Bethlehem Library Notes for Wednesday, February 22, 2023
— Photo by Kristen Roberts
The Paws to Read pups at Bethlehem Public Library will listen calmly and quietly as children in kindergarten through fifth grade practice their reading skills.
Nominating petition forms and informational packets are available at the library Information Desk for candidates interested in serving on the Bethlehem Public Library Board of Trustees. You can also download a packet from the Board of Trustees page at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/board-of-trustees.
There are two seats on the 2023 ballot, currently held by incumbents Mark Kissinger and Caroline Brancatella, who are both seeking re-election.
Petitions will need at least 94 signatures of voters residing in the Bethlehem Central School District. Petitions must be filed with the District Clerk, Bethlehem Central High School, 700 Delaware Ave., Delmar by 5 p.m. on April 17. The election will be held Tuesday, May 16.
Weigh in on
design solutions
At the Monday, Feb. 13, board meeting, architects from Ashley McGraw presented the culmination of their months-long concept design study.
While the way people use libraries has changed significantly over the past few decades, our 50-year-old building has seen very few updates since it first opened its doors. As part of their long-range planning process, the board has been looking at ways to make this space more responsive to the needs of today’s community.
The purpose of the project was to look at building options that are welcoming, simple to navigate, modern and adaptable to a variety of programs, both inside the library and throughout the site. The architects came up with a number of design solutions that would make the entrance more accessible to the parking lot, provide ample space for public and library programs, and include a permanent curbside pick-up and drop-off window.
The most important part of this discussion is you. Visit bit.ly/3YCyAm0 to take a look at the presentation. Let us know what you think by emailing Library Director Geoff Kirkpatrick via www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/about-us/contact-us/contact-the-director.
You can also watch recordings of the board meeting discussions on our YouTube channel. We have some big decisions to make in the coming months, and we want to hear what you have to say.
Paws to Read
Learning to read, especially out loud, can be scary. A friendly face, particularly one with a wagging tail at the other end of the body, can help ease reading jitters and build confidence. Our Paws to Read pups will listen calmly and quietly as children in kindergarten through fifth grade practice their reading skills.
Our next Paws to Read drop-in session will be held Friday, Feb. 24, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sessions continue in March and April. Visit our calendar at bethlehem.librarycalendar.com for additional dates and times.
Registration is not required. Each child will have a chance to read a book of their choice. Bring a favorite or pick one from the library shelves.
Weather
In the event of inclement weather, the library’s telephone system will provide information on a closing or delayed opening. Weather conditions can occasionally cause icing near the entrances and curbside pickup area that could lead to closure even when the town roadways are clear.
Call ahead at 518-439-9314 if you are unsure. Information may also be available on our website at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org.