For hip hop dancer Maria Fraguas Jover, researching at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts is a transformative experience. She considers it a breakthrough that her dance organization is welcomed in a space better known for its collections of more traditional forms of dance, drama, and music. Building dancers' minds, Maria says, informs their physical performance and contributes to better expression.

Library Stories is a video series from The New York Public Library that shows what the Library means to our users, staff, donors, and communities through moving personal interviews.

Like, share, and watch more Library Stories on Facebook or YouTube.