Community

In The Libraries: October at George Bruce

October 05, 2020
The inside of a library, with circulation desks and patrons using computers visible.

The New York Public Library is a great resource to New Yorkers, with virtual events, book recommendations, and free online services. To heighten awareness of their fantastic offerings, Columbia Neighbors is partnering with the George Bruce Library on 125th Street to provide regular updates from the library staff.

For October, the librarians of George Bruce Library have provided an overview of current library services, information about virtual events celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, and their top book recommendations for New York City teens.

Available Library Services
  • Currently, the George Bruce library branch does only grab and go services, like the rest of the open New York Public Library branches. Patrons can return and borrow materials, but there is no programming in person at the branches, only virtual programs. Learn more about NYPL grab and go locations, services, and requirements.
  • NYPL still offers online and recorded free events for all ages, available on the library website.
  • Patrons can apply for a library card via the SimplyE app and get a digital library card number, but physical cards are not currently offered. Sign up for a library card using SimplyE.
  • For online homework help: try Brainfuse, which provides academic support to students from elementary through high school. Patrons can log in to Brainfuse from anywhere using their library card number.
  • Explore these community support resources to find tips for economic resources, health and wellness services, housing information, and more.

For additional assistance, please contact Ask NYPL (the Library’s virtual reference and support desk) by email, chat, text (917-983-4584), phone (917-ASK-NYPL), or TTY (212-930-0020).

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, we celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. Find blogs, book lists, and programs taking place from 9/15 to 10/15. 

Book Recommendations for Teens

NYPL created 125 Books We Love for Teens, a book list designed for New York City teens (including graphic novels, modern classics, fantasy and romance, filled with stories and characters that will be sure to make readers think, laugh, cry—and perhaps recognize a part of themselves. Below are some of the the top picks from George Bruce librarians:

  • The Dollmaker of Krakow by R.M. Romeo: The author creates a fusion of fairy tales, folklore, and history in which love thrives even in the midst of the darkest of times.
  • Almost Autumn by Marianne Kaurin: A historical fiction recreated in the secretive and uncertain atmosphere of Norway during the Second World War, with a touching tale of sorrow, chance, and first love.
  • With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo: A tale of perseverance told through the story of a talented girl who dreams of becoming a chef but ends up with tough decisions after getting pregnant in her freshman year.
  • They Wish They Were Us by Jessica Goodman: An intriguing murder mystery that takes place on Long Island.
  • This Is My America by Kim Johnson: This well-written and gripping debut novel explores racist injustices in the American justice system. A timely read.
  • Darius the Great Deserves Better by Adib Khorram: An interesting story with many twists and turns that will capture any young reader’s attention and remind everyone that things are not always as they seem.