Editor’s Note: The theme for National Library Week 2020, “Find your place at the library,” was chosen before anyone could imagine the emergence of a global pandemic that would force most libraries to temporarily close their physical spaces. But you can still “find your place at the library” because libraries are open for business online. You can access ebooks, movies, music, video games, virtual storytimes and activities-all from the comfort of your home
National Library Week is being celebrated this year from April 19 through April 25. Usually, The Citizen posts a tip of the hat to the Bedford Free Public Library during the official week but Y2020 is altogether different.
We’re giving a fervent thanks to the Library staff, headed by Director Richard Callaghan, who continue to come up with innovative ideas to ease the boredom of isolating at home. We also acknowledge the support from the Town of Bedford that reflects the value our residents place on the Library and the many contributions from the Friends of the Library.
As expected, Director Callaghan reports that use of the Library’s online resources has skyrocketed during the closure. “We have already signed more new Overdrive users in FY20 than in all of FY19! We are adding more content to Overdrive so we can fulfill holds and limit your wait time,” Callaghan said.
Here are new online programs:
Drop-in Book Chat
On Mondays, the Library is starting a drop-in adult book chat from 2-3 pm using Zoom. Youth Services Librarian Pam Aghababian wants to hear about what you’re reading or doing and offer some recommendations. For more information: https://www.bedfordlibrary.net/events/event/drop-in-book-chat/
On Wednesdays at 4 pm, the teens get their chance to tell what they are reading and get some recommendations from Aghababian. She invites you to drop in and say hello. Here is the link:
https://www.bedfordlibrary.net/events/event/teen-drop-in-book-chat/
Homeschool Book Clubs
Bethany Klem, Head of Children’s Services, and Aghababian will be holding the second editions of the online Homeschool Book Club. Since so many parents are ‘homeschooling’ now the Library welcomes you to either group.
On May 1, the 8-11-year-old group will be discussing Superstar, by Mandy Davis. The 12+ year-old group will be talking about 13 Little Blue Envelopes, by Maureen Johnson. Both books are available on Hoopla! Anyone who would like to join in can sign up on the library’s website: https://www.bedfordlibrary.net/events/event/homeschool-book-club-35/
For stories and songs from the Children’s Room
Online resources using your library card
- OverDrive has eBooks, audiobooks, and magazines
- TumbleBooks has tons of animated picture books and read alongs!
- hoopla has eBooks, audiobooks, music, and more
- Kanopy has thousands of movies you can stream
- Lynda.com offers video instruction on many topics
- New York Times offers full digital access to the paper
- Mango – learn a new language the easy way!
For more online content including databases like Ancestry, Audiobook Cloud, Tumblemath, Consumer Reports, and Valueline check our e-resources page: https://www.bedfordlibrary.net/resources/e-resources/
If you have any questions or problems with your library card or access to these resources please email the Library: [email protected] . Patrons will receive a FAQ that can answer many common questions and anything beyond that the staff will get back to you ASAP.
Remember there are no fines accumulating during this period when the Library is closed.
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