Guilderland Library Notes for Wednesday, May 18, 2022

Well before you retire, it’s important to weigh all the options on collecting your Social Security benefits. This decision could potentially result in substantial lost income if not properly evaluated beforehand.

Arm yourself with the knowledge needed to formulate a sound strategy by attending this one-hour virtual session, “Navigating Your Social Security Benefits,” on Tuesday, May 24, at 6 p.m.

We’ll obtain answers to key questions, including:



— Will Social Security be there for me?


— How much can I expect to receive?


— When should I apply for Social Security?


— How can I maximize my benefits?


— Will Social Security be enough to live on in retirement?


Sign up on the Events tab of our website for this program, presented by John N. Kalil Jr., founder and president of Retirement Solutions, LLC in Saratoga Springs.

Virtual story times

Our story times for ages birth through age 5 feature special themes incorporating books, music, and lots of fun! During May, live (and lively) story times are held Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. on Zoom. Register on the Events tab of our website to receive the link.

New podcast episode

“How Did You Find It?” is our monthly podcast highlighting GPL news and offerings, books, entertainment, and much more, with librarians Kathleen and Kristina as your hosts. This month’s episode, unveiled Friday, May 20, features a Summer Reading Program sneak preview, plus an introduction to our newest librarian.

You can access this podcast on most major platforms, including Apple, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pocket Casts, Breaker and Radio Public, plus listennotes.com. Reach out to us anytime with feedback and suggestions at: . 

Discovery Pages

This month’s Early Childhood Discovery Page is all about nature, featuring a collection of themed e-books, educational videos, singalongs, crafts, tips/tricks, and more. For middle schoolers, we've compiled an intriguing Whodunit page for them to explore.

Look for new Discovery Pages for various age groups the second Wednesday of every month at: https://guilderlandlibrary.org/gplkids.

Dial A Story

Our Dial A Story phone line offers a relaxing opportunity for children and adults to unplug with a short audio tale or poem. Call 518-456-2400 and choose option 5; then press 1 for adults; 2 for children; and 3 for the “surprise me” option. Check back often for new stories, updated regularly.

May exhibit and

holiday closure


Innovative artwork created by talented Guilderland High School students is on display in our Helderberg Room and display cases through Friday, May 27. The library is closed Saturday, May 28, through Monday, May 30, for Memorial Day weekend, reopening Tuesday, May 31, when the exhibit will be taken down.

Treasurer sought

The Guilderland Public Library Board of Trustees is currently seeking a treasurer to prepare monthly financial statements. The time commitment averages approximately five to 10 hours per month.  Please contact Mike Hawrylchak at or Tim Wiles at to learn more about this role.


Foundation seeks

sponsors, volunteers

The Guilderland Library Foundation welcomes new members to help coordinate fundraising activities, including the annual golf tournament on Monday, Aug. 22, at Pine Haven Country Club in Guilderland. Please contact the foundation president, Steve Wacksman, at with interest in volunteering, or for more information on golf tournament sponsorship opportunities.

General info



Overdue fines have been eliminated at GPL; patrons will be billed for the replacement cost of lost items.

Curbside pick-up is available with 24-hours notice by calling 518-456-2400, ext. 2.

We’re asking everyone inside the building to please wear a mask — if you need one, just ask. Please refer to the Pandemic Operations Chart and links on our website for updates: https://bit.ly/GPLPOP. Contact us at 518.456.2400 or ask.librarian@guilderlandlibrary.org.