The library’s online calendar is your go-to for learning about upcoming events — even virtual ones. That’s why we want to let you know that you’ll be seeing some changes to the way our calendar looks as we upgrade to new, user-friendly software that will provide a more intuitive experience when searching — and signing up for — programs and events that interest you. It will also seamlessly manage bookings for reservable spaces once we are able to open those up to the public again.
You can access the calendar by visiting www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org and clicking on the “Calendar” tab.
Fall storytimes for families
Although we aren’t able to gather for our regular storytimes this fall, your librarians have been busy developing ways for you to enjoy a new season of virtual storytimes and early literacy fun!
Our Virtual Family Storytime takes place every Wednesday at 2 p.m. through Nov. 25. In this interactive storytime, families will have the opportunity to turn on their cameras and microphones and participate. You must include your email address in your registration so the library can send you the Zoom link for the event. The link will be sent out shortly before the program.
In October, we’re hosting a Kindergarten Engagement Hour virtual series, which will consist of four, one-hour sessions for Kindergarten students and their caregivers on Saturdays Oct. 3-24 at 10:30 a.m. This program will support students and their families with the transition into elementary school. Families will participate in reading and writing activities similar to those seen in our Kindergarten classrooms in a fun, engaging way.
And with our Storytime Online Kits, you can explore dozens of popular picture books through videos, songs and activities on your own.
For more information about these activities or to sign up for Virtual Family Storytime or the Kindergarten Engagement hour, visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/programs/children/story-time. You’ll also find fun instructional videos with your Bethlehem librarians and links to other great early literacy resources.
Now you can browse a bit
The library is now open for in-person browsing. Hours are currently 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. weekdays. To keep this a safe experience for everyone, we’re asking our visitors to wear masks and sanitize their hands before entering the library, as well as limit their time to selecting and checking out items. Visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/limited-library-browsing-hours-and-procedures for more information.
In-person browsing joins curbside pickup, the Pop-up Library, Book Bundles and Books to People. All of these services allow us to share library materials in a way that lets you and your family decide how much contact you are comfortable with.
Be part of the Great Giveback
Give back to your community by participating in an outdoor community art show. The goal of this year’s Great Giveback project is to use art to highlight the good in our community while creating a new, safe, outdoor experience for people to enjoy. Use your art to thank a person or organization, or use your art to inspire good feelings in others.
The library will provide blank yard signs for interested community members to use as canvases. For more details or to request your canvas: www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org/great-giveback-2020-outdoor-community-art-show.
Back to school with help
As your children get ready to head back to school – in whatever form it may take – we would like to remind you that Bethlehem cardholders now have access to HelpNow by Brainfuse, an easy and intuitive learning resource for all ages and levels with personalized homework help in core subjects (math, reading, writing, science and social studies), as well as SAT preparation.
There is a skill-building tool for all types of learning styles – from flashcards to practice quizzes and videos. Live one-on-one online tutoring is available in math, science, writing and other subjects for elementary, middle school, high school and college students from 2-11 p.m. daily. All Brainfuse tutors have at least a four-year degree and are background checked.
— Kristen Roberts