Community Guide Libraries

Sea Cliff and Glen Head libraries open doors to discovery

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The Sea Cliff Village, Stenson Memorial and Gold Coast libraries are home to a variety of services and events centered on learning, art and community connection. Libraries in Sea Cliff and Glen Head offer presentations, classes, crafts and resources for all ages.

Sea Cliff Village Library

Sea Cliff’s main library has been in operation for more than 130 years. It originally opened in 1894, but did not become village-operated until 1927. The Sea Cliff Village Library, at 300 Sea Cliff Ave., connects to Village Hall and the Village Museum. Varied programming includes “Tech-Talk: Technology Training for Non-Techies,” and “The Chronicles of Yarnia,” a weekly knitting and crocheting activity.

Former Sea Cliff Mayor Ed Lieberman holds periodic educational presentations for the community on topics ranging from Vincent van Gogh to the United States’ semiquincentennial anniversary.

For National Poetry Month in April, the library held an open poetry reading. Members of the community were welcome to attend and read original poems or existing works. This year marked a return of the event after a several-year hiatus that began in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The library also hosts art exhibits in conjunction with the Sea Cliff Arts Council. Featuring pieces like paintings and sculptures, the library’s main room has hosted exhibits by local artists and students in the community.

A partnership with North Shore High School's National Honor Society brings a homework club to the library, where high school volunteers assist younger students with their studies, providing academic assistance.

Stenson Memorial Library 

Sea Cliff’s children’s library, the Stenson Memorial Library, caters to the youngest in the village, through students in fifth grade. At 281 Sea Cliff Ave., it is just across the street from the Village Library.

A weekly “Kids Workshop” that began in June includes hands-on crafts and games for participants, exploring themes inspired by changing seasons, current events and holidays, and favorite books. Story Times are held daily, along with “Pretzels and Paperbacks,” a pre-K book group.

Books and displays educate and entertain children, incorporating current events like weather and holidays. Special programs are held for important dates like Juneteenth and Independence Day.

Gold Coast Public Library

The Gold Coast Public Library serves adults and children in Glen Head and Glenwood Landing. It re-opened in its new location at 146 Glen Head Road this spring after moving out of its old space at 50 Railroad Ave., where it opened in 2005.

Like Sea Cliff Village Library, the Gold Coast Public Library hosts exhibits by artists in the community. Many activities hosted by outside instructors are available to adults. Among these activities are various baking, painting and craft events. Arts and crafts programs are also offered to children.

Literature across all genres is available, and there is material for all age groups. Author visits, both in person and virtual, are held regularly. The library also hosts health and wellness events, like visits from a St. Francis Health Van offering free health screenings.

A museum pass program is sponsored in part by the Friends of the Gold Coast Public Library. This program allows library district residents over 18 who have a library card in good standing to borrow a museum pass. The pass provides admission and discounts to local museums and venues. Perks vary based on the museum.