NewsLion: Andrew Heiskell Braille & Talking Book Library Newsletter
NewsLion Winter 2025
The Newsletter of the Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library for January - March 2025
News:
NLS Parental Acknowledgement
As of Tuesday, October 1st, 2024, the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS), in Washington D.C, has instituted a new policy that asks that all braille and talking book library patrons who are under the age of 18 have a signed parental acknowledgement on file to be registered for NLS services.
Please ensure that a parent or guardian completes and returns the form, which was emailed and/or mailed via USPS by the Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library and/or NLS, to the Andrew Heiskell Library before January 2nd, 2025 to ensure your child’s library service is not interrupted.
After 6 years…Our scaffolding has FINALLY come down!
Photo of the front door of Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library, with visible Art Deco architecture, WITHOUT SCAFFOLDING!
The staff at Andrew Heiskell is so excited to share that after six long years, our scaffolding has finally come down. The front of the building now has two brand new, bright red New York Public Library banners hanging outside to identify that we are here as the Chelsea/Flatiron’s local New York Public Library Branch!
High Line OffLine Fall Exhibit - Eastern Aphasia Caress
Through November 2025
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, and an audio tour of the installation is available through The High Line on Bloomberg Connects, and coming to BARD soon.
Reminder: If you are returning a 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:
March 18, 2025
June 17, 2025
September 16, 2025
December 16, 2025
meet.google.com/udy-vzpb-kct
Join by phone
(US) +1 561-507-0486 PIN: 953 757 505#
The Community Advisory Council of the Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library is a VIRTUAL quarterly meeting where you, our patrons, meet 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 at the Community Advisory Council, no registration is required. We are currently fielding suggestions for guest speakers and topics for our 2025 meetings, please email suggestions to ashleydalle@nypl.org
Winter Tactile Crafts Series: COLLAGE & MIXED MEDIA with Stina!
This series of workshops designed for blind and visually impaired individuals will explore approaches to assemblage and collage techniques through a range of tactile materials and verbal instruction. Participants will create mixed media and collage works by manipulating textured items like textiles, textured papers and other found materials, guided by detailed descriptions of colors, shapes, and patterns, and even in response to sounds and music. Artist and Educator Stina Puotinen invites participants to engage in a series of playful prompts week to week, with a focus on process over product - no experience necessary!
Tuesdays 5 to 6:45PM beginning January 14th through Tuesday February 18th, 2025
Registration required, call or visit talkingbooks.nypl.org
Ukulele Club
Saturday, January 4, February 22, March 15, 2 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 your peers what you already know! Bring your own ukulele or register online to borrow one of the library's. (If you do not register, you will not be guaranteed a ukulele to borrow. If you register but are 15 or more minutes late, your loaner ukulele may be given to someone else.) All skill levels are welcome.
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:
February 1, 2025 - Black boy by Richard Wright, DB020415
March 1, 2025 - Women on Top by Nancy Friday, DB035788
Google Meet Link:
Join by phone
(US) +1 262-671-8033 PIN: 688 338 321#
Stained Glass of the Eldridge Street Synagogue: a Verbal Description program at the Library
Date: Thursday, December 19th 5:30 pm ET
Location: Andrew Heiskell Library Community Room, 40 West 20th Street. Stained glass windows bring beauty, light, air, and grandeur to any space. Come to the Andrew Heiskell Library to hear about the majestic beauty of the Eldridge Street Synagogue's Stained Glass. Since the Synagogue opened in 1887, the stained glass windows there, from the historic Rose Window to the modern window designed by Kiki Smith and Deborah Gans, have been captivating congregants and visitors alike for more than 137 years. Join Scott Brevda of the Museum at Eldridge Street for a special verbal description tour of the Synagogue's stained-glass windows and explore their role in one of the most historic synagogues in the United States.
Memory and Inheritance: a Verbal Description tour of the Eldgridge Street Synagogue art exhibition by Tobi Kahn at the Library
Date: Tuesday, January 7th, 2025, 5:30pm ET
Location: Andrew Heiskell Library community room, 40 West 20th Street, New York. In the Museum at Eldridge Street’s exhibition “Memory and Inheritance: Paintings and Ceremonial Objects,” artist Tobi Kahn presents abstract, distinctively crafted works on Jewish ritual and tradition that communicate spiritual meaning and invite visitors to ponder the relationship between themselves and a larger spiritual community regardless of one's faith and traditions. Join Scott Brevda of the Museum at Eldridge Street for a special verbal description tour of this exhibition as we explore his signature Sky and Water, the mystical Hamsa, and the biblical Dreaming of Sinai.
Online Book Discussion Group
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
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#
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:
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 winter: 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 iOS Discussion Group
Saturdays January 4, February 1 and March 1, 2 - 3:30 PM
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcqdeCprjoiHNXAapH-GB1SbPB-JAu7Il82
Join this informal group to share tips, tricks and strategies.
JAWS: Beyond the Basics
Tuesdays January 7 to January 28, 5 - 7 PM
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUsf-CrrzovHda9RgvSEpsBy-qIQ-Op3RNQ
If you already know the basics of using JAWS for Windows but would like to learn more, join us! Topics will include proofreading strategies, custom speech and sound schemes, Convenient OCR and AI features, and more.
Intro to NVDA
Wednesdays January 8 to February 26, 5 - 7 PM
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYucOmvpj4tH9zMpRad4ll7sIb5aVXGb7i6
If you already know how to type and would like to use Windows confidently with a free screen reader, this workshop is for you. We’ll go over file management, working with documents, searching the web and more. Please plan to attend all sessions if possible.
Nonvisual Drawing Club
Online: January 11 and March 8, 2 - 3:30 PM Eastern
In person: Saturday February 8, 2 - 3:30 PM
January link
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0qdO6hqzotGt34c4v54dw_sVllzBk8kW0g
March link
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMocOCrrzgjHdWt4nUnIZkk4lnRKnf5holZ
Join us to explore drawing with affordable, accessible tools that don’t require vision.
Mac for Voiceover Discussion Group
Saturdays January 25, February 22 and March 22, 2 - 4 PM
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAoceGpqDkiEtbuU3ZADJlPHgiwzOlZi7NW
This group meets to share tips, strategies and tips for Voiceover with Mac.
The Zoom about Zoom
Tuesday January 7, 1 - 2:30 PM
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcpfuuurzkpGdJZqVVHzVWAxrcwy0EbRwBN
Join us to learn how to use Zoom efficiently with a screen reader or magnification software. We will cover use on mobile devices and computers, including how to manage your mute and video, find participants and chat, raise your hand, rename yourself and more.
Voiceover for iOS Basics
Tuesday January 14, 1 - 2:30 PM
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUtf-CgqTgrGt1DHhaoJxATTyTODg9mYSzy
Learn the basic gestures that will help you use your iPhone or iPad with Voiceover efficiently and confidently.
Exploring Web Accessibility
Thursday January 16, 7 - 9 PM
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcrcOirpz4oE9Ykr3G7QWgAs0CEtLOGOfHH
This workshop will cover what web accessibility means, introduce the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, and suggest how interested patrons can learn more and begin exploring professions in accessibility.
Nonvisual Drawing with SVG Code
Thursdays February 13, 20 and 27, 7 - 8:30 PM
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUscOmsqj0oGdCaFHbxNlhs_lUkSTb0Klfw
Learn how to compose digital wireframes, art and other drawings using SVG code.
iOS App Spotlight: Notes and Voice Memos
Tuesday January 21, 1 - 2:30 PM
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYrcO2gpzMqGNPv7gRRCp0Yl_7a3Cn_Qa7c
IOS App Spotlight: Mail and Messages
Tuesday February 4, 1 - 2:30 PM
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUucOqvrz8iHdCDQJay7rpRUq8sPUr82Q6J
Take a systematic tour through these essential apps for communication, using your screen reader gestures or magnification feature.
Exploring Microsoft Teams
Monday February 10, 5 - 6:30 PM
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIuf-6orz8qHNWYU8ezrhS5MJFPp3vkakw-
Schools and workplaces often require this communications platform: learn how to use it confidently with keyboard commands or on your mobile device.
Intro to Android Accessibility
Tuesday February 11, 1 - 3 PM
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIkc-6pqz0jE9B7lTge8zULRDPI-yWfZoIR
Learn about the Talkback screen reader, magnification support, easier ways to handle calling, and more.
Intro to Gmail
Monday March 3, 5 - 6:30 PM
https://nypl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZErcOyopj0tG9ELmVXVGC8rs0aC0LlNzz5_
Learn the keyboard shortcuts and techniques that will help you use this popular program confidently as a screen reader user.
3D Printing and Design Workshops
Experience 3D printing, including how to find interesting models, prepare the printer, monitor a print in progress and troubleshoot your print. Check our website or ask a member of the tech team for dates: these workshops are coming in March.
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, Jan 27, Feb 24, and March 31 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, Jan 7, Feb 4, and March 4 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.
Library Club
Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2:45 PM
Come join our Library Club for 3rd, 4th & 5th Graders and their grown-ups!
We meet-up in the Community Room at Andrew Heiskell Library after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:45 PM to 3:45 PM to swap book tips, play chess, cards and board games, learn new skills, do homework and make new friends. Parents and caregivers have their own space to relax and share information with each other on everything from school applications to summer camps.
Librarian on call to help kids access library services and adults find community resources.
Partner Spotlight:
New Titles from The Andrew Heiskell Library’s Recording Studio:
Ice by Anna Kavan, DBC 16676 (Adult, Fiction) Anna Kavan's 1967 novel has been described as "a masterpiece of literary science fiction", a dystopian vision of the end of the world from an enigmatic, troubled writer. With a foreword by Jonathan Lethem and an afterword by Kate Zambreno. Contains disturbing scenes including rape and violence. Adult. Some explicit descriptions of sex. Strong language. Violence.
Amagansett by Mark Mills, DBC 27072 (Adult, Fiction) Also published as “The Whaleboat House”, Mills’ novel murder mystery is set shortly after the Second World War with the events taking place in and around the small Long Island fishing village of Amagansett.
Oblomov by Ivan Gonchorov, DBC 16714 (Adult, Fiction) A classic of 19th century Russian literature considered a satire of Russian intelligentsia Oblamov is the superfluous man, a young, generous nobleman who seems incapable of making important decisions or undertaking any significant actions. Throughout the novel he rarely leaves his room or bed. Adult. Unrated.
The Ultimate Betrayal by Kat Martin, DBC 30061 (Adult, Fiction) When journalist Jessie Kegan's father is accused of espionage and treason, Jessie has no doubt the man she looked up to her entire life is innocent. Worse yet, before Colonel Kegan can stand trial, he's found dead of a heart attack, but Jessie knows it was murder. Forcing down her grief, she's determined to use her investigative skills and resources to clear her father's name. But going after the truth means Jessie soon finds herself in the crosshairs of a killer who wants that truth to stay buried with her father. Adult. Unrated.
Come Midnight by Kat Martin, DBC 30063 (Adult, Fiction) Taken hostage by a group of radical environmental vigilantes, Breanna Winters worries her secret identity has been discovered and her fears are confirmed when she learns a ransom request has been sent to her father. His wealth can't guarantee her safety, so former Navy pilot Derek Stiles pretends to be her fiancé in order to accompany her. If Bree and Derek ever want to see civilization again, they'll have to work together and rely on their wits to escape their captors. Adult. Unrated.
The Perfect Murder by Kat Martin, DBC 30064 (Adult, Fiction) When Reese Garrett in on a trip to see his new oil rig, his helicopter crashes, leaving him hospitalized and two men dead. It's discovered the chopper was sabotaged, and Reese is determined to find out who's behind the crash, and whether he was the intended target. Then, when his lover, Kenzie, is accused of her ex-husband's murder, a man with a vested interest in the Poseidon deal clues start pointing to a connection that puts Reese, Kenzie and her young son in the sights of a killer. Adult. Unrated.
Holidays and Closings
The Library will be closing early on:
Tuesday, December 24th, 2024 - 1 PM
Tuesday, December 31st, 2024 - 1 PM
The Library will be closed on:
Wednesday, December 25th, 2024 - Christmas Day
Wednesday, January 1st, 2025 - New Years’ Day
Monday, January 20th, 2025 - Martin Luther King Jr Day
Monday, February 17th, 2025 - Presidents’ Day