Celebrate Italian-American Heritage with YPL
October is Italian-American Heritage Month, a celebration of the achievements and contributions of those with Italian ancestry living in the United States.
Accordion to the U.S. Census, as of 2023 there are nearly 16 million Americans of Italian-American descent living in the United States. Italian-American Heritage Month was first celebrated in 1989 when President George H.W. Bush and Congress wanted to honor the progress and achievements of Italian immigrants across the country.
You may likely know some famous Italian Americans like smooth crooner Frank Sinatra, famous Yankees player Joe DiMaggio and Minority Leader of the U.S. House Nancy Pelosi. Yonkers also has a lively community of diverse cultures from all corners of the world, and Italian-Americans have contributed to the rich heritage of the city. Small businesses across the city, from small markets to restaurants and pizzerias, add to the vibrant culture of Yonkers.
This month, YPL celebrates that culture and influence during Italian-American Heritage Month with a wide variety of programs. You can check out all of our programs here, but here’s a snapshot of what you can enjoy this month with YPL!
Movies:
Check out these films being screened at the Will Library in the Will Auditorium.
OPEN CITY - Wednesday, October 9 at 2:00 PM: During the Nazi occupation of Rome in 1944, the Resistance leader, Giorgio Manfredi, is chased by the Nazis as he seeks refuge and a way to escape. The film is in Italian with English subtitles.
The Bicycle Thieves - Wednesday, October 23 at 2:00 PM: In post-war Italy, a working-class man's bicycle is stolen, endangering his efforts to find work. He and his son set out to find it. The film is in Italian with English subtitles.
Art:
Embrace your creative side and gain a new appreciation for art with these programs.
Mixed Media & Munch with Say: Celebrating Italian American Heritage through Art - Saturday, October 19 at 2:00 PM at the Crestwood Library. All supplies & snacks are provided, just bring your creativity.
The Lady Swings Sinatra Musical Concert - Thursday, October 24 at 2:30 PM at the Will Library in the Will Auditorium. Francine, Joel and their group pay tribute to the legend of Frank Sinatra, his time and his music. This unique show features songs sung either with Sinatra or recorded by a female singer.
Tenement Museum Visit and Tour - Friday, October 25 at 4:00 PM. Registration is required. This tour is OFF-SITE and the group will meet at the Tenement Museum at 103 Orchard Street in Manhattan.
Food:
Enjoy some delicious food this month with these programs.
Make Vibrant Soups with Vanessa Young - Wednesday, October 16 at 11:00 AM at the Will Library in the Will Conference Room. Learn to make vibrant soups perfect for weeknights and weekends. This is a hybrid program. Click here to join the Zoom meeting.
Explore the Mediterranean Diet with Tina McGeough - Monday, October 21 at 12:00 PM at the Will Library in the Will Lower Lobby. In celebration of Italian heritage we’ll explore the food, flavors, and health benefits of the Mediterranean diet. Enjoy a cooking demonstration and free giveaways! Register online.
For All Ages:
Drop by for some of these programs for children, adults, and seniors.
Grab n’ Go: Italian American Heritage Month Activity Packet - Saturday October 5 at the Crestwood Library. Celebrate Italian American Heritage Month and come to the Crestwood Library to pick up an activity packet while supplies last.
Italian American Heritage Celebration with Yonkers NNORC on Friday, October 25 at 1:00 PM at the Crestwood Library. Join Valerie Litt from Yonkers NNORC and Crestwood Crew Members as we celebrate Italian American Heritage Month with delicious Italian treats and games. This program is a partnership with Yonkers NNORC, WJCS, City of Yonkers and Yonkers Public Library.
Celebrate Italian Heritage! Story and Craft! on Monday, October 28 at 4:00 PM at the Will Library in the Children’s Room. Read a story and make a craft to celebrate Italian Heritage Month! No Registration. Recommended for children aged 4-7.
Alison Robles is a Part-Time Junior Clerk at the Crestwood Library. She is an avid reader with a passion for YA lit, historical fiction and fantasy. A Yonkers native, she is currently pursuing an MS in Information and Library Science from the University at Buffalo.