Sally Pellegrini's blog

Quilts and bobbin lace abound in the exhibit areas at the New City Library. In the Meeting Room, there are hanging quilts that range from traditional patterns to very current designs. The bold and bright colors are most striking. In past centuries, castles had huge tapestries adorning the walls as a way to reduce drafts and cold temperatures. Though not drafty, the library is able to accomodate quilts that are ten feet in length. One special quilt is a tribute to the late Dr. MacGuffie and her fight to end AIDS in Africa. This fine exhibit was organized by Mary Jane Sexton and her fellow friends and members of the Heritage Quilters of the Hudson.

A second exhibit features bobbin lace on loan from the Manhattan Chapter of the International Old Lacers. These samples may be seen in the exhibit cases by the Meeting Room. Bobbin lace is a very old craft that uses fine thread that is wound on small finger bobbins. Using a pattern, the bobbins are moved within following the design pattern.

Take a look. You will walk away inspired.

Art work abounds this month in the Meeting Room and the exhibit cases. Check out the "Warm Up America" samples of crocheted and knitted items in the Meeting Room. There were too many to display as there were a total of 179 items made during July and August. All will be donated to local non-profit agencies. 

Two very talented artists fill the Meeting Room walls with paintings. Rosie Reilly amd Gay Lynette Morris offer a variety of subjects from botanicals to scenery to portraits. They use acrylics of bright, bold colors on canvas as well as on silks.

Finally, a talented sculptor, Lillian Alberti, fills the exhibit cases with whimsical dolls made of papier-mache and finished with detailed, hand-sewn costumes. Each of these one-of-a-kind dolls has unique expressive qualities and offers its own story.

There will be a reception, Saturday, September 17, from 2 - 4 PM to meet the three artists. Lillian Alberti will demonstrate the creation of her dolls beginning at 2:30 PM. The public is invited.

Fine Print, the library's prestigious paper newsletter, is going electronic starting with the September issue. The edition will have the same format, the same content, and will be accessible on the library website. You will have the news of library happenings at your fingertips. Readers may either visit the web page link OR sign up for the electronic notification of holds and overdues. The newsletter will be included in this reigstration.

There will be an issue at the beginning of each month. Of course, the paper monthly calendar and program flyers will remain available in the building. Stay informed, be in the loop and enjoy this instant form of newsletter.

Many Rocklanders have fond childhood memories of the Lower East Side of New York. This area was a nesting area for many immigrants to begin a new life in a new country during the early 20th century. On Wednesday, July 27 starting at 1:30 PM, licensed NYC tour guide, Martin Schneit, will guide you through these streets from the seats of the library. Please join us.

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