connections The Princeton Public Library Magazine
2017
Festival highlights Page 4
connections The Princeton Public Library Magazine
The Eagle Huntress
View of Second Floor from stairway as the collection was returning to the library in mid-February. Photo by Cie Stroud
FROM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BRETT BONFIELD Yet books consoled me when I was a child, And seeing words and software joined and sync-ed, Even philosophers might be beguiled. And if I relish verses nimbly linked, Here flowing, there concluded with a twist, It was a Greek librarian-archivist Who had an odd pedantic inspiration — Make prose and poems textually distinct — And first gave metric units lineation. — From “The Library,” by Timothy Steele (1983)
L
ibraries have always combined old and new ideas and technologies because that is the best way for all of us, as humans, to acquire and disseminate knowledge. We layer the new onto the old, both facts and practices, and our collective knowledge increases. For public libraries, this layering has always been fundamentally social, as our name implies: we are public agencies, free and open to all, and it is our responsibility to reflect and anticipate the needs of that public. For the people who share your love of libraries, including my library colleagues past and present, this tends to be joyful exchange, as we build a better understanding of each other and the world around us.
There are poignant occasions, marked by a particular joy, when we are most aware of the presence of new and old. The reopening of the second floor and the completion of the 2Reimagine project is such an occasion. We have built on everything you loved about the old second floor and added to it, creating more and better spaces for you to spend time reading, studying, collaborating and learnning. The collection is better organized and more lovingly displayed, making the books and magazines and newspaper you love easier to find. Words and software are joined and sync-ed, and it is magnificently beguiling.
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YOU’RE INVITED
Second Floor GRAND OPENING
The Art Collection, as seen from the Discovery Center, in a photo taken on Feb. 14.
Saturday, March 25, 10:30 a.m. Ribbon-cutting, tours, pop-up programming for all ages, demonstrations, talks by authors and artists Details: princetonlibrary.org
In the History Neighborhood looking toward Hinds Plaza.
www.princetonlibrary.org
A view of the Living Room from the Princeton Room, with the Reading Room at left
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ON THE COVER: PRINCETON ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL One Big Home Thursday, March 30, 6:30 p.m., Community Room A carpenter works with his community to limit house sizes and preserve the character of Martha’s Vineyard.
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resenting outstanding films that encourage the community to explore sustainability from a variety of perspectives has been the mission of the Princeton Environmental Film Festival (PEFF) since its creation in 2006. That mission remains the same for the 2017 festival, being held from Monday, March 27, through Sunday, April 2. Screenings and events will take place at the library, Princeton University and the Princeton Garden Theatre. From the Pine Barrens and the beaches of the Delaware Bay in New Jersey, to Martha’s Vineyard, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Central Asia’s Altai Mountains and points beyond, this year’s PEFF films take viewers around the globe. PEFF screenings are presented free of charge through the generosity of sponsors, Church & Dwight, Inc., The Nature Conservancy, The Whole Earth Center of Princeton, Princeton University and the Princeton Garden Theatre. For a complete schedule of PEFF films and events, visit princetonlibrary.org/peff.
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Birds of May Friday, March 31, 7 p.m., Community Room Local filmmaker Jared Flesher explores whether expanded oyster farming threatens the existence of the Rufa Red Knot shore bird.
for complete information on all PEFF films and events, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org/peff
Look and See: A Portrait of Wendell Berry Sunday, April 2, 4:30 p.m., Community Room Death by One Thousand Cuts Tuesday, March 28, 7 p.m., Princeton Garden Theatre The murder of a Dominican park ranger becomes a manifestation of violent conflict over limited forest resources and a symbol of the larger conflict between the Haitians and Dominicans who occupy the island of Hispaniola.
A portrait of the changing landscapes and values of rural America in the era of industrial agriculture is seen through the eyes of farmer, writer and activist Wendell Berry.
A Plastic Ocean Saturday, April 1, 3 p.m., Community Room A journalist teams with an international team of scientists and researchers to explore the fragile state of the world’s oceans.
www.princetonlibrary.org
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HUMANITIES
A PA R T N E R S H I P O F T H E L I B R A R Y A N D T H E A R T S C O U N C I L O F P R I N C E T O N Presented with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this programming do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Co-sponsored by the library and the Arts Council of Princeton. Performance: Sonic Liberation 8 with Oliver Lake Tuesday, April 4, 7 p.m. This eight-member ensemble is deeply rooted in the traditions of Afro-Cuban music and has spent years fusing that grand tradition with new sounds, including composed jazz, modern chamber composition, and the powerful Orisha spirit. They have played extensively in the Philadelphia and New York areas and at festivals and cultural institutions throughout the Midwest U.S. and Canada. Sonic Liberation 8 has consistently won international critical acclaim and has been named No. 1 or Top 10 by the Village Voice, All About Jazz and Jazziz. Solley Theater, Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon St. Sonic Liberation 8 with Oliver Lake, April 4, at the Arts Council.
Jazz Appreciation: Performance and Discussion Thursday, April 6, 7 p.m. Musicians and recording artists Lewis Porter on piano, Kenny Davis on bass and Adam Niewood on saxophone, present a performance and discussion of jazz. Community Room The Masters of Swing Sunday, April 9, 3 p.m. In this family oriented lecture/performance Gordon James and his quartet showcase music from the 1920s through the 1960s including that of Paul Whiteman, Duke Ellington, Glen Miller, Benny Goodman, Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole and Ella Fitzgerald. Community Room
Clockwise from above, pianist Lewis Porter, bassist Kenny Davis and saxophonist Adam Niewood, April 6, Community Room.
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Book Discussion: “Jazz” by Toni Morrison Monday, April 10, 6 p.m. Kinohi Nishikawa of Princeton University’s English and African American Studies departments leads a discussion of Morrison’s award-winning novel. Set in 1920s Harlem, the book explores how the lives and loves of three characters intertwine in much the same way musicians play off each other to create a jazz suite. Learn about Morrison’s inspiration for the novel, take a virtual tour of the arts of the Jazz Age and share your own thoughts on this deeply moving story. Quiet Room
for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org Film and Discussion: “Satchmo the Great” Tuesday, April 11, 6 p.m. For this 1956 film by Edward R. Murrow, the broadcaster followed Louis Armstrong around the world, filming him in Paris, Sweden, Switzerland, England and Africa, before returning to New York for an unforgettable performance of “St. Louis Blues” with the New York Philharmonic, conducted by Leonard Bernstein. This film captures “Ambassador Satch” at his 1950s peak, entertaining 100,000 fans in the Gold Coast of Africa, playing his big hit “Mack the Knife” in London and humorously explaining the definition of “a cat” in a rollicking Paris interview with Murrow. Ricky Riccardi, director of research collections at the Louis Armstrong House Museum, will introduce the film, which has not been commercially available since its original theatrical release. 1 hour, 3 minutes. Community Room
Ricky Riccardi of the Louis Armstrong House Museum, April 11, Community Room.
Film: “Mary Lou Williams: The Lady Who Swings the Band” Tuesday, April 18, 6:30 p.m. This acclaimed documentary by filmmaker Carol Bash traces the life of renowned jazz pianist, composer and arranger Mary Lou Williams, who battled racial and gender barriers as she made her way as a solo artist in the 1940s. Over the course of her career, Williams composed more than 300 works of music including big band hits for Andy Kirk, Benny Goodman and Duke Ellington. Her compositions include jazz standards such as “Walkin’ and Swingin’,” “Twinklin’,” “Cloudy” and “Little Joe from Chicago.” 1 hour, 10 minutes. Solley Theater, Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon St. Performance: Small Group A Sunday, April 23, 2 p.m. Jazz at Princeton University presents a concert with Small Group A under the direction of Rudresh Mahanthappa, director of jazz at Princeton University. Compositions of the great masters of this truly American music will be performed by this stellar group, which proves that jazz is very much alive as a contemporary and relevant art form. Community Room
“Mary Lou Williams: The Lady Who Swings the Band,” April 18, Arts Council of Princeton.
Film and Q&A: “The Jazz Loft According to W. Eugene Smith” Thursday, April 27, 6 p.m. In the 1950s, dozens of jazz musicians, including Thelonius Monk, Hal Overton and Ronnie Free, jammed night after night in a run down New York loft, unaware that it was all being captured in sound and pictures by acclaimed LIFE magazine photographer W. Eugene Smith. Directed by Sara Fishko of WNYC. Following the screening, Dan Buskirk from WPRB Princeton will participate in a Q&A. 1 hour, 27 minutes. Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau St. Applied Harmony Friday, April 28, 6 p.m. This band, composed of players in top Princeton High School jazz bands, performs a concert to conclude Jazz Appreciation Month and to help kick off Communiversity. Hinds Plaza (weather permitting) or Community Room
www.princetonlibrary.org
Thelonious Monk and Hal Overton in a scene from “The Jazz Loft According to W. Eugene Smith,” April 27, Princeton Garden Theatre.
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HUMANITIES All events are presented with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this programming do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities. All events are in the Community Room, except where noted.
SPOTLIGHT ON THE HUMANITIES: RELIGION IN AMERICAN LIFE
Lila Corwin-Berman
Seth Perry
Lila Corwin-Berman: “Jewish Urban Politics in an Era of Crisis” Tuesday, March 21, noon In modern times, Jews emerged as consummate urban dwellers. After World War II, as American Jews migrated away from cities embroiled in so-called urban crises, they experienced a simultaneous Jewish urban crises. Who were Jews apart from their urbanism? And how would they remake their relationship to urban spaces, people and ideals? Drawing upon her extensive research on Detroit, Lila Corwin Berman argues that contrary to the history of white flight, the story of postwar Jewish migration away from cities is one of enduring — and tension-filled — urban entanglement, marked by the politics of privatization. Corwin-Berman is professor of history at Temple University. Seth Perry: “Humor, Celebrity, and Religious Dissent in Early America: Thomas Paine and Lorenzo Dow” Tuesday, April 4, noon In November of 1804 when the House of Representatives voted for a new chaplain, a majority voted for the Reverend James Laurie, a Presbyterian and a perfectly predictable choice. Three representatives, though, did something surprising and cheeky: two voted for Lorenzo Dow, and one voted for Thomas Paine. These votes are notable because Dow was a celebrity preacher known for his antics as “Crazy Dow”; Paine, meanwhile, was by 1804 less revered for his Revolutionary writings than he was reviled as the author of “The Age of Reason,” a fiery diatribe against Christianity. Neither man had a chance of winning, but their fame, or infamy, meant that these votes carried meaning: they were protest votes, sincere but ultimately sarcastic. This talk will explore the conditions of religious celebrity and religious dissent in early America that were behind these protest votes, with an eye toward what that historical moment can tell us about the place of religion in American life. Perry is assistant professor of religion at Princeton University.
LECTURES AND DISCUSSIONS
Kwame Anthony Appiah
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Randy Cohen
Randy Cohen Interviews Kwame Anthony Appiah Wednesday, March 8, 7 p.m. This event, featuring a writer for The Ethicist column in The New York Times Magazine being interviewed by one the column’s previous writers, will be recorded for the public radio program “Person, Place, Thing.” On Cohen’s show, guests are asked to speak about a person, a
for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org place and a thing they find meaningful rather than about themselves. Appiah is a philosopher, writer and novelist who teaches at NYU. He also writes The Ethicist, a column that Cohen wrote for 12 years. Cohen won multiple Emmy awards as a writer for “Late Night with David Letterman” and is the author of “Be Good: How to Navigate the Ethics of Everything.” The Value of the Book with Ray Rickman Sunday, March 19, 2 p.m. Rare- and valuable-books expert Ray Rickman presents a hands-on workshop that explains what determines a book’s value and how and why that value changes over time. Attendees are invited to bring up to three books to be assessed. Gente y Cuentos Mondays, 7 p.m., April 3, 10, 17, 24; May 1, 8 In discussing Latin American short stories in Spanish, participants recount their personal experiences and how they relate to the characters in the story. Conference Room
Ray Rickman
A Look at Criminal Justice: A Discussion of the System and Reforms Monday, April 24, 6 p.m. Alexander Shalom, senior staff attorney at the ACLU New Jersey, will join the Democracy Fellowship student group from Princeton High School to discuss their 2016-’17 project learning about the criminal justice system. Students will share what they have learned about the school-to-prison pipeline, the role that implicit bias plays in policing and sentencing and the death penalty. New Jersey’s recent Bail Reform and Speed Trial Act and juvenile sentencing reform will also be discussed. Addressing the Debt Crisis or Funding Safety Net Programs: Does Something Have to Give? Thursday, May 11, 7 p.m. Richard Keevey, who held presidential appointments as deputy undersecretary of defense for finance and CFO of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, discusses the size and significance of the national debt, the nature of the costs driving its increase and current tax policy. Potential solutions will also be discussed. Keevey has also served as the director of the state Office of Management and Budget and is a senior policy fellow at the Bloustein School of Planning and Policy at Rutgers University and a lecturer at Woodrow Wilson School of Princeton University.
Alexander Shalom
Monumental Connections to WWI Monday, May 15, 7 p.m. To coincide with the centennial of America’s entry into World War I, historian and preservation advocate Erik L. Burro gives an overview of New Jersey’s major WWI monuments.
www.princetonlibrary.org
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HUMANITIES
A scene from “Equal Means Equal,” to be screened March 20, with a post-screening discussion led by Amada Sandoval, director of the Princeton University Women’s Center.
LOCAL AUTHOR WEEKEND EVENTS Plainsboro Writers Group Readings Friday, March 24, 7 p.m. Our weekend of celebrating local writers begins with an evening of readings of short stories and other works of creative fiction by members of the Plainsboro Writers Group. Vanessa Johnson will serve as MC and narrator as we hear works by David Absalom, Alex Adams, Tony Athmejvar, Marvin Cheitin, Hilary Kayle Crist, Peter Crist, Seth Foster, Ed Leefeldt, Jessie Tucker and Nell Whiting. Refreshments will be served. Local Author Day Workshop 1: “Collaboration: Maximizing the Results while Minimizing the Headaches” Saturday, March 25, 9:30 a.m. Whether you’re writing a feature article, a novel, a play, screenplay or something in between, collaborating can be an efficient and rewarding way to go. Or instead of cutting down on your workload, it can double your time and effort and triple your aggravation. In this workshop, Loretta and Fred Wish offer tips on how to choose writing partners well and work effectively as a team. Over the last 25 years they have written and edited on their own, together and with a variety of other writers. Register at princetonlibrary.org. Local Author Day Writers Workshop 2: “Is Episodic Fiction the Future of Publishing?” Saturday, March 25, 10:30 a.m. Modern technologies and reader demands have drastically changed the world of publishing in the past decade. Modeled after the television series, episodic fiction in prose form is one of the most buzz-worthy topics of the past two years and is finding an ever-expanding reader base. This workshop, led
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by Keith Edwin Fritz, will explain what episodic fiction is and share an online platform where you can try your hand at selfpublishing some episodic fiction of your own. Local Author Fair Saturday, March 25, 1 p.m. More than 35 area authors display and sign their books at this annual event celebrating local talent. Selected authors, including featured authors Hannah Brooke Hoffman, Hester Young, Joel Hammon and Carol J. Binkowski will read from their works in the lobby throughout the three-hour event. Book Launch: U.S. 1 Worksheets Sunday, March 26, 1:15 p.m. The U.S. 1 Poets’ Cooperative launches Volume 62 of its journal that contains selected works by 131 poets. In addition to members’ poetry, the journal includes works by poets from across America, Mexico and Australia. Local artist Eva Mantell contributed original artwork for the cover. Doors open at 1:15 p.m.; readings begin at 2 p.m. Refreshments will be served and journals will be available for purchase. Co-sponsored by the library and the U.S. 1 Poets’ Cooperative.
DOCUMENTARY Film and Discussion: “Equal Means Equal” Monday, March 20, 6:30 p.m. This documentary offers an unflinching look at how women are treated in the United States today. Examining both reallife stories and precedent-setting legal cases, director Kamala Lopez uncovers how outdated and discriminatory attitudes inform and influence seemingly disparate issues including workplace harassment, domestic violence and the judicial
for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org
Diane Cypkin as Molly Picon, March 12.
Raconteur Radio’s “Moby Dick,” March 5.
system. Amada Sandoval, director of the Princeton University Women’s Center, will lead a post screening discussion. 1 hour, 33 minutes
PERFORMANCES Radio Play: “Moby Dick” Sunday, March 5, 2 p.m. Metuchen-based Raconteur Radio presents a staged radio based on the Herman Melville classic about a wandering sailor who takes a job aboard a whale ship and learns its captain has one purpose: to confront the monstrous white whale that bit off his leg. The show features theatrical lighting, period costumes, vintage commercials, Golden Age radio equipment and sound effects. A Musical Salute to Molly Picon, Star of the Yiddish Theater Sunday, March 12, 2 p.m. In this lecture/concert, award-winning professor and rerformer Diane Cypkin tells the life story of the “First Lady of the Yiddish stage.”
AUTHOR TALK Kathryn (Kitsi) Watterson Thursday, May 18, 7 p.m. The award-winning author and professor at the University of Pennsylvania, reads from her recent book “I Hear My People Singing: Voices of African American Princeton,” which includes vivid first-person accounts of more than 50 black residents of the Witherspoon-Jackson neighborhood. She’ll talk about how the roots of Princeton’s black community are as deeply intertwined with the university as they are with the history of the United States, the legacies of slavery, Jim Crow racism and the nation’s current conversation on race. Co-sponsored by the library, the Arts Council of Princeton and the Historical Society of Princeton as part of the Witherspoon-Jackson Neighborhood Stories Project.
www.princetonlibrary.org
Kitsi Watterson
POETS AT THE LIBRARY Poets read for 20 minutes each followed by an open-mic session. Co-sponsored by the library, Delaware Valley Poets and the U.S. 1 Poets’ Cooperative. Gina Larkin and John Larkin Monday, March 13, 7 p.m. Gina Larkin’s work has been featured in numerous magazines and anthologies and has been nominated for two Pushcart Prizes. She initiated the popular Poetry in the Classroom program teaching workshops in elementary and middle schools. John Larkin’s poetry has been published in many magazines and anthologies. He has been a featured reader at the Barron Arts Center, Delaware Valley Poets, Cafe Improv, and JCC in West Orange. Cynthia Arrieu-King and Wanda S. Praisner Monday, April 17, 7 p.m. Arrieu-King teaches creative writing at Stockton State University. Her books include “People are Tiny in Paintings of China” and “Manifest.” She is the editor of an Asian Anglophone edition of the online journal Dusie. Praisner is a poet in residence for the NJ State Council on the Arts. Her books include “A Fine and Bitter Snow” and “Natirar.” She has received fellowships from the Dodge Foundation and others. Anna Evans and Elane Gutterman Monday, May 8, 7 p.m. Evans is the editor of the Raintown Review and her poems have appeared in multiple collections. She teaches at West Windsor Arts Center, Rowan University and Burlington County College. Gutterman, a health researcher, studies with Evans at the West Windsor Arts Center.
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ARTS
Azzan Yadin-Israel discusses his book “The Grace of God and the Grace of Man: The Theologies of Bruce Springsteen,” on March 23. Frank Stefanko’s “Corvette Winter,” shot in Hammonton in 1978, served as the cover image for Bruce Springsteen’s autobiography. The photographer is part of an April 7 panel discussion.
BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN EVENTS Co-sponsored by the library and Morven Museum & Garden in conjunction with Morven’s exhibition “Bruce Springsteen: A Photographic Journey,” on view through May 21. The library will distribute a limited number of free tickets to these events beginning March 15. Please pick up tickets in person at the Welcome Desk. Limited to one ticket per cardholder. The Theologies of Bruce Springsteen: A Conversation with Azzan Yadin-Israel and William Storrar Thursday, March 23, 7 p.m. Yadin-Israel, Rutgers University Jewish Studies professor and author of “The Grace of God and the Grace of Man: The Theologies of Bruce Springsteen,” discusses his book with the director of the Center of Theological Inquiry. The book explores the biblical and theological motifs Springsteen has weaved into his lyrics throughout his career. Center of Theological Inquiry, Luce Hall, 50 Stockton St., Princeton Co-sponsored by the library, the Center of Theological Inquiry and Morven Museum & Garden. Bruce Springsteen on the Radio: A Conversation featuring DJs David Dye and Tom Cunningham with photographer Frank Stefanko Thursday, April 6, 7 p.m. David Dye of WXPN-FM (88.5), creator and host of “World Cafe,” and Tom Cunningham, host of “Bruce Brunch” on WCHR-FM (105.7), will talk about Springsteen’s early career and the role the region’s radio stations played in introducing him to a global audience. Frank Stefanko, whose photographs are featured in Morven’s exhibition, will join the conversation and talk about his experiences working with Springsteen. The cover photo on Springsteen’s memoir, “Born to Run,” was shot by Stefanko in 1978. The Present Day Club, 72 Stockton St.
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Bruce Springsteen Tribute Saturday, May 20, 3 p.m. Bands from the Einstein Alley Musicians Collaborative perform covers of songs by Bruce Springsteen in a free tribute inspired by Morven Museum’s exhibition. Hinds Plaza (weather permitting) or Community Room
OTHER EVENTS
McCarter Live at the Library Thursday, March 2, 7 p.m. Celebrated playwright Ken Ludwig and McCarter Theatre Artistic Director and Resident Playwright Emily Mann engage in a moderated discussion about their artistic partnership in bringing Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express” to the stage. The adapter and director, who will be in the midst of rehearsals for this world-premiere production, will provide details on both the show’s casting and its design, a collaboration of a design team of Tony Award-winners. Community Room
Ceol agus Cairde (Music and Friends) Friday, March 10, 7 p.m. In celebration of St. Patrick’s Day and all things Irish, Helen O’Shea and Shenanigans, her band of Celtic musicians and singers, transport listeners across the Atlantic for a traditional “kitchen party,” inspired by Ireland’s rich tradition of music, song and stories. Community Room
for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org
Mark Roxey, above, and Ryan Brandau discuss the Roxey Ballet-Princeton Pro Musica collaboration on “Carmina Burana” on April 21. Soprano Dominika Zamara and Classical Guitarist Stanley Alexandrowica perform May 10.
PSO Soundtracks: “Following the Ninth: In the Footsteps of Beethoven’s Final Symphony” Wednesday, March 15, 7 p.m. Princeton Symphony Orchestra presents a screening of “Following the Ninth,” a documentary surveying global influences of Beethoven’s final symphony. 1 hour, 39 minutes. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Princeton Symphony Orchestra. Princeton Pro Musica: Symposium on Carmina Burana Friday, April 21, 7 p.m. Ryan Brandau, artistic director of Princeton Pro Musica, and Mark Roxey, executive and artistic director of Roxey Ballet in Lambertville, discuss their collaboration to create a new production of Orff’s timeless “Carmina Burana.” Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Princeton Pro Musica. Panel Discussion: Performing “Anthracite Fields” at the Roebling Wire Works Thursday, April 13, 7 p.m. Conductor Joe Miller, composer Julie Wolfe and director Doug Varone share the story of the upcoming Westminster Choir/Bang on a Can All Stars performance of Wolfe’s Pulitzer Prize-winning masterwork “Anthracite Fields” at the Roebling Wireworks in Trenton. Using musical examples and video, the panel will discuss the inspiration for the music, the decision to perform it at the factory, the logistics involved in staging and what audiences will experience at the April performances. “Anthracite Fields” is a docuoratorio about the mining industry and the Pennsylvania mining community that thrived in the early 20th century. The performance is part of Westminster’s Transforming Space Project. Community Room
www.princetonlibrary.org
PSO Soundtracks: Exploring “Broken Ink” Wednesday, May 3, 7 p.m. Princeton Symphony Orchestra Music Director Rossen Milanov and composer Zhou Tian discuss compositional influences and Chinese calligraphy. This program is presented in advance of the orchestra’s May 7 U.S. premiere of Tian’s “Broken Ink.” Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Princeton Symphony Orchestra. Soprano Dominika Zamara and Classical Guitarist Stanley Alexandrowica Wednesday, May 10, 7 p.m. The internationally renowned duo presents a recital of arias, songs, and solos. Romantic-era songs by Croatia’s preeminent 19th century composer-guitarist, Ivan Padovec, will be featured. Community Room Damsel Duo/Helen and Molly Friday, May 12, 6:30 p.m. Damsel Duo, an indie-neo-folk group featuring Beth Meyers and Monica Mugan, presents a Mother’s Day concert with acoustic-based duo Helen and Molly. Molly Trueman of Helen and Molly is Mugan’s daughter. Hinds Plaza Fred Miller Lecture in Song: The Great Lady Songwriters Sunday, May 14, 3 p.m. Singer and pianist Fred Miller presents a tribute to female composers and lyricists who played a significant part in Tin Pan Alley’s colorful history. Beth Slater Whitson, Mabel Wayne, Kay Swift and Peggy Lee will be profiled. Community Room
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FILM All events are in the Community Room, except where noted.
DOCUMENTARIES WITH DISCUSSIONS “CODE: Debugging the Gender Gap” Saturday, March 4, 4 p.m. This documentary exposes the dearth of American female and minority software engineers and explores the reasons for this gender gap. The screening will be followed by a discussion with members of Code for Princeton, Princeton High School’s SiSTEM, the Montgomery High School Techsters, Princeton University’s GWiSE and library staff. 1 hour, 20 minutes.
“CODE: Debugging the Gender Gap,” March 4
“Swim Team” Wednesday, April 12, 6:30 p.m. The struggles and triumphs of three young athletes with autism are chronicled in this documentary that shows how a swim team can bring hope to a community. Following the screening, filmmaker Lara Stolman will be joined by some of those featured in the film for a discussion. 1 hour, 40 minutes. “Incarcerating US” Tuesday, May 2, 6:30 p.m. This documentary, which examines America’s prison problem and explores criminal justice reforms, is followed by a discussion with author (“From the Block to the Boardroom”) and advocate Tracey D. Syphax. 1 hour, 24 minutes. Co-sponsored by the library, CENJC, the Petey Greene Program and the Urban Mental Health Alliance.
FIRST FRIDAY FEATURE FILMS
“Swim Team,” April 12
“Arrival” Friday, March 3, 6:30 p.m. Based on “Story of Your Life,” a short story by Ted Chiang, this science fiction film tells the story of a linguistics professor who leads an elite team of investigators in an effort to communicate with extraterrestrials who land in 12 locations around the world. 1 hour, 58 minutes. “Fences” Friday, April 7, 4 p.m. Based on August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name, “Fences” explores the struggles of a Pittsburgh sanitation worker who was too old to pursue his dream of becoming a professional baseball player by the time the major leagues began admitting black players. 2 hours, 19 minutes. Film: “La La Land” Friday, May 5, 6:30 p.m. This romantic musical comedy-drama about an aspiring actress and a jazz musician explores the joy and pain of pursuing your dreams. 2 hours, 8 minutes.
“Incarcerating US,” May 2
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for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org
MORE FEATURES “Jackie” Friday, March 17, 6:30 p.m. Natalie Portman stars as Jackie Kennedy in this biographical drama that follows the First Lady through her days in the White House and after the assassination of her husband. 1 hour, 40 minutes. “Lion” Friday, April 14, 6:30 p.m. Based on the nonfiction book “A Long Way Home,” by Saroo Brierley with Larry Buttrose, this drama is the story of a 5-year-old boy who gets lost on a train in India and finds himself thousands of miles from home. Raised by an Australian couple, he sets off 25 years later to find his lost family and first home. 2 hours. “Hidden Figures” Sunday, May 7, 4 p.m. This drama, based on the book of the same name by Margot Lee Shetterly, tells the story of three black female mathematicians at NASA who helped the United States win the 1960s space race. 2 hours, 7 minutes.
“Neruda,” March 2
PRINCETON INTERNATIONAL CINEMA SERIES Screenings are at Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau St. The series is a collaboration of the library, the International Employees Group at Princeton University, the Davis International Center and the Princeton Garden Theatre. Princeton University ID holders, library cardholders and Garden Theatre members may purchase tickets at $6. The library will also offer a limited number of free tickets while supplies last for each screening. Call (609) 924-9529, ext. 1218 for availability. Free popcorn. “Neruda” Thursday, March 2, 5:30 p.m. An inspector hunts down Nobel Prize-winning Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda, who becomes a fugitive in his home country in the late 1940s for joining the Communist Party. In Spanish with English subtitles. 1 hour, 47 minutes.
“My Life as a Zucchini,” April 6
“My Life as a Zucchini” Thursday, April 6, 5:30 p.m. In this Academy Award-nominee for Best Animated Feature, 9-year-old Zucchini moves into a group foster home after the death of his mother. Much to his surprise, he begins to make friends with the other children, who have had similarly difficult lives. As he matures and wrestles with feelings about his complicated past, Zucchini gains the confidence to shape his future. In French with English subtitles. 1 hour, 10 minutes. “Toni Erdmann” Thursday, May 4, 5:30 p.m. This 2016 German-Austrian comedy/drama is the story of a father’s attempt to reconnect with his estranged daughter and bring some levity to her life. 2 hours, 42 minutes. “Toni Erdmann,” May 4
www.princetonlibrary.org
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BOOKS & AUTHORS Kay Redfield Jamison
Michael Lemonick and Barbara Landau
AUTHORS Kay Redfield Jamison Robert Lowell, Setting the River on Fire: A Study of Genius, Mania, and Character Saturday, March 4, 3 p.m. The best-selling author and professor of psychiatry at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine discusses her book, a study of the relationship between illness and art that brings new understanding to the work and life of Lowell, who put his manic-depressive illness into the public domain in his Pulitzer Prize-winning poetry. Labyrinth Books, 116 Nassau St. Part of the Library Live at Labyrinth series, co-sponsored by the library and Labyrinth Books. Michael Lemonick in Conversation with Barbara Landau The Perpetual Now: A Story of Amnesia, Memory, and Love Tuesday, March 7, 6 p.m. Acclaimed science writer and Princeton resident Lemonick discusses his latest book with Landau, professor and director of the Science of Learning Institute at Johns Hopkins University. The book is the story of Lonni Sue Johnson, a renowned artist and Princeton resident who contracted encephalitis and was left severely amnesic, living in a present that rarely progresses beyond 10 to 15 minutes. Although she still retains much of the intellect and artistic skills from her previous life, it is unclear how closely her consciousness resembles the norm. As such, Johnson’s story has become part of a much larger scientific narrative — one that is currently challenging traditional wisdom about how human memory and awareness are stored in the brain. Through the drama of Johnson’s everyday life, Lemonick provides a nuanced and intimate understanding of the science that lies at the heart of human nature. Labyrinth Books, 116 Nassau St. Part of the Library Live at Labyrinth series, co-sponsored by the library and Labyrinth Books.
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Robbert Dijkgraaf on “The Usefulness of Useless Knowledge” by Abraham Flexner Tuesday, March 14, 6 p.m. The director of the Institute for Advanced Study discusses the book of essays by the institute’s founder. Included is the classic “The Usefulness of Useless Knowledge,” in which Flexner describes a great paradox of scientific research: The search for answers to deep questions, motivated solely by curiosity and without concern for applications, often leads not only to the greatest scientific discoveries but also to the most revolutionary technological breakthroughs. In short, no quantum mechanics, no computer chips. Community Room Part of the Thinking Allowed series, co-sponsored by the library, Princeton University Press and Labyrinth Books. Brian W. Kernighan Understanding the Digital World: What You Need to Know about Computers, the Internet, Privacy, and Security Wednesday, March 15, 6 p.m. The book explains how computer hardware, software, networks and systems work. Topics include how computers are built and how they compute; what programming is and why it is difficult; how the Internet and the web operate; and how all of these affect our security, privacy, property and other important social, political and economic issues. Labyrinth Books, 116 Nassau St. Part of the Library Live at Labyrinth series, co-sponsored by the library and Labyrinth Books. Maria DiBattista and Deborah Nord At Home in the World: Women Writers and Public Life, from Austen to the Present Thursday, March 16, 6 p.m. In a sweeping re-evaluation of the past two centuries of women’s writing, the book argues that this body of work has been defined less by domestic concerns than by an active engagement with the most pressing issues of public life, from class and religious divisions, slavery, warfare and labor
for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org unrest to democracy, tyranny, globalism, and the clash of cultures. DiBattista is the Charles Barnwell Straut Class of 1923 Professor of English at Princeton University. Nord is the Woodrow Wilson Professor of Literature at Princeton. Labyrinth Books, 116 Nassau St. Part of the Library Live at Labyrinth series, co-sponsored by the library and Labyrinth Books. Amy Gary In the Great Green Room: The Brilliant and Bold Life of Margaret Wise Brown Monday, March 27, 7 p.m. Gary discusses her book, in which she captures the eccentric and exceptional life of the woman behind the beloved children’s classics “Goodnight Moon” and “The Runaway Bunny.” Brown’s books have sold millions of copies all over the world, but few people know that she was at the center of a children’s book publishing revolution. Her whimsy and imagination fueled a steady stream of stories, book ideas, songs and poems and she was renowned for her prolific writing and business savvy, as well as her stunning beauty and endless thirst for adventure. Gary discovered hundreds of unpublished works by Margaret Wise Brown in Margaret’s sister’s attic in 1990. Since then, she has cataloged, edited, and researched all of Brown’s writings. Community Room
Deborah Nord, left, and Maria DiBattista
Presented with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this programming do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Kendra Levin The Hero Is You: Sharpen Your Focus, Conquer Your Demons, and Become the Writer You Were Born to Be Wednesday, April 5, 6 p.m. In “The Hero Is You: Sharpen Your Focus, Conquer Your Demons, and Become the Writer You Were Born to Be,” Levin helps writers at all levels set and achieve goals and turn moments of doubt and fear into sources of strength. Using a fresh approach to Joseph Campbell’s archetypal “Hero’s Journey,” she reveals how to be a hero in the narrative of your own process. Included are more than 30 exercises designed to help writers reinvent their creative process from the inside out, Labyrinth Books, 116 Nassau St. Part of the Library Live at Labyrinth series, co-sponsored by the library and Labyrinth Books.
Amy Gary
Geraldine Brooks The Secret Chord Friday, April 7, 7 p.m. The Pulitzer Prize-winning author discusses her novel about the life of King David, which is being released in paperback. The book brings David to life in Second Iron Age Israel and traces his journey from obscurity to fame, from shepherd to soldier, from hero to traitor, from beloved king to murderous despot and into his remorseful and diminished dotage. Brooks is the author of four novels, the Pulitzer Prize–winning “Marchand,” and the international bestsellers “Caleb’s Crossing,” “People of the Book,” and “Year of Wonders.” She is also the author of the acclaimed nonfiction works “Nine Parts of Desire” and “Foreign Correspondence.” Community Room
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CONNECTIONS I 17
BOOKS & AUTHORS Florence Williams The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier and More Creative Wednesday, April 26, 7 p.m. The award-winning author discusses her book, in which she uncovers the science behind nature’s positive effects on the brain. Her investigation takes the reader from forest trails in Korea to islands in Finland and eucalyptus groves in California. D&R Greenway Johnson Education Center, One Preservation Place, Princeton A special event of the Princeton Environmental Film Festival. Co-sponsored by the library, PEFF and D&R Greenway Land Trust and the Breast Cancer Resource Center.
Florence Williams
Alexander Todorov
Alexander Todorov Face Value: The Irresistible Influence of First Impressions Tuesday, May 9, 7 p.m. The author, researcher and Princeton University psychology professor’s book explains the persistence of the physiognomy myth that we can read the character of others from their faces and its perilous influences on our decisions. Community Room Part of the Thinking Allowed series, co-sponsored by the library and Princeton University Press. Lynne Olson Last Hope Island Tuesday, May 16, 7 p.m. The New York Times best-selling author discusses her groundbreaking account of how Britain became the base of operations for the exiled leaders of Europe in their desperate struggle to reclaim their continent from Hitler. Olson is also the author of “Citizens of London” and “Those Angry Days.” Former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright has called her “our era’s foremost chronicler of World War II politics and diplomacy.” Community Room
BOOK GROUPS
Lynne Olson
MYSTERY BOOK GROUP Mondays, 7:30 p.m., Quiet Room March 6, “The Coffin Trail” by Martin Edwards April 3, “Jar City” by Arnaldur Indriðason May 1, “Cocaine Blues” by Kerry Greenwood FICTION BOOK GROUP Thursdays, 10:30 a.m., Quiet Room in March; Conference Room in April and May March 9, “News of the World” by Paulette Jiles April 13, “Imagine Me Gone” by Adam Haslett May 11, “Mislaid” by Nell Zink BLACK VOICES BOOK GROUP Thursdays, 7 p.m.; Story Room in March; Princeton Room in April and May March 9, “The Prize: Who’s in Charge of America’s Schools” by Dale Russakoff April 13, “Black Man in a White Coat: A Doctor’s Reflections on Race and Medicine” by Damon Tweedy May 11, “Underground Railroad” by Colson Whitehead
PLEASE NOTE The library will be closed March 1 and March 23 for Staff Development
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TEENS
Patricia Hruby Powell, left and Shadra Strickland appear at a March 16 Kids Events Coalition program at the Arts Council of Princeton.
Patricia Hruby Powell and Shadra Strickland Thursday, March 16, 6 p.m. The author and illustrator talk about their book “Loving vs. Virginia: A Documentary Novel of the Landmark Civil Rights Case.” The novel in verse explores the story of Mildred and Richard Loving, the couple whose marriage led to the Supreme Court decision to overturn Virginia’s law that forbid interracial marriage. Powell’s book, “Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker,” won a Sibert Honor for Nonfiction, a Coretta Scott King Honor and five starred reviews. She lives in Illinois. Strickland is an illustrator whose work has won an Ezra Jack Keats Award, a Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe Award for New Talent and an NAACP Image Award. She lives in Maryland. Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon St. Sponsored by the Princeton Kids’ Events Coalition, a partnership of Princeton Public Library, jaZams Toys & Books, Labyrinth Books and Princeton Public Schools. Presented with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this programming do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Harry Potter Trivia Wednesday, April 12, 3 p.m. Muggles, witches and wizards in grades 5–8 are invited to test their Harry Potter knowledge in a “Jeopardy”-style trivia game. Community Room TAB Spring Fever Sunday, May 21, 2 p.m. Teens are invited to take a break from studying and gather for live music, food and games. This event is coordinated by the library’s Teen Advisory Board (TAB). Hinds Plaza
CALL FOR ENTRIES
PRINCETON DETAILS STUDENT FILM bit.ly/PSFFentryform FESTIVAL JULY 19 & 20, 2017
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Go Between Club Saturdays, 2 p.m., March 11, April 8, May 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 VOICES: Continuing Conversations for Teens Saturday, March 18, 3 p.m. (Story Room); May 20, 3 p.m., (Conference Room) Meet other teens who are passionate about activism at these moderated discussions about hot topics such as racial profiling, global warming and international politics. Co-sponsored by the library, Redefy and Not in Our Town Princeton. To Be Discussed (TBD) Tuesdays, 7 p.m., March 28, April 25, May 23 All high school students are welcome to participate in this monthly discussion of great books, films, music, nonfiction, poetry and all things cultural. Participants may also help create book displays and reading lists for the library, take trips to see current films and do group-reads. Story Room Middle School Math Circle Monday, March 6, 13, 20, 27; April 3; May 1, 8, 15, 22 Princeton High School math enthusiasts show students in grades 6–8 how fun and fascinating math can be. Lesson plans will focus on applied mathematics and statistics. Study Room 354 Mercer County Math Circle Advanced Group Saturdays, 2 p.m., March 11, April 8, May 13 High school (and advanced middle school) students hear talks on a wide range of topics such as probability and how computers work. These talks will be geared toward making students think about math in a different way. Teen Center Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton University Math Club. Mercer County Math Circle Recreational Group Saturdays, 3 p.m., March 11, April 8, May 13 Designed for students in grades 6–12 who have a basic understanding of algebra, this series will integrate lectures with hands-on activities to illustrate how seemingly simple games and puzzles lay the foundation for advanced topics Teen Center Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton University Math Club. CONNECTIONS I 19
CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
Teacher, student, author Gita Varadarajan’s classroom connection leads to an acclaimed novel for young readers By AMY HIESTAND Connections Staff Writer ita Varadarajan didn’t expect a graduate school writing class to lead to the publication of her first novel. But that’s what happened when the recent immigrant from India took a workshop led by award-winning author Sarah Weeks at Teachers College, Columbia University. “I think it was destiny that brought us together,” Varadarajan said about Weeks in an email interview. “As part of an assignment, I wrote a short story about an Indian boy who had just moved to the U.S. and about his first day of school here. When the class ended, Sarah wrote me suggesting that she would put me in touch with publishers — or that I write the story with her. The rest, as they say, is history.” “Save Me A Seat,” the book that resulted from the teacher-student collaboration was published last year and tells the story of the first week of fifth grade through the eyes of two boys who have more in common than they think. Varadarajan wrote about Ravi, a popular star student in India struggling to find his place in a new school and culture. Weeks, the award-winning author of children’s books including “So B. It,” created Joe, who sits behind Ravi in class.
G
NO WEEKDAY STORY TIMES APRIL 10-21; MAY 22-31
“At first we wrote back and forth in our character’s voices,” Varadarajan said. “But soon we were able to live in the heads of both characters. So the story is not hers and mine, but ours. I learned so much from Sarah. But more than all the technical writing moves, the greatest gift was our collaboration, which was one of respect and joy.” In “Save Me A Seat,” the same bully torments Ravi and Joe and both struggle to gain the acceptance of classmates who have made unfair assumptions about them. Then, Ravi’s small act of kindness sparks the beginning of their friendship. The impact of kindness comes through clearly in the book, and Varadarajan believes that’s an important message for children to get. “Kindness is what is going to help us live together in peace and harmony,” she said. “We are all unique and it is extremely important that we celebrate one another. This is so relevant in our current polarized world. All of us need to feel valued and included.” Varadarajan, who teaches second grade at Riverside Elementary School, is looking forward to May, when she will visit the library to talk about and sign copies of “Save Me a Seat.” “I am so excited for the event at the library,” she said. “I can’t wait to hear the thoughts and ideas of kids who have read the book. Meeting the consumers of your writing is a high point, the ultimate experience … makes me feel like a celebrity.”
All events in the Story Room
Gita Varadarajan will be at the library on Thursday, May 4, at 6 p.m., outside the Story Room on the third floor.
Spanish 11:30 a.m.
Sponsored by the Princeton Kids’ Events Coalition, a partnership of Princeton Public Library, jaZams Toys & Books, Labyrinth Books and Princeton Public Schools.
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STORY TIMES
MONDAYS (Except May 29) 11 a.m. Letra Pequeña Ages 18 months and older
TUESDAYS-THURSDAYS (Except March 1 and March 23)
10 a.m. Storytime! Ages 18 months and older
11 a.m. Baby Storytime Ages 0-17 months
11:30 a.m. Baby Playgroup Ages 0-17 months
SATURDAYS 10:30 a.m. Saturday Stories Ages 2 and older
SUNDAYS 3 p.m. Sunday Stories Ages 2 and older
WEEKEND WORLD LANGUAGE STORIES Ages 2 and older (except where noted). Under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.
Brazilian Portuguese 11:30 a.m. (Babies 11 a.m.) March 4, April 1, May 6
French 11 a.m.
(Babies 11:30 a.m.) March 18, April 15, May 20
German 3 p.m. March 25, April 29, May 27
Italian 4 p.m. March 19, April 9, May 14
Japanese 2 p.m. March 4, April 1, May 6
Russian 3:30 p.m.
(Babies 4:30 p.m.) March 4, April 1, May 6 May 11, April 8, May 13
for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org
Wallaby Tales returns on April 1.
FEATURED EVENTS Pi Day: Einstein Facts and Fun Saturday, March 11, 3:30 p.m. In this special Pi Day event led by staff from the Historical Society of Princeton and the library, we will examine the life of the man whose name has become synonymous with “genius.” In addition to a story time and craft, children will learn fascinating facts, such as how a childhood fascination with a compass played a role in the development of the Nobel prize-winning scientist. We will wrap things up by snacking on vanilla ice cream while enjoying some music by Mozart, two of Einstein’s favorite things. Community Room New Jersey Makers Day Saturday, March 25, 2 p.m. We’re joining libraries throughout the state to mark Makers Day, an event that introduces and celebrates maker culture and the benefits associated with making, tinkering and
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STEM-based learning. Through 4 p.m., a selection of small maker projects will be offered for children 5 and older and their families. Also, the Robotic Rockettes, a robotics team of middle school girls, sponsored by the Princeton YWCA, will demonstrate their creations. Third Floor Wallaby Tales Saturday, April 1, 11 a.m. Wildlife educator Travis Gale returns to the library sharing his humor and live animal guests from all over the world. Entertaining, high-energy and educational, the program highlights the importance of protecting the wildlife of the world. Community Room Part of the Princeton Environmental Film Festival.
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CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
Spring Science Expo/Día de la Ciencia is April 8 in the Community Room
Spring Science Expo Saturday, April 8, 1 p.m. This three-hour event for all ages features scientists and engineers from Princeton University sharing their research through hands-on demos. Areas include materials science, chemical, biological, electrical and mechanical engineering, as well as chemistry and physics. A Spanish speaker will be available at each table. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton University Department of Complex Materials. Día de la Ciencia Sábado, 8 de Abril a la 1 p.m. Este evento de tres horas dirigido a todo el público, dará la oportunidad de conocer los trabajos e investigaciones de científicos e ingenieros de la Universidad de Princeton a través de demostraciones prácticas. Las áreas que incluyen son: ciencia de los materiales, física y química, biología e ingeniería eléctrica y mecánica. Con científicos hispanoparlantes en cada mesa. Community Room Co-patrocinado por la Biblioteca Pública de Princeton y el Departamento de Materiales Complejos de la Universidad de Princeton. Author Gita Varadarajan Thursday, May 4, 6 p.m. The author and Riverside School second-grade teacher talks about and signs copies of her debut novel “Save Me a Seat.” Co-authored with Sarah Weeks, the book about two fifth-grade boys has been called “a refreshing spin on a story about fitting in and overcoming obstacles.” Third Floor, outside the Story Room
22 I CONNECTIONS
Film: “Beethoven Lives Upstairs” Sunday, May 7, 2 p.m. Based on a popular audio play and featuring more than 25 excerpts of Beethoven’s best-loved works, this family movie tells the story of a young boy who develops a friendship with a boarder in his parents’ house, Ludwig von Beethoven. Presented in partnership with The Princeton Festival Guild in advance of its June production of Beethoven’s opera “Fidelio.” 52 minutes. Community Room Meet Beethoven Saturday, May 13, 1 p.m. Actor and musician Dennis Kobray of Meet the Musicians presents a living history program on the life, times and music of Beethoven. For fourth-graders through adults. Presented in partnership with The Princeton Festival Guild in advance of its June production of Beethoven’s opera “Fidelio.” Community Room
Dennis Kobray appears as Beethoven on May 13.
for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org
Spring Breakout!
Dave Maiullo of Rutgers University presents Physics with a Bang on April 14.
Family Film: “Pete’s Dragon” Monday, April 10, 3 p.m. This remake of the 1977 children’s movie is the story of an orphaned boy who finds an unlikely caregiver in the form of a dragon he names Elliot. 1 hour, 43 minutes. Community Room
Discover Dinosaurs Tuesday, April 11, 3 p.m. Bill Bosenberg of Snakes -n- Scales presents a program showcasing dinosaurs and fossils. Are there any descendants of dinosaurs alive today? Attend this exciting program to find out. Community Room
Harry Potter Trivia Wednesday, April 12, 3 p.m. Muggles, witches and wizards in grades 5–8 are invited to test their Harry Potter knowledge in a “Jeopardy”-style trivia game. Community Room
www.princetonlibrary.org
Lego Challenge Thursday, April 13, 2 p.m. This program, presented by the Young Engineers of Princeton, introduces elementary school students, ages 6 to 12, to the basic principles of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Limited to 35 participants. Please register at princetonlibrary.org/events. Community Room Build with Lego Thursday, April 13, 2 p.m. This special two-hour drop-in event does not require registration. Story Room GaliLego Thursday, April 13, 3:30 p.m. The GaliLego program investigates mechanical systems from an engineer’s point of view and focuses on finding solutions for building complex machines using teamwork. Participants will explore the mechanical, mathematical and physical aspects of machines and the logical processes that go into building them. Limited to 35 students between 10 and 14 years old. Please register at princetonlibrary.org/events. Presented by the Young Engineers of Princeton. Community Room Physics with a Bang! Friday, April 14, 3 p.m. David Maiullo from Rutgers University returns with his popular physics program for children who are in kindergarten and older. Learn about the principles of physics and watch some demonstrations. Please be aware this program is extremely loud and not suitable for very young children. Community Room CONNECTIONS I 23
CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
Homework Help is available after school on the Third Floor or 2-10 p.m. daily through the online service Brainfuse, available at princetonlibrary.org
OTHER EVENTS Chemistry Saturdays Saturdays, 1 p.m., March 18, April 15, May 20 Members of Princeton University’s chemistry department conduct hands-on experiments for budding scientists 5 and older. Story Room Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton Chemistry Graduate Student Organization. Reading Treehouse Wednesdays, 4 p.m., March 8, April 12, May 10 This reading group for early chapter book readers (kindergarten to second grade) meets monthly on the second Wednesday of the month during the school year. Stories, read alouds, crafts and games that reflect a different theme each month are featured. No registration necessary. Story Room Acting Out Fridays, 4 p.m., March 3, 24, 31; April 7, 21; May 5, 12, 19 Students in kindergarten through third grade are invited to engage in dramatic activity including discussions, games, and other fun activities. No experience necessary. Princeton High School drama aficionados will lead the sessions. Story Room Cover to Cover Book Group Wednesdays, 4 p.m., March 15, April 19, May 17 This group for readers of chapter books meets the third Wednesday of every month during the school year to discuss chapter books, short stories, graphic novels and other literary interests. Activities include group reads, writing
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short book reviews and posting reviews and booklists in BiblioCommons. Registration is not required. Suggested for third, fourth and fifth graders. Story Room Letra Pequeña (Little Letter) Mondays, 11 a.m., March 6, 13, 20, 27; April 3, 24; May 1, 8, 15, 22 Through engagement with books, activities and crafts, these sessions are designed to help children and adults improve Spanish language skills. Sessions are conducted in Spanish and are intended for parents/caregivers to attend with babies and toddlers. Story Room Chess Tuesdays, 4 p.m., March 7, 14, 21, 28; April 4, 18, 25; May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Children can learn to play and practice chess at these weekly drop-in sessions led by Princeton High School Chess Club members. Story Room Co-sponsored by the library and Princeton High School Chess Club. Build with LEGO and DUPLO Thursday, April 13 2 p.m.; Thursday, May 25, 4 p.m. Children in grades 1–5 are invited to participate in a noncompetitive community-based LEGO session, including building time and round-table discussion. DUPLO blocks will be available for younger children outside the Story Room. Story Room Co-sponsored by the library and Judy David. Pajama Story Time Wednesday, April 12, 6 p.m. Children and parents are invited to wear their favorite pajamas, slippers and bathrobes to the library and cuddle up for an early evening story time. Story Room
ENRICHMENT
Kim Lane Scheppele The End of the ‘End of History’: How Democracies Are Deconstructed from Within Wednesday, May 17, 7 p.m. The Laurance S. Rockefeller Professor of Sociology and International Affairs in the Woodrow Wilson School and the University Center for Human Values at Princeton University gives a talk. Community Room
Presented with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this programming do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities
CIVIC LIFE Continuing Conversations on Race and White Privilege Mondays, 7 p.m., March 6, April 3, May 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. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Not in Our Town Princeton. AARP Tax Help Mondays, 9 a.m., March 6, 13, 20, 27; April 3, 10, 17 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 10. Help is available for non-complex, individual returns only. Participants should bring a copy of
www.princetonlibrary.org
their 2015 return and documentation for 2016 income and expenses that may be deductible. Appointments may be scheduled through noon by calling (609) 924-9529, ext. 1220. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and AARP. Meet the Mayor Fridays, 8:30 a.m., March 31, April 28, May 26 Princeton residents are invited to discuss concerns with Mayor Liz Lempert. Lobby Free Tree Day Saturday, April 15, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. To commemorate National Library Week (April 9–15) and Earth Day on April 22, 750 free native New Jersey trees will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Limited to one tree per cardholder or community member. Hinds Plaza (weather permitting) or Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Sustainable Princeton. CONNECTIONS I 25
ENRICHMENT
Princeton Farmers Market returns to Hinds Plaza on April 13.
WELCOME TO THE U.S. Mercer County Community ID Card Program Thursdays, noon–2 p.m. and 5:30–7 p.m., March 2 to May 25 (except March 23) All Mercer County residents are eligible for this photo ID card, which provides the cardholder’s personal identifying information, medical risk factors, and emergency contact information. This privately issued card, sponsored by the One Community Coalition, may be used at social service agencies, schools, clinics, parks, post offices, and to access basic municipal or health services and as a form of identification by check cashing companies, banks, retail stores or other establishments. The Latin American Legal Defense & Education Fund, a nonprofit advocacy group, issues the card. There is a $15 cost ($10 for youth under 21 and seniors over 65) per card to cover expenses. For additional info, see www.laldef.org. Quiet Room Co-sponsored by the library and the Latin American Legal Defense & Education Fund. Citizen Preparation Classes Wednesdays, 7 p.m., April 5 to May 31 This series of nine classes is offered by The Latin American Task Force to assist in preparing for the U.S. Citizenship
26 I CONNECTIONS
Test. Classes include history and civics lessons and a review of basic English necessary for the citizenship interview. Conference Room Co-sponsored by the library and the Latin American Task Force. Voyage ESL Sundays, 4 p.m., April 23, 30; May 7, 21, 28 Speakers of world languages who are learning English as a second language are invited to drop in any time during these 90-minute sessions. Appropriate for beginning English learners. Second Floor
MISCELLANY Needlework Night Thursdays, 7 p.m., March 2, April 6, May 4 Bring your latest yarn or thread project to the library for a cozy night in front of the fireplace where you can see what others are making, swap craft wisdom and work on your project. Designer and crochet instructor Anastasia will be a special guest. All types of projects, from knitting to embroidery, are encouraged. Quiet Room
for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org Job Seeker Sessions Fridays, 9:45 a.m., March 3, 10, 24: April 7, 14, 21, 28; May 5, 12, 19, 26 The library and Professional Service 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 Code for Princeton Hack and Learn Night Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m., April 4, May 2 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. RSVP on the Code for Princeton Meetup page. Tech Center Origami Club for All Ages Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m., March 8, April 12, May 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 Princeton Farmers Market Thursday, March 9, 10 a.m. (Community Room); Thursdays, 10 a.m., April 13; May 18, 25 (Hinds Plaza) Local vendors offer a variety of goods including Jersey Fresh organic produce, free-range beef, poultry, pork and eggs as well as cheese, pickles, honey, baked good and candles during this five-hour event. Co-sponsored by the library and Princeton Farmers Market. Online Dating After 50 Tuesday, March 21, 7 p.m. Dating coach Gayle Crist, author of “How I Met My Second Husband Online at Age 50,” will share tips that helped her meet her second husband at age 50 and the current man in her life at age 61. Participants will learn how to write a profile that attracts your type of person, how to choose the best dating sites, what to write in the initial email and how to handle the first phone call and in-person meeting. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton Senior Resource Center.
PRINCETON PUBLIC LIBRARY IS PROUD TO JOIN
THE YWCA PRINCETON’S TENTH ANNUAL
STAND AGAINST RACISM
Friday, April 28, 4 p.m. Hinds Plaza www.princetonlibrary.org
Embracing the Beauty of the Aging Body Tuesday, April 18, 7 p.m. Sexuality education consultant Melanie Davis presents a workshop that promotes positive body image and sexual confidence. For adults of all genders. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton Senior Resource Center. A Celebration of Companion Animals with Patrick McDonnell Saturday, May 13, 3 p.m. The MUTTS cartoonist will talk about his commitment to helping homeless animals. He will also read from his recent collaboration with poet Daniel Ladinsky, “Darling I Love You,” a book celebrating the bond we share with our pets. His newly updated book “MUTTS Shelter Stories: Love. Guaranteed” will also be part of the talk. Adoptable pets from local animal welfare groups will be brought to the library as part of the program, so you might just meet your new best friend. Community Room
GROUPS FOR WRITERS The Write Space Tuesdays, 7 p.m., March 14, 28 (Quiet Room); April 11, 25; May 9, 23 (Princeton Room) Led by local author Christina Paul, this group focuses on the encouragement of writing, finding your voice, and the producing of words through guided prompts and other writing exercises. All levels of writers welcome for these drop-in workshops. Writing Workshop Thursdays, 7 p.m., March 9; April 13, 27; May 11, 25 Writers who are working on book-length work are invited to receive constructive critique from peers. The group is designed so that writers can help other writers of fiction and book-length nonfiction to strengthen characters and story structure. Participants range from published authors to those looking to improve their skills. Don Donato leads the workshop. Quiet Room Writers Room Tuesdays, 7 p.m., March 7, 21; April 4, 18; May 2, 16 Writers receive constructive feedback at these sessions, during which participants read their work and members offer suggestions. Works read are usually less than 15 minutes long, so there is time to discuss a number of pieces during each session. While nonfiction has been a focus in the past, fiction writers are welcome. Participants range from published authors to those looking to improve their skills. The group is led by Loretta and Fred Wish. Quiet Room
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Executive Director: Brett Bonfield
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 Public Programming Librarian: Janie Hermann Head of Youth Services: Susan Conlon Head of Adult Services: Janet Hauge Events Committee: Erica Bess, Mimi Bowlin, Katie Bruce Amanda Chuong, Susan Conlon, Kim Dorman, Kristin Friberg, Janet Hauge, Janie Hermann, Jocelyn Jimenez, Martha Liu, Violeta Manzanares, Kelsey Ockert, Caroline Quinones, Hannah Schmidl Staff Writer: Amy Hiestand Editing and design: Timothy Quinn
Help us Meet the CHALLENGE
A
s a first-time donor to the Annual Appeal, your gift will be doubled under a $30,000 Matching Gift Challenge by the library’s leadership boards. Together, this private support makes possible great programming and a first-rate collection for all ages.
Fall Science Expo, November, 2016
M A KE A GIFT T O D AY Dancing Under the Stars Opening Night Friday, May 26, 7 p.m. Members of Central Jersey Dance give demonstrations and lead others in an evening of dancing. This is the kickoff event of the 2017 season, which continues on the second and fourth Fridays from June through August, concluding Sept. 8. Hinds Plaza (weather permitting) or Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Central Jersey Dance.
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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR