Middle School Field Trip to the NY Public Library
In February, the 6th and 7th grade classes visited the main branch of the New York Public Library in Midtown, in connection to the work they are doing for Alliance Club and the African Library project. Students in the Alliance Club are working to donate hundreds of books to help build a library in Africa!
When the group arrived, they entered into the children’s section main room and were greeted by two librarians. They taught the students about the history of the New York Public Library, and discussed facts such as when it was founded, who was responsible for the creation of the library, and how the branches in Manhattan are not connected to those in Queens or Brooklyn. They also learned that there is a secret passageway and room from the main library to underneath Bryant Park! Librarians use an electronic conveyor and elevator system to move the books back and forth to the main library. Middle schoolers also learned that there are millions of books in the main library and that each bookcase holds up 3 floors of the library.
After the information session, they began their tour of the library. Classes walked into the main entryway and then up to the 3rd floor. They noticed all of the marble walls and floors, and were in awe of how many paintings, statues, and drawings there were throughout the entire space. Some friends said walking through the library made them feel like they were in a museum! The group then walked into the main room, making sure to keep their voices low, as there were many people studying and reading. They could not help but notice how high the ceilings were and how bright and sunny the main room was!
Soon after, students left the main room and headed back to the children’s section. Friends were then able to ask any questions they were curious about finding out about the library. When the group was finished, one of the librarians left them with a really fun fact about Winnie the Pooh. The original Winnie the Pooh and the rest of the characters are all encased in the children’s room! Christopher Robin, the author of the Winnie the Pooh series, donated the originals to the New York Public Library children’s department for all children to enjoy. As they left the library, they were all able to see the originals. Overall, the trip to the library was fun and informative! Thanks to all who were involved in making this visit great!