Somers Library Newsletter
News from Somers Library
April 2017
In This Issue
Hours of Operation  
Clock
80 Primrose Street 
(Reis Park, Route 139) 
Somers, NY 10589 
914-232-5717

Mon. 10am - 5pm 
Tue. 10am - 5pm 
Wed. 10am - 5pm 
Thu. 11am - 8pm 
Fri. 10am - 5pm 
Sat. 10am - 5pm 
Sun. CLOSED 
Did You Know... April is National Decorating Month?
 
"This month is dedicated to learning more about the many aspects of home decor while promoting the fun and creativity of DIY decorating." ~Chase's Calendar of Events
New Books

Last Chance Olive Ranch- Susan Wittig Albert
Beartown - Fredrik Backman
Lost Order - Steve Berry
Any Day Now - Robyn Carr
All By Myself, Alone - Mary Higgins Clark
Cold Earth - Ann Cleeves
Burial Hour - Jeffrey Deaver
Finding Gideon - Eric J. Dickey
Falling Darkness - Karen Harper
Where the Dead Lie - C. S. Harris
Song of the Lion - Anne Hillerman
No Easy Target - Iris Johansen
Prussian Blue - Philip Kerr
Earthly Remains - Donna Leon
Devil's Breath - G.M. Malliet
High Stakes - Fern Michaels
Cold Welcome - Elizabeth Moon
Golden Prey - John Sandford
One Perfect Lie - Lisa Scottoline
War Cry - Wilbur Smith
Anything is Possible - E. Strout
Every Body on Deck - G.A. McKevitt
City of Friends - Joanna Trollope
Cold Case - Peter Turnbull
Red Hunter - Lisa Unger
Fast and Loose - Stuart Woods
New DVDs

Office Christmas Party
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
Paterson
Lion
Walking With the Enemy
Sing
Incarnate
Hidden Figures
Sing
Gold
The Founder
La La Land
 Quotes We Love 
   

"Literacy is not a luxury, it is a right and a responsibility. If our world is to meet the challenges of the twenty-first century we must harness the energy and creativity of all our citizens." ~President Clinton 

"So it is with children who learn to read fluently and well: They begin to take flight into whole new worlds as effortlessly as young birds take to the sky." ~William James 
  
"Going to the library builds a kid's imagination. Books help them discover themselves and the world." ~Mike Bordick
Art Gallery 
                 
Our featured artist this month is Richard 'Dick' Samuel. Retiring after a 40 year career, and at the insistence of his wife, he compiled a to-do list. Among the items on that list was to enroll in a drawing/art course at Westchester Community College. During his art studies, he learned the joy of creating art for his family and friends. His early works were done in pen and ink with washes. He later included the use of oil pant and water colors. Dick has exhibited locally in various library venues. He served as a member of the Art Advisory Committee at Westchester Community College for ten years, and recently showcased his works at the John C. Hart Library in Shrub Oak.

If you are interested in displaying your art, please email somersartgallery@wls 
mail.org for an application.

Flowers of the Month  
                 
The flowers that you see at the library are sponsored by the Friends of Somers Library and donated by local businesses. We thank Mancini Realty for donating this month's flower arrangement.
Social Media

 

Don't forget to follow us on Twitter, become a fan on Facebook, or browse our book-related boards on Pinterest.View our photos on Flickr. Watch our videos on YouTube, or read our blog on Blogger.     

 

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Director's Corner


We are pleased to announce that we now offer Mango Languages online language-learning system to our patrons.  

Mango is free for all library patrons and can be accessed anywhere with an Internet connection. Each lesson combines real life situations and audio from native speakers with simple, clear instructions. The courses are presented with an appreciation for cultural nuance and real-world application by focusing on the four key elements of language learning: vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar, and culture.

Mango offers access to 60 foreign language courses and 17 English courses taught completely in the user's native language. In addition to traditional language courses, Mango also offers the opportunity to learn through foreign film with Mango Premiere™ and access to a variety of specialty mini courses, like Pirate, Medical Spanish and romance courses. Mango can be accessed at the library, remotely, or even on-the-go with apps for iPhone®, Android™, Kindle® and Nook®.

To learn more about Mango, stop by the library and ask a librarian for an introduction. Library card holders can access Mango through the library website at somerslibrary.org. For more information, contact the Library at (914) 232-5717.

Andrew Farber
Library Director 
Somers Library Foundation   
 
Tickets for the spring luncheon are still available. Want to enjoy a delicious lunch and support the Somers Library at the same time? Attend the Spring Bridge and Games Luncheon on Wednesday, April 26, at the GlenArbor Golf Club in Bedford Hills. Following lunch and a silent auction, attendees may stay to play table games in this beautiful setting. You can bid on a variety of great auction offerings like a resort stay, theater tickets, a round of golf, auto detailing, gym membership and much more. All proceeds will be used to fund improvement projects at the Library. Tickets are $45 per person and will be on sale through April 19. You can pick up a registration form at the Library or download it from our website . We hope to see you there!

Looking to volunteer some of your time? Work with other library enthusiasts on special events held throughout the year. To learn more about the Foundation, email VolunteerSLF@wlsmail.org .

Somers Library Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, charitable organization formed in 2011 to benefit the Library through advocacy and fundraising. 
Friends of Somers Library

Programs and concerts are funded by the Friends of the Somers Library, through your donations.  Thank you for your continued support!   
Celebrate our Heritage:  
Happy Birthday Reis Park!
Saturday April 29th
from 12 - 4:00 pm
 
Join us on for the 50th birthday of Reis Park on to honor Somers prominent benefactor, Carolyn Wright Reis and to celebrate her legacy-the birth of Reis Park. 
There will plenty of activities for all: storytelling with Jonathan Kruk, local authors, tour of Wright Reis Homestead & special exhibits, old fashioned games, a children's Story Walk, music, face painting, arts & crafts, and more.

This all day event is a collaborative program with Somers Historical Society, and is being made possible with funding from Westchester Library System's       mini-grant initiative - supported by Entergy, Con Edison, Somers Library Foundation, Friends of Somers Library, Somers Gift and Framing, and Somers Historical Society. 

Overflow parking will be available at the Wright Reis Homestead and the Van Tassell house. 
Seed Library News 2017

Seeds
Now is the time to gather your seeds and get growing. The Somers Seed Lending Library is a great place to start! Somers Seed Lending Library is a free community heirloom and organic seed lending project, demonstrating that libraries check out more than books! Growers borrow enough seed to grow 5-6 plants from the seed library. They record what they borrow, as well as basic contact information for later in the season. At the end of the growing season, grower harvests as usual, but save some of the seed for next season, returning a portion (usually 2-3 times the starting amount or more) to the seed library to continue the cycle. Please note: you must have an active Somers Library card to participate

We are so pleased to offer our patrons this unique opportunity. Our hope is that you will enjoy gardening and picking the fruits of your hard labor. Along with saving seeds, consider checking out some great books on gardening and cooking to experience a true culinary treat! So, please come and visit the Somers Seed Lending Library to get heirloom and organic seeds to grow quality plants-and to get into the spirit of the season of spring!
 
Donations are gratefully accepted to help grow our seed library. On our wish list: new packets of Heirloom and Organic Seeds. You can follow Somers Seed Lending Library on Facebook by clicking here
Adult Programs & Events   
calendar

* FOR ALL adult programs, click on the Online Calendar to register, or call the library at 914-232-5717. Please register each person separately for events. Current events are listed below; check our Online Calendar for upcoming events. All programs take place at the Somers Library unless otherwise noted. 
 
►It's Your Health. Thursdays April 6-27 from 12:30-2pm. This 4 week workshop focuses on practical information and strategies for healthy eating, stress management, fitness and accessible activities. Topics include reading labels, portion sizes, daily servings recommended for food groups, how to better manage stress and methods to practice, and a discussion on adding activity into your day and increasing your fitness.

We the Poets . Thursdays April 6 - June 8 from 11am to 12:30pm. Beginner and experienced poets "will hold these truths to be self-evident" that all poems can be created using trial and error, serendipity along with learning the processes of craft in this poetry workshop. Discover your muse as Thea Schiller will introduce an established poem, lead a discussion and create in class writing exercises with time allotted to write and share each week.  
 
►Alan Sklar Reads Two Short Stories by Neil Gaiman . Friday April 7 at 1pm. Join us as Alan Sklar, professional narrator, corporate spokesman, and actor with years of experience reads two stories by Neil Gaiman.   
 
►Titanic: The Experience . Saturday April 8 at 2pm. Join us for a wonderful presentation starring Denise Vanaria as Mrs. Thomas Andrews Jr., wife of Titanic's Designer. Hear her story of life, love, and loss. Featuring authentic artifacts associated with Titanic and the Edwardian Era. 
From the Streets to the Stage: See the Emmy Award Winning Documentary and Meet the Star
Tuesday, April 4 at 1pm, and Wednesday April 12 at 1pm. Explore the story of a ballet dancer who overcame tremendous odds to achieve his dreams. FROM THE STREETS TO THE STAGE: THE JOURNEY OF FREDRICK DAVIS presents the powerful life story of Fredrick Davis, who, as a child, overcame poverty and homelessness to make his dreams of becoming a dancer a reality. Fred's story illustrates both the impact of the arts on the lives of young people and a community's drive to provide opportunity and support for its most vulnerable citizens. Fred was a premier dancer with the Dance Theater of Harlem, and currently tours the country dancing with notable ballet companies.

►Seed Choices: The Relevance of Seeds and Our Local Food System . Saturday April 15 at 10:30am. 
Whether you're a homesteader, a gardener, or simply a person who cares about sustainable food and agriculture systems, this class provide a wonderful opportunity to experience the source of it all: seeds.  
►Writer's Workshop. Dates: April 6, 13, 20, 27; May 4, 11, 18, 25, June 1, 8, 15, 22
Session I: 1:00pm-2:30pm / Session II: 2:30pm-4:00pm
If there is a book in you, a memoir, a fictional recounting of a time in your life or an historical tome, there is no greater time to preserve your written words in a class with other students who are exploring an idea, a work in progress, or a chapter in their life. Bring your ideas, pen and paper (or laptop) so that within a few short weeks you will have developed the strategies to become a lifelong writer. People of all skill levels are welcome. Space is limited, so register early! Register for one session only please.
 
It's Your Move . Thursdays May 4-25 from 12:30-2pm. Yoga can help you manage stress while increasing your strength and flexibility. This accessible 4 week yoga program includes seated or chair poses for individuals with a mobility disability. 
Hemingway in Paris . Friday May 5 at 1pm. Learn the places that Hemingway frequented in Paris, such as La Closerie des Lilas, the café where he wrote his masterpiece, The Sun Also Rises as well as the famous people he associated with, such as Gertrude Stein and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Discover the reasons that
Hemingway went to Paris and how he got the chance to meet so many famous and influential people, such as Stein and Picasso. Learn also about his relationships with his mentors, such as Sherwood Anderson and Stein, and his "Paris" wives, Hadley and Pauline.  
 
Blue Ink: Writers Reading Their Work.
Friday May 19th at 1pm. This dynamic group will talk about their works in progress, the publishing process, and more. Join us for an engaging afternoon! Featuring Janet Garber, Thea Schiller, Priscilla Louise, and Marea Needle.  
 Ongoing Adult Events 
 
Coloring Book Club for Adults. Relax, color, socialize -  all for free at Somers Library! Materials are provided, or bring your own colored pencils and coloring books (recommended.) Registration is not required; meetings will be held in the conference room every Friday from 10:30-12:30. 
   
Westchester Writers. 6:30pm on the first, third and fifth Thursday of each month in the program room. Join a safe, supportive, and creative environment to share literary works in progress. This is not a writing class, but rather an ongoing group of writers offering assistance to its members who are looking to improve their writing skills through positive feedback and helpful critiques. Beginners as well as experienced writers over the age of 18 are welcome.   
Home Decorating

There is no better time than now to spruce up your home and give it a brand new makeover. If you are thinking about redecorating, and not sure where to start, check out these books for some great design ideas.
  • The soul of a house: decorating with warmth, style and comfort by Chris Madden
  • Domino: the book of decorating: a room by room guide to creating a home that makes you happy by Deborah Needleman
  • Country living: 500 quick and easy decorating projects & ideas by Dominique Devito
  • Kitty Bartholomew's decorating style: a hands-on-approach to creating affordable, beautiful and comfortable rooms by Kitty Bartholomew
  • 750 great ideas for decorating on a budget: transform your home inside & out by Ray Furse
  • Elements of style : designing a home and a life by Erin Gates
  •   A beautiful mess happy handmade home: painting, crafting, and decorating a cheerful, more inspiring space by Elsie Larson
  • New vintage: the homemade home: beautiful interiors and how-to projects by Tahn Scoon
  • Downtown chic: designing your dream home: from wreck to ravishing by Robert Novogratz
  • Chez moi: decorating your home and living like a Parisienne by Sarah Lavoine
  •   Simply styling: fresh & easy ways to personalize your home by Kirsten Grove
  • Hotel chick at home: inspired design ideas from glamorous escapes by Sara Bliss
  • Beautiful: all-American decorating and timeless style by Caitlin Leffel
  • The creative home: inspiring ideas for beautiful living by Geraldine James
Find additional titles on this topic and many others by visiting our Pinterest boards. You may also place a hold on books by clicking here
 
Teen Events
For more Information & to Register click here! 
 
Teen Algebra Tutoring at the Library - Mondays 4/3, 4/24, 5/8 & 6/5 from 3:15-4:30 PM- These sessions will help students with:  Topic help with examples & homework help. Please register for each session separately through our on line calendar
Teen Yoga & Mindfulness - Thursdays, 4/6, 4/20, 4/27, & 5/4 from 3:45 - 4:30 pm - This class provides a great way for teens / tweens to unwind and move. These classes will be led by Denise Nobile of Youth Yoga Nation. This class is intended for teens / tweens in grade 5th and up! Space is limited, please register here.
Teen / Tween Coding 101: Wed, April 19 @ 6:15 pm -Discover how apps like Minecraft and websites like Facebook are created and learn the basics of languages such as C# and Java. This program is for students in grade 6 and up. Beginners are welcome! Space is limited, please register here
College Talk - Showcasing Your Uniqueness Through the Virtual Locker - Thursday, April 27th @ 6:30pm. Join us at the Somers Library for a presentation given by Jeffrey Hirsch of College Starter-Admissions & Application Academy.  Discussion on how students can stand out in an applicant pool by showcasing their unique skills and talents.   how uploading a distinctive video, a press clipping, a significant school assignment or project, an art image, etc. can separate them from the crowd. Space is limited, please register here.
Teen Fashion: Character Redo Using Illustration & College - Fridays 4/28, 5/5, 5/12, 6/2 & 6/9 from 3:15-4:30 pm. Join us for a crafting and costume design class, where illustration and collage collide!  This program is intended for students in grade 6th and up.  Space is limited, please register here.

Clubs for Teens 
For more Information & Registration click here!
Anime Club - This club meets every Wednesday  through May from 3:15-4:30 pm. 
Pokemon Club:  Join us at the Somers Library  to meet, discuss and battle your friends using your Nintendo 3DS (or even using your cards)!   This program is for teens/tweens in grades 5th and up.  Meets every other Friday through June 2nd. Our next meeting is 4/14, but please note there is no meeting 4/28. Please register here.
Anime Nights! - Fridays once a month from 4:30 - 6:30 pm (4/21, & 5/19). 
Children's Programs & Events

 
 New: 'Bingo' cards! Each month will bring new activities. See Vicki or Beth beginning April  1 to receive your card. When you complete all 6 (six) activities, bring in your card and pick out a prize from the treasure chest!
 
►StoryWalk is coming from April 7-29. Read Hogwash by Karma Wilson as you walk around the exterior of the library !
 
►SAVE THE DATE~ Saturday, April 29 from 12:00-4:00! Reis Park is celebrating its 50th Anniversary!  Somers Historical Society and Somers Library are planning a day of events for all ages!  See website for details.

►Model Magic- Mother's Day Craft! Saturday, May 6 from 10:30-11:30 with Art Teacher Wendy Podell.  Registration required- register here.
 
►Stepping Back in Time- Local History for Kids! Led by teacher and Somers Town Historian Doris Jane Smith- 6 sessions: Mar 7, 21; Apr 4; May 2, 16; June 13 from 3:30-4:30. Best for grades K-3. Register here.  

Activities during the school break:

April 10-15:  Sidewalk Poetry~ grab a piece of chalk  and display your poem on the library sidewalk AND create or add a poem to our 
Poet-tree (see inside library for details!)  

Monday, April 10: Movie Monday- enjoy a family movie at the library 1:00-3:00 (Disney's Moana- rated PG; run time 1 hr, 48 minutes)

Tuesday, April 11: Planet Story Time- read The Giving Tree and make an Earth Day project 10:30-11:00.

Wednesday, April 12:  Drop Everything & Read Day! Come to the library and read to a parent, friend or to a librarian- anytime during library hours.

Thursday, April 13:  Poetry in Your Pocket Day!  Write a poem to add to our "Poet-tree" and take a poem in exchange, anytime during library hours.

Friday, April 14:  Drop-In Craft!  Create a Spring-themed greeting card using punch-out shapes, paper cut-outs, stamps, etc., anytime during library hours.
 
►Special book displays this month: Spring, Easter, Passover, Poetry and Earth Day!
 
►PreSchool Story Time & Craft (for ages 4-5 years old~ without caregivers); Somers residents
-Tuesdays 1:00-1:45 from Feb 28-Apr 25 (No program Apr 11, 18) 
-Wednesdays 1:00-1:45 from Mar 1-Apr 26 (No program Apr 12, 19)
 
►K- 2 Book Clubs* meet from 3:30-4:15 as follows:
Kindergarten Book Club Feb 27-Apr 24 (no program Mar 20, Apr 10, 17)
1st Grade Book Club Feb 28-Apr 25 (No program 
Mar 21, Apr 11, 18)
2nd Grade Book Club Mar 1-Apr 26 (No program 
Mar 22, Apr 12, 19)
*Children must be in the grade for which they are registering.  Registration required. Somers residents only.  Children's Librarian Vicki DiSanto will run these book clubs.

►Grades 3-5 Book Clubs meet Wednesdays from 3:45-4:45 as follows:
Grade 3 Book Club Apr 5, May 3
Grade 4 Book Club  Apr 12, May 10
Grade 5 Book Club Apr 19, May 17

*Please note;  Gr. 3-5 book clubs will resume in April.  Betsy Bishop will run these. 

Registration required. Children must be in the grade for which they are registering.
      
Story times for Babies  (6 months to 2 years) meets on Tuesdays at 10:30 and 11:30 (select one session
Mar 7-Apr 18 (no program Apr 11, 25).  NEW-Registration is now necessary, and you must have a Somers Library Card. See the Story Time schedule here.
  
Story times for Toddlers (ages 2-3) meets Thursdays at 10:30 am  Mar 2-Apr 20 (No program 
Apr 13, 27) and Fridays  at 10:30 Mar 3-Apr 21 (no program Apr 14, 28).  NEW- Registration is now necessary and you must have a Somers Library Card. See the Storytime schedule here.