March Newsletter
An update on ebooks—plus, we’re resuming some indoor programming!
March 1, 2022
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From the Library Director
Hello!
People who ask me if I read books on an e-reader are sometimes surprised to hear that I do! (I think as a librarian they expect my answer to be a resounding, “NO!” Like many others, I appreciate being able to adjust the font and carry a library in my tote bag!) How else would I be able to toggle between The Betrayal of Anne Frank and Circe without cluttering my bedside table? While nothing beats the smell and feel of a traditional book, the portability and convenience of an e-reader are tough to disregard. All you need to read eBooks are your Berlin-Peck library card and a smartphone! You may not realize you do not even need an actual e-reader—your smartphone can double as an e-reader using the Libby app. And Hoopla allows you to watch movies, read comics, and listen to audiobooks without any waiting!
Did you know that libraries pay twice as much (sometimes more!) for an eBook than what a consumer pays for an eBook? If this is surprising, you will be glad to know that the state of Connecticut is hoping to do something about that. Our eBook and e-audiobook circulation soared over the last two years, and we are delighted to offer this capability to more of our patrons. We work hard to balance adding to our eBook collection by purchasing additional popular titles just for Berlin patrons while still offering new ways to engage our community. It is helpful to know that, as libraries across Connecticut and the country, we are in this together and raising awareness about this critical budgetary issue.
As usual, we hope to inspire you in a variety of ways this month and we are delighted to announce that we are resuming some in-person programming! For those interested in viewing any of our online programs in a group setting you can join us in our Delaney Room to view the program. Please make sure to register! It’s March so if you are thinking of gardens and St. Patrick’s Day we have you covered! If you happen to be thinking of social safety nets, too, join us for our Courageous Conversation on March 19. A full list of this month’s programs is below.
Thank you for supporting your local library. We always welcome your thoughts and suggestions. Send us an email at library@berlinpeck.org or feel free to stop by. My door is always open.
Warmly,
Kim McNally
AARP Tax Aide
AARP Tax-Aide provides free tax prep for low and middle-income taxpayers, with special attention to seniors. AARP will provide a packet that must be filled out at home, prior to your appointment.
Appointments are REQUIRED and they fill up FAST. The Library and Senior Center are currently taking appointments. Tax Aide appointments will be held February through April.
Berlin-Peck Memorial Library (860-828-7126)
Tuesdays, 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Berlin Senior Citizens Center (860-828-7006)
Thursdays, 9:00 am – 2:30 pm
Events
Check out the Events Page to see upcoming events!
Thursday, March 3, 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Join us for knitting and good company—six feet apart, of course.
Monday, March 7
FULL
Create a one of the kind rainbow with your hands in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day!
Tuesday, March 8, 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Storyteller Monica Peterson brings the history, humor, and magic of the Irish people to life in this fascinating program.
Wednesday, March 9, 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Learn how to create abstract art through structured patterns!
Thursday, March 10, 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm
Join us for knitting and good company—six feet apart, of course.
Thursday, March 10, 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Join us for a virtual talk with Naturopathic physician Dr. Nicole Klughers.
Monday, March 14 – Saturday, March 19
FULL
This Leprechaun hat is sure to hold all of your favorite treats!
Monday, March 14 – Saturday, March 19
No Registration Required
Can you find the clovers hidden by the tricky Library Leprechaun?
Monday, March 14, 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Space is limited. Registration is required.
Learn how to make the most out of even the smallest veggie garden!
Wednesday, March 16
Sumac has a tangy, almost citrus-like taste, with no “spicy” heat.
Thursday, March 17, 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Join us for knitting and good company—six feet apart, of course.
Saturday, March 19, 10:30 am to 11:30 am
Join us for an open, respectful conversation about Social Safety Nets. All backgrounds and viewpoints are welcome in the discussion. Each participant is asked to read this month’s articles on the topic prior to the discussion.
Monday, March 21 – Saturday, April 2
No Registration Required. *While Supplies Last
Create a rainbow of fun!
Monday, March 21, 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm
RSVP to Patty O’Brian: 203-859-1992
This group meets monthly as a safe place for caregivers, family and friends of persons with dementia. Join us to share practical information, feelings, needs and concerns.
Wednesday, March 23 – Thursday, March 31
Join us on a 3-month journey into the world of coffee!
Wednesday, March 23, 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm
Did You Ever Have a Family by Bill Clegg
Join us at the Berlin Senior Center for a discussion of Did You Ever Have a Family by Bill Clegg.
Thursday, March 24, 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm
Join us for knitting and good company—six feet apart, of course.
Thursday, March 24, 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Join Ginny Apple for a talk about these magnificent birds of prey.
Saturday, March 26, 10:30 am to 11:30 am
The Push by Ashley Audrain
Join us online or in person for a discussion of The Push by Ashley Audrain.
Monday, March 28 – Saturday, April 2
FULL
Bring some calm into your life and design your own Zen garden!
Monday, March 28, 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
How will you survive the apocalypse?
Tuesday, March 29, 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Learn about the history of women’s makeup with Ehris Urban and Velya Jancz-Urban of the Grounded Goodwife.
Thursday, March 31, 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm
Join us for knitting and good company—six feet apart, of course.