Learn about alternative energy at Geneva library program

Submitted by Geneva Library Foundation

The Geneva Library Foundation Speaker Series continues with “Exploring Energy Efficiencies and Alternatives” with Patricia Vary, a retired research professor, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 22, in the lower meeting room at the Geneva Public Library, 127 James St.

With increased use of gasoline in Asia, limited supplies of oil, inevitable price increases, as well as population explosion, water scarcity and climate change, it is imperative to learn new energy efficiencies for homes and businesses.

She will examine the present status of climate change data and the progress in energy alternatives, including solar, wind, geothermal, biodiesel, and fuel cells. She will discuss strategies being used in business and government, as well as steps you can take in your home and daily routines for better energy efficiency and sustainability.

Vary has a bachelor’s degree in medical technology and a master’s degree in microbiology, both from Texas Christian University; a master’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Wisconsin; and a Ph.D. in microbial genetics from Stanford University.

She was on the faculty of the biological sciences department as a microbial geneticist at Northern Illinois University for 28 years and department chair for four of those years.

Vary retired in 2003, but worked for five more years on a genome sequencing project. She achieved the title of Distinguished Research Professor, holds two patents, has published more than 100 papers and abstracts, and had a licensing agreement with a major pharmaceutical company.

The evening will include a short reception and question and answer session after the presentation. This is a free event. Reservations are not required, but suggested. You can register by visiting www.genevalibraryfoundation.org.

The Geneva Library Foundation was established in 2005 as a charitable organization to provide support for current and future library materials, services and facilities. It is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.

With a goal of raising $1 million by 2016 and $2 million by 2021, the foundation is committed to providing a substantial, permanent, and stable source of funds to support the Geneva Public Library.