Unique Program Series, Thanks to Partnership between Emma Clark Library and Humanities New York

Setauket, NY – June 7, 2017 –

“You think your pain and your heartbreak are unprecedented in the history of the world, but then you read.” – James Baldwin

Emma Clark Library, thanks in part to a grant from Humanities New York, just offered a one-of-a-kind, four-session series based on James Baldwin’s writings. Discussions were on readings from Baldwin’s Early Novels & Stories and Collected Essays (which were supplied by the Library to residents in advance) and were held various Tuesday evenings this past spring.

“This was so interesting and eye opening – what a pleasure to be a part of such a quality program,” said participant Pam Kornhauser.

Each program had a different guest facilitator. The Library was very fortunate to have the following special guests leading the programs: Rashidah Ismaili Abubakr, poet and writer, Professor for Master’s Creative Writing Program at Wilkes University; Abena Asare, Professor of Africana Studies at Stony Brook University; Barbara Coley, retired professor of English at Suffolk Community College; and Susan Scheckel, Professor of English at Stony Brook University.

“In addition to enjoying the writing and subject matter, I loved being in the company of intelligent, passionate people,” praised patron Barbara Baron.

“I like that the facilitators made an effort to hear all voices,” added resident Mark Jackett.

Examining Baldwin’s timeless writings, which are as relevant as ever in this social and political climate, brought conversation around significant issues in our country: democracy, freedom and equality.

“It was exciting to host the four scholars, each bringing their own expertise to the readings,” remarked Carolyn Emerson, Adult Reference Librarian who spearheaded this series. “We’re really bringing the community together in these discussions.”

Humanities New York (formerly New York Council for the Humanities) provides leadership and support across the state’s intellectual and cultural sectors through grants, programs, networking and advocacy in order to encourage critical thinking and cultural understanding in the public arena.
The Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, located at 120 Main Street in Setauket and online at emmaclark.org, provides public library service to all residents of the Three Village Central School District.
“The Heart of the Three Village Community”