Libraries ‘Give Back’ programs in October
October is a special month for libraries as they step up by participating in the state-wide annual Great Give Back. With each library deciding individually on programs, there are multiple ways in which patrons can join in.
Hillsdale
Keeping residents warm is at the heart of the Roeliff Janson Community Library’s event, a winter garment drive which began in September and will run until Saturday, Oct. 15. All manner of clean, new or gently used coats, hats, gloves and scarves may be taken to the library at 9091 Rt. 22 in Hillsdale.
Millbrook
Millbrook Library Director Courtney Tsahalis said their month long commitment kicked off with Craft for a Cause on Friday Oct. 7 as patrons knitted hats and scarves which will be donated to local service organizations.
That program will be repeated at the library at 3 Friendly Lane on Friday, Oct. 21 at 5 p.m., providing instruction for anyone over the age of 12.
On Monday, Oct. 17, Tsahalis said teens between the ages of 12-19 will create hand crafted Stars of Hope which will be distributed by that national organization in order to “bring positivity to where needed to places where bad things happen,” such as to those impacted by the recent Hurricane Ian.
Toiletries to benefit The River Haven Youth Shelter in Poughkeepsie will be collected up until Friday, Oct. 14, with the items being packed for delivery on Satuday, Oct. 15.
On Saturday, Oct 22, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., a Volunteer Fair will include representatives from: Alzheimer’s Association, Care of DC, Dutchess County Pride, Dutchess Land Conservancy, Dutchess County SPCA, Food of Life/Comida de Vida Pantry, Friends of the Millbrook Library, Grace Immigrant Outreach, Hope Rising Farm, Medical Reserve Corp, Mental Health of America, Millbrook Arts Group, Millbrook Fire Department, Millbrook Historical Society, and the Rotary Club.
A food drive on behalf of Grace Immigrant Outreach LaMesa Food distribution in Dover in cooperation with Millbrook’s Grace Church is ongoing throughout the month.
Call 845-677-3611 for more information.
Millerton
The NorthEast-Millerton Library, sponsored an October 10 blood drive - one of many held there over the years. Head Librarian Rhiannon Leo-Jameson said that there is a critical need now, with shortages following Hurricane Ian and during the holiday season. To find other blood donation opportunities in the area, go to redcrossblood.org.
Pine Plains
The Pine Plains Library is collecting non-perishable items for Willow Roots Pantry Donations may be taken in to the library or left in the collection box on the library’s covered porch at 7775 South Main St., Pine Plains.
Stanford
Christa Cerul, Director of the Standford Free Library said they are spending the month collecting non-prishable food and supplies for the Stanford Grange # 808’s Little Food Pantry at 6047 NY-82, Stanfordville. Donations, including checks made out to the Grange and marked for the pantry, may be dropped at the Library at 6035 Rt. 82, Stanfordville, mailed to that address, or to the Grange at PO Box 108, Stanfordville, 12581. She asks that no expired items be donated.
