— Photo by Kristen Roberts
New look for plaza walkway: The Bethlehem Public Library has replaced its traditional brick walkway with asphalt to improve safety. The bricks would frequently ice over in winter, creating slippery and dangerous conditions.
Safety improvements to the library’s plaza walkway leading to the parking lot entrance are now complete. We spent most of last week pulling up the bricks on the plaza and replacing them with asphalt to improve traction and allow better access to the library on winter days.
Why?
Although the bricks were a much-loved part of our landscaping and will be missed, it has been a challenge to keep them ice free, even when other areas of library property have been treated and cleared. Icing on the plaza was the leading cause of unplanned library closures during the winter. Overall, the icy bricks posed a major hazard to those entering and leaving the library, and the library’s board of trustees felt compelled to make the change for the safety of our visitors.
What will happen to the bricks?
At this time, the bricks are being stored on library property. The board is evaluating options for their reuse, but there are no plans to dispose of them.
Special thanks.
The library would like to extend special thanks to the town Highway Department, whose workers paved the areas through a shared services agreement between the library and the town. Their careful work helped maintain the integrity of the plaza design. We’d also like to give a huge shout-out to our maintenance team, who worked tirelessly to remove the bricks in a timely manner (with a little help from the library’s tractor, Scoopy) leading to minimal disruptions to library visitors. And finally, we’d like to thank all of our library visitors for their patience as we rerouted foot traffic in order to finish the project.
Comments or questions? Give us a call at 518-439-9314 or email us at info@bethpl.org.
Scams, frauds, and hoaxes cost consumers and businesses time and billions of dollars each year. On Friday, April 28, an educator from the New York State Division of Consumer Protection will join us as part of our Coffee and Conversation series to share strategies to address the harms from identity theft and prevent victimization.
Coffee & Conversation programs are free and open to everyone. They begin at 1 p.m. and last about 60 minutes. The series is co-sponsored by Bethlehem Senior Projects Inc.
Expedition
Show your love for the 2023 Library Expedition with some cool swag at the online store. Visit uhlsexpedition.sellfy.store to see what’s available.
What’s a Library Expedition, you ask? It’s a self-guided tour of all the libraries in the Upper Hudson Library System. Grab your friends and get ready for an epic road trip to find out what makes each one so special. Get your map stamped at each location and earn prizes like stickers, car magnets, enamel pins and more when you reach certain milestones. We’ve even got something special for second-time 36ers.
Expedition maps are available at all UHLS libraries. Visit uhls.org/expedition/Expedition_home.pdf for details.
2023-24 budget
and election
Bethlehem Public Library has a proposed budget of $4.73 million for the 2023-24 fiscal year. The levy portion of the budget comes in at about $4.4 million, a 2.18 percent increase over last year and within the state-mandated spending cap.
A detailed budget chart and letter from the Board of Trustees are included in the May/June issue of the Footnotes newsletter, which will be mailed April 24, and available online at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
There are two trustee seats on the ballot, held by incumbents Mark Kissinger and Caroline Brancatella, who are both seeking re-election.
A Meet the Candidates night will be held Wednesday, May 3, at 6 p.m., and the Board of Trustees will hold a public budget review at their Monday, May 8, meeting, which begins at 6 p.m.
Bethlehem Central School District residents will vote on the budget Tuesday, May 16, from 7 a.m to -9 p.m. at Bethlehem Central High School.
Friends Book Sale
The used book sale you’ve been waiting for is almost here. Stock up on some new-to-you books and DVDs at the Friends of Bethlehem Public Library’s Pop-Up Book Sale on the library plaza Saturday, May 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For sale will be books and other materials that have been removed from the library collection and are in excellent condition. Many are duplicate copies of popular titles, and large print titles will be available.
Pricing is cash-only by suggested donation; the Friends will not be able to make change.
Enjoy some live music while you shop, with performers scheduled for 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
On Friday, April 14, at 10 a.m., library patrons of all ages are invited to decorate a mini flower pot. There will also be potting soil available and a “rainbow” of seeds from our seed library to plant in your pot, which you can take home and to watch the plants grow. Registration is required. Visit bethlehem.librarycalendar.com to sign up.
Stop by later that afternoon at 2 p.m. for a family-friendly screening of Disney's latest action-packed adventure romp “Strange World” (PG, 102 minutes), featuring the legendary Clades as a family of explorers whose differences threaten to topple their latest and most crucial mission.
Jazz it up
Back by popular demand, the Linda Brown Jazz Project quintet will present an hour long concert Saturday, April 15, at 2 p.m. to celebrate April as Jazz Appreciation Month. This concert, which is free and appropriate for all ages, has been arranged by the Albany Musicians’ Association, Local 14 and sponsored by the Music Performance Trust Fund.
Go on an expedition
The Upper Hudson Library Expedition has begun! Grab your friends and get ready for an epic road trip as you make your way to all 36 libraries in the system and learn about what makes each one so special. Get your map stamped at each location and earn prizes like stickers, car magnets, enamel pins and more when you reach certain milestones. We’ve even got something special for second-time 36ers.
The expedition lasts through the end of July. Maps are available at all UHLS libraries. Do you have what it takes to be a Library 36er? Don’t forget to use the hashtag #Library36er to share your adventure on social media. Details at uhls.org/expedition.
Seed library
in person
Seed packets can now be selected in-person at the Information Desk while supplies last. The online request portal is no longer available. Seed libraries like ours support sustainability and food security by allowing the community free access to the means of growing their own food.
The library
at your doorstep
Books to People is a free library delivery service available to residents of the Bethlehem Central School District who are unable to visit the library because of a permanent or temporary medical condition.
The library van will deliver requests every two weeks, and pick up returns. You can request books, circulating magazines, DVDs, music CDs and audiobooks. To ask for this delivery service, visit our website at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org or contact the library Information Desk at 518-439-9314.
In the right light
Borrow a ring light from the library for your next video conference or remote interview and you’ll be more than ready for your close up. Ring lights are designed to cast an even light on the subject, minimizing shadows and blemishes for a picture perfect image. They are ideal for portraits, selfies, live streaming, virtual meetings, and social media videos.
The library’s ring light setup includes everything you need to get started: light, stand, filter and accessories.
Search the library catalog at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org to request or borrow the ring light.
— Photo by Kristen Roberts
Do you have questions about how to access the Libby app? Ask one of our librarians at the Information Desk or give us a call at 518-439-9314.
Can’t find what you’re looking for in our e-collection? Bethlehem cardholders, as well as others in the Upper Hudson Library System, now have access to e-books and audiobooks from three partner libraries: Mid-Hudson Library System, Mohawk Valley Library System, and Southern Adirondack Library System.
This is a boon for readers looking for uncommon titles or additional books in a series they are working through.
To access these other collections, open your Libby app and go to the menu. Once there, select “Add Library.” You will be prompted to search for a library. Enter any of our partner library systems mentioned above. Tap “Sign In With My Card.” Under “Partner Libraries,” select Upper Hudson Library System and sign in.
Need help getting this new service? Ask one of our librarians at the Information Desk or give us a call at 518-439-9314.
A day for
creativity
Let’s hear it for leftovers! We’re cleaning out our craft supplies, and you won’t believe all the cool stuff we have collected. Drop by the Children’s Place Friday, April 7, for a Craftapalooza, where you can get creative with all those odds and ends. We can’t wait to see what you come up with.
Steamboats
on the Hudson
The Hudson River was yesteryear’s Thruway. Steamboats dominated Hudson River travel after Robert Fulton’s North River (the Clermont) traveled from New York City to Albany in 1807 in a record 32 hours.
On Wednesday, April 12, at 7 p.m. local Historian Mark Peckham will share the fascinating history of the steamboats that navigated the Hudson River during the 19th and mid-20th centuries.
Registration for this program is not required, but is advised due to limited seating. Click here to sign up. This series of historical talks is presented through a partnership with the Town of Bethlehem Historical Association. Visit our calendar at bethlehem.librarycalendar.com to sign up.
Earth Day
out and about
Calling all Earth Day explorers! The library is teaming up with the Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy for a special Earth Day celebration at the new Fisher Trail, a part of Five Rivers Environmental Education Center.
Join us on Friday, April 21, at 10 a.m. and enjoy some stories followed by a fun nature hike. This event is geared for children ages 7 and under and their families. Registration is required and space is limited. Sign up at www.mohawkhudson.org/events.
April flowers
The library has been selected to receive $1 from every Bloomin’ 4 Good bouquet sold during the month of April 2023 at 180 Delaware Ave. Hannaford in Delmar. The program, which launched in August 2021, is a way for shoppers to give back to their community. Each Bloomin’ 4 Good bouquet with the red circle sticker sold supports a non-profit local to the Hannaford store in which it is purchased.
— Photo by Bethlehem Public Library staff
Abenaki elder Joseph Bruchac will tell stories at the Bethlehem Public Library in two sessions on Monday, April 10, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
April is National Poetry Month, a time to celebrate the role poetry plays in all of our lives and appreciate this unique and expressive art form. Drop by a special Creation Station by the Information Desk from April 3 to 28 and use your own poetic license to create a blackout or found poem.
Blackout poetry is a process of narrowing down the words you don’t want in a text, then selecting and arranging the words that are left. Found poetry is created by taking words, phrases, and sometimes whole passages from other sources and re-framing them. Supplies will be provided; just bring your imagination and love of words.
Tales for
young and old
After having to cancel an October appearance at the library, preeminent storyteller, author, and Abenaki elder Joseph Bruchac has been rescheduled for two storytelling programs Monday, April 10 ,at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. As a professional teller of the traditional tales of the Adirondacks and the Native peoples of the Northeastern woodlands, Joseph Bruchac has performed extensively throughout the world. He is the author of more than 130 books in several genres for young readers and adults.
Copies of his work will be available for purchase and signing following both programs. These programs will take place on the Green, weather permitting. Seating is available on a first-come basis.
Share your thoughts
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 our long-range planning process, the board has engaged architects Ashley McGraw to look at ways to make this space more responsive to the needs of today’s community.
The architects began by coming up with a schematic concept 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. They will begin to refine that concept in the coming months.
The most important part of this discussion is you. Let us know what you think by emailing .
Llibrary expedition
The Upper Hudson Library Expedition kicks off April 3 and lasts through the end of July. Maps will be available at all of the libraries closer to the launch date. Do you have what it takes to be a Library 36er? Don’t forget to use the hashtag #Library36er to share your adventure on social media. Details at uhls.org/expedition.
Get growing
Our online “shopping” portal for our Seed Library is open to Bethlehem cardholders now until April 10. Choose up to 10 seed packets from a variety of open-pollinated vegetables, herbs and some flowers. Visit our website at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
Beginning April 11, seed packets can be selected in-person at the Information Desk while supplies last.
— Photo by Matt H. Wade
Jack McEneny, talking about the Irish in Albany, can be seen on the Bethlehem Public Library’s YouTube channel.
This April, Upper Hudson is bringing back its popular Library Expedition. Grab your friends and get ready for an epic road trip as you make your way to all 36 libraries in the system and learn about what makes each one so special.
Get your map stamped at each location and earn prizes like stickers, car magnets, enamel pins, and more when you reach certain milestones. We’ve even got something special for second-time 36ers.
Looking for an extra challenge? Energetic expeditioners can level up their experience with additional activities like scavenger hunts, eco challenges, and Bingo.
The expedition kicks off April 3 and lasts through the end of July. Maps will be available at all of the libraries closer to the launch date.
Do you have what it takes to be a Library 36er? Don’t forget to use the hashtag #Library36er to share your adventure on social media. Details at uhls.org/expedition.
Missed it in person?
Watch it on YouTube
Earlier this month, we hosted former New York State Assembly Member Jack McEneny for an in-depth look at “The Irish in Albany.” The talk, presented through a partnership with the Town of Bethlehem Historical Association, is now available to watch on our YouTube channel.
Six of McEneny’s great-grandparents were born in Ireland and came to the United States, and two were born in Albany of Irish Immigrants who lived the rest of their lives in Albany. He is a past Albany city and county historian and has been fascinated by Irish American history from the post-famine era up to the Civil War. He wrote the book, “Albany: Capital City on the Hudson.”
You can also watch other past programs on our YouTube channel, like our Civil War series, and the virtual book talk with rock star, playwright, and author Larry Kirwan.
Live tutoring
with HelpNow
With news that many Capital Region children are scoring well below proficiency standards in math and English testing, it is clear that the pandemic had a profound effect on learning. Does your child need a little extra help with their schoolwork to meet these challenges?
Bethlehem cardholders have access to HelpNow by Brainfuse, an easy and intuitive learning resource for all ages and levels with personalized homework help in core subjects (math, reading, writing, science and social studies), as well as SAT preparation.
There is a skill-building tool for all types of learning styles — from flashcards to practice quizzes and videos.
Live one-on-one online tutoring is available in math, science, writing, and other subjects for elementary, middle school, high school, and college students from 2 to 11 p.m. daily. All Brainfuse tutors have at least a four-year degree and are background checked.
Find HelpNow on the library’s Research webpage: www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/webapps/research.asp.
Get growing
Our online “shopping” portal for our Seed Library is open to Bethlehem cardholders now until April 10. Choose up to 10 seed packets from a variety of open-pollinated vegetables, herbs and some flowers. Visit our website at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
Beginning April 11, seed packets may be selected in-person at the Information Desk while supplies last.
— Photo from Facebook, Chef Jernard
Celebrity Chef Jernard Wells will talk about his newest cookbook, “Southern Inspired: More Than 100 Delicious Dishes from My American Table to Yours,” during a virtual presentation through the Bethlehem Public Library on Tuesday, March 21, at 4 p.m.
Our discussion of the music of Carlos Santana this past November was so popular we’ve chosen to continue where we left off by bringing Hal Miller back on Thursday, March 16, at 7 p.m. to enlighten us with more of his insightful commentary and glimpses into the world of Carlos Santana as a top musician and close friend.
Our Listening Parties meet monthly through June to hear selections from classic albums while discussing the life and music of great musicians. Join fellow music lovers and share your personal impressions and memories, rediscover milestones in music history, and talk about the artists that have shaped the musical landscape.
It’s like a book club, but for music — everyone is welcome! Bethlehem librarian Michael Farley will facilitate the discussions.
This is a hybrid presentation. Visit our calendar at bethlehem.librarycalendar.com to register for the virtual session, or arrive in person to participate.
What’s cooking?
One of our upcoming virtual author talks will leave you starving for more. Join us Tuesday, March 21, at 4 p.m. as we chat with celebrity chef Jernard Wells about his newest cookbook “Southern Inspired: More Than 100 Delicious Dishes from My American Table to Yours.”
After growing up in Mississippi, Wells brought the familiar dishes and bold flavors of the South along his culinary journey to become a chef, restaurateur, and TV host. With “Southern Inspired,” Jernard continues his journey — retracing the steps of generations of African-American cooks whose creations have contributed to global kitchen tables since slavery.
Wells is the host of “New Soul Kitchen” and “New Soul Kitchen Remix” on CLEO TV and is well-known for appearing on numerous cooking shows over the last decade. The James Beard House Honored Chef is affectionately called “The Family Chef” because he loves using food to promote positive family images. He and his wife of 25 years have nine children and live in the Atlanta area.
This talk is offered to Bethlehem cardholders as part of the library’s partnership with the Library Speaker Consortium and will stream live to registered participants with an opportunity for questions.
Get to know some of your favorite authors and enjoy Q&A opportunities with bestsellers through other virtual author talks through the Library Speakers Consortium. Recordings of past author events are also available. Visit libraryc.org/bethlehempubliclibrary for more information or to register for this or more upcoming talks.
Get growing
Just a reminder: Our seed library returns March 13 with a variety of open-pollinated vegetables, herbs, and some flowers. Bethlehem cardholders can choose up to 10 seed packets per household using our online “shopping” portal from March 13 to April 10.
Beginning April 11, seed packets may be selected in person at the Information Desk while supplies last.
Your library
on YouTube
Visit our YouTube channel to watch our monthly board meetings live, learn more about library services — including tutorials for using our library app or making a Creativebug account, explore some DIY crafts with our librarians, and enjoy recordings of past programs. Programs are organized into playlists by theme, making it easier to find what you are looking for.
— Photo by Bethlehem Public Library staff
A cactus with personality: The Bethlehem Public Library wrapped up winter break with a drop-in program to decorate cacti that were squishy, not spiky.
Ready, set — grow! It’s almost time! Our seed library returns this spring with a variety of open-pollinated vegetables, herbs, and some flowers. Bethlehem cardholders may choose up to 10 seed packets per household using our online “shopping” portal from March 13 to April 10.
You’ll be able to browse the different categories and learn more about the varieties of seeds available. During this time, walk-in requests cannot be filled. We’ll be in touch with you when they are ready to be picked up curbside or at the checkout desk.
Beginning April 11, seed packets may be selected in person at the Information Desk while supplies last.
Seed libraries like ours support sustainability and food security by allowing the community free access to the means of growing their own food.
New to gardening? You’ll find some items in our Library of Things that will help you cultivate your burgeoning hobby:
— Sprout seeds faster and more reliably with a seedling heat mat and thermostat-controller combo set. Simply place under a planter with seeds ready to grow and watch them germinate quickly and vigorously; and
— A suitable soil environment is important for the healthy growth of plants. We’ve got soil testers that will help you avoid some of the common mistakes made by gardeners, such as over- or under-watering or planting in an area with insufficient lighting. It will even highlight potential issues with soil that is too alkaline or acidic.
Search our catalog at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org to see what’s available.
Make it a
museum day
Chilly days are made for museums, and we’ve got your ticket! Check out our huge collection of individual and family passes to dozens of regional museums, including Albany Institute of History and Art, the Children’s Museum at Saratoga, Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, MASS MoCA, Hildene, Olana State Historic Site, and more for free.
Museum passes may be borrowed for three days and are available on a first-come, first-served basis; there are no requests or renewals. Please be sure to check museum websites for hours and current exhibit information, as well as any ticket reservation requirements. Some museums may ask you to show your library card with your pass when you arrive.
Visit our website at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org to see what’s available. Our museum pass collection is generously supported by the Friends of Bethlehem
Trustee candidate
info available
Nominating petition forms and informational packets are available at the library and online for candidates interested in serving on the Bethlehem Public Library 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.
— Photo by Kristen Roberts
Kids and families made melted snowman art at Bethlehem Public Library on Thursday, Feb. 23, during the school break week.
Are you looking for ways to help your little ones fall in love with learning? Look no further than the library, where we offer a variety of story times designed to encourage a lifelong passion for language and reading.
Our early literacy programs are perfect for children from birth to those entering kindergarten, focusing on five basic skills: talking, reading, writing, singing, and playing. And the best part? You get to create special moments with your child while helping them develop the skills they need to succeed in school and beyond.
We even have a special Sensory Story Time that combines traditional story time components with sensory elements ideal for children who would benefit from a more low-key gathering. This program is suitable for kids ages 2 and up with a caregiver. Registration is required. Visit our calendar at bethlehem.librarycalendar.com for dates and times.
Our Baby Bounce & Books story time features stories and songs that will keep you and your child moving. Designed for babies up to age 35 months and caregivers, this program takes place Tuesdays at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. You choose the time that works best for you!
Enjoy stories, songs, and more with your child ages 0 to 6 at our Family Story Time, which is held on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Family Story Time will also take place on Thursdays at 10 a.m. during the month of March.
Music and Movement returns in April, and will take place Thursdays at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., outside on the Green, weather permitting. Get active with songs, dancing, learning, and fun for kids ages 0 to 6 with a caregiver.
Saturday Story Time is perfect for caregivers who are unavailable during the weekdays. This weekly program, featuring stories, songs, and more for kids ages 0 to 6, takes place on Saturdays at 11 a.m.
Please note that all of our story times are open to children of all abilities, and no sign-up is required unless noted. But space is limited, so be sure to arrive promptly. And remember: When Bethlehem schools are closed or delayed, all story times are canceled. Visit our calendar at bethlehem.librarycalendar.com to search all of our upcoming story times.
Google skills
Are you feeling confident in your ability to use Google search? Well, hold on to your hat, because there’s so much more to this powerful tool than meets the eye. We’re excited to invite you to our virtual Get More From Google class, happening on Friday, March 3, at 10 a.m.
During this in-depth session, we’ll explore all the different ways you can search on Google. That includes using the Advanced Search and Image Search functions, as well as some other tips and tricks that you might not be aware of yet.
If you’re ready to take your Google search skills to the next level, we’d love to have you join us. Go to bethlehem.librarycalendar.com to sign up and reserve your spot.
— 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.