Libraries Remain Cultural Gateway for Local Communities

by Ed Friedman

     “Libraries are really all about discovery and connection,” says Patricia Brigham, Director of Development at Westchester Library System.
     Beyond the expected books and computer terminals, visitors at many of Westchester’s thirty-eight public libraries can find a vast array of cultural programming.
     “For many Westchester residents, these cultural programs are a gateway to a life-long appreciation of the arts and learning,” adds Brigham.   
      Some of the most democratic of all our institutions, libraries charge no admission, are essentially barrier-free, age-neutral and welcoming to everyone in the community. They are generally known to all and considered a safe space.
     Yonkers Public Library Director Jesse Montero offered: “The library is the most accessible place for all people to practice and experience the arts, whether through books, exhibitions, virtual programs or in-person events.”
     With the outbreak of COVID-19, libraries had to quickly adjust to a new reality. Despite initially closing off their public spaces, library staffs created new pathways for community members to utilize their services, including arts programming. With more people experiencing the isolation of a restricted life, virtual activities took on even greater importance.
     Lisa Itzkowitz, Marketing and Communication Coordinator at New Rochelle Public Library explains: “It’s our goal to engage with as much of the community as possible. To that end, we believe that there will continue to be a place for hybrid and virtual programs. This provides access for community members who may not be able to get to the library.”
     White Plains Public Library Director Brian Kenney praised his staff for the speed at which they pivoted their programs and services to accommodate the virtual world. Kenney sees the crucial importance of active involvement in the arts: “Our commitment to art programming goes beyond painting and sculpture. Every summer, we feature a foreign film series in our auditorium, we have arts and craft programs for teens and adults, writing workshops, digital photography workshops for seniors, and so much more. Increasingly, White Plains residents are looking to the library as a place to not only see art, but to participate in its creation as well.”
     Many libraries discovered that, even aside from COVID-19-related restrictions, there has been a general appetite for virtual programming. As such, many libraries are already exploring the possibility of continuing their hybrid programs. Kenney feels it’s important to continue serving those who may not be able to physically get to the library but have embraced their offerings virtually.
     At the Ossining Public Library, Director Karen LaRocca-Fels sums up her library’s approach to the arts:  “Arts and artists are integral to the fabric of our society.  As a library, we feel that providing arts and cultural programming for all ages is a key part of our mission and our service to our community.”

A version of this article first appeared in the April 2022 issue of ArtsNews, ArtsWestchester’s monthly publication. ArtsNews is distributed throughout Westchester County. A digital copy is also available at artsw.org/artsnews.