The library’s Studio Makerspace makes it easy to share stories and ideas with a greater audience through self-produced videos, TV shows, podcasting and more. It’s also a great way to record and preserve personal histories or create presentations for distance-learning. The only limit is one’s imagination.
This self-service model and its user-friendly A/V equipment goes with the library’s mission of providing the tools and training to help people reach their goals – instead of doing the work for them. It also means studio availability is not limited by staffing and is accessible seven days a week. Anyone with an active Upper Hudson library card can book studio time in three-hour increments through the library’s online calendar. Public access to these cutting edge tools helps bridge the digital divide in our community and creates opportunities that were once limited to those with professional experience.
Laptops with Adobe Premiere Elements are available to use in the library for video editing, and the library also loans out handheld digital video cameras.
Content created in the studio can be made for personal use, distributed online or, if the producer is a non-profit organization, for broadcast on BCN-TV, the library’s public access channel, on Spectrum Channel 1301 and Verizon Fios Channel 28.
Genealogy help
Are you just getting started researching your family history and don’t know where to begin? Do you have a genealogical “brick wall” to get through? Are you interested in learning about family history resources available through the library or online? Get one-on-one help with these and other family history topics by booking an appointment at the library.
At a genealogy help appointment, a librarian will highlight available resources and teach you how to use them, but they do not do the genealogical research for you.
To make an appointment, fill out the form online at bethlehempubliclibrary.org, stop at the Information Desk, or call (518) 439-9314, ext. 3009. Appointments last one-hour and must be made at least one week in advance.
Video editing
Sign up for the Monday, Jan. 27, Adobe Premiere Elements training session to learn how to edit videos, create titles, insert transitions, add special effects, adjust audio and more to create a professional looking video suitable for a variety of media. The 10 a.m. class is one of many regularly scheduled Premiere Elements beginner programs.
Register online at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org (click on the “Calendar” tab) or call (518) 439-9314.
Storm and ice warning
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 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.
Sensory bottles
On Friday, Jan. 24, create a calming sensory bottle with your child. Children can select some of what goes into the bottle while caregivers handle the more complicated tasks at 10 a.m. For children up to age 6 with caregiver. Sign up online or call.
Craft and Sip
On Friday, Jan. 24 at 3:30 p.m., relax after midterms as you sip on some juice and use the library’s craft materials to create friendship bracelets, fuse bead art and more. For ages 9 and up.
Bird nests
Learn about bird nests, build your own and make a backyard feeder using Cheerios on Wednesday, Jan. 29 at 6:30 p.m. Sign up online or call.
— Kristen Roberts
