All six of the community libraries in western Queens (Astoria, Broadway, Long Island City, Sunnyside, Steinway and Woodside) welcomed patrons to learn how to make origami cranes. The goal was to fold and string together as many Origami cranes as possible An ancient Japanese legend promises that anyone who folds a thousand origami cranes will be granted a wish by a crane. Some stories believe you are granted eternal good luck, instead of just one wish, such as long life or recovery from illness or injury. This makes them popular gifts for special friends and family.

In Japan, the crane is one of the mystical or holy creatures (others include the dragon and the tortoise) and is said to live for a thousand years. That is why 1,000 cranes are made -- one for each year. The origami paper used for the project was donated by an art teacher who no longer had a use for them. An old wrapping paper tube, some newspaper and a lanyard were used to create this display.