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Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

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

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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.

Ten Reasons Why I’m Grateful To Call Armonk Home

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When I was asked to write a piece about the things I love most about Armonk, I immediately said “yes.” I have lived in this town for 21 years so I feel like I know it pretty well. So, without further ado, here’s my top ten list:

1: The Restaurants

Armonk has become known for its fabulous restaurants. We have so many new and old places, with a wide variety of cuisines from which to choose. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite for breakfast or lunch, or a more elegant dining experience where you can celebrate a special occasion, there are plenty of options.

2: The Shops

You never have to leave Armonk (unless you want to) because we pretty much have everything you could need right here. A new outfit? A haircut? An amazing cup of coffee? A picture or diploma framed? Whatever you desire, I guarantee you can find it in Armonk. And if you check out the Best of Westchester list, you might find several of your Armonk favorites on that list.

3: The Location, Location, Location

Going into Manhattan for work or for fun is pretty easy, whether you want to drive or take the train; it takes under an hour to get there. If you prefer a day in the country, we are not too far from apple-picking, antique shopping and farms. And in the winter, we are near some pretty decent skiing. Here in Armonk, we get the best of all worlds.

4: The Special Events

People come from far and wide for the annual Armonk Outdoor Art Show, the Fol de Rol, and, most recently, The Frosty Parade, which has gotten bigger and better every year since it first began in 2009. All three events are worth the trip to town and I plan on attending all of them again this year.

5: The People

I have got to say that we have some of the nicest and most compassionate people living here. Whether it’s donating money to a cause or hands-on helping, Armonkians step up. We take care of our own, as well as others.

6: The Schools

The Byram Hills School district consistently ranks highly among Westchester and New York State schools. The administrators and teachers really care about the students and do their best day in and day out. From Coman Hill to the High School, our kids receive a first-rate education. Our district’s reputation is one of the reasons people choose to live here and why home values remain high.

7: The Parks/Wampus Pond

I no longer have little kids. However, when I did, we hung out at the local parks. Lombardi and IBM have lovely playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball hoops, soccer fields, etc. And if boating is your mojo, we have beautiful Byram Lake and Wampus Pond. Every time I pass Wampus Pond I look for the two magnificent swans who have made it their home. And even though its only fall, I’m already wondering if Wampus Pond will freeze over this year—I love to walk on the ice and watch people ice fish and ice skate.

8: The History

Armonk has been around a long time. Mile Square in the center of town (officially, the Bedford Road Historic District) is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and British Major André, Benedict Arnold’s co-conspirator was held at Sands Mill in town prior to his trial. One of my favorite class trips that I chaperoned was to Smith Tavern Complex, which was built around 1779. In addition to the tavern, the complex also has a one-room schoolhouse. Having been obsessed with the “Little House on the Prairie” books when I was a kid, I loved going there and imagining what life was like hundreds of years ago. If you haven’t ever been there, you might want to check it out.

9: The Small-Town Feel

I love a place with a small town feel and we certainly have got that. People know each other by name and by sight. A few times I left my wallet home by accident and was pleasantly surprised to find that the shop owners trusted that I would come back and pay them (which I did). Store owners are happy to go above and beyond for their customers. And while we may not exactly be Mayberry, Armonk has a hometown feel. We’ve even got a gazebo and a Main Street!

10: The Access to Fitness/Wellness

Look around in the spring, summer or fall and you’ll see all the cyclists who are a testament to what a great area this is for biking. And in the winter, we have lots of indoor options for staying fit. Yoga, tennis, a gym, etc. are only a few of the places Armonk residents go to stay in shape. And if you prefer to be a little more sedentary, we do have a really nice library!

As you can see, there’s really quite a lot to love about this town we call home and I feel quite fortunate and proud to live here. 

North Castle Library Receives State Grant

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The North Castle Public Library has been awarded a $135,000 grant for building improvements to its main branch in Armonk. The grant, part of $24 million in capital funds set aside for public library construction and other infrastructure projects in the 2017–2018 state budget, was announced in August by State Assemblyman David Buchwald (D-Westchester) and State Senator Shelley Mayer (D-Westchester).

The North Castle Library “has put forward innovative plans for improving the infrastructure of their library building,” said Assemblyman Buchwald. “It has been very proactive in making sure they are a 21st century institution.” Buchwald noted that while many libraries apply for grants, the process is very competitive, and not all libraries that apply receive funding. The North Castle library, he said, has successfully positioned itself as an innovator in library spaces and programs.

Additionally, the grants require matching funds from local supporters. “New York State has an interest in supporting libraries where the local community has been part of supporting its library as well; this ensures both state and local dollars go further,” he said.

The grants allow libraries to “expand the critical services they provide for the community,” said State Senator Mayer. “They are centerpieces of our communities in Westchester and throughout the state providing programming for children, seniors, and families.»

(L-R): Sean Ryan, Assemblyman David Buchwald and Marilyn Heimerdinger at the opening of the Friends Gallery at the North Castle Public Library.
PHOTO COURTESY OF OFFICE OF
ASSEMBLYMAN DAVID BUCHWALD

Sean Ryan, president of the North Castle Public Library Board, said the funds have been put toward an improvement initiative that was established in 2013 and implemented in 2014. At that time, the library trustees assessed the needs of the community, and put together a wish list of improvement projects totaling more than $1.5 million. This is the fifth grant the library has received from the state, and according to Ryan, the library’s current ‘to do’ list has projects extending into 2020 for both its main Armonk branch and satellite North White Plains branch.

Ryan noted that infrastructure improvements were critical for libraries to maintain the type of programming that is relevant in today’s fast-paced world of new media.

“Libraries are reinventing themselves,” he said. “Just ten years ago they were books on shelves. Now, they are social centers for educational and cultural activities.”

“The North Castle Public Library is thrilled to receive this library construction grant which enables us to renovate spaces dedicated to support our library’s programs for children, young adults and adults,” he added. This support “allows libraries to transform to meet current and future needs of our patrons.”

The North Castle Public Library has seen a dramatic increase in attendance since the improvement projects began. Last year, more than 163,000 people visited the library, and more than 35,000 attended its programs, which is twice as many as attendees recorded in 2012. The library currently runs more than 2,000 programs a year, and ranks third in the county for program participants.

The most recent grant has already been put to good use. A Friends’ Gallery, which will be used for adult programming and as a gallery space, has already been completed. In June, the room was dedicated to the Friends of the North Castle Public Library in appreciation for their contributions to the library. The gallery’s first exhibit featured a historical retrospective of the group, who in 1961 established the Armonk Outdoor Art Show as a way to raise funds for the library. The exhibit chronicled how the show, originally held in a small churchyard, grew to more than 185 artists from around the world. Other gallery shows will feature the artists Natalya Aikens and Doris Mady, woven and pottery art, and local photographers.

The grant also covers the creation of a New Young Adult room that will provide more space for teens to use the library facilities, and a new café offering drinks, light snacks, and a relaxing environment for everyone in the community. The final project covered by this grant is the expansion of the children’s room, where 600 square feet of dedicated program space will be added.

“These grants support library programs that equip children and young adults with lifelong learning and literacy skills,” said Assemblyman Buchwald. “I’m pleased our libraries continue to develop new facilities and programs that enrich our communities.”

For more information on upcoming programs and exhibits, visit www.northcastlelibrary.org.

Celebrating Spring in the Castles

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Call me a curmudgeon but I was deeply disappointed when the groundhog said we wouldn’t have an early spring this year. I know I’m supposed to relish these last few weeks of winter but frankly I don’t. We aren’t a skiing or snowboarding family so the thought of more snow, icy roads and school closures is enough to drive me batty and have me counting the days until the official start of spring.

But there are subtle signs of spring all around us. I start to notice more joggers out on Quaker Road without hats and gloves, the streams bubbling with running water instead of frozen ice. As I pass the duck pond, I see that it is slowly starting to melt and is that a crocus growing in my front yard?

One of my favorite parts of being an editor of this magazine is meeting residents and hearing their stories. The idea of doing an article on some of the expats that live in this community had been germinating in my mind for quite some time. As a former expat living in London, I was highly attuned to accents that I would hear in the library or at a local coffee shop. I wanted to highlight what an enriching experience it can be living in the Castles and from what I learned these expats are fully acclimated to the community and you just might bump into them on the soccer field or in your local park this spring. Be sure to give them a warm welcome!

With spring’s arrival, maybe it’s time to step out of your comfort zone and try your hand at surviving in the wilderness. A great course offered by New Castle Recreation and Parks can teach you how to build a fire, create a temporary dwelling or compass reading. If that doesn’t suit you, catch up with a friend on a walk around town or on the North County Trailway and soak in some early spring sun. Be sure to stop for a delicious (perhaps iced?) coffee afterwards. Check out Amy Kelly’s story for some local suggestions.

As soon as April showers begin, I’ve got one thing on my mind: CAMP! Preparing for my older two to attend sleep-away for the first time and trying to figure out what to do with my youngest. Luckily Shauna Levy’s article offers some tips as you plan for summer.

So how do you plan on celebrating spring in New Castle? Write to me at stacey@insidepress.com and your idea just might turn into an article for a future edition. I love hearing from readers who have story suggestions.

Enjoy,

It’s All Happening at the North Castle Public Library

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nc library

By Deborah Raider Notis

The North Castle Public Library is much more than a place to borrow books. It is a hub of exciting, innovative programming. It is a community center filled with opportunity to grow, flourish, meet new people, and to feel an even greater connection to this community.

“We aim to offer totally comprehensive programming with the whole interests in mind,” notes North Castle Public Library Director Edie Martimucci. Martimucci, who has worked in the library system for more than 18 years, has been director of the North Castle Public Library since April 2016. She helps to bring the highest quality of free programming to both the Armonk and North White Plains branches of the library.

The creative, intellectual, and community-enhancing programming at The North Castle Public Library has one other added benefit. Nearly all of these programs are free to the public. For the past 70 years, the funding for many of these free programs can be attributed to the Friends of the North Castle Library. The Friends of the North Castle Library funds special programming that makes the library a greater draw for residents of both North Castle and the greater Westchester area.

They are responsible for the Sunday Music Concert Series, teen programs including a songwriting program, family programs like Family Chess, and various health and wellness programs. The Friends of the North Castle Library also sponsors bi-annual productions of The Armonk Players, a community theater group. Additionally, the Friends of the North Castle Library provided funding for the original library building, Whippoorwill Hall, and various other building renovations. The Friends of the North Castle Library’s annual Art Show, one of the most prestigious art shows in the United States and their largest fundraiser, helps to support many of these programs.

Over the past year, attendance at library programs went up astronomically, but Martimucci is hoping to spur even greater community participation in library events going forward. She has helped to bring diverse programs into the library, including weekly Tai Chi, art history, and Italian language and culture programs, all of which are exceptionally well-attended. This year, the North Castle Public Library also added weekly Bridge lessons.

North Castle Public Library Director Edie Martimucci
North Castle Public Library Director Edie Martimucci

For the younger set, the North Castle Public Library offers everything from yoga for mothers with children ages one to four to sewing to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) programs. According to Megan Dean, Director of Youth Services for the North Castle Public Library, “We are looking at the future of libraries. Thus far libraries have been all about circulating books.

Now we are looking at different programming and circulating other materials that allow for exploration and trial and error. We want to find new things and ways that the library can contribute to the community.” To that end, the library has added maker programs, science labs, Photoshop and print-making programs for middle schoolers, and 3-D printing workshops for middle and high school students. These programs meet once a week and typically have between 10 and 20 participants.

Dean has also started a program through which maker kits are circulated for two weeks to library members. With so many options, Dean hopes to encourage more members of North Castle’s younger community to become active at the library.

Knowledgeable instructors, including Pace University professor Val Franco and Alka Kaminer, who runs a weekly Chair Yoga class, give these programs even greater appeal.

“We have quite a few independent teachers who love to teach and enjoy our library community,” states Martimucci. Unique programming, like cooking classes sponsored by the White Plains Hospital in conjunction with the library and the Sunday Music Concert Series, has been a significant draw, and both the “A Taste of Sinatra” and “Love Songs of World War II” concerts packed the house with approximately 175 attendees each.

Martimucci has great aspirations for the library for the coming year. She hopes to build the library’s academic reputation, making it an educational hub for the North Castle community. Adding four-week continuing education classes, on any topic from history to science, is a high priority for Martimucci.

“The library should open up endless possibilities. I want to help to incite people’s desire to learn.”

She would also like to implement an annual community spelling bee. Structurally, she wants to reconfigure the rooms throughout the Armonk branch to allow for programming. “If we create more dedicated spaces, programming won’t interfere with studying,” notes Martimucci. She hopes that this will encourage even greater participation in programming.

But most importantly, Martimucci wants input from the community. She encourages people to provide the powers that be at the library with their ideas and feedback.

Go onto the library’s website and submit suggestions to the virtual suggestion box. And show up. The North Castle Public Library is a phenomenal resource that is open to the whole community.

Whether you’re interested in nutrition, cooking, physical well-being, music, academics, science, youth programming, or the arts, the North Castle Public Library has something for you.

Deborah Raider Notis lives in Westchester with her husband, four boys, and her dog. She is the co-owner of gamechangernow, LLC (gamechangernow.com), a free referral service connecting Westchester families to instructors. You can find Deborah’s writing for the Inside Press and on suburbanmisfitmom.com.