March 2024

From the Stacks

Kids Are ALL HANDS in Art Workshops

A series of free hands-on art workshops at the library during the winter school break attracted a full house with kindergarten through fifth graders learning to look at everyday objects with a new lens.

The workshops focused on sensory art, upcycle art and nature art.

“The hands-on activities are a great way to bring about sensory-led experiences for the kids," said Jessica M. Colón, who led the bilingual program.

The sessions were clearly a hit with the youngsters: “Why can't the class be two hours," one said. Some of their artwork is displayed in the children's room windows at the Library.

Coming up this week, Jessica returns to lead Kids' Culinary Corner, a class for 4-6 year-olds (see below).

Library Supports County Digital Equity Initiative

Digital equity is a very real issue in Westchester County. Some 45,000 Westchester households have no computer at home and 75,000 have no internet access, according to the 2021 American Community Survey.

And more than a few of those households are in Bedford Hills. That’s why the Bedford Hills Free Library was eager to take advantage of a Westchester County initiative to close the digital divide, hosting a Tech Skills for Success training at the Bedford Hills Community House in January.

Groups including Neighbors Link helped to identify participants for the four-day Spanish language training in computer and internet literacy. In April, the Library will host another cohort for English-speakers needing digital access.

Library Pledges Inclusivity

In support of the Town of Bedford’s Inclusivity Initiative, Bedford Hills Free Library staff members are participating in staff training opportunities and exploring how to respond to community needs.

Bedford's Neurodiversity Friendly Town Task Force works to “make Bedford a place where everyone feels welcome.”

Training by the Anderson Center for Autism in January included advice on how to help neurodivergent patrons feel more comfortable, with tips such as offering a sensory space with lower lighting.

The Library is now certified as Neurodivergent Supportive.

“We look forward to further enhancing our efforts to embrace diverse perceptions and experiences,” said Mary Esbjornson, Executive Director.

Let's Talk Tech!

New Service for our Patrons

The Library is offering an increasingly wide array of digital resources to give patrons free access to webinars, movies, audio and digital books, and more.

As technology evolves at what seems to be the speed of light, we know it can feel a little overwhelming and hard to keep up. We’re here to help!

In addition to our Collection Connect and Digital Smarts workshops and one-on-one support on Tech Tuesdays, the Library is pleased to announce a new tech information service exclusively for our patrons – Tech-Talk!

Tech-Talk is a digital resource and collection of articles, videos, and webinars. New content is developed each week by top training experts for busy professionals, educators, and learners.

Patrons have direct access to the Bedford Hills Free Library Tech-Talk homepage, where you can explore topics and resources.

Stay up to date to better communicate with co-worker, family, and friends.

Access Tech-Talk

Featured Events in March

Kids’ Culinary Corner

Thursdays, March 7, 14, 21, 28, 10:30 - 11:30 am

Led by Jessica M. Colón

Ages 4 – 6

In this 4-session class, kids explore the world of scents and flavors. Roll up your sleeves to measure and mix. Experience how it all comes together with easy recipes from colorful cookbooks.

Stories & Stretches - Family Yoga Storytime

Saturday, March 23, 12:30-1 pm

Led by Lindsay Fletcher

Ages 3 – 5 with a grown-up

Children are introduced to books, songs, simple poses and mindfulness activities in this program for preschoolers and their grown-ups.

Abstract Painting for Everyone with Jason Piken

Saturday, March 16, 10 am-Noon

Bedford Hills Train Station

Adults

Looking for a spark? Jason gets you to paint on canvas in minutes, your creativity soaring. You’ll love how abstract paintings can be an expression of your feelings in this fun environment. Materials provided.

Crafting a Memory Keepsake: Something Old, Something New

Saturday, March 23, 10-11 am

via Zoom

Led by writer Misty Yarnall

Adults

Explore your life through writing and other arts, focusing on a different topic each month. Bring the supplies of your choice, which might include paper, sketchbooks, scrapbooks, photos, or an old or new memento.