Are you ready for Regents? The library has set aside dedicated group study space for Regents test prep from Tuesday, Jan. 14, through Thursday, Jan. 23.
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.
The conversation continues
At the Jan. 8 We Heard You meeting, library architect Paul Mays outlined some of the ideas from the public that have emerged as priorities during the library’s long-range planning discussion, and everyone who visits the library from now until the end of the month will get a chance to weigh in.
Inside the library, you’ll see a pair of easels featuring the ideas that have been discussed. Get a sticker dot when you check out materials or talk to a staffer, and place it next to the concept that most aligns with your library priorities.
Big data at your fingertips
If you are looking to grow your business or seek out new career or marketing opportunities in the new year, get a head start with Bethlehem Public Library’s powerful digital research tool, ReferenceUSA, a big data resource that grants access to continuously updated business and residential information in the U.S. and Canada for research, marketing, job seeking and more.
Local small business owners and marketing professionals can get a leg up and optimize marketing prospects using the data on ReferenceUSA, as well as the site’s sophisticated mapping tool that helps identify potential customers. Beyond the marketing and business possibilities, ReferenceUSA is a valuable tool for general research, such as locating individuals or information about healthcare professionals.
To access the site through Bethlehem Public Library, visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org and click on the “Research” tab. On the research page, you’ll find ReferenceUSA listed in alphabetical order. The service is free for anyone to use on-site at the library, where the data collected can be downloaded and saved. Bethlehem patrons can also access the site remotely using a library card.
New life for old home movies
Do you have some old home movies on VHS that you would like to digitize? You can now borrow an analog video converter from our Library of Things. Make a digital copy of those precious memories from a VCR, camcorder or other analog sources using the Elgato Video Capture. The device includes RCA and S-video cables, as well as a SCART adapter. They are available to borrow on a first-come basis, and must be picked up and dropped off at Bethlehem Public Library.
If you have a VHS tape but no longer the device to play it, you can reserve some time in the tech room to make a copy using the library’s equipment. You will need to bring your own DVD-R.
Get creative at the library
The library’s Tech Room Makerspace features the Cricut Maker, which allows for precision cutting of paper, vinyl, fabric and other materials. In addition to the Cricut, we’ve got the Makerbot 3D printer, a die cutter, laminator, button maker, light tracing board and sewing machine available for you to use anytime during library hours.
Want to see these tools in action? Drop by the library for a Tech Room Makerspace open house Monday, Jan. 20, from 2 to 4 p.m.
Pajama-Rama
Enjoy some fun and stories before bedtime, 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 23. For children up to age 6 with caregiver.
Getting in shapes
Learn about shapes through stories and activities on Friday, Jan. 17 at 10 a.m. Dress for a mess. For children up to age six with caregiver.
— Kristen Roberts
