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Speak Up For Libraries!

You may be aware that in a new executive order, President Trump has targeted for closure the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the federal agency charged with distributing Congressionally-approved funds to state libraries and to library, museum, and archives program grant recipients. 
 
While attacking any library is undemocratic, the IMLS is important to us in particular. New York State has a very effective and well-loved  network of library systems, and much of their work has been largely funded by the IMLS. 
 
We belong to the Mid-Hudson Library System, and they make possible our inter-library loan program, databases like Transparent Languages and Job Now, extra funding for Overdrive purchases, training for trustees and staff, summer reading programs, and very critically, construction grants that enable libraries to keep their buildings open and safe.  Mid-Hudson receives 78% of their funding through the NYS Division of Library Development, which is fully funded by IMLS; without it they will cease to exist, and so will we, in our current iteration. 
 

The American Library Association has compiled this list of Frequently Asked Questions about the IMLS closure. At the end are suggested actions, including:

 

This is the statement of the New York Library Association detailing the dollars for critical services that New York receives from the IMLS. 
 
They also have an email you can sign to be sent to legislators asking for library support.
 
Every Library, a national library advocacy group, has this statement about the Executive Order. The statement also includes a petition to Congress that you can sign and an email to our governor and state representatives about the importance of maintaining funding for libraries.
 
Whatever your political leaning, this executive order, contravening Congressional support and funding for the IMLS,  is a critical threat to all libraries and to us in particular. 
 
Congressman Mike Lawler’s phone number is: 202-225- 6506. 

STEAM Punks Camp Returns!

We’re excited to announce that our annual S.T.E.A.M. Punks science camp will return for its sixth year! We will host two, identical four-day sessions, each available to twelve learners entering grades 3-7. Session One takes place July 14th-17th and Session Two July 21st-24th from 1:00pm-4:00pm.

Focusing on the intersection of technology and the arts, the STEAM Punks curriculum may explore design thinking, art making, robotics, coding, physical computing, storytelling, environmental science, A/V recording, photography, mind hacks, and more through creative and irreverent challenges assigned each day. There are a limited number of spots available, and applications are read on a first-come, first-served basis and will be accepted until the program and wait list are full. Emails will be sent with placement information in early spring.

Submit an application here.

Many thanks to all who supported the Library during our 2024 Year End Appeal!

Your generous support allows us to continue providing essential resources, innovative programs, and a welcoming space for all. Although our 2024 year end appeal has concluded, donations throughout the year are always appreciated and continue to allow us to invest in the heart of our community, ensuring that your library remains a vibrant hub of knowledge, connection, and inspiration for generations to come. Thank you for being a champion of the library’s mission. Together, we can build a brighter future.

A Nature Play Area is Growing!

A welcoming outdoor space on our beautiful campus where young children can play freely and safely in nature has been an important Library goal. A committee of Library trustees, staff, and community members has developed a plan for an area of natural play elements located near the Children’s Room. The Nature Play Area will offer stump circles, a building center, a shade arbor, benches for parents and caregivers, balance beams, and more. It will be fenced for additional safety. We welcome your support to see it completed.

Thanks to a very generous donor to the Desmond-Fish Public Library Nature Play Area, all gifts beginning January 20, 2025 will be matched dollar for dollar until the project target has been reached. Designated gifts for the Nature Play Area can range from $25 to $2,500; any amount is welcome and will be matched. To make a donation, please use this link or contact Nancy Young at 845-424-3020.

Support the Nature Play Area

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