Princeton Public Library Connections Magazine Spring 2020 by Princeton Public Library

SPRING 2020

2020

The Elephant Queen and other highlights â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Page 2

COVER STORY For details and a listing of all PEFF events, visit princetonlibrary.org/peff

April 13-19

Festival

The Elephant Queen This film introduces us to Athena, a 50-year-old “tusker” who is queen of her African savanna elephant herd. These animals live where food and water are scarce and there is a precarious balance between life and death. We join them as their “green season” watering hole is drying up, and Athena is weighing the dangerous trek to the oasis that is their dry-season refuge, a dicey journey, particularly for the youngest elephants. Throughout their adventure, we witness their lives, the challenges they face from the changing climate and illegal poaching and the complex ecosystem that depends on them for survival. 1 hour, 36 minutes.

Eccentric entrepreneur Jack Sim knows that not having a place “to go” isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a problem that impacts 2.4 billion people worldwide. In India alone, 200,000 children die each year from lack of safe sanitation. Using humor as his weapon to fight an uphill battle against bathroom taboos, Sim founded the World Toilet Organization and has spent the last 13 years lobbying 193 countries to raise awareness for proper sanitation. In this film, Sim faces his biggest challenge yet when asked to secure 6 million toilets for the “Clean India” initiative. But with few resources and no help from the government, his epic project and reputation are in jeopardy. 1 hour, 27 minutes.

Mr. Toilet: The World’s #2 Man

Mossville: When Great Trees Fall Mossville, Louisiana, was a community rich in natural resources and history, founded by formerly enslaved people, where neighbors lived in harmony, insulated from the horrors of Jim Crow. Today it more closely resembles a wasteland, and what was once lush farmland was completely deforested as petrochemical and industrial plants moved into the area. The newest and biggest addition is a plant built by the apartheid-born South African-based chemical company Sasol. As Sasol encroaches on citizens’ property with buyout offers, lifelong resident Stacey Ryan is the last man standing and the only one willing to fight for his ancestral land, but at what cost? 1 hour, 15 minutes.

Co-sponsored by the library, Church & Dwight Inc., Whole Earth Center, Princeton Environmental Institute. Presented in partnership with the Princeton Garden Theatre and the Hopewell Theatre.

FREE ADMISSION TO ALL SCREENINGS

COVER STORY For details and a listing of all PEFF events, visit princetonlibrary.org/peff

Highlights

For screening dates, times and venues, visit princetonlibrary.org/peff

The Story of Plastic The truth behind the global plastic pollution crisis is uncovered through footage shot over three continents. Illustrating the ongoing catastrophe are fields full of garbage, veritable mountains of trash; rivers and seas clogged with waste; and skies choked with the poisonous runoff from plastic production and recycling processes with no end in sight. Original animations, interviews with experts and activists, and never-before-filmed scenes reveal the disastrous consequences of the flood of plastic smothering ecosystems and poisoning communities around the world — and the global movement rising up in response. 1 hour, 36 minutes.

Octopus: Making Contact

In this episode of the PBS series “Nature,” David Scheel, a professor of marine biology at Alaska Pacific University, raises an octopus in his home with assistance from his teenage daughter Laurel. Given the name Heidi, the octopus bonds with the Scheels, showing recognition of their faces, excitement when the humans come near and an inclination for playing with Laurel. Scheel links his discoveries, which also include Heidi’s demonstrated abilities to change color, solve puzzles, use tools and escape through small spaces — to octopus findings from all over the world, further proving the extraordinary intelligence of these incredible creatures. 53 minutes.

MORE PEFF

Youth Climate Activism Panel: Saturday, April 4, 6 p.m., McCosh 50, Princeton University. See Page 10 Exhibition: Wetland to Woodland, works by Mary Waltham and Susan Hoenig. See Page 13 3

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR ADULTS For details and a listing of all library events, visit princetonlibrary.org/events

“The Silence of Others” screens March 23.

DOCUMENTARIES

Unless otherwise noted, all screenings are in the Community Room. “Normie” Friday, March 20, 6:30 p.m. A young woman seeks independence and intimacy while she grapples with the illusion of normalcy and the realities of living with Down syndrome. The film is being shown in advance of World Down Syndrome Day on March 21. SCREENING AND DIRECTOR DISCUSSION

“The Silence of Others” Monday, March 23, 7 p.m. This award-winning documentary by filmmakers Almudena Carracedo and Robert Bahar reveals the epic struggle of victims of Spain’s 40-year dictatorship under General Francisco Franco, as they organize a groundbreaking international lawsuit and fight a “pact of forgetting” around the crimes they suffered. The film is a cautionary tale about fascism and the dangers of forgetting the past. Bahar will give opening remarks prior to the screening and participate in a Q&A afterward. 1 hour, 36 minutes. SCREENING AND PANEL DISCUSSION

“My Beautiful Stutter” Tuesday, May 12, 6:30 p.m. This documentary follows five children affected by stuttering who, after experiencing a lifetime of bullying and stigmatization, meet other children who stutter at an interactive, arts-based program. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion of professionals from the New Jersey Speech and Hearing Association. The second week in May is recognized as National Stuttering Awareness Week. Presented in partnership with the New Jersey Speech and Hearing Association.

“My Beautiful Stutter” screens May 12.

INTERNATIONAL CINEMA SERIES

Thursdays, 5:30 p.m., March 5, April 2, May 7 Princeton Garden Theatre, Nassau Street Titles to be announced. Visit the library website.

FRIDAY FEATURE FILMS

All screenings are in the Community Room. March 13, 6 p.m., “Ford v Ferrari,” 2 hours, 32 minutes April 10, 6:30 p.m., “Knives Out,” 2 hours, 10 minutes May 22, 6:30 p.m., “Little Women,” 2 hours, 15 minutes

OTHER FEATURE FILMS UNFORGETTABLE DUOS OF THE SILVER SCREEN

“The Quiet Man” Wednesday, March 4, 3 p.m. The 1952 romance, starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara, is the story of a boxer who finds love when he returns to his native Ireland after accidentally killing an opponent in the ring. 2 hours, 9 minutes. PRINCETON FESTIVAL SCREENING SERIES

“The Life of Verdi” Wednesdays, 3 p.m., May 6-27 In advance of The Princeton Festival’s June 21 and 28 performances of Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata, the 1982 miniseries that dramatizes the composer’s life will be screened. Verdi was born in 1813 and lived until 1901, his life spanning nearly a century of political and considerable personal turmoil. In addition to La Traviata, he is known for the operas Rigoletto, Aida and Requiem. The series, which aired as part of “Great Performances” on PBS, will be screened for seven consecutive weeks through June 17. Episodes run an hour and 30 minutes. Tea and cookies will be served. Presented in partnership with The Princeton Festival.

SPOTLIGHT/NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR For details of library events and services, visit princetonlibrary.org/events

Jennifer’s journey Our new executive director went from always having a book in hand to pursuing a passion for research. She brings a diverse background to Princeton Public Library.

ennifer Podolsky’s appointment as executive director of Princeton Public library is the latest chapter in a love affair with books and research that began in childhood. “I’ve had a book in my hand for as long as I can remember,” Podolsky said. “I remember early on that trips to my school or local public library were an amazing adventure to me. I devoured series books and became fascinated with mysteries at an early age. In college, when I needed a break from studying, I would go to the library and walk around the stacks, looking for a section that I’d never looked at before, and randomly take out a book to read. I love wandering around and finding treasures in the stacks.” Podolsky assumed her new position on Feb. 10, becoming the 14th executive director in the 110-year history of the library. She previously was executive director of the East Brunswick Public Library. “Princeton Public Library is a vibrant, respected library that is vitally important to the community we serve,” Podolsky said. “The idea of being a part of a team that elicits such devotion and esteem, both locally and throughout the state, is an exciting prospect for me. I knew of Princeton’s reputation and I am eager to help shape its future.” Prior to her tenure in East Brunswick, Podolsky worked as Project Specialist for Business and Technology Outreach in the Lifelong Learning Division at the New Jersey State Library. She has also worked as a youth services librarian for the Somerset County Library System and was a volunteer research librarian for the archives department of the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. It was while an undergraduate archaeology student at Rutgers University that Podolsky was drawn to library and information science. “Digging up artifacts and doing research on their origins awakened a curiosity about research that I didn’t know existed,” she said. “Soon after, I became interested in manuscripts and archives, and when I had to choose where to go to graduate school, I knew I wanted to focus

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Jennifer Podolsky

on library science. Just about every facet of librarianship interested me, and I was excited to see where my studies would lead.” Podolsky, who received her master’s in library and information science from Rutgers, has experience in management, research and editorial positions in publishing and libraries. She started her career as the senior research editor at publisher RELX (formerly Reed Elsevier), where she supervised a staff of researchers, managed various research assignments, conducted online database training and assisted in collection development. “I have worked in many types of libraries and in many non-library fields,” she said “This diverse range of experience has always been helpful to me in identifying new ways that libraries can connect with the surrounding community,” she said. “I have worked on many innovation and technology projects. I enjoy trying out new and exciting initiatives, which I think will be a great fit here. I know Princeton is the perfect place for me to build on my experience and find new ways in which the library can serve its community.”

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR ADULTS For details and a listing of all library events, visit princetonlibrary.org/events AUTHOR TALKS

PRINCETON PI DAY

Zachary Norris We Keep Us Safe: Building Secure, Just and Inclusive Communities Wednesday, March 4, 7 p.m. Norris, executive director for the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights, discusses his book, in which he presents a vision for how the United States can achieve safety and security for everyone, especially the most vulnerable members of society. Using data and personal stories from interviews to support his claims, Norris provides a persuasive argument and strategies for moving from a fearbased model to a “culture of care.” Norris is a graduate of Harvard University and the New York University School of Law. He is the co-founder of Restore Oakland, a community advocacy and training center and co-founder of Justice for Families, a national alliance of family-driven organizations working to end the nation’s youth incarceration epidemic. Community Room LIBRARY LIVE AT LABYRINTH

Juda Bennett, Winnifred Brown-Glaude, Cassandra Jackson and Piper Kendrix Williams The Toni Morrison Book Club Thursday, March 5, 6 p.m. The authors discuss their book, a collection of essays that reflect on the works of the late writer, Princeton University professor and Nobel laureate Toni Morrison. Colleagues at The College of New Jersey, the four gathered informally for several years to discuss Morrison’s novels which became a springboard for intimate and revealing conversations about everyday racism and “living whole in times of uncertainty.” Labyrinth Books, 122 Nassau St. Presented in partnership with Labyrinth Books. LIBRARY LIVE AT LABYRINTH

Lewis Hyde A Primer for Forgetting: Getting Past the Past Tuesday, March 10, 6 p.m. What if forgetfulness were seen not as something to fear but as a path to peace and rebirth? The author discusses his book, which offers a playful and inspiring defense of forgetfulness by exploring the healing effect it can have on the human psyche. Hyde is a poet, essayist, translator, and cultural critic. He is the author of “The Gift,” “Trickster Makes This World,” and “Common as Air.” A MacArthur Fellow and former director of undergraduate creative writing at Harvard University, Labyrinth Books, 122 Nassau St. Presented in partnership with Labyrinth Books.

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Michael D. Gordin Einstein in Bohemia Wednesday, March 11, 7 p.m. The author and Princeton University professor discusses his book on the 16 months Albert Einstein spent living with his family in Prague, where he was a professor of theoretical physics. The book is a portrait of both the city that touched Einstein’s life in unexpected ways, and of the gifted young scientist who left his mark on the science, literature and politics of Prague. Shedding light on a transformative period of Einstein’s life, the book also showcases Prague during the last years of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Community Room Presented in partnership with Labyrinth Books. LIBRARY LIVE AT LABYRINTH

Anne Case and Angus Deaton Deaths of Despair and the Future of Capitalism Thursday, March 12, 6 p.m. The authors discuss their groundbreaking account of how the flaws in capitalism are fatal for America’s working class and have resulted in the decline of the American Dream. The book explains the overwhelming surge in deaths from suicide, drug overdose and alcoholism and sheds light on the social and economic forces that are making life harder for the working class. It demonstrates why, for those who used to prosper in America, capitalism is no longer delivering but also charts a way forward, providing solutions that can rein in capitalism’s excesses and make it work for everyone. Case is professor of economics and public affairs emeritus at Princeton University. Deaton, winner of the 2015 Nobel Prize in economics, is professor of economics and international affairs emeritus at Princeton University. Labyrinth Books, 122 Nassau St. Presented in partnership with Labyrinth Books. LIBRARY LIVE AT LABYRINTH

David G. Marwell Mengele: Unmasking the Angel of Death Wednesday, April 1, 6 p.m. The author discusses his detailed biography of Nazi war criminal Josef Mengele and a first-hand account of the global search that finally identified his remains and ended an international manhunt. Marwell, former director of the Museum of Jewish Heritage in New York City, worked on the Mengele case at the Justice Department’s Office of Special Investigations in the 1980s. Labyrinth Books, 122 Nassau St. Presented in partnership with Labyrinth Books.

Programs featuring this designation are 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.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR ADULTS For details and a listing of all library events, visit princetonlibrary.org/events LIBRARY LIVE AT LABYRINTH

Julia Phillips The Disappearing Earth Tuesday, April 7, 6 p.m. The author reads from and discusses her debut novel about how the disappearance of two young sisters reverberates through their town on the Russian peninsula of Kamchatka. “The Disappearing Earth” is a National Book Award finalist and was named one of The New York Times 10 Best Books of the Year. Julia Phillips is a Fulbright fellow whose writing has appeared in Glimmer Train, The Atlantic, Slate, and the Moscow Times. Labyrinth Books, 122 Nassau St. Presented in partnership with Labyrinth Books.

Monika Zgustová Dressed for a Dance in the Snow: Women’s Voices from the Gulag Tuesday, March 17, 7 p.m. The author discusses her book, a collection of interviews with former female prisoners that chronicles the hardships of Stalin’s forced labor camps, but also reveals tales of the love, art and friendship that persisted in times of tragedy. Community Room Presented in partnership with Labyrinth Books.

Swati Bhatt The Attention Deficit Monday, March 30, 7 p.m. The author, who teaches economics at Princeton University, will discuss her latest book, which explores the unintended consequences of ubiquitous connectivity enabled by digital technology. Weaving the latest research on economics, psychology, and neuroscience, this book offers an analysis of communications markets and the commercialization of Internet-inspired connectivity. Newsroom Wenfei Tong Bird Love: The Family Life of Birds Monday, April 20, 7 p.m. The author, a biologist and Princeton University alum, will discuss the light and dark sides of bird family life, from the benefits of longterm monogamy to sibling rivalry and parental parasitism featured in her new book. The bonds between birds are often variable and full of inherent contradictions involving both cooperation and

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conflict. Alongside stunning photography, “Bird Love” explains and celebrates the global diversity of bird reproductive strategies, exploring all the stages from courtship and nest-building to protecting eggs and raising chicks. Community Room Presented in partnership with Princeton University Press. NEH

Elaine Weiss The Woman’s Hour: The Great Fight to Win the Vote Tuesday, April 21, 7 p.m. Author and journalist Elaine Weiss tells the story of the multifaceted 1920 struggle to get Tennessee to ratify the 19th Amendment granting women the right to vote. In advance of Weiss’s talk at the library, join in a discussion of her book on Tuesday, April 7 at 6:30 p.m. at the Historical Society of Princeton. Community Room NEH

Josiah Osgood in Conversation with Robert Kaster How to be a Bad Emperor: An Ancient Guide to Truly Terrible Leaders Thursday, May 7, 7 p.m. Osgood, professor and chair of classics at Georgetown University, and Robert Kaster, professor of classics and Kennedy Foundation Professor of Latin at Princeton University, will discuss Osgood’s new translations of Suetonius’s “Lives of the Caesars,” a briskly paced, darkly comic biographies of the Roman emperors Julius Caesar, Tiberius, Caligula and Nero. Osgood is also the author of “Rome and the Making of a World State, 150 BCE–20 CE.” Kaster has taught and written mainly in the areas of Roman rhetoric, the history of ancient education, Roman ethics and textual criticism. Community Room Presented in partnership with Princeton University Press.

THE 2020 BOOK LOVERS LUNCHEON FEATURING

Dani Shapiro Thursday, May 7, at TPC Jasna Polana See Page 18 for details

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR ADULTS For details and a listing of all library events, visit princetonlibrary.org/events Amy Jo Burns Shiner Monday, May 18, 7 p.m. The author discusses her novel about Wren, a 15-yearold girl who lives in a cloistered mountain cabin with her parents. They have no car, no mailbox, and no visitors except for her mother’s lifelong best friend. Every Sunday, Wren’s father delivers winding sermons in an abandoned gas station, where he takes up serpents and praises the Lord for his blighted white eye, proof of his divinity and key to the hold he has over the community, over Wren and her mother. Over the course of one summer, a miracle performed by Wren’s father quickly turns to tragedy. As the order of her world begins to shatter, Wren must uncover the truth of her father’s mysterious legend and her mother’s harrowing history and complex bond with her best friend. And with that newfound knowledge, Wren can imagine a different future for herself than she has been told to expect. Burns is also the author of the memoir “Cinderland.” Community Room

POETRY

Except where noted, all events are in the Community Room. POETS AT THE LIBRARY SERIES NEH

Vida Chu and Susan Gerardi Bello Monday, March 9, 7 p.m. Featured poets read from their works for 20 minutes each, followed by an open-mic session. A Princeton resident, Vida Chu grew up in Hong Kong. Her poems have appeared in many journals. Susan Gerardi Bello lives in Bucks County. Her first poetry collection, “Through the Oak Tree” was published in December.

Presented in partnership with the U.S. 1 Poets’ Cooperative and Delaware Valley Poets. BOOK BRUNCH

Paul Muldoon Sunday, April 5, 11 a.m. Irish poet and Princeton University professor of poetry Paul Muldoon reads from and discusses “Frolic and Detour,” his 13th major collection of poetry. Muldoon, a Pulitzer Prize winner, is also an editor, critic, playwright, lyricist and translator. He has been described in The New York Times Book Review as “one of the great poets of the past hundred years, who can be

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everything in his poems — word-playful, lyrical, hilarious, melancholy. And angry. Only Yeats before him could write with such measured fury.” Doors open at 11 a.m., reading starts at 11:30 a.m. followed by a book-signing.

READ LOCAL WEEKEND NEH

Readings from “The Bookshop on Lafayette Street” Friday, March 27, 7 p.m. Numerous contributors to this collection of stories and poems, inspired by a 2017 appearance by Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Yusef Komunyakaa at Classics Books in Trenton, will read from their work. Local Author Day Saturday, March 28, 1 p.m. The 10th edition of this event will feature workshops for writers and an afternoon Author Fair. See schedule of events and authors on library website. NEH

U.S. 1 Poets Book Launch Sunday, March 29, 1:15 p.m. The U.S.1 Poets’ Cooperative launches Volume 65 of its poetry journal “U.S.1 Worksheets.” The annual poetry journal has been produced since the early 1970s attracting poets from throughout the United States. Doors open at 1:15 p.m. Readings by contributors to the journal begin at 2 p.m. Refreshments will be served. Presented in partnership with U.S.1 Poets’ Cooperative.

Intermediate Poetry Workshop Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m., April 8-29 This four-session workshop, conducted by Dara-Lyn Shrager, is open to adults with prior writing experience. Space is limited, and registration is required. Conference Room POETS AT THE LIBRARY SERIES NEH

Wanda Praisner and Paul Sohar Monday, May 11, 7 p.m. Featured poets read from their works for 20 minutes each, followed by an open-mic session. Praisner, a recipient of fellowships from the NJ State Council on the Arts, the Dodge Foundation, PFAWC, and VCCA, has been published in multiple journals. Sohar left Hungary as a student refugee to the U.S. where he earned a degree in philosophy. Using the language of his adoptive country he has written and published in every genre, including 17 volumes of translations, the latest being “The Refugee.” Presented in partnership with the U.S.1 Poets’ Cooperative and Delaware Valley Poets.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR ADULTS For details and a listing of all library events, visit princetonlibrary.org/events POETRY BRUNCH NEH

Juditha Dowd and Maxine Susman Sunday, May 17, 11 a.m. Local poets read from their works centering on women’s history. Dowd’s verse biography, “Audubon’s Sparrow,” will be released in April. She is the author of a full-length collection, “Mango in Winter,” three poetry chapbooks, short fiction and lyric essays. Susman has written seven poetry books and has been published in many major journals. Doors open at 11 a.m., reading starts at 11:30 a.m. Light refreshments will be served. Community Room Presented in partnership with the U.S.1 Poets’ Cooperative and Delaware Valley Poets.

BOOK DISCUSSION NEH

Discussion of “The Woman’s Hour” by Elaine Weiss Tuesday, April 7, 6:30 p.m. In advance of Elaine Weiss’s April 21 talk at the library, we will discuss her book “The Woman’s Hour.” Weiss’s book is an account of the 1920 ratification of the constitutional amendment that granted voting rights to women. It traces the culmination of seven decades of legal battles and cites the pivotal contributions of famous suffragists and political leaders. Historical Society of Princeton, Updike Farmstead, 354 Quaker Road

BOOK GROUPS Mystery Book Group Mondays 7:30 p.m., Quiet Room March 2, “Suspect” by Robert Crais April 6, “A Curious Beginning” by Deanna Raybourn May 4, “Crimson Lake” by Candice Fox

Chinese Book Group Wednesdays, 7 p.m., March 11 and May 6 The Chinese Book Group introduces participants to the library’s Chinese language collection and recommends new titles. Bring suggestions for the group to read and discuss at future meetings. This program is conducted entirely in Chinese. Conference Room Contemporary Fiction Book Group Thursdays, 10:30 a.m., Conference Room March 12, “Outline” by Rachel Cusk April 9, “Lost and Wanted” by Nell Freudenberger May 14, “Gingerbread” by Helen Oyeyemi

HISTORICAL FICTION BOOK GROUP NEH

“Caleb’s Crossing” by Geraldine Brooks Thursday, May 14, 6:30 p.m. Seton Hall University Associate Professor of History Sean P. Harvey discusses “Caleb’s Crossing” by Geraldine Brooks. Set in 17th-century Martha’s Vineyard, the book explores the connection between a Puritan family and the son of a Wampanoag leader who would become the first Native American graduate of Harvard. Registration is requested but not required through the Historical Society of Princeton’s website. Historical Society of Princeton, Updike Farmstead, 354 Quaker Road

Black Voices Book Group Thursdays, 7:15 p.m. Princeton Room March 12, “The Source of Self-Regard: Selected Essays, Speeches, and Meditations” by Toni Morrison April 9, “Looking for Lorraine” by Imani Perry May 14, “Smoketown: The Untold Story of the Other Great Black Renaissance” by Mark Whitaker

Presented in partnership with the Historical Society of Princeton.

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EVENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR ADULTS For details and a listing of all library events, visit princetonlibrary.org/events LECTURES Don Campbell Cultivating Creativity Wednesday, March 25, 7 p.m. Don Campbell draws on his many years as a sculptor and lessons learned from great artists and innovators throughout history to show artists and non-artists that creativity is a learned skill that anyone can develop. Among other topics, the talk includes how to stimulate the flow of creativity through a process of “deep listening” and how to overcome obstacles that stop most people from following their creative impulse. Community Room AUTHOR AND PANEL DISCUSSION

Ethan Casey Global Education in Higher Ed Thursday, March 26, 7 p.m. What roles should a university play in the wider world? How should American undergraduates be exposed to global cultures and challenges? If internationalization is a means to an end, what exactly is the end? Ethan Casey, author of “A Dirt Road to the Future: Education on the Global Front Lines,” and a panel of practitioners from Princeton, Rutgers and Texas Christian University examine these questions. A book signing will follow the panel discussion. Community Room

Tim Robbins, Meg Ryan and Walter Matthau sail on Carnegie Lake in a scene from “IQ,” which will be screened as part of a March 16 program.

MISCELLANY

A variety of library events listed in chronological order. AARP Tax Help Mondays by appointment through April 13, 8:30 a.m. to noon AARP tax volunteers will prepare and electronically file Federal and New Jersey individual, non-complex income tax returns for seniors and people of low to moderate income. Participants should bring a copy of their most recent return and documentation for the previous year’s income and expenses that may be deductible. Proof of identification is required. Appointments may be scheduled through noon by calling 609-924-9529, ext. 1220. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and AARP.

CONTINUING CONVERSATIONS ON RACE

Nathalie Edmond Monday, March 2, 7 p.m. Edmond explores the common hindrances to owning a personal relationship with racism, particularly as white identifying people. This talk is based on Ruth King’s book “Mindful of Race: Transforming Racism from the Inside Out.” Community Room Presented in partnership with Not In Our Town Princeton.

Youth Climate Activism Panel Saturday, April 4, 6 p.m. This student-planned event will bring together over a dozen young activists who are engaged with the climate crisis both in their communities and around the globe. Student organizers from Fridays for Future and US Youth Climate Strikes will attend, as will indigenous activists Helena Gualinga and Autumn Peltier. The panel will discuss the diverse range of perspectives at the forefront of tackling climate change. Following the panelists’ presentations, there will be a Q&A with the audience. McCosh 50, Princeton University campus Co-sponsored by the library, the Princeton Conservation Society and the Princeton Student Climate Initiative.

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Princeton Sketchers Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m., March 3, 17; April 7, 21; May 5, 19 Sketchers of all abilities meet monthly on the first and third Tuesdays at the library before walking to a chosen location in town, on campus or somewhere indoors, to sketch for two hours or so. Beginners are welcome, but must be high-school-age or older. Conference Room Drop in and Knit Wednesdays, 10 a.m., March 4-May 27 Bring your knitting or crochet project and join us for these drop-in sessions. Participants must provide their own supplies. Sessions will not include instruction. Quiet Room PI DAY CELEBRATION NEH

Screening of “IQ” and Open Archive Monday, March 16, 6 p.m. In honor of Pi Day, we will screen the film “IQ,” most of which was filmed in Princeton. Following the 1 hour, 35-minute screening, there will be an Open Archive

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR ADULTS For details and a listing of all library events, visit princetonlibrary.org/events displaying items from the production. Filmed in 1994, “IQ” is a romantic comedy set in the 1950s featuring Walter Matthau as Albert Einstein playing matchmaker for his niece played by Meg Ryan. HSP’s curator of collections and research will be on hand to share information and answer questions. Community Room

Presented in partnership with the Historical Society of Princeton.

SCORE SEMINAR

Franchising Monday, March 16, 6:30 p.m. Jack Armstrong of FranNet presents a seminar on franchising. Registration required through the SCORE Princeton website. Newsroom Presented in partnership with SCORE Princeton. ENGAGED RETIREMENT

Transition to Retirement Monday, March 23, 7 p.m. This interactive workshop focuses on helping retirees and pre-retirees navigate this important life transition. The workshop will be presented by John George, a licensed psychologist, and David Roussell, care coordinator and HomeFriends coordinator at PSRC. Newsroom Presented in partnership with the Princeton Senior Resource Center.

Ask a Lawyer Wednesday, March 25, 7 p.m. Lawyers will be at the library for free, private consultations on immigration and general legal issues. Registration for a private consultation will be between 7 and 7:30 p.m. Spanish translators will be available. Referrals will be made when necessary. Conference Room Presented in partnership with Latin American Task Force, the Princeton Housing Authority and the Mercer County Bar Association.

Tabletop Game Nights Thursdays, 6 p.m., March 26, April 23, May 28, 6 p.m. Everyone 16 and older is invited to unplug and enjoy an evening of playing tabletop and strategy games. The library will provide several games to choose from but you’re also welcome to bring your own. STEAM Studio JOB SEEKERS WORKSHOP

Alex Freund Four Essential Steps to Your Next Job Thursdays, 6:30 p.m., March 26; April 2, 16, 23 Career coach Alex Freund leads this four-part workshop for job seekers. The workshop replicates the stepby-step processes used by leading businesses in the development and launch of a new product. It delves into four key sequential stages — the value proposition, branding, marketing, and advertising — each modified for the job searcher. Registration is required on the library website. Newsroom Meet the Mayor Fridays, 8:30 a.m., March 27, April 24, May 29 Princeton residents are invited to discuss concerns with Mayor Liz Lempert through 10 a.m. Lobby Presented in partnership with Municipality of Princeton.

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CONTINUING CONVERSATIONS ON RACE

Dr. Avery Ince Monday, April 6, 7 p.m. Ince shares a video of his TEDx talk in which he reflects on how his life has been shaped by his family, upbringing in Trinidad, encounters with racism and positive experiences across racial divides. Believing there is much to be learned by hearing each other’s stories, Ince encourages others to share theirs as he has shared his. Community Room Gente y Cuentos Mondays, 7 p.m., April 6-May 11 In discussing Latin American short stories in Spanish, participants recount their personal experiences and how they relate to the characters in the story. Conference Room INTERGENERATIONAL OPPORTUNITY

Deciphering the Past Wednesday, April 8, 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m. Those interested in making Library of Congress online collections more discoverable by the public and researchers are invited to participate in one of two programs dealing with documents from the women’s suffrage movement. Adults and young people will team to decipher and type transcriptions of cursive handwritten letters, speeches, diaries and other documents. No experience necessary; instruction and guidance will be provided. Technology Center Citizenship Preparation Classes Wednesdays, 7 p.m., April 15-May 20 This series of six 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. Conference Room Presented in partnership with Latin American Task Force. SCORE SEMINAR

Home Based Businesses Monday, April 20, 6:30 p.m. Janet Pickover, an executive with 30 years of business expertise, leads this session. Register at the SCORE Princeton website. Newsroom Presented in partnership with SCORE Princeton.

RESEARCH YOUR ROOTS

Using Genealogy Databases

Ancestry Library, HeritageQuest, Fold3 Library. Tuesday, April 28, 10 a.m.; Tuesday, May 5, 7 p.m. Technology Center NEH

The Basics of Family Oral History How to collect, store and share oral histories. Thursday, April 30, 7 p.m. Newsroom

Create a Memory Book with CreativeBug Sunday, May 17, 2 p.m. STEAM Studio

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR ADULTS For details and a listing of all library events, visit princetonlibrary.org/events ENGAGED RETIREMENT

SCORE SEMINAR

Volunteering in Retirement Monday, April 27, 7 p.m. Sharon Hurley, director of social services and volunteer coordinator at the Princeton Senior Resource Center, discusses options for volunteering in retirement. Newsroom

Protecting Intellectual Property and Patents Monday, May 18, 6:30 p.m. Roy Rosser leads a workshop on how to protect intellectual property and how to patent inventions. Emphasis will be on how startups and small businesses can utilize the available legal tools to protect and leverage their intellectual assets at a reasonable cost. Registration required through the SCORE Princeton website. Newsroom

Presented in partnership with the Princeton Senior Resource Center.

English Paper Piecing for Beginners Saturday, May 2, 10 a.m. Quilting teacher Marisa Simon leads a workshop for beginners who would like to learn English paper piecing (EPP). EPP involves stabilizing fabric around a paper shape before sewing the pieces together to create intricate designs for quilts or pillows. Because it’s done by hand, it makes the perfect on-the-go project. Material, needle and thread will be supplied to get you going. STEAM Studio Stitch Out! Saturday, May 2, 1 p.m. Whether you enjoy embroidery, cross-stitch or English paper piecing, bring your hoops and thread and join us on Hinds Plaza for an afternoon of crafting, creating and camaraderie. This event will be led by Marisa Simon, who will be on hand to provide encouragement and answer questions. Drop in for an hour or stay for all three and get a project completed. Cool drinks and cookies will be served. Hinds Plaza (weather permitting) or First Floor Fireplace Area CONTINUING CONVERSATIONS ON RACE

Dr. Kani Illangovan and Joyce Trotman-Jordan Internalized Racism Monday, May 4, 7 p.m. NIOT board members Illangovan and Trotman-Jordan describe some of the forms internalized racism takes and discuss efforts to overcome it. Donna Bivens defines internalized racism as “the situation that occurs in a racist system when a racial group oppressed by racism supports the supremacy and dominance of the dominating group by maintaining or participating in the set of attitudes, behaviors, social structures and ideologies that undergird the dominating group’s power.” Community Room Presented in partnership with Not In Our Town Princeton.

Dancing Under the Stars Fridays, 7 p.m., May 15, May 29 Members of Central Jersey Dance give demonstrations of basic steps and lead others in an evening of dancing to recorded music of all kinds. Dances are held twice per month from May to September. Hinds Plaza (weather permitting) or Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and Central Jersey Dance.

NEH 12

Presented in partnership with SCORE Princeton.

OPEN ARCHIVE NEH

Princeton’s Pills and Practitioners Tuesday, May 19, 6:30 p.m. Did you know that the Spanish flu pandemic led to the establishment of Princeton Hospital? In the latest installment of the Historical Society of Princeton’s popular series, visitors can explore documents and objects that tell the story of early healthcare in Princeton, from its local pharmacies to its 100-year old hospital. Discovery Center INTERACTIVE POP-UP EXHIBIT NEH

UNOW & Then: 50 Years of UNOW Day Nursery Thursday, May 21, 6 p.m. This multimedia project documents the history of UNOW, the University NOW Day Nursery, which marks its 50th anniversary in September. Founded in 1970 by the local chapter of the National Organization for Women, UNOW’s origin story brings together the histories of Princeton, second-wave feminism and child care. The project features recorded interviews with UNOW’s founders, historical documents and objects from the nursery’s early years. The exhibition’s curators will be on hand and visitors will be invited to share memories of UNOW. Discovery Center and Newsroom Presented in partnership with UNOW & Then.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR ADULTS For details and a listing of all library events, visit princetonlibrary.org/events ARTS

Except where noted, all events are in the Community Room. DEMONSTRATION

Dryden Ensemble Herr Bach and His Instruments Thursday, March 5, 7 p.m. An introduction to the Baroque instruments Bach included in his “St. John Passion” is provided by members of the Dryden Ensemble who will demonstrate the instruments. Instruments include the viola d’amore, oboe da caccia, viola da gamba and the orbo. The Dryden Ensemble will perform Bach’s St. John Passion March 13 and 14 at All Saints’ Church in Princeton. Presented in partnership with the Dryden Ensemble. LECTURE

Michael Marissen Musical Aims of Bach’s St. John Passion Sunday, March 8, 3 p.m. The Swarthmore College professor emeritus explores Bach’s musical reading of the Passion Story from the Gospel of John in advance of the Dryden Ensemble’s March 13 and 14 performances. Marissen taught at Swarthmore from 1989 to 2014 and has been a visiting professor on the graduate faculties at Princeton University and at the University of Pennsylvania. His most recent book is “Bach & God.” Presented in partnership with the Dryden Ensemble. PERFORMANCE

Ceol agus Cairde (Music and Friends) Saturday, March 14, 2:30 p.m. Helen O’Shea and Shenanigans, her band of Celtic musicians and singers, return for the fifth consecutive year in honor of St. Patrick’s Day and all things Irish. The collaborative group of area musicians and singers present a traditional “kitchen party” inspired by Ireland’s tradition of music, songs and stories. PSO SOUNDTRACKS LECTURE

Composer Julian Grant Wednesday, March 18, 7 p.m. Grant gives a talk in advance of Princeton Symphony Orchestra’s March 21-22 performances of his “Five Generations, One House.”

Presented in partnership with the Princeton Symphony Orchestra. PRINCETON ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL ART TALK

Wetland to Woodland Tuesday, March 24, 7 p.m. Princeton artists Mary Waltham and Susan Hoenig discuss an exhibition of their recent works on view through May 30 on the second floor. Using a range of visual media and methods, their works reflect a connection to, and inspiration from, wetland and woodland, respectively. The exhibit challenges viewers to consider afresh two distinctly different but interrelated ecosystems, each of which combats climate change.

PERFORMANCE

Unruly Sounds: Spring Edition Saturday, April 4, 1 p.m. Mika Godbole, founder of the annual Unruly Sounds Music Festival, curates an afternoon of music by local musicians who compose and perform original pieces. Cellist Dan Kassel, local indie duo Damsel and others will perform sets at this three-hour event. PERFORMANCE

Jazz on a Sunday Afternoon Sunday, April 5, 3 p.m. Jazz at Princeton University celebrates Jazz Appreciation month with a concert by student ensembles under the direction of Rudresh Mahanthappa. STAGED PLAY READING

“After the Dust Settles” Friday, April 24, 6:30 p.m. A staged reading of the latest play by emerging New Jersey playwright Jason Immordino is followed by an audience discussion with the playwright, director and actors. The play is an ensemble drama featuring three stories of the unresolved grief, healing and renewal of characters impacted by the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks on The World Trade Center. MCCARTER LIVE AT THE LIBRARY LECTURE

Bill Lockwood and Wendy Heller Handel’s Rodelinda Monday, April 27, 7 p.m. Bill Lockwood, McCarter Theatre Center special programming director, and Wendy Heller, Scheide Professor of Music History and chair of the Department of Music at Princeton University, discuss Handel’s masterpiece “Rodelinda” in advance of the May 5 performance by The English Concert at McCarter Theatre Centre. Heller will present a lecture, “From Costrato to Countertenor: Time, Affect and Virtuosity in Handel’s ‘Rodelinda.’” She is a renowned scholar, author and lecturer on the music of the baroque era, in particular that of Bach and Handel. Her subjects will include Handel the dramatist, with a focus on the virtuosity of “Rodelinda” and the singers of the composer’s time. LECTURE

Aaron Krerowicz The Music of Star Wars Monday, May 4, 7 p.m. Music historian Aaron Krerowicz gives a multi-media presentation on composer John Williams’ iconic musical score. Often called a “space opera,” the music is regarded as one of the reasons the films became a pop culture phenomenon. This presentation showcases music from all nine episodes of the “Star Wars” trilogies. Newsroom

More Arts events ... Page 20

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR YOUTH AND FAMILIES For details and a listing of all library events, visit princetonlibrary.org/events

STORY TIMES

SPECIAL STORY TIMES

All events are in the Story Room.

T UE SDAY S AND TH U RSDAY S 10 a.m. Storytime! (18 months and older) 11 a.m. Baby Storytime (newborn to 17 months) 11:30 a.m. Baby Playgroup (newborn to 17 months)

L A N G UAG E ENRI CH MENT Little Pandas, Mondays, 10 a.m. March 2, 9; April 6, 20, 27; May 4, 11, 18

SAT UR DAY AND SU NDAY (Ages 2 and older) 10:30 a.m., Saturday Stories 3 p.m., Sunday Stories

WO R L D L A NGU AGE STORI ES Italian, Saturdays, 2:30 p.m., March 28, April 18, May 23 Japanese, Saturdays, 2 p.m., March 14, April 11, May 9 Portuguese, Saturdays, 11:30 a.m., April 18, May 16 Russian, Saturdays, 3:30 p.m., March 7, April 4, May 2

Happy Hands Story Time Wednesdays, 10 a.m., March 4-25; April 1, 8 Happy Hands teaches American Sign Language vocabulary, speech, and expression through multisensory learning. Signing helps promote verbal communication and encourage reading skills and can have amazing results with children who have speech and communication challenges. This program will empower communication by teaching a broad base of ASL vocabulary that can be used immediately. Children, including babies, have the capacity to understand, learn, and communicate before they develop the ability to speak. For children from 6 months to 5 years old. Presented in partnership with Happy Hands.

Baby Russian, Saturdays, 4:30 p.m., March 7, April 4

MAKER MONDAYS All programs begin at 4 p.m. in the STEAM Studio. Grades 1-5.

Season of Wonder Puppet Story Time Thursday, March 19, 10 a.m. Guest story teller and Waldorf School early childhood teacher Amy Shor celebrates the wonders of spring through songs, rhymes and finger plays, using simple handmade puppets and other surprises from the natural world. Co-sponsored by the library and the Waldorf School of Princeton.

Stories and Music with Lolly! Wednesdays, 10 a.m., April 22, 29; May 6, 13 Lolly Hopwood of Lolly & Yoyo presents a special story time featuring an acoustic story time blending stories, music and movement with just the right mix of giggles, wiggles and

smiles. For ages 18 months and up accompanied by an adult.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR YOUTH AND FAMILIES For details and a listing of all library events, visit princetonlibrary.org/events SPECIAL EVENTS All events are in the Community Room. Celebrate Inventors Day Saturday, March 7, 2 p.m. Learn about electromagnetism, the fundamental force behind inventions such as the speedometer and roller coaster brakes, and about the scientists and engineers who made these discoveries. Inventors Day begins with a brief talk by Princeton University Professor Michael Littman, followed by an afternoon of hands-on science activities.

“Arctic Dogs” Wednesday, March 11, 3 p.m. An arctic fox works in a mailroom but longs to become one of the top sled dog couriers in this computeranimated comedy. After coming across an unusual package, he decides to steal a sled and deliver the package to prove himself. 1 hour, 35 minutes. “African Cats” Thursday, March 12, 3 p.m. A pride of lions and a family of cheetahs try to survive in the African savannah in this DisneyNature documentary. 1 hour, 29 minutes.

SPRING BREAK AT THE LIBRARY All events are in the Community Room.

Endangered! Animals on the Edge Monday, April 6, 3 p.m. Wildlife educator Travis Gale returns to the library with a family presentation featuring live animals that are threatened or endangered in the wild. Entertaining, highenergy and educational, the program covers what factors contribute to animal extinction and highlights the importance of protecting the wildlife of the world. For children ages 4 and older with an adult.

A Musical Celebration of Colors Sunday, March 15, 2 p.m. Join us for a musical celebration of colors influenced by the colors, sights and sounds of the Indian subcontinent. Piano students from The New School for Music Study will present a recital of Indian music and dance, including selections from Bollywood movies and books. MAKER DAY 2020

Making a Difference for Our Community and Planet Saturday, March 21, 11 a.m. Celebrate the maker movement by learning new skills and being creative while making a difference to our planet. Workshops will include upcycling materials to create T-shirt totes and patchwork dog beds that can be used by local food banks and animal shelters. Participants can also learn about endangered species and make a piece of art that will be on display during the library’s annual Princeton Environmental Film Festival. A detailed schedule of workshops will be available as the event date approaches. Spring Science Day/Dia de la Ciencia Saturday, May 9, noon Join Princeton University’s scientists and engineers to learn more about the exciting new research in materials science. Visit the many activities and hands-on demonstrations, talk with the scientists (in Spanish or English) and have fun. Intended for children ages 5 and older with their families.

FILMS

All screenings are in the Community Room. “Dora and the Lost City of Gold” Thursday, March 5, 3 p.m. In this live-action adaptation of the Nickelodeon television series “Dora the Explorer,” Dora moves from the jungle to high school but soon leads her friends on an adventure to save her parents and solve the mystery behind a lost city of gold.

www.princetonlibrary.org

What’s Up with the Weather? Tuesday, April 7, 3 p.m. This dynamic show, presented by the Franklin Institute, reveals the science of weather — to the extreme. Where does our weather come from, and what factors make it a sunny day or a blustery one? We will discuss the water cycle, explore thunder and lightning and even make a cloud. A stormy ending to this show is promised as the presenters demonstrate how tornadoes are formed. For ages 5 and older accompanied by an adult. FILM

“Abominable” Wednesday, April 8, 3 p.m. In this 2019 computer-animated adventure film by DreamWorks Animation and Pearl Studio, a teen and her friends must outwit some evil villains in order to take a lost Yeti home. 1 hour, 37 minutes. FILM

“Penguins” Thursday, April 9, 3 p.m. In this 2019 DisneyNature film, a penguin must fight off the harsh cold and deadly predators to build a life for his family. 1 hour, 16 minutes.

REGULAR EVENTS Origami Club for all Ages Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m., March 11, April 22, May 13 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 8. Quiet Room Chemistry Saturdays Saturdays, 2 p.m., March 28, May 16 Children in first through fifth grades are invited to join graduate students from the Princeton Chemistry Department in fun and exciting chemistry experiments and hands-on science activities. Children 8 years old and younger must be accompanied by an adult. STEAM Studio Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton University Chemistry Department.

Science Circle Saturday, April 11, 3 p.m. Budding scientists in third through sixth grades are invited to participate in hands-on science activities designed by high school students at PRISMS. Important concepts, focusing on a different scientific discipline each month, will be explored. CoLab Space

Presented in partnership with Princeton International School of Mathematics and Science.

Chess for Beginners Thursdays, 4:30 p.m., April 16 and May 21 Children in kindergarten through third grade are invited to a drop-in workshop to learn the basics of chess in a fun, noncompetitive environment. Led by members of the Princeton International School of Mathematics and Science Chess Club. STEAM Studio

Presented in partnership with Princeton International School of Mathematics and Science.

MAY 4-10 Activities for kids through Grade 5 and families to unplug from screen-based entertainment 16

TEENS SPECIAL EVENTS All events are in the Community Room. Mini Robot Soccer Tournament Sunday, March 1, 2 p.m. Teams of teens engage in a RoboCup Junior-style tournament with robots they build and program to autonomously play soccer. Teams consist of between two and four teens and the competition takes place on an 8-by-6-foot field. Gameplay will follow the 2018 RoboCup Junior rules. Spectators welcome. Presented in partnership with Princeton Soccer Robots.

PYC Social Pioneers Pitch Night Thursday, April 23, 6:30 p.m. Teens who have participated in the PYC Social Pioneers program pitch ideas for improving their communities at this event. The event culminates a 16-week program during which teens have worked to develop their leadership and skills to turn their project plans into action. PYC Social Pioneers is an accelerator program for youth who have an idea to improve and strengthen their community. Co-sponsored by the library and the Princeton Youth Program for Civic Engagement. TWO-SESSION PRINCETON FESTIVAL PROGRAM

Appreciating Musicals Saturday, May 30, 11 a.m. This is the first of a two-part program that helps high school students explore this popular art form, focusing on the Princeton Festival’s upcoming production of Steven Sondheim’s “Into the Woods.” Following this introductory session, students will attend the final dress rehearsal performance at a later date at Matthews Acting Studio of the Lewis Center for the Arts, 185 Nassau St. Register at the Princeton Festival website; students must attend both sessions. Co-sponsored by the library and The Princeton Festival.

VISIT THE THIRD FLOOR AFTER SCHOOL FOR

students Most weekday aftern n University oons at 3 By Princeto DETAILS ON THE LIBRARY WEBSITE

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR YOUTH AND FAMILIES For details and a listing of all library events, visit princetonlibrary.org/events PRINCETON FESTIVAL VOCAL WORKSHOP

Making of a Musical Saturday, May 23, 11 a.m. This intensive workshop covers singing and care of the voice, practical tips on how to navigate the music theater industry and other topics. There will be a mock audition at the end of the workshop where participants can demonstrate what they’ve learned. Lunch and snacks are included. At two additional programs on future dates, participants will observe professional singers at a tech rehearsal and experience the full show at the final dress rehearsal for the Princeton Festival production of “Into the Woods.” Space is limited to 15 students and registration is required on the Princeton Festival website. Participants are required to attend all three to earn a certificate of participation. Community Room Co-sponsored by the library and The Princeton Festival.

CODING CLASSES All classes are in the Technology Center. Register for classes on the library events calendar to receive updates. Presented in partnership with Code Equal.

Code It Level 1 Thursdays, 4 p.m., March 5, 19; April 2, 23; May 7, 21 Girl Code Level 1 Thursdays, 4 p.m., March 12, 26; April 16, 30; May 14, 28 Students in grades 4-8 learn to code in the Python programming language. In each session, a core concept will be covered along with an exercise to put newfound skills to the test. No previous coding experience necessary.

SAVE THE DATE

Code It Level 2 Thursdays, 5 p.m., March 5, 19; April 2, 23; May 7, 21 Girl Code Level 2 Thursdays, 5 p.m., March 12, 26; April 16, 30; May 14, 28 In this series of advanced sessions for students in grades 4-8, a core concept of Python programming will be covered along with an exercise to put newfound skills to the test. REGULAR EVENTS Go Between Club Saturdays, 2 p.m., March 14, April 11, May 9 All sixth, seventh, and eighth graders are welcome to join us on the second Saturday of every month for a fun discussion of books and other interests. STEAM Studio TBD (To Be Discussed) Tuesdays, 7 p.m., March 24, April 28, May 26 All high school students are welcome to participate in this monthly discussion of great books, films, music, nonfiction, poetry and all things cultural. Participants may also help create book displays and reading lists for the library and do group-reads. Story Room Math Circle for Middle Schoolers Saturdays, 3 p.m., April 18 and May 16 Students in grades 6-8 engage in hands-on activities and solve puzzles designed by high school students at PRISMS. Important math concepts, including functions, geometry and combinatorics, will be explored. Cosponsored by the library and Princeton International School of Mathematics and Science. CoLab Space

SAVE THE DATE

July 22, 6:30 p.m.

CALL FOR ENTRIES bit.ly/PSFF20

FREE HOMEWORK HELP & TEST PREP

princetonlibrary.org/brainfuse Brainfuse is made possible through the generosity of

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SUPPORT

Your support makes library programs possible: princetonlibrary.org/donate

BOOK LOVERS LUNCHEON MAY 7, NOON TPC JASNA POLANA

his year’s Book Lovers Luncheon features bestselling author Dani Shapiro discussing “Inheritance,” her critically acclaimed memoir about the revelation of a long-held family secret. Hosted by the Friends of the Princeton Public Library, the fundraising event will be Thursday, May 7, at TPC Jasna Polana. “After a lifetime of exploring themes relating to family secrets and identity in both my fiction and nonfiction, I discovered in the spring of 2016 that I had been the family secret,” Shapiro said in publicity materials about her fifth memoir. “I casually took a home DNA test and the results revealed that my beloved dad had not, in fact, been my biological father. Both of my parents were long gone, and I was left holding a massive mystery.” “Inheritance” is the result of Shapiro’s unraveling of that mystery and finding “the spot from which I could tell the story as a storyteller — one that would touch on the universal themes within it. What makes a family a family? What makes a father a father? How are our identities formed? How are we impacted by secrets?” With personal DNA test kits now widely available, and tens of millions taking them every year, the number of people impacted by unexpected discoveries continues to grow, making “Inheritance” relevant to the lives of many different kinds of readers. “I had no idea as I was writing ‘Inheritance’ just how huge a subject genealogy, DNA tests and

rSecret

The Friends of the Pri

Annual B

sharer

May 1-3 princeto

Dani Shapiro’s latest memoir is her most personal, about how a simple DNA test had complicated results the revealing of long-held secrets would become in our culture,” Shapiro said. “My story felt so singular, and as I was writing it, to be honest, I felt like an alien creature. To discover in midlife that you literally are not who you were told you were is a profoundly destabilizing thing. So I was just keeping my head down and writing. But when the book came out, from day one, I realized that I was publishing a book into an epidemic. The implications (of widespread DNA testing) are emotional, psychological, philosophical, bioethical, even legal. And mine is the book that tells the story of what such a discovery feels like from inside the experience.” Shapiro is also the author of the memoirs “Hourglass,” “Still Writing,” “Devotion” and “Slow Motion” and five novels, including “Black & White” and “Family History.” Her hit podcast “Family Secrets,” which grew from the writing of “Inheritance,” is fast approaching 10 million downloads.

The Book Lovers Luncheon, hosted annually by the Friends of the Princeton Public Library, is Thursday, May 7 at noon at TPC Jasna Polana, 4519 Province Line Road. Tickets are $80 and include a paperback copy of “Inheritance,” which will be available in advance of the luncheon. Library staff will be on hand to share buzz about new books and suggestions for summer reading. Reserve at princetonlibrary.org/booklovers.

SAVE THE DATE

GARRY TRUDEAU

Creator of Doonesbury and Social Observer

10 10 20

saturday, oct. 10, 2020 Hosted by the Friends of the Princeton Public Library

princetonlibrary.org/benefit

THANK YOU TO OUR BOOK LOVERS LUNCHEON SPONSORS

CONTACT THE DEVELOPMEN Director Lisa Belshaw Ham, ext. 1 Administrator Stephanie Oster, ext. 1 Associate Dawn Frost, ext. 1284

SUPPORT

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inceton Public Library

Book Sale

onlibrary.org/booksale

Photo by Platon

MADELEINE ALBRIGHT In Conversation with Anne-Marie Slaughter A special evening to benefit Princeton Public Library

Wednesday, April 15, 7:30 p.m. NASSAU PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 61 NASSAU ST. Corner of Hulfish & Witherspoon, Princeton, NJ Appointments 609.279.1744 www.casa-aziz.com

NT OFFICE 609-924-9529 1251, lham@princetonlibrary.org 1280, soster@princetonlibrary.org 4, dfrost@princetonlibrary.org www.princetonlibrary.org

$60

Includes a copy of her new book Hell and Other Destinations

Tickets on sale March 2 princetonlibrary.org/albright 19

Non Profit Org. U.S. Postage PA I D Princeton, NJ Permit No. 4

Princeton Public Library Sands Library Building 65 Witherspoon St. Princeton, NJ 08542 609-924-9529 www.princetonlibrary.org OPERATING HOURS Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

THANK YOU

TO OUR CORPORATE PARTNERS

ARTS

Continued from Page 13 BEATLES TRIBUTE CONCERT

The Beagles Friday, May 8, 6 p.m. Lawrenceville-based recording artists The Beagles get a little help from a number of their friends to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the release of “Let It Be,” The Beatles’ final album. The concert features Lennon-McCartney and Harrison compositions and includes faithful covers in addition to re-interpretations that showcase the band’s female vocalists. Hinds Plaza (weather permitting) or Community Room LECTURE IN SONG

Fred Miller The Great Lady Songwriters Sunday, May 10, 3 p.m. Library favorite Fred Miller presents a Mother’s Day lecture-in-song that pays

tribute to female composers and lyricists who played a significant part in Tin Pan Alley’s colorful history. Eight distinguished women are profiled representing a broad range of eras and styles, beginning with Edwardian sentimentalist Beth Slater Whitson and ending with ultra-cool singing/songwriting legend Peggy Lee. Community Room PRINCETON FESTIVAL

Musical Revue Sunday, May 31, 4 p.m. Cast members of the Princeton Festival productions for the opera “La Traviata” and the musical “Into the Woods” will perform audience favorites from a wide array of Broadway musicals and favorite operas in this musical revue. Community Park North Amphitheater

TECH CENTER

SUSTAINABILITY

C L AS S E S & C O U R S E S Check out

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INCLUDES – Princeton open space info – Compass – Binoculars – Magnifying glass – Pocket field guides – Nature log – More

Nature Explorer Backpacks

Executive Director: Jennifer Podolsky Assistant Director: Erica Bess Marketing and Communications Director: Timothy Quinn Development Director: Lisa Belshaw Ham Adult Programming Manager: Janie Hermann Head of Youth Services: Susan Conlon Head of Adult Services: Morgan Taylor Events Committee: Erica Bess, Mimi Bowlin, Katie Bruce, Amanda Chuong, Susan Conlon, Kim Dorman, Kristin Friberg, Janie Hermann, Martha Liu, Caroline Quinones, Hannah Schmidl, Nora Walsh, Marissa Warren Staff Writer: Amy Hiestand Editing and Design: Timothy Quinn

PRINCETON

ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL

Shrink Your Footprint: On Your Plate Wednesday, April 1, 7 p.m. Our food choices contribute to our footprint and have an impact on greenhouse gas emissions globally. Learn what changes you can make to combat climate change. This program is the last of four in Sustainable Princeton’s 2019’20 Great Ideas series focused on practical, actionable and evidence-based steps to reduce the footprint of our daily lives. Complimentary light refreshments and snacks will be served. Community Room Presented in partnership with Sustainable Princeton with support from NRG Energy Inc.