Connections Magazine Winter 2015-’16

S N O I T C E N N CO

ine ibrar y Magaz L c li b u P n to The Prince Winter 2015-’16

E H T N O E R O T S N I S ’ T A WH s n o i t c e n e n o c rar y Magazin ib L c li b u P S n to N

R O O L F D N O C E S

O I T C E N N O C

e rar y Magazin ib L c li b u P n The Princeto

The Prince

Previewing plans for a reimagined library experience

NOBEL SPOTLIGHT

Angus Deaton discusses his prize-winning work See Page 6

FROM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR LESLIE BURGER

S

o long, farewell . . .

It’s hard to believe that on Jan. 15, 2016, after 16 rewarding years, my tenure as the library’s executive director will end. It has been a pleasure leading this institution through a significant transformation that helped shape the way that generations of Princetonians will think about and what they will expect from public libraries. We’ve set the standard for what a public library can do when it connects with, listens to and anticipates what its community needs. When I turn in my keys (and parking pass) that day, I will look back fondly on what we’ve accomplished together and know that there are exciting things yet to come.

Our success comes from the hundreds of staff members I’ve worked with over the years – hardworking, passionate, intelligent people who embraced our vision of becoming the community’s living room and pushed that idea beyond the limit.

Success becomes evident when I look back at the tireless efforts of the Boards of Trustees, Friends of the Library and Princeton Public Library Foundation who collaborated in perfect harmony to get a new library building built in downtown Princeton. Success is about the leadership and fearlessness that has been the hallmark of everything we’ve done at the library whether that be negotiating complicated agreements or mounting multiday and multiweek programs. Success came easily knowing that when I needed help that a trusted adviser was there in a heartbeat to plan a strategy that would yield the result we needed.

I’ve often thought of myself as an enabler, maestro, and visionary who had the incredible good fortune to work in a library in a community that I often describe as “library heaven.”

To the extent that I have helped shape what you see here every day I am happy to take credit but I humbly give thanks to all who have made my journey seem almost effortless.

Here’s just some of what we have accomplished over the years: • We tackled the issue of finding the “right” location for the new library along with adequate parking and as a result built and opened a magnificent new facility in 2004 that

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has become the community’s civic center. Our library has become irresistible attracting more than 800,000 visitors each year.

• We created a strong financial foundation for the library through a combination of public and private support.

Generous donors have provided more than $26 million to support capital projects and seed the library’s endowment fund. Thanks to everyone who continued to meet with me and accept my calls even when you knew why I wanted to see you. I love you all.

• We launched award-winning programs that continually keep people of all ages in our community engaged and learning. Community building events like watching election night returns or World Cup soccer at the library or call- to-action programs like the Princeton Environmental Film Festival or Princeton Reads ensure that the library provides the kind of engaging, community responsive programs that keep people coming back for more.

• We’ve made the library the welcome center for the newest residents to Princeton offering them a chance to succeed in their newly adopted country through our English conversation classes, ask-a-lawyer program and Mercer County ID service.

• We keep up with and eagerly adopt new practices that make it easy and convenient for people to use the library: self-checkout, robust and ubiquitous wireless access, highspeed internet connections, e-content, café service, evening, holiday and weekend hours to name a few.

And even as I am ready to walk out the door I am pleased to tell you that our second floor project is about to get under way.

This project, a bookend to building this library, will reset the space to provide additional collaboration rooms, dedicated quiet study, a newly imagined newsroom, a technology and discovery center, and additional event space. I can’t wait to see the finished product at the end of 2016.

What a journey! There’s much more to tell but that will wait for another place and time. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve as the library’s executive director. It is an extraordinary honor and an experience I will forever cherish.

ON THE COVER

The second floor

reimagined A view inside the Quiet Reading Room. All renderings and drawings are courtesy of Andrew Berman Architect.

S

ince opening the doors to the Sands Library Building in 2004, Princeton Public Library Executive Director Leslie Burger has seen the building adapt to meet community needs during a time of rapid change.

“Think back to 2004: there was no iPhone, no Facebook, no streaming of music and movies,” Burger said. “So many things we take for granted today either hadn’t been invented or were not widely available when we opened our new, modern library. Mainstays of the library experience remain but are now offered in different ways.”

Now, the woman who imagined a new library for Princeton at the beginning of her tenure in the early 2000s is reimagining its second floor as she retires from her position in January, 2016.

Changes to library space have been a constant during the library’s time in the Sands Library Building. On the first floor, the rise of streaming services sparked a reconfiguration of space, and improved technology led to a better checkout experience that eliminated long lines at the main desk. There has been significant change

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on the third floor, as well. An underutilized craft space was transformed into a playroom for preschoolers and when the Teen Center transitioned to moveable furniture, laptops replaced desktop computers, resulting in a more collaborative environment.

In the coming months, the library will embark upon another ambitious project, a privately funded reimagining of the second floor to enhance collaboration, learning, entrepreneurship and technology discovery while providing more dedicated quiet space. An overview of the plan can be seen on Page 4. The timeline for the project is still being developed, but it is expected to take the better part of a year to complete.

“When looking at the second floor and taking into consideration customer feedback and user experiences, we saw we could do a better job of balancing the desire customers have for more quiet space and a more browsable collection with a wider array of 21st century resources that will enable them to create and collaborate,” Burger said. “I think we’ve succeeded with this plan.”

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ON THE COVER

MAJOR FEATURES OF THE SECOND FLOOR PROJECT COLLABORATION ROOMS

TECHNOLOGY SEMINAR AREA AND COMPUTER COMMONS

Nine new spaces for group study, tutoring and more.

THE NEWSROOM AND EVENT SPACE QUIET READING ROOM This glass-enclosed room will provide library users with a quiet space to read and study without distraction.

Dedicated room for newspapers and magazines converts to an event space.

An 18-seat, technology instruction area will be paired with a computer commons with space for up to two-dozen desktop computers.

DISCOVERY CENTER

COPY CENTER

Space to discover new technology and library resources in one-on-one sessions with library staff.

Resources will include scanners, copiers, printers and microfilm.

Renderings and concept plan courtesy of Andrew Berman Architect.

The computer commons looking through to the technology seminar area.

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BOOKS & AUTHORS AUTHOR APPEARANCES Stacy Schiff Tuesday, Dec. 1, 7 p.m.

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Stacy Schiff discusses and signs copies of her acclaimed new book “The Witches: Salem, 1692.” The book is set during the mysterious year of hysteria and injustice that resulted in the execution of 19 alleged witches and wizards and reveals the fascinating religious, social, and political context in which it took place.

Community Room Presented with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this programming do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Nina Angela McKissock Thursday, Dec. 3, 7 p.m.

The author, a longtime hospice nurse, talks about her book “From Sun to Sun: A Hospice Nurse Reflects on the Art of Dying.” In the book, she shares the stories of 21 people of different ages who have endured the battle of the medical system as they sought cures for their illnesses and ultimately settle in to end-of-life care. Part of the Currents: Conversation of a Lifetime series. Community Room Conversation of a Lifetime is a program of the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute’s Mayors Wellness Campaign. It aims to bring advance care planning conversations to New Jersey communities. The program has been generously supported by the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey. Co-sponsored by the library and the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute’s Mayors Wellness Campaign.

Stacy Schiff

Becky Libourel Diamond Thursday, Jan. 7, 7 p.m.

The author discusses her book “The Thousand Dollar Dinner,” which tells the story of a 19th-century culinary challenge between Philadelphia restaurateur James Parkinson and the Delmonico family of New York. The result was a luxurious 17-course feast featuring dishes such as baked rockfish, braised pigeon, turtle steaks, spring lamb, out-of-season fruits and vegetables, and desserts, all paired with rare wines and liquors. The book covers the entire meal, course by course, explaining each dish and its history. The author will bring samples of the food featured in the book. Community Room Donna Clovis Wednesday, Feb. 3, 7 p.m.

The award-winning journalist and author discusses her book “Quantum Leaps in Princeton’s Place.” The book tells the stories of Princeton in the early 1900s through the late 1950s through the eyes of two of its oldest citizens by means of interviews, diaries and articles. The synchronicity of being at the right place at the right time for the interviews, locations, and journals plays a major role in the construction of the book.

Clovis is a graduate of Columbia University in journalism and the humanities. She has been nominated for a Pulitzer Prize and won a first-place feature-writing award from the National Association of Black Journalists. Community Room

www.princetonlibrary.org

Nina Angela McKissock

Becky Libourel Diamond

Donna Clovis

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BOOKS & AUTHORS

Idra Novey Tuesday, Feb. 9, 7 p.m.

The author, who teaches in the creative writing program at Princeton University, discusses her debut novel, “Ways to Disappear” at a special launch event on publication day.

A combination of mystery, romance, noir and humor, the book takes readers on a wild romp from snowy Pittsburgh to sultry Rio. Novey is the author of “Exit, Civilian,” which was selected for the 2011 National Poetry Series. Community Room

Idra Novey

Angus Deaton Wednesday, Feb. 17, 7 p.m.

The 2015 Nobel Prize winner in Economics talks about his book “The Great Escape: Health, Wealth, and the Origins of Inequality.” The book tells the remarkable story of how, beginning 250 years ago, some parts of the world experienced sustained progress, opening up gaps and setting the stage for today’s disproportionately unequal world. Deaton takes an in-depth look at the historical and ongoing patterns behind the health and wealth of nations, and addresses what needs to be done to help those left behind. Deaton is the Dwight D. Eisenhower Professor of Economics and International Affairs in the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs and the Economics Department at Princeton University.

His many books include “The Analysis of Household Surveys” and “Economics and Consumer Behavior.” He is a past president of the American Economic Association.

Part of the Thinking Allowed series. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Princeton University Press

SPECIAL BOOK DISCUSSION Book Discussion and Community Forum: “Beyond Measure” Monday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m.

Library staff members Janie Hermann and Timothy Quinn lead a panel of local educators in a discussion of “Beyond Measure” by Vicki Abeles as a follow-up to our Teaching and Learning series. The book is a companion to the documentary that examines how we measure success in our schools and the effect that a high-pressure school culture has on students.

Additional details will be posted in the library’s online calendar as the event approaches. Community Room

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FICTION BOOK GROUP Led by librarian Kristin Friberg, Thursdays, 10:30 a.m., Conference Room Dec. 10, “All My Puny Sorrows” by Miriam Toews Jan. 14, “Aunt Julia and the Scriptwriter” by Mario Llosa Vargas Feb. 11, “Americanah” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie BLACK VOICES BOOK GROUP Led by library associate Kim Dorman, Thursdays, 7 p.m., Princeton Room Dec. 10, “Citzens Creek” by Lalita Tademy Jan. 14, “All Our Names” by Dinaw Mengestu Feb. 11, “Between the World and Me” by Ta-Nehisi Coates BOUNDLESS BOOK GROUP Thursdays, 7:30 p.m., Princeton Room Dec. 17, “Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice on Love and Life from Dear Sugar”

by Cheryl Strayed Jan. 21, “Radioactive: Marie & Pierre Curie: A Tale of Love and Fallout”

by Lauren Redniss Feb. 18, “Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption” by Bryan Stevenson

FICTION BOOK GROUP

MYSTERY BOOK GROUP Led by librarian Gayle Stratton; Mondays, 7:30 p.m., Quiet Room Dec. 7, “Cotton Comes to Harlem” by Chester B. Himes Jan. 4, “In Bitter Chill” by Sarah Ward Feb. 1, “Billy Boyle” by James R. Benn

BLACK VOICES BOOK GROUP

HOLIDAY BOOK EXCHANGE At the December meeting of the Boundless, Black Voices, Fiction and Mystery book groups, participants are invited to bring a book to exchange with another. Time will be reserved at each discussion for a little give and take to ring in the holiday season. Check listings for individual dates and times.

BOUNDLESS BOOK GROUP

BOOK GROUPS

MYSTERY BOOK GROUP

for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org

POETS AT THE LIBRARY Co-sponsored by the library, Delaware Valley Poets and the U.S. 1 Poets’ Cooperative. Poets read for 20 minutes each followed by an open-mic session. Community Room Grant Clauser and Shanti Tangri Monday, Dec. 14, 7:30 p.m.

Clauser is the author of two poetry books, “Necessary Myths” and “The Trouble with Rivers.”

His poems have appeared in The American Poetry Review and other publications. In Clauser Tangri 2010 he was the Montgomery County Pennsylvania Poet Laureate. A professor emeritus of economics at Rutgers, Tangri is also a poet and playwright whose work has been published in Hindi, Urdu, and English.

Tony Gruenewald and Robert Rosenbloom Monday, Jan. 11, 7:30 p.m.

Gruenewald is the author of the collection “The Secret History of New Jersey.” He is the production manager of Edison Literary Review and production director for the nonprofit

www.princetonlibrary.org

Gruenewald

Rosenbloom

Learning Ally. Rosenbloom hosts a monthly poetry reading at the Bridgewater Public Library for the Somerset Poetry Group.

His poetry has appeared in the Paterson Literary Review and Lips and several other literary journals.

Launch Party: “Dark as a Hazel Eye: Coffee & Chocolate Poems,” edited by Ellen Foos, Vasiliki Katsarou and Lynne Shapiro Monday, Feb. 8, 7:30 p.m.

Selected poems from the new anthology published by Ragged Sky Press will be read. A poem by Nobel Prize-winner Tomas Tranströmer is among the works by established and emerging poets, along with poems by Elaine Equi, Tony Hoagland, Naomi Shihab Nye, James Richardson, Charles Simic, Virgil Suárez and many others. Coffee and chocolates will be served.

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DIGITAL

Code for Princeton meets monthly on Friday nights in the Community Room.

SPECIAL EVENTS Princeton Tech Meetup Wednesday, Dec. 16, 6:30 p.m.

Local entrepreneurs, creatives, and techies are invited to network and enjoy refreshments beyond the usual pizza at this holiday season meeting. Selected members and sponsors will demo their projects and services at booths set up around the perimeter of the room. Register at meetup.com/princeton-tech. Community Room

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Code for Princeton Fridays, 6:30 p.m., Dec. 11, Jan. 8, Feb. 12 Techies of all skill levels are invited to bring their laptops and join the hacking at this monthly three-hour meeting of Code for Princeton. Newcomers are encouraged to attend an orientation session at 6:30 p.m. The evening will also include a 7 p.m.

Codecademy Circle for those who need assistance learning to code and would like to work on it with others. Register at meetup.com/codeforprinceton Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Code for Princeton.

for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org

MAC HELP Ask the Mac Pros Mondays, 4 p.m.; Wednesdays, 10 a.m.; Jan. 11 – Feb. 24 Drop by these sessions where members of the Princeton Macintosh Users Group will answer questions about Apple devices and help you get started on our iMacs.

SELECTED CLASSES All classes are in the Technology Center, second floor. Most classes are between 90 minutes and 2 hours. For full schedule, visit the online events calendar at princetonlibrary.org.

Microsoft Excel for Beginners Session 1: Tuesday, Jan. 5, 5:30 p.m.

Session 2: Tuesday, Jan. 12, 5:30 p.m.

Become familiar with Microsoft Excel 2011 for Mac with training expert Sharon Bancroft. This two-part course includes formatting cells and sheets, filling a series of data, creating formulas and charts, sorting and filtering in tables, linking cells, templates, repeating cells and working with headers and footers. Skill Level: Basic Discover Evernote Thursday, Jan. 7, 7 p.m.

Learn about the cloud-based notepad that enables users to take note of anything from anywhere - including simple text notes, web pages, photographs and more. You can also take voice notes and load documents into Evernote. All your information is accessible from everywhere, and Evernote can be synced between multiple devices. Instructor: John LeMasney. Skill Level: Intermediate Raspberry Pi Thursday, Jan. 14, 7 p.m.

Raspberry Pi is a $35 computer that you can use to do all sorts of things that you might not be able to do with your $500 computer. You can create artistic projects with interactive features, automate everyday tasks like feeding pets, or access all of your movies, music and pictures with a media server.

Come and learn about the most interesting things you can do with this very affordable PC. Skill Level: Intermediate Refresh Your Resume and Job Search Tuesday, Jan. 19, 5:30 p.m.

Sharon Bancroft will discuss techniques to determine your strengths and improve your resume. She will provide resources and address considerations for interviews, recommendations, social media and networking. Students may bring a copy of their resume, but it’s not required. Skill Level: Basic Introduction to Blogging with Google Blogger Session 1: Wednesday, Jan. 20, 7 p.m.

Session 2: Wednesday, Jan. 27, 7 p.m.

Create your own Google Blogger site in this two-session class.

Students will learn to post, layout a page and become familiar with templates in order to create and design a blog site or basic website. A Google (Gmail) account is required and may be created in class. Taught by David Schuchman, information technology professional and leader of the Professional Services Group of Mercer County. Skill Level: Intermediate

www.princetonlibrary.org

Personal Branding & Technology Monday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m.

Technology and design consultant John LeMasney will discuss the key ways in which you can determine, shape, and reinforce your personal brand. Personal brand is the reason that people feel love, dislike, or indifference towards you. By using technology, visuals, social media, and interpersonal interactions, you can use your brand to help you gain influence, gather an audience, and find new successes. Skill Level: Intermediate Introduction to PowerPoint Tuesday, Jan. 26, 5:30 p.m.

Microsoft Office instructor Sharon Bancroft explains how to easily create professional PowerPoint presentations. Topics include adding and arranging slides, enhancing presentations with themes, creating a slide show and editing objects and pictures. Skill Level: Basic Introduction to Open Source Professional Image Tools: Inkscape and GIMP Monday, Feb. 1, 7 p.m.

Inkscape is an open source alternative to Adobe Illustrator, and GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is an alternative to Adobe Photoshop. This class will cover starting your own imaging workstation suite for free, and how to begin using these powerful and extensible tools to make great graphic designs and fantastic photos. As an open source enthusiast, instructor John LeMasney has used only free software for most of his business tasks for the last 15 years.

Skill Level: Intermediate Promoting Yourself Beyond Your Business Card Wednesday, Feb. 10, 7 p.m.

Your business card is a marketing tool. However, there are others. Learn what information your business card does not provide your clients. And, about the social media and technology solutions you can use to effectively promote your business, yourself and your brand. Taught by David Schuchman, information technology professional with Princeton Technology Advisors, LLC, and leader of the Professional Services Group of Mercer County.

Introduction to Arduino Thursday, Feb. 11, 7 p.m.

Arduino is an open source hardware project that allows you to quickly learn about electronics and sensors. Because of the rich community of users who share what they know and availability in local stores like RadioShack, Arduino lowers the threshold of entry into the world of electronics programming.

Come and learn how to get started with this powerful platform.

Skill Level: Intermediate Advanced Excel Tuesday, Feb. 16, 5:30 p.m.

Microsoft Office instructor, Sharon Bancroft explains how to implement advanced features into Excel. Topics include conditional formatting, subtotals, advanced formulas, advanced sorting, linking files and formatting. Skill Level: A familiarity of Excel or attendance in the Excel for Beginners class.

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PERFORMANCE

Princeton Writers Block

Composer Jing Jing Luo Caroline Harris

Dave DeLuca

Writers Block Performs Short Comedies Sunday, Dec. 6, 3 p.m.

The ensemble of Princeton writers and actors returns to the library to present a program of short comedies and skits by Christopher Durang, Arthur Kopit, Murray Schisgal and Lillian Israel. Performers include Israel, Julia Poulos, Mary Greenberg, John Weeren, and Dan Roth. Directed by Laura Huntsman with sound by Ken Greenberg. Community Room A Century of Sinatra Sunday, Dec. 13, 3 p.m.

In this tribute to Frank Sinatra, who was born Dec. 12, 1915, singer Dave DeLuca celebrates the music, the man, and the great composers, lyricists and musical arrangers who put their indelible stamp on a distinguished period of American musical history. Community Room

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PSO Soundtracks: “Calligraphy as Art and Inspiration” Wednesday, Jan. 20, 7 p.m.

Music Alive: New Partnerships Composer-in-Residence Jing Jing Luo is joined by Caroline Harris, associate director for education at the Princeton University Art Museum to discuss the ancient art of calligraphy. Luo will describe how her composition “Tsao Shu” was inspired by the physical brush strokes of the calligraphic art form. Harris will offer an overview of the university art museum’s superb collection of Chinese calligraphy. “Tsao Shu” will be featured in the Princeton Symphony Orchestra’s Jan. 31 concert, Three Songs.

Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Princeton Symphony Orchestra.

for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org

Raconteur Radio

Ragtime Relics

Katie Welsh Emily Whitaker

Raconteur Radio: “Gaslight” Sunday, Jan. 24, 3 p.m.

Metuchen-based Raconteur Radio presents a staged radio play of “Gaslight,” adapted from the 1938 Patrick Hamilton play about an opera singer whose husband attempts to drive her insane and the Scotland Yard detective who intervenes on her behalf. With Laurence Mintz, Jason Jackson and Danielle Illario. The 55-minute production features theatrical lighting, period costumes, Golden Age radio equipment, sound effects and vintage commercials. Community Room Listen Local: Ragtime Relics Sunday January 31, 3 p.m.

The Ragtime Relics perform a signature brand of American roots music. The band was formed in 2011 by guitaristvocalist Karl Dentino of West Windsor and John Sudia of

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Hillsborough, who plays bass and sings. With mandolinist Bo Child of Hopewell and multi-instrumentalist Dave SanSoucie of Robbinsville, the group performs music of vaudeville and Tin Pan Alley, along with country, ragtime, blues, folk and early rock ’n’ roll. The Ragtime Relics have had repeat engagements at several Central Jersey venues and their music is suitable for all ages. Part of the Listen Local series. Community Room Love … According to the Great American Songbook Sunday, Feb. 14, 3 p.m.

Singer Katie Welsh and pianist Emily Whitaker, both 2015 graduates of Princeton University, perform favorite love songs

by George and Ira Gershwin, Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart, Jerome Kern and Oscar Hammerstein II, Irving Berlin, Stephen Sondheim, Cy Coleman and more. Refreshments will be served.

Community Room

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FILM “Love Between The Covers”

“Best of Enemies”

DOCUMENTARIES Film and Discussion: “Love Between the Covers” Thursday, Dec. 10, 6:30 p.m.

This documentary examines the multi-billion dollar romance fiction business and the worldwide community of women who create and read romance novels. The screening will be followed by a discussion with producer/director Laurie Kahn and William Gleason, chairman of the Princeton University Department of English. 1 hour, 35 minutes.

Presented with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this programming do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

“Best of Enemies” Sunday, Dec. 27, 3 p.m.

In 1968, ideological opposites William F. Buckley Jr. and Gore Vidal hold a series of riveting, nationally televised debates that usher in a new era of public discourse and pundit TV. 1 hour, 27 minutes.

“Amy” Sunday, Jan. 10, 3 p.m.

This documentary tells the story of British singer and songwriter Amy Winehouse who died of alcohol poisoning in 2011.

2 hours, 8 minutes.

“Pull of Gravity” Wednesday, Jan. 27, 6:30 p.m.

Each year, more than 700,000 people are released from prisons in the United States. This documentary reveals what

happens to prisoners trying to re-enter society through the stories of three men at different stages of the process.

1 hour, 21 minutes.

Co-sponsored by the library, the Petey Greene Program, the Princeton and Trenton chapters of the Campaign to End the New Jim Crow and Students for Prison Education and Reform at Princeton University. “(T)ERROR” Wednesday, Feb. 24, 7 p.m.

An FBI counterterrorism informant invited filmmakers to follow his covert efforts to befriend a suspected jihadist in this 2015 documentary that explores efforts to prevent terror and the liberties we may be sacrificing to get there. Community Room

FEATURES “Mr. Holmes” Sunday, Dec. 20, 3 p.m.

Ian McKellen stars as an aging Sherlock Holmes revisiting the circumstances of an unsolved case with only the company of his housekeeper and her young son. Holmes comes to rely upon the boy and searches for answers to the mysteries of life and love. 1 hour, 44 minutes. Community Room “Me and Earl and the Dying Girl” Saturday, Jan. 2, 3 p.m.

In this coming-of-age drama, a high school student and his best friend become friends with a teenage girl who has leukemia and decide to make a film to lift her spirits. In the process, they learn about true friendship and the fragility of life.

1 hour, 45 minutes. Community Room

SAVE THE DATES APRIL 6-10, 2016 12 I CONNECTIONS

TENTH ANNIVERSARY

2016

princetonlibrary.org/peff

Except for the International Cinema Series, all screenings are in the Community Room

“(T)ERROR”

“The Second Mother”

“Pull of Gravity”

“Infinitely Polar Bear” Wednesday, Jan. 6, 7 p.m.

Mark Ruffalo stars as a bipolar man who is raising two daughters in 1970s Boston. 1 hour, 30 minutes.

“Freeheld” Thursday, Feb. 11, 7 p.m.

Julianne Moore stars as a dying veteran police detective who lobbies county freeholders to allow her surviving domestic partner (Ellen Page) to inherit her pension. 1 hour, 43 minutes.

“Burnt” Monday, Feb. 15, 7 p.m.

Bradley Cooper stars as a chef and recovering addict who attempts to rebuild his culinary career by leading a London restaurant to three Michelin stars. 1 hour, 45 minutes.

“Paper Towns” Friday, Feb. 19, 6 p.m.

Quentin and his lifelong crush Margo have an all-night adventure, after which Margo disappears, leaving behind clues that lead Quentin and his friends on the journey of a lifetime.

1 hour, 49 minutes.

INTERNATIONAL CINEMA SERIES Screenings are at the Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau St. The series is a collaboration of the library, the Davis International Center, the International Employees Group at Princeton University and the Princeton Garden Theatre. Princeton University ID cardholders, library cardholders and Garden Theatre members may purchase tickets at $6. The library will offer free tickets while supplies last for each screening, please visit the Welcome Desk on the first floor of the library to pick up tickets and call 609-924-9529, ext. 1218 for availability.

www.princetonlibrary.org

“The Assassin”

“Pelo Malo” Thursday, Dec. 3, 5:30 p.m.

A 9-year-old boy’s wish to straighten his hair for his school picture causes concern for his homophobic mother and conflict in his family. Venezuela; Spanish with English subtitles.

1 hour, 33 minutes.

“The Second Mother” Thursday, Jan. 7, 5:30 p.m.

Unspoken class barriers that exist within a home come crashing down when the live-in housekeeper’s estranged daughter suddenly appears. Brazil; Portuguese with English subtitles. 1 hour, 54 minutes.

“The Assassin” Thursday, Feb. 4, 5:30 p.m.

In ninth-century China, an exiled assassin must choose between love and duty when she receives orders to kill a man from her past.Taiwan; Mandarin with English subtitles. 2 hours.

Academy Awards Marathon Friday, Feb. 26, 4 p.m. through Sunday, Feb. 28, 11 a.m.

In advance of the Sunday, Feb. 28 broadcast of the Academy Awards, we will screen five nominated films over the weekend: two each on Friday and Saturday and one at a special brunch screening 11 a.m. on Sunday.

The films will include three Best Picture nominees, a nominee for Best Animated Feature and one for Best Documentary Feature. Community Room

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ENRICHMENT SPOTLIGHT ON THE HUMANITIES Presented with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this programming do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Why the Humanities are Necessary to Public Policy, and How Monday, Dec. 7, noon Anna Sims Bartel, associate director of Engaged Learning and Research at Cornell University describes efforts to make academics more useful in the world through theory, practice, and public scholarship. Bartel earned a doctorate in comparative literature from Cornell; her current research interests include civic poetry, the U.S. agrarian novel and service-learning and civic engagement. Her most recent publication “Why the Humanities are Necessary to Public Policy, and How” appears in the current issue of Maine Policy Review. Community Room

Anna Sims Bartel

SPECIAL EVENTS

Faith Bahadurian

Alex Levine

Christopher Hirsheimer and Melissa Hamilton

Pat Tanner

Rachel Weston

Crazy for Cookbooks: Meet the Cookbook Connoisseurs Wednesday, Dec. 2, 7 p.m.

Panelists including area food writers, chefs and publishers discuss what makes a good cookbook and reveal their personal favorites. Additional topics are the future of cookbooks and top holiday gift picks. Panelists include Faith Bahadurian, Packet Group food columnist and NJ Spice blogger; Christopher Hirsheimer and Melissa Hamilton cofounders/creators of Canal House Cooking and the daily blog Canal House Cooks Lunch; Alex Levine, chef at Princeton’s Whole Earth Center; and Pat Tanner, longtime food writer, restaurant critic, and blogger. Rachel Weston, culinary educator and author of “New Jersey Fresh: Four Seasons from Farm to Table,” will moderate. A Q&A and book sale/signing will follow the discussion. There will also be a snapshot photo booth so bring your favorite cookbook to show off; photos will be promoted on social media. Community Room

A Taste of Suppers: Food Choices and Immune Health Monday, Dec. 7, 7 p.m.

Dr. Kate Thomsen, medical advisor to The Suppers Programs addresses how nutritional choices affect the immune system.

Board certified in integrative and holistic medicine, Dr. Thomsen uses the functional medicine model to uncover and correct imbalances that lead to poor health. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A and sampling of a variety of foods.

Community Room Co-sponsored by the library, the Suppers Programs and The Whole Earth Center of Princeton.

Dr. Kate Thomsen

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for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org

The Witherspoon-Jackson Neighborhood Stories Project A Discussion with Former and Current Elected Officials Wednesday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m.

Councilman Lance Liverman, former Councilman Joseph Moore and former Mayors Yina Moore, Mildred Trotman and Michele Tuck-Ponder discuss their experiences as African-American leaders in Princeton in a panel led by Princeton Administrator Marc Dashield.

Community Room The Witherspoon-Jackson Neighborhood Stories Project was created to build a permanent record and directory linking the written and photographic collections currently housed by the Arts Council of Princeton, the Princeton Public Library, Paul Robeson House and the Historical Society of Princeton with an oral history archive. This consolidated collection will provide scholars, students, and history buffs with an original source of material for study, enlightenment or further research.

From left, Joseph Moore, Mildred Trotman, Yina Moore, Michele Tuck-Ponder and Marc Dashield. (Not pictured, Lance Liverman.)

Listen, Lord: The Witherspoon Street Presbyterian Church’s 175 Years in the Fight for Freedom Sunday, Feb. 21, 3 p.m.

This program will feature readings and music tracing the fight for freedom from the founding of the Witherspoon Street Presbyterian Church through the Civil Rights period to the present, with hopes expressed for the future. Community Room

The Witherspoon Presbyterian Church Verse Singing Choir: top row, from left, Bernadine Hines and Shirley Satterfield; bottom row, from left, Elaine Marsh, Jean Escarpeta, Cecełia B. Hodges and Sharon Campbell. (Not pictured, Joan Tomlin)

Co-sponsored by the library and The Arts Council of Princeton as part of the Witherspoon-Jackson Neighborhood Stories Project. Presented with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this programming do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

www.princetonlibrary.org

CONNECTIONS I 15

ENRICHMENT Card-Making Workshop Saturday, Dec. 12, 3 p.m.

Create a set of four thank-you cards with matching envelopes using stamp sets and coloring with Linda Willimer of Stampin’ Up. This workshop is for those aged 16 and older; register at princetonlibrary.org/events. Community Room Monday, Dec. 21, 7 p.m.

Table Top Game Night Adults and teens are invited to play games including classics like Monopoly and Checkers and new games such as Machi Koro, Exploding Kittens, Ticket to Ride and more. Participants are welcome to bring their own games to share.

Community Room Star Wars Trivia Friday, Dec. 18, 6 p.m.

All are invited to celebrate the premiere of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” by testing their knowledge of the Force.

Community Room Coloring Nights for Grown-ups Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Dec. 29, Jan. 26, Feb. 23 Adults are invited to rediscover the joy of coloring at this gathering where participants will choose pages to color from a variety of coloring books for adults. Colored pencils and other art supplies will be provided along with light refreshments and relaxing music. Community Room

Gillett Good Griffin appears at a reception for his exhibition on Tuesday, Jan. 26.

Terri Evans, a Broadway performer and professor at New York University, will be joined by arranger Marion Evans in a tribute to “Downton Abbey,” on Jan. 3.

The American broadcast of the TV show’s final season begins that evening on PBS.

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The Sounds and Times of Downton Abbey Sunday, Jan. 3, 2 p.m.

Musicians Terri Evans and Marion Evans pay tribute to period TV drama “Downton Abbey” by performing early 20th century music.

The program is accompanied by a multimedia presentation, using clips from the TV show. Tea and scones will be served. Register at princetonlibrary.org/events. Community Room Walking Dead Trivia Contest Thursday, Jan. 14, 7 p.m.

Fans of the hit AMC television series are invited to test their knowledge of the show.Questions will be based on Season 1 through the mid-Season 6 finale. Questions are from the television show, not the comic book series by Robert Kirkman on which it is based. Community Room Seinfeld Trivia Night Friday, Jan. 15, 7 p.m.

Teams of contestants will pool their knowledge to answer questions about the popular comedy series, which ran from 1989-1998. All who attend will receive door prizes.

Community Room Artist Reception and Exhibit Tuesday, Jan. 26, 6:30 p.m.

Meet local curator and artist Gillett Good Griffin, whose exhibit “Heads and Tales: Portraits with Legends” will be on view in the second floor Reference Gallery from Jan. 10 through March 31. The portraits span more than 60 years and feature Princeton teachers, students, friends, and others from the community. Refreshments will be served. Reference Gallery Co-sponsored by the library and The Arts Council of Princeton. Presented with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this programming do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org Holiday Cook, Book and Blog Wednesday, Feb. 10, 7 p.m.

Select a dessert recipe to make and bring from either “The Pioneer Woman” blog or “The Pioneer Woman Cooks A Year of Holidays: 140 Step-by-step Recipes for Simple, Scrumptious Celebrations” by Ree Drummond. Library staff member Elizabeth Ferry will lead a discussion on how blogs have changed the world of cooking and baking while we sample your culinary creations. Conference Room Chinese New Year Celebration Saturday, Feb. 13, 2 p.m.

Students from Princeton High School’s Chinese Club and Chinese Language classes, host a celebration of the Year of the Monkey with traditional music, dance, games and crafts.

Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton High School Chinese Club.

Jim Towey, president of Ave Maria University and former legal counsel to Mother Teresa, will appear Jan. 13 in the Current: Conversation of a Lifetime series.

SENIORS AND FAMILIES Strategies for Your Financial Futures: Planning for Yourself and Your Parents Tuesday, Jan. 12, 6 p.m.

A panel of experts discusses various aspects of financial planning and answers questions. Topics and panelists include: Managing Family Finances (Lucia Stegaru, PNC Bank); Pitfalls of Having No Plan in Place (Elly Symanski, EKS Associates, LLC); Truths and Myths About Annuities (Jay LaMalfa, Insight Private Advisors); Planning for the Second Half of Life (Fiona Van Dyke, The Van Dyke Law Firm); and Long Term Care (David Saltzman, Saltzman Insurance).

Suzanne Patterson Center, 45 Stockton St. Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton Senior Resource Center.

Currents: Jim Towey and Paul Malley on End of Life Options Wednesday, Jan. 13, 7 p.m.

Towey, president of Ave Maria University in Florida, founder of Aging with Dignity and legal counsel to Mother Teresa for 12 years, discusses how Mother Teresa’s work with the dying inspired him to carry on her legacy of dignity at the end of life. Also speaking will be Paul Malley, chief executive of the national nonprofit Aging with Dignity in Tallahassee, Florida.

Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute’s Mayors Wellness Campaign

CIVIC RESOURCES Meet the Mayor Fridays, 8:30 a.m., Dec. 18, Jan. 15, Feb. 19 Princeton residents are invited to discuss community concerns and connect with municipal services during meetings with Mayor Liz Lempert. Main Lobby Affordable Care Act Information and Enrollment Saturday, Jan. 9, 11 a.m.

At this information and enrollment session for the Affordable Care Act, trained navigators will be available to help you understand your healthcare options and assist in completing

www.princetonlibrary.org

the application. Representatives from participating health insurance companies will be also be available to answer questions about specific plans. The enrollment period ends Jan. 31. A trained navigator will be at the library to assist with applications on three Thursdays in January (Jan. 14, 4-8 p.m.; Jan. 21, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and Jan. 28, 2-6 p.m. Call (800) 355-0271 to make an appointment for a one-on-one session.

Co-sponsored by the library, the Family Resource Network and Princeton Human Services and Health Department.

Ask a Lawyer Wednesday, Jan. 13, 7 p.m.

Lawyers will be at the library for free, private consultations on immigration and general legal issues. First-come, first-served; no appointments necessary. Spanish translators will be available.

Referrals will be made when necessary. Conference Room Co-sponsored by the library, the Latin American Task Force, the Princeton Housing Authority and the Mercer County Bar Association.

ESL Class Sundays, 4 p.m., Jan 24-Feb. 28 Speakers of world languages who are learning English as a second language are invited to these two-hour classes. Conference Room Co-sponsored by the library and St. Paul’s Church.

AARP Tax Help Mondays, 9 a.m., Feb. 1-April 11 Seniors and people of low and moderate income can get free help preparing and filing their federal and New Jersey electronic tax returns by appointment on Monday mornings through April 11. Help is available for non-complex, individual returns only.

Participants should bring a copy of their 2014 return and documentation for current year income and expenses that may be deductible. Appointments may be scheduled through noon by calling (609) 924-9529, ext. 1220. Community Room

ENRICHMENT continues on Page 24

CONNECTIONS I 17

CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

From cradle to college

Readers and future readers at the Princeton Children’s Book Festival in September. The library has book programs for young people of all ages.

Book clubs and programs help grow lifetime readers

E

xperts agree that the more kids read, the better they do in school and the higher their chances of personal fulfillment and success. But with so much competing for their attention today, getting children and teens to read for pleasure can be a challenge.

Parents of infants through high school students will find help meeting that challenge at the library where they can discover a continuum of programs that promote literacy and cultivate a love of reading. From 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten, (for newborns up to age 5), to discussion groups for teens, programs exist that lead children to become confident and avid readers.

PRESCHOOL 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten This new early literacy program offered by the Youth Services Department promotes reading to newborns, infants and toddlers. Designed for children from birth to age 5, the program helps children develop the tools they need to become proficient readers and encourages parent and child bonding through the activity of reading together.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Reading Treehouse 1 Mondays, 4 p.m., Dec. 14, Jan. 11, Feb. 8 This reading group for developing readers in kindergarten and first grade meets monthly on the second Monday during the school year. Stories, reading aloud,

18 I CONNECTIONS

crafts, games and more that reflect a different theme each month are featured.

Story Room Reading Treehouse 2 Mondays, 4 p.m., Dec. 21, Jan. 25, Feb. 15 This reading group for second- and third-grade readers meets monthly on the third Monday during the school year. Stories, reading aloud, crafts, games and more that reflect a different theme each month are featured. Story Room Cover to Cover Book Group (C2C) Saturdays, 11 a.m., Dec. 5, Feb. 6 This reading group for fourth- and fifth-graders meets to discuss books, short stories and other interests related to books. Activities include group reads, writing short book reviews and learning to post booklists in BiblioCommons. Registration is not required. Study Room 354 MIDDLE SCHOOL Go Between Club Saturdays, 2 p.m., Dec. 12, Jan. 9, Feb. 13 All sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade students are welcome to join us on the second Saturday of every month for a fun discussion of books and other interests.

Conference Room HIGH SCHOOL To Be Discussed (TBD) and Knitting Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Dec. 22, Jan. 26, Feb. 23 All high school students are welcome to participate in this monthly discussion of great books, films, music, non-fiction, poetry, and all things cultural. Participants may also help create book displays and reading lists for the library, take group trips to see current films, and do group-reads. Knitters are welcome to bring their latest project and join in on the discussion. Meets on the fourth Tuesday every month.

Teen Center

for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org

SPECIAL EVENTS Hour of Code Tuesday, Dec. 8, 4 p.m.

Children in grades 2-5 are invited to celebrate Computer Science Education Week by exploring the principles of coding and writing code of their own during this fun, hands-on session. Using the free online platform from code.org, children will use coding logic to create interactive stories, games, and animations. This session is for beginners, and parents/ caregivers are welcome to stay. Limited to 20. Please register through the library’s events calendar. Technology Center Card-Making Workshop Saturday, Dec. 12, 1 p.m.

Kids ages 10 and up are invited to create a set of four thank you cards with matching envelopes using stamp sets and coloring with Linda Willimer of Stampin’ Up. Register at princetonlibrary.org/events. Community Room

“The Reluctant Dragon” will be performed by Lionheart Puppets on Dec. 19.

Puppet Show: The Reluctant Dragon Saturday, Dec. 19, 3 p.m.

Children 4-11 years old are invited to see what happens when Harold, a young village boy, discovers a dragon in the mountains. Can Harold convince the villagers that the dragon just wants to be friends? Based on the story by Kenneth Grahame, “The Reluctant Dragon” is a great way to introduce children to literary adaptations, the arts and the concept of loyalty. Community Room Family Story Time Monday, Dec. 28 through Wednesday, Dec. 30, 10:30 a.m.

Children of all ages are invited to hear stories with their families. Story Room

Caldecott Honorwinning author and illustrator Patrick McDonnell, the creator of the “Mutts” comic strip, appears on Feb. 6.

See Page 20 for details.

Noon Year’s Eve Wednesday, Dec. 30, 11:30 a.m.

Too young to stay up until midnight? Join us at the library for a celebration the day before New Year’s Eve. As we countdown to noon, we will have music, dancing, crafts, and snacks. For children ages 3 and up. Story Room

STORY TIMES

Winter schedule begins Dec. 1. No story times Dec. 21-Jan. 5

All events in the Story Room, third floor

TUESDAYS

WEDNESDAYS

THURSDAYS

SATURDAYS

WORLD LANGUAGES

10 a.m.

Storytime!

10 a.m.

Storytime!

10 a.m.

Storytime!

10:30 a.m.

Saturday Stories

Ages 18 months and older

Ages 18 months and older

Ages 18 months and older

Ages 2 and older

All world language stories are for ages 2 and older.

Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

11 a.m.

Baby Storytime

11 a.m.

Baby Storytime

11 a.m.

Baby Storytime

Ages 0-17 months

Ages 0-17 months

Ages 0-17 months

SUNDAYS

11:30 a.m.

Baby Playgroup

11:30 a.m.

Baby Playgroup

11:30 a.m.

Baby Playgroup

Ages 0-17 months

Ages 0-17 months

Ages 0-17 months

4 p.m.

Afternoon Stories Ages 2 and older

www.princetonlibrary.org

3 p.m.

Sunday Stories Ages 2 and older

Brazilian/Portuguese Saturdays, 11:30 a.m.

Dec. 26, Jan. 23, Feb. 27

Chinese Saturdays, 11:30 a.m.

Dec. 5, Jan. 2, Feb. 6

Japanese Saturdays, 2 p.m.

Dec. 5, Jan. 2, Feb. 6

Russian Saturdays, 3:30 p.m.

Dec. 5, Jan. 2, Feb. 6

Spanish Saturdays, 11:30 a.m.

Dec. 12, Jan. 9, Feb. 13

CONNECTIONS I 19

CHILDREN AND FAMILIES Letra Pequeña (Little Letter) Mondays, 11 a.m., Jan. 4, 11, 25; Feb. 1- 29 Through engagement with books, activities and crafts, children and adults improve Spanish language skills. Conducted in Spanish, sessions are intended for children 2-5 years old accompanied by a parent or caregiver. Story Room Pajama Story Time Friday, Jan. 22, 5 p.m.

Join us for a special winter edition of our popular Pajama Storytime. Children and parents are invited to wear their favorite pajamas and slippers to the library and cuddle up for a late afternoon story time. Story Room Friday, Jan. 29, 9 a.m.

Puzzle Palooza In recognition of National Puzzle Day, the Youth Services staff will have a variety of puzzles and puzzling questions available for children of all ages throughout the day. Third Floor

Author/illustrator Patrick McDonnell Saturday, Feb. 6, 2 p.m.

The creator of the daily comic strip “Mutts,” who recently moved to Princeton, discusses his work. McDonnell has written and illustrated many books including the 2013 Caldecott Honor book “Me … Jane.” Community Room

This Is Why We Heart You Friday, Feb. 12, 4 p.m.

Children and teens are invited to create handmade Valentine cards for family and friends. Members of the library’s Teen Advisory Board and the Corner House Student Board will be on hand to help and provide inspiration. Story Room Co-sponsored by the library and Corner House.

WINTER BREAK FILMS “Inside Out” Monday, Dec. 28, 3 p.m.

This 2015 computer-animated film from Pixar Animation Studios is set in the mind of an 11-year-old girl where five personified emotions: Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger and Disgust guide her through life after a move to a new city. 1 hour, 42 minutes. Community Room Disneynature’s “Monkey Kingdom” Tuesday, Dec. 29, 3 p.m.

This 2015 documentary from Disneynature follows a newborn monkey and its mother as they struggle to survive within the competitive social hierarchy of the Temple Troop, a dynamic group of monkeys who live in ancient ruins found deep in the storied jungles of South Asia. 1 hour, 21 minutes.

Community Room

20 I CONNECTIONS

“Minions” Wednesday, Dec. 30, 3 p.m.

Ever since the dawn of time, the Minions have lived to serve the most despicable of masters. From T. rex to Napoleon, the easily distracted tribe has helped the biggest and the baddest of villains. Now, join protective leader Kevin, teenage rebel Stuart and lovable little Bob on a global road trip where they’ll earn a shot to work for a new boss — the world’s first female super-villain —and try to save all of Minionkind from annihilation. 1 hour, 31 minutes. Community Room

MORE ACTIVITIES Acting Out Wednesdays, 4 p.m., Dec. 2, 16; Jan. 6- 20; Feb. 3-24 Students in kindergarten through third grade are invited to engage in dramatic activity (but only the good kind of drama), including discussions, games, and other fun activities.

No experience necessary. Princeton High School drama aficionados will lead the sessions. Story Room LEGO Fridays, 4 p.m., Jan. 29, Feb. 26 Children in grades 1-5 are invited to participate in a noncompetitive community-based LEGO session, including building time and round-table discussion. LEGOs provided by Judy David. Duplo blocks will be available for younger children outside the Story Room. Story Room Co-sponsored by the library and Judy David.

Rock & Rhythm Fridays, 4 p.m., Dec. 11, Jan. 8, Feb. 12 Music and movement are important at every stage of a child’s development, particularly so for babies and prschoolers.

Rock & Rhythm blends music, movement, rhymes, read alouds, fingerplays and other interactive activities, while enhancing early literacy skills. This program is intended for children up to age 5 accompanied by a parent or caregiver. Community Room Chess Tuesdays, 4 p.m., Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22; Jan. 5-26; Feb. 2-23 Children can learn to play and practice chess at these weekly drop-in sessions led by Princeton High School Chess members.

Story Room

SAVE THE DATE NEA Read Across America Day Wednesday, March 2 The library joins the National Education Association in celebrating the 19th annual celebration of the birth of Dr. Seuss and the joy of reading. Games, activities and a visit by The Cat in the Hat begin at 11 a.m. on the third floor.

TEENS

Teens are invited to join in an Hour of Code program on Dec. 10.

SPECIAL EVENTS A Cappella Night Friday, Dec. 4, 7 p.m.

This annual teens-only event features vocal groups from Princeton’s four high schools and is only open to students who attend Princeton high schools. Chaperoned by library and Corner House staff. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Corner House. Funding is provided by the Princeton Alcohol and Drug Alliance through the Mercer County Office on Addiction Services and the Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse.

Hour of Code Thursday, Dec. 10, 4 p.m.

Middle school students (grades 6-8) are invited to celebrate Computer Science Education Week by exploring the principles of coding and writing code of their own during this fun, hands-on session. Using the free online platform from Code.org, children will use coding logic to create interactive stories, games, and animations. Some experience with programming language is helpful but not required. Limited to 20. Please register through the library’s events calendar. Technology Center Monday, Dec. 21, 7 p.m.

Table Top Game Night Adults and teens are invited to play games including classics like Monopoly and Checkers and new games such as Machi Koro, Exploding Kittens, Ticket to Ride and more. Participants are welcome to bring their own games to share.

Community Room Chill Out Saturday, Feb. 6, 5 p.m.

Teens are invited to relax after midterms by gathering to read, play board games, craft, knit and swap books while enjoying hot chocolate and pizza on a cold winter night. Fuzzy socks will be provided, but the event is BYOB (bring your own blanket).

Community Room

www.princetonlibrary.org

This Is Why We Heart You Friday, Feb. 12, 4 p.m.

Children and teens are invited to create handmade Valentine cards for family and friends. Members of the library’s Teen Advisory Board and the Corner House Student Board will be on hand to help and provide inspiration. Story Room Co-sponsored by the library and Corner House.

DISCUSSIONS Go Between Club Saturdays, 2 p.m., Dec. 12, Jan. 9, Feb. 13 All sixth, seventh and eighth grade students are welcome to join us on the second Saturday of every month for a fun discussion of books and other interests. Conference Room To Be Discussed (TBD) and Knitting Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Dec. 22, Jan. 26, Feb. 23 All high school students are welcome to participate in this monthly discussion of great books, films, music, non-fiction, poetry, and all things cultural. Participants may also help create book displays and reading lists for the library, take group trips to see current films, and do group-reads. Knitters are welcome to bring their latest project and join in on the discussion. Meets on the fourth Tuesday every month. Teen Center VOICES: Continuing Conversations for Teens Saturdays, 3 p.m., Jan. 16, Feb. 20 Meet other teens who are passionate about activism at these moderated discussions of topics in the news such as racial profiling, climate change and politics. Conference Room

PRINCETON STUDENT CALL FOR ENTRIES FILM FESTIVAL princetonlibrary.org/psff JULY 20 & 21, 2016

CONNECTIONS I 21

SUPPORT

22 I CONNECTIONS

for more information about private support for the library, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org/support

From left, Trustees President Kiki Jamieson, Executive Director Leslie Burger, Foundation President Robert Kisilywicz and Friends Council President Melanie Stein at the Beyond Words Benefit.

M

Beyond Words

ore than 400 library supporters gathered on Sept. 29 to hear Frank Rich at Nassau Presbyterian Church, then enjoy a family-style dinner by Terra Momo Restaurant Group on a beautiful night on Hinds Plaza. More than just an enjoyable evening, the annual Beyond Words Benefit, sponosred by the Friends of the Library, demonstrates how a combination of municipal and private support makes the library an indispensable community asset. A highlight of the evening was the announcement by the library’s trustees and supporting organizations that the Discovery Center on our reimagined second floor, which has been funded by private gifts, will be named for outgoing Executive Director Leslie Burger.

www.princetonlibrary.org

CONNECTIONS I 23

Executive Director: Leslie Burger

Non Profit Org. U.S. Postage PA I D Princeton, NJ Permit No. 4

Assistant Director: Erica Bess Marketing & Communications Director: Timothy Quinn Development Director: Janet Simon

connections The Princeton Public Library Magazine

Public Programming Librarian: Janie Hermann Head of Youth Services: Susan Conlon Head of Adult Services: Janet Hauge Events Committee: Erica Bess, Mimi Bowlin, Leslie Burger, Susan Conlon, Kim Dorman, Kristin Friberg, Janet Hauge, Shelly Hawk, Janie Hermann, Jocelyn Jimenez Timothy Quinn, Allison Santos, Hannah Schmidl Staff Writer: Amy Hiestand Editing and design: Timothy Quinn

ENRICHMENT BUSINESS AND CAREERS Job Seeker Sessions Fridays, 9:45 a.m., Dec. 4, 18; Jan. 8-29; Feb. 5-26 The library and Professional Services Group of Mercer County sponsor sessions for professionals who are seeking new employment and contracting opportunities throughout the region. Please check the library’s website for specific topics.

Community Room SCORE Seminar: Cybercrime Tuesday, Dec. 15, 6:30 p.m.

Speaker Robert Singer gives an overview of trends in technology that enable cyber criminals and presents ways to protect yourself and your data. Registration required at princeton.score.org. Community Room SCORE: Email Marketing Tuesday, Feb. 16, 6:30 p.m.

John Biancamano, president of Inbound Digital LLC and chairman of Princeton SCORE, leads this session. Registration required at princeton.score.org. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton Chapter of SCORE. QuickBooks on the Cloud Saturdays, 10:30 a.m., Dec. 19, Jan. 16, Feb. 20 Bala Subramanian, owner and CEO of Synergism Inc., conducts a workshop providing basic training in the use of QuickBooks accounting software on the cloud for small business owners.

Participants are encouraged to bring a fully charged laptop and download QuickBooks Online via a free 30-day trial from www. intuit.com to get hands-on experience during class. Seating is limited and registration is required at princeton.score.org.

Conference Room Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton Chapter of SCORE.

Zero Waste Workshop Thursday, Feb. 25, 6:30 p.m.

Where do you begin if you want to reduce the amount of waste you and your family produce? Come hear from some “zero wasters” and then develop an action plan to take real steps toward change at home or work. Speakers include Michele Nielsen. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Sustainable Princeton.

MISCELLANY Origami Club for all Ages Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m., Dec. 2 (10th anniversary celebration), Jan. 13, Feb. 10 Anyone interested in the traditional Japanese art of paper folding is invited to meet for 90 minutes of new, often seasonal, folding. Beginners are welcome. Adults must accompany children younger than 7. Third Floor Winter Market Thursdays, 11 a.m., Dec. 17, Jan. 21, Feb. 18 Local vendors offer a variety of goods including Jersey Fresh organic produce, free-range beef, poultry, pork and eggs; cheese, pickles, honey, baked goods, candles and more during this five-hour event. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Princeton Farmers Market.

Continuing Conversations on Race Mondays, 6:45 p.m., Dec. 7, Jan. 4, Feb. 1 Members of Not In Our Town, the Princeton-based interracial and interfaith social action group, facilitate these discussions of race-related issues of relevance to our community and nation.

Newcomers to the group are asked to arrive at 6:45 p.m.

Story Room Co-sponsored by the library and Not in Our Town Princeton.

ENVIRONMENT Sustainable Princeton Visioning Session Thursday, Jan. 28, 8:30 a.m.

Hear from the trendsetters about their ideas for a sustainable town and then work together to create a unified vision.

Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Sustainable Princeton.

Thank you to our sponsors for their support of Connections