NewsLion: Andrew Heiskell Braille & Talking Book Library Newsletter
Fall 2024
The Newsletter of the Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library for October–December 2024
News:
The Accessible Community, Culture and Technology Fair will be held Friday October 18th and Saturday October 19th, 11 AM - 4 PM.
For the first time, our popular Accessible Community Fair will take place over not just one, but two days at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library (SNFL) on 5th Avenue and 40th Street! Our theme this year is Civic Engagement.
Saturday will have an extra focus on youth and families, though everyone is always welcome. Join us to enjoy tablers from educational, employment, advocacy, arts, recreation, technology demos, and support organizations, speakers on civic engagement and activism, family activities, music concerts, and more. Last year’s fair hosted 68 tablers and brought in 350 people. See our full list of tablers, guest speakers, and events at talkingbooks.nypl.org!
High Line OffLine Fall Exhibit - Eastern Aphasia Caress
Opening Night: Thursday, November 14th, 2024 5-6:45 PM
The High Line, in collaboration with Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library, and celebrated artist Kaela Mei-Chee Chambers, have partnered together with library patrons to explore meaning and create tactile sculpture and other artworks. This collaboration has culminated in an installation and display of artworks inspired by her experience with a loved one’s aphasia, including artwork created by patrons during our High Line Art Off-Line series over the Summer. This series of printed and tactile art pieces will be displayed at Andrew Heiskell from November 14, 2024 through November 14, 2025.
Reminder: If you are returning an Zoomax ereader, please return it in the box it came in along with all of the accessories that came with it
Events Calendar:
Community Advisory Council - VIRTUAL:
Dates: Tuesday, September 24th, 2024 5:30PM
Tuesday, December 10th, 2024 5:30 PM
The Community Advisory Council of the Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library would love to hear from YOU - our patrons! This group meets to discuss issues, make suggestions on the library’s direction, get news first, hear guest speakers, and meet staff. All ideas and opinions are welcome. Joining us in September is the Library for the Performing Arts!
September’s Meeting Link and Dial-In:
meet.google.com/uck-hhpx-sjj
Join by phone
(US) +1 516-654-4622 PIN: 829 642 852#
Disability Activist Panel Discussion
Saturday, September 21st, 2024 1-4 PM
The Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library invites you to a panel discussion with disability advocates in the community. Disability rights are civil and human rights, yet people with disabilities continue to encounter systemic barriers that hinder their economic prospects, well-being, and right to fair civic engagement. Winning these rights is more than just working within the scope of ADA or other disability rights laws, it also requires the advocacy and organizing of disability rights activists, whose influence, action, and organization is crucial to expanding disability awareness, rights, and justice. Join Kathleen Collins, Rebecca Williford, Mbacke Thiam, Robert White, and Kevin Beauchamp on Saturday, September 21st, from 1-4 PM for a discussion on community activism, the work involved, how to effectively engage with your representatives, and how the work gets done with everyone on board.
Registration encouraged, but not required
Fall Tactile Crafts Series: Hand Weaving with Intertwine Arts
Thursdays, 5 - 6:45 PM: September 19th, 26th, October 3rd, 10th, 17th, and 31st, 2024
Intertwine Arts will show attendees how to weave on paper plates in a relaxed, low pressure environment. Participants will be encouraged to make their own unique aesthetic choices, choosing yarns that suit them and using varied intuitive weaving techniques. In these sessions there is no such thing as a mistake, and budding weavers will be encouraged to experiment and create in a way that works best for them. Participants will walk away from the program with finished woven pieces that can be transformed into wearables, decor and artwork.
This is a six-week workshop beginning Thursday, September 20th and runs through Thursday, October 31st.
Registration required, call or visit talkingbooks.nypl.org
Disability Voting Town Hall with the Board of Elections and One Heart One Vision
Tuesday, September 17th, 2024 5-6:45PM
Join the Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library with the NYC Board of Elections and One Heart One Vision on Tuesday, September 17th, at 5 PM to discuss everything you wanted to know about Accessible Voting but were afraid to ask!
Do you know that there are accessible voting machines and tools at every polling site?
Your right to vote is a fundamental cornerstone of our democracy, and we believe accessibility should be a priority for every voter. Join Ariel Merkel, the ADA Coordinator from the New York City Board of Elections, and Rasheta Bunting from One Heart, One Vision, who will guide you through the accessibility features available to make your voting experience more inclusive and efficient.
Registration encouraged, but not required
Vinyl Record Club
Saturday, September 28th, October 26th, November 30, Saturday December 28th
1:30-3 PM
Join staff for the new Vinyl Record Club!
Share your love of vinyl records with fellow collectors and enthusiasts! We will chat about our favorite albums, care and maintenance of our collections, our most treasured record stores, and the ones that got away. Bring in an album or two to spin a few tracks for the group. For our first meeting, bring an album that tells us about you as a person. No Registration Required
Ukulele Club
Saturdays, October 5, November 2, November 30, December 7, and December 21, 2 - 3:30 PM
Want to learn how to play the ukulele? Already play and want a group to jam with? Join library staff to learn chords, songs, and techniques, or teach others what you already know! Ukuleles and felt picks provided, or bring your own instrument. All ages and skill levels are welcome. No registration required.
Banned Books Club!
First Saturday of every month, 10:30 AM
Join our brand new book club, focused on showcasing and highlighting titles that have been contested, censored, or banned in the United States and abroad. Call or email ashleydalle@nypl.org to request a cartridge with these titles.
Upcoming Dates and Titles:
- September 7, 2024 - The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan DB007901
- October 5, 2024 - Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Marquez DB026981
- November 9, 2024 - Ceremony by Leslie Marmon Silko DB013366
- December 7, 2024 - Invisible Life by E Lynn Harris DB038731
Google Meet Link:
Join by phone
(US) +1 262-671-8033 PIN: 688 338 321#
Online Book Discussion Group
- Saturday October 12, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
When All Is Said by Anne Griffin DB 94178
- Saturday December 14, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Evening Class by Maeve Binchy DB 44308
Our book club hosts engaging and thought-provoking discussions about member-selected books. Meets virtually on the second Saturday of every other month at 10:30 AM. Please call or email in advance to receive a cartridge with upcoming books, a meeting link and/or a dial in number: johnfahs@nypl.org
Audio Described Film Club Presents:
- Saturday October 12, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Nan Goldin Portfolio - 50 of Her Best Photographs (2023) + excerpts from In Conversation (2022): A descriptive analysis and discussion of the work and activism of this important American photographer
- Saturday November 9, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Masters of Photography – Diane Arbus (1971) with: 30 of Her Best Photographs (2022): Few photographers of the 20th Century have been more influential than Diane Arbus. We will describe her work and discuss her life.
Don’t Blink (2015) Robert Frank revolutionized photography with the publication of his book The Americans in 1958 and remained active until his death in 2019 at age 94. We will describe his work and discuss his life.
- Saturday November 23, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Cindy Sherman: Transformation, Art in the 21st Century Describing herself as “an artist who works with a camera” we will watch her discuss her latest work in a short film and tour her portfolio for a discussion on how mass media representations shape us.
- Saturday December 14, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Join us for fully audio described films in real time. No registration required, 18+
Open Book Hour
On the Third Tuesday of the Month From 4:00 - 5:00 PM
Reading something amazing you can’t wait to tell people about? Join us for our virtual Open Book Hour, where we talk about the books we’ve been reading and get recommendations from fellow book lovers!
Meeting ID: meet.google.com/irm-jfpt-uyw
Phone Numbers: (US)+1 402-534-0283 PIN: 623 161 972#
Online Wellness Reading Discussion Group
Looking for a space to read about wellness books ahead of time and discuss with a group of individuals? Then, take some time to skim over the list of books below and feel free to join in on the events. Each event will be held online at 12 PM on the first week of Friday of Each Month.
Join by phone
(US) +1 401-903-4923 PIN: 403 042 261#
September 6, 2024
Health walk : to total wellness for all ages by Carlson, Bob.
DB031098
October 4, 2024
Stress management a comprehensive guide to wellness by Charlesworth, Edward
DB023203
November 1, 2024
Real self-care : a transformative program for redefining wellness (crystals, cleanses, and bubble baths not included) by Lakshmin, Pooja.
DB119218
December 6,2024
Renew your life through yoga : the Indra Devi method for relaxation through rhythmic breathing by Devi, Indra.
DB014242
Chair Yoga With Brooke
Saturday December 14, 2024 from 12:30pm-2:00pm.
Looking for a class that will both calm and rejuvenate you to end the year? Then consider joining Brooke Levy’s chair yoga class Saturday December 14, 2024 from 12:30pm-2:00pm. This event is in person. Registration is available, but not mandatory. The event will be held in the first floor community room at the Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library.
Online Detox Your Mind Meditation
Bring the Joy to the Holiday Season Through Meditation
Wednesday December 4, 2024 from 2 PM - 3 PM
Meditation has been known as a healing modality. Join Dave Buck, long time meditator as he discusses the extraordinary positive effect that meditation can have on your life. The benefits are so numerous. By incorporating meditation into your daily routine you will see the changes! Dave will also present a simple, yet powerful meditation technique that can enrich one’s life on many levels and help with seasonal stress.
Crossword Club
Wednesdays, 10:00 AM
Are you a crossword puzzle enthusiast? Join staff from the Andrew Heiskell Library for our virtual Crossword Club and help solve a puzzle as a group! Please call or register in advance to receive a meeting link or dial in number. Meets virtually every Wednesday. Google Meet link: meet.google.com/oyb-faxb-xdd
Dial - in: 513-480-5181 PIN: 792 497 986#
Braille Study Group – Remote or In Person
Saturdays, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM on Zoom. (10:30 AM - 12:30 PM in person at the Library)
Tuesdays 7:00 PM- 8:30 PM on Zoom
We welcome learners at all levels! Bring your questions, get support for your learning
goals and find out how to learn Braille for free from home. To register, please email ChanceyFleet@nypl.org or call (212) 206-5400, extension 3.
News from The Tech Team:
Accessibility
Our team is committed to equity of access for everyone. For all group workshops, you may join using Zoom via computer, smartphone or tablet, or you can dial in by phone. One-to-one coaching is available in person, by phone, Zoom or Google Meet: your choice. Our group workshops always feature auto-captions, but if you need an interpreter or captions to participate in coaching or workshops, please email chanceyfleet@nypl.org at least two weeks before the event and we will arrange access.
One-to-One Coaching
We are here to help you achieve your tech goal! Are you learning the iPhone, improving your typing, or exploring the web with a screen reader? We will be happy to match you with a tech coach to work on achieving that goal.
Read Wherever You Are
Our BARD collection offers instant access to all of our Braille and talking books using a computer, smartphone, tablet or accessible device. Our members also have free access to Bookshare, a library of over a million titles which you can read on the web or your smartphone or tablet using magnification, text-to-speech or Braille. Need the daily paper? NFB-Newsline is also free and brings you access
to local and national publications from your computer, smartphone, tablet or even a land-line phone. To get started, just call or email our tech team.
Tech and Culture Workshops:
Join our vibrant community for free, interactive remote workshops covering tech topics for beginners and seasoned users, book discussions, a Braille study group and more. Below, you’ll find our offerings for the fall: just use the link within each listing to register. To receive a reminder about each upcoming workshop or find out about additional pop-up offerings, email heiskelltech+subscribe@googlegroups.com or contact our tech team to join our announcement list. Email chanceyfleet@nypl.org if you need help or would like to suggest an additional workshop.
Voiceover for Mac Discussion Group
Saturdays October 26, November 23 and December 28, 2 to 4 PM
Join this group to ask and answer questions about using Voiceover for Mac.
This workshop will take place online.
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcvcuivrDstGdBMLm_DQb-gczfZBdp-rwck
Nonvisual Drawing Club
In Person (email chanceyfleet@nypl.org to register): October 12 and December 14, 2 to 3:30 PM
Remote: Saturday November 9, 2 to 3:30 PM
Learn techniques for drawing raised lines: you don’t need vision to learn to draw!. we’ll explore a different kind of drawing exercise or prompt each time we meet.
This workshop will take place online and in person.
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vce-srTsoHdBUExvNOq9g0HmzKTJqPTM3
Voiceover and Mac Pro Tips
Wednesdays October 9 through November 27, 2 to 4 PM
This 8-week series is for patrons who know the basics of using Voiceover for Mac and are ready to learn more. Please plan to attend all sessions of possible.
This workshop will take place online.
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYrdeyhqz8jHdMWMHaKsH0TI16hAVqYn2CR
Exploring JAWS: An 8-Week Workshop
Wednesdays starting October 2, 4:30 to 6:30 PM
This workshop is for patrons who already know how to type but would like to learn the basics of the JAWS screen reader with Windows. We’ll cover navigating the operating system, getting help, working with documents, going online and more.
This workshop will take place online.
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEkcuytpj4vEtQNid8T_xIGKJ-DkIK98FoI
Intro to Google Calendar
Thursday October 10, 7 to 8:30 PM
We’ll cover creating and changing events, navigating the calendar, sending invitations, adding locations, working with recurring events and more.
This workshop will take place online.
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUkc--trz0sG9SEAZwn2oRZ1OHgFDE5oqOP
Intro to GarageBand, tentative
Intro to Android Accessibility
Thursday October 24, 2 to 3:30 PM Eastern
We’ll cover the core accessibility features built into Android, focusing on display enhancements, magnification and the Talkback screen reader.
This workshop will take place online.
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUtf-mpqj4qH9YqccNY049tK4oPFBTHKXfe
Intro to BARD Express
Thursday November 7, 2 - 3:30 PM
BARD Express allows patrons to download audiobooks and magazines using a simple desktop app. With the newest version of the software, you can now listen to BARD books directly from your computer. Join this workshop to find out how.
This workshop will take place online.
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEvdu-hrz0uHd0bKYDeUTqC2buJL0a2MJ7K
Intro to Google Meet
Thursday November 14, 7 to 8:330 PM
We’ll explore how to use this free service to set up, attend and host meetings, focusing on the experience for screen reader users.
This workshop will take place online.
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZErfuuurDspGtKi7RICy4y9QNOeILrdmDsU
Descriptive Origami Club
Saturday November 16, 2 - 3:30 PM
You’ll learn how to fold origami models using detailed verbal descriptions of each fold. No experience is required! This workshop will meet online and in person. Please email chanceyFleet@nypl.org to register to attend in person, or use the Zoom link to join online.
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIvce-grDkoEtGutN9rbxTQ4oaRCD0uDSzO
Intro to Google Drive
Thursday December 12, 7 - 8:30 PM
We’ll explore how to use this service to share, manage and search for files, create and manage folders and more.
This workshop will take place online.
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0rf--hpj4uG9egm0uJJe_Rs0_StqZf5I7E
Youth Calendar:
Family Storytime
Mondays at 3:00 PM
This event will take place in person at the Andrew Heiskell Library. A storytime for all ages to bring families together at the library. An afternoon program where the whole family or caregiver with multiple children at different developmental stages can attend. Children ages birth to 5 years old can develop early literacy skills with their parents/caregivers through action songs, reading of picture books, and related activities. Space is limited to 30 children. Storytime will begin early if capacity is reached before 3:00 PM.
Lapsit Storytime
Wednesdays at 10:15 AM
For children who are pre-walkers or crawlers. This event will take place in person at the Andrew Heiskell Library. Join us for a special time to bond with your little one and meet other caregivers. We will explore the joys of movement, books, and songs, in addition to building early learning skills you can practice at home. Come prepared to sit with your child on your lap. Space is limited to 10 babies. Storytime will begin early if capacity is reached before 10:15 AM.
Little Movers Storytime
Fridays at 10:15 AM
This event will take place in person at the Andrew Heiskell Library. This storytime is for children who can walk. Children and their parents/caregiver will learn interactive action songs, fingerplays, early literacy stories, and build relationships with other families in the neighborhood. Space is limited to 20 children. Storytime will begin early if capacity is reached before 10:15 AM.
Little Playdate
Mondays, Sept 30, Oct 7, and Nov 25 at 10:15 AM
For children who can walk. This event will take place in person at the Andrew Heiskell Library. This is an informal playgroup for the little ones and their caregivers to meet other families. Building toys and art supplies will be brought out for toddlers to play with. Space is limited to 15 children. Tickets are distributed 15 minutes before the program. Program will begin early if capacity is reached before 10:15 AM.
Library Adventure
First Tuesdays of the month, Sept 3, Oct 1, and Nov 5 at 2:00 PM
This event is for ages 4 and up. Join staff from Andrew Heiskell Library for an exciting, hands-on STEAM program. The activities included are meant to encourage kids to get creative! Space is limited to 12 children. Program will begin early if capacity is reached before 2:00 PM.
Halloween Sensory Spooktacular
Monday October 28, at 12:00 PM
This event is for all ages and up to bring families together at the library. This event will take place in person at the Andrew Heiskell Library. Join us on the eve of Halloween for a sensory all inclusive spooky experience.
Partner Spotlight:
The Filomen M. D'Agostino Greenberg (FMDG) Music School
The Filomen M. D'Agostino Greenberg (FMDG) Music School is an uplifting community school of the arts dedicated to helping individuals of all ages pursue their interest, and study of music, while addressing the challenges posed by vision loss. Visit their informative website for information about lessons, classes and events: www.fmdgmusicschool.org. Join them for a free fun concert at the Queens Night Market where they will be performing with the NYPD Band on Saturday, September 28 from 6:00-7:00 PM. And, for a deep dive into the world of audio description, join the next "Conversations with the Fil" free online panel discussion on Thursday, October 14, at 7:00 PM EDT. RSVP to music@fmdgmusicschool.org to receive a Zoom link.
Queens Public Library Mail-A-Book
Mail-a-Book at Queens Public Library is a free, full-service library for patrons who cannot get to their library due to age or disability. Anyone who lives, works, or owns property in New York State is eligible to sign up for Mail-a-Book—not just Queens residents! We offer print and audio books, movies, music, and materials in languages other than English, delivered directly to your home via USPS. Mail-a-Book also provides phone and email reference and outreach services to our patrons, just like you would find in any library branch! No medical proof is required to register. In conjunction with Older Adult Services, we also offer a full calendar of online programs ranging from
Creative Aging art classes to Senior Scientists lectures from NASA scientists. For a full list of our upcoming virtual programs, email mailabook@queenslibrary.org or visit QPL Mail-A-Book Programs
Call us at (718) 464-0084 or email mailabook@queenslibrary.org to learn more and sign up for Mail-a-Book today.
New Titles from The Andrew Heiskell Library’s Recording Studio:
- The Long Ships, by Frans G Bengtsson, DBC 16719 (Fiction, Adult) Historical fiction set in the 10th century and telling of the epic adventures of Viking Red Orm.
Waco Rising: David Koresh, the FBI, and the birth of America’s modern Militias, by Kevin Cook, DBC 27102 (Adult, Non-fiction) In 1993, David Koresh and a band of heavily armed evangelical Christians took on the might of the US government. A two-month siege of their compound in Waco, Texas, ended in a firefight that killed seventy-six, including twenty-five children. This is a new account of the war between David Koresh's Branch Davidians and the FBI, and how their standoff launched today's militias. Adult. Descriptions of sex. Strong language. Violence.
Coming Aphrodite! And other stories, by Willa Cather, DBC 27081 (Adult, Fiction) A selection of 14 stories from Pulitzer Prize winning American author Willa Cather, including the collection “Youth & the Bright Medusa” from 1920 and 5 early tales written between 1892 and 1912. Adult.
Inside the Dream Palace: the Life and Times of New York’s Legendary Chelsea Hotel, by Sherill Tippins, DBC 27079 (Adult, Non-fiction) The history of New York's legendary Chelsea Hotel, where artists of all stripes, legends themselves, have lived and loved and worked for more than a century. Adult. Unrated.
- Black Girls Must Die Exhausted, by Jayne Allen, DBC 27139 (Fiction, Adult) Tabitha Walker, a 33-year-old black woman with a plan to “have it all” has a plan for her perfect life, when an unexpected diagnosis brings it all crashing down. Commercial Audiobook. 2021. Adult. Unrated Adult. Unrated.
Like Lovers Do, by Tracey Livesay, DBC 27154 (Adult, Fiction) Driven and focused, Dr. Nicole Allen is an accomplished surgeon. With a tough past, Nic's gone above and beyond everyone's expectations. But when she disciplines an intern a powerful donor's son a prestigious fellowship she's awaiting is placed in jeopardy. Commercial Audiobook. 2020. Adult. Unrated Adult. Unrated.
The Dragon & The Pearl, by Jeannie Lin, DBC 27152 (Adult, Fiction) The seductive consort of the former emperor, Ling Suyin now lives a quiet life - until she's spirited away by the legendary warlord Li Tao. Subterfuge may not be Tao's strong suit, but he's determined to outwit this temptress before she ensnares his heart. Commercial Audiobook. 2020. Adult. Unrated.
- The Sword Dancer, by Jeannie Lin, DBC 27153 (Adult, Fiction) Li Feng is used to living life on the edge of the law - a woman alone in the dangerous world of the Tang Dynasty has only her whirlwind reflexes to trust. She will discover the truth about her past, even if that means outwitting the most feared thief-catcher of them all, relentless, determined, and handsome Han. Commercial Audiobook. 2020. Adult. Unrated.
- Sweet Talkin’ Lover, by Tracey Livesay, DBC 27155 (Adult, Fiction) Marketing manager Caila Harris knows that the road to success in the beauty industry doesn't allow for detours. She's forsaken any trace of a social life, working 24/7 to ensure her next promotion. When grief over her grandfather's death leads to several catastrophic decisions, Caila gets one final chance to prove herself: shut down an unprofitable factory in a small Southern town. But as soon as she arrives in Bradleton, she meets one outsized problem: the town's gorgeous mayor. Commercial Audiobook. 2019. Adult. Unrated Adult. Unrated.
Holidays and Closings
The Library will be closed on:
- Monday October 14th for Indigenous Peoples Day / Italian American Heritage Day
- Monday November 11th for Veteran’s day
- Thursday November 28th for Thanksgiving
- Wednesday December 25th for Christmas Day
- Wednesday January 1st for New Year’s Day