We’ll help you get ready to ride
May is National Bike Month. Are you ready to ride? The library has a public-use bicycle service station near the entrance closest to the parking lot. The Dero Fixit device features hanger arms that bring the bike off the ground and allow the pedals and wheels to move freely. It also includes all of the tools needed to perform basic bike repairs and maintenance on the spot. Change a flat, adjust the brakes and derailleurs, or fix a wobbly seat – all at the library. Attached to the Fixit station by cables are Philips and flat-head screwdrivers, six sizes of Allen wrenches, six sizes of box wrenches, and two tire levers. Adjacent to the station is a heavy-duty air pump with a universal pump head that accommodates all valve stem types. The library’s bicycle service station is free for anyone to use, 24 hours a day.
Budget vote and candidate information
The proposed 2017-18 budget is available to view online and at the library. On the ballot this year is a library levy 2.07 percent higher than last year, within the limit specified by New York State. The trustee election and budget vote will take place Tuesday, May 16, at Bethlehem Central High School from 7am-9pm.
Board President Mary Redmond is running unopposed for a second five-year term on the board. A Delmar resident of 30 years, she is retired from the state Dormitory Authority. She has served as a trustee since 2012 and president of the board since 2015, and is a member of the Bethlehem Business Women’s Club and Bethlehem Garden Club.
The following are May’s thoughts and goals as a library trustee:
What skills do you bring to the board?
I believe I possess a strong working knowledge of the Board. I am also focused on the most recent Long Range Plan for the Library, which was last updated in 2015.
What are your goals as a library board member?
I’d like to continue to address much-needed building maintenance projects to replace the aging HVAC system, and upgrade building security and fire protection systems, as well as support staff efforts to deliver quality programs and services throughout the community.
How does a public library best serve its community?
BPL is lucky to have a dynamic management staff. The staff is continually encouraged to bring new ideas to the workplace. The library works very hard to find ways to “yes” as often as possible.
What are the most important issues facing public libraries today?
Libraries are no longer just a collection of books. Each library has to find ways to serve their community in new and expanding roles. A library should evolve based upon changing dynamics within the community.
What do you like best about Bethlehem Public Library?
There is something new every month at the library. Artwork, discussion groups, children’s programs, mobile hotspots, GoPro cameras, telescopes … the list goes on and on!
— Kristen Roberts