View in browser

Call Us:
914-632-7878

News From the Library

October 23, 2025

HIGHLIGHTS

A Fun and Fabulous Garden Grand Opening!


Our Children’s Garden is officially open! Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Grand Opening this past Saturday. Families enjoyed pumpkin decorating, face painting, music, photo ops, and more as we unveiled the garden’s beautiful new outdoor pavilion. We can’t wait to welcome you back to explore, play, and grow in this vibrant new space! View more photos here

Thank You to the Beach Club Book Buddies!


Max and his friend Lucas, the Beach Club Book Buddies, launched their community service project this past weekend at ArtsFest 2025,

raising $104, which they generously donated to the Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library.

Pictured: Amy Tietz, President of the Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library, and Beach Club Book Buddy co-founder, Max B.

It’s National Friends of Libraries Week! Say Thank You!


Join us in recognizing and thanking the Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library - an all volunteer group who dedicate their time and talent to strengthen our Library. Their efforts provide funding for many wonderful Library programs including our International Music and Dance Festival, yoga, children’s vacation week activities and more. Interested in joining the Friends of NRPL? Learn more here.

Kitten Library - Meow!


Artist Nicky Serrano's "Queen Kitty City: Feline Fun by the Seaside" was recently on display in Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital. We were delighted to see Huguenot Children's Library featured in one of the artist's pieces (click image to enlarge).


Serrano shared, "When creating artwork for the "Queen Kitty City" exhibit, I wanted to celebrate New Rochelle itself. Inspired by the city’s architecture and the whimsical world of Richard Scarry’s Busy Town, I painted Street Scene, with Kitten Library - inspired BY the Huguenot Children’s Library - at its heart. I hope that my love of libraries and children’s picture books comes through in this piece, which I created using acrylic markers, colored pencil, and laser-cut shapes for added depth and playful dimension." See the full exhibit here. Photo credit: Lori Adams Photography

COMING UP

Well-Minded Movement: Boost Flexibility, Posture and Balance


Struggling to stand tall or move with ease? Join us on Friday, October 24,11:30 am - 12:30 pm in this gentle class, based on The Feldenkrais Method®, which uses slow, gentle mindful movements to improve posture, flexibility, and balance—without strain. Discover how your movement habits impact well-being and learn techniques to release tension, breathe easier, and feel more energized.


Space is limited. First come, first served. Please bring a towel, blanket, or garden pad to sit on. Open to all abilities. Additional classes will take place on Fridays, November 7, 14 and 21.

New Rochelle Plays Hollywood: AVALON


Join us on Sunday, October 26, 2:00 pm for Avalon, starring Joan Plowright, Aidan Quinn, Elizabeth Perkins. Directed by Barry Levinson. (128 min.)


The story of the evolution of a close Jewish family, its traditions, its happiness, its tribulations and finally the impact of societal change. Part of Levinson’s acclaimed Baltimore series. Nominated for four Academy Awards


Prior to the screening, film aficionado Les Srager will introduce the history of the film and its creative personnel with a discussion period following the screening.

The Basics of Medicare Coverage Options


It's Medicare Open Enrollment time. Bilingual Medicare Advisor, Mercedes Stagnaro of Wellcare will be at the Library on Monday, October 27, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm to answer your questions about Medicare coverage options. Drop in. FREE.

ESL Beginner Placement Test (online)


The online placement test for the next session of Beginner ESL takes place online on Tuesday, October 28, 9:00 am. Call 914-606-5657 to enroll. (Fee - $35)

Mah Jongg Open Play: Fall Schedule


Join us! We need you. The next Tuesday evening session is October 28, 5:45 - 7:45 pm and the next Thursday afternoon session is October 30, 1:00 - 3:00 pm. Bring your skill, luck and fellow Mah Jongg enthusiasts. All welcome.


This program is for players of all levels.


Open play will continue through November (11/6, 13 and 20, and December 12/4, 11, 18) . 2026 dates TBD.

Join Our Community of Sewing Enthusiasts


Love to sew and looking to meet others who share your passion? We’d love to have you!


Our open sewing sessions on Wednesdays (10:30 am – 12:30 pm, or 12:30 – 2:30 pm on select days) offer more than just access to our state-of-the-art Necchi sewing machines—they’re a welcoming space to connect, create, and build community. This week's session was hopping! Join us for our next session on Wednesday, October 29, 10:30 am- 12:30 pm

Memoir Writing Workshop


Join us in this 4-session workshop and start the journey of telling your unique story! The first session is Tuesday, October 28, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm.


Many of us want to share our story. Sometimes it’s just for family, sometimes it’s for the world. Writing a memoir can be an exciting, fun, and transformative journey. Whether you’ve already begun writing, have a story in mind, or are still exploring ideas, this workshop will focus on the craft of memoir writing, gaining valuable tools to help you shape your narrative into the best it can be. 


No writing experience is needed, and sharing your work is entirely optional. Memoirs are circulated before each session. There is no in-class reading or writing. 


Please contact Rachel at RachelLevine55@gmail.com to register. Registration is required.  

The Making of Psycho (Virtual Program)


Join us virtually on Wednesday, October 29, 11:00 am for the making of Hitchcock's groundbreaking Psycho, which shocked the critics and terrified audiences around the world. Learn the backstory of the director's most notorious motion picture and how it affected the future of movie making.

English Learner Conversation Circle Continues!


Join us for this volunteer-led, drop-in weekly program offering English language learners the opportunity to practice their conversational English in a relaxed, fun way. ESL learners of all skill levels are encouraged to attend! Next class is Thursday, October 30, 11:00 am.

Trivia Night: Scary Movies and Halloween


Join us on Thursday, October 30, 6:30 -7:45 pm for a frightfully fun evening of spooky questions and eerie entertainment at our Scary Movies & Halloween Trivia Night! From classic horror flicks to creepy cult favorites—and all things Halloween—you’ll need more than just guts to win. Bring a team of brave souls or come solo and we’ll pair you up. Costumes encouraged.

We Want to Draw Your Blood!


Yes, our next Red Cross Blood Drive is really on Halloween - Friday, October 31, 11:30 am - 3:30 pm. What a perfect day to donate blood and help save lives! Sign up using the REGISTER button below. Use sponsor code NewRochelleNY.

Day of the Dead Performance: Time of the Marigold


On Saturday, November 1, 11:00 am, bring your family, friends or just yourself and be immersed in the vibrant traditions of Día de Muertos with a captivating performance of Time of the Marigold by the renowned Calpulli Mexican Dance Company.


Enjoy live music, dazzling choreography, and heartfelt storytelling that bring this revered holiday to life. Through song, dance, and interactive elements, you’ll gain insight into the symbols, rhythms, and meanings behind this timeless celebration of life and remembrance.

Civics Class for Citizenship


Join us on Saturday, November 1, 11:00 am (Note change in time) for NPRL's Civics Class, designed help to prepare students for the U.S. citizenship or naturalization exam and interview. Instruction is provided in the areas of government, current events, test-taking strategies, and interview skills, that build confidence and familiarity of the interview process.

NEW! Acoustic String Open Jam Session


Calling All Musicians!


Looking for other musicians to play with in an informal and judgement-free environment? Come join our new monthly acoustic string instrument jam session! Our first get together is Saturday, November 1, 3:00 - 4:30 pm.


Bring your guitar, ukulele, mandolin, banjo, etc. and join together with other like-minded aspiring musicians to share your love of music and song.

Jump Start Your Job Search Workshop: AI And Your Job Search; What's New and What Matters?


AI is constantly changing the job search landscape. Join us on Monday, November 3, 6:30 pm to look at the latest tools and techniques to identify those that may or may not, be useful. 

KIDS CORNER

Happy Halloween!


The creepiest, crawliest of holidays is the focus of this spooktacular selection of scary (& not so scary) boo(!)ks, "witch" should be more treat than trick for young readers!

Celebrating Día de los Muertos


Filled with sugar skulls, paper flowers, and altars honoring the departed, Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, is a time of joy and quiet remembrance as families honor their loved ones who have passed away. Learn more about his holiday by checking out these books..

"Commural" Creation at HCL Celebrates Our New Rochelle Community


Children had a great time creating a giant “Commural” at HCL as part of ArtsFest 2025. Kids came together as part of our community to make a colorful paper mural that includes images and words to celebrate the people and spirit of New Rochelle. Writer Karen Gardner sparked the creativity, but the masterpiece came from the kids!

Tween Gaming


Come chill out with old friends and new to play video or board games on Tuesday, October 28, 4:30 - 5:30 pm. Drop in.


Mark your calendars for additional sessions on 10/28, 11/4, 11/25, 12/2 and 12/9.

Kiddie Music Concert: Rock Your World Kids with Armelle


Kiddies ages 2 to 5 years, with their grownups, are invited to a fun-filled concert with Armelle, of Rock Your World Kids on Wednesday, October 29, 11:00 am. Get ready to sing, dance and celebrate with one of our favorite musical performers.

Registration Open for Our Next Tween Book Discussion About Invisible


Tweens ages 9-12 are invited to register for our next Tween Book Discussion on Tuesday, November 18, 4:30 -5:30 pm. Join us for snacks, trivia, and to chat about this month’s book club pick, Invisible by Christina Diaz Gonzalez and Gabriela Epstein.


Registration required. The first 10 registrants will be given a free copy of the book! Register by calling 914-813-3716 or visiting the Desk in the Children’s Room at the Main Library.

Tutor Homework

FREE Homework Help


Elementary students receive FREE assistance with school assignments and reading practice courtesy of Monroe University student tutors. This is a drop-in program and space may be limited. First come, first served. 

Check out what's happening at Main and HCL in the links below. We look forward to seeing your smiling faces.

COMPUTER CLASSES and TECHNOLOGY ASSISTANCE

Computer Classes


Cyber Security


Join us on Saturday, October 25, 10:00 -11:30 am to learn how to be safer online with accounts/passwords, overview of frauds/scams.

Computer Class: Introducción al Uso de Microsoft & Google Docs


Únete a nosotros el lunes 27 de octubre a aprenda a crear un documento simple, editar y darformato al texto, corregir la ortografía, ajustar losmárgenes, guardar, imprimir y abrir archivos en Microsoft y Google Docs. Gratis.


Se requiere registro. Regístrese en línea o llame al 914-813-3737, o pase por el mostradoe de referencia en el segundo piso.

Introduction to Social Media


Join us on Saturday, November 1, 10:00 - 11:30 am to learn the basics and functions of social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin.

FREE Tech Help


Having trouble using your smartphone or other device? Free tech help is available at New Rochelle Public Library. Our Digital Navigators are trained guides that can assist you with a variety of tech needs. Make an appointment with a Digital Navigator at NRPL by clicking below.

SAVE THE DATES

Friday Night Concert: Jared Pauley Quintet

Friday, November 7, 7:00 pm

Redhawk Native American Dance Performance

Saturday, November 8, 2:00 pm

Cozy Fall Soup & Sweets (Virtual)
Wednesday, November 12, 11:00 am

Women and Money Roundtable

Wednesday, November 12, 1:00 pm

IN THE STACKS

It's Spooky Season


Halloween is a tradition dating back to the festival of Samhain which was celebrated in Ireland. This ancient Celtic festival celebrated the end of the harvest season. During the beginning of the dark season people believed that the veil between the living and the dead would be lifted: thus allowing spirits to pass into the realm of humans. People wore disguises and lit bonfires.


Adult Librarian Caroline scared up this list of books celebrating this rich tradition with a few scary novels: Her personal favorites are Witchcraft for Wayward Girls and The Staircase in the Woods.  

It's World Series Time


Baseball fans - the fall classic is upon us. The library has a large collection of books on the game of baseball, its players, and the World Series. Check out some of our great titles.

Brown Bag Book Club for November: Famous Last Words by Gillian McAllister.


Join us on Tuesday, November 18, 12:00 pm,

for a librarian-led book discussion about Famous Last Words by Gillian McAllister.


Newcomers welcome. A supply of the book to be discussed is available to borrow from the first floor hold shelf. Drop in. 

ONGOING PROGRAMS

Please note: In consideration of other students in our classes, PLEASE

  • Refrain from wearing perfumes, or other strong scents to class.
  • Arrive on time. Late arrivals are disruptive to a class in session.

NRPL Knitting Club

Friday, October 24, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Well-Minded Movement
Friday, October 24, 11:30 am - 12:30 pm

Chair Yoga

Monday, October 27: 12:30 - 1:30 pm
Wednesday, October 29, 1:00 - 2:00 pm

Job Search Coach

Monday, October 27, 5:00 - 6:30 pm


On the first Monday of each month, our Job Search Coach will lead a workshop on a specific job search- related topic. The next workshop is Monday, October 6. Learn more about and register for workshops here.

Multilevel Yoga

Monday, October 27, 6:15 - 7:45 pm

Mah Jongg Open Play: Evening Session

New day! Tuesday, October 28, 5:45 - 7:45 pm

Open Sewing for Experienced Sewists

Wednesday, October 29, 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

English Learner Conversation Circle

Thursday, October 30 , 11:00 am - 12:00 pm

Mah Jongg Open Play: Daytime Session

Thursday, October 30, 1:00 - 3:00 pm

Gentle/Beginner Yoga

Saturday, November 1, 1:00 - 2:00 pm

Qi Gong

Tuesday, November 18, 10:00 -11:00 am. (Note: No class on 10/28, 11/4 and 11/11)

Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library Book Store

Saturdays, 10:00 am - 1:30 pm; Tuesdays, & Thursdays, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

TEEN SCENE

What's Happening in the Teen Room?

Experiment with Cameras and Collages


For tweens and teens in grades 6 - 12. Join us tomorrow, Friday, October 24, 3:30 - 5:00 pm to build your very own David Hockney-style photo collage with professional photographer Scott Dengrove.


Using our Fujifilm Instax Mini's photograph different perspectives and views at the library. Next learn how to creatively arrange and build a collage experimenting with scale, placement, viewpoint and composition, then take it home to enjoy and display.


All supplies will be provided. No registration, just drop in.

Mindfulness for Teens


For tweens and teens in grades 6 - 12. Stressed? Need a moment to relax? Join our mindful activities including coloring mandala's, listening to calming music, and getting into a state of relaxation. Snacks and drinks will be provided! The next session takes place Friday, October 24, 4:00 pm.

Creative Cards for a Cause


Get in on the action and join us for our next hands-on card-making workshop on Monday, October 27, 4:30 - 6:00 pm presented with NeuroFirst, a student-led nonprofit focused on brain health and community connection.


Teens are invited to craft uplifting cards that will be donated to memory care homes, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. Earn community service hours and have fun! Learn more.

Decorate a Skull for Day of the Dead


Time to get creative! Stop by the Teen Room on Wednesday, October 29, 3:00 - 6:00 pm and decorate your own Day of the Dead Skull. Enjoy while supplies last! No registration required!


For Tweens and Teens entering grades 6-12. 


Halloween Face Painting & Balloon Twisting


Celebrate Halloween with other NRPL teens on Friday, October 31, 3:00 - 5:00 pm. Get your own custom face painting and balloon twist to go with your costume. Available on a first-come, first-served basis so come early!


Drop-in.

Check out our Teen calendar for a full listing of all Teen events that take place daily in the Teen Room.


All programs are open to students entering grades 6-12.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Main Street Traffic


Main Street traffic as seen from an elevated view at Lawton Street, c. 1960's



The Archive of the New Rochelle Public Library is a unique resource of documents relating to the history of New Rochelle. Our Archive is a repository of historical resources such as institutional and civic records, personal papers, and audiovisual materials. In 2023, the entire Photography Collection of the Archive was properly organized and described by our staff Archivist. This collection of over 15,000 photographic images portrays the city in penetrating detail from early public photography of the 1860s to modern digital photos.

IN THE GALLERY

New Rochelle Art Association 109th Open Juried Show


The exhibit is on display through Saturday, October 25. Stop by to view this exhibit which  consists of artwork in 9 categories: Acrylic/Oils, Graphics, Fine Crafts, Sculpture, Photography, Watercolor, Mixed Media, Digital Art and Pastels.


Stay tuned for our next exhibit, The Teaching Artists of New Rochelle, opening on November 1.

IN THE COMMUNITY

Have Plans Yet for this Saturday Afternoon?


You're Invited to the Fall Social. Enjoy the day - Saturday, October 25, 1:00 - 4:00 pm- in Downtown New Rochelle for fall fun and good vibes! 


Start at Anderson Plaza for the Fall Social featuring family-friendly fun and seasonal treats. Then head just steps away to Spectators for the New Rochelle Police Department PBA’s “Brave the Buzz” event.

Community Book Club


The Rainbow Rockets LGBTQ+ Sci-Fi/Fantasy Book Club will meet at NRPL on Monday, October 27, 6:00 - 7:00 pm. This month's book is The Unbroken by C.L. Clark. Books available to borrow are on the Holds shelf.


RSVP to Roy at platopushpin@gmail.com

Let's Get Social


Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to be among the first to know about upcoming programs, events, library services and more. And be sure to take photos at library events and tag us @nrpubliclibrary

Facebook  Instagram
1 Library Plaza
New Rochelle, NY 10801
914-632-7878

Copyright © 2025. All Rights Reserved.