Fear not, bookworms, for bibliothecas are not a thing of the past! As a matter of fact, they’re expanding more than ever. (Want proof? Check out our recent feature story here.) April 10-16 is National Library Week, and this year’s theme is “Libraries Transform.”
First sponsored by the American Library Association in 1958, this nationally observed celebration pays tribute to the contributions of our local libraries and library workers, and to support the continued use of these facilities in an age of smart phones and e-readers.
So put down that tablet, turn off your iPhone, and check out what your local libraries are up to this week.
Related: Find a Library Near You
All week:
Kinderhook Memorial Library Kinderhook
In keeping with the theme of “Libraries Transform” Kinderhook Memorial Library has partnered with Valatie Food Pantry to accept food for fines throughout National Library Week. For every non-perishable food item you bring in, the library will waive $1 of fines for items owned by the library. Of course, you’re welcome to donate whether you have fines or not! 518-758-6192; www.kinderhooklibrary.org
Monday, April 11
Orangeburg Library Orangeburg
Julie Pasqual, a self-proclaimed “creativity junky,” will share a lively mixture of folktales, fairytales, and original stories for both young and old. The performances are infused with dance, acting, clowning, and a love of world cultures and folktales born from her travels. Expect a perfect blend of humor, sign language, and occasionally, stilt-walking. 6:30 p.m. 845-359-2244; www.orangeburg-library.org
Tuesday, April 12
Red Hook Public Library Red Hook
Head over to the Enchanted Cafe in Red Hook Village for some friendly competition during the library’s game night. Choose from classics like Stratego and Scrabble, or contemporary favorites like Settlers of Catan. 6 p.m. 845-758-3241; www.redhooklibrary.org
Monroe Free Library Monroe
Join Author Bill Lemanski as he chats about his murder mystery Murder in Tuxedo Park, set in the Hudson Valley town. Learn about the history of the area and how he developed his ideas for the story. 7:30 p.m. 845-783-4411; www.monroefreelibrary.org
Wednesday, April 13
Greenville Public Library Greenville
Stuart W. Lehman dives into New York’s role in the Civil War at this Civil War Round Table discussion. Learn about Lincoln and Grant’s farewell at the New York Capital. 7:30 p.m. 518-966-8205; www.greenville.lib.ny.us
Thursday, April 14
Albert Wisner Public Library Warwick
Local poets Donna Spector, Fred Buel, Donna Reis, Mary Makofske, and Howard Horowitz come together for an evening of poetry. Celebrate the spoken word and the 20th anniversary of National Poetry Month. Book sale and signing to follow. 6-7:45 p.m. 845-986-1047; www.albertwisnerlibrary.org
Related: Local Poetry Series Celebrates National Poetry Month
Friday, April 15
Phoenicia Library Phoenicia
The John Burroughs Memorial Locust & Wild Honey Mountain Orchestra plays music inspired by the life and writings of the 19th century Catskills naturalist John Burroughs. 7 p.m. Free admission. 845-688-7811; www.phoenicialibrary.org
Saturday, April 16
Mahopac Public Library Mahopac
Enjoy a bit of family entertainment with the 4-H Puppeteer Show. Made up of local teens, the 4-H Puppeteer Players put together a variety of puppet presentations for the kiddies. 11:30 a.m. 845-628-2009; www.mahopaclibrary.org
Related: How Our Local Libraries Are Thriving
