Classes & Workshops

Step into a healthier, more vibrant lifestyle with the Baychester Public Library's invigorating fitness program, in collaboration with Shape Up NYC. This dynamic initiative invites community members to embark on a journey towards wellness, fostering a sense of unity and well-being. No registration is required for this exciting class, which unfolds every Wednesday* from 12 pm to 1 pm in the welcoming confines of the community room. Under the guidance of expert instructors from Shape Up NYC, part…

Life in today’s world is stressful. People are anxious about their health, their finances, their relationships, their safety and their work. Doctors and medical practitioners are promoting the benefits of meditation to relieve stress and anxiety. By sitting in meditation, we can calm the body and the mind. Once we connect to a place of happiness and peace within us, we experience a reduction in our anxiety. Meditation helps us replace anxiety with joy and peace. *The workshop will also includ…

This event will take place in person at the Harlem Library. Want a space to do homework or relax? Join us to chat, work on an art project, read, or just enjoy a chill space. Snacks will be provided! Masks are encouraged at all NYPL locations. Learn more about our health and safety policies. Discover what the Library offers NYC teens, including TeenLIVE events, programs, book recommendations and more.

Caribbean Dance Fitness with Donnette McFarlane Get ready to sweat, smile, and move to the rhythm at Caribbean Dance Fitness! This high-energy workout blends the vibrant beats of Caribbean music with aerobic dance moves to give you a full-body cardio workout that feels more like a party than exercise. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned dancer, the easy-to-follow steps make it fun and accessible for everyone. Led by dynamic instructor Donnette McFarlane, this class is the perfect way…

This event will take place in person at the Morningside Heights Library. This yoga session is designed to help you better understand how the body works by focusing on improving balance, strength, and flexibility. Join this class and rediscover fun facts about each body part that makes up the whole of who you are. Experience isn't necessary, and all levels are welcome- join in with an open heart and open mind. Instructor: Carol Leogite REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AS THERE IS LIMI…

The class is structured as a guided meditation, consisting of yoga-inspired poses set into dynamic movement. It is designed to be accessible to those who are not yogis but want a good stretch. We start with dynamic stretches and flow into longer holds that include every muscle group. Please bring a mat since this class will require you to remove your shoes. Registration is recommended. https://www.nycgovparks.org/events/2025/05/01/dynamic-stretching https://www.nycgovparks.org/events/2025/…

Join us online for this virtual event on Thursday, May 15th at 5:00pm, where we'll be discussing everything you need to know about planning a backpacking trip! You must register online to attend this event. Patrons must be 13-18 years old to attend.

Many people participate in programs that cleanse the body and eliminate toxins that have accumulated over one’s life. They seek wellness as detoxing has become mainstream. Many of us tend to our physical well being but there is a very important aspect of ourselves that we ignore which is the health of our mind. We need to detoxify our minds. This world we live in is a stressful place and there are many factors that can have a negative impact on our daily lives. By befriending our mind we can w…

Meditation is a very simple practice, available to all. By including this technique into your life it can reduce stress, increase calmness, and clarity as well as promote happiness. Learning how to meditate is so easy, and the benefits can come quickly. Join William Smith, retired Army Lt. Colonel and long time meditator who will share this practical technique during the session. There will even be a chance to try meditating. By incorporating meditation into your daily routine you will see the…

This event will take place in person at the Morningside Heights Library. Conéctate, equilibra y desafíate con Yoga en español. Esta clase de Vinyasa Yoga incluye flujos de intensidad media que te llevarán desde el saludo al sol hasta una postura máxima final. Ven y concéntrate en las inversiones y la respiración para ayudarte a mejorar tu práctica personal mientras brindas conciencia y una nueva experiencia. Se recomiendan tapetes, pero no son obligatorios, y todos los niveles son bienvenidos.…

Sit Down To Get Down is dynamic and engaging program blending exercise, rhythmic movement, self-massage techniques, humor, and storytelling—all designed to keep you moving, laughing, and feeling your best Whether seated or standing, Sit Down to Get Down proves that movement, wellness, and joy are for everyone—at every stage of life!

This event will take place in person at the Morningside Heights Library. Moving for Life’s DanceExercise for Health® classes use gentle aerobic exercise to motivate older adults and people of different ages and abilities affected by chronic illness like heart disease, COVID-19 and diabetes. These classes help uplift mental and physical health while carefully increasing energy, range of motion, lymphatic flow, joint ease, mental acuity, balance, calorie burning, and strengthening. MFL will be ad…

This program will take place in person at the Hamilton Grange branch library. Hey Teens! Exams stressing you out? Need some designated time to study? Join us Tuesdays at 4pm for Study Hour! We will provide snacks, classical music, and board games for when you're all studied out. Bring your friends!

This program will be held in person at Hamilton Grange Library. Join Hamilton Grange Library and Shape Up NYC for Caribbean Dance Fitness classes. If cardio is cardi-NO for you, give this Cardio Dance class a try! Come enjoy the beats of Caribbean rhythms paired with choreography that will not only provide a great workout- but a lot of fun as well! This class is open to all levels. Each session is led by a Shape Up NYC instructor. Program dates: Weekly on Tuesdays from 6-6:45 PM Parti…

This event will take place in person at the Woodstock Branch Library. Join us for some hot coffee while we talk about Banned Books and how the NYPL is helping teens exercise their freedom to read.

Step into a healthier, more vibrant lifestyle with the Baychester Public Library's invigorating fitness program, in collaboration with Shape Up NYC. This dynamic initiative invites community members to embark on a journey towards wellness, fostering a sense of unity and well-being. No registration is required for this exciting class, which unfolds every Wednesday* from 12 pm to 1 pm in the welcoming confines of the community room. Under the guidance of expert instructors from Shape Up NYC, part…

This event is Online. Meditation for Balance and Inner Contentment with Dave Buck People all over the world are tuning into meditation to help them lead a more peaceful and healthy life-style. Scientific studies have proven that the practice of meditation provides a deep relaxation to the body that helps reduce stress and tension. Meditation is the key to a more balanced life. Learn a simple and natural method of meditation that will help enhance your life. Please join Dave Buck lo…

This event will take place in person at the Harlem Library. Want a space to do homework or relax? Join us to chat, work on an art project, read, or just enjoy a chill space. Snacks will be provided! Masks are encouraged at all NYPL locations. Learn more about our health and safety policies. Discover what the Library offers NYC teens, including TeenLIVE events, programs, book recommendations and more.

Caribbean Dance Fitness with Donnette McFarlane Get ready to sweat, smile, and move to the rhythm at Caribbean Dance Fitness! This high-energy workout blends the vibrant beats of Caribbean music with aerobic dance moves to give you a full-body cardio workout that feels more like a party than exercise. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned dancer, the easy-to-follow steps make it fun and accessible for everyone. Led by dynamic instructor Donnette McFarlane, this class is the perfect way…

This event will take place in person at the Morningside Heights Library. This yoga session is designed to help you better understand how the body works by focusing on improving balance, strength, and flexibility. Join this class and rediscover fun facts about each body part that makes up the whole of who you are. Experience isn't necessary, and all levels are welcome- join in with an open heart and open mind. Instructor: Carol Leogite REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AS THERE IS LIMI…

This class is online only. Join librarians from the Irma and Paul Milstein Division of United States History, Local History, and Genealogy and the Dorot Jewish Division as they walk you through the initial steps of Jewish genealogical research. This session will focus on genealogy basics, resources in the Local History and Genealogy collection, and utilizing online databases. Captioning is provided. If you have a specific accessibility request, please email accessibility@nypl.org at least two…

The class is structured as a guided meditation, consisting of yoga-inspired poses set into dynamic movement. It is designed to be accessible to those who are not yogis but want a good stretch. We start with dynamic stretches and flow into longer holds that include every muscle group. Please bring a mat since this class will require you to remove your shoes. Registration is recommended. https://www.nycgovparks.org/events/2025/05/01/dynamic-stretching https://www.nycgovparks.org/events/2025/…

This program is in- person as well as online. Join us for a calming and supportive program during Mental Health Awareness Month. Learn practical tools and mindful practices to navigate stress, embrace inner peace, and prioritize your well-being. Whether you’re seeking tranquility or simply want to learn more, join us and let’s find peace together.

This event will take place in person at the Morningside Heights Library. Moving for Life’s DanceExercise for Health® classes use gentle aerobic exercise to motivate older adults and people of different ages and abilities affected by chronic illness like heart disease, COVID-19 and diabetes. These classes help uplift mental and physical health while carefully increasing energy, range of motion, lymphatic flow, joint ease, mental acuity, balance, calorie burning, and strengthening. MFL will be ad…

This program will take place in person at the Hamilton Grange branch library. Hey Teens! Exams stressing you out? Need some designated time to study? Join us Tuesdays at 4pm for Study Hour! We will provide snacks, classical music, and board games for when you're all studied out. Bring your friends!

This program will be held in person at Hamilton Grange Library. Join Hamilton Grange Library and Shape Up NYC for Caribbean Dance Fitness classes. If cardio is cardi-NO for you, give this Cardio Dance class a try! Come enjoy the beats of Caribbean rhythms paired with choreography that will not only provide a great workout- but a lot of fun as well! This class is open to all levels. Each session is led by a Shape Up NYC instructor. Program dates: Weekly on Tuesdays from 6-6:45 PM Parti…

Step into a healthier, more vibrant lifestyle with the Baychester Public Library's invigorating fitness program, in collaboration with Shape Up NYC. This dynamic initiative invites community members to embark on a journey towards wellness, fostering a sense of unity and well-being. No registration is required for this exciting class, which unfolds every Wednesday* from 12 pm to 1 pm in the welcoming confines of the community room. Under the guidance of expert instructors from Shape Up NYC, part…

This event will take place in person at the Morningside Heights Library. Health Advocates for Seniors Josh Krasner is a Home Safety/Fall Prevention Coordinator and will be sharing the tools, techniques, and support that is offered to Seniors 60+ on how to set up one's home for safety (this could include bars, lighting, rearranging of furniture and rugs, etc). Offered by Health Advocates for Older People. https://www.hafop.org/

This event will take place in person at the Harlem Library. Want a space to do homework or relax? Join us to chat, work on an art project, read, or just enjoy a chill space. Snacks will be provided! Masks are encouraged at all NYPL locations. Learn more about our health and safety policies. Discover what the Library offers NYC teens, including TeenLIVE events, programs, book recommendations and more.

Caribbean Dance Fitness with Donnette McFarlane Get ready to sweat, smile, and move to the rhythm at Caribbean Dance Fitness! This high-energy workout blends the vibrant beats of Caribbean music with aerobic dance moves to give you a full-body cardio workout that feels more like a party than exercise. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned dancer, the easy-to-follow steps make it fun and accessible for everyone. Led by dynamic instructor Donnette McFarlane, this class is the perfect way…

This event will take place in person at the Morningside Heights Library. This yoga session is designed to help you better understand how the body works by focusing on improving balance, strength, and flexibility. Join this class and rediscover fun facts about each body part that makes up the whole of who you are. Experience isn't necessary, and all levels are welcome- join in with an open heart and open mind. Instructor: Carol Leogite REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AS THERE IS LIMI…

The class is structured as a guided meditation, consisting of yoga-inspired poses set into dynamic movement. It is designed to be accessible to those who are not yogis but want a good stretch. We start with dynamic stretches and flow into longer holds that include every muscle group. Please bring a mat since this class will require you to remove your shoes. Registration is recommended. https://www.nycgovparks.org/events/2025/05/01/dynamic-stretching https://www.nycgovparks.org/events/2025/…

This program is in- person as well as online. Join us for a calming and supportive program during Mental Health Awareness Month. Learn practical tools and mindful practices to navigate stress, embrace inner peace, and prioritize your well-being. Whether you’re seeking tranquility or simply want to learn more, join us and let’s find peace together.

This event will take place in person at George Bruce Library. This circuit training class combines bodyweight resistance training and conditioning to provide you with a dynamic full-body workout. Whether you are a beginner or looking for a challenge- this class for you. Come engage in exercises that target all muscle groups and get your heart pumping! Please bring a mat. Space for participation is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

This event will take place in person at the Woodstock Branch Library. Join us for some hot coffee while we talk about Banned Books and how the NYPL is helping teens exercise their freedom to read.

Step into a healthier, more vibrant lifestyle with the Baychester Public Library's invigorating fitness program, in collaboration with Shape Up NYC. This dynamic initiative invites community members to embark on a journey towards wellness, fostering a sense of unity and well-being. No registration is required for this exciting class, which unfolds every Wednesday* from 12 pm to 1 pm in the welcoming confines of the community room. Under the guidance of expert instructors from Shape Up NYC, part…

Caribbean Dance Fitness with Donnette McFarlane Get ready to sweat, smile, and move to the rhythm at Caribbean Dance Fitness! This high-energy workout blends the vibrant beats of Caribbean music with aerobic dance moves to give you a full-body cardio workout that feels more like a party than exercise. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned dancer, the easy-to-follow steps make it fun and accessible for everyone. Led by dynamic instructor Donnette McFarlane, this class is the perfect way…

This event will take place at Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library (SNFL), 3rd Floor, Room 304. Come join us at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library for an afternoon of free-form writing for those who have gone through, or those who are going through, a serious illness. No formal writing experience is required - just a desire to express yourself through the cathartic process of writing with others. Participants are provided with suggested prompts at the start of the session, approximat…

Step into a healthier, more vibrant lifestyle with the Baychester Public Library's invigorating fitness program, in collaboration with Shape Up NYC. This dynamic initiative invites community members to embark on a journey towards wellness, fostering a sense of unity and well-being. No registration is required for this exciting class, which unfolds every Wednesday* from 12 pm to 1 pm in the welcoming confines of the community room. Under the guidance of expert instructors from Shape Up NYC, part…

This event is Online. Why Meditation Matters Even More!" People have been practicing meditation for centuries and today we see a surge in its popularity as new benefits continue to be discovered. Incorporating meditation into one’s life has many positive effects. Now more than ever in today’s modern world with all the stresses, meditation is needed more than ever. Learn a simple meditation technique that can help you in all aspects of your life, Join Nirav Sheth who is a long time medit…