Free Music Giveaway!

The Friends are having another free giveaway. This time we're giving away four CDs. All you have to do is fill out an entry form, circle the CD you'd like to win, and drop it in the entry box. Drawing will be held on Wednesday, December 21.
One entry per person, please.

 

 

Our New Space

We're moving to a new spot in the library!

Kids' Magazines Reviews

Are you considering getting a magazine subscription for a special child? Here's a list of winners for 2016 by Parents-Choice, Children's Toys and Media Reviews - since 1978. The list includes reviews. One note - the National Geographic site has a fair number of complaints on missing issues, and NG will send you tons of mail advertising their books. Cobblestone gets a great review from one of our members.
http://www.parents-choice.org/award.cfm?thePage=magazine&p_code=p_per

Boxwood Trees - Not This Year

None of our boxwoods had new growth this year. We're guessing it was due to the dry summer. We're hoping we can get together next year for making these cute trees. 

BiblioStat - Public Libraries Statistics in New York

If you love statistics, data, and libraries, check this out. Bibliostat Connect provides New York data back to 1991 from the Annual Report for Public and Association Libraries and the latest data from the Federal State Cooperative System (FSCS) and the Public Library Data Service (PLDS) for all public libraries in the nation. It's fairly easy to use. The user ID is new york, and the password is pals. Scroll down til you get to the yellow box on the left.
Have fun!
http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/libs/index.html#Statistics

Febfest - Maxwell Library, 2007

One of our members found this little gem on YouTube.
Enjoy! 
February 3, 2007

Library Closings

Phases 2 & # of the renovation have begun. The library will be closed beginning October 12, and will reopen on October 21. This includes the outside Book Drop. Your books will not be due during this time. 

                

Renovation Phase 2 & 3 Begin!

For the next several months, there will be lots of changes and activity at Maxwell. For now, the entire collection is over on the 'Adult' side. You should be able to easily locate what you're looking for. Bright yellow bookends highlight the Children's collection, signs are at the end of each aisle. Everyone is looking forward to watching the upcoming changes take shape. 

Here's a temporary map of where things are now.
Click on the image to enlarge it. There are also copies at the library.

Here's the Children's Collection! 

50th Reunion! Burnt Hills Ballston Lake High School Class of 1966

Class of 1966 to hold 50th-year reunion in fall 2016

The BH-BL Class of 1966 will host its 50th reunion on October 14-15, 2016.

Dinner will be Friday evening at the Water's Edge Lighthouse in Glenville, NY.

An informal evening will be Saturday, October 15, at Carney's in Ballston Lake.

Please update your information using the Contact Information form.

Contact information form: http://goo.gl/forms/k5oIAAqiVw 

Email: bhbl66reunion@gmail.com

Facebook Group: Burnt Hills Ballston Lake Class of 1966    

Reservations must be made by September 15.

This is a Public Service Announcement 

Summer Reading Program for Adults

 The Summer Reading Program for Adults concluded with a Dessert Party at the library on August 18. Sixty of you entered with over 150 entries. Forty people attended the Dessert Party. The gluten free cupcakes, the Key Lime pie, and the Wegmans chocolate cake were the big hits. We're already planning next year's program. Thank you to all who entered. It was great fun!  

Summer Reading Program for Adults - Update

There are just ELEVEN days left to read a book, listen to a book, or watch a movie based on a book!
All entries must be submitted by closing time on Monday, August 15.It's not to late to enter.
There's no registration, or logs to keep track of.
Sugar free and gluten free desserts will be available.
Drawing for prizes will be held at the Dessert Party!
You don't need to be present to win, but you're not going to want to miss these desserts we have planned.
Look at these Gift Card Prizes! One per winner.
Wegmans - $100.00
Wildcat Sports Pub - $50.00
Movie Tavern - $50.00
Green Gate Inn & Pub - $50.00
Home Depot - $50.00
Rock USA Cutlery - $50.00
Many thanks to The Wildcat Sports Pub, Rock USA Cutlery, and The Green Gate Inn for their generous donations for these great prizes!

Entry forms are available at the library.

Dessert Party for participants and Friends will be on Thursday, August 18 at 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

New York State Library Construction Grant Awards 2016

From NYSED Communications
http://www.nysed.gov/news/2016

A link to the complete list of the award winners is near the end of this article. 

State Education Department Announces $14 Million in Library Construction Grants for 173 Public Libraries Statewide

The State Education Department today awarded $14 million in grants to 173 public libraries statewide for construction projects.

“Many public libraries statewide lack updated technology or facilities to fully serve children, parents and other community members," said Board of Regents Chancellor Betty A. Rosa. "If libraries are going to be an exciting destination for children and families, they need proper facilities. The grants we're announcing today will help fund the construction and renovation projects that will make that a reality."

“Public libraries are centers of communities,” said State Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia. “These construction grants will enable public libraries statewide to make much-needed renovations or upgrade technologies to better serve the community. We must continue to invest in public libraries. The Board of Regents and I thank the Governor’s Office and the State Legislature for committing these funds."

Project activities eligible for grants include financing construction of new library buildings, construction of additions to existing buildings, and the renovation or rehabilitation of existing space. The projects can include roof replacement, purchase and installation of alternative energy resources and new HVAC systems, windows, doors, and lighting systems, electrical upgrades, and construction of new or replacement of old walkways and parking lots. New furniture, shelving and equipment, including computer equipment, can be purchased for new or newly renovated space. Renovations designed to provide accessibility for patrons with disabilities is a high priority.

Grant awards range from $3,206 to $1,734,521 and were awarded to libraries across the state:

Capital Region - $1,098,981

Southern Tier - $457,625

Western New York - $1,384,637

Hudson Valley - $1,577,094

Long Island - $1,714,951

New York City - $4,292,534

Finger Lakes - $1,482,366

Central New York - $690,234

Mohawk Valley - $562,076

North Country - $739,502

A complete list of award winners is available here:http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/construc/14m_pls16.htm.

Construction funds are allocated to New York State’s 23 public library systems based on formulas in Education Law.  Member libraries within a system compete for the State funds allocated to their public library system.  Each library system’s governing Board of Trustees then prioritizes the projects and sends approved project applications with recommended project awards to the State Library.  After State Library review, applications are then sent to the Dormitory Authority of New York State (DASNY) for final review and approval.

The grant funds are from $14 million in capital funds for public library construction provided in the 2015 State Budget. In the 2016 State Budget, the Legislature provided $19 million for projects that will be announced in Spring 2017.

---

Visit EngageNY.org

Follow the Commissioner on Twitter: @NYSEDNews(link is external)

New York State Board of Regents

The State Education Department / The University of the State of New York / Albany, NY 12234

Office of Communications / (518) 474-1201

Maxwell's 2017 Budget Approved

Maxwell Memorial Library's budget for 2017.
Presented and approved on June 20, 2016
http://tinyurl.com/hb2fztb

Coming Soon! Maxwell's Adult Summer Reading Program

New! Adult Summer Reading Program at Maxwell

Here's what you need to know:

• It begins Tuesday, July 5 and concludes on Monday, August 15  
• A Dessert Party and Drawing for prizes will be on Thursday, August 18 at the library from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
• You do not need to be present to win.
• There's no sign up, or registration.
• There are no logs to fill out and keep track of.
• One book, audio book, or movie adapted from a book = 1 entry form. 
• Entry forms will be available at the library beginning July 5. 
• Drop your completed entry form in the Friends' prize box on top of the card catalog. 
• Prizes will be gift cards to local establishments.

The Friends have supported the Children's and Teens' Summer Reading Program for many years. The Friends are very pleased to sponsor a Summer Reading Program just for grown-ups!

Sponsored by the Friends of Maxwell Memorial Library
for Maxwell Memorial Library

Crazy Busy Month of May, and a Little Bit of June

May is our busiest month of the year, and this year's May was no exception. Our Geranium Sale was a huge success! We sold 128 DOZEN gorgeous plants. Thank you to the Village of Camillus for letting us use the Village Hall for pick up day on May 14. The weather was perfect, and it was also the day of the Mile Long Garage Sale in the village. What a fun day. 

 

Two weeks later was the Memorial Day Parade in the village. It was an extra special event because it was a reunion year for the West Genesee Wildcat Alumni, and the 50th anniversary of the marching band.
The Friends set up camp out in front of the library with an array of items to give away to parade goers. We passed out 60 helium balloons, 90 patriotic pinwheels, 140 flags, and 3 cases of bottled water. All free, but we really appreciated your donations. Next year, we won't run out of water!



Saturday, June 4 was our Annual Garage Sale in Orchard Village. We started getting ready as soon as the parade was over. This year, we collected donated new children's books to give away to kids who came to the sale. It was a huge hit with the parents, as well as with the little ones. We sold a record number of treasures, but the Royal typewriter didn't find a new home.
Alas, we've come to the decision that this was our last garage sale, unless we can find someone else to take it over.
We've been fortunate to have it at the same home for 14 years.

     

Garage Sale Info

Friends’ Garage Sale – Sat., June 04 - Orchard Village
Friends, Director, Staff, Trustees, Patrons
Want to donate and shop? Here’s how:

It's time to start collecting 'stuff' for our annual garage sale!

- Items may be dropped off at (you know where) beginning

Wednesday, May 25.

- The last day to drop items off is Thursday, June 2.

- If no one is home, please leave items near the front door. `

- You don’t need to price your items.

- You don’t need to call ahead before dropping off.

**** Please help us by making sure your donation CLEAN. ****

- Guidelines and Suggestions

YES, Please – A few ideas: glassware, dishes, cookware, table linens,

quilts, comforters, costume jewelry, perfume (used or unused), VHS tapes,

DVDs, CDs, vinyl record albums, postcards, books, collectibles,

knick knacks, holiday decorations, picture frames, mirrors, purses, toys,

games, jigsaw puzzles, fishing equipment, golf clubs, tools, radios (any kind),

working sewing machines and typewriters, clocks & watches (in any condition), lamps, and anything else you can think of. Furniture in very good condition.
Electric typewriters - YES!

Clothing - Baby and toddler, if they are in very good condition,

Denim - new, or old - any size,

General adult / teen clothing – only if it still has the tag on it

NO, Thank you - ancient, or non-working appliances, used shoes,  

used stuffed animals, books with yellowed pages, magazines,

used adult clothing (except denim), televisions, computers, printers, phones - unless they’re rotary dial

Donating is open to Friends, Staff, Trustees and Patrons.

Stop by and find a treasure on June 04! Thank you!

What's in Your Pocket?

April 21 is Poem in Your Pocket Day
Poem in Your Pocket Day was initiated in 2001 by the Office of the Mayor (Michael Bloomberg) as part of the city's National Poetry Month Celebration.
In 2008, the Academy of American Poets took the initiative to all fifty states.
Poem in Your Pocket day has become widely known throughout schools and libraries across the country.

Don't forget to enter the Friends' poetry book giveaway!
All you have to do is jot down your name and phone number, circle the title of the book you'd like to win, and pop your entry into the entry box. Drawing will be on Saturday, April 23.

Geranium Sale 2016

Our Geranium Sale is ready to begin!
We're pleased to offer you five fabulous colors this year, including the 'Syracuse Orange'.

Here are the details:
Geraniums must be pre-ordered.
Payment must accompany your order.
Order forms can be picked up at the library, or print one from the link below, or the library's website.
Drop off your order at the library by 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 5.
Pick up day will be on Saturday, May 14 at the Camillus Village Hall
between 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon.
Parking is available behind the Village Hall.

Prices are:     Plants are in 4 1/2 inch pots
single plant - $4.00         1/2 dozen - $18.00       1 dozen - $30.00

Payment may be made by check or cash.
Make checks out to: Friends of Maxwell Library

You can print your own order form. Click on the link below.
Geranium Order Form 2016 (disabled)

Thank you for supporting the Friends!

It's National Poetry Month PLUS National Library Week

This April marks the 20th anniversary of National Poetry Month. All over the world, libraries, schools, publishers, and poets will be celebrating poetry's vital place in our culture. 

The Friends will be celebrating with a FREE book drawing.
We'll have a selection of books of poetry to give away, and all YOU have to do is enter.
Look for it during National Library Week, April 10 -16. 

It's a busy month for libraries! 

   

Finding Award Winning Books for Kids and Teens

The Onondaga County Public Library's website has a ton of excellent information if you know where to find it. Have you ever wondered what children's books are award winners, and what libraries in the system own them?
This page has award winners, and recommended titles for kids, PLUS, with one click you can check the catalog for each title.
Do have a look. You'll like it!

http://www.onlib.org/web/kids_teens/kids/read/index.htm

We're Collecting Children's Books

Please consider donating children's books you've outgrown to the Friends!
Something new for this year's Garage Sale, on Saturday, June 4.
Many families come to the Garage Sale, and the kids usually don't buy anything for themselves. 
This year, we'll be giving a book to each child who stops by our sale.
We'll need your help to gather enough books to give away.
Please make sure they're in excellent condition, and appropriate for babies through middle school.
Drop them off in the tote underneath our card catalog. Thank you!

Robert's Rules of Order

We've had some discussion regarding Robert's Rules of Order, and whether or not the president of an organization can vote.

The answer is yes. "The president has every right and privilege as all voting members. If the president is a member of the voting body, he or she has exactly the same rights and privileges as all other members have, including the right to make motions, to speak in debate, and to vote on all questions. So, in meetings of a small board (where there are not more than about a dozen board members present), and in meetings of a committee, the presiding officer may exercise these rights and privileges as fully as any other member.
However, the impartiality required of the presiding officer of any other type of assembly (especially a large one) precludes exercising the rights to make motions or speak in debate while presiding, and also requires refraining from voting except (i) when the vote is by ballot, or (ii) whenever his or her vote will affect the result.
"http://www.robertsrules.com/faq.html#1

There's no law mandating that nonprofits must make decisions using Robert's Rules.
The Friends of Maxwell use the consensus model for making decisions. Someone presents an idea. The idea is passed around. Comments and discussion are encouraged. The idea can be modified until there is a general consensus among the members in attendance.
For expenditures of  more than $250.00, the Executive Board votes on the proposal after a general consensus has been reached at a meeting of the Friends.

501(c)(3) Small Tax Exempt Organizations: Don't Forget your 990N

Don't forget to file your 990N.
If you fail to file for three consecutive years, you'll automatically lose your tax exempt status. Small tax-exempt organizations, whose gross receipts are less than $50,000 a year, aren't required to file form 990, 990-EZ.
These small tax-exempt organizations ARE required to electronically file Form 990-N each year.

This year, file directly at IRS.gov
https://www.irs.gov/Charities-&-Non-Profits/Annual-Electronic-Filing-Requirement-for-Small-Exempt-Organizations-Form-990-N-e-Postcard

Read the first section, How to File. Click on the link:
Form 990-N Electronic Filing system (e-Postcard).

Since we didn't meet the requirements for returning users, even tho we've filed each year, we had to Register at the First Time Users (left side). Registering takes longer than filing. Don't be thrown off by having to fill in your OWN (principal officer) name, address, etc. Once you've created your profile, it goes quickly. Be prepared to make up a strong password, and enter info for a bunch of security questions. Make sure you print out verification that you submitted your e-postcard.

Here's the phone number for nonprofits:  877-829-5500

Our Mini Book Club

We'll be setting aside some time at most meetings to share book titles with each other.
Here are the titles of books you shared with us at our February meeting, and would highly recommend.

* Two Days After the Wedding, by Joan Medlicott - fiction
   Man's Search for Meaning, by Viktor Frankel - philosophy
   Entry Island, by Peter May - mystery, debut novel
* My Name is Lucy Barton, by Elizabeth Strout - fiction
   Lady Bird and Lyndon, by Betty Boyd Caroli - nonfiction
   My Antonia, by Willa Cather - classic, Nebraska pioneer life
   Brave Companions, by David McCullough - nonfiction, essays
   Thirteen Ways of Looking, by Colum McCann - fiction, novellas
* Inside the O'Briens, by Lisa Genova - fiction, Huntington's disease

* Maxwell owns this title in book format.

Valentine

The Friends hope you enjoyed their Chocolate Friends-y Raffle,

and the Hershey Kiss 'Roses' this week. 

The flowers are in appreciation of the wonderful Staff at Maxwell.  

Here's a Valentine poem to warm your hearts this chilly day.

February 14

Happy Valentine's Day to the Staff from us.

Meeting: Monday, February 8

Meeting - Monday, February 8.
Want to have lunch first? Come at 12:30 p.m.
We'll supply water, plates, napkins, and cups.
Meeting will begin at 1:00 p.m.
Oh, and bring along a book you loved to share.

Chocolate Friends-y is Back!

Update! Two Winners!

Steve and Donna each won a Land's End tote filled with chocolate.
Thank you to everyone who entered. We appreciate your support!

Two chances to win one of these canvas totes filled with all things chocolate!

Tickets are $2.00 each, or 5 tickets for $5.00.

Drawing will be held on Wednesday, February 10.