The planned upgrade to the building’s aging heating and cooling system has begun. We expect some minor disruptions during the project, but we are doing our best to minimize their impact. As construction progresses, we will keep you informed through a dedicated construction page on our website www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/hvac-project-updates), in-house postings and through social media.
Recently, library staff have begun relocating their workspaces to the Storyhour Room in preparation for the internal phase of the HVAC project, which is expected to begin March 5 and last approximately eight weeks. As a result of this move, regular storytimes may take place in the community or board room, or inside the Children’s Place. Please note that some meeting rooms may not be available for limited times during the HVAC project, and construction noise may be audible during business hours.
The long-awaited HVAC improvements will increase comfort and efficiency throughout the library and are the result of a multi-year planning process. The construction is partially funded by a $289,467 New York State Library Construction Grant through the Upper Hudson Library System. The additional funding allows us to continue making necessary capital improvements to the building while minimizing the impact on taxpayers.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we do our best to minimize the impact on library users.
Board candidate information
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.
There are three seats on the 2018 ballot. Two, currently held by incumbents Harmeet Narang and Mark Kissinger, come with five-year terms. The third seat, currently held by Caroline Brancatella, has a partial term of three years. All three trustees are seeking re-election.
Bethlehem Public Library takes very seriously its responsibility to serve the community by providing access to resources and programming that enhance the quality of life of our residents. Our trustees make this possible through their dedication and vision, and they fill a very important public service role that affects every tax-paying resident, whether that person has stepped foot in the library or not.
Board meetings are held at the library monthly and are open to the public. Meetings begin at 6 p.m. and last about two hours. Trustees are expected to regularly attend.
Petitions must contain at least 58 signatures of voters residing in Central School District No. 6 of the towns of Bethlehem and New Scotland. Petitions must be filed with the District Clerk, Bethlehem Central High School, 700 Delaware Ave., Delmar by 5 p.m. on April 16.
The election and budget vote will be held on Tuesday, May 15, from 7 a.m.-9 p.m. at Bethlehem Central High School.
Upcoming events
All events are free and take place at Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.
Saturday, March 3
Chris Gibson’s “Rally Point”
Former Army Colonel and former local Congressman Chris Gibson will discuss his book, “Rally Point.” A book signing will follow, with book sales courtesy of I Love Books and the Friends of Bethlehem Public Library, 2:30-4:30 p.m.
Monday, March 5
Trivia Night for Adults
Come alone or as a team and match wits with others, 7-8:15 p.m. Prizes donated by the Friends of Bethlehem Public Library.
Tuesday, March 6
Chess Club
Try your hand at chess with our teen volunteers, 5:30-6:30 p.m. OR 6:30-7:30 p.m. For grades K-5.
Wed., March 7
Make It Yourself: Button Tree
Relax and get creative with a charming button tree craft, 6-8:30 p.m. Sign up online or call.
— Kristen Roberts
