Guilderland Library Notes for Wednesday, November 6, 2019

So much happened in 1969. Among the many culturally-significant 50th anniversaries marked this year: Woodstock.

Mark Berger, author of “Something’s Happening Here: A Sixties Odyssey from Brooklyn to Woodstock,” was there to experience this seminal event. On Saturday, Nov. 9, at 2 p.m., he'll share his experience and read from his book chronicling this tumultuous time; what brought him to that meadow outside of Bethel, New York; and how this event shaped his future.

Mr. Berger will sell and sign copies of his book after the talk. Anyone who recalls this pivotal event and time period, or is intrigued by it, will find this book talk fascinating.

Better Books Sale

When the second Saturday of the month rolls around, you can be sure our Better Books Sale is happening.  In fact, mark your calendar every month for this ever-popular event. Frugal finds of books, DVDs and CDs await on Saturday, Nov. 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Happy hunting!

Holiday hours

Please note:  The library will be closed on Monday, Nov. 11 in observance of Veteran’s Day. We’ll close at 2 p.m. on Wed. Nov. 27, and are closed on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday,  Nov. 28.

Library Club

Kids in grades 3 to 5:  this program is just for you!  Join us on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 3:30 p.m. for our monthly Library Club.  We’ll share an afterschool snack, talk about our favorite books, plan future programs, and do a project to benefit the library.  Please register online, by phone or in person.  

Alzheimer’s and dementia 

November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, and the second of two related programs we’re offering in partnership with the Alzheimer's Association of Northeastern New York, "Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia,” is slated for Wednesday,  Nov. 13 at 6:00 p.m.

This program provides an overview for people facing a diagnosis, as well as caregivers and folks who simply wish to become better informed. Topics include:  the relationship between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia; how the brain is affected by Alzheimer’s; risk factors; three general stages of the disease; FDA-approved treatments to lessen some symptoms; what’s on the horizon for Alzheimer’s research; and helpful resources.  Please register online, by phone or in person.  

How to run for elective office

Perhaps you’ve considered throwing your hat into the ring, or just want to explore the steps necessary toward securing a spot on the ballot.  Find out on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 7 p.m. as the Honorable Jennifer Corona, a one-time candidate for Family Court Judge, relays her experience in formulating a campaign for public office and qualifying for the primary ballot.

A representative from the Albany County Board of Elections will also be on hand to break down the process of getting on the ballot. Tony Cantore, one-time candidate for Guilderland Town Justice, will moderate the discussion. Please register online, by phone or in person.  

Medicare open enrollment

It's open enrollment season for Medicare, which often sparks questions:  What is Medicare Part A, Part B, and Part D? What does Medicare pay for?  What’s my expected contribution? How are prescriptions covered?

Janet Kiffney, a certified Medicare Counselor with HIICAP (New York State’s Health Insurance Information Counseling and Assistance Program), will be here Friday, Nov. 15 at 1 p.m. to present an unbiased, “soup-to-nuts” program on Medicare and answer your questions. You’ll leave with a better understanding of your options and obligations regarding health insurance.  Please register online, by phone or in person.  

National Novel Writing Month

November is also National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)!  The challenge is to write 50,000 words this month, and the library can provide the perfect productive space for you to lock in and accomplish this goal. Stop in whenever we’re open and get writing!

We have study rooms, tables with outlets, chargers, a coffee machine, and a snack machine - everything you need to settle in and write. Check in at the information desk each time you come in to work on your novel, and you'll be entered for a chance to win a prize at the end of the month. Write on!

Bus trip to NYC 

Our festive excursion to midtown Manhattan on Saturday, Dec. 7 is filling fast - don’t miss out! We’ll depart from Farnsworth Middle School promptly at 7 a.m. and arrive near Bryant Park at approximately 10 a.m. for a day on your own in the Big Apple.

We’ll leave at precisely 7 p.m. for the return trip home and be back at approximately 10 p.m. Cost is $50 per person. Please see: www.guilderlandlibrary.org/nyc to reserve your spot.