Bethlehem Library Notes for Friday, January 22, 2016

When the weather gets chilly, any excuse for an outing is welcome, but a good excuse is even better. In the coming months, the Bethlehem Public Library is giving you several good excuses with two cinema series featuring popular films fresh from the theater. There’s mystery, drama, sci-fi adventure, comedy, and more.

The free matinees take place monthly from now until April at 2 p.m., on Friday and Sunday afternoons and feature PG and PG-13 titles geared toward adult audiences.

The series kicks off this Friday, Jan. 22, with “Mr. Holmes” rated PG and running for 104 minutes. On Sunday, Jan. 31, we will show “Love and Mercy”rated PG-13 and running for 121 minutes. Pick up a flyer at the information desk or check online for more information about upcoming titles.

Study hall at the library

Are you ready for Regents? The library has set aside dedicated group study space for Regents test prep through Wednesday, Jan. 27.

Most study halls will take place in our community room, unless otherwise noted. Students and their tutors are welcome to drop in and stay as long as needed during scheduled hours. The full schedule is available at the library and online at www.bplteens.org.

Tax filing help available

We are still making appointments for tax filing assistance with staffers from the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance. If your household income is under $62,000, you can get free help filing your state and federal returns. Returns must be e-filed. Time slots are available at the library on Tuesdays from Jan. 26 to April 12, and appointments must be made in person at the information desk.

Get a charged up

Don’t forget, the library’s new charging kiosk provides free, secure charging for most mobile devices. Each locker has three universally compatible charging cables – MicroUSB, iPhone 3/4/4S, and iPhone 5/5C/5S cords. Users simply need to key in a four-digit code to secure the locker and use the same code to retrieve their devices.

Weekly Tai Chi

Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese art that enormously benefits health and wellness. Tai Chi for Health meets at the library on Thursdays at 11:15 a.m. The program offers instruction in the basic movements of the arthritis Tai Chi form and provide a solid foundation in Tai Chi for people of any age.

The sessions are led by librarian Cathy Brenner, who has studied Tai Chi for a number of years and is certified by the Tai Chi for Health Institute.

The program is open to people of all ages and abilities. No prior Tai Chi experience is needed. Wear loose clothing and smooth-soled shoes.