Aspiring writers in grades four and up are welcome to attend an evening with author Leslie Connor, on Friday, March 20, at 4:15 p.m., at the Voorheesville Public Library.
Connor will lead young writing enthusiasts through a fun and creativity-based one-hour session. The author’s workshops are all about nurturing the writer within. She will run a few mind-loosening exercises, often using props to kick the imagination into gear.
The process will not focus on producing finished works, but rather the participants will look for spark and note how a story, poem, or lyric can grow from one small idea. Please register.
This author event is funded through a special legislative project from the New York State Education Department.
Tween/teen
creativity lab
Kids in grades four and up are invited to join Mrs. Sternklar on Sunday, March 22, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. You will learn about ecosystems as you create your own tiny landscape inside a container. All supplies will be provided for you to make a terrarium to take home. Please register.
LEGOs
Come in on this half-day of school to make, tinker, build, and explore at the library. Parents and caregivers will join their kindergartener through second grade student on March 25 in this creative journey meant to foster creativity and encourage storytelling. This program will begin at 2 p.m. Please register.
The Right College
at the Right Price
Stop by on March 31, at 6:30 p.m., to hear Dr. Dean Skarlis of The College Advisor of New York. Dr. Skarlis holds a doctorate in educational policy and administration from the University of Pittsburgh. He attended the Harvard University Institute on College Admissions and he has worked as a college administrator and an American College Testing consultant. Dr. Skarlis will outline the steps needed to find the right college for you. Some of the topics he will cover are: The top five factors colleges look for in applicants; strategies to reduce college costs; understanding why “fit” is critical; SAT and ACT strategies; how to make the most of your college visits and how to write the essay. The information and handouts you will take home from this presentation will help you begin your college search. There will be time for questions.
Centennial poets
In honor of the VPL’s first hundred years of life, a new poetry group is forming at the library. We will discuss individual poems authored by either the member or someone in whom the member has interest. Members may bring poems, brief articles, memoirs, or quotes concerning poetry. Members may come empty-handed, but with a head full of perspectives and ideas. The group will be as informal as possible, as long as the subject for discussion is connected to poetry. Meeting times are the second and fourth Thursday of every month from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Anything is possible, as Yentl and Avigdor said. For more information, call Larry at 765-2247.
Aspiring writers in grades four and up are welcome to attend an evening with author Leslie Connor, on Friday, March 20, at 4:15 p.m., at the Voorheesville Public Library.
Connor will lead young writing enthusiasts through a fun and creativity-based one-hour session. The author’s workshops are all about nurturing the writer within. She will run a few mind-loosening exercises, often using props to kick the imagination into gear.
The process will not focus on producing finished works, but rather the participants will look for spark and note how a story, poem, or lyric can grow from one small idea. Please register.
This author event is funded through a special legislative project from the New York State Education Department.
Tween/teen
creativity lab
Kids in grades four and up are invited to join Mrs. Sternklar on Sunday, March 22, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. You will learn about ecosystems as you create your own tiny landscape inside a container. All supplies will be provided for you to make a terrarium to take home. Please register.
LEGOs
Come in on this half-day of school to make, tinker, build, and explore at the library. Parents and caregivers will join their kindergartener through second grade student on March 25 in this creative journey meant to foster creativity and encourage storytelling. This program will begin at 2 p.m. Please register.
The Right College
at the Right Price
Stop by on March 31, at 6:30 p.m., to hear Dr. Dean Skarlis of The College Advisor of New York. Dr. Skarlis holds a doctorate in educational policy and administration from the University of Pittsburgh. He attended the Harvard University Institute on College Admissions and he has worked as a college administrator and an American College Testing consultant. Dr. Skarlis will outline the steps needed to find the right college for you. Some of the topics he will cover are: The top five factors colleges look for in applicants; strategies to reduce college costs; understanding why “fit” is critical; SAT and ACT strategies; how to make the most of your college visits and how to write the essay. The information and handouts you will take home from this presentation will help you begin your college search. There will be time for questions.
Centennial poets
In honor of the VPL’s first hundred years of life, a new poetry group is forming at the library. We will discuss individual poems authored by either the member or someone in whom the member has interest. Members may bring poems, brief articles, memoirs, or quotes concerning poetry. Members may come empty-handed, but with a head full of perspectives and ideas. The group will be as informal as possible, as long as the subject for discussion is connected to poetry. Meeting times are the second and fourth Thursday of every month from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Anything is possible, as Yentl and Avigdor said. For more information, call Larry at 765-2247.
Students can be part of the Albany Chapter of ConKerr Cancer’s pillowcase project. ConKerr provides emotional support to area cancer patients by providing them with fun pillowcases while they are receiving treatment. On Saturday, March 7, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Voorheesville Public Library teens in grades six and up are needed to pin material, run the sewing machines, and iron pillowcases. All materials will be provided. You will earn three hours of community service during this pillowcase party. Please register.
Special Circle Time
Come join Miss Amy for a whole month of Circle Time. Every Tuesday in March from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m., we will be exploring a variety of preschool concepts such as letter and number recognition, positional words, and counting skills through art, literature, music, and playtime. This will be a great hands-on learning experience whether your child is already attending a preschool program or if you are just curious to see if they might be ready to attend one. For children ages three to five with caregiver. Registration is requested.
Beginning beaded jewelry
On Wednesday, March 11, at 5:30 p.m., you can learn easy beading techniques for making necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Choose from our varied bead options to make something that suits your style. Once you’ve tried this creative activity, you’ll be hooked. This program is for ages 14 and up, please register, and there will be a small materials fee.
Author visit
Aspiring writers in grades four and up are welcome to attend An Evening with Author, Leslie Connor. On Friday, March 20 at 4:15 p.m., Connor will lead young writing enthusiasts through a fun and creativity-based one-hour session.
The author’s workshops are all about nurturing the writer within. She will run a few mind-loosening exercises, often using props to kick the imagination into gear. The process will not focus on producing finished works, but rather the participants will look for spark and note how a story, poem, or lyric can grow from one small idea. Please register. This author event is funded through a special legislative project from the New York State Education Department
Managing debt
Have you been looking for a way to manage your debt? Do you use a credit card that charges a monthly fee? Are you juggling high credit card bills? Join us on Sunday, March 8, from 3 to 4 p.m. for this workshop that will help you learn how to select and use credit wisely. You will also learn strategies for paying down and prioritizing existing debt. Maria DeLucia-Evans from the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Albany County will be leading this workshop, and will supply informational materials for you to take home. Space is limited so please register early.
Students can be part of the Albany Chapter of ConKerr Cancer’s pillowcase project. ConKerr provides emotional support to area cancer patients by providing them with fun pillowcases while they are receiving treatment.
On Saturday, March 7, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Voorheesville Public Library teens in grades six and up are needed to pin material, run the sewing machines, and iron pillowcases. All materials will be provided. You will earn three hours of community service during this pillowcase party. Please register for this program.
Author visit
Aspiring writers in grades four and up are welcome to attend An Evening with Author, Leslie Connor. On Friday, March 20 at 4:15 p.m., Connor will lead young writing enthusiasts through a fun and creativity-based one-hour session.
The author’s workshops are all about nurturing the writer within. She will run a few mind-loosening exercises, often using props to kick the imagination into gear. The process will not focus on producing finished works, but rather the participants will look for spark and note how a story, poem, or lyric can grow from one small idea. Please register. This author event is funded through a special legislative project from the New York State Education Department
Managing debt
Have you been looking for a way to manage your debt? Do you use a credit card that charges a monthly fee? Are you juggling high credit card bills? Join us on Sunday, March 8, from 3 to 4 p.m. for this workshop that will help you learn how to select and use credit wisely. You will also learn strategies for paying down and prioritizing existing debt. Maria DeLucia-Evans from the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Albany County will be leading this workshop, and will supply informational materials for you to take home. Space is limited so please register early.
Creating terrariums
On Sunday, March 22 at 2 p.m., tweens and teens in grades four and up are invited to learn about ecosystems as you create your own tiny landscape inside a container. All supplies will be provided for you to make a terrarium to take home. Please register.
Special Circle Time
Come join Miss Amy for a whole month of Circle Time. Every Tuesday in March from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m., we will be exploring a variety of preschool concepts such as letter and number recognition, positional words, and counting skills through art, literature, music, and playtime. This will be great hands-on learning experience whether your child is already attending a preschool program or if you are just curious to see if they might be ready to attend one. This program is for children ages three to five with a caregiver. Registration requested.
Beginning beaded jewelry
On Wednesday, March 11, at 5:30 p.m., you can learn easy beading techniques for making necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Choose from our varied bead options to make something that suits your style. Once you’ve tried this creative activity, you’ll be hooked. This program is for ages 14 and up, please register, and there will be a small materials fee.
The Friday Read-A-Thon is back by popular demand; the Voorheesville Public Library has set aside the community room for the entire day on Feb. 20. Bring your sleeping bags and soccer chairs and settle in with us.
We’ll take activity breaks throughout the day for crafts and games too. Drop in for any part of the day, watch the “pages read” total grow, you may even win a prize. Pizza will be served for lunch, and snacks will energize our afternoon hours. Doors open at 10 a.m. and close at 6 p.m.
Nimblefingers
Our artists this month are the Nimblefingers crafting group. Every February, the ladies in Nimblefingers treat us to a small sampling of their crafting genius. Please be sure to stop by the library and stroll through the gallery and community room.
If you are interested in joining a craft group, check out our events calendar. There are several groups that meet at the library and they are all friendly and helpful and welcome new members with open arms.
Managing debt
Have you been looking for a way to manage your debt? Do you use a credit card that charges a monthly fee? Are you juggling high credit card bills? Join us on Sunday, March 8, from 3 to 4 p.m. for this workshop that will help you learn how to select and use credit wisely. You will also learn strategies for paying down and prioritizing existing debt. Maria DeLucia-Evans from the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Albany County will be leading this workshop, and will supply informational materials for you to take home. Space is limited so please register early.
Author visit
Aspiring writers in grades four and up are welcome to attend An Evening with Author, Leslie Connor. On Friday, March 20 at 4:15 p.m., Connor will lead young writing enthusiasts through a fun and creativity-based one-hour session.
The author’s workshops are all about nurturing the writer within. She will run a few mind-loosening exercises, often using props to kick the imagination into gear. The process will not focus on producing finished works, but rather the participants will look for spark and note how a story, poem, or lyric can grow from one small idea. Please register. This author event is funded through a special legislative project from the New York State Education Department.
Creating terrariums
On Sunday, March 22 at 2 p.m., tweens and teens in grades four and up are invited to learn about ecosystems as you create your own tiny landscape inside a container. All supplies will be provided for you to make a terrarium to take home. Please register.
Meetings
The next regular meeting of the library’s board of trustees is March 16 at 7 p.m., and the next meeting for the Friends of the Library is March 27, at 10 a.m. Both meetings are held in the community room and are open to the public.
Next week is mid-winter school vacation here in Voorheesville and the Voorheesville Public Library is brimming with fun programs for the soon-to-be-bored students in your family. Here are just a few…
Sailor’s Valentine Crafternoon
What is a Sailor’s Valentine? They’re not paper, and they’re not chocolate. Sailor’s Valentines were elaborate gifts decorated with seashells.
We have shells, glue, and wooden boxes for you to decorate, so stop by and craft with us on Saturday, Feb. 14, at 2 p.m. This program is open to adults, teens, and families; please register.
Tween Lego Club
The Tween Lego club will meet on Monday, Feb. 16, from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Join us to try your hand at the challenge of the month or dream up your own creation. This program is for kids in grades three to six; please register.
Movie matinee
On Monday, February 16 at 1 p.m., we’ll watch an animated PG film, which follows the journey of Manolo, a young man who is torn between fulfilling the expectations of his family and following his heart. Before choosing which path to follow, he embarks on an incredible adventure that spans 3 worlds where he must face his greatest fears.
The movie is 96 minutes long and is suitable for children ages seven and up. Refreshments will be served.
Tween sewing workshop
This two-part workshop will allow tweens to design a fleecy friend, mean monster or cuddly cutie. There will be some simple hand sewing, with library sewing machines available as well. Day one is Tuesday, Feb. 17, and day two is Wednesday, Feb. 18. Both days will begin at 3 p.m. This program is for children in grades four and up. Please register and plan to attend both sessions.
Judo demonstration
Local Olympic hopeful Nick Kossor will stop by the library on Wednesday, Feb. 18, at 10:30 a.m., to discuss what it takes to become an Olympic athlete. An exciting and energetic Judo demonstration will be a large part of the program. This program is for kids in second grade and up.
Family engagement program
On Wednesday, Feb. 18, at 7 p.m., Barbara Lukas from WMHT will present a family engagement program based on the book The Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson. Families will read the book collectively and share exciting and educational book-based activities. This program is for children pre-kindergarten through grade 2 and their families. Please register.
Friday Read-A-Thon
Back by popular demand, the library has set aside the community room for the entire day on Feb. 20. Bring your sleeping bags and soccer chairs and settle in with us. We’ll take activity breaks throughout the day for crafts and games, too.
Drop in for any part of the day, watch the pages read total grow, you may even win a prize. Pizza will be served for lunch, and snacks will energize our afternoon hours. Doors open at 10 a.m. and close at 6 p.m.
Holiday hours
The library will close at 5 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 16, in observance of Presidents Day.
Artists of the month
Our artists this month are the Nimblefingers crafting group. Every February, the ladies in Nimblefingers treat us to a small sampling of their crafting genius. Please be sure to stop by the library to enjoy this wonderful display from your friends and neighbors.
Is one of your new year’s resolutions to get fit and exercise routinely? Regular yoga practice promotes health, strength, and ease. If you are curious to try yoga or aren't sure if you are doing it right, this class is for you.
During this four-week session (Sundays, February 15 and 22 and March 1 and 8) from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m., we will cover the basics of yoga, including breathing and alignment in common postures. There will be time for questions as well.
Janine Murphy from 365FIT in Delmar will be conducting the classes. To learn more about Janine, go to her website at www.janineyoga.com Class size is limited and there is no fee. Please register at the Voorheesville Public Library’s information desk.
Meet the illustrator
Take Your Child to the Library Day is Saturday, Feb. 7, from 10 to 5 p.m. This year, the library is excited to have Elizabeth Zunon, an Albany artist and illustrator, leading the session.
Children will learn about her process of illustrating children’s books and will make their own artistic collage to take home. This program is for children in kindergarten through grade 5. Please register. This program is funded by a special legislative project through the New York State Education Department.
An Afternoon with
Rachel Carson
Rachel Carson, who died in 1964, was an American marine biologist and conservationist whose book Silent Spring and other writings are credited with advancing the global environmental movement. On Sunday, Feb. 8, at 2 p.m., area actress Judy Lott, from the Schenectady Theater for Children, will portray Carson as an individual who made a major impact on the way we live today. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Library and presented as part of the Art and Climate: Intersections, a joint project developed by the Upper Hudson Library System and the University at Albany. Please register.
Story time
Join Miss Amy on Saturday, Feb. 14, from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m., to celebrate Valentine's Day as she shares Valentine's Day stories. Books, rhymes, songs, a Valentine's Day craft, and a snack will all be a part of this special family story time. This program is for children in prekindergarten through grade two, please register.
Sailor’s Valentine
Crafternoon
What is a Sailor’s Valentine? They were elaborate gifts decorated with seashells. We have shells, glue, and wooden boxes for you to decorate; so stop by and craft with us on Saturday, Feb. 14, at 2 p.m. This program is open to adults, teens, and families, please register.
Tween Lego Club
The Tween Lego club will meet on Monday, Feb. 16, from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Join us to try your hand at the challenge of the month or dream up your own creation. This program is for kids in grades three to six. Please register.
Library Centennial
As many of you know, the library will be celebrating its 100 Year Anniversary in 2015. The Friends of the Library have many wonderful events scheduled, so be sure to watch this column for dates and times. You won’t want to miss a thing.
Kick off 2015 with a Resolution Revolution. The Voorheesville Public Library wants to help you achieve your goals for the new year. Want to lose weight, eat healthier, learn a new language? We can point you in the right direction, with literature, websites, and programs designed to aid you with your resolutions. Stop in and check out our Resolution Revolution display and post your resolution or tweet us @voorheesvillepl and let us know how we can help.
Counting Breaths
meditation workshop
On Monday, Feb. 2, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., Suryanarayana Chennapragada will guide program participants in a breath meditation workshop. Focusing on breathing calms the mind, relaxes the muscles, and relieves stress. You can practice breathing meditation anywhere, while doing anything; from the time you wake up, until you fall asleep. Studies have shown that those who apply this technique can gain relief from a variety of ailments, such as insomnia, anxiety, and anger. It’s easy and practical. For more information go to www.countingbreaths.com. This program is suitable for teens and adults. Space is limited. Please register.
Meet the illustrator
Take Your Child to the Library Day is Saturday, Feb. 7, from 10 to 5 p.m. This year, the library is excited to have Elizabeth Zunan, an Albany artist and illustrator, leading the session.
Children will learn about her process of illustrating children’s books and will make their own artistic collage to take home. This program is for children in kindergarten through grade 5. Please register. This program is funded by a special legislative project through the New York State Education Department.
An Afternoon with
Rachel Carson
Rachel Carson, who died in 1964, was an American marine biologist and conservationist whose book Silent Spring and other writings are credited with advancing the global environmental movement. On Sunday, Feb. 8, at 2 p.m., area actress Judy Lott, from the Schenectady Theater for Children, will portray Carson as an individual who made a major impact on the way we live today. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Library and presented as part of the Climate+Art initiative developed by the Upper Hudson Library System and the University at Albany. Please register.
Nimblefingers
annual open house
Whether you do crafts yourself or just have an appreciation for textile arts, be sure to drop in at some point during February to stroll through the gallery and community room to enjoy the wonderful crafts these ladies have displayed for your pleasure.
Story time
Join Miss Amy on Saturday, Feb. 14, from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m., to celebrate Valentine's Day as she shares Valentine's Day stories. Books, rhymes, songs, a Valentine's Day craft, and a snack will all be a part of this special family story time. This program is for children in prekindergarten through grade two, please register.
Sailor’s Valentine
Crafternoon
What is a Sailor’s Valentine? They were elaborate gifts decorated with seashells. We have shells, glue, and wooden boxes for you to decorate; so stop by and craft with us on Saturday, Feb. 14, at 2 p.m. This program is open to adults, teens, and families, please register.
Start looking for your missing items. There will be amnesty for all late returned Voorheesville Public Library items during Fine Free Days, Jan. 3 through 14. If you can find the Voorheesville items that you’ve misplaced there will be no fine even though it’s way overdue. Unfortunately, fine free days does not apply to items borrowed from other libraries using inter-library or catalogue requests.
Writing workshop
Join local author and historian Dennis Sullivan as he guides you on a journey through your own history. This program will be held every other Tuesday evening at 6:30 p.m., from Jan. 13 through March 24. The sessions offer the opportunity for you to share what you are writing with the group and receive a helpful critique of your work. Limited seats are still available.
The Magic of Change
How do you deal with change? Do you find it frustrating and stressful or exciting and challenging? In this program, certified speaking professional Jim Snack puts a new twist on transition. Using humor, experiential learning activities, and team-building exercises, he vividly teaches how to make change a positive force in your life.
You will learn:
— The importance of having a sense of mission and creating shared vision;
— How to re-frame problems into opportunities;
— Using humor to manage the stress and tension of change;
— How to strengthen relationships and build support systems; and
— How to develop confidence by expanding your comfort zone… and much more.
At the conclusion of this program you will understand the essential factors in building resilience and developing personal strategies for adapting to change. On Sunday, Jan. 11, at 1:30 p.m., be prepared for an exciting presentation filled with magic, humor and audience participation. For more information on Snack, visit his web site www.jimsnack.com. Please register at 765-2791.
Beginning beaded jewelry
On Thursday, Jan. 15, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., you will learn easy beading techniques for making simple necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Choose from our varied bead options to make something that suits your style. Once you’ve tried this creative activity, you’ll be hooked. In response to requests, we’ve extended the program time and you may begin work at the time that’s best for you. This program is for kids ages 14 and up, please register and there will be a small materials fee.
LEGO Junior Maker event
Little LEGO enthusiasts are invited on Friday, Jan. 16, at 4 p.m., to make, tinker, build, and explore at the library. Parents and caregivers will join in this creative journey meant to foster creativity and encourage storytelling. For kids in kindergarten through grade two. Please register.
Join local author and historian Dennis Sullivan as he guides you on a journey through your own history. This program will be held every other Tuesday evening at 6:30 p.m., from Jan. 13 through March 24 at the Voorheesville Public Library. The sessions offer the opportunity for you to share what you are writing with the group and receive a helpful critique of your work. Limited seats are available, so please register early.
Now accepting
Humane Society donations
This year the library is collecting donations for the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society. Through Tuesday, Dec. 31, bring in any pet related item (food, leash, treats, etc.). Place them on our donations for pets table display. For a complete list of acceptable items, go to www.mohawkhumane.org/wishlist.html.
LEGO events
Stop by at 10:30 a.m. on Dec. 29, for the LEGO Junior Maker Event. Come in to make, tinker, build, and explore at the library. Parents and caregivers will join in this creative journey meant to foster creativity and encourage storytelling. This program is for kids in kindergarten through second grade; please register.
At 2 p.m., the tween LEGO Club will be exercising their mad building skills and playing LEGO games on the Wii. Bring one of your mad creations to show off to the other LEGO-maniacs. This program is for kids in grades three to six, please register.
Tuesday morning movie
Drop by the library at 10:15 a.m. on Dec. 30, to watch How To Train Your Dragon 2. When Hiccup and Toothless discover an ice cave that is home to hundreds of new wild dragons and the mysterious Dragon Rider, the two friends find themselves at the center of a battle to protect the peace. This movie is rated PG.
Closed for the holidays
The library will be closed on Dec. 24 and 25 in observance of Christmas.
If you will be doing some last minute shopping online at Amazon.com, please consider using the boxed Amazon link on the Voorheesville Public Library website. For every dollar spent using the library link, Amazon will donate a small portion back to the friends of the library.
Six-week writing workshop
Join local author and historian Dennis Sullivan as he guides you on a journey through your own history. This program will be held every other Tuesday evening at 6:30 p.m., from Jan. 13 through March 24. The sessions offer the opportunity for you to share what you are writing with the group and receive a helpful critique of your work. Limited seats are available, so please register early.
Now accepting
Humane Society donations
This year the library is collecting donations for the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society. Through Tuesday, Dec. 31, bring in any pet related item (food, leash, treats, etc.). Place them on our donations for pets table display. For a complete list of acceptable items, go to www.mohawkhumane.org/wishlist.html.
Teen movie matinee
On December 22, at 2:00 p.m., you are invited to stop by and watch an aMAZE-ing new video release to start off your vacation. The snacks will be pretty good too. This movie is rated PG-13 and teens in grade seven and up are welcome to drop in.
LEGO events
Stop by at 10:30 a.m. on Dec. 29, for the LEGO Junior Maker Event. Come in to make, tinker, build, and explore at the library. Parents and caregivers will join in this creative journey meant to foster creativity and encourage storytelling. This program is for kids in kindergarten through second grade; please register.
At 2 p.m., the tween LEGO Club will be exercising their mad building skills and playing LEGO games on the Wii. Bring one of your mad creations to show off to the other LEGO-maniacs. This program is for kids in grades three to six, please register.
Tuesday morning movie
Drop by the library at 10:15 a.m. on Dec. 30, to watch How To Train Your Dragon 2. When Hiccup and Toothless discover an ice cave that is home to hundreds of new wild dragons and the mysterious Dragon Rider, the two friends find themselves at the center of a battle to protect the peace. This movie is rated PG.
Closed for the holidays
The library will be closed on Dec. 24 and 25 in observance of Christmas.