New City Library - Rockland Room

Rescheduled Program

Sally Pellegrini — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 13:07:41 +0000

Due to the current weather conditions, the library will plan to open at noon. Stay tuned for further closing decisions.

The scheduled Genealogy Society's program, Military Records, with Tony Lauriano is postponed. A new date will be announced as soon as it is confirmed.

Enjoy the snow!

A Traditional Holiday Display

Sally Pellegrini — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 20:12:29 +0000

Quilts and bobbin lace abound in the exhibit areas at the New City Library. In the Meeting Room, there are hanging quilts that range from traditional patterns to very current designs. The bold and bright colors are most striking. In past centuries, castles had huge tapestries adorning the walls as a way to reduce drafts and cold temperatures. Though not drafty, the library is able to accomodate quilts that are ten feet in length. One special quilt is a tribute to the late Dr. MacGuffie and her fight to end AIDS in Africa. This fine exhibit was organized by Mary Jane Sexton and her fellow friends and members of the Heritage Quilters of the Hudson.

A second exhibit features bobbin lace on loan from the Manhattan Chapter of the International Old Lacers. These samples may be seen in the exhibit cases by the Meeting Room. Bobbin lace is a very old craft that uses fine thread that is wound on small finger bobbins. Using a pattern, the bobbins are moved within following the design pattern.

Take a look. You will walk away inspired.

Spread the Word

Sally Pellegrini — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 17:55:04 +0000

There is a big mystery happening at the library on Sunday, November 13, 2 PM so tell your friends. What is it? Mystery Writers of America are hosting "Meet the Authors" that include Joanne Dobson, Steve Hamilton and Julia Pomeroy. These well known mystery authors will discuss the making of a series character. So often today, we identify a specific author by their favorite sleuth or detective. Household names that readers can quickly identify include Harry Bosch, Miss Marple or Kinsey Milhone.

Art Galore

Sally Pellegrini — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 21:06:38 +0000

Art work abounds this month in the Meeting Room and the exhibit cases. Check out the "Warm Up America" samples of crocheted and knitted items in the Meeting Room. There were too many to display as there were a total of 179 items made during July and August. All will be donated to local non-profit agencies.

Two very talented artists fill the Meeting Room walls with paintings. Rosie Reilly amd Gay Lynette Morris offer a variety of subjects from botanicals to scenery to portraits. They use acrylics of bright, bold colors on canvas as well as on silks.

Finally, a talented sculptor, Lillian Alberti, fills the exhibit cases with whimsical dolls made of papier-mache and finished with detailed, hand-sewn costumes. Each of these one-of-a-kind dolls has unique expressive qualities and offers its own story.

There will be a reception, Saturday, September 17, from 2 - 4 PM to meet the three artists. Lillian Alberti will demonstrate the creation of her dolls beginning at 2:30 PM. The public is invited.

New Genealogy How-To Book

Sally Pellegrini — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 18:40:06 +0000

I recently saw a recommendation about a book from a fellow genealogy librarian. It was a book about the basics of genealogy. I usually ignore these basic books as the market is flooded with so many. The Rockland Room maintains many and the standards are updated with new editions. However, I ordered this one and it looks pretty good! The tile is, How To Do Everyting Genealogy written by George W. Morgan. It is the second edition.

It covers all the basics needed for a beginner. What I think makes it different from others is that it offers a clear and simple layout. So often these basic books are filled with too much information, charts and maps. The author who has been doing research for more than 40 years, has written 432 pages on the subject. People starting out in genealogy often become discouraged because the lecture or the book are too long and detailed.

When you are in the Rockland Room, check out this book on the new book shelf. You will find the book listed as 929.1 MOR.

Newsletter Goes Electronic

Sally Pellegrini — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 16:34:20 +0000

Fine Print, the library's prestigious paper newsletter, is going electronic starting with the September issue. The edition will have the same format, the same content, and will be accessible on the library website. You will have the news of library happenings at your fingertips. Readers may either visit the web page link OR sign up for the electronic notification of holds and overdues. The newsletter will be included in this reigstration.

There will be an issue at the beginning of each month. Of course, the paper monthly calendar and program flyers will remain available in the building. Stay informed, be in the loop and enjoy this instant form of newsletter.

Trip to Greenwood Cemetery

Sally Pellegrini — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 15:17:32 +0000

The Genealogical Society of Rockland invites interested persons to go on a tour of the famous Greenwood Cemetery in the Bronx on Friday, September 9. We will meet at the library at 9 AM and car pool. This cemetery is world famous not for just the residents but also for the landscaping, sculptures, and architecture created by many famous artists and architects. Begun in 1838 as a rural cemetery, Woodlawn encompasses 478 acres in the center of the Bronx. Its historical. cultural and achitectural significance makes it an historical landmark to visit.

If interested, please contact Sally Pellegrini at 634-4997 ext 139. Deadline to register is August 31. Expenses include sharing the car pool costs, $5 tour fee and lunch. We would like to go to one of the restaurants on Arthur Ave.

Visiting Lower East Side

Sally Pellegrini — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 14:51:37 +0000

Many Rocklanders have fond childhood memories of the Lower East Side of New York. This area was a nesting area for many immigrants to begin a new life in a new country during the early 20th century. On Wednesday, July 27 starting at 1:30 PM, licensed NYC tour guide, Martin Schneit, will guide you through these streets from the seats of the library. Please join us.

It's Birthday Time!

Sally Pellegrini — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 19:27:41 +0000

As part of the summer birthday celebration for the New City Library, there will be a lawn concert Saturday night beginning at 6:30 PM. The beloved "Big Band Sound" will be playing music from 75 years ago. This is the same group that reguarly plays on Memorial Day at the library. Brings your chairs, sit back and enjoy. Indoors if inclement weather.

Warm Up America

Sally Pellegrini — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 19:30:14 +0000

Knitters, Crocheters unite!! and come to the third annual Warm Up America project. We will meet once a weekduring July and August to create handmade items. These items will then be donated to local agencies in need. This year, individuals may choose their own projects or may join with others for a group project. Yarn will be provided from public donations.Bring your needles and your ideas. We always have a great time as we create together.

Meetings times will be Monday at 10AM or Monday at 7PM. We will start meeting July 11. Hope to see you but if you have questions, call 634-4997 ext 139.