It’s the holiday season when we give thanks, and also have a thought for those less fortunate. That’s why the Guilderland Public Library is starting, on Tuesday, Dec. 1, a month-long campaign where your late fine on a book/CD/DVD will be forgiven when you donate non-perishable, unexpired food items to our Fine Food drive. It’s a one-for-one exchange: One late fine gets forgiven for each food item you donate.
All donations will be given to the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York. The campaign ends on Monday, Jan. 4. GPL staffers will bring donations to the food bank every couple of days, so that the food bank can aid those in need over the holiday season.
Toys for Tots
The local Marine Corps Reserve unit is asking you to donate an unwrapped toy to its annual Toys for Tots drive via the donation boxes in the library lobby. The mission of the program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in the community in which the campaign is conducted. Over its life span, the Marine Toys for Tots Program has distributed over 494 million toys to over 230 million less fortunate children.
Cell Phones for Soldiers
By donating your unused cell phone in the Cell Phones for Soldiers collection box in the library’s lobby, you will provide a lifeline to our troops serving around the world. Your generous, tax-deductible donation delivers calling cards that connect military members with their loved ones at home. For more information, please visit HYPERLINK "http://cellphonesforsoldiers.com/"cellphonesforsoldiers.com.
E-1 to O-10 a library card for you
Armed services active-duty members, reservists, and veterans who live outside GPL’s service area can now get a full-privilege Guilderland Public Library card for just $25, half of the card’s regular cost.
To get your GPL card, simply bring proof of service; military ID for active duty and reservists; DD-214 (Report of Separation) for veterans to GPL, and go to the circulation desk to complete a library card application. We’ll give you a card that puts the full resources of your new library to work for you.
Open house
The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators welcomes one and all to an open house being held at GPL on Monday, Dec. 7, from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
You’ll be able to view and purchase children's books just in time for holiday giving. There will be books of every type, so come in and browse: You may just find the perfect gift.
Star Wars trade show
Don’t miss the library’s biggest and best popular culture event to date, the Star Wars Trade Show, happening on Saturday, Dec. 5, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., featuring a full day of comics, graphic novels, food, toys, games, and a life-size R2D2.
Part of the fun is the Star Wars Cantina at 12:30 p.m., where you can get a free pizza lunch. Some seats are still left, but you have to register. Call 456-2400, ext. 2 to reserve your seat, or go to bit.ly/StarWarsCantinaGPL.
Last call for NYC
You’ll see the sights, sounds, and holiday cheer of Manhattan when you join your neighbors and friends on the chamber of commerce/library bus trip to NYC on Saturday, Dec. 12., that is, if you’ve already made your reservation. If not, you still have time. You can purchase your seats at the library. We accept all major credit cards, checks, and cash, or you can purchase your seats online at the Chamber website at HYPERLINK "http://www.guilderlandchamber.com/"www.guilderlandchamber.com. Click on the calendar, and page down to Dec. 12. Links there enable you to purchase seats assuming there are any left. Act now.
Family film
“Inside Out,” the First Friday Family Film that’s showing in the library’s Helderberg Room on Friday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m., follows young Riley and her emotions including joy, fear, anger, disgust and sadness, as she navigates a new city, house, and school. This film is rated PG, and is 94-minutes long.
Thanks in large part to a $75,000 grant obtained by Assembly woman Pat Fahy, and further financial support from National Grid, you’re seeing the Guilderland Public Library in a whole new light. All incandescent and fluorescent bulbs are being replaced with LEDs that are brighter, energy-efficient, and long lasting.
Within the library, the improvement is immediately apparent: The whole building is brighter, and those areas in the main reading room that were dark even on the sunniest days are now amply lit. Reading titles in the stacks is markedly easier thanks to the clear illumination provided by the new fixtures, and — if you’re here at night — you’ll really appreciate the vastly improved parking lot lighting.
This project means long-term cost-savings on two counts: First: LEDs consume much less electricity, yet yield more light, so we shall shortly realize a much-reduced electric bill. And, secondly, since LEDs last so long, bulb-replacement expenses will drop dramatically. Some of the legacy lighting elements lasted only six months or so.
Work is proceeding rapidly, but there are so many fixtures to replace that the work will extend to early December. You may notice that some areas are unavailable for an hour or two, but we are ensuring that the inconvenience is minimal.
We’re sure you’ll notice the difference. These new, brighter lights are making your library a better place to read, work, or just relax.
Take & Bake
Just in time for the holidays, we're adding some new and unique items to our library collections — bakeware and folding tables.
If you have a Guilderland Library card, you can check out cookie cutters or take home a table, just as you would a book or DVD. Our "Take and Bake" collection has a few dozen items, and we have nine tables (six six-footers, and three four-footers) you can check out, just right for Thanksgiving and holiday parties, and for your upcoming spring garage sales.
Have some unique bakeware you'd like to donate? We're accepting items in good condition such as specialty character or shaped cake pans, and holiday cookie cutters. Help our collection grow.
Please donate
The Red Cross is holding a blood drive at GPL on Monday, Nov. 23, from 1 to 6 p.m., and the need for donations is urgent.
Donating blood is a simple thing to do, but it can make a big difference in the lives of others. In fact, according to the American Red Cross, one pint of blood can save as many as three lives. And donating is simple: The actual blood donation typically takes less than 10 to 12 minutes. The entire process, from the time you arrive to the time you leave, takes about an hour and 15 minutes.
You can just drop in, or you can make an appointment at HYPERLINK "http://www.redcrossblood.org/"www.redcrossblood.org, or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
GPL Sprouts
Join us for a fun-filled STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) program for kids ages 4 to 7 on Tuesday, Nov. 24, at 3:30 p.m. You’ll explore sinking and floating through literature, experiments, activities, and crafts. Lots of hands-on learning for everyone. Please call 456-2400, ext. 4 to register.
Li'L Lego Club
Our Lego Club for children in grades kindergaten through second meets in the Storyhour Room on Tuesday, Nov. 24, at 3:30 p.m. Use your imagination for some creative play with friends, and create things of Lego wonder! Bring your own bricks or create with ours. As usual, creations that you bring to show off will be kept separate from the library supplies.
Yo, Nipper
Don’t miss hearing Times Union reporter Paul Grondahl and editor Teresa Buckley as they discuss their book, “Great Dogs of Albany and Beyond,” at GPL on Saturday, Nov. 21, at 2 p.m.
This is part of GPL’s ongoing “Read Local” series, which celebrates the many accomplished authors and book illustrators among us in the Capital District.
Thanksgiving hours
The library will close at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 25, and is closed all day on Thanksgiving, Thursday, Nov. 26.
The Guilderland Public Library and the Pride Center of the Capital District have many fun programs planned for this winter, and the first one is being held at GPL on Monday, Nov. 2, at 6:30 p.m. So please stop by this gathering to learn more about these exciting events.
iPadding Zoo
Some people think these things are kind of cute, others really don’t understand what all the excitement is about, while a few people would just as soon not be bothered. So why don’t you find out what all the fuss is about by coming to GPL’s “iPad Petting Zoo” on Tuesday, Nov. 3, at 3 p.m.
You’ll get “hands-on” time to find out what these amazing devices can do for you. Read a book? Sure, but there is so much more: Browse the web; check e-mail; FaceTime — think video calling — with friends near and far; watch movies, and YouTube videos, and TV; and even replace your laptop. (Yes, you can play games, too.)
But the first step is coming to this no-pressure learning environment. Nobody will try to sell you anything; you’ll just find out if these things are right for you.
Please register by calling 456-2400, ext. 2.
Let's visit Japan
Join us for a fun evening of books, and activities at “Globetrotters Family Storytime: Let's Visit Japan!” on Thursday, Nov. 5, at 6:30 p.m.
This is just one event in a continuing “Globetrotters Family Storytime” series. We'll visit a new country and culture each month, learn how to say "hello" and "goodbye" in a new language, and lots more. This program is most appropriate for children in preschool and elementary school and their families, and aligns to third grade social studies curriculum. So make a note: In December you’ll visit Russia, in January you’ll see China, and in February you’ll learn all about Germany.
Mother-daughter date night
Calling all Moms. Drop in to GPL on Friday, Nov. 6, at 6 p.m., with your tween daughter for an evening of bonding activities. Make your own lip gloss, create mother-daughter friendship bracelets, and work on a self-esteem project. No registration required.
First Friday Family Films
Just about the cutest movie you’ll ever see — about a bear named Paddington — is screening at GPL on Friday, Nov. 6 at 7 p.m. It’s the story of a young Peruvian bear who travels to London in search of a home. Finding himself lost and alone at Paddington Station, he meets the kindly Brown family, who offer him a temporary haven. This film is rated PG, and is 95 minutes long. Popcorn will be served.
Dollars and Sense for Kids
It is never too early to talk to kids about the “value” of money planning, and saving, so start at GPL on Saturday, Nov. 7, at 1 p.m., at Dollars and Sense for Kids.
SEFCU’s Jenny Brannon will present an interactive program for kids in kindergarten through grade 3 to help them understand the importance of setting and keeping savings goals. As encouragement to stick with these goals and make saving fun, each attendee will create a special savings jar to take and use at home.
Please register for this program by calling 456-2400, ext. 4.
“Un Rêve Américain”
“Un Rêve Américain is a film about music in French America showing at GPL on Saturday, Nov. 7, at 2 p.m. Franco-Ontarian musician Damien Robitaille introduces us to the history of the people in the United States of French Canadian heritage. Driving from Montreal to Los Angeles, he uncovers a paradoxical, almost imaginary society dissolved into American life but still very much alive. This program is co-sponsored with La Fédération Franco-Américaine du New York.
The Guilderland Public Library is proud to count many accomplished authors and book illustrators among us in the Capital District, and we are celebrating one of them on Saturday, Oct. 17 at 2 p.m., at the kick-off of our new Read Local series.
Bruce Dearstyne, former program director at the New York State Archives and professor of history at University at Albany, SUNY Potsdam, and Russell Sage College, will discuss his latest book, “The Spirit of New York: Defining Events in the Empire State's History.” His book received a starred review in “Library Journal,” and that’s a big deal. You’re invited to attend the reception after the talk.
Teen Open Mic Night
Teens from throughout the area will be performing at GPL’s Open Mic Night on Friday, Oct. 16, at 6 p.m., and everyone’s invited to come enjoy what will surely be a delightfully musical evening. No registration is required to attend this event.
Great Ghoulish Pumpkin fun
Get ghoulishly spooked out for the first-ever Guilderland Ghoulish Pumpkin Decorating Contest. Enter to win great prizes (for all ages) and show off your pumpkin at GPL. You must register by Saturday, Oct. 17; you can drop off your pumpkin at the library starting Monday, Oct. 19 until Saturday, Oct. 24 at 5 p.m. The Ghoulish Pumpkin judging and awards ceremony will be on Sunday, Oct.25, at 1 p.m.
Make sure to register online or by calling 456-2400, ext. 4, and then stop by the library to pick up a copy of the rules, plus a discount coupon for your pumpkin from our friends at Gade Farm. The contest is organized into four age groups: Pre-kindergarten to grade 2; grades 3 to 6; grades 7 to 12; and adults. Please indicate your grade or age when you register. Each age group will have a winner.
Go “Batty!”
Kids in pre-kindergarten through grade 1, accompanied by an adult caregiver, are invited to GPL on Saturday, Oct. 24, at 10:30 a.m., to “Go Batty” with WMHT’s Barbara Lukas.
You’ll watch a fun movie based on everybody’s favorite bat, Stellaluna. You’ll also read books about bats and other flying animals, create bat crafts, and get a free book to take home. Please register by calling 456-2400, ext. 4, or online at HYPERLINK "http://www.guilpl.org/"www.guilpl.org.
Monday night baseball
Cooperstown Mayor Jeff Katz joins us on Monday, Oct. 19, at 6:30 p.m., for a discussion of his bestselling book, “Split Season: 1981: Fernandomania, the Bronx Zoo, and The Strike that Saved Baseball.”
Split Season is the fascinating, behind the scenes story of the exciting and memorable 1981 baseball season, the year of Fernando Valenzuela, Pete Rose, and the last Yankees and Dodgers World Series, and the mid-season, owner-provoked strike that cut the heart out of that American summer. Above all, 1981 is a year of entertaining stories and Katz will talk share many, as well as tell us what it's like to be a baseball fan who's been elected mayor of Cooperstown.
Bring your fedora
Frank Sinatra would’ve turned 100 this December, and GPL is celebrating by showing some of his best movies on the big screen. The first flick, on Sunday, Oct. 18, at 2 p.m., is about three sailors and their 24-hour-leave on the town in New York City. Put on your fedora and join the party. See you there.
Teen Read Week
Kick off Teen Read Week by coming to GPL on Monday, Oct. 19, at 4 p.m. and simply sitting down and relaxing with a book; drop in to read with friends, munch on snacks, and enter a drawing.
Teen Read Week is Oct. 18 to 24 and spotlights all the great resources and activities available to help teens build literacy skills while reading for the fun of it. We want to help teens escape the day-to-day grind of school, homework, family responsibilities, part-time jobs, and so on by simply picking up something to read.
Rite Aid flu clinic
Rite Aid Pharmacy will hold a flu vaccine clinic at GPL on Wednesday, Oct. 21 from 4 to 7 p.m. Drop in and get vaccinated. No need to sign up in advance. Please bring your health insurance card.
“Who ya’ gonna call?”
“He slimed me” and “Who ya’ gonna call?” spirited their way into the popular lexicon in 1984 with the release of the movie that GPL is showing on the big screen on Wednesday, Oct. 21, at This movie will be seen in the Helderberg Theater; and is 105-minutes long. Just wait until you see the “Stay Puft Marshmallow Man” looming towards you. This comedy is part of GPL’s It Came From The ‘80s Film Series and is rated PG.
Blue skies, green grass, a pink bunny, and a pig with a yellow bib and rainbow parachute are all featured by Shuying (Melody) Gao in her prize-winning design for the Guilderland Public Library’s new kids’ card. She and her family have just moved to Guilderland from China.
Every Kids’ Card entry is on display at the Guilderland Public Library. The new kids’ cards will be introduced at Library Card Sign-Up Month.
Over the summer the Guilderland Public Library sent out a call: “All Young Artists: We Want YOU to Design GPL’s New Kids Library Card.” We are pleased to announce that — after spirited online voting on the six marvelously creative nominated designs — we have a winner!
The winning design was created by one of our newest and youngest patrons, a young lady named Shuying (Melody) Gao; GPL’s new Kids Library Card features Melody’s artwork. The cards will be available to children of all ages on Tuesday, Sept. 8, right at the beginning of library card sign-up Month.
We received so many wonderful drawings, all of them delightful interpretations of libraries as seen through children’s eyes. We want to share them all, so Miss Leslie, one of GPL’s youth librarians, created a “You Are All Winners!” bulletin board showing every entry. You really need to come see it; it’s on the wall outside the Story Hour Room.
There is a human-interest backstory to how Melody found out she won. It’s best told using the words of GPL youth librarian Sandy Tabor, who shared the story with the GPL staff in a Wednesday, Aug. 26, e-mail:
“Just want to share a fun ‘series of fortunate events’ @ GPL tonight.
“At about 6:10 a woman came up to the youth services desk and asked if she and her daughter could attend Kindergarten Boot Camp at 6:30 p.m. She explained that they were from China and had been in the United States for about a month. She was hoping her daughter could come to the program to learn about school in the US.
“We chatted and … I walked with them to the Helderberg Room, and was waiting to introduce them to Beth Rienti [Youth Department Head, who was running Kindergarten Boot Camp], so Beth would be aware of why an older child was attending the program.
“While I was waiting, the mother came over to me with the GPL Kids brochure and showed me the cover with the winning library card design, and told me her daughter had drawn and submitted the picture! I introduced them to Beth who explained that she had been unable to reach them by phone to tell them that the daughter had won, and was so happy to meet them.
“But wait — it gets better. It turns out the family has just moved to Guilderland.
“They came back to the desk after the program to tell me how welcomed and happy they felt at the library — and to take pictures to send home.
“A very fun and fortunate series of events…GPL is a very special place.”
Isn't story time grand?
Join us on Thursday, Sept. 10, at 10:30 a.m., for a special story time celebrating grandparents and grandchildren. We'll have books, music and movement, and a fun craft.
If grandma or grandpa live nearby, bring them along. If not, you can send them your craft as a special Grandparents Day gift.
Children ages 2 ½ to 5 years old are welcome with a caregiver. Register for this program by calling 456-2400, ext. 2.
Book club
Teens are invited to this out-of-the-box book discussion series. Get crafty with a fun project while you chat with your peers about a book.
The group meets on the second Thursday of every month, at 4:30 p.m. Register by calling 456-2400, ext. 2, or online at www.guilpl.org, and then stop by the reference desk for a copy of the book. Registration ends one week before each session.
On Sept. 10 we will discuss “Red Queen” by Victoria Aveyard and the craft will use letter stickers to spell out a word or quote on canvas, then have fun painting over it for a cool effect.
On Oct. 8, we will discuss “Eleanor & Park” by Rainbow Rowell and the craft will use paint over an old CD and scratch out a design. Then on Nov. 12, the discussion will be about “Seraphina” by Rachel Hartman and the craft will be to create your own string art using a hammer and nails.
About GPL
The Guilderland Public Library is located at 2228 Western Ave. in Guilderland. Visit the library's website at www.guilpl.org. to get more information on these and other upcoming programs, and to register online via the homepage’s “Events & Registration Calendar.”Check out the unofficial library updates at facebook.com/Guilderland.Library and follow the library on Twitter (@GuilderlandLib).
What happens after the Guilderland Public Library closes for the night? Mischief, mayhem, and super fun — of course! And your very special friend – your Teddy Bear (or “somebody else”) — can join us at GPL for a Super Teddy Bear Sleepover that begins Friday, Aug. 14.
Drop your teddy off by 4 p.m., on Friday, Aug. 14. But be sure to pick up your furry friends before 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 15, and see all the pictures of their amazing, super adventures. This event is for children and Teddy Bears of all ages. Please have someone call the library at 456-2400, ext. 4 so we can make sure we have a reservation for your little friend.
Local hops and tour
GPL’s unprecedented “Hudson Valley Beer: From Hops to Home” series concludes on Saturday, Aug. 15, at 2 p.m., with part 4, “Local Hops and Tour with Dietrich Gehring and Laura Ten Eyck.”
Dietrich Gehring and Laura Ten Eyck of Indian Ladder Farmstead Brewery and Cidery will talk about growing heritage hops and barley at their farm in Altamont. The history of New York hops and Gehring and Ten Eyck’s new beer and cider will be discussed and sampled. This talk at GPL will be followed by a special tour of the farm.
The following is the schedule for this event:
— 2 p.m., Gehring and Ten Eyck talk at GPL;
- 3 p.m., Depart for the farm;
- 3:30 p.m., Commence farm tour for 1 hour;
— 4:30 p.m., Refreshments will be served. For those under 21 years old non-alcohol beverages will be provided; and
— 5 p.m., the tour ends.
Register now by calling 456-2400, ext. 2.
Show and share
All crafty kids are invited to come to GPL on Wednesday, Aug. 12, at 3 p.m., to share their arts, crafts, and creations that were made over the summer. Whether they were made at the library or at home doesn't matter; all are welcome. This program is for everyone in prekindergarten through grade 12.
Kindergarten boot camp
Get your youngster set for kindergarten with GPL’s kindergarten boot camp that starts Wednesday, Aug. 26, at 10:30 a.m.
Join us for a fun-filled, 90-minute program where soon-to-be kindergarteners can hone their kindergarten-readiness skills and celebrate this important milestone!
Starting kindergarten is a special and exciting time for children and their parents and caregivers. This program is for children starting kindergarten this September.
Registration is required, and opens on Aug. 12. To register — for one session only, please call 456-2400, ext. 4, or go to the Events and Registration Calendar on guilpl.org, and click on August 26.
About GPL
The Guilderland Public Library is located at 2228 Western Ave. in Guilderland. Visit the library's website at www.guilpl.org. to get more information on these and other upcoming programs, and to register online via the homepage’s “Events & Registration Calendar.”Check out the unofficial library updates at facebook.com/Guilderland.Library and follow the library on Twitter (@GuilderlandLib).
Pick a card! The Guilderland Public Library has opened online voting to so that you can choose the design for the new Kids’ library card. Everyone can chime in; all you need to do is go to www.guilpl.org/kidscard and vote.
We received more than 40 submissions — thank you — so selecting the finalists and semi-finalists was a bit of a challenge. But, we narrowed it down to six finalists; they, like the rest of the field, were all delightfully creative illustrations of a love of libraries.
Please vote soon; voting closes on Sunday, Aug. 16. We plan to have the cards ready for September’s Library Card Sign-Up Month.
Sporting licenses
Starting on Monday, Aug. 10, you can purchase your New York State hunting and fishing licenses at the library. Just come to the Circulation Desk, and we’ll be glad to help you get your license.
One benefit of being able to get your sporting licenses at GPL is that we’re open until 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, so you can drop in after work. We’re open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays, and in September we’re also open Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. One other benefit is that there is always someone at the Circulation Desk to help you. And there’s plenty of close-in parking.
Who needs a license? Get full details by visiting www.dec.ny.gov.
WMHT goes “Click Clack Moo”
WMHT's Barbara Lukas will be at GPL on Saturday, August 8, at 10:30 am, to present a program based on Betsy Lewin's delightful book, “Click Clack Moo” to children who are in pre kindergarten to first grade. She’ll read the book (even adults will love it; it’s adorable) to you, show you a movie based on the book, and you’ll do a “Click Clack Moo!” craft. You’ll even get a copy of the book to take home.
Children must be accompanied by an adult caregiver. Registration is required: Please call 456-2400, ext. 4, or go to August 8 on the Events & Registration Calendar at guilpl.org.
National Guard missions
If you want to meet someone who knows how to get to the South Pole, and who has been to the South Pole, then come to GPL on Tuesday, Aug. 11, when Kelly Davey, a navigator stationed at Stratton Air National Guard base, will speak as part of the Hometown Heroes series.
Navigator Davey will tell us about missions she plans and flies to Greenland in the summer, and the multi-day flights to the South Pole in the winter to support National Science Foundation projects.
Super Teddy Bear Sleepover
What happens after the library closes for the night? Mischief, mayhem and super fun of course. And your very special friend — your Teddy Bear (or “somebody else”) — can join us at GPL for a Super Teddy Bear Sleepover that begins at 4 p.m., on Friday, Aug. 14.
Drop your Teddy Bears off by 4 p.m. that Friday, but be sure to pick up your furry friends before 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 15, because then you’ll be able to see all the pictures of their amazing, super adventures. This event is for children and Teddy Bears of all ages. Please have someone call the Library at 456-2400, ext. 4 so we can make sure we have a reservation for your little friend.
Local Hops and Tour
GPL’s unprecedented “Hudson Valley Beer: From Hops to Home” series concludes on Saturday, Aug. 15, at 2 p.m., with part 4, “Local Hops and Tour with Dietrich Gehring and Laura Ten Eyck.”
Dietrich Gehring and Laura Ten Eyck of Indian Ladder Farmstead Brewery and Cidery will talk about growing heritage hops and barley at their farm in Altamont. The history of New York hops and Gehring and Ten Eyck’s new beer and cider will be discussed and sampled. This talk at GPL will be followed by a special tour of the farm. You will need to provide your own transportation to the farm.
The following is the schedule for this event:
— 2 p.m., Gehring and Ten Eyck talk at GPL;
- 3 p.m., Depart for the farm;
- 3:30 p.m., Commence farm tour for 1 hour;
— 4:30 p.m., Refreshments will be served. For those under 21 years old non-alcohol beverages will be provided; and
— 5 p.m., the tour ends.
Register now by calling 456-2400, ext. 2.
Show and share
All crafty kids are invited to come to GPL on Wednesday, Aug. 12 at 3 p.m., to share their arts, crafts, and creations that were made over the summer. Whether they were made at the library or at home doesn't matter; all are welcome. This program is for everyone in pre-kindergarten to grade 12.
“The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow”
The Super Summer Family Film on Friday, Aug. 7, at 3 p.m., is about a foster kid named Annie who lives with her mean foster mom, sees her life change when business tycoon and New York mayoral candidate Will Stacks makes a thinly-veiled campaign move, and takes her in.
There’s a lot going on in this movie, and it’s all fun. A couple of songs you may have heard before, too. This film is rated PG and is 118 minutes long. Remember there is popcorn.
Little ones movies
The Movies for Your Super Little Ones at GPL on Friday, Aug. 7, is “Super Pets.” The show starts at 10:30 a.m. We request that you remain in the Story hour Room for the duration of the program. Thanks.
Better books sale
There are bargains galore on books, CDs, DVDs and more at the library's Better Books Sale on Saturday, Aug. 8. It starts at 10 a.m., and runs until 4 p.m. Good hunting.
About GPL
The Guilderland Public Library is located at 2228 Western Ave. in Guilderland. Visit the library's website at www.guilpl.org. to get more information on these and other upcoming programs, and to register online via the homepage’s “Events & Registration Calendar.”Check out the unofficial library updates at facebook.com/Guilderland.Library and follow the library on Twitter (@GuilderlandLib).
Senator George A. Amedore Jr., a Republican representing the 46th District, has announced that he has secured $100,000 in this year’s state budget for the Guilderland Public Library to replace its roof, originally installed when the library was built in 1992.
“Libraries are the cornerstones of our communities, and we need to make sure they have the proper resources they need to continue to provide important services to our residents,” said Senator Amedore. “Guilderland Public Library is an invaluable asset, not only to Guilderland, but to many surrounding communities as well. And, while their programs and services are first-rate, their roof is aging and in need of repair so I’m glad I was able to help secure these funds in this year’s state budget.”
Now well over two decades old, the library building is showing its age. Recently the library has had to make extensive repairs to several mechanical systems, notably the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning system.
Recognizing the need to address the problems inherent in an aging physical plant, the library’s board of trustees two years ago started setting aside dedicated repair funds. The allocation from Senator Amedore will augment monies already devoted to the roof, judged by the trustees and library administration to be the most pressing repair issue.
“We are extremely grateful that Senator Amedore was able to obtain this allocation,” said GPL Director Tim Wiles. “The library is a thriving center of information and cultural events, but, as many in our community know, the building itself is aging. This aid, along with going a long way to ensuring this community asset will be safe for decades to come, will also enable us to install a long-lasting and energy-efficient roof.”
Darth Vader at bat?
While you probably won’t get to see Darth Vader at bat, if you’ve not yet purchased your tickets to the Guilderland Public Library’s “Baseball + Star Wars = Fireworks” Night at the Valley Cats Stadium, on Saturday, July 18, at 7 p.m., you’re certainly going to miss a really great game. These special “Star Wars Night” seats are almost sold out! We’ve reserved seats in Section 120, which is behind home plate, on the first base side.The Valley Cats are going up against the Aberdeen Ironbirds, affiliated with the Baltimore Orioles. What’s even better is that this is a fund-raiser for the library.
You have three convenient ways to get your discounted tickets: At the library’s circulation desk, online via a dedicated ordering page on the Valley Cats website -- bit.ly/ValleyCatsJul18, or by clicking on the “Star Wars Night at the Valley Cats” image on library’s website at guilpl.org. You might be asked for a password, but just click past that page; the password should be pre-populated.
By the way, in the event of a rain-out, your ticket stub is good for any other game later in the season.
“The Unbelievables”
On Friday, July 17, at 3 p.m., GPL continues its Super Summer Family Film Fest by showing an incredible movie that follows the antics of a family of undercover superheroes who try to live a quiet suburban life, but are forced into action to save the world. This 2004 movie is rated PG, and runs 115 minutes. Popcorn? Oh, yeah.
Maker Monday
Come to GPL on July 20, at 3 p.m., for a special Maker Monday where you’ll get to paint a ceramic. You can choose a beautiful princess or an awesome super hero. All supplies will be provided. Wear clothes that you can get messy in. Then, next week, after it dries, you can pick-up your ceramic at the library.
Registration required; please call 456-2400, ext. 4, or go use the Events and Registration calendar at www.guilpl.org. For kids entering grades one through six.
Police and K9 officers
Kids, do you want to meet some of the amazing people and animals that live, work, and serve in your community? Come to GPL on Tuesday, July 21, at 7 p.m., and meet a police officer and his four-legged K-9 partner.
Teen Tuesday: Mighty Superhero Drawing Program
If you enjoy drawing and love superheroes, then you’re sure to have a great time at the Mighty Superhero Drawing Program on Tuesday, July 21, at 3:30 p.m., when you’ll learn to draw amazing superheroes and villains. No previous drawing skills are required - all you need is a #2 pencil.
Registration required; please call 456-2400, ext. 4, or go use the Events and Registration calendar at www.guilpl.org. For kids entering grades six through 12.
“Casey at the Bat” GPL!”
Join Tim Wiles, director of the library, as he performs as his alter-ego as "The Mighty Casey," from Ernest Thayer's classic 1888 poem "Casey at the Bat," on Tuesday, July 21, at 6:30 p.m.
Wiles will perform the poem in period costume, and then do a baseball question and answer time where kids and adults can ask anything they want about the national pastime, Cooperstown, and the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Summer hours reminder
During July and August, GPL will be closed on Sundays, and will close at 6 p.m., on Fridays.
About GPL
The Guilderland Public Library is located at 2228 Western Ave. in Guilderland. Visit the library's website at www.guilpl.org. to get more information on these and other upcoming programs, and to register online via the homepage’s “Events & Registration Calendar.”Check out the unofficial library updates at facebook.com/Guilderland.Library and follow the library on Twitter (@GuilderlandLib).
Start your super summer reading adventure. Kids, teens and their folks, of course, will want to be at Guilderland Public Library the evening of Wednesday, July 1, at 6 p.m., for the ice cream-fueled kick-off of 2015’s Super Summer Reading Adventure.
As has been proven time and time again, keeping reading skills sharp is vital to success in school. While summer is a great time for fun in the sun, trips to the lake, or the shore, or to the mountains, it’s also the time when kids might fall into The Summer Slide, when the hard-won edge might come off those precious reading skills. Kids and teens can fight the slide with GPL’s summer reading program and become a Super-Reading Hero!
Take a few moments to check out the summer reading club brochures that went home in backpack mail for elementary and middle school students before school ended. Or you can go online right now to check out the kids’ activities and programs – “Every Hero Has a Story” – at guilpl.org/supersummer, and the Teens’ “Unmask!” events at guilpl.org/teensummer.
There’s a very special event taking place starting July 1: We are asking our youngest readers to create a design for our new GPL Kids Library Card. Entry Forms will be available at the Super Summer Reading Adventure Kick-Off. All entries will be displayed in the Library, and the public will vote on the winner. So don’t forget to pick up the Entry Form when you come to the Library. We cannot wait to see what you create.
But the key thing now is to come to the July 1 Kick-Off. It starts at 6 p.m., and there will be plenty of ice cream for all. We are looking forward to seeing you there.
Take our survey
What do you want your library to be? How often do you use GPL? What do you like about it, what needs improvement, or what new programs or services would you like to see?
These simple questions, and a few more, are what the library’s long range planning committee would like you to answer in the “Tell GPL!” survey. By taking the survey — either online at http://bit.ly/TellGPL or by completing one of the print copies at the library — you can keep your responses absolutely confidential, or provide your name so you can be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a $25 gift card from a local business.
We are asking everyone to take part, library users and non-users alike. GPL’s mandate is to serve everyone in the town. Only through your participation can we formulate a plan that will meet the community’s needs.
Blood drive
With the onset of summer comes the dramatic increase in the need for blood donations. The American Red Cross is holding a Blood Drive at GPL on Thursday, July 2, from 1 to 6 p.m.
Make an appointment by going to redcrossblood.org, and using the location and calendar feature. Drop-ins are always welcome. Remember: Your help is urgently needed.
Library holiday
and summer hours
GPL will be closed for the Independence Day weekend Friday, July 3 and Saturday, July 4. This first weekend in July starts GPL’s summer hours when the library is closed on Sundays during July and August, so GPL will be closed on Sunday, July 5 as well.
About GPL
The Guilderland Public Library is located at 2228 Western Ave. in Guilderland. Visit the library's website at www.guilpl.org. to get more information on these and other upcoming programs, and to register online via the homepage’s “Events & Registration Calendar.”Check out the unofficial library updates at facebook.com/Guilderland.Library and follow the library on Twitter (@GuilderlandLib).
— Photo from Mark Curiale
“Once Upon a Time” in a library, these young Guilderland Central School District artists are pleased with how well their mural graces the lobby of the Guilderland Public Library.
“We wanted to do something to brighten the library, and, while looking at some of the artwork the high school students had on display here in May, well, it just gave me an idea,” said Tim Wiles, director of the Guilderland Public Library, as he watched his maintenance staff install some new artwork in the library’s lobby.
Tim’s inspiration came to fruition this past Wednesday as Guilderland Central School District art teacher Meredith Best and a few of her Advanced Placement and Advanced Art 2 student artists delivered their “Once Upon a Time” mural to the library.
“It’s big,” said Ms. Best. “We needed to use a school bus to get it here.”
Evoking the infinitely varied stories that can be found in books, the eight-foot wide by four-foot high mural features a sailing ship, fire-breathing dragon, schools of fanciful fish, and a pair of cavorting dolphins all flowing out of the pages of a book. To the right of the mural is a lone reader, reaching high on a shelf for a book.
The mural’s concept is the brainchild of student Alicia Chen. She sketched out the idea, and then she and 10 of her fellow students — Eden Alin, Marissa Burack, Celia Chaikowski, Hayley Chang, Brian Cubello, Vivian Dai, Olivia Elmore, Jonathon Feil, Maggie O'Brien, and Emily Romano — took brushes in hand to craft this extraordinary creation.
“I love reading books,” said Ms. Chen. “They sort of transport you to a different world.” Her love of reading is reflected in the mural.
When asked if art is in their professional futures, the students were varied in their responses. While she enjoyed working on the mural, Hayley Chang revealed that next year she’s off to the University of Rochester for a double major in art history and evolutionary biology leading up to one day going to medical school.
Olivia Elmore is hoping her interest in art leads to a career in the fashion industry, and possibly going to the Fashion Institute of Technology. Maggie O’Brien plans on minoring in art, but working in the health and wellness field.
And Eden Alin, who’s going to the University at Albany in the fall leading to a medical career, summed it up best when she said she and her fellow students will “have a part of ourselves in the library for a while.”
The mural has been a lobby traffic-stopper. Patrons have slowed and stopped to admire the artwork. One, Rob Futterman, commented, “It’s inviting and colorful; I really like it.” He paused, and added, “It sure beats the brick wall.”
Staff members enjoy it, too. Commented Youth Librarian Leslie Saperstone, “It looks fantastic and brightens up the lobby so much. Thank you, students!”
Every spring, young artists from the Guilderland Central School District hold a showing of their creations in the Library’s Helderberg Room. Elementary school students display in April, and the high school students show in May.
“It’s the unofficial start of spring for us here when the students’ art goes up,” said library staffer Carol Belstraz. “And it’s kind of a bummer when the art comes down at the end of May. Now, though, we’ll have this delightful creation with us all year long.”
“It’s just another example of the school district and the library working closer together,” said Wiles, whose wife is the district’s superintendent of schools. “Everybody wins. The students get another venue to showcase their talent, and the library’s customers get a more inviting welcome. I love it.”