Beauty, an exhibition of the photography of Debora S. Bruno, will be on display for the month of May, with an opening reception on Saturday, May 4, from 1:00 - 4:00 pm.
Debora Bruno describes Beauty as a selection of photographs that incorporates different styles from black and white to infrared, through traditional color film to digital images. She feels that beauty is not only found in daily subjects such as flowers, sunrises, seascapes and such, but also can be explored and discovered through simple subjects and such textured elements as old leaves, architecture, snap shots from friends, still life objects such as cups and apples, and the list goes on.
The artist appreciates art in general styles. Her love for photgraphy is one of the most important aspects of her life. Her work includes portrait, still life, nature and scenery in black and white, infrared, color and computer enhanced photography. Landscapes and architecture are her favorites. She tries to capture the best quality of light as possible.
Debora Bruno has exhibited in many places, including Brookdale Community College, Guild of Creative Art, Art Alliance, Freehold Art Society, Monmouth Museum, and the County Clerk's Office in Freehold. She has also had her work published in Collage Magazine and received honorable mentionsin the MCAC Juried Art Show in 2003 and the Student Art Show at Brookdale Community College in 2005 and 2006. She was awarded First Place for best alternative category for her piece titled "Empire State Building" at the juried show Open Eyesights in March 2007 and First Place in the 15th Juried Art show at the Guild of Creative Art in October 2007.
Meet the Artist at a reception on Saturday, May 4th, from 1:00 - 4:00 pm.
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Join us for singing bowl meditation throughout the month and experience the benefits meditation practice may bring.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Rebroadcast of An Archives Double Feature: Live Zoom Program
Enjoy a presentation by the Monmouth County Archives, a Division of the Monmouth County Clerk's Office.
No registration required. Available to watch via Library YouTube Page.
Click here to view resources for preserving your family records and document conservation.
Part I: Preserving Your Family Records
Presented by Archivist Mary Hussey
Family records are unique, priceless, and essential for safeguarding your family’s history. They can also be delicate and prone to disintegration without the proper housing. Mary will provide an overview of how to get started with preserving your family’s documents and memorabilia for future generations.
Part II: Historic Document Conservation at the Monmouth County Archives
Presented by Archivist Ryan Radice
Earlier presentations from the Monmouth County Archives have focused on using archival documents for research. In this presentation, Mr. Radice will explain the behind-the-scenes work of conserving those precious documents so that they can be used by researchers for years to come. Examples from the archives will be used to introduce the basic tools and methods to clean, repair, and protect historic documents.
About the presenters: Mary Hussey is a Research Archivist at the Monmouth County Archives. She started as a volunteer in 2012 and has been working for the County since 2015. She has a B.A. in Early American History and a Master’s in Library Science and Archival Studies. She was born and raised in Middletown.
Ryan Radice is a historian and has worked at the Monmouth County Archives since September 2022. He studied history and archaeology at Monmouth University, earning his master’s degree in 2021. In addition to assisting patrons with their historical research, he performs conservation work on the fragile documents within the Monmouth County Archives.
This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Rebroadcast of SafeNet: Mastering Cybersecurity Basics
Presented by the Cybersecurity Club of Manalapan High School
No registration required. Available to watch via Library Website or here anytime through May 31.
This workshop aims to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to stay safe and secure in the digital world. As technology becomes an integral part of daily life, it's crucial for all of us to understand and mitigate potential cybersecurity risks. This workshop is designed to be beginner-friendly, fostering a supportive learning environment for participants to grasp fundamental concepts and practical tips for online safety.
Topics covered in the workshop include:
-
Introduction to Cybersecurity: Understand the importance of cybersecurity, browsing the web safely, and protecting personal information
-
Password Management: Create strong passwords and maintain good password hygiene
-
Common Internet Threats: Recognize and avoid malware and social engineering
-
Internet Scams and Fraud: Recognize internet and phone scams, protect your identity, and shop online safely
-
Social Media Safety: Understand the importance of good social media etiquette and utilization of privacy settings
About the presenters: The Cybersecurity Club of Manalapan High School is the go-to hub for students driven by a shared passion for digital security, eager to delve into the cybersecurity field, and committed to acquiring the skills necessary for future careers. Through community outreach, they empower their members to serve as advocates for online safety education. Additionally, the club's involvement in competitions such as CyberPatriots (the Air & Space Forces Association) and picoCTF (sponsored by Carnegie Mellon University) offers unique opportunities for members to test their skills on a broader stage and further enrich their cybersecurity knowledge.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Ages 6 - 24 months, with parent/caregiver.
Come join us for stories, rhymes, fingerplays, and songs!
ages 2 - 6 years, with parent or caregiver
Outdoor | No Registration Required
The whole family is invited to join us in the Amphitheater for stories, songs, bubbles, and outdoor fun!
In the event of inclement weather this storytime will be held in the meeting room.
Do you Want to Speak English? Learn the language to help you at work, at home, and in the community.
Free English as a Second Language in-person classes, virtual classes or one-on-one tutoring will be offered through Literacy NJ Monmouth throughout the year.
Open to adults 18 years and older. Please contact Program Director Jhanna Even at 732 702 1895 or at jeven@literacynj.org
*Available to Monmouth County residents only
ages 2 - 6 years, with parent or caregiver
Outdoor | No Registration Required
The whole family is invited to join us in the Amphitheater for stories, songs, bubbles, and outdoor fun!
In the event of inclement weather this storytime will be held in the meeting room.
Ages 2 - 4, with parent/caregiver.
Come join us for stories, rhymes, fingerplays, and songs!
ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver
Registration Recommended | Space and supplies may be limited.
Stories, songs, and crafts specifically geared towards our rising preschoolers.
Dress for mess!
This fantasy musical film follows the story of Willy Wonka, the famous but eccentric chocolatier based on the character from Roald Dahl's novel. In particular, it emphasizes his rise to the top. The narrative traces his beginnings as a young adult who started as an employee selling chocolate in a store until he became driven to enter the chocolate industry eventually. This film acts as a prequel to the 1971 film adaptation of Dahl's novel.
Directed by Paul King
Starring Timothée Chalamet, Keegan-Michael Key, Olivia Colman, Jim Carter, and Rowan Atkinson
Adventury/Comedy/Family- 1 hour and 56 minutes
©Warner Bros.
Ages 4 - 6, with parent/caregiver.
Come join us for stories and crafts!
best for ages 5 - 8, with parent/caregiver
Registration Required | Space and supplies are limited.
Join Doodle Dude as we doodle our way through outer space.
EXPLORING NEW ZEALAND VIA FOOT – Live Zoom Program
Presented by Writers Patrice & Justin La Vigne
New Zealand is home to incredible activities worthy of a bucket list, so join environmental educators and freelance writers Patrice & Justin La Vigne to be transported across the world and experience a taste of it. In 2014-15, Patrice and Justin explored New Zealand via the human-powered route, hiking roughly 2,000 miles from the top of the North Island to the bottom of the South Island. Not only will you learn about the Kiwis' unique culture and see photos of the gorgeous landscape, but Patrice will read some excerpts from her book, Between Each Step: A Married Couple’s Thru Hike on New Zealand’s Te Araroa, the first American trail/travel memoir about Te Araroa, which released in November 2020. Check it out in our collection here.
About the presenters: Patrice and Justin La Vigne are hiking guides, environmental educators, and freelance writers, whose work has been featured in Backpacker, Outside, Outdoor Life, Alaska Magazine and more. The pair have also worked as traveling trainers for Leave No Trace. Collectively, they have hiked more than 12,000 miles and are close to visiting all of the U.S. National Parks as well as climbing all the state high points. They currently reside in a dry cabin outside of Denali National Park in Alaska. The former New Jersey residents have lived in 14 states and worked on the road as nomads around the “lower 48” for 10 years before ultimately deciding Alaska was their forever home.
This session will be presented on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required. Register below for links to be emailed to you. Registration closes on the business day prior to the program at noon; Zoom Access Links will be emailed later that day.
This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited. Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
Ages 10 months - 2 years, with parent/caregiver.
Storytime for the babies in your life! Enjoy classic stories, rhymes, songs and fingerplays!
Ages 6 months and up, with parent/caregiver.
Sing, dance, and read!
Register to guarantee seating.
Ages 12 - 18 months, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, and songs!
Ages 2 - 3 years, with parent/caregiver.
Come to the library and enjoy some classic stories, rhymes, songs, and fingerplays!
Ages 6 months - 2 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
WEDNESDAY, MAY 8, 2024 AT EASTERN BRANCH LIBRARY 10:00 - 1:00
MONMOUTH COUNTY'S CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS WILL BE ON SITE TO PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING GOVERNMENT SERVICES FROM THEIR OFFICES:
COUNTY CLERK' S OFFICE - CLERK CHRISTINE GIORDANO HANLON
- PASSPORT APPLICATIONS AND PHOTOS *
- VETERANS’ AND GOLD STAR FAMILY CARDS *
- COUNTY ID CARDS *
- FREE NOTARY SERVICES
- ELECTION/ VOTER INFORMATION
- PROPERTY FRAUD ALERT PROGRAM
* Necessary documentation is required for passport services and ID cards. Visit MONMOUTHCOUNTYCLERK.COM for these requirements.
SURROGATE' S OFFICE - SURROGATE MAUREEN T. RAISCH
INFORMATION ON THE FOLLOWING:
- PROBATE OF A WILL
- QUALIFYING AS ADMINISTRATOR OF AN ESTATE
- GUARDIANSHIP OF AN INCAPACITATED INDIVIDUAL
- FINALIZING ADOPTIONS
- GUIDANCE AND DIRECTION FOR THE NEW E- PROBATE FILING MODULE
- FREE NOTARY SERVICES
SHERIFF'S OFFICE - SHERIFF SHAUN GOLDEN
- YOUTH IDENTIFICATION CARDS
- REGISTER READY ID CARDS
- SAFE CARGO/CHILD SEAT SAFETY
- PRESCRIPTION DISPOSAL DROP OFF BOX
REPRESENTATIVES FROM:
- DIVISION ON AGING, DISABILITIES AND VETERANS SERVICES
SUPPORTED BY THE MONMOUTH COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
All ages welcome, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, sing songs, and make memories!
The Secret to a Good Night's Sleep: Live Zoom Program
Presented by Rachel Tansey
We will discuss how sleep benefits us while looking at sleep patterns. Information will be provided on what the research tells us about sleep and ways to get better rest.
About the Presenter: Rachel Tansey is a Senior Extension Associate for the Family & Community Health Sciences Department under Rutgers Cooperative Extension in Monmouth County. Ms. Tansey earned her bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Sciences from Rutgers University and a master’s degree in Holistic Health from Georgian Court University. Rachel works with local partners to educate residents on various topics centered around nutrition, wellness, and healthy well-being. Her primary concentration areas are in community health education, wellness & self-care, nutritious eating, and healthy lifestyles with an emphasis on wellness in the workplace.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Ages 10 months - 3 ½ years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us to enjoy nursery rhymes, songs, finger games, and stories!
Registration is recommended.
Ages 2 - 5 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
Ages 6 months and up, with parent/caregiver.
Sing, dance, and read!
Register to guarantee seating.
Ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, and songs!
ages 3 - 6, with parent/caregiver
National Train Day is May 11. As we gear up for summer travel, come join us to learn all about trains and train safety.
No registration required.
Ages 3 - 5 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for stories and a fun craft!
Registration is recommended.
“The Great Gatsby” follows would-be writer Nick Carraway (Tobey Maguire) as he leaves the Midwest and comes to New York City in the spring of 1922, an era of loosening morals, glittering jazz, bootleg kings, and sky-rocketing stocks. Chasing his own American Dream, Nick lands next door to a mysterious, party-giving millionaire, Jay Gatsby (Leonardo DiCaprio), and across the bay from his cousin, Daisy (Carey Mulligan), and her philandering, blue-blooded husband, Tom Buchanan (Joel Edgerton). It is thus that Nick is drawn into the captivating world of the super rich, their illusions, loves and deceits. As Nick bears witness, within and without of the world he inhabits, he pens a tale of impossible love, incorruptible dreams and high-octane tragedy, and holds a mirror to our own modern times and struggles.
Director: Baz Luhrmann
Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Carey Mulligan, Tobey Maguire, Isla Fisher, Joel Edgerton
© Warner Bros.
Drama/Romance 2 hours and 23 minutes
ages 8 and up, with parent/caregiver
Registration Required | Supplies are limited.
Make your very own keepsake dragon eyes out of marbles and paint!
ages 4 and up, with parent/caregiver
Registration Required | Register once per family
Read to a therapy dog! Please arrive 15 minutes ahead to pick out a book, or bring one from home.
All ages welcome, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, sing songs, and make memories!
Ages 4 years and up, with parent/caregiver.
Let's read exciting stories, sing some songs, and make a special craft.
Registration is recommended.
This week: Someone Special Heart Card - Create a fun card for someone special in your life!
ages 6 and up, with parent/caregiver
National Train Day is May 11. As we gear up for summer travel, come join us to learn all about trains and train safety.
No registration required.
The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (2023) (PG-13) 165 minutes
Starring: Rachel Zegler, Tom Blyth, Hunter Schafer, Kjell Brutscheidt, Jason Schwartzman
Directed by: Francis Lawrence
Descending from a prestigious family, Coriolanus Snow is having a hard time adjusting to the fall of his family's legacy after they suffered enormous losses during the war of the Districts and the Capitol. To regain his family's stature, he accepts a job mentoring tributes invented for the upcoming tenth Hunger Games. A prequel to The Hunger Games series, this adaptation follows the story of Coriolanus Snow during his youth.
Action & Adventure
(c) Lions Gate Films, Inc.
A Murder Mystery, Family Story, & Love Letter to Strong Women Everywhere: Author Talk with Nina Simon
Nothing brings a family together like a murder next door.
Join Nina Simon online as she chats about her lighthearted whodunnit featuring a grandmother-mother-daughter trio of amateur sleuths, Mother-Daughter Murder Night.
Mother-Daughter Murder Night follows high-powered business woman Lana Rubicon. She has a lot to be proud of with her keen intelligence, impeccable taste, and the L.A. real estate empire she’s built. But when she finds herself trapped 300 miles north of the city, convalescing in a sleepy coastal town with her adult daughter Beth and teenage granddaughter Jack, Lana is stuck counting otters instead of square footage—and hoping that boredom won’t kill her before the cancer does.
In a turn of events, when Jack happens upon a dead body while kayaking, she quickly becomes a suspect in the homicide investigation, and the Rubicon women are thrown into chaos. Beth thinks Lana should focus on recovery, but Lana has a better idea. She’ll pull on her wig, find the true murderer, protect her family, and prove she still has power. With Jack and Beth’s help, Lana uncovers a web of lies, family vendettas, and land disputes lurking beneath the surface of a community populated by folksy conservationists and wealthy ranchers. But as their amateur snooping advances into ever-more dangerous territory, the headstrong Rubicon women must learn to do the one thing they’ve always resisted: depend on each other.
Harness your inner detective and sign up for the investigation. Register now!
Click here to register for this event.
Can't make it? A recording of this program will be available here.
About the Author: Nina Simon writes crime fiction about strong women. She is a New York Times-bestselling debut author. This big-hearted whodunnit is a Reese's Book Club pick and a "best of 2023" selection for Amazon, Barnes & Noble, CrimeReads, and Library Journal.
Before turning to fiction, Nina wore many hats: NASA engineer, slam poet, game designer, museum director, and nonprofit CEO. Her work on community participation in museums, libraries, parks, and theaters has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, NPR, and the TEDx stage.
Mother-Daughter Murder Night is Nina’s first novel. She wrote it as a love letter to her mother, as a way to entertain, comfort, and connect with her during a major health crisis. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Nina now lives off-the-grid in the Santa Cruz Mountains with her family.
Check out Mother-Daughter Murder Night in our collection here.
This event will be conducted online and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register at the link above. Virtual access link will be emailed prior the presentation.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Learn to Play Bridge: In Person Program
Have you always wanted to learn to play Bridge? Here’s your chance!
Pat Guadagno will teach you what you need to know to get in on the fun.
Beginners are welcome and encouraged to arrive at the start of the session.
Seating is limited to 40 players. First come, first seated.
Ages 6 months - 2 years, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, songs, finger plays and bubbles!
Ages 6 months and up, with parent/caregiver.
Sing, dance, and read!
Register to guarantee seating.
Ages 18 - 36 months, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, and songs!
Ages 6 - 24 months, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, sing songs, and make memories!
Wellness Initiative for Senior Education (WISE) - Register ONCE for ALL SIX sessions
Presented by Jeneé Farley, Director of Volunteer Services of Monmouth County Family and Children's Services
Co-sponsored with the Monmouth County Library
As more Americans enter their senior years and life expectancies reach record highs, it is more important than ever for seniors to focus on their health and wellbeing. WISE participants will learn information which may improve health behaviors related to lifestyle choices, health care empowerment, and use of prescription and over-the-counter-medications. Join us for an enlightening evidence-based program offering six virtual lessons that cover a wide range of topics.
This free program will occur via Zoom on the following Thursdays at 10:30 am:
May 9 – Medication and the Older Adult will focus on improved ability to relate critical information to health care providers and ask important questions relevant to medication use
- Expected Outcomes:
- Increased awareness ofthe prevalence of medication use among older adults
- Improved ability to identify the behaviors that lead to medication misuse
- Expanded knowledge of how to manage medication use
- Greater familiarity with drugs commonly used by older adults, typical adverse reactions to drugs, and age-related changes in how drugs are metabolized
- Improved ability to relate critical information to health care providers and ask important questions relevant to medication use
May 16 – Substance Abuse, Addiction, and Older Adults will focus on improved ability to identify factors that place older adults at risk for substance abuse and protective factors that can help prevent it
May 23 – An Enhanced Quality of Life will focus on awareness of our personal values and how they influence the way we think and act.
About the presenter: In 2020, Family & Children’s Service (FCS) launched a new program OARS (Outreach, Awareness and Resources for Seniors) which focuses on the issues and challenges that are unique to aging, such as mental health, drug interactions, misuse of prescription and over-the-counter medications, risk factors, substance-abuse prevention, and social isolation/loneliness. Through the OARS program, FCS utilizes an evidence-based curriculum developed by the New Jersey Prevention Network (NJPN) called Wellness Initiative for Senior Education (WISE).
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Ages up to 2 ½ years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for simple books, silly songs, and rhymes!
Ages 6 months - 2 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
“Désirée’s Baby” (1893) by Kate Chopin
On a beautiful day in mid-nineteenth century Louisiana, a wealthy French Creole plantation owner drives to the neighboring plantation to visit her adopted daughter “Désirée and her daughter’s new baby.
Join us for an in-person short story discussion moderated by Ocean Township Librarian Mary Patterson.
Ages 2 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for songs, rhymes, and interactive stories!
Ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, songs, and a craft!
Ages 6 months and up, with parent/caregiver.
Sing, dance, and read!
Register to guarantee seating.
Ages 2 - 6, with parent/caregiver.
Come join us for stories, rhymes, fingerplays, and songs!
Ages 2 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, songs and a special craft!
Ages 2 - 5 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
All ages welcome, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, sing songs, and make memories!
Jim Peck has been an amateur astronomer since the age of 10 when he watched the first ever man-made satellite, the Russian Sputnik 1, travel across the night sky in Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1957.
Jim will lead a talk called The Sky By Day and By Night which will cover such topics as the moon, planets, stars and constellations, deep sky objects, artificial satellites, and the sun’s path across the sky.
Jim has led astronomy programs while Education Director of the American Littoral Society (coastal conservation group) on Sandy Hook and as Executive Director of the Cora Hartshorn Arboretum and Bird Sanctuary in Short Hills. He wrote the Trail Mix Nature Column for the Gannett Newspaper chain for 14 years as he explored the state from High Point to Cape May.
Registration is preferred. You can register in person, online or by phone.
This fantasy musical film follows the story of Willie Wonka, the famous but eccentric chocolatier based on the character from Roald Dahl's novel. In particular, it emphasizes his rise to the top. The narrative traces his beginnings as a young adult who started as an employee selling chocolate in a store until he became driven to enter the choclate industry eventually. This film acts as the prequal to the 1971 film adaptation of Dahl's novel.
Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Olivia Colman, Hugh Grant, Sally Hawkins, Jim Carter
Director: Paul King
Studio: Warner Bros.
112 minutes
Adventure/Comedy/Family
This fantasy musical film follows the story of Willy Wonka, the famous but eccentric chocolatier based on the character from Roald Dahl's novel. In particular, it emphasizes his rise to the top. The narrative traces his beginnings as a young adult who started as an employee selling chocolate in a store until he became driven to enter the chocolate industry eventually. This film acts as a prequel to the 1971 film adaptation of Dahl's novel.
Director: Paul King
Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Olivia Colman, Hugh Grant, Sally Hawkins, Jim Carter
Comedy - 1 Hour and 56 Minutes
@ Warner Bros.
Ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, and songs!
Grades K and up, with parent/caregiver
Registration Required | Supplies are limited.
Archaeologists evaluate human activity by examining artifacts they find. Come and learn about some of the tasks of an archaeologist by finding and studying artifacts, too. Children will each leave with a small artifact of their own.
All ages welcome, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, sing songs, and make memories!
ages 4 and up, with parent/caregiver
Join us for seasonal stories and crafts!
Ages 3 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for a story and craft.
Ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for a variety of activities, including storytime, crafts, and more!
ages 3 and up, with parent/caregiver
Registration Recommended
Join us for an interactive science show presented by Talewise, featuring hands-on experiments, audience participation, and more!
Grades K and up, with parent/caregiver
Registration Required
Squishy, slimy, exploding, oh, my! Join us for all kinds of hands-on experiments and projects. Dress to get messy!
This Week: Straw Rockets - make a paper rocket fly!
Ages 2 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for stories and a craft or activity based on different themes!
ages 3 and up, with parent/caregiver
Come make a craft after school at the library!
This week: Paper Plate Hot Air Balloons
Come to the ancient land of the library where we deal in the business of books and adventure. While adventures can be self-made in between the binding of pages, every other Thursday, we will gather-- inperson-- to begin a quest unlike others you might have read before. Our first Dungeons & Dragons group meeting will introduce you to the start of an incredible journey. Community run by a local enthusiast, this group is open to all ages. Please call the library to register.
It’s Garden Q&A Thyme!
Lettuce Help You!
Presented by Master Gardener Diane Larson
Diane Larson, Monmouth County Horticulturist of the Rutgers Master Gardeners, will provide assistance regarding horticulture and garden questions via Zoom.
Please email questions in advance (by May 8 at noon) to Ms. Larson at MonCoLibrary1922@gmail.com.
The Master Gardeners are dedicated to educating the citizens of Monmouth County by offering interesting and informative horticultural presentations. Raising awareness in our community ensures that Monmouth County continues to be a beautiful and environmentally green place to live and work.
Sessions will be presented on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required. Register below for links to be emailed to you. Registration closes on the business day prior to the program at noon; Zoom Access Links will be emailed later that day.
This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited. Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Join us for singing bowl meditation throughout the month and experience the benefits meditation practice may bring.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Writers Workshop -- In Person at the Eastern Branch
Looking for a supportive environment to practice and explore your writing style? Facilitator Molly Fox provides a choice of prompts for a 20-30 minute quick write. Excerpts of published works, both old and new, are shared to serve as models of strong writing and to inspire participants to craft their own style. Writers are invited (but no pressure!) to share their resulting work and offer gentle suggestions and feedback to their fellow writers. All are welcome!
Molly Fox, MS Ed, is a Reading Specialist, writing instructor, and certified yoga teacher. She has facilitated writing groups at Brookdale Community College and has participated in writing workshops at local libraries and educational events. She is looking forward to being part of a supportive community of writers.
Meetings take place on the second Friday of the month, January through June.
Registration recommended for each session you plan to attend.
Are you a budding or experienced author? Have up to 1,500 words of your work read aloud for first-impression feedback and critique by other writers.
Call the library or complete the registration form below.
The first five registrants will have their work critiqued. No cost and nothing to bring, but a positive attitude -- and copies of your work.
This get-together will be held the second Saturday of every month.
This program is co-sponsored by the Howell Township branch of the Monmouth County Library and NJWritingGroups.com
Ages 6 months - 6 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
ages 6 - 24 months, with parent/caregiver
Stories, songs, and bubbles for our littlest readers!
All ages welcome, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, sing songs, and make memories!
Ages 10 months - 3 ½ years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us to enjoy nursery rhymes, songs, finger games, and stories!
Registration is recommended.
ages 18 months - 3 ½ years, with parent/caregiver
Stories, songs, and sensory activities for our little movers and shakers!
Ages 3 - 5 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for stories and a fun craft!
Registration is recommended.
The history of Fort Monmouth, NJ begins in May 1917 when the Army authorized training camps for signal troops. One camp, known as "Fort Monmouth," was built in central New Jersey. The Army Signal Corps trained thousands of men for war there, and built laboratories that worked on pioneering technologies like air to ground radio. It was for decades known as the "Home of the Signal Corps," and, until its closure in 2011, the base was still innovating some of the most significant communications and electronics advances in military history - many of which would save lives on the battlefield and also be adapted for civilian use.
Presented by Monmouth University Professor Melissa Ziobro, the last Command Historian at Fort Monmouth prior to the base's closure in 2011.
Thanks to the Friends of the Monmouth County Library for their support of this program.
IN PERSON AT EASTERN BRANCH
REGISTER TO GUARANTEE SEATING
The Vietnam War was a conflict in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia from November 1, 1955 to the fall of Saigon, capitol of South Vietnam, On April 30, 1975. It was the second of the Indochina Wars and was officilly fought between North Vietnam and South Vietnam. North Vietnam was supported by the Souviet Union, China and other communist allies. South Vietnam was supported by the United States and other anti-communist allies. The war is widely considered to be a Cold War-era proxy war. It lasted almost 20 years, with direct U.S. involvement ending in 1973.
This presentation will address how it all began.
Join Paul Zigo, history professor, author and military historian, founder and director, of the World War II Era Studies Institute for this in-person presentation and discussion.
ages 3 ½ - 5, parent/caregiver must remain in the library
Registration Required
This Month: Rain Clouds in a Jar
** Allergy Note: Please alert us to any allergies before attending. **
ages 3 and up, with parent/caregiver
Come make a craft at the library!
This week: Tissue Paper Names
Ages 2 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for stories and a craft or activity based on different themes!
Ages 6 - 24 months, with parent/caregiver.
Come join us for stories, rhymes, fingerplays, and songs!
ages 2 - 6 years, with parent or caregiver
Outdoor | No Registration Required
The whole family is invited to join us in the Amphitheater for stories, songs, bubbles, and outdoor fun!
In the event of inclement weather this storytime will be held in the meeting room.
Holmdel Book Club
Join us in person for the next meeting of the Holmdel Book Club. We will meet on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 10:00 am.
We will be discussing The Buddha in the Attic by Julie Otsuka (request book, audiobook, e audiobook , eBook,)
This novel tells the story of a group of young women brought over from Japan to San Francisco as 'picture brides' nearly a century ago.
In eight incantatory sections, The Buddha in the Attic traces their extraordinary lives, from their arduous journey by boat, where they exchange photographs of their husbands, imagining uncertain futures in an unknown land; to their arrival in San Francisco and their tremulous first nights as new wives; to their backbreaking work picking fruit in the fields and scrubbing the floors of white women; to their struggles to master a new language and a new culture; to their experiences in childbirth, and then as mothers, raising children who will ultimately reject their heritage and their history; to the deracinating arrival of war.
Moderated by Trish Shrodo, Holmdel Library and Learning Center
Do you Want to Speak English? Learn the language to help you at work, at home, and in the community.
Free English as a Second Language in-person classes, virtual classes or one-on-one tutoring will be offered through Literacy NJ Monmouth throughout the year.
Open to adults 18 years and older. Please contact Program Director Jhanna Even at 732 702 1895 or at jeven@literacynj.org
*Available to Monmouth County residents only
Fighting Cancer With Your Fork: Live Zoom Program
Presented by Hillary Sachs, RDN, of Crossroads4Hope
Through this program, you will learn top ways to potentially help prevent cancer through nutrition.
About the presenter: Hillary Sachs completed her undergraduate education at Cornell University in Education and Nutritional Sciences. She went on to complete a master’s degree in Clinical Nutrition at New York University, a dietetic internship at the James J. Peters Bronx VA Medical Center, and board certification in oncology nutrition through the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Her past roles have included Nutrition Manager at Northwell Health's Cancer Institute, Professor of Nutrition at Hofstra University, and owner and founder of Hillary Sachs Nutrition, LLC. Hillary is a regular speaker at nutrition conferences and health seminars.
Hillary has counseled and educated hundreds of people at various stages of their cancer journeys on the impact their nutrition has on their treatment and overall well-being. She works one-on-one with patients post-diagnosis — as well as those looking to optimize their health to prevent cancer — to design and implement sustainable and actionable oncology nutrition plans.
For nearly two decades, Crossroads4Hope have served all those affected by cancer by delivering essential emotional and social support and services when it was needed most. Their program has improved the lives of tens of thousands of individuals by reducing the burden of cancer, so that individuals can become empowered with the behaviors that enable them to take control of their health, well-being, and care.
ages 2 - 6 years, with parent or caregiver
Outdoor | No Registration Required
The whole family is invited to join us in the Amphitheater for stories, songs, bubbles, and outdoor fun!
In the event of inclement weather this storytime will be held in the meeting room.
Ages 2 - 4, with parent/caregiver.
Come join us for stories, rhymes, fingerplays, and songs!
ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver
Registration Recommended | Space and supplies may be limited.
Stories, songs, and crafts specifically geared towards our rising preschoolers.
Dress for mess!
Due to a change in his employment status, Dutch-American footbal coach Thomas Rongen was forced to undertake a coaching role he had difficulty accepting. He flew to American Samoa to coach their national football team to become eligible for the 2001 FIFA World Cup. The main challenge, though, is that the team is touted as one of the weakest in the world. Based on the 2014 documentary with the same title, this sports comedy-drama features that real-life travails of Thomas Rongen.
Directed by Taika Waititi
Starring Michael Fassbender, Oscar Kightley, Kaimana, Rachel House and David Fane
Comedy/Drama/Sport- 1 hour and 44 minutes
©Twentieth Century Fox
Ages 4 - 6, with parent/caregiver.
Come join us for stories and crafts!
"I Do!" Victorian Wedding Traditions: Live Zoom Program
Presented by Historian Valerie Gugala
Why do brides wear white? Why is an engagement ring a customary purchase? These and other questions will be answered in this lecture. We will learn where our traditions have come from and how many of today's American wedding rituals result from Victorian culture.
This session will be presented on Zoom, and is free of charge. Registration is required. Internet access is also required for Zoom access. Register below for links to be emailed to you. Registration closes on the business day prior to the program at noon.
This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Ages 10 months - 2 years, with parent/caregiver.
Storytime for the babies in your life! Enjoy classic stories, rhymes, songs and fingerplays!
Ages 6 months and up, with parent/caregiver.
Sing, dance, and read!
Register to guarantee seating.
Ages 12 - 18 months, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, and songs!
Ages 2 - 3 years, with parent/caregiver.
Come to the library and enjoy some classic stories, rhymes, songs, and fingerplays!
Ages 6 months - 2 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
Ages 10 months - 3 ½ years, with parent/caregiver.
Enjoy nursery rhymes, finger plays, songs, stories and bubbles!
Please choose ONE session per week to attend. Sessions are limited to 20 families, first-come, first-serve. The same books will be read for each session each week.
ages 6 - 24 months, with parent/caregiver
Stories, songs, and bubbles for our littlest readers!
Please register with a valid email address and you will receive an email reminder with a link to the Zoom meeting.
Georgie All Along by Kate Clayborn
Personal assistant Georgie Mulcahy has made a career out of putting others before herself. When an unexpected upheaval sends her back to her hometown, Georgie comes across a forgotten artifact—a “friendfic” diary she wrote as a teenager, a guidebook for getting started on a new path. Georgie’s plans hit a snag when she comes face to face with an unexpected roommate—Levi Fanning. As the two make their way through her wishlist, Georgie begins to realize that what she truly wants might not be in the pages of her diary after all.
Moderated by Stephanie Laurino
Ages 10 months - 3 ½ years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us to enjoy nursery rhymes, songs, finger games, and stories!
Registration is recommended.
Ages 2 - 5 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
Ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, and songs!
ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver
Registration Recommended | Space and supplies may be limited.
Stories, songs, and crafts specifically geared towards our rising preschoolers.
Dress for mess!
ages 2 and up, with parent/ caregiver
Registration Recommended
Move and groove to our favorite classic kid’s tunes with musician Big Jeff!
Ages 3 - 5 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for stories and a fun craft!
Registration is recommended.
Ages 3 - 6, with parent/caregiver.
Foster a love of reading through interactive stories and activities!
Join us for an hour of live music by Charlie's Band with Sandy Sasso featuring a variety of musicians, instruments, and song selections from the Great American Songbook as well as some smooth jazz and Latin sounds. Those who have attended in the past know what a treat these performers are. If you haven't experienced the sounds of Charlie's Band, mark your calendar for their upcoming performances and enjoy a mid-week show.
Join the Square of Friends at Eastern Branch to discuss this month's book club selection, Blame, by Michelle Huneven.
Waking up in jail after an alcoholic blackout, history professor Patsy McLemoore learns that she accidentally killed two people, an event for which she spends decades atoning before learning a perspective-changing truth.
Book discussion is led by Librarian Beth Miller. Copies of the book are available at the Eastern Branch Circulation Desk.
Melodramatic adaptation of Khaled Hosseini’s novel about an Afghani writer living in America who is haunted by the past and returns to his homeland to help the son of a childhood friend.
Director: Marc Forster
Cast: Shaun Toub, Atossa Leoni, Ahmad Khan Mahmoodzada, Khalid Abdalla, Zekiria Ebrahimi
© Paramount Pictures
Drama 2 hours and 7 minutes
Ages 5 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Registration Requested.
Come in for a hands on activity!
Ages 4 years and up, with parent/caregiver.
Let's read exciting stories, sing some songs, and make a special craft.
Registration is recommended.
This week: Butterfly Craft - Float into summer with this winged creation!
Grades K - 2 , parent/caregiver must remain in the library
Registration Required
This Week: Cornstarch Clay
** Allergy Note: Please alert us to any allergies before attending. **
May 15: The Holdovers (2023) (R) 133 minutes
Starring: Paul Giamatti, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, Dominic Sessa, Carrie Preston
Directed by: Alexander Payne
The dramedy tells the story of a disagreeable schoolteacher named Paul Hunham. With no family or friends, Paul ends up staying at school during Christmas break to supervise holdover students who can't travel home for the holidays. Troublemaker Angus and head cook Mary build an unexpected bond with Paul on campus. Together, they go through hilarious adventures, celebrating Christmas in their own unique way.
Comedy | Drama
(c) Focus Features
Borscht Belt Comedy: Live Zoom Program
Presented by Larry Wolfert, Instructor, OLLI-RU
May is Jewish American Heritage Month. Reminisce as we take a trip back in time to the golden years of the Borscht Belt (1940s - early 1970s) when Southern New York became the cradle of American Jewish comedy. Professor Larry Wolfert will define its uniqueness and convey the humor of icons such as Freddie Roman, Mal Z. Lawrence, Myron Cohen, Henny Youngman, Jackie Mason, Buddy Hackett, Jack Carter, Woody Allen, and many more. It is sure to be a treasure trove of laughter and fond memories.
About the presenter: Larry Wolfert was the founder and head of the Folk Music Club of East Brunswick for over 25 years, and member of the folk duo “The End of the Line” which played local Jersey clubs in the ‘80’s.
Today, he conducts courses at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Rutgers University (OLLI-RU) on his two passions – folk music and comedy. He instructs two courses on The Folk Music Revival: Behind the Artists and their Songs as well as three courses on 20th Century Comedians. In 2016, Wolfert was chosen for the Marlene M. Pomper Award for Teaching Excellence from OLLI-RU.
This session will be conducted on Zoom and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the conversation. Zoom access link will be emailed the afternoon before the presentation.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Lost & Found: Virtual Bereavement Group Facilitated on Zoom by Beth Stamp
Join us for a Virtual Bereavement Group meeting LIVE ON ZOOM at 6:45 pm on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.
When you experience the loss of a loved one, navigating through the maze of emotion, making ordinary decisions, and finding a new rhythm to every day can be stressful and overwhelming.
These workshops, led by Beth Stamp, support facilitator, may provide an opportunity to share experiences, feelings, and new ideas for moving forward.
Sessions will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the discussion. Registration is rolling; however, the access link will be emailed to all registrants the day before the program.
You can sign up to join us twice each month, or you can check the bottom box on the registration form to sign up for that session only. Please email mclprograms@monmouthcountylib.org if you would like to be removed from the list.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Learn to Play Bridge: In Person Program
Have you always wanted to learn to play Bridge? Here’s your chance!
Pat Guadagno will teach you what you need to know to get in on the fun.
Beginners are welcome and encouraged to arrive at the start of the session.
Seating is limited to 40 players. First come, first seated.
Ages 6 months and up, with parent/caregiver.
Sing, dance, and read!
Register to guarantee seating.
Ages 10 months - 3 ½ years, with parent/caregiver.
Enjoy nursery rhymes, finger plays, songs, stories and bubbles!
Please choose ONE session per week to attend. Sessions are limited to 20 families, first-come, first-serve. The same books will be read for each session each week.
Ages 18 - 36 months, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, and songs!
ages 6 months - 3 years, with parent/caregiver
Registration Appreciated
Come for a fun-filled family music time, from catchy tunes to a jam session with instruments.
Ages 6 - 24 months, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, sing songs, and make memories!
Wellness Initiative for Senior Education (WISE) - Register ONCE for ALL SIX sessions
Presented by Jeneé Farley, Director of Volunteer Services of Monmouth County Family and Children's Services
Co-sponsored with the Monmouth County Library
As more Americans enter their senior years and life expectancies reach record highs, it is more important than ever for seniors to focus on their health and wellbeing. WISE participants will learn information which may improve health behaviors related to lifestyle choices, health care empowerment, and use of prescription and over-the-counter-medications. Join us for an enlightening evidence-based program offering six virtual lessons that cover a wide range of topics.
This free program will occur via Zoom on the following Thursdays at 10:30 am:
May 16 – Substance Abuse, Addiction, and Older Adults will focus on improved ability to identify factors that place older adults at risk for substance abuse and protective factors that can help prevent it
- Expected Outcomes:
- Increased understanding of addiction as a disease
- Improved ability to identify the signs of alcohol abuse among seniors
- Expanded knowledge of the effects of alcohol and other drug use and abuse
- Greater familiarity with the health risks and treatment options for addiction
- Improved ability to identify factors that place older adults at risk for substance abuse and protective factors that can help prevent it
May 23 – An Enhanced Quality of Life will focus on awareness of our personal values and how they influence the way we think and act.
About the presenter: In 2020, Family & Children’s Service (FCS) launched a new program OARS (Outreach, Awareness and Resources for Seniors) which focuses on the issues and challenges that are unique to aging, such as mental health, drug interactions, misuse of prescription and over-the-counter medications, risk factors, substance-abuse prevention, and social isolation/loneliness. Through the OARS program, FCS utilizes an evidence-based curriculum developed by the New Jersey Prevention Network (NJPN) called Wellness Initiative for Senior Education (WISE).
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Ages up to 2 ½ years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for simple books, silly songs, and rhymes!
Ages 6 months - 2 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
Ages 2 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for songs, rhymes, and interactive stories!
Ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, songs, and a craft!
Ages 6 months and up, with parent/caregiver.
Sing, dance, and read!
Register to guarantee seating.
Ages 2 - 6, with parent/caregiver.
Come join us for stories, rhymes, fingerplays, and songs!
Ages 2 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, songs and a special craft!
Ages 2 - 5 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
Ages 3 - 6, with parent/caregiver.
Foster a love of reading through interactive stories and activities!
All ages welcome, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, sing songs, and make memories!
Let’s get down to the knitty gritty. All ages, genders, and skill levels are welcome to join these enjoyable and instructive meetings. Facilitated LIVE ON ZOOM by knitting extraordinaire, Camille Scala.
Sessions will be held on the first and third Thursdays of the month. They will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the session.
Registration closes the day prior to the program; the Zoom access link will be emailed the day prior to the program.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library. All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post: A Novel by Allison Pataki
Best selling and acclaimed author Allison Pataki has crafted an intimate portrait of a larger-than-life woman.
The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post is a richly detailed and impeccably researched triumph. Historical fiction readers will love this immersive and sweeping tribute to the fascinating Morjorie Merriweather Post.
Willa and Bill are ex-lovers that will see each other for the first time in years when they both find themselves snowed in, in-transit, at an airport overnight.
Director: Meg Ryan
Cast: Meg Ryan, David Duchovny
Comedy - 1 Hour and 43 Minutes
@ Bleeker Street Media
Finlay Donovan Is Killing It: A Novel by Elle Cosimano
The new book she promised her literary agent isn't written, her ex-husband fired the nanny without telling her, and this morning she had to send her four-year-old to school with hair duct-taped to her head. When Finlay's overheard discussing the plot of her new novel with her agent over lunch, she's mistaken for a contract killer and inadvertently accepts an offer to dispose of a problem husband in order to make ends meet...and she soon discovers that crime in real life is a lot more difficult than its fictional counterpart.
Ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, and songs!
Grades K and up, parent/caregiver must remain in the building
Join us for a variety of activities, including storytime, special guests, and more!
All ages welcome, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, sing songs, and make memories!
ages 4 and up, with parent/caregiver
Join us for seasonal stories and crafts!
Ages 5 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Registration Recommended.
Crafts, experiments, and S.T.E.A.M. fun! Dress for mess.
Ages 3 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for a story and craft.
Ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for a variety of activities, including storytime, crafts, and more!
Ages 2 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for stories and a craft or activity based on different themes!
ages 3 and up, with parent/caregiver
Come make a craft after school at the library!
This week: Tissue Paper Names
Join Holmdel Library and Lumen Strategy Group for an all ages, all skill level chess club.
Meeting on Thursday evenings in the Holmdel Library Meeting Room from 5 pm - 8 pm.
No registration required.
My Ántonia by Willa Cather
Antonia Shimerda is the daughter of Bohemian immigrants struggling with the oceanic loneliness of life on the Nebraska prairie. Through the eyes of Jim Burden, her tutor and disappointed admirer, we follow Antonia from farm to town and through hardships both natural and human, surviving everything from poverty to a failed romance--and not only surviving, but triumphing.
Moderated by Sabrina Pisciotta.
Historically Speaking: The Mysteries of the 1777 Battle of Navesink - Live Zoom Presentation
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Join us for singing bowl meditation throughout the month and experience the benefits meditation practice may bring.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Pat Guadagno teaches Bridge in this special instruction session for beginners and advanced players alike.
These Friday sessions are aimed at learning the game of Bridge, not for open play.
Sessions are scheduled on the first and third Fridays of the month, through August.
Seating is limited.
Inspired by the popularity of the Silent Reading Club craze, Hazlet Library is introducing the Silent Writing Club which will take place on the third Saturday of every month. Come gather with like-minded writers so you can finally get some progress on your new novel, screenplay, or poetry. Prompts will be provided for fun, but you can work on anything that makes your writing heart soar! Give yourself some accountability and get your "butt in the chair."
Please bring your laptop, tablet, journals, and writing implements of choice!
In honor of Mother's Day, Fred Lahotay will be performing love songs played in the 1920s Ragtime style. Songs include "I Love My Baby," "Don't Take Your Love from Me," and "I Can't Give You Anything But Love."
Light refreshments will be served following the concert.
This performance is made possible through the support of the Friends of Howell Library.
This presentation is for gardeners of all levels of experience. Jason Goldman, local naturalist will be discussing the importance of native plants and all the wonderful benefits that they provide to local wildlife and the environment.
Registration is preferred. You can register in person, online or by phone.
Ages 6 months - 6 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
ages 6 - 24 months, with parent/caregiver
Stories, songs, and bubbles for our littlest readers!
Ages 10 months - 3 ½ years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us to enjoy nursery rhymes, songs, finger games, and stories!
Registration is recommended.
ages 18 months - 3 ½ years, with parent/caregiver
Stories, songs, and sensory activities for our little movers and shakers!
Ages 3 - 5 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for stories and a fun craft!
Registration is recommended.
Ages 2 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for stories and a craft or activity based on different themes!
2024 Library Commission Meetings are scheduled for the third Tuesday of each month, September through June, except where noted. Executive sessions may be held during each regular meeting. Meetings are held at the Headquarters Library (125 Symmes Drive, Manalapan, NJ), the Eastern Branch Library (1001 Route 35, Shrewsbury, NJ), and other branches as noted. Revisions to this schedule will be posted on the Monmouth County Library website.
Virtual options may be available; venues may change. Here is the link to look at the full schedule and agendas.
Tuesday, May 21, 2024; 10:00 AM; Headquarters, Manalapan
Tuesday, June 18 2024; 10:00 AM; Marlboro Township
Tuesday, September 17, 2024; 10:00 AM; Headquarters, Manalapan
Tuesday, October 15, 2024; 10:00 AM; Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
Tuesday, November 19, 2024; 10:00 AM; Wall Township
Tuesday, December 17, 2024; 10:00 AM; Headquarters, Manalapan
Ages 6 - 24 months, with parent/caregiver.
Come join us for stories, rhymes, fingerplays, and songs!
ages 2 - 6 years, with parent or caregiver
Outdoor | No Registration Required
The whole family is invited to join us in the Amphitheater for stories, songs, bubbles, and outdoor fun!
In the event of inclement weather this storytime will be held in the meeting room.
Do you Want to Speak English? Learn the language to help you at work, at home, and in the community.
Free English as a Second Language in-person classes, virtual classes or one-on-one tutoring will be offered through Literacy NJ Monmouth throughout the year.
Open to adults 18 years and older. Please contact Program Director Jhanna Even at 732 702 1895 or at jeven@literacynj.org
*Available to Monmouth County residents only
Monmouth County in the Cold War: Nuclear Missiles in Your Backyard - Live Zoom Program
Presented by Historian Mary Rasa in honor of Memorial Day
Nike surface-to-air (SAM) missile sites ringed major cities from 1954 to 1974. These missiles were located in and near suburban neighborhoods, some with nuclear capacity. Nike sites in Monmouth County were at Fort Hancock (NY 56), Highlands (NY 55 Defense Command) Belford/Leonardo (NY 53), and Hazlet/Holmdel (NY 54). On May 22, 1958, the only fatal Nike accident occurred in Belford, NJ. A monument to these soldiers is located at Fort Hancock commemorating all missile-men as well as the 10 men killed that day.
About the presenter: Mary Rasa is a native of New Jersey where she was museum curator/park ranger for the National Park Service at Sandy Hook. Mary currently writes exhibits, grants, social media posts, and brochures for small historic sites. In addition, she conducts history talks for libraries, senior centers, and museums.
This session will be conducted on Zoom and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the conversation. Registration closes at noon on May 20th; Zoom access link is emailed later that afternoon.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
ages 2 - 6 years, with parent or caregiver
Outdoor | No Registration Required
The whole family is invited to join us in the Amphitheater for stories, songs, bubbles, and outdoor fun!
In the event of inclement weather this storytime will be held in the meeting room.
Ages 2 - 4, with parent/caregiver.
Come join us for stories, rhymes, fingerplays, and songs!
ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver
Registration Recommended | Space and supplies may be limited.
Stories, songs, and crafts specifically geared towards our rising preschoolers.
Dress for mess!
The dramedy tells the story of a disagreeable schoolteacher named Paul Hunham. With no family or friends, Paul ends up staying at school during Christmas break to supervise holdover students who can't travel home for the holiday. Troublemaker Angus and head cook Mary build an unexpected bond with Paul on campus. Together, they go through hilarious adventures, celebrating Christmas in their own unique way.
Directed by Alexander Payne
Starring Paul Giamatti, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, Dominic Sessa, and Carrie Preston
Comedy/Drama- 2 hours and 13 minutes
©Focus Features
Songwriters & Singers of the Brill Building
The tidal wave of music that shaped American youth culture in the 1950s and ‘60s flowed from a skyscraper in midtown Manhattan. Experience “The Brill Building Sound” with pop culture historian Jimmy Scalia.
In this program, Scalia, the official Bobby Darin Archivist, will showcase many of the talented musicians, singers and songwriters who filled the corridors of the building with driving rock and smooth ballads that spread musical magic around the world.
He’ll share stories of legendary performers including Bobby Darin, Carole King, Neil Sedaka, the Drifters, the Monkees, Tony Orlando & Dawn, and also of prolific songwriters such as Mike Stoller and Doc Pomus.
Join us at the Holmdel branch on May 21, 2024 at 2 p.m. and ride the wave of music with us!
This event made possible with the generous support of the Friends of Monmouth County Library.
Registration required.
Poor Things (2023) (R)
Emma Stone and Willem Dafoe star in this dark comic fantasy from from director Darren Aronofsky. After trying to take her own life, Bella Baxter (Stone) is brought back to life by the brilliant and unorthodox scientist Dr. Godwin Baxter (Willem Dafoe). Hungry for the worldliness she is lacking, Bella runs off with a slick and debauched lawyer on a whirlwind adventure across the continents, hot on the heels of her own emancipation. “Poor Things” is a mind-blowing and brilliant reinterpretation of the Frankenstein story.
Director: Yorgos Lanthimos
Starring: Emma Stone, Willem Dafoe, Mark Ruffalo
Comedy / Drama / Romance. 2 hours, 21 minutes
© Twentieth Century Fox
Ages 4 - 6, with parent/caregiver.
Come join us for stories and crafts!
Asian American Representation in Literature: An Author Talk with Rebecca F. Kuang
Register for a thrilling conversation with Rebecca F. Kuang (R.F. Kuang) as she chats with us about her New York Times bestselling novel, Yellowface. Yellowface grapples with questions of diversity, racism, and cultural appropriation, as well as the terrifying alienation of social media.
In Yellowface, authors June Hayward and Athena Liu were supposed to be twin rising stars. But Athena’s a literary darling. June Hayward is literally nobody. Who wants stories about basic white girls, June thinks.
So, when June witnesses Athena’s death in a freak accident, she acts on impulse: she steals Athena’s just-finished masterpiece, an experimental novel about the unsung contributions of Chinese laborers during World War I.
So what if June edits Athena’s novel and sends it to her agent as her own work? So what if she lets her new publisher rebrand her as Juniper Song—complete with an ambiguously ethnic author photo? Doesn’t this piece of history deserve to be told, whoever the teller? That’s what June claims, and the New York Times bestseller list seems to agree.
But June can’t get away from Athena’s shadow, and emerging evidence threatens to bring June’s (stolen) success down around her. As June races to protect her secret, she discovers exactly how far she will go to keep what she thinks she deserves.
White lies, dark humor, and deadly consequences await within the pages of Yellowface. With its totally immersive first-person voice, Kuang’s novel is timely, razor-sharp, and eminently readable. Register to join the conversation!
Click here to register for this event.
Can't make it? A recording of this program will be available here.
About the Author: Rebecca F. Kuang is the award-winning, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Poppy War trilogy, Babel: An Arcane History, and Yellowface. A Marshall Scholar, she has an MPhil in Chinese Studies from Cambridge and an MSc in Contemporary Chinese Studies from Oxford; she is now pursuing a PhD in East Asian Languages and Literatures at Yale, where she studies diaspora, contemporary Chinese literature, and Asian American literature.
Check out Yellowface in our collection here.
This event will be conducted online and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register at the link above. Virtual access link will be emailed prior the presentation.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Ages 10 months - 2 years, with parent/caregiver.
Storytime for the babies in your life! Enjoy classic stories, rhymes, songs and fingerplays!
Ages 6 months and up, with parent/caregiver.
Sing, dance, and read!
Register to guarantee seating.
Ages 12 - 18 months, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, and songs!
Ages 2 - 3 years, with parent/caregiver.
Come to the library and enjoy some classic stories, rhymes, songs, and fingerplays!
Ages 6 months - 2 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
Ages 10 months - 3 ½ years, with parent/caregiver.
Enjoy nursery rhymes, finger plays, songs, stories and bubbles!
Please choose ONE session per week to attend. Sessions are limited to 20 families, first-come, first-serve. The same books will be read for each session each week.
ages 6 - 24 months, with parent/caregiver
Stories, songs, and bubbles for our littlest readers!
Hollywood and the Air Force in World War II: Live Zoom Presentation
Presented by Historian Rick Feingold
Academy Award winning actor Jimmy Stewart is known as the leading man in films such as It’s a Wonderful Life and the Glenn Miller Story, and was nominated for an Oscar in the Army Air Force recruiting film Winning Your Wings. Stewart also served as Commander of the 445th Bomb Group completing 20 bombing missions and retiring as a Brigadier General. In this virtual lecture, we will explore the military careers of Jimmy Stewart and Clark Gable, and view Gregory Peck lead the 918th Bomb Group into Germany in the Oscar-winning film 12 O’clock High.
About the presenter: Rick Feingold teaches American Business History at Bergen Community College and holds an MBA from Penn State University.
This session will be conducted on Zoom and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the conversation. Zoom access link will be emailed the afternoon before the presentation.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Ages 10 months - 3 ½ years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us to enjoy nursery rhymes, songs, finger games, and stories!
Registration is recommended.
Ages 2 - 5 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
Ages 6 months and up, with parent/caregiver.
Sing, dance, and read!
Register to guarantee seating.
Ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, and songs!
ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver
Registration Recommended | Space and supplies may be limited.
Stories, songs, and crafts specifically geared towards our rising preschoolers.
Dress for mess!
Ages 3 - 5 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for stories and a fun craft!
Registration is recommended.
Ages 3 - 6, with parent/caregiver.
Foster a love of reading through interactive stories and activities!
A young woman reflects on her unconventional upbringing at the hands of her artsy, nonconformist parents. Now married to a man who works in finance in New York, she faces criticism from her parents that she’s betrayed their values. Based on the memoir of the same name by Jeannette Walls.
Director: Destin Daniel Cretton
Cast: Brie Larson, Woody Harrelson, Naomi Watts, Sarah Snook, Max Greenfield
© Lions Gate Films, Inc.
Biography/Drama 2 hours and 7 minutes
ages 8 and up, with parent/caregiver
Come make some unique beaded with jewelry with the Bayshore Family Success Center.
Registration recommended.
best for ages 5 and up, with parent/caregiver
Registration Required | Supplies are limited.
Everyone needs a reading campaign in the spring. Stuff your own library lamb! Adopt, stuff, and name your own little lamb!
Space and supplies are limited, please call to cancel.
Ages 4 years and up, with parent/caregiver.
Let's read exciting stories, sing some songs, and make a special craft.
Registration is recommended.
This week: Fork Print Flowers - Use paint and a fork to craft beautiful flowers!
Grades K and up, parent/caregiver must remain in the library
Registration Recommended | Space and supplies may be limited.
Patriotic Paint Bombs: Experiment with exploding paint bags to make your own fireworks art project, while learning about chemical reactions!
May 22: Wish (2023) (PG) 92 minutes
Starring: Ariana DeBose, Evan Peters, Chris Pine, Alan Tudyk
Directed by: Chris Buck
A young woman named Asha possesses wild wishes for happiness. After making a wish on a starry night, Asha is surprised when Star, a ball of cosmic energy, comes down to accompany her. Asha and Star must work together to defeat the ruthless ruler, King Magnifico, who threatens the safety of her local community. With Asha's unstoppable courage and Star's magical powers, nothing is impossible.
Animated
(c) Walt Disney Pictures
Rebroadcast of Pysanky, The Ancient Art of Egg Decorating: A Virtual Program
Presented by Batik Egg Artist Jenny Santa Maria
No registration required. Available to watch via Library Website or here.
Ukrainian eggs or ‘Pysanky’ are decorated using beeswax and dyes that are applied in layers. Participants will learn techniques, designs, and historical significance of this process and practice.
About the artist: Instructor Jenny Santa Maria is a batik egg artist who lives in Farmingdale, New Jersey. Her approach to this medium is untraditional in that she explores and experiments with mathematical concepts (self similarity, tessellation, golden ratio, etc.) in her work and enjoys the therapeutic and soulful process of creating intricate designs on eggs with melted beeswax. Though associated with the spring, she practices the art year-round with wax from her own beehives and eggs from her own happy hens. Jenny is a high school art teacher in Tinton Falls and has exhibited her decorative eggs in settings such as Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton, NJ. She has been teaching pysanky classes on the East coast for several years, from Vermont to Delaware, in artist retreat centers, libraries, art museums, galleries and private sessions, keeping this ancient art alive. All participants continue to leave her workshops with a deeper understanding of the culture, the art, and themselves.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Join us to discuss this month's book club pick, America for Beginners by Leah Franqui.
Pival Sengupta, recently widowed, takes a cross country tour of America to uncover the truth about her beloved son, Rahi. A year ago Rahi devastated his very traditional parents when he told them he was gay. Then, Pival’s husband, Ram, told her that their son had died suddenly - heartbreaking news she still refuses to accept. Now, with Ram gone, she is going to America to find Rahi, alive and whole or dead and gone, and come to terms with her own life.
Learn to Play Bridge: In Person Program
Have you always wanted to learn to play Bridge? Here’s your chance!
Pat Guadagno will teach you what you need to know to get in on the fun.
Beginners are welcome and encouraged to arrive at the start of the session.
Seating is limited to 40 players. First come, first seated.
Ages 6 months - 2 years, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, songs, finger plays and bubbles!
Ages 6 months and up, with parent/caregiver.
Sing, dance, and read!
Register to guarantee seating.
Ages 10 months - 3 ½ years, with parent/caregiver.
Enjoy nursery rhymes, finger plays, songs, stories and bubbles!
Please choose ONE session per week to attend. Sessions are limited to 20 families, first-come, first-serve. The same books will be read for each session each week.
Ages 18 - 36 months, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, and songs!
Ages 6 - 24 months, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, sing songs, and make memories!
Wellness Initiative for Senior Education (WISE) - Register ONCE for ALL SIX sessions
Presented by Jeneé Farley, Director of Volunteer Services of Monmouth County Family and Children's Services
Co-sponsored with the Monmouth County Library
As more Americans enter their senior years and life expectancies reach record highs, it is more important than ever for seniors to focus on their health and wellbeing. WISE participants will learn information which may improve health behaviors related to lifestyle choices, health care empowerment, and use of prescription and over-the-counter-medications. Join us for an enlightening evidence-based program offering six virtual lessons that cover a wide range of topics.
This free program will occur via Zoom on the following Thursdays at 10:30 am:
May 23 – An Enhanced Quality of Life will focus on awareness of our personal values and how they influence the way we think and act.
- Expected Outcomes:
- Greater familiarity with strategies for maintaining a healthy lifestyle
- Increased awareness of our personal“stress triggers”
- Heightened awareness of our personal values and howthey influence thewaywe thinkand act
About the presenter: In 2020, Family & Children’s Service (FCS) launched a new program OARS (Outreach, Awareness and Resources for Seniors) which focuses on the issues and challenges that are unique to aging, such as mental health, drug interactions, misuse of prescription and over-the-counter medications, risk factors, substance-abuse prevention, and social isolation/loneliness. Through the OARS program, FCS utilizes an evidence-based curriculum developed by the New Jersey Prevention Network (NJPN) called Wellness Initiative for Senior Education (WISE).
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Ages up to 2 ½ years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for simple books, silly songs, and rhymes!
Ages 6 months - 2 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
Register with a valid email address and you will receive an email reminder with a link to the Zoom meeting.
Strong Poison by Dorothy L. Sayers
This classic “Golden Age” mystery introduces Harriet Vane, a mystery writer who is accused of poisoning her fiancé and must now join forces with Lord Peter Wimsey to escape a murder conviction and the hangman’s noose. Many believe Dorothy Sayers is a worthy rival to Agatha Christie in creating beloved characters and truly diabolical mysteries!
Moderated by Jeanmarie Kantor, Library HQ
Ages 2 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for songs, rhymes, and interactive stories!
Ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, songs, and a craft!
Ages 6 months and up, with parent/caregiver.
Sing, dance, and read!
Register to guarantee seating.
Ages 2 - 6, with parent/caregiver.
Come join us for stories, rhymes, fingerplays, and songs!
Ages 2 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, songs and a special craft!
Ages 2 - 5 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
Ages 3 - 6, with parent/caregiver.
Foster a love of reading through interactive stories and activities!
All ages welcome, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, sing songs, and make memories!
A close-knit group of four women entering their golden years of life decides to embark on a no-holds-barred luxury excursion to Italy. United by their passion for literature and romance, the women experience a series of madcap adventures while deepening their bonds of friendship. The sequel to the 2018 film.
Cast: Jane Fonda, Diane Keaton, Mary Steenburgen, Candice Bergen, Andy Garcia
Director: Bill Holderman
Studio: Focus Features
108 minutes
Comedy/Romance
A group of women lives in a secluded religious community. After experiencing a series of domestic and sexual abuse incidents, the women must confront the men who hurt them and endure the consequences of the choices they make. They face a complicated conundrum of commitment, faith, and self-preservation.
Director: Sarah Polley
Cast: Rooney Mara, Judith Ivey, Emily Mitchell, Kate Hallett, Liv McNeil
Drama - 1 Hour and 44 Minutes
@ Universal Pictures
Ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, and songs!
Grades K and up, with parent/caregiver
Registration Required | Swords are limited.
Come and learn the art of Japanese sword with Master Brian McCann from Inner Power Martial Arts!
All ages welcome, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, sing songs, and make memories!
ages 4 and up, with parent/caregiver
Join us for seasonal stories and crafts!
Ages 5 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Registration Recommended.
Crafts, experiments, and S.T.E.A.M. fun! Dress for mess.
Ages 3 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for a story and craft.
Grades K and up, with parent/caregiver
Registration Required
Squishy, slimy, exploding, oh, my! Join us for all kinds of hands-on experiments and projects. Dress to get messy!
This Week: Bee Hotel - make a hotel for bees.
all ages welcome, with parent/caregiver
Registration Required
Meet Roo, and her handler Ana, for a very special visit. Learn about mini horses and the big difference they can make in a community by working together with their handlers.
So that Roo is not overwhelmed, please choose one 15 minute time slot when registering for this event.
ages 3 and up, with parent/caregiver
Come make a craft after school at the library!
This week: Bird Paper Craft
Join Holmdel Library and Lumen Strategy Group for an all ages, all skill level chess club.
Meeting on Thursday evenings in the Holmdel Library Meeting Room from 5 pm - 8 pm.
No registration required.
Come to the ancient land of the library where we deal in the business of books and adventure. While adventures can be self-made in between the binding of pages, every other Thursday, we will gather-- inperson-- to begin a quest unlike others you might have read before. Our first Dungeons & Dragons group meeting will introduce you to the start of an incredible journey. Community run by a local enthusiast, this group is open to all ages. Please call the library to register.
Join us for a conversation with series creator and host Ken Magos of the PBS TV show Drive By History and Drive By History: Eats. In addition to revealing how the show got started, Ken will be sharing behind-the-scenes stories from past episodes of both shows (including a couple of recipes that truly failed), some clips from the upcoming season of Drive By History (airing in 2024), and take your questions and suggestions for locations you'd like to see profiled on future episodes of the show.
Ken Magos leads South Mountain TV, a division of his own production company, South Mountain TheaterWorks, Inc., where his fascination with history drives the creation of "Drive By History," a show dedicated to exploring our shared legacy with expert insight, making it essential viewing.
IN PERSON AT EASTERN BRANCH LIBRARY
REGISTER TO GUARANTEE SEATING
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Join us for singing bowl meditation throughout the month and experience the benefits meditation practice may bring.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
All Monmouth County Libraries are closed today, however, our website is open 24/7 to read, renew, request, and research.
Tap our app for events and information!
We look forward to connecting with you in person and on social media.
On Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest & Twitter, our global address is @MonCoLibrary.
Rebroadcast of Hiding Anne Frank
Performed by Actress Prudence Wright Holmes
No registration required. Available to watch from 9:00 am until noon via Library Website.
Miep Gies was a 32-year-old secretary in Otto Frank’s office when he asked her to help him and his family hides from the Nazis. She immediately said yes. At great risk to her own life, she brought food and other supplies to the Franks on a daily basis for over two years.
After the Franks were arrested, she saved Anne’s diary and later went to Gestapo Headquarters to try to buy Frank’s freedom. Miep was knighted by Queen Juliana of the Netherlands and later attended the Academy Awards in 2010, where she won an Oscar for the film based on her book, Remembering Anne Frank. She was 100 years old.
About the Actress: Prudence Wright Holmes has appeared in the films Sister Act I and II with Whoopi Goldberg, Kingpin with Woody Harrelson, In Dreams with Annette Bening, My Own Love Song with Renee Zellweger, After Life with Liam Neeson, and God’s Pocket with Philip Seymour Hoffman. On Broadway, she appeared in Happy End with Meryl Streep, Lettice and Lovage with Maggie Smith, Inherit the Wind with George C. Scott and The Light in the Piazza. She wrote and performed her critically-acclaimed solo show Bexley, OH! at New York Theatre Workshop. She is currently touring her solo show, Call Me William, the Life and Loves of Willa Cather as well as her interactive murder mystery, Agatha is Missing.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
ages 2 - 6 years, with parent or caregiver
Outdoor | No Registration Required
The whole family is invited to join us in the Amphitheater for stories, songs, bubbles, and outdoor fun!
In the event of inclement weather this storytime will be held in the meeting room.
Do you Want to Speak English? Learn the language to help you at work, at home, and in the community.
Free English as a Second Language in-person classes, virtual classes or one-on-one tutoring will be offered through Literacy NJ Monmouth throughout the year.
Open to adults 18 years and older. Please contact Program Director Jhanna Even at 732 702 1895 or at jeven@literacynj.org
*Available to Monmouth County residents only
ages 2 - 6 years, with parent or caregiver
Outdoor | No Registration Required
The whole family is invited to join us in the Amphitheater for stories, songs, bubbles, and outdoor fun!
In the event of inclement weather this storytime will be held in the meeting room.
ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver
Registration Recommended | Space and supplies may be limited.
Stories, songs, and crafts specifically geared towards our rising preschoolers.
Dress for mess!
Holmdel: You asked, we listened!
Join us in person for a matinee on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 1:30 pm. This month we’re showing The Color Purple.
Musical adaptation of Alice Walker's novel about the life-long struggles of an African American woman living in the south during the early 1900s.
Directed by: Blitz Bazawule
Starring: Halle Bailey, Taraji P. Henson, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Elizabeth Marvel
Running time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
® Warner Bros.
LLoyd Vogel is tasked with creating a profile of Fred Rogers, the creator and star of the successful children's program Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. He dutifully goes to the studio where his subject is filming his show, and soon enough, he is sitting down with him, asking him probing questions. However, Fred seems to have a different plan in mind. The interviewee suddenly becomes the interviewer, and he starts to help the writer in unexpected ways.
Directed by Marielle Heller
Starring Tom Hanks, Matthew Rhys, Wendy Makkena, Enrico Colantoni, and Susan Kelechi Watson
Biography/Drama- 1 hour and 49 minutes
©Columbia Pictures Industries, Inc.
Grades K and up, with parent/caregiver
Registration Required
Read to a therapy dog! Register and you will be emailed with a timeslot. Please arrive 15 minutes ahead to pick out a book, or bring one from home.
Ages 10 months - 2 years, with parent/caregiver.
Storytime for the babies in your life! Enjoy classic stories, rhymes, songs and fingerplays!
Ages 6 months and up, with parent/caregiver.
Sing, dance, and read!
Register to guarantee seating.
Ages 12 - 18 months, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, and songs!
Ages 2 - 3 years, with parent/caregiver.
Come to the library and enjoy some classic stories, rhymes, songs, and fingerplays!
Ages 6 months - 2 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
best for ages 1 - 4, with parent/caregiver
Registration Required
Join us for a special sensory story time with Raising Sunshine for some engaging interactive play!
Space is limited, please call to cancel.
ages 6 - 24 months, with parent/caregiver
Stories, songs, and bubbles for our littlest readers!
Ages 10 months - 3 ½ years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us to enjoy nursery rhymes, songs, finger games, and stories!
Registration is recommended.
Ages 2 - 5 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
Ages 6 months and up, with parent/caregiver.
Sing, dance, and read!
Register to guarantee seating.
Ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, and songs!
ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver
Registration Recommended | Space and supplies may be limited.
Stories, songs, and crafts specifically geared towards our rising preschoolers.
Dress for mess!
Ages 3 - 5 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for stories and a fun craft!
Registration is recommended.
Ages 3 - 6, with parent/caregiver.
Foster a love of reading through interactive stories and activities!
Lunch & Learn- The Great Storage Cleanout: Live Zoom Program
Part one of the Summer Lunch 'n Learn Series - Register ONCE for all THREE sessions
Presented by Organizing Humorist Jamie Novak
Finally clear out that closet, basement, attic or garage. See the steps to get it done and what to do with all of your extra stuff.
Join us next month for the next installment of the Summer Lunch 'n Learn series!
- June 26: Easy Summer Tidy-Ups - 10 tiny organizing projects that make a big difference and what you need to do before the fall.
- July 31: Quick Clothes Closet Cleanout - Which clothes to keep, where to sell, and donate regret-free. Plus what every closet needs to stay clutter-free.
About the Presenter: When not on the computer Jamie is searching for a cure to her addiction of clipping out recipes she never prepares. Check out her books in our collection here.
Please note that this program will not be recorded.
This session will be conducted on Zoom and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the conversation. Zoom access link will be emailed the afternoon before the presentation.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
all ages welcome, with parent/caregiver
Registration Required
Therapy dogs offer a calming, nonjudgmental ear. Choose a book from our shelves to read aloud to a furry friend!
Space is limited, please call to cancel.
ages 5 and up, with parent/caregiver
Registration Recommended
Free-build LEGO® creations after sharing a story!
May 29: Moonstruck (1987) (PG) 102 minutes
Starring: Cher, Nicolas Cage, Olympia Dukakis, Vincent Gardenia, Danny Aiello
Directed by: Norman Jewison
A Brooklyn widow, engaged to a mama's boy, falls in love with her fiancé's brother.
Comedy
(c) Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Inc.
Lecture & Art: Keith Haring's "Two Figures With Red Heart"
Presented by Artist Jenny Santa Maria
In recognition of Pride Month, the Monmouth County Library will explore the life and talent of Keith Haring, an artist who incorporated themes of love, openness, inclusivity of the LGBTQ+ community, and activism for broadening the conversation surrounding AIDS. Though he is known for his famous "subway drawings" of New York commuters, he did much more in his short life to create meaningful conversation that tackled challenging subjects, not just in America, but around the world. Join us to learn more about this courageous and inventive artist, hear how he turned his pain into his passion for art, and recreate his famous "Two Figures With Red Heart". Haring's work, with its uncomplicated and energetic style, continues to inspire and encourage meaningful conversation with its compassionate and understanding imagery. We invite everyone to sign up for this virtual lecture and draw-along to learn more about Haring and his legacy.
An opportunity to create your own Haring-inspired piece will follow the lecture. You will need a pencil, paper, and black and red markers.
All reproductions shown are appropriate for any age group, and no prerequisite skills are necessary to follow the drawing instructions. Have your paper and pencil ready, we're going to draw like Haring! Colored pencils and markers are optional, depending on how creative you plan to be!
About the Presenter: Instructor Jenny Santa Maria is an art teacher in Tinton Falls and has exhibited her artwork in various settings such as Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton, NJ. All participants leave her workshops with a deeper understanding of the culture, the art, and themselves.
Ancient cultures were fascinated by the occurrence of eclipses and assigned all kinds of meaning to them. We are still enchanted by eclipses but now we understand their science and we can predict their occurrence to within a second. This talk will use a scaled down model of earth, moon and sun to demonstrate how and when eclipses happen and what the experience of viewing one is like.
After retiring from a long and successful career in telecommunications research at Bell Labs, Dr. Sarbmeet Kanwal now teaches Quantum Physics and Astronomy at Brookdale Community College in Lincroft, NJ. He received his PhD in Theoretical Physics from the California Institute of Technology. Among his accolades are Teacher of the Year at Brookdale and the Earl Thomas Teasley Humanitarian Award from the Monmouth County Human Relations Commission for his work in promoting interfaith peace building. Dr. Kanwal is a sought-after speaker on topics dealing with science and astronomy and the author of a TEDx talk titled “Chaos to Cosmos”.
IN PERSON AT EASTERN BRANCH
REGISTER TO GUARANTEE SEATING
Learn to Play Bridge: In Person Program
Have you always wanted to learn to play Bridge? Here’s your chance!
Pat Guadagno will teach you what you need to know to get in on the fun.
Beginners are welcome and encouraged to arrive at the start of the session.
Seating is limited to 40 players. First come, first seated.
Ages 6 months - 2 years, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, songs, finger plays and bubbles!
Ages 6 months and up, with parent/caregiver.
Sing, dance, and read!
Register to guarantee seating.
Ages 10 months - 3 ½ years, with parent/caregiver.
Enjoy nursery rhymes, finger plays, songs, stories and bubbles!
Please choose ONE session per week to attend. Sessions are limited to 20 families, first-come, first-serve. The same books will be read for each session each week.
Ages 18 - 36 months, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, and songs!
Ages 6 - 24 months, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, sing songs, and make memories!
Strolling the Boards: The History of American Boardwalks - Live Zoom Program
Presented by Historian Jo Ann Tufo
This program celebrates the great American pastime of summer fun on the top seaside boardwalks in the United States. “Strolling the Boards” goes coast to coast, from California to New Jersey, and includes destinations from Venice Beach to Atlantic City. Highlighted are traditional amusement parks and the whimsical attractions that make summertime boardwalks fun and unique to America. Take a trip down memory lane as well as discovering current oceanside destinations.
About the Presenter: Jo Ann Tufo is a historian, writer, lecturer, and performer. Her realistic and haunting portrayals of various historic figures have delighted audiences for more than three decades in theaters, schools, and auditoriums all over the United States. Jo Ann has taught at Coastal Carolina University/ OLLI (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute) Program since 2012 focusing on a variety of subjects, including the Colonial, Civil War, World War I, World War II, and Vietnam eras. Many of her programs focus on the noteworthy contributions of women.
This session will be conducted on Zoom and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the conversation. Zoom access link will be emailed the afternoon before the presentation.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Ages up to 2 ½ years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for simple books, silly songs, and rhymes!
Ages 6 months - 2 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
Ages 2 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for songs, rhymes, and interactive stories!
Ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, songs, and a craft!
Ages 6 months and up, with parent/caregiver.
Sing, dance, and read!
Register to guarantee seating.
Ages 2 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, songs and a special craft!
Ages 2 - 5 years, with parent/caregiver.
Join us in the children’s room for rhymes, fingerplays, stories, and songs!
Ages 3 - 6, with parent/caregiver.
Foster a love of reading through interactive stories and activities!
All ages welcome, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, sing songs, and make memories!
Descending from a prestigious family, Coriolanus Snow is having a hard time adjusting to the fall of his family's legacy after they suffered enormous losses during the war of the Districts and the Capitol. To regain his family's stature, he accepts a job mentoring tributes invented for the upcoming tenth Hunger Games. A prequel to The Hunger Games series, this adaptation follows the story of Coriolanus Snow during his youth.
Director: Francis Lawrence
Cast: Rachel Zegler, Tom Blyth, Hunter Schafer, Kjell Brutscheidt, Jason Schwartzman
Drama - 2 Hours and 37 Minutes
@ Lion Gate Films, Inc.
Ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for rhymes, stories, and songs!
Grades K and up, with parent/caregiver
Welcome to the club! Listen to a story and create. Bricks will be supplied.
Registration is not required for this program.
All ages welcome, with parent/caregiver.
Share stories, sing songs, and make memories!
ages 4 and up, with parent/caregiver
Join us for seasonal stories and crafts!
Ages 5 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Registration Recommended.
Crafts, experiments, and S.T.E.A.M. fun! Dress for mess.
ages 3 - 5, with parent/caregiver
Welcome to the club! Listen to a story and create. Bricks will be supplied.
Registration is not required for this program.
all ages welcome, with parent/caregiver
Registration Appreciated
Meet amazing rescued critters for an informative and entertaining program!
** Allergy Note: Please be aware that animals with fur, hair and/or bird feathers may be part of the presentation. **
Ages 2 and up, with parent/caregiver.
Join us for stories and a craft or activity based on different themes!
ages 3 and up, with parent/caregiver
Come make a craft after school at the library!
This week: Paper Fortune Tellers
Join Holmdel Library and Lumen Strategy Group for an all ages, all skill level chess club.
Meeting on Thursday evenings in the Holmdel Library Meeting Room from 5 pm - 8 pm.
No registration required.
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Do you Want to Speak English? Learn the language to help you at work, at home, and in the community.
Free English as a Second Language virtual classes or one-on-one tutoring will be offered through Literacy NJ Monmouth throughout the year.
Open to adults 18 years and older. Please contact Program Director Jhanna Even at 732 702 1895 or at jeven@literacynj.org
*Available to Monmouth County residents only
Larry Tye, author of "The Jazzmen: How Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Count Basie Transformed America", discusses the personal lives of these iconic musicians beyond their performances, highlighting their role in shaping the soundtrack of the civil rights movement. Despite facing pervasive discrimination, they defied racial boundaries not through confrontation, but by captivating America with the brilliance of their music, ultimately fostering societal change.
Larry Tye is an award-winning author and journalist known for his biographies of notable Americans, including Satchel Paige and Joseph McCarthy. Two of his books have been adapted into documentary films.
IN PERSON AT THE EASTERN BRANCH LIBRARY
REGISTER TO GUARANTEE SEATING
Join Chef Rob this summer for the Summer virtual Family Cooking Camp series! Learn tips and tricks from a seasoned professional! These renditions are short and savory, or sweet!
There are virtual cooking and baking sessions available to view on the Library's website.
This week's menu item is...Holy Guacamole!
No registration required! Access recipe here, and the video here!
Enjoy Chef Rob's complete 2022 recipe collection here!
About Chef Rob: With over 30 years experience as a restaurant owner and personal chef, Chef Robert Scott brings his passion for fine and fun fare to the Monmouth County Virtual Library from his hometown in Hampton Bays, Long Island. Join Chef Rob as he teaches you how to prepare seasonal appetizers, main dishes, beverages, and desserts to spice up your mealtime, anytime.
For the Love of Mars: A Human History of the Red Planet with Smithsonian Curator Matt Shindell
Mars and its secrets have fascinated and mystified humans since ancient times. Due to its vivid color and visibility, geologic kinship with Earth, and potential as our best hope for settlement, Mars embodies everything that inspires us about space and exploration. For the Love of Mars surveys the red planet's place in the human imagination, beginning with ancient astrologers and skywatchers, and ending in our present moment of exploration and virtual engagement.
You’re invited to come learn with Matt Shindell, National Air and Space Museum curator, as he introduces historical figures across eras and around the world who have made sense of this mysterious planet. Shindell will highlight figures such as:
- Mayan astrologer priests who incorporated Mars into seasonal calendars and religious ceremonies;
- Babylonian astrologers who discerned bad omens;
- figures of the Scientific Revolution who struggled to comprehend it as a world;
- Victorian astronomers who sought signs of intelligent life; and
- 20th- and 21st-century scientists who have established a technological presence on its surface.
Along the way, we will encounter writers and artists from each period who take readers and viewers on imagined journeys to Mars.
By focusing on the diverse human stories behind the telescopes and behind the robots we know and love, Shindell will show how Mars exploration has evolved in ways that have also expanded knowledge about other facets of the universe. Register now for this captivating voyage through time!
Click here to register for this event.
Can’t make it? A recording of this program will be available here.
About the Author: Matthew Shindell, Ph.D., is a historian of science with a background in science studies. He is Curator of Earth and Planetary Science at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum and is responsible for the Museum’s collection of spacecraft, instruments, and other artifacts related to the exploration and study of our Earth and solar system. He co-hosts the Museum’s podcast, AirSpace. He curated the Museum’s permanent exhibition, Exploring the Planets, and is leading a curatorial team developing the exhibition Futures in Space. Shindell is the author of For the Love of Mars: A Human History of the Red Planet (2023) and co-editor of Smithsonian American Women (2019), in addition to other titles.
Check out Mars: A Human History of the Red Planet and Shindell’s other works in our collection here.
This event will be conducted online and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register at the link above. Virtual access link will be emailed prior to the event.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Do you Want to Speak English? Learn the language to help you at work, at home, and in the community.
Free English as a Second Language in-person classes, virtual classes or one-on-one tutoring will be offered through Literacy NJ Monmouth throughout the year.
Open to adults 18 years and older. Please contact Program Director Jhanna Even at 732 702 1895 or at jeven@literacynj.org
*Available to Monmouth County residents only
Commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day with a presentation on the history of the World War II era and its impact on world history. WW II was the most violent and devastating war ever fought with nearly 60 million lives lost due to battle, aerial bombing, acts of genocide and the use of atomic bombs.
Paul E. Zigo, a history professor, author and military historian is the founder and director of the World War II Era Studies Institute. The Institute is dedicated to furthering one’s knowledge and understanding of the WW II era and its impact on history.
Thanks to the Friends of the Monmouth County Library for their support of this program.
IN PERSON AT EASTERN BRANCH
REGISTER TO GUARANTEE SEATING
Wednesday Wisdom: Tips for Productivity and Less Stress: Live Zoom Program
Presented by Rachel Tansey
With all the things that keep us busy, it can be hard to focus on tasks to be productive. Join us to discuss ways to help reduce our stress and increase productivity.
About the Presenter: Rachel Tansey is a Senior Extension Associate for the Family & Community Health Sciences Department under Rutgers Cooperative Extension in Monmouth County. Ms. Tansey earned her bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Sciences from Rutgers University and a master’s degree in Holistic Health from Georgian Court University. Rachel works with local partners to educate residents on various topics centered around nutrition, wellness, and healthy well-being. Her primary concentration areas are in community health education, wellness & self-care, nutritious eating, and healthy lifestyles with an emphasis on wellness in the workplace.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Lisa is an unusual young woman who harbors a strange crush on a handsome bust adorning a gravestone in her local cemetery. When a series of wild circumstances reanimate the deceased man, the two decide to give their fledgling attraction a chance at life.
Director: Zelda Williams
Cast: Jenna Davis, Liza Soberano, Carla Gugino, Kathryn Newton, Cole Sprouse
© Focus Features
Comedy/Horror/Romance 1 hour and 41 minutes
Hazlet Banned Book Club | Registration Appreciated | For Adults 18+
Led by Librarian Jenny Brennan
Welcome to the Hazlet Banned Book Club where we discuss all sorts of books that have been banned throughout the nation. A National Book Award Finalist, I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika Sánchez is a YA novel that has been banned by so many schools that the author has lost track herself. Come speak your mind after reading and let's discuss! Copies of the book will be available at the Hazlet branch.
June 5: Love, Simon (2018) (PG-13) 109 minutes
Starring: Nick Robinson, Katherine Langford, Alexandra Shipp, Josh Duhamel, Logan Miller
Directed by: Greg Berlanti
LGBTQ+ Pride Month Presents:
Simon is a closeted high schooler who falls for an anonymous online pen pal from his school who is also gay. When a blackmailer obtains his candid e-mails, Simon must decide how to reveal his sexuality to his friends and family while attempting to turn his online flirtation into a real-life romance.
Teen | Comedy | Drama
(c) Twentieth Century Fox
The Jersey Shore: From Sandy Hook to Cape May – Live Zoom Program
Presented by Naturalist Jim Peck
New Jersey has a beautiful shoreline, including exceptional barrier beaches and bays. Although we may be best known for the recreational use of our beaches, we are fortunate to have amazing natural areas that include Cape May, Sandy Hook, and Island Beach State Park as well.
About the presenter: Jim was the Education Director for the American Littoral Society, a coastal conservation group, for three years on Sandy Hook. He spent all his time educating children and adults about our fragile and amazing coastline. His talk will cover such topics as barrier beaches, the nature and origin of our sand, the effect of jetties, primary and secondary dunes, beach grass, shore birds, estuaries, maritime forests, horseshoe crabs and red knots, lighthouses, shells, ocean life, and much more. He will share his knowledge, pictures, and stories during this virtual presentation.
This session will be conducted on Zoom and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the conversation. Zoom access link will be emailed the afternoon before the presentation.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Come and experience the last flight of the Hindenburg from Frankfurt Germany to Lakehurst, NJ in 1937! At 803.8 feet in length and 135.1 feet in diameter, the German passenger airship Hindenburg (LZ-129) was the largest aircraft ever to fly. The commercial flights of Hindenburg, along with Graf Zeppelin, pioneered the first transatlantic air service. She carried hundreds of passengers and traveled thousands of miles before it burned in a tragic fire on May 6, 1937, at NAS Lakehurst (Manchester Township, New Jersey).
Presented by Bill Schmidt
Lost & Found: Virtual Bereavement Support Group Facilitated on Zoom by Beth Stamp
Join us for a Virtual Bereavement Support Group meeting LIVE ON ZOOM at 6:45 pm on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.
When you experience the loss of a loved one, navigating through the maze of emotion, making ordinary decisions, and finding a new rhythm to every day can be stressful and overwhelming.
These workshops, led by Beth Stamp, support facilitator, may provide an opportunity to share experiences, feelings, and new ideas for moving forward.
Sessions will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the discussion. Registration is rolling; however, the access link will be emailed to all registrants the day before the program.
You can sign up to join us twice each month, or you can check the bottom box on the registration form to sign up for that session only. Please email mclprograms@monmouthcountylib.org if you would like to be removed from the list.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Learn to Play Bridge: In Person Program
Have you always wanted to learn to play Bridge? Here’s your chance!
Pat Guadagno will teach you what you need to know to get in on the fun.
Beginners are welcome and encouraged to arrive at the start of the session.
Seating is limited to 40 players. First come, first seated.
About the presenter: Marissa Mascaro is a biologist and educator with the Monmouth County Mosquito Control Division. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Environmental Science from Stockton University. After graduating she spent a year with AmeriCorps teaching the public about water quality and bugs. As an educator for Monmouth County Mosquito Control, her goal is to teach everyone about mosquito and tick-borne illness and how to protect themselves from their bites.
This session will be conducted on Zoom and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the conversation. Zoom access link will be emailed the afternoon before the presentation.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
A mythic and emotionally charged hero’s journey, “Dune” tells the story of Paul Atreides, a brilliant and gifted young man born into a great destiny beyond his understanding, who must travel to the most dangerous planet in the universe to ensure the future of his family and his people. As malevolent forces explode into conflict over the planet’s exclusive supply of the most precious resource in existence—a commodity capable of unlocking humanity’s greatest potential—only those who can conquer their fear will survive.
Starring: Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Oscar Isaac, Jason Momoa, Stellan Skarsgård
Directed by: Denis Villeneuve
Studio: Warner Bros.
PG-13 | 155 minutes
Action/Adventure/drama
Let’s get down to the knitty gritty. All ages, genders, and skill levels are welcome to join these enjoyable and instructive meetings. Facilitated LIVE ON ZOOM by knitting extraordinaire, Camille Scala.
Sessions will be held on the first and third Thursdays of the month. They will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the session.
Registration closes the day prior to the program; the Zoom access link will be emailed the day prior to the program.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library. All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
A fanatical U.S. general launches a nuclear attack on Russia during the Cold War, but the President and his advisors are shocked to learn that the Russians have technology that will destroy the world in the event of an attack on them.
Director: Stanley Kubrick
Cast: Peter Sellers, George C. Scott, Sterling Hayden, Keenan Wynn, Slim Pickens
Comedy - 1 Hour and 35 Minutes
@ Columbia Pictures Industries Inc.
Good Neighbor Musicals of WWII: A Virtual Lecture
Presented by Sam and Candy Caponegro
Come to the ancient land of the library where we deal in the business of books and adventure. While adventures can be self-made in between the binding of pages, every other Thursday, we will gather-- inperson-- to begin a quest unlike others you might have read before. Our first Dungeons & Dragons group meeting will introduce you to the start of an incredible journey. Community run by a local enthusiast, this group is open to all ages. Please call the library to register.
Looking for something to read this summer? Check out some of our Young Adult recommendations:
REALISTIC FICTION
As Long As the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh
Where You See Yourself by Claire Forrest
We Deserve Monuments by Jas Hammonds
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Pat Guadagno teaches Bridge in this special instruction session for beginners and advanced players alike.
These Friday sessions are aimed at learning the game of Bridge, not for open play.
Sessions are scheduled on the first and third Fridays of the month, through August.
Seating is limited.
Are you a budding or experienced author? Have up to 1,500 words of your work read aloud for first-impression feedback and critique by other writers.
Call the library or complete the registration form below.
The first five registrants will have their work critiqued. No cost and nothing to bring, but a positive attitude -- and copies of your work.
This get-together will be held the second Saturday of every month.
This program is co-sponsored by the Howell Township branch of the Monmouth County Library and NJWritingGroups.com
Join Chef Rob this summer for the Summer virtual Family Cooking Camp series! Learn tips and tricks from a seasoned professional! These renditions are short and savory, or sweet!
There are virtual cooking and baking sessions available to view on the Library's website.
This week's menu item is... Mahi Mahi & Mango Lettuce Wraps!
No registration required! Access the recipe here, and the video here!
Enjoy Chef Rob's complete 2022 recipe collection here!
About Chef Rob: With over 30 years experience as a restaurant owner and personal chef, Chef Robert Scott brings his passion for fine and fun fare to the Monmouth County Virtual Library from his hometown in Hampton Bays, Long Island. Join Chef Rob as he teaches you how to prepare seasonal appetizers, main dishes, beverages, and desserts to spice up your mealtime, anytime.
Soft Skills Mastery Class: 4-Part Course: Live on Zoom
Presented by WOS Instructor Addie Rimmer in partnership with Northeastern University College of Professional Studies (NU-CPS)
Join us as Workforce Opportunity Services (WOS) presents a free online Soft Skills Mastery Class for highly motivated, early-career individuals.
Register once, attend ALL FOUR classes and you may earn a certificate from WOS & NU-CPS.
Based on 20 years of research-based workforce development experience, this course has been designed to develop capabilities in self-esteem and confidence, lifelong learning and metacognition, personal and professional core values, and literacy in a business culture oriented toward workplace success.
This program aims to help participants:
- Identify core personal and professional values
- Gain a self-awareness of strengths and learn how to address weaknesses
- Bolster self-esteem and self-acceptance
- Establish and nurture wellness and a healthy living lifestyle
- Identify and utilize learning styles and study strategies to support lifelong learning and adaptation
- Create development plans to achieve personal, academic, and professional goals using various approaches
- Recognize and understand emotional intelligence and its impact in the workplace
- Further develop interpersonal skills and identify transferable skills
Each session is designed for individuals of all ages and is aimed at expanding their horizon in the arts. Monday evening is part one of the series. The next three sessions will take place on from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on:
Tuesday, June 11 – Part 2
Wednesday, June 12 – Part 3
Thursday, June 13 – Part 4
This program is free and available to attend via Zoom. Please register below! Programs are offered in partnership with WOS Workforce Opportunity Services, a leading non-profit organization connecting individuals from underserved populations with transformative career opportunities.
Please note that registration information will be shared with WOS so students can be enrolled to receive class materials and certificate of completion if all class requirements are met satisfactorily. Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Rebroadcast of European Travel Tips and Tools with Guidebook Author Rick Steves
Available to watch via Library Website or here.
This year's Summer Reading theme is Adventure Begins at Your Library! Tune in to this conversation with Rick Steves to prepare for your next adventure.
Guidebook author and TV show host Rick Steves shared his tips and tricks for smart European travel. In this entertaining, information-packed lecture, Rick will let you in on the secrets of safe, smart, inexpensive travel — low on stress and high on fun. You’ll learn how to travel smoothly and affordably by planning an efficient itinerary, eating and sleeping well, avoiding crowds, packing smartly, and more.
About the Author: Rick Steves is a popular public television host and best-selling guidebook author who encourages Americans to broaden their perspectives through travel. Rick lives and works in his hometown of Edmonds, Washington, where his office window overlooks his old junior high school. He is the founder and owner of Rick Steves' Europe, a successful small-group tour program that began in 1976, which now takes 30,000 travelers to Europe annually.
Check out his books in our collection here.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Holmdel Book Club
Join us in person for the next meeting of the Holmdel Book Club. We will meet on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 10:00 am.
We will be discussing The Last Train to Key West by Chanel Cleeton (request book, e audiobook , eBook,)
In 1935 three women are forever changed when one of the most powerful hurricanes in history barrels toward the Florida Keys. For the tourists traveling on Henry Flagler's legendary Overseas Railroad, Labor Day weekend is an opportunity to forget the economic depression gripping the nation. But one person's paradise can be another's prison, and Key West-native Helen Berner yearns to escape. After the Cuban Revolution of 1933 leaves Mirta Perez's family in a precarious position, she agrees to an arranged marriage with a notorious American. Following her wedding in Havana, Mirta arrives in the Keys on her honeymoon. While she can't deny the growing attraction to her new husband, his illicit business interests may threaten not only her relationship, but her life. Elizabeth Preston's trip to Key West is a chance to save her once-wealthy family from their troubles after the Wall Street crash. Her quest takes her to the camps occupied by veterans of the Great War and pairs her with an unlikely ally on a treacherous hunt of his own. Over the course of the holiday weekend, the women's paths cross unexpectedly, and the danger swirling around them is matched only by the terrifying force of the deadly storm threatening the Keys
Moderated by Trish Shrodo, Holmdel Library and Learning Center
Do you Want to Speak English? Learn the language to help you at work, at home, and in the community.
Free English as a Second Language in-person classes, virtual classes or one-on-one tutoring will be offered through Literacy NJ Monmouth throughout the year.
Open to adults 18 years and older. Please contact Program Director Jhanna Even at 732 702 1895 or at jeven@literacynj.org
*Available to Monmouth County residents only
New student Cady Heron navigates the thorny jungles of teenage and high school drama. Led by Regina George, the elite clique The Plastics welcomes Cady into their exclusive group. When she falls for Regina's ex, Aaron Samuels, Cady risks her social status and faces Regina's wrath. With the help of her socially shunned friends Janis and Damian, Cady must survive high school, the most dangerous mission of her life. The film is a remake of the 2004 comedy of the same name.
Directed by Samantha Jayne
Starring Renee Rapp, Angourie Rice, Tina Fey, and Ashley Park
Comedy/Musical- 1 hour and 52 minutes
©Paramount Pictures
Travel Iceland with Chris McCormack: Live Zoom Program
Presented by Professional Traveler Chris McCormack
Have you ever wanted to visit the land of fire and ice? Professional traveler Chris McCormack will talk about his experiences traveling through Iceland, and share tips/lessons he has learned on how to make your trip the best it can be. For a small island, this country has an incredible amount of experiences to offer, no matter the season.
About the presenter: In 2014, Chris McCormack made the decision to study abroad in Australia, which would be the catalyst to finding his passion and purpose. Although challenging, Chris has learned much on his travels and finds the journey incredibly rewarding. His vision is to bridge the gap between fear and action by guiding you, step-by-step, on how you can travel.
This event will be conducted on Zoom and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register at the link above. Zoom access link will be emailed prior the presentation.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Due to a change in his employment status, Dutch-American football coach Thomas Rongen was forced to undertake a coaching role he had difficulty accepting. He flew to American Samoa to coach their national football team to become eligible for the 2001 FIFA World Cup. The main challenge, though, is that the team is touted as one of the weakest in the world. Based on the 2014 documentary with the same title, this sports comedy-drama features the real-life travails of Thomas Rongen.
Director: Taika Waititi
Cast: Michael Fassbender, Kaimana, Oscar Kightley, Rachel House, Beulah Koale
© Twentieth Century Fox
Comedy/Drama/Sport 1 hour and 37 minutes
June 12: Lisa Frankenstein (2024) (PG-13) 101 minutes
Starring: Jenna Davis, Liza Soberano, Carla Gugino, Kathryn Newton, Cole Sprouse
Directed by: Zelda Williams
Lisa is an unusual young woman who harbors a strange crush on a handsome bust adorning a gravestone in her local cemetery. When a series of wild circumstances reanimate the deceased man, the two decide to give their fledgling attraction a chance at life.
Comedy | Horror
(c) Focus Features
Ask Mike the Appraiser: What's It Worth? LIVE, Virtual Appraisal Program
Presented by Appraiser Michael Ivankovich
Author, auctioneer, appraiser, and radio show host Mike Ivankovich will reveal what your antiques, collectibles, and personal treasures are worth today.
Mike has been involved in the antiques and collectibles business for over 40 years. He is a frequent lecturer, a published author of more than 20 books and eBooks, as well as numerous articles and columns for most major national trade papers. He is the host of the radio show "What's It Worth?" as Mike the Appraiser.
Appraisal Instructions:
- The first 25 confirmed registrants may receive an appraisal of ONE item.
- Registration does not guarantee a virtual appraisal. All appraisals are at the discretion of the appraiser as time permits.
- The first 25 should have one back up item available if the primary item cannot be viewed correctly.
- Time limits the number of appraisal registrant slots available; however, the registration list for viewing only participants is unlimited.
- Order of appraisals will be at the moderator's discretion.
- Since the object of appraisal cannot be in person, multiple answers regarding the item markings, condition, etc. may be required.
- Because of possible distortion, we ask that Virtual Background be turned off during the program.
- The first 25 registrants will receive early confirmation they have an appraisal spot.
There is no limit on the number of people who can register to watch the program.
Take a look at Mr. Ivankovich's Collector Value Guide in the reference section at Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury.
This session will be conducted on Zoom and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend.
Register below to receive emailed information on how to join the program. Registration closes at noon the day prior to the program and the Zoom Access Link will be emailed later that same day.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
From the Park System's first park to the development of today's offerings, there is something for every visitor. Learn about the parks, historic sites, golf, special events, nature, programs plus some exceptional benefits. Your journey will be with Public Information Officer Karen Livingstone, who has been with the Park System for more than 25 years.
In conjunction with the Summer Reading Program - Your Adventure Begins with Your LIbrary!
IN PERSON AT EASTERN BRANCH
REGISTER TO GUARANTEE SEATING
Learn to Play Bridge: In Person Program
Have you always wanted to learn to play Bridge? Here’s your chance!
Pat Guadagno will teach you what you need to know to get in on the fun.
Beginners are welcome and encouraged to arrive at the start of the session.
Seating is limited to 40 players. First come, first seated.
“The American Embassy” (2009) by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Join us for an in-person short story discussion moderated by Ocean Township Librarian Mary Patterson. A .pdf story link will be emailed with online registration confirmation.
As Time Goes By: A Tribute to the Best Movie Songs
Music plays such a critical part of every film, whether it's background or as a part of the storyline. But in this case, the songs that were selected by the American Film Institute as the best songs from the movies are the ones that most of us remember even after the movie is over. These songs became a part of our culture and continue to be recorded as standards by many recording artists.
Join Phil Bruschi as he provides hightlights from each of the films, some movie trivia, as well as the songwriters and recording artists and actors who sang each song. Phil sings such favorites as "Over the Rainbow", "As Time Goes By", "Moon River", "The Way We Were", and many more.
It has been over 25 years since a state investigation lead to the shuttering of one of New Jersey’s largest psychiatric hospitals that existed in Monmouth County.
Michael L. Diamond is a business reporter who has been writing about the New Jersey economy and health care industry for more than 20 years. He will be discussing what precipitated the subsequent deinstitutionalization of Marlboro Psychiatric Hospital in favor of a local community treatment model and how this model is currently faring.
Registration is preferred. You can register in person, online or by phone.
Musical duo Donnie and Joe Emerson spend everything they have to produce a record in the 1970s.
Director: Bill Pohlad
Cast: Chris Messina, Walton Goggins, Zooey Deschanel, Casey Affleck
Drama - 1 Hour and 51 Minutes
@ Lions Gate Films, Inc.
Quantum Physics: The Path from Mysteries to Reality
Join us at the Holmdel Library, historic site of former Bell Laboratories, to learn about the challenges of proving quantum physics’ validity as an explanation of nature, and Bell Labs’ role in establishing one of the most fundamental theories in physics.
Don M. Tow, Ph.D., will lead you down the path from the past to present of groundbreaking experiments and monumental discoveries that established the basis of wave-particle duality and quantum physics.Enjoy a 45 minute talk with a short Q & A to follow.
About the presenter: Don M. Tow received his Ph.D. in theoretical physics from the University of California at Berkeley. He continued his research in physics at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, Brown University in Providence, University of Texas in Austin, University of Paris in Paris, and also taught undergraduate and graduate physics courses at the University of Texas in Austin. In 1980 he switched from the academic world to the industry world when he went to work at Bell Labs in Holmdel.
Registration required.
What's Bugging Your Plant? Pests vs. Diseases: Live Zoom Program
The presentation will reveal clues to determine if plant problems are being caused by insects or by diseases. Knowing the source of the problem helps pinpoint the proper solution. Slides will depict some of the most common insect problems and point out how fungus appears when it attacks leaves and flowers. There will be a discussion of Integrated Pest Management to indentify the least toxic method to eliminate the pests and diseases.
About the presenter: Bob Magovern has 20 years experience as a certified Master Gardener. He is certified in Professional Landscaping and Pest and Disease Management. Bob has worked as a horticulturist for a large retail nursery, giving workshops and managing plant health. He was previously a Program Assistant to the Monmouth County Agricultural Agent working on issues surrounding watersheds, rain gardens, and soil testing. Bob loves sharing his knowledge with the public.
The Master Gardeners are dedicated to educating the citizens of Monmouth County by offering interesting and informative horticultural presentations. Raising awareness in our community ensures that Monmouth county continues to be a beautiful and environmentally green place to live and work.
Sessions will be presented on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required. Register below for links to be emailed to you. Registration closes on the business day prior to the program at noon; Zoom access links will be emailed later that day.
This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited. Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
Psychological Thrillers and the Queen of Twists– An Author Talk with Freida McFadden
Get your popcorn and take a seat for a conversation with the queen of twists herself, Freida McFadden! McFadden will tell all on writing psychological thrillers, her mega-bestselling hit The Housemaid series, and, in particular, her forthcoming third installment, The Housemaid Is Watching.
The next book in the series is full of unbelievable twists and tension as it continues to follow Millie Calloway. She used to clean other people’s houses—now, she can’t believe this new home is actually hers. The charming kitchen, the quiet cul-de-sac, the huge yard where her kids can play. She and her husband saved for years to give their children the life they deserve.
Even though Millie is wary of their new neighbor, Mrs. Lowell, when the family is invited over for dinner, they accept the invitation in the hopes of making friends. Mrs. Lowell’s maid opens the door wearing a white apron, her hair in a tight bun. Millie knows exactly what it’s like to be in her shoes. But the maid’s cold stare gives her chills…
The Lowells’ maid isn’t the only strange thing on their street. Millie’s sure she sees a shadowy figure watching them. Her husband leaves the house late at night. And when she meets a woman who lives across the way, her words chill to the bone: Be careful of your neighbors.
Millie wonders: Did they make a terrible mistake moving their family here?
Click here to register for this event.
Can’t make it? A recording of this program will be available here.
About the Author: #1 New York Times, Amazon Charts, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, Sunday Times, and Publisher's Weekly bestselling author Freida McFadden is a practicing physician specializing in brain injury who has penned multiple bestselling psychological thrillers and medical humor novels. Freida’s work has been selected as one of Amazon Editors’ best books of the year, she is the winner of the International Thriller Writers Award for best paperback, and she is a Goodreads Choice Award winner. Her novels have been translated into over 30 languages.
Freida lives with her family and black cat in a centuries-old three-story home overlooking the ocean, with staircases that creak and moan with each step, where nobody could hear you if you scream. Unless you scream really loudly, maybe.
Check out McFadden’s works in our collection here. The Housemaid Is Watching is expected to release in June, place it on hold here.
This event will be conducted online and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register at the link above. Virtual access link will be emailed prior to the event.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Looking for something to read this summer? Check out some of our Young Adult recommendations:
HISTORICAL FICTION
Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo
I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Writers Workshop -- In Person at the Eastern Branch
Looking for a supportive environment to practice and explore your writing style? Facilitator Molly Fox provides a choice of prompts for a 20-30 minute quick write. Excerpts of published works, both old and new, are shared to serve as models of strong writing and to inspire participants to craft their own style. Writers are invited (but no pressure!) to share their resulting work and offer gentle suggestions and feedback to their fellow writers. All are welcome!
Molly Fox, MS Ed, is a Reading Specialist, writing instructor, and certified yoga teacher. She has facilitated writing groups at Brookdale Community College and has participated in writing workshops at local libraries and educational events. She is looking forward to being part of a supportive community of writers.
Meetings take place on the second Friday of the month, January through June.
Registration recommended for each session you plan to attend.
Join Chef Rob this summer for the Summer virtual Family Cooking Camp series! Learn tips and tricks from a seasoned professional! These renditions are short and savory, or sweet!
There are virtual cooking and baking sessions available to view on the Library's website.
This week's menu item is... Almost Famous Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich!
No registration required! Access the recipe here, and the video here!
Enjoy Chef Rob's complete 2022 recipe collection here!
About Chef Rob: With over 30 years experience as a restaurant owner and personal chef, Chef Robert Scott brings his passion for fine and fun fare to the Monmouth County Virtual Library from his hometown in Hampton Bays, Long Island. Join Chef Rob as he teaches you how to prepare seasonal appetizers, main dishes, beverages, and desserts to spice up your mealtime, anytime.
The Vietnam War was a long, costly and divisive conflict that pitted the communist government of North Vietnam against South Vietnam and its principal ally, the United States. The conflict was intensified by the ongoing Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union. More that 3 million people (including over 58,000 Americans) were killed in the Vietnam War, and more than half of the dead were Vietnamese civilians. Via the presentation, come to learn where the war was fought, how it was fought and most importantly, why it was fought.
Join Paul Zigo, history professor, author and military historian, founder and director, of the World War II Era Studies Institute for this in-person presentation and discussion.
2024 Library Commission Meetings are scheduled for the third Tuesday of each month, September through June, except where noted. Executive sessions may be held during each regular meeting. Meetings are held at the Headquarters Library (125 Symmes Drive, Manalapan, NJ), the Eastern Branch Library (1001 Route 35, Shrewsbury, NJ), and other branches as noted. Revisions to this schedule will be posted on the Monmouth County Library website.
Virtual options may be available; venues may change. Here is the link to look at the full schedule and agendas.
Tuesday, June 18 2024; 10:00 AM; Marlboro Township
Tuesday, September 17, 2024; 10:00 AM; Headquarters, Manalapan
Tuesday, October 15, 2024; 10:00 AM; Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
Tuesday, November 19, 2024; 10:00 AM; Wall Township
Tuesday, December 17, 2024; 10:00 AM; Headquarters, Manalapan
Do you Want to Speak English? Learn the language to help you at work, at home, and in the community.
Free English as a Second Language in-person classes, virtual classes or one-on-one tutoring will be offered through Literacy NJ Monmouth throughout the year.
Open to adults 18 years and older. Please contact Program Director Jhanna Even at 732 702 1895 or at jeven@literacynj.org
*Available to Monmouth County residents only
Inspired by the incredible true story of a hairdresser who single-handedly rallies an entire community to help a widowed father save the life of his critically ill young daughter.
Directed by Jon Gunn
Starring Alan Ritchson, Hillary Swank, Drew Powell, and Skywalker Huges
Drama- 1 hour and 58 minutes
© Lions Gate Films, Inc.
Anyone But You (2023) (R)
In this edgy comedy, Bea (Sydney Sweeney) and Ben (Glen Powell) look like the perfect couple, but after an amazing first date something happens that turns their fiery hot attraction ice cold -- until they find themselves unexpectedly thrust together at a destination wedding in Australia. So they do what any two mature adults would do: pretend to be a couple.
Director: Will Gluck
Starring: Sydney Sweeney, Glen Powell
Comedy / Romance. 1 hours, 40 minutes
© Columbia Pictures
The History of Emancipation & Juneteenth: Live Zoom Program
Presented by Historian Christopher Daley
Commemorating Juneteenth
The History of Emancipation & Juneteenth is an exciting and engaging presentation that will touch on the American abolitionist movement, the election of Abraham Lincoln, Freemont’s Emancipation, Hunter’s Emancipation, and General Benjamin Butler’s orders on “Contraband of War.” Examine the Emancipation Proclamation itself; the timing and politics of it, and who was actually freed by it. Additionally, the gradual emancipation of slaves by Federal Troops as they conquered the different Confederate states, the end of the war, the movement of troops into Texas, and the famous issuing of General Order No. 3 on June 19th, 1865 at Galveston Texas will be explored. And finally, how Juneteenth went from a local Galveston celebration to a national holiday.
About the historian: Mr. Daley is a historian and published author. He has been presenting talks on historical topics all over New England for nearly 30 years. He was a history teacher in the Silver Lake Regional School District in Kingston, Massachusetts for 25 years. He has been involved in several historical organizations both public and private, including the Pembroke Historical Commission and Historical Society as well as the John Alden Historical Site in Duxbury.
This session will be conducted on Zoom and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the conversation. Zoom access link will be emailed the afternoon before the presentation.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Happy Juneteenth to all celebrating!
All Monmouth County Libraries are closed today, however, our website is open 24/7 to read, renew, request, and research.
Tap our app for events and information!
We look forward to connecting with you in person and on social media.
On Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest & Twitter, our global address is @MonCoLibrary.
Learn to Play Bridge: In Person Program
Have you always wanted to learn to play Bridge? Here’s your chance!
Pat Guadagno will teach you what you need to know to get in on the fun.
Beginners are welcome and encouraged to arrive at the start of the session.
Seating is limited to 40 players. First come, first seated.
This talk features the American Impressionist Mary Stevenson Cassatt (1844-1926), whose oil paintings, pastels, and prints focused primarily on women and children engaged in everyday life. Born into comfortable circumstances, at the age of 16 Mary went to the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts for two years of study. Most of her artistic life, however, was spent in France, where she joined the French Impressionists--especially Edgar Degas--in style and friendship, and acted as an adviser to American art collectors.
Mike Norris got his BA in classics from the University of California at San Diego and his MA in classics and Ph.D. in art history at the University of California at Santa Barbara. He spent twenty years at the Cloisters Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and has lectured on trips all over the world.
Registration is preferred. You can register in person, online or by phone.
New student Cady Heron navigates the thorny jungles of teenage and high school drama. Led by Regina George, the elite clique The Plastics welcomes Cady into their exclusive group. When she falls for Regina's ex, Aaron Samuels, Cady risks her social status and faces Regina's wrath. With the help of her socially shunned friends Janis and Damian, Cady must survive high school, the most dangerous mission of her life. *The film is a remake of the 2004 comedy of the same name.
Starring: Reneé Rapp, Angourie Rice, Tina Fey, Ashley Park
Directed by: Samantha Jayne
Studio: Paramount Pictures
PG-13 | 112 minutes
Comedy/Musical
Let’s get down to the knitty gritty. All ages, genders, and skill levels are welcome to join these enjoyable and instructive meetings. Facilitated LIVE ON ZOOM by knitting extraordinaire, Camille Scala.
Sessions will be held on the first and third Thursdays of the month. They will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the session.
Registration closes the day prior to the program; the Zoom access link will be emailed the day prior to the program.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library. All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Unpacking a History of Systemic Racism in the American Education System with Tiffany Jewell
Join us as #1 New York Times bestselling author Tiffany Jewell highlights the inequities Black and Brown students face from preschool through college as she presents lessons and knowledge from her new book Everything I Learned About Racism I Learned in School.
From preschool to higher education and everything in between, Jewell focuses on the experiences Black and Brown students face as a direct result of the racism built into schools across the United States.
The overarching nonfiction narrative follows author Tiffany Jewell from early elementary school through her time at college, unpacking the history of systemic racism in the American educational system along the way. Throughout the book, other writers of the global majority share a wide variety of personal narratives and stories based on their own school experiences.
Everything I Learned About Racism I Learned in School provides young folks with the context to think critically about and chart their own course through their current schooling—and any future schooling they may pursue. A true “don’t want to miss” event–so register now!
Click here to register for this event.
Can’t make it? A recording of this program will be available here.
About the Author: Tiffany Jewell is a Black biracial writer, twin sister, first-generation American, cisgender mama, anti-bias antiracist (ABAR) educator, and consultant. She is the author of the #1 New York Times and #1 Indie Bestseller, This Book Is Anti-Racist, a book for young folks and everyone to wake up, take action, and do the work of becoming antiracist as well as The Antiracist Kid: A Book About Identity, Justice, and Activism.
Tiffany has been working with children and families for nearly two decades and has worked as a Montessori educator for fifteen years. She enjoys exploring social justice with young folks, especially the history of racism and resistance, economic justice, and socially and personally constructed identities. Tiffany works with educators and supports them in building strong, authentic communities in which every child can be seen and valued. She is the co-founder, alongside Britt Hawthorne, of ABARatSchool, an organization that strives to support educators and caregivers in their anti-bias anti-racist journeys. She also served as the president of the founding board of the national organization Montessori for Social Justice- seeing it through to completing nonprofit status and creating a strong mission to support and amplify Montessorian of the Global Majority across the country. Tiffany lives on the homeland of the Pocumtuc and the Nipmuck with her two young storytellers, husband, and a turtle she’s had since she was nine years old.
Check out Everything I Learned About Racism I Learned in School and Jewell’s works in our collection here.
This event will be conducted online and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register at the link above. Virtual access link will be emailed prior to the event.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
The Tobacco Wives: A Novel by Adele Myers
The Tabacco Wives is a suspenseful coming of age story of a brave young woman's search for dangerous truths obscured by corporate deceit and betrayal.
It centers on a basketball team training and competing in the Special Olympics under the guidance of an imperfect but dedicated coach Marcus.
Director: Bobby Farrelly
Cast: Woody Harrelson, Kaitlin Olson, Ernie Hudson, Matt Cook, Cheech Marin
Comedy - 2 Hours and 4 Minutes
@ Focus Features
Northern Spy by Flynn Berry
A producer at the Belfast bureau of the BBC, Tessa is at work one day when the news of another raid comes on the air. As the anchor requests the public's help in locating those responsible for the latest raid--a robbery at a gas station--Tessa's sister appears on the screen. Tessa watches in shock as Marian pulls a black mask over her face. The police believe Marian has joined the IRA, but Tessa knows this is impossible. When the truth of what has happened to Marian reveals, itself, Tessa will be forced to choose: between her ideals and her family, between bystander and action. Walking an increasingly perilous road, she fears nothing more than endangering the one person she loves more fiercely than her sister: her infant son.
Less by Andrew Sean Greer
PROBLEM: You are a failed novelist about to turn fifty. A wedding invitation arrives in the mail: your boyfriend of the past nine years now engaged to someone else. You can’t say yes--it would all be too awkward--and you can’t say no--it would look like defeat. On your desk are a series of half-baked literary invitations you’ve received from around the world. QUESTION: How do you arrange to skip town? ANSWER: You accept them all. If you are Arthur Less. Thus begins an around-the-world-in-eighty-days fantasia that will take Arthur Less to Mexico, Italy, Germany, Morocco, India and Japan and put thousands of miles between him and the problems he refuses to face. What could possibly go wrong?
Moderated by Sabrina Pisciotta.
Come to the ancient land of the library where we deal in the business of books and adventure. While adventures can be self-made in between the binding of pages, every other Thursday, we will gather-- inperson-- to begin a quest unlike others you might have read before. Our first Dungeons & Dragons group meeting will introduce you to the start of an incredible journey. Community run by a local enthusiast, this group is open to all ages. Please call the library to register.
Looking for something to read this summer? Check out some of our Young Adult recommendations:
SCIENCE FICTION
Illuminae by Amie Kaufman & Jay Kristoff
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Pat Guadagno teaches Bridge in this special instruction session for beginners and advanced players alike.
These Friday sessions are aimed at learning the game of Bridge, not for open play.
Sessions are scheduled on the first and third Fridays of the month, through August.
Seating is limited.
Join Chef Rob this summer for the Summer virtual Family Cooking Camp series! Learn tips and tricks from a seasoned professional! These renditions are short and savory, or sweet!
There are virtual cooking and baking sessions available to view on the Library's website.
This week's menu item is... S'mores Cookies!
No registration required! Access the recipe here, and the video here!
Enjoy Chef Rob's complete 2022 recipe collection here!
About Chef Rob: With over 30 years experience as a restaurant owner and personal chef, Chef Robert Scott brings his passion for fine and fun fare to the Monmouth County Virtual Library from his hometown in Hampton Bays, Long Island. Join Chef Rob as he teaches you how to prepare seasonal appetizers, main dishes, beverages, and desserts to spice up your mealtime, anytime.
Rebroadcast of Lecture & Art: Keith Haring's "Two Figures With Red Heart"
Presented by Artist Jenny Santa Maria
Available to view via Library Website
In recognition of Pride Month, the Monmouth County Library will explore the life and talent of Keith Haring, an artist who incorporated themes of love, openness, inclusivity of the LGBTQ+ community, and activism for broadening the conversation surrounding AIDS. Though he is known for his famous "subway drawings" of New York commuters, he did much more in his short life to create meaningful conversation that tackled challenging subjects, not just in America, but around the world. Learn more about this courageous and inventive artist, hear how he turned his pain into his passion for art, and recreate his famous "Two Figures With Red Heart". Haring's work, with its uncomplicated and energetic style, continues to inspire and encourage meaningful conversation with its compassionate and understanding imagery.
An opportunity to create your own Haring-inspired piece will follow the lecture. You will need a pencil, paper, and black and red markers.
All reproductions shown are appropriate for any age group, and no prerequisite skills are necessary to follow the drawing instructions. Have your paper and pencil ready, we're going to draw like Haring! Colored pencils and markers are optional, depending on how creative you plan to be!
About the Presenter: Instructor Jenny Santa Maria is an art teacher in Tinton Falls and has exhibited her artwork in various settings such as Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton, NJ. All participants leave her workshops with a deeper understanding of the culture, the art, and themselves.
Families, Parents, and Caregivers! Learn about open water safety (oceans, lakes), safety in and around pools, proper life jacket fitting, and sun safety tips.
Kim Myers is a dedicated community outreach specialist with the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey. Her educational background is in health science and public health with extensive experience in developing and facilitating community programming on a variety of health topics. She empowers individuals of all ages to lead healthy, fulfilling lives and create a better, more connected community.
IN PERSON AT EASTERN BRANCH
REGISTER TO GUARANTEE SEATING
Holmdel: You asked, we listened!
Join us in person for a matinee on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 1:30 pm. This month, we’re showing Poor Things (2023) (R).
Based on Alasdair Gray's 1992 novel of the same name, the story follows the resurrection of Bella. Through unorthodox experimentations with human life and death, scientist Dr. Godwin Baxter raises the young woman back to life. However, her newer version finds her relearning about the world and its ways. At the same time, she discovers inequalities that restrict women in a conservative society. What follows is her newfound quest to pursue liberation and equality.
Directed by: Yorgos Lanthimos
Starring: Willem Dafoe, Emma Stone, Mark Ruffalo, Vicki Pepperdine, Ramy Youssef
Running time: 2 hours and 21 minutes
® Twentieth Century Fox
Kya is a young woman who raised herself in the North Carolina marshlands after being abandoned there by her mother when she was a little girl. She feels detached from the small-town community near the marshes until two men show interest in her. However, when one of them later dies, she becomes the town's prime suspect.
Directed by Olivia Newman
Starring Daisy Edgar-Jones, Taylor John Smith, Harris Dickinson, David Strathairn, and Michael Hyatt
Drama/ Mystery/Romance- 2 hours and 5 minutes
© Columbia Pictures, Inc.
Easy Summer Tidy-Ups: Live Zoom Program
Part of the Summer Lunch 'n Learn Series - Register ONCE for all sessions
Presented by Organizing Humorist Jamie Novak
10 tiny organizing projects that make a big difference and what you need to do before the fall.
- July 31: Quick Clothes Closet Cleanout - Which clothes to keep, where to sell, and donate regret-free. Plus what every closet needs to stay clutter-free.
About the Presenter: When not on the computer Jamie is searching for a cure to her addiction of clipping out recipes she never prepares. Check out her books in our collection here.
Please note that this program will not be recorded.
This session will be conducted on Zoom and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the conversation. Zoom access link will be emailed the afternoon before the presentation.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Join the Square of Friends at Eastern Branch to discuss this month's book club selection, The Paper Palace, by Miranda Cowley Heller.
A story of summer, secrets, love and lies: in the course of a singular day on Cape Cod, one woman must make a life-changing decision that has been brewing for decades. Tender yet devastating, The Paper Palace considers the tensions between desire and dignity; the legacies of abuse; and the crimes and misdemeanors of families.
Book discussion is led by Librarian Beth Miller. Copies of the book are available at the Eastern Branch Circulation Desk.
The music documentary unravels the life of noteworthy musician Bob Marley. The film dissects the artist’s life, delving into his legacy and cultural influence. With untold stories and intimate details, the film unveils Marley’s true essence, presenting the man behind the image through his immortal music, inviting audiences to rediscover his impact in a revealing and captivating journey.
Director: Reinaldo Marcus Green
Cast: Kinglsey Ben-Adir, Lashana Lynch, James Norton, Tosin Cole, Umi Myers
© Paramount Pictures
Biography/Drama/Music 1 hour and 47 minutes
June 26: Mean Girls (2024) (PG-13) 112 minutes
Starring: Reneé Rapp, Angourie Rice, Tina Fey, Angourie Rice, Ashley Park
Directed by: Samantha Jayne
New student Cady Heron navigates the thorny jungles of teenage and high school drama. Led by Regina George, the elite clique The Plastics welcomes Cady into their exclusive group. When she falls for Regina's ex, Aaron Samuels, Cady risks her social status and faces Regina's wrath. With the help of her socially shunned friends Janis and Damian, Cady must survive high school, the most dangerous mission of her life. The film is a remake of the 2004 comedy of the same name.
Teen | Comedy
(c) Paramount Pictures
Rebroadcast of The Famine Irish, Horatio Alger & Ragged Dick - Living on the Streets in New York’s Gilded Age: Live Zoom Presentation
Presented by Historian Rick Feingold
Available to watch via Library Website
Celebrate National Immigrant Heritage Month by learning about Irish immigration to the United States.
New York of the 1850s was a time when the Irish fleeing the famine in their home country arrived in great numbers only to settle in ethnic ghettos. With no skills or education, little English, and of Catholic faith in a Protestant culture, they faced discrimination for the available factory jobs. Many children became homeless and worked as shoeshine boys. Horatio Alger wrote novels about these boys and their rise from humble backgrounds to lives of comfort through hard work, determination, and honesty. Feingold collected excerpts from Alger’s most famous novel Ragged Dick and learn about the Gilded Age, the Newsboys Lodging House, Barnum’s Museum and New York City during this period.
Check out Ragged Dick and Alger’s other works in our collection here.
About the presenter: Rick Feingold teaches American Business History at Bergen Community College and holds an MBA from Penn State University.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Join us to discuss this month's book club pick, All Grown Up by Jami Attenberg
Hiding the truth about her unhappiness and struggles with anxiety from everyone including her family, best friend, and therapist, Andrea Bern joins her loved ones in a reevaluation of family strength in the wake of her newborn niece's heartbreaking ailment.
Learn to Play Bridge: In Person Program
Have you always wanted to learn to play Bridge? Here’s your chance!
Pat Guadagno will teach you what you need to know to get in on the fun.
Beginners are welcome and encouraged to arrive at the start of the session.
Seating is limited to 40 players. First come, first seated.
IN PERSON at Headquarters in Manalapan or on Zoom. Please register with a valid email address and you will receive an email reminder with a link to the Zoom meeting.
The Revolutionary: Samuel Adams by Stacey Schiff
With high-minded ideals and bare-knuckle tactics, Samuel Adams led what could be called the greatest campaign of civil resistance in American history. Award-winning author Stacy Schiff returns Adams to his seat of glory, introducing us to the shrewd and eloquent man who supplied the moral backbone of the American Revolution. Schiff illuminates Adams’s improbable life, and his transformation from aimless son of a well-off family to tireless, beguiling radical who mobilized the colonies.
Moderated by Jeanmarie Kantor, Library HQ
Due to a change in his employment status, Dutch-American football coach Thomas Rongen was forced to undertake a coaching role he had difficulty accepting. He flew to American Samoa to coach their national football team to become eligible for the 2001 FIFA World Cup. The main challenge, though, is that the team is touted as one of the weakest in the world. Based on the 2014 documentary with the same title, this sports comedy-drama features the real-life travails of Thomas Rongen.
Director: Taika Waititi
Cast: Michael Fassbender, Oscar Kightley, Kaimana, Rachel House, David Fane
Comedy - 1 Hour and 44 Minutes
@ Twentieth Century Fox
Looking for something to read this summer? Check out some of our Young Adult recommendations:
FANTASY
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Join Chef Rob this summer for the Summer virtual Family Cooking Camp series! Learn tips and tricks from a seasoned professional! These renditions are short and savory, or sweet!
There are virtual cooking and baking sessions available to view on the Library's website.
This week's menu item is... Red, White, and Blueberry Whoopie Pies with a Lemon Filling!
No registration required! Access the recipe here, and the video here!
Enjoy Chef Rob's complete 2022 recipe collection here!
About Chef Rob: With over 30 years experience as a restaurant owner and personal chef, Chef Robert Scott brings his passion for fine and fun fare to the Monmouth County Virtual Library from his hometown in Hampton Bays, Long Island. Join Chef Rob as he teaches you how to prepare seasonal appetizers, main dishes, beverages, and desserts to spice up your mealtime, anytime.
Do you Want to Speak English? Learn the language to help you at work, at home, and in the community.
Free English as a Second Language virtual classes or one-on-one tutoring will be offered through Literacy NJ Monmouth throughout the year.
Open to adults 18 years and older. Please contact Program Director Jhanna Even at 732 702 1895 or at jeven@literacynj.org
*Available to Monmouth County residents only
Lost & Found: Virtual Bereavement Support Group Facilitated on Zoom by Beth Stamp
Join us for a Virtual Bereavement Support Group meeting LIVE ON ZOOM at 6:45 pm on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.
When you experience the loss of a loved one, navigating through the maze of emotion, making ordinary decisions, and finding a new rhythm to every day can be stressful and overwhelming.
These workshops, led by Beth Stamp, support facilitator, may provide an opportunity to share experiences, feelings, and new ideas for moving forward.
Sessions will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the discussion. Registration is rolling; however, the access link will be emailed to all registrants the day before the program.
You can sign up to join us twice each month, or you can check the bottom box on the registration form to sign up for that session only. Please email mclprograms@monmouthcountylib.org if you would like to be removed from the list.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
All Monmouth County Libraries are closed today, however, our website is open 24/7 to read, renew, request, and research.
Tap our app for events and information!
We look forward to connecting with you in person and on social media.
On Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest & Twitter, our global address is @MonCoLibrary.
Looking for something to read this summer? Check out some of our Young Adult recommendations:
AWARD-WINNING NOVELS
Only This Beautiful Moment by Abdi Nazemian - 2024 Stonewall Award Winner
Warrior Girl Unearthed by Angeline Boulley - 2024 YALSA Top Ten Best Fiction
Promise Boys by Nick Brooks - 2024 YALSA Top Ten Best Fiction
She Is A Haunting by Trang Thanh Tran - 2024 William C. Morris Award Finalist
The Life and Crimes of Hoodie Rosen by Isaac Blum - 2023 William C. Morris Award Winner
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Pat Guadagno teaches Bridge in this special instruction session for beginners and advanced players alike.
These Friday sessions are aimed at learning the game of Bridge, not for open play.
Sessions are scheduled on the first and third Fridays of the month, through August.
Seating is limited.
Join Chef Rob this summer for the Summer virtual Family Cooking Camp series! Learn tips and tricks from a seasoned professional! These renditions are short and savory, or sweet!
There are virtual cooking and baking sessions available to view on the Library's website.
This week's menu item is... Shrimp Sliders with a Remoulade Sauce!
No registration required! Access the recipes here, and the video here!
Enjoy Chef Rob's complete 2022 recipe collection here!
About Chef Rob: With over 30 years experience as a restaurant owner and personal chef, Chef Robert Scott brings his passion for fine and fun fare to the Monmouth County Virtual Library from his hometown in Hampton Bays, Long Island. Join Chef Rob as he teaches you how to prepare seasonal appetizers, main dishes, beverages, and desserts to spice up your mealtime, anytime.
Soft Skills Mastery Class: 4-Part Course: Live on Zoom
Presented by WOS Instructor Addie Rimmer in partnership with Northeastern University College of Professional Studies (NU-CPS)
Join us as Workforce Opportunity Services (WOS) presents a free online Soft Skills Mastery Class for highly motivated, early-career individuals.
Register once, attend ALL FOUR classes and you may earn a certificate from WOS & NU-CPS.
Based on 20 years of research-based workforce development experience, this course has been designed to develop capabilities in self-esteem and confidence, lifelong learning and metacognition, personal and professional core values, and literacy in a business culture oriented toward workplace success.
This program aims to help participants:
- Identify core personal and professional values
- Gain a self-awareness of strengths and learn how to address weaknesses
- Bolster self-esteem and self-acceptance
- Establish and nurture wellness and a healthy living lifestyle
- Identify and utilize learning styles and study strategies to support lifelong learning and adaptation
- Create development plans to achieve personal, academic, and professional goals using various approaches
- Recognize and understand emotional intelligence and its impact in the workplace
- Further develop interpersonal skills and identify transferable skills
Each session is designed for individuals of all ages and is aimed at expanding their horizon in the arts. Monday morning is part one of the series. The next three sessions will take place on from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm on:
Tuesday, July 9 – Part 2
Wednesday, July 10 – Part 3
Thursday, July 11 – Part 4
This program is free and available to attend via Zoom. Please register below! Programs are offered in partnership with WOS Workforce Opportunity Services, a leading non-profit organization connecting individuals from underserved populations with transformative career opportunities.
Please note that registration information will be shared with WOS so students can be enrolled to receive class materials and certificate of completion if all class requirements are met satisfactorily. Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Holmdel Book Club
Join us in person for the next meeting of the Holmdel Book Club. We will meet on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 10:00 am.
We will be discussing Hello Stranger: A Novel by Katherine Center (request book, e audiobook , eBook,)
Sadie Montgomery has had good breaks and bad breaks in her life, but as a struggling artist, all she needs is one lucky break. Things seem to be going her way when she lands one of the coveted finalist spots in a portrait competition. It happens to coincide with a surgery she needs to have. Minor, they say. Less than a week in the hospital they say. Nothing about you will change, they say. Upon recovery, it begins to dawn on Sadie that she can see everything around her, but she can no longer see faces. Temporary, they say. Lots of people deal with this, they say. As she struggles to cope--and hang onto her artistic dreams--she finds solace in her fourteen-year-old dog, Peanut. Thankfully, she can still see animal faces. When Peanut gets sick, she rushes him to the emergency vet nearby. That's when she meets veterinarian Dr. Addison. And she's pleasantly surprised when he asks her on a date. But she doesn't want anyone to know about her face blindness. Least of all Joe, her obnoxious neighbor who always wears a bowling jacket and seems to know everyone in the building. He's always there at the most embarrassing but convenient times, and soon, they develop a sort of friendship. But could it be something more? As Sadie tries to save her career, confront her haunting past, and handle falling in love with two different guys she realizes that happiness can be found in the places--and people--you least expect
Moderated by Trish Shrodo, Holmdel Library and Learning Center
A Visit to Deckawoo Drive with Mercy Watson and Kate DiCamillo (PreK-2nd Grade)
Join us for a visit to Deckawoo Drive with everyone’s favorite adventure loving pig, Mercy Watson! Newbery Medal winning author Kate DiCamillo will be sharing the stories behind the creation of her early chapter book series, the original Mercy Watson, and the follow up series, Tales from Deckawoo Drive. We will also be celebrating the publication of the final book in the Mercy Watson series! This talk is geared towards readers from PreK to second grade, but all are welcome to join as Kate discusses A Piglet Named Mercy.
Mercy is selfish and impulsive, but no matter how much trouble she gets in, Mr. and Mrs. Watson continue to love her and see her in the best possible light. Young readers love to join along in her hilarious adventures, taking comfort in the fact that their parents and guardians will love them no matter what as well. BYOBT – Bring Your Own Buttered Toast!
Click here to register for this event.
Can't make it? A recording of this program will be available here.
About the Author: Kate DiCamillo is the award-winning author of over 30 books for children. She served as the 2014-2015 National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, appointed by the Library of Congress. Several of her books have been turned into movies, and one was even adapted as an opera. She grew up in Florida and currently lives in Minnesota.
Kate thinks of herself as an enormously lucky person: she gets to tell stories for a living.
Check out A Piglet Named Mercy and DiCamillo's other work in our collection here.
This event will be conducted online and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register at the link above. Virtual access link will be emailed prior the presentation.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Bill, an American redneck from Oklahoma is forced to fly to Marseille to help his daughter who is currently languishing in jail for a murder charge. Allison maintains her innocence but French authorities and the country's legal system will not let her out easily, so Bill decides to stay and exhaust all possibilities for exonerating her from all charges.
Director: Tom McCarthy
Cast: Matt Damon, Abigail Breslin, Camille Cottin, Ginifer Ree, Deanna Dunagan
Drama - 2 Hours and 19 Minutes
© Focus Features
Come to the ancient land of the library where we deal in the business of books and adventure. While adventures can be self-made in between the binding of pages, every other Thursday, we will gather-- inperson-- to begin a quest unlike others you might have read before. Our first Dungeons & Dragons group meeting will introduce you to the start of an incredible journey. Community run by a local enthusiast, this group is open to all ages. Please call the library to register.
Looking for something to read this summer? Check out some of our Young Adult recommendations:
MYSTERY/THRILLER/HORROR
The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
The Reappearance of Rachel Price by Holly Jackson
The Spirit Bears Its Teeth by Andrew Joseph White
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Are you a budding or experienced author? Have up to 1,500 words of your work read aloud for first-impression feedback and critique by other writers.
Call the library or complete the registration form below.
The first five registrants will have their work critiqued. No cost and nothing to bring, but a positive attitude -- and copies of your work.
This get-together will be held the second Saturday of every month.
This program is co-sponsored by the Howell Township branch of the Monmouth County Library and NJWritingGroups.com
Join Chef Rob this summer for the Summer virtual Family Cooking Camp series! Learn tips and tricks from a seasoned professional! These renditions are short and savory, or sweet!
There are virtual cooking and baking sessions available to view on the Library's website.
This week's menu item is... Bang Bang Chicken Lettuce Wraps!
No registration required! Access the recipes here, and the video here!
Enjoy Chef Rob's complete 2022 recipe collection here!
About Chef Rob: With over 30 years experience as a restaurant owner and personal chef, Chef Robert Scott brings his passion for fine and fun fare to the Monmouth County Virtual Library from his hometown in Hampton Bays, Long Island. Join Chef Rob as he teaches you how to prepare seasonal appetizers, main dishes, beverages, and desserts to spice up your mealtime, anytime.
Teens! Are you bad at art? Have a hard time drawing a stick figure? Join us for Bad Art Night, a celebration of mediocre and tacky art! Show off your (non) talent with a painting, sculpture, or collage. The 'worst' artist will receive a trophy!
No artistic experience necessary. Materials will be provided.
*Registration Required
Surviving the Summer with The Last Kids on Earth and Max Brallier (3rd - 6th Grade)
Would you survive a zombie apocalypse? Join us to talk with New York Times bestselling author Max Brallier about The Last Kids on Earth, both the book series and the animated series on Netflix. In this virtual event, Max will share how he came up with the different monsters and villains as well as the unique ways that Jack and his friends figure out to defeat them. This talk is geared towards readers from grades 3 to 6, but all are welcome to join as Max discusses his series The Last Kids on Earth.
Ever since the monster apocalypse hit town, average thirteen year old Jack Sullivan has been living in his tree house, which he’s armed to the teeth with catapults and a moat, not to mention video games and an endless supply of Oreos and Mountain Dew scavenged from abandoned stores. But Jack alone is no match for the hordes of Zombies and Winged Wretches and Vine Thingies, and especially not for the eerily intelligent monster known only as Blarg. So Jack builds a team: his dorky best friend, Quint; the reformed middle school bully, Dirk; Jack’s loyal pet monster, Rover; and Jack’s crush, June. With their help, Jack is going to slay Blarg, achieve the ultimate Feat of Apocalyptic Success, and be average no longer! Can he do it?
Click here to register for this event.
Can't make it? A recording of this program will be available here.
About the Author: Max Brallier is the #1 New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of more than fifty books, including the middle-grade series The Last Kids on Earth. Under the pen name Jack Chabert, Max is the creator and author of the Eerie Elementary series for Scholastic Books and author of the New York Times bestselling graphic novel Poptropica: Mystery of the Map.
He is the creator and writer of Galactic Hot Dogs, a goofy middle-grade adventure series, and has written books for properties including LEGO, Adventure Time, Regular Show, Steven Universe, and Uncle Grandpa. Max has written for adults, including the pick-your-own-path series Can YOU Survive the Zombie Apocalypse? and an entry in the zombie anthology Nights of the Living Dead.
In the olden days, Max was a game designer for the virtual world Poptropica and worked in marketing at St. Martin's Press. Max lives in Los Angeles with his wife and daughter.
Check out The Last Kids on Earth and Brallier's other work in our collection here.
This event will be conducted online and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register at the link above. Virtual access link will be emailed prior the presentation.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
American Fiction (2023) (R)
Jeffrey Smith stars as a down on his luck author and English professor in this biting satire which confronts our culture’s obsession with reducing people to outrageous stereotypes. Fed up with being told his writing “isn’t Black enough,” novelist Thelonious “Monk” Ellison (Wright) pens a pseudonymous novel tapping into every tired trope about the African American experience—only to find that, much to his chagrin, he’s written a bestseller. Winner of the People’s Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival and nominated for five Oscars, Cord Jefferson’s directorial debut is a hilarious and sharp examination of race, identity, and representation in modern America.
Director: Cord Jefferson
Starring: Jeffrey Wright, Tracee Ellis Ross, Sterling K. Brown
Comedy / Drama. 1 hour, 56 minutes
© Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Inc.
Book Sale sponsored by the Ocean Township Friends of the Library. Both adults and childrens books for sale. Hours are Wednesday, July 17th and Thursday, July 18th from 10 am to 8 pm.
Lost & Found: Virtual Bereavement Support Group Facilitated on Zoom by Beth Stamp
Join us for a Virtual Bereavement Support Group meeting LIVE ON ZOOM at 6:45 pm on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.
When you experience the loss of a loved one, navigating through the maze of emotion, making ordinary decisions, and finding a new rhythm to every day can be stressful and overwhelming.
These workshops, led by Beth Stamp, support facilitator, may provide an opportunity to share experiences, feelings, and new ideas for moving forward.
Sessions will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the discussion. Registration is rolling; however, the access link will be emailed to all registrants the day before the program.
You can sign up to join us twice each month, or you can check the bottom box on the registration form to sign up for that session only. Please email mclprograms@monmouthcountylib.org if you would like to be removed from the list.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Historically Speaking: Wench Betty: The Murder of a New Jersey Slave in 1784 - Live Zoom Presentation
Discover the gripping story of Wench Betty, an enslaved woman in Western Monmouth County, murdered in 1784 for defying her owner's commands. The subsequent court proceedings for her murderer were also held that year. Using court documents, coroner’s reports, and slaveowners’ records, our presenter, Sue Kozel will take us along on her investigation. This presentation will look at the workings of race, gender, and power during and after the Revolutionary War - a time when powerful New Jerseyans were pulled between Revolutionary ideas of freedom and liberty, and the cruel realities of its legalized system of slavery. Designated as a Public Scholar by the New Jersey Council for the Humanities, she has co-edited a book on Quakers and abolition, and published numerous works on Black freedom, abolitionism, and American and New Jersey History.
Viewer discretion advised: disturbing themes of enslavement and violence.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Let’s get down to the knitty gritty. All ages, genders, and skill levels are welcome to join these enjoyable and instructive meetings. Facilitated LIVE ON ZOOM by knitting extraordinaire, Camille Scala.
Sessions will be held on the first and third Thursdays of the month. They will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the session.
Registration closes the day prior to the program; the Zoom access link will be emailed the day prior to the program.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library. All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Love of My Life: A Novel by Rosie Walsh
From the New York Times bestselling author of Ghosted comes a love story wrapped in a mystery: an up-all-night page-turner with a dark secret at its core. A Good Morning America Book Club Pick. Leo is an obituary writer; Emma a well-known marine biologist. When she suffers a serious illness, Leo copes by doing what he knows best - researching and writing about his wife's life. But as he starts to unravel the truth, he discovers the woman he loves doesn't really exsist. Even her name isn't real.
The music documentary unravels the life of noteworthy musician Bob Marley. The film dissects the artist's life, delving deep into his legacy and cultural influence. With untold stories and intimate details, the film unveils Marley's true essence, presenting the man behind the image through his immortal music, inviting audiences to rediscover his impact in a revealing and captivating journey.
Director: Reinaldo Marcus Green
Cast: Kingsley Ben-Adir, Lashana Lynch, James Norton, Tosin Cole, Umi Myers
Drama - 1 Hour and 47 Minutes
© Paramount Pictures
West with Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
It's 1938. The Great Depression lingers. Hitler is threatening Europe, and the world-weary Americans long for wonder. They find it in two giraffes who miraculously survive a hurricane while crossing the Atlantic. What follows is a twelve-day road trip in a custom truck to deliver Southern California's first giraffes to the San Diego Zoo. Behind the wheel is the young Dust Bowl rowdy Woodrow. Inspired by true events, the tale weaves real-life figures with fictional ones, including the world's first female zoo director, a crusty old man with a past, a young female photographer with a secret, and assorted reporbates as spotty as the giraffes.
Looking for something to read this summer? Check out some of our Young Adult recommendations:
CLASSICS
A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Pat Guadagno teaches Bridge in this special instruction session for beginners and advanced players alike.
These Friday sessions are aimed at learning the game of Bridge, not for open play.
Sessions are scheduled on the first and third Fridays of the month, through August.
Seating is limited.
Join Chef Rob this summer for the Summer virtual Family Cooking Camp series! Learn tips and tricks from a seasoned professional! These renditions are short and savory, or sweet!
There are virtual cooking and baking sessions available to view on the Library's website.
This week's menu item is... Mussels and Shrimp with Fire Roasted Tomatoes!
No registration required! Access the recipes here, and the video here!
Enjoy Chef Rob's complete 2022 recipe collection here!
About Chef Rob: With over 30 years experience as a restaurant owner and personal chef, Chef Robert Scott brings his passion for fine and fun fare to the Monmouth County Virtual Library from his hometown in Hampton Bays, Long Island. Join Chef Rob as he teaches you how to prepare seasonal appetizers, main dishes, beverages, and desserts to spice up your mealtime, anytime.
You asked, we listened!
Join us in person for a matinee on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 1:30 pm. This month we’re showing Killers of the Flower Moon.
In the 1920s, innocent members of the Osage Indigenous American tribe suffer from a series of unusual, inexplicable murders. Though relegated to the margins of society, the case captures the attention of the FBI, which launches a large-scale investigation under the guidance of J. Edgar Hoover.
Directed by: Martin Scorsese
Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Jesse Plemons, Robert De Niro, Lily Gladstone, Brendan Fraser
Running time: 3 hours and 26 minutes
® Paramount Pictures
Learning the Power of Poetry with Bestselling Author Elizabeth Acevedo (9th - 12th Grades)
You’re invited to learn about the power of poetry with Elizabeth Acevedo! In this exciting author conversation and Q&A, Acevedo will provide a short reading from her National Book Award winning and New York Times bestselling novel-in-verse, The Poet X serving as the backdrop to this amazing chat! This talk is geared towards readers from grades 9 to 12, but all are welcome to join as Elizabeth discusses her young adult novel The Poet X.
The Poet X is about an Afro-Latina heroine who tells her story with blazing words and powerful truth. Xiomara Batista feels unheard and unable to hide in her Harlem neighborhood. Ever since her body grew into curves, she has learned to let her fists and her fierceness do the talking. But Xiomara has plenty she wants to say, and she pours all her frustration and passion onto the pages of a leather notebook, reciting the words to herself like prayers—especially after she catches feelings for a boy in her bio class named Aman, who her family can never know about.
With Mami’s determination to force her daughter to obey the laws of the church, Xiomara understands that her thoughts are best kept to herself. So when she is invited to join her school’s slam poetry club, she doesn’t know how she could ever attend without her mami finding out. But she still can’t stop thinking about performing her poems. Because in the face of a world that may not want to hear her, Xiomara refuses to be silent.
A virtual author talk you don’t want to miss–come create out loud with Elizabeth Acevedo! Register now!
Click here to register for this event.
Can't make it? A recording of this program will be available here.
About the Author: Elizabeth Acevedo is the New York Times-bestselling author of The Poet X, which won the National Book Award for Young People’s Literature, the Michael L. Printz Award, the Pura Belpré Award, the Carnegie medal, the Boston Globe–Horn Book Award, and the Walter Award. She is also the author of numerous other titles including Family Lore; With the Fire on High, which was named a best book of the year by the New York Public Library, NPR, Publishers Weekly, and School Library Journal; and Clap When You Land, a Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor book and a Kirkus finalist. Acevedo has been a fellow of Cave Canem, Cantomundo, and a participant in the Callaloo Writer’s Workshops. She is a National Poetry Slam Champion, and resides in Washington, DC with her love.
Check out The Poet X and Acevedo's other work in our collection here.
This event will be conducted online and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register at the link above. Virtual access link will be emailed prior the presentation.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Join us to discuss this month's book club pick, Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood.
Grace Marks has been convicted for her involvement in the vicious murders of her employer, the wealthy Thomas Kinnear, and of Nancy Montgomery, his housekeeper and mistress. Some believe Grace is innocent; others think her evil or insane. Grace herself claims to have no memory of the murders.
Dr. Simon Jordan, an up-and-coming expert in the burgeoning field of mental illness, listens to her story, As he brings Grace closer and closer to the day she cannot remember, he hears of the turbulent relationship between Kinnear and Nancy Montgomery. Jordan is drawn to Grace, but he is also baffled by her. What will he find in attempting to unlock her memories? Is Grace a female fiend, a bloodthirsty femme fatale? Or is she a victim of circumstances?
This romantic comedy follows a man and a woman who have been each other's arch-enemy since their college years. However, they find themselves sharing a space again, against their will – as guests in the same nuptials. Since this event is a destination wedding, they are forced to interact with each other, even going as far as pretending to be a couple, to plod through sticky situations.
Director: Will Gluck
Cast: Sydney Sweeney, Glen Powell, Alexandra Shipp, Mia Artemis, Nat Buchanan
Comedy - 1 Hour and 43 Minutes
@ Columbia Pictures Industries Inc.
Come to the ancient land of the library where we deal in the business of books and adventure. While adventures can be self-made in between the binding of pages, every other Thursday, we will gather-- inperson-- to begin a quest unlike others you might have read before. Our first Dungeons & Dragons group meeting will introduce you to the start of an incredible journey. Community run by a local enthusiast, this group is open to all ages. Please call the library to register.
An introduction to PopDown® and pop-up greeting cards
by David Udovic.
Take a library adventure and explore flowers of the world through a paper wreath pop-up construction. Display it or mail it to a friend. Get your assembly and coloring fingers ready!
All needed supplies will be provided.
Registration required.
Looking for something to read this summer? Check out some of our Young Adult recommendations:
SPORTS FICTION
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Join Chef Rob this summer for the Summer virtual Family Cooking Camp series! Learn tips and tricks from a seasoned professional! These renditions are short and savory, or sweet!
There are virtual cooking and baking sessions available to view on the Library's website.
This week's menu item is... Swirled Blueberry Crumb Cake Ice Cream!
No registration required! Access the recipes here, and the video here!
Enjoy Chef Rob's complete 2022 recipe collection here!
About Chef Rob: With over 30 years experience as a restaurant owner and personal chef, Chef Robert Scott brings his passion for fine and fun fare to the Monmouth County Virtual Library from his hometown in Hampton Bays, Long Island. Join Chef Rob as he teaches you how to prepare seasonal appetizers, main dishes, beverages, and desserts to spice up your mealtime, anytime.
Graphic Novels Are Life! Telling Your Own Story in a Graphic Nvoel with Dan Santat (5th - 8th Grades)
Join this year’s winner of the National Book Award for Young People's Literature, Dan Santat, as he inspires tweens and teens to tell their own stories through graphic novels. His winning book, A First Time for Everything, is a graphic memoir based on his own awkward middle school years and the trip to Europe that changed his life. This talk is geared towards readers from grades 5 to 8, but all are welcome to join as Dan discusses his graphic memoir A First Time for Everything.
Dan Santat began drawing as a young boy and although he first studied microbiology, he pursued his passion in illustration. He spent many hours as a child and teenager teaching himself to draw by copying illustrations from comic books until he developed the unique, recognizable style that we see today. His talk will inspire listeners to draw their own story as well as give them practical tips on the creation of graphic novels.
Click here to register for this event.
Can't make it? A recording of this program will be available here.
About the Author: Dan Santat is a Caldecott Medal winner, a National Book Award winner, and a New York Times bestselling author and illustrator. His artwork is also featured in numerous picture books, chapter books, and middle-grade novels. Santat created the animated television show, "The Replacements," as well. He lives in Southern California with his wife and two children.
Check out A First Time for Everything and Santat's other work in our collection here.
This event will be conducted online and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register at the link above. Virtual access link will be emailed prior the presentation.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Quick Clothes Closet Cleanout: Live Zoom Program
Final Part of the Summer Lunch 'n Learn Series
Presented by Organizing Humorist Jamie Novak
Which clothes to keep, where to sell, and donate regret-free. Plus what every closet needs to stay clutter-free.
This is the final part of the Summer Lunch 'n Learn Series.
Please note that this program will not be recorded.
About the Presenter: When not on the computer Jamie is searching for a cure to her addiction of clipping out recipes she never prepares. Check out her books in our collection here.
This session will be conducted on Zoom and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the conversation. Zoom access link will be emailed the afternoon before the presentation.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Do you Want to Speak English? Learn the language to help you at work, at home, and in the community.
Free English as a Second Language virtual classes or one-on-one tutoring will be offered through Literacy NJ Monmouth throughout the year.
Open to adults 18 years and older. Please contact Program Director Jhanna Even at 732 702 1895 or at jeven@literacynj.org
*Available to Monmouth County residents only
Let’s get down to the knitty gritty. All ages, genders, and skill levels are welcome to join these enjoyable and instructive meetings. Facilitated LIVE ON ZOOM by knitting extraordinaire, Camille Scala.
Sessions will be held on the first and third Thursdays of the month. They will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the session.
Registration closes the day prior to the program; the Zoom access link will be emailed the day prior to the program.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library. All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Looking for something to read this summer? Check out some of our Young Adult recommendations:
ROMANCE
A Fragile Enchantment by Allison Saft
Dungeons and Drama by Kristy Boyce
Give Me A Sign by Anna Sortino
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Pat Guadagno teaches Bridge in this special instruction session for beginners and advanced players alike.
These Friday sessions are aimed at learning the game of Bridge, not for open play.
Sessions are scheduled on the first and third Fridays of the month, through August.
Seating is limited.
Join Chef Rob this summer for the Summer virtual Family Cooking Camp series! Learn tips and tricks from a seasoned professional! These renditions are short and savory, or sweet!
There are virtual cooking and baking sessions available to view on the Library's website.
This week's menu item is... "Breakfast on the Go" Strawberry Chocolate Chip Muffins!
No registration required! Access the recipes here, and the video here!
Enjoy Chef Rob's complete 2022 recipe collection here!
About Chef Rob: With over 30 years experience as a restaurant owner and personal chef, Chef Robert Scott brings his passion for fine and fun fare to the Monmouth County Virtual Library from his hometown in Hampton Bays, Long Island. Join Chef Rob as he teaches you how to prepare seasonal appetizers, main dishes, beverages, and desserts to spice up your mealtime, anytime.
Come join the Monmouth County Mosquito Control Division to learn about how to protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes and ticks this summer.
Lost & Found: Virtual Bereavement Support Group Facilitated on Zoom by Beth Stamp
Join us for a Virtual Bereavement Support Group meeting LIVE ON ZOOM at 6:45 pm on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.
When you experience the loss of a loved one, navigating through the maze of emotion, making ordinary decisions, and finding a new rhythm to every day can be stressful and overwhelming.
These workshops, led by Beth Stamp, support facilitator, may provide an opportunity to share experiences, feelings, and new ideas for moving forward.
Sessions will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the discussion. Registration is rolling; however, the access link will be emailed to all registrants the day before the program.
You can sign up to join us twice each month, or you can check the bottom box on the registration form to sign up for that session only. Please email mclprograms@monmouthcountylib.org if you would like to be removed from the list.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Come to the ancient land of the library where we deal in the business of books and adventure. While adventures can be self-made in between the binding of pages, every other Thursday, we will gather-- inperson-- to begin a quest unlike others you might have read before. Our first Dungeons & Dragons group meeting will introduce you to the start of an incredible journey. Community run by a local enthusiast, this group is open to all ages. Please call the library to register.
Lettuce Help You!
Presented by Master Gardener Diane Larson
Diane Larson, Monmouth County Horticulturist of the Rutgers Master Gardeners, will provide assistance regarding horticulture and garden questions via Zoom.
Please email questions in advance (by August 7 at noon) to Ms. Larson at MonCoLibrary1922@gmail.com.
The Master Gardeners are dedicated to educating the citizens of Monmouth County by offering interesting and informative horticultural presentations. Raising awareness in our community ensures that Monmouth County continues to be a beautiful and environmentally green place to live and work.
Sessions will be presented on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required. Register below for links to be emailed to you. Registration closes on the business day prior to the program at noon; Zoom Access Links will be emailed later that day.
This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited. Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
Looking for something to read this summer? Check out some of our Young Adult recommendations:
NONFICTION
I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults by Robin Wall Kimmerer & Monique Gray Smith
We Are Displaced by Malala Yousafzai
Victory. Stand!: Raising My First for Justice by Tommie Smith
The Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming (Adapted for Young Adults) by David Wallace-Wells
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Are you a budding or experienced author? Have up to 1,500 words of your work read aloud for first-impression feedback and critique by other writers.
Call the library or complete the registration form below.
The first five registrants will have their work critiqued. No cost and nothing to bring, but a positive attitude -- and copies of your work.
This get-together will be held the second Saturday of every month.
This program is co-sponsored by the Howell Township branch of the Monmouth County Library and NJWritingGroups.com
Join Chef Rob this summer for the Summer virtual Family Cooking Camp series! Learn tips and tricks from a seasoned professional! These renditions are short and savory, or sweet!
There are virtual cooking and baking sessions available to view on the Library's website.
This week's menu item is... Saucy and Spicy Chicken Kebabs!
No registration required! Access the recipes here, and the video here!
Enjoy Chef Rob's complete 2022 recipe collection here!
About Chef Rob: With over 30 years experience as a restaurant owner and personal chef, Chef Robert Scott brings his passion for fine and fun fare to the Monmouth County Virtual Library from his hometown in Hampton Bays, Long Island. Join Chef Rob as he teaches you how to prepare seasonal appetizers, main dishes, beverages, and desserts to spice up your mealtime, anytime.
The Holmdel Book Club will not meet in August.
Let’s get down to the knitty gritty. All ages, genders, and skill levels are welcome to join these enjoyable and instructive meetings. Facilitated LIVE ON ZOOM by knitting extraordinaire, Camille Scala.
Sessions will be held on the first and third Thursdays of the month. They will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the session.
Registration closes the day prior to the program; the Zoom access link will be emailed the day prior to the program.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library. All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Head to the Kitchen
Whether you like to cook or not food memoirs are inspiring! Food is full of stories, from the family history behind a handed-down dish to juicy kitchen drama at a high-end restaurant to a culture's roots and traditions.
Join us a book club members are encouraged to select and share a Cooking Memoir of their choice.
Barbie and Ruth: the Story of the World's Most Famous Doll and the Woman Who Created Her
This is the entwined tale of two exceptional women. One was a voluptuous eleven-inch-tall beauty who debuted at the 1959 Toy Fair in New York City and quickly became the treasure of 9 out of 10 American girls and their counterparts in 150 countries. The other was Ruth Handler, the tenth child of Polish Jewish immigrants. A brilliant, creative, ruthless, and passionately competitive visionary, Ruth was a mother and wife who wanted it all- a masterful entrepreneur who, together with her curvaceous plastic creation, changed American business and culture forever.
Looking for something to read this summer? Check out some of our Young Adult recommendations:
TRENDING
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Pat Guadagno teaches Bridge in this special instruction session for beginners and advanced players alike.
These Friday sessions are aimed at learning the game of Bridge, not for open play.
Sessions are scheduled on the first and third Fridays of the month, through August.
Seating is limited.
Join Chef Rob this summer for the Summer virtual Family Cooking Camp series! Learn tips and tricks from a seasoned professional! These renditions are short and savory, or sweet!
There are virtual cooking and baking sessions available to view on the Library's website.
This week's menu item is... Salmon Stuffed with Lump Crabmeat, Spinach, and Roasted Peppers!
No registration required! Access the recipes here, and the video here!
Enjoy Chef Rob's complete 2022 recipe collection here!
About Chef Rob: With over 30 years experience as a restaurant owner and personal chef, Chef Robert Scott brings his passion for fine and fun fare to the Monmouth County Virtual Library from his hometown in Hampton Bays, Long Island. Join Chef Rob as he teaches you how to prepare seasonal appetizers, main dishes, beverages, and desserts to spice up your mealtime, anytime.
Lost & Found: Virtual Bereavement Support Group Facilitated on Zoom by Beth Stamp
Join us for a Virtual Bereavement Support Group meeting LIVE ON ZOOM at 6:45 pm on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.
When you experience the loss of a loved one, navigating through the maze of emotion, making ordinary decisions, and finding a new rhythm to every day can be stressful and overwhelming.
These workshops, led by Beth Stamp, support facilitator, may provide an opportunity to share experiences, feelings, and new ideas for moving forward.
Sessions will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the discussion. Registration is rolling; however, the access link will be emailed to all registrants the day before the program.
You can sign up to join us twice each month, or you can check the bottom box on the registration form to sign up for that session only. Please email mclprograms@monmouthcountylib.org if you would like to be removed from the list.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Come to the ancient land of the library where we deal in the business of books and adventure. While adventures can be self-made in between the binding of pages, every other Thursday, we will gather-- inperson-- to begin a quest unlike others you might have read before. Our first Dungeons & Dragons group meeting will introduce you to the start of an incredible journey. Community run by a local enthusiast, this group is open to all ages. Please call the library to register.
Looking for something to read this summer? Check out some of our Young Adult recommendations:
GRAPHIC NOVELS
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Join Chef Rob this summer for the Summer virtual Family Cooking Camp series! Learn tips and tricks from a seasoned professional! These renditions are short and savory, or sweet!
There are virtual cooking and baking sessions available to view on the Library's website.
This week's menu item is... Greek Pork chops with Tomatoes, Potatoes, and Feta Cheese!
No registration required! Access the recipes here, and the video here!
Enjoy Chef Rob's complete 2022 recipe collection here!
About Chef Rob: With over 30 years experience as a restaurant owner and personal chef, Chef Robert Scott brings his passion for fine and fun fare to the Monmouth County Virtual Library from his hometown in Hampton Bays, Long Island. Join Chef Rob as he teaches you how to prepare seasonal appetizers, main dishes, beverages, and desserts to spice up your mealtime, anytime.
Join us to discuss this month's book club pick, Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine By Gail Honeyman.
Meet Eleanor Oliphant: she struggles with appropriate social skills and tends to say exactly what she's thinking. That, combined with her unusual appearance (scarred cheek, tendency to wear the same clothes year in, year out), means that Eleanor has become a creature of habit (to say the least) and a bit of a loner. But everything changes when Eleanor meets Raymond, the bumbling and deeply unhygienic IT guy from her office. When she and Raymond together save Sammy, an elderly gentleman who has fallen on the sidewalk, the three become the kind of friends who rescue each other from the lives of isolation they have each been living. And it is Raymond's big heart that will ultimately help Eleanor find the way to repair her own profoundly damaged one.
Looking for something to read this summer? Check out some of our Young Adult recommendations:
NEW IN 2024
Icon & Inferno (Stars & Smoke #2) by Marie Lu
Children of Anguish and Anarchy (Legacy of Orïsha #3) by Tomi Adeyemi
The Grandest Game by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Join Chef Rob this summer for the Summer virtual Family Cooking Camp series! Learn tips and tricks from a seasoned professional! These renditions are short and savory, or sweet!
There are virtual cooking and baking sessions available to view on the Library's website.
This week's menu item is... Pineapple Upside-Down Cake!
No registration required! Access the recipes here, and the video here!
Enjoy Chef Rob's complete 2022 recipe collection here!
About Chef Rob: With over 30 years experience as a restaurant owner and personal chef, Chef Robert Scott brings his passion for fine and fun fare to the Monmouth County Virtual Library from his hometown in Hampton Bays, Long Island. Join Chef Rob as he teaches you how to prepare seasonal appetizers, main dishes, beverages, and desserts to spice up your mealtime, anytime.
Do you Want to Speak English? Learn the language to help you at work, at home, and in the community.
Free English as a Second Language virtual classes or one-on-one tutoring will be offered through Literacy NJ Monmouth throughout the year.
Open to adults 18 years and older. Please contact Program Director Jhanna Even at 732 702 1895 or at jeven@literacynj.org
*Available to Monmouth County residents only
All Monmouth County Libraries are closed today, however, our website is open 24/7 to read, renew, request, and research.
Tap our app for events and information!
We look forward to connecting with you in person and on social media.
On Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest & Twitter, our global address is @MonCoLibrary.
Lost & Found: Virtual Bereavement Support Group Facilitated on Zoom by Beth Stamp
Join us for a Virtual Bereavement Support Group meeting LIVE ON ZOOM at 6:45 pm on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.
When you experience the loss of a loved one, navigating through the maze of emotion, making ordinary decisions, and finding a new rhythm to every day can be stressful and overwhelming.
These workshops, led by Beth Stamp, support facilitator, may provide an opportunity to share experiences, feelings, and new ideas for moving forward.
Sessions will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the discussion. Registration is rolling; however, the access link will be emailed to all registrants the day before the program.
You can sign up to join us twice each month, or you can check the bottom box on the registration form to sign up for that session only. Please email mclprograms@monmouthcountylib.org if you would like to be removed from the list.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Let’s get down to the knitty gritty. All ages, genders, and skill levels are welcome to join these enjoyable and instructive meetings. Facilitated LIVE ON ZOOM by knitting extraordinaire, Camille Scala.
Sessions will be held on the first and third Thursdays of the month. They will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the session.
Registration closes the day prior to the program; the Zoom access link will be emailed the day prior to the program.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library. All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Holmdel Book Club
Join us in person for the next meeting of the Holmdel Book Club. We will meet on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 10:00 am.
We will be discussing Save What's Left: A Novel by Elizabeth Castellano (request book, e audiobook , eBook,)
When Kathleen Deane's husband, Tom, tells her he's no longer happy with his life and their marriage, Kathleen is confused. Who said anything about being happy? They live in Kansas, for goodness sake! But with Tom off finding himself, Kathleen starts to think about what she wants. And her thoughts lead her to a small beach community on the east coast, a town that has always looked lovely in the Christmas cards her childhood friend Josie sends every year. It turns out that life in Whitbey is nothing like Josie's Christmas cards. Kathleen's new neighbor, Rosemary, is cantankerous and the town's supervisor won't return Kathleen's emails, but worst of all is the Sugar Cube, the monstrosity masquerading as a holiday home that Kathleen's absentee neighbors are building next door to her quaint (read: tiny) cottage. As Kathleen gets more and more involved in the fight agains the Sugar Cube and town politics overall, she realizes that Whitbey may not be a fairytale, but it just might be just what she needed.
Moderated by Trish Shrodo, Holmdel Library and Learning Center
Enchantment in Your Evening Garden
Enchantment literally means to be part of the song, and evening is a delightful time to be enchanted by the natural world in your garden. This presentation is an invitation to think about how you experience your garden as a busy day winds down. You will discover plants that may enhance your awareness of the changing light, aromas, and sounds that accompany the shift from day to night.
About the presenter: Ann Sherwood has been a Master Gardener since 2016. She received her PhD in microbiology/cell biology from Rutgers many moons ago and spent her career studying how human cells work. Ann is interested in the active life of plant and animal cells underground. She the Master Gardener expert on the spotted lantern fly. She also enjoys sharing her love of hummingbirds and the splendor of evening gardens.
The Master Gardeners are dedicated to educating the citizens of Monmouth County by offering interesting and informative horticultural presentations. Raising awareness in our community ensures that Monmouth county continues to be a beautiful and environmentally green place to live and work.
Sessions will be presented on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required. Register below for links to be emailed to you. Registration closes on the business day prior to the program at noon; Zoom access links will be emailed later that day.
This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited. Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Wall Township Library Book Sale
Saturday September 14th - Wednesday September 25th ($2.00 a bag sale begins Thursday September 19th)
Your opportunity to get great deals on used books, puzzles, DVDs, music and more.
Are you a budding or experienced author? Have up to 1,500 words of your work read aloud for first-impression feedback and critique by other writers.
Call the library or complete the registration form below.
The first five registrants will have their work critiqued. No cost and nothing to bring, but a positive attitude -- and copies of your work.
This get-together will be held the second Saturday of every month.
This program is co-sponsored by the Howell Township branch of the Monmouth County Library and NJWritingGroups.com
2024 Library Commission Meetings are scheduled for the third Tuesday of each month, September through June, except where noted. Executive sessions may be held during each regular meeting. Meetings are held at the Headquarters Library (125 Symmes Drive, Manalapan, NJ), the Eastern Branch Library (1001 Route 35, Shrewsbury, NJ), and other branches as noted. Revisions to this schedule will be posted on the Monmouth County Library website.
Virtual options may be available; venues may change. Here is the link to look at the full schedule and agendas.
Tuesday, September 17, 2024; 10:00 AM; Headquarters, Manalapan
Tuesday, October 15, 2024; 10:00 AM; Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
Tuesday, November 19, 2024; 10:00 AM; Wall Township
Tuesday, December 17, 2024; 10:00 AM; Headquarters, Manalapan
Reaping the Whirlwind: The U-Boat War off North America During WWI - Live Zoom Presentation
Acclaimed author Dominic Etzold will be presenting the fascinating and little-known story of the U-Boat activity off the New Jersey coastline in the summer of 1918. He will debunk myths and explore local history the German and American archival evidence, survivor testimony, and period logs. Mr. Etzold's book Reaping the Whirlwind: The U-boat War off North America During World War I made it to BookAuthority's “Best New World War I Books” and “Best World War I Books of All Time” rankings.
Check out Etzold's book in our collection here.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Lost & Found: Virtual Bereavement Support Group Facilitated on Zoom by Beth Stamp
Join us for a Virtual Bereavement Support Group meeting LIVE ON ZOOM at 6:45 pm on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.
When you experience the loss of a loved one, navigating through the maze of emotion, making ordinary decisions, and finding a new rhythm to every day can be stressful and overwhelming.
These workshops, led by Beth Stamp, support facilitator, may provide an opportunity to share experiences, feelings, and new ideas for moving forward.
Sessions will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the discussion. Registration is rolling; however, the access link will be emailed to all registrants the day before the program.
You can sign up to join us twice each month, or you can check the bottom box on the registration form to sign up for that session only. Please email mclprograms@monmouthcountylib.org if you would like to be removed from the list.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Let’s get down to the knitty gritty. All ages, genders, and skill levels are welcome to join these enjoyable and instructive meetings. Facilitated LIVE ON ZOOM by knitting extraordinaire, Camille Scala.
Sessions will be held on the first and third Thursdays of the month. They will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the session.
Registration closes the day prior to the program; the Zoom access link will be emailed the day prior to the program.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library. All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See
"This vivid thoughtful and empathetic" (NY Times Book Review) novel illuminates a world turned upside down, one where the women are in charge and the men take care of the children. "A wonderful ode to a truly singular group of women". (Publishers Weekly).
Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak
Two teenagers, a Greek Cypriot and a Turkish Cypriot, meet at a taverna on the island they both call home. A fig tree stretches through a cavity in the roof, and this tree bears witness to their hushed, happy meetings and eventually, to their silent, surreptitious departures. Decades later, Kostas returns, he is a botanist looking for native species, but really, he's searching for lost love. Years later a Ficus Carica grows in the back garden of a house in London where Ada Kazantzakis lives. This tree is her only connection to an island she has never visited-- her only connection to her family's troubled history and her complex identity as she seeks to untangle years of secrets to find her place in the world.
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Join us to discuss this month's book club pick, The Woman's Hour: The Great Fight to Win the Vote by Elaine Weiss.
An account of the 1920 ratification of the constitutional amendment that granted voting rights to women traces the culmination of seven decades of legal battles and cites the pivotal contributions of famous suffragists and political leaders.
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Grand Reopening Concert for Library HQ in Manalapan
Performance by The Chronicles of Rock and Roll
Celebrate the grand reopening of Library Headquarters, Manalapan, with an afternoon of rock and roll!
The program is free, and seating is on a first come, first seated basis. We appreciate your cooperation in not saving seats. As a reminder, no registration or library card is required to enjoy the event.
Do you Want to Speak English? Learn the language to help you at work, at home, and in the community.
Free English as a Second Language virtual classes or one-on-one tutoring will be offered through Literacy NJ Monmouth throughout the year.
Open to adults 18 years and older. Please contact Program Director Jhanna Even at 732 702 1895 or at jeven@literacynj.org
*Available to Monmouth County residents only
Both small and large paintings created by artist Lorna Weber will be on display in the library lobby exhibit cases and in the Meeting Room for the month of October.
Lorna Weber is an artist in oils, soft pastels, oil pastels, graphite pencil drawing, charcoal drawing, hot wax painting, and egg tempera painting. Her artistic creativity, experience and learning techniques are the result of various art lessons and a great deal of self-education.
For more information and to contact the artist, go to: sites.google.com/site/doonecraft
Lost & Found: Virtual Bereavement Support Group Facilitated on Zoom by Beth Stamp
Join us for a Virtual Bereavement Support Group meeting LIVE ON ZOOM at 6:45 pm on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.
When you experience the loss of a loved one, navigating through the maze of emotion, making ordinary decisions, and finding a new rhythm to every day can be stressful and overwhelming.
These workshops, led by Beth Stamp, support facilitator, may provide an opportunity to share experiences, feelings, and new ideas for moving forward.
Sessions will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the discussion. Registration is rolling; however, the access link will be emailed to all registrants the day before the program.
You can sign up to join us twice each month, or you can check the bottom box on the registration form to sign up for that session only. Please email mclprograms@monmouthcountylib.org if you would like to be removed from the list.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Let’s get down to the knitty gritty. All ages, genders, and skill levels are welcome to join these enjoyable and instructive meetings. Facilitated LIVE ON ZOOM by knitting extraordinaire, Camille Scala.
Sessions will be held on the first and third Thursdays of the month. They will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the session.
Registration closes the day prior to the program; the Zoom access link will be emailed the day prior to the program.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library. All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Holmdel Book Club
Join us in person for the next meeting of the Holmdel Book Club. We will meet on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 10:00 am.
We will be discussing The Husbands: A Novel by Chandler Baker. (request book, e audiobook e book )
Nora Spangler is a successful attorney but when it comes to domestic life, she packs the lunches, schedules the doctor appointments, knows where the extra paper towel rolls are, and designs and orders the holiday cards. Her husband works hard, too ... but why does it seem like she is always working so much harder? When the Spanglers go house hunting in Dynasty Ranch, an exclusive suburban neighborhood, Nora meets a group of high-powered women-a tech CEO, a neurosurgeon, an award-winning therapist, a bestselling author-with enviably supportive husbands. When she agrees to help with a resident's wrongful death case, she is pulled into the lives of the women there. She finds the air is different in Dynasty Ranch. The women aren't hanging on by a thread. But as the case unravels, Nora uncovers a plot that may explain the secret to having-it-all. One that's worth killing for. Calling to mind a Stepford Wives gender-swap, The Husbands imagines a world where the burden of the "second shift" is equally shared-and what it may take to get there.
Moderated by Trish Shrodo, Holmdel Library and Learning Center
Lettuce Help You!
Presented by Master Gardener Diane Larson
Diane Larson, Monmouth County Horticulturist of the Rutgers Master Gardeners, will provide assistance regarding horticulture and garden questions via Zoom.
Please email questions in advance (by October 9 at noon) to Ms. Larson at MonCoLibrary1922@gmail.com.
The Master Gardeners are dedicated to educating the citizens of Monmouth County by offering interesting and informative horticultural presentations. Raising awareness in our community ensures that Monmouth County continues to be a beautiful and environmentally green place to live and work.
Sessions will be presented on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required. Register below for links to be emailed to you. Registration closes on the business day prior to the program at noon; Zoom Access Links will be emailed later that day.
This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited. Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Are you a budding or experienced author? Have up to 1,500 words of your work read aloud for first-impression feedback and critique by other writers.
Call the library or complete the registration form below.
The first five registrants will have their work critiqued. No cost and nothing to bring, but a positive attitude -- and copies of your work.
This get-together will be held the second Saturday of every month.
This program is co-sponsored by the Howell Township branch of the Monmouth County Library and NJWritingGroups.com
All Monmouth County Libraries are closed today, however, our website is open 24/7 to read, renew, request, and research.
Tap our app for events and information!
We look forward to connecting with you in person and on social media.
On Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest & Twitter, our global address is @MonCoLibrary.
2024 Library Commission Meetings are scheduled for the third Tuesday of each month, September through June, except where noted. Executive sessions may be held during each regular meeting. Meetings are held at the Headquarters Library (125 Symmes Drive, Manalapan, NJ), the Eastern Branch Library (1001 Route 35, Shrewsbury, NJ), and other branches as noted. Revisions to this schedule will be posted on the Monmouth County Library website.
Virtual options may be available; venues may change. Here is the link to look at the full schedule and agendas.
Tuesday, June 18 2024; 10:00 AM; Marlboro Township
Tuesday, September 17, 2024; 10:00 AM; Headquarters, Manalapan
Tuesday, October 15, 2024; 10:00 AM; Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
Tuesday, November 19, 2024; 10:00 AM; Wall Township
Tuesday, December 17, 2024; 10:00 AM; Headquarters, Manalapan
Lost & Found: Virtual Bereavement Support Group Facilitated on Zoom by Beth Stamp
Join us for a Virtual Bereavement Support Group meeting LIVE ON ZOOM at 6:45 pm on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.
When you experience the loss of a loved one, navigating through the maze of emotion, making ordinary decisions, and finding a new rhythm to every day can be stressful and overwhelming.
These workshops, led by Beth Stamp, support facilitator, may provide an opportunity to share experiences, feelings, and new ideas for moving forward.
Sessions will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the discussion. Registration is rolling; however, the access link will be emailed to all registrants the day before the program.
You can sign up to join us twice each month, or you can check the bottom box on the registration form to sign up for that session only. Please email mclprograms@monmouthcountylib.org if you would like to be removed from the list.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Let’s get down to the knitty gritty. All ages, genders, and skill levels are welcome to join these enjoyable and instructive meetings. Facilitated LIVE ON ZOOM by knitting extraordinaire, Camille Scala.
Sessions will be held on the first and third Thursdays of the month. They will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the session.
Registration closes the day prior to the program; the Zoom access link will be emailed the day prior to the program.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library. All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
The Diamond Eye by Kate Quinn
Based on a true story, The Diamond Eye is a haunting novel of heroism born of desperation, of a mother who became a solider, of a woman who found her place in the world and changed the course of history forever.
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Join us to discuss this month's book club pick, Imagine Me Gone by Adam Haslett.
When Margaret's fiancé, John, is hospitalized for depression, she faces a choice: carry on with their plans, or back away from the suffering it may bring her. She decides to marry him. What follows is the unforgettable story of what unfolds from this act of love and faith. At the heart of it is their eldest son, Michael, a brilliant, anxious music fanatic, and the story of how, over the span of decades, his younger siblings - the responsible Celia and the tightly controlled Alec - struggle along with their mother to care for Michael's increasingly troubled existence.
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Origins of a Legend: The New Jersey Devil - Live Zoom Program
Presented Virtually by Historian Mickey DiCamillo
Myths and legends often have some kernel of historical truth. So, what can we make of the legend of the Jersey Devil? Is any part of the tale rooted in fact? Historian and archivist Mickey DiCamillo will discuss the origins of Jersey's most famous mythological monster and identify the real-life creatures (some human...some beast) that inspired the story that lives on today. From dinosaurs, to witches, to Benjamin Franklin…a lot goes into making a myth.
About the presenter: Mickey DiCamillo is an archivist and historian. He has worked for The University of Pennsylvania, The Pennsylvania Historical Society, and the Smithsonian affiliated Hagley Museum and Library. He has written for the Journal of Film and History, The Encyclopedia of Greater Philadelphia, and has given numerous lectures on United States and New Jersey History. He lives in Moorestown, New Jersey where he is a trustee of the community’s historical society.
This session will be conducted on Zoom and is free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the conversation. Zoom access link will be emailed the afternoon before the presentation.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Come join us at the Holmdel Library for an evening of painting your own work of art!
Honeybee Arts will be guiding all participants in creating masterpieces themed around Halloween and horror stories. Come sip sparkling cider, explore your artsy side, and celebrate the spine-tingling stories you love.
All materials/refreshments will be provided. Registration is limited and required.
Do you Want to Speak English? Learn the language to help you at work, at home, and in the community.
Free English as a Second Language virtual classes or one-on-one tutoring will be offered through Literacy NJ Monmouth throughout the year.
Open to adults 18 years and older. Please contact Program Director Jhanna Even at 732 702 1895 or at jeven@literacynj.org
*Available to Monmouth County residents only
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Are you a budding or experienced author? Have up to 1,500 words of your work read aloud for first-impression feedback and critique by other writers.
Call the library or complete the registration form below.
The first five registrants will have their work critiqued. No cost and nothing to bring, but a positive attitude -- and copies of your work.
This get-together will be held the second Saturday of every month.
This program is co-sponsored by the Howell Township branch of the Monmouth County Library and NJWritingGroups.com
All Monmouth County Libraries are closed today, however, our website is open 24/7 to read, renew, request, and research.
Tap our app for events and information!
We look forward to connecting with you in person and on social media.
On Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest & Twitter, our global address is @MonCoLibrary.
Lost & Found: Virtual Bereavement Support Group Facilitated on Zoom by Beth Stamp
Join us for a Virtual Bereavement Support Group meeting LIVE ON ZOOM at 6:45 pm on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.
When you experience the loss of a loved one, navigating through the maze of emotion, making ordinary decisions, and finding a new rhythm to every day can be stressful and overwhelming.
These workshops, led by Beth Stamp, support facilitator, may provide an opportunity to share experiences, feelings, and new ideas for moving forward.
Sessions will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the discussion. Registration is rolling; however, the access link will be emailed to all registrants the day before the program.
You can sign up to join us twice each month, or you can check the bottom box on the registration form to sign up for that session only. Please email mclprograms@monmouthcountylib.org if you would like to be removed from the list.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Let’s get down to the knitty gritty. All ages, genders, and skill levels are welcome to join these enjoyable and instructive meetings. Facilitated LIVE ON ZOOM by knitting extraordinaire, Camille Scala.
Sessions will be held on the first and third Thursdays of the month. They will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the session.
Registration closes the day prior to the program; the Zoom access link will be emailed the day prior to the program.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library. All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
The West African Kora (Harp) and Its Music
Performance by Musician Sean Gaskell
All Monmouth County Libraries are closed today, however, our website is open 24/7 to read, renew, request, and research.
Tap our app for events and information!
We look forward to connecting with you in person and on social media.
On Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest & Twitter, our global address is @MonCoLibrary.
Join us in person for the next meeting of the Holmdel Book Club. We will meet on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 10:00 am.
We will be discussing The Nature of Fragile Things by Susan Meissner
April 18, 1906: A massive earthquake rocks San Francisco just before daybreak, igniting a devouring inferno. Lives are lost, lives are shattered, but some rise from the ashes forever changed. Sophie Whalen is a young Irish immigrant so desperate to get out of a New York tenement that she answers a mail-order bride ad and agrees to marry a man she knows nothing about. San Francisco widower Martin Hocking proves to be as aloof as he is mesmerizingly beautiful. While Sophie quickly develops deep affection for Kat, Martin's silent five-year-old daughter, his odd behavior leaves her with the uneasy feeling that something about her newfound situation isn't right. Then one early-spring evening, a stranger at the door sets in motion a transforming chain of events. Sophie discovers hidden ties to two other women. The first, pretty and pregnant, is standing on her doorstep. The second is hundreds of miles away in the American Southwest, grieving the loss of everything she once loved. The fates of these three women intertwine on the eve of the devastating earthquake, thrusting them onto a perilous journey that will test their resiliency and resolve and, ultimately, their belief that love can overcome fear.
Moderated by Trish Shrodo, Holmdel Library and Learning Center
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
2024 Library Commission Meetings are scheduled for the third Tuesday of each month, September through June, except where noted. Executive sessions may be held during each regular meeting. Meetings are held at the Headquarters Library (125 Symmes Drive, Manalapan, NJ), the Eastern Branch Library (1001 Route 35, Shrewsbury, NJ), and other branches as noted. Revisions to this schedule will be posted on the Monmouth County Library website.
Virtual options may be available; venues may change. Here is the link to look at the full schedule and agendas.
Tuesday, November 19, 2024; 10:00 AM; Wall Township
Tuesday, December 17, 2024; 10:00 AM; Headquarters, Manalapan
Lost & Found: Virtual Bereavement Support Group Facilitated on Zoom by Beth Stamp
Join us for a Virtual Bereavement Support Group meeting LIVE ON ZOOM at 6:45 pm on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.
When you experience the loss of a loved one, navigating through the maze of emotion, making ordinary decisions, and finding a new rhythm to every day can be stressful and overwhelming.
These workshops, led by Beth Stamp, support facilitator, may provide an opportunity to share experiences, feelings, and new ideas for moving forward.
Sessions will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the discussion. Registration is rolling; however, the access link will be emailed to all registrants the day before the program.
You can sign up to join us twice each month, or you can check the bottom box on the registration form to sign up for that session only. Please email mclprograms@monmouthcountylib.org if you would like to be removed from the list.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Join us to discuss this month's book club pick, Friends and Strangers: A Novel by J Courtney Sullivan
Friends and Strangers tells the story of the complex relationship between two women, Elisabeth, a privileged new mother and writer attempting to find her footing after childbirth, and Sam, the idealistic, working-class college student she hires to nanny her young son.
Let’s get down to the knitty gritty. All ages, genders, and skill levels are welcome to join these enjoyable and instructive meetings. Facilitated LIVE ON ZOOM by knitting extraordinaire, Camille Scala.
Sessions will be held on the first and third Thursdays of the month. They will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the session.
Registration closes the day prior to the program; the Zoom access link will be emailed the day prior to the program.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library. All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margo by Marianne Cronin
A charming, fiercely alive and disarmingly funny debut novel in the vein of John Green, Rachel Joyce, and Jojo Moyes - a brave testament to the fullest, a tribute to the stories that we live, and a reminder of our unlimited capacity for friendship and love.
Historically Speaking: The Pilgrims and the Mayflower - Live Zoom Presentation
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
All Monmouth County Libraries are closed today, however, our website is open 24/7 to read, renew, request, and research.
Tap our app for events and information!
We look forward to connecting with you in person and on social media.
On Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest & Twitter, our global address is @MonCoLibrary.
All Monmouth County Libraries are closed today, however, our website is open 24/7 to read, renew, request, and research.
Tap our app for events and information!
We look forward to connecting with you in person and on social media.
On Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest & Twitter, our global address is @MonCoLibrary.
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Do you Want to Speak English? Learn the language to help you at work, at home, and in the community.
Free English as a Second Language virtual classes or one-on-one tutoring will be offered through Literacy NJ Monmouth throughout the year.
Open to adults 18 years and older. Please contact Program Director Jhanna Even at 732 702 1895 or at jeven@literacynj.org
*Available to Monmouth County residents only
Lost & Found: Virtual Bereavement Support Group Facilitated on Zoom by Beth Stamp
Join us for a Virtual Bereavement Support Group meeting LIVE ON ZOOM at 6:45 pm on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.
When you experience the loss of a loved one, navigating through the maze of emotion, making ordinary decisions, and finding a new rhythm to every day can be stressful and overwhelming.
These workshops, led by Beth Stamp, support facilitator, may provide an opportunity to share experiences, feelings, and new ideas for moving forward.
Sessions will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the discussion. Registration is rolling; however, the access link will be emailed to all registrants the day before the program.
You can sign up to join us twice each month, or you can check the bottom box on the registration form to sign up for that session only. Please email mclprograms@monmouthcountylib.org if you would like to be removed from the list.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Let’s get down to the knitty gritty. All ages, genders, and skill levels are welcome to join these enjoyable and instructive meetings. Facilitated LIVE ON ZOOM by knitting extraordinaire, Camille Scala.
Sessions will be held on the first and third Thursdays of the month. They will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the session.
Registration closes the day prior to the program; the Zoom access link will be emailed the day prior to the program.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library. All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Wall Township Library Book Sale
Saturday December 7th-Wednesday December 18th ($2.00 a bag sale begins December 12th)
Your opportunity to get great deals on used books, puzzles, DVDs, music and more.
Join us in person for the next meeting of the Holmdel Book Club. We will meet on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 10:00 am.
We will be discussing The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post: a novel by Alison Pataki
An epic reimagining of the remarkable life of Marjorie Merriweather Post, the American heiress and trailblazing leader of the twentieth century. Marjorie lived a grand life that defies imagination. Not content to stay in her prescribed roles of coddled wife, mother, and hostess, Marjorie dared to demand more, making history as a leader in her family's business and a trailblazer in philanthropy and high society. Marjorie lived like an empress, worked like a titan of industry, and shaped a century. And yet Marjorie's story, though full of beauty and lived in her palatial homes like Mar-a-Lago, was equally marked by heartbreak.
Moderated by Trish Shrodo, Holmdel Library and Learning Center
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
Are you a budding or experienced author? Have up to 1,500 words of your work read aloud for first-impression feedback and critique by other writers.
Call the library or complete the registration form below.
The first five registrants will have their work critiqued. No cost and nothing to bring, but a positive attitude -- and copies of your work.
This get-together will be held the second Saturday of every month.
This program is co-sponsored by the Howell Township branch of the Monmouth County Library and NJWritingGroups.com
2024 Library Commission Meetings are scheduled for the third Tuesday of each month, September through June, except where noted. Executive sessions may be held during each regular meeting. Meetings are held at the Headquarters Library (125 Symmes Drive, Manalapan, NJ), the Eastern Branch Library (1001 Route 35, Shrewsbury, NJ), and other branches as noted. Revisions to this schedule will be posted on the Monmouth County Library website.
Virtual options may be available; venues may change. Here is the link to look at the full schedule and agendas.
Tuesday, September 17, 2024; 10:00 AM; Headquarters, Manalapan
Tuesday, October 15, 2024; 10:00 AM; Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
Tuesday, November 19, 2024; 10:00 AM; Wall Township
Tuesday, December 17, 2024; 10:00 AM; Headquarters, Manalapan
Lost & Found: Virtual Bereavement Support Group Facilitated on Zoom by Beth Stamp
Join us for a Virtual Bereavement Support Group meeting LIVE ON ZOOM at 6:45 pm on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.
When you experience the loss of a loved one, navigating through the maze of emotion, making ordinary decisions, and finding a new rhythm to every day can be stressful and overwhelming.
These workshops, led by Beth Stamp, support facilitator, may provide an opportunity to share experiences, feelings, and new ideas for moving forward.
Sessions will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the discussion. Registration is rolling; however, the access link will be emailed to all registrants the day before the program.
You can sign up to join us twice each month, or you can check the bottom box on the registration form to sign up for that session only. Please email mclprograms@monmouthcountylib.org if you would like to be removed from the list.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library.
All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Let’s get down to the knitty gritty. All ages, genders, and skill levels are welcome to join these enjoyable and instructive meetings. Facilitated LIVE ON ZOOM by knitting extraordinaire, Camille Scala.
Sessions will be held on the first and third Thursdays of the month. They will be conducted on Zoom and are free of charge. Registration and internet access are required to attend. Register below to receive emailed information on how to access the session.
Registration closes the day prior to the program; the Zoom access link will be emailed the day prior to the program.
Permission to present a program in library facilities or library website is not endorsement by the library. All Library programs and concerts are protected by copyright law; recording in any manner is strictly prohibited.
Spotlight on Author: Susan Meissner
Susan Meissner is a USA Today bestselling novelist with more than half a million books in print in fifteen languages. Her crically acclaimed wokrs of historical fiction has been named to numerous lists.
Book Club members are encouraged to select and share one of her many books with the group.
Enjoy Singing Bowl Meditation or Virtual Yoga Sessions available 24/7.
Click here to view the Singing Bowl Meditation Sessions.
We hear about self-care, mindfulness, and meditation practices often these days. These positive practices have been in use for thousands of years to bring lives into balance. Stimulation of brain waves using a singing bowl brings focus to stress relief. You may find that using singing bowls will help calm thoughts, relieve tension, and help you become more conscious of your breathing. This consciousness may promote a sense of inner calm and relaxation. After a hearty welcome, Yogi Steven's sessions are wordless.
Click here to view the Choose Your Own Path Yoga Sessions.
You are invited to choose your own path from sessions offered by Master Yogi Steven Russel. The sessions appropriate for beginners to yoga are Yoga Breathing, Yoga Stretching, Yoga Movement, and Yoga Stretching with Support. More advanced practitioners may try the sessions Yoga on the Mat and Beyond Beginner.
Yoga offers your body and mind many paths to de-stress, improve flexibility, and unwind. Deep breathing and slow stretching movements warm the muscles, while a standing pose may build balance and strength. Before attempting any exercise programs, consult your health care provider.
All sessions are presented by Steven Russell, certified Yoga Teacher and professional musician. Please enjoy the accompanying Personal Wellness videos in this series, which will be available to watch on the Monmouth County Library’s YouTube Channel.
Permission to present a program on behalf of the Virtual Library or in Library facilities is not an endorsement by the Library. This program is protected by copyright law; recording in any manner, without written agreement from the presenter, is strictly prohibited.
All Monmouth County Libraries are closed today, however, our website is open 24/7 to read, renew, request, and research.
Tap our app for events and information!
We look forward to connecting with you in person and on social media.
On Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest & Twitter, our global address is @MonCoLibrary.
Icons by Icons8