Stories - Life Stories
Stories 1483 Interviews 102
Our stories are about how people make sense of their own lives, how they can shed light on our lives, and how we are connected to one another, to history, and to the larger human story.
George Washington's role as a unifying and stabilizing figure
The New York Public Library as a sanctuary against societal chaos
The role of storytelling in shaping mindset and finding connection in midlife
Defining her multifaceted feminist career and role as a connector
Obama's connection to Jackson's community and the decision to support him
Role and responsibilities of the U.S. Poet Laureate position
Attending Obama's 2008 election night victory celebration at Grant Park
Mother's role in keeping the family busy during father's captivity
Home life and social gatherings with avant-garde cinema figures
Celebrating birthdays and Christmas together while in captivity
Obama's victory in the 2008 South Carolina Democratic primary
“Think about what you have done and try to leave this world a little bit better than you found it. That's all there is. You don't have to be a genius. You don't have to be anything. Just leave it a little bit better.”
Tova Friedman
Friendship with Jonas Mekas and curating his first show as an artist
The relationship between New York City and the library's collections and mission
Declining trust and its effects on social fabric and politics
Attending civil rights mass meetings and learning nonviolent protest principles
The library's role in serving children, students, and everyday community members
Early passion for deejaying and rapping as Emcee Scratch
Collaborative leadership style and collective decision-making approach
Obama's transformative leadership style contrasted with transactional approaches
Racial equity as a motivation for founding the Harbor School
