Brooklyn Public Library will mark the 10th anniversary of its annual Night in the Library on Saturday, March 14, a major after-hours event at its Central Library that has grown into one of the borough’s largest cultural gatherings, drawing thousands each year for a late-night celebration of ideas, art and performance.
This year’s theme, The Philosophy of Mathematics, will examine how concepts such as proof, paradox and pattern shape art, science and daily life. The program is presented in partnership with the Simons Foundation as part of its Infinite Sums initiative, which promotes public engagement with mathematics nationwide.
The eight-hour lineup will include lectures, performances, debates and interactive experiences throughout the building, culminating in a midnight meditation. Acclaimed filmmaker Werner Herzog is scheduled to deliver the keynote address.
“Brooklyn Public Library is thrilled to bring back Night in the Library with a bold focus on mathematics and science, reflecting our ongoing commitment to surprise, engage, and inspire in unexpected ways," said Jakab Orsos, vice president of Arts and Culture, Brooklyn Public Library. "Each year, the event draws thousands of visitors to our Central Library for an eight-hour program of lectures, performances, debates, and a midnight meditation. We look forward to inviting Brooklynites to learn and experience how mathematics and science shape not only the world around us, but our own individual lives as well."
A wide range of authors, artists and researchers will lead discussions across disciplines. Mathematician and pianist Eugenia Cheng will explore the logic of addition and contradiction, while artist Paul Chan will reflect on the emotional and philosophical dimensions of calculus.
Journalist Angela Saini will discuss insights from her reporting on patriarchy and Dr. Carrie Filion will present on using mathematics to interpret silence and sound. Scientists from the Simons Foundation’s Flatiron Institute are also expected to participate.
Music and movement will play a central role in the evening’s programming. Saxophonist and mathematician Marcus G. Miller and musician Joe Goodkin will perform, including original songs inspired by The Iliad. Chi-Hoon Kim and 8-year-old Juniper Eisenberg will demonstrate abacus techniques featured in their children’s book, while tap dancer Irene Koloseus will guide participants through rhythm-based exercises that connect dance to numbers.
Interactive stations will invite guests to compose Pi-Ku poetry using the digits of pi, mend clothing, meet therapy dogs and take part in tarot readings led by novelist Michael Cunningham. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase.
Organizers recommend advance registration, though admission remains free and open to the public until capacity is reached. Entry is first come, first served and updates to the schedule will be posted on the library’s website.
Click here for a full schedule.
