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Somers Library
Newsletter
March 2019
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Keys to the Past
....
Gateway to the Future
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80 Primrose Street
Route 139 & Reis Park
Somers, NY 10589
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Hours
Mon, Tue, Wed 10am - 5pm
Thurs 11am - 8pm
Fri 10am - 5pm
Sat 10am - 5pm
Sun - CLOSED
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Director's Corner
As you may have heard, the Westchester Library System is migrating to a new computer system. For the Somers Library this means new and better ways to provide services for you, but requires intensive staff training. We thank you for your understanding during this change.
But what does this mean for
you?
You may have noticed that there are fewer new books available in the system. We have had to stop adding new books at the beginning of February, but will be able to start adding them to our collection we go live on March 14th.
Your online Library Catalog will be very different, but much more powerful. Searching for items will be easier with the option for you to add titles to a checkout cart, put holds on multiple items at once, see all the different formats of an item on the same screen, and much, much more.
From March 11th until March 13th the system will be taken offline to allow for the final steps of the migration. No checkout, searches, holds, or other activity will work during this time. If you wish to use overdrive, our largest electronic book and audio book collection, you must have your card up to date before March 11th.
The Somers Library will be closed to the public during this time, and we will use the time to continue training and to do needed work on the building. We are looking forward to this important and needed change, and are excited to share this with you.
Andrew Farber
Director
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Somers Seed Lending Library
With the start of spring slowly approaching, we are happy to announce that the Somers Seed Lending Library has new seeds that have been added to our collection - thanks to the generous support of the Friends of the Somers Library. Here are just a few seed types added this year: Organic Mother of Pearl Poppy, Organic Double Click Cosmos, State Fair Zinnia, Organic Cherokee Purple Tomato, Organic Rainbow Chard, Teddy Bear Sunflower, and more!
Somers Seed Lending Library is a free community seed lending project, demonstrating that libraries check out more than books! We are committed to helping our patrons grow as life-long learners. 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 to the seed library, a portion of the seeds you have saved. The more seeds in the library, the more members of our community can experience the pleasure of growing their own food from local seeds. Please note: you must have an active Somers Library card to participate.
Happy growing!
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Our Programs Are Funded By the Friends of the Somers Library.
* 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 9am-5pm and whether your interest is in Medicare services or other benefits. SBIC will not meet on days the Somers schools are closed due to snow.
TED TALK: Communications - Language Learning. Thursday, March 7 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 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 20 minutes long. Speakers for this date are John McWhorter: "Four Reasons to Learn a New Language" and Lýdia Machová: "The Secrets of Learning a New Language."Each talk will be followed by light refreshment.
2019 Schedule for TED TALKS: Thursdays, 3/7, 4/4,5/2 & 6/6, from 1:00 - 3:00 pm.Upcoming Topics are:
- March 7 - Communications - Language Learning
- April 4 - Environment - Global Warming & Climate Change
- May 2 - Business - Globalization and Leadership
- June 6 - Human Relations - Enhancing Personal & Professional Relationships.
Presentation: Long-Term Care Options. Thursday, March 14, 7:00 - 8:30 pm. This program will help those concerned about how to financially manage extended care for yourself or loved ones. Presenter Ardal Powell from New York Life Insurance Company will help you realize your goals while minimizing the impact a need for care may have. Come learn about ways you can prepare for the future with long-term care funding options. Please register on the link above.
Race Amity Day of Northern Westchester & Putnam Presents: Tyrone L. Robinson, director of the short film, Un{H}armed. Sunday, March 17, 2:00 - 4:00 pm in the Somers Library Program Room. Screening followed by Q & A.Refreshments will be served. For more information, contact [email protected]
Spring Into Art. Mondays, 3/25, 4/1, 4/8, 4/29 & 5/6, 10:30 am - 12:30 pm. Experiment making art using water-soluble oil pastels and watercolor pencils! Students will learn about the versatile ways each medium can create great effects. No experience required - join us and have fun! Inspirational music will accompany your creative journey. 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.
Please register on the link above.
Social Security Strategy. Thursday, March 28, 7:00 - 8:30 pm. Do you have a Social Security benefits strategy? Many Americans think Social Security is simple and straightforward; often it is not. The recent bipartisan budget act made some significant changes to Social Security laws about claiming retirement and spousal benefits. Making a mistake when selecting your benefit option can cost thousands or tens of thousands of dollars over the course of retirement. Consequently, it's a good idea to talk withe experts in the field, gather information you need, and make informed benefits decisions. Presenter Robert Leitner will show you strategies for maximizing your Social Security benefits.
Please register on the link above.
The Mobile Shredder at the Somers Library. Friday, March 29, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm. Concerned about identity theft? The Mobile Shredder is coming to Somers! Now you can safely destroy unwanted personal records and documents! Documents that have personal information such as name, address, phone number, credit card number or Social Security number should be shredded before recycling. The Mobile Shredder is for Somers residents only. Paper generated by businesses, schools, institutions, government or municipal offices is not accepted. Each resident may bring a maximum of 4 file boxes; all papers must be free of clips, bindings, folders and files. For more information about identity theft, call the Dept. of Consumer Protection (914) 995 - 2155 or visit westchestergov.com/consumer. For questions about recycling, call the Recycling HelpLine at 813-5425 or vist westchestergov.com/recycling.
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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.
Finding the Perfect Fit: College, Funding and You.
Wednesday, March 6th from 6:30 - 8:00 pm. Finding the perfect college fit can be like finding a needle in a haystack! In this workshop, participants will learn more about available resources such as repayment plans, investments, bonds and gifting that will lock in the "special sauce" for academic success, peace of mind, and peace of wallet. For parents and students grades 6 and up.
Preparing Your Child for College-Grades 9 & 10.
Monday, March 18th from 6:30-7:30 pm. This Program is for parents, but students are welcome! If you are a parent or a freshman or sophomore, this program is for you. Presenter Neal Schwartz will help your child get a head start on college preparedness.Topics to be covered will be:~ College Planning Timelines ~ Academic Courses ~ Standardized Testing ~ Integrating Roadmaps with their Schedule ~ College Introduction Visits ~ Quality Elements for their Application Folder.
Teens & Tweens: Coding 101 in a Jiffy.
Wednesday, April 3rd, 6:00 - 7:00 pm.
Are you ready to program? Did you know that every digital device uses a programming language, and that there are thousands of them? Discover how apps like Minecraft and iTunes "speak" specific languages that a computer can understand, and learn how coding helps you "talk" to machines! You are welcome and encouraged to bring your own laptop. This program is for students grades 6 and up. Space is limited to 12 participants. Austin Olney is an educator, developer, and certified computer professional with teaching experience and hands-on field work in a variety of settings.
Decoupage: Art of Royalty with Judika.
Thursday, April 4th, 2019 3:30 - 4:45 pm. Did you know that Marie Antoinette was the original decoupeur? Get into the mood for spring by creating beautiful boxes fit for royalty with artist Judika Lieberman! This program is for students grade 6 and up. Space limited to 10 participants.
VolunTEEN! People in Your Neighborhood. Tuesday, April 9th from 3:30 - 4:30 pm. Have a heart - do your part! Are you a team player that is interested in helping others? Help kick off National Volunteer week by creating no - sew snuggle blankets that will be distributed among patients at a local dialysis shelter. This program is for students grades 6 and up. Space is limited to 16 participants.
How to Pay for College Without Going Broke
. Thursday, April 11th from 7:00 - 8:30pm. What is the difference between FAFSA and CSS? What is the best way to navigate the financial aid process? In this workshop, participants will learn about these topics and walk away with a better understanding of how loans play a part in the financial aid package. Open to parents of teens and tweens grades 6 and up.
College Money Matters: Funding the Dream 101
. Wednesday, April 17, from 6:30 - 8:00 pm. As the costs of funding higher education continue to rise, the process of understanding the funding process may seem daunting and full of pitfalls. Never fear, help and information are here! In this presentation, parents will learn more about developing a strategic college savings plan, discovering alternative funding pathways, and determining both pros and cons of current savings options. Open to parents of teens and tweens grades 6 and up.
Presenters: Robert Scorrano is a financial services advisor for Prudential Insurance Company of America, and provides guidance on a wide range of topics to both families and business owners. A Somers resident, he and his team have offices both in White Plains and Somers.
Dr. Debra Hardy is an educational consultant whose primary focus is assisting prospective college students and their families achieve their dream college. As the former director of K - 12 guidance within the Somers school district, she has received state and national recognition with her work with students and families.
SAT Practice Exam.
Saturday, April 20, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm. Free SAT Practice Test at the Somers Library offered by the Princeton Review. Here is your opportunity to try your hand at the SAT without having to worry about the score going anywhere. After the test, participants will receive an extensive score-report and a personalized consultation to go over your scores and answer your questions! Please bring graphing calculator, pens, pencils, and water and snack bar (optional).
Please Note: If there are fewer than 25 registrants by the middle of April, this program may be canceled and the library will notify the registrants accordingly.
ACT Practice Exam With The Princeton Review.
Saturday, April 27, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm. There is a difference between the SAT and the ACT, and some students do better on one over the other. Here is your opportunity to try your hand at the ACT without having to worry about the score going anywhere. After the test, participants will receive an extensive score-report showing you exactly where your strengths and weaknesses are, PLUS a personalized consultation to go over your scores and answer your questions! Please bring graphing calculator, pens, pencils, and water and snack bar (optional).
Please Note: If there are not enough registrants by the middle of April, this program may be cancelled and the library will notify the registrants accordingly.
Ongoing Events
Winter/Spring Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) Club
. Alternating Saturdays on 3/2, 3/30, 4/6, 5/4, 5/18, from 3:00 - 4:45 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.
Magic the Gathering Club. Alternating Saturdays on 3/2, 3/30, 4/6, 5/4, 5/18 from 12:30 - 2:45 pm. Join us to play the popular card game of Magic the Gathering! New players and beginners welcome! Grades 6 and up. Registration is required.
Winter/Spring Anime/Manga Club.
Wednesdays, from 3:15-4:30 pm on 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10, 4/17, 4/24, 5/1, /8, 5/15, 5/22, & 5/29. 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 required.
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Children's Events
or call the library at 914-232-5717.
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Mindful and Artful Parenting with Art Therapist Lynn Cukaj!
1 more session~
Tuesday April 30.
Registration required- details here.
Story Time & Craft
Stories, fun, history and crafts!
With Doris Jane Smith- Somers Town Historian and Primrose Teacher
Tuesdays: March 19; April 2; April 30
Best for ages 6+.
Registration is required- register
here.
Read Across America- Save the date for March 5!
Principals, Assistant Principals and Librarians read their favorite stories to you!
3:00-4:30.
Spring Solstice Story Time & Crafts! With Doris Jane Smith on Monday, March 18 from 3:30-4:15. Welcome spring with stories, books and crafts. Best for ages 5+. Registration is required and space is limited. Register
here.
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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
K- 2 Book Clubs~
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~
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.
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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 Miracle Ear
for donating this month's flower arrangement.
Art Gallery
March Artists: Please stop by the Somers Library Art Gallery to view the joint exhibit of the artwork by Leslie Carone & Laura Gould
Leslie Carone
South Salem resident Leslie Carone is fascinated with landscape and the natural world. She is a painter and printmaker, working both in the studio and en Plein air, and always aims to capture the sense of place felt when on location. Her landscapes take inspiration from the many parks, land reserves, and farms of the Hudson Valley and nearby Connecticut. Her work has been shown at the National Arts Club in NYC, the Gallery at Muscoot, Art Walk Ridgefield, Kent Art Association, the Ridgefield Guild of Artists, and in many other local shows. She is a member of the Kent Art Association, the Ridgefield Guild of Artists, and the Lower Hudson Valley Plein Air Painters.
Laura Gould
I've traveled for most of my life. While growing up my mother took me to many beautiful gardens and countless art museums. Among my favorite and most powerful memories are the gardens of Japan, the influence of these spiritual spaces infuse my art and my life.
For the last 30 plus years I have lived in Westchester with my family. I take daily walks with my dogs in the open lands that surround us. The walks infuse my work with the seasons, light, weather and the beauty. I love the simple beauty found in nature and try to bring this into my work.
Today I enjoy teaching botanical art, studio and plein air painting. Please visit my website for more information http://www.barkingdogstudio.me
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The Friends of Somers Library
Annual Appeal
The Friends of the Somers Library have begun their annual appeal. Thanks to the generosity of their many donors, they are able each year to fund the many fabulous programs that children, teens and adults enjoy and that are not funded in our town budget, as well as providing gifts to the library such as the new landscaping. If you have not already received their mailing, you can pick up an appeal brochure at the libraries. Donations of any amount can be sent to the Friends care of Somers Library, P O Box 443, Somers, NY 10589 or via PayPal at [email protected]. Any questions can be sent to [email protected].
The Friends of the Somers Library is a nonprofit organization chartered by the Regents of the University of the State of New York. Their mission is to provide support for the needs of a contemporary library... to benefit the diverse interests of our town and to keep our library vibrant.
A special shout-out to T3 LogoWear for donating the bookmarks that went out in the annual appeal.
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News from the Somers Library Foundation
In so many ways, the Somers Library is the Heart of the Somers Community. Libraries belong to the community and are central to it. They are open to all, and provide essential services to help people and neighborhoods thrive. From internet access and homework help, to story times, community gathering rooms and learning programs, the Somers Library offers vital resources to address community needs.
If you've been thinking about volunteering for years or are looking for a way to better connect with the Somers Community, consider volunteering for the Somers Library Foundation. Volunteers were vital to the success of the Somers Library Foundation's 2018 Book Sale and 5K Trail Run, as well as other Foundation events and last year.
So be a sweetheart and support/volunteer with/donate to the Somers Library Foundation.
For more information about the many ways you can volunteer, please visit our website or
call us at (914) 361-9979.
Somers Library Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
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