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THE BLAST
THE LATEST NEWS AND INFORMATION FROM
WALLKILL PUBLIC LIBRARY
| | | Wallkill Wayfinder World Trivia! | |
Do you know the way...?
Find your way to the Wallkill Public Library and check out our newly completed wayfinder!
While you're here, why not take part in our Wallkill Wayfinder Trivia Quiz! Test your geographical knowledge with a little world travel trivia. You can return your completed world trivia sheet to the circulation desk for the answer key and a small token of thanks for participating!
If the wayfinder quiz inspires you to explore new places, we have plenty of books and DVDs for you to check out to continue your journey.
| | | 2026 Summer Reading Program | | | | |
This year's theme for the Summer Reading Program is "UNEARTH A STORY." We are in the process of finalizing the Summer Reading Program plans and handouts, but here is a "sneak peek" at some events and dates:
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June 19, noon to 3PM: PREREGISTRATION PARTY Come and go for SRP information, reading logs, swag, crafts, and snacks
- July 10, 1 PM:
SRP Kick-off BBQ and
250th Birthday Celebration
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July 14-Aug. 13:
Summer Reading Program filled with presenters, performances, crafts for all ages, STEM/STEAM activities, storytime, and so much more!!!
Online egistration for summer reading programs starts on June 19 at 8:00 AM!
| | Teen Volunteers Needed for SRP | | Museum Pass Spotlight: Empire Pass | | |
Looking for something to do as the weather gets warmer? Why not check out a museum or park pass from the Wallkill Public Library?! In this issue, we're highlighting our Empire Pass.
The Empire Pass permits unlimited vehicle access to most facilities operated by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Locally, this includes Minnewaska, Walkway Over the Hudson, and Bear Mountain State Parks.
For a listing of NY State Park facilities, see the Empire Pass Guideline for Use: https://parks.ny.gov/sites/default/files/EmpirePassCardGuidelines.pdf
For DEC facilities, visit their day-use website:
https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/camping/annual-day-use-pass.
There's More to Explore!
Your one-stop shop for all New York State Parks and Historic Sites info? The free NY State Parks Explorer app! From downloadable, offline maps to events happening near you and key know-before-you-go information, there's more to explore in New York State. Download the app here: https://parks.ny.gov/explorer-app
| | Wings Over Wallkill Birdwatching Walks | | |
We had another Wings Over Wallkill Walk at the Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge on May 16th, and it was a beautiful day full of beautiful birds.
The next birdwatching walk is on Saturday, June 13th. Habitat restorationist Soňa Mason will be joining us for the bird walk and a botanical exploration of the Shawangunk Grasslands.
Come join us once a month at the Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge located at 902 Hoagerburgh Rd. from 9am until 10ish as we explore the grasslands in search of our fine feathered friends. Long pants and a good pair of binoculars or camera are highly recommended.
Registration for each event is required.
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Now through November 1
Come by the library to pick up your I Bird NY Challenge birdwatching sheets and submission forms. The birds you spot and report help the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation track bird populations in NYS, and help with wildlife conservation efforts. For your participation, you'll receive a competition certificate, a commemorative patch, and be entered to win great birding prizes including birding accessories such as spotting scopes and binoculars. Participants may also earn a bonus entry into the prize giveaway by submitting a photo with their bird sighting submission forms to document their experience completing the I BIRD NY Challenge.
| | You can also find birdwatching materials and log your bird sightings online at: http://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/birding/i-bird-ny | | Speed though your library checkouts with the RCLS Go app | | |
The RCLS Go App makes it easier for patrons to access library services on the go, and we want to keep the momentum going. With higher library traffic in the summer, the RCLS Go app on your phone will speed you through checkouts! If you have your phone, you'll always have your scannable library card with you, even on those impromptu visits.
With the RCLS Go App, you can access and manage your library account anytime. Browse the collection, discover new titles, check out e-content, place holds, create and view lists, and more! Did you know that you can scan ISBN numbers in the bookstore and check if the library system has the item? And if they do, you can put it on hold right from the RCLS Go app!!
Haven't tried the RCLS Go App yet? Click the link to download it today: https://onelink.to/rclsgo Users will be redirected based on their phone's operating system. Download the app. Log in once with your library card number and PIN, and you're good to (RCLS) Go!
| | Grab & GO: Pony Bead Flag Clip | |
Friday, June 12
Gearing up for Flag Day on June 14th, we will make mini pony bead flag clips. Grab & GO Craft Kits can be picked up all day Friday and held until Wednesday of the next week. Ages 8+
Registration required. Register online:
https://wallkillpubliclibrary.libcal.com/event/16572302
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Grow Your Own Herbal Tea
Sign up today for our take and make herbal tea growing kit!
Each month register for a new herbal tea kit to grow at home. Kits will include basic instructions and information, a starter pot, starter soil and seeds.
Registration is required. Any take and make kits not picked up within one week of the pick-up date will be offered to the public.
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June 24 from 6:00-7:30 PM
Join Ms. Kim for a night of Wii Sports fun—grab a controller and jump into bowling, tennis, baseball, golf, and boxing! Laugh, play, and maybe show off your skills (or just have a blast trying). Registration is required, and the program is recommended for ages 7 and up.
To register: https://wallkillpubliclibrary.libcal.com/event/16717578
| | | "I made it at the library..." | |
Pet Portraits
Home school kids painted their pets! The tricky part... only using sponges, a lesson on adapting and thinking outside the box! They turned out great!
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Workshop Wednesday
Workshop Wednesday was clearly a budding success! We used laminating sheets, dried flowers and other embellishments to create unique greetings cards they will hate to part with!
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Adult Fiction Book Club
June's Adult Book Club Selection
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The Adult Fiction Book Club will be meeting on Tuesday, June 16 at 3:45 PM to discuss The Boxcar Librarian by Brianna Labuskes.
Inspired by true events, a thrilling Depression-era novel from the author of The Librarian of Burned Books about a woman’s quest to uncover a mystery surrounding a local librarian and the Boxcar Library—a converted mining train that brought books to isolated rural towns in Montana.
Inspired by the fascinating, true history of Missoula’s Boxcar Library, the novel blends the story of the strong, courageous women who survived and thrived in the rough and rowdy West with that of the power of standing together to fight for workers’ lives. And through it all shines the capacity of books to provide connection and light to those who need it most. -- from Goodreads.
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Reading ahead?
July's Adult Book Club Selection
We'll be discussing America's First Daughter by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie on Tuesday, July 25 at 3:45 PM.
In a compelling, richly researched novel that draws from thousands of letters and original sources, bestselling authors Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie tell the fascinating, untold story of Thomas Jefferson’s eldest daughter, Martha “Patsy” Jefferson Randolph—a woman who kept the secrets of our most enigmatic founding father and shaped an American legacy.
From her earliest days, Patsy Jefferson knows that though her father loves his family dearly, his devotion to his country runs deeper still. As Thomas Jefferson’s oldest daughter, she becomes his helpmate, protector, and constant companion in the wake of her mother’s death, traveling with him when he becomes American minister to France.
It is in Paris, at the glittering court and among the first tumultuous days of revolution, that fifteen-year-old Patsy learns about her father’s troubling liaison with Sally Hemings, a slave girl her own age. Meanwhile, Patsy has fallen in love—with her father’s protégé William Short, a staunch abolitionist and ambitious diplomat. Torn between love, principles, and the bonds of family, Patsy questions whether she can choose a life as William’s wife and still be a devoted daughter.
Her choice will follow her in the years to come, to Virginia farmland, Monticello, and even the White House. And as scandal, tragedy, and poverty threaten her family, Patsy must decide how much she will sacrifice to protect her father's reputation, in the process defining not just his political legacy, but that of the nation he founded. -- from Goodreads.
| | Saturday Morning Book Club | | | | |
The Saturday Morning Book Club will hold their next meeting on Saturday, June 27 at 10:30 AM. They'll be discussing The Year of Pleasures by Elizabeth Berg.
In this rich and deeply satisfying novel by the beloved author of The Art of Mending, and Open House, a resilient woman embarks upon an unforgettable journey of adventure, self-discovery, and renewal.
Betta Nolan moves to a small town after the death of her husband to try to begin anew. Pursuing a dream of a different kind of life, she is determined to find pleasure in her simple daily routines. Among those who help her in both expected and unexpected ways are the ten-year-old boy next door, three wild women friends from her college days, a twenty-year-old who is struggling to find his place in the world, and a handsome man who is ready for love.
Elizabeth Berg's The Year of Pleasures is about acknowledging the solace found in ordinary things: a warm bath, good food, the beauty of nature, music, friends, and art. "Berg writes with humor and a big heart about resilience, loneliness, love, and hope. And the transcendence that redeems," said Andre Dubus about Durable Goods. And the same could be said about The Year of Pleasures.
-- from Goodreads.com
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Reading ahead?
July's Saturday Book Club Selection is...
...The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern by Lynda Cohen Loigman. We'll be discussing it on Saturday, July 25 at 10:30 AM.
It's never too late for new beginnings.
On the cusp of turning eighty, newly retired pharmacist Augusta Stern is adrift. When she relocates to Rallentando Springs—an active senior community in southern Florida—she unexpectedly crosses paths with Irving Rivkin, the delivery boy from her father’s old pharmacy—and the man who broke her heart sixty years earlier.
As a teenager growing up in 1920’s Brooklyn, Augusta’s role model was her father, Solomon Stern, the trusted owner of the local pharmacy and the neighborhood expert on every ailment. But when Augusta’s mother dies and Great Aunt Esther moves in, Augusta can’t help but be drawn to Esther’s curious methods. As a healer herself, Esther offers Solomon’s customers her own advice—unconventional remedies ranging from homemade chicken soup to a mysterious array of powders and potions.
As Augusta prepares for pharmacy college, she is torn between loyalty to her father and fascination with her great aunt, all while navigating a budding but complicated relationship with Irving. Desperate for clarity, she impulsively uses Esther’s most potent elixir with disastrous consequences. Disillusioned and alone, Augusta vows to reject Esther’s enchantments forever.
Sixty years later, confronted with Irving, Augusta is still haunted by the mistakes of her past. What happened all those years ago and how did her plan go so spectacularly wrong? Did Irving ever truly love her or was he simply playing a part? And can Augusta reclaim the magic of her youth before it’s too late?
-- from Goodreads.com
| | Click the titles to link to our online catalog to read descriptions, reviews, and place holds. | | Children's Program Highlights | |
Miss Cindy's Neighborhood Nursery School
visits the library
| | The PreK3 and PreK4 students from Miss Cindy's Neighborhood Nursery School and their families visited the library for story time and an activity. The children were learning about the life cycles of different insects and animals at school, so after reading several books about caterpillars and butterflies, children created colorful (and educational) hats to wear at home. | | 1000 Books Before Kindergarten | |
Way to go, super readers!
Congratulations to the young readers - and their families - who earned another tag in the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Program! The kiddos and their token levels are as follows:
- Liam M. (100 books)
- Violet F. (400 books)
- Evelyn F. (500 books)
- Bryce S. (600 books)
- Peyton T-D. (900 books)... Peyton only has 100 books to go before earning a ticket to the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten pizza party!
If interested in learning more about this program, contact Sarah Phillips (sphillips@rcls.org) or speak to a library staff member.
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Lily Bergeron
During the past few weeks, Story Time Tuesday has had several visitors. Lily Bergeron, the author of Bergasaurus: The Nervous Rex, read her book to an avid audience. Afterwards, participants decorated dinosaurs and turned them into puppets that they could take home and retell the story to family and friends. Ms. Bergeron will be back at WPL for the Summer Reading Program Storytime on July 29th.
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Zoe the Therapy Dog
Zoe the Therapy Dog also visited Family Story Time, and she enjoyed ALL of the attention she received from kiddos of all ages. Zoe's next visit is scheduled for Storytime on June 23 at 10:30AM.
Please register each child on www.wallkillpubliclibrary.org.
| | | A few photos from Lego Bricks and Building on Saturday. | | |
During the week of June 15th, Ms. Sarah will be visiting Ostrander and Leptondale Elementary Schools to tell students about this year's Summer Reading Program: Unearth a Story so the only Children's Program with Ms. Sarah will be on June 19 for the Pre-registration Party (noon to 3PM).
Check the calendar at www.wallkillpubliclibrary.org for information on and to register for children's programs. Summer Reading Program information for July/August will be available soon - both online and in the library.
| | Ulster County Fair READ and WIN Program | | |
There is one week left to get your passport stamped for the Ulster County Fair Read & Win Program -- the deadline is June 14th.
Participants (ages 4-18 years old and attending school/PreK4/homeschool) can earn stamps in their passports after reading books with up to four stamps given at one time. After the 8th stamp, children can earn discounts and coupons to the Ulster County Fair.
Stop by the Wallkill Public Library for details.
| | | Ongoing Children's Programming | |
1,000 Books Before Kindergarten
If you are interested in learning more about the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Program, reach out to Ms. Sarah sphillips@rcls.org or speak with someone at the circulation desk.
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TUESDAYS
10:30 AM Family Storytime
Children of all ages are welcome. The books and activities will be centered around children ages 4-10 years of age. Registration is required.
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11:00 AM Crafting Caboodles
Join Miss Sarah for crafts in the Children's Room. We will celebrate a different theme every week by making fun creations! Ages 3+ (younger children may attend, but this may require more assistance from the parent). Registration is required.
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11:30 AM Take & Make Craft
If you aren't able to attend Crafting Caboodles, grab a Take and Make Craft in the bin. Sign on the clipboard for each Take and Make kit you take. While supplies last.
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WEDNESDAYS
11:00 AM STEM Explorers
Ages 4+. A wide variety of topics and activities pertaining to science, technology, and math will be covered. (Younger children may attend, but this activity may require more assistance from the parent.) Registration is required.
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THURSDAYS
10:30 AM Infant and Toddler Storytime
The books and activities will be centered around children ages 0 to 2-3 years of age. Music, finger play, and sensory activities for infants/toddlers may also be included. Registration is required.
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Some SATURDAYS
Check Wallkill Public Library events calendar for dates
10:00 AM Family Storytime
Children of all ages are welcome. The books and activities will be centered around children ages 4-10. This will be a "repeat" of the previous Tuesday's story time. Registration is required.
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10:30 AM Crafting Caboodles
Join Ms. Sarah for Saturday crafts in the library Children's Room (for children age 3 & up). This will be a "repeat" of the previous Tuesday's craft.
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10:45 AM Lego Bricks and Building Club
This program is for children ages 3-11 who enjoy building with Lego bricks. During sessions, participants will be able to test the creativity and ability by engaging in Lego building challenges, along with building just for enjoyment.
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Beginning Middle and End
Jon Burgerman
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Forty the Fortune Teller
Kevin Cornell
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When the Sun Goes Down
Greg Pizzoli
| | Click the titles to link to our online catalog to read descriptions, reviews, and place holds. | | Ongoing programming and services | | Stop in for free support for all your tech needs. Digital Navigators are available at the library to help you with all your digital and tech needs. Stop in or call to make an appointment. | | | |
HomeBoost Energy Assessment Kits
Wallkill Public Library and the Ramapo Catskill Library System have partnered with Central Hudson to make HomeBoost Energy Assessment Kits available to our patrons. The kits include a specialized camera that can be attached to your smartphone to check your home for drafts. It also can scan appliances to check their relative energy efficiency. Your energy bills aren't getting any lower, so take advantage of these kits to help bring those bills down.
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Blood Pressure Monitor kits available at the library!
Patrons can now borrow blood pressure monitor kits to help be better informed about their heart health. Each kit comes with instructions and information about how to use the monitors and interpret the results. Kits can be checked out for a period of three weeks.
We also have a blood pressure monitor set up in the library where patrons can swing by and test themselves while at the library. We encourage everyone to come by to use them.
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Jigsaw Puzzle Exchange
Looking for a cozy winter activity? Stop by the library and pick up or drop off a jigsaw puzzle as part of our winter puzzle exchange!
We have over 50 puzzles ranging from 150 to 1,008 pieces—perfect for solo puzzlers or the whole family. There’s something for everyone, so come find your next challenge today!
Donating a puzzle? Please count the pieces and place them in a zippered plastic bag before putting the puzzle in the original box. We do our best to ensure every puzzle is complete, but if you discover missing pieces, kindly report it and return the puzzle to the circulation desk.
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New York Times All-Access!
Get the New York Times online access (yes, including Games!) as a Wallkill Public Library patron. News, recipes, podcasts, the Wordle archive — it’s all yours. Unlock your access by clicking the link for instructions on how to explore New York Times content at the library or at home (or anywhere else!).
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Food Pantry Donations
Wallkill Public Library continues to accept unexpired, nonperishable and canned food donations, as well toiletries. All donations go to the Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry at the Wallkill Reformed Church. If you are able to give, please feel free to drop off your donations at the library during regular operating hours. If you are in need of assistance, please check out Loaves & Fishes website for information on when they are open: https://wallkillreformed.org/Loaves-Fishes-Food-Pantry
Thank you to everyone who is able to lend a hand to their neighbors during hard times.
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Tech Support
10:00-4:00 PM weekdays
The Wallkill Public Library offers Tech Support from 10-4 on weekdays. So, if you're having issues with your cellphone, tablet, or other technology please stop by the front desk of the library. We'll be happy to lend a hand if we can.
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Textile Tuesdays
The Wallkill Quilter's Circle is sponsored by the Wallkill Public Library. The Circle meets for Textile Tuesdays in the Community Room at the Shawangunk Town Hall on Tuesdays from 10 AM to 2 PM for a come-as-you-please work session.
Bring your present project and your lunch and join us! No registration necessary. New members always welcome!
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Mahjong Meet-ups
Every Wednesday at 1 PM and Thursday at 6 PM the library hosts our Mahjong Clubs in the Reading Room. If you’re a player or just interested in learning, join us! We supply the games and (a limited number of) mahjong cards. Just drop in, no registration required
Forgot your card? Check one out at the circulation desk to use during the game!
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Pinochle has a new day!
Pinochle
Tuesdays, 1-3 PM
in the Library Reading Room
Pinochle at the Wallkill Public Library has been moved from Thursdays to Tuesdays from 1pm to 3pm. People of all skill levels are invited to attend, even first-time players who'd like to learn the game.
Registration is required: https://wallkillpubliclibrary.libcal.com/event/17009912
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Battery Recycling Made Easy
Wondering what's the best way to get rid of those used batteries rolling around in your junk drawer?
The Library accepts used batteries and cell phones to be recycled! You will find the WeRecycle Battery Box located on our window seat. Please use a plastic baggie (found on the side of the box) to place your batteries or cell phones in before placing them in the battery recycle box. Quick, easy, convenient, and environmentally friendly!
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Clynk Bottle & Can Collection
Stop by the circulation desk to grab a Clynk bag and tag, then simply:
- Fill the bag with aluminum cans and plastic bottles eligible for the NY bottle deposit.
- Donate your filled Clynk bag by dropping it off at the Clynk collection area located at the entrance of your local Hannaford grocery store. Follow the instructions on or next to the Clynk door.
Together, we can all make a positive impact on the environment and help the library at the same time!
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Lend-A-Pole Program
Thanks to the Federated Sportsmen’s Clubs of Ulster County (FSCUC), patrons are able to borrow fishing poles from the library!
The FSCUC donated a Lend-A-Pole cabinet filled with poles, tackle boxes, and informational pamphlets to the library. Patrons can check fishing poles out just as they would a museum pass or book. Borrowers also get to take out – (and keep!) - a tackle box, as the FSCUC will replenish the supply when it gets low.
Ask at the circulation desk for assistance.
| | Business services available at the library | |
Copy & Print
Copying and self-service printing is available from our public access computers.
- Letter size B&W $.10
- Legal size B&W $.20
- Letter size Color $.30
- Legal size Color $.40
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Fax
Faxes can be sent and received at a charge of $1.00 per page.
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Scan
Scan documents to your portable USB drive. There is no charge for this service!
| | Local Vaccination Clinics | | Library services at a glance | |
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Our doors are open for library services including browsing for library materials, making copies, sending faxes, and using the public access computers.
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Our bookdrop is open for contact-free and after-hours returns of library materials. Be sure to secure DVD and BCD cases with rubber bands.
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Fine-free returns on everything, except museum/park passes.
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Inter-library loans are available between all RCLS libraries.
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In-person programming for all ages!
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Museum passes are available to Wallkill Public Library patrons for the Empire Pass, Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library & Museum, Historic Huguenot Street Tour Pass, Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum, Mohonk Preserve, and Storm King Art Center. Plus, more print-at-home museum passes available through the Ulster County InfoPortal on the library’s website.
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