Grand Central Library Events and News: December 2019
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 second floor.
December Staff Picks
Adult Events
Going Digital: Library e-Resources Help
Every Friday in December, 2 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!
U.S. Census Bureau: Recruitment Event
Monday, December 2, 2 PM -6 PM
The Grand Central Library will host recruiters from the U.S. Census Bureau, who are seeking applicants to help make the 2020 Census a success. Learn more at the U.S. Census job website and 1-855-JOB-2020 (1-855-562-2020).
Spanish Conversation Meet-up
Tuesday, December 3, 10, 17 | 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!
Author at the Library: Robert Christgau: Book Reports
Tuesday, December 3 at 6 PM
Legendary Village Voice writer Robert Christgau, author of Book Reports - A Music Critic on His First Love, Which Was Reading, chats with jazz and film critic Gary Giddins, as they discuss the passion that made Christgau a critihis love for the written word. Register here via email.
Midtown Local Voices Network: December 5 Community Conversation
Thursday, December 5, 6-7:30 PM; register here to attend.
Midtown Local Voices Network: December 12 Community Conversation
Thursday, December 12, 6-7:30 PM; register here to attend.
Join us for a recorded community conversation on the topics that matter most to you. Refreshments will be served. Space is limited.
Book Discussion: The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See
Tuesday, December 17, 6 PM-7 PM
Join us to discuss The Island of Sea Women, a new novel by Lisa See about female friendship and family secrets on a small Korean island.
Kids Programs
Early Literacy: Preschool Storytime
Every Monday in December 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: Toddler Storytime
Every Thursday in December at 10:30 AM and 11:15 AM
Children ages 18 months-36 months can practice early literacy skills alongside their caregivers. Participants may pick up tickets for each session at the front desk.
Early Literacy: Baby Storytime
Tuesday, December 3, 10, and 17 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, December 3, please click here on Saturday, November 30 around noon.
To RSVP for Tuesday, December 10, please click here on Friday, December 6 around noon.
To RSVP for Tuesday, December 17, please click here on Saturday, December 14 around noon.
Early Literacy: Baby Playtime
Tuesday, December 3, 10, and 17 at 11:30 AM
Following our weekly storytime, join us for a fun and engaging playtime where babies can meet and socialize with others in the community.
Circuit Fun
Wednesday, December 4 at 4 PM
Learn how circuits work with fun and active games! We'll do electron tosses and build floor circuits that kids can jump in and close with their feet. Ages 6 and up. Register here via email.
Ugly Holiday Sweaters (with Circuits!)
Wednesday, December 11 at 4 PM
Bring a sweater or t-shirt, and decorate it for the holidays with fabric markers and pens. We'll also use sewable circuits to make them light up! Ages 6 and up. Register here via email.
Holiday Card Circuits
Wednesday, December 18 at 4 PM
Design a card for friends or family this holiday season, and make it extra special by adding paper circuits to your card! Ages 6 and up. Register here via email.
Early Literacy: Winter Wonderland
Monday, December 23 at 4 PM
Welcome the wonderful beginning of winter with interactive activities for both children and their caregivers to experience together. For children up to age 5.
Early Literacy: Noon Year's Eve
Tuesday, December 31 at 11:45 AM
Celebrate the end of the year and the start of a new one with a special storytime for kids. Help us count down and see our ball drop at noon! An extended playtime will follow.
Teen Programs
Retro Video Game Day
Every Friday in December 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!
Graffiti Art Remix
Friday, December 13 at 4 PM
Learn how to create traditional and futuristic graffiti art lettering and character design. For ages 13-18 years old. Presented by DJ SpazeCraft. No registration required.
YA Holiday Party
Friday, December 20 at 4 PM
Join us in our teen room for our annual Christmas party. All are welcome to attend. Refreshments will be served and giveaways will be presented for all attendees.
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Read E-Books with SimplyE
With your library card, it's easier than ever to choose from more than 300,000 e-books on SimplyE, The New York Public Library's free e-reader app. Gain access to digital resources for all ages, including e-books, audiobooks, databases, and more.
If you don’t have an NYPL library card, New York State residents can apply for a digital card online or through SimplyE (available on the App Store or Google Play).
Need more help? Read our guide to using SimplyE.