November Highlights at NYC Public Libraries: A Blend of Culture and Education

While Halloween wraps up in October, the thrill continues into November at the New York Public Library with a special pay-what-you-want “Library After Hours” event themed around horror, superstition, and mystery. Set for Friday the 13th at the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building in Bryant Park, this event is open to those 21 and older, featuring music, storytelling, and an exclusive display of rare materials focused on the evolving identity of witches. Musical guest Friedrich Heinrich Kern will perform on the glass harmonica.

Additionally, the Queens Public Library will highlight Veterans, Native American history, and Diwali with various events in its first week. Highlights include a resource collection launch for veterans at the St. Albans branch, an Ojibwe dream catcher workshop at the Auburndale branch, and Diwali celebration performances at the Flushing branch. Meanwhile, the Adams Street Library in Brooklyn will unveil a new exhibition titled “Dumbo Before the Bridges,” showcasing historical photographs and artifacts from a previous reconstruction project.

On Nov. 5, the Jackson Heights branch will also host a drag zumba class featuring performer KokoMomo. To help patrons overcome stage fright, the Library for Arts and Culture in Brooklyn will conduct a workshop on Election Day, Nov. 3, encouraging participants to take the stage with actor Patryk Szwichtenberg.

For younger visitors, there will be numerous engaging activities, including the “2026 Period Convention” at the Brooklyn Heights Library, which aims to raise awareness about menstrual equity. Other offerings include manga and comic art workshops, owl pellet excavation activities in Queens, a clothing swap for kids, and an all-ages archery event in Brooklyn. Additional family events include gardening in Harlem and traditional crafts in the Bronx.