Thursday, October 1, 2026
Library patrons can discover the past, present, and future of the barrier islands on Jan. 20 with a 60-minute audiovisual tour at Long Beach Public Library, scheduled from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Presented by Long Beach resident Joel Greenberg, the program highlights the city’s diverse neighborhoods and culture, from the Red Brick District and historic homes to the industrial district and houses of worship. The tour also showcases Long Beach’s live music venues, the iconic 2.1-mile boardwalk and the street art that lines city streets.
Registration is required and opens on Jan. 13 at 6:30 p.m.
Greenberg has lived in Long Beach for the last four years, after spending 13 years as in Atlantic Beach. For nearly two decades, Greenberg has traversed the 8-mile long, 1-mile wide barrier island — encompassing Atlantic Beach, Long Beach, Lido Beach, and Point Lookout — documenting its communities and landscapes.
“So many people are unaware of the more niche things that we have here,” Greenberg said. “From the marine life to the animals we have here, there doesn’t seem to be a lot of information.”
In September, Greenberg partnered with the Allegria Hotel to launch free walking tours of Long Beach, creating two routes that highlight the city’s sights and sounds. The audiovisual tour builds on that concept, offering an expanded, indoor experience.
“The audiovisual tour is designed for those who are unable to tour, or guests who are interested in touring digitally,” Greenberg said. After learning about the idea, library staff encouraged him to pursue it.
The Chamber of Commerce, which Greenberg is a member of, promoted the program in its monthly newsletter as a way to boost tourism during the slower winter months and encourage community engagement.
Vice Chair John Boland said increased involvement from both visitors and residents can support local businesses during the offseason, when many tend to avoid beach communities.
“Joel is making an effort to try and bring a focus and excitement to the city of Long Beach and its businesses for the betterment of the community,” he said. “It helps people recognize what makes Long Beach beautiful.”
The tour concludes with videos on Hurricane Sandy, the Polar Bear Plunge, as well as a National Geographic features and the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, reflecting pivotal moments in the city’s history. Boland, who moved to Long Beach a month before Sandy, said presenting both challenges and triumphs helps newcomers understand the community.
“Focusing on people who aren’t familiar and aren’t from here is extremely valuable,” he said. “If you want to get a sense of what the community is about, our culture and how we build each other up, the audio tour is a great way to start.”
