NYPL Blogs: Next Chapter

Meet the Artist: Lauren Jost

Rabecca Hoffman, Kingsbridge Library — Wed, 02 May 2012 06:50:17 -0400

Starting June 5th, the Kingsbridge Branch Library will be hosting a Memoir and Performance workshop for older adults 55+, which is part of the Creative Aging in Our Communities, a program of Lifetime Arts. During the workshop, participants will craft a short-story memoir with the help of teaching artist Lauren Jost. In this blog post, Lauren tells us a little about herself and her background in memoir and performance, as well as some of her favorite memoirs and advice for aspiring memoir writers.

Tell us a little about your background in memoir writing and performance:

I have been working as a theatre artist and educator for ten years, specializing in community-devised performances based on personal storytelling. I love to work with people who do not usually work in the theatre and help them tell their stories using memoir-writing and performance. I have devised performances with middle schoolers, older adults, and other storytellers, all based in true, personal stories that have a universal resonance.

What do you like about working with older adults?

I love working with older adults because they have such a rich and diverse history to draw from for their storytelling. A main component of my workshop is developing a collaborative and supportive community amongst the participants, and most older adults are willing and excited to contribute their wisdom and experience to this community.

Do you have a favorite memoir?

I love The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls, because of the questions she raises about the complexity of abusive relationships and mental illness. I also love Tim O'Brien's The Things They Carried because of the challenging lines he draws between truth, memoir, and fiction.

Do you have any advice for someone writing a memoir?

Turn off your editor! Don't worry about sounding like other writers, just write as much as possible as often as possible and let your own unique voice start to develop. Sometimes I'm so worried that my ideas aren't good enough that I don't even start a project, but when we turn off our editor and plow into the work, then we can really find what we're aiming for!

Are there any other projects you are currently working on that you would like to share?

I am currently performing in The Red Dress which is an original devised play based on my and others' stories of adolescent sexuality. I'm also developing a play called Runaway, which is a puppetry and multi-media memoir piece based on my own childhood adventures of looking for imaginary friends inside a flower bush.

If you are interested in participating in the Memoir and Performance workshop lead by Lauren, in-person registration begins Tuesday, May 22nd at 1:00pm. A final sharing event where participants' work will either be read aloud or dramatically performed will take place on August 14th at 1:00pm.

You can also check out some books at the New York Public Library to help you get started with your own memoir.

Creative Aging in Our Communities: The New York City Libraries Project, a program of Lifetime Arts, Inc, is generously supported by the Fan Fox and Leslie R. Samuels Foundation, with additional support from the Laura Jane Musser Fund, and is administered in partnership with Brooklyn Public Library and New York Public Library.

My Library: Judy, Leo, and Noreen

Corinne Neary, Jefferson Market Library — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 08:37:20 -0400

Since April 5th, the Jefferson Market Library has been hosting a series of watercolor classes for twenty adults, all aged 55+. This course, led by teaching artist Josh Millis, is funded by a grant from Lifetime Arts. The participants have been working on paintings inspired by Jefferson Market and other Village landmarks. This week, I spoke with students Leo, Judy, and Noreen, all regular patrons of Jefferson Market, to find out what they are enjoying about the class so far.

What made you want to take a watercolors class?

Noreen: To see if I had any aptitude for painting — the verdict is still out on that! But, I am learning something new at each session.

Judy: The chance to do something I've never attempted before.

Leo: Curiosity, and to learn more!

Have you painted before?

Leo: I did paint, off and on when I was a teenager. I've just been getting back into it and learning new things!

Noreen: I've done Chinese brush painting, which is a totally different technique, and pencil drawing, at which I was awful!

What have you enjoyed most about the class so far?

Noreen: Finding out how to mix colors and how difficult it is working in watercolor. Gives me a new appreciation for all the art I've seen.

Judy: Having the chance to experiment in a totally non-judgmental atmosphere!

Thank you Judy, Leo, and Noreen!

If you would like to see the wonderful artwork being produced by these and other watercolor students, please join us for a gallery opening and reception May 31st from 3:30-5:30 pm.

Creative Aging in Our Communities: The New York City Libraries Project, a program of Lifetime Arts Inc., is generously supported by the Fan Fox and Leslie R. Samuels Foundation, with additional support from the Laura Jane Musser Fund, and is administered in partnership with Brooklyn Public Library and New York Public Library.

A Snapshot of Your Life: Memoir Writing

Joanne Conte, Morris Park — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 08:53:40 -0400

Memoirs are the stuff of memory, or more specifically, according to Webster's Dictionary, a narrative composed from personal experience. In other words, a memoir is written from a person's recollection of a life experience. It might not all be exactly as it happened but, rather, how the author perceived it to happen. Do you remember the controversial “autobiography" A Million Little Pieces by James Frey? Mr. Frey presented it as an autobiography which is a factual account of a person's own life. It was later determined after lawsuits and an embarrassed Oprah Winfrey, who highlighted his work on her show, that in fact this book was a partly fictionalized memoir. In fact, memoirs are all about the writer's perceptions, emotions and feelings about events, some of which might never have happened exactly in the way that they are chronicled.

Since March 7th about fifteen of the Morris Park Branch Library's adult patrons have been chronicling their life experiences through the auspices of Lifetime Arts. Each week, our participants gather to remember, reflect and write. The series which culminates on April 25th is taught by Frank Ingrasciotta, writer and playwright, author of Blood Type: Ragu and In Search of Roots and Branches. Although this series is already in progress, adults 55+ may enjoy one of the New York Public Library's other Creative Aging courses which are listed on our website and in the Creative Aging brochure available in most branches of the New York Public Library.

In addition, The New York Public Library features many wonderful published memoirs. Here are a few suggestions:

Twisted Head: An Italian American Memoir by Carl Capotorto – a reflection of his life growing up in the Bronx of the 1970s.
Day of Honey: A Memoir of Food, Love and War by Annia Ciezadlo – From Baghdad to Beirut Annia, a new bride, learns that food and friendship bind us together even in times of war.
The Tulip and the Pope by Deborah Larsen is a memoir of leaving life behind for the sheltered walls of the convent. This memoir is set in the 1960s when the author makes the decision to become a nun. At first she loves her new life, but at some point she realizes that she misses the tulips of her childhood and everything else she has left behind.
The Pregnancy Project by Gaby Rodriguez is a memoir which recounts this straight-A high school senior's plan to fake a pregnancy in order to see if people's opinions of her would change. (Read more about Gaby's appearance at TeenLIVE)
Model by Cheryl Diamond - What would you do to become a model? Cheryl asks herself this very question in this riviting memoir about her quest to be a top model. At age 14, the author left her home, came to New York and lived in a run-down apartment chasing this dream.
Bad Boy by Walter Dean Myers - this book gives us a picture of what it was like to grow up in Harlem during the 1940s and 1950s. Walter was an avid reader who hoped to one day write his own books. Read about the class struggles and obstacles that this respected young adult author endured to realize his dream.
Kitchen Privileges: A Memoir by Mary Higgins Clark recounts this famous mystery writers early life growing up in the Bronx. Drawing from her Irish heritage she began to write stories at an early age and never abandoned her dream of becoming a writer.
Prairie Tale by Melissa Gilbert is the interesting life ruminations by the child star of Little House on the Prairie. Apprently, Melissa and her co-star Melissa Sue Anderson did not carry the loving relationship they portrayed onscreen to the offscreen hours.
The Way I See It: A Look Back at My Life on Little House by Melissa Anderson - Counterbalance your reading with Melissa Sue's side of the Little House years.
A Natural Woman: A Memoir by Carole King - This book, just published, is an intimate look at the life of legendary singer and songwriter, Carole King who is soon to turn seventy years old.

All of these examples of the memoir genre can be obtained with a valid library card, and if you are interested in a memoir class and you've missed the current program, you might think about joining the Digital Memoirs class which starts on June 5 here at the Morris Park Branch. For further information, contact Mrs. Grace Tellez Cardona at 718-931-0636.

In addition, Lifetime Arts sponsors many other free classes for adults 55+ in other disciplines such as music, art and photography. To view a catalog of programs visit our website at www.nypl.org or the Lifetime Arts website at www.lifetimearts.org.

Effective Employment Strategies for Those 50 Plus

Brigid Cahalan, Teaching & Learning, Literacy and Outreach — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 11:34:20 -0400

Coming of Age NYC and the New York Public Library are happy to announce the event:

Effective Employment Strategies for Those 50+

Wednesday, April 18, 2012 4-6 p.m.

A panel of experts will share essential information for job seekers such as:

Today’s Digital Job Search: Online Postings, Applications, and Social Networking Strategies
Crafting a Winning Resume
The Interview: How to Handle the Really Tough Questions
Key Tools and Resources: NYPL’s Job Search Central and Other Supports Everyone Should Know About

Featuring:

Renee Lee Rosenberg, career transition expert and author of “Achieving the Good Life After 50.” Renée Lee Rosenberg, MA, LMHC, Certified Five O’Clock Club Career Coach, Author, Speaker, Trainer, Facilitator, with over 20 years’ experience helping individuals: achieve positive career outcomes; cope with workplace stress; handle retirement issues. Her eclectic, results-driven creative approach assists individuals on all levels. Renée’s media appearances include: MSNBC, ABC Eyewitness News, and NY1. Interviews have appeared in: LA Times, Health and Wellness Magazine, AM NY,Washington Times, Chicago Times, NY Post, US News and World Report, Forbes.com, and Fox.com. Published articles include: “Achieving Success with Positive Thinking”, “Personality and Career Development", “The Emotional Roller Coaster of Retirement and Care Giving." Renée facilitates two career groups, maintains a private practice in NYC, and has a virtual phone practice. Her book Achieving The Good Life After 50: Tools and Resources for Making it Happen has helped many to navigate the retirement roller coaster.

Madeleine Cohen, Assistant Director of the NYPL’s Science, Industry and Business Library (SIBL). Madeleine Cohen has an MLS from Queens College, CUNY, and an M.A. in Liberal Studies from the CUNY Graduate Center. She has worked for The New York Public Library for more than 20 years, in a variety of positions, including head of processing, head of information services, and her current position as assistant director of the Science, Industry and Business Library (SIBL). As assistant director, she helps manage a variety of business services, programs, electronic resources, and technology. The business library has developed services focused in several areas including Job Search Central, Small Business Services, and Financial Literacy Central. Madeleine also works with small business groups, speaks at library and business events, and instructs in SIBL’s training programs.

Win Sheffield, career coach in private practice in New York. Win Sheffield offers strategies and guidance to support his clients to take their work to the next level or establish new careers. He coaches clients in delivering their message, runs workshops and delivers talks to many industry and alumni groups. His background includes Citibank, J.P. Morgan and PricewaterhouseCoopers in strategy development and management consulting. He has an M.B.A. from Boston University and an undergraduate degree from Kenyon College,. He has studied counseling at General Seminary and Myers-Briggs at the Jung Institute. For further information and to speak with Win, please e-mail: WinSheffield@WinSheffield.com Please see details of upcoming talks at www.WinSheffield.com

This is a joint program of Coming of Age NYC and the New York Public Library.

There is no prior registration for this event, and there is no charge. But do come early as seating is limited!

Location:

New York Public Library
Fifth Avenue at 42nd Street
Stephen A. Schwarzman Building – South Court Auditorium

50+ Fitness Fairs: Free and Low-cost Activities to Get (or Keep!) You Fit

Brigid Cahalan, Teaching & Learning, Literacy and Outreach — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 11:01:57 -0400

It’s official: Spring is here! As I peer into its etymology, I see the English word "spring" comes from the Old English "springan," which means “to leap, burst forth, fly up.” I have indeed been seeing New Yorkers bursting forth from their abodes in short sleeves and sandals, ready to enjoy the (even) warmer weather. Maybe the leaping and flying up will come later.

Three of NYPL’s branches will be hosting 50+ Fitness Fairs to share spaces and ways for New Yorkers to not only leap, but walk, hike, canoe, swim, lift weights, kayak, exercise, and enjoy nature right here in the Big Apple. St. Agnes Library will kick off the fun on Wednesday, April 11, followed by Mosholu Library in the Bronx on Saturday, April 14, and 96th Street Library on Saturday, April 28.

What’s happening at the fairs? A lot of organizations will be coming with — or sending — information, including maps and schedules of upcoming activities.

Find out what’s happening at:

There will be exercise demonstrations/workshops, giveaways, free raffles, inspirational presentations, and FUN!

See you there!

Meet the Artist: Josh Millis

Corinne Neary, Jefferson Market Library — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 09:17:14 -0500

Starting April 5, 2012, local artist Josh Millis will be leading a series of watercolor classes for adults 55+ at Jefferson Market Library. These classes, as well as the gallery opening and reception on May 31, are made possible by a grant from Lifetime Arts. In this blog post, Josh tells us a little bit about his own experiences with art and teaching and gives us some great book recommendations!

Can you tell us a little bit about your background in art? How long have you been painting?

I've been painting for about 15 years. I began making art relatively late — when I was 19. I took a year off of college, after just my first semester. When I returned, I took a drawing class and never looked back! I left to study in Rome a year later. After Rome, I transferred to Tyler School of Art in Philly, where I earned a BFA and a minor in Art History. Then I was off to The School of The Art Institute of Chicago for graduate work.

That all was the formal training, but as a kid, I enjoyed building and creating in my room and outside in nature. I just never thought of it as art — probably because I never knew what it meant to be an artist. I came to love art as something that one can do with virtually no resources, money, or even materials — spit and dirt on the ground, no one can take away the impulse, one does not need an employer to practice it, and it is a sublime way to learn about the world.

You will be teaching a watercolor painting class for seniors at Jefferson Market Library through Lifetime Arts — what do you like about working with older students?

Even as a "teacher" among "students," I consider myself an artist. In other words, I savor my teaching experiences as learning experiences. I learn so much from my students, regardless of their age. Most of my time has been spent with 30-year-olds and younger. I look forward to learning from older generations that have seen so much. New York City is an organism of endless wonder. Not only will I have the opportunity to learn about such a special neighborhood from residents who have witnessed great change, but I can also play a role in their visual processing of it. Wow!

Some of the subject matter you'll be working from in the class is the Jefferson Market Library and other Village-area landmarks. Have you used particular places as inspiration in any of your previous work?

Historically, most of my work has grown out of domestic interiors. The images revolved around ideas of the way we live and relate to particular spaces. Every once in a while my work is inspired by specific places. I travel quite a bit, and other types of architecture — particularly handmade structures — appeal to my artistic sensibilities. Meaningful landscapes sometimes figure into my work as well. I jump around a lot in terms of subject matter and motivation!

Our patrons are big readers! Do you have an all-time favorite book? Read anything recently that you can recommend?

I can't pick one favorite. However, I am always looking for an epic novel to match up against Clavell's Shogun or Michener's The Source. I read The Power Broker not long ago — a must read for every New Yorker. Laurence Bergreen's Over the Edge of the World was fascinating. I also think Naomi Klein's The Shock Doctrine should be required reading in high school, as should be Douglas Blackmon's Slavery By Another Name. I jump around in terms of my books too!

I also must ask — who are your favorite artists?

That changes almost every day! Lucian Freud may have been my first love, but others over the years include Paula Rego, Alice Neel, James Castle, Luc Tuymans, Ben Shahn, Kathe Kollwitz, Kerry James Marshall, and virtually all Japanese printers of the 17th and 18th centuries. Lately, I've really been enjoying Tim Hawkinson. Of course, I am incredibly energized by the work of my students! I think Jimi Hendrix and Robin Williams are not only totally mesmerizing, but also epitomize the artistic spirit — endless exploration, experimentation, the absorption of their surroundings into their art, and an utter joy for creating.

Thank you Josh!

Creative Aging in Our Communities: The New York City Libraries Project, a program of Lifetime Arts Inc, is generously supported by the Fan Fox and Leslie R. Samuels Foundation, with additional support from the Laura Jane Musser Fund, and is administered in partnership with Brooklyn Public Library and New York Public Library.

Pre-Registration is required for A Village Vision: Watercolor Painting through Experience. Registration begins March 22, in person, or by phone at 212-243-4334. Participants must be able to attend all sessions. A gallery opening and reception will be held May 31 at 3:30 p.m., and is open to family, friends, and the general public.

The Jefferson Market Library Free Classroom: Spring 2012

Frank Collerius, Jefferson Market Library — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 05:54:29 -0500

Jefferson Market Library, in an effort to offer substantive courses that teach the subjects you want to learn, is thrilled to offer its Spring Semester! Each course offers multiple sessions so students can build their knowledge as the course advances, class by class, guided by an experienced professor! And it's all free! Take a look:

Remember (just like in college) — for all courses requiring pre-registration — students are expected to attend all sessions to achieve the maximum learning experience!

March Classes Intro to Screenwriting: The Short Film

Instructor and filmmaker Helen Kaplan leads this immersive workshop that will demystify the art of screenwriting and give you the tools you need to write a great short script in a month. Emphasis will be placed on visual storytelling, the classic three-act structure, plot, character development, conflict, and dialogue. Registration closed - class is FULL. Thank you!

Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
March 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31

April/May Classes French for Beginners

Instructor Muriel Placet-Kouassi will guide first time learners in the basics of the French language — for beginners only! Textbook provided. Registration is closed - class is FULL. Thank you!

Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
April 7, 14, 21 & 28; May 5, 12 & 19

Italian for Beginners

Instructor Caterina Bertolotto leads students through the basics of the Italian language — for beginners! Textbook provided. Registration is closed - class is FULL. Thank you!

Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 12 noon
April 5, 12, 19 & 26; May 3, 10, 17 & 24

Food, Flavors, and Farming

Instructor Ann Yonetani: "This course aspires to be a fun introduction to the science underlying many different aspects of food in our culture. We will examine many current topics and trends in food and gastronomy with a critical eye and will build scientific background knowledge to help sort through today’s dizzying array of food choices. My hope is that this class will aid students in navigating these options, becoming better-informed consumers, and enjoying the daily act of eating." No pre-registration required.

Fridays, 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

April 6: The Omnivore's Dilemma: Food Choices and Nutritional Science

April 13: The Wonders of Taste

April 20: The Science of Cooking

April 27: Farming and the Future of Food

History of Italian Cinema

Instructor Monica London introduces the world of Italian Cinema. Films will be screened in full followed by a conversation relating to the film topic and story, starting with masterpieces of postwar neorealism and continuing to the modern era. Films include Giuseppe Tornatore's Cinema Paradiso and Vittoria De Sica's The Bicycle Thief. No pre-registration required.

Wednesdays, 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. April 18 & 25; May 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30; June 6

April 18: The Bicylcle Thief (Vittorio DeSica, 1948)

April 25: Divorce, Italian Style (Pietro Germi, 1961)

May 2: Amarcord (Federico Fellini, 1973)

May 9: A Special Day (Ettore Scola, 1977)

May 16: Cinema Paradiso (Giuseppe Tornatore, 1988)

May 23: Caro Diario (Nanni Moretti, 1993)

May 30: The Hundred Steps (Marco Tullio Giordana, 2003))

June 6: We Have a Pope (Nanni Moretti, 2011)

Winter Storms Can Be Hazardous to Your Federal Benefit Check!

Brigid Cahalan, Teaching & Learning, Literacy and Outreach — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 07:58:37 -0500

I'd like to share an important message on behalf of Go Direct®, a campaign of the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Federal Reserve Bank from guest blogger Michelle Kloempken, campaign manager for Go Direct®.

With electronic payments, you can count on your money despite severe weather.

If you get federal benefit payments by paper checks, you should know that you are required by the U.S. Department of the Treasury to switch to an electronic payment method. By getting your money electronically, you will help save taxpayers millions of dollars each year. You must make the switch by March 1, 2013, but you don’t have to wait for the deadline. The winter months are the perfect time to switch and take advantage of the reliability and ease of electronic payments.

Ice, snow, and subzero temperatures can leave you trapped in your home and temporarily interrupt important services like mail delivery. If you rely on paper checks for your federal benefit payments, a winter storm can leave you without access to your money at a time when you need it most.

With electronic payments, your money won’t be slowed down by winter weather and you won’t need to leave your home to cash or deposit a check. To switch to direct deposit or the Direct Express® card, contact your federal benefit agency office, visit the Treasury Department’s Go Direct® campaign website, or call the U.S. Treasury Electronic Payment Solution Center at (800) 333-1795. For direct deposit to a checking or savings account, you can also make the switch at your local bank or credit union.

Also, see this blog post on the topic from Rosie Rios, Treasurer of the United States.

LiveStories: A Writing Workshop for Older Adults

Ronni Krasnow, St. Agnes Library — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 11:18:18 -0500

In connection with the organization Lifetime Arts, NYPL will once again be holding some fabulous workshops specifically geared toward older adults. At St. Agnes Library, we will host a writing workshop called LiveStories: Using Writing And Drama to Share Your Personal Story. The workshop will be led by professional teaching artists Lauren Jost and Annie Montgomery, with whom I worked on a similar program last year at NYPL's Grand Central Library.

This year, the workshop has been expanded to 11 sessions, which will be held on consecutive Mondays beginning January 23, 2012. Over the course of the workshop, participants will learn to craft and edit stories borne of their personal experiences, and will also be instructed in dramatic techniques that can be used in sharing the stories with an audience. All supplies will be provided, and the workshop is completely free for all participants.

If you are interested in learning more about LiveStories, read the blog post I wrote about last year's experience. You can also watch a short video clip on the Lifetime Arts website from last year's presentation, as well as reflections from the participants.

Participants must be over 55 and willing to commit to attending all workshop sessions. Please call St. Agnes Library at (212) 621-0619 to register or to learn more about the workshop.

We look forward to meeting you and hearing your story!

Are You Experiencing "Care-grieving"?

Brigid Cahalan, Teaching & Learning, Literacy and Outreach — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 05:29:16 -0500

To commemorate National Family Caregivers Month, I asked bioethicist, educator and author Viki Kind to submit a blog post. She chose an excerpt on the topic of "care-grieving" from her book, The Caregiver's Path to Compassionate Decision Making: Making Choices for Those Who Can't. Also see Viki's website, Kind Ethics.

–Brigid Cahalan

Are You Experiencing "Care-grieving"?

by Viki Kind, M.A.

Does it feel like the caregiving never ends? Do you feel guilty because there just isn't enough time? Do you feel like you are drowning?

For caregivers, there is barely enough time to do all that needs to be done and at the end of the day, you are too exhausted to take care of yourself. I was the caregiver for four family members for many, many years. Sometimes I could manage just fine. But at other times I felt overwhelmed and unappreciated. Even when I knew what to do, I was still exhausted and worried all the time. All I wanted to do was to crawl into bed and just sleep. Even though I wanted to take care of the seniors in my life, sometimes it all became too much.

One of the reasons for this exhaustion is something that I call "care-grieving"—the grief that comes with caring for and caring about another person. Not only is caregiving overwhelming, frustrating and emotionally draining, it is also associated with profound grief.

So, why might you be care-grieving?

You may be care-grieving because your loved one isn't the person he or she used to be. You used to look to this person to support and nurture you, and now that aspect of your relationship is gone. Or maybe this was the love of your life and now you cry yourself to sleep at night because he or she is living at a care facility. And sometimes, your loved one may still be physically present, but the person you knew is no longer with you.

Your grief may be over the dramatic changes in your life. Maybe you had to quit work or your health is deteriorating. You may be responsible for your loved one's bills and the financial burden is growing. Or you may realize that you aren't being as good of a parent to your own kids as you used to be. For most caregivers, every free moment is spent worrying about the person in your care and your life is no longer your own. And the worst thing is, you feel guilty when you say, "I want my life back" or "I wish this would all be over."

Grieving the future.

You may also be care-grieving because you realize that your loved one is going to die, possibly soon. This is called anticipatory grief because we anticipate the loss and begin grieving before that loss is a reality. Sometimes this loss comes along slowly and sometimes it rushes toward us. Either way, it is painful and difficult. Unfortunately, oftentimes nobody will talk to you about this. People will tell you to stop worrying or to put on a happy face. But this grief is real and normal. Each day, as you witness the changes in your loved one's physical and mental abilities, your grief grows.

You may also be experiencing grief over your own mortality. Maybe you just realized that when your parents die, it will be your turn next. I hated it when someone said to me, "Now that both of your parents are gone, you're an orphan." It wasn't something I wanted to hear said out loud. It reminded me of how much I had lost and that I was of the next generation in line to die.

All of these changes create a sense of loss. For many of us, the pain can be so intense that we try to deny it and run from it. But no matter what we do, grief will chase us. Whether we acknowledge our emotional suffering or not, it is draining and damaging. Care-grieving can become so overwhelming that it creates in us a desperation and need to runaway in order to survive. It doesn't mean you're a bad person if you feel angry or sad. You are normal and your grief is normal.

How to get the help you need.

Ultimately, you can't get around grief. You have to get through it. You have to experience it and allow the emotions to be felt and heard. You need to talk about it with people who can help you. This may be your family, but often we have to look to others for this support, as our family members may be grieving too. Please reach out for support from your friends, your extended family, illness-specific organizations and your faith community. You can also get help from local caregiver support groups, online forums, chat rooms and from anyone else who may be willing to listen. If it is getting to be too much, seek professional help. Care-grieving is normal, but ongoing suffering is not. Please reach out to get the help you need.

About Viki Kind, MA:

Viki Kind is a clinical bioethicist, medical educator and hospice volunteer. Her award winning book, The Caregiver's Path to Compassionate Decision Making: Making Choices for Those Who Can't, guides families and healthcare professionals through the difficult process of making decisions for those who have lost capacity. Patients, families and healthcare professionals have come to rely on Viki's practical approach to dealing with challenging healthcare dilemmas. She has also been the caregiver for four members of her family.

Viki Kind also provided the following links to resources for caregivers—and care-grievers:

My Library: Lily R. Wu

Andrea Nicolay, Chatham Square Branch Library — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 03:24:21 -0500

On Wednesday, November 9, the New Horizons Band for Adults played a concert at Chatham Square Library before an appreciative audience. It was their premiere performance at this library, and for a member of the flute section, it was a homecoming.

Lily, we had a conversation before the show about how you used to come to Chatham Square Library as a kid. So, tell me a little about your history with this library.

I came here when I was about five or six. My mother brought me to the library and took me up to the second floor to the Children's Room. I was so fascinated by the Fairy Tale section that I borrowed the limit, which at that time was 10 books. I think my life might have been different if she had put me in the math or sciences section! With the fairy tales, I always loved that idea of people of diverse backgrounds working together and going on a quest fighting evil or something.

And you became inspired?

When I was here, the librarian had a story hour and she would come around with a candle. She wouldn't even have to say anything, we kind of knew we were supposed to follow her, and she would read us stories. I was so captivated by that, I decided I would become a librarian. So I went to CUNY Queens College for a master's degree in library science. I did an internship at one point at Bloomingdale Library at West 100th Street.

So this is a special place for you.

Yeah, it's great to come back and be able to share the music that we love. Hamilton-Madison House and the Third Street Music School originally started the program, and it's a big, big thrill for us. You know, members are 50 and over and here's our chance to do it!

Do you play more music than read these days?

I always have to have a book on me. I probably read 100 books a year. Every three or four days I've got to have a new book.

Favorite genre?

I like to read books on creativity. I like British novelists like Anne Perry, mystery, Regency romances, how-to books... I guess I read a little of anything. I just like that idea that you get to travel in time and space. You're reading, but you're in another place, you're in another time. Or you're reading something that someone spent a lot of time putting together, condensing their knowledge or their passion or their interests, and it's wonderful. You're sharing that time with them through a book.

Dublin Welcomes the World: The First International Conference on Age-Friendly Cities

Brigid Cahalan, Teaching & Learning, Literacy and Outreach — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 09:44:23 -0400

You have no doubt heard that the world is getting older. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that by 2025, nearly 60 percent of the U.S. population will be 55 or older. And the age wave spans the globe.

But, do you know about the Age-Friendly Cities initiative? Conceived in Brazil in 2005 at the World Congress of the International Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics, the idea — with the goal of "addressing the environmental and social factors that contribute to active and healthy ageing in societies" — quickly sprouted and grew. The concept became concrete in 2007 when the World Health Organization (WHO) published Global Age-Friendly Cities: A Guide after analyzing input from older people around the world to identify features of age-friendly cities. Worldwide interest led to formation of the WHO Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities in 2010, which almost 500 cities and communities in 14 countries had joined by September 2011.

Which brings us to: the First International Conference on Age-Friendly Cities, held in Dublin, Ireland, from September 28 through 30, 2011. The lead organizers of the conference were WHO, the International Federation on Ageing, and Ireland's Ageing Well Network, the last of which took up the gauntlet by hosting the conference in its capital city. The work of key individuals in these three organizations, along with an international advisory board, resulted in an atmosphere that was seriously productive while surprisingly light-hearted and stress-free. The conference aimed to advance thinking and action on the topic throughout the world, and to strengthen WHO's Global Network.

Ireland has a right to be proud: each of the Republic of Ireland's 26 counties is part of the network, and nine have become age-friendly counties. And New York City has reason to be proud as well: it was the first member of the global network of age-friendly cities. Upon accepting their certificate in New York City in 2010, Mayor Michael Bloomberg declared that, "An age-friendly city is a city for all ages." Ambassador James Joseph, who had served as the U.S. representative in a young South Africa, gave the first of the keynote speeches and presented a vision of older adults as the natural leaders of the world. Drawing upon memories of the older leaders who had mentored him while participating in civil rights activities in Alabama, Ambassador Joseph masterfully outlined the assets that can only be gained over the years one lives — emotional intelligence, social intelligence, moral intelligence, and spiritual intelligence.

On the first evening of the conference, September 28, history was made when the Dublin Declaration was signed by mayors and other representatives of cities and communities throughout the world — including New York City's Deputy Mayor Linda Gibbs — in Dublin's City Hall. By signing, they pledged their commitment to participate in the Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities. The magnificent setting, a stirring speech by Dublin's Lord Mayor Andrew Montague, the stately necklaces worn by the Irish dignitaries, the bagpipers, macebearers, and trumpeters all lent a regally festive air to the event.

Throughout the three days, plenary sessions and workshops provided attendees with access to leaders in the fields of urban studies, city planning, gerontology, sociology, social work, transportation, sustainability, psychology, anthropology, and public health.

The Global Village — pavilions showcasing initiatives happening throughout the world — were set up in a nearby hall. Several time slots were set aside for delegates to visit the Village to view the impressive work being done and to hear from those intimately involved. New York City's pavilion was a masterpiece of simplicity, featuring five jumbo-sized photographs of older New Yorkers with quotes elicited from them during the information-gathering of the pilot stage of NYC's Age-Friendly efforts. A binder with all relating products and publicity, including the list of 10 Ways to Make Your Library Age-Friendly, was available for perusal, and attractive postcards pointed to the age-friendly NYC website. Acknowledging the role of creativity in healthy aging, postcards featuring the Creative Aging art courses offered in 2010 (and to be again offered in 2012) in public libraries were handed out. These were arranged through the efforts of the New York-based organization, Lifetime Arts. Videos of NYC's first two Aging Improvement Districts, East Harlem and the Upper West Side, were shown continuously at the pavilion as well — and garnered great attention, especially when the background salsa music wafted through the room!

I think I speak for all of us who attended the conference from New York City when I say we were happy to share what has been accomplished here, stimulated by what is happening elsewhere, and filled to the brim with information and ideas for future directions.

World Sight Day at NYPL

Brigid Cahalan, Teaching & Learning, Literacy and Outreach — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 06:47:07 -0400

Lions International, working with other organizations that fight blindness, commemorated the first World Sight Day in 1998. Since then, it has been observed throughout the world on the second Thursday of each year; the World Health Organization and the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness are the chief coordinating agencies at present. Communities and organizations have initiated activities to support the main goal: to focus global attention on blindness, visual impairment and rehabilitation of those with visual impairments. This year, the New York Public Library is working with partner agencies to join in this important work of raising awareness of blindness and the conditions that can lead to it.

The Friends of the Congressional Glaucoma Caucus will offer free vision screenings on Thursday, October 13 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. in their mobile van which will be parked in front of the Columbus Library. No charge, no reservation—just come and be screened.

Glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness, is an eye disorder that damages the optic nerve, the nerve that carries messages from the eye to the brain. It has no noticeable symptoms or early warning signs and cannot be cured. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to blindness. Glaucoma affects about 3,000,000 Americans, many of whom are not aware that they have the disease.

Who is at risk for Glaucoma?

African-Americans over the age of 40
Individuals of Hispanic origin
Anyone over the age of 60
People with a family history of glaucoma
People with diabetes

If you come for the screening, stop into the Columbus Library for a visit. It's a great library with a lot going on. And, tell them thanks for arranging the vision screening!

At 5:30 p.m. that same day, the Muhlenberg Library hosts the program, Vision for a Lifetime: The Latest Advances to Enhance, Preserve and Restore your Vision. Dr. Donald J. D'Amico will present the latest information on the diagnosis and treatment of several common eye disorders. He will provide practical information, as well as some exciting glimpses of future improvements in therapy. Dr. D'Amico, professor and chairman of ophthalmology at Weill-Cornell Medical College and New York-Presbyterian Hospital and Ophthalmologist-in-Chief at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, is an internationally recognized vitreo-retinal specialist.The organization Research to Prevent Blindness (RPB) has arranged for this presentation.

RPB, the leading voluntary health organization supporting eye research directed at the prevention, treatment or eradication of all diseases that threaten vision, has committed hundreds of millions of dollars in grant support to provide scientific manpower, technological equipment and eye research laboratory facilities. As a result, RPB researchers have been associated with nearly every major breakthrough in the understanding and treatment of the loss of vision across the past 50 years.

Aided by organizations such as Research to Prevent Blindness, there has been remarkable progress in vision research with the exploration of new drugs, technologies, and procedures to enhance our ability to enhance, preserve, and restore vision for an ever greater number of individuals. The ongoing revolution in treatments for age-related macular degeneration and the increasing sophistication of cataract surgery are but two of the examples of this rapid progress.

The Muhlenberg Library has a copper loop installed in the Community Room, which allows for enhanced amplification for those attendees with T-switch-equipped hearing aids. Some FM assistive listening devices will also be available.

In Search of Purpose, Passion, and a Paycheck: Finding Work that Matters in the Second Half of Life

Rimas Jasin, Executive Director, Presbyterian Senior Services — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 12:16:22 -0400

Please join us at this informative panel presentation:

In Search of Purpose, Passion, and a Paycheck: Finding Work that Matters in the Second Half of Life
Wednesday, June 29, 2011, 4 to 6 p.m.
The New York Public Library

Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, South Court Auditorium
Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street (Map and directions)
Fully accessible to wheelchairs
For more information: 212-340-0951

Hear from people in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond who have transitioned to social purpose careers, and learn how to position yourself for a meaningful encore career. Speakers will include representatives from Coming of Age: NYC and several inspiring Purpose Prize winners who, in their encore careers, are creating new ways to solve tough social problems. The moderator will be Suzanne Braun Levine, a Civic Ventures board member, founding editor of Ms. magazine, and author.

There is no charge — but seating is limited and on a “first come, first seated” basis.

Moderator

Suzanne Braun Levine is a writer, editor, and nationally recognized authority on women and family issues, and media. She has chronicled and fostered change in women’s lives as the first editor of Ms. magazine and as a current contributing editor of More magazine. She is a lecturer, appears frequently on television, and serves as an advisor to several women’s and media groups, and organizations dealing with midlife issues.

She has defined a new stage of life — Women in Second Adulthood — and reports on the ongoing changes in women’s lives both in her books and on her website at www.suzannebraunlevine.com.

Her latest book, Fifty is the New Fifty: 10 Life Lessons for Women in Second Adulthood (Viking, April 2009), continues the conversation Suzanne began with Inventing the Rest of Our Lives (Viking, June 2005). That groundbreaking book ignited a national conversation about women in second adulthood — the vibrant and empowering new stage of life that more than 37 million women are defining by living it.

Panelists

Carole Artigiani Founder, Global Kids
Purpose Prize Fellow 2006 and 2007

A former educator, Carole Artigiani became convinced that global education and social action were effective vehicles for developing young leaders and effective citizens and also for boosting academic and personal success. In 1991, at age 50, she founded Global Kids, which provides youth with opportunities to develop sophisticated leadership skills, learn from international affairs experts, conduct research, and develop and lead initiatives addressing such issues as human rights, global health, and ethnic conflict. As a result, over 90 percent of Global Kids participants, once labelled at risk of dropping out of school, annually graduate from high school and go on to college, become campus leaders, and continue to conduct service and action projects focused on global and community issues.

Mark Goldsmith Founder, Getting Out and Staying Out
Purpose Prize Winner 2008

After marketing executive Mark Goldsmith volunteered to be "Principal for a Day" at Rikers Island prison, he began an encore career helping young men plan for life after prison. In 2003, he launched Getting Out and Staying Out to offer inmates coaching, life-skill instruction, educational guidance, and job-achievement support.

Emira Habiby-Browne Founder, Center for the Integration and Advancement of New Americans
Purpose Prize Fellow 2009

At age 51, Emira Habiby-Browne — a Palestinian immigrant and social services professional — founded a social service agency in New York to address the needs of the growing Arabic-speaking immigrant community. After 9/11, Browne became a leading community advocate for those traumatized by the backlash of discrimination, racial profiling, detentions, and deportations. In 2006, Browne founded a second organization, the Center for the Integration and Advancement of New Americans (CIANA), which utilizes integration services designed specifically for immigrants and refugees from the largely Muslim societies.

Daniel Luhata Shungu Founder and Executive Director, United Front Against Riverblindness
Purpose Prize Fellow 2010

After a career with drug manufacturer Merck & Co., Daniel Luhata Shungu retired in 2002 to focus on eradicating onchocerciasis — also known as “river blindness” — a parasitic disease associated with irreversible blindness, severe itching, reduced life span, lizard-like skin, and serious socioeconomic problems. Shungu’s United Front Against Riverblindness puts free medicine in the hands of local communities through designated community distributors.

Rimas J. Jasin Executive Director, Presbyterian Senior Services (PSS); Founder, Coming of Age: NYC

Rimas J. Jasin has over 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience, with an extensive background in the field of aging. He has held executive positions at a number of nonprofits and national voluntary health organizations, and he has also serves on numerous professional and nonprofit boards. In 2010, he began working with the national office of Coming of Age to establish the program here in NYC. The initiative currently consists of innovative and diverse nonprofit agencies partnering together, including:

With generous support from founding sponsor EmblemHealth, Coming of Age: NYC looks forward to officially launching on July 1, 2011.

This special presentation on June 29 is cosponsored by

Coming of Age: NYC is a new establishment of a national initiative designed to help individuals 50+ connect and contribute to their communities. Its goal is to build the capacity of organizations to utilize the skills, passions, and interests of people 50+ to further their mission and revitalize communities. Learn more about Coming of Age: NYC at www.comingofagenyc.org.

The Encore Careers campaign and The Purpose Prize are initiatives of Civic Ventures, a think tank on boomers, work and social purpose. Find out more at www.encore.org .

Special thanks to The S. D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation for underwriting this event.

Next Chapter Rewind: Reflecting on Service to Older Adults at the New York Public Library Over the Past Year, and Looking Ahead

Brigid Cahalan, Teaching & Learning, Literacy and Outreach — Thu, 30 Dec 2010 08:11:18 -0500

Next Chapter.

We've been asked: "What does that mean?" Well, it's a forward-thinking (and book-evoking) image we like here at NYPL and use to describe this blog channel, as well as the Facebook page and Twitterfeed sharing news and views focusing on those 50 and older. Oprah likes it too—the cover of the current issue of O magazine asks readers, "What's Your Next Chapter?"

While looking ahead can excite and energize, looking back can provide context, perspective and direction. One of the 2010 additions to NYPL's social media presence was Next Chapter's Facebook page, started in spring. It's a great way to keep up with late-breaking news and hear about classes, programs, and activities you may want to join. If you're on Facebook, or planning to join this year, we'd love for you to "like" us!

So let's go down the Facebook memory lane and see a bit of Next Chapter at NYPL's recent history as well as a peek at what's ahead...

In spring we started another of author Abby Stokes' library tours; she presented her Demystifying Computers talk to crowds, at widely-varying levels of mystification, at 10 branches. If you missed her, don't worry—we're planning another tour to begin shortly. Check the online calendar and/or Facebook to find out when and where.

Fordham University's Coalition for Debtor Education joined forces with NYPL in April to celebrate Financial Literacy Month. They provided speakers on the topic of Ten Ways to Protect Your Money at three library branches. In May, the Library partnered with the Center for Hearing and Communication to help spread the word about holding onto your hearing as part of the Better Hearing and Speech Month activities at five libraries. The Transition Network put together a phenomenal panel presentation—Don't Retire, Re-Invent—in June; a packed house at Mid-Manhattan Library took it all in with gusto.

Despite the sweltering heat of summer, an intrepid crew visited ten libraries with the Consumer Choice 50+ Summer Seminars to fill us in on several topics: the New York State Prescription Saver Card, which can save eligible NYS residents aged 50-64 up to 60% of prescription costs; EPIC, which supplements Medicare to help those 65+ with prescription costs; Social Security and their Retirement Estimator, which can help folks decide when to retire; and the New York State Consumer Protection Board, which provides lots of crucial information re: scams, frands and predators to keep us safe and aware.

New York City joined the Global Age-Friendly Cities initiative in late 2007, and the New York Public Library has been participating in the Age-Friendly New York City efforts, spreading the good news to older New Yorkers about what the libraries already provide while listening to needs and brainstorming how we can improve our service. Tying in with these city-wide efforts, spring brought NYPL the great news that we received an LSTA grant entitled: Building an Age-Friendly Library: Enhancing Technology Services to Older Adults. This enabled us to provide 20-session computer courses geared to those 60+, taught by expert instructors from Older Adults Technology Services. So far, eight courses were offered: four each at Morningside Heights Library and 67th Street Library. One of the eight was in Spanish and garnered exceptional interest. More to come, English and Spanish, from July to December 2011; locations to be determined.

Fall brought another exciting partnership—with Lifetime Arts—who funneled funding from the Fan Fox & Leslie R. Samuels Foundation to us for creative aging classes. These took place at six libraries and provided free series of professionally-led art classes in widely-ranging artistic disciplines. Building on the successes of these programs we're hoping to expand this partnership and provide similar opportunities in many more libraries in 2011.

Author and veteran soap opera star Tina Sloan delighted a crowd at Mid-Manhattan in November with behind-the-scenes tales and advice from her book, Changing Shoes: Getting Older—Not Old—With Style, Humor and Grace. And cultural anthropologist Mary Catherine Bateson enlightened audiences at Mid-Manhattan and St. Agnes libraries in December on the ways in which older people improve society, a topic she has become an expert on and conveys brilliantly in: Composing a Further Life: The Age of Active Wisdom.

NYPL partnered with the Alzheimer's Foundation this year by offering free memory screenings at four libraries for their National Memory Screening Day on November 16th. We happily joined the effort to reduce stigma associated with Alzheimer's disease by providing spaces for people to address their fears and, in many cases, allay them by taking a standardized memory test administered by professionals in health care or a related field.

Working with the NYC Department for the Aging, NYPL has offered weekly Stay Well exercise classes at four libraries. Each Stay Well class includes cardiovascular, strength and flexibility exercises, conducted by trained volunteers, and gives opportunities to stay in shape year-round. If you are looking to volunteer, this is great way as the commitment will keep you exercising regularly, as we all know we should be doing anyway... We're going to be expanding the number of Stay Well sites in 2011 so ask at your local library about these classes—and keep your eye on NYPL's online calendar (limit "audience" to "50+).

It's great looking back at the end of each year to ponder what we've done and what we want to do in the coming year. Whatever you do in 2011, we hope the year is an exciting and fulfilling one, and invite you to "ride" along with Next Chapter at NYPL!

LiveStories: Nearing Journey's End

Ronni Krasnow, St. Agnes Library — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 05:23:40 -0500

It's hard to believe that the LiveStories memoir writing workshop at the Grand Central Library is nearing its conclusion. This has been a fascinating, emotional, cathartic, and educational journey for us all. With the help of our two wonderful teaching artists, Annie and Lauren, and our generous funders at Lifetime Arts, we have learned how to craft our personal stories, and in some cases, even to dramatize them. We have made new friends and, in just a short time, become part of each other's lives.

On Saturday, November 20th at 2:00 PM, we will be presenting and sharing our stories with friends, family and the general public. The stories that have emerged from our nine weeks together are, in turn, shocking, heartbreaking, painful, insightful and full of emotion and beauty. In addition to the workshop participants, we also have a few wonderful professional actors who will be helping us bring our stories to life for all of you. If you have ever needed proof that "every person has a story," our final presentation will be just that. I invite everyone who has an interest in memoir or personal essay to join us for what promises to be a very surprising and emotional afternoon.

LiveStories Final Reading and Presentation
Saturday, November 20th, 2PM
Grand Central Library, 135 East 46th Street (between 3rd and Lex)
212-621-0670

50+ Summer Seminars - How to Make the Right Choice

Brigid Cahalan, Teaching & Learning, Literacy and Outreach — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 06:34:29 -0400

Choices...

I would choose to have only 70 degree days throughout the summer, and a light breeze wafting through the air, plus a New York City to live in just as it is—but with affordable rents in midtown. Wouldn’t you? Unfortunately, these aren't choices I can make. But there is a world of choices that we can make to make our lives better, and to make an informed choice we should hear from the experts first.

Those over 50, or perhaps helping an older friend or family member with care and/or information, may want to come to one of the Consumer Choices Summer Seminars being held in public libraries in Manhattan and Staten Island over the next few weeks. Several experts will be speaking about topics including:

New York Prescription Saver Card, which can save eligible N.Y.S. residents, ages 50-64, up to 60% off prescription costs.
New York State Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage, which supplements Medicare to help those 65 and over with prescription costs.
Social Security, and the Retirement Estimator, which can help answer the thorny question of when you might be able to comfortably retire.
Changes in legislation that impact Medicare, including the new healthcare reform law.

You will also hear from a speaker from the NYC Department for the Aging about some New York City programs for people with limited income. And a representative from the State Consumer Protection Board will inform us about scams—computer, phone, and mail—and how you can choose not to become a victim of predators, as well as what steps to take if you are victimized.

There will be adaptive F.M. listening devices, including loops, available at these seminars, and all locations are accessible to people using wheelchairs.

Come—so you can make the best choices!

Thursday, Aug. 12, 5-6:30 p.m. Bloomingdale Library, 150 West 100th Street, Manhattan
Friday, Aug. 13, 10:30a.m.-12 noon Countee Cullen Library, 104 West 136th St. (near Lenox), Manhattan
Friday, Aug. 13, 2 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Macomb’s Bridge Library, 2650 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd. (bet. W. 152nd-153rd Sts.), Manhattan
Monday, Aug. 16, 10:30 a.m.-12 noon New Dorp Library, 309 New Dorp Lane, Staten Island
Monday, Aug. 16, 2-3:30 p.m. Richmondtown Library, 200 Clarke Ave. (at Amber St.), Staten Island
Monday, Aug. 23, 1-2:30 p.m. Riverside Library, 127 Amsterdam Ave. (at W. 65th St.), Manhattan
Monday, Aug. 23, 4-5:30 p.m. St. Agnes Library, 444 Amsterdam Ave. (near 81st St.), Manhattan
Wednesday, August, 25, 1-2:30 p.m. Roosevelt Island Library, 524 Main Street, Roosevelt Island
Tuesday, Aug. 31, 4-5:30 p.m. Mulberry Street Library, 10 Jersey St. (bet. Lafayette & Mulberry), Manhattan

Aging Creatively at the New York Public Library

Brigid Cahalan, Teaching & Learning, Literacy and Outreach — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 10:46:14 -0400

The late Gene D. Cohen, psychiatrist and first head of the National Institute on Mental Health's Center on Aging, served as primary investigator for a landmark study which began in 2001, Creativity and Aging: The Impact of Professionally Conducted Cultural Programs on Older Adults. The final report, issued April 2006, yielded data demonstrating that creative activity is not just fun—as anyone who's tried it knows—but its expression in later life positively affects general health, mental health, overall functioning and sense of well-being. All forms of artistic expression studied had these life-enhancing effects: performing arts, literary and oral expression, and creative expression through physical media such as painting and pottery. The key to the successful outcomes were mastery of the art, which was ensured by the professional teaching artists conducting the programs, and providing enough time to achieve mastery; and meaningful social engagement between participants during the course of the programs.

One of the organizations that participated in the study, Elders Share the Arts in Brooklyn, N.Y., has been helping elders develop their creative sides for over 30 years. And another local organization, Elder Craftsmen, has been helping older adults be creative, productive and independent while promoting greater recognition of the work of older artists and craftspeople since the 1970s. So, though this type of work has been around for a long time, what's new is the empirical data proving its value on both body and mind.

In a recent article, Gay Hanna, head of the National Center for Creative Aging, draws upon studies of brain plasticity—the ability of the brain to change throughout life—to conclude, "We never lose the potential to learn new things as we grow older. In fact, we can master new skills and be creative all our lives." (AARP: The Magazine, Sept/Oct. 2010). The article profiles seven adults, aged 52-87, who turned to art in midlife or later life, and demonstrates how their decades of life experience added to the richness of their art.

Two New Yorkers with deep roots in the fields of art and arts administration—Maura O'Malley and Ed Friedman—were struck by the magnitude of the effects noted in Cohen's study, and started an organization, Lifetime Arts, to promote creative aging. They knew they would need to work with established organizations to have the most impact and—fortuitously for the library world—decided public libraries would be their partner of choice.They launched a pilot with several libraries in Westchester County, New York in 2008-2009, then continued the success there with a second cycle of programs 2009-2010.

Now it's New York City's turn! Thanks to generous funding from the Fan Fox & Leslie R. Samuels Foundation, six of New York Public Library's branches will offer creative aging programs this fall. The programs consist of a minimum of eight 90-minute classes and each will end with a culminating celebration. Here's the line-up:

Sing for Life, Sing for Joy at the Baychester Library, Bronx. Pamela Warrick-Smith, Teaching Artist. A 10-session choral program will focus on a capella singing to encourage vocal improvement and build a sense of community for Co-op City’s large older adult population. While enjoying music-making, and exploring folk music and spirituals, participants will work on vocal and performance techniques, music theory, improvisation and composition.

Drawing from Experience at the Morris Park Library, Bronx. Josh Millis, Teaching Artist. Delving into the unique qualities and mark-making capacities of pencil, charcoal, and oil pastels, participants will explore line, contour, perspective, value, and color mixing. They will look at and discuss artists and their work using books and digital images and apply their discoveries to their own work.

Life Maps at the Countee Cullen Library, Manhattan. Paul Ferrara & Celia Caro, Teaching Artists. Focusing on line, texture, point of view and color, participants will examine a variety of maps and the work of map artists such as Romare Bearden. They will create their own collage life maps as they achieve an understanding of the principles of art and design and gain skills in the use of basic vocabularies, materials, tools, and techniques as they apply to collage.

LiveStories: A Personal Journey through Memoir and Performance at the Grand Central Library, Manhattan. Michael Wiggins & Ann Montgomery, Teaching Artists. Through journal writing and performance, participants will reflect on their lives, find and express their unique personal voices and learn skills for documenting and sharing their personal experiences with others. They will be introduced to the work of established writers working in the area of memoir including Edwidge Danticant and Spalding Gray. The series will culminate in a live performance of original written work by members of the workshop.

Self-Expression in Art: A Hands-on Workshop for Adults at the 67th Street Library, Manhattan. Sabra Friedman, Teaching Artist. Each of the eight sessions includes an introduction to the work of a variety of artists, styles and techniques, art-making and shared reflection. Participants will learn to use a variety of drawing and collage materials including graphite and white pencil, charcoal, ink and torn paper. They will experiment with positive/negative shapes, abstraction, and the use of lines, create volume and mass. Importantly, participants will be encouraged and inspired to take advantage of the neighborhood's great museums.

Roaring Chorus Workshops for Older Staten Island Adults at the West New Brighton Library, Staten Island. Musical Chairs Chamber Ensemble, Teaching Artists. Up to 30 older adults will receive sequential, skill-based music instruction focused on vocal training, introduction to basic harmony and music theory, basic ear training, and choral singing. The repertoire will focus on popular music of the 1920s, 30s and 40s including work by Gershwin, Berlin and Porter.

Grand Opening of Financial Literacy Central at SIBL--Thursday, June 3rd!

Brigid Cahalan, Teaching & Learning, Literacy and Outreach — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 12:44:39 -0400

Are you hearing the same mixed messages about the state of the economy that I am? Though some aspects seem to be getting better, other indications are not so bright... Whatever our age or stage in life, now more than ever we need to learn about personal finance.

Fortunately, the Science, Industry, and Business Library has come to the rescue! To mark the opening of Financial Literacy Central there, SIBL is holding Financial Literacy Day, an information-packed mini-marathon of events starting at 12:15 p.m. and finishing up at 7:00 p.m. this Thursday, June 3, 2010. Note that there are three concurrent classes at most of the slots; why not come with a friend so you can split up and compare notes afterwards?

Beware! Personal Finance Caveats and Pitfalls 12:15pm - 1:15pm
Pre-Retirement Planning: Social Security 12:15pm - 1:15pm
Investing in Stocks: the Basics 12:15pm - 1:15 pm
Money Matters! 2:15pm - 3:15pm
Bonds and Bond Mutual Funds 2:15 - 3:15 pm
Mutual Funds and ETFs 4:15pm - 5:15pm
Stocks and Mutal Funds 4:15pm - 5:15 pm
Investment Choices: What is Right for Me? 4:15pm - 5:15pm
Investing for the New Economic Reality - How to Start Investing, Even if You Have Only $100 6:00pm - 7:00pm

The McGraw Hill Companies is supporting Financial Literacy Central, which will serve as a hub for free personal finance information and resources, including computer access to popular business and finance databases.

The Earth and Us: Getting Out to Celebrate Earth Day

Brigid Cahalan, Teaching & Learning, Literacy and Outreach — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 04:50:33 -0400

Forty years of Earth Days... and each year we are encouraged to do something green. How are you doing with that? I've made a few changes—am making fewer copies, reusing paper, recycling lots of stuff. And today I shall eschew plastic bottles: it's just that superb NYC tap water for me.

This morning I celebrated by walking through the alluring pedestrian plazas New York City created last year, midtown on Broadway. The beige gravel mimics sand, lending a beachy vibe. And, I just learned the painted circles are coated with a special treatment to reduce surface temperature. No wonder I felt so cool—in more ways than one—every time I paused in the plazas last summer.

I'm also thinking special grateful thoughts about the trees I have enjoyed in my life. Later in the day I shall read a poem about trees: Woodman, Spare That Tree, the early environmental poem by George Pope Morris later put to music by Henry Russell.

Getting outdoors and appreciating nature is always a good idea. And if you are age 60 or over and in New York City—or know anyone who fits that description—may I recommend the City Parks Senior Fitness program? Offered by the CityParks Foundation, in cooperation with NYC's Parks and Recreation Department, these are free tennis lessons, fitness walks, and yoga instruction offered in 11 parks throughout NYC.

For more info call (718) 760-6999 or visit the CityParks website. And hurry! The program runs May 3-June 25, 2010.