The Albany Made Podcast

Welcome to the Albany Made Podcast – a podcast about the city of Albany and the library’s place in it.

Listen to us for free on SoundCloud, YouTube, or iTunes, or search for Albany Made Podcast on Pocket Casts

With the help of our staff and the local community, we will explore everything from local history, to arts and culture, to the function of the library in the community. Thank you for tuning in! 

Email us at albanymade@albanypubliclibrary.org 

Episode 31: "Murder at Cherry Hill" and "The Veiled Murderess"

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In the spirit of the Halloween season, we present to you two historic tales of murder and betrayal in the Capital Region.

First we are joined by Shawna Reilly, education coordinator at Albany’s Historic Cherry Hill, who tells the story of one of Albany’s most infamous murders: the Strang-Whipple Case of 1827.

Afterwards, Zan & the Winter Folk perform the murder ballad of “The Veiled Murderess” Henrietta Robinson, who murdered Timothy Lanagan and Catherine Lubee by poison in Troy, NY, in 1853.

Episode 30: Long Island Migrant Labor Camps with Mark Torres

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In part one of this episode, we’re featuring a long-standing tradition here at APL: the weekly book talks hosted by The Friends and Foundation of Albany Public Library. Our Executive Director Scott Jarzombek recently gave a presentation on Long Island Migrant Labor Camps: Dust for Blood about the darker side of Eastern Long Island’s agricultural history.

In part two, Scott speaks with author Mark Torres about the book and their shared history and legacy having growing up on Long Island, close to where the camps were once located.

You can find copies of Long Island Migrant Labor Camps: Dust for Blood in the collection here at APL and wherever books are sold.

Episode 29: Finding Our Way Back to Live Music

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In this episode, Albany Made producer Ryan Slowey meets with friends Kim Neaton, marketing and promoter assistant for Guthrie Bell Productions, and local singer and guitar player Chris Jordan, of The Slaughterhouse Chorus, to talk about what live music means to them and the current state of live music in the Capital Region and beyond.

Music from this episode:
maggotbrainny.bandcamp.com/
theabyssmals.bandcamp.com/track/lets-forget
theslaughterhousechorus.com/album/in-the-name-of-progress-2

Episode 28: Punk, Pedagogy & Empowerment with Nancy Barile

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In this episode, APL Executive Director Scott Jarzombek sits down with Nancy Barile, author of I’m Not Holding Your Coat: My Bruises-and-All Memoir of Punk Rock Rebellion. The book shares how Barile found empowerment through the Philadelphia punk and hardcore music scenes during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Barile talks about the connections she made along the way and how her experiences have informed her calling as an educator, while Jarzombek shares parallels in his own trajectory as a person and educator.

The book is available from Bazillion Points, an independent, Brooklyn-based publishing house.

The music in this episode provided by Spell Runner. Find Spell Runner’s music on Bandcamp.

Episode 27: Sam Jackson on Anti-Government Extremism in America

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APL Executive Director Scott Jarzombek speaks to Sam Jackson, an assistant professor at the University at Albany’s College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity, about his new book, “Oath Keepers: Patriotism and the Edge of Violence in a Right-Wing Antigovernment Group.” The two also discuss the broader culture of anti-government and white supremacist extremist movements in America.

You can find Jackson’s book at Columbia University Press online. Enter coupon code “CUP30” for a discount.

This book can also be requested from the library.

Episode 26: Creative Curbsides

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In this episode we’re sharing the story of the newest Art at APL exhibition, “Creative Curbsides.” The exhibition brings public art, curated by Opalka Gallery, to the front windows at the library’s Bach and Arbor Hill/West Hill branches.

APL’s Deanna DiCarlo speaks with Opalka Gallery Director Judy Gilmore and Opalka Exhibitions and Marketing Manager Amy Griffin about the gallery and library partnership.

APL’s Luke Martin speaks with the artists who created the “Creative Curbside” displays:

Episode 25: 2020 in Books

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In this episode, Luke Martin sits down with our friends at The Book House of Stuyvesant Plaza to talk about 2020 publishing trends and some favorite titles that came out this year.

Kathleen Carey shares her picks for kids and teens. Then Cheryl McKeon talks adult fiction and nonfiction.

As always, if any of the titles mentioned peak your interest, APL is here for you with available curbside pickup at 5 of our branch locations.

You can make a request at www.albanypubliclibrary.org, or using the UHLS Mobile App on your smart device. You can also find these titles in digital format via Overdrive and the Libby app.

Links below….

Hoopla: https://www.hoopladigital.com/

Overdrive: https://uhls.overdrive.com/uhls-albany/content

Libby app: https://www.overdrive.com/apps/libby/

Library catalog: https://catalog.uhls.org/

Episode 24: A Library's Place in the Time of COVID-19

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Albany Public Library Executive Director Scott Jarzombek speaks to podcast producer Ryan Slowey about the library’s place amidst a pandemic, the outgrowth of an anti-fact social climate, the news media, leadership in our community, and the political divide in the United States.

And in our “Ten Minutes with the Director” segment, Jarzombek speaks with University at Albany Associate Vice President of Enterprise Risk Management and Compliance Kevin Wilcox about the university’s response to the pandemic. (This conversation was recorded before UAlbany moved to full Pause on Nov. 10.)

Today’s music provided by The Whitehall Sessions.

Episode 23: The Voting Episode

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Your choice. Your voice. Your power. Vote! We’re talking all things voting on this episode.

APL Reference Librarian Meg Maurer speaks with Gienabou Diallo of the League of Women Voters of Albany County about the who, what, where, when and how of voting by absentee ballot, early voting, or in-person on November 3rd. Diallo and the League are an invaluable resource for information about the upcoming election, and how you can exercise your civic duty to create change. We hope you find this helpful.

For more information, please visit:

League of Women Voters of Albany County

Vote 411

Albany County Board of Elections

 

Episode 22: Queering a Library Collection

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In continuing our celebration of Pride Month, APL’s Gillian Friedlander speaks with Sam Berry, the library subject liaison for English literature, writing and literacy at the University at Albany.

Sam talks about the ways in which she is facilitating a library collection that is more inclusive and representative of the LGTBQ community, and how non-academic libraries can follow her example.

In our second half, Gil and Sam recommend some wonderful and relevant books for you to check out.

Today’s music provided by Present Self / Future Self. To hear more, visit: psfs.bandcamp.com/

Episode 21: Albany Pride

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We’re highlighting LGBTQ advocates and resources in this Pride Month episode.

First, we speak with Tandra LaGrone of In Our Own Voices, an organization striving to ensure the well-being and growth of LGBTQ people of color.

Then we speak to Perry Junjulas and Todd Cramer from the Albany Damien Center on working to enhance the lives of people affected by HIV/AIDS.

In Our Own Voices

Albany Damien Center

Episode 20: Joe Cammarere & Josh Coletto

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In this episode, we talk to two representatives of the local restaurant and bar industry about how their businesses are handling the COVID-19 quarantine.

In our first segment Executive Director Scott Jarzombek speaks with local bartender and musician Joe Cammarere about life as a bartender during quarantine. Later, Ryan Slowey speaks with Josh Coletto, owner of Nighthawks Restaurant and Bar (Troy, NY), about his philosophies on food sourcing, cooking, and running a kitchen.

Notes from the show to help you support local artisans, mentioned by Joe and Josh, during quarantine:

Apartment Pizza Instagram: @apartmentpizzaalb
Bread and more by Paula Instagram: @apeekatpaula
The Balloonary Instagram: @theballoonary
Bread and more by Max Instagram: @madmadmax1987

List of local bartenders you can donate tips to: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1gV9pHnawd7NTxOak6cw97Osjp9Zb55GxW-3gaiAaY6Y/edit#gid=0

Helping the homeless in the Capital District: www.interfaithpartnership.com/

This episode’s featured music by Hour of Lead (Albany, NY): hourofleadband.bandcamp.com/releases

Episode 19: Albany Reads Harry Potter

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Welcome to episode 19, The Harry Potter Special Edition!

We just completed a community read of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, and thought it would be fun to cap off our Albany Reads Harry Potter project with a discussion between librarians about the book and why they love it. 

Lisa (Hufflepuff), Alex (Ravenclaw), and Anne (Slytherin) talk about their favorite Harry Potter characters, best scenes, and most memorable moments. The librarians also talk about themes that resonated with them — especially during this time when we are all separated from one another — like togetherness, friendship, and kindness. We hope you enjoy the conversation!

 

Episode 18: Jennifer Goodall, Nolan Doroski & Paul Grondahl

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APL Head of West Branches Deanna DiCarlo speaks to University at Albany College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cyber Security Vice Dean Dr. Jennifer Goodall about a project she’s spearheading to provide masks for hospital workers. Next DiCarlo interviews APL Librarian Nolan Doroski about how he’s using the library’s makerspace 3D printers to assist in Goodall’s project.

Then join APL Executive Director Scott Jarzombek and Paul Grondahl for a talk about his work with the New York State Writers Institute and its relationship with the library.

Today’s music provided by Grease Fire. Please enjoy and stay safe out there.

Links:

University at Albany College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity

New York State Writers Institute

Grease Fire band

Episode 17: Transmissions from Quarantine

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Transmissions from quarantine. In this episode, our team of expert librarians, including our executive director, share facts and tips about how to stay mentally and physically healthy during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

We hope that you will find some comfort in listening to this. Stay safe & know that if you need resources to help navigating through this sudden change, we are here for you

Special thanks to Eric Tabin and Front Business for providing the intro/outro music (respectively) for this episode, and as always… thank you for listening.

Links to coronavirus information

Links to entertainment, cultural & educational resources

Episode 16: Silent Film Spectacular & Library News

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We had an interesting conversation with local musician Bobby Kendall about his involvement in the library’s annual Silent Film Spectacular series. He has written and performed live musical scores to classic silent films, as well as films he wrote and directed himself. Sarah Clark, who founded Silent Film Spectacular and is now director of Voorheesville Public Library, conducted the interview. Thanks to Bobby for talking to us and sharing some of the music from his most recent Silent Film Spectacular performance, “Dreams.”

The second segment of this episode is a discussion with APL Executive Director Scott Jarzombek. He tells us about some library news and projects, specifically involving the library’s Washington Ave. Branch.

Episode 15: Drag Queen Story Hour

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In this episode, we take you inside Noelle Diamond’s Drag Queen Story Hour at the Washington Ave. Branch and talk to parents who shared in this special event with their preschoolers. We also speak with John MacDonald, who performs as Noelle, to learn more about why he performs and how these storytimes help teach acceptance and kindness to young children and adults alike. Enjoy.

Episode 14: The 2020 U.S. Census & You

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In this episode, we explore facts and concerns about next year’s federal census. You’ll hear “Shape Your Future: The 2020 Census & You” — a panel discussion hosted by APL and League of Women Voters of Albany County on May 20 at the library’s Washington Ave. Branch.

Panelists include:

  • Elaine Frazier | One Person One Vote Coalition
  • Cate Bohn | Council on Children and Families
  • David Galin | City of Albany
  • Lucas Rogers | Albany County
  • Linda Berk | U.S. Census Bureau
  • Scott Jarzombek | Albany Public Library

Here are some 2020 Census links:

2020 Census at a Glance

U.S. Census Bureau

NYS Census Overview

City of Albany Census Complete Count Committee

New York Counts 2020

Episode 13: Highlights from 2018 & Community Activism

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In part 1 of this month’s episode, we begin with APL Public Information Officer Stephanie Simon speaking to our Executive Director Scott C. Jarzombek about some library highlights from 2018, as well as a look at what is coming for our patrons in 2019.

In part 2, APL staff member Tor Loney speaks with Dr. Alice Green and Mia Nilo from The Center for Law & Justice about community activism and community journalism.

Episode 12: Library Highlights

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We talk about some of APL’s 2018 highlights and look ahead to what’s coming in 2019 with Scott Jarzombek, the library’s executive director.

You’ll learn about how APL eliminated late fines and added evening and morning hours last year, and is planning to bring WiFi to three Albany parks this year in a partnership with the city.

Episode 11: Banned Books Week!

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Sarah Clark sits down with Joanna Palladino of the New York Civil Liberties Union to discuss the upcoming Banned Book Readout at Albany Public Library’s Washington Ave Branch, why books get banned, & our favorite banned books.

Episode 10: Historic Theaters of NY's Capital District

Episode 9: The Library Budget

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We take a break from regular Albany Made programming for a short episode about the library’s proposed 2019 budget.

APL Executive Director Scott Jarzombek talks with Stephanie Simon, the library’s public information officer, about the budget and its impact on taxpayers and library users. The budget vote is set for Tuesday, May 15, 2018.

Episode 8: Albany History

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Highlights from two local history programs held at Albany Public Library: History of Albany’s Streetcar System and Albany Archives: the Full Story.

Part 1: Tony Opalka, Albany City Historian

Part 2: Matt Malette, Albany Archives

Episode 7: The NYTimes Best Illustrated Books list for 2017

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In this episode we visit the Pine Hills Branch of the Albany Public Library and discuss The New York Times Best Illustrated Books list for 2017 with Youth Services librarians Christina Stenson-Carey and Stephanie Preston.

              

Episode 6: Telestory with Brooklyn Public Library

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TeleStory – “a free video visitation program that brings storytime to incarcerated New Yorkers and their families” – is the focus of this episode.

Our producer and Head of Branch Services Sarah Clark and Adult and Outreach Services Manager of the Upper Hudson Library System Deanna DiCarlo pay a visit to the Brooklyn Public Library’s Central Branch to speak with Nick Higgins, Michael Carey and Nick Franklin about TeleStory.

Brooklyn Public Library – Jail & Prison Libraries

Hafuboti

Episode 5: The Changing Media Landscape

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In this episode, APL Director Scott Jarzombek speaks with Paul Grondahl, journalist and Director of the New York State Writers Institute about today’s changing media landscape.

Our producer Sarah Clark speaks with local history librarian Jim Davies about our very own Pruyn Collection.

Special thanks to Roger Noyes for this episode’s music.

Episode 4: Fake News, Skepticism, & Science on Tap!

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Note: This episode contains adult language.

Part One: Sarah Clark interviews Deanna DiCarlo of the Upper Hudson Library System & Amy Peker of the New York State Library about fake news, & how librarians can help you decide what’s real & what’s not.

Part Two: Dr. Sean Rafferty of SUNY Albany gives a presentation on Skepticism at the Bier Abbey in Schenectady as part of the Science on Tap series.

Part Three: Sarah talks to Dr. Cara Ocobock of SUNY Albany about the Science on Tap series, & other science outreach events happening in the Capital District.

Fake News & How to Spot It

Novel NY

Space Crab

Science Café, Nova

Science on Tap

Episode 3: Libraries Are Education

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This episode of the Albany Made Podcast is devoted to New York State Library Advocacy Day, which took place on Wednesday, March 1st.  This podcast features interviews from two of New York’s library champions.

First we’ll hear Rebekkah Smith-Aldrich, Coordinator for Library Sustainability in for the Mid-Hudson Library System. Rebekkah is a library consultant on sustainability, and has developed library sustainability initiatives on the state and national level.

Our second interview features our Head of East Branches, Rebecca Lubin, talking with Mike Neppl, the Director of Government Relations and Advocacy for the New York State Library Association (NYLA). Mike is also a member of the Albany Public Library Board of Trustees.

Sustainable Libraries

NYLA Sustainability Initiative

2017 NYS Library Advocacy Day

2017 Legislative Priorities

NYLA Virtual Advocacy Center

Girls Who Code at the Delaware Branch

Outstanding Advocate of Libraries Award Given to Senator Hugh Farley

Episode 2, the Mini-sode: A Tribute to Pauline Oliveros

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Sarah Clark interviews Andrea Williams of RPI about her experiences working & performing with Pauline Oliveros.  Andrea Williams, along with other musicians from the Albany Sonic Arts Collective, will be performing at the Pauline Oliveros Tribute at the Washington Avenue Branch on Wednesday, January 11th, at 7 pm.

Pauline Oliveros Links:

Deep Listening Institute

Tape Music Center

Pauline Oliveros Tedx Talk: “The Difference Between Hearing and Listening”

Bye Bye Butterfly

Albany Sonic Arts Collective

Episode 1: The Music Episode

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Sarah Clark, head of Adult Services, interviews local musicians who have created & performed in APL programs like Garage Bands, Silent Film Spectacular, & the Murder Ballad series.

APL Services & Programs

Albany Made Creative Lab Reading Music
The Local History Room Garage Bands
APL Mobile App Murder Ballads

From the APL Catalog – works by William Kennedy

From the APL Catalog – East of Eden

From the APL Catalog – Infinite Jest

From the APL Catalog – Screwtape Letters

Matt Durfee:

Matt Durfee MR Poulopoulos Michael Eck

Ryan Devine:

Silent Film: The Penalty, with live music by Ryan Devine

Silent Film: The General, with live music by Ryan Devine

Donald Sosin

Other Links:

Delaware Ave Farmers Market Kimono Dragons
Listen with the Lights On Victory Soul Orchestra
Charmboy Zan Strumfeld