Wired for Opportunity - Intro to Computers

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of......More

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of 4 classes as a part of the Wired for Opportunity program. Those under the age of 14 need to have an adult with them. If participants complete all 4 classes, they will receive a free Chromebook to take home. Limit of one device per person per household while supplies last. This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP0206 awarded to Monroe County, New York by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Central - Tech Center Classroom, Central Library

Wired for Opportunity - Intro to Computers

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of......More

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of 4 classes as a part of the Wired for Opportunity program. Those under the age of 14 need to have an adult with them. If participants complete all 4 classes, they will receive a free Chromebook to take home Limit of one device per person per household while supplies last. This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP0206 awarded to Monroe County, New York by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Central - Tech Center Classroom, Central Library

Wired for Opportunity - Computer Catch-Up

Did you miss a Wired for Opportunity class session? Use this class to make it up! In this class, we'll be going over the basics from Intro to Computers as well as taking related questions. This is the make up class. Maximum of 10 participants, registration required. Thi......More

Did you miss a Wired for Opportunity class session? Use this class to make it up! In this class, we'll be going over the basics from Intro to Computers as well as taking related questions. This is the make up class. Maximum of 10 participants, registration required. This is a stand-alone class that is a part of the Wired for Opportunity program. Those under the age of 14 need to have an adult with them. If participants complete 4 classes, they will receive a free Chromebook to take home. Limit of one device per person per household while supplies last. This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP0206 awarded to Monroe County, New York by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Central - Tech Center Classroom, Central Library

Wired for Opportunity - Intro to Computers - Antioch Missionary Baptist Church

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of......More

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of 4 classes as a part of the Wired for Opportunity program. This class will be held at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church at 304 Joseph Ave, Rochester, NY. Those under the age of 14 need to have an adult with them. If participants complete all 4 classes, they will receive a free Chromebook to take home. Limit of one device per person per household while supplies last. This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP0206 awarded to Monroe County, New York by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Words in Progress with Jen Case (Rochester Writes)

In this monthly workshop you’ll work within a creative and supportive writing community to hone your craft and tell your story. Expect a variety of activities that will help you generate new ideas, revise existing projects, and establish effective writing practices for ......More

In this monthly workshop you’ll work within a creative and supportive writing community to hone your craft and tell your story. Expect a variety of activities that will help you generate new ideas, revise existing projects, and establish effective writing practices for yourself. All levels of experience are welcome.Jen Case teaches writing workshops and leads literary discussions at libraries and senior living communities around Monroe County. She also presents with the group Women of the Well as a storyteller, dancer, and singer. Her passion is creating unique programs that help people find their voices and share their stories in a welcoming environment.Having received a B.A. in English from Alfred University and a M.S. in Education from SUNY College at Brockport, Jen has spent most of her adult life teaching in one capacity or another. She worked as Director of Programming at Writers & Books for a time and taught creative writing workshops at Borders Books. She also taught English at East High School, her alma mater, until the birth of her oldest child in 2005. She lives in Rochester with her husband and four school-age children, all of whom attend RCSD schools. Registration has closed.This is a monthly series that continues through January, 2026. Registration is for all five sessions. This class takes place via Zoom, and the link will be emailed before class.

Central Library

Family Finders: Local Records & Resources

A Monthly Genealogy Club co-sponsored by the Rochester Genealogical Society Facilitated by John D. Caufield & Anna TomassoAre you a fan of family history? Do you wonder who your ancestors were and how you can learn more about them? Whether you are an experienced researc......More

A Monthly Genealogy Club co-sponsored by the Rochester Genealogical Society Facilitated by John D. Caufield & Anna TomassoAre you a fan of family history? Do you wonder who your ancestors were and how you can learn more about them? Whether you are an experienced researcher or just starting out, we invite you to join our friendly, informal monthly gathering. Explore your questions, share your discoveries, and research your family’s past alongside fellow ancestry seekers.Join the club as we explore a different theme or topic each month. November's topic: Local Records and Resources Registration for this FREE event is encouraged but not required.

Central - Local History Division, Central Library

Writing the Story of Queen Catharine Montour and Awakening the Montour Legacy

Queen Catharine Montour was a Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) and French woman, who served as the matriarch and namesake of Montour Falls, New York. A heroine who led her people to safety to Fort Niagara at the end of the American Revolution when her village and other Haudenos......More

Queen Catharine Montour was a Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) and French woman, who served as the matriarch and namesake of Montour Falls, New York. A heroine who led her people to safety to Fort Niagara at the end of the American Revolution when her village and other Haudenosaunee settlements were being desecrated, Montour inspired author Cynthia G. Neale to write the historical novel, Catharine, Queen of the Tumbling Waters. The book eventually made its way into the hands of one of Catharine Montour’s descendants, Jaime L. Montour. Join us for this unique talk as Cynthia G. Neale discusses the inspiration behind her novel and Jaime L. Montour shares her lineage journey and how Neale’s book helped her on her path to ensure that the Montour name, as well as the Six Nations, continue to rise with voice, healing, and purpose.Cynthia G. Neale is the author of several plays, stories, and novels including Catharine, Queen of the Tumbling Waters and the four-part Irish Dresser series. She holds a B.A. in Writing and Literature from Vermont College.Jaime L. Montour is a paralegal, Life & Wellness Coach, and Knowledge Keeper from Six Nations of the Grand River First Nation No. 40 in Ontario, Canada. She is one of the few known descendants of Queen Catharine Montour.Registration is recommended, but not required.This is an in-person program that will also be livestreamed at: https://www.youtube.com/@RochesterPublicLibraryNY/streams This event is presented by the Local History & Genealogy Division and supported by Fleet Feet with a corporate sponsorship through Friends & Foundation of the Rochester Public Library.

Central - Kate Gleason Auditorium, Central Library

Ballet JumpStart! With the Draper Center

Creative Movement is a joyful way to explore self-expression through music and dance. Students work on developing physical skills, channeling energy, and stimulate imagination and creativity. Creative Movement class is filled with structured creative play, engaging and ......More

Creative Movement is a joyful way to explore self-expression through music and dance. Students work on developing physical skills, channeling energy, and stimulate imagination and creativity. Creative Movement class is filled with structured creative play, engaging and thought provoking props, story telling, and expressive pantomime. Through this program we will also be shaping and growing a ballet community of diversity and inclusion, the kind of community Draper Center wishes to provide for all its students. Ages 3-4. Registration required. Limited to 15 children.

Central - Children's Center, Central Library

Wired for Opportunity - Intro to Computers

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of......More

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of 4 classes as a part of the Wired for Opportunity program. Those under the age of 14 need to have an adult with them. If participants complete all 4 classes, they will receive a free Chromebook to take home. Limit of one device per person per household while supplies last. This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP0206 awarded to Monroe County, New York by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Penfield - Braman Room, Penfield Public Library

Wired for Opportunity - Intro to Computers - Hubbard Springs Apartments

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of......More

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of 4 classes as a part of the Wired for Opportunity program. This class will be held at Hubbard Springs Apartments at 154 Union Square Blvd, North Chili, NY. Those under the age of 14 need to have an adult with them. If participants complete all 4 classes, they will receive a free Chromebook to take home. Limit of one device per person per household while supplies last. This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP0206 awarded to Monroe County, New York by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Wired for Opportunity - Intro to Computers - CONEA

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of......More

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of 4 classes as a part of the Wired for Opportunity program. This class will be held at the Coalition of North East Association (CONEA) at 471 Hudson Avenue, Rochester, NY. Those under the age of 14 need to have an adult with them. If participants complete all 4 classes, they will receive a free Chromebook to take home. Limit of one device per person per household while supplies last. This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP0206 awarded to Monroe County, New York by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Yoga in the Secret Room 

Come work on your wellness by practicing simple Yoga in the Secret Room! All ages

Central - Children's Center, Central Library

Business First Wednesday

Business First Wednesdays are for aspiring or current business owners and is brought to you by the Business Insight Center of the Central Library of Rochester & Monroe County and the SUNY Brockport Small Business Development Center. To register, please call the Business......More

Business First Wednesdays are for aspiring or current business owners and is brought to you by the Business Insight Center of the Central Library of Rochester & Monroe County and the SUNY Brockport Small Business Development Center. To register, please call the Business Insight Center at 585.428.8106, contact [email protected] or see below.This program is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the US Small Business Administration. Services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis.PLEASE NOTE: Once registered, the Zoom link will be emailed to you from Business.Insight the day before the event. This series is in an online only format.SEAP attendees must contact us beforehand and sign into the program with their name in order to qualify to have their form confirmed.

Central Library

Author Talk : Community, Power, and the Search for Indigenous Identity with Award-Winning Journalist Joseph Lee

You’re invited to learn from journalist and author Joseph Lee as he chats online with us about his stirring memoir, Nothing More of This Land: Community, Power, and the Search for Indigenous Identity. In it, he explores Indigenous identity in proximity to land that serv......More

You’re invited to learn from journalist and author Joseph Lee as he chats online with us about his stirring memoir, Nothing More of This Land: Community, Power, and the Search for Indigenous Identity. In it, he explores Indigenous identity in proximity to land that serves as an iconic vacationing spot for the wealthy–the “island paradise” Martha’s Vineyard.Growing up Aquinnah Wampanoag, Joseph Lee grappled with what it means to be an Indigenous person in the world today, especially as tribal land, culture, and community face new threats. Starting with the story of his own tribe, which is from the iconic Martha’s Vineyard, Lee tackles key questions around Indigenous identity and the stubborn legacy of colonialism.Register now to join the author online as he delves into the true and vulnerable story, Nothing More of This Land.

Gratitude Journal Making

Join us this November for a cozy and creative journaling session focused on gratitude! In this hands-on program, participants will create their own simple gratitude journals using folded paper and personalized covers. Once assembled, everyone will take time to reflect a......More

Join us this November for a cozy and creative journaling session focused on gratitude! In this hands-on program, participants will create their own simple gratitude journals using folded paper and personalized covers. Once assembled, everyone will take time to reflect and write about the things they’re thankful for, big or small. This activity is perfect for all ages and a great way to slow down, appreciate the season, and cultivate a thankful mindset. All materials will be provided. Just bring your thoughts and a willingness to share in the spirit of gratitude!

Central - Children's Center, Central Library

Storied Saloons: Local History Happy Hour at Rising Storm Brewing

If the walls of your local watering hole could talk, what would they say? Rochester is no stranger to time-tested taverns and contemporary bars housed in historic buildings. Each of these edifices has a story to tell. What better time to hear them than during happy hour......More

If the walls of your local watering hole could talk, what would they say? Rochester is no stranger to time-tested taverns and contemporary bars housed in historic buildings. Each of these edifices has a story to tell. What better time to hear them than during happy hour?Storied Saloons: Local History Happy Hours explores the history of some of Rochester’s most interesting and iconic bar-boasting buildings. If you enjoy learning and libations, pull up a stool and join us as we uncover the past of a different tavern during each session of this exciting off-site series. November Session: Rising Storm Brewing Co.The expansive barn located at 1880 Blossom Road has a long, rich history. Join Penfield historian Kathy Kanauer and Rising Storm Brewing's co-owner Bill Blake, as they recount the building's industrial past and how it was reenvisioned and readapted by the team at Rising Storm, bringing the historic structure back to life for a brand new chapter. Wednesday, November 5, 20255:30-7pm1880 Blossom Road Presented by the Office of Rochester & Monroe County History in partnership with the Local History & Genealogy Division of the Rochester Public Library.

Offsite, Central Library

Intellectual property basics and helpful resources

Unfamiliar with patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets? Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from USPTO experts about intellectual property (IP) basics and potential ways to protect your innovation as you transition from idea to product. The USPTO's Midwest ......More

Unfamiliar with patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets? Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from USPTO experts about intellectual property (IP) basics and potential ways to protect your innovation as you transition from idea to product. The USPTO's Midwest Elijah J. McCoy Regional Outreach Office offers this session for aspiring entrepreneurs, innovators, and students the first Thursday of each month. Space is limited, so register early.The discussion will cover:An overview of intellectual property types: patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secretsWhy innovators and entrepreneurs should consider protecting their IPLocal resources and assistance available through the USPTO and other agencies

Flyer and Business Card Workshop

Super-charge your side hustle or cut your small business costs with this free program. Why pay a graphics company when you can learn to make your own promotional flyers and professional business cards for free at the public library?The first few minutes of class are an ......More

Super-charge your side hustle or cut your small business costs with this free program. Why pay a graphics company when you can learn to make your own promotional flyers and professional business cards for free at the public library?The first few minutes of class are an overview of the fundamentals of graphic design, color theory, ADA compliant coloration tools, and other resources.The remainder of the time will be individual assistance and project help.Given sufficient time, each participant will leave with a sample flyer or business card and digital files for printing or editing.

Central - Tech Center Classroom, Central Library

Wired for Opportunity - Intro to Computers

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of......More

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of 4 classes as a part of the Wired for Opportunity program. Those under the age of 14 need to have an adult with them. If participants complete all 4 classes, they will receive a free Chromebook to take home. Limit of one device per person per household while supplies last. This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP0206 awarded to Monroe County, New York by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Central - Tech Center Classroom, Central Library

Wired for Opportunity - Intro to Computers - Mature Adult Resource Center

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of......More

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of 4 classes as a part of the Wired for Opportunity program. This class will be held at the Mature Adult Resource Center at 86 Vienna Street, Rochester, NY. Those under the age of 14 need to have an adult with them. If participants complete all 4 classes, they will receive a free Chromebook to take home. Limit of one device per person per household while supplies last. This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP0206 awarded to Monroe County, New York by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Wired for Opportunity - Intro to Computers

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of......More

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of 4 classes as a part of the Wired for Opportunity program. Those under the age of 14 need to have an adult with them. If participants complete all 4 classes, they will receive a free Chromebook to take home. Limit of one device per person per household while supplies last. This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP0206 awarded to Monroe County, New York by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Central - Tech Center Classroom, Central Library

Wired for Opportunity - Intro to Computers

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of......More

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of 4 classes as a part of the Wired for Opportunity program. Those under the age of 14 need to have an adult with them. If participants complete all 4 classes, they will receive a free Chromebook to take home. Limit of one device per person per household while supplies last. This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP0206 awarded to Monroe County, New York by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Central - Tech Center Classroom, Central Library

Wired for Opportunity - Intro to Computers - Antioch Missionary Baptist Church

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of......More

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of 4 classes as a part of the Wired for Opportunity program. This class will be held at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church at 304 Joseph Ave, Rochester, NY. Those under the age of 14 need to have an adult with them. If participants complete all 4 classes, they will receive a free Chromebook to take home. Limit of one device per person per household while supplies last. This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP0206 awarded to Monroe County, New York by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Exploring Blake McKelvey's Rochester Legacy

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the publication of former City Historian Blake McKelvey’s landmark work, Rochester: The Water-Power City, 1812-1854, the first book in what would be a four-volume exploration of Rochester’s journey from settlement to technological......More

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the publication of former City Historian Blake McKelvey’s landmark work, Rochester: The Water-Power City, 1812-1854, the first book in what would be a four-volume exploration of Rochester’s journey from settlement to technological powerhouse. Through his research and writing, McKelvey helped to define the field of urban history in the United States, as well as the role of a city historian.To commemorate this anniversary, the Fall 2025 issue of Rochester History explores McKelvey’s legacy and his contributions to local history, urban history, public history, and environmental history. In conjunction with the issue’s release, please join us for a panel discussion featuring Christine L. Ridarsky (Rochester and Monroe County Historian), Christine Keiner (RIT history professor), and Michael Brown (RIT history professor), moderated by Bruce Leslie (SUNY Brockport professor emeritus). Registration is recommended but not required.This is an in-person program that will also be livestreamed at https://www.youtube.com/@RochesterPublicLibraryNY/streams.To request an ASL interpreter, please call 428-8304 at least ten days prior to the event.Presented by the Office of Rochester and Monroe County History in partnership with the Rochester Public Library, Rochester Institute of Technology Department of History and RIT Press.

Central - Kate Gleason Auditorium, Central Library

Ballet JumpStart! With the Draper Center

Creative Movement is a joyful way to explore self-expression through music and dance. Students work on developing physical skills, channeling energy, and stimulate imagination and creativity. Creative Movement class is filled with structured creative play, engaging and ......More

Creative Movement is a joyful way to explore self-expression through music and dance. Students work on developing physical skills, channeling energy, and stimulate imagination and creativity. Creative Movement class is filled with structured creative play, engaging and thought provoking props, story telling, and expressive pantomime. Through this program we will also be shaping and growing a ballet community of diversity and inclusion, the kind of community Draper Center wishes to provide for all its students. Ages 3-4. Registration required. Limited to 15 children.

Central - Children's Center, Central Library

Wired for Opportunity - Intro to Computers

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of......More

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of 4 classes as a part of the Wired for Opportunity program. Those under the age of 14 need to have an adult with them. If participants complete all 4 classes, they will receive a free Chromebook to take home. Limit of one device per person per household while supplies last. This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP0206 awarded to Monroe County, New York by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Penfield - Braman Room, Penfield Public Library

Wired for Opportunity - Intro to Computers - Hubbard Springs Apartments

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of......More

A basic introduction to using computers. In this class, we’ll go over the computer’s hardware and how to use it, how to get on the internet, and how to create your own email. Maximum of 10 participants, no experience necessary, registration required. This is a series of 4 classes as a part of the Wired for Opportunity program. This class will be held at Hubbard Springs Apartments at 154 Union Square Blvd, North Chili, NY. Those under the age of 14 need to have an adult with them. If participants complete all 4 classes, they will receive a free Chromebook to take home. Limit of one device per person per household while supplies last. This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP0206 awarded to Monroe County, New York by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.