CANASTOTA — A pair of authors will present their work at upcoming events to be held at the Canastota Public Library.

At 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 19, at 6:30 p.m., John Taibi will offer a presentation at the Canastota Public Library, 102 W. Center St., on his newest book, “HOJACK.”

Taibi has specialized in writing and talking about railroads and railroading throughout New York State for many years “HOJACK” tells the history of the Rome, Watertown and Ogdensburg Railroad. The Rome, Watertown & Ogdensburg Railroad began in 1842 as the Watertown & Rome Railroad to link Watertown with Rome, New York on the Syracuse & Utica Railroad, later consolidated as part of the New York Central Railroad.

The Potsdam & Watertown Railroad was formed at this time to link Watertown with Potsdam, New York in St. Lawrence County. In 1861, these two railroads merged as the RW&O. John Taibi is a local railroad historian who has written more than a dozen books about railroads. He recently provided a Canalside Talk at the library which highlighted his 74 Years of Railroading.

Taibi is an enthusiastic railroad buff. He lives in a railroad depot built in 1881 by the O & W in Munnsville. The station was used until 1957. In 1994, Taibi completed all restorations. He has always had a keen interest in railroad history.

Author to debut new book on Wednesday, May 25

Long time Canastota Public Library staff member and newly published author, Beth Totten will present her new book at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 25.

Totten will read from her debut book of poetry, “Connections,” that also contains full color photographs by her youngest son, Jake. This mother-son duo collaborated on the project during the pandemic and have produced a slim, heartfelt volume that speaks to life’s myriad connections, the author said.

Beth’s words and Jake’s photographs will touch everyone in different ways, she added, and the reader will discover a variety of themes from depression to hope, growth, renewal and joy.

Totten has been employed at the Canastota Public Library for the past 16 years and recently transitioned to part-time. She produces all of the library public relations materials and manages the Facebook account, developed and implemented our robotics programs, leads the evening writing group as well as the teen writing group, leads the Lit Club book discussion group and much more.

Jake Totten is a botanist and amateur photographer who lives near Bar Harbor, Maine, but will attend Syracuse University this fall for graduate studies in landscape architecture.

Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing that evening for $16.99 each. The event will take place on the second floor of the library, accessible by elevator. Everyone is welcome.