GPL Monthly Newsletter

GPL's May Newsletter

Many people view the library as a place for solitude, and with good reason. In a frenzied world we work hard to create spaces that serve as a place of refuge and respite for the mind. But solitude isn't the only path to renewal, connecting with others is also an opportunity to lift the spirit.

The Greenburgh Library staff has focused on creating a culture that allows individuals to come together over shared interests, and to forge communities that learn together and support one another. Below is just a sample of the many opportunities to connect with others (find a full schedule of our events and learning communities here ). We will continue to provide you with a quiet sanctuary, but consider that you may find the renewal you seek in one of the many communities that come together here at the Greenburgh Library.

Communities at GPL

GPL Writers Community

This is a community of writers that gather to share their work, receive feedback, and listen to other works in a friendly atmosphere. All Writers welcome .

Sketchbook Group

This is an opportunity to work on drawing, watercolor or pencil artwork in a Creative Aging program where members share their talents and learn from one another.

Spanish-English Conversation Group Grupo de Conversación español-inglés

This group provides an opportunity to meet with others to improve your Spanish conversation skills. Basic Spanish needed to participate. Mejore su nivel de

conversación en inglés.

Saberlo básico es necesariopara participar.

Teen Fiction Book Club

T.F.B.C. is a place where teens can talk and discuss teen fiction books from the library and the website Wattpad. Ages 14-18.

Dungeons & Dragons for Teens

Join the Library’s Dungeons & Dragons group for a self-contained adventure! New and experienced players welcome, 8-12 grade.

Chess Club for Kids

Does your child love playing chess? Are they interested in learning how to play? Open play and instructions from Warren, GPL's resident chess expert. Grade 2 and up.

NEW! Homeschool Resources Guide

The Children's Room has created a new guide for homeschool families to learn about all that the library has to offer as a learning resource that can support homeschool education. If you're thinking about homeschooling, the guide also includes links to New York State guidelines and local homeschool communities. If your family already homeschools, the resource includes a brief survey and we'd love your feedback on how the library can support your educational needs.

Nancy's Nook: Finding Your Next Great Read

Looking for your next great book? Librarian Nancy Larrabee, who selects for the library’s fiction collection, has some suggestions to help you. Nancy has been running book groups here at the library for over a decade ( No Ordinary Time by Doris Kearns Goodwin was on the New York Times Best seller list when she selected it for her first book club!), so she knows a thing or two about finding the gems.

If you enjoy popular fiction, but hate waiting lists, Nancy suggests first checking the Express Shelf on the first floor. These titles are the bestselling books that are so popular it normally takes weeks to months on the waiting list to get your hands on one, but sometimes we have an Express copy available for walk-ins to discover. Want to know more about an Express book before you commit to it? Check out www.bookpage.com for current reviews and recommendations. The library subscribes to a hard copy of this publication too, Nancy notes, “at the beginning of every month you can find a free copy at the front door - but they do go quickly!”

Nancy’s Nook , on the library’s website, is another way to find out about great books. Nancy’s Nook highlights her favorite reads, often historical fiction and fast paced thrillers- she’s currently reading Last Act by Brad Parks. The Nook also includes popular titles from the Reese Witherspoon and Oprah Winfrey book clubs. Through Nancy’s Nook you can also access Novelist , a library resource that helps you discover new titles and authors based on genre, style, and books that are similar to what you already like (see a librarian, who will show you how to access it!).

Want to find a great book and meet other book lovers at the same time? Nancy suggests joining one of the library’s book groups- like the Meet Your Neighbors Book Discussion group, who meet the first Thursday of the month September - June. During the month of July you can also join the Adult Summer Reading Challenge, to see what other people are reading.

There are many ways to find your next great read, but sometimes the best way is to ask a librarian (like Nancy!), we're always happy to help.

Staff Picks

You may have noticed that we recently launched a new catalog called Evergreen . We hope Evergreen's new features (like shelf browse ) will make your experience finding the material you want easier and enjoyable. If you need help navigating the new system please see a staff member, or call the Adult Information Desk at 914-721-8225.

Quick tip : Check out the following video to learn how to review your checkouts and renew your books using Evergreen .