz
On Sunday, Dec. 9, at 2 pm, the library’s Helderberg Room will heat up when José Cruz, Walter Ramos, Fernando Gomes, and José Meléndez — Mundo Nuevo Latin Jazz — blend vocals with guitar, flute, bongó, and percussion to create one hot concert!
The quartet’s lively repertoire of Cuban, Puerto Rican, and Brazilian music — with a dash of what they call “SalSinatra” — will have you up and moving about to the beat! Curious to know what SalSinatra might be? Come find out!
Quilting Class
Come on in and be a part of “Guildercrafts,” a new series of fun and creative activities that kicks off with a quilting class. It starts on Thursday, Nov. 15, at 6:30 p.m., when you can try your hand at this easy project that you can finish in one sitting: Quilting a handmade pillowcase!
Please bring your own sewing machine and this material: pillowcase body fabric: 1 1/8 yards directional or non-directional, pillowcase band fabric: 3/8 yard. optional pillowcase trim — 1/8 yard or cut one 1 ½-inch by 40-inch strip.
Please register for this class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3, or using the program calendar at www.guilderlandlibrary.org.
— Photo from Three Quarter North
Six outstanding, veteran musicians make up Three Quarter North; they’ll give a free concert at the Guilderland Public Library on Sunday, Nov. 18.
Writing for your own pleasure and of those who know and love you is a life-affirming thing. But what if you want to get your words out into the wider world, to create a book that is published and read by a wider audience?
Then come to Getting Your Words into the World: A Writer’s Program, a two-hour workshop at the Guilderland Public Library on Saturday, Nov. 17, at 10:30 a.m.
These days, it’s critically important for women’s voices to be heard. This workshop (open to men as well!) will explore the avenues available, as well as how to navigate the broader terrain of publication and self-promotion.
Your instructor is acclaimed author Nava Atlas, author of “The Literary Ladies Guide to the Writing Life” and several award-winning cookbooks, including “Wild About Greens.” Nava will have copies of her books to sign and sell at the end of the workshop.
Please register for this workshop, which provides proven and practical tips, by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3.
Three Quarter North
A truly local group (hailing from Delmar!), Three Quarter North’s six veteran musicians will perform a free concert at the Guilderland Public Library on Sunday, Nov. 18, at 2 p.m. as part of the library’s Sunday Concert Series.
Bringing together many genres to create their sound, Three Quarter North plays Americana, with an emphasis on bluegrass, originals, folk, country, blues, acoustic rock, and pop standards. Two fine songwriters in the group add their talents to the mix. Their instruments include banjo, mandolin, Dobro, fiddle, guitar, bass, and percussion.
Three Quarter North has performed at many venues, from Caffe Lena to the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, as well as many popular bars and restaurants. Get ready for a wonderful performance!
Red Cross Blood Drive
Every day, blood donors help patients of all ages: accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ-transplant patients, and those battling cancer. In fact, every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. And that’s why the library is hosting a Red Cross Blood Drive on Monday, Nov. 19, from 1 to 6 p.m.
You don’t need a special reason to give blood; you just need your own reason. Some of us give blood because we were asked by a friend. Some know that a family member or a friend might need blood someday. And some donate blood because they believe it is the right thing to do. But everyone enjoys the great feeling of helping save lives!
No need to make an appointment, you can just drop in. And, thank you!
Library board to meets
The Guilderland Public Library’s Board of Trustees will hold its regularly scheduled monthly business meeting on Thursday, Nov. 15, at 7 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend. The meeting will be broadcast live on the library’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Guilderland.Library.
"Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” — a gentle documentary about Fred Rogers, a television pioneer with his children’s show — will be screened at the Guilderland Public Library, for free, on Saturday, Nov. 10, at 1 p.m.
Are you a non-medical person interested in improving your family members’ or community members’ end-of-life experiences? Or perhaps you’re a health-care professional who wants to hone your skills in caring for the dying?
Then End-of-Life Doula Training, a four-hour session starting at the Guilderland Public Library on Tuesday, Nov. 13, at 6:30 p.m., is for you. This, and the concluding session on Tuesday, Nov. 20, at 6:30 p.m., will introduce you to the concept of end-of-life doulas.
You may know the term “doula” to represent someone who is trained to assist a woman during childbirth and who may provide emotional, physical, and spiritual support to the family after the baby is born.
An end-of-life doula uses very much the same philosophy. Even with the wonderful services of hospice care, time constraints and insurance restrictions can lead to gaps in care, support, and teaching for patients and their families. An end-of-life doula can help bridge that gap.
The presenter, trainer Jennifer Hoit, has 10 years of experience in home-care nursing, and currently works for Eddy Senior Care PACE in Schenectady.
Please register for this class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3.
Try It Before You Buy It
This holiday season, are you thinking about gifting a Roku, Apple TV, or Amazon Fire Stick? How about Amazon Alexa, or a HDTV antenna?
Get some hands-on experience with these amazing gadgets at the Library during Try It Before You Buy It! on Friday, Nov. 9, between 2 and 4 p.m. We’ll have gadgets from our collection set up for you to try, and staff will be on hand to answer simple questions.
Please note that this is not a formal presentation — rather, it’s a self-guided demonstration of gadgets with help from the library staff.
Cookbook Club
You like to cook? So do we!
And that’s why the next Cookbook Club gathering on Wednesday, Nov. 14, at 7 p.m. is centered on Cravings: Hungry for More, by Chrissy Teigen — will be chock full of yummy comfort foods!
The Cookbook Club gathers every month to sample dishes from a selection of books chosen by the Library staff. Come to the information desk to look through the current cookbook and choose your recipe(s). On meeting night, bring a sample of the dish you prepared for everyone to taste.
You’ll talk about the authors and their motivations (and maybe meet a few along the way!). You’ll learn about cuisines from different and cooking genres. After each meeting, someone gets to go home with a copy of the book of the month.
Register in person at the library’s adult information desk; no phone or online registrations, please.
Tai Chi and QiGong with Rich Goodhart
If you’re looking for a low-impact exercise that can strengthen and relax muscles and joints, come to the library on Thursday, Nov. 8, at 11 a.m., for the first of four Tai Chi and QiGong sessions, with Rich Goodhart.
QiGong, and its related form Tai Chi, is a form of gentle exercise that emphasizes deliberate, careful, almost dance-like movements. Developed more than 1,000 years ago in China, it helps improve muscle tone and has been found to be excellent for fall prevention.
Rich Goodhart is a certified Tai Chi/QiGong instructor, and has taught at both the Omega Institute and the Kripalu Center, in Lenox, Massachusetts.
Space is limited. Participants are encouraged to attend all classes, as instruction is cumulative. The follow-on sessions are all on Thursdays at 11 a.m.: Nov. 15 and Dec. 13 and 27.
Please register by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3; attend wearing comfortable clothing that permits freedom of movement.
Project Picture Book!
Read, imagine, and create at our new Picture Book Art Club that starts Friday, Nov. 9, at 3:30 p.m. You’ll read a story and use your imagination to create a masterpiece based on the book.
Dress for a mess! For kids in pre-kindergarten through second grade. Please register by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 4.
Film: “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?”
“A balm of kindness and empathy in these troubled, divisive times” is how Entertainment Weekly’s reviewer Chris Nashawaty characterized “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” showing at the library on Saturday, Nov. 10, at 1 p.m.
This moving documentary takes a fittingly patient and honest look at the life and legacy of Fred Rogers, a television pioneer whose work has enriched generations. The 2018 film is rated PG-13 and runs for one hour and 34 minutes.
World War I film
Sunday, Nov. 11, 2018, is the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I, the War to End All Wars. Join us — yes, we are open! — on Sunday, Nov. 11, at 2 p.m., for a screening of the Oscar-nominated, French-language drama, “A Very Long Engagement,” the story of a young woman's relentless search for her fiancé, who disappeared from the trenches of the Somme during World War I.
Veterans Day
The library will be closed Monday, Nov. 12, in observance of Veterans Day.
Better Books Sale
Gift-giving season approaches, and we have just received a load of almost-new books that are sure to go. So stop by the Better Books Sale on Saturday, Nov. 10, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. And get a jump on your holiday shopping.
Library board meets
The Guilderland Public Library’s Board of Trustees will hold its regularly scheduled monthly business meeting on Thursday, Nov. 15, at 7 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend. The meeting will be broadcast live on the library’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Guilderland.Library.
Mindful eating is key to healthy eating. Join us at the Guilderland Public Library for Mindfulness Eating, on Wednesday, Nov. 7, at 6:30 p.m., for a free class from Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan where you’ll explore a three-step process for practicing mindful eating.
You’ll evaluate your own mindless eating triggers and develop effective strategies to overcome them.
Do any of these scenarios sound familiar?
— You quickly eat lunch at your desk while working;
— When sitting in front of the TV, you not only eat, but finish a bag of chips or a container of ice cream, or some other favorite treat;
— After eating a meal, you feel completely overstuffed and uncomfortably full; or
— When walking by a table of food at a party, you take whatever is in front of you, without thinking twice.
With busy work days, full social calendars, taking care of the kids — the list goes on — it can be challenging to take notice of food intake and maintain a balanced eating regimen. And although the examples above are small ways people eat without thinking, those little actions could turn into a bigger problem and sabotage your health without your even realizing it.
Please register for this class by calling 518-456-200, ext. 3. The only thing you have to lose is some weight.
Spin the prize wheel!
Learn about the library’s amazing digital resources by spinning GPL’s Digital Wheel! All through November, you can come in and “take a spin” and get a little something to take home every time.
Visit the adult info desk for details. Oh, and, one thing, please: One spin per person per visit, please.
GPL Kids Vote, Too! Party
It’s Election Day! Kids are invited to come to the library on Tuesday, Nov. 6, from 2 to 3:30 p.m., to learn about how voting works, and get your chance to vote for your favorite pet.
You’ll watch a short video, read a book, make a craft, and eat a fun patriotic snack.
Mallwalker’s Breakfast & Military Awareness Expo
Staff from GPL will have a table at Crossgates Mall in the early morning of Friday, Nov. 2, to greet all of the mallwalkers. Be sure to stop and visit with us — and grab a free book too!
After your morning walk, stick around for the Capital Region’s Military Awareness Expo. The event will honor our military community and families and will provide information about job and education opportunities, recruitment, business development, and health resources. Join us and get connected with some great resources.
The Albany County Honor A Living Veteran award ceremony will be held at this event at 10:30 a.m.
Writers’ workshop
If you want to get your writing published and out into the world, then you need to come to Getting your Words into the World: A Writer’s Workshop, on Saturday, Nov. 17, at 10:30 a.m., at the library.
Writing for your own pleasure and for those who know and love you is a life-affirming thing. But, if you want to get your words out into the wider world, and create a book that is published and read by a wider audience, there is simply so much to know and so much to do.
These days, it’s critically important for women’s voices to be heard. This workshop (open to men as well!) will explore the avenues available, as well as how to navigate the broader terrain of publication and self-promotion.
The instructor is acclaimed author Nava Atlas, author of “The Literary Ladies Guide to the Writing Life”, and several award-winning cookbooks, including “Wild About Greens.” Nava will have copies of her books to sign and sell at the end of the workshop.
If you want to attend, please register by calling the library at 518-456-2400 ext. 3.
Three Quarter North
Three Quarter North, a very popular sextet that performs Americana, bluegrass, folk, and its own original compositions, will perform a free concert at the library on Sunday, Nov. 18, at 2 p.m.
The Guilderland Public Library and the Guilderland Police Department are teaming up to provide Drug Take-Back Day on Saturday, Oct. 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the library’s small parking lot.
This one-day collaborative effort between the federal Drug Enforcement Administration and state and local law enforcement agencies (and GPL, of course) focuses on removing potentially dangerous controlled substances from our nation’s medicine cabinets.
Medications cannot be left at the library prior to Oct. 27. Medications may be turned in to the police officers in the library’s small parking lot from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Oct. 27 only. What can be disposed:
— Controlled, non-controlled, and over-the-counter substances; and
— Medication in its original container or removed from its container and disposed of directly into the disposal boxes. (If an original container is submitted, be sure to remove any identifying information from the prescription label.)
What cannot be disposed:
— Sharps and syringes.
Drug Take-Back Day officials will not ask questions of nor request identification from anyone.
The Magic Years
TimeOut (for Parents!): The Magic Years (Setting Routines), a researched-based parent-education program at the library on Thursday, Oct. 25, at 6:30 p.m., is provided by Cornell Cooperative Extension Albany County for parents or caregivers of children ages 0 to 4 years old.
This program explores how routines and consistency in the home can lead to positive behavior outcomes for your children. You will understand how to set up (or better manage) routines surrounding bedtime, bathing, family meals, and toilet training.
These proven parenting strategies are positive, supportive, and provide you with valuable information on best practices for you and your children. This program is for adults only. Please arrange childcare for children. Register by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3.
Flu shots
Stay healthy this winter! Pharmacists from Rite Aid will be on hand at the Library on Thursday, Oct. 25, from 4 to 7 p.m., for a drop-in clinic to administer flu vaccines.
Besides the regular vaccine, they will have the high-dose option for people ages 65 and older; and for the first time, the pharmacists will be able to vaccinate any child age 5 or older.
Please bring your insurance card with you. If you do not have insurance, a vaccine costs $31.99. No need to register; just show up!
Better Angels: Red/Blue Workshop
The Guilderland Public Library is hosting a Better Angels: Red/Blue Workshop on Saturday, Oct. 27, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This day-long workshop brings bringing liberals and conservatives together into a working alliance with an aim to building new ways to talk to one another, participate together in public life, and influence the direction of the nation.
Your participation in this Better Angels Workshop will give you an opportunity to share what’s most important to you, listen respectfully, ask and answer questions, and debunk stereotypes. Trained moderators will keep the mood constructive, and there is no debate or persuasion; instead, the focus is on understanding.
If you wish to participate, you must act now by registering online at bit.ly/BetterAngelsGPL. Each workshop consists of an equal, though limited, number of Red (tend to vote Republican) and Blue (tend to vote Democratic) participants, as well as an equal number of Observers and/or Observer/Alternates. After you submit the Google Poll, you will be notified if you will be a Participant, an Observer, an Observer/Alternate, or if the event is already full.
Jeanne O’Connor and the New Standard will perform at the Guilderland Public Library on Sunday, Oct. 21, at 2 p.m.
— Photo from the Guilderland Public Library
Assemblywoman Pat Fahy, left, recently took a tour of the Guilderland Public Library with librarian Maura Lynch as part of the Upper Hudson “Library Expedition” program.
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!
Join us at the Guilderland Public Library on Sunday, Oct. 14, at 1:30 p.m., for Star Wars Cosplay 101 and together we can rule the (costuming) galaxy!
Members of the Rebel Legion and 501st Legion are coming to our library to pass down their Star Wars costuming knowledge! Learn the basics of how to make or commission a great Star Wars costume, how to create or where to purchase props, how to join the Rebels or 501st, and so much more!
If you have in-process costumes or props, bring them along to get tips from the experts!
Please register for this galactic-scale event by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3.
Self-defense for women
Officers from the Guilderland Police Department will be at GPL on Monday, Oct. 15, at 5:30 p.m., to start the three-session Rape Aggression Defense program for women.
The RAD course is a total of 12 hours long, and the two follow-on sessions are Tuesday, Oct. 16, at 5:30 p.m., and Tuesday, Oct. 23, at 5:30 p.m.
The RAD training course begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and risk avoidance, and progresses to the basics of hands-on defense training. It is not a typical self-defense course, where students learns how to punch or kick through repetition — rather, it teaches students how to survive attacks.
This program is for women 16 years of age and older. No experience is necessary. You must attend all three sessions. Wear comfortable clothing and footwear. Consider bringing a light snack and water.
Seats are limited. Register by phone at 518-456-2400 x 3, in person, or online at www.guilderlandlibrary.org.
Tips for Visiting Disney
Are you feeling overwhelmed planning your trip to Disney? You’re not alone; this is such a challenge for so many people that there is expert help!
Come to the library on Tuesday, Oct. 16, at 6:30 p.m. and get expert advice on how to maximize fun and minimize stress on your next visit. Presented by Colleen Parisi, of awalkintheparkwithcolleen.com.
Please register by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3.
A Change for Good
Giving you a framework and tools needed to Change for Good, this workshop at the library on Wednesday, October 17, at 6 pm, will help you implement positive personal change for life.
Whether your goal is to start a healthy habit, save money, perform better at work, or end self-defeating behavior, this workshop is for you. Change does not depend on luck or willpower.
It is a process that can be successfully managed by anyone who understands how it works. Efficient self-change depends on doing the right thing at the right time. Presented by David Przybyla, MS, CHES, on behalf of the Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan.
Go Batty with “Stellaluna”
Join WMHT's Barbara Lukas at GPL on Saturday, Oct. 13, at 10:30, for a fun morning of family literacy — books, crafts and more based on the classic children's book, “Stellaluna.”
This session is for children in pre-kindergarten through second grade, with an adult caregiver. Please call 518-456-2400, ext. 4 to register.
Downsize Now
Come to Downsize Now on Thursday, Oct. 11, at 7 p.m., for a 90-minute class that will show you how to prepare your home and your life for changes, relocations, new needs, other accommodations and the challenging process of sorting, downsizing and/or relocating.
Call Sheilah! Your Personal Concierge and Senior Move Specialist is an award-winning local business, serving the Capital Region’s busiest retirees, professionals, and all those people who need an extra set of hands (or two) to manage those errands, projects, tasks that have multiple moving parts and require the skills of a “solutionist.”
Please call 518-456-2400, ext. 3 to register.
Nature Hunt
Create. Play. Explore. It’s time for a nature-filled adventure!
Come explore the outdoors around GPL — on Thursday, Oct. 11, at 3:30 — and gather items to create your very own nature collages and creatures. Since we will be going outside, please be sure to wear weather-appropriate clothing!
This program is for kids in third through fifth grades. Please call 518-456-2400, ext. 4 to register.
Trustees to meet on library renewal
The Guilderland Public Library Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting on Thursday, Oct. 11, at 6 p.m., to hear a presentation on a possible renewal of the library building. The presentation will be given by the architectural firm of Butler, Rowland and Mays.
The public is encouraged to attend. Information on this possible project is available at www.guilderlandlibrary.org/renewal.
The board will hold its next regularly scheduled monthly business meeting on Thursday, Oct. 18, at 7 p.m.
Concerts return!
Save the date: On Sunday, Oct. 21, at 2 p.m., Jeanne O’Connor and the New Standard will hold a free concert where these six superb musicians will breathe new life into your favorites from the 1960s and ’70s.
— Photo from Meg Mosher Photography
Paul Grondahl, left, and Gregory Maguire were honored at the Guilderland Library Foundation’s “Novel Affair” Gala on Sept. 29.
An interactive (and fun!) session at the Guilderland Public Library, on Tuesday, Oct. 9, at 7 p.m., will provide steps for students to take to immediately become stronger candidates for college acceptances and institutional scholarships.
This session is ideal for families with students in grades 10, 11, and 12. Students are encouraged to attend with their parent or guardian.
Kelly Linehan, a college admissions counselor and associate member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association as well as a National Board Certified Teacher, will make the presentation. There is no need to register; just attend and learn!
Nature Hunt
Create. Play. Explore. It’s time for a nature-filled adventure!
Come explore the outdoors around GPL — on Thursday, Oct. 11, at 3:30 p.m. — and gather items to create your very own nature collages and creatures. Since we will be going outside, please be sure to wear weather-appropriate clothing! For grades 3 to 5. Please call 518-456-2400, ext. 4 to register.
Trustees meet
The Guilderland Public Library’s Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting on Thursday, Oct. 11, at 6 p.m., to hear a presentation on a possible renewal of the library building.
The presentation will be given by the architectural firm of Butler, Rowland and Mays. The public is encouraged to attend. Information on this possible project is available at www.guilderlandlibrary.org/renewal
Two great writers atone great celebration!
On Saturday, Sept. 29, the Guilderland Library Foundation held its annual fundraising gala at the Albany Country Club, and the two honorees — Paul Grondahl and Gregory Maguire — had a great time!
In her remarks, Foundation President Rosemary Revoir spoke about why these two “hometown writers” were honored:
This evening’s Novel Affair is a special one because in the past we’ve celebrated leaders of the library and business community, but tonight we turn our attention to literature: This is, after all, “A Novel Affair.” So we honor two marvelous local writers: Paul Grondahl and Gregory Maguire … and they represent the best of non-fiction and fiction.
While neither really needs an introduction, some highpoints must be hit:
Who else but Gregory Maguire could transform one of literature’s most hated and feared fictional characters into a sympathetic, lovelorn, misunderstood woman?
Gregory did so in his book “Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West”, which, since 2003 as “Wicked,” is now the seventh-longest running play in Broadway history. It’s been running since October 2003. Next month, it’s a 15-year run, with no sign of slowing any year soon.
But “Wicked” is just one among the dozens of Gregory’s books. In reviewing his backlist, I had to wonder if the titles some of his others – “Three Rotten Eggs,” “Out of Oz,” and maybe “The Good Liar” -- were reflective of the politics of his hometown, Albany.
Our non-fiction honoree, Paul Grondahl, by his own admission, wrote more than 8,000 stories for the Times Union. Even though he grew up in Tacoma, Washington, simply by chronicling the Capital District’s activities in some 8 million words, he became part of the fabric of the community.
Even though he “retired” from the TU last year, he continues to open our eyes to the reality around us.
Paul’s writing – the quality of his reporting – his ability to give us the unvarnished who, what, where, etc. – what made Paul’s reporting so trustworthy, is summed up in his own words from his TU retirement address: “My work was never about me. I was a reporter, an observer, a witness – a conduit for the first draft of history.”
Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival with us here at the Guilderland Public Library on Saturday, Sept. 29, at 10:30 a.m., with a bilingual family story time in Mandarin and English.
Julia Liu, a bilingual early-childhood educator will lead this program. Please register for this class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 4, or register online at www.guilderlandlibrary.org.
Family STEAM Nights
On Monday, Oct. 1, at 6:30 p.m., the Shaker High School Robotics Club will be at the library to share and guide you through some exciting, hands-on STEAM – Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math -- activities! For second grade and up. Please register for this class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 4, or register online at www.guilderlandlibrary.org.
Story times are back!
Story times are designed to reinforce early literacy skills. We may use a combination of stories, videos, singing, crafting, playing, puppets and movement to entertain and teach.
Choose the story time that’s best suited for your child’s age. No need to register, just come here and enjoy! Story times begin Sept. 25:
— Baby Bookworms – a new story time that’s held every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. – is a story time full of songs and fun. Make a weekly date to build memories with your baby, lay a foundation for success with pre-literacy skills, and connect with other caregivers in the community. Ages birth to 18 months and a caregiver.
— Toddler Time – Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. -- offers a variety of fun activities to encourage early literacy and motor skills including: reading stories, singing, dancing, playing instruments, and creating crafts (both sessions feature the same activities). Toddlers 19 - 36 months with a caregiver.
— Preschool Drop-In Story time – on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. – develops the early literacy skills so vital to success in school! Join us for stories, songs, and movement! Ages 3 - 5 years with a caregiver. Younger siblings welcome!
— Wee Waddlers Rhyme Time – a new story time on Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. -- provides bonding and pre-literacy skills. We’ll have music and movement, rhymes & bounces, puppets, read-alouds, toys, bubbles and more. New walkers up to 24 months old with a caregiver. Siblings are welcome to attend. Older siblings should bring a stuffed animal with them.
— The ever-popular 3 Little Birds: Music & Movement starts Friday Sept. 28 at 10:30 a.m., and is then held every Friday at that same time. You’ll sing, dance and join our 3 Little Birds – Penny, Poppy & Pete – for a fun-filled class your whole family will enjoy! This program is dynamic and interactive, so come ready to participate in the fun. Ages birth to five years with a caregiver.
Please note: We follow the Guilderland Central School District calendar. When school is not in session, we do not hold story time. Also, when schools are closed due to bad weather, story times are cancelled.
Trustees meet
The Guilderland Public Library’s Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting on Thursday, Oct. 11, at 6 p.m., to hear a presentation on a possible renewal of the library building. The presentation will be given by the architectural firm of Butler, Rowland and Mays. The public is encouraged to attend. Information on this possible project is available at www.guilderlandlibrary.org/renewal
GPL pops up at Ladies’ Night Out
Ladies’ Night Out, held from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Western Turnpike Golf Course Ballroom, is a health and wellness event is sponsored by the Guilderland Chamber of Commerce. We’ll be there with free books to give away, consumer health resources, and a special raffle basket, too! The Western Turnpike Golf Course is located at 2350 Western Ave, Guilderland; see you there!
The “Better Angels” Skills Workshop — at the Guilderland Public Library on Saturday, Sept. 22, from 2 to 4:30 p.m. — is a practical exercise where you can learn effective ways to communicate with others who differ from you politically.
There’s a lot of stress these days among family members and friends who are divided politically, and the current polarized public conversation doesn’t help. Please join us for the Better Angels Skills Workshop to learn skills for having respectful conversations that — rather than aiming to persuade — clarify differences, search for common ground, and affirm the importance of the relationship.
The workshop format was developed by Better Angels (https://www.better-angels.org). After a presentation, you will have an opportunity to practice the conversation skills. (To make it easier, you’ll practice with someone from your side of the political spectrum, who will play the role of someone on the other side.) If you fall in the center politically, you can choose a side for purposes of practicing the skills.
To register for this program, please call 518-456-2400, ext. 3, or sign-up online at bit.ly/gplbetterangels.
Password Workshop
Sarah McFadden from Cornell Cooperative Extension will give you the ins and outs of successful passwords. Come to the library on Tuesday, Sept. 25, at 6:30 p.m., and in 90 minutes, you’ll learn the best practices for creating strong passwords, how to keep track of your passwords, and how to keep your passwords away from bad people online.
Please register for this class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3, or register online at www.guilderlandlibrary.org.
Long-term care
Find out what you need to know about planning for long-term care when you come to this class on Tuesday, September 25, at 6:30 p.m.
The New York State Partnership for Long-Term Care is a unique New York State Department of Health program designed to assist New York residents in planning for the cost of long-term care. The Partnership between the DOH and private insurers allows individuals to protect their assets from Medicaid through the purchase of a Partnership-qualified, long-term care policy.
Find out more about this critical coverage to protect both your health and your financial well-being! Your presenters include an elder-care law attorney, an insurance broker, and the program manager for the New York State Partnership for Long-Term Care.
Please register for this class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3, or register online at www.guilderlandlibrary.org.
Library Club
Join us for an after-school snack at GPL on Wednesday, Sept. 26, at 3:30 p.m., and we’ll talk about our favorite books, plan future programs, and do a project to benefit the library!
This is a great program for students in grades 3 to 5. Please register for this class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 4, or register online at www.guilderlandlibrary.org.
Rappy Goes to the Library
When Rappy the Raptor’s class goes to the library, it’s all Rappy can do not to be noisy. Can he keep his rapping quiet, or will he start a book riot? To find out, register for this Wednesday, Sept. 26 program – it starts at 6:30 p.m. – come to the library to pick up your free copy of the book to take home and read – and then join us for a book party celebration on that Wednesday!
For children in grades 1 to 2. Please register for this class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 4, or register online at www.guilderlandlibrary.org.
Moon Festival Story Time
Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with us here at GPL on Saturday, Sept. 29, at 10:30 a.m., with a bilingual family storytime in Mandarin and English. Julia Liu, a bilingual early childhood educator will lead this program. Please register for this class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 4, or register online at www.guilderlandlibrary.org.
Jacqueline Schwab Concert
In her free concert “I Lift My Lamp: Vintage Songs and Dances of Immigrant America” at the library on Thursday, Sept. 20, at 7 p.m., pianist Jacqueline Schwab celebrates America’s immigrants, their vibrant spirit of community music-making, and their contributions to our heritage. Along the way, she reflects on growing up in Pittsburgh’s “melting pot,” as well as on her later exploration of music from around the world.
You’ve already enjoyed Jacqueline’s extraordinary playing: She is key to the sound tracks of Ken Burns’ Grammy-winning films including The Civil War, Baseball, Lewis and Clark, Mark Twain, The War, and The National Parks.
In Burns’ words: “Jacqueline Schwab brings more feeling and intensity to music than anyone I know. Her playing is insistent, physical, heartfelt and ... unusually moving.” Critic Scott Alarik wrote she has “… an uncanny sensitivity to the moods and proprieties from other eras.” One listener wrote: “Your music, the touch you have, entwines the heart.”
That she is playing at the library is truly extraordinary. Registration required: Please call 518.456.2400, ext. 3, or register online at bit.ly/september20schwab.