MCLS Virtual Programs & Events
 
February 2026
Invited Speakers
Abolition and the Underground Railroad in South Jersey
Tuesday, February 3, 6:00 pm
Southern New Jersey in the Civil War era was a hotbed of fugitives from slavery, freedmen and abolitionists. Activists such as Harriet Tubman, Abigail Goodwin and Benjamin Sheppard assisted runaway slaves along the Underground Railroad in daring flights at night in the forests of the Pine Barrens. Abolitionists flashed lights from their boats in the marshlands of the Delaware Bay to signal to agents on land that fugitive slaves were on board. Please join us with author Ellen D. Alford as she recounts compelling narratives of abolition and the Underground Railroad in South Jersey.
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Cézanne: True to the Essence of His Subjects
Monday, February 9, 7:00 pm
Paul Cézanne (1839–1906) was one of the most influential artists in the history of modern painting, inspiring generations. His life, relationships, and lifestyle offer fascinating insights into this prolific painter. Born in Aix-en-Provence, Cézanne initially studied law to appease his father but ultimately followed his passion for art, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of work. Who was his closest friend? Who inspired him—and who did he inspire? Meet the artist whom Picasso once called “his one and only master.” Presented by Jeanne Johnson, docent at the Princeton University Art Museum as well as Morven Museum and Gardens. 
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New Jersey in the Revolutionary War
Tuesday, February 17, 7:00 pm
This presentation covers the period 1763 to 1789 (from the end of the French and Indian War to the establishment of the US Constitution). It explores the critical role our state (and particularly central Jersey) played in our nation's founding: from the Ten Crucial Days to the Battle of Monmouth Courthouse to the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the ratification of the Constitution. Co-sponsored with the Historical Society of West Windsor.
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Powers of Attorney, Guardianship, and Essential Legal Planning
Wednesday, February 18, 6:00 pm
Families supporting loved ones with long-term care needs often face difficult legal and planning decisions. Families, caregivers, professionals, and community members are invited to gain a better understanding of legal pathways that protect loved ones with dignity and respect. Participants will learn the basics of estate and long-term care planning, including wills, decision-making authority, guardianship, inheritance considerations, Medicaid planning, and the benefits of planning ahead rather than reacting in a crisis. Presented by attorney Ryann Siclari, Esq., an experienced practitioner in disability law, elder law, and long-term planning. Offered as part of the Colorful Dreams Care Program Series.
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Navigating College Admissions for Students with Learning Differences
Tuesday, February 24, 6:30 pm
This seminar is designed for all high school students and their parents, with an emphasis on students who have current 504 plans or IEPs. The seminar explores how learning differences are supported at the college level, including an overview of the tiers of academic and disability support offered across institutions. Families will learn how and when to communicate with colleges during the application process, how to prepare strategically for admissions, and how to identify colleges that are the best academic and personal fit. The seminar also provides guidance on navigating the application process with confidence, empowering students to make informed, self-advocating choices about their college journey. Presented by Gabrielle Cayton, founder of Ready to Launch, Educational Consulting.
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Staff-Led Programs 
Guided Meditation
Mondays, February 9 & 23, 4:00 pm
Relax, refocus, and rejuvenate. Take a moment to regain the peace lost during our busy days. Facilitated by staff member, Leena, who is a longtime practitioner of Rajyoga meditation. Please visit the MCLS Event Calendar to register for sessions in February.
Teen Advisory Board 
Friday, February 13, 3:30 pm
All teens are welcome to join! Come be a part of the MCLS Teen Advisory Board.  There are opportunities to enhance your leadership skills, earn community service hours, help run library programs, and write book reviews. New members always welcome!!
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Other Virtual Program Opportunities
Creativebug
Creativebug offers high-quality online arts and crafts classes led by expert instructors. In addition to on-demand courses, Creativebug features live, interactive classes that allow participants to craft along in real time and ask questions as the project unfolds.
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Learn It Live
Learn It Live is an online learning platform offering live, interactive classes on wellness, personal growth, and creative topics. Classes are taught in real time by expert instructors and allow participants to ask questions and engage during the session. Available online or through the Libby App.
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Library Chef
MCLS offers a delicious addition to our virtual program offerings: Library Chef! This unique culinary journey offers you the chance to enhance your kitchen skills with expert-led classes, all from the comfort of your home.
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Library Speakers Consortium
The Library Speakers Consortium is a partnership of public libraries working together to expand access to best-selling author talks. Register to attend a livestreamed event or watch the recording!
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Click here for a full list of programs

In this Issue
Invited Speakers
Staff-Led Programs
Other Virtual Program Opportunities
Featured Titles
Featured Titles
Child of the Dream: A Memoir of 1963 by Sharon Robinson
Child of the Dream:
A Memoir of 1963

Race Against Time: The Untold Story of Scipio Jones and the Battle to Save Twelve Innocent Men by Sandra Neil Wallace
Race Against Time:
The Untold Story of Scipio Jones and the Battle to Save Twelve Innocent Men

Revolution in Our Time: The Black Panther Party's Promise to the People by Kekla Magoon
Revolution in Our Time: The Black Panther Party's Promise to the People
Tigerbelle: The Wyomia Tyus Story by Elizabeth Terzakis
Tigerbelle:
The Wyomia Tyus Story

The Survivors of the Clotilda: The Lost Stories of the Last Captives of the American Slave Trade by Hannah Durkin
The Survivors of the Clotilda:
The Lost Stories of the Last Captives of the American Slave Trade

We Can: Portraits of Power by Tyler Gordon
We Can: Portraits of Power
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Mercer County Library System
2751 Brunswick PIke
Lawrence Township, New Jersey 08648
609-737-2610

https://mcl.org