connections The Princeton Public Library Magazine WINTER 2017-’18
SONIA NAZARIO
connections
Pulitzer Prize-winner appears in a series on migration
The Princeton Public Library Magazine
Screenings, lectures, discussions, performance and art
FROM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BRETT BONFIELD
A
s I write this message, we have recently observed the five-year anniversary of Hurricane Sandy, which formed in the Caribbean on Oct. 22, 2012, and devastated Jamaica, Cuba and the Bahamas before heading north. Sandy followed the U.S. coast, along Florida, North Carolina and Virginia, and then made an unusual and tragic westward turn. On Monday, Oct. 29, 2012, the renamed Superstorm Sandy slammed directly into New Jersey and New York. In New Jersey alone, more than 350,000 homes were damaged or destroyed, and millions in the area went without power for a week or more, including almost everyone in Princeton. This story, far more than any other, is the one people tell me about the Princeton Public Library. After Sandy did its worst, devastating Princeton’s homes and infrastructure and claiming a life, the library became the primary gathering place for our community. During the week after Sandy, the library was the home away from home for about 8,000 people each day—a place for information, warmth, mutual support and conversation. We powered your devices and provided access to the internet. We provided books and other engaging ways for you to spend your time. It was the library writ large and it was the library distilled; it was The Princeton Public Library and it was your library. While we all hope never to experience anything like Sandy again, in the wake of a record-breaking storm season that included Irma, Harvey and Maria, some of the more deadly, devastating and powerful Atlantic storms on record, we need to plan accordingly. One way we are planning
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is by serving as one of Sustainable Princeton’s community partners as it develops its Climate Action Plan, which will help us do our part as a community to minimize our collective impact. Another way we are working to address the need for education and coordinated action is through the Princeton Environmental Film Festival, which will celebrate its 12th anniversary in the spring and hosts special events year-round.
We are a resilient community, dedicated to educating and supporting our children and teens, committed to providing resources for our agencies and expecting extraordinary services in return, and devoted to sustaining and enriching our individual intellects and psyches. The library is at the nexus of these efforts, a hub and a home, and we work every day to continue to merit your affection and trust. Regardless of the test or opportunities that you or nature or other circumstances place before us, we will be here for you.
ON THE COVER: SONIA NAZARIO
Travels with ‘Enrique’ An author’s journey offers understanding of migration
S
onia Nazario, who won the Pulitzer Prize for her 2002 Los Angeles Times series about Latin American children and the dangers they face while journeying across Mexico to reunite with parents living in the United States, will speak about immigration reform Thursday, Feb. 1, at Nassau Presbyterian Church. Nazario, whose 2006 book, “Enrique’s Journey,” expanded on the newspaper series and became a national best-seller, shared what her audience can expect from her talk when reached by email recently. The talk is cosponsored by The Hun School of Princeton and Nassau Presbyterian Church and is part of the community-wide Migrations Project. “I will discuss how my own story of overcoming tremendous obstacles as a young person made me believe I (knew something about) determination — until I learned what immigrant mothers were willing to do in the hopes of providing their children with a better life,” she said. “I’ll also discuss ‘Enrique’s Journey,’ the story of millions of single mothers who have come to the U.S. from Central America and Mexico in recent decades and left children behind in their home countries, and the modern-day odyssey those children often go on, alone, through Mexico on top of freight trains to find mothers they haven’t seen in years.” Nazario’s talk will be accompanied by powerful photographs and will cover reasons children migrate from Central America and how those reasons have changed radically in recent years. “Today children are fleeing some of the most violent places on earth,” she said. “You can have a full-throated debate about how this nation should treat economic migrants — people coming here for a better life — but the reality is that most coming here now unlawfully are from Central America, not Mexico, and qualify as refugees. That’s someone who is running from harm, for their life. I believe America should be a place that protects refugees, especially if they are our neighbors, and will present a case for protecting vulnerable children who arrive at our borders with no one by their side, with no place to turn. I believe that is who we are as a country.”
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In addition to describing the plight of migrant children and their families, Nazario will discuss what she thinks can be done about the issue. “I will offer solutions to the immigration issue that are radically different from what politicians on the left and the right have offered up for decades,” she said. “Approaches that have failed to stem the flow and keep more migrants at home where most would prefer to be.” Nazario will be introduced at the church by students of Otis Douce, director of cultural competency and global diversity at The Hun School of Princeton. The students recently took a trip to the border of Arizona and Mexico where they spoke with border patrol agents and undocumented families about some of the economic and social forces that started their journey to the United States. Sonja Nazario appears Thursday, Feb. 1, at 7 p.m. at Nassau Presbyterian Church. The free talk is co-sponsored by the library, the Hun School of Princeton and Nassau Presbyterian Church. ABOUT THE MIGRATIONS PROJECT The Migrations Project is a community-wide investigation of the theme of migration taking place throughout Princeton from February through May. Spearheaded by the Princeton University Art Museum, the project includes exhibitions, readings, residencies, performances, lectures, film screenings, workshops and community actions presented by more than 20 community partners and a host of campus organizations. In addition to Nazario’s appearance, the library’s Migrations Project programs this winter include a Feb. 20 staged reading of “Anon(ymous)” by Naomi Iizuka. There will also be a book discussion of “Enrique’s Journey” led by Otis Douce on Jan. 23 at 10:30 a.m. Additional book discussions will be Jan. 18, Jan. 21 and Jan. 28. The Migrations Project continues in the spring with a variety of events, including an April 18 visit by award-winning author Min Jin Lee who will discuss her novel “Pachinko.”
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SPOTLIGHT: THE VIETNAM WAR
SCREENINGS: THE VIETNAM WAR Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m., Dec. 6–20; Jan. 10–24; Feb. 7–28
Directed by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick, and written by Geoffrey C. Ward, the 10-part series tells the story of one of the most consequential, divisive and controversial events in American history and features observations by witnesses on all sides. All screenings are in the Newsroom. Dec. 6, Episode One: “Déjà Vu” (1858-1961) After a century of French occupation, Vietnam emerges independent but divided. Dec. 13, Episode Two: “Riding the Tiger” (1961-1963) As a communist insurgency gains strength, President Kennedy wrestles with U.S. involvement in Vietnam. Dec. 20, Episode Three: “The River Styx” (January 1964-December 1965) With South Vietnam near collapse, President Johnson bombs the North and sends U.S. troops to the South. Jan. 10, Episode Four: “Resolve” (January 1966-June 1967) U.S. soldiers discover Vietnam is unlike their fathers’ war, as the antiwar movement grows. Jan. 17, Episode Five: “This Is What We Do” (July 1967–December 1967) President Johnson escalates the war while promising the public that victory is in sight. Jan. 24, Episode Six: “Things Fall Apart” (January 1968–July 1968) Shaken by the Tet Offensive, assassinations and unrest, America seems to be coming apart.
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Feb. 7, Episode Seven: “The Veneer of Civilization” (June 1968–May 1969) After chaos roils the Democratic Convention, Richard Nixon, promising peace, wins the presidency. Feb. 14, Episode Eight: “The History of the World” (April 1969–May 1970) President Nixon withdraws troops but upon sending forces to Cambodia the antiwar movement reignites. Feb. 21, Episode Nine: “A Disrespectful Loyalty” (May 1970–March 1973) South Vietnam fights alone as Nixon and Henry Kissinger find a way out for America. POWs return. Feb. 28, Episode 10: “The Weight of Memory” (March 1973–Onward) Saigon falls and the war ends. Americans and Vietnamese from all sides seek reconciliation. Programming for The Vietnam War, a film by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick, is offered as part of a grant from the American Library Association, PBS and WETA Washington, DC. “The Vietnam War” is a production of Florentine Films and WETA, Washington D.C. Funding for “The Vietnam War” was provided by Bank of America; Corporation for Public Broadcasting; PBS; David H. Koch; Blavatnik Family Foundation; Park Foundation; The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations; The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation; The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation; National Endowment for the Humanities; The Pew Charitable Trusts; Ford Foundation Just Films; Rockefeller Brothers Fund; and Members of The Better Angels Society: Jonathan & Jeannie Lavine, Diane & Hal Brierley, Amy & David Abrams, John & Catherine Debs, Fullerton Family Charitable Fund, The Montrone Family, Lynda & Stewart Resnick, The Golkin Family Foundation, The Lynch Foundation, The Roger & Rosemary Enrico Foundation, Richard S. & Donna L. Strong Foundation, Bonnie & Tom McCloskey, Barbara K. & Cyrus B. Sweet III, The Lavender Butterfly Fund.
for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org
LECTURES AND RELATED EVENTS LECTURE Lloyd Gardner Vietnam Redux: Ken Burns Takes on His Biggest Challenge Sunday, Dec. 3, 2 p.m. The author and retired Rutgers University professor of history launches the library’s series of Vietnam War-related programs with a lecture about the Ken Burns and Lynn Novick documentary “The Vietnam War.” Gardner is past president of the Society of American Foreign Relations, a fellow of the Society of American Historians and recipient of an award for lifetime achievement from the American Historical Association. He is the author of more than 20 books on American foreign policy including “Approaching Vietnam: From World War II Through Dienbienphu, 19411954” and “Pay Any Price: Lyndon Johnson and the Wars for Vietnam.” 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.
PERFORMANCE Songs of Protest, Songs of Peace Saturday, Jan. 20, 7 p.m. Return to the era of the Vietnam War in this special show presented by Helen O’Shea (White Butterfly Music) and Richard Bozic (Bozic Voice Studio), featuring a selection of local vocalists and instrumentalists. The stories of the war during the 1960s and ’70s will be brought to life through the duality of the songs from that time, those of protest and those of peace. Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon St. Co-sponsored by the library and the Arts Council of Princeton. LECTURE Dan Linke Suits, Soldiers, and Hippies: The Vietnam War in Princeton Thursday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m. The Princeton University archivist gives an illustrated talk describing the reactions of the Princeton University community to the war, including campus protests, the SDS occupation of a defense contractor’s building, the Princeton Strike of 1970, and how the war protests ultimately brought structural changes to the university that are still in place today. Newsroom 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.
ART TALK Mark Ludak and Andrew Cohen Transition: Vietnam Thursday, Feb. 15, 7 p.m. The photographers, who are Monmouth University professors, speak about their photographs of Vietnam on display in the Reading Room. The photographs were chosen to give those viewing the Vietnam War series a chance to see how Vietnam has changed in the years since the war. Newsroom
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LECTURE Christopher Fisher American Power and Human Rights in the Post-My Lai Era Wednesday, Feb. 21, 6:30 p.m. The College of New Jersey associate professor of history examines the My Lai massacre and the anti-war movement, and discusses human rights and global American power in the Vietnam War era. Fisher will address the themes raised in Episode 8 of “The Vietnam War,” (screening Feb. 14 in the Newsroom) and examine the era from a human rights point of view. Fisher specializes in 20th-Century American diplomacy, the Cold War and race politics in the United States. Part of the library’s series of Vietnam War-related programs. Newsroom 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.
AUTHOR TALK Max Boot
The Road Not Taken: Edward Lansdale and the American Tragedy in Vietnam Monday, Feb. 26, 6 p.m. The best-selling historian discusses his biography of Edward Lansdale (19081987), the man said to be the fictional model for Graham Greene’s “The Quiet American.” The book demonstrates how Lansdale pioneered a “hearts and mind” diplomacy, first in the Philippines, then in Vietnam. It was a visionary policy that, as Boot reveals, was ultimately crushed by America’s giant military bureaucracy, steered by elitist generals and blue-blood diplomats who favored troop buildups and napalm bombs over winning the trust of the people. Boot rescues Lansdale from historical ignominy and suggests that Vietnam could have been different had we only listened. Labyrinth Books, 122 Nassau St. Part of the Library Live at Labyrinth series, cosponsored by the library and Labyrinth Books.
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 DISCUSSIONS “Dear America: Letters Home from Vietnam” by Bernard Edelman Monday, Jan. 22, 10:30 a.m. Librarian Janie Hermann and Humanities Fellow Hannah Schmidl lead a discussion of this collection of more than 200 letters from men and women who served in Vietnam. Conference Room “The Best We Could Do” by Thi Bui Wednesday, Feb. 7, 7 p.m. Librarians Janie Hermann and Kelsey Ockert lead a discussion of this illustrated memoir about a young immigrant and her family’s journey from war-torn Vietnam. Conference Room
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BOOKS & AUTHORS AUTHORS David Price Rescuing the Revolution: Unsung Patriot Heroes and the Ten Crucial Days of America’s War for Independence Monday, Dec. 4, 7 p.m. The author discusses his book, which presents nine biographical vignettes of people who remain the “unsung heroes” behind our nation’s struggle for independence during its darkest days. Price is a historical interpreter for the Friends of Washington Crossing Park and leads guided tours focusing on the Ten Crucial Days of the American Revolution and other aspects of Washington Crossing Historic Park in Pennsylvania. Newsroom 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.
S. Qaisar Shareef When Tribesmen Came Calling: Building an Enduring American Business in Pakistan Tuesday, Dec. 5, 7 p.m. The author, whose 30-year career with Procter & Gamble included 12 years working in Pakistan and Ukraine, discusses his book about building successful American businesses in emerging markets and exploring the interplay between business, economics, culture and politics. Community Room
Elin Hilderbrand Winter Solstice Friday, Dec. 8, 4 p.m. The New York Times best-selling author launches the final book in her popular Winter Street series. In the book, a celebration of everything we love — and some of the things we endure — about the holidays, the entire Quinn family gathers at the Winter Street Inn for a more joyous holiday than they’ve experienced in years. But it wouldn’t be a Quinn family gathering if things went smoothly. Join us for hot cider and holiday cookies to raise one last glass to the family. Community Room Jessica Bruder in Conversation with Matt Desmond Nomadland: Surviving America in the Twenty-First Century Tuesday, Dec. 12, 6 p.m. Bruder, award-winning journalist and Columbia School of Journalism adjunct professor, discusses her book about a growing community of nomads: Americans living on the road, often in RVs, as a way to avoid the expense of a permanent home. She will be joined in conversation by author and Princeton University sociology professor Matthew Desmond. Labyrinth Books, 122 Nassau St. Part of the Library Live at Labyrinth series co-sponsored by the library and Labyrinth Books.
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for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org Paul Halpern The Quantum Labyrinth: How Richard Feynman and John Wheeler Revolutionized Time and Reality Thursday, Dec. 14, 6 p.m. The author and professor of physics at the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia discusses his book, which tells the story of how the two eminent physicists engaged in a lifelong exchange of ideas, resulting in many of the innovations of late 20th-century physics. Labyrinth Books, 122 Nassau St. Part of the Library Live at Labyrinth series, co-sponsored by the library and Labyrinth Books. Matteo Farinella The Senses Tuesday, Jan. 16, 6:30 p.m. In his first independent work and second graphic novel about neuroscience, Farinella describes the most up-todate research about our senses alongside illuminating and humorous drawings. Farinella, received a doctorate in neuroscience from University College London and is currently at Columbia University as a presidential scholar in society and neuroscience. Newsroom Co-sponsored by the library and Labyrinth Books. Sonia Nazario Enrique’s Journey Thursday, Feb. 1, 7 p.m. The author discusses her best-selling book about a 17-yearold boy from Honduras who travels to the United States in search of his mother. Please see Cover Story, Page 3. Nassau Presbyterian Church, 61 Nassau St. Co-sponsored by the library, The Hun School and Nassau Presbyterian Church. Mitchell Cohen Politics of Opera: A History from Monteverdi to Mozart Sunday, Feb. 18, 3 p.m. The author and Baruch College political science professor discusses his latest book, a wide-ranging look at the interplay of opera and political ideas through the centuries. Newsroom Co-sponsored by the library, the Princeton Festival and Princeton University Press.
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY
SPECIAL ONE-DAY
PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE OF BOOKS BY THE FRIENDS SUPPORT LIBRARY PROGRAMS AND SERVICES THE FRIENDS BOOK STORE IS OPEN DURING REGULAR LIBRARY HOURS
SALE
Sunday, Dec. 17, 1–6 p.m. Gently used books (art, fiction and children's books)
in good condition, many suitable for gift-giving
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BOOKS & AUTHORS BOOK GROUPS MYSTERY BOOK GROUP Mondays, 7:30 p.m., Quiet Room Dec. 4 “The Mistletoe Murders: And Other Stories” by P.D. James Jan. 8 “Magpie Murders” by Anthony Horowitz Feb. 5 “The Dry” by Jane Harper CONTEMPORARY FICTION BOOK GROUP Thursdays, 10:30 a.m., Conference Room Dec. 14 “Swing Time” by Zadie Smith Jan. 11 “The Year of the Runaways” by Sunjeev Sahota Feb. 8 “The Improbability of Love” by Hannah Rothschild BLACK VOICES BOOK GROUP Thursdays, 7 p.m., Princeton Room Dec. 14 “The Souls of Black Folk” by W.E.B. Du Bois Jan. 11 “My Song, A Memoir” by Harry Belafonte Feb. 8 “Eslanda: The Large and Unconventional Life of Mrs. Paul Robeson” by Barbara Ransby VIETNAM WAR SERIES BOOK DISCUSSIONS See Page 5 for Details
POETS AT THE LIBRARY
Featured poets read from their works for 20 minutes each followed by an open-mic session. Co-sponsored by the library, Delaware Valley Poets and the U.S. 1 Poets’ Cooperative. All events are in the Newsroom.
David Crews and Betty Lies Monday, Dec. 11, 7 p.m. Crews earned a master’s in poetry from Drew University and is director of the Betty June Silconas Poetry Center at Sussex County College. He is the author of two poetry collections and has twice been nominated for a Pushcart Prize. Lies is the author of four volumes of poetry and four other books. She is the senior poetry editor of U.S. 1 Worksheets, teaches at the Princeton Senior Resource Center and is a member of Cool Women Poets.
HISTORICAL FICTION BOOK GROUP Scholars participate in discussions of the fictional elements and the nonfictional local and regional context of selected books at the headquarters of the Historical Society of Princeton.
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.
Elizabeth Anne Socolow and Erika Wagner Monday, Jan. 8, 7 p.m. Socolow is a founding member of the U.S. 1 Poets’ Cooperative. She was awarded two fellowships from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts and won the Barnard Women Poets Prize for her first published book of poems. Wagner received a degree in art history and painting from the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna. She also earned a degree in German literature from Rutgers and teaches French and German. 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.
Thursday, Feb. 22, 6:30 p.m. “A Gentleman in Moscow” by Amor Towles with Elena Fratto, assistant professor in the Department of Slavic Languages and Literatures at Princeton University. Updike Farmstead, 354 Quaker Road Co-sponsored by the library and the Historical Society of Princeton. 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.
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Alicia Ostriker and Ilene Millman Monday, Feb. 12, 7 p.m. Ostriker is the author of 16 books of verse as well as several books on poetry and on the Bible. Twice a National Book Award finalist, she is widely published in prestigious journals. She is a professor emerita of English at Rutgers University and teaches in the MFA program of Drew University. Millman is a speech/language therapist whose poetry has been published in a variety of print journals. Her first poetry collection is forthcoming. 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.
SPOTLIGHT: GOULD LECTURE SERIES
Honoring the good doctor
D
r. Kenneth Gould, a strong believer in lifelong learning, had a generous nature and a desire to perpetuate learning in others. As a result, the Princeton psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, together with his wife, financial adviser Audrey Gould, endowed an annual lecture series at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School where he was a professor of clinical psychiatry. They also sponsored lectures at New York University School of Medicine, where Dr. Gould received his MD. In October, 2014, the Princeton community also became a beneficiary of the couple’s generosity when they endowed the annual Kenneth and Audrey Gould Lecture to Princeton Public Library. The series features speakers on topics relating to the mind and the development and well-being of children, which was of special interest to Kenneth Gould, who was also a pediatrician. Dr. Gould died in December, 2014, just a few months after author and New York Times columnist Benedict Carey delivered the inaugural lecture of the series. “He was a very pleasant man with an easy smile,” Audrey Gould said about her husband of 59 years. “He was very learned but with great humility and was a wonderful man. Our daughters adored him.” The Goulds’ daughters, Ellen Gould Baber and Georgeanne Gould Moss are pleased about the lecture series at the library that honors their father’s memory, Audrey Gould said. “They know how much he valued learning and felt it would be a good way to honor my husband’s memory.” Audrey Gould is a member of the library’s board of trustees. “I think the library is the center of the community in terms of the general population of Princeton,” Audrey Gould continued. “People can go to the Community Room for lectures and music, find a wonderful book and so much more. It’s a great place and the people who work there are the nicest people. I think the town is very fortunate.” The fourth lecture in the Gould Lecture series, “The Environment: Understanding the Nature of the Challenge,” will be given by Harold T. Shapiro, former president of Princeton University, on Sunday, Dec. 10, at 1 p.m. in the Community Room. Shapiro is a member of the executive committee and associated faculty of the Princeton Environmental Institute Center for Environmental Research, Education & Outreach.
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The lecture series endowed by Audrey, above left, and Kenneth, above center, Gould will present former Princeton University President Harold T. Shapiro, below, on Dec. 10
“My husband was interested in many things, and certainly the environment was among his concerns,” Audrey Gould said. “My daughters and I share that concern, especially in environmental events that affect children’s health like the terrible fires this summer on the West Coast. I was very happy Dr. Shapiro agreed to speak on this important topic,” she said. The Gould Lecutre Series presents Harold Shapiro on Sunday, Dec. 10 at 1 p.m. in the Community Room.
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ENRICHMENT
State Climatologist David Robinson presents a lecture on New Jersey’s changing climate on Jan. 17 in the Newsroom.
LECTURES For lectures that are part of the library’s series of Vietnam War-related programs see Page 5. Robert Selig Rochambeau at Princeton Wednesday, Dec. 6, 7 p.m. The historian and expert on the role of the French forces under the comte de Rochambeau, during the American Revolutionary War discusses Rochambeau and the French expeditionary force he led through Princeton in August 1781 to help the Continental Army capture Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown. Marching from Phillipsburg, NY, across New Jersey on separate routes, the allied forces united just north of Princeton, where Rochambeau’s army camped on the grounds of Morven Aug. 29-31, 1781. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library, Princeton Battlefield Society, Morven Museum and Garden and the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail. 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.
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Harold T. Shapiro The Environment: Understanding the Nature of the Challenge Sunday, Dec. 10, 1 p.m. The former president of Princeton University gives the annual lecture endowed by the family of Dr. Kenneth Gould. See feature story, Page 9. Community Room David Robinson New Jersey’s Changing Climate Wednesday, Jan. 17, 7 p.m. The New Jersey state climatologist explores events and issues both immediate and long-term. PRINCETON ENVIRONMENTAL Intended to promote an understanding FILM FESTIVAL 2018 of global climate variability and change, the talk will address where we have been and where New Jersey’s climate may be headed. Newsroom This special event of the Princeton Environmental Film Festival is co-sponsored by the library and Rutgers Master Gardeners of Mercer County. Connie Escher Betsey Stockton: Researching the Biography of a Princeton Slave, Educator, and Missionary Monday, Jan. 29, 7 p.m. Local historian and educator Connie Escher discusses her expanded research on the life of African-American teacher and missionary Betsey Stockton. Born into slavery around 1798, Stockton was given by her owner to his daughter upon the daughter’s marriage to Ashbel Green, president of the College of New Jersey (now Princeton
for complete information on all library programs, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org
CIVIC LIFE AND RESOURCES Princeton’s Sustainability Progress Report: Where Do We Stand and Where Do We Go from Here? Wednesday, Dec. 13, 7 p.m. In 2009, Princeton Council adopted the Sustainable Princeton Community Plan, the result of a community-wide effort to address our environmental impact and develop a long-term vision, an action plan, and a way to track progress toward achieving a sustainable community. Learn what progress has been made and what remains to be done to make Princeton a more sustainable community. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Sustainable Princeton with support from NRG Energy Inc.
Betsey Stockton will be the subject of a Jan. 29 lecture.
University). Stockton was freed in 1817, the same year she became a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Princeton, and remained as a paid domestic servant with the Green family while also becoming a missionary and teacher. Escher, who taught history for 26 years in Princeton Public Schools, first wrote about Stockton in 1991. Newsroom 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.
CONTINUING CONVERSATIONS ON RACE AND WHITE PRIVILEGE 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. Co-sponsored by the library and Not in Our Town. All events are in the Community Room. Is “Truth and Reconciliation” Possible? A Conversation with Residents Who Lived Through Apartheid in Princeton Monday, Dec. 4, 7 p.m. Ruha Benjamin, associate professor of African-American studies at Princeton University, moderates a discussion with Shirley Satterfield, Fern Spruill and Larry Spruill intended to honor and celebrate the sacrifices and contributions of the residents of the African-American community of Princeton. The three distinguished elders will share their stories and views. The Journey from White Supremacy to White Privilege to White Fragility to White Ally Tuesday, Jan. 2, 7 p.m. This program will provide a safe environment in which we can each further explore how to turn our questions, fears and concerns into empowering hope and positive action for change within ourselves and others.
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Meet the Mayor Fridays, 8:30 a.m., Dec. 15, Jan. 26, Feb. 23 Princeton residents are invited to discuss concerns with Mayor Liz Lempert. Lobby Mercer County Community ID Card Program Thursdays, noon-2 p.m. and 5-7 p.m., Dec. 14-Feb. 22 All Mercer County residents are eligible for this photo ID card, which provides the cardholder’s personal identifying information, medical risk factors, and emergency contact information. This privately issued card, sponsored by the One Community Coalition, may be used at social service agencies, schools, clinics, parks, post offices, and to access basic municipal or health services and as a form of identification by 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 $15 cost per card to cover expenses. (The cost is $10 for youth under 21 and seniors over 65.) For additional info, see www.laldef.org. Princeton Room Co-sponsored by the library and the Latin American Legal Defense & Education Fund. AARP Tax Help Mondays, 9 a.m.-noon (by appointment), Feb. 5-April 9 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 9. Help is available for non-complex, individual returns only. Participants should bring a copy of their most recent return and documentation for the previous year’s income and expenses that may be deductible. Appointments may be scheduled beginning Jan. 2 by calling (609) 924-9529, ext. 1220. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and AARP. Ask a Lawyer Wednesday, Feb. 28, 7 p.m. Lawyers will be at the library for free, private consultations on immigration and general legal issues. The consultations are on a first-come, first-served basis and appointments are not necessary. Spanish translators will be available. Referrals to additional legal resources will be made when appropriate. Conference Room Co-sponsored by the library, the Latin American Task Force, the Princeton Housing Authority and the Mercer County Bar Association.
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ENRICHMENT Voyage ESL Sundays, 4 p.m., Jan. 28; Feb. 4, 11, 25 These 90-minute sessions are for speakers of world languages who are learning English as a second language. Attending all sessions of the seven-week course that runs through March 18 is recommended but not required. Conference Room American Red Cross Blood Drive Saturday, Dec. 30, 9 a.m. Donations of all blood types are needed to support Red Cross emergency responses throughout the region. Community Room
ENGAGED RETIREMENT Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton Senior Resource Center. All events are in the Newsroom. Legal and Estate Planning Monday, Jan. 22, 7 p.m. Princeton attorney Fiona Van Dyck gives a talk one estate planning. Van Dyck specializes in assisting individuals and families in formulating estate plans, protecting the interests of disabled or elderly family members and probating wills of deceased loved ones. Caring for Parents Monday, Feb. 26, 7 p.m. Susan W. Hoskins shares how to find resources and support for caring for aging parents both near and far. Hoskins, a licensed clinical social worker, is executive director of Princeton Senior Resource Center and a family caregiver. Newsroom Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton Senior Resource Center.
Ask the Mac Pros Mondays, 4 p.m., Dec. 4, 11 Wednesdays, 10 a.m., Dec. 6, 13 Drop by these sessions where members of the Princeton Macintosh User Groups will answer your questions about Apple devices and software. Technology Center Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton Macintosh Users Group. Code for Princeton Hack and Learn Nights Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m., Dec. 5, Jan. 2, Feb. 6 Techies of all skill levels are invited to bring their laptops and join the hacking at this monthly meeting of Code for Princeton. RSVP on the Code for Princeton Meetup page on meetup.com. Technology Center Holiday Networking Event Thursday, Dec. 14, 6:30 p.m. Members of the Princeton Tech Meetup and Code for Princeton host a networking event for current members and others who are interested. If you are a techie, coder, entrepreneur, creative or investor, this is a chance to meet like-minded people in the Princeton area. Register through Princeton Tech Meetup on meetup.com. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library, Princeton Tech Meetup and Code for Princeton.
BUSINESS & CAREERS Job Seekers Session Fridays, 9:45 a.m., Dec. 1-22; Jan. 5- 26; Feb. 2-23 The library and Professional Service 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. The Dec. 22 meeting is the group’s annual holiday picnic. December meetings are in the Community Room. January and February meetings are in the Newsroom. SCORE Seminars Mondays, 6:30 p.m., Dec. 18, Feb. 19 The Princeton chapter of SCORE presents seminars on a variety of topics related to small businesses. For details, visit the library’s events calendar or princeton.score.org. Newsroom
TECHNOLOGY
Holiday Tech 2017 Friday, Dec. 1, 7 p.m. Technology consultant Doug Dixon returns to the library for his annual demonstration of the latest tech devices. This year’s focus is on technology for the home, including wireless speakers, digital assistants and wireless cameras. Newsroom
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PSG Workshop Tuesday, Dec. 5, 10 a.m. Mondays, Jan. 8 and Feb. 12, 10 a.m. Professional Service Group of Mercer County presents a series of workshops designed to help those in transition build technical skills to use in their job search. Technology Center Co-sponsored by the library and PSG of Mercer County.
Groups for Writers, a lecture on the presidency in film, author Clifford Zink’s book about eating clubs at Princeton University, and more enriching events, SEE PAGE 20
ARTS
Princeton Symphony Music Director Rossen Milanov discusses the artistic decision making process with Adriaan Fuchs of Carnegie Hall on Jan. 24.
For a performance of Vietnam War-era songs, see Page 4. Princeton & Slavery Exhibit Through Dec. 15 The exhibit draws on historical documents from the archives of Princeton University and the Historical Society of Princeton to illuminate how deeply ingrained the practice of slavery was throughout the community well into the 19th century. The exhibit is open to the public any time the library is open and a program is not taking place in the room. Princeton Room Co-sponsored by the library as part of the Princeton & Slavery Project with the Historical Society of Princeton and Princeton University Library. 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.
Reading Filibuster: “A Christmas Carol” Saturday, Dec. 2, 2 p.m. In anticipation of the season opening of McCarter Theatre Center’s production of the beloved holiday tale, we will read the Dickens masterpiece aloud from start to finish. All are invited to attend and participate by reading a portion of the book. Readers of all reading levels are invited to sign up for a time slot online at bit.ly/CCfilibuster or by calling the library’s Welcome Desk at (609) 924-9529, ext. 1218. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and McCarter Theatre Center. Writers Block Performs Short Comedies Sunday, Dec. 10, 4 p.m. The ensemble of Princeton writers and actors returns to the library to present a program of short comedies, including original plays by
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members of Writers Block, as well as plays by David Ives and Ethan Coen. Directed by Laura Huntsman with Sound by Ken Greenberg. Community Room Listen Local Coffee House Friday, Dec. 15, 7 p.m. Garry Pearsall performs with his band So It Goes, featuring Drew Turock, John Mazzeo, and Eric Heller. Also appearing will be guitarist/singer Tommy Abousselman and friends. This will be a night of eclectic music with light rock, unplugged classic rock, alternative and Americana. Coffee and biscotti will be served. Part of the Listen Local series. Community Room PSO Soundtracks “What’s on the Program?” Wednesday, Jan. 24, 7 p.m. Learn what factors inform the decisions of Princeton Symphony Orchestra Music Director Rossen Milanov and Adriaan Fuchs, associate artistic administrator of Carnegie Hall, when selecting works and soloists to capture musicians’ interest and keep audiences enthralled. Newsroom Co-sponsored by the library and Princeton Symphony Orchestra. Staged Reading: “Anon(ymous)” Tuesday, Feb. 20, 7 p.m. A staged reading of Naomi Iizuka’s play will be directed by Brandon Monokian. Separated from his mother, a young refugee called Anon journeys through the United States, encountering a wide variety of people — some kind, some dangerous and cruel — as he searches for his family in this adaptation of Homer’s “Odyssey.” Part of the Migrations Project. Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon St. Co-sponsored by the library and the Arts Council of Princeton.
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FILM
“Battle of the Sexes”
“Pop Aye”
FRIDAY FEATURES “Maudie” Friday, Dec. 1, 6:30 p.m. Canadian folk artist Maud Lewis falls in love with a fishmonger while working for him as a live-in housekeeper. PG-13. 1 hour, 55 minutes. Community Room “Beatriz at Dinner” Friday, Dec. 29, 6:30 p.m. Stranded at the home of a client, a massage therapist is invited to stay and attend a business dinner and finds herself in an escalating war of words with a ruthless real estate mogul. R. 1 hour, 23 minutes. Community Room “The Glass Castle” Friday, Jan. 5, 6:30 p.m. Based on a memoir, four siblings must learn to take care of themselves as their responsibility-averse, free-spirit parents both inspire and inhibit them. PG-13. 2 hours, 7 minutes. Newsroom “I, Daniel Blake” Friday, Jan. 19, 6:30 p.m. In this British film, a 59-year-old widower is denied welfare benefits despite being left unable to work after a heart attack. During an agonizing appeal process, he develops a strong bond with a destitute single mother. R. 1 hour, 40 minutes. Newsroom “Marshall” Friday, Feb. 9, 6:30 p.m. Young Thurgood Marshall faces one of his greatest challenges while working as a lawyer for the NAACP. Teaming with lawyer Sam Friedman, the two men build a defense for black chauffer Joseph Spell, who is accused of sexual assault by wealthy socialite Eleanor Strubing. PG-13. 1 hour, 58 minutes. Newsroom “Battle of the Sexes” Friday, Feb. 23, 6:30 p.m. Trapped in the media glare of their 1973 tennis match, Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs are each fighting more personal and complex battles off the court. PG-13. 2 hours, 1 minute. Newsroom
“John Lewis — Get in the Way”
PRINCETON INTERNATIONAL CINEMA SERIES
The series is a collaboration of the library, the International Employees Group at Princeton University, the Davis International Center and the Princeton Garden Theatre. Tickets ($11 general admission, $8 seniors, $6 Princeton University ID holders, library cardholders and Garden Theatre members) may be purchased online at thegardentheatre.com or at the door. The library will also offer a limited number of free tickets while supplies last for each screening. Call (609) 924-9529, ext. 1220 for availability. Free popcorn. Screenings are at the Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau St. “Pop Aye” Thursday, Dec. 7, 5:30 p.m. A successful Bangkok architect in the midst of a midlife crisis is reunited with an elephant he knew growing up. The two embark on a road trip to the man’s childhood home in the idyllic Thai countryside and meet a colorful cast of characters along the way. Not rated. 1 hour, 42 minutes. “Slack Bay” Thursday, Jan. 4, 5:30 p.m. This French comedy is the story of a well-to-do family visiting their summer house on the Channel Coast where an investigation into the disappearances of tourists in the area is being conducted by infamous inspectors Machin and Malfoy. Not rated. 2 hours, 2 minutes. “The Breadwinner” Thursday, Feb. 8, 5:30 p.m. Based on the best-selling novel by Deborah Ellis, this Canadian-Irish-Luxembourgian animated film tells the story of Parwana, a 12-year-old girl growing up under the Taliban in Afghanistan. When her father is arrested, Parwana dresses as a boy in order to work and provide for her family. PG-13. 1 hour, 34 minutes.
DOCUMENTARY “John Lewis – Get in the Way” Thursday, Feb. 22, 6 p.m. The PBS film on the life of Congressional elder statesman John Lewis follows his rise from rural isolation to the corridors of power on Capitol Hill. The film is an inspiring portrait of one man cast into extraordinary times and his unhesitating dedication to seeking justice for the marginalized and ignored. The film by Kathleen Dowdey spans more than half a century, tracing Lewis’ journey of courage, confrontations and hard-won triumphs. Newsroom 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.
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CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
STORY TIME Little Pandas Mondays, 10 a.m., Dec. 4-18; Jan. 22, 29; Feb. 5, 12, 26 Through engagement with books, songs, rhymes and crafts, these sessions are designed to help children ages 2 to 5 years and their parents/caregivers improve Mandarin Chinese language skills. Sessions are conducted in Mandarin Chinese by professional teachers from YingHua International School. Story Room STORY TIME Letra Pequeña (Little Letter) Mondays, 11 a.m., Dec. 4-18; Jan. 22, 29; Feb. 5-26 Through engagement with books, activities and crafts, these sessions are designed to help children and adults improve Spanish language skills. Sessions are conducted in Spanish and are intended for parents/caregivers to attend with babies and toddlers. Story Room Create, Design and Build with Lego and Duplo Mondays, 4 p.m., Dec. 4, 18; Jan. 8, 22; Feb. 5, 19 Children in grades 1-5 are invited to participate in a non-competitive communitybased Lego session, including building time and round-table discussion. Duplo blocks will be available for younger children outside. Story Room Chess Tuesdays, 4 p.m., Dec. 5, 12; Jan. 9-30; Feb. 6-27 Children can learn to play and practice chess at these weekly drop-in sessions led by Princeton High School Chess Club members. For children ages 5 and older. Story Room Co-sponsored by the library and Princeton High School Chess Club. Hour of Binary Code Wednesday, Dec. 6, 4 p.m. Celebrate the Hour of Code in this session led by Princeton High School’s SiSTEM club. Children in grades 2-5 will learn about ASCII binary code. We’ll decipher messages, code our own, and complete a scavenger hunt. Story Room Co-sponsored by the library and Princeton High School’s SiSTEM Club.
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Saturday Stories: The Gift of Books Saturday, Dec. 9, 10:30 a.m. Join us for a special story time featuringnew picture books to share with your family or give as gifts. A book list of new books for children will be available to take home. Story Room PSO Bravo! “Music and Math” with the Exponential Ensemble Saturday, Dec. 9, 3 p.m. Connecting the dots between music and math, musicians of the Exponential Ensemble demonstrate patterns and fractions by exploring a unique piece of music by J.S. Bach. Founded by Princeton Symphony Orchestra principal clarinetist Pascal Archer, the Exponential Ensemble is a chamber group made up of top-notch performers and teaching artists, including flutist Anna Urrey, oboe player Nathan Mills, and pianist Javor Braĉić. Community Room STORY TIME Folktales: Your Passport to the World Sundays, 3 p.m., Dec. 10, Jan. 14, Feb. 11 These special editions of Sunday Stories feature folktales from around the world with the universal themes of courage, kindness and cooperation. No matter where you were born or what country you call home, come celebrate what we share in common through stories. Story Room Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton Storytelling Circle. Caldecott Club Wednesdays, 4 p.m., Dec 13, Jan. 10, Feb. 14 Picture book fans in kindergarten through sixth grade are invited to read and discuss some of the best picture books published this year that may be contenders for the coveted Caldecott Medal. The medal is awarded to the illustrator of the most distinguished picture book by the Association for Library Service to Children. We’ll explore new art forms, discuss award criteria and learn about publishing. Story Room Code It Thursdays, 4 p.m., Dec. 14, Jan. 11, Feb. 8 Those in fourth through eighth grade are invited to drop in for an hour to learn the programming language Python. Each session includes a core concept and exercise. No coding experience is necessary. Limited to 16 participants. Register through the library’s online events calendar. Technology Center
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CHILDREN AND FAMILIES STORY TIME Mindful Movements Saturday, 10:30 a.m., Dec. 16 This program combines movement, stories and mindfulness exercises to engage young children in early literacy development and wellness. Be ready to do some gentle movements, poses and to listen to a few stories. For children 2 years and older with an adult. Participants are welcome to bring a comfortable mat or towel. Story Room Winter Wonderland Saturday, Dec. 16, 3 p.m. The Community Room will be transformed into a Winter Wonderland by our Teen Advisory Board members who will lead games and other winter-themed activities. This fun-filled afternoon will also feature a cocoa bar and other tasty treats. Community Room Cover to Cover Book Group Wednesdays, 4 p.m., Dec. 20, Jan. 17, Feb. 21 This group for readers of chapter books meets the third Wednesday of every month during the school year to discuss chapter books, short stories, graphic novels and other literary interests. Activities include group reads, writing short book reviews and posting reviews and booklists in BiblioCommons. Registration is not required. Suggested for third, fourth and fifth graders. Story Room WINTER BREAK FILM “Sing” Tuesday, Dec. 26, 4 p.m. This 3D computer-animated musical is about a group of animals that enter a singing competition hosted by a koala hoping to save his theater. PG. 1 hour, 54 minutes. Community Room. WINTER BREAK FILM “Deep” Wednesday, Dec. 27, 4 p.m. This animated movie is about a young octopus named Deep who tries to save his friends after an environmental disaster. PG. 1 hour, 32 minutes. Community Room. WINTER BREAK STORY TIME Family Stories Wednesday, Dec. 27, and Thursday, Dec. 28, 10:30 a.m. These special family story times feature stories, songs, rhymes, fingerplays and movement. Geared toward children 2-7 years old, but all ages are welcome. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Story Room
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WINTER BREAK FILM “Happy Feet” Thursday, Dec. 28, 4 p.m. A young emperor penguin who can’t sing to attract a mate must use his amazing tap-dancing talent instead. 1 hour, 48 minutes. PG. Community Room WINTER BREAK FILM “Inside Out” Friday, Dec. 29, 4 p.m. After young Riley is uprooted from her Midwest life and moved to San Francisco, her emotions — Joy, Fear, Anger, Disgust and Sadness — conflict on how best to navigate a new city, house, and school. 1 hour, 35 minutes. PG. Community Room
STORY TIMES
Weekday Story Times Begin Dec. 4. No Weekday Story Times Dec. 26-Jan. 12
All events in the Story Room
TUESDAYS WEDNESDAYS THURSDAYS
10 a.m. Storytime! Ages 18 months and older 11 a.m. Baby Storytime Ages 0-17 months
WINTER BREAK EVENT Noon Year’s Eve Saturday, Dec. 30, 11:30 a.m. Too young to stay up until midnight? Join us at the library for a celebration the day BEFORE New Year’s Eve. As we countdown to NOON, we will have music, dancing and crafts. For children ages 3 and up. Story Room
11:30 a.m. Baby Playgroup Ages 0-17 months
Introduction to Java for Kids Saturdays, 2 p.m., Jan. 6, 13, 20 In this series, children in grades 2 to 5 will learn how to code simple programs in Java. Limited to 16. Register through the library’s online events calendar. Technology Center
SUNDAYS
STORY TIME Glow in the Dark Story Time Thursday, Jan. 11, 6 p.m. Tired of the dark days of January? Help us light up the night with a special, notso-spooky story time filled with glow-inthe-dark books, songs, black lights, glow sticks, and other luminous fun. Attendees will receive a glow bracelet to take home. Be sure to wear white or fluorescent colors to see yourself glow. Please note: The story room will be dark for the majority of the program. For children ages 2 and up, accompanied by an adult. Story Room Chemistry Saturdays Saturdays, 1:30 p.m., Jan. 27, Feb. 24 Graduate students from Princeton University conduct exciting, hands-on experiments for budding scientists 3-13 years old. Children 8 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Story Room Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton Chemistry Graduate Student Organization. This is Why We Heart You Monday, Feb. 12, 4 p.m. Children and teens are invited to create handmade Valentine crafts for family and friends. Members of the library’s Teen Advisory Board will be on hand to help and provide inspiration. Story Room
SATURDAYS (except Dec. 30
10:30 a.m. Saturday Stories Ages 2 and older 3 p.m. Sunday Stories Ages 2 and older
WEEKEND WORLD LANGUAGE STORIES Brazilian Portuguese 11:30 a.m. Dec. 2, Jan. 6, Feb. 3
French 11 a.m. (Babies 11:30 a.m.) Dec. 9 (4 p.m.; Babies, 4:30 p.m) Jan. 27, Feb. 24 German 3:30 p.m. Dec. 16, Jan. 27, Feb. 24
Italian 4:30 p.m. Dec. 10, Jan. 14, Feb. 18 Japanese 2 p.m. Dec. 2, Jan. 6, Feb. 3
Korean 11:30 a.m. Dec. 8, Jan. 12, Feb. 9 Russian 3:30 p.m. (Babies 4:30 p.m.) Dec. 2, Jan. 6, Feb. 3
Spanish 11:30 a.m. Dec. 9, Jan. 13, Feb. 10
OTHER STORY EVENTS
Little Pandas Letra Pequeña Mindful Movements Folk Tales: Your Passport to the World Details, Page 15
TEENS
Teens-only A Cappella Night is Friday, Dec. 8.
Poetry Off the Page Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m., Dec. 6, 20; Jan. 3, 17; Feb. 7, 21 Teens in grades 7-12 are invited to meet on the first and third Wednesday of the month for an interactive and fun poetry workshop led by Princeton High School students who are passionate about poetry. Conference Room
Film: “Spider-man: Homecoming” Friday, Dec. 22, 6 p.m. Tom Holland stars as Marvel Comics character Peter Parker who is trying to balance high school life with being SpiderMan and facing the super-villain Vulture. 2 hours, 13 minutes. Community Room
A Cappella Night Friday, Dec. 8, 7 p.m. This annual teens-only event features vocal groups from Princeton’s high schools and is only open to students who attend the schools. Chaperoned by library and Corner House staff. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Corner House. Funding is provided by the Princeton Alcohol and Drug Alliance through the Mercer County Office on Addiction Services and the Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse.
VOICES (Voices on Important Conversations Engaging Students) Saturdays, 3 p.m., Jan. 20, Feb. 17 Meet other high school students who are passionate about activism at these moderated discussions of hot topics in the news such as racial profiling, global warming, and international politics. Conference Room Co-sponsored by the library, Redefy and Not in Our Town Princeton.
Go Between Club Saturdays, 2 p.m., Dec. 9, Jan. 13, Feb. 10 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. Conference Room Girls Who Code Club Saturdays, 11 a.m., Dec. 16, Jan. 6, Feb. 3 Girls in grades 6-12 are invited to explore the core concepts of coding while building confidence, learning teamwork and making friends. Register through the library’s events calendar (limited to 18) or bring your own device. Technology Center Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton High School Girls Who Code Club.
Girl Code Middle School Thursdays, 4 p.m., Jan. 25, Feb. 22 Girls in grades 6-8, are invited to an hourlong, all-female coding class that explores the Python programming language. In each session, a core concept will be covered, along with an exercise to put your new skills to the test. Please register through the library’s online events calendar. No coding experience necessary. Technology Center To Be Discussed (TBD) Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Jan. 30, Feb. 27 All high school students are welcome to participate in this monthly discussion of books, films, music, poetry and all things cultural. Participants may also help create book displays and reading lists for the library, take group trips to see current films, and do group-reads. Story Room
CALL FOR ENTRIES 2018 Princeton Student Film Festival July 18 & 19, 2018 More information: princetonlibrary.org/teens
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SUPPORT
Meet our new development director
L
isa Belshaw Ham has been named the library’s director of development. Executive Director Brett Bonfield introduced Lisa at the Beyond Words Benefit. Lisa joins the library from Princeton Friends School, where she served as director of advancement since 2013. During her time at the school, Ham increased annual support while also completing a $5.5 million campaign, the largest in the school’s history. She ran successful fundraising campaigns for the renovation of the historic Schoolmaster’s House and Barn and construction of a redesigned playground. “We’re pleased to announce that Lisa has joined the library,” Bonfield said. “Her role is to lead the library’s efforts to secure capital, endowment, annual, major, and planned gifts and to identify grants and other sources of funding to supplement the library’s municipal allocation. She will work in conjunction with library trustees, the Princeton Public Library Foundation, the Friends of the Library and with staff to cultivate, solicit and steward current and prospective donors.” A native of Princeton, she is a graduate of Connecticut College and earned a master’s degree in education from Bank Street College of Education in New York. Lisa taught at independent schools in New York and at the Princeton Friends School. She served as a children’s educator at the Royal Academy of Arts in London from 2003 to 2012. “Lisa is particularly motivated by the library and its mission and has known and loved the library since her youth,” Bonfield said. “I know that everyone who loves this library is excited about the new opportunities that Lisa’s work here will help to make possible.”
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Library supporters gathered at Nassau Presbyterian Church on Saturday, Nov. 4 to hear David Henry Hwang talk about his career as a playwright and librettist and share thoughts on the Broadway revival of his groundbreaking play “M. Butterfly.” Patrons returned to a butterfly-themed library to bid on auction items and enjoy a meal catered by Presenting Sponsor Elements on the second floor. The event, which raises funds for the library, was an unqualified success.
for more information about private support for the library, please visit www.princetonlibrary.org/support
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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: Lisa Belshaw Ham Public Programming Librarian: Janie Hermann Head of Youth Services: Susan Conlon Head of Adult Services: Janet Hauge Events Committee: Erica Bess, Mimi Bowlin, Katie Bruce Amanda Chuong, Susan Conlon, Kim Dorman, Kristin Friberg, Janet Hauge, Janie Hermann, Jocelyn Jimenez, Martha Liu, Kelsey Ockert, Caroline Quinones, Hannah Schmidl Staff Writer: Amy Hiestand Editing and design: Timothy Quinn
GROUPS FOR WRITERS
MISCELLANY
Writers Room Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Dec. 5, 19; Jan. 2, 16; Feb. 6, 20 Writers of nonfiction and fiction 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. December meetings are in the Quiet Room. January and February meetings are in the Princeton Room.
Origami Club for All Ages Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m., Dec. 13, Jan. 10, Feb. 14 Beginners and experienced folders of all ages are invited to meet for 90 minutes. Adults must accompany children younger than 7. Quiet Room
Write Space Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Dec. 12; Jan. 9, 23; Feb. 13, 27 These drop-in sessions focus finding your voice and producing of words through guided prompts and other writing exercises. All levels are welcome. December meeting is in the Quiet Room. January and February meetings are in the Princeton Room. Writing Workshop Thursdays, 7 p.m., Dec. 14, 28; Jan. 11, 25; Feb. 8, 22 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 book-length nonfiction strengthen characters and story structure. Participants range from published authors to those looking to improve their skills. December meetings are in the Quiet Room. January and February meetings are in the Conference Room.
Save the Dates PRINCETON ENVIRONMENTAL April 9-15, 2018 FILM FESTIVAL 2018 For more information or to enter a film for consideration: princetonlibrary.org/peff
Thursday, Dec. 14, 10 a.m. Holiday Winter Market Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Princeton Farmers Market.
JUST ADDED AUTHOR TALK Clifford Zink
The Princeton Eating Clubs Tuesday, Dec. 12, 7 p.m. Princeton-based author and historic preservation consultant Clifford W. Zink discusses his book about the 11 eating clubs that remain the center of social life for Princeton University undergraduates. The book also covers the five former eating clubhouses now owned and operated by the University for academic purposes. Community Room LECTURE “Hollywood in the White House” Tuesday, Feb. 6, 6:30 p.m. Film historian Max Alvarez gives an overview of Hollywood films and television show about U.S. presidents spanning 84 years. Scenes and discussions of such favorites as “House of Cards,” “VEEP,” “Dr. Strangelove,” “Seven Days in May,” “Nixon,” and the bizarre “Gabriel Over the White House” will be featured. Newsroom 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.
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