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Queens Public Library Loans WiFi Hotspots through Grants from Sterling National Bank, National Grid and the Thomas & Jeanne Elmezzi Private Foundation To Help Bridge the Digital Divide in Underserved Communities

More Than 255 Devices Will Soon Be Available for Borrowing at QPL’s Lefrak City, South Jamaica, Astoria and Long Island City Branches

QUEENS, N.Y. (October 21, 2021)—Queens Public Library (“QPL”) President and CEO Dennis M. Walcott today announced separate donations from Sterling National Bank, National Grid and the Thomas & Jeanne Elmezzi Private Foundation totaling $85,000 to be used to provide QPL customers without internet access at home the opportunity to borrow more than 255 internet-enabled hotspots at select locations. Sterling National Bank’s grant also will cover the cost of 18 laptops for loan to customers without computer access.

The Queens Public Library Foundation secured the funding as part of QPL’s broader goal to grow its supply of internet-enabled hotspots. Many of the hotspots the Library has loaned in the past are either lost, damaged or no longer work. The devices can be checked out for two months and renewed up to five times.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has brought into sharp focus the need for reliable home internet access for so many individuals and families in Queens and elsewhere in New York City, and it is critical to position the Library to lend hotspots and other technology to them,” said Queens Public Library President and CEO Dennis M. Walcott. “We are extremely grateful to Sterling National Bank, National Grid and the Thomas & Jeanne Elmezzi Private Foundation for their partnership in addressing the digital divide in our communities.”

Sterling National Bank donated $50,000 for 18 laptops and 100 hotspots for circulation from the QPL Lefrak City location, which is closed until further notice for emergency maintenance. To meet the demand for computer and internet service, Queens Public Library will start loaning the devices at a special distribution event Thursday, October 21, 2021 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. outside the library, located at 98-30 57th Avenue.

“Now more than ever, Sterling believes in the importance of bridging the digital divide in underserved communities,” said Karina Saltman, Senior Managing Director of CRA Administration. “Supporting digital literacy programming allows parents to help their children with remote learning, prevents isolation with access to online communities, promotes workforce development opportunities and enables other essential services like telehealth and online banking. Sterling is proud to partner with the Queens Public Library to bring this program to fruition at their QPL Lefrak City location.”

QPL provided nearly 3 million free computer sessions in fiscal year 2019 prior to the pandemic. During the pandemic, when many of the system’s libraries closed to slow the spread of COVID-19, thousands of people stood outside its buildings to catch a Wi-Fi signal. The Library recorded 498,810 Wi-Fi sessions from March 2020 to May 2021.

National Grid donated $25,000 for the purchase of 75 hotspots that will be circulated to customers participating in workforce development programs at South Jamaica Library. “National Grid is proud to partner with Queens Public Library on this important initiative, which is core to our commitment of supporting local communities and workforce development. The hotspots will allow job seekers in South Jamaica to access the Library’s virtual workforce and job skills training, as well as search and apply for employment opportunities online,” said Mauri Myers-Solages, Corporate Citizenship Manager.

The Thomas & Jeanne Elmezzi Private Foundation gave a $10,000 award for 30 hotspots to be loaned out by the Astoria and Long Island City branches. "The Thomas and Jeanne Elmezzi Private Foundation has been a long-term supporter of Queens Public Library and its programming," said Pooja Joshi O'Hanlon, Executive Director. "The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened the need for many services, supports and resources for residents in Western Queens, access to technology being one of them. The hotspots provided by Queens Public Library will go a long way towards alleviating some of this."

About Queens Public Library
Queens Public Library is one of the largest and busiest public library systems in the United States, dedicated to serving the most ethnically and culturally diverse area in the country. An independent, non-profit organization founded 125 years ago, QPL offers free access to a collection of more than 5 million books and other materials in multiple languages, technology and digital resources, and more than 80,000 educational, cultural, and civic programs annually. QPL consists of 66 locations across the borough, including branch libraries, a Central Library, seven adult learning centers, a technology center, and two teen centers, and attracted more than 11 million visitors in 2019.

Contact:
Queens Public Library—Elisabeth de Bourbon, 917-499-0867, edebourbon@queenslibrary.org
Sterling National Bank—Karina Saltman, ksaltman@snb.com
Thomas & Jeanne Elmezzi Private Foundation—admin@elmezzi.org

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Happy National Friends of Libraries Week! It’s the annual celebration of library Friends groups and everything they do for their neighborhood libraries.

In honor of Friends of Libraries Week, we asked the staff at our branches to talk about the special relationship they have with their Friends groups, and how their Friends have supported them and their communities, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read those stories below!

Click here if you would like to join an existing Friends group, or send an email to friends@queenslibrary.org to start your own chapter for your neighborhood library.

Join the new Friends of Queens Public Library Facebook Group!

Thank you again to all the Friends of Queens Public Library!

Glen Oaks Friends

Glen Oaks Friends members have been caring for library staff, customers, and each other during these uncertain times. It is a true testimony of the community spirit. Although the Friends members have not been able to meet in person, they continue to be true supporters of the library in their heart. Thank you, Glen Oaks Friends members. Without you, we would not have been able to achieve and maintain a high standard.

Younshin Kim, Community Library Manager, Glen Oaks Library

Kew Gardens Hills Friends

The Friends of the Kew Gardens Hills Library have a keen eye for bringing in very well-received programs. From music to crafts, the programs they've organized enrich our community's lives and keep the community engaged with the library.

During the pandemic, the Friends were able to shift their programming to benefit Queens residents and people all over the state as they supported QPL's Older Adults department to host a series of art programs. They've also been excellent at flagging our community's potential needs through their suggestion box and their connection to the greater Kew Gardens Hills neighborhood, as their ties to the community go deeper than we can make as staff members.

They are a tremendous asset, and we are thankful for all their hard work to help support the team here at Kew Gardens Hills.

Asher MacInnis-Call, Assistant Manager, Kew Gardens Hills Library

During this most difficult time, I thank you for your ongoing commitment and sharing wonderful program ideas to best serve our community at Kew Gardens Hills. Some have suffered and some were fortunate to not suffer any losses at all, but overall as a community we remain compassionate and dedicated to welcoming our neighbors back to the library. We look out for one another and we continue to do our best to meet each month, discussing possibilities for normalcy. We continue to move forward to a bright future. Thank you for spending time thinking of us and we hope for a everlasting friendship for Kew Gardens Hills.

Susan Paredes, Community Library Manager, Kew Gardens Hills Library

Rosedale Friends

The Rosedale staff would like to extend our gratitude to our Friends group for the work they do for our community and making the library visible to our community, even during the lockdown. The children at Rosedale were gifted with books on different occasions during the pandemic. As such, even though the Rosedale Library was closed, our customers still had feelings of being cared for. We are therefore very grateful to Mr. Pecoraro and his executives as well as to the general Friends membership. KUDOS to you all.

E. Patricia Eshun, Community Library Manager, Rosedale Library

Happy National Friends of Libraries Week! It’s the annual celebration of library Friends groups and everything they do for their neighborhood libraries.

In honor of Friends of Libraries Week, we asked the staff at our branches to talk about the special relationship they have with their Friends groups, and how their Friends have supported them and their communities, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read those stories below!

Click here if you would like to join an existing Friends group, or send an email to friends@queenslibrary.org to start your own chapter for your neighborhood library.

Join the new Friends of Queens Public Library Facebook Group!

Thank you again to all the Friends of Queens Public Library!

Cambria Heights Friends

The Friends of Cambria Heights always come through! During the pandemic, the Friends put on a phenomenal effort, creating a new annual all-virtual Poetry Festival. They always help to create new and amazing programs. Just recently in September, the Friends helped organize our Author Festival, with more than 20 authors getting involved. Now it's October, which is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the Friends put together a panel to discuss current issues. The Friends of Cambria Heights always do an amazing job and are not just our biggest advocates, but also our close partners to make sure Cambria Heights provides the highest level of service to the community!

Kacper Jarecki, Community Library Manager, Cambria Heights Library

Corona Friends

I can't imagine Corona without our Friends group. They are a vibrant, vital part of our Corona family and the Corona community; from holding awareness events (including focusing on eating healthy and recycling), to their incredible toy giveaways during the winter holidays, they truly make our world a better place. Thank you for all you've done, and all you've yet to do.

Rosemary Kiladitis, Assistant Manager, Corona Library

Flushing ALC Friends

The Friends of Flushing ALC support our Adult Learning Center in so many ways. Before the pandemic, through fundraising activities like card and craft sales, our ALC was able to purchase much-needed books and equipment for our classes and workshops. The Friends also volunteered during our registration for new students, offering much-needed translation services and support.

Since the pandemic we have counted on our members to help promote our online classes. In addition, they have become the model students for our teachers teaching online, helping to demonstrate or explain the activities for the other students. Now that we have started having some classes in person, the Friends have also assisted with recruitment and registration for these classes. In addition, they have represented our student populations at various virtual presentations for our library and community partners. With the help of our Friends, we were able to continue to provide much-needed services during these difficult times.

Gary J. Beharry, Flushing Library Literacy Center Manager

Flushing Friends

I am very thankful for the support from our Flushing Library Friends. Before the pandemic, the Friends used to sponsor a number of programs, such as “A Celebration of Asian-American and African-American Arts and Culture." They applied the grant “Diversity in Action” from Goldman Sachs, and worked with Goldman Sachs volunteers and staff to implement the STEAM program for kids.

For many years, the Friends had been taking good care of the plants throughout the entire building. Every week, members of the Friends would water the plants, clean the dust on the surface to give the plants a fresh look, and spray water on the leaves. Our staff often received compliments from customers on how nice and healthy the plants looked.

During the pandemic, they have continued to show support for the library. They inform staff if there are any unusual activities outside the building, to keep our library safe. Since Flushing is closed to serve as a vaccination site, the Friends plan to participate in street fairs organized by local organizations, to promote the library's virtual programs and other library services, and refer people in the community to use our nearby QPL branches. The members of the Friends of Flushing Library are the library’s eyes and ears. They are our connecting links to the community. I truly appreciate the support from the Friends.

Yang Zeng, Director, Flushing Library

As we continue our fall College Readiness series, Dr. P – Dominque Padurano, Ph.D, founder and president of Crimson Coaching – offers some tips on writing a great college application essay and why the essay matters so much. Dr. P writes: 

“For decades each fall, millions of high school seniors have written application essays in the hopes of earning admission into the universities of their dreams.  Recently, those essays have grown in importance. The Washington Post opined in 2017 that the number one myth in college admissions is that “essays don’t matter.” 

The global pandemic has made essays “matter” even more.  “Test-optional” admissions policies adopted in the wake of COVID-19 have rendered the essay even more “decisive” (to borrow The Post’s term).  With one fewer data point to evaluate applicants, admissions officers must now rely more heavily on the personal statement.

These higher stakes often induce higher levels of anxiety into teenage writers. But it doesn’t have to be that way.  

Read Two or Three Successful College Application Essays

You can find examples of strong college application essays in several places.  Try “10 Successful Harvard Application Essays” published annually by the student newspaper The Crimson, or Fiske Real College Essays That Work, published by the same folks responsible for the venerable Fiske Guide to Colleges.  Wherever you find them, keep in mind that these essays are finished products.  Those students revised their essays five, ten or twenty times before they became the polished gems that you’re reading.

As you peruse the essay, try to pinpoint what elements made it work.  Despite the variety of voices and forms, each effective essay conveys the author’s unique “personal brand.”  Rather than attempt to describe themselves with seventeen distinct adjectives, the author settled on one or two.  These adjectives form what I call the student’s “personal brand,” and they permeate all successful college application essays.

Identify Your Personal Brand

Before starting your own college essay, brainstorm as many adjectives as possible that describe YOU.  Go with your gut; a list of 5-10 adjectives is fine.  If you get really stuck, ask family and friends for words that best characterize you.

Group similar adjectives (e.g., “compassionate” and “empathetic”) into a single cluster.  Then, pick the one or two most important adjectives / clusters that are most important to you as a person and a student.  Write these adjectives – your own “personal brand” – on a post-it and stick the note above where you write.  This visual cue will help keep you on track, serving as a “North Star” toward which you write every time you open your laptop.

Writing a college application essay can be challenging: it’s a type of writing that most students have never done before.  With planning and the right guidance, however, this process becomes a joyful journey. Teens on the verge of adulthood can use the experience to make sense of their adolescence – and to look forward to the exciting college years that lie ahead!”

To read more tips on writing a college essay, visit Dr. P’s website. 

About the Author

Since 2014, Dr. P. has helped hundreds of students brainstorm, draft, and polish their college essays.  Her caring yet probing questions ensure that students craft personal statements that help them grow and learn, while appealing to admissions committees at the same time.  Dr. P.’s students have been admitted to Harvard, Princeton, Stanford, and dozens of other highly selective colleges and universities.  In addition, Dr. P. assists families to build lists of colleges to apply to that are, in the words of one student’s dad, both sensible and “inspiring.”  
 

Header Image by Seven Shooter on Unsplash

Inside Image by Alex Conradt on Unsplash

Dear Queens Public Library Community,

During a visit to one of our libraries several years ago, I watched an eight-year-old boy, accompanied by his older sister, set down a stack of books on the circulation desk and hand his library card to a librarian to check them out. He looked as if he could not wait to go home, devour every one of them, and return for more.

I then overheard the conversation between him and the librarian, who was explaining the reason he could not borrow the books. He had accrued too many late fines on his account and could no longer use his card. As I walked away from them, I knew the librarian would find a way to help this child, but his disappointment was still heartbreaking.

So many stories like this one have played out in our libraries countless times over the years. I had always believed that the practice of placing fines on overdue books taught responsibility, accountability, and respect for others. On that day, I realized these fines instead tell certain people they do not belong. Late fines generate fear and anxiety among those who can least afford to pay, preventing them from opening library accounts, checking out books, or even coming through our doors. This is not only unacceptable, but totally inconsistent with our mission.

I could not be more delighted to share with you that today, after careful planning and consideration, Queens Public Library will permanently stop charging late fines and will clear all existing late fines on customers’ accounts. While you will still owe the replacement fees for lost or damaged items, those fees will be erased as soon as the items are returned.

Today is an outstanding day for New York City. I am grateful to our Board of Trustees for their leadership and vision, to our staff for their work in ushering through this landmark initiative, and to our partners at the Brooklyn and New York Public library systems for their collaboration in eliminating late fines as of today as well. I also thank all of you, the people we serve, for sharing in the great promise of public libraries—that anyone, no matter their circumstances, can have free access to sources of learning and ideas that will help them find success and joy in their lives.

For more information and answers to your questions about our new policy, please visit QPL's Say Goodbye to Late Fines webpage. We are thrilled to take this important step in our ongoing work to create a library system that is equitable and open to everyone, and we look forward to welcoming even more New Yorkers to take part in everything the Library has to offer.

Best,

Dennis M. Walcott
President and CEO
Queens Public Library

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, October 5, 2021

CONTACT:
Angela Montefinise, New York Public Library, angelamontefinise@nypl.org
Fritzi Bodenheimer, Brooklyn Public Library, fbodenheimer@bklynlibrary.org
Elisabeth de Bourbon, Queens Public Library, edebourbon@queenslibrary.org

One Fine Day: New York City’s Three Public Library Systems Eliminate Late Fines

Brooklyn Public Library, New York Public Library, and Queens Public Library announced the major policy change; combined, this is the biggest system in the country to eliminate fines

Removing this antiquated barrier to access allows libraries to better fulfill their mission: making knowledge and opportunity free and accessible to all

OCTOBER 5, 2021—New York City’s three public library systems will no longer charge late fines on books and other circulating materials, eliminating a barrier to access and ensuring that all New Yorkers have free and open access to knowledge and opportunity.

Brooklyn Public Library, The New York Public Library (which serves the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island), and Queens Public Library have become the latest and largest public library systems to close the book on late fines, joining other major cities such as San Francisco, Chicago, Philadelphia, Miami-Dade, Seattle, and Dallas to go fine-free. Combined, New York City’s systems represent the largest municipality to eliminate fines.

New York City’s three systems have also cleared all prior late fines from patron accounts, allowing New Yorkers to enter a new chapter of recovery and renewal with clean slates.

In an effort to welcome patrons back or to libraries for the first time, the three systems are holding a week of giveaways and special programs at all branch locations beginning on Monday, October 18. During that week, New Yorkers are encouraged to stop by, reconnect with their local libraries, check out materials, and return anything they may have at home—fine free. For more information on the week, visit the individual system websites.

The goals of this major policy shift (fines have been in place since the three systems were created at the turn of the 20th century) include encouraging increased usage of the library systems, as well as creating a more equitable system that does not disproportionately impact high-need communities. Under the previous model with late fines, patrons would have their cards blocked if they accrued more than $15 in fines. At the time of the announcement, about 400,000 New Yorkers would fit into this category, more than half in high-need communities.

“This announcement is another major step towards making our public libraries, the heart of so many communities, accessible to all,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “Eliminating fines will let us serve even more New Yorkers, allowing them to enjoy all of the resources and programs that public libraries offer to grow and succeed.”

In the NYPL system, branches in high-need communities (median household income below $50,000) account for 6 times the number of blocked patrons as others. The 10 branches with the highest percentage of blocked cards are all in high needs communities, and each have one in five cardholders blocked. In the Queens Public Library system, the communities with the highest number of blocked cards—Corona, Jamaica, Far Rockaway, and Elmhurst—all have median incomes well below the borough average.

Similarly, for Brooklyn Public Library, the branches with the highest percentage of blocked cards are in neighborhoods where more than 20% of households live below the poverty level and most have an average median household income under $50K.

This trend is more pronounced for patrons 17 years old and under: about 30% of blocked accounts would belong to children and teens; in Queens, 65% of blocked accounts would belong to this group. In 2017, when a full citywide assessment was done of blocked cards, 80% of blocked youth cards were located in low-income communities.

"Public libraries strive to be the most democratic institutions in our society, providing all people access to the resources they need to enrich their minds and improve their lives,” said Linda E. Johnson, President and CEO of Brooklyn Public Library. “Eliminating late fines means providing truly equitable access to everything the Library has to offer.”

“During the pandemic, it was clearer than ever that we live in a Tale of Two Cities, with our most vulnerable citizens too often left behind,” said New York Public Library President Anthony W. Marx. “We must work to ensure that we are adhering to our mission of making knowledge and opportunity available to all, and that means addressing late fines. They are an antiquated, ineffective way to encourage patrons to return their books; for those who can afford the fines, they are barely an incentive. For those who can’t afford the fines— disproportionately low-income New Yorkers—they become a real barrier to access that we can no longer accept. This is a step towards a more equitable society, with more New Yorkers reading and using libraries, and we are proud to make it happen.”

“For far too long, late fines have generated fear and anxiety among those who can least afford to pay, preventing them from opening library accounts, checking out books, or even coming through our doors. I vividly remember as a child having late fines on my card and hesitating about going to the library when I needed it,” said Queens Public Library President and CEO Dennis M. Walcott. “Until today, countless New Yorkers have been denied the opportunity to share in the great promise of public libraries – that anyone, no matter their circumstances, can have free access to sources of learning and ideas that will help them find success and joy in their lives. Late fines tell people they do not belong, and that shutting them out is simply the cost of doing business. This is not only unacceptable, but also totally inconsistent with our mission. It is time that we finally lift a significant barrier for hundreds of thousands of people to information and knowledge that are rightfully theirs.”
 
While the details are slightly different per system (and specifics can be found at bklynlibrary.org, nypl.org, and queenslibrary.org), generally, under the new fine-free policies:

• New Yorkers of all ages will no longer need to pay any late fines on overdue materials
• In the past, library cards were blocked if they accrued $15 or more in fines; that will no longer be the case
• New Yorkers will still need to pay replacement fees if they lose material. Materials are considered lost after being overdue for about one month. If materials are returned, however, no fees will apply
• Cards will be blocked from borrowing additional physical materials if patrons accrue replacement fees (thresholds differ per system); note that even with a block on their cards, patrons can still access computers, e-books, and other digital services.

New York City’s three library systems have been closely evaluating fines for over a decade, testing various models and programs to determine the best path forward. Since 2010, they have conducted several “Read Down Your Fines” programs and two amnesties for kids and teens, the most recent of which was held in 2017. One year after that latest amnesty program, there was an over 60% increase in the percentage of previously blocked children and teens who then checked out materials from their public libraries; this effect was most pronounced in the lowest income neighborhoods.

Additionally, as a case study, children and teens with fine-free MyLibraryNYC cards (special cards issued to participating New York City Department of Education schools) check out 30% more items on average than their non MyLibraryNYC counterparts but only have marginally higher loss rates (less than 2 percent difference).

The Urban Libraries Council estimates that over 270 libraries in North America have gone at least partially fine-free; while it is still too early to share results in many instances (due to the disruption of the pandemic), the response has been overwhelmingly positive, and early indicators are good: for example, the San Francisco Public Library reported a 53% increase in the number of items with fines that were returned post-fine elimination (September-November 2019) compared to the year before. Chicago Public Library reported that in the year following their fine-free announcement in 2019, 11,000 users who had at least $10 in outstanding fines renewed or replaced their library cards, returning to the system, and that about 1,650 long-overdue books were returned in each of the five months after fines were eliminated: an 83% increase in returns.  

And the San Diego Public Library system, which went fine-free in 2018, reported an 8% increase in library card sign-ups, a 4% increase in circulation, and no increase in lost items (the number remained at about 2%). Director Misty Jones noted that many children and teens got their first library cards without the fear of fines, and many formerly blocked patrons came back. “It was the best thing we could have possibly done,” she said.

“It is clear from all of our work and the work of our peers that fines are not an effective incentive for people to return their materials, but they do act as a true barrier to access, scaring families who simply cannot afford the fines away from public libraries altogether,” said Marx. “Some might say fines teach accountability and ethics. I disagree. We can teach New Yorkers to be responsible and return their items so others can use them without attaching a financial burden that excludes those most in need. That $5 is not stopping someone who can afford it from keeping that book out a few extra weeks, but it is stopping families from accessing the world of opportunity that we offer. If we’re talking ethics, it is clear to me that the real ethical conundrum lies with pricing our most vulnerable citizens out of using a free, public library system. No one can learn responsibility at the Library if they can’t use the Library.”

The library systems collected about $3.2 million in late fines revenue in Fiscal Year 2019, the last non-pandemic year. Since March 2020, the systems have suspended fines to accommodate patrons during the COVID-19 pandemic. As they have not collected late fines in over a year, they have found ways to absorb the lost revenue from fines.

“Considering the size of the three systems, it has taken time, thoughtful discussion, and careful analysis to take this important step towards a more equitable library system,” said Marx. “The time is now. We hope to see all New Yorkers at one of our branches soon.”

"Libraries are for everyone yet monetary fines create barriers to accessing library services for those who need it most. I want to thank our three Public Library Systems for taking this important step to advance social equity and bring more New Yorkers back to our great libraries," said City Council Speaker Corey Johnson.

“Eliminating late fines is a powerful step toward ensuring our unparalleled public library systems live up to their founding missions. No New Yorker should be denied the opportunity to access the library’s vast treasures because they’ve accrued late fees — especially when we know that these fees fall hardest on younger people and underserved communities, for whom public libraries are a lifeline. I thank the leadership of Brooklyn Public Library, Queens Public Library, and New York Public Library for this groundbreaking announcement, and ensuring all New Yorkers can enjoy our public libraries,” said Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams.

"Libraries play a key role in communities as meeting places, education centers and public spaces at no cost to our residents," said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. "Libraries are especially critical for our youth, to nurture their love of reading and create lifelong fans of literature. The news that New York City’s three public library systems will eliminate late fines is a great step towards making sure we continue to keep libraries affordable to everyone."|

"I commend the New York Public Library, the Brooklyn Public Library, and the Queens Public Library on eliminating their late fines," said Manhattan Borough President Gale A. Brewer. "This is a groundbreaking move that will turn the page and improve equity and access to our library system for countless New Yorkers who may have avoided utilizing the library system in the past because of current and prior accounts that accrued late fees."

“Exciting day for Queens and New York City; goodbye late fines! Our libraries historically enriched the minds of the young and young at heart, and eliminating barriers like late fines gives us more opportunities for knowledge and enjoyment. The late fine elimination is the good news we needed during these trying times, and I thank all the library systems for making this happen,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr.

“As an avid reader, it is encouraging to know that this effort may stop any hesitation Staten Islanders have to borrow books from our great public library system located across the borough,” said Staten Island Borough President James Oddo. “I want to thank the folks at the NYPL for removing any late fines of existing patrons, as well as prioritizing access to the world of books, especially for our youth. But who is going to break this news to Joe Bookman, Library Cop? (Seinfeld joke for the uninitiated)”

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About Brooklyn Public Library
Brooklyn Public Library is one of the nation’s largest library systems and among New York City’s most democratic institutions. As a leader in developing modern 21st century libraries, we provide resources to support personal advancement, foster civic literacy, and strengthen the fabric of community among the more than 2.6 million individuals who call Brooklyn home. We provide nearly 65,000 free programs a year with writers, thinkers, artists, and educators—from around the corner and around the world. And we give patrons millions of opportunities to enjoy one of life’s greatest satisfactions: the joy of a good book.

About The New York Public Library
For 125 years, The New York Public Library has been a free provider of education and information for the people of New York and beyond. With 92 locations—including research and branch libraries—throughout the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island, the Library offers free materials, computer access, classes, exhibitions, programming and more to everyone from toddlers to scholars, and has seen record numbers of attendance and circulation in recent years. The New York Public Library receives approximately 16 million visits through its doors annually and millions more around the globe who use its resources at www.nypl.org. To offer this wide array of free programming, The New York Public Library relies on both public and private funding. Learn more about how to support the Library at nypl.org/support.

About Queens Public Library
Queens Public Library is one of the largest and busiest public library systems in the United States, dedicated to serving the most ethnically and culturally diverse area in the country. An independent, non-profit organization founded in 1896, Queens Public Library offers free access to a collection of more than 5 million books and other materials in multiple languages, technology and digital resources, and more than 87,500 educational, cultural, and civic programs a year. It consists of 66 locations, including branch libraries, a Central Library, seven adult learning centers, a technology lab, and two teen centers.

It’s back-to-school time, but not just for kids. Queens Public Library offers many learning opportunities for adults who want to finish their high school education, learn English, complete basic education, and more.  This fall, we will be offering ESOL from beginning to advanced levels, high school equivalency (HSE) and pre-HSE, HSE beginner and intermediate classes in Spanish, basic literacy skills classes, and a range of elective classes to students who are currently enrolled in classes. Electives include computer literacy class, citizenship study circle, civics/social issues, creative writing, and academic skills prep. This fall, classes will be both in-person and virtual. 

QPL’s Director of Community Learning Fatma Ghailan shared how the program’s team adapted during the pandemic shift to virtual classes. “The transition from in person classes to virtual classes required team work, planning, and flexibility. The Adult Learning team has been very hard working throughout this process...even though our team is dedicated, everyone went above and beyond and demonstrated acts of selflessness. The QPL ALP staff prioritized serving the community while simultaneously supporting their students and fellow colleagues.” 

What’s been most challenging has been “reaching out to every single student and serving everyone as well as facilitating with our community and community partners. In addition, another challenge was making sure that all staff have the technology needed for training and teaching online. The most rewarding part is how much closer the team has become as well as supportive of each other.” 

David Campos, assistant manager with adult learning, teaches English as a second language and adult basic education as well as assisting in administering the state TASC test, formerly known as the GED. He says the challenge for many of holding adult learning classes virtually was to “learn via a new medium under stressful circumstances with the presence of COVID-19.” This fall, he is looking forward to “meeting new students while watching our current students reach their personal goals one step at a time and just being positive members in our communities.” 

Jennifer Jaramillo, an assistant manager for the Adult Learning Center at Jackson Heights, says that students embraced distance learning and looked forward to joining class, “not just for learning but also to connect with others in different ways.” Many of her students were impacted by the pandemic, including those who lost relatives to COVID-19. Jaramillo shared a success story of a student who at first struggled with technology but eventually was able to increase her English language level. “We both laughed in happiness because she had finally made gains in speaking English,” Jaramillo says. 

Mangmang, an adult learning student, found out about the Library’s classes through the Queens Public Library’s website. Mangmang participated in virtual family literacy classes with their child. Mangmang shared that they have experienced “learning how to learn with my children like playing Kahoot together, doing crafts, doing homework, and having fun at the same time.” “I am so grateful to the teachers who are so patient to teach the new knowledge, not only in English but also the new technology,” Mangmang says. 

Yan Su, another adult learning student, learned about the Library’s classes from a friend. Su has participated in beginner, intermediate, and family classes. “We learned a lot of English idioms, American historical figures, and did interesting activities,” Su says. “We are grateful that the library gives us this opportunity to learn English. My English has improved a lot.” Su’s favorite moment from class is answering Kahoot questions. 

If you are interested in joining an adult learning class, complete the inquiry form here. Click the Learn More button under the Adult Education section. 
A staff member will reach out to you. 
Please email alpref@queenslibrary.org with any questions about courses and registration. 

Sign up your child for our STACKS enrichment program for grades K-5! STACKS is a virtual afternoon experience that involves fun and educational opportunities such as science workshops, sing-alongs, writing challenges, and art projects. This safe and welcoming environment helps school-age children build their social, emotional, and academic skills. 
 

Join today so your child can participate on a regular basis in as many activities as they would like! STACKS begins on Monday, October 4. 

Register here.

Amanda Aponte, QPL’s coordinator of out of school services, says students can look forward to new staff members joining the STACKS team as well as “launching some exciting new partnerships this year with outside vendors.”    

She describes STACKS as “an opportunity for students to participate safely in engaging programs and projects from anywhere! We provide daily programs, special club opportunities, and opportunities for interaction with caring staff and other students during program time.” 
 

Queens Public Library’s College Readiness program provides workshops and webinars to help teens and their parents made decisions as they prepare for applying for college. As the school year begins, teens may be thinking about their future beyond high school. In this blog post, Ama Kamikari Yawson, Esq. from Milestales Publishing and Training and Development explains how to decide if a specific college and going to college is for you. For more information, come to the College Readiness program on the pros and cons of college on Wednesday, September 22 at 6pm. Register here.  

What factors go into deciding if a specific college is right for you?

Finding the right college is a very personal journey. I advise students to visit campuses whenever possible in order to speak to current students and to get a feel for the atmosphere. Sometimes, a student will experience a feeling of belonging when walking around a particular campus, and other times that feeling is missing. The goal is to blossom where you are planted. 

These are some questions to ask when figuring out whether a college is for you.

1.    Do you prefer an urban, suburban, or rural campus?
2.    How far is the school from your home and/or family members?
3.    Would you prefer to board at school or would you rather live at home and commute to classes?
4.    Are you interested in having the option of attending classes in person or would you prefer taking online classes built around other obligations, such as work?
5.    Do you want to be at a large school where many classes are held in lecture halls with hundreds of students or would you prefer a smaller school where you will be in smaller classes with professors?
6.    What is the cost of tuition, and how much can you expect to contribute and/or raise scholarship funds? Are you willing to take out loans?
7.    Does the school offer the various majors or courses of study that interest you?
8.    Is the school career-focused or liberal arts centered, and how does that serve your goals with respect to a career after college or attending a graduate school?
9.    How successful is the school with respect to career placement after graduation?
10.  Does the school have a diverse student body and faculty community?

What should students consider when deciding whether to apply for college?

The most important thing for students to consider when deciding whether to apply to college is what career they would like to pursue. If a student is interested in becoming a doctor, lawyer or engineer, a college degree is required. There are set paths for those careers. Future doctors have to go to college, take pre-med requirements, and then apply to medical school. In most cases, future lawyers must earn a bachelor’s degree before applying to law school. However, if a student’s goal is to become a professional YouTuber, a college degree is not necessary.

I would advise high school students to research their career interests and talk to people in their fields of interest to ascertain whether college is necessary. In some cases, a trade school for electrical work, plumbing, cosmetology or other fields may be better alternatives. Moreover, a student does not have to go to college immediately after high school. It is perfectly appropriate for a student to take a year off in order to work and explore various careers. The armed forces may also provide an opportunity to gain skills and have the government pay for a student’s college education.

Whom should a student talk to in order to help them decide if college is right for them?

There are many people whom students can speak to in order to help them decide if college will be a good fit. 

First, students can ask family members and family friends for their advice. In some cases, students will have family members and family friends who did not go to college but wish they had. In other cases, family members and family friends who have gone to college can share their thoughts on the benefits and disadvantages of their experience. Both perspectives are useful. 

Second, guidance counselors, teachers, and librarians can be helpful because they have observed so many students make the decision of whether or not to go to college, and they may have seen the consequences of those decisions. Those recent anecdotes can help give high school students much-needed perspective. Third, I recommend that students find professionals who are working in their fields of interest. If a student would like to be a plumber, call up a plumber and ask to chat. If a student would like to be a doctor, then he or she should call a doctor on the phone. We are in the information age, and it has never been easier to connect with individuals about their careers. LinkedIn is a great tool for that.

What are some of the best reasons to go to college?

The best reason to go to college is that college helps bolster a person’s chances of obtaining and keeping a good job. The statistics surrounding the value of a college education are still clear. In general, college-educated individuals earn more than their non-college-educated counterparts, and they have higher rates of employment. The job market rewards people who have invested in college educations. Moreover, college generally provides students with the reading skills, writing skills, and general knowledge required in so many different professions. Going to college is a decision that most people do not regret. 

Are there any reasons to decide college is not for you?

There are wonderful and rewarding professions that do not require a college education. Those professions include becoming a plumber, electrician or beautician. Students can go to trade school instead of college and engage in apprentice programs. Typically, trade schools require less of an investment in both time and money. Additionally, some students may pursue non-traditional careers in entrepreneurship and the arts that do not require a college education. However, I think that all students should be ready for a lifetime of learning. For example, my barber just told me about learning how to do a new technique of hair extensions on YouTube. As a licensed attorney, I have to take continuing legal education courses consistently. No matter what the profession, a person needs to learn more to earn more.
 

Dear Friends,

As many of you are aware, today marks the 20th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks. In the span of a few hours, the horrific plane crashes into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a field in Shanksville, PA changed our lives forever, none more so than the people who were directly affected. They will always be in my thoughts.

Many of the victims of 9/11 and their loved ones as well as the first responders and other heroes lived or still live in the borough of Queens. Some continue to suffer, either physically, emotionally, or both. Please know that Queens Public Library shares their grief and is here for them.

To observe and honor the anniversary, today on our social media channels and the homepage of our website, we will have a day of silence.

I hope you will join the Library in reflecting on all that we lost on September 11, 2001, and on what we have learned and how we have changed since then. Now, as our society confronts the devastation of the COVID-19 pandemic, I know we can draw from the determination and spirit we summoned 20 years ago to recover and rebuild once again.

Please stay safe, and we look forward to seeing you soon.

With my best,

Dennis M. Walcott
President and CEO, Queens Public Library