Amenia Free Library brainstorms future programs for patrons

AMENIA— With the leaves bursting with autumn colors and fall holidays stretching through November, the Amenia Free Library has been busy brainstorming programs that would suit the schedules and interests of its patrons. Now that school is back in session and students are occupied with new activities and responsibilities, the library tends to be quieter, prompting Library Director Erika Palombo to rethink program schedules to determine what times and days work best for everyone. 

The fall sports season has especially posed a challenge to library program attendance: while patrons seem to be more interested in attending, they’re unable to fit the events into their schedules.

Palombo was at Community Day at the Indian Rock Schoolhouse in October to answer questions and share information about the library.

“I’m looking forward to being able to have the library’s presence at different events in the future,” Palombo said. “Just reaching out to the community is going to be helpful in the future, and as I get to know the community more, I’m able to recognize their interests and what sort of programs they’re looking to attend.”

Along with trying to advertise the library through social media, Channel 22 and the local school district, Palombo hopes to develop community partnerships. Already, she’s reached out to The Wassaic Project to plan events for December and hopes to work with the Amenia Historical Society on a future event. 

Over time, Palombo wants to learn more about what people want, before the library breaks ground in the spring for an upcoming library addition. Once the expansion is finished, the extra space will provide more opportunities for more events. Additionally, Palombo has received a couple of emails asking about hosting English as a Second Language (ESL) classes for the community, which would be possible with more space.

“I’m just looking forward to offering more opportunities to the community,” she said.

Just in time for Halloween, the library hosted a pumpkin decorating event on Friday, Oct. 26. 

In November, the library will be hosting a new Fall Tech Program Series to teach patrons about accessing online and digital resources. On Saturday, Nov. 3, at 11 a.m. the library will teach patrons about accessing e-books, e-audiobooks, e-magazines and more with their library cards with the program Apps 101. On Saturday, Nov. 17, at 11 a.m. the program Social Media 101 will answer questions about using social media and help patrons get started on accessing different social media outlets. 

Later in the month, the library will host a new monthly book club, beginning Wednesday, Nov. 28, at 6 p.m. Starting Wednesday, Dec. 5, at 6 p.m. the library will introduce a new Game Night program for patrons of all ages.

For more information on upcoming programs, visit the library at 3309 Route 343 in Amenia. Patrons can also contact the library at 845-373-8273 or at www.amenialibrary.org.

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