J&J Adventures Part 2: New York Day 2

Thursday, May 29

Day 52

We woke up a bit later, spent the morning chatting and then got ready to go into the city again near noon. We again took the train into the city but this time stayed in midtown. We had to figure out how to get to the Mets tonight so bought a Metro card as the individual tickets are only good for 2 hours. The first stop was the New York Library, which is a reference library. Books are not loaned here but used here. There is another library across the street for lending. It is a beautiful, historic building. We got the audio guide and saw the magazine reference desk and the Jewish library that has a very large reference library with many historical books. Unfortunately, the Rose Room was closed for restoration. We read that in the Rose Room patrons can read or study at long oak tables lit by elegant bronze lamps. The ceilings are 52 feet high and are decorated by murals of vibrant skies and clouds. It is apparently nearly as long as two city blocks and It was great to see the outdoor reading and gathering spaces for people around the library and also in the nearby Bryant park.

We headed toward the United Nations building but on the way noticed a big traffic jam. A woman told us that a lone suitcase had been spotted nearby which is considered a possible terrorist threat. The city was in gridlock for awhile until they could call in a squad to examine the neglected suitcase. It would be terrible to be in constant fear of another terrorist attack. However, the city seems very prepared with a huge police presence and signs everywhere to report anything that seems suspicious. We were warned the night before in Times Square to make sure we never left our bags unattended.

Traffic jam

The United Nations Building was very interesting. We went inside for awhile and had to go through security. Jack was stopped and asked if he had an epi-pen in his backpack. He showed it to security and then was able to go inside. He has taken that on many flights and never stopped. Great security at the UN. I guess I can see why.

We then walked along 5^th Avenue past Saks and many other stores and St. Patrick's Cathedral. We eventually made it over to Central Park and strolled through a portion of the very large and beautiful park.