NYPL Blogs: Community Information

A Voter’s Dictionary of Important Terms

Laura Stein, Adult Services Librarian, Grand Central Library — Tue, 09 Feb 2021 11:16:28 -0500

The average voter probably never imagined needing to know every term in the vocabulary of politics. But in order to fully participate in your civic duty, you may want to know what the newscasters are talking about when they use this jargon. The following are 30 commonly used words and phrases that pertain to the election process. Read it all through, refer back to it as needed, and share it with others, because a strong democracy is powered by an informed population.

Once you've had a chance to brush up on these voting terms, Join Grand Central Library, along with the League of Women Voters NYC for a free online civics trivia extravaganza on February 24th.

Absentee Ballot - traditionally used by citizens who will not be able to get to their polling site during early voting and election day. Examples include active military personnel, persons in jail, persons with disabilities, persons in the hospital, those living abroad or going to school in a different area, and more. During the 2020 elections, accommodations were made in many states due to the risk of contracting COVID-19 at the polling sites.

Ballot - the physical item on which votes are cast—typically in writing and in secret before submitted for counting.

Blue State - refers to a U.S. state where the majority of voters usually support Democratic candidates and causes.

Canvassing - the process of contacting voters to ask for support for a certain candidate or policy. Typically coordinated by the candidate’s team and often involves volunteer supporters.

Caucus - a meeting of registered members of a particular political party meet to discuss issues, policies, and, generally, express support for candidates.

Constituent - a voting member of a community or organization and having the power to appoint or elect.

Convention - an event where chosen or elected officials from each party announce which candidate they are supporting for an upcoming election.

NY Governor Al Smith parades around the floor of the Democratic Convention when he was nominated for the presidency.

Department of Elections - an administrative body that oversees election proceedings and voting activity. The department is a bipartisan board appointed by local officials; in New York City the Board of Elections is composed of ten Commissioners, two from each borough upon recommendation by both political parties and then appointed by the City Council for a term of four years.

District - a geographical area with distinct representation in the Senate and Congress. Each house is part of a Senatorial and Congressional District. (These can change over time)

Early Voting - the opportunity to cast your ballot in person earlier than election day. Early voting policies vary by state. In New York State, the Board of Elections is required to provide nine additional days to cast a ballot in person prior to Election Day. (https://www.voteearlyny.org/about-early-voting/)

Electoral College - composed of electors chosen by the political parties of each state. Each state has its own system for appointing electors. They pledge to vote for the candidate who received the most popular votes in their state.

There are 538 Electoral votes, which corresponds to each state's Congressional delegation. There are 435 elected Representatives in Congress from each of the 50 states, three electors from the District of Columbia (They are not represented in Congress) and 100 senators in the US Senate. 435+3+100 = 538 Electors. 270 electors are needed to elect the President of the United States. Citizens in Puerto Rico, Guam, and US Virgin Islands have no electors.

Electoral College Map - a map which uses colors to represent the political party of the winning candidate in each state. Red is for Republicans and Blue is for Democrats. The physical size of each state is not related to the number of votes or population of the state. For example, MT appears very large on the Electoral Map but its population is very low and it only has 3 electoral votes. ME and NE divide up their electoral votes proportionally instead of awarding “winner takes all.” You can win the popular vote yet lose the election. The total nationwide popular votes for the losing candidate can be greater than for the winning candidate because electoral votes are “winner takes all.” States with large populations may have several million votes supporting the losing candidate compared with much smaller total votes cast in less populated states for winning candidates.

Exit Polls - survey data of voters leaving a polling place after they have voted. Researchers pull from a sample of these voters—often voters who voluntarily speak with researchers outside the polling place—to assess how their votes were cast to get a picture of the election outcome.

Faithless electors - electors of the electoral college who don't cast their vote in correspondence with the popular vote in their state. This happens rarely and has yet to swing a presidential election.

Incumbent - an individual currently holding an elected position.

Landslide - a victory that is won by a large majority, rather than just by a few points.

Participatory Budgeting - a democratic process available in some places in which community members directly decide how to spend part of a public budget. http://ideas.pbnyc.org/page/about

Platform - a political party’s or candidate’s position on certain issues. It is usually a written statement of principles and goals.

New York City, Congressional Districts : Borough of Manhattan, 1921

Polling Site - the place you go to cast your ballot. You are assigned a polling site based on your home address and can only cast a ballot at that site.

Popular vote - the total number of votes cast by registered voters including in-person and absentee/mail-in.

Ranked-Choice Voting (RCV) - an electoral system in which voters rank candidates by preference on their ballots. If a candidate wins a majority of first-preference votes, he or she is declared the winner. If no candidate wins a majority of first-preference votes, the candidate with the fewest first-preference votes is eliminated. http://www.nyccfb.info/nyc-votes/ranked-choice-voting/

Red State - refers to a U.S. state where the majority of voters usually support Republican candidates and causes.

Redistricting - the process of redrawing geographic boundaries that represent congressional districts.

Referendum - also called a proposition or ballot initiative, is another portion of the ballot that asks you to vote on a piece of legislation.

Split-Ticket Voting - voting for candidates of different parties for various offices in the same election. For example, voting for a Republican for Senator and a Democrat for President.

Straight-Ticket Voting - voting candidates who are all of the same party. For example, voting for Republican candidates for Senator, Representative, and President.

Super Tuesday - during Presidential primary season it is a day on which a large number of states hold their elections so the results of that day could make or break a candidate.

Swing State - a state that is closely split between Republican and Democratic voters. In Presidential elections, the electoral votes of swing states are significant in determining the outcome.

Term Limit - the amount of time that an elected official retains their office. Different offices have different term limits and a new election takes place at the end of the term.

"Winner takes all” - all the electoral votes from a state are awarded to the candidate who wins the popular vote in that state.

Ballot 1895

LEARN MORE

Doubletalk: The Language, Code, and Jargon of a Presidential Election by Chuck McCutcheon
Credo Reference Database: Provides full-text online access to hundreds of multidisciplinary reference book collections, bilingual dictionaries, and encyclopedias.
U.S. History in Context Database: Coverage of the most-studied U.S. history topics, with overview articles, primary sources, biographies, audio, images, news and magazine articles, academic journals, and legal case overviews.

IMPORTANT 2021 VOTING DATES for NYC:

June 22nd is the primary for New York City Mayor
November 2nd is the general election for New York City Mayor

Inspiration for this blog post and references for definitions come from the following:

NYPL Connect: Take 10 Minutes to Help Your Community for the Next 10 Years

Alana Mohamed, Communications — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 15:01:35 -0400

Sign up for NYPL Connect today and get the latest updates on Library resources available to you during our temporary closure sent straight to your inbox.

Census Day is here. As our communities feel the impact of COVID-19, it’s more crucial than ever that every New Yorker fill out the Census and get counted.

An accurate count of New York City’s population ensures that government leaders at every level invest in your needs—especially in emergencies like this one. Census 2020 response rates will determine government decisions about New York City for the next 10 years, including how much money New Yorkers receive out of billions of dollars in federal funding for healthcare, schools, and housing, among other resources.

Encouraging an accurate count for the 2020 Census is just one way that the Library is committed to helping communities across New York City during this difficult time. To further assist New Yorkers in need, we are also compiling helpful and trusted Community Support Resources to make sure that New Yorkers everywhere have access to the information they need to get through this challenging moment.

In the Spotlight

The Census Counts More Than Ever

Filling out the 2020 Census is fast, easy, and confidential. In as little as 10 minutes, you can help determine the funding and Congressional representation New York will receive for the next 10 years. Visit the Census website linked above or call (844) 330-2020 to respond today.

Title: Kids Count Too

Did you know that kids are one of the most underrepresented groups in Census data? Get downloadable coloring books for kids from the U.S. Census Bureau that emphasize the importance of everyone getting counted in the Census. Available in both English and Spanish. Grades Pre-K–2.

Community Support Resources

The Library is here to help communities find important resources they need to navigate these difficult times. Find services and information about jobs and personal finance, health and wellness, food resources, housing, and more.

How to Talk to Kids About Coronavirus

Find resources and information on talking about coronavirus with your children and teens from our partners and outside organizations. There are resources for each age group, along with multilingual resources. All grade levels.

More Resources for Kids & Teens

Bring American History to Life with FreedomFlix

FreedomFlix is a resource from Scholastic that provides engaging materials for kids about a wide range of topics related to American history. Use video clips and e-books, with popup features such as maps, timelines, virtual tour clips, primary source videos, and audio clips to help supplement learning at home. Available with a library card, for grades 4–9.

Support Distance Learning

The New York Public Library offers access to over 800 learning aids and databases for free with your library card, many of which are available from home. While engaging in distance learning due to school closures, these resources may be useful for both educators and students.

Learning

Webinar: COVID-19 Support for Small Business Owners and Freelancers, Part One

Wednesday, April 1 | 4:30 PM
Summary: Has your business been affected by COVID-19? Whether you have a brick-and-mortar small business or you've been working remotely as a freelancer, there is help for you from the Small Business Administration. Join us for this free, two-part webinar where you'll learn about government-issued, low-interest loans for concerned business owners.

Webinar: How to Build a Professional Website in 5 Days

Thursday, April 2 | 1 PM
Summary: Join us for this online masterclass with Lori Reeves, web designer and small business consultant, who will share her secrets for making her clients' websites stand out while achieving great functionality. You'll learn how you can build your website in just five days with Reeves walking you through the process step-by-step.

New & Noteworthy

Celebrate National Poetry Month with #PocketPoems

Each year, to celebrate National Poetry Month and Poem in Your Pocket Day, The New York Public Library asks poets to contribute short poems that we share with you. This year, we're going digital—to celebrate our 125th anniversary, we asked poets to respond in verse to images from our Digital Collections. We'll share one every day on our social feeds, so be sure to check back.

The Results Are In: Literary March Madness, Book Series Edition

We’re sad to say it, but Literary March Madness is over. See who you and readers like you crowned the victor in this year’s tournament.

Bookriot: 10 Best Bookish Podcasts for Distancing Yourself from the News

Tune out your stress and instead tune in to these bookish podcasts, including our very own The Librarian Is In, hosted by Frank Collerius and Rhonda Evans.

You’re Not Alone: Mental Health Reads

Great books remind us that we’re not alone in challenging times.

Explore Your NYC Neighborhood...Virtually

Missing walking your local streets? Here are some tools that let you explore your neighborhood from the safety of home.

Free Online Language Learning Resources for Kids

Check out these free sites featuring games, puzzles, stories, and more designed to help children learn and practice languages. Don’t worry, you can use them, too!

The Online Resources Librarians Love

Here’s a short list of some favorite resources—all of which are available from home with your NYPL library card—from the research librarians of The New York Public Library.

Tribute to Teresa Mlawer: Exceptional Hispanic Translator and Author of Children's Books

A brief selection of popular bilingual e-books for kids translated by the distinguished Cuban author.

Go on (Digital) Marvel Adventures—from Home!

Are you waiting for the next Marvel movie? While you wait, you can download and read Marvel comics on your computer, using your New York Public Library card.

I Watched the Tiger King Documentary Series in One Day. Then I Needed to Learn More.

Take a deeper dive into the Netflix documentary with the Library’s digital resources.

Don't Miss

E-Books & Audiobooks

SimplyE, the Library’s free e-reader app, makes it easy to browse, borrow, and read more than 300,000 e-books with your library card. Plus, New York state residents who don’t have a library card can sign up for one through SimplyE.

Resources for Kids & Teens

Get vital digital tools for learners of all ages—including access to free, online homework help from one-on-one tutors, daily from 2 PM to 11 PM through our partnership with Brainfuse. Find read-alouds, engaging activites, and more.

Expanded Research Collections

Access more than 800 online databases for free—many available for use from anywhere—when you log in with your library card. Discover anything and everything from scholarly journals and historical archives to our Digital Collections.

The NYC Commission on Human Rights

Laura Stein, Adult Services Librarian, Grand Central Library — Tue, 26 Mar 2019 09:49:37 -0400

The Grand Central Library recently hosted a representative from the NYC Commission on Human Rights, who came to discuss what this government agency actually does. We all learned they do a lot of incredible work! The information was just too good not to share, so I've written notes for everyone to see.

What Is the NYC Commission on Human Rights?

The Commission is actually a law enforcement agency that deals with any type of discrimination against those in protected classes. Interesting side note: A person's natural hairstyle is a newly protected class that prohibits employer discrimination. Another little-known fact is that those using Section 8 vouchers for the majority of their rent should not be subject to credit and financial discrimination from landlords.

Filing a Discrimination Complaint

To file a discrimination complaint, call the Commission at (718) 722-3131. If nobody answers, do not be discouraged. Simply leave a message and someone will return your call.

You may also file a complaint via their website. You will speak with someone to determine jurisdiction and will then meet with an attorney. All services are free and you will not accrue legal fees. If possible, the Commission will attempt to rectify the injustice through mediation and conflict resolution before court.

There is an investigative wing to the Commission that will help you uncover relevant evidence, and a policy wing that is always working to expand the law. A new achievement of this latter group is the expansion of time allowed to report sexual harassment discrimination, from one year to three years. Another accomplishment is the Fair Chance Act, which protects those with a criminal history looking for employment.

Public pressure is important to getting new policy changes. For example, one group currently experiencing issues is older women living in rent-stabilized apartments, and it can be tricky to prove discrimination based on age. However, the more an issue is reported the more awareness it will receive.

If you're being discriminated against, the Commission on Human Rights is not your only option but it is New York City-based and dedicated to getting immediate results for immediate issues. Violators of your rights may be fined, sent to mandatory training, and/or monitored for future offenses. The policy wing also monitors other government agencies for misconduct.

When in doubt, file a complaint!

Want to learn more? See the NYC Commision on Human Rights protected classes fact sheet.

Calling All Writers and Artists: Submit Your Work to Library Zine!

Tabrizia Jones, Young Adult Librarian, Sedgwick Library — Mon, 22 Jan 2018 11:07:16 -0500

Credit: Pixabay.com

Library Zine!: Voices from Across The New York Public Library is a publication that showcases work from the diverse communities that the Library serves. We call on our patrons to share their distinct and creative voices by submitting poetry, short stories, essays, and original artwork, all aligned with each issue's theme. The next issue's theme: All Are Welcome.

This fits perfectly with the Library’s mission: all are welcome to the library. For the next issue of Library Zine!, we are looking for inventive and creative takes on this theme, which inspires reflections on community, construction, social awareness, and education. Do not take this theme literally—create your own interpretation! Make sure to stand out from the crowd and make your title unique to your work.

For all submissions, please follow these guidelines:

Manuscripts

All written manuscripts must be typed in 12-point font with one-inch margins, and checked for spelling and grammar. At the top of your submission, please include your name, mailing address, primary phone number, and email.

Manuscripts must be in .doc or .docx format, and/or readable in Google Drive and/or Microsoft Word. They can be written in any language.

Poetry should be single-spaced and not exceed 1,000 words.
Short stories can be 500-2,500 words and total 2-10 pages, double-spaced.
Non-fiction and essays should not exceed 2,500 words, and should total about 10 pages, double-spaced.

Artwork and photography

Physical copies of artwork (e.g. paintings, sculptures) or photos will not be accepted. Instead, photograph or scan your work into one of the following formats: JPG/JPEG, TIFF, and PNG. Images must be 300 pixels per inch (PPI). Images containing nudity will not be accepted.

Along with your image, please attach a separate Word document with a description of your work and a short anecdote of what inspired it.

Please Note

While Library Zine! does not want to limit our patrons’ creativity, please keep in mind that this publication is intended for all audiences. Submissions must be mindful of language, use of graphic violence and abuse, and the depiction of harmful stereotypes based on age, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and mental/physical disabilities.

How to Submit Work

The submission deadline is March 1, 2018. Limit five submissions per person.

Please submit your work directly to our email address, nyplzine@nypl.org. After we receive your submission successfully, we will send you a consent form.

Calling All Writers: Submit to Library Zine

Tabrizia Jones, Young Adult Librarian, Sedgwick Library — Thu, 01 Jun 2017 11:24:58 -0400

Are you writer, poet, or artist? Would you like to see your works published? The New York Public Library has an opportunity for you!

Submit to Library Zine

Library Zine: Voices from Across The New York Public Library is a new publication looking to showcase works from the diverse communities the Library serves! We call for the distinct and creative voices of our patrons to submit their poetry, short stories, essays, and original artwork for our second issue, which will revolve around The New York Public Library's Summer Reading theme, Build a Better World.

We are looking for inventive and creative takes on this theme which inspires reflections on community, construction, social awareness, and education. Do not take this theme literally; build your own interpretation! Make sure to stand out from the crowd and make your title unique to your work.

Manuscripts

All written manuscripts must be typed in 12-point font with one-inch margins, and checked for spelling and grammar. At the top of your submission, please include your name, address, primary phone number, and email.

Poetry should be single-spaced and not exceed 1,000 words.

Short stories can be 500-2,500 words, about 2-10 pages double-spaced.

Non-fiction and essays should not exceed 2,500 words, about 10 pages double-spaced.

Manuscripts must be in .doc or .docx format, and/or readable in Google Drive and/or Microsoft Word.

Submissions can be written in any language.

Artwork and Photography

Physical copies of artwork (e.g. paintings, sculptures, etc.) or photos will not be accepted. Instead, take a picture or scan your work into one of the following formats: .JPG/JPEG, .TIFF, and .PNG. Images must be 300 pixels per inch (PPI). Images containing nudity will not be accepted.

Along with your image, attach a separate Word document with a description of your work and a short anecdote of what inspired the work.

Additional Information

While Library Zine does not want to limit our patrons’ creativity, be aware that this publication is intended for all audiences. Submissions must be mindful of language, the use of graphic violence and abuse, and the depiction of harmful stereotypes based on age, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and mental/physical disabilities.

Limit of 5 submissions per person.

Please submit your work by filling out this form. You can alternatively email nyplzine@nypl.org for the link.

Submission Deadline: September 1, 2017

All ages and languages are welcome to submit.

This program is funded through The New York Public Library’s Innovation Project, which is made possible by a generous grant from the Charles H. Revson Foundation.

Citizenship Fair / Feria de la ciudadanía / Un séminaire sur la Citoyenneté Américaine/ Информационная ярмарка по получению гражданства США

Marianna Vertsman, Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library (SNFL) — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 11:12:23 -0400

Naturalization ceremony at NYPL

Applying for citizenship can be an exciting time for many immigrants. New York Public Library understands that it is a complicated and costly process that can be challenging to complete. On May 20,2017 , Mid-Manhattan Library will be hosting an all-day Citizenship Fair. The event will take place between 11 AM – 3 PM on the 6th floor. The fair will feature local and government agencies, ready to assist new Americans with their citizenship applications. This free program is open to the public. Representatives from federal, state, and city agencies will be on-site offering presentations and workshops to help residents learn more about the resources available to manage the citizenship application, its cost and submission. Presentations include:

An overview of the process and requirements for qualifying and studying for the exam by U.S. Citizenship and, Immigration Services
Citizenship Eligibility and Application process with Lutheran Social Services of New York
If you are unable to come to the fair, please keep in mind that The New York Public Library offers a wide-range of services to assist New Yorkers with their citizenship needs, including the recently-launched NYCitizenship, which provides legal services and financial counseling at select libraries in the five boroughs, in partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs.

For more information about what’s available at the Library, please visit NYPL's Immigrant Services Page.

Co-Sponsors: Immigration Advocates Network,, Single Stop, NYC Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs, Lutheran Social Services of New York, District Attorney of New York County, Cabrini Immigrant Services, New York Legal Assistance Group, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, New York Immigration Coalition, NALEO Education Fund, Chinese Progressive Association

La Biblioteca Pública de Nueva York presenta la Feria de la ciudadanía en la Biblioteca Mid-Manhattan el 20 de Mayo 2017.

Copatrocinadores: El Centro, Immigration Advocates Network, New Women New Yorkers, Single Stop, NYC Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs, Lutheran Social Services of New York, District Attorney of New York County, Unlocal, Cabrini Immigrant Services, New York Legal Assistance Group, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, New York Immigration Coalition, NALO Education Fund.

La Biblioteca Pública de Nueva York (NYPL) ofrecerá una feria de información para obtener la ciudadanía de los Estados Unidos con la participación de varias agencias locales y gubernamentales. Este evento es completamente GRATIS.

Representantes de diversas agencias sin fines de lucro estarán presentes para ofrecer charlas, información y ayuda acerca de los requisitos para hacerse ciudadano, tales como llenar el formulario, información sobre el coste y cómo prepararse para el examen. Las presentaciones tocarán los siguientes temas:

Descripción general del proceso y los requisitos necesarios para solicitar la ciudadanía, presentada por el Servicio de Ciudadanía y Migración de los Estados Unidos (USCIS)
Revisión general de los requisitos y del proceso de naturalización, presentada por los Servicios Sociales de la Iglesia Luterana de Nueva York (Lutheran Social Services of New York)

La solicitud a la ciudadanía puede ser un gran momento para muchos inmigrantes, pero a la vez es un proceso complicado, costoso y difícil de llevar a cabo. La Biblioteca Pública de Nueva York (NYPL por sus siglas en inglés) ofrece una gran variedad de servicios para ayudar a los neoyorquinos en el proceso de naturalización. Por ejemplo, el recién lanzado programa de ciudadanía de la Ciudad de Nueva York (NYCitizenship), el cual ofrece servicios legales y de consejería financiera a todas las personas, completamente gratis. Este programa se ofrece en bibliotecas selectas de los cinco condados. Para obtener más información sobre la ayuda disponible en las bibliotecas, visite la Página de Inmigrantes de NYPL.

La Bibliothèque Publique de New York pour une fois va offrir un séminaire sur la Citoyenneté Américaine à la Bibliothèque Mid-Manhattan le 20 May , 2017.

Coparrainants: Co-Sponsors: Immigration Advocates Network,, Single Stop, NYC Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs, Lutheran Social Services of New York, District Attorney of New York County, Cabrini Immigrant Services, New York Legal Assistance Group, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, New York Immigration Coalition, NALEO Education Fund, Chinese Progressive Association

La Bibliothèque Publique de New York (NYPL) pour une fois seulement va offrir des informations sur la citoyenneté durant toute la journée à la Bibliothèque Mid-Manhattan le 25 juin. Les agences locales et les agences gouvernementales seront présentes pour aider les nouveaux Américains avec leurs demandes de citoyenneté. Le programme est gratuit, ouvert au public, et se tiendra en anglais.

Des représentants des agences fédérales, des agences étatiques, et des agences de la mairie seront présents pour faire des présentations et des ateliers pour aider les résidents de profiter des ressources disponibles pour faire la demande de citoyenneté, pour payer sa coût et pour réussir à l’examen. Les présentations comprennent:

Un aperçu sur la procédure et les conditions nécessaires pour faire la demande de citoyenneté avec U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Admissibilité de citoyenneté et la procédure pour en faire la demande avec Lutheran Social Services of New York
La procédure pour faire la demande d'être exempté des droits de demande
Des activités pour préparer l'examen

La Demande de citoyenneté peut être un grand moment pour beaucoup d'immigrants, mais il est un processus complexe et coûteux qui peut être difficile à achever. La Bibliothèque Publique de New York offre une large gamme de services pour aider les New-Yorkais avec leurs besoins en matière de citoyenneté. Ceci inclut le programme (récemment lancé) appelé NYCitizenship, qui fournit des services juridiques et des conseils financiers dans certaines bibliothèques dans les cinq arrondissements, en partenariat avec le Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs. Pour plus d'informations sur ce qui est disponible à la bibliothèque, veuillez visiter le site la Page des Immigrants de NYPL.

B субботу, 20 2017 , Мая в отделение Мид-Манхэттан, городской библиотеки г. Нью-Йорка, состоится информационная ярмарка по получению гражданства США.

АДРЕС : 455 Fifth Avenue

Представители городских и государственных служб проведут ряд занятий и семинаров по ознакомлению с существующими вспомогательными ресурсами о
процессе натурализации в США. Cписок семинаров:

Kак подготовиться к экзамену на гражданство США -
представит cлужба гражданства и иммиграции США (USCIS)
Кто имеет право получить американское гражданство. Общий обзор процесса натурализации. - представляет отдел социальных услуг Лютеранской Церкви в Нью-Йорке (Lutheran Social Services of New York)

Если вы проживaете в Нью-Йорке и заинтересованы в подаче заявления на гражданство, Нью-Йоркская публичная библиотека предлагает вам широкий спектр услуг. В партнерстве с городским отделом по делам иммигрантов, библиотека недавно открыла несколько центров NYCitizenship . Наши центры предоставляют юридические услуги и финансовые консультации в ряде филиалов библиотек в пяти районах города .
Для получения дополнительной информации об услугах этих центров , пожалуйста, посетите /help/community-outreach/immigrant-services

Oрганизаторы ярмарки: Immigration Advocates Network,, Single Stop, NYC Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs, Lutheran Social Services of New York, District Attorney of New York County, Cabrini Immigrant Services, New York Legal Assistance Group, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, New York Immigration Coalition, NALEO Education Fund, Chinese Progressive Association

This blog was co-written Vilma Alvarez and Marianna Vertsman

All images are courtesy of NYPL

Calling All Writers! Get Published in NYPL!Zine

Tabrizia Jones, Young Adult Librarian, Sedgwick Library — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 17:34:10 -0500

Are you writer, poet, or artist? Would you like to see your works published? The New York Public Library has an opportunity for you!

NYPL!Zine is a new publication looking to showcase the works of the diverse communities we serve. This zine will follow the trend of libraries meeting the needs of its users as opposed to users meeting the terms of the library. The purpose is to give you—our patrons—a voice through the Library. Through artistry, you can convey comments, concerns, and joys about your communities and the world at large. We’re looking for distinct, creative voices that can tell us more about what you love about your neighborhood! We welcome poetry, short stories, novellas, essays, and original artwork!

This issue’s theme: What does New York City mean to you?

Submission Guidelines

Manuscripts

All written manuscripts must be typed in 12-point font, one-inch margins, and checked for spelling and grammar. At the top of your submission, please include your name, address, primary phone number, and email. [In a separate document, please include a 2-3 sentence bio about yourself.

Poetry should not exceed 1,000 words and be single-spaced
Short stories and novellas can be 500-2,500 words, 2-10 pages double spaced
Non-fiction and essays should not exceed 2,500 words, 10 pages double-spaced
Manuscripts must be in .doc or .docx format, and/or be readable in Microsoft Word

Artwork and Photography

Physical copies of artwork (e.g.- paintings, sculptures, etc.) or photos will not be accepted. Instead, take a picture or scan your work into one of the following formats: .JPG/JPEG, .TIFF, and .PNG. Images must be 300 pixels per inch (PPI). Images containing nudity will not be accepted.

Along with your work, attach a separate Word document with your contact information, description of the work, your local branch and an optional short (five sentences or less) anecdote of what inspired the work.

While NYPL!Zine does not want to limit creativity, be aware that it is a publication intended for ALL audiences. Submissions must not use graphic language, depict violence, or perpetuate harmful stereotypes based on age, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and mental/physical disabilities.

Limit of five submissions per person.

Send all submissions to: nyplzine@nypl.org with your name and submission title in the subject. Only electronic copies will be accepted. Any work submitted without the release form will not be accepted.

Submission Deadline: March 1, 2017

IDNYC Pop-up at Chatham Square Library!

Dana Sagona, Senior Librarian, Chatham Square Library — Mon, 29 Aug 2016 11:28:30 -0400

IDNYC New Pop-Up Enrollment Site 新短期辦理據點

New York City residents are now able to sign up for IDNYC (紐約市民卡) —a government-issued identification card that is available to all City residents age 14 and older. Immigration status does not matter. Chatham Square Library will be the site of an IDNYC pop-up from August 30 through September 17. Walk-ins are welcome but an appointment is recommended! Go to NYC.gov to book an appointment online, or call 311. Please also visit NYC.gov to confirm which materials to bring to your appointment. If you have any questions, please call 311.

This pop-up runs from August 30–September 17.

Hours:
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 10:15 AM–7 PM
Friday and Saturday from 10 AM–4:30 PM

The pop-up is closed on Mondays.
On the last day (Saturday, Sept 17), the pop-up will close at noon.

Elecciones 2016: Regístrese, Investigue y Vote

Adriana Blancarte-Hayward, Outreach Manager — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 13:19:22 -0400

For information in English, please visit: Election 2016: Register, Research, and Vote

Las Convenciones Nacionales Demócrata y Republicana han finalizado, y las nominaciones presidenciales de los dos principales partidos políticos de los Estados Unidos son oficiales: Hillary Clinton por el Partido Demócrata y Donald Trump por el Partido Republicano. Con las elecciones generales a sólo cien días, aquí le presentamos recursos para ayudarle a prepararse para votar.

U.S. Capitol. Image ID: g90f091_015f

Fechas importantes para las elecciones:
Día de las elecciones: 8 de noviembre de 2016.

Plazos generales de la elección:

REGISTRO POR CORREO (Ley N. Y. Sección Elección 5-210 (3))

Las solicitudes deben enviarse a más tardar el 14 de octubre y ser recibidas por la junta de elecciones antes del 19 de octubre para ser elegible para votar en la elección general.

REGISTRO EN PERSONA (Secciones Ley de Elección N.Y. 5-210, 5-211, 5-212)

Puede registrarse en su oficina local de elecciones o cualquier agencia estatal que participe en la Ley Nacional de Registro de Votantes, en cualquier día laboral a lo largo del año. Para ser elegible para votar en la elección general, su aplicación debe ser recibida a más tardar el 14 de octubre.

CAMBIO DE DIRECCIÓN (Ley N. Y. Sección Elección 5-208 (3))

Los avisos de cambio de dirección de los votantes registrados recibidos por la junta de elecciones antes del 19 de octubre, deben ser procesados e inscritos en los registros a tiempo para la Elección General.

Para obtener más información e información sobre la papeleta de voto ausente, visite http://vote.nyc.ny.us/html/voters/spanish.shtml

Si no es de Nueva York, verifique si califica, los requisitos de identidad y los lugares de votación en Can I Vote? (en inglés) Si usted es un ciudadano que vive fuera de los EE.UU., vea el Programa Federal de Asistencia Electoral (en inglés).

¿Soy elegible para votar?

Para inscribirse para votar en la ciudad de Nueva York, usted debe:

Ser ciudadano de los Estados Unidos (esto incluye a las personas nacidas en Puerto Rico, Guam y las Islas Vírgenes de EE.UU.).
Vivir en su dirección actual por lo menos 30 días antes de una elección. (Tenga presente que la residencia no se pierde ni se obtiene involuntariamente si está sirviendo en las fuerzas armadas o si está inscrito como estudiante en una institución de enseñanza.)
Tener 18 años de edad el 31 de Diciembre del año en el cual presentó esta solicitud. (Tenga presente que debe tener por lo menos 18 años de edad por para la fecha de la Elección General, Primaria, u otra elección en la cual usted desea votar.)
No estar encarcelado por un delito mayor, ni estar en libertad condicional por un delito mayor.
No haber sido declarado mentalmente incompetente por un tribunal.
No reclamar el derecho de votar en otro lugar (fuera de la ciudad de Nueva York).

Regístrese para Votar

¿No está seguro si está registrado? Compruebe aquí NYSVoter Información Pública - Búsqueda registro de votantes (en inglés).

Regístrese para votar en Nueva York por primera vez, o actualizar su nombre, dirección o afiliación a un partido.

En Persona • Por Correo • Por Internet

Encuentre su centro de votación

Los centros de votación están localizados por toda la ciudad. Usted solamente puede votar en su centro de votación designado. Asegúrese de que esté en su propio centro de votación y en el Distrito Electoral y Distrito de Asamblea (ED/AD) correcto para su dirección.

Los centros de votación están abiertos desde las 6:00 AM hasta las 9:00 PM.

Puede encontrar la localización de su centro de votación:

Buscándolo en el Localizador de Centros de Votación en el sitio de web: www.vote.nyc.ny.us
Llamando al banco telefónico al 1-866-VOTE.NYC
Mandando su dirección por correo electrónico a: vote@boe.nyc.ny.us

Encuentre resultados de las elecciones

(Información en inglés)

Federal • New York State • New York City

Vilma Alvarez also contributed to this blog.

Free Summer Meals | 免费暑假餐点 | Comidas de verano gratis

Susen Shi, Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library (SNFL) — Thu, 21 Jul 2016 11:32:39 -0400

免费暑假餐点 | Comidas de verano gratis

Hey, New Yorkers! School's out for the summer! You know what that means—two test-free and homework-less months for kids to hang with friends and play in the sunshine.

But summertime also means no meals provided by the school, and families have to stretch their budget to accommodate this absence. Luckily, the Department of Education provides free summer meals for all New York City’s children and teens. Anyone 18 years and younger who approaches participating summer meal sites will receive breakfast and lunch—no questions asked!

Summer meals begin June 29 and run until September 2 at participating schools, parks, community pool centers, libraries, NYCHA (New York City Housing Authority) locations, and other locations around the city. Children and teens aged 18 and younger do not need to register or provide any sort of documentations or IDs to receive their free breakfast or lunch. They also do not need to be enroll in summer school to participate. Parents can just bring their children to a summer meal site without fear of having to fill out any paperwork. Additionally, many of the participating locations offer activities and events for children so they enjoy themselves after their meal.

To see what locations near you are providing summer meals, visit schoolfoodnyc.org

Not near a computer but have a smartphone? Download the SchoolFood app from the iTunes or Google Play store to also find a location near you.

You can also call 311, visit nyc.gov/311, text NYCmeals to 877-877, visit nokidhungry.org, or visit the Parks Department website at nycgovparks.org for particpating locations.

Four food trucks will also be serving summer meals at different locations throughout the city. You can find them in:

Bronx: Roberto Clemente Park
Manhattan: Sara D. Roosevelt Park (Rivington Park)
Queens: Corona Park Zoo (Parking Lot at 111 St) and Corona Plaza (Roosevelt Avenue & 103rd St)

All food served at summer sites adheres to USDA nutrition guidelines. Parents and teens can preuse the various summer menus in multiple languages here or on the SchoolFood app.

Summer meal flyers in different languages.

Enjoy the summer and happy eating!

你好，纽约人。学校放暑假了。你知道那代表什么 -- 两个月没有考试，没有作业，孩子们在阳光下与同伴游玩。

暑假也代表学校不供应午餐了，各个家庭要增加孩子们的午餐开支。市政府的教育部门提供免费午餐给所有纽约市的小孩及青少年。任何年龄在18岁以下的人只要接触参与暑期餐点供应的机构，不用回答任何问题，都可以得到免费的早午餐。

暑假餐点从6月9号开始，一直供应到9月2号，在参与的学校，公园，社区泳池中心，纽约市住宅管理局以及其他地点派发。18岁以下的孩童或青少年不用注册或出示任何证件，也不需要报名任何暑期班，即可获得免费早午餐。家长们只需要带领孩童前往派发早午餐的地点，不需填写任何表格。有的地点甚至除了供应早午餐之外，还给孩子们提供餐后的不同的活动，

请参考下列网址，找出离你家最近的暑假餐点供应处：http://www.schoolfoodnyc.org/sch_search/summermeals.aspx

如果电脑不在身边，但有智慧手机，请从你的app store中或google play store下载ShoolFood app 去寻找离你最近的供应处。

你也可以打311或上网www.nyc.gov/311 查询，或送文字讯息到877-877询问NYCmeals。造访http://newyourkcity.nokidhungry.org/free-summer-meals , 或造访公园局的网站：https://www.nycgovparks.org/programs/summer-meals 查询。

四辆食物卡车停靠在下列不同地点，供应暑假餐点：

布朗士区 Roberto Clemente 公园

曼哈顿区 Sara D. Roosevelt 公园（Rivington 公园）

皇后区 可乐娜公园动物园（在111街停车场）可乐娜广场（罗斯福大道跟103街交口）

所有在不同地点提供的食物完全遵守美国农业部（USDA）的营养准则。你可以在这个网站查看中文版的暑期菜单.

这是中文版的暑假餐点的中文宣传单.

预祝暑假快乐，吃得高兴。

¡Jóvenes neoyorquinos! Ya llegaron las vacaciones de verano. ¿Sabes lo que eso significa? Dos meses sin exámenes, ni deberes, y tiempo libre para pasar con tus amigos.

Pero el verano también significa que las escuelas no ofrecen comidas y las familias tienen que estirar su presupuesto para acomodar esta ausencia. Afortunadamente, el Departamento de Educación proporciona comidas gratis durante el verano para todos los niños y adolescentes de la ciudad de Nueva York. Cualquier niño(a) o joven de hasta 18 años que se acerque a los sitios que participan del programa Comidas de Verano, recibirá desayuno y almuerzo gratis - ¡sin preguntas!

Las Comidas de Verano comienzan el 29 de junio y duran hasta el 2 de septiembre en ciertas escuelas, parques, piscinas comunitarias, bibliotecas, centros de NYCHA (New York City Housing Authority) y otros lugares alrededor de la ciudad que participen. Los niños y adolescentes de hasta 18 años de edad no tienen que registrarse ni presentar ningún tipo de documentación para recibir desayuno o almuerzo gratis. Asimismo, no es necesario inscribirse en la escuela de verano para participar. Los padres pueden traer a sus hijos a un sitio de Comida de Verano sin temor a rellenar papeles. Además, muchos de los locales que participan ofrecen actividades y eventos para niños de los cuales puedan disfrutar después de la comida.

Para encontrar los sitios de Comidas de Verano más cercanos a tu vivienda, haz clic aquí: http://www.schoolfoodnyc.org/sch_search/summermeals.aspx

¿Tienes un smartphone? Descarga el app SchoolFood desde la Apple Store o el Google Play Store para encontrar el local más cercano a ti.

También puedes llamar al 311, o visitar el sitio web www.nyc.gov/311. De igual manera puedes enviar el texto NYCmeals al 877-877, o visitar el sitio web . El Departamento de Parques también ofrece información en su sitio para encontrar los locales que ofrecen Comidas de Verano.

Cuatro camiones de alimentos también servirán comidas este verano en diferentes lugares de la ciudad. Puedes encontrarlos en:

Bronx: Roberto Clemente Park
Manhattan: Sara D. Roosevelt Park (Rivington Park)
Queens: Corona Park (Parking Lot at 111th St) or Corona Plaza (Roosevelt Avenue & 103rd St)

Puedes encontrar el menú de las Comidas de Verano en español aquí:

Citizenship Fair / Feria de la ciudadanía / Un séminaire sur la Citoyenneté Américaine/ Информационная ярмарка по получению гражданства США

Marianna Vertsman, Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library (SNFL) — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 16:20:30 -0400

Old Glory IMAGE ID74279

Applying for citizenship can be an exciting time for many immigrants. New York Public Library understands that it is a complicated and costly process that can be challenging to complete. On June 25, Mid-Manhattan Library will be hosting an all-day Citizenship Fair. The event will take place between 11 AM – 3 PM. The fair will feature local and government agencies, ready to assist new Americans with their citizenship applications. This free program is open to the public. Representatives from federal, state, and city agencies will be on-site offering presentations and workshops to help residents learn more about the resources available to manage the citizenship application, its cost and submission. Presentations include:

Financing the Application by the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs,
An overview of the process and requirements for qualifying and studying for the exam by U.S. Citizenship and, Immigration Services
Cancellation of removal with Unlocal,
Citizenship Eligibility and Application process with Lutheran Social Services of New York
Review of President Obama's Administrative Relief: DAPA and Extended DACA by New York Immigrant Coalition
Getting started with Citizenship works by Immigration Advocates Network

If you are unable to come to the fair, please keep in mind that The New York Public Library offers a wide-range of services to assist New Yorkers with their citizenship needs, including the recently-launched NYCitizenship, which provides legal services and financial counseling at select libraries in the five boroughs, in partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs.

For more information about what’s available at the Library, please visit NYPL's Immigrant Services Page.

Co-Sponsors: El Centro, Immigration Advocates Network, New Women New Yorkers, Single Stop, NYC Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs, Lutheran Social Services of New York, District Attorney of New York County, Unlocal, Cabrini Immigrant Services, New York Legal Assistance Group, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, New York Immigration Coalition, NALO Education Fund

Image ID 833694

La Biblioteca Pública de Nueva York presenta la Feria de la ciudadanía en la Biblioteca Mid-Manhattan el sábado, 25 de junio, 2016.

Financiamiento para envío del formulario, presentado por la Oficina de la Alcaldía de Asuntos de Inmigración (Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs - MOIA)
Descripción general del proceso y los requisitos necesarios para solicitar la ciudadanía, presentada por el Servicio de Ciudadanía y Migración de los Estados Unidos (USCIS)
Anulación de deportación, presentada por la organización ‘Unlocal’
Revisión general de los requisitos y del proceso de naturalización, presentada por los Servicios Sociales de la Iglesia Luterana de Nueva York (Lutheran Social Services of New York)
Consideraciones sobre los programas DACA y DAPA del presidente Obama, presentada por la Coalición para los Inmigrantes de Nueva York (New York Immigrant Coalition)
Introducción a la ciudadanía con la aplicación Citizenshipworks, presentado por la Red de Defensa de Inmigración (Immigration Advocates Network)

Image ID 809720

La Bibliothèque Publique de New York pour une fois va offrir un séminaire sur la Citoyenneté Américaine à la Bibliothèque Mid-Manhattan le 25 juin, 2016.

Coparrainants: El Centro, Immigration Advocates Network, New Women New Yorkers, Single Stop, NYC Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs, Lutheran Social Services of New York, District Attorney of New York County, Unlocal, Cabrini Immigrant Services, New York Legal Assistance Group, U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, New York Immigration Coalition, NALO Education Fund.

Financement de la demande avec Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs
Un aperçu sur la procédure et les conditions nécessaires pour faire la demande de citoyenneté avec U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Annulation d’expulsion avec ‘Unlocal’
Admissibilité de citoyenneté et la procédure pour en faire la demande avec Lutheran Social Services of New York’
Considérations sur les programmes DACA et DAPA du président Obama, avec la New York Immigrant Coalition - NYIC
Introduction à la citoyenneté avec l’appli “Citizenshipworks”, un atélier avec Immigration Advocates Network

Image ID 836571

B субботу, 25-го июня, в отделение Мид-Манхэттан, городской библиотеки г. Нью-Йорка, состоится информационная ярмарка по получению гражданства США.

АДРЕС: библиотека Мид-Манхэттан: 455 Fifth Avenue

Льготные методы оплаты подачи заявления на гражданство США - oтдел мэрии по делам иммигрантов (Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs - MOIA)

Kак подготовиться к экзамену на гражданство США -
представит cлужба гражданства и иммиграции США (USCIS)
Приостановление депортации из США - представляет организация ‘Unlocal’
Кто имеет право получить американское гражданство. Общий обзор процесса натурализации. - представляет отдел социальных услуг Лютеранской Церкви в Нью-Йорке (Lutheran Social Services of New York)

Общий обзор программ «DAPA» и «DACA» президента Обамы -
представляет коалиция иммигрантов в Нью-Йорке (New York Immigrant Coalition)
Как начать процесс натурализации - представляет cеть организаций по защите прав иммигрантов (Immigration Advocates Network)

со-организаторы ярмарки:

El Centro, Immigration Advocates Network, New Women New Yorkers, Single Stop, NYC Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs, Lutheran Social Services of New York, District Attorney of New York County, Unlocal, Cabrini Immigrant Services, New York Legal Assistance Group, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, New York Immigration Coalition

This blog was co-written Vilma Alvarez and Marianna Vertsman.

Preparing for the 2016 MTA Conductor Exam

Chasity Moreno — Thu, 17 Mar 2016 11:47:20 -0400

Four People on Platform - Train Conductor in Cap. Image ID: 5038748

(If you have taken the test and have questions, please visit my other blog So You've Taken the MTA Exam...Now What? for answers to the most frequently asked questions)

The MTA Conductor exam is coming in the next couple of months and everyone is looking for the test book to study. The Library does carry civil service exam books, and you can read a more general post on civil service exams. The copies we own of the only known study guide for the MTA exam, Conductor: Test Preparation Study Guide Questions & Answers (published by the National Learning Corp), are limited and have a waiting list. This means that the odds of you getting the book via the library before the actual test are slim, but you have the option of going on the wait list for it.

If you wish to purchase the book, your best bet is to visit the Civil Service Bookshop. They are located at 38 Lispenard Street, New York NY 10013, (212) 226-9506. You can also purchase it online at Amazon or the Passbook website.

So what are your options if you are unable to get your hands on the book? Plenty. The exam is not typical in the way that you need to study with a special book in order to pass. Here is what it says on the exam notification:

You must achieve a score of at least 70% to pass the test. The multiple-choice test may include questions on: understanding and applying written and verbal instructions relative to the safe and efficient duties of a Conductor; using good judgment and taking proper action in emergencies or stressful situations; relating courteously and informatively to the public; being familiar with the locations of major points of interest in New York City; understanding military time; and other related areas.

So this means you really need to be familiar with a few things: reading comprehension, familiarity with important NYC points of interest and military time! These are all things that you can easily prepare for before heading into the exam and I will share how.

Books on Reading Comprehension

Most exams require the skill of reading comprehension. What is this, you ask? It is the ability to read a statement, process what you have read and understand it. You should then be able to answer questions regarding what you have read. The reason this is an important part of the Conductor exam is that they do not ask questions specific to the job because you have not yet been trained for it. Training takes place after you are called when you make the list of those who have passed. What you will most likely have to answer are questions that will present a situation to you that could happen on the job and then you must decide how to answer questions related to what you read. This is where reading comprehension comes in.

So how does one study reading comprehension? One way is to incorporate reading into your daily life. Whether it is books or newspapers, consistency is the key and both are available to you in all library locations. Can't visit a branch? You can access thousands of books on your computer, smart phone or tablet via our e-book collection. It's as simple as downloading an app. You also can read current newspapers from around the world for free via the PressReader database on your computer or tablet. You are not required to have a library card to view items on site at a branch but if you are interested in any of our remote services mentioned above or borrowing materials, please apply for one here!

The other option for more formally training your mind to read and think critically would be to use books and websites geared towards this topic. For general studying that will help you boost your ability, check out the titles on the following list: Reading Comprehension Books. Here are some highlights below:

Civil Service Reading Comprehension
The General Aptitude and Abilities Series provides functional, intensive test practice and drill in the basic skills and areas common to many civil service, general aptitude or achievement examinations necessary for entrance into schools or occupations. This book prepares you by sharpening the skills and abilities necessary to succeed on this part of your upcoming exam. It provides hundreds of multiple-choice questions to be answered in response to information contained in short and long passages on varying topics and subjects.

Reading Comprehension Success in 20 Minutes a Day
This book enhances your critical reading skills in just twenty short lessons. Learn to dissect a story, find the main idea, and draw conclusions through study of practical exercises. With passages from literature, essays, technical writing, and articles, this handy guide includes lessons with hundreds of exercises in test format to help you acquire or refresh essential reading comprehension skills.

Master the Civil Service Exams
Presents a study guide for preparing for entry-level civil service job tests, along with four practice exams and answers. You can pick and choose which sections would be applicable to this exam. Some helpful chapters are Reading Comprehension as well as Judgment, Communication and Memory.

501 Reading Comprehension Questions
With examples from literature, science, history, business, general interest, etc, this fully updated edition provides a reading comprehension tutorial in an easy to use format. This guide helps readers learn how to quickly: get essential information from a passage; find the main idea; increase comprehension and reading speed; identify chronological order; find meaning in a variety of readings; and draw conclusions.

Web Resources on Reading Comprehension

LearningExpress is a great database the Library offers for studying different topics. It focuses on test preparation materials and interactive practice exams that will help people improve their scores on academic, civil service, military, and professional licensing and certification exams. While they do not have an exam specific to the Conductor, it is another way to practice reading skills. When you visit the site you would want to choose Adult Learning Center (located under All Centers), then move the mouse over Guidance and choose Become a Better Reader. You can also practice some math skills and grammar among other things.

The Civil Service Employees Association has available online a helpful guide that gives some great basic information on preparing for a test. It also provides reading comprehension tips, along with sample statements and questions along with an answer key which provides explanations for the answers as well.

Books on New York City Information

The next thing you will want to go over are the major points of interest in NYC. As a conductor you would be working for the City of New York and therefore likely expected to know about such things from customers and staff alike. There will also will be questions in regards to this on the exam. One way to get this info easily is through a travel guide, they aren't just for tourists. You can find a comprehensive list of what we own here: New York City Travel Guides.

Not for Tourists Guide to New York City 2016
This nifty guide can in fact be read by tourists but it is made with the needs of native New Yorkers in mind. It is a map-based, neighborhood-by-neighborhood dream guide designed to lighten the load of already street-savvy New Yorkers, commuters, business travelers, and yes, tourists too.

DK Eyewitness Travel 2015 New York City
This newly updated travel guide for New York City will lead you straight to the best attractions Manhattan has to offer, from unearthing archeological treasures at The Metropolitan Museum of Art to biking through Central Park to discovering the city's hottest neighborhoods on walking tours. Plus, check out the best of the boroughs with suggested highlights for Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, The Bronx, and upper Manhattan.

Web Resources on New York City Information

NYC Go: Official New York City Guide
NYC & Company is New York City’s official marketing, tourism and partnership organization. Their site is the ultimate resource for visitors and residents to find everything they need about what to do and see in New York City. Look under the Must See link to check out information on the City's well known attractions as well as borough and neighborhood info.

Learning Military Time

So MTA expects you to know military time. What is that you ask? Military time is a method of measuring time based on the full twenty four hours of the day rather than two groups of twelve hours. It is used by the military, emergency services (including law enforcement, firefighting), transportation and hospitals among other organizations.

Below is a basic chart that shows how the time translates from a typical clock. Visit www.militarytime.us for more information.

Additional Resources

Career Cruising is free with your library card. It is a comprehensive bilingual (English and Spanish) interactive multimedia source which features profiles and information on hundreds of occupations, two- and four-year college and universities, and financial aid, including scholarship opportunities. Search under the term Train Operator for information.

Occupational Outlook Handbook
Offered through the United States Department of Labor, the OOH can help you find career information on duties, education and training, pay, and outlook for hundreds of occupations.

NYC Transit Forums
A great source for current and prospective employees. The NYC Transit Forums website is strictly for informational and entertainment purposes. The website is no way connected or affiliated with the MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority) or any other related transportation agency. It is a useful tool if you want to hear about the experiences of current and past employees, as well as sharing with others who are going through the training process.

MTA Job Applicants Frequently Asked Questions
A list of questions and answers the MTA receives about jobs.

Contact Information for the MTA

MTA Exam Information Center
180 Livingston Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Email: examsunit@nyct.com

Information in this post is meant to be a supplement for those who will be taking the upcoming examination. This post is in reference to Conductor Exam #6601 which will be administered in April and May 2016. If you have already taken the exam and want updates, please visit the MTA Information page (which you can access by clicking on this link).

(If you have taken the test and have questions, please visit my other blog So You've Taken the MTA Exam...Now What? for answers to the most frequently asked questions)

Got a Friend in Me: Libraries and Communities Working Together

Debra Behr, Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library — Tue, 03 Feb 2015 11:28:32 -0500

Janice Katz had difficulty finding a day habilitation program for her son Alex Katz, who is 24 years old and has autism.

Alex is mentally challenged on a 2-year-old level and has a rare autoimmune disorder. There are few small structured programs with adequate staff for disabled adults with greater challenges. Janice went to meetings and advocated, but she was having no luck finding an agency to help. She was actually told by one agency that she would never get a funded program for Alex and other people who were challenged since they were funding obstacles, liabilities and low functioning.

Low functioning implies no growth for opportunities; Janice refers to her son as more challenged or more uniquely challenged because that leads to opportunities for growth. She decided to call the state and write letters since she had four other families who felt the same way. The state connected her to Lifestyles for the Disabled Inc. director Scott Salindardi who is a true advocate and agreed to help her out. It took 2 years, but thanks to Mr. Salinardi they became a state-funded program with the help of the Family Advisory Committee from the Staten Island Developmental Disabilities Council.

The group is called Lifestyles You Got a Friend in Me Community Program and meets once a week. While Janice Katz advocated for the funding, she asked the four other families what their adult children wanted to do. They responded that they wanted to do a library program that was better structured to their needs.

The Huguenot Branch manager connected her to Mrs. Morales, the children’s librarian at Todt Hill Westerleigh who did programs for them once a month until she retired. Currently the programs are held at the Richmondtown Library. Since these participants were called a funding obstacle and liability, they started a vocational program called Lifestyles Friends Gone Green. They recycle to help others. The Lifestyles group wanted to thank the library for being supportive. This November, Lifestyles You Got a Friend in Me Community Program asked ShopRite, Michael's, the Richmondtown Library, Lifestyles SEA Group to go green and become community recycling partners.

They recycled $30 worth of materials which was donated to the NYPL to thank the library for being supportive to people with special needs. The group’s original goal was $20 in one month. Lifestyles You Got a Friend in Me Community Program is excited that the Todt Hill Westerleigh Library staff are their newest community recycling partners. Lifestyles Friends Gone Green has donated their recycling money to the Parks Department and Lifestyles for the Disabled Inc. which has 250 disabled adults. Janice and Lifestyles You Got a Friend in Me Community Program hope to inspire others with our story of empowerment and created our own much needed opportunities. While she was told that she would never have a program like Lifestyles You Got A Friend In Me, they are celebrating their third calendar year.

Hear and Share Your Hurricane Sandy Stories with Sandy Storyline's Exhibit

Alexandra Kelly, Outreach Services and Adult Programming — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 14:32:49 -0400

Photograph courtesy of Sandy Storyline; Photographer - Sara Baicich

In recognition of the two-year anniversary of Hurricane Sandy, The New York Public Library is partnering with Sandy Storyline to present an opportunity to hear and share first person stories of recovery and remembrance, beginning at Mid-Manhattan Library on Monday, October 27.

How are you doing two years after Sandy? What do you remember from the storm? What have you lost, and what have you gained? How are neighborhoods changing? What lessons do we need to learn for the future?

Sandy Storyline’s original, interactive display will provide a space for patrons to contribute cell phone images of the storm and ongoing recovery. They can also listen to a selection of firsthand accounts that have been submitted to Sandy Storyline over the last two years. Residents are also encouraged to share their own images, words and videos online at sandystoryline.com.

Sandy Storyline is an award winning participatory documentary that has been collecting and sharing stories about the impact of Hurricane Sandy since shortly after the storm made landfall. The project features audio, video, photography and text stories—contributed by residents, citizen journalists, and professional producers—that are shared through SandyStoryline.com and interactive exhibitions. Their most recent exhibit won the Tribeca Film Festival Award for Transmedia in 2013.

The diversity of experience within collective memory of shared events is something we’ve witnessed in the Library’s own continuing initiative, the Community Oral History Project. Sandy Storyline's work in building a more complete, community-generated narrative of Hurricane Sandy through the many stories of those who were affected by it, also fits well within the Library’s own mission to strengthen the city’s communities.

"At a moment when it is necessary to fully understand the ongoing impact, and to face our new reality in a changing climate, it is critical that everyone who experienced Sandy have an opportunity to participate in how this story is told and remembered,” said Rachel Falcone, co-founder of Sandy Storyline.

At Mid-Manhattan Library

Sandy Storyline's interactive display will first be stationed from Monday, October 27 - Monday, November 11 at the entrance to Mid-Manhattan Library, which has its own unique Sandy story.

Immediately after the storm, Mid-Manhattan Library became an emergency hub for New York City residents, where they could find community, technology, and important resources. When it reopened its doors to the public on November 1, 2012, just three days after Hurricane Sandy hit the city’s shore, 4,284 people came through the doors within a period of six hours. In the two short weeks following Hurricane Sandy, the door count at Mid-Manhattan reached 47,343.

Billy Parrott, Managing Librarian at Mid-Manhattan Library, remembers those days and weeks after the hurricane: "Mid-Manhattan Library was on the border of the affected area. Much of lower Manhattan just south of the Library was without electricity for days. Mid-Manhattan Library was a safe haven where people could recharge their phones or just quietly read a book, where people could e-mail family members to let them know that they that they were safe, or to simply connect with new friends and neighbors. The Library was a community in the truest sense of the word."

Mid-Manhattan Library patrons are invited to share their own experiences of Hurricane Sandy, focusing especially on those recollections of time spent at the library after the storm hit.

At New Dorp Library in Staten Island

After November 11, the display will travel to New Dorp Library where it will remain for a month, inviting participation from Staten Island residents in one of the hardest hit regions. A two-day writing workshop in collaboration with Sandy Storyline and NY Writers Coalition will also be hosted at New Dorp as an opportunity for patrons to craft stories in more depth. There are plans for the booth to continue to travel throughout the upcoming year to branches in areas most affected by the storm.

“Public libraries are important institutions that are vital for the resiliency of our communities, and we are honored to be partnering with NYPL to provide a platform for these stories to be heard and preserved,” says Falcone.

For additional questions about the Sandy Storyline display at The New York Public Library, please contact Alexandra Kelly, Outreach Services and Adult Programming Coordinator, at 212-621-0552 or AlexandraKelly@nypl.org.

Photograph courtesy of Sandy Storyline; Photographer - Matt Richter

Acting on Climate Change

Caroline Cutroneo, Richmondtown Library — Thu, 11 Sep 2014 16:42:02 -0400

From rising sea levels worsening the storm surge during Superstorm Sandy to the increase in extreme weather events, effects of anthropogenic (human-caused) climate change are being deeply felt around the world with every passing day. But far from feeling helpless about a global situation, there are positive actions you can take, from the political to the personal, to point us in a better direction. In light of two New York City events, the U.N. Climate Summit this September 23 and the People’s Climate March on September 21, here is a consolidation of some resources on the topic.

To start, you can use NYPL to educate yourself on this environmental challenge. One of the trailblazing commentators on climate change, Bill McKibben, is the founder of the influential environmental group 350.org. He also authored 1989’s groundbreaking The End of Nature, the first book about climate change designed for the general public. NASA scientist James Hansen, who testified on climate change before Congress in the 1980s, is another important source. Other esteemed scientists such as David Archer have written valuable books describing the deep and lasting effects of our fossil fuel use.

In addition, academic organizations such as the American Association for the Advancement of Science release reports for the general public on global climate change. You may also search the NYPL’s databases such as EBSCOhost for the latest scholarly and general public-oriented reports. New York City has a lot to be concerned about from this issue and has released reports detailing the current and probable future effects of climate change on New York City and how the city is preparing for these effects. On a national level, the United States Government recently unleashed a website and official report with a tremendous amount of climate change information “to inform and prepare America’s communities, businesses and citizens.” President Obama’s recent proposal to regulate power plant emissions is the most important environmental legislation in decades, but more needs to be done.

The common statement “think globally, act locally” can apply to our choices when we buy things. How can our actions contribute to positive or negative change? We can understand how truly global this issue is when we look at the countries we import our goods from. China is a booming economy, but by being dependent on fossil fuels, it is also the number one contributing country to climate change. But the good news, as reported in Green Innovation in China by Joanna I. Lewis, is that China is also one of world’s green energy leaders, ahead of the United States in developing innovative methods and is the “leading market for clean energy finance”. Meanwhile, the United States has been reducing its financing of clean energy over the past couple of years. Why? Because many members of Congress do not accept the scientific consensus that global warming is caused by humans. So although solutions are being devised for the creation of environmentally feasible energy sources, this activity is occurring in fits and starts.

On a personal level, you can go to NYPL to find the resources to help support green energy projects in your home. Governments are also making attempts to do their share. New York State, one of the country’s leaders in green technology, is providing financial incentives for individuals and business who install renewable energy systems. New York City’s largest solar energy site is scheduled to open on was once the world’s largest landfill, in Staten Island, New York. And even though it’s not sunny California, New York City’s solar usage has risen 93% in the past year. Additionally, the practice of “shared solar,” which gives people who are unable to install solar panels the opportunity to invest in local solar power projects in exchange for a credit on their utility bill, is gaining traction in the New York Legislature. Interested in learning how to become a photovoltaic or wind turbine installer? For job hunters, the Green Jobs – Green New York program provides resources and training in green technology careers and energy efficiency for individuals, organizations and businesses. Need motivation? New York State is among the top 5 states for solar jobs.

As we enter hurricane season, the need for more independent, locally produced energy can become a real need. We all remember the extensive power outages resulting from Hurricane Sandy. Communities in New York, such as Red Hook, Brooklyn, and other locales are now stepping up and installing solar backup generators in their public centers.

There are other ways you can help reduce the effect of climate change. For one thing, you can eat more vegetables and less meat. And the health benefits of eating vegetables are a nice perk.

And don’t forget, one of the great ways to help reduce the effects of climate change is to visit libraries, which are masters of reusing, reducing and recycling.

Book List for Child Abuse Prevention Month

Jenee Russell — Tue, 01 Apr 2014 12:12:43 -0400

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. The prevention of child abuse is vitally important to the safety and growth of children. When detected early and with the proper treatments and interventions one can avert from the negative mental and physical outcomes that can occur in their teen and adult years.

Abuse can come in many forms: Sexual, Abandonment, Emotional, Substance, Neglect, Physical.

Things you can do to prevent child abuse:

Children need to know that they are special and capable of following their dreams.
When the big and little problems of your everyday life make you feel overwhelmed and out of control, take time out. Don’t take it out on your kid.
It can be frustrating to hear your baby cry. Learn what to do if your baby won’t stop crying. Never shake a baby—shaking a child may result in severe injury or death.
Ask your community leaders, clergy, library and schools to develop services to meet the needs of healthy children and families.
Find out whether your local library has parenting resources, and if it does not, offer to help obtain some.
Download the 2014 Resource Guide: "Making Meaningful Connections" from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Here are a few books, both fiction and non-fiction, that relate to children in abusive situations.

Etched In Sand: A True Story of Five Siblings Who Survived An Unspeakable Childhood on Long Island by Regina Calcaterra
Forged by Fire by Sharon Draper
Hidden Girl The True Story of A Modern-Day Child Slave by Shyima Hall
Out of This Place by Emma Cameron
Pee-Shy by Frank Spinelli
Touching Snow by Sindy M Felin
Faith by Jennifer Haigh
The Rules of Survival by Nancy Werlin
Stick by Andrew Smith
Our Gracie Aunt by Jacqueline Woodson
Where People Like Us Live by Patricia Cumbie

More Fiction and Nonfiction in the catalog.

These books and many others pertaining to this topic can be found in your local library or placed on hold.

CEIS at Baychester: Resume Clinic and Job Search Club

Robyn L. Saunders — Tue, 12 Nov 2013 05:05:51 -0500

Come and get your resume revised and learn how to market your wonderful employment skills! Are you nervous when interviewing? Learn how to maintain an air of confidence during your interviews. So let our dynamic Career Coach help you get back to work.

Let's get these resumes revised
Tough times: making difficult career choices
Learn how to shake off those interview jitters
Let us help you get back in the game

The NYC Prison to Prosperity Fair and Business Competition for Formerly Incarcerated Entrepreneurs

Magdalene Chan, Thomas Yoseloff Business Center at SNFL — Tue, 01 Oct 2013 05:05:08 -0400

Think Outside the Cell Foundation, Bronx Clergy Criminal Justice Roundtable in partnership with Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., Manhattan Borough President Scott M. Stringer, the Bronx Reentry Task Force, Lehman College, and MetroPlus Health Plan, Inc. will present the NYC Prison to Prosperity Fair and Business Competition for Formerly Incarcerated Entrepreneurs on Saturday, October 26, 2013, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Lehman College (Bedford Park Blvd. West and Goulden Ave.), Bronx, NY.

Programs include workshops, panel discussions, and business pitch competition with cash prizes to help formerly incarcerated entrepreneurs take their business ideas to the next level.

Speakers and Business Pitch Judges include:

Harold Doley: Investment banker and founder of Doley Securities, LLC., the oldest African-American owned investment banking firm in the United States and the only African-American to have owned a seat on the New York Stock Exchange.

Edlewis: Founder and CEO Essence Communications, Inc. as well as co-founder and publisher of ESSENCE magazine. Currently serves as Senior Advisor to Solera Capital.

Loida Lewis: Noted businesswoman, philanthropist and former Chair and CEO of TLC Beatrice International multinational food company.

Genevieve Michel-Bryan: Vice President and Director Broadcast, Black Enterprise.

Jonathan Richter: Managing Director RREEF America LLC., a subsidiary of Deutsche Asset Management.

Please visit www.thinkoutsidethecell.org to register for the Fair or

Apply for business competition, 2 categories:

At-risk and formerly incarcerated, ages 16-24
Formerly incarcerated 25 and older

The Fair is free and open to the public, seating is limited.

For more information, please go to www.thinkoutsidethecell.org or call 718-231-1033.

A Public Health Career in Two Years: Community Health

Magdalene Chan, Thomas Yoseloff Business Center at SNFL — Thu, 11 Jul 2013 10:10:44 -0400

What is Public Health?

If you've ever had a vaccination, assumed the water from your tap is safe, taken your baby to a clinic for a checkup, expected the restaurant you eat in to be clean and safe, been screened for tuberculosis, HIV or a sexually transmitted disease, wondered how to avoid getting Lyme disease, or what to eat to stay healthy, then you've been touched by the efforts of public health employees.

Public health protects and improves communities by preventing epidemics and the spread of disease, promoting healthy lifestyles for children and families, protecting against hazards in homes, work, communities and the environment, assuring high quality health care services, and preparing for and responding to emergencies.

Public health is concerned with protecting the health of entire communities rather than individuals. These communities can be as small as a local neighborhood or as big as an entire country... read more from New York State Department of Health.

In responding to the needs of the community, Hostos Community College, City University of New York offers a Community Health program.

The goal of this program is to educate an emerging group of public health professionals in an effort to increase the representation of racial and ethnic minorities in health-related fields. Students graduating from this program would be in unique positions to join national efforts to eliminate health disparities in New York City and other metropolitan areas in the United States.

The A.S. degree program in Community Health produces graduates who can provide culturally and linguistically appropriate services to the most vulnerable populations in NYC. Graduates of the program will make significant contributions toward reducing the many barriers that Hispanics and African Americans confront while negotiating services with health and human services agencies. Hostos Community College is in a unique position to train community health workers given that the majority of students are racial and ethnic minority residents from the surrounding communities, our students would match the demographics of the communities that they will serve.

Specifically, the program would meet the following objectives:

Students will demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to act as liaisons between health care providers and consumers.
Students will demonstrate basic core competencies in health education, which will enable them to be competitive with other applicants upon entering the workforce.
Students will demonstrate basic core competencies in health education, which will open long-term career paths through transfer programs.
Students currently working in entry-level positions in health-related fields will demonstrate an increase in knowledge, which will enable them to successfully compete for more advanced positions.

Community Health program of study includes the study of English, behavioral and social sciences, biology or environmental science, mathematics, modern languages, humanities visual and performing arts, health education –community health program required courses, with a total of 60 credits.

Paraprofessionals who are not seeking an A.S. degree, but want to update their skills and expand their employment opportunities may choose to seek a Community Health Worker (CHW) certificate. The Community Health Worker Certificate could be applied towards satisfaction of College graduation requirements.

Hostos Community College is at 500 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY 10451.

For information on education and employment, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.

Get the Facts: GED Changes in 2014

Lauren Lampasone, Senior Librarian, Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library (SNFL) — Mon, 03 Jun 2013 06:06:43 -0400

The GED® test is changing on January 1, 2014.

After January 1, scores from previous tests will be invalid and cannot be combined with any new test scores.

If you have taken the test since January 1, 2002 and want your scores to count, you must complete the series and pass the test before 2014.

If you're a New York City resident between 17-24 years old who has previously taken the GED® test and would like free assistance to complete in 2013:

Visit GEDCompass.org
Call 718-557-2525
Text GED to 30644
Email GED2013@fundforpublicadvocacy.org

There is no fee to take the GED® tests in New York State.

The GED® Tests are only given at official GED® Testing Centers approved by the New York State Education Department. There is currently no online or computer-based GED® testing.

Find more information and answers to frequently asked questions from the New York State GED® Testing Office and the GED® Testing Service.

GED Testing Service, a new for-profit entity created by the American Council on Education and Pearson, has announced it will double the cost of the exam in 2014. Since the New York State Education Department already covers the full cost of those taking the test, it is seeking an alternative standard for High School Equivalency (HSE) diploma assessment to replace the GED. The Test Assessing Secondary Completion™ (TASC™) will also launch in January 2014. More information on the new test is available at: ctb.com/tasc.

GED Test Prep

Free GED Classes and Test Prep Resources compiled by Ask NYPL.

Prep Programs in The Bronx, Manhattan, Staten Island. Additional prep programs participating in 2013 GED® Campaign to Finish.

GED Study Guides Available at the Library

Learning Express Library - Create a FREE account with your library card to access online GED Practice Exams, GED Preparation Courses and Guides, GED Skills Improvement, and Spanish-language GED Preparation.
GED Tests -- Study Guides
High School Equivalency Examinations -- Study Guides
GED books available to borrow now
GED books in Spanish
GED ebooks for download

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Fechas importantes para las elecciones: Día de las elecciones: 8 de noviembre de 2016.

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Preparing for the 2016 MTA Conductor Exam

(If you have taken the test and have questions, please visit my other blog So You've Taken the MTA Exam...Now What? for answers to the most frequently asked questions)

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Got a Friend in Me: Libraries and Communities Working Together

Hear and Share Your Hurricane Sandy Stories with Sandy Storyline's Exhibit

At Mid-Manhattan Library

At New Dorp Library in Staten Island

Acting on Climate Change

Book List for Child Abuse Prevention Month

CEIS at Baychester: Resume Clinic and Job Search Club

The NYC Prison to Prosperity Fair and Business Competition for Formerly Incarcerated Entrepreneurs

A Public Health Career in Two Years: Community Health

Get the Facts: GED Changes in 2014

GED Test Prep

GED Study Guides Available at the Library

Fechas importantes para las elecciones:
Día de las elecciones: 8 de noviembre de 2016.