Building News: Have you ever wondered how much work and money it takes to maintain a 14,000 square foot building like the library and to supply heat and electricity for a year?  In 2009, we spent $11,000 in fuel and $22,000 in electricity. As these utilities consumed a large portion of the annual library operating budget, and we were keeping our fingers crossed that the 30-year old boilers would last us through another winter, I applied for and received two NYS construction grants in 2008 to replace the boilers, to upgrade the ceiling lights, and to repair aging and cracked roof sections.

After some fine tuning in the boiler computer program and timing of the circulation pumps, we believe that, over time, the new imported Italian boilers will be a good investment in reducing our fuel consumption. In addition, the more efficient and brighter T8 fluorescent ceiling lights should also reduce the electric bill. Our next step is to replace some roof sections that have recently been leaking in various sections.

Thanks to the volunteer efforts of children's librarian, Vicki DiSanto, the lobby, Caregiver Corner, and column near the Circulation Desk have a fresh coat of paint. In addition, the curtains and stuffed animals in the children's room have been washed. Two part-time custodians clean, repair furniture, change light bulbs, empty trash, and perform minor plumbing repair. HVAC contractor, elevator maintenance contractor, door lock contractors, security/fire contractor, and exterminators are also required to keep things running smoothly. And lastly, thanks to supplemental funding from our Friends of the Somers Library, worn carpet sections in the main lobby, hall, and entrance to the Children's room have been replaced. It "takes a village" to keep your community library running smoothly seven days a week!  Thank you for your patience and support during our recent and ongoing renovations.

Storytime Schedule for February

Babytime for ages up to 2 years old. Every Tuesday in February through February 23rd at 10:30 am or 11:30 am. No class February 16th.

Toddler Story Hour and Craft (with caregivers) for ages 2 and 3. Every Thursday and Friday in February through February 26th at 10:30 am. No class on February 18th or February 19th.

Preschool Story Hour and Craft (without caregivers) for ages 4 and 5. Tuesdays at 1:00 pm, Wednesdays at 10:30 am, or Thursdays at 1:00 pm, through February 11th. (Please call to register for the Preschool  Storytimes.

Book Clubs

Kindergarten Book Club meets Monday, February 1, 8 from 3:30 to 4:15 pm. No meeting January 18.
1st Grade Book Club meets Tuesday, February 2, 9 from 3:30 to 4:15 pm.
2nd Grade Book Club meets Wednesday, February 3, 10 from 3:30 to 4:15 pm.
3rd Grade Book Club meets Thursday, February 4 from 3:45 to 4:45 pm. 
4th Grade Book Club meets Thursday, February 11 from 3:45 to 4:45 pm.
5th Grade Book Club meets Thursday, February 18 from 3:45 to 4:45 pm.

Special Events

►Saturday February 13 from 1:00 - 1:45pm. Chinese New Year Celebration. It's the year of the Tiger! Make a tiger mask. Experience some of the traditions of Chinese New Year, and enjoy Chinese New Year stories!