The art-lending program launches alongside "Department of Transformation: Letters for the Future," a sprawling, brain-sparky exhibition opening November 3 in the Central Library's Grand Lobby and second floor and running through January 25, 2026. Curated by the artist-organized collective Department of Transformation with BPL Presents, the show includes more than 40 artists and collectives working across painting, sculpture, performance, video, books and zines. Think of it as a library-meets-gallery-meets-workshop-meets-karaoke fever dream, designed to get New Yorkers thinking, reading and imagining together.
In his first role as youth services librarian, he started the Growing Dollars and Sense Teen Virtual Investment Club, which connected young people with financial professionals to prepare for their financial futures. Later, Maxwell served as the manager of the New Lots Library branch - during which time the library was awarded the Revson Award for outstanding community service - and most recently worked as BPL's Senior Director of Neighborhood Services.
Families, fans, and book lovers of all ages filled the library, listening attentively as the 2024 WNBA Finals MVP and Bahamian native read from her two favorite books, "I am My Caribbean Culture" by Malissa Y. Saul-Angus and "Hello Grandma" by Robert E. Constant, inspiring her young fans to explore the joy of reading, and anecdotes about her family visits in the Bahamas.
Karen Keys, BPL Coordinator of Young Adult Services, emphasized that the contest looks for writing that speaks to teens, indicating a focus on relatable themes and unique perspectives.
The Brooklyn Public Library's Digital Discovery Day aims to connect residents with technology, offering resources for all ages and levels of tech comfort.