Thank you to all of our donors for your support! Your generous donations to the Annual Appeal make it possible for us to Support Albany-made Creativity through our Internal Grant Program.
Growing readers Giveaway Bags
Ongoing since November 2020 / All branches and virtual
Thanks to FFAPL donors like you, the library has been giving egg shakers, scarves and giveaway books to families in the Growing Readers program. Families pick up Storytime Kits at the library to use at home.
One-on-One Career Coaching and Resume Writing
Ongoing since 2019 / All branches and online
Personalized career coaching from Marsha Lazarus. After 3 rounds of FFAPL pilot funding, this popular program has now become a regular offering from the APL jobseeker support team! Marsha Lazarus, MBA, gives patrons the opportunity for individual time to discuss career and workplace questions. This program fosters life and digital skills for patrons, giving them the tools and the confidence to find meaningful work. Make an appointment on the Library Calendar.
Branching Out
Ongoing since August 2021 / From Howe branch to Delaware, Bach, Pine Hills branches, and beyond to Schenectady County Public Library and Troy Public Library
Branching Out brought together local libraries, artist educators, and BIPOC youth to create a mural that confronted racism and a concert series celebrating local artists of color. Produced with Amplified Voices and YouthFX. A synergy of two grants–from the American Library Association and Center for Law and Justice–matching funds from the Annual Appeal helped APL to win both grants. Read more about this ambitious project which has impacted youth and libraries across the Capital Region.
Make a Cardboard House
May 2021 / Washington Ave and virtual
Washington Ave branch offered out a take-home craft kit this spring..
Financial Literacy Art Class
July 2021 / Howe Branch
Produced with Young Futures, this program taught financial concepts to tweens (age 9-13) through arts and crafts. Creating an opportunity for conversation about money, building confidence and skills to manage money.
Exhibit: Maya Textiles and Art from the Western Highlands of Guatemala
September – October 2021 / Arbor Hill-West Hill branch
The Arbor Hill branch displayed an art installation featuring Mayan textiles, ceremonial masks and photography from the Highlands of Guatemala. Each piece featured a description providing the cultural and historical context of each item. Photography featured aspects of Maya daily life and culture from where these items were created, celebrating the beauty of the region and contextualizing Maya daily life.
Cricut Maker
Permanent / Pine Hills branch
Cricut Maker is a versatile cutting machine that cuts more than 300 materials, including wood, leather, felt, fabric, acrylic, plastic, and more. The new Cricut Maker at Pine Hills branch is being used to create displays in the branch and materials for take-and-make craft project kids for youth and adults.
