Click on the images to register!
"Toni Morrison: Pieces I Am" Film w/ RiverTown Film
Wednesday, December 11, 2019, 8 PM at the Nyack Center
Rivertown Film cordially invites you to join us in remembering Toni Morrison (1931-2019), pre-eminent novelist, winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature, recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and a longtime local resident. Made before she died, the film includes extensive interviews with her. As Toni Morrison did in her writing, the film leads viewers through an exploration of race, America, history, and what it means to be human.
After the film, Bill Batson will moderate a discussion with Dr. Craig Stutman, Joshua Leach, and Dr. Tracyann Williams, Chair and members (respectively) of the Toni Morrison Societys Bench by the Road Project.
Community Partners include the Nyack Library, Nyack NAACP, Nyack Center, and Nyack Sketch Log. Members of the NAACP will receive the Rivertown Film member discount on tickets.
"A valuable and fascinating and insightful and soaring and inspirational record of the life and times and work of an American treasure. " - Richard Roeper, Chicago Sun-Times
Wednesday, December 11, 2019, 8 PM at the Nyack Center
Rivertown Film cordially invites you to join us in remembering Toni Morrison (1931-2019), pre-eminent novelist, winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature, recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and a longtime local resident. Made before she died, the film includes extensive interviews with her. As Toni Morrison did in her writing, the film leads viewers through an exploration of race, America, history, and what it means to be human.
After the film, Bill Batson will moderate a discussion with Dr. Craig Stutman, Joshua Leach, and Dr. Tracyann Williams, Chair and members (respectively) of the Toni Morrison Societys Bench by the Road Project.
Community Partners include the Nyack Library, Nyack NAACP, Nyack Center, and Nyack Sketch Log. Members of the NAACP will receive the Rivertown Film member discount on tickets.
"A valuable and fascinating and insightful and soaring and inspirational record of the life and times and work of an American treasure. " - Richard Roeper, Chicago Sun-Times
African American Memorabilia as Cultural Symbols
Thursday, January 30, 2020, 7 PM
In the late 1800s and well into the 1900s, racist images were common on everyday items such as toys, salt-and-pepper shakers, advertisements, and household figurines. Join Dr. Lori L. Martin, Professor of African & African American Studies at Louisiana State University and Dr. Tracyann Williams, Director of Academic Affairs in the Bachelor's Program for Adults and Transfer Students at The New School for a panel discussion on the role of these symbols in American History.
Moderated by Bill Batson, Nyack Sketch Log
Thursday, January 30, 2020, 7 PM
In the late 1800s and well into the 1900s, racist images were common on everyday items such as toys, salt-and-pepper shakers, advertisements, and household figurines. Join Dr. Lori L. Martin, Professor of African & African American Studies at Louisiana State University and Dr. Tracyann Williams, Director of Academic Affairs in the Bachelor's Program for Adults and Transfer Students at The New School for a panel discussion on the role of these symbols in American History.
Moderated by Bill Batson, Nyack Sketch Log
Rivertown Film "Amazing Grace" Aretha Franklin Film
Thursday, February 12, 2020, 8 PM
A 1972 concert at the New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Watts, where Aretha Franklin recorded what many consider the best album of her career. Featuring Franklin at her mightiest and backed by an inspired and inspiring choir, Amazing Grace is her best-selling album and the best-selling live Gospel album of all time. Reviewing the record, Rolling Stone said, “The liberation and abandon she has always implied in her greatest moments are now fully and consistently achieved." The film is as astounding as the music. For more information visit: https://rivertownfilm.org/?post_type=films&p=10887
A limited amount of complementary tickets are available. Please contact info@nyacklibrary.org or ext. 214 for more information.
Thursday, February 12, 2020, 8 PM
A 1972 concert at the New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Watts, where Aretha Franklin recorded what many consider the best album of her career. Featuring Franklin at her mightiest and backed by an inspired and inspiring choir, Amazing Grace is her best-selling album and the best-selling live Gospel album of all time. Reviewing the record, Rolling Stone said, “The liberation and abandon she has always implied in her greatest moments are now fully and consistently achieved." The film is as astounding as the music. For more information visit: https://rivertownfilm.org/?post_type=films&p=10887
A limited amount of complementary tickets are available. Please contact info@nyacklibrary.org or ext. 214 for more information.
Memories of Toni Morrison
Tuesday, February 18, 2020, 4 PM
The Nyack Library and the Historical Society of the Nyacks will celebrate Nyack Library district resident and Nobel Laureate, Toni Morrison, by collecting oral histories from local residents.
To share your story, you must register for a 20 minute slot by calling 845.358.3370 x214.
Access Oral Histories
Toni Morrison Legacy: Affirmations Journal
Tuesday, February 18, 2020, 4:30 PM
Using recycled materials and inspired by Toni Morrison’s work, we will work on a personal affirmation journal where you can write your thoughts based on the daily affirmation.
Tuesday, February 18, 2020, 4 PM
The Nyack Library and the Historical Society of the Nyacks will celebrate Nyack Library district resident and Nobel Laureate, Toni Morrison, by collecting oral histories from local residents.
To share your story, you must register for a 20 minute slot by calling 845.358.3370 x214.
Access Oral Histories
Toni Morrison Legacy: Affirmations Journal
Tuesday, February 18, 2020, 4:30 PM
Using recycled materials and inspired by Toni Morrison’s work, we will work on a personal affirmation journal where you can write your thoughts based on the daily affirmation.
We Love Toni Morrison Story time and Craft
Thursday, February 20, 2020, 4 PM
For children in grades K-3
We will honor this beautiful and brilliant author by reading several of her picture books for children and making a special craft to commemorate her uplifting and inspiring words. Space is limited. Please register.
Thursday, February 20, 2020, 4 PM
For children in grades K-3
We will honor this beautiful and brilliant author by reading several of her picture books for children and making a special craft to commemorate her uplifting and inspiring words. Space is limited. Please register.
Khalid Kodi - An Artist's Presentation
Saturday, February 29, 2020, 2 PM
Join art exhibitor, Khalid Kodi for a presentation and discussion of his art that is on exhibit at the Nyack Library as part of the Black American Culture and Art Series: The Toni Morrison Legacy.
Saturday, February 29, 2020, 2 PM
Join art exhibitor, Khalid Kodi for a presentation and discussion of his art that is on exhibit at the Nyack Library as part of the Black American Culture and Art Series: The Toni Morrison Legacy.
Through a Lens Darkly: Black Photographers and the Emergence of People Film w/ Bill Batson, Nyack Sketch Log
Zoom, May 7, 2020 7 PM
Event recording: https://youtu.be/P9mKEMhWHJc
Community Partner: Rivertown Film
View the film here: https://nyacklibrary.kanopy.com/video/through-lens-darkly prior to the discussion.
If you have any questions about using Kanopy email info@nyacklibrary.org or call 845. 358. 3370 x 214.
Once you are registered, you will receive a confirmation e-mail with the Zoom link to participate!
A film that explores how African American communities have used the camera as a tool for social change from the invention of photography to the present.
Zoom, May 7, 2020 7 PM
Event recording: https://youtu.be/P9mKEMhWHJc
Community Partner: Rivertown Film
View the film here: https://nyacklibrary.kanopy.com/video/through-lens-darkly prior to the discussion.
If you have any questions about using Kanopy email info@nyacklibrary.org or call 845. 358. 3370 x 214.
Once you are registered, you will receive a confirmation e-mail with the Zoom link to participate!
A film that explores how African American communities have used the camera as a tool for social change from the invention of photography to the present.
Through a Lens Darkly: Black Photographers and the Emergence of People Film w/ Bill Batson, Nyack Sketch Log
Zoom, June 19, 2020 12 PM
Event recording: https://youtu.be/m2yR8OTw5lw
Community Partner: Rivertown Film
View the film here: https://nyacklibrary.kanopy.com/video/through-lens-darkly prior to the discussion.
If you have any questions about using Kanopy email info@nyacklibrary.org or call 845. 358. 3370 x 214.
Once you are registered, you will receive a confirmation e-mail with the Zoom link to participate!
A film that explores how African American communities have used the camera as a tool for social change from the invention of photography to the present.
Zoom, June 19, 2020 12 PM
Event recording: https://youtu.be/m2yR8OTw5lw
Community Partner: Rivertown Film
View the film here: https://nyacklibrary.kanopy.com/video/through-lens-darkly prior to the discussion.
If you have any questions about using Kanopy email info@nyacklibrary.org or call 845. 358. 3370 x 214.
Once you are registered, you will receive a confirmation e-mail with the Zoom link to participate!
A film that explores how African American communities have used the camera as a tool for social change from the invention of photography to the present.
Virtual book Discussion of The New Jim Crow
Zoom, July 14, 2020 7 PM
The Valley Cottage Library's Book and Pub Club and The Nyack Library are joining forces for a discussion on anti-racism and mass incarceration.
As the United States celebrates the nation's "triumph over race" with the election of Barack Obama, the majority of young black men in major American cities are locked behind bars or have been labeled felons for life. Although Jim Crow laws have been wiped off the books, an astounding percentage of the African American community remains trapped in a subordinate status--much like their grandparents before them.
In this incisive critique, former litigator-turned-legal-scholar Michelle Alexander provocatively argues that we have not ended racial caste in America: we have simply redesigned it. Alexander shows that, by targeting black men and decimating communities of color, the U.S. criminal justice system functions as a contemporary system of racial control, even as it formally adheres to the principle of color blindness. The New Jim Crow challenges the civil rights community--and all of us--to place mass incarceration at the forefront of a new movement for racial justice in America.
Hold-free copies of the e-book are available here: https://www.hoopladigital.com/title/12676199
Hold-free copies f the audiobook are available here: https://rcls.overdrive.com/rcls-12-19/content/media/2398150?cid=1093628
To receive the Zoom link for the discussion please register here: : http://nyacklibrary.evanced.info/signup/EventDetails?EventId=30006&backTo=Calendar&startDate=2020/07/01
Zoom, July 14, 2020 7 PM
The Valley Cottage Library's Book and Pub Club and The Nyack Library are joining forces for a discussion on anti-racism and mass incarceration.
As the United States celebrates the nation's "triumph over race" with the election of Barack Obama, the majority of young black men in major American cities are locked behind bars or have been labeled felons for life. Although Jim Crow laws have been wiped off the books, an astounding percentage of the African American community remains trapped in a subordinate status--much like their grandparents before them.
In this incisive critique, former litigator-turned-legal-scholar Michelle Alexander provocatively argues that we have not ended racial caste in America: we have simply redesigned it. Alexander shows that, by targeting black men and decimating communities of color, the U.S. criminal justice system functions as a contemporary system of racial control, even as it formally adheres to the principle of color blindness. The New Jim Crow challenges the civil rights community--and all of us--to place mass incarceration at the forefront of a new movement for racial justice in America.
Hold-free copies of the e-book are available here: https://www.hoopladigital.com/title/12676199
Hold-free copies f the audiobook are available here: https://rcls.overdrive.com/rcls-12-19/content/media/2398150?cid=1093628
To receive the Zoom link for the discussion please register here: : http://nyacklibrary.evanced.info/signup/EventDetails?EventId=30006&backTo=Calendar&startDate=2020/07/01
Virtual Toni Morrison Readout with River River Writers' Circle
Zoom, Wednesday, August 5, 2020 7 PM
On the one year anniversary of Toni Morrison’s death, the public is urged to bring one of her books or essays. Let us virtually join together to celebrate Dr. Morrison's words and legacy.
Zoom, Wednesday, August 5, 2020 7 PM
On the one year anniversary of Toni Morrison’s death, the public is urged to bring one of her books or essays. Let us virtually join together to celebrate Dr. Morrison's words and legacy.
Virtual Beloved Film and Book Discussion
Zoom, Wednesday, August 12, 2020 7 PM
Event Recording: https://youtu.be/-tWOChzAST4
Beloved initially was published on August 12, 1987. On its 33rd anniversary, Dr. Lori Martin, author of Ex-Slave’s Fortune, will lead a virtual viewing and discussion of both the film and book versions of Dr. Morrison’s work. Virtual discussion at 7pm.
Copies of the book: https://rcls.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/nyack/search/results?qu=BELOVED&te=&lm=NYKVCL
https://rcls.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/nyack/search/results?qu=BELOVED&te=&lm=NYKVCL
Copies of the dvd: https://rcls.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/nyack/search/results?qu=BELOVED&te=&lm=NYKVCL
Copies of the ebook: https://rcls.overdrive.com/media/148288
Copies of the audiobook: https://rcls.overdrive.com/media/109825
Zoom, Wednesday, August 12, 2020 7 PM
Event Recording: https://youtu.be/-tWOChzAST4
Beloved initially was published on August 12, 1987. On its 33rd anniversary, Dr. Lori Martin, author of Ex-Slave’s Fortune, will lead a virtual viewing and discussion of both the film and book versions of Dr. Morrison’s work. Virtual discussion at 7pm.
Copies of the book: https://rcls.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/nyack/search/results?qu=BELOVED&te=&lm=NYKVCL
https://rcls.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/nyack/search/results?qu=BELOVED&te=&lm=NYKVCL
Copies of the dvd: https://rcls.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/nyack/search/results?qu=BELOVED&te=&lm=NYKVCL
Copies of the ebook: https://rcls.overdrive.com/media/148288
Copies of the audiobook: https://rcls.overdrive.com/media/109825
Book Talk with Local Author, Brenda Ross
Zoom, Saturday, September 5, 2020, 2 PM
rescheduled from June 25th
Event Recording: https://youtu.be/vhVeXxuyLLY
Brenda has honed her craft through years of writing workshops, a BA degree in creative writing from SUNY Empire State College, and finally, completing Bibsy in the novel-writing course at Sarah Lawrence College. The idea for Bibsy began decades ago with its first chapter entering onto the page at a writers’ retreat at Skidmore College, August 1980. She currently resides in Rockland County, New York, and works part time as an editorial assistant for a daily newspaper in Westchester County. Bibsy is her first work of fiction.
Zoom, Saturday, September 5, 2020, 2 PM
rescheduled from June 25th
Event Recording: https://youtu.be/vhVeXxuyLLY
Brenda has honed her craft through years of writing workshops, a BA degree in creative writing from SUNY Empire State College, and finally, completing Bibsy in the novel-writing course at Sarah Lawrence College. The idea for Bibsy began decades ago with its first chapter entering onto the page at a writers’ retreat at Skidmore College, August 1980. She currently resides in Rockland County, New York, and works part time as an editorial assistant for a daily newspaper in Westchester County. Bibsy is her first work of fiction.
Modern (Or Mixed-Race) Women: 'Playing in the Dark'
Zoom, Tuesday, September 8, 2020, 7 PM
Event Recording: https://youtu.be/7SvdiY7tEsM
Copies of the book (not required but if interested): https://rcls.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/nyack/search/results?qu=playing+in+the+dark&te=&lm=NYKVCL
Join us for a discussion on mixed-race female characters in relation to Morrison's nonfiction text Playing in the Dark with Dr. Tracyann Williams.
Tracyann Williams was recently named Assistant Dean at Fordham University. For 21 years prior, she worked as a senior administrator and faculty at The New School. She has also taught Composition and Literature at LaGuardia College/ City University of New York. Her current research focuses on mixed race women in modern fictions, a topic that has influenced the courses she offers in literature, gender studies, and African American studies, including a popular seminar course on Toni Morrison's work. Dr. Williams earned her Ph.D. and M. Phil. in English from The Graduate Center/City University of New York. She also holds a Certificate in Women’s Studies. She has received numerous awards and recognition for her research and teaching, including a Helena Rubinstein Foundation fellowship and the Distinguished University Teaching Award from The New School in 2004. Dr. Williams is a life member of the Toni Morrison Society and serves on the selection committee for the Society's Bench by the Road Project.
Zoom, Tuesday, September 8, 2020, 7 PM
Event Recording: https://youtu.be/7SvdiY7tEsM
Copies of the book (not required but if interested): https://rcls.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/nyack/search/results?qu=playing+in+the+dark&te=&lm=NYKVCL
Join us for a discussion on mixed-race female characters in relation to Morrison's nonfiction text Playing in the Dark with Dr. Tracyann Williams.
Tracyann Williams was recently named Assistant Dean at Fordham University. For 21 years prior, she worked as a senior administrator and faculty at The New School. She has also taught Composition and Literature at LaGuardia College/ City University of New York. Her current research focuses on mixed race women in modern fictions, a topic that has influenced the courses she offers in literature, gender studies, and African American studies, including a popular seminar course on Toni Morrison's work. Dr. Williams earned her Ph.D. and M. Phil. in English from The Graduate Center/City University of New York. She also holds a Certificate in Women’s Studies. She has received numerous awards and recognition for her research and teaching, including a Helena Rubinstein Foundation fellowship and the Distinguished University Teaching Award from The New School in 2004. Dr. Williams is a life member of the Toni Morrison Society and serves on the selection committee for the Society's Bench by the Road Project.
Understanding Racism with VCS
Zoom, Wednesday, September 23, 2020, 7 PM
Join Phyllis B. Frank, Social Justice Organizer, VCS Inc, as she leads a workshop entitled, Working Together for Racial Justice. Through presentation, video clips and discussion, this process encourages participants to analyze the structures of power and privilege that hinder social equity. Everyone welcome.
Zoom, Wednesday, September 23, 2020, 7 PM
Join Phyllis B. Frank, Social Justice Organizer, VCS Inc, as she leads a workshop entitled, Working Together for Racial Justice. Through presentation, video clips and discussion, this process encourages participants to analyze the structures of power and privilege that hinder social equity. Everyone welcome.
Banned Books Week - Video Challenge
September 27 - October 3, 2020
"Words are, in my not so humble opinion, our most inexhaustible source of magic, capable of both inflicting injury and remedying it." - Harry Potter
Join our video project! The Nyack Library recognizes that the conversation about racism is an important and necessary one to have. We believe that words are a great way to gain understanding. We ask anyone who wishes to participate to record a video of themselves reading a short passage from any book (or poem!) that you feel is empowering, educational, or a seminal work with the theme of combating racism to add to our "Combating Racism" page on our website.
September 27 - October 3, 2020
"Words are, in my not so humble opinion, our most inexhaustible source of magic, capable of both inflicting injury and remedying it." - Harry Potter
Join our video project! The Nyack Library recognizes that the conversation about racism is an important and necessary one to have. We believe that words are a great way to gain understanding. We ask anyone who wishes to participate to record a video of themselves reading a short passage from any book (or poem!) that you feel is empowering, educational, or a seminal work with the theme of combating racism to add to our "Combating Racism" page on our website.
Who Was Ella Fitzgerald?
Saturday, October 3, 2020, 2 PM
rescheduled from March 14th
Mies Hora, Publisher, Editor, & Designer of "ELLA: A Biography of the Legendary Ella Fitzgerald,"will reveal how a homeless African-American orphan became an international icon – now considered the finest female vocalist in history. With anecdotes, photos, video clips, and her sensational recordings. Discounted books/CDs will be available for purchase at the event.
Saturday, October 3, 2020, 2 PM
rescheduled from March 14th
Mies Hora, Publisher, Editor, & Designer of "ELLA: A Biography of the Legendary Ella Fitzgerald,"will reveal how a homeless African-American orphan became an international icon – now considered the finest female vocalist in history. With anecdotes, photos, video clips, and her sensational recordings. Discounted books/CDs will be available for purchase at the event.
Shirley Crabbe "Beloved Toni"
Saturday, October 24, 2020 2 PM
Q&A Event Recording: https://youtu.be/48cNeJqmuC0
Concert Event Recording: https://youtu.be/qqm8a50Q254
An afternoon of songs sung by Shirley Crabbe celebrating the life and literary works of the celebrated author Toni Morrison.
Native New Yorker and 2019 New York Bistro Award winner, Shirley Crabbe has been hailed as possessing a voice that “must surely appeal to all who love good jazz singing.” Her “almost Ella Fitzgerald–like vibe glows…” says Downbeat Magazine's John Ephland on her 2011 debut recording HOME featuring the legendary saxophonist Houston Person. Her 2018 Top 50 album BRIDGES (2018) has received rave reviews and spotlights her collaborations with renowned pianists Donald Vega, and David Budway. Shirley has been a guest on syndicated radio programs such as “Jazz Inspired” hosted by Judy Carmichael, and Steve Cuden's "StoryBeat" to name a few, and currently performs at jazz clubs, festivals and concert series in the US. She is the recipient of the 2009 Rockland County Executive Performing Artist Award, 2008 Stanton Bronze Medalist at the American Traditions Vocal Competition. In 2010, she was a top 5 finalist at Jazzmobile’s “Best of the Best” Jazz Vocalist Competition held in New York City. Shirley holds music degrees from Manhattan School of Music and Northwestern University.
Saturday, October 24, 2020 2 PM
Q&A Event Recording: https://youtu.be/48cNeJqmuC0
Concert Event Recording: https://youtu.be/qqm8a50Q254
An afternoon of songs sung by Shirley Crabbe celebrating the life and literary works of the celebrated author Toni Morrison.
Native New Yorker and 2019 New York Bistro Award winner, Shirley Crabbe has been hailed as possessing a voice that “must surely appeal to all who love good jazz singing.” Her “almost Ella Fitzgerald–like vibe glows…” says Downbeat Magazine's John Ephland on her 2011 debut recording HOME featuring the legendary saxophonist Houston Person. Her 2018 Top 50 album BRIDGES (2018) has received rave reviews and spotlights her collaborations with renowned pianists Donald Vega, and David Budway. Shirley has been a guest on syndicated radio programs such as “Jazz Inspired” hosted by Judy Carmichael, and Steve Cuden's "StoryBeat" to name a few, and currently performs at jazz clubs, festivals and concert series in the US. She is the recipient of the 2009 Rockland County Executive Performing Artist Award, 2008 Stanton Bronze Medalist at the American Traditions Vocal Competition. In 2010, she was a top 5 finalist at Jazzmobile’s “Best of the Best” Jazz Vocalist Competition held in New York City. Shirley holds music degrees from Manhattan School of Music and Northwestern University.
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National Novel Writing Month Write In In Honor of Toni Morrison
Week of November 9, 2020
National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) is a nonprofit event that encourages kids and adults to tackle the challenge of writing a novel in November.
Prompt: how would Toni Morrison view COVID-19 pandemic/quarantine?
Winner for "best" essay will be announced and given an $50 gift card to a local restaurant.
1st Place Winning Entry - John Quilty
2nd Place Winning Entry - Italia Young
National Novel Writing Month Write In In Honor of Toni Morrison
Week of November 9, 2020
National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) is a nonprofit event that encourages kids and adults to tackle the challenge of writing a novel in November.
Prompt: how would Toni Morrison view COVID-19 pandemic/quarantine?
Winner for "best" essay will be announced and given an $50 gift card to a local restaurant.
1st Place Winning Entry - John Quilty
2nd Place Winning Entry - Italia Young