Now Available
On Thurs., Oct. 26, Yonkers Public Library (YPL) will release a limited-edition library card in recognition of the 50th anniversary of hip hop. The card features art by Yonkers native and acclaimed street artist Daniel Hopkins (AKA Maxx Moses or Pose2) and will be available at all library locations.
The unveiling will be followed by a panel discussion with hip hop legends, including Ruff Ryder Founder Joaquin “Waah” Dean, Yonkers hip hop artist Large Amount, and Jerome “RawRome” Enders, author of Yonkers: The Lost City of Hip Hop.
“YPL recognizes hip hop to be a vital artform and an essential part of Yonkers culture and history. We’re excited to celebrate its 50th anniversary with a fresh new library card designed by one of Yonkers’ own and that reflects its energy and creativity,” said Jesse Montero, library director.
The special edition card is titled The Sound of Light and features imagery that is both futuristic yet grounded in the soulful roots in which hip-hop was founded upon. The patterns in the background and on the clothing are all derived from graffiti.
All Yonkers residents can request the special edition card when they apply for one at YPL.org while supplies last. All current cardholders can trade in their current card for a new card by visiting any of YPL’s three locations.
“As an artist, I’m always desiring to create imagery that shows Black Culture thriving in the future while staying connected to art, science and nature, with style,” said Moses. “This design for the library celebrates the next 50 years of hip hop, with an energy that’s rooted in a culture Boombastic by nature and guided by the divine mind.”
In partnership with Enders and Harold McKoy, CEO of Executive Branch Entertainment Group, the limited edition card is part of a larger series that highlights the role Yonkers played in helping to develop the culture and music of hip hop. Enders will moderate the panel discussion while intermittently reading excerpts from his book Yonkers: The Lost City of Hip Hop. Copies will be available to check out at the library and available for purchase at the event.
“The role of Yonkers hip-hop is intrinsically tied to its roots, as the early pioneers of Yonkers ventured back and forth to the Bronx, disseminating the culture within our city. Furthermore, our venues became a hub not only for local talent but also for practitioners from various places, who came to Yonkers to showcase their art,” said Enders.
“For the Yonkers Public Library to memorialize, recognize, and celebrate our community’s contributions, especially through educational programs like Yonkers The Lost City of Hip-Hop, is not just a way to honor our past but a vital means to inspire our future,” said McKoy. “By acknowledging the rich tapestry of our history and culture, we empower the next generation with the KNOWLEDGE, WISDOM, UNDERSTANDING, pride, and sense of identity that fosters innovation, unity, and a brighter future for Yonkers.”
