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Starting December 1, LION library patrons will be required to set up a Personal Identification Number (PIN) in order to access their online library account.

Library accounts are used to place holds on items, request inter-library loans, and renew checked-out items; the new PINs will be used in place of patron names when logging in via the catalog, and eventually to access certain digital resources as well. Don’t worry! There’s no time limit for setting up a PIN, and the process is simple. Take a look at the FAQ below for an overview of the implementation of PINs – more specific information and detailed guides will be available after December 1. If you’re still confused, feel free to ask a librarian!

FAQ

Why are LION libraries implementing Personal Identification Numbers (PINs)?
LION libraries are committed to the protection of patron privacy. PINs are more effective in keeping patron information private and secure than other forms of authentication. Therefore, the “Your Name” field that appears when signing in to your library account will be replaced with a PIN going forward.

Will I need to set up a PIN if I don’t use my library account?
No, if you never use your library account, you will not need a PIN. However, if that changes and you do decide to use the library’s digital resources, you will be prompted to create a PIN.

What will I need to set up a PIN for?
You will need to set up a PIN to access your library account in order to place holds, renew items, and check your account. You will also need a PIN in order to access some digital resources that require your library card number, like OverDrive/Libby and Kanopy, which will require your PIN as of February 1, 2027.

Is the PIN for my library account the same as the PIN that will be needed for Overdrive/Libby and Kanopy?
Yes, it will be the same PIN for all digital library resources.

How do I set up my PIN?
You will be prompted to create a PIN the first time you log in to your library account, starting on December 1, 2026.

The PIN must be at least four characters long, but the system can accommodate more complex passwords. LION recommends you use more than the minimum number of characters and construct a PIN using alphanumeric characters. Do not use any special characters in your PIN.

You will need to have an active email address associated with your library account in order to set up and, if need be, reset, your PIN. To check, add, or change the email address for your account, simply log in to your library account and click “Account Settings” under the “My Account” menu. Add your preferred email address in the field under “Contact Information” and then click “Update Contact Information”.  

Does the PIN expire?
No, the PIN does not expire.

Starting November 18, join us for a new programming format on Wednesday mornings, from 10:45 – 11:15 AM in the Children’s Room – READ & ROMP! This program is intended for children preschool age and under and their caretakers, and will include themed reading materials, an accompanying craft in the Makerspace, and a great opportunity for both kids and adults to socialize. Drop in at any point during the program’s runtime – all materials are provided and no registration is required. We hope to see you there!

The Library will be closing at 6:00 PM on Tuesdays during the rest of November. All of our other hours will remain the same – just stop by a little earlier if you’re here on a Tuesday afternoon!

Meet & Greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Library!

Save the date: Santa and Mrs. Claus will be visiting Clark Memorial Library for a meet-and-greet event on Thursday, December 3 from 4:00 – 6:00 PM! Stop by the Community Room to get a picture with the Clauses, and join Library staff and members of the Bethany Lions Club for holiday crafts and treats!

The Library will be closed on Tuesday, November 11 for Veterans Day. We hope everyone has an enjoyable holiday, and thank our local veterans for their service!

Looking for something scary to watch this Halloween? The Kanopy Crypt Collection has arrived! Featuring a handpicked lineup of horror films and TV series – from iconic slashers and atmospheric ghost stories to prestige horror and cult classics, there’s something for every kind of scare.

All you need to access this collection – as well as hundreds of other classic and indie films, TV shows, and documentaries – is your library card. For a quick walkthrough of how to set up and use a Kanopy account, visit their Getting Started webpage; if you already have an account, just sign in and enjoy. New media and watchlists are added on a regular basis!

The Friends of the Library and local artist Zach Chernak will be hosting a new “Paint & Sip” style event on Saturday, November 7, from 2:00 – 4:00 PM – but this time, to suit the start of the fall season, it will be Paint & Cider! Zach will guide participants through the creation of a special autumn painting, accompanied by hot apple cider and light refreshments. All art materials will be provided, and no prior painting experience is necessary. We hope to see you there!

The event will take place in the Library’s Community Room. Space is limited, and participants must register in order to attend; cost is $20.00 per person (nonrefundable), paid in advance either in person at the Library or digitally via Paypal, Venmo, or credit/debit card – use the dropdown menu to select “Friends of the Library Event”. Call the Library at (203) 393-2103 for more information.

It’s that time of year again! Halloween is on the horizon, and we’ve filled our displays with sinister and spooky stories to celebrate. Stop by and pick up a spine-chilling late-autumn read, and be sure to check out the Kanopy Crypt Collection on our streaming service for a selection of scary movies as well!

Pick a Book from the Pumpkin Patch!

Have you seen our latest pop-up book display? Stop by the Children’s Room and pick a pumpkin-themed book from our “Pumkin Patch” to celebrate the changing seasons and the harvest – and don’t forget to grab an Autumn Scavenger Hunt form while you’re here!

Let’s Bedazzle!

Join us on October 24, 2:00 – 4:00 PM to create your own literary bling!

We will once again be testing the boundaries of patience and skill with another two-hour bedazzling session – just bring your favorite book, and we will provide colorful gems and glue to decorate the cover with. Please consider that more detailed book cover designs will be more difficult to accent with the gems.

This program is for participants ages 15+ and will take place in the Library’s Community Room. Space is limited – there will be a maximum of 15 participants, and registration is required. Contact the Library at 203-393-2103 or clarkmain@bethanylibrary.org to register; if you register but cannot attend, please let us know as far in advance as possible so that your spot can be opened back up.

 This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Library.