Congratulations to Oblong Books, Millerton and Rhinebeck, N.Y., which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this coming Saturday, August 9, with a block party from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on South Center Street in Millerton.
There will be live music featuring Josh Driver as well as the Joint Chiefs; the Flavor Bandits and Hudson Valley Falafel food trucks; free popcorn and lemonade; raffles for totes with summer reads for kids and adults; stilt dancing; children's games; face painting; and drawings done by New Yorker cartoonists Liza Donnelly and Michael Maslin. At noon, there will be a presentation and remarks, featuring New York State Assembly member Didi Barrett, and at 2:45, a cake cutting ceremony and remarks. In addition, the Millerton Business Alliance will be hosting its Summer Stroll, adding to the festivities.
Oblong was founded in 1975 in Millerton by Dick Hermans and Holly Nelson and has been co-owned and operated by Dick and his daughter, Suzanna Hermans, for many years. The Millerton store now occupies three floors in two adjoining buildings, including Oblong Jr. with toys and children's books, on South Center Street. In 2001, Oblong opened its second location, at Montgomery Row in Rhinebeck. A vital community bookstore, Oblong partners with numerous local schools, libraries, and nonprofits, and presents and supports over 150 events each year. Oblong's stores serve as a safe and welcoming space for all people. Dick and Suzanna are both wonderful booksellers and people. Congratulations!