Welcome to the Grand Central Library Newsletter, a monthly showcase of news, programs, and services offered by NYPL staff and partners. Our branch in Midtown East/Turtle Bay is conveniently accessible to both local residents and metro-area commuters. 

In addition to diverse educational and cultural programming, the Grand Central Library offers computer services including free WiFi and power outlets, plentiful seating for individual and group work, and collections of print and non-print media for all ages. Grand Central is also home to idNYC, located on our 2nd floor. 

October Staff Picks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adult Events

Spanish Conversation Meet-up

Every Tuesday in October, 1 PM-2:30 PM
Are you looking to practice your Spanish language skills? For 1-1/2 hours a week, we meet to informally practice speaking and listening. No registration necessary. Teens welcome! 

Going Digital: Library e-Resources Help

Every Friday in October, 3 PM-4 PM
Learn how to take advantage of free access to books, films, magazines, and more on your tablet, smartphone, or e-reader. If you have a Kindle, bring your Amazon password!

Chess Films Retrospective

October 1 at 5:30 PM | October 10 at 5:30 PM | October 16 at 1:30 PM | October 30 at 2 PM
In collaboration with National Chess Master, Douglas Bellizzi, and the New York Public Library's Reserve Film and Video Collection, we present a four-part film series of some of the most influential (and accurate) films featuring chess.

The Business of Freelance Writing

Thursday, October 3 at 6 PM
Join successful freelancer and experienced instructor, Kayla Lee, to learn how to make it as a freelance writer. Register here via email.

Book Discussion: The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead

Tuesday, October 15, 6 PM-7 PM
Join us to discuss The Underground Railroad, winner of the Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award,  and a #1 New York Times bestseller.

Book Talk: The Letters of Sylvia Plath with editor Peter K. Steinberg

Thursday, October 17 at 6 PM
Peter K. Steinberg, co-editor of The Letters of Sylvia Plath, will discuss his work archiving the compelling correspondence of the seminal poet and author. Register here via email.

Author Talk: I Was Their American Dream and Americana

Saturday, October 19 at 2 PM
Join Grand Central Library for a conversation with the creators of two of the most talked-about graphic novels of 2019:I Was Their American Dream: A Graphic Memoir by Malaka Gharib, and Americana (And The Act Of Getting Over It.) by Luke Healy. The authors will discuss their own life-changing journeys on the road to identity and self-discovery in America. Register here via email.

What's New in Aging: A Community Conversation with Weill Cornell Medicine

Tuesday, October 29, 3 PM-5 PM
A knowledgeable representative will join the discussion to inform us about various programs for older adults and their families, as well as a new program to help with memory problems.  Register here via email.

Kids Programs

Early Literacy: Preschool Storytime

Every Monday in October at 4 PM
Children ages 3-5 and their caregivers are invited to join us for an interactive storytime featuring read-alouds, songs, movement, and creative activities. 

Early Literacy: Baby Storytime

Every Tuesday in October at 11 AM
A lap-sit storytime for children 18 months and younger. Grow your baby's early literacy skills by reading short books, singing songs, doing rhymes, and participating in other interactive activities. You must register to attend.

To RSVP for Tuesday, October 1st, please click here on Friday, September 27th around noon.

To RSVP for Tuesday, October 8th, please click here on Saturday, October 5th around noon.

To RSVP for Tuesday, October 15th, please click here on Friday, October 11th around noon.

To RSVP for Tuesday, October 22nd, please click here on Friday, October 18th around noon.

To RSVP for Tuesday, October 29th, please click here on Saturday, October 26th around noon.

Early Literacy: Baby Playtime

Every Tuesday in October at 11:30 AM
Following our weekly storytime, join us for a fun and engaging playtime where babies will be able to meet and socialize with others in the community.

English Conversation for Caregivers

Every Thursday in October at 12:30 PM
A conversation circle for caregivers to practice and learn English together. Children of all ages are also welcome to attend for playtime.

Early Literacy: Toddler Storytime

Every Thursday in October at 11 AM
Children ages 18 months-36 months can practice early literacy skills alongside their caregivers with interactive stories, action songs, and fun fingerplays, while also meeting others in the neighborhood.

Crafting Worlds With Recycled Materials

Wednesday, October 2 at 4 PM
Participants at this 90-minute workshop may use cardboard, post-consumer plastic containers, and other materials to create structures, dioramas, sculptures, and more. Ages 5-12. Register here via email.

Making with littleBits!

Wednesday, October 9 at 4 PM
Learn the basics of littleBits, simple and safe electronic blocks, and create fun and responsive design projects. For ages 8 and up. Register here via email.

Autumn Collages

Wednesday, October 16 at 4 PM
Participants can use newspapers, magazines, leaves, and other print and nonprint materials to create poems or shape a collage reflecting the goals, ideas, or visions of what autumn might bring you. Ages 5-12. Register here via email.

Monster Making with littleBits!

Wednesday, October 23 at 4 PM
Craft and design your own monsters and make them come to life with littleBits, simple and safe electronic blocks. littleBits are intended for ages 8 and up, but younger children are welcome for simple crafting. Register here via email.

Bharatanatyam Showcase

Saturday, October 26 at 2 PM
Watch a short recital by local students of this dance style and learn more about its origins, and the elaborate costumes and jewelry that are an intrinsic part of this style. No registration required. All ages are welcome.

Early Literacy: Monster Mash

Thursday, October 31 at 4 PM
Celebrate Halloween with some spooky, festive fun at the Library! Dress up in your costumes and enjoy holiday stories, activities, and music. Up to age 6. 

Teen Programs

Retro Video Game Day

Friday, October 11, 18, and 25 at 3:30 PM
We'll provide those old school 8-, 16-, and 32-bit consoles, games, and controllers you all love. All you have to bring is you and your skills! Do you still have it? Come and find out!

Beats and Tones Jam

Friday, October 18 at 4 PM
Learn how Music Artists/Producers make the hottest trap, hip-hop, pop and EDM songs. For ages 13-18 years old. Presented by DJ SpazeCraft.

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