We are eager to see local libraries break ground on these much-needed projects, which will make library facilities safer, more efficient, and more accessible for all people.
~Mary Chute, New Jersey State Librarian
From the Director's Desk
The Cranbury Public Library Board of Trustees and I are happy to announce that on November 20, 2020 Governor Murphy authorized 38 library projects to receive funding through the NJ Library Construction Bond Act. Cranbury Public Library is among the recipients, receiving $2,329,500 for the construction of a new library building.
I know this is welcome news for all of our Foundations donors and library supporters. We worked long and hard to make this project a reality. A big part of our success was your support! Your donations are providing the bulk of the required 1 to 1 match of the state funding. In our application the Board was able to state unequivocally that the community was behind the new library project as shown by the large amount of funds raised in our capital campaign. Thank you for standing behind us!
The plans for the new library are ready and bid documents are being prepared. As soon as we receive the official letter from the New Jersey State Librarian the Library Board, with the assistance of Cranbury Township, will put the project out to bid. We are planning to break ground this spring!
As we begin to settle into our temporary pocket library at 30 North Main Street we look forward to eventually expanding services to the community. We are offering only curbside service at present as we still have a lot to accomplish to inside the new space. I hope in early 2021 library members will be able to enter the building and browse our collection. That will, of course, depend on the pandemic lessening in the next month. So I hope all of Cranbury will follow COVID guidelines and stay safe during the holidays. Until then enjoy the season and look forward to a new and better year in 2021.
Marilynn Mullen
The governor’s office stated “38 highly-rated projects from 16 counties across the state were recommended to the Legislature to receive funding from the Act. More than 129 applications were reviewed by a committee comprised of experts from across relevant State agencies, including the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, the Department of Community Affairs, the New Jersey Treasury, and the New Jersey Historical Commission, among others. This legislation authorizes $87.5 million in state bonds to fund critical improvements to New Jersey public libraries. The bond issuance was approved by New Jersey voters in November 2017 and all applicants were required to identify a 50 percent match to fund their proposed projects.”
Richard Moody's talk will focus on Hamilton’s upbringing in the Caribbean on Nevis and St Croix, his schooling in New Jersey and New York, and his involvement in many of the Revolutionary War campaigns culminating in the Battle of Yorktown in Virginia. Mr. Moody will also note Hamilton’s many achievements and will end with his dueling death on Weehawken Heights with Aaron Burr. Register online.
This program is presented in partnership with the Cranbury Historical and Preservation Society.
For Seniors
Zoom Tech Talk for Seniors
Fridays at 1:00 p.m.
Are you a senior citizen who would love to connect with family and friends online? Learn to use free video conferencing software like Zoom. Make a Friday afternoon one-on-one appointment with our technology specialist who will help you " get there " with Zoom. Register to make an appointment today! Appointment slots begin at 1 p.m. and are limited to 30 minutes sessions.
Tired of feeling stuck at home these days? Feel the need to visit with others? Make new friends and visit with old ones via our Zoom Coffee Talk for Seniors! Lively talk and sharing will be encouraged. Register today! Hope to see you there!
Hint: If you're not already using Zoom video conferencing software email reference@cranburypubliclibrary.org to schedule a one-on-one Zoom tech talk with the library's Technology Specialist.
Online Classes for Youth
Chess Club 2.0 For Kids and Teens!
Mondays at at 3:30 p.m.
Learn to play chess, or improve your chess game! Some meetings will include guest instructor Brendan Prawdzik, an advanced chess player with decades of experience. Check out ourEvents Calendar to see club meeting dates, further information and to register. Online registration including an email address is required. Ages 8 - 19.
It's Story Time any time!
We are sharing children's storybooks on video! Links to a new story are uploaded to our Events Calendar each Wednesday. Or you can check out our Storytimes Online page for a list of stories you can listen to anytime!
Regular Events Online
Regular Events Now Online!
Online Meditation Classes
Thursdays at 6:00 p.m.
This meditation class is for everyone - beginner or pro. The purpose is to foster a sense of connection within and to others. We will practice some tools to regain our balance of mind and bodies, and to manage anxiety, stress, and worry.
Several of the classes are pre-recorded. Go to our Events Calendarfor the link to the recording. A live class will be held on November 19. Participants must register online and provide an email address. The Zoom Meeting invitation will be emailed to participants 15 minutes prior to class.
November's book is "Redhead by the Side of the Road" by Anne Tyler. Send and emailtomullen@cranburypubliclibrary.orgto join the discussion group via Zoom.The book is available to read at eLibraryNJ.
Evening Book Discussions
Tuesday, December 15 at 7:00 p.m.
November's book is "Evvie Drake Starts Over" by Linda Holmes. Send and email to mullen@cranburypubliclibrary.org to join the discussion group via Zoom. The book is available to read at eLibraryNJ.
Spinning Yarns
Tuesdays, Dec. 1 and 15 at 7:00 p.m.
Join us online for an hour of knitting, crocheting, crafts and conversation. All levels welcome. Email Heidi at bloomleeds@cranburypubliclibrary.org to request to join the group.
Library Curbside Service Hours and Closings
Monday & Wednesday - 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Tuesday & Thursday - 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Library Closed December 24, 25 & 31 and January 1, 2021