Connections Spring 2016

CONNECTIONS

CONNECTIONS

The Princeton Public Library Magazine

The Princeton Public Library Magazine

Spring 2016

PRINCETON

ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL

TENTH ANNIVERSARY

2016

connections The Princeton Public Library Magazine

MERU and more as the festival marks a milestone

Freeman Dyson headlines a series of lectures, book discussions and films

FROM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BRETT BONFIELD

I

n the last few weeks, I have relished my status as Princeton Public Library’s newest employee and one of Princeton’s newest residents.

It has been thrilling to learn how much Princetonians respect and care about each other, and how seriously we take our role as neighbors to one another and citizens of the world. Given a community with such strong ties, is it any wonder how much we love our library?

In getting to know the community, I have been spending as much time as possible in conversations about the library, and those conversations have been passionate and opinionated. Though perspectives may differ, the message is consistent and clear: we want to ensure Princeton Public Library’s ongoing pride of place as the heart of town and the hub of our community. We also want it to continue to anticipate our needs.

“How are you going to go about it?” I am asked several times each day. “What’s your vision for the library?”

To answer that question, we have to answer another one first: “What is a library?”

Until recently, I thought of a library as a cooperative for infrequently needed, relative inexpensive, durable goods. For most people, a given library book or DVD is infrequently needed, relatively inexpensive to replace if lost or broken, and durable— they can be shared dozens of times before they wear out. The same applies to information we help you find, tasks we help you perform, programs in which you participate, ebooks you borrow, and computer sessions you reserve: they are all infrequently needed, relatively inexpensive, and durable.

The problem with thinking about libraries this way is that it places objects, services, and experiences at the center. What we need to do instead is place people at the center. Community.

I have not yet developed a new response to the question, “What is a library?” I hope, rather than answering it on my own, we can work together to develop an answer, one with community at its center. Our new definition must include all of us.

The 2Reimagine project, our second floor renovation, is a wonderful structural and symbolic representation of where this new definition can lead us. It is in the middle of the Sands Library Building, and it places people at the heart of the building. When it is complete, we will be able to work or learn in large groups, small groups, or in quiet, solitary contemplation. We will be surrounded by neighborhoods of books and enlivened by accessible, cutting edge technology. Although 2Reimagine will not be the last piece of the puzzle, it is an excellent place to start.

2 I CONNECTIONS

ON THE COVER: PRINCETON ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL

A decade of PEFF

10 questions answered, 10 films recalled and 10 memorable moments

MEMORABLE MOMENTS: From left, Rauol Momo, Dorothy Muller, director Byron Hunt at “Soul Food Jukies,” 2013; “Sourlands” debut, 2014; director Costa Boutsikaris, 2015. See Page 5.

F

or the 10th anniversary of the Princeton Environmental Film Festival, one of the library’s signature events, we had 10 questions for Susan Conlon, the festival’s founding director, and Kim Dorman, the associate director. We also asked them for 10 Memorable Films and 10 Memorable Moments.

This year’s festival, April 2–10, will feature awardwinning films, speakers and special events, such as a community-wide yard sale. A festival magazine will be available in mid-March. For updates, visit princetonlibrary.org/peff

10 QUESTIONS 1. We know PEFF began as a collaboration between high school students and the library. Who approached whom?

SC: The festival’s roots are planted in the library’s culture of creating dynamic, unconventional programs to bring people together. We nurture community collaboration and participation at all levels and the exchange of diverse ideas and voices. My focus on fostering youth engagement in library programming — through the student film festival that began in 2003 and our Teen Advisory Board — opened the door to high school students getting involved in events. One Princeton High School student in particular, Kai Marshall-Otto, was active in the library and had a passion for sustainability. He and I decided to pivot the human rights film festival the library ran at the time and cultivated a selection of films and talks on environmental themes. Right from the start, it captured the public’s attention.

www.princetonlibrary.org

2. What do you remember about the very first screening?

SC: The first film we screened at 2007’s PEFF was the documentary “An Inconvenient Truth.” At the time, it was not apparent that it would be a cultural watershed.

I remember that numerous people, starting Day One, approached me to offer ideas for “when we do the festival again next year.”

3. When did you first realize that PEFF was getting a wider reach in its profile?

SC: We were (and still are) the only environment-themed film festival in New Jersey and that attracted filmmakers from the beginning. Audiences were also enthusiastic to see films that often are in very limited run. Through talking with people who came to see the films, we learned we were attracting an audience not just from Princeton and the surrounding community, but also from New York, Pennsylvania and beyond. In 2011, a woman drove from Ontario to attend the event. In 2009, when we won the Public Library Association Highsmith Award, and when we were invited to take part in the Dominican Republic Environmental Film Festival in 2011, the profile of PEFF was raised both nationally and internationally.

4. From the beginning, the festival attracted community partners. How did some of the longer-term ones develop?

SC: The festival provides the library with a terrific opportunity to cultivate community partnerships. We are able to offer our partners the chance to connect with the public by sharing their expertise as speakers or participants on discussion panels after screenings. Some partners have also worked with us on our planning committee. We have invited partnership with numerous organizations in the Princeton region including Conserve Wildlife Foundation, Isles, D&R Greenway, OASIS (Organizing Action on Sustainability in Schools), Sustainable Princeton and the Suppers Program. We have also collaborated with NOAA, The Princeton University Office of Sustainability, and the Princeton Environmental Institute to secure many wonderful speakers. Many of our local Princeton businesses such as the Terra

ON THE COVER: PEFF continues on Page 4

CONNECTIONS I 3

ON THE COVER: PRINCETON ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL 10 MEMORABLE FILMS

10 QUESTIONS Chasing Ice, 2013 (three screenings)

Continued from Page 3 Momo Restaurant Group, the bent spoon and Small World Coffee have paired with us to provide festivalgoers with dinners or refreshments. Several screenings have taken place at the Princeton Garden Theatre, and we are grateful to them for their ongoing collaboration. The PEFF would not be possible without the financial support of our sponsors: Church and Dwight Inc., the New Jersey chapter of The Nature Conservancy, The Whole Earth Center of Princeton, The Waldorf School of Princeton and the Friends of the Princeton Public Library. We are very thankful for their support and know the community is, too.

The Chances of the World Changing, 2007

5. We know that a committee of library staff and community volunteers considers films and events. How does the screening process take place and what are the committee meetings like?

SC: We get started by evaluating what we thought worked with the current year’s festival then conduct open-ended brainstorming sessions for new ideas. We find films by following and attending other film festivals, keeping up with what our past filmmakers are doing and by promoting our call for entries. We watch films individually and also have shared-screening sessions and potluck dinner parties.

Once we start screening films, a theme begins to emerge, or seems to be revealed.

That connecting thread helps us build the lineup and provides broader themes to explore during the festival run. When making selections, the committee looks for high-quality films with excellent storytelling. The story is more important than the topic, and we are not driven by any specific issue. The value of the contribution of our committee members, who volunteer their time, is immeasurable.

King Corn, 2008 & 2009

Gasland, 2011

Waste Land, 2011

Queen of the Sun, 2012 This Way of Life, 2011

Pandora’s Promise, 2014 Blood Brother, 2014

6. Over the years, you’ve widened the scope of non-film programming to include everything from educational programs for young people to a community-wide yard sale. Last year, you closed one night with a drum circle. How are these ideas developed and vetted?

KD: These ideas come out of our very lively committee meetings where everyone is encouraged to offer their ideas and opinions. We develop about 100 ideas and wish we could do them all, but then we get realistic and the most viable ones win out. This approach has resulted in successful events like our Trashion Show, Let It Go Community Wide Yard Sale and the drum circle. We also develop programs to meet goals such as fostering the PEFF as a vital community event, broadening the reach of the festival and encouraging youth participation. It is a very creative process. We are constantly striving to find new and exciting ideas to keep the festival vibrant.

7. Have you ever regretted not screening a film and why?

KD: Here and there, mainly as a result of the film not being available for vetting in time, we have been unable to screen a film. One example is “The Cove,” the 2009 Academy Award-winning documentary that exposed the slaughter of more than 20,000 dolphins and porpoises off the coast of Japan. It was an important, outstanding film and, while we did not include it in the festival run, it was the first of our year-round Special Event screenings, which we continue to do today.

8. PEFF started as a January event, then moved to the spring. The length of the festival has also changed over the years. Please talk about the thinking behind these changes. Are more ahead?

KD: Our focus is always to show excellent films that allow us to consider our environment from different perspectives. All other parameters are fluid. We initially expanded the festival because there were so many films worth sharing. Then, we heard from some attendees that coming every day for two or three weeks was a bit

10 QUESTIONS continue on Page 5 The Island President, 2013

4 I CONNECTIONS

for complete information on the Princeton Environmental Film Festival, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org/peff

10 MEMORABLE MOMENTS The most memorable moments are when someone thanks us for screening a film because they learned something, the message resonated with them, they want to share it with people they know or it changed the way they see the world.

We hear comments like these every year. Beyond that, there are these unforgettable moments: 2009 During an intimate and moving evening, Wendy Benchley talked about her life and work with her late husband, author Peter Benchley who adapted his novel “Jaws” into the blockbuster film. She discussed their diving with sharks and how important sharks are to the balance of ocean life. She also talked about shark behavior and their critically endangered status. Stan Waterman talked about the work he and Peter Benchley did on several documentaries about sharks and the devastating effect overfishing and global warming have on marine animals.

2012 How did all of those fantastic electric cars get on the Hinds Plaza the night of Jan. 28 when we screened “Revenge of the Electric Car”? We’ll never tell.

2012 Filmmaker Emily Driscoll helped us launch our ongoing Dinner with the Director events after the screening of her film “Shellshocked: Saving Oysters to Save Ourselves.” The several-course dinner took place at Mediterra and featured – what else – oysters!

2012 We knew that people would be interested in the premiere of Jared Flesher’s “Sourlands” about the threats to Central Jersey’s largest contiguous forest, but were astonished when we had to turn crowds away in the middle of July.

2013 When we screened “Soul Food Junkies,” we worried that we wouldn’t have enough food for everyone in attendance. But, there was plenty in the fantastic buffet prepared by Dorothy Mullen of the Suppers Program and Raoul Momo of the Terra Momo Restaurant Group who later joined director Byron Hurt for a Q&A and discussion on preserving the most-loved traditions of cultural cuisines while adapting them for better health.

2013 A visit by wildlife educator Travis Gale of Wallaby Tales Traveling Zoo, who uses live animals in high-energy programs that focus on protecting the wildlife of the world, is always a big hit.

2014 Filmmaker Suzanne Mitchell surprised the audience at the Q&A following her film “Running Wild: The Life of Dayton O. Hyde” when she brought the legendary subject of the film to Princeton by video conference. The children seated closest to the screen elicited charming responses from Mr. Hyde to everyone’s delight.

2014 During the screening of “Blood Brother,” the closing film of that year’s festival, there was a powerful moment when daylight on the screen lit up the darkened room. Everyone we saw had tears running down their face. This was a testament, and just one of many, to how deeply people connect with these films, their stories and the memorable people the festival gives us the chance to know.

2015 We really enjoyed the panel discussion after “Farming at the Edge of Nature,” which brought together a new generation of farmers and others whose livelihoods are tied to the land.

2015 “Antarctic Edge” and “Inhabit: A Permaculture Perspective,” two New Jersey-produced films, were the best-attended films of last year’s festival.

10 HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2016 Saturday, April 2: “A Simple Question,” “An American Ascent,” “Meru” Tuesday, April 5: “How to Let Go Of the World (and Love All the Things Climate Can’t Change)” // Friday, April 8: “After the Spill” Saturday, April 9: Philadelphia Zoo on Wheels, “The Creature Show,” “Sky Line” “Newman” // Sunday, April 10: “Bluespace”

www.princetonlibrary.org

MEMORABLE MOMENTS: Clockwise from top, Travis Gale and Wallaby Tales, 2013; electric cars on Hinds Plaza, 2012; filmmaker Suzanne Mitchell and legendary cowboy Dayton O. Hyde, 2014.

10 QUESTIONS Continued from Page 4 daunting. Also, many filmmakers expressed a desire to meet and see each other’s films and that was difficult to do when the festival was spread over three weeks.

So we shortened the festival to meet those wishes. We also discovered that winter weather was not our friend. This year, April was selected to avoid snow cancellations and conflicts with spring breaks at the University and schools in Princeton.

9. The festival has grown out of its official dates to encompass events in the summer and fall. How did these come about and what were some of the highlights?

KD: At the library and PEFF, we try to bring our customers excellence all year round. Even when the festival is not under way, if a film comes to our attention or we are presented with an opportunity for an excellent program when a filmmaker or speaker becomes available, or if the subject of the film is timely, then the PEFF will support the screening. Some highlights that have occurred outside of the regular festival include full-house, standing-room-only screenings of “Queen of the Sun,” “GMO OMG” and the premiere of Jared Flesher’s film “Sourlands.”

10. What do you think the festival will look like in 10 years?

SC: We are mindful of managing the growth of the festival to maintain its status as a community event. Going forward, the stories and films will obviously change, and access to films will probably get even easier on devices still to come. But the films will always be a window to the past, present and future, and I think people will continue to value gathering together to interact at PEFF screenings.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS of the

CONNECTIONS I 5

ON THE COVER: HISTORY OF SCIENCE SERIES

Science:

MEETING OF THE MINDS: On March 8, Freeman Dyson, left, and Nima Arkani-Hamed will discuss changes in science since the 1940s.

A

s its title suggests, this spring’s History of Science series will explore some of the biggest scientific discoveries of the past.

But the series also features current projects that are advancing our understanding of the universe and programs that may inspire some scientists of the future.

“We are excited to announce this series,” said Hannah Schmidl, humanities programs development coordinator and NEH fellow at Princeton Public Library. “There are events for every interest, whether you’d like to attend a film screening and discussion, hear from authors about local history, bring your kids to a reading and activities, take part in a book discussion, or listen to a conversation with renowned scientists from our own community. We hope you’ll join us to learn more about some fascinating topics.”

The History of Science series is 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.

6 I CONNECTIONS

Thursday, March 3, 7 p.m.

Film and Q&A: “Particle Fever” The 2013 documentary tells the story of the first experiments at the Large Hadron Collider in Switzerland, follows the journey of the scientists involved in the project and offers a look into one of the most exciting physics discoveries of our time. Following the screening, Christopher Tully, professor of physics at Princeton University, will comment on the film and take part in a Q&A. Tully has conducted research at CERN for over 25 years and was a member of the team that discovered the Higgs boson. He will also speak about potential evidence for a new particle reported last December with the latest 13 TeV data. Tully is also author of the textbook “Elementary Particle Physics in a Nutshell” and co-author of “100 Years of Subatomic Physics.” Film running time: 1 hour, 39 minutes.

Community Room

Freeman Dyson in Conversation with Nima Arkani-Hamed Tuesday, March 8, 7 p.m.

This special event brings together two remarkable theoretical physicists affiliated with the Institute for Advanced Study. Freeman Dyson, a professor emeritus, is known for his work in mathematics, quantum electrodynamics, solid-state physics, astronomy and nuclear engineering. Nima Arkani-Hamed, currently on the IAS faculty, has interests in high-energy physics, string theory and cosmology. Dyson and Arkani-Hamed will discuss how science has changed from the 1940s to today. Dyson will sign two of his books following the talk. Community Room

for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org

Before and Beyond Thomas Levenson Lecture: “The Brief Life and Exciting Times of Vulcan — the Planet that Wasn’t There” Thursday, March 10, 7 p.m.

Thomas Levenson, professor of science writing at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, discusses and signs copies of his book “The Hunt for Vulcan ... And How Albert Einstein Destroyed a Planet, Discovered Relativity, and Deciphered the Universe.” The planet Vulcan first appeared in our solar system in 1859 as the only sensible explanation for Mercury’s misbehavior. It disappeared for good in 1915, banished from reality by Albert Einstein’s general theory of relativity. In between, its story is one of perfectly sound science, vaulting ambition and persistent self-deception, adding up to a cautionary tale about how science actually works. Community Room

Thomas Levenson

Film and Discussion: “CodeGirl” Friday, March 18, 6:30 p.m.

In this 2015 documentary, teams of high school girls from around the world develop apps to solve problems in their communities. Following the screening a discussion moderated

by Montgomery Upper Middle School teacher Violet Markmann features panelists from Code for Princeton, the Techsters of Montgomery Upper Middle School, and Stuart Country Day School of the Sacred Heart. Film running time: 1 hour, 47 minutes. Community Room Laurie Wallmark Author of “Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine” Sunday, March 20, 2 p.m.

The author will read from her children’s book “Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine,” an illustrated biography of Ada Lovelace. More than 100 years before the invention of the electronic computer, Byron followed her creativity in science and math to become the world’s first computer programmer. This story serves as an inspiration for children, especially girls, to be fearless in pursuing their passions.

Two craft activities appropriate for grades 1-5 will follow the reading. Story Room

“CodeGirl”

Angela Creager Book Discussion of “The Structure of Scientific Revolutions” by Thomas Kuhn Wednesday, March 23, 7 p.m.

Angela Creager, Thomas M. Siebel Professor in the History of Science and the director of graduate studies for History of Science at Princeton University, leads a discussion of the book that is considered the paradigmatic history of science text. Originally published in 1962, the book is still widely read by specialist and non-specialist audiences. Story Room Laurie Wallmark

www.princetonlibrary.org

Angela Creager

CONNECTIONS I 7

ON THE COVER: HISTORY OF SCIENCE SERIES Scott McVay Author of “Surprise Encounters with Artists and Scientists, Whales and Other Living Things” Wednesday, March 30, 7 p.m.

The author discusses and signs copies of his book, which invites readers to engage in provocative encounters with riveting explorers, whether artists or scientists, who have opened new ways for seeing the world and our place in it. For this presentation, McVay will focus on his inspiring encounters with scientists devoted to transformative change. He will share his engaging stories about these internationally famous “pathfinders.” Community Room

Kathryn Maxson Book Discussion of “Rosalind Franklin: The Dark Lady of DNA” by Brenda Maddox Wednesday, April 13, 7 p.m.

Kathryn Maxson, a doctoral candidate in the Program in History of Science at Princeton University, leads a discussion of Maddox’s book, which examines the largely unknown story of the life and work of Rosalind Franklin, whose data and photography of DNA led to James Watson and Francis Crick’s discoveries.

Story Room

Scott McVay

Rosalind Franklin

Clifford W. Zink

8 I CONNECTIONS

Clifford W. Zink Lecture: “Mercer Magic and the Story of America’s First Sports Car” Sunday, April 24, 2 p.m.

Historian Clifford W. Zink presents on the Raceabout, long considered America’s first sports car and a shining example of local entrepreneurship and innovation. At the height of Trenton’s industrial era, the Roebling family, bridge-builders and wire rope manufacturers, and the Kuser family, of banks and brewing, joined “to build a car in a class by itself.” The Mercer Automobile Company launched in 1909, and its premier model, the Mercer Raceabout, was designed for the “amateur sportsman” to drive around town during the week and take to the track to race on weekends. Mercer race drivers won numerous races culminating in the American Grand Prize in 1914, and the surviving Mercers are highly prized in private collections and museums. Community Room

PERFORMANCE All performances are in the Community Room.

PSO Soundtracks: Alphornist Ted Schlosberg Wednesday, March 2, 7 p.m.

Ted Schlosberg, director of the International Alphorn Ensemble, gives a demonstration of the traditional horns used by Swiss mountain dwellers to call in cows or communicate with others across the mountainside.

Schlosberg will don a traditional alpine costume and have several types of horns on display. Attendees will have an opportunity to participate in a horn-blowing contest and ask questions following the presentation. The fourth movement of Brahms’ Symphony No. 1 opens with a horn call transcribed

by Brahms from the Alphorns of Switzerland. The symphony is being performed at PSO’s March 13 Beholding Brahms concert. Refreshments will be served.

Co-sponsored by the library and Princeton Symphony Orchestra.

Indian Classical Dance Demonstration and Workshop Sunday, March 6, 1:15 p.m.

Ahimsa Aradhya, a junior at Moorestown Friends School, and a graduate of the Shishya School of Performing Arts, conducts a dance demonstration and workshop for all ages to promote awareness of the art form.

Ted Schlosberg

Ceol agus Cairdel (Music and Friends) Sunday, March 13, 3 p.m.

In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, Helen O’Shea presents an afternoon of music and dance in the Irish tradition, featuring 10 local musicians and Rince O’Chroi School of Irish Dance.

Women of Sondheim Sunday, March 20, 3 p.m.

Singer Katie Welsh and pianist Emily Whitaker, both 2015 graduates of Princeton University, consider what it means to be a “Sondheim woman” by exploring 12 female characters from the musicals of Stephen Sondheim. Stacy Wolf, professor of Theatre at Princeton University and a noted scholar in American musical theatre history, will lead a postperformance discussion on Sondheim.

Hamlet’s Castle or Mr. Shakespeare’s Musicke Tuesday, April 26, 7 p.m.

The Merrie Companions, featuring John Orluk Lacombe (lute), John Burkhalter (recorder) and Rebecca Merriman (soprano) commemorate 400 years since the death of William Shakespeare with an evening of song, music and a lecture.

The program includes works by composers associated with the Bard’s plays including Dowland, Johnson, Morley and others.

Tuneful Felicity Friday, April 29, 7 p.m.

The Practitioners of Musick, John Burkhalter and Donovan Klotzbeacher, perform a program of music from the early Federal period in America. Joining the Practitioners are soprano Sarah Pelletier, lecturer in voice at Princeton University and associate director of the Princeton High School Choir; and six girls from the Princeton High School Choir.

The performance includes the “Sonata” sung to George Washington on the occasion of his April 21, 1789, re-entry into Trenton on his way to Federal Hall in New York City to be inaugurated as the first president of the United States.

www.princetonlibrary.org

Ahimsa Aradhya

CONNECTIONS I 9

BOOKS & AUTHORS SPECIAL EVENT Book Lovers Luncheon with Curtis Sittenfeld Wednesday, April 27, noon

This spring luncheon, hosted by The Friends of Princeton Public Library, features a talk by bestselling author Curtis Sittenfeld (“Sisterland,” “American Wife,” “The Man of My Dreams,” “Prep”), who will discuss her latest book, “Eligible.”

A modern adaptation of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” the acclaimed book is part of The Austen Project and has been called “a clever retelling of an old-fashioned favorite”

by Publishers Weekly. The event features a delicious threecourse lunch and a copy of “Eligible” for all attendees. Join a community of readers for lively conversation about “Eligible” and other buzz-worthy titles. Tickets, limited to 150, are $75 and may be reserved at princetonlibrary.org/booklovers.

Proceeds benefit the library.

Springdale Golf Club, 1895 Clubhouse Drive Sponsored by the Friends of Princeton Public Library.

Curtis Sittenfeld

OTHER AUTHOR APPEARANCES Library Live at Labyrinth: Kelly Simmons Wednesday, March 16, 6 p.m.

The author discusses her recently released novel “One More Day,” about the kidnapping of a toddler and his mysterious return. Labyrinth Books, 122 Nassau St.

Sarah Bakewell

Kelly Simmons

Library Live at Labyrinth: Sarah Bakewell Tuesday, March 29, 6 p.m.

Bakewell discusses her new book “At the Existentialist Café: Freedom, Being and Apricot Cocktails,” an account of one of the 20th century’s major intellectual movements and the revolutionary thinkers who came to shape it.

Labyrinth Books, 122 Nassau St. Library Live at Labyrinth: Deborah Yaffe Wednesday, April 13, 6 p.m.

The author of “Among the Janeites: A Journey Through the World of Jane Austen Fandom,” discusses Austen fan fiction and the Austen Project spearheaded by HarperCollins. The Austen Project is a series of six novels by bestselling authors who write their own take on one of Austen’s books. Following the presentation, Yaffe will sign copies of her book.

Labyrinth Books, 122 Nassau St. On April 27, the Friends of the Library are hosting bestselling author Curtis Sittenfeld whose latest book “Eligible,” a modern retelling of “Pride and Prejudice” is part of The Austen Project. See princetonlibrary.org/events.

Tracy K. Smith

10 I CONNECTIONS

Tuesday, April 19, 7 p.m.

Tracy K. Smith The author and Pulitzer Prize-winning poet reads from and signs copies of “Ordinary Light: A Memoir,” the story of her coming-of-age and struggle to fashion her own understanding of belief, loss, history and what it means to be black in America. Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon St. Co-sponsored by the library and the Arts Council of Princeton.

for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org Eddie S. Glaude Jr. Tuesday, May 3, 7 p.m.

The author discusses and signs copies of his book “Democracy in Black: How Race Still Enslaves the American Soul.” In the book, Glaude argues that America’s race problem is not solved and offers thoughts on a better way forward. Glaude is the chair of the Center for AfricanAmerican Studies and the William S. Tod Professor of Religion and African American Studies at Princeton University.

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.

BOOK GROUPS

MYSTERY BOOK GROUP Led by librarian Gayle Stratton; Mondays, 7:30 p.m., Christopher Reeve Room March 7, “The Coroner’s Lunch” by Colin Cotterill April 4, “The Gods of Gotham” by Lyndsay Faye FICTION BOOK GROUP Led by librarian Kristin Friberg, Thursdays, 10:30 a.m., Conference Room March 10, “The Door” by Magda Szabo April 14, “The Sympathizer” by Viet Thanh Nguyen BLACK VOICES BOOK GROUP Organized by library associate Kim Dorman, Thursdays, 7 p.m., Christopher Reeve Room March 10, “Lose Your Mother: A Journey Along the Atlantic Slave Route”

by Saidiya Hartman April 14, “Ordinary Light: A Memoir” by Tracy K. Smith

Eddie S. Glaude Jr.

POETS AT THE LIBRARY

Co-sponsored by the library, Delaware Valley Poets and the U.S. 1 Poets’ Cooperative.

Poets read for 20 minutes each followed by an open-mic session. Community Room Winifred Hughes and Lois Marie Harrod Monday, March 14, 7:30 p.m.

Hughes is the author of “Nine-Bend Bridge,” which won the Red Berry Editions 2015 summer chapbook contest. Her poems have appeared in Poetry, Atlanta Review, International Poetry Review, and The Literary Review. Harrod’s most recent collection is the chapbook “And She Took the Heart.”

Her poetry collections, “Fragments from the Biography of Nemesis” and the chapbook “How Marlene Mae Longs for Truth” were released in 2013. She teaches creative writing at The College of New Jersey.

Book Launch: “U.S. 1 Worksheets” Sunday, April 3, 2 p.m.

The U.S. 1 Poets’ Cooperative launches Volume 61 of its journal that contains selected works by 152 poets. In addition to members’ work, more than half of the poems in this issue come from writers across the United States and beyond. Pennsylvania artist Nancy Shill donated her collage for the cover. Doors open at 1:15 p.m.; the reading begins at 2 p.m. Refreshments will be served.

Co-sponsored by the library and the U.S. 1 Poets’ Cooperative.

www.princetonlibrary.org

CONNECTIONS I 11

FILM “Labyrinth of Lies”

“Mustang”

“Room”

“Boy and the World”

FEATURE FILMS PRINCETON INTERNATIONAL CINEMA SERIES Screenings are at the Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau St. Princeton University ID cardholders, Princeton Public Library cardholders and Garden Theatre members may purchase tickets at $6. The library will also offer cardholders free tickets for each screening, while supplies last. Call (609) 924.9529, ext. 1218 or visit the Welcome Desk for availability. Co-sponsored by the library, the Davis International Center at Princeton University, the International Employees Group at Princeton University and the Princeton Garden Theatre.

“Labyrinth of Lies” Thursday, March 3, 5:30 p.m.

A young prosecutor attempting to bring a former extermination camp guard to justice is frustrated by Nazis embedded in the German government. German with English subtitles; 2 hours, 2 minutes.

“Boy and the World” Thursday, April 7, 5:30 p.m.

In this acclaimed animated feature, Cuca’s cozy rural life is shattered when his father leaves for the city, prompting him to embark on a quest to reunite his family. Brazil; musical without dialogue; 1 hour, 20 minutes.

12 I CONNECTIONS

“Mustang” Thursday, May 5, 5:30 p.m.

After a playful incident is deemed inappropriate by their guardians, five orphaned sisters live under strict rule while preparing for arranged marriages. Turkish with English subtitles; 1 hour, 36 minutes.

FIRST FRIDAY FEATURE SERIES “Room” Friday, March 4, 6:30 p.m.

This 2015 drama tells the story of a 5-year-old boy experiencing the world for the first time after being held captive his entire life with his mother. The screenplay was written by Emma Donoghue and adapted from her novel of the same name. 1 hour, 58 minutes.

“Brooklyn” Friday, April 1, 6:30 p.m.

Based on the novel by Colm Tóibín, “Brooklyn” is the story of Ellis Lacey (Saoirse Ronan), a young Irish immigrant navigating her way through 1950s Brooklyn. 1 hour, 51 minutes.

“The Big Short” Friday, May 6, 6:30 p.m.

This film, based of the book of the same name by Michael Lewis, traces the roots of 2008’s financial crisis through the eyes of four opportunists who predicted and profited from it.

2 hours, 10 minutes.

Except for the International Cinema Series, all screenings are in the Community Room

“The Big Short”

“Suffragette”

“Carol”

“Brooklyn”

“2e: Twice Exceptional”

MORE FEATURES “Suffragette” Tuesday, March 22, 7 p.m.

Carey Mulligan and Helena Bonham Carter star in this British period drama about the women who were willing to lose everything in their fight for equality in early 20th-century Britain.

1 hour, 46 minutes.

“Carol” Friday, April 12, 7 p.m.

In 1950s New York, two women from very different backgrounds develop a bond that leads to love and consequences. Based on the novel “The Price of Salt” by Patricia Highsmith. 1 hour, 58 minutes.

DOCUMENTARIES Film and Panel Discussion: “2e: Twice Exceptional” Sunday, March 6, 3 p.m.

This documentary follows the personal journeys of a group of high school students in Los Angeles who have been identified as “twice exceptional” – gifted or highly gifted individuals with learning disabilities or differences. A post-screening panel discussion will feature psychologist and learning consultant Wendy Matthews; Susan Morris, principal of Bridge Academy in Lawrence; and psychologist Elinor Bashe. 54 minutes.

www.princetonlibrary.org

Film and Q&A: “Adults with Autism: The Journey Home” Friday, April 22, 6:30 p.m.

This documentary follows four individuals with autism over time and validates the teaching approaches guided by the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis. While not a “cure” for autism, Applied Behavior Analysis has shown success in helping those with autism learn to eliminate problematic behaviors and perform constructive tasks that allow them to reach levels of competence and independence that are rewarding to themselves and to their parents. The film includes footage that shows the individuals’ progress from childhood through adulthood and commentary from parents who reveal their challenges and successes along the way. Following the screening, producers Roland and Pam Machold, longtime Princeton residents, will answer questions about the film. Refreshments will be served.

1 hour, 37 minutes.

Film and Q&A: “Elementary Genocide: The School to Prison Pipeline” Thursday, May 12, 7 p.m.

This documentary, produced by award-winning journalist and filmmaker Raheim Shabass, examines the systemic cultural, social and ecomonic forces that contribute to the startling mass incarceration among African-American and Latino youth.

The film features candid interviews and voice-narration culled from original interviews by professors, teachers, authors, children and parents. Local entrepreneur, community activist and author Tracey Syphax will lead a post-screening Q&A. Co-sponsored by the library, CENJC Trenton/Princeton and the Petey Greene Program.

CONNECTIONS I 13

CHILDREN AND FAMILIES SPRING BREAK PROGRAMS Hunters of the Sky Tuesday, March 29, 3 p.m.

Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge introduces live raptors (birds of prey) in this presentation. Learn each species’ unique characteristics, habitats and how they have adapted to survive. The audience will get to touch artifacts, such as wings and talons and see different raptors up close. Community Room Treasures of Princeton Tour Wednesday, March 30, 2 p.m.

Elementary and middle school students and their parents are invited to take a guided tour of Princeton University and downtown Princeton. Limited to 30 children. Registration required through the events calendar at princetonlibrary.org.

Meet at 116 Nassau St. Co-sponsored by the library and Princeton Tour Company.

Hunters of the Sky

Walking Tour and Treasure Hunt at Marquand Park Thursday, March 31, 2 p.m.

Take a guided tree tour and join in a treasure hunt of Marquand Park Arboretum, a 17-acre historic preserve of trees and woodlands. Originally the landscaped garden of a 19th-century estate, the park has a rich collection of native and exotic trees, some of which are the largest of their kind in New Jersey. Pedestrians can access Marquand Park from Mercer Street or Stockton Street. The main entrance and the parking lot are on Lovers Lane.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

Walking Tour and Treasure Hunt at Marquand Park

Einstein Facts and Fun Saturday, March 12, 3:30 p.m.

This Pi Day event is a fun and interactive session for children ages 6-10 led by staff from the library and the Historical Society of Princeton. We will examine the life of the man whose name has become synonymous with “genius” with a story time and craft. Children will learn how a childhood fascination with a compass played a role in the development of the Nobel prize-winning scientist along with other fun facts. We will also eat some vanilla ice cream and listen to music by Mozart, two of Einstein’s favorite things. Third Floor Habitats Around the World Saturday, April 9, 10 a.m.

Philadelphia Zoo on Wheels presents a program about the diverse wildlife habitats that exist around the world and how the animals that live in them thrive. We’ll also learn how our choices at home impact animals throughout the world and ways to become a “wildlife warrior.” For children 5 and older.

Part of the Princeton Environmental Film Festival.

Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and the Philadelphia Zoo.

Habitats Around the World

14 I CONNECTIONS

for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org Drop Everything and Read (D.E.A.R.) Tuesday, April 12, 4 p.m.

Celebrate the 100th birthday of beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary by making a Top 10 list of things you would drop everything for. Then, find a book based on a theme from your list to read for an hour during our D.E.A.R. event. Drop Everything and Read programs are held nationwide on April 12 in honor of Cleary, who included a passage about D.E.A.R. in her book “Ramona Quimby, Age 8.” Third Floor Nano Day Saturday, April 16, noon Children, teens and adults explore presentations and see demonstrations by Princeton University scientists and engineers about the miniscule world of atoms, molecules and the nanoscale. We’ll also learn about exciting new materials science research during this three-hour event which also features fun, hands-on activities. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and the National Science Foundation-funded Princeton Center for Complex Materials.

Earth Day Story Time and Craft Friday, April 22, 11 a.m.

Children 3 and older are invited to think about what happens to water bottles once they’re empty at this special Earth Day story time. We’ll learn about the importance of recycling and create something beautiful from an old water bottle.

Story Room

BOOK CLUBS Reading Treehouse 1 Mondays, 4 p.m., March 14, April 11, May 9 This reading group for developing readers in kindergarten and first grade meets monthly on the second Monday during the school year. Stories, reading aloud, crafts, games and more that reflect a different theme each month are featured.

Third Floor Reading Treehouse 2 Mondays, 4 p.m., March 21, April 18, May 16 This reading group for second- and third-grade readers meets monthly on the third Monday during the school year. Stories, reading aloud, crafts, games and more that reflect a different theme each month are featured. Third Floor Cover to Cover Book Group (C2C) Saturdays, 11 a.m., March 5, April 2, May 7 This reading group for fourth- and fifth-graders meets the first Saturday of every month to discuss books, short stories and other interests related to books. Activities include group reads, writing short book reviews and learning to post booklists in BiblioCommons. Study Room 354

Nano Day

A FULL SUITE OF ONLINE LEARNING TOOLS FOR STUDENTS AND ADULTS princetonlibrary.org/homework

CHILDREN AND FAMILIES continues on Page 16

www.princetonlibrary.org

CONNECTIONS I 15

CHILDREN AND FAMILIES MORE ACTIVITIES Letra Pequeña (Little Letter) Mondays, 11 a.m.; March 7- 28; April 4-25; May 2-23 Through engagement with books, activities and crafts, children and adults improve Spanish language skills.

Conducted in Spanish, sessions are intended for children 2-5 years old accompanied by a parent or caregiver. Story Room LEGO Fridays, 4 p.m., April 1, May 20 Children in grades 1-5 are invited to participate in a noncompetitive community-based LEGO session, including building time and roundtable discussion. LEGO bricks provided by Judy David. Duplo blocks will be available for younger children outside the Story Room. Story Room Co-sponsored by the library and Judy David.

Acting Out Wednesdays, 4 p.m., March 2, 9, 16, 23; April 6-27; May 4-25 Students in kindergarten through third grade are invited to engage in dramatic activity (but only the good kind of drama), including discussions, games and other fun activities.

No experience necessary. Princeton High School drama aficionados will lead the sessions. Story Room Rock & Rhythm Fridays, 4 p.m., March 11, April 8, May 13 Music and movement are important at every stage of a child’s development, particularly so for babies and preschoolers. Rock & Rhythm blends music, movement, rhymes, read alouds, fingerplays and other interactive activities, while enhancing early literacy skills. This program is intended for children up to age 5 accompanied by a parent or caregiver. Community Room

princetonlibrary.org/1000books

Chess Tuesday, 4 p.m., March 1-29; April 5- 26; May 2- 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

STORY TIMES

Spring schedule begins March 1

All events in the Story Room, third floor

TUESDAYS

WEDNESDAYS

THURSDAYS

SATURDAYS

SATURDAY WORLD LANGUAGE STORIES

10 a.m.

Storytime!

10 a.m.

Storytime!

10 a.m.

Storytime!

10:30 a.m.

Saturday Stories

Ages 2 and older. Under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

Ages 18 months and older

Ages 18 months and older

Ages 18 months and older

Ages 2 and older

11 a.m.

Baby Storytime

11 a.m.

Baby Storytime

11 a.m.

Baby Storytime

SUNDAYS

Ages 0-17 months

Ages 0-17 months

11:30 a.m.

Baby Playgroup

11:30 a.m.

Baby Playgroup

Ages 0-17 months

Ages 0-17 months

Ages 0-17 months

11:30 a.m.

Baby Playgroup Ages 0-17 months

4 p.m.

Afternoon Stories Ages 2 and older

16 I CONNECTIONS

3 p.m.

Sunday Stories Ages 2 and older

Arabic 4 p.m. March 19, May 21

Brazilian Portuguese 11:30 a.m. March 26, April 23, May 28

Chinese 11:30 a.m. March 5, April 2, May 7

French

Japanese 2 p.m. March 5, April 2, May 7

Russian 3:30 p.m. March 5, April 2, May 7

Spanish 11:30 a.m. March 12, April 9, May 14

2 p.m. March 19, April 16, May 14

TEENS SPECIAL EVENTS College Admissions Essay Workshop Saturday, March 19, 2 p.m.

Novelist, former English teacher and Princeton native Molly Moynahan, author of “Pitch Perfect: How to Write a Successful College Admission Essay,” helps students access their personal stories and turn them into focused, engaging and effective essays. Participants are asked to bring their laptop or notebook and pen. Copies of “Pitch Perfect” will be available for signing and purchase. Teen Center Improv Night Saturday, March 19, 7 p.m.

A night of improvisational comedy for high school and college students. Community Room

Molly Moynihan

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 Sunday, May 15, 3 p.m.

As the war of Panem escalates to the destruction of other districts, Katniss Everdeen, the reluctant leader of the rebellion, must bring together an army against President Snow, while all she holds dear hangs in the balance. 2 hours, 16 minutes. Community Room TAB Spring Fever Sunday, May 22, 2 p.m.

Teens are invited to take a break from studying and gather for live music, food and more. Hinds Plaza

Improv Night

DISCUSSIONS Go Between Club Saturdays, 2 p.m., March 12, April 9, May 14 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. Story Room To Be Discussed (TBD) and Knitting Tuesdays, 7 p.m., March 22, April 26, May 24 All high school students are welcome to participate in this monthly discussion of great books, films, music, non-fiction, poetry and all things cultural. Participants may also help create book displays and reading lists for the library. Knitters are welcome to bring their latest project and join in on the discussion. Meets on the fourth Tuesday every month.

Teen Center VOICES: Continuing Conversations for Teens Saturdays, 3 p.m., March 19, April 16, May 21 Meet other teens who are passionate about activism at these moderated discussions of hot topics in the news such as racial profiling, global warming and international politics.

Story Room

TBD and Knitting

PRINCETON STUDENT FILM FESTIVAL JULY 20 & 21, 2016

CALL FOR ENTRIES Deadline June 1 bit.ly/PSFFentryform Filmmakers ages 14-25 are invited to submit films of 20 minutes or less to the festival, to be held July 20 & 21. Details on the entry form.

www.princetonlibrary.org

CONNECTIONS I 17

ENRICHMENT SPOTLIGHT ON THE HUMANITIES PUBLIC POLICY IN AMERICA 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.

Christopher Fisher Lecture: “We the People: History and the Many Sides of U.S. Identity in the Age of Human Rights” Wednesday, March 23, noon In this session, Fisher will examine the complex relationship between U.S. identity, social justice and human rights in post-Vietnam America. As America faced the legacies of war, the social upheaval of the long 1960s, and the expansion of the liberal state, it also complicated its notion of “the People.” Disentangling these relations will reveal important contours of late-20th century U.S. history and the challenges of contemporary citizenship. Fisher is associate professor of history at The College of New Jersey. Community Room

Christopher Fisher

Christopher Achen

18 I CONNECTIONS

David Shipler

Christopher Achen Discussing his book “Democracy for Realists: Why Elections Do Not Produce Responsive Government” Thursday, April 21, 7 p.m.

Christopher H. Achen will speak about the book he coauthored with Larry M. Bartels. In the book, the authors use a wide variety of evidence to demonstrate that voters often vote for parties or candidates based on social identities and partisan loyalties rather than political issues. This challenge to conventional thinking points the way to a different understanding of democratic government. Achen is the Roger Williams Straus Professor of Social Sciences and professor of politics at Princeton University. Community Room David Shipler Discussing his book “Freedom of Speech: Mightier than the Sword” Friday, May 6, 1 p.m.

Pulitzer prize-winning author David Shipler will speak about his new book “Freedom of Speech: Mightier than the Sword.” In this book, Shipler focuses on recent free speech controversies across the nation to highlight the importance of our First Amendment right to free speech. David Shipler has reported for The New York Times, is the author of six previous books, and has been a guest scholar at the Brookings Institution and a senior associate at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and has taught at Princeton University, American University and Dartmouth.

Community Room

for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org

SPECIAL EVENTS Live Radio Taping: “Person, Place, Thing” Wednesday, April 20, 7 p.m.

Randy Cohen interviews Warren Zanes, musician, author and Rock and Roll Forever Foundation executive director, for his public radio program where guests are asked to speak about a person, a place and a thing they find meaningful rather than about themselves. Zanes was a member of the band the Del Fuegos and recently published a biography of Tom Petty to critical acclaim. Cohen won multiple Emmy awards as a writer for “Late Night With David Letterman” and for 12 years wrote “The Ethicist” column for The New York Times Magazine.

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.

Talking about Discrimination, Racism and Other Tough Topics Thursday, April 28, 7 p.m.

Educational consultant Jen Cort, who partners with schools to create growth in relation to diversity, discusses talking to children and teens about religious discrimination and racism. Strategies to communicate more effectively, manage exclusion and increase inclusion at home and in schools will be presented. Best suited for teachers, parents and school administrators of children in grades 2-12. Community Room Co-sponsored by Not in Our Town Princeton and MindPrint Learning.

CIVIC RESOURCES AARP Tax Help Mondays, 9 a.m., March 7, 14, 21, 28; April 4, 11 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 11. Help is available for non-complex, individual returns only. Participants should bring a copy of their 2014 return and documentation for 2015 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. Overcoming Barriers to Green Building in Princeton Wednesday, March 16, noon Join members of Sustainable Princeton for a session featuring local LEED-accredited architects, contractors, planners and real estate agents for a solution-based interactive workshop focused on how to increase the number of healthy, green buildings in Princeton. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Sustainable Princeton.

www.princetonlibrary.org

Warren Zanes discusses and signs copies of his new book about Tom Petty with Randy Cohen, right, as part of a live taping of the radio program “Person, Place, Thing.”

Jen Cort presents a program on discrimination for students, teachers and parents.

CONNECTIONS I 19

ENRICHMENT

Members of Princeton Origami Club recently marked the club’s 10th anniversary meeting at the library. Organizers Karen Reeds, left above, and Laura Kruskal led the group in singing the Origami Anthem at the end of their anniversary meeting.

Meet the Mayor Fridays, 8:30 a.m., March 25, April 29, May 27 Princeton Mayor Liz Lempert holds open office hours monthly, answering questions and connecting constituents with municipal resources. Lobby Mercer County ID Program Sundays, 2-4 p.m, March 6, April 3, May 1 Thursdays, noon-2 p.m. and 5:30-7 p.m., through May 26 All Mercer County residents are eligible for the community ID card, a photo identification card providing personal identifying information, medical risk factors and emergency contact information. This is a privately distributed card with the sponsorship of community organizations comprising the One Community Coaliton. The ID may be used at social service agencies, schools, clinics, parks, post offices and libraries for purposes of access to basic municipal or health services and as a form of identification at 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 $10 charge ($5 for youth under 21 and seniors over 65) per card to cover expenses. For additional information, visit www.laldef.org.

Christopher Reeve Room Citizenship Preparation Classes Wednesdays, 7 p.m., April 6-May 25 This series of eight classes is offered by the Latin American Task Force to assist those who are preparing for the U.S. Citizenship Test. Classes include history, civics and a review of basic English necessary for the citizenship interview. Due to construction at the library, these classes will be offered off-site.

Co-sponsored by the library and the Latin American Task Force.

20 I CONNECTIONS

MISCELLANY Continuing Conversations on Race Mondays, 6:45 p.m., March 7, April 4, May 2 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.

Job Seeker Sessions Fridays, 9:45 a.m., March 4, 11, 18, 25; April 1, 15, 22 29; May 6, 13, 20 The library and Professional Services 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

Origami Club for all Ages Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m., March 9, April 13, May 11 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

for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org

A sure sign of spring: the Princeton Farmers Market returns to Hinds Plaza May 19.

QuickBooks in the Cloud Saturdays, 10:30 a.m., March 19, April 16, May 21 Bala Subramanian, owner and CEO of Synergism Inc., conducts a workshop providing basic training in the use of QuickBooks accounting software in the cloud for small business owners. Participants are encouraged to bring a fully charged laptop and download QuickBooks Online via a free 30-day trial from www.intuit.com to get hands-on experience during class. Seating is limited and registration is required at princeton.score.org. Conference Room Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton Chapter of SCORE. Princeton Farmers Market Thursday, April 21, 11 a.m.

Thursdays, 11 a.m., May 12-Nov. 17 Seasonal produce from local farmers, flowers, crafts and a variety of edibles are available through 4 p.m. at this weekly event. Live music from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Hinds Plaza Co-sponsored by the library and Princeton Farmers Market.

Learn to Download Digital Books and Audiobooks Tuesday, April 12, 2 p.m.; Tuesday, May 10, 10 a.m.

Princeton Public Library staff will help you learn how to download material from the library’s electronic collection.

Bring your device, sit down with us and let us help you get started. Help is available by appointment. Please call (609) 924-9529, ext.1220. Princeton Senior Resource Center Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton Senior Resource Center.

Harness the Power of Mobile Tuesday, May 17, 6:30 p.m.

Speaker Reina Valenzuela presents a webinar on using mobile technology for self-promotion and to drive more business.

Please register at princeton.score.org. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton chapter of SCORE.

www.princetonlibrary.org

FOR WRITERS The Write Space Tuesdays, 7 p.m., March 8, 22; April 12, 26; May 10, 24 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. Christopher Reeve Room Writing Workshop at PPL Thursdays, 7 p.m., March 10, 24; April 14, 28; May 12, 26 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 booklength nonfiction to strengthen characters and story structure.

Participants range from published authors to those looking to improve their skills. Workshop leader is Don Donato.

Christopher Reeve Room Writers Room Tuesdays, 7 p.m., March 1, 15; April 5, 19; May 5, 17 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.

Christopher Reeve Room 65 Words at 65 Witherspoon St. We’re looking for writers to contribute (short) short stories to help us celebrate National Short Story Month in May. How short? 65 words to be exact. We’ll post one story every day during May. Entry form: bit.ly/65Words

CONNECTIONS I 21

SUPPORT

A First Lady’s literary Jean Featherly Byrne is remembered with an endowment gift to support the children’s literature collection

W

hen Jean Featherly Byrne passed away last year, she was remembered publicly as First Lady of New Jersey from 1974 through 1982, an advocate for education and health care who hosted the likes of Jimmy Carter; Prince Phillip, Duke of Edingburgh; and Grace Kelly at Morven while raising seven children in the governor’s mansion. Those closest to her knew what she most relished was being a mother and grandmother.

It is in the latter roles that her son and daughter-in-law, Tom and Barbara Byrne, have chosen to memorialize her by establishing the Jean Featherly Byrne Endowment Fund for Children’s Literature at Princeton Public Library.

Tom, who grew up in West Orange and came to Princeton as a university student in 1972, remembers that books were a staple of his childhood, and in the lives of the four children he and Barbara raised in Princeton.

“My mom read to us every night when we were little.

If prompted on particular books, I could probably remember.

I do remember ‘Winken, Blinken and Nod’ for some reason,” he said. “My children read on their own at very young ages. They were reading Harry Potter at the same age that I was reading ‘The Little White House.’”

Barbara and Tom were living in New York — both were working in the financial sector — when Barbara was introduced to Jean Featherly Byrne.

“I first met Jean in 1979, a mother of seven children, First Lady of New Jersey and encased in a social and political whirl — yet the whirl did not touch her,” Barbara said. ”She was calm, elegant, thoughtful and she listened with an earnest and informed mind. She was the calm heart — loyal and true to her family at all times. And she made me welcome always.”

Barbara came to fully appreciate Jean’s way with children when Barbara and Tom returned to Princeton to raise a family.

“She was the best of mothers and the best mother-in-law.

I always knew I could call her, share my concerns and get the

22 I CONNECTIONS

Barbara and Tom Byrne have established the Jean Featherly Byrne

best perspective and advice,” Barbara said. “She was brilliant with young children, instinctively reading them and knew just the right thing to say and do. Jean Byrne was gifted with people and I am fortunate to have had her example.”

Barbara, vice chairman, investment banking at Barclays, and Tom, a former Democratic state chairman who runs Byrne Asset Management, thought an endowed memorial gift at the library was the perfect way to remember Jean, who began her adult life as an elementary school educator and never lost her passion for books, learning and working with children.

for more information about private support for the library, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org/support

legacy

THE FRIENDS OF THE PRINCETON PUBLIC LIBRARY PRESENT THE

BOOK LOVERS LUNCHEON FEATURING

Curtis Sittenfeld Wednesday, April 27, noon

See Page 10 for details

ORDER TICKETS princetonlibrary.org/booklovers PROCEEDS BENEFIT PRINCETON PUBLIC LIBRARY

SAVE THE DATE SEPTEMBER 17

Endowment for Children’s Literature at Princeton Public Library.

“My mom loved little kids, and our house was always full of books,” Tom said. “She read to us every day, so this just seemed an appropriate way to honor and remember her. The library is both a great collection and a kid-friendly place. I remember a state legislator who grew up in Camden telling me how much the public library meant to him when he was a kid, and I want the same for all kids.”

For more information about the library endowment, please contact Development Director Janet Simon: (609) 924-9529,ext.1251; jsimon@princetonlibrary.org

www.princetonlibrary.org

Featuring Elizabeth Strout

SUPPORTING PRINCETON PUBLIC LIBRARY of the

FOUNDATION

princetonlibrary.org/support

CONNECTIONS I 23

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, Susan Conlon, Kim Dorman, Kristin Friberg, Janet Hauge, Shelly Hawk, Janie Hermann, Jocelyn Jimenez, Timothy Quinn, Hannah Schmidl Staff Writer: Amy Hiestand Editing and design: Timothy Quinn

N O O S G N I M

CO

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2Reimagine second floor renovation project

Q: Why is the library redesigning its second floor?

A: The short answer is to serve our customers better. This project addresses customer needs for dedicated quiet space, additional room for technology instruction and programming, faster web access and a browseable collection of books.

Q: How is the project being funded?

A: About 96 percent of 2Reimagine is funded through private funds. The remaining 4 percent comes from municipal funding previously devoted to library capital improvements.

Q: When does the reimagining begin and how long will it last?

A: Design drawings are being finalized, with construction scheduled to begin in April. The project is expected to take between six and eight months to complete.

Q: Will the library be closed during construction?

A: No. Other than occasional closures to ensure public safety, the first and third floors of the library will remain open during construction.

Q: Where can I find space to work during construction?

A: The library is adapting areas of the first and third floors to accommodate additional seating and work space. The Community Room will transform into a collaborative workspace multiple days each week. (Check princetonlibrary.org for a schedule.)Cardholders can also reserve a limited number of passes for Princeton University’s Firestone Library.

Q: What’s happening with the books during construction?

A: Most of the collections on our second floor will be moved to an offsite storage facility for the duration of the renovation project. We are currently evaluating several working plans for access to our collections during construction.

Q: How can I help?

A: New gifts for the project are needed and welcome. Please contact Development Director Janet Simon at (609) 924-9529, ext. 1251.

Q: What else do I need to know?

A: Library staff will work to minimize the potential disruption to our customers during construction. Thank you for your patience.

For updates and to learn more, visit princetonlibrary.org/2Reimagine