Somers Library
 
Newsletter 
May 2018  
 
Keys to the Past .... Gateway to the Future
80 Primrose Street
Route 139 & Reis Park
Somers, NY 10589
914-232-5717
email: [email protected]  
 
Hours
Mon, Tue, Wed 10am - 5pm 
Thurs 11am - 8pm 
Fri 10am - 5pm 
Sat 10am - 5pm 
Sun - CLOSED 
 
Director's Corner
 
Changes are coming to how you access your eBooks and eAudio from Overdrive.

Libby is a new app released by OverDrive. It has the same collection of titles as the OverDrive app - it's just a different way to access the same digital library collection. Libby is a fast and attractive digital browsing experience.

Libby is compatible with Android and iOS devices, with Kindle Fire compatibility coming soon. Libby is great if you just want to download a book to your Android or iOS phone or tablet. Currently Libby does not have all of the features of the existing Overdrive app, but once it does it will be replacing the Overdrive classic app.

For help or more information please contact the reference desk at 232-5717.


Andrew Farber
Director
Funding for library programs are provided by The Friends of Somers Library.
Adult Events  
    
* 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. Registration required for most programs. 
 
 
2018 TED Talks. Thursdays 5/3, 6/7, 1:00 - 2:30 pm. Join host Eugene Ritchie in discussion after viewing two TED talk speakers each session who will speak on a specific 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. Each program consists of diverse speakers with short presentations of 10 and 21 minutes long. Each talk will be followed by light refreshment. Topics are: April 5 - The Power of Fiction: Lisa Bu - How Books Can Open Your Mind;  Mac Barnett - Why a Good Book Is a Secret Door. May 3 - Feats That Inspire: Diana Nyad - Never, Ever Give Up; Bill Stone - I'm going to the Moon. Who's with me? June 7 - The Future: Juan Enriquez - What does the Future Look Like? Peter Calthorpe - 7 Principles for Building Better Cities. Registration is required.
 
Mondays Writer's Workshop. Mondays, 4/2 - 6/25, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm. 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! Please register on our online calendar at www.somerslibrary.org or call 9141-232-5717.
 
Thursdays Writers Workshop. Session I: T hursdays, 4/5 - 6/14, 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm. Session II: Thursdays, 4/5 - 6/14, 2:30 - 4:00 pm.  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. Register online at www.somerslibrary.org or call 914-232-5717.
 
Poetry Workshop. T hursdays, 4/5, 12,19, 26. 5/3, 10, 17, 24.  6/7, 14, 21, 11:00 - 12:30 pm. Beginner and experienced poets "will hold these truths to be self-evident" that all poems can be created using trial and error and serendipity along with learning the processes of craft in this poetry workshop. Discover your muse as Thea Schiller introduces an established poem, leads a discussion and creates in-class writing exercises with time allotted to write and share each week. Participating members will be encouraged to expand their repertoire of poems. Register online at www.somerslibrary.org or call 914-232-5717.
 
Warm Weather Colors . Mondays, 4/30, 5/7, 14, 21, 6/4/, 10:30 am - 12:30 pm. Continue to explore using water-soluble oil pastels and watercolor pencils and see the vibrancy they can bring to your Spring endeavors! Quiet music will be played for extra inspiration. Suggested Supplies List: Multi-media paper - 98 lb or higher, Water cup, Soft brush, Pencil, Eraser, Water-soluble oil Pastels - Portfolio, AND/OR Water-soluble pencils(Fantasia, Staedtler, Intense (Derwent). There is a $30 fee to be paid on the first day of class. Make checks out to Judika Lieberman. Registration is required; register online at www.somerslibrary.org or call 914-232-5717.
 
The Basics: Memory Loss, Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease.  Friday, May 4, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm. This program, presented by The Alzheimer's AssociationHudson Valley Chapter, provides basic information about memory-loss issues and what they mean for all of us. The program covers warning signs of dementia, differences between dementia and Alzheimer's disease, stages of the disease, treatment options, research and services.
 
Who Wrote That Song? Harry Warren, the Unknown Master of Melody. Saturday, May 5, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm. " You'll Never Know How Much I Love You;" "42nd Street;" "Jeepers Creepers, Where'd You Get Those Peepers?" "I Only Have Eyes For You"; "Chattanooga Choo-Choo" - all these beautiful melodies were written by award-winning composer, Harry Warren, yet oddly, few people know his name! Diane Cypkin, Professor of Media Studies at Pace University, will sing Warren's melodies, tell his life story and explain what inspired his songs. She'll also say who sang them as well as share the celebrity music gossip of the time.
 
Sinatra, Music of the 40's and More. Sunday, May 6, 2 - 4 pm. Come and hear composer, Steinway artist, and Pianist for Peace Louis Landon as he entertains you with music from the 40's. Mr. Landon's life dedicated to music has taken him around the world, playing a variety of styles with some of the most recognized names in the entertainment industry and has written and produced music for film, video, and  commercials. Be inspired this Sunday afternoon listening to this talented performer! No registration necessary, but space is limited; first come, first seated.
 
Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body: Tips from the Latest Research. Friday, May 11, 1:00 - 2:00 pm. At any age, there are lifestyle habits we can adopt to help maintain or even potentially improve our health. These habits may also help keep our brains healthy as we age and possibly delay the onset of cognitive decline. This workshop, hosted by the Alzheimer's Association Hudson Valley Chapter, covers four areas of lifestyle habits associated with healthy aging: cognitive activity, exercise, diet/nutrition and social engagement. In each area, we will discuss what we know, drawing on current research as well as what steps we can take now to improve or maintain overall health in each area. 

Know the 10 Signs: Early Detection Matters. Friday, May 18, 1:00 - 2:00 pm. Early diagnosis gives people with Alzheimer's disease the chance to make key decisions about treatment, care and planning and the power to make choices about their own health and future. This program, presented by the Alzheimer's Association Hudson Valley Chapter, increases awareness of the benefits of Alzheimer's early detection and provides information about memory loss, normal aging, Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Also learn about the risk factors, 10 warning signs, the diagnostic process and resources to help. 
 
Conversational Spanish for Adults. Wednesdays, May 30, June 6 & 7, 11:30 - 1:00 pm. 
Could you use a bit of help learning to carry on a basic conversation in Spanish? Join us for 3 weekly workshops to practice speaking to a native Spanish speaker in a friendly, comfortable setting. Space is limited and registration is required. 
 
Ongoing 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.   
 
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  Teen Events
* FOR ALL teen programs, click on the
Online Calendar to register,
or call the library at 914-232-5717          

Teen-Parent Talk: College Application Process from A-Z - Thursday, May 10th at 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm @ the Somers Library - Presented by Neal Schwartz of College Planning of Westchester. Students are applying to more colleges than ever before and that has resulted in a significant drop in acceptance rates-especially at the top colleges. For the majority of high school seniors, it has become much more difficult to get into their first choice schools. So what can you do to best position your application? Topics include:
  • What is the admissions office really looking for?
  • Common App Prompts
  • Common elements of great essays
  • How to bring your character into your personal statement
  • Supplemental essays and the rest of the application.
  • Tips on how to help your application stand out from the pack
Seating is limited. Register using above link to our online calendar.

Tween/Teen Home Alone Workshop - Grades 5 - 8 with Adult. Thursday, May 24, 6:15 - 7:30 pm. What would you do if you were home alone and there was an emergency? In this workshop, for preteens who spend time alone at home and the adults who love them, you'll learn how to stay safe from EMT Joan Lloyd. Seating is limited. Registration is required; please register using above link to our online calendar.

Teen Henna Workshop at the Somers Library - Thursday, May 31st from 4:30-6:00 pm. For centuries mehndi, the art of henna painting on the body has been practiced in India, Africa, and the Middle East, where the henna plant is believed to bring love, good fortune, and protection. When you adorn yourself with mehndi you are the recipient of an ancient female art form, a tradition that has been passed from one generation to the next. The henna we will be using is all natural, made from finely sifted henna, lemon juice and essential oils. With proper care a henna stain can last between 2-3 weeks. This is a hands on workshop where you will create your very own henna designs and everyone who wants one will go home with a henna by Margie. This program is intended for teens/tweens entering grades 6 and up (as of September 2018). Space is limited, please register using above link to our online calendar.
IMPORTANT: All Participants must have a signed permission slip from their parent or guardian. Margie Nugent is an accomplished body artist and owner of Making Faces Parties in Mount Kisco, NY.

Ongoing Events
Anime Nights! - Join us for a chance to watch anime from Crunchyroll with your friends! This program is for teens entering 7th grade & up!  Meets one Friday a month from 4:30 - 6:30  pm on the following dates  5/11, & 6/1 (Look for Summer meeting dates - coming soon!) 

Anime Club: 
Every* Wednesday starting 5/2 through 5/30 (*NO Meeting 4/11) from 3:15-4:30 pm.  This program is for teens entering 7th grade & up!
 (Look for Summer meeting dates - coming soon!) 
 
Teen/Tween Pokemon Club @ the Somers Library - 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. The library will supply snacks and an opportunity to meet friends interested in Pokemon! Meeting dates are Fridays on the following dates:  5/11 (NO meeting 4/13). 
(Look for Summer meeting dates - coming soon!) 
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Children's Events

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


Save the date!  Summer Reading Kick-Off will be on Friday, June 22 @ 1:00!

Mindful & Artful Parenting with Art Therapist Lynn Cukaj!   3 sessions- please plan on attending all 3!  Tuesdays:  March 20, May 1, May 22 from 7:00-8:00pm.  Registration required- please register here.

Special book displays this month : Spring, Rain, Yoga/Mindfulness
 
PreSchool Story Time & Craft~  (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 
-Dates:  May 1-May 15 (last program May 15)
-Register here.
 
K- 2 Book Clubs:
Kindergarten will meet Mondays~ May 7-May 14 (last club May 14)
1st Grade will meet Tuesdays~ May 1-May 15 (last club May 15)
2nd Grade will meet Wednesdays~ May 2-May 16 (last club May 16)
Time:  3:30-4:15
*Children must be in the grade for which they are registering.  
Registration required.
Register here.
Somers residents only.  
Vicki DiSanto (Children's Librarian) will run these book clubs.

Grades 3-5 Book Clubs:  Meeting day is Thursday from 3:45-4:45 as follows:  
Grade 3 Book Club~ May 3 (last club)
Combined Grade 4/5 Book Club~ May 17 (last club May 17)
Bus transportation available- Bus "K".
Registration required. 
Register here.
Somers residents only. 
Children must be in the grade for which they are registering.  
Beth Levine (Library Assistant) will run these book clubs.
      
Story times for Babies for 6 months to 2 years with caregivers meets on 
Tuesdays at 10:30. 
-Dates:  May 1-June 12 (No program May 15; June 19, 26)
NEW-Registration is now necessary, and you must have a Somers Library Card.

Toddler Story Time for children ages 2-3 with caregivers @ 10:30:
Thursday~ May 3-June 14 (no program May 17; June 21, 28)
OR
Fridays~May 4-June 15 (no program May 18; June 22, 29)

NEW- 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 thank Putnam County Savings Bank for donating this month's flower arrangement.

Art Gallery
Tim Robinson has been a professional illustrator and designer for nearly 30 years. His work appears regularly in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Nation, The New Republic, and many other national publications. 

Tim was born and raised in Croton-on-Hudson and then returned to Croton, with his wife, Marguerite, to raise their boys, Wyatt and Luke. Upon returning, he also circled back to the practice of oil painting and has since been showing regularly, in and around Westchester County, where his paintings have been eagerly collected. Tim's work focuses on the natural regional surroundings and still life, The Hudson and Croton Rivers, Teatown Lake Reservation, and all the various wooded escapes and landscapes in the area. The paintings are an effort to capture the light, motion, and silence of what is still wild and beautiful around us. It is his great pleasure to exhibit these recent paintings in Somers.
 
If you are interested in displaying your art, please email somersartgallery@wls mail.org for an application. 
Somers Library Foundation
 
We raise financial support from across the community to fund projects that beautify, modernize and enrich the offerings and capabilities of the Somers Library, and we are just getting started! Thanks to our generous supporters, patrons can enjoy the remodeled vestibule and library information center, and upgraded acoustics in the Program Room.

 

The Library has additional plans to improve the Children's Room, one of the most active areas in the Library. Other plans include redesigning a dedicated space for teens, and refurnishing and brightening the Reading Room. You can help make our Library extraordinary by making a charitable donation today to the Somers Library Foundation.

 

To learn more about the Library Foundation, visit our website and our Facebook page, or call us at (914) 361-9979.
 
Somers Library Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
Friends of Somers Library

Friends make all the difference! - a Note from Friends of  Somers Library
 
April was National Library month (theme - Libraries Lead), and the Friends of the Somers Library thanked our wonderful staff with a big cookie cake created and donated by our volunteer Jill Heller.  We appreciate our staff all year long as they work to enhance our community with the educational, enjoyable programs they choose for us.  Amongst the stellar offerings in May, hope you can join us for a TED Talk on Feats that Inspire led by our volunteer Professor Eugene Ritchie, at the Louis Landon "Sinatra and Music of the 40's" concert on May 6, The Conversational Spanish class, or the many other options for adults, children and teens. 
 
In 2017, the library provided 987 programs attended by over 16,000 patrons, thanks to your support of the Friends.  Our library certainly leads!  Friends make all the difference! 
 
The Friends provide support to enhance, preserve, and strengthen the library as it serves individuals, families and the community throughout the year, and each year we are tasked with raising sufficient funds to provide meaningful programs for children, teens and adults.   Your generosity so far in response to our 2018 Annual Appeal has been truly outstanding.  If you haven't yet made a contribution, our appeal continues into the new year.   If you don't have our current brochure, you can pick one up at the library, or donate using your PayPal account to [email protected].  Thank you! 
 
The Friends of the Somers Library were chartered in 1979 by the Regents of the University of the State of New York.  
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