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The Library’s Director is Awarded New Jersey Librarian of the Year

The Library’s Director is Awarded New Jersey Librarian of the Year

Carol Nersinger accepted honor on April 30 at awards reception given by the New Jersey Library Association.

We are proud to announce that Carol Nersinger, Director of the East Brunswick Library, was presented with the prestigious “Librarian of the Year” Award on April 30, 2008 at the New Jersey Library Association (NJLA) Spring Conference.

Her 20-plus year career in library leadership is nothing short of impressive. Carol started her tenure with the East Brunswick Library as the Interim Director, then assuming the role of Director on a permanent basis. Before coming here, she served in a Director capacity for other tri-state libraries, including the Rochester Public Library in Rochester, NY, the New Jersey State Library in Trenton, NJ and the Highlands Regional Library Cooperative in Denville, NJ.

As an outstanding role model and manager, her great strengths lie in being proactive rather than reactive, and she has a great interest in being innovative. Joanne P. Roukens, Executive Director of the Highlands Regional Library Cooperative and past NJLA Librarian of the Year, presented Carol with the award at the NJLA reception.  “She is a visionary who has always worked to implement services and programs that demonstrate the value of libraries, librarians and library staff.” 

In addition to her current day-to-day duties, Carol is currently supervising the Library’s renovations and implementing a new vision that will help to solidify the Library’s position as one of the premiere libraries in New Jersey.


New DVD Titles Released on May 6

New DVD Titles Released on May 6

Come in to the Library every Tuesday morning and be the first to get your hands on the hot new DVD releases. New DVDs can be borrowed for 3 days and have $2 rental fee.

I'm Not There
2008 - Rated R
Starring Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Cate Blanchette

P.S. I Love You
2007 - Rated PG13
Starring Hillary Swank, Gerard Butler, Lisa Kudrow

Over Her Dead Body
2008-PG 13
Starring Eva Longoria Parker, Paul Rudd

Bella
2006-PG13
Starring Eduardo Verastegui, Tammy Blanchard

Crossing Jordan Season 1
Not rated
Starring Jill Hennessey, Miguel Ferrer


Friends of the Library Hold Membership Drive May 4-10

Friends of the Library Hold Membership Drive May 4-10

Special Membership Drive events for the week will include author lectures by Gwendolyn Gross and Kurt Andersen and a concert featuring the Voodudes.
All are welcome.

You may consider yourself a friend of The Library, but are you a Friend with a capital-“F”? The Friends of the Library will be holding a Membership Drive to invite our residents to become a dues paying Friends member during the week of May 4 through May 10.

Special Membership Drive Events sponsored by the Friends to be held that week include:

Tuesday, May 6, 8 pm: Gwendolen Gross
Named one of the best NJ authors of 2007, Gwendolen Gross will be speaking about her novel “The Other Mother.” Gross's novel documents the front lines of the Mommy Wars. She has fashioned a beautifully written account of a period in the lives of two youngish suburban mothers, one who has foregone the work place for full-time motherhood, and the other trying to balance her career with the needs or perceived needs of her newborn baby and husband.

Wednesday, May 7, 8 pm: Kurt Andersen
Kurt Andersen will be the guest speaker at the Friends’ annual general meeting. He will speak on his critically-acclaimed novel Heydey. He also is author of Turn of the Century, host and co-creator of the Peabody Award-winning public radio show Studio 360, contributor to Vanity Fair, and columnist for New York magazine. He co-founded Spy and Inside.com, and served as editor-in-chief of New York, cultural columnist for The New Yorker and Time, and architecture critic for Time. He has also created prime-time network pilots, and written screenplays and an off-Broadway revue.

Friday, May 9:  The VooDudes
Doors open at 7pm; Performances at 7:30pm and again at 9pm
Join us for an evening of Mardi Gras-style music and merriment with the VooDudes. Their music can be described as a mix of New Orleans funk, blues, boogie-woogie and honky-tonk, with a pinch of Zydeco, Southern soul and Caribbean party music. Don’t miss the VooDudes’ infectious brand of New Orleans-style music. You’ll swear its Mardi Gras again! To further get into the spirit, beads will be given out at the door. A dessert & coffee bar will be available to all for the duration of  the evening.

Formed in 1967, the Friends have helped keep The Library at the cutting edge of information and cultural services. By helping to soften the blow of harsh fiscal realities, and by providing so many of the “extras” that make The Library an exceptional example to this and other communities, the Friends are an invaluable and essential resource.

Friends’ membership applications are available at the library, and you will also be able to join or renew your membership at any of these events. For more information about the Friends’ membership or events scheduled, please call 732-390-6767.


New DVD Titles Released on April 29

New DVD Titles Released on April 29

Come in to the Library every Tuesday morning and be the first to get your hands on the hot new DVD releases. New DVDs can be borrowed for 3 days and have $2 rental fee.

The Diving Bell and the Butterfly
2007  - Rated PG-13   - 112 Minutes
Starring: Mathieu Amalric, Emmanuelle Seigner   Director: Julian Schnabel 
 
27 Dresses
2008  - Rated PG-13   - 111 Minutes
Starring: Edward Burns, Melora Harden, Katherine Heigl   Director: Anne Fletcher

The Golden Compass
2007  - Rated PG-13   - 113 Minutes
Starring: Nicole Kidman, Daniel Craig   Director: Chris Weitz
 
The Waltons: The Complete Seventh Season
1972  - Not Rated   - 1148 Minutes
 
Beverly Hills 90210: Season 4
1990  - Not Rated   - 1444 Minutes


May 4th Events Kickoff Monthlong Celebration of the Establishment of the State of Israel

May 4th Events Kickoff Monthlong Celebration of the Establishment of the State of Israel

Festivities to include a photo exhibit, singing, dancing and a guest speaker

The Library is hosting the 60th Anniversary Celebration of the Establishment of the State of Israel, and the entire community is invited!
 
Kick-off celebration will be on Sunday, May 4, from 2-5pm.
A photography exhibit “The Land of Israel is Beautiful! Eretz Yisrael Yafah!” will commence at 2:00 pm and runs through May 30. The exhibit features work by members of the East Brunswick Jewish Center. “We selected photos of Israel that best illustrate its beauty, diversity and character of its people,” states Gerry Feldman, who conceptualized and curates this exhibit with his wife, Sarina Feldman.
 
Gabriela Sadote-Sleppin, Director of the Jewish Federations’s Jewish Community Relations Council, will deliver the opening remarks. "We're looking to engage as many people in this as possible through as many diverse opportunities as we can and to provide support in this year of celebration."
 
 The Rutgers Acappella Group “Col Ha Layla,”  sponsored by the East Brunswick Arts Commission, will be singing Israeli songs. Israeli dancing will be performed by the first, second and third grade classes of the Solomon Schechter School, under the direction of their teacher Vera Galleid.
 
Guest Speaker Gil Hoffman will deliver a lecture titled “The Challenges Israel is Facing on its 60th Birthday and How They are Being Overcome.” Mr. Hoffman is the chief political correspondent and analyst for The Jerusalem Post and the Israel Correspondent for the New Jersey Jewish News. Well-connected to Israeli and Palestinian leaders, Hoffman has interviewed Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, President Shimon Peres and every major figure across the Israeli political spectrum. Called "The most optimistic man in Israel" by Israel Television, Hoffman's writing and television appearances provide a behind the scenes look at the intrigue and humor in the Israeli political arena. This lecture is sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Greater Middlesex County.
 
For more information about the 60th Anniversary of Israel Celebration events, please call 732-390-6767.

Starting and Building a Business: How to SCORE

Starting and Building a Business: How to SCORE

Take this opportunity to pick the brains of some of the region’s savviest business minds

Ideas for creating or expanding a small business are everywhere. But how do you get to the next steps: weeding the good ideas from the bad ones, and then turning the best ideas into an exciting reality?  Volunteers from the Counselors of America's Small Business (SCORE) will be at the East Brunswick Public Library on Wednesday, April 30, 7:00 p.m. to answer some of these questions. Registration is required and sign-up begins on March 13. This workshop is free and limited to 40 participants.

SCORE volunteers will explain what you need to know when going into business. They also offer in-depth counseling, training, and workshops on identifying opportunities, finding solutions to problems, creating a business plan, and how to secure funding. SCORE "Counselors to America's Small Business" is a nonprofit association dedicated to educating entrepreneurs and the formation, growth and success of small business nationwide. SCORE is a resource partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

For more information or to reserve your space, please call 732-390-6767.


The East Brunswick Library Honors Its Volunteers

The East Brunswick Library Honors Its Volunteers

As a great big "thank you," the East Brunswick Library held a luncheon in the volunteers' honor on April 17.

Volunteering at the library can be a rewarding experience. The library's volunteer coordinator matches volunteers to jobs and special projects available. Individuals interested in volunteering may pick up an application in the Administration office or at the Information Services desk.

To get more information, view volunteer opportunities or to download an application, go to http://www.ebpl.org/hlp_volunteer.cfm.


Journalist Charles Wiley Speaks at East Brunswick Public Library on Saturday, April 26, 2008 at 2:00 p.m.

Journalist Charles Wiley Speaks at East Brunswick Public Library on Saturday, April 26, 2008 at 2:00 p.m.


Well known radio/TV talk show personality and commentator who has appeared on CNN Crossfire and C-Span usually speaks about the tremendous power of the media and news bias. But as a World War II veteran, Mr. Wiley finds that he is asked to recount his wartime experiences more and more these days as WWII veterans fade from the scene.

The East Brunswick Historical Society and the East Brunswick Library is proud to host Mr. Wiley on Saturday April 26th at 2:00 pm. Mr. Wiley will speak about his days in the U.S. Navy during WWII, continuing the Historical Society’s series of conversations with veterans of the War. 

The lecture is free and all are welcomed.


Outragehisss Pets at the Library

Outragehisss Pets at the Library

Come to a live exotic animal show on Wednesday,April 23 at 1pm.

We don’t know which animals they will be bringing, but we can tell you that it could be reptiles, mammals, bugs, birds, or maybe even something else entirely!  You will learn what makes each animal special, where it comes from, and what it eats. 
John Tarrant, owner of Outragehisss Pets, will be here to present us with his critters. His programs are designed to entertain, as well as educate, all using live animals. They have been doing educational programs and birthday parties for 15 years. All of their animals are healthy, captive born and raised around people. For more information about the animals, please visit their website at www.outragehissspets.com.
 
This is a free event sponsored by the Friends of the Library. For more information, please call 732-390-6789.

Literacy Volunteers of Middlesex 
“Taking Steps for Literacy” Walk Needs Volunteers

Literacy Volunteers of Middlesex “Taking Steps for Literacy” Walk Needs Volunteers

Come Join The Library’s Team "Bookworms." Sunday, April 13th

The Library staff at The East Brunswick Public Library is rallying their loyal customers to join Library team members in the “Taking Steps for Literacy” Walk, a 2 mile walk to benefit the Literacy Volunteers of Middlesex (LVM). The walk takes place at the East Brunswick High School on Sunday, April 13. Registration is at 9:00 am and the walk starts at 10:15 am.
The Library staff will be participating through its team “Bookworms.” To join the Library team, just go to the walk’s website at www.lvmwalk.org and follow the directions to join. Other options are creating your own family, neighborhood or workplace team, becoming another team’s walker or participating as an individual walker. If you are unable to participate this year, you can still help by visiting the www.lvmwalk.org  website and sponsoring a participant, team or making a general donation to the LVM organization.
The mission of the Literacy Volunteers of Middlesex (LVM) is to enable adult native speakers of English, and those whose native language is not English, to acquire the necessary basic skills in reading, speaking, and writing English, thereby empowering them to participate more fully in the daily tasks of family, school, job, and community.  The proceeds of the Walk will enable LVM to offer services to East Brunswick residents that are on a waiting list.
The Walk promises to be a fun-filled family day with free breakfast and lunch served to all walkers. A DJ will provide musical entertainment and contests for children; there will be face painting and a moonwalk and mascots from the Somerset Patriots.  T-shirts and other prizes will be awarded for sponsors that hit their goals, including a $40 ITunes gift certificate and 2 passes to Six Flags Great Adventure.  The Walk will also highlight the need for all eligible voters to come out and vote for the school budget on Tuesday, April 15, 2008.

For more information, or to register, please call the Literacy Volunteers of Middlesex at 732-613-3724 or go to the LVM website at http://www.lvmwalk.org .

Check here for Event Photos.

 


Library celebrates Autism Awareness Month

Library celebrates Autism Awareness Month

Thanks to a generous contract from the INFOLINK Regional Library Cooperative, The East Brunswick Public Library has been able to launch a “Family Resource Collection” for families whose child has been diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum.

The collection includes many new books and media materials to help families educate themselves about Autism and to offer practical techniques for raising a child with Autism.  The Library has also partnered with the East Brunswick Public Schools so that teacher resource collections could be placed in the Media Centers of Hammarskjold Middle School, Chittick and Central Elementary Schools. 

 In addition to collections, The Library is using the INFOLINK contract money to conduct a monthly sibling support group for siblings of children with autism.  The group meets monthly at the library and is lead by a licensed social worker.  The Special Education PTA (SEPTA) has generously supported the sibling support group by providing child care for special needs children during  the support group meeting, which also coincide with the SEPTA meetings for parents with special needs children.

During the month of April, library staff will attend training for working with families who have a child with autism.  The training will be done by experts in the field of autism and will prepare staff to begin to plan more programs for children with autism and their families.

Finally, The Library will host an educational evening on Wednesday April 23rd for all our residents to learn about the Autism Spectrum.  Please check The Calendar for more information.

 


Last Chance for Book Sale Bargains!

Last Chance for Book Sale Bargains!

The Friends of The Library's Bargain Book and Media Sale concludes today, April 6th.

The region’s largest and most popular event of its kind and in its 34th year, the Friends annual book sale is held in the JC Penney Court of Brunswick Square Mall, 755 Route 18 South, East Brunswick.  Sunday Mall hours are 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

There are still plenty of book, DVD, CD, and software bargains.  Browsers may choose from among thousands of gently used hardcover and paperback books of all kinds plus audiobooks, video games, computer software, collectors’ items, and a huge selection of DVDs and CDs, all at a fraction of their original cost.  Cash and checks are accepted for purchases; sorry, no credit cards. An ATM is located within the mall. 

Proceeds benefit the Friends of The Library, a nonprofit organization that helps support The Library.  For more information, please call 732-390-6767.


Adopting a Vegetarian Lifestyle

Adopting a Vegetarian Lifestyle

A presentation by Sue Rose which includes nutrition information, cooking instruction and recipes.
Wednesday, March 26, 7:30 p.m.

Was one of your New Year’s resolutions to eat more fruits and vegetables—maybe even become a vegetarian?  Learn all about how easy it is to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle at a free program by Susan Rose at the East Brunswick Public Library on Wednesday, March 26, 7:30 p.m.  Everyone is welcome.

Ms. Rose really knows her onions.  She has been a practicing vegetarian for 35 years and has taught vegetable-based cooking and diet in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.  Her presentation includes a demonstration, cooking instruction, nutrition information, product display, recipes, and sample foods.  “The vegetarian diet,” she says, “is good for the body, mind, and soul.  Not only is it easy to follow and gentle to the planet, but it will give you more vitality, better health, and can even enhance your sense of well-being and spiritual development.”  A longtime practitioner of meditation, Ms. Rose will close with a brief meditation sitting.

For more information, please call 732-390-6767


Library Board Honors Retiring Board Member Gail Dysleski

Library Board Honors Retiring Board Member Gail Dysleski


On Tuesday evening, March 18th Library Board members, Mayor William Neary,  East Brunswick Council members, NJLA Executive Director Pat Tumulty and New Jersey State Library officials joined together to honor Gail Dysleski, longtime Library Board member who retired from the Board at the end of 2007.

Ms. Dysleski served the residents of East Brunswick as a member of the Library Board from 1988 to 2007.  During her tenure she held the office of Vice President from 1997-1998 and President of the Board from 1999-2002 and again in 2007.  Ms. Dysleski distinguished herself on the local and national level where she served on both the New Jersey Library Trustee Association and the American Libraries Association of Library Trustees and Advocates (ALTA), serving in many capacities over the years.

 Ms. Dysleski will be remembered as a tireless advocate for trustee education, spearheading the efforts to create an annual New Jersey Trustee Institute which educates and informs new library trustees.   Ms. Dysleski received many awards during her tenure, including Libraries of Middlesex Trustee of the Year, New Jersey Library Association Library Trustee Award and the Recognition of Outstanding Women Award.

Ms. Dysleski also served on the Friends of the Library Board from 1982-1988.

Click here to see more event photos in our Photo Gallery.


Lack of State Funding for the New Jersey Knowledge Initiative (NJKI) Ends Acess to Five Library Online Databases

Lack of State Funding for the New Jersey Knowledge Initiative (NJKI) Ends Acess to Five Library Online Databases


Due to a decrease in state funding, the existing multiyear contract for RefUSA, Academic Search Premier, the Biomedical Reference Collection, Business Source Premier, and the Regional Business News has ended as of February 28, 2008 and these databases are not currently available.

 

The funding that has ended was for the New Jersey Knowledge Initiative (NJKI).  The journal articles or data are no longer available through NJKI for the next four months.  We hope and expect to have an NJKI program available in the '09 state budget to begin July 1, 2008.  

We would appreciate your contacting the Governor's office:

Please also contact your local legislators

to let them know what the NJKI databases meant to you in terms of helping you grow your business, conduct your research or earn your degree. We hope you will strike a positive tone as you urge the Governor and local legislators to resume supporting this statewide shared service that had 15 million uses over the past two years while simultaneously saving $68.5 million dollars over retail prices. 

For more information please also check the NJKI website.


Early and Free:  It's a New Morning at the Friends' Big Book and Media Sale

Early and Free: It's a New Morning at the Friends' Big Book and Media Sale

The region’s largest and most popular event of its kind, the East Brunswick Friends of The Library’s 34th Annual Bargain Book and Media Sale, opens Monday, March 31, in the JC Penney Court of Brunswick Square Mall, 755 Route 18 South, East Brunswick.

Looking for thousands of book, DVD, CD, and software bargains?

This year’s sale marks two historic firsts: Opening day admission is now free.  What’s more, there’s no waiting until nightfall:  Shoppers eager to snap up those bargains can start doing so when the mall opens at 10 a.m.
The sale continues through April 6 during mall hours: weekdays and Saturday 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m.  Cash and checks are accepted for purchases; sorry, no credit cards. An ATM is located within the mall. 
The Library Puppeteers will perform free puppet shows on April 2 and 3 at 7 p.m. and again at 7:30 p.m. both evenings.
Browsers may choose from among thousands of gently used hardcover and paperback books of all kinds plus audiobooks, video games, computer software, collectors’ items, and a huge selection of DVDs and CDs, all at a fraction of their original cost. 
Proceeds benefit the Friends of The Library, a nonprofit organization that helps support The Library.  For more information, please call 732-390-6767. 

Please volunteer!  We can use your help.  Volunteer application


Jewish Choir to Sing at The Library

Jewish Choir to Sing at The Library

Makhelat HaMercaz, the Jewish Choir of Central New Jersey, will perform at the East Brunswick Public Library on Sunday, March 2, 3 p.m. The concert is free, and everyone is welcome.

Cantor Anna West OttMakhelat HaMercaz’s musical repertoire spans centuries, continents, and styles:  religious, secular, classical, jazz, pop, and folk tunes sung in Hebrew, Yiddish, Ladino, and English. 

The choir was founded in 2003 by two local cantors or singers of Jewish liturgical music, Anna West Ott of Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple, New Brunswick, and Sheldon Levin of Congregation Neve Shalom, Metuchen.  Under their direction, the group has attracted 50 singers from Middlesex, Monmouth, Mercer, and Somerset counties.  Makhelat HaMercaz is dedicated to nurturing appreciation of Jewish tradition and building community through beautiful music.   

Cantor Sheldon LevinFor more information, please call 732-390-6767.


The Library Closing for Carpet Installation February 20 and 21

The Library Closing for Carpet Installation February 20 and 21

The East Brunswick Public Library will be closed on Wednesday, February 20 and Thursday, February 21, 2008 to allow for installation of new carpeting in the Media Services area.

Fines will not be charged for these days.

All Library activities scheduled for February 20 and 21 are canceled. Community clubs and organizations scheduled to hold meetings in the library meeting rooms will still be able to meet.   The meeting rooms will be open via the rear handicapped accessible entrance for all outside meetings scheduled on February 20 and 21.

Normal hours (9am-9pm) resume on Friday, February 22, 2008. 

For more information, please call 732-390-6761.


“India Week” Celebration at The Library

“India Week” Celebration at The Library

The anniversary of India’s Republic Day, January 26, is being commemorated at the East Brunswick Public Library in a weeklong celebration, January 20-26, with arts, crafts, dance, film, a lecture, and a musical grand finale.

Authentic appetizers and desserts will be offered every day.  India Week is sponsored by the India Association of Garden State.  All events are free, and everyone is invited.

The schedule, subject to change, is as follows:

Sunday, January 20
Proclamation of India Week from the Office of the Mayor
5-7 p.m. Inauguration by Jagdish Vasudev, founder of the New Americans Program.  Dance performances: classical and Bollywood dances.  Musical recital on Tabla.

Monday, January 21
3-4 p.m. Arts and Crafts: Rangoli demonstration, Henna (Mehndi), and greeting cards.
4-5 p.m. Presentation by Abhishek Seth, East Brunswick High School senior, on his book Save My World.

Tuesday, January 22
1:30 and 7:30 p.m. Film: Gandhi, directed by Richard Attenborough, English, 188 minutes, rated PG.  The biography of Mahatma Gandhi won eight Oscars.

Wednesday, January 23
7:30-9 p.m. Women’s Traditional Arts demonstrations: Indian food, Henna (Mehndi), mirror work embroidery, Saree (sari) draping.

Thursday, January 24
12-5 p.m. Artists’ Day:  artwork by Hiraben Beltangdi, Ashwini Suroor, and Pratima Agate.

Friday, January 25
7-8:30 p.m. Dance Performances: classical, regional, and Bollywood dances; Ras-Garba demonstration, and audience participation.

Saturday, January 26
6 p.m. Seema Singh tells the story of Indian Republic Day
7-8:30 p.m. INDIAN REPUBLIC DAY Musical Concert by Suranjan Bhanja and Sapna Dutt.

Although the Indian Independence Act of 1947 provided for India as a separate dominion as of August of that year, the country officially became a sovereign republic on January 26, 1950, when its constitution came into force.  In India January 26 is a national holiday, with businesses and schools closed.

Call the Information desk, 732-390-6767, for updates.  For more information about India Week, please contact (Mrs.) Sushma Patel, 732-238-8277.

Printable version of the India Week flyer (Adobe Reader required)

 


Underground Railroad Survivors' Stories To Be Dramatized at The Library

Underground Railroad Survivors' Stories To Be Dramatized at The Library

The 19th century legend of the Freedom Quilt and the Underground Railroad that brought African-Americans to free states in the North will be dramatized in period costume at the East Brunswick Public Library on Monday, February 11, 7-9 p.m.

Families of all ages are invited to this free presentation in commemoration of Black History Month.

Stories handed down from family to family relate how a form of hidden communication helped to guide escaping slaves.  It was said that the quilts, which could be laid out to air without arousing suspicion, contained patterns that were code for when and how to prepare for the arduous—and dangerous—journey northward.  

Trish Chambers, dressed in Civil War-era clothing, tells the story of the Underground Railroad, presents a facsimile of the legendary Freedom Quilt, and explores how African-American traditions gave rise to the concept of the story cloth.  Ms. Chambers is the author of Civil War Women and Their Roles and Legacies and was a consultant on Gods and Generals, a film set during the War Between the States.

For more information, please call 732-390-6767.

 


English Conversation Groups Forming

English Conversation Groups Forming

Registration is open for the East Brunswick Public Library’s English Conversation Groups meeting on consecutive Thursdays, January 24-March 13, in both daytime and evening sessions.

The English Conversation Group is for those with a basic knowledge of English who want to practice their speaking skills in a relaxed, unpressured environment. Interested individuals may register at the Information desk in person or by telephone, 732-390-6767; or at the first meeting of either the 10-11:30 a.m. or the 7:30-9 p.m. session.

For more information, please contact the Information desk.



Last Day to Register to Vote Before the Primary: Register at The Library Today

Last Day to Register to Vote Before the Primary: Register at The Library Today

The East Brunswick Public Library is holding a voter registration drive January 8-15. All eligible New Jerseyans who are as yet unregistered are encouraged to visit The Library that week to sign up, especially if they wish to participate in the state’s primary election.

Now that the New Jersey legislature has moved the state’s presidential primary from June to February, the deadline to register to vote in the primary is January 15.

During the week of January 8-15, tables will be set up near the Library entrance to facilitate quick and easy registration.  Once they are registered, voters may choose a party affiliation.  Only those who have specified a party affiliation can vote in that party’s primary.  Newly registered voters, unaffiliated voters, or voters who have never voted in a primary election, can affiliate with the Democratic or Repulican Party on the day of the primary.  The primary elections are slated for February 5. 

The Library will continue to offer voter registration throughout the year, as well, for the general presidential election.

For general election information please go to the NJ Division of Elections, or NJ VoterInfo.org from the Eagleton Institute of Politics of Rutgers University, or The Library's Politics and Goverment page in our Best of the Web section.

FAQ -- Party Affiliations:

Can I declare my party affiliation at the pols?

You can declare your party affiliation at the polls when you go to vote in your first Primary Election.  After that, you may change your party affiliation 50 days before a primary election.


Puppetry Festival Tickets on Sale Now

Puppetry Festival Tickets on Sale Now

The East Brunswick Friends of The Library’s eighth annual Phyllis Noar Puppetry Festival is sponsoring two professional puppet shows for families in February, puppetry month at the East Brunswick Public Library.


The Segal Puppet Theatre performs Go Fish on Sunday, February 10, 2 p.m. for families with children ages 3 and up; and the Crabgrass Puppets present The Day It Snowed Tortillas on Sunday, February 24, 2 p.m. for families with children ages 5 and up.

Tickets are $2 for each show and are sold in advance only at the Circulation desk of The Library. Cash or checks payable to “E.B. Friends of The Library” are accepted. All ticket buyers are asked to fill out a short ticket order form available January 4 on the desk or downloadable here.

Please note that out of fairness to the audience, age requirements will be strictly observed for both shows. Refunds will be given only if the program is cancelled.

What do you get when you have an old rundown seaside bungalow, a poor fisherman, his wife, and some magical fish that can makes wishes come true? A recipe for some very big surprises, of course. Go Fish,The Fisherman and His Wife, is a funny tale with music that gently teaches a moral lesson.

Sure, it’s the season for snow, but can it really snow tortillas? The beloved Mexican folktale about luck, love—and lunch—comes to life with humor and music.

The Phyllis Noar Puppetry Festival is sponsored by the Phyllis Noar Memorial Fund of the Friends of The Library to celebrate the life of the late library advocate and past president of the Friends.

For more information, please call 732-390-6767 or 6789.


Philadelphia Flower Show Trip: Register Now!

Philadelphia Flower Show Trip: Register Now!

The Friends of The Library is once again sponsoring its annual bus trip to the Philadelphia Flower on March 4th.

This year's theme is "Jazz It Up."  Think floral chandeliers, New Orleans' French Quarter, bountiful balconies and courtyards -- and all that jazz.

The chartered bus will leave at 9 a.m. from behind the Kmart parking lot off Summerhill Road.  Departure time from Philadelphia ia at 4 p.m.  The cost is $43 for Friends members and $45 for all others.  Price includes roundtrip transportation, a snack on the bus, and admission to the flower show.  Click here (PDF format, Adobe Reader required), for a printable trip reservation form.

Please mail your completed form and a check payable to "E.B. Friends of the Library" to:

Ms. Anita Varshney
17 Diana Court
East Brunswick

Registrations mus be received by February 1.  You will be contacted only if a problem arises.  Ms. Varshney may be reached at 732-254-1963.


Library Wins $10,000 Grant to Benefit Families of Children with Autism

Library Wins $10,000 Grant to Benefit Families of Children with Autism


The grant was conferred by INFOLINK, a regional library cooperative.
The funds will go to provide:
Multiple resources including books, media, and other materials to parents and teachers of children with autism through a parent lending library and teacher resource collections,
Staff training to all library and media center staff that will interact with families seeking support or information concerning their affected children,
Referrals and educational opportunities to East Brunswick residents through partnership with the NJ Center for Outreach and Services for the Autism community, including Information Nights at The Library,
A monthly support group meeting at The Library for siblings of children with autism, led by a trained professional.
For more information, please contact MaryEllen Firestone at 732-390-6782.

Friends with a Capital

Friends with a Capital "F"

You may consider yourself a friend of The Library, but are you a capital-“F” Friend where it really counts—as in a dues-paying member of the Friends of The Library?

Today’s public libraries face harsh fiscal realities. But helping to soften the blow, and provide so many of the “extras” that separate an average library from a truly exceptional one, are Friends groups. Take the Friends of the East Brunswick Public Library, for example. Formed in 1967, the year of The Library’s founding, the Friends have helped keep The Library at the cutting edge of information and cultural services.

To name a few contributions, the Friends have funded in full or part:

Computers and a computer training laboratory
Teen Space and the Teen Library Connection
LCD televisions and Library website design
Personal appearances by noted authors and personalities
Musical concerts and lectures on everything from meditation to global crises
Knitting and ballroom dance classes
Rental books and startup for video, DVD, and video game collections
Puppetry and Storytelling festivals
International and Fine Film festivals
Meeting room renovations
Trips to flower shows, museums and special exhibits
Baby-changing station, stuffed animals, toys, chairs, and programs for Youth Services
Annual scholarship for an East Brunswick High School senior
The Library’s 40th birthday for the entire community
…and so much more.

And what would March be without the Friends’ annual Bargain Book and Media Sale?

Friends Membership Application To ensure that you and your family keep enjoying all the above through the coming years requires more than just a number of Friends volunteers selflessly giving of their time—it requires a solid financial underpinning. That means putting pen to check and joining the only ad-hoc group dedicated to making sure that The Library stays worthy of its designation of “Best Public Library in Central New Jersey,” as voted in the Home News Tribune.

In membership categories ranging from just $10 all the way up to $1,000 a year, you can become a true Friend—the kind that beats a small-“f” friend any day. You can even earn premiums for joining. For a fuller picture of Friends contributions, click on “Friends of The Library,” in the green header bar on this site. To join, click on the application form above to bring up a printable copy. All checks should be payable to “E.B. Friends of The Library” and sent, along with the filled-out application form, to the Friends at 2 Jean Walling Civic Center, East Brunswick, NJ 08816.

It’s your choice: Are you a casual friend—or a true Friend?

For more information call 732-390-6761.


January Library Exhibits

January Library Exhibits

A World War II-themed exhibit by the East Brunswick Historical Society

A World War II-themed exhibit by the East Brunswick Historical Society is featured in the glass showcases of the East Brunswick Public Library January 2-31, 2008.  During the same period, artwork by the Suburban Artists Guild is displayed on the walls.

The cases exhibit features memorabilia from the war years as well as background information about the causes of the global conflict.  The society was organized to stimulate an interest in history, particularly East Brunswick’s, and to protect and preserve meaningful historical sites, structures, and documents.

Members of the East Brunswick-based artists’ group will display their landscapes, florals, still lifes, portraits and abstracts done in a variety of media including oils, watercolors, acrylics, colored pencils, pastels, mixed media and charcoal.  The group was formed to help artists exchange ideas, grow in technical proficiency, and promote the arts to the community.

For more information about exhibits, please call 732-390-6767.


December Library Exhibit

December Library Exhibit

Entries and winners in an annual photography contest are on exhibit at the East Brunswick Public Library December 1-31.
During the fall, East Brunswick residents interested in photography submitted their work to the Township’s 26th Annual Photography Contest. The competition, in both color and black-and-white categories, was sponsored and judged by the Raritan Photographic Society, the East Brunswick Arts Commission, and the East Brunswick Division of Recreation. All entries will be on view on The Library’s walls. Winning entries are marked with ribbons.
For more information about East Brunswick’s photography contest, please call the Division of Recreation at 732-390-6797.

Start and Build Your Own Business, Monday, Dec. 3, 6-8 p.m. <br>
Learn all about startup from an elite corps of retired executives. <br> Register now.

Start and Build Your Own Business, Monday, Dec. 3, 6-8 p.m.
Learn all about startup from an elite corps of retired executives.
Register now.


If you've ever thought about starting your own business, don't miss this opportunity to get advice from some of the savviest business minds in the region. Volunteers from SCORE, the Counselors to America's Small Business, will be on hand to tell you what you need to know when starting or building a business. FREE.
To Register:
Click here to view the event in the Library Calendar.
Then click on the Sign Me Up link.
Or call the Information desk, 732-390-6767.

Defensive Driving Class to be Offered Again in December <br><b>Next Session Dates: December 10th & 11th, 6:30 - 10 p.m.<br>Spaces still available!  WALK-IN REGISTRATION ACCEPTED!</b>

Defensive Driving Class to be Offered Again in December
Next Session Dates: December 10th & 11th, 6:30 - 10 p.m.
Spaces still available! WALK-IN REGISTRATION ACCEPTED!


Erase your points, and save money on your car insurance by signing up for a NJ-approved class taught by an experienced police detective/accident investigator.Attendance is limited to 30 people and you must attend two consecutive evenings in order to be eligible for credit.
Attention Defensive Driving Registrants:
Please stop by The Library and pick up a registration form at the Circulation Desk or click here for a printable copy. Please bring the completed form and payment to the first class, Dec. 10. Checks should be payable to "E.B. Friends of The Library." Kindly direct any questions to 732-485-9714.

Wreath-Making Workshop Sat., Dec. 1, 1-4 p.m.
Dress your doorway in its holiday best. Taught by East Brunswick Garden Club. $12 fee, limited to 15. Please register.

Wreath-Making Workshop Sat., Dec. 1, 1-4 p.m. Dress your doorway in its holiday best. Taught by East Brunswick Garden Club. $12 fee, limited to 15. Please register.


Want to decorate your doorway? Bring clippers, garden gloves (optional), some evergreen branches, a 3-1/2 yard roll of wired or other ribbon, and any decorations you like. The wreath wire form and wire will be supplied. The $12 fee will be collected by the teacher, a member of the East Brunswick Garden Club.
To register:
Clck here to view the event in the Library Calendar
Then click on the Sign Me Up link.
Or call the Information desk, 732-390-6767.

Direct program questions to 732-254-3037.

DVDs of EBTV Children's Shows for Sale

"Calliope" and "Stories from the Library" series offered at $30 each by EBTV.,
"Calliope," featuring stories and activities geared to East Brunswick children in grades 1-3, is available at $30 for the full series of four shows. Taping begins November 7, 2007.
Likewise, "Stories from the Library," for Township children ages 3-5, runs for four shows. The cost of the complete series on DVD is $30.
Both series will be available after the series are completed.

Tickets for the Friends of The Library’s James Hess Folklore and Storytelling Festival Now on Sale

Tickets for the Friends of The Library’s James Hess Folklore and Storytelling Festival Now on Sale


ADULT PERFORMANCE: Sat., Nov. 17, 7:30 p.m. $15 including dessert buffet
FAMILY PERFORMANCE (ages 7 and up) Sun., Nov. 18, 2 p.m. $3 each or maximum $7 per family

Tickets are on sale now at the Circulation desk or you may download the form [here] which you can fill out and bring in or send to the Circulation desk for two shows by award-winning storyteller Ed Stivender, called “the Robin Williams of storytelling” by The Miami Herald. A perennial favorite at the National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, Tennessee, he has delighted audiences from Ireland to Indonesia with his appealing way with a story while accompanying himself on banjo. He won the Most Original Character award at the Philadelphia Mummers Parade and worked with that city’s Historic Philadelphia Inc. to create a colonial reenactment for the lauded “Once Upon a Nation” project. Besides being an internationally popular raconteur and musician, he is the author of the rollicking best seller Raised Catholic: Can You Tell?, the basis for his hilarious but affectionate takes on his parochial school youth.

The festival is presented by the Friends of The Library with major support from Johnson & Johnson, The Karma Foundation, and Comcast.

Checks should be payable to “EB Friends of The Library”

Healthy Halloween

Healthy Halloween

SAVE THE DATE: Sunday, Oct. 28, 1-5 p.m. HEALTHY HALLOWEEN
Enjoy Tricks, Treats and Healthy Eats...Rides...Snacks and Smoothies...Great Prizes, Too--and it's all FREE! Sponsored by Youniquely4U.
SO MUCH FUN IT'S DOWNRIGHT SPOOKY!Indoor/outdoor fair with farm-fresh snacks, Smoothies, a costume parade, petting zoo, pumpkin decorating, and moon bounce ride.
And what would Halloween be without a creepy Haunted House?
Plus, win great prizes like a skateboard or bicycle gear!
Attention parents: Robert Wood Johnson Children's Hospital staff will be on hand to answer your health and nutrition questions. Something for everybody! And it's all FREE.

East Brunswick High School Fall Sports on EBTV

East Brunswick High School Fall Sports on EBTV

All events will be televised three times. Tune to Channel 3 to "Let the games begin!"
September:
Sept. 10 Girls' Volleyball v. Bishop Ahr: televised Sept. 12, 9 p.m.; September 15 & 16, 4 p.m.
Sept. 25 Girls' Gymnastics v. Piscataway: televised Sept. 27, 9 p.m.; September 29 & 30, 4 p.m.

October
Oct. 9 Girls' Gymnastics v. South Brunswick: televised Oct. 11, 9 p.m.; Oct. 13 & 14, 4 p.m.
Oct. 15 Girls' Volleyball v. Stevens: televised Oct. 18, 9 p.m.; Oct. 20 & 21, 4 p.m.
Oct. 26 Football v. Edison: televised Nov. 1, 9 p.m.; Nov. 3 & 4, 4 p.m.

November
Nov. 22 Football v. Old Bridge: televised Nov. 24 & 25, 4 p.m.; Nov. 29, 9 p.m.

Entertainment 2008 Books Still Available!

Entertainment 2008 Books Still Available!

Enjoy hefty discounts on travel, dining, groceries, clothing, services, amusements and more and support The Friends of The Library at the same time.
$20 in grocery coupons practically pays for the book! Pick up a mostly Middlesex or mostly Monmouth edition at the Circulation desk now. Just $25 per book.
Please make checks payable to "E.B. Friends of The Library."

Check About The Friends under Fundraising for more information.

Arabic Language Newspaper Added to Library

Arabic Language Newspaper Added to Library


The Arabic-language newspaper Al-Ahram is now part of The Library’s World Language newspaper collection. The weekly paper, published in Cairo, Egypt, can be found in the World Language-English as a Second Language section next to the Chinese newspapers. Founded in 1875, it is Egypt’s largest circulating news publication. For more information, please call the Information desk at 732-390-6767.
More Information

Knitting Classes for Adults: Beginners and Advanced

Knitting Classes for Adults: Beginners and Advanced

Monday evenings at 7 and 8 p.m. beginning September 24.
Back by popular demand, the next series of knitting classes (beginners and advanced) for adults at The Library is scheduled for Monday evenings, Sept. 24, Oct. 1, 8 and 29. The courses are free but registration is required. Beginners will create scarves and similar items. Advanced knitters should bring their own projects. Everyone should bring two US-size 11 or larger knitting needles and some thick yarn. The classes are sponsored by the Friends of The Library. Please direct class questions to sandyyk@comcast.net.

National Library Week


National Library Week is April 13 - 19, 2008. 


 


East Brunswick Public Library
2 Jean Walling Civic Center
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
tel: 732.390.6950

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