For there is always light if only we’re brave enough to see it,
If only we’re brave enough to be it.
from "The Hill We Climb" by Amanda Gorman
From the Director's Desk
The new library project is moving forward! On January 28 the library advertised to receive bids for the library construction project. Contractors have until March 4 to prepare their bids. On that date, at 11:00 a.m., Library and Township representatives will open the bids in public. Because of COVID restrictions, the bids will be opened outside in front of townhall. (If you are interested, the “Invitation for Bids” can be found on the library website.) Once the bids are received the library will have 60 days to award the contract. Look for a spring groundbreaking!
On January 11, the Cranbury Public Library Foundation Board of Directors voted unanimously to turn over all donated funds to the library to use in constructing the new building. These funds, along with funds the Library Board has reserved, will make up the 1:1 match required to accept the state grant. Thank you to all our Foundation donors who have helped to turn the dream of a new library into reality.
In the meantime, the library staff is continuing curbside service at our temporary library at 30 North Main Street and offering events online via Zoom. We have some new and exciting events for both children and adults coming up! Continue to stay safe, wear a mask, and get the vaccine as soon as you can. Get on the NJ Vaccination Scheduling System at NJVSS. I’m on the list and you can be too!
Marilynn Mullen
BOGO for everyone!
We love our library members
so in February we're offering
BOGO - Borrow One Get One!
For each book you request, the staff will pick out a second one for you to take home. Sort of like a 'blind date' with a book! Everyone can participate. We will match children with new children's books, teens with YA titles, and adults with popular adult authors. So pick one title and try another.
Online Events
Great Decisions Tuesday, February 9 at 7:00 p.m. Great Decisions is America's largest discussion program on world affairs. This month's topic isGlobal Supply Chains and U.S National Security. Briefing books are available at the library and on eLibraryNJ. (Hint: Be sure to sign in.) The video can be streamed via Vimeo for a fee. Register online.
The Commanding Presence of George Washington
Friday, February 19 at 6:30 p.m.
Throughout history, an Army's ability to fight and win a war is not solely dependent on weapons and training, it also rests on the attitude of its commander. As befitting a military hero, George Washington cut a formidable presence. Join historical reenactor and speaker Michael Jesberger for a lecture on George Washington. Register to receive the Zoom link.
Online Classes for Youth
LIVE Online Saturday Storytime!
Saturday, February 27 at 11:00 a.m.
Join us for a special LIVE Saturday Storytime! Laura will read Lupita Nyong'o's Sulwe and other stories to celebrate Black History Month. Register here. And be on the lookout for more live storytimes in the future featuring some very special guests!
Virtual Cartooning Class!
Tuesday, March 2 at 3:30 p.m.
Learn to draw cartoons! Award-winning cartoonist and humorous illustrator Rick Stromoski will teach you how to create your own cartoon characters, draw facial expressions, and even some animals! All you need is a stack of paper and your favorite thing to draw with. For ages 8 to 13. Register here!
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!
Online Classes for Seniors
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.
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.
We are reading American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins. Send and email to mullen@cranburypubliclibrary.org to join the discussion group via Zoom. The book is available to read at eLibraryNJ.
Afternoon Book Discussion
Wednesday, February 17 at 1:30 p.m.
We are reading The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett.Send an email tomullen@cranburypubliclibrary.orgto join the discussion group via Zoom. The book is available to read ateLibraryNJ.
Spinning Yarns
Tuesdays, February 2 and 16 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.