Somers Library
 
Newsletter 
June 2019 
 
 
Keys to the Past .... Gateway to the Future
80 Primrose Street
Route 139 & Reis Park
Somers, NY 10589
914-232-5717
email: [email protected]  
 
Summer Hours
Mon, Tue, Wed 10am - 5pm 
Thurs 11am - 8pm 
Fri 10am - 5pm 
Sat 10am - 3pm 
Sun - CLOSED 

 
Director's Corner

Senior Benefits Individual Counseling Services (SBICS) help older adults 60 and over and those caring for the elderly achieve a better understanding of Medicare health plans and prescription drug coverage. Information is provided about different types of government programs.

Meet with trained counselors in a private setting to get information about:
  • Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medigap supplement plans
  • Part D prescription drug coverage
  • Medicare savings plans for low-income seniors
  • Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), food stamps and other benefit programs
You will be able to meet with trained counselors in a private setting at the Somers Library

No appointment is necessary, Counselors are available: Wednesdays: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

  
Andrew Farber 
Director
Summer Loan
Beginning June 10, 2019, books for Summer Loan may be charged out for the entire summer. Summer Loan Books must be returned by September 7, 2019.  Patrons with an up-to-date library card may charge out a maximum of seven older fiction and/or non-fiction books.
Exceptions:  Books belonging to other libraries, 14-Day Books, Books from the Summer Reading List, Express Books, Travel Books, Magazines, and AV material, may NOT be charged out for Summer Loan.
Book Bingo for Adults:   Have fun, try something different, and join with children and teens in summer reading. Who knows...you might be a lucky winner!

Back by popular demand!  Book Bingo for Adults, an adult summer reading challenge!
►Fill out a registration form and give to the reference librarian. Make sure to include your Somers Library card number.
►Receive a game card to take home and keep until you have completed your Book Bingo card. Participants will receive one free book for registering (while supplies last.)
►Put an 'X' through each completed square on the game card. Try to get a 'Bingo' by completing a full row in any direction. Keep track of all the books you have read, etc. on the back of the game card.
►All game cards must be returned on or before August 28.
►Once you have completed and turned in your game card, you will be entered into a raffle to win one of 10 drawing prizes.* 
*Raffle Prizes - There will be 10 raffle winners chosen for gift bags that include gift cards, books and   other gifts!
 
Our Programs Are Funded By the Friends of the Somers Library.

Adult Events  
* FOR ALL adult programs, call the library at 914-232-5717 or register using our  Online Calendar for upcoming events. All programs take place at the Somers Library unless otherwise noted. Registration required for most programs. 

Senior Benefits Information Center:   Every Wednesday, through December 18, 2019, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm  (No meeting on 11/27). Senior Benefits Information Centers (SBICs) help older adults 60 and over and those caring for the elderly achieve a better understanding of Medicare health plans and prescription drug coverage. Information is provided about different types of government programs. Meet with trained counselors in a private setting to get information about:  Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medigap supplement plans; Part D prescription drug coverage; Medicare savings plans for low-income seniors; Financial benefit programs such as Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), & food stamps (SNAP).  You will be able to meet with trained counselors in a private setting. No appointment is necessary. If you can't visit the library in person, you can leave a message on the SBIC helpline at 914-231-3260 or email us at [email protected] with your name, number, a time to call between 9 am-5 pm and whether your interest is in Medicare services or other benefits. 

Basic Computer Help by Appointment.  Do you need help using your computer? Would you like to learn more about how to work with word documents, spreadsheets, email, etc.? Please call the library to set-up an appointment with a knowledgeable volunteer who will meet with you at the library.  We encourage you to bring your own laptop or tablet to the library to use to practice. For more information or to make arrangements, please call the library (Reference Desk).

TED TALK: Human Relations - Enhancing Personal & Professional Relationships. Thursday, June 6th from 1:00 - 3:00 pm.  Join host Eugene Ritchie in a discussion after viewing two TED talk speakers who will speak on a this topic. Professor Ritchie's mission is to provide a viewing, discussion, and inspirational forum for library members and the Somers Community of themed TED Talks designed for personal and professional growth. This program consists of diverse speakers with short presentations of 10 and 20 minutes long. Speakers will be Julia Dhar: "How to Disagree Productively and Find Common Ground" and Erez Yoeli: "How to Motivate People to Do Good for Others." The talks will be followed by light refreshment.

Race Amity Day Celebration. Sunday, June 9, 12:00 - 5:00 pm. Come and celebrate our efforts at amity with an international potluck picnic in Reis Park! Bring an international dish to share and a friend - no registration needed and all are welcome!

Alan Sklar Reads Hemingway's Best African Big Game Hunting Story.  Saturday, June 15th from 1:00 - 2:30 pm.  In the short story The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber, a wonderfully theatrical tale about courage and cowardice, the lion is the hero of the story! Join us as Alan Sklar, professional narrator, corporate spokesman and actor with years of experience, reads this classic tale. 

Genealogy Workshop - Beyond Beginners . Saturday, June 15th from 11:00 - 12:30 pm. Now that you've begun the search for your ancestors, have you hit that infamous genealogical brick wall?  Was your ancestor dropped in the middle of a corn field by aliens? Learn how to follow the trail back in time and explore resources that may lead to discoveries about your family's origins.  

Navigating the Unexpected - Are you Ready? Wednesday, June 19, 6:30 - 8:00 pm. Life happens, and with significant life events comes stressful and emotional challenges. Be ready for any curve balls that life throws at us when least expected! Join us for a panel discussion with local professionals who will address frequently asked questions to help you take control while experiencing life's key milestones, including:
  • Getting married
  • Transitioning through divorce
  • Coping with the loss of a spouse or loved one
Come hear strategies and tips to keep you on the right path to financial, emotional and physical health. Space is limited. 

Create a Summer Seashell Wreath (Adults).  Saturday, June 22nd from 10:30 am - 12:00. Join us at the Somers Library to make a lovely seashell wreath to get you in the mood for summer!  Judika Lieberman will lead the class and materials will be provided. 

Financial Literacy: Identifying & Avoiding Scams. Thursday, June 27, 6:30 - 8:00 pm. Scammers target bank customers, especially the elderly, because of the size of their assets, their tendency to be more trusting or the likelihood of their being stressed by family, medical and financial problems. Seniors especially can be targeted because they are more likely to be suffering from declining cognitive skills, making them more vulnerable to fraud and manipulation. This program, presented by Therese-Maureen LaMarche and created by the American Bankers Association, will offer valuable information to help identify and avoid being scammed. This presentation will help participants:
  • Understand the nature of scams and recognize the warning signs
  • Take appropriate action if they become the victim of fraud
  • Build protective barriers against scams
  • Appreciate the role that banks can play in helping them to avoid and deal with financial fraud and exploitation
How to Increase Your ENERGY, VITALITY and YOUTH (While Decreasing Your Need for Medication & Surgery).  Saturday, June 29, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm.  At this educational workshop presented by Dr. Edward Markowitz of the Advanced Wellness and Injury Center in Danbury, CT, you will learn: How to improve the way you feel, look and work; How to limit your need for drugs and surgery; How to reduce your pain naturally; How to reduce the harmful effects of stress; Why our health care costs are rising an we are still so sick. Dr. Markowitz is one of the Clinical Directors of the Advanced Wellness and Injury Center in Danbury, CT. He frequently consults many corporations on ergonomics as well as the prevention and treatment of work-related injuries.

Ongoing Events

Knit and Crochet Club.  Fridays beginning January 11th from 10:30 am -12:00 pm. Join Kathy Neggers (facilitator) and other knitters and crocheters to enjoy working on individual projects together. Bring your project and supplies. Beginners are welcome! Just bring a pair of knitting needles or a crochet hook some yarn and learn the basics!

Somers Seed Lending Library 2019. During library hours. With the start of spring slowly approaching, we are happy to announce that the Somers Seed Lending Library has new seeds added to our collection - thanks to the generous support of the Friends of the Somers Library. Our hope is that you will enjoy gardening and picking the fruits of your labor. In order to give everyone the opportunity to participate in the seed library, please only take enough seeds to grow about 6-7 plants per seed pack.  All we ask is that at harvest time, you take some extra steps to save seeds for others. If possible, we would like you to return a portion of the seeds you have saved to the seed library. The more seeds in the library, the more members of our community can experience the pleasure of growing their own garden from local seeds. Please note: you must have an active Somers Library card to participate. Happy growing!

Somers Library Book Club. Tuesdays, 5/14, 6/11, 7/16, 8/13, 9/3, 10/8, 11/2, & 12/10, 6:30 - 8:00 pm. This Somers Library sponsored book club will be led by Diana Cunningham, who will select the books to be discussed at each meeting. The titles will be mostly fiction, but could also be non-fiction or biographical. The titles will be chosen in consultation with the Somers adult reference library, Tara Ferretti, and based on currency, not on best-seller lists, not new, varied in terms of type and format, and substantive or suitable for discussions. Any Somers library user can register/attend. At the firsts meeting, the club will be discussing the book: The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See. Copies will be reserved for club members.  Book titles are selected 3 weeks in advance of meetings, holds placed at least 2 weeks prior to meetings, and book group emails sent as to availability of books held for the group. All holds are canceled by the book group meeting date. At the end of the current month's meeting, book marks with the following month's selection will be handed out, and members will have enough time to check out the next month's selection as they leave the library. Space is limited to 20 people.  Please include your email address in your registration.

Teens
Teen Events  
* For ALL teen and tween programs, please call us at 914-232-5717,  or register here for upcoming events. All programs will take place at the Somers Library unless otherwise noted. Registration required for most programs.                  
 
VolunTEEN Life is Worthwhile if You Can Share a Smile! Tuesday, June 4th from 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm. Share the power of a smile by decorating postcards with silly jokes, fun pictures or words of encouragement! When completed, cards will be sent to various families and hospitals across the United States.  This program is for students entering grades 9 - 12. Eligible attendees may earn one (1.0) hour towards their community service requirement. Space is limited to 25 participants.
 
Ready, Steady, Go! Creating a College Checklist Timeline . Tuesday, June 4th from 7:00 pm -  8:00 pm. Do you want to go to your dream college, but are not sure where to start? Having a list of tasks for college applications can help you navigate smoothly and successfully the admissions and scholarship applications process. This program is available for students entering grades 8 - 10 and their parents.   About the Presenter: C2 Education of Mt. Kisco is a college preparation, admissions counseling and tutoring company that develops individualized programs to optimize admission matches between students to their dream college.   
 
Atelier @ Somers: Applique Plaque Design . This program is a mini series - for best results, it is recommended that participants attend all three program dates to be held on Thursdays from 3:30 - 4:45 pm: 6/6, 6/13, & 6/20.   Take your love of fashion and interior design to a new level! Join us for a fun class where you will learn how  hand sew and appliqué your initials! Participants will have the opportunity to choose from a variety of fabrics, ribbons and colors. Participants have the option of bring their own two fabric choices to customize design. After three classes you will have a framed initial plaque to decorate your room, or to give as a gift.  This program is for students grades 6 and up. Space is limited to 10 participants.
 
 TAG/Volunteen: A Friend In Need Is A Friend Indeed! Tuesday, June 11th from 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm. What can you do to make a difference not just for yourself, but for those around you? Did you know that being a good friend could really help save a life? Celebrate Making Life Beautiful Day
at the library! Stop by to meet a community helper who will teach tips on how to be a great friend. We will also decorate gift bags that will be filled and distributed to people in need. This activity is for students grades 6 and up. Eligible attendees may earn one  (1.0) hour towards their community service requirement. Space is limited to 25 participants.  

Pokemon Go! Friday, June 14 from 3:30 - 4:30pm. Feel the wind in your hair and grass under your feet! Run wild with Pokemon!  Whether you are a seasoned fan, or secretly curious, stop by to make new friends and become part of a vast community. Requirements: You must have access to a device that will accept the app for download. We will meet in the Program Room, then play outside.   This event will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather. This program is for students grades 6+.
 

paper_cutout_kids_reading.jpg
 
Ongoing Events  
 
Summer Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) Club . Alternating Saturdays on  6/1, & 6/15 from 12:00 - 2:30 pm. Create your own world - join us to play Dungeons & Dragons! Familiarity with Dungeons and Dragons is encouraged, but not necessary. Grades 6 and up. Registration is required.
 
Summer Magic the Gathering Club. On the following Saturdays on  6/1, 6/8, 6/15 and 6/22 from 10:30 - 11:45 am. Join us to play the popular card game of Magic the Gathering! New players and beginners welcome! Grades 6 and up. Registration is required.
 
Summer Anime/Manga Club.
Every Wednesday, from 3:15-4:30 pm on 6/5, 6/12, & 6/19. Join us  to watch anime from Crunchyroll on our big screen TV, eat snack, & to hang out with friends. This program is for teens entering 7th grade and up. Registration is not required. 
kids_with_art_supplies.jpg
Children's Events

FOR ALL Children's programs, click on the Online Calendar to register,  or call the library at 914-232-5717.

***

June Specials:

~Save the Date:  Summer Reading Kick-Off  will be on 
Wednesday, June 26 @ 1:00.
Get ready to read with a program from
 Nancy Hershatter, M.Ed.- Teacher-Musician-Performer!
  
This educational and entertaining program will take families around the world with songs and stories celebrating Mother Earth and in keeping with this year's theme- 
A Universe of Stories!

Join us on  
Wednesday, June 26 at 1:00 pm!
*********

Summer Reading for all ages!
We have many programs!  Please visit our website for details!
For Reading Programs:  see here.
For Activities:  see here.


*************

See website for specific dateswww.somerslibrary.org

PreSchool Story Time & Craft~ this program will resume in September.
(for ages 4-5 years old~ without caregivers); 
Registration required~ minimum of 5 (five) registrants to run program.
Somers residents only
-Tuesdays 1:00-1:45 

K- 2 Book Clubs~ this program will resume in September.
Kindergarten will meet Mondays
1st Grade will meet Tuesdays
2nd Grade will meet Wednesdays
Time:  3:30-4:15
*Children must be in the grade for which they are registering.  
Registration required.
Somers residents only.  
Vicki DiSanto (Children's Librarian) will run these book clubs.

Grades 3-5 Book Clubs~ these will resume in October.
Meeting day is Thursday from 3:45-4:45  
Bus transportation available- bus #K
Registration required. 
Somers residents only. 
Children must be in the grade for which they are registering.  
Beth Levine (Library Assistant) will run these book clubs.

Babytime for children ages 0-2 with caregivers on Tuesday @ 10:30.
      
Toddler Story Time for children ages 2-3 with caregivers @ 10:30:
Thursday
OR
Friday

Registration is now necessary, and you must have a Somers Library Card.

See the Story Time, Book Clubs and Program schedules  here.   

Bits and Pieces

Flowers 
The flowers that you see at the library are sponsored by the Friends of Somers Library and donated by local businesses. We thanks Dr Robert Grimshaw of CareMount Medical Group (914-245-7700)  for donating this month's flower arrangement.

Art Gallery
June Artist:  Art Exhibit - Oil Paintings by Mindy Yanish 
"Faces of God".  June 1 - 30 during library hours. Opening Reception June 1, 6:00 - 8:00 pm. "I always wanted to understand the source of creation itself. Creating anything I could learn to create, whether it was building a napkin holder on wheels for my mom (in case someone across the table needed a napkin in a hurry) to a writing table that brought a forgotten piece of walnut into the spotlight of love it deserved, to a painting that captures the essence of rain. All these endeavors of a lifetime have brought me as close to that source as anything ever has. I suppose that makes me an artist, and that makes me very grateful." - Mindy Yanish.

Mindy Yanish has been making art since the age of 3. Primarily self taught, she received her Masters degree in Painting from the School of Visual Arts.  She is the owner of Offerings Gallery in Katonah where she often exhibits and sells her work.
 

Please join the Friends of the Somers Library 
at these upcoming June events:  
 
TED TALK: Human Relations-Enhancing Personal 
and Professional Relationships  
Event Type:  Adult Program
Date: 6/6/2019
Start Time: 1:00 PM
End Time: 3:00 PM
Description: Join host Eugene Ritchie in a discussion after viewing two TED talk speakers who will speak on a this topic. Professor Ritchie's mission is to provide a viewing, discussion, and inspirational forum for library members and the Somers Community of themed TED Talks designed for personal and professional growth. This program consists of diverse speakers with short presentations of 10 and 20 minutes long. Speakers will be Julia Dhar: "How to Disagree Productively and Find Common Ground" and Erez Yoeli: "How to Motivate People to Do Good for Others." The talk will be followed by light refreshment. Registration is required. Please visit the calendar on the Somers Library website to register or call 232-5717.
 Location: Program Room
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Race Amity Day Celebration
Event Type: All ages
Date: 6/9/2019
Start time: 12:00 PM
End Time: 5:00 PM
Description: Come and celebrate our efforts at amity with an international potluck picnic in Reis Park! No registration needed.
 
Location: Program Room
Presenter: Susan Cody    
News from the Somers Library Foundation

A library outranks any other one thing a community can do
to benefit its people. It is a never failing spring in the desert.
~ Andrew Carnegie

The Somers Library is a treasured gathering place - our community's living room. It is where people of all ages come to learn, explore, create, and share. Our 36-year-old Library in Reis Park is well-loved but is overdue for several improvements to meet our community's changing needs.
Updating our decades-old beloved library would create an even better resource for our community. Because the Library's operating budget does not fund building improvements, Somers Library Foundation is asking for your help.
Your gift will help us make these exciting projects possible:
  • Children's Room: a safer entrance to a space that lets our kids be kids
  • Reading Room: new, comfy and flexible furniture
  • The Mix: a new, dedicated space for teens to talk, work, or just hang out
  • Studio Somers Library: new workspaces for creating, exploring, and learning
Please be an important part of our Library's future, go to https://somerslibraryfoundation.org/cause/donate-today
/ and click the " DONATE NOW" button.

Somers Library Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
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