April Newsletter
This month: The library remains closed for now, but we’re here for you online!
April 1, 2020
Dear Berlin-Peck Library Friends,
As I write this on March 31, the Library remains closed to the public and to staff. We made this difficult decision by listening to guidance from the American Library Association, the CDC and our Governor Ned Lamont. Town Department Heads meet weekly to ascertain strategies going forward and we will communicate to you library re-opening plans as they are decided.
We have put out a cart of free books at our front doors especially for those who do not have computers or means to download our many offerings. This will be replenished weekly.
Please know that we miss seeing you and are working hard learning new ideas, developing programs and furthering our online presence at berlinpeck.org.
The staff has compiled the following to help fill your time both education and entertainment-wise.
I wish you good health. Be safe. Be kind.
Hope to see you soon.
Helen Malinka
Library Director
While the Library is Closed
- Due dates on all materials have been extended until May 15. If our doors are still closed, we will extend the due date again.
- Expiring library cards have been renewed until May 31
- Please hold onto your books and other materials.
- All fines are waived during this period.
Contact Us
You can still reach a librarian Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. If a librarian is busy on another call, please leave a message, and we will get back to you.
Follow us on Facebook or Twitter for more updates!
- Phone: 860-828-7125
- Email: library@berlinpeck.org
- Children’s email: kids@berlinpeck.org
Your Library, Online
Remember—you can sign up for your library card online! If you have difficulty with any of our online services, please contact us.
Online Resources
Check out ebooks, audiobooks, and videos from OverDrive, hoopla, or RBdigital—plus full-length concerts, British television, and indie documentaries and learning resources.
Book Club
Saturday, April 18 at 10:30 am
We miss our readers—so we’re taking our book club online! Just like a regular book club, we will read one book a month and then discuss. We’ll chat on Facebook as well as a live video chat. If you don’t use Facebook, email library@berlinpeck.org for video chat info.
Our first book will be The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson, available to download as an ebook or audiobook.
Cookbook Club
Tuesday, April 14 at 6:30 pm
Since we missed the March Cookbook Club, we thought it would be fun to help you stay connected with fellow cooking enthusiasts by doing an online video chat for Cookbook Club. Join us on Facebook or email library@berlinpeck.org for more info.
For Kids
Although the library is currently closed due to COVID-19, the Children’s Department staff is still working to support you!
Visit our Library Fun @ Home Page for links to free read-alouds, activities, videos, learning resources, and, for a limited time, access to TumbleBook Library, Tumble Math, Teen BookCloud, Audio BookCloud books & audiobooks, Scholastic Bookflix, and many more!
Don’t forget to like the Children’s Department Facebook page for updates!
Online Storytimes
Since the library is closed, the Children’s Department staff is working hard to bring storytime to you! We’ll be posting storytimes on our Facebook page, our website, and our YouTube Channel. We’ll be offering LIVE Facebook storytimes, too! Dates and times will be posted on Facebook and our website.
Nutmeg Book Club
Wednesday, April 22 at 6:30 pm
Grades 4-6. The Nutmeg Book Club will be online via ZOOM this month! We’ll be reading Front Desk by Kelly Yang. To register and for details about Zoom, please email amacpherson@berlinpeck.org.
1,000 Books Before Kindergarten
It’s a great time to read at home with your child! 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten is an ongoing library program that encourages all families and caregivers to read at least 1,000 books (any book) to their infant, toddler and/or preschooler before entering kindergarten. You can download the first log from our 1,000 BBK page to get started, and there is no need to register. When the library opens, bring in your logs to earn your rewards!
In The News
COVID-19
With the 24-hour news cycle and misinformation everywhere, it can be hard to keep up with what’s really going on. We’ve gathered together trustworthy, up-to-date, and easy-to-read resources to help you stay informed (and not overwhelmed).
The best single source is the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) COVID-19 page.
We’ve also put together lists of things to do at home and with kids, ways to relax and learn, and important community support resources.
How to Explain COVID-19 to Children
- #COVIBOOK (downloadable book)
- The Kids’ Guide to Coronoavirus with Kristen Bell
- 10 Tips For Talking About the Coroanvirius with Your Kids
Taxes
From the IRS on March 21, 2020: the federal income tax filing due date is automatically extended from April 15, 2020, to July 15, 2020.
IRS News Release
Learn more about the new filing deadline and federal tax payments.
Stimulus Checks
From the IRS on March 30, 2020: distribution of economic impact payments will begin in the next three weeks and will be distributed automatically, with no action required for most people. However, some seniors and others who typically do not file returns will need to submit a simple tax return to receive the stimulus payment.
Coronavirus Tax Relief from the IRS
Get the latest news about taxes and economic impact payments.
Economic impact payments: What you need to know
Answers common questions about the recently announced economic impact payments.
The 2020 Census
Filling out the 2020 Census is fast, easy, and confidential. In as little as 10 minutes, you can help determine the funding and Congressional representation Connecticut will receive for the next 10 years. Visit the Census website below or call 844-330-2020 to respond today.
The questionnaire will take about 10 minutes to complete.
Community Support Resources
During these challenging times, the Library is here to help you find the resources you need. We’ve collected a selection of links to help our patrons find important information and help.
Explore these categories to find tips for economic resources, health and wellness services, housing information, and more.
Unemployment
From the CT Department of Labor: If you become unemployed due to coronavirus (COVID-19), you should file for unemployment benefits. Eligibility will be determined on a case-by-case basis. We are processing claims as quickly as possible and appreciate your patience during this difficult time.
The quickest way to file, manage, or learn more about unemployment claims.
Housing & Food Security
Connecticut 211
Community services for food, mental health, healthcare, housing and shelter, transportation, income, and utility assistance.
Mobile Pantry Schedule and Food Pantry Locator
Provided by the Connecticut Food Bank
Homeowners and Renters
Updates and information taken by state and federal government to help protect homeowners and renters impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak.
Businesses
Business Resources
Do you own a small business? Check this page for updates and information on the major steps Connecticut is taking to protect businesses and residents during the coronavirus crisis.
Resources for Agricultural Industry
Local farmers, check this page for updates and information from the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, including the AFT Farmer Relief Fund and guidelines for online ordering/delivery.
Questions? Call 860-828-7125 or email library@berlinpeck.org.