NY Life

NYC bibliophiles rejoice, for there’s a new way to buy books in town. Meet CityShelf, a project launched in December that’s “a combined search tool for eight of New York’s indie bookstores.”

It’s kind of like Amazon, only it’s specifically for books, and it comes without the controversy surrounding the major retailer’s author compensation practices. Not to mention, you’re buying local, which ignites that, “I’m contributing to society,” warm and fuzzy feeling.

Cityshelf’s goal is to augment sales for indie book sellers and make books more accessible to New Yorkers. It’s currently an app for smart phones, and founder Ben Purkert says he’d like for it to continue growing by word of mouth.

Get more info on Cityshelf here.

By Wendy Rose Gould

Image credit: Flickr: Nate Bolt

You may have wandered around New York City and noticed a random USB drive sticking out of a wall. That USB drive isn’t as random as you think, though. These were all strategically placed by an artist named Aram Bartholl, who calls them “Dead Drops”. His goal was to create a file-sharing network that any passer-by can anonymously use.

This video explains more about the project.

Read more at Art-Sheep.com, and let us know if you find any of these around the city.

By Wendy Rose Gould

Image credit: DeadDrops.com

Right now — thanks to Valentine’s Day coming up this Saturday — the world is dividing into three different camps. One camp is indifferent. “Valentine’s Day” they say. “Sure, OK. Whatever.”

The second camp, and we’re sure you’ve guessed it, has been awaiting February 14 with bated breath since February 15 last year. They’ve got it all planned out, from romantic dinners to fragrant rose bouquets, to wine, chocolate and the works.

And then… then there’s the snarky bunch. The people who despise cupid’s holiday. You may find them clenching their fists into the air, screaming, “But it’s just a consumerism tactic to boost sales!” or “Valentine’s Day is for suckers! Screw pretty flowers!”

Whatever camp you’re in, we think you may find a little humor in these snarky Valentine’s Day goods we’ve rounded up.

Despite This Being A Consumer-Driven Holiday Card

I Love You Pint Glass

The Ex 5-Piece Knife Set with Limited Edition Chrome Holder

Chocolate-Covered Edible Bugs Gift Pack

Ex-Wife Voodoo Doll

Doughs Over Bros Muscle Tee

Screw Valentines Day, Dance with a DOG Card

Bittersweets Valentine’s Day Candy

Send a Curse with PinStruck

By Wendy Rose Gould

Image credit: via Amazon, UrbanOutfitters and Etsy

The Wage Board and Governor Cuomo have proposed a wage increase to $8.50 per hour from $4.90 per hour for tipped laborers. While some waiters around the city may be rejoicing, it does spell some major changes for waitstaff, restaurant owners and their patrons.

For example, some establishments are toying with the idea of dropping the tipping system completely, others have discussed cutting employees’ hours, and some restaurants are looking at price increases on their menu upwards of 20%.

Read more about the new legislation and what it means for all involved.

By Wendy Rose Gould

Image credit: Flickr: David Tan