The Soundtrack of Resilience: Music and 9/11
Wednesday, September 2, 7:00 pm In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, music played a powerful role in helping Americans mourn, remember, and begin to heal. This multimedia presentation explores how both existing songs and new music resonated deeply with the public in this somber period—from the emotional impact of Whitney Houston’s stirring national anthem to the inspirational message of “Hero” by Mariah Carey. At the center of the discussion is "The Rising", in which Bruce Springsteen captured the grief, courage, and hope that defined the months following the attacks. Presented by Melissa Kozlowski, Director of Curatorial Affairs, Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music, and Director of Public History, Department of History & Anthropology at Monmouth University.  |
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Making Sense of Pelvic Pain: Causes and Treatment Approaches
Thursday, September 10, 6:30 pm Pelvic pain is a common condition that can significantly impact quality of life for women and men. Please join Iram Fatima Shah, PT, DPT, PRPC, Pelvic Wellness Rehabilitation Coordinator, to explore common causes of pelvic pain and discuss treatment options, including the role of pelvic health physical therapy in effective, conservative management to enhance functional outcomes. Presented as part of the Penn Medicine Princeton Health Community Wellness Program. |
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Hearth, Home & Classroom: The First 100 Years of The Lawrenceville School
Wednesday, September 16, 7:00 pm Since its establishment in 1810, The Lawrenceville School has become an internationally recognized and acclaimed co-educational boarding high school and National Historic Landmark in central New Jersey. Prior to these achievements, the School spent nearly 100 years cultivating and expanding its unique environment and instructional methods. Join the community in learning about the School's first century of existence -- the people, structures, and even the land that made this institution possible. Presented by Sarah Mezzino, Curator of Decorative Art & Design for The Lawrenceville School in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. |
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Spain's Hidden Role in American Independence
Wednesday, September 23, 7:00 pm Join historian Dr. Carolina Castillo Crimm as she explores Spain's critical but often overlooked role in the struggle for American independence. Learn about Bernardo de Gálvez, the Spanish governor whose campaigns against British forces along the Gulf Coast helped weaken Britain's hold on North America. Discover how events unfolding in Texas, Louisiana, the Caribbean, and beyond were deeply connected to the fight for independence taking place throughout the American colonies. |
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Supporting the Caregiver: Burnout, Boundaries, and Resources
Thursday, September 24, 6:00 pm Caregiving is one of the most meaningful roles a person can take on — and one of the most demanding. Whether you are caring for an aging parent, a family member with a disability, or raising a child while managing other caregiving responsibilities, the emotional and physical toll can be significant. Join Colorful Dreams for an engaging panel discussion designed to help caregivers recognize the signs of caregiver burnout, tips for self-care, how to set healthy boundaries, and access the support they need. Our panelists will also address the often-overlooked experience of children growing up in caregiving households — and what parents can do to help them feel seen and supported. This program is designed for family caregivers, parents balancing caregiving responsibilities, social workers, case managers, and anyone looking for practical guidance and community support. Offered as part of the Colorful Dreams Care Program Series. |
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The Battle of Monmouth Courthouse: The Last Great Revolutionary War Battle in the North
Wednesday, September 30, 7:00 pm The Battle of Monmouth Courthouse (June 28, 1778) was the largest field artillery battle of the Revolutionary War and was the last significant battle fought on northern soil during that conflict. More widely known for the legend of Molly Pitcher and the dispute between Generals George Washington and Charles Lee, the battle is, to this very day, often misunderstood and overlooked in its significance. This presentation will provide an overview of the Battle of Monmouth and will conclude with a brief discussion of the history of Monmouth Battlefield State Park and the latest research being done by the current custodians of the battlefield’s historic legacy. Presented by Victor Pidermann, a Resource Interpretive Specialist – Historian with New Jersey State Parks |
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Teen Advisory Board
Friday, September 11, 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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Enjoy a range of talks from bestselling authors and thought leaders. Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. |
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The Democracy We Must Keep: Why the Ideas that Built America Still Matter with David O. Stewart Tuesday, September 1, 2:00 pm Join us as we chat with award-winning historian David O. Stewart about his newest work, The Democracy We Must Keep, and the question he explores throughout the book: What did America's founders say about democracy, and can we remain true to their vision for America? |
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From Her Mesa to Yours: Authentic Family Style Cooking with Jenny Martinez Thursday, September 3, 2:00 pm Bring the vibrant, comforting flavors of an authentic Mexican kitchen straight to your home! Join us for a mouth-watering, lively conversation with viral social media star Jenny Martinez as we dive into her celebrated debut cookbook, My Mexican Mesa, Y Listo! Beautiful Flavors, Family Style. Famous for her warm personality and her signature catchphrase, "y listo and enjoy," Jenny is ready to share the multigenerational family recipes and soulful cooking techniques that have captivated millions of fans worldwide. |
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Writing the Nightmare: A Ship Called Sickness and One Unforgettable Space Crew with Daniel Kraus Tuesday, September 8, 7:00 pm Prepare to launch into the darkest depths of deep space! Join us online as we sit down with master storyteller Daniel Kraus, winner of the 2026 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, to celebrate the release of his breathtaking new novel, The Sixth Nik. |
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The Art of Fighting: Building Better, Stronger Relationships with Priya Parker Tuesday, September 15, 4:00 pm Join us for a paradigm-shifting, essential event as we sit down with world-renowned master facilitator Priya Parker to discuss her groundbreaking new book, The Art of Fighting: The Transformative Power of Conflict. |
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The Comeback Conversation: Shifting from Surviving to Thriving with Yasmine Cheyenne Thursday, September 17, 2:00 pm  Where the Paletero Man Goes: A Journey of Neighborhood, Music, and Art with Lucky Diaz Thursday, September 24, 7:00 pm Grab a pocketful of change and get ready to dance down the street! Join us for an energetic conversation as we celebrate the joy of community and summer fun with Latin GRAMMY-winning musician Lucky Diaz, author of the sensational bilingual picture book, Paletero Man. Paletero Man: un viaje por el barrio, la música y el arte con Lucky Diaz [en español] Thursday, September 24, 8:00 pm Agarra un puñado de monedas y prepárate para bailar por la calle. Únete a nosotros para una enérgica conversación mientras celebramos la alegría de la comunidad y la diversión del verano con Lucky Diaz, músico ganador del premio Latin GRAMMY y autor del sensacional libro ilustrado bilingüe, Paletero Man. |
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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. Check out Library Chef classes this July and explore cooking techniques, bright summer flavors, and practical lifestyle tips -- all available to attend with your library card. |
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KIDS: Chicken Salad Sandwich Wednesday, September 9, 6:00 pmIt's National Chicken Month and we're celebrating! Kids will whip up tasty chicken salad sandwiches while building real kitchen skills like safe chopping, mixing, and assembling like a pro.
Cheesy Sourdough BiscuitsWarm, cheesy, fluffy sourdough biscuits fresh from your own oven! Learn the secrets to baking these irresistible bites, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a savory snack any time of day. TEENS: Stir-Fry Honey Chicken and Veggies Wednesday, September 16, 6:00 pm Sizzle up something amazing! Teens will learn to cook a flavorful honey chicken stir fry loaded with fresh vegetables. A quick, healthy weeknight meal they can make again and again. How to Hide Those Veggies:
Parent Nutrition Tips Wednesday, September 16, 7:30 pm Tired of the dinnertime veggie battles? Discover clever, creative ways to sneak more nutrition into everyday meals your kids will actually love. Packed with practical tips on reading labels, hiding vegetables in favorite dishes, and building balanced nutrition for the whole family, all while keeping mealtime fun and stress free. Asian Sticky Orange Chicken Wednesday, September 23, 7:30 pm Sweet, tangy, sticky, and absolutely addictive! Master this takeout favorite at home and learn how to build bold flavor in every bite. Love the heat? Add Thai chili peppers for a fiery kick. |
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Featured Titles for Patriot Day! |
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