When young readers come to the Guilderland Public Library for the Summer Reading Sign-Up & Ice Cream Social on Thursday, June 28, at 6 p.m., they’re going to meet some really special Super Scoopers!
Senator George A. Amedore Jr., and Assemblymember Pat Fahy will scoop and serve, as will Albany County Legislator Dennis Feeney and town Supervisor Peter Barber. Fort Hunter Past Fire Chief Bob Pagnotti will keep things cool, while Pineview Community Church Pastor Bill Smith ministers to your ice-cream needs.
Extending their outreach to include ice cream will be Lieutenant Eric Batchelder and Officers Patty Stallmer and Matt Hanzalik of the Guilderland Police Department’s Community Outreach Team. And a really big thank-you to Stewart’s Shops for donating the ice cream.
Ice cream cones are fun, but reading is fundamental. And that’s the whole point of our “Libraries Rock!” theme, to drive home the importance of reading and libraries. We have a wonderful summer planned, one packed with activities; crafts; programs; and, of course, books. See you Thursday!
Jazz Concert at GPL
Enjoy a family concert sure to awaken your ears, enliven your heart, and get you up and dancing!
At GPL on Friday, June 29, at 6 p.m., Heard will present its original and traditional world music repertoire, with influences from West Africa, Brazil, the Middle East, and places in between and points beyond. Heard’s multimedia concert will be interactive, so be prepared to move, groove, and learn something new about our world and its diverse soundscape.
Help save lives
On Tuesday, July 3, from 1 to 6 p.m., let’s roll up our sleeves and help save lives!
The library is proudly partnering with the American Red Cross to hold a July blood drive. Each pint of blood collected that day can help save up to three lives, and will touch the lives of so many more.
What a great way to pay it forward and make an impact on people in our community and across the country. We are very excited about the drive, and hope you are, too.
New blood donors are needed every day to save the lives of patients who depend on the generosity of volunteer donors. Help patients in need by joining the #MissingType movement. Without blood types A, B and O-Negative, we can’t save anybody. It’s not every day that we do something that has such a lifesaving impact. Let’s blow this out of the water!
Library closed
The Library will be closed on July 4 for the Independence Day holiday.
Heard World Jazz will perform a delightful family-friendly concert at the Guilderland Public Library the evening of June 29.
“Libraries Rock!” is this year’s theme for the summer reading program. The Guilderland Public Library has a wonderful summer planned, one packed with activities, crafts, programs and, of course, books.
When you come to our Rockin’ Sign-Up not only will you get details about all the great events and concerts, but you can also Build-Your-Own Ice Cream Sundae. The ice cream is being served up by some super scoopers. It’s going to be a great kick-off!
If you don’t already have a Summer Reading brochure, you can pick one up at the library. And you can check the Library’s Program calendar at guilderlandlibrary.org to see what’s coming up in July and August.
Family Concert with Heard World Jazz
Come to GPL on Friday, June 29, at 6 p.m., and enjoy a family concert that will awaken your ears, enliven your heart, and even get you up and dancing! Heard will present their original and traditional world music repertoire, with influences from West Africa, Brazil, the Middle East, and places in between and points beyond.
Heard’s multimedia concert will be interactive, so be prepared to move, groove, and learn something new about our world and its diverse soundscape.
Double-header
If you’re a baseball fan, there is a double-header coming up on Saturday, June 30, that you just can’t miss.
It starts at 2 p.m. at the library when author David Rapp, retired editor of “Congressional Quarterly” discusses his new book, “Tinker to Evers to Chance: The Chicago Cubs and the Dawn of Modern America.” Rapp’s book details the career of Johnny Evers, Troy native and Hall-of-Fame Second Baseman for the Cubs, who was one-third of “a trio of bear cubs, fleeter than birds” who were amazingly efficient at turning double plays.
The second part of our double-header is that you’re invited to come to Valley Cats Stadium for a 7 p.m. game when the Cats take on the Hudson Valley Renegades. Not only is it a great baseball game, but it’s Star Wars Night (wear your Star Wars gear, and mingle with your favorite Star Wars characters) and fireworks will follow the game. Discounted tickets are just $10, available exclusively at the library. There is a limited amount of tickets left, so get yours now.
— Copyright 2004 Nan Wilson. All rights reserved.
Nan Wilson’s “Question Mark Lifecycle” is just one extraordinary artwork on display at the Guilderland Public Library through July.
If you missed the Marijuana Laws listening-session that Albany County District Attorney P. David Soares held at the library on June 13, you have another opportunity to attend and speak out: The next local session is at the Bethlehem Public Library (located at 451 Delaware Avenue in Delmar) on Wednesday, June 20, at 6 p.m.
According to information provided by the district attorney’s office, “District Attorney P. David Soares [is holding a] series of public meetings will be held this summer to discuss marijuana laws with communities in Albany County. These meetings will give residents of Albany County an opportunity to ask questions and discuss public safety concerns about marijuana legalization and the future of marijuana laws and prosecution. In addition to the public meetings, Albany County residents are also invited to take an online survey to share opinions on the topic.
“Residents of Albany County that are unable to attend the scheduled meetings can still share opinions about marijuana laws by filling out our online survey. The survey can be found on our website www.albanycountyda.com by clicking on the green logo seal.”
Painting your T-shirt
Come to the library on Tuesday, June 19 at 6 p.m., and find out just how much fun you can have by painting your own T-shirt! It’s a great way to have some fun and make a bold, personal statement. Fabric painting opens up endless opportunities for transforming your wardrobe and your home.
It allows you to create a one-of-a-kind pieces of wearable art. All materials provided. This program is for everyone: teens, tweens, adults — everyone!
Please register for this fun time by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 4.
Life in the Spirit World
Through July, the library’s Helderberg Room will exhibit Nan Wilson’s “Life in the Spirit World,” an exhibit with a purpose. Featuring more than 30 prints of her original series of Butterfly Lifecycles and Bigger-than-Life Dragonflies, she invites you to embrace the mystery of these other life forms.
Through her art, you will experience one of the greatest and simplest of pleasures in life: broadening your circle of compassion toward all living things.
Study Space
It’s almost the end of the academic year, and finals are here. If you need a place where you can get together for a group study, or a quiet place to focus on your own, then come to the Guilderland Library’s Normanskill Room which is an ideal Study Space just for you and your friends.
No need to sign up, just show up. The Study Space is open for you on Monday, June 18 from 4 to 8 p.m. Bring snacks.
Summer Reading
On Thursday, June 28 starting at 6 p.m., the Guilderland Library Rocks Summer Reading!
“Libraries Rock!” is this year’s theme, and we have a wonderful summer planned, one packed with activities, crafts, programs and, of course, books.
Signup starts 6 pm on Thursday, June 28, and not only will it be a great kick-off where you get all the rockin’ details, but it’s also going to be a Build-Your-Own Ice Cream Sundae Party being served up by some super scoopers. Don’t. Miss. It.
Look for our Kids and Teens Summer Reading brochures providing program details. They went out in the backpack mail the week of June 11; you can get copies at the library, too.
Come see us! On Saturday, June 2, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Guilderland Public Library will be at the 14th Annual Lupine Fest at the Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center. We’ll have books, crafts, and lots of fun!
If you’ve never been to Lupine Fest, you need to go. You’ll experience a celebration of our local wildlife at the Capital Region’s globally rare, nationally significant, and locally distinct Albany Pine Bush.
Enjoy live animal shows, wildlife workshops, and nature walks. Discover the unique wildlife that calls this rare habitat home through hands-on activities with community partners, music with the WhipperSnappers and B95.5, games, crafts, vendors, the library, and more!
This is a free event. See you there.
Learn to bake with off-grid grains
Curious about flour? Then come to the library on Saturday, June 2, at 11 a.m., and study grains. You’ll learn about the structure of grain kernels, the different types of grains, and milling styles and leavening processes. You’ll find out what is known and not known about nutrition of bread and grains, and be able to interpret the myths and facts swirling about our daily bread.
You’ll bake hoe cakes from freshly-ground grains, and leave with a full belly and a good understanding of how to approach grains as a baker.
Your presenter is Troy-based author Amy Halloran; she’ll also sign and sell copies of her book, “The new bread basket: how the new crop of grain growers, plant breeders, millers, maltsters, bakers, brewers, and local food activists are redefining our daily loaf.”
Please register for this class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3, or by going online to guilderlandlibrary.org.
Need a place to study?
Finals are tough, Regents Exams are tougher (maybe), but what can be toughest is finding a place where you can get together for a group study, or a quiet place to focus on your own.
That’s why we’re turning the Guilderland Library’s Normanskill Room into a Study Space just for you and your friends. No need to sign up, just show up.
The Study Space is open for you from 4 to 8 p.m. on Monday, June 4; Tuesday, June 5; Tuesday, June 12; and Wednesday, June 13. Bring snacks.
Staff Development Day
The library will be closed all day Wednesday, June 6, for Staff Development Day. This is when we take a break from our day-to-day responsibilities to train in new skills, polish old ones, and spend a few hours in team-building activities.
We thank you for your understanding as we take this day to regroup so we can serve you better.
In the unlikely event you have something due on June 6, no worries. Just return it fine-free the day after. As always, our online library – where you can renew items, request materials, and do online research – is always open at www.guilderlandlibrary.org.
3-D Geometric Origami
Come to the library on Friday, June 8, at 7 p.m., and spend an hour or so learning the beautiful Japanese art of paper folding into 3-D geometric shapes. Get a great feeling of accomplishment from making geometric paper objects with your hands!
Supplies will be provided. Beginners are welcome, and experienced paper-folders are invited to share their skills.
Please register for this class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3, or by going online to guilderlandlibrary.org.
Curious about flour? Then come to the Guilderland Public Library on Saturday, June 2, at 11 a.m., and study grains. You’ll learn about the structure of grain kernels, the different types of grains, and milling styles and leavening processes. You’ll find out what is known and not known about nutrition of bread and grains, and be able to interpret the myths and facts swirling about our daily bread.
You’ll bake hoe cakes from freshly-ground grains, and leave with a full belly and a good understanding of how to approach grains as a baker. Your presenter is Troy-based author Amy Halloran; she’ll also sign and sell copies of her book, “The new bread basket: how the new crop of grain growers, plant breeders, millers, maltsters, bakers, brewers, and local food activists are redefining our daily loaf.”
Please register for this class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3, or by going online to guilderlandlibrary.org.
GPL Sprouts
Join us for Building Bridges with the Three Billy Goats Gruff, a fun-filled STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) program for kids ages 4 to 7 that’s happening on Thursday, May 24, at 3:30 p.m.
In this hour full of fun, we'll explore the world around us through books, experiments, activities, and crafts. Lots of hands-on learning for everyone! Please register by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 4.
Let’s move!
On Thursday, May 24, at 3:30 p.m., join certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor Barbara Kam in this interactive exercise program for kids and their caregivers. Enjoy dance, songs, and gentle stretching as kids strengthen their minds and muscles.
Space is limited; for children in grade kindergarten through fifth grade. Please register by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 4.
When you register, please let us know if you or your child have any physical limitations or disabilities.
GPL Pops-Up
Save the date: On Saturday, June 2, GPL will be at the 14th Annual Lupine Fest at the Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center. We’ll have books, crafts, and lots of fun! See you there.
Happy Memorial Day!
The library will be closed three days for the Memorial Day Weekend: Saturday, May 26; Sunday, May 27; and Monday, May 28. We will reopen Tuesday, May 29, at 10 a.m. Just a reminder that our online library is always open at www.guilderlandlibrary.org.
Teresa Broadwell and her sextet will jazz up the Guilderland Public Library on Sunday, May 6.
Peter Golden recently published his third novel, “Nothing Is Forgotten,” and will speak at the Guilderland Public Library on May 9.
Veteran author and Guilderland resident Peter Golden will speak at the Guilderland Public Library on Wednesday, May 9, at 7 p.m., as part of the Guilderland Library Foundation’s “Frank & Joan Sheehan Local Author Series.”
Mr. Golden, who lives in Guilderland, recently published his third novel, “Nothing Is Forgotten,” a thriller about the connection between the Holocaust and the Cold War. It traces the life-changing journey of a young man who travels from New Jersey to Khrushchev’s Russia and the beaches of the French Riviera as he finds love and discovers the long-hidden secrets about his heritage.
Teresa Broadwell Jazz Sextet
Teresa Broadwell, acclaimed jazz vocalist, violinist, band leader and arranger — brings her signature hot swing/cool jazz sextet to the library on Sunday, May 6, at 2 p.m.
We’re very lucky to have the group here, performing a repertoire chock full of the best standards, swing, bop, and jazz gems! Come early for a good spot. Don’t miss it!
Cyber Security for Tweens (and Parents, too!)
It seems that every day’s headlines announces yet another data breach or theft of online personal information, so a question on the minds of many parents and caregivers has become: “Is my middle-schooler being safe and smart online?”
Come to Cyber Security for Tweens (and Parents, too!) at the library on Monday, May 7 at 6:30 p.m., and learn about the questions you should be asking and the conversations you need to be having with your kids!
This class is ideal for students in grades 6 through 8, and their parent/caregiver. There will be plenty of time for Q & A. Program provided by the Guilderland Police Department. Please register for the class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 4.
Hiking 101
Join us for an informative and fun class designed to help you connect with the outdoors. This class — being held at the library on Tuesday, May 8, at 6 p.m. — will cover the benefits of recreational hiking, essential hiking gear and safety, hiking etiquette, map-reading, and choosing hikes that are right for you.
Following the class, provided by the Capital District Physicians Health Plan, participants are invited to take part in two optional guided hikes in the greater Capital District. Please register for the class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3.
Get a Great Night’s Sleep
Did you know sleep deprivation can harm your health and affect relationships?
Come to GPL on Thursday, May 10, at 6 p.m. for another CDPHP program, to learn about recent findings and the benefits of getting a good night’s sleep. Explore ways to get peaceful, revitalizing, uninterrupted sleep. Please register for the class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3.
GPL Pops Up
The 2018 Little League season kicks off at Keenholts Park on Friday, May 11, and GPL will be there! Be sure to stop by our tent — we’ll have books to check out and crafts to take with you. Play ball!
Proposed budget
The library’s board of trustees has approved a 2018-19 operating budget of $3,882,276. This is based upon a tax-levy of $3,806,276. Details of the budget are provided on the library’s website at www.guilderlandlibrary.org.
There are a number of significant differences in this year’s budget from last, notably an increase in programming funds to support the many extraordinarily popular events and classes created by our Librarians.
We have added funds to purchase additional eBooks due to the growing demand, but not at the expense of traditional print media. Our “Library of Things,” which enables you to borrow non-traditional items you really need at home but don’t necessarily want to buy, is included in the Special Collections line.
We are about to install a new heating and ventilating system which is, in effect, already paid for through savings; this is why there is a substantial drop in the Building and Equipment Maintenance line. As you know, the library building is 26 years old, and the HVAC system is inefficient, prone to fatigue failure, and costly to run.
Our utilities budget has dropped 10 percent because of savings anticipated from this new system and other improvements — notably LED lighting — made recently.
Professional Services increased 200 percent in anticipation of project management and consulting fees related to a possible renewal of the library’s building. Our board continues to work with the architectural firm of Butler, Rowland & Mays to draw up renovation plans to assure that the library can meet the community’s needs for decades to come.
We are acutely aware that the success of our library is founded on the support of the community. Our goal with this proposed budget is to ensure your library gives you the service you expect, now and in the future. The library board urges you to vote on Tuesday, May 15, at your local elementary school; polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Judith Enck, former Environmental Protection Agency administrator for our region, will be at the Guilderland Public Library on Saturday, April 28, at 1 p.m., to moderate a panel consisting of internationally recognized solar energy expert and University at Albany professor Dr. Richard Perez, and Dennis Phayre of Entersolar.
Dr. Perez returns to tell us about the latest research in solar power, and Mr. Phayre will inform us about the many community solar projects in the region including how you, as homeowners and business-owners, can take advantage of them.
Following the discussions, you’ll be able to meet representatives from some of the area’s solar farm projects. There will be some exciting and interesting displays. No need to register; just come on in.
Got drugs? Get rid of them!
On Saturday, April 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., you can get rid of all your unused or expired medications at a National Drug Take-Back Day drop-off point in the Guilderland Library’s parking lot — no questions asked.
The library and the Guilderland Police Department have again teamed up for the United States Drug Enforcement Administration's nationwide Drug Take-Back Day, a one-day collaborative effort between the DEA and state and local law-enforcement agencies that focuses on removing potentially dangerous controlled substances from your home.
Please don’t let this opportunity to rid your home of these hazards pass you by.
All surrendered pharmaceuticals/controlled substances are destroyed by law enforcement officers. Not only does this program provide an opportunity for community agencies to collaborate and establish a safe collection site, it also brings national attention to the issue of pharmaceuticals and controlled substance abuse.
What can be disposed:
— Controlled, non-controlled, and over-the-counter substances; and
— Medication in its original container or removed from its container can be 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:
— No sharps and syringes.
Talking With Your Doctor
If you’re puzzled by confusing health information, or hesitant to ask your doctor questions (and many of us are), then come to Talking with Your Doctor, at the Library on Monday, April 30, at 5:30 p.m.
In this practical, 90-minute class, you’ll learn to be an advocate for yourself or a loved one as the presentation covers:
— What questions you should ask your doctor;
— How to find health information you can trust; and
— What you should bring to your medical appointments.
Suitable for everyone, this hands-on workshop is presented by Albany Medical College’s Division of Community Outreach and Medical Education and the Schaffer Library of Health Sciences.
Please register for this class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3, or going online to www.guilderlandlibrary.org.
Feeling Stuck in a Dead-End Job?
Tired of what feels like a dead-end job, but not sure where to go next or how to get there? Then this workshop — Feeling Stuck at a Dead-End Job? — at the Library on Monday, April 30, at 6 p.m., is for you.
It will guide you through the process of clarifying your “next-step” goals, and the steps needed to reach these goals. You’ll not only leave with valuable information, but also with added determination and confidence!
Please register for this workshop by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3, or going online www.guilderlandlibrary.org. This program is offered courtesy of the Upper Hudson Library System Adult Literacy Grant for 2018.
Broadwell plays GPL
Teresa Broadwell — acclaimed jazz vocalist, violinist, bandleader and arranger — brings her signature hot swing/cool jazz sextet to the library on Sunday, May 6, at 2 p.m. Don’t miss it!
On Sunday, April 22, at 2 p.m., there is a very special musical event at the Guilderland Public Library featuring some of the most talented young people in town!
Back by popular demand: the extraordinary Guilderland High School Chamber Choir and Chamber Strings will perform a wide variety of classical to contemporary favorites. Please get here early, because this is always a “sold-out” concert.
Bet you can’t get out of this!
Save Eleven and escape from the upside-down in our Stranger Things escape room! On the weekend of Saturday, April 21, and Sunday, April 22, we have several 45-minute time slots you can choose from to show us what you can do.
Register as an individual, with a friend or two, or with a larger group; these events are intended for teens and adults. Each person in your group must register. Up to six people can play at a time. Please arrive on time for your session.
On Saturday, April 21, spots are still available for 2:15 to 3 p.m. and 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. And on Sunday, April 22, you can choose from 1:30 to 2:15 p.m. or 3 to 3:45 p.m.
Spring into Organization
Spring is here and it is time to clear out, clean up, and get organized. Start by coming to the library on Tuesday, April 24, at 6:30 p.m. for Spring into Organization, presented by professional organizer Jordana Turcotte.
In this program, sponsored by the Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan, you will learn a simple system of purging and organizing large storage areas such as the basement, garage, and even the great outdoors. Jordana will share tips on how to let go of unneeded items and clear your clutter — a good step for both your mental and physical health!
Registration is required. Please call 518-456-2400, ext. 3, or sign up online at www.guilderlandlibrary.org.
GPL Sprouts: Metamorphosis
Join us on Thursday, April 26, at 3:30 pm, for a fun-filled STEM (Science, Technology, and Engineering, and Math) program for kids ages 4 to 7.
We’ll explore the world around us through books, experiments, activities, and crafts. Lots of hands-on learning for everyone! For youngsters in pre-kindergarten through grade 2. Please register by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 4.
Drug Take-Back Day
Save the date: On Saturday, April 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the library — in cooperation with the Guilderland Police Department and federal Drug Enforcement Administration — is holding a Drug Take-Back Day at the library’s parking lot.
Find those old, unused, and expired medications, and get rid of them at this no-questions-asked collection point.
So, what’s a coral reef?
Barbara Lukas from public television station WMHT will teach youngsters in pre-kindergarten through second grade all about coral reefs, what they’re made of, how they grow — and who lives in them!
So come to the Guilderland Public Library on Saturday, April 14, at 10:30 a.m., for this very special and fun class. You’ll watch a movie about reefs, talk about them, and then use some colorful craft supplies to create your own unique reef that you can take home.
Please have your folks register for this class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 4.
Final Night of STEAM Fair
Calling all budding scientists in grades two through five. On Monday, April 16 at 6:30 p.m. we are wrapping up our latest Season of STEAM with a youth-centered-centered STEAM Fair.
Bring your STEAM-based projects to show your friends and the college science students who are coming, too. Let us know you’re coming by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 4.
Start Your Journey to Better Health
On Tuesday, April 17 at 5:30 p.m., a certified coach with the American Council on Exercise Ariffa Bevin will present Start Your Journey to Better Health — a Capital District Physicians Health Plan program — that will help you get motivated to lead a lifestyle of health and wellness.
You will learn how to set and achieve realistic goals, incorporate fitness, manage stress, and much more. Please register for this very popular class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3.
Create Documents in Google Drive
Google Drive is so simple and easy to use that you’ll be amazed you’ve not used it before. Find out all there is to know about creating, storing, and sharing documents when you come to the library on Wednesday, April 18 at 6 p.m., for Creating Documents in Google Drive.
In 90 short minutes, you’ll find out all you need to know about this user-friendly service. One of the great features of Google Drive is that it is a great substitute for Microsoft Word, and it’s free with your Gmail account.
This class also demystifies “cloud storage.” This program is offered thanks to an Adult Literacy Grant from the Upper Hudson Library System. Please register for this very popular class by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3.
Making collages
Collage art is a fun and relaxing way to begin experimenting with the endless possibilities of mixed media. We invite all Tweens and Teens to come to the Library on Thursday, April 19, at 6:30 p.m. to discover and explore just how much fun “collaging” is.
With collage art, you can become an artist with just some magazines, scissors and a bit of glue. Please let us know you’re coming by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 4.
Escape from the Upside Down
Save Eleven and escape from the upside-down in our Stranger Things escape room! On the weekend of Saturday, April 21 and Sunday, April 22 we have several 45-minute time slots you can choose from to show us what you can do.
Register as an individual, with a friend or two, or with a larger group; these events are intended for teens and adults. Each person in your group must register. Up to six people can play at a time. Please arrive on time for your session.
On Saturday, April 2, you can sign up for slots from 11 to 11:45 a.m., 12:30 to 1:15 p.m., 2 to 2:45 p.m., or 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. And on Sunday, April 22, you can choose from 1:30 to 2:15 p.m. or 3 to 3:45 p.m.
Spring into Organization
Spring is here and it is time to clear out, clean up, and get organized! Start by coming to the library on Tuesday, April 24, at 6:30 p.m. for Spring into Organization, presented by professional organizer Jordana Turcotte.
In the CDPHP-sponsored program, you will learn a simple system of purging and organizing large storage areas such as the basement, garage, and even the great outdoors. Jordana will share tips on how to let go of unneeded items and clear your clutter — a good step for both your mental and physical health!
Registration is required. Please cal l518-456-2400, ext. 3, or sign up online at guilderlandlibrary.org.
— Photo from Andrea Buchanan’s website
Author Andrea J. Buchanan will speak at the Guilderland Public Library on Tuesday, April 10, at 7 p.m.
New York Times bestselling author, Andrea J. Buchanan — whose latest work is the multimedia young adult novel “Gift” — will speak at the Guilderland Public Library on Tuesday, April 10, at 7 p.m. This event is sponsored jointly by the New York State Writers Institute at the University at Albany, and the Guilderland Library.
Ms. Buchanan is the co-author of the million-selling “The Daring Book for Girls” series, an empowering set of how-to manuals for girls with a sense of adventure. Her multimedia young-adult novel, “Gift,” a sci-fi story that comes with its own fully playable Minecraft map, was named one of Kirkus Review’s Best Books of 2012.
Before becoming a writer, Ms. Buchanan trained as a pianist, earning a bachelor of music degree in piano performance from the Boston Conservatory of Music and a master’s degree from the San Francisco Conservatory. Her last recital was at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall.
Time Out (for Parents!)
Every parent has been there: Your baby is crying, you have no clue how to soothe him or her, and you’d give anything to have someone tell you how to stop it. (So every new parent should come to Time Out for Parents! at the library on Thursday, April 12, at 6:30 p.m.)
As frustrating as crying is, simply understanding why babies do it can take some of the stress out of the situation. And fortunately, there are several things you can do to calm your baby — and make both of you feel better.
Join us for another Parent Education Mixer, where St. Peter’s Health Partners will discuss tips to soothe your crying baby, followed by a discussion on infant growth, development, and mindful parenting tools and techniques with Becky Morris, MS, and L.M.T from BodyWork Professionals.
Come relax and learn parent tips and tricks! Refreshments will be provided. This program is for adults only and is geared for parents of children ages infant to six months. Please arrange childcare for children.
Public presentations on possible library renewal
The library’s board of trustees is exploring a renovation of the library’s 26-year-old building. Over the past year, there has been a wealth of public-input sessions, so it is now time for the board to show you where things stand with plans and concepts.
While the plan is not final, and has not yet been voted on by the board, public feedback at this stage is vital. You are encouraged to attend one of two public presentations being held on Wednesday, April 11, one at 3 p.m., the other at 7 p.m. Both address the same content, a review of current plans and on a possible renovation of the library.
Downsizing for seniors
Learn how to prepare your home and your life for changes, relocations, new needs, other accommodations, and the process of sorting, downsizing or relocating, when you come to the GPL on Thursday, April 5, at 2 p.m., for a very important class, Downsizing for Seniors.
“Call Sheilah! Your Personal Concierge and Senior Move Specialist,” who will present the class, 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 “downsizing.”
She offers tips and tricks for handling this daunting task that has multiple moving parts and requires the skills of a “solutionist.” Please register for this presentation by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 3, or by going online to www.guilderlandlibrary.org.
Secrets of maple sugaring, revealed!
Why does the sap from a tree taste so sweet? And how does that sap get turned into maple syrup? It’s simple, really, and this is the best time of year to find out!
Come to the GPL on Friday, April 6, at 2 p.m., and learn how trees work, why sugar is so important, and — best of all! — get a taste of real maple syrup. This program is for children in pre-kindergarten to second grade. Please register by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 4.
Budget presentation
The Guilderland Public Library’s Board of Trustees will hold a public presentation on the library’s proposed 2018-19 budget on Thursday, April 12, at 6:30 p.m., in the library’s Tawasentha Room. This presentation will be followed, at 7 p.m., by the board’s regular monthly business meeting. The public is encouraged to attend.