Princeton NJ Libraries Announcements

Featured Adult Virtual Programs for April 2025 

Saving the Coral Reefs 

Thursday, April 3, 7:00 pm 

Learn about the Coral Reefs from the Aquarium Divers for Coral Society (ADFC), which works with other foundations to help stabilize the ocean by getting ahead of coral decline. Michael Anderson, ADFC's Founder, and certified coral restoration diver for 7 ½ years, will share an overview of coral and coral reefs. This will include the vital role they play in protecting coastal areas, and the ocean's ecosystem, as well as ADFC's mission and how people can get involved. The program will conclude with an opportunity for questions and answers with Mr. Anderson. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program. 

Monet: A Life Extraordinaire! 

Monday, April 7, 7:00 pm  Oscar-Claude Monet was a leading figure in the Impressionist movement that revolutionized French painting in the second half of the 19th century. His life, passions, background, personality, and relationships are incredibly interesting, and knowing these aspects of his life make appreciation of his works even more meaningful. Was he a rich artist, did he have friends, what was his personality, who did he inspire, who inspired him? All of these questions are answered by Monet in his paintings. Many of his most beautiful paintings will be highlighted as these are in private holdings and are only seen at exhibitions. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program. 

A Celebration of Arab Culture & Dialogue 

Monday, April 14, 7:00 pm 

National Arab American Heritage Month is recognized during the month of April to celebrate the history, heritage, and contributions of the diverse population of Arab Americans. Dr. Rania Habib, Professor of Arabic and Linguistics and the Arabic Program Coordinator at Syracuse University, will present a talk on the vibrant contributions of Arab culture with Q&A session immediately following. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program. 

New Jersey Genealogy  Tuesday, April 22, 6:30 pm 

Interested in tracing your New Jersey family history and not sure where to start? Regina Fitzpatrick, genealogy librarian at the New Jersey State Library, will review genealogy basics and strategies for finding the information you need to trace your family members. In addition, she will discuss the New Jersey State Vital Records collection and County Naturalizations available from the New Jersey State Archives, plus New Jersey State Library genealogy resources. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program. 

A Poetry Happening: Mercer Poets Read  Monday, April 28, 7:00 pm 

Join us for a celebration of National Poetry Month. Chip McAuley, poet and librarian, will host an evening of poetry, with local poets reading their own work or a favorite published poem. Poets may submit a poem, citing the author, to hopeprogs@mcl.org by Monday, April 21.  All are invited to attend the program for an enjoyable evening of poetry! Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program. 

Featured Adult In-Person Programs for April 2025 

ESL for Beginners 

Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29, 6:00 – 8:00 pm 

Hickory Corner Branch   138 Hickory Corner Road  East Windsor, NJ 08520 

609-448-1330 

This ESL class is designed for Beginning English adult learners looking to improve their speaking, reading, and writing skills and will emphasize practical vocabulary and grammar. Taught by a trained Literacy NJ tutor. Registration is requested. 

Imaginary Universes Book Club  Tuesdays, April 1 & 22, 6:30 pm 

Robbinsville Branch 

42 Robbinsville-Allentown Road 

Robbinsville, NJ 08691 

609-259-2150    For April 1 we will be reading The Children of Gods and Fighting Men by Shauna Lawless. Join us to discuss this novel based on Irish Mythology and real-life history! For April 22 we will be reading Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faires by Heather Fawcett. Join us to discuss this 2023 Goodreads Choice Award Nominee for Fantasy! Presented by Reference librarian Jamie Clay.  Registration is required. 

Film Screening: Conclave (2024) 

Wednesday, April 2, 2:00 – 4:00 pm 

Lawrence Headquarters Branch 

2751 Brunswick Pike 

Lawrenceville, NJ 08648 

609-883-8292 

Conclave follows one of the world's most secretive and ancient events – selecting the new Pope. Cardinal Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) is tasked with running this covert process after the unexpected death of the beloved Pope. Once the Catholic Church's most powerful leaders have gathered from around the world and are locked together in the Vatican halls, Lawrence uncovers a trail of deep secrets left in the dead Pope's wake, secrets which could shake the foundations of the Church. 120 minutes. Rated PG. Sponsored by Friends of the Lawrence Library. Registration is appreciated. 

Wednesday Film Festival: Robert Downey, Jr. 

Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2:00 – 4:00 pm 

West Windsor Branch 

333 North Post Road 

Princeton Junction, NJ 08550 

609-799-0462 

This month we're showing some of Robert Downey, Jr.'s films:  Dolittle on 4/2, Iron Man on 4/9, Sherlock Holmes on 4/16, Less Than Zero on 4/23, and The Singing Detective on 4/30. No registration is necessary. Sponsored by Friends of the West Windsor Library. 

Review for the Citizenship Exam 

Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, 4:00 pm; and  

Saturday, April 5, 3:00 pm 

Hightstown Memorial Branch 

114 Franklin St. 

Hightstown, NJ 08520 

609-448-1474 

If you are interested in becoming a U.S. citizen, we can help! Join our free preparation class to study and practice for your citizenship exam. Registration is required by phone at 609-448-1474. 

Chess for Adults 

Thursdays, April 3, 10, 17 & 24, 6:30 – 8:00 pm 

Hickory Corner Branch   138 Hickory Corner Road  East Windsor, NJ 08520 

609-448-1330 

Drop in for a friendly game of chess. Registration is requested. 

Poetry Reading & Open Mic 

Thursday, April 3, 6:30 – 8:00 pm 

Lawrence Headquarters Branch 

2751 Brunswick Pike 

Lawrenceville, NJ 08648 

609-883-8292 

Celebrate Spring with an enchanting poetry reading by local talents Maxine Susman and Ilene Millman. Maxine, with her latest poetry collection Northern Swim, has been published in numerous journals and anthologies. Ilene, a two-time Pushcart Prize nominee, shares her newest work A Jar of Moths. Join us for an inspiring literary event, followed by an open mic session! Registration is appreciated. 

Ikebana: The Japanese Art of Floral Arranging 

Saturday, April 5, 1:30 – 3:30 pm 

West Windsor Branch 

333 North Post Road 

Princeton Junction, NJ 08550 

609-799-0462 

"Ikebana", the art of Japanese flower arranging, has evolved significantly from its origins as temple offerings many centuries ago. It is now a popular living art form that emphasizes the harmony of simple linear construction and the appreciation of the delicate beauty of flowers and natural materials. In Ikebana, carefully selected elements are arranged not only to create a visually pleasing effect, but also to convey a sense of balance, harmony, and beauty in impermanence. In our class, we will complete an arrangement, allowing students to gain hands-on experience and explore their creativity. Sponsored by Friends of the West Windsor Library. 

Robbinsville Then and Now  Saturday, April 5, 2:00 pm 

Robbinsville Branch 

42 Robbinsville-Allentown Road 

Robbinsville, NJ 08691 

609-259-2150    Come learn about the 400+ years of Robbinsville history! We will look at the time of the Lenape to the advances brought about by rail lines, and highways, and from a successful agrarian community of homestead farms and hamlets to the current downtown model of community. We'll also explore the religious, social, educational and recreational needs of community, the development of governing entities, creation of land borders, and the relatively recent changeover from Washington Township to Robbinsville Township. Finally, we will discuss how our past is kept alive in a variety of manners – from our street names and community developments to historic markers and preserved structures.  Presented by Ellie Calcagno, Archivist for Robbinsville Township. Registration is required. 

Estate Planning Workshop 

Monday, April 7, 1:00 – 3:00 pm 

West Windsor Branch 

333 North Post Road 

Princeton Junction, NJ 08550 

609-799-0462 

Join Paul R. Daniele, Attorney at Law, as he answers questions and common misconceptions regarding estate planning. He also will go over a Power of Attorney, Living Will, Trust, Asset Protection and Medicaid along with Special Needs Trust. Presented by Paul Daniele, Attorney at Law, of Daniele Law, LLC.  

Getting Started with Kanopy 

Tuesday, April 8, 10:00 – 11:00 am 

Hickory Corner Branch  

138 Hickory Corner Road  

East Windsor, NJ 08520  

609-448-1330  

Learn how to access Kanopy. Please bring your Mercer County library card and a personal device (smartphone, tablet, or laptop). Registration is requested. 

All About Home Buying  Tuesday, April 8, 6:30 pm 

Robbinsville Branch 

42 Robbinsville-Allentown Road 

Robbinsville, NJ 08691 

609-259-2150    Join us how to determine the purchase price of your house; the associated costs—including closing cost and down payment; and how to build a financial plan, from your investment on home to alternative savings to conservative investment. Presented by realtor Pritti Duta, member of the National and New Jersey Association of Realtors, and a licensed Financial Services Professional. Registration is required. 

Author Visit: Amy Baldwin  

Thursday, April 10, 4:30 pm 

Ewing Branch  

61 Scotch Road 

Ewing, NJ 08628 

609-882-3148 

Meet a local children's author! Amy Baldwin will read her book Ziggy and Tray Go to the Library. You're invited to join Ziggy and Tray on their trip to the library! Learn how much fun it is to read and even have your own library card to take books home. When reading with Ziggy and Tray, there is never a dull moment, and you always learn something new. Registration is requested. Call 609-882-3148 or e-mail ewprogs@mcl.org. 

Poetry Circle: Poetry Month Reading 

Thursday, April 10, 6:30 – 8:00 pm 

Lawrence Headquarters Branch 

2751 Brunswick Pike 

Lawrenceville, NJ 08648 

609-883-8292  

Celebrate National Poetry Month with poets from the Mercer County Library Poetry Circle and U.S. 1 Worksheets. Enjoy an evening of captivating poetry readings that will inspire and delight. Leading up to the event, we encourage you to enter the "Who is Your Favorite Poet of All Time?" raffle by filling out an entry sheet. The drawing to announce the winner of a $25 Barnes and Noble gift card will take place at the end of the evening. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in a night of literary enchantment. Sponsored by Friends of the Lawrence Library. Registration is appreciated. 

Bingo 

Thursday, April 10, 6:30 pm 

Twin Rivers Branch 

276 Abbington Drive,  

East Windsor, NJ 08520 

609-443-1880 

Do you love games? The Twin Rivers Library has bingo! Join us and take a chance at winning a small prize. Registration is required. 

Mah Jongg in the Morning 

Saturdays, April 12 & 19, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm 

Hopewell Branch 

245 Pennington-Titusville Road 

Pennington, NJ 08534 

609-737-2610 

Open for players of all levels with a basic understanding of game play. Players use the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) 2024 card and rules. Registration is requested. Please call 609.737.2610 or email hopeprogs@mcl.org to register. 

Adult Craft: Scrap Wood Bunnies 

Monday, April 14, 2:00 pm 

Twin Rivers Branch 

276 Abbington Drive,  

East Windsor, NJ 08520 

609-443-1880 

Use pieces of scrap wood and paint to make cute bunnies. Registration is required. 

Finding Your Unclaimed Property 

Tuesday, April 15, 10:00 am 

Ewing Branch  

61 Scotch Road 

Ewing, NJ 08628 

609-882-3148 

Come to see if you are owed money! Presented by Lori Jones from New Jersey Department of the Treasury. Would you like to know if the New Jersey Unclaimed Property Office is holding financial assets for you? Unclaimed Property is any financial asset that has been unclaimed by its rightful owner for a specified time period. Unclaimed Property's mission is to reunite owners with their unclaimed financial assets, such as: stocks/bonds, insurance checks, utility deposits, savings and checking accounts, wages, and payroll checks. Registration is requested. Call 609-882-3148 or e-mail ewprogs@mcl.org. 

Free Coding Resources 

Tuesday, April 15, 7:00 – 8:00 pm 

Hickory Corner Branch  

138 Hickory Corner Road  

East Windsor, NJ 08520  

609-448-1330  

Learn about MCLS' free coding resources with your library card. Features: Fiero Code, LinkedIn Learning, and Amazon Web Services Training Center. Choose your own tutorials and work at your own pace. Assistance is available for beginners. Please bring your own tablet or laptop, and headphones or earbuds. Registration is requested. 

Free Eye Screening 

Thursday, April 17, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm 

Hickory Corner Branch  

138 Hickory Corner Road  

East Windsor, NJ 08520  

609-448-1330  

Register for a free vision screening performed by a certified eye screener and an eye doctor. Presented by the NJ Department of Human Services' Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI). Registration is required; call 609-448-0957 or visit the Reference Desk. 

Aging with Dignity - Advance Care Planning 

Thursday April 17, 6:00 pm 

Lawrence Headquarters Branch 

2751 Brunswick Pike 

Lawrenceville, NJ 08648 

609-883-8292 

Seventy percent of Americans nearing the end of their lives are unable to make decisions about their own healthcare. Join certified specialist Paul Knight for a one-hour session on the importance of Advance Care Planning. Learn how to discuss and document your end-of-life healthcare preferences. Attendees will receive a complimentary copy of "Five Wishes," a helpful guide for aging with dignity. Registration is appreciated. 

Dinner & Discover Seminar: AI 

Thursday, April 17, 6:30 pm 

Ewing Branch  

61 Scotch Road 

Ewing, NJ 08628 

609-882-3148 

Presented by Amanda Griffith, CCUFC Financial Wellbeing Impact Officer. Join us for an exciting in person event where we delve into the world of Artificial Intelligence. Get ready to explore the latest advancements, applications, and how to protect yourself. Don't miss this opportunity to gain insights and expand your knowledge about the fascinating field of AI. Dinner will be provided. Registration is required. Call 609-882-3148 or e-mail ewprogs@mcl.org. 

Cook the Book 

Thursday, April 17, 6:30 pm 

Twin Rivers Branch 

276 Abbington Drive,  

East Windsor, NJ 08520 

609-443-1880 

Borrow the selected cookbook, choose what to make in the comfort of your own kitchen, then meet to discuss what you liked or disliked about the book, culinary style, and the recipes you made. Our cookbook selection for April will be 100 Days of Real Food on a Budget. Pick up your cookbook at the circulation desk beginning March 20. Registration is required.   

2025 TrashedArt Contest Reception 

Tuesday, April 22, 6:30 – 8:00 pm 

Lawrence Headquarters Branch 

2751 Brunswick Pike 

Lawrenceville, NJ 08648 

609-883-8292 

The Mercer County Library System is hosting the 16th Annual TrashedArt Contest. The contest celebrates Earth Day by encouraging patrons to turn ordinary trash into extraordinary art. Entries will be judged by MCLS staff and local professional artists. Library patrons will also have a chance to vote for People's Choice award winners at each of the branches and on the MCLS website. Grand prize winners will be awarded for first, second and third places. Winners will have the opportunity to be featured on the MCLS "Behind the Books" podcast and featured on MCLS social media. Each branch will announce their "People's Choice" award winners at the TrashedArt reception as well.  The reception is open to the public and will be a great opportunity for library patrons to ask the artists about their work. Light refreshments will be served. Sponsored by Friends of the Lawrence Library. Registration is appreciated.  

Breathe, Relax, & Focus: Guided Meditation & Relaxation 

Tuesday, April 22, 7:00 – 7:30 pm 

West Windsor Branch 

333 North Post Road 

Princeton Junction, NJ 08550 

609-799-0462 

Be in the present moment and experience the joy of mindfulness, facilitated by Nila Satpute, a 13-year practitioner of Rajyoga.  Sponsored by Friends of the West Windsor Library. 

Memory Makers 

Wednesday, April 23, 11:00 am 

Twin Rivers Branch 

276 Abbington Drive,  

East Windsor, NJ 08520 

609-443-1880 

Looking for a fun activity for an adult in your life who has cognitive impairment or other special needs? At Memory Makers we'll have activities for adults with dementia/Alzheimer's or other special needs to participate in with their caregiver, whether a family member or companion caregiver. Registration is required. 

Murder Mystery Night: Death in Antarctica  

Thursday, April 24, 6:00 pm 

Twin Rivers Branch 

276 Abbington Drive,  

East Windsor, NJ 08520 

609-443-1880 

Murder Mystery Night is a night for solving a crime. Come individually, or as a group to sort through the evidence and find the killer! A dossier of evidence, clues, and maybe some red herrings will be provided for your crime solving pleasure. A smart device will be required for this program as there are digital clues to follow. Maximum six people per group. Please register only one person per group. Registration is required. 

How to Create a Pollinator Garden for Beginners 

Saturday, April 26, 10:30 am 

Hopewell Branch 

245 Pennington-Titusville Road 

Pennington, NJ 08534 

609-737-2610 

Join the Hopewell Valley Community Wildlife Habitat Program for a fun and informative session on starting your very own pollinator garden. Learn all about the importance of pollinators and how you can attract them to your garden. Expert speakers will guide you through the process step by step. You will learn how to start a garden of any size (even if you are new to gardening), why now is the time to start your garden and how to create a low maintenance garden that you'll love. Don't miss out on this opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment while beautifying your outdoor space. Registration is requested. Please call 609.737.2610 or email hopeprogs@mcl.org to register. 

Non-Fiction Book Group 

Tuesday, April 29, 10:30 am  

Ewing Branch  

61 Scotch Road 

Ewing, NJ 08628 

609-882-3148 

Join us to discuss Where the Deer and the Antelope Play by Nick Offerman. With wit, heartwarming stories and a keen insight into new and exciting ways to see both the past and the future of the country, the actor, writer and woodworker takes a literary journey to America's frontier to celebrate the people and landscape that have made it great. Registration is requested. Call 609-882-3148 or e-mail ewprogs@mcl.org. 

Native Plants: What You Need to Know 

Wednesday, April 30, 6:30 – 8:00 pm 

West Windsor Branch 

333 North Post Road 

Princeton Junction, NJ 08550 

609-799-0462 

Rutgers Master Gardeners of Mercer County will be here to discuss the benefits of Native plants in your garden. We will explain the way they help your local ecosystem and why they are easier and more beautiful than you think! Worried your garden is too shady or too sunny? We will cover plants that work for all types of gardens and help you find the perfect native plant for you. We will also have free wildflower seeds to take home and plant in your garden. Sponsored by Friends of the West Windsor Library. 

Featured Youth Services In-Person Programs for April 2025 

Kids' Concert with Miss Kim 

Wednesday, April 2, 10:00 am 

Hightstown Memorial Branch 

114 Franklin St. 

Hightstown, NJ 08520 

609-448-1474 

Enjoy classic children's songs and original tunes by local musician Miss Kim of Miss Kim's Children's Music. For ages birth-5 years. Sponsored by Hightstown Library Association. Registration is strongly suggested. 

Bilingual (Spanish/English) Bingo 

Mondays, April 7, 14, 21 & 28, 10:00 am 

Hightstown Memorial Branch 

114 Franklin St. 

Hightstown, NJ 08520 

609-448-1474 

Come learn Spanish and English vocabulary through the game of bingo and fun songs with native Spanish speaker, Miss Diana. For ages 2-5. Sponsored by Hightstown Library Association. Registration is required. 

Round Singing 

Mondays April 7, 14 & 21, 4:15 pm 

Lawrence Headquarters Branch 

2751 Brunswick Pike 

Lawrenceville, NJ 08648 

609-883-8295 

Nothing feeds the soul like singing in community! We will lead patrons of all ages and abilities—from babies to retirees—in singing simple rounds together in harmony. Shakers or scarves will be provided for those too young to sing. Sponsored by Friends of the Lawrence Branch. No registration is necessary. 

Storytime with Local Author Tomika Reid 

Tuesday, April 8, 10:30 am 

West Windsor Branch 

333 North Post Road 

Princeton Junction, NJ 08550 

609-799-0462 

Join us for stories, rhymes, and a themed craft!  This class will feature a special reading from local author Tomika Reid, who has written two children's books and four adult books.  In today's class, she'll read her book, Suzie Sings This is the Color, and we can all sing along with Suzie as we learn our colors!  For ages 2-5 with a caregiver.  Sponsored by the Friends of the West Windsor Library. Registration not required.  

Tim Hoh's Music for Kids 

Monday, April 14, 10:30 am 

West Windsor Branch 

333 North Post Road 

Princeton Junction, NJ 08550 

609-799-0462 

Get ready to rock and roll with Tim Hoh as he puts his own spin on classic children's songs!  Tim Hoh usually performs as part of our Music Fridays, but please come out for this special Monday concert during Spring Break!  For ages 0-5 years with a caregiver. Sponsored by the Friends of the West Windsor Library. Registration not required.  

Chick Pre-Hatch Party 

Tuesday, April 15, all day 

West Windsor Branch 

333 North Post Road 

Princeton Junction, NJ 08550 

609-799-0462 

The chicks are hatching again this year at the West Windsor Branch!  Join us for several pre-hatch events throughout the day, with pre-school-age activities in the morning, a mid-day movie, and school-age events in the afternoon.  See the calendar for exact listings and registration. You may also visit the branch any time during Spring Break to see the eggs and check on their progress!   Sponsored by the Friends of the West Windsor Library. Registration required for some events.  

Bluey Character Meet and Greet 

Wednesday, April 16, 10:00 am 

Lawrence Headquarters Branch 

2751 Brunswick Pike 

Lawrenceville, NJ 08648 

609-883-8295 

Bluey is visiting our Lawrence Branch! Come pose for a photo with Bluey and then stay for themed activities and light snacks. For all ages. Sponsored by Friends of the Lawrence Library. Registration is required at www.mcl.org beginning 12 hours before program start time.    

Kung Fu Demonstration 

Saturday, April 12, 10:30 am 

Lawrence Headquarters Branch 

2751 Brunswick Pike 

Lawrenceville, NJ 08648 

609-883-8295 

This playful theatrical production tells the legendary origin story of Kung Fu! Witness ancient "five animal" martial arts forms demonstrated by experienced practitioners from the Bau Shu Fang Lian School of Kung Fu.  Wind down from the comedic play through a meditation practice and discover Kung Fu's connection to the Buddhist philosophy of protecting one's mind from negativity.  Recommended for ages 6 and up, with a caregiver.  Registration is required at www.mcl.org beginning 12 hours before program start time.