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Briarcliff Manor Public Library

Words that Inspire at the Poetry Café at the Briarcliff Manor Public Library

April 17, 2024 by Christine Pasqueralle

Zach Gerstein, founder of BMPL’s Poetry Café
PHOTO BY EVAN TRAINOR

Poetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings: it takes its origin from emotion recollected in tranquility” said William Wordsworth in 1798. Centuries later, poetry may not be flying off the shelves, but there is still a massive and loyal audience. Since October 2022, the Briarcliff Manor Public Library (BMPL) has been hosting Poetry Café events where poets from all walks of life can come, share, and be inspired by one another’s works. And you do not have to be a professional to participate.

The café was started by Zach Gerstein, the library’s Reference Librarian, who stated, “I have been hosting poetry events since autumn 2009, when I ran the Peripatetic Poetry Corps at the Bean Runner Café in Peekskill. Since then, I’ve done series in Mahopac and Putnam Valley.” Gerstein continued, “The Poetry Café here at the BMPL was modeled after the very successful poetry café at the Florida Public Library, in Orange County, NY, which I have attended for nearly 15 years”.

Robert Milby, who was Orange County’s Poet Laureate from 2017-19 has hosted many of the Florida Library poetry cafés over the years. They began there in 2006 after a poetry reading series was suggested by its former Library Director, Madelyn Folino. The library hosts one reading per season and it consists of featured poets and an open reading, all hosted by Milby. The featured poets tend to be local to the greater Hudson Valley and the series has flourished after almost 18 years.

Gerstein has organized five cafés at BMPL since October 2022. Past cafés have featured poets Mary Wu, Bill Greenfield, Malcolm Netburn, Sean Singer, Sarah Bracey White, David Rigsbee, Vincent Bell, Jared Harél, Jared Beloff, Ellen Devlin, and Juan Mobili. The April 2024 event is slated to include Barb Jennes and Harriet Shenkman and there is a café in the works for July with Mary Lou Butler and Kristine Esser Slentz.

A great deal of enthusiasm for the cafés has been expressed by both the poets and the public at large. Sarah Bracey White says, “This was an opportunity to go where no one knows me and I can be part of a writing community. There is no judgement and people are responding to the poets’ content. It encourages people to express themselves through poetry. Poets in the audience don’t feel intimidated by others – it’s an encouraging environment for everyone to share their works.” White was happily surprised during her first visit to the BMPL Café when she headed to the second floor and saw a quote of her own stenciled onto the wall. It reads “Libraries showed me the world beyond my limited horizon.”

Bill Greenfield has been participating in various poetry readings throughout the Hudson Valley for the past ten years, which is how he met Gerstein. He describes his work as “down to earth” and his fourth book of poetry, The Ever-Shrinking Universe was recently published by Broadstone Books.

Mary Wu sees the café as a way to make poetry more accessible and less intimidating as well as bring the community together through artistic expression. “When I was growing up, poetry always seemed like this esoteric and mysterious genre of writing. However, it is thanks to Reference Librarian Zach Gerstein and (former) Library Director Donna Pesce for dispelling this myth by bringing the poetry cafe to the Briarcliff Manor Public Library”, Wu said. “I had the pleasure of sharing my poems from my poetry book Kaliedoscope (available on Amazon) at the very first poetry café that had an amazing turnout of audience members and supporters and eclectic and gifted poets sharing their works and writings. It was such a warm and welcoming place to be that shed light to the power of words through poetry.”

Reaction to the café has been extremely enthusiastic. They’re a wonderful way to help bring community members together. Gerstein said, “So far, most people prefer to just listen to our featured readers instead of signing up for the open mic” – but perhaps that may change in the near future. Upcoming café events will take place exclusively on Saturday afternoons, as that time slot tends to work best. People enjoy the social aspect of coming to the café. “Usually, they begin to arrive about 30 minutes before the readings and stick around afterwards for a good long while to chit-chat.”

The BMPL poetry cafés have become a new staple for the library and its community. They have brought together many talented writers sharing their stories and have hopefully inspired others in attendance to do the same. As White told me, “Life seduces my pen and poetry helps me arrange my thoughts about it.”

Filed Under: Cover Stories Tagged With: Briarcliff Manor, Briarcliff Manor Public Library, Poetry, Poetry Cafe, Poets

In Praise of Our Local Libraries & How they Continue to Serve Grateful, Returning Patrons

February 25, 2023 by Christine Pasqueralle

PHOTO BY MIA BROWN

Libraries can often be seen as the heart of a community. A place to gain knowledge, gather and socialize with others right where we live. Over the years, library patrons needs have certainly changed and the community library has changed with them to help provide the best services possible.

Here in the Mount Pleasant area, we are fortunate enough to have two amazing public libraries–the Mount Pleasant Public Library in Pleasantville and its Branch location in Valhalla, and the Briarcliff Manor Public Library. Whether you’re a library regular, new to the area or haven’t been to a library in a long while, I encourage you to get to know these local gems and pay them a visit soon. You won’t be disappointed.

The history of both libraries is rich and varied. Mount Pleasant began serving its community in 1895 as the Pleasantville Library Association. In 1919 it was reincorporated as the Pleasantville Public Library and at one point, contracted with the Town of Mount Pleasant to create a branch library in town. In 1965, the Town and Village agreed to establish the Mount Pleasant Public Library to serve both the Mount Pleasant and Pleasantville communities. Interestingly enough, the charter Mount Pleasant received from the State of New York was signed by none other than Melvil Dewey, the inventor of the Dewey Decimal System.

The Briarcliff Manor Public Library’s first incarnation began in 1914 by the Briarcliff Manor Community Club. In 1924, the Village of Briarcliff Manor began providing financial services for the library. Over the years, the library moved through many locations and in 1958, the Briarcliff Free Library became one of the founding members of the newly created Westchester Library System. The next year, it moved to the former station of the Putnam Division of the New York Central Rail Road. And finally in 2009, the library found its current home–a new, two-story addition to its former home in the former train station.

I had the opportunity to speak with the directors of both the Mount Pleasant and Briarcliff Manor libraries to learn about new projects, programs to come and how both libraries keep up with the evolving needs of its patrons.

Donna Pesce, Director of the Briarcliff Manor Public Library
PHOTO BY MIA BROWN

In Mount Pleasant: Adapting to Change

John Fearon has been the Director of the Mount Pleasant Public Library for 20 years. In that time, he has seen a lot of evolution. When the current main branch of the library was built in the 1960’s, it was a state-of-the-art library. Its open-plan concept makes it feel bigger than it is. But at the same time, library usage was different 60 years ago. Noise wasn’t an issue since people used the library as a quiet space. Now, patrons are also using it as a gathering place so noise can be a challenge. Fearon says there’s been a general shift in how people use libraries. “When I was growing up, the library was quiet like a church. Now more and more see it as a place to get together and connect with each other. Before the pandemic, there was an informal feeling–people would come in to chat and browse. The noise is part and parcel of that.”

This is part of what will be addressed in the library’s Master Plan that is being created in conjunction with the Town and Village. The goal is to have more meeting rooms and spaces. “People’s needs have changed and more organizations need places to meet. If we had more rooms, we could accommodate more local organizations as well as people working from home who need private rooms to arrange meetings,” says Fearon. “We always want to have a bigger picture, a vision of where we want to go. We hope to work with the town and village in making that happen.” Plans also include the creation of a safe outdoor space for kids.

John Fearon, Director of the Mount Pleasant Public Library
PHOTO BY MIA BROWN

Books ‘Holding their Own’

Since the pandemic, people are still feeling their way back to normality. Fearon said that he definitely sees life coming back to the library. People are browsing more and not feeling they have to “get in and get out” as much. There is a greater demand for and enjoyment of children’s storytime now, as there is a popular draw!

“Miss Debbie is an institution in Pleasantville,” says Fearon. She has storytimes scheduled throughout the week at both the main and branch library locations.

People are coming back to the library. “It’s slow and steady but it’s happening more and more,” he said.

The library is also seeing a surge in different types of lending as well as program use. “I’ve seen video cassettes go, audio books go, CDs and DVDs come and go. ‘The book’ is hanging in there. But we saw a huge surge in e-Books, our lending more than doubled during the pandemic. eBooks have become about 1/3 of our lending but books are still holding their own.”

The library’s museum pass program has also found a new life, “Suddenly people discovered them and usage blew up. The pass program is funded by The Friends of the Mount Pleasant Public Library and our most popular passes are for MoMA, the Intrepid and the Guggenheim.”

This spring will see many of the library’s recurring adult programs taking place such as the PLY Knitting Circle, jewelry-making classes, craft socials, game nights and more. On March 30, Open Mic at the Library will host talented patrons sharing poetry, songs, artwork and more. Patrons can get ready for their spring gardens with the library’s program Proper Pruning on April 20. There are also many upcoming children’s events including STEM classes, chess workshops, a theater and improve program and jewelry-making classes.

As for its evolution, Fearon sees that as a constant. “We have a really good staff at the moment, some younger librarians and that’s exciting. Adapting the facility to support new demand is a challenge but we will do our best.”

In Briarcliff Manor: A Cherished Routine

PHOTOS BY MIA BROWN

Donna Pesce has served as Director of the Briarcliff Manor Public Library since 2018. In her time at the library, she has also seen many changes for how patrons use services. “I read recently that libraries are not buildings, they are communities and that rings true here,” says Pesce.

A weekly visit to the library is part of the routine for so many of Briarcliff’s patrons, whether it is to take out print books or DVD’s, attend family activities or join book groups (geared towards a variety of ages).  “While our website and eBook collection are well-used, stopping in to browse, chat with the staff or connect with other patrons at a regular program are essential.

We know most patrons by name and know their reading and other service preferences. Staff often have a patron’s book ‘holds’ in hand before the patron gets through the door.” The library certainly presents itself as a warm and welcoming environment to all who step through.

Library usage runs the gamut. Briarcliff sees an average of 70 visitors per day with 1/3 using its enclosed children’s room where kids are free to select items from a variety of collections as well as seasonal displays. Some patrons prefer to head up to the second floor for its peaceful feel. It attracts those looking for a quiet space to work, read or just look out of the expansive windows onto a relaxing view of Law Memorial Park. Pesce points out that while children’s programs and adult book groups have always been a staple at Briarcliff, the library is adding more community-based programming such as poetry cafes, small performances, and local author visits.

“Having close relationships with our patrons means we get feedback and suggestions that we try our best to incorporate into services”, says Pesce. Library staff stays up-to-date with patron needs by participating in training sessions, attending user meeting and of course, by reading a lot. “Needless to say, we have many ideas.”

The Long-Term Strategy

The library has a state-required strategic plan which it is currently working on called‘The Branching Out Project.’ Residents and patrons will be invited to share their ideas through surveys, activities and committees and the final plan should be completed by May 2023.

The library has a full event schedule for spring including its Cookbook Club (March 21) in which attendees bring a dish to share and a copy of the recipe. Run by Library volunteers Andrea Vladimir and Cindy Healey, the club is always a popular meetup. On March 25 there will be a performance, Trial for Treason, enacting the fateful meeting between Major John Andre and Benedict Arnold. April brings another performance of the Poetry Cafe, featuring readings by area poets, followed by an open mic. Children’s programs will include a graphic novel and a “Who Was” book group. Adult book groups such as the Brown Bag Tuesday lunchtime group continue to flourish.

As for its future, Pesce sees a lot of positive changes for the library as she notes that both patron needs and the library environment have changed over the last few years. “I would like for policies, legislation and funding to support sustaining library services for the future. I see our services becoming even more streamlined and tailored to the specific needs of the local community, while still leveraging the resources of the Westchester Library System.

“We can offer in-house programs in-person and partner on regional programs via Zoom, offer copies of popular books in multiple formats and take advantage of inter-library loans and also look for increased partnerships with local organizations and donors for our programs and special collections.”

Perhaps the most important aspect of the library is one that hopefully never changes. “What I hope will stay the same is the wonderful relationships that we have with both our long-time and new patrons.”

Visit your local libraries. There is something for everyone and everyone is always welcome.

Filed Under: Cover Stories Tagged With: Briarcliff Manor Public Library, Donna Pesce, John Fearon, Libraries, library, Mount Pleasant Public Library

Spring Spotlights & To Dos in Briarcliff Manor

February 24, 2022 by Christine Pasqueralle

Photo Courtesy of Briarcliff Manor Department of Parks and Recreation

Briarcliff Manor is an idyllic village with much to offer its community. With its mix of charming shops, great restaurants and plenty of bucolic outdoor spaces, there are so many things to explore throughout the village. And spring is the perfect time to take in some special events, hike or bike on a trail, or just bask in a sunshine-filled park and relax for a bit. 

Nestled along the scenic Hudson River and at just under six square miles of land, Briarcliff Manor is a wonderful place to raise a family or just visit for the day. The 2020 census put its population at 7,569 and it is situated within the Town of Ossining and the Town of Mount Pleasant. Briarcliff Manor was incorporated as a village in 1902 and it maintains over 172 acres of active and passive parkland.

Easter Egg Hunt Photo by Police Officer Gregory Campus for the Briarcliff Manor Police Department

Discover ‘Famed’ Tree Streets

Some neighborhoods of note in Briarcliff Manor include Scarborough, Chilmark and the famed “tree streets” such as Elm Road, Oak Road and Satinwood Lane–which is an ideal neighborhood for families to trick-or-treat on Halloween. Briarcliff Manor’s Crossroads neighborhood is a development of streets named after local World War II veterans including Schrade Road and Dunn Lane. 

This Spring, come see what Briarcliff Manor has to offer! Whether you’re a longtime resident, new to the neighborhood or just visiting, there are many things to explore within the village. 

Get Up To Speed On Real Estate Trends

The Briarcliff Manor Chamber of Commerce is planning a real estate event tentatively scheduled for late February at The Briarcliff Manor. Board member Hillary Landau will be moderating a panel of local realtors about trends in the general Westchester area as well as what makes Briarcliff Manor stand out. It will cover what realtors think buyers would like to see in a local community as well as what businesses they’d like to have in their community. 

Spring Cleaning Opp

Now is the perfect time to gather up all that unwanted paper and take it to be shredded. The Westchester County Mobile Shredder will be at 10 Buckout Road on Saturday, March 12 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Your space and your mind will feel a lot lighter. 

Make Your Voice Count

Make sure your voice is heard – don’t forget to come out and vote at the Annual Village Election. It takes place on Monday, March 14 from 6 a.m.-9 p.m.at the William J. Vescio Community Center at 1 Library Road.

Briarcliff Manor Public Library Photo courtesy of Briarcliff Manor Library

April 9th Egg Hunt 

Gather the kids and and come down to Law Memorial Park for the annual Spring Egg Hunt (weather permitting). This event is always a lot of fun and in addition to the hunt there will be jelly bean and chocolate egg guessing contests, a children’s entertainer and even a visit from the village’s mascot Briar Bear–who comes out of hibernation especially for this event. 

Summer Concerts Kickoff In May

Briarcliff Manor is a wonderful place to listen to live music. In late May, the Recreation Advisory Committee will sponsor a concert at Law Memorial Park to kickoff the “unofficial” start of the summer season. Further down the road, the Chamber of Commerce will partner with the village on its popular Summer Concert Series scheduled for Thursdays in July at Law Memorial Park.

In Addition…

• Dreaming of those summer days? Memorial Day weekend marks the opening of the Village pool, currently scheduled for Sunday, May 29.

• Time to get out and move! Want to find the best trails for just that? Download the Hiking Project App which features many of Briarcliff Manor’s and other local trails including the Kate Kennard Trail, Pocantico Lake Trail and the Richard Wishing Park Walking Path. Briarcliff Manor has so many park spaces for a wide variety of activities including basketball, playgrounds, baseball and soccer fields, fishing and so much more. One of the village’s newest additions are the Pickleball Courts at Chilmark Park.

• Also in early May, the outdoor clay tennis court season opens–there are three clay courts at Law Memorial Park in addition to a year-round all-weather court.

The Village has a ton of great shops for whatever’s on your wish list. In May, the Chamber will present the Spring Sidewall Stroll, a tag sale along Pleasantville Road incorporating as many businesses as possible. Businesses not located along the road will have tables set up to converse with the community. Also planned for the event are live bands and food trucks. 

Jim Domzalski, the Chamber’s President, speaks of the closeness of the community as a whole, as well as the importance of these community events. “There’s something about walking down that main street that is so charming and familiar. What makes us unique is that small town feel. It’s such a wonderful and friendly place. We all want to be able to get together and do it safely.”

So why not take a stroll through town, grab a coffee and treat and head to Law Memorial Park to sit and relax with a good book. Did I mention the Briarcliff Manor Public Library is located right there?

Join A Book Club

The library features many programs for its patrons–including a variety of book clubs on offer, which are currently being held over Zoom. There’s also an online class on Ancient Egypt for seniors being offered through Westchester Community College taking place late February through early March.

The ‘Human Library’

On April 30, the library will host the ‘Human Library.’ This is a learning platform that uses library terminology to match “books,” or those who have experienced prejudice, with “readers,” those who want to learn more. Each reader “checks out” a book for a 30-minute conversation and the idea is to help “un-judge” people. 

Human Library is a Copenhagen-based organization that hosts programs on a global level and has received local support here through the Library Board, the Friends, staff and patrons. 

The library’s Director Donna Pesce says, “This library is a place that brings the residents such joy. They love to visit, to browse and discover an interesting book or to sit in a comfortable chair to read. But it is the warm and personal environment that our patrons most appreciate.”

Get To Know The History Keepers

Keeping the history of the area alive and well for residents and visitors alike, the Briarcliff Manor-Scarborough Historical Society is anticipating a spring reopening of their space on the lower level of the library. Unfortunately, their space was damaged by Hurricane Ida in September 2021. Karen Smith, the Society’s Executive Director says, “Our center is a project-in-motion.” She hopes people can resume visits in the spring and says, “We’ll be ready to welcome all visitors and ready to answer all questions about Briarcliff Manor history.”

As Josh Ringel, the Village Manager puts it, “Briarcliff offers a rustic residential environment, with top quality schools, ample parks and trails, and convenient access to NYC via the Scarborough Train Station.” It’s truly a fantastic place to live or visit and has so much to offer both residents and visitors alike. Come out this spring and discover what Briarcliff Manor has in store for you.

Dates may be subject to change – please check briarcliffmanor.org, briarcliffmanorchamber.com and briarcliffmanorlibrary.org for the most up-to-date information.

Briarcliff Pool shot circa 1927 … the current pool is in the same exact footprint, and the pavilion is now located directly behind where the kids are standing on the end wall. The original pool shared a common wall with the pond on the right, which has now been reconfigured and pushed further south, away from the pool, to create a grass lounging area. Photos courtesy of Briarcliff Manor Parks and Recreation

Filed Under: Cover Stories, Pleasantville Cover Stories Tagged With: Book Clubs, Briarcliff Manor, Briarcliff Manor Parks and Recreation, Briarcliff Manor Public Library, Spring, The Human Library, To Do, Village Pool

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