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Volume 19-29 | 7.16.19
Nerdy Library Programs
Harry Potter Discussion Group, Friday Night Cartoons, Game of Thrones Pre-Season Party....no, these are not some of the latest teen programs. These programs are part of the growing trend of nerdy programs specifically geared towards adults at some of our member libraries. Many libraries offer educational adult programs, or creative activities such as knitting or sewing. However, some are hosting programs that are pure fun for younger adults.
 
The Adriance Memorial Library hosted an event called Friday Night Cartoons where they invited patrons over 18 to come to the library after-hours to watch classic 90s cartoons. Patrons were encouraged to bring pillows and blankets, and refreshments were served including Gushers, Fruit Roll Ups, Sunny D, and Hi-C. The Adriance Memorial Library has more 90s themed events planned such as a 90s themed Escape Room.
 
The Kinderhook Memorial Library held a First Contact Day event where they celebrated all things Star Trek. Matt Pavloff, the Teen Librarian said, "Whether they're long-time fans or new to the franchise, patrons could enjoy Trek-themed food (Jellied Plomeek, Romulan "ale") and games, like the Phaser-blast Challenge and Tribble Toss. Sadly, we didn't have any patrons boldly go for Captain Kirk's Karaoke...maybe next year!" This program was open to families and is a  great example of how libraries can create programs that are appealing to both adults with children, as well as younger adults.
Family celebrating
(above) A family enjoys the First Contact Day Event.

The Kent Public Library has a Harry Potter (HP) Adult Discussion Group that meets monthly and is for adults only. Charlotte Victoria Marriott, the programmer at the Kent Public Library says that the group "started because adult patrons saw our advertisements for a children's HP book club and so many adults expressed interest in it. Discussions usually are about a selection of articles we read over the past month, often from Pottermore, though there have been other sources as well. We read and discussed Cursed Child over the winter, and I met several members at a local movie theater to see The Crimes of Grindelwald together in December."
Woman on throne
The Kent Public Library also held a Game of Thrones Pre-Season Party in April. Patrons could play a trivia game, eat "gruesome Ned Stark cake pops", make a bookmark, make buttons that say "Hardcore Thronies Unite at Kent Public Library," and could take selfies on an Iron Throne (pictured above). The program was advertised as "More fun than a Westerosi wedding, guaranteed!" In addition to this program, the Kent Public Library has an ongoing Game of Thrones Bingo program, as well as a Game of Thrones Support Group.
MHLS Announcements
Three people standing
(l-r) Ramapo Catskill Library System Assistant Director Grace Riario, Senator James Skoufis and MHLS Executive Director Rebekkah Smith Aldrich
 
MHLS Executive Director Rebekkah Smith Aldrich recently visited with Senator James Skoufis to discuss the importance of investing in libraries. Senator Skoufis is one of four new senators in the MHLS service area.
Resource Sharing & Sierra
There is still time to register for the first Local History & Special Collections Roundtable on Tuesday, July 30th from 10:00-11:00am in the MHLS Auditorium. This first session focuses on Building and Maintaining a Local History Collection. Discussion may include, but is not limited to:
  • Developing policies
  • Acquisition & weeding
  • Cataloging materials
  • Promoting collections
Please register for any of this workshops through the online calendar http://calendar.midhudson.org/ Participants will have the choice of attending in-person at the MHLS Auditorium, or remotely from their computer.
Sustainable Libraries
Applications are being accepted for the Joseph F. Shubert Library Excellence Award from now until August 1st. The Award will recognize a New York State library or library consortium that has taken significant steps to improve the quality of library service to its users. As in past years, an award of $1,000, graciously donated by the Friends of the New York State Library, will be given to the winner along with a plaque at the annual New York Library Association conference in the November. Local former awardees include the Clinton Community Library, the Red Hook Public Library, the Mid-Hudson Library System and the Southeastern New York Library Resource Council. For more information about the Shubert Award and the application form, please go to
Programming
Kids have the chance to earn free tickets to see the Hudson Valley's own local minor league baseball team, the Renegades , play at Dutchess Stadium in Wappingers Falls on August 26th. The Hudson Valley Renegades are offering free tickets for libraries to give to kids participating in or completing their Summer Reading Programs. There is no cap on the number of kids' tickets that libraries can request, and participating libraries will be provided with a link for the families of participating kids to use to purchase discounted tickets. Libraries are also invited to use the publicity table at the August 26th game to get the word out about all the great things they're doing, and there may be a parade of Summer Reading kids at the game. To request tickets or more info, contact Bill Levy, Senior Account Executive for the Hudson Valley Renegades at 845-838-0094.

DID YOU KNOW?
Rookie (the Renegade) Raccoon, the mascot for the Hudson Valley Renegades is available for library visits year-round!
Job Openings
Circulation Clerk, Brewster Public Library
The Brewster Public Library has an opening for a Circulation Clerk.  Duties include checking library materials in and out, helping patrons with a large variety of requests, including locating materials and computer assistance, and opening/closing the library.  Candidates must be willing to work two evenings (until 7:00pm) per week and alternating Saturdays (9:30am-3:00pm). Must have a positive attitude, polished communication and technological skills, and great attention to detail. Fluency in both English and Spanish required. Previous library experience preferred, but not necessary.  Starting salary $11.50-$13 per hour. Please send letter of interest and résumé   to  director@brewsterlibrary.org, with Clerk Position in the subject line.
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