Lawrence Headquarters Branch Programs
May 2026
Featured Adult Programs
Poetry Circle: Arthur Sze
Thursday, May 7, 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Join us for an in-depth discussion celebrating the current U.S. Poet Laureate Arthur Sze and his luminous body of work. A second generation Chinese American poet, born and raised in New York and a 1968 graduate of the Lawrenceville School in New Jersey, Sze’s poetry—rooted in Asian American experience, ecological awareness, and an intricate sense of connection—offers a resonant way to honor Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Together we’ll explore his meditative language, scientific and cultural imagery, and the reflective power of his work. Librarian Sharon will lead the discussion. Registration is appreciated.
Friends of the Lawrence Library May Book Sale
Early Admission*: Thursday, May 14, 1:00 – 4:00 pm
Friday, May 15, 10:00 am – 4:30 pm
Saturday, May 16, 10:00 am – 4:30 pm
Sunday, May 17, 12:30 – 4:30 pm
Monday, May 18, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Thousands of used, gently-read books will be available at the Friends of the Lawrence Library May Book Sale. Payment only by cash, check, or Zelle. A special Early Admission* event will be held Thursday, May 14, 1:00 – 4:00 pm where the public will have the first chance to get some amazing deals. Bring your own bag. Call 609-883-8294 for more information.
 
*Entry to the Early Admission is free for current members of the Friends of the Lawrence Library, $5 for the general public, and $20 for patrons with scanning apps or devices. This event is the only time scanning devices will be permitted. Sunday and Monday will be $5 a bag. 
Polynesian Cultural Show
Thursday, May 21, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with an evening of music, dance, and island spirit! Ukulele at Drexel Woods joins the Tehani MidEast & Polynesian Dance Co. for a vibrant showcase of Pacific traditions—joyful strumming, powerful storytelling, and the warm energy of Aloha. Come enjoy the performance, bring your enthusiasm, and join us in honoring the rich cultures of the Pacific. Registration is appreciated.
Featured Youth Services Programs 
Round Singing
Mondays, May 4, 11 & 18, 4:15 pm
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 the Friends of the Lawrence Branch. No registration necessary.
Mini Movers and Shakers
Tuesdays, May 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2:00 pm
This program is all about music and movement for the littlest ones! Join Miss Lauren as we play our favorite storytime songs and your babies and toddlers can sing, dance and move to the music. Shaky eggs, bells, bubbles and more! Suggested for ages 3 years old and under, with a caregiver to supervise. Sponsored by the Friends of the Lawrence Library. Registration is required at www.mcl.org beginning 24 hours prior to the event.
Paint Party
Wednesdays, May 6, 13, 20 & 27, 3:30 pm
It's a paint party! Dress for a mess and bring your creativity! Each week you can create a different masterpiece - either follow the example or make whatever you want! For kids ages 5 years old and up. Sponsored by the Friends of the Lawrence Library. Registration is required at www.mcl.org beginning 24 hours prior to the event.
Featured Virtual Programs
To see full program descriptions and additional virtual program offerings, please visit this month's MCLS Virtual Programs Newsletter.

Hidden Meanings in Chinese Art
Wednesday, May 6, 6:30 pm
Presented by Larry Mock, docent at the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco, CA.
 
The Timeline of Lawrence History:
300 Years in 60 Images
Tuesday, May 12, 6:30 pm
Presented by Dennis Waters, former Lawrence Township historian and current member of the Mercer County Library Commission.
 
Emergency Preparedness for Individuals with Access and Functional Needs
Thursday, May 14, 6:00 pm
Presented by Reed Thomas, Program Coordinator for the Personal Assistance Services Program (PASP). Offered as part of the Colorful Dreams Care Program Series.
 
The American Revolution 
and the Fate of the World
Tuesday, May 19, 7:00 pm
Presented by Dr. Richard Bell, history professor at the University of Maryland. Sponsored by the Friends of the West Windsor Library.
 
The Borscht Belt:
The Comic Legacy of the Catskills
Tuesday, May 26, 7:00 pm
Presented by entertainment historian John Kenrick.
News
Hold Lockers are now available!
Hold lockers give you the flexibility to pick up your library materials 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even when the branch is closed. Our new hold lockers are currently available at our Lawrence Headquarters and West Windsor Branches. Visit our website to learn more!
Museum Passes
MCLS patrons may reserve and checkout various museum passes through the library -- all for free using your library card! Many of the passes are now available digitally (with a few exceptions) so checking them out is easy. Visit our website to learn more or to reserve a pass today!
Arm in Arm Food Pantry
Mondays, May 4, 11 & 18, 2:00 - 4:00 pm
Are you experiencing food insecurity? Arm in Arm’s mobile food pantry will be at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch on Monday afternoons from 2:00 – 4:00 pm. Arm In Arm staff will register participants upon arrival.
Friends of the Library

Our Friends of the Library groups generously support our programs all year long.  Consider joining or donating to your branch's Friends group.  Ask for more information in the branch or visit our website.
 
 
 
These are just this month's highlights, dozens of programs for adults and youth take place at our branch every month.  View our full calendar for a complete list.
 
 
Featured Titles for Mystery Month
My Grandfather, the Master Detective by Masateru Konishi
My Grandfather, the Master Detective
If We Never End by Laura Taylor Namey
If We Never End
Cross Your Heart and Hope He Dies by Jenny Elder Moke
Cross Your Heart and Hope He Dies
To Kill a Cook by W. M. Akers
To Kill a Cook
Guilt: A Mystery by Keigo Higashino
Guilt: A Mystery
The Wish Ring Cipher by Alexandra Ott
The Wish Ring Cipher
Library Speakers Consortium - Virtual Author Talks
Radhi Devlukia-Shetty
JoyFull: Daily Rituals to Eat Freely and Live Radiantly
Tuesday, May 5, 2:00 pm
 
Marjan Kamali
On Courage, Turmoil, and the Transformative Power of Love
Thursday, May 7, 7:00 pm
 
Dr. Vivienne Ming
How to Robot-Proof Your Kids (and Yourself)
Tuesday, May 12, 2:00 pm
 
Dr. Patrick K. Porter & Ruchika Sikri
Ancient Wisdom and Modern Technologies for Peak Brain Performance
Thursday, May 14, 2:00 pm
 
Nir Eyal
Reshape Your Beliefs and Unlock Your True Potential
Tuesday, May 19, 2:00 pm
 
See More and Register Here!

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Lawrence Headquarters Branch
2751 Brunswick Pike
Lawrenceville, New Jersey 08648
609-882-9246

https://mcl.org/branches/lawrence