YONKERS – Yonkers Public Library on Monday, July 28 formally unveiled a new mural at the Riverfront Library called “Everyone Belongs Downtown.”
The mural, which was created by the Yonkers-based artist VASH (Victor A. Saint-Hilaire), was funded by a grant from the New York State Council on the Arts. It is a tribute to the joyful spirit of life in downtown Yonkers.
Located in the Children’s Room on the second floor of Riverfront Library, the mural has bold colors and energy, portraying the diverse community that lives, works, and thrives in the city’s downtown. It features prominent local landmarks, including the Riverfront Library, the Yonkers train station, and the Yonkers City Pier. The word “Nappeckamack” is also visible, which is an acknowledgment that Downtown Yonkers occupies land that was formerly an Algonquin fishing village of the same name.
“This mural is a love letter to Yonkers,” said Victor A. Saint-Hilaire (VASH). “I wanted to capture the beauty, the rhythm, and the hope that you feel walking through downtown. It’s a celebration of the neighborhood’s culture, community and resilience.”
Yonkers library Director Jesse Montero emphasized the library’s goal of making art more accessible and reflective of the people it serves. “We wanted visitors to Riverfront Library to see themselves and their home reflected in a positive and joyful way,” Montero said. “Thanks to NYSCA’s support and VASH’s incredible vision, this mural gives the library and the city a lasting visual symbol of that spirit.”
The mural is the latest in a series of projects meant to beautify and activate library interiors, including a new Sensory Room, The Cove (a children’s playspace), and new murals in the teen rooms at Riverfront Library and Will Library.
The mural is now on permanent display and can be viewed during library hours
