News

January 23, 2018

Albany Public Library Hosts The History of Here Author Talk on Feb. 9

Reading & Reception at Pine Hills Branch Features Albany Author Akum Norder

Albany Public Library is celebrating author Akum Norder on the publication of her first book—The History of Here: A House, the Pine Hills Neighborhood, and the City of Albany—with a special author talk and reception on Friday, Feb. 9, at 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm at the Pine Hills Branch (517 Western Ave.)

“My hope is that the Pine Hills’ story will appeal to people outside of the neighborhood and even beyond Albany. Across the country we’re seeing a resurgence of interest in distinctive, walkable neighborhoods, and my goal was to highlight and validate that trend,” Norder said. “Place still matters; community matters. The Pine Hills is just one example out of many, and this is the right moment to tell its story.”

The book, published by SUNY Press, details how the Pine Hills neighborhood changed and grew as reflected in the history of Norder’s 1912 house and the lives of its residents. She used city records, newspapers, out-of-print books, interviews, and other sources to trace the stories of the people who lived in the home before her. By researching the history of her own house, Norder came to understand how one Albany neighborhood, and its residents, are a reflection of 20th century America.

“Akum Norder writes with an authentic voice and a deep sense of place. Her story about her family’s house in Albany’s Pine Hills neighborhood captures the American urban experience. The History of Here is an important addition to the Albany canon,” said Paul Grondahl, director of the New York State Writers Institute.

The Feb. 9 event will begin with a short reading and book talk by Norder, followed by a reception that includes light refreshments. Copies of The History of Here will be available for purchase, and Norder will sign books as requested.

The event is free and open to the public, but space is limited so the library asks that attendees register by calling the Pine Hills Branch at (518) 482-7911 x2 or through the online events calendar.