Visit the nrpl.org calendar for details and dates of upcoming programs

International Music and Dance 

Vibrant performances by musicians and costumed dancers relating various cultural traditions are presented in a weekly series each summer, and in individual concerts throughout the year, as the library continually strives to showcase local and regional talent representative of the community’s great diversity. 

Exhibits

The Lumen Winter Gallery is located in the lobby of the Main Library. A variety of exhibits are presented throughout the year. Four of the annual exhibits are New Rochelle Art Association award shows.

Concerts and Performances

Throughout the year,  the library presents a number of live public performances in its Ossie Davis Theater, an intimate, 138-seat venue. Drawing from the outstanding artists living and working in the New York Metropolitan area and the local community of New Rochelle, these performances include concerts of classical, jazz, folk, popular, and world music, as well as dramatic and dance presentations. Most programs are made possible by the Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library. Donations of any amount are welcome and most appreciated.

Chair Yoga/Gentle Yoga

Guided by experienced yoga instructors, these mid-day (Chair Yoga) and evening (Gentle Yoga) sessions are designed to help relax and strengthen through traditional and adapted poses that are practiced either standing or seated in chairs – no mats needed. Capacity is limited. First come. First served.

Films 

Throughout the year, the library conducts a variety of film series, including those featuring international movies, African-American Films, and other thematic groupings of acclaimed new and classic Films. Discussions follow most films, which take place on the big screen of the Ossie Davis Theater.

Lectures and Author Visits 

Experts speak on a wide range of current topics and pressing issues, and local and nationally-renowned authors talk about their books, in programs offered throughout the year, providing information, motivation, and valuable resources.  

Book Discussions 

The Brown Bag Book Discussions group meets every other month at noon in the first floor conference room. The lively conversation about a novel, biography, or an occasional nonfiction title—each selected by the group, are led by trained librarians.

Computer Classes

Free computer classes assist those just learning computer skills, and those wishing to upgrade their skills. Librarians teach the one-session classes, and outside instructors guide participant through the multi-session courses. Click here to find out more information on the computer classes we offer.

Craft Workshops 

Join us each month for a new art workshop led by a talented Westchester artist. We also offer a drop in knitting workshops for knitters of all levels, from beginner to advanced.

Friends Book Sales

The Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library Book Store, located in the main Lobby, is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm (10:00 am – 1:30 pm on summer Saturdays.) Proceeds from the sale of books including the Friends’ popular and highly successful BIG BOOK sales and $1/Bag sales, fund the library’s extensive public programs. 

Fund Raising Events 

The New Rochelle Public Library is fortunate to have three organizations that raise the funds needed to keep the library up-to-date and active with enriching programs. In addition to the Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library’s monthly book sales, special events are held throughout the year by the New Rochelle Public Library Foundation.

Candidates Debates 

The League of Women Voters hosts annual debates each May for candidates running for the City School District’s Board of Education and candidates running for the New Rochelle Public Library’s Board of Trustees.

How-to Seminars, Classes and Workshops

Small business and entrepreneurship, relaxation and health, genealogy and preserving family heirlooms, issues of interest to seniors, and other relevant topics are addressed in helpful sessions conducted at various times of the year.