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News From the Library

January 16, 2025

DIRECTOR'S LETTER TO THE COMMUNITY

Dear Friends, 


As I mark my three-month anniversary as your Library Director, I want to take a moment to share some reflections and update you on the exciting progress we’ve made together.


It has been such a rewarding experience getting to know this wonderful community. From the very beginning, I’ve been inspired by your passion for the library, and I’m truly grateful for the warm welcome I’ve received. Together, we’re working to enhance the library’s role as a central hub for learning, connection, and creativity.


Over the past few months, one of the major projects I’ve been focused on is .... read more.

HIGHLIGHTS

January Hours and Holiday Closings


The Libraries will be closed on Sunday, January 19 and Monday, January 20 in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

COMING UP

NEW! Well-Minded Movement: Relax Your Neck and Shoulders


Join us for our next well-minded movement class on Friday, January 17, 11:30 am - 12:30 pm, that focuses on addressing tension in your neck and shoulders.


If you feel like you are on a never-ending quest to relax your neck and shoulders, join us to learn practical movements to reduce effort and prevent injury in your neck and shoulders that will leave you feeling relaxed and renewed. This program, led by Patricia Wahl, uses a unique body-brain type exercise (based on The Feldenkrais Method) for learning intelligent movement. Drop in.


Bring a folded towel or gardening kneeling pad to provide support when you are sitting.

Friday Night Concert Series: Jared Pauley Quartet


The Jared Pauley Quartet returns to the New Rochelle Public Library on Friday, January 17, 7:00 pm, with a tribute to the late, great Chick Corea—a musical visionary whose compositions spanned jazz, Brazilian/Latin rhythms, and classical influences.


Join Jared Pauley on keyboards, Adam Hutcheson on saxophone, Jeremy Heuler on bass, and Cengiz Baysal on drums as they honor Corea’s genius with passion and precision. Co-sponsored by the New Rochelle Council on the Arts, this concert is a must for any jazz enthusiast!

REGISTER

Gentle Yoga


Join us on Saturday, January 18, 10:30 - 11:45 am for a gentle mat yoga class with breathing (pranayama) and movement (asana) led by Tere Yogi. Please bring your own mat. Ages 16 and up.



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The Eighth Wonder of the World: The Brooklyn Bridge (Virtual)


Opened on May 24, 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge was hailed as “the eighth wonder of the world.” Well over a century later, it still stands as one of the world’s most recognizable spans. 


This interactive virtual presentation on Tuesday, January 21, 6:30 pm, explores the amazing history of the bridge’s construction and the heroic and sometimes tragic stories of the men and women who made it possible. Discover how the bridge’s construction helped lead to the consolidation of New York and how old-world engineering know-how and modern industrial innovation came together to complete the project. Presented by the New York Historical Society.

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Come Sew With Us


Join us for our next Open Sewing session on Wednesday, January 22, 10:30 am - 12:30 pm.


Whether you're an experienced seamstress, budding fashion designer, home decor enthusiast, or you just need to hem pants, this program offers the perfect opportunity to work on your sewing projects in a relaxed environment with fellow sewists, using our state-of-the-art Necchi sewing machines. We have experienced sewists on hand to help with any questions you may have.


This is not a beginner sewing class. It's intended for patrons who know how to operate a sewing machine. Patrons are responsible for bringing their own supplies, including fabrics, threads, patterns, and any other materials necessary for their projects.

English Learner Conversation Circle


Join us on Wednesday, January 22, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm for this volunteer-led, drop-in weekly program offers 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! Drop in. Questions? Call Denise Link at (914) 813-3733; or email dlink@nrpl.org


Adult Art Workshop: Chinese New Year Lanterns


Join us on Thursday, January 23, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm for our next adult art workshop. This month we will celebrate the Chinese New Year by crafting stunning lanterns inspired by Sonia De Launay's art! Using tissue paper and collage techniques, you'll create luminous designs illuminated by LED tea lights.

Interested in Becoming a U.S. Citizen?


NRPL's Civics Class for Citizenship returns on Saturday, January 25, 2:00 pm. This class will 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.

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Unlock Your Story: A Memoir Writing Workshop


Join us in this 4-session workshop, Tuesdays, February 18 - March 11, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm and start the journey of telling your unique story!


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. Participants must register for the first session the first class


Space is limited. Registration is required. Registering for the first session will automatically register the participant for all four sessions; once registered, participants must attend all four sessions. If the class is full, please join the waitlist. Spots may open up.

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English As a Second Language


Learn English as a second language at the New Rochelle Public Library. Beginner classes are in person; intermediate classes are held virtually.

LEARN MORE 

KIDS CORNER

The Year of the Snake


Chinese New Year is January 29th! Celebrate the Year of the Snake with these books filled with firecrackers, red envelopes of money, lanterns and much more!

NEW! Tween Gaming


Tweens ages 9 - 12 are invited to come chill out with old friends and new to play video or board games on Wednesday, January 29, 4:30 - 5:30 pm.

Full STEAM Ahead Headed Your Way!


Our popular Full STEAM Ahead program returns on Thursday, January 30, 4:30 - 5:30 pm. This first session is Math in Action!, which includes games and challenges that are so fun the kids won't realize they are learning math concepts in the process!

Children's Programs: Winter/Spring 2025


Our Winter/Spring 2025 classes begin the week of January 27 and are posted on our online calendar. Click here for a printable flyer of Children's Programs at Main and here for Children's Programs at HCL.

TECHNOLOGY ASSISTANCE AND COMPUTER CLASSES

Computer Classes


Tech Basics: Computers and the Internet


On Saturday, January 18, 10:00 - 11:30 am, review the basics of using a PC and learn about navigating the internet.

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Intro to Library Apps


Join us on Saturday, January 25, 10:00 -11:30 am to learn about some of the most popular apps that allow you to download books and stream movies for FREE. All you need is your New Rochelle Public Library card.

REGISTER

Introducción to Microsoft Word and Google Docs

   

Join us on Saturday, January 27, 5:00 pm to learn how to create a simple document, edit and format text, correct spelling, adjust margins, save, print open files in Microsoft & Google Docs. 

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Click here to see all upcoming computer classes. Register in advance to secure a spot. (Note: If class is full, you may still come to the library to see if any spots are open the day of the program due to last minute cancellations. ) 

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.

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

SAVE THE DATES

NRPL "VROOM" FILM SERIES: GREASED LIGHTNING (1977)

Saturday, February 1, 12:00 pm

Sunday Afternoon Concert Series: Celebrating Black History Month with Tenor Brandon Hornsby-Slevin

Sunday, February 2, 3:00 pm

Jump Start Your Job Search Workshop: A.I. (Artificial Intelligence) and Job Search 2025

Monday, February 3, 6:30 pm


Norman Rockwell's America: The Westchester Years

Thursday, February 6, 6:30 pm

Friday Night Concert Series: The Ray Blue Ensemble

Friday, February 7, 7:00 pm

OF NOTE

Uncharitable: A Community Film Screening and Conversation

Presented by the New Rochelle Council of Community Services (NRCCS)


Join us in the Ossie Davis Theater at NRPL on Wednesday, January 22, 12:00 - 2:00 pm for a special community event featuring a screening of the film Uncharitable, a powerful documentary that challenges conventional thinking about the nonprofit sector. It explores the complexities of charity, philanthropy, and the barriers that prevent meaningful social change.


Theresa Kump Leghorn, President of the New Rochelle Council on the Arts will lead a post-screening discussion. Free and open to all.

LEARN MORE 

In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) Changes Coming for WLS App Users



The Westchester Library System will be launching a new app early this year. The WLS app you may currently have installed on your devices no longer works for accessing your library account- this means you can no longer browse the catalog or place holds or check your account. It does still work for accessing your library card barcode. 


If you want to place holds or view your account, you can use the online catalog. If you’re using a computer or smart phone, you can search the catalog by visiting our website and using the box in the upper right corner of the home page.


We will share information about the new app as it becomes available.

IN THE STACKS

Celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr.


On Monday, January 20, we honor the birth, the memory, and amazing work of Martin Luther King, Jr. His dedication to civil rights and the sacrifices he made, changed our nation for the better. Learn more about MLK through these books that discuss his life and times.


Who (or What) is Breathing Down My Neck???


Today (January 16) is Appreciate a Dragon Day. Celebrate by reading one of these titles that feature the imaginary creatures that have long fascinated us in myth and legend. 

Discover Something New to Pursue


January is National Hobby Month, the perfect time of year to pick up a new hobby, or get back into an old one that you haven't thought about in a while. Here are some books to inspire you to find a new hobby or rediscover a passion from the past. Stop by our display on the 2nd floor and get some ideas.

Brown Bag Book Club: The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store


Join us on Tuesday, February 11, 12:00 pm for a librarian-led discussion about The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride. A supply of the book is now available to borrow from the first floor hold shelf. Drop in. All welcome.

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.

Well-Minded Movement: Relax Your Neck and Shoulders

Fridays, January 17, 11:30 am - 12:30 pm

Saturday Class! Gentle Mat Yoga

Saturday, January 18, 10:30 - 11:30 am

Qi Gong - Gentle Movements for Healing

Tuesday, January 21, 10:00 am

Open Sewing for Experienced Sewists

Wednesday, January 22, 10:30 - 12:30 pm

NRPL Knitting Club

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

Chair Yoga: NOTE: No classes on January 20 and 22

Monday, January 27, 12:30 - 1:30 pm

Wednesday, January 29, 1:00 - 2:00 pm

Job Search Coach

Monday, January 27, 5:00 - 7:30 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, February 3. Learn more about and register for workshops here.

Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library Book Store

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

TEEN SCENE

What's Happening in the Teen Room?

Was it Love at First Chapter?


Get Ready for Library Lover's Month: Go On A Blind Date with a Book! Looking for a good book to read? Not sure which one to choose? Take a chance and let us fix you up! Let us know if it was a good match and you are in love, you just want to be friends, or there was zero chemistry.

LEARN MORE

Math Tutoring


For teens in grades 6 - 12. Drop by and receive one-on-one assistance in math from a fellow teen.


Tutoring available through Saturday, March 29, 2025. Click here for details.

Get Crafty


Our next Arts and Craft activity will be designing your own magnet on Wednesday, January 22, 3:00 pm - closing.


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

IN THE GALLERY

Celebrating Local Artists


The Celebrating Local Artists exhibit is now on display in the Lumen Winter Gallery through January 31. Stop by during regular library hours to explore this beautiful collaborative exhibit featuring the unique works of 12 talented local artists from Westchester. Many of these artists are also educators, and their close bonds make this showcase feel like a family gathering of creativity and inspiration. 


IN THE COMMUNITY

Sharing Shelf Teen Boutique


The Sharing Shelf will be hosting a Teen Boutique at New Rochelle HS. Teen Boutique's are free shopping boutiques held in partnership with area schools, nonprofits and community organizations for teens living in poverty or low-income homes. The goal of Teen Boutique is two-fold: to provide a unique, empowering experience to build confidence and self-esteem while providing teens with needed clothing, shoes, accessories, and basic material necessities in a respectful, accessible manner.


Please consider donating NEW hoodies, jeans, joggers, sweatpants, leggings, graphic tees, underwear, or full sized toiletries for the Teen Boutique that will serve New Rochelle teens. There is a collection box in the lobby of the Main Library. Drop off through January 27. For more information, contact Niki Grados, Teen Boutique Program Director.

FREE Legal Info, Assistance and Referrals



Legal Hand is a community resource where highly trained volunteers (who are not lawyers) provide free legal information, assistance, and referrals. They help with a wide range of serious life issues, including housing, immigration, family matters, domestic violence, elder rights, employment, public benefits, and more.

LEARN MORE
APRENDE MÁS

Westchester Breathes


Participate in a program of gentle movement, breathing and relaxation exercises shown to reduce the experience of stress and have a positive impact on health and well-being. Get ready for the next moment from a place of calm and clarity. Mondays at 12:00 pm through March 3rd. Come when you can! Offered via ZOOM.


REGISTER
calendar

NRPL Calendar


For a full listing of all NRPL events, visit our online calendar

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

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