Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Eat Organic on a Budget


Thursday, November 29 at 7:00 p.m.

Bound Brook Library
402 E. High St.
Bound Brook, NJ 08805
(732) 356-0043
www.sclsnj.org
Directions: http://www.somerset.lib.nj.us/boundbrook.htm

Presented by Mona Laru, Certified Organic Nutrition and Wellness Coach and owner and founder of Naked Nutrition.

Attendees will walk away knowing the following:
  • 12 ways to eat organically on a budget
  • how to eat mindfully
  • 3 ways to look and feel great both inside and out
This presentation will include a live recipe demo using all LOCAL, fresh ingredients.

This program is free and open to the public.  Call (732) 356-0043 to sign up or click on http://www.libraryinsight.net/eventdetails.asp?jx=jbp&lmx=288051&v=3 to register online.

Patrons with further questions can call the Bound Brook Library at (732) 356-0043 or enter the website at http://www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.



Knitting & Crocheting Groups at the Bound Brook Library


Bound Brook Library
402 E. High St.
Bound Brook, NJ 08805
(732) 356-0043
Directions: http://www.somerset.lib.nj.us/boundbrook.htm 

The Bound Brook Library offers two opportunities for knitters and crocheters of all skill levels. New members are always welcome.


Adults Beginning Knitting and Crocheting 
Meets Wednesdays from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
December 5, 12, 19, 26

Knitting and crocheting are not just for doilies and scarves anymore! Karen our resident knitter and crocheter will help you learn the basics on Wednesdays from 3-5 pm in the upstairs meeting room. Bring your practice yarn, and crochet hooks or knitting needles. For new learners Karen recommends a size I hook or size 10. Worsted weight yarn, such as Red Heart Super Saver (in a fairly light, solid color is a good practice yarn. These sessions are free and open to the public. No registration is required.
____________________________________________________________________

Library Loopers
December 10

Meet! Learn! Share! An informal gathering of knitters and crocheters. All levels welcome. These sessions are free and open to anyone 15 and older. No registration is required. Meets the 2nd & 4th Mondays at 7:00 p.m.

Patrons with further questions can call the Bound Brook Library at (732) 356-0043 or enter the website at http://www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.

Best Books to Give! @ The Mary Jacobs Library



Tuesday December 4, 2012 
2:00 PM to 3:00 PM 
Mary Jacobs Library 
Program Room 
64 Washington Street
Rocky Hill, NJ
609-924-7073

Looking for a meaningful, yet affordable, gift idea for that special someone? Join us at The Mary Jacobs Library on Tuesday, December 4 at 2 pm, as we share our top picks for books that make great gifts this holiday season!  The presentation will include great suggestions for all ages, information on how to give eBooks, and some advice on what types of books not to give.

Registration is required for this program. To register, click the link below.


For more information, visit The Mary Jacobs Library Adult Reference Desk or call 609-924-7073 ext 4. 

The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.

Monday, November 26, 2012

Bridgewater Library accepting donations for the Somerset Regional Animal Shelter


The Bridgewater Library is now accepting donations for the Somerset Regional Animal Shelter through Friday, December 14th.

Bridgewater Library
1 Vogt Drive
Bridgewater, NJ
908-526-4016 

Please consider donating the following:
  • Cat and Kitten Food (canned & dry)
  • Dog Food (canned & dry)
  • Cat toys - Dog toys
  • Cat Litter (non-clumping clay litter)
  • Dog Leashes - Dog Collars
  • Martingale Training Dog Collars
  • Postage Stamps
  • Batteries
  • Comforters
  • Cotton Towels
  • Paper Towels
  • Bleach
  • Laundry Detergent
  • Gift Cards for any pet store, Walmart, Target or Agway

Please do not leave gift cards, stamps or batteries in the donation box. Give them to a staff member at the Circulation Desk.

Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at (908)526-4016 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung. 

Monday, November 19, 2012

Literacy Volunteers Event to be Held at Bridgewater Library November 30


Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County (LVSC), a provider of literacy tutoring and ESL classes for adults in Somerset County, is proud to partner with the Somerset County Library System (SCLS) to present their Literacy Holiday Soiree on Friday, November 30, 2012 at the Bridgewater Library. The event, which runs from 6:00 - 8:30PM, will raise funds to support LVSC’s ongoing efforts and programs fighting illiteracy in Somerset County.  The Bridgewater Library is located at 1 Vogt Drive, Bridgewater, NJ.  908-526-4016.  www.sclsnj.org.

At the event, LVSC will salute the  SCLS for their long standing support of LVSC’s programs and tutors. “Our relationship with the Somerset County Library System is essential to the success of our tutoring programs,” according to Jay Muldoon, Executive Director - Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County. “The local branches throughout the county provide space and materials used by our volunteer tutors and their adult learners. We look forward to developing more programs with SCLS as we expand our efforts to help adults throughout the County improve their lives and achieve their literacy goals.”

Tickets to the Literacy Holiday Soiree are $50 and include wine, beverages, hors d’oeuvres, entertainment, silent auction and more. Purchase tickets at www.literacysomerset.org or call LVSC at 908 725 5430.

SCLS may be contacted at (908) 526-4016 or through the website at http://www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.

ESL Conversation Group to Begin at Bound Brook Library


Meets every Monday at the Bound Brook Library, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., beginning Monday, November 26.

Bound Brook Library
402 E. High St.
Bound Brook, NJ 08805
(732) 356-0043
Directions: http://www.somerset.lib.nj.us/boundbrook.htm 


Join the conversation and practice building confidence in everyday interactions and conversations.

This group is free and open to intermediate and advanced English language learners.

Jointly sponsored by the Somerset County Library System and the Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County.

Registration required. Sign up in the library or call (732) 356-0043.

Patrons with further questions can call the Bound Brook Library at (732) 356-0043 or enter the website at http://www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.



Friday, November 16, 2012

Haunted Transportation: Ghostly Sightings via Air, Land & Sea


Monday, November 19 at 7:00 pm

Bound Brook Library
402 E. High St.
Bound Brook, NJ 08805
(732) 356-0043
Directions: http://www.somerset.lib.nj.us/boundbrook.htm


A very scary presentation by: L'Aura Hladik, President of the NJ Ghosthunters Association and author of 'Ghosthunting New Jersey' & 'Ghosthunting New York City'.

You thought security was a nightmare at the airport! Wait until you hear about the ghostly results of Eastern Airlines flight 401 and phantom planes from Wales to Ohio to Pennsylvania.

Prefer rail travel? Think twice! From Gettysburg, PA to Pattenburg, NJ; there are tragic events that still travel along these forgotten rail lines.

Long before Princess Cruises, the 'Gray Ghost' floated on the ocean waters. Today the Queen Mary is docked in Long Beach, California along with her ghostly passengers. All along the American seaboard lovely lighthouses dot the landscape providing the guiding light to ships in the night and foggy air. However, some lighthouse keepers aren't corporeal, but are still at work keeping the light lit!

No matter which form of travel you favor, these haunting tales along with photos, audio and video clips will have you opting to sit home and watch the Travel Channel instead!

This program is free and open to the public.  Registration is requested.  Call (732) 356-0043 to sign up or click on http://www.libraryinsight.net/eventdetails.asp?jx=jbp&lmx=293367&v=3 to register online.

Patrons with further questions can call the Bound Brook Library at (732) 356-0043 or enter the website at http://www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.

Create Cinnamon Stick Arrangements


Saturday, November 17 at 10:00 a.m.

Bound Brook Library
402 E. High St.
Bound Brook, NJ 08805
(732) 356-0043
Directions: http://www.somerset.lib.nj.us/boundbrook.htm


Make a lovely cinnamon stick arrangement for the holidays or a special gift.  Using 12-inch cinnamon sticks and beautiful ribbon you can create this arrangement which will fill your home with the aroma and warmth of cinnamon.Each participant will create their own decorative item to bring home.  All materials provided.

This program is free and open to the public.  Class limited to 25 people. Advanced registration is required. Call (732) 356-0043 to reserve your seat.

Patrons with further questions can call the Bound Brook Library at (732) 356-0043 or enter the website at http://www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.



Thursday, November 15, 2012

Small Business Roundtable


Tuesday, November 20 at 7:00 p.m.

Bound Brook Library
402 E. High St.
Bound Brook, NJ 08805
(732) 356-0043
Directions: http://www.somerset.lib.nj.us/boundbrook.htm


This roundtable seminar will be hosted by a panel of SCORE counselors. Rather than a formal presentation, counselors will answer any and all questions from participants related to starting, maintaining or growing a business in New Jersey. Potential topics, according to the needs of the participants, could include marketing, starting/buying and/or financing a brick and mortar store or home based business.

Presented by the Central New Jersey Chapter of SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) which is a nonprofit association dedicated to educating entrepreneurs and the formation, growth and success of small business nationwide.

This program is free and open to the public.  Registration is requested.  Call (732) 356-0043 to sign up or click on http://www.libraryinsight.net/eventdetails.asp?jx=jbp&lmx=284306&v=3 to register online.

Patrons with further questions can call the Bound Brook Library at (732) 356-0043 or enter the website at http://www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.

The Bridgewater Library features a program on Abraham Lincoln


Wenesday, November 21
11 am
Bridgewater Library
1 Vogt Drive
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
908-526-4016
www.sclsnj.org

The Bridgewater Library presents American History Through Biography featuring Abraham Lincoln.

Wednesday, November 21st at 11:00 am, Marty Alboum will review Lincoln's life and career, emphasizing the personal characteristics that allowed him to overcome tremendous adversity and put us on the road to greater liberty and justice for all.

This FREE program will be held in Meeting Rooms A & B, please register to attend. Click on this link to sign up: http://bit.ly/T3zZwx or stop by the Adult Reference Desk or call us 908-526-4016 x 105.

Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at (908)526-4016 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.

Mysterious Reading Habits


Thursday, November 15 at 7:00 p.m.

Bound Brook Library
402 E. High St.
Bound Brook, NJ 08805
(732) 356-0043
Directions: http://www.somerset.lib.nj.us/boundbrook.htm


The days are getting shorter and the air is getting crisp, it’s the perfect time to find a stack of mysteries to curl up with late at night.  If you’re a fan of mysteries, or looking for ideas to add to your reading list, then this is the program for you!

Librarian Yvonne Selander will be giving a PowerPoint presentation featuring books and authors from our collection. Some of the topics that will be covered during the presentation are:

• What makes a mystery a mystery? 
• Differences between mysteries, suspense and thrillers
• The Three Big Subgenres: Police Procedurals, Private Investigators,     Amateur Sleuths
• The Three Big Sub-Subgenres: Foreign, Historical, Cozies• Online resources 
• Award Winners

This program is free and open to the public.  Registration is requested.  Call (732) 356-0043 to sign up or click on http://www.libraryinsight.net/eventdetails.asp?jx=jbp&lmx=280694&v=3 to register online.

Patrons with further questions can call the Bound Brook Library at (732) 356-0043 or enter the website at www.sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.



Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Bridgewater Public Library presents Pitch Perfect


NOVEMBER 28, 6:30-7:30PM
Meeting Rooms A & B
Bridgewater Public Library
1 Vogt Drive
Bridgewater, NJ
www.sclsnj.org

You have the finished manuscript, but how do you craft the perfect pitch or query letter to catch the eye and ear of an agent or publisher? Join local authors Tiffany Strelitz Haber, Lizzie K. Foley, Kristi Cook, Leeza Hernandez and Corey Rosen Schwartz for a discussion and workshop on their own experiences in breaking into the publishing world. You will work in small groups with the published authors to write your own pitch. Come join the fun!

Registration is required. Call Adult Services, 908-526-4016 x105 or click this link to sign up now: http://bit.ly/RqXXz8.

Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at (908)526-4016 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.

Thursday at 6:30pm: Open Mic Night @ the Bridgewater Library


Thursday, November 15th
6:30-8:30pm

Bridgewater Library
1 Vogt Drive
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
908-526-4016 ext. 126
www.sclsnj.org


Think you’ve got what it takes to get up on stage in front of your peers with nothing but your voice and guitar?Want to share your poetry, comedy, or original music?  Not an artist, but would like to witness some of the most inspiring artists Somerset County has to offer?

Join us at the Bridgewater Library for Open Mic Night, and help local musicians and writers have their voices heard.

Depending on registration, artists will receive 10-15 minute slots to play music or recite poetry.  Sign ups will be on a first-come, first-served basis.

If you'd like to perform, please sign-up by clicking here.

Please help support local artists and musicians – you don’t need to be an artist to enjoy our Open Mic Night!

Patrons with further questions can call the Bridgewater Library at (908) 526-4016 ext. 126 or visit our website at www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.




Friday, November 9, 2012

Are you suffering from Cabin Fever already? Come to the Warren Twp Library next week to feel transported to a different place and a different time!


The Warren Twp Library, a branch of the Somerset County Library System, is located at 42 Mountain Boulevard, Warren, NJ 07059

 Tuesday, November 13 at 7 pm – Travel Photography

Compose Inspiring Photos, Whether at Home or in Spain!

What do you get when you combine 23 years of Information Technology training experience with the love of traveling & taking photos? Someone meticulous in obtaining the perfect angle & focusing on interesting subjects! Sharon Bancroft will give tips & techniques to improve your photos, whether your focus is a beach in Portugal or your upcoming networking event! Sharon will discuss website options to back up, share & protect photos. She will share her photos of Ireland, Portugal, Spain & California central coast, for you to feel transported and inspired to plan your next trip and return with your own beautiful photos!

Saturday, November 17 at 2 pm – Musical Saturday @ Warren Library presents:

“Music for Colonists, Patriots and Presidents”

It is a step back in time when flutist John Burkhalter and Harpsichordist Donovan Klotbeacher, from The Practitioners of Musick in Princeton, perform chamber music enjoyed by colonial Americans in the 18th century, including George and Martha Washington. Thomas Jefferson kept an impressive music library that included American, British, and European music. Benjamin Franklin invented a musical instrument (the glass harmonica) and kept a harpsichord in his house. The program will include a rich and diverse selection of some of Jefferson’s and Franklin’s favorite pieces of chamber music, as well as songs from popular musical theatre productions enjoyed throughout the colonies.

These programs are free to the public, but advance registration is required. To register online please go to http://libraryinsight.net/calendarmv.asp?nMonth=11&nYear=2012. Find the program(s) of your choice on the calendar and double-click to register. Or call 908-754-5554 ext 64 for more information and assistance with registration.

Follow the Warren Twp Library on Twitter@warrenlibrarynj and at Facebook.com/WarrenLibrary.

You may reach the Warren Township Librayr at (908) 754-5554 or visit the website at www.sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.


SCLS Forgiving Fines


The Somerset County Library System (SCLS) will not assess fines on borrowed materials that were or are due during the time period of October 27, 2012 – November 24, 2012.

“Hurricane Sandy has left so many of our communities’ residents grappling with challenges large and small that we could not add concerns about library fines to anyone’s list of priorities.  We recognize that getting borrowed library materials back on time has simply not been possible for many.  We will not assess fines on materials that come back to any of our 10 SCLS branches that are due during the period of October 27-November 24,” explained SCLS director Brian Auger.

Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at (908) 526-4016 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.

REVITALIZE YOUR LIFE NATURALLY THROUGH NUTRITION AND AROMATHERAPY


Monday, November 12 at 7 p.m.
Hillsborough Library
379 South Branch Road
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
908-369-2200

Join us at the Hillsborough Public Library as Liz Hoffmann and Csilla Bischoff show how to balance one's mood chemistry through food while using aromatherapy oils to inspire and awaken the senses. Samples of healthy choices will be served!

Registration for this program is required and can be done in person, over the phone at 908-369-2200, on our website http://www.libraryinsight.net/calendar.asp?dp=&sm=1&jx=hup&nMonth=10&nYear=2012&x=3, or on our Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hillsborough-Public-Library/148841041821130

Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at (908) 369-2200 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung

Thursday, November 8, 2012

SCLS Soliciting Donations to Assist Jersey Shore Storm Victims


 The Somerset County Library System (SCLS) is stepping up once again to help communities in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.  Recognizing that New Jersey Shore communities have been particularly hit hard by the super storm, residents are asked to make a contribution at any of the 10 library branches beginning on Friday, November 9 of the following items:

Baby wipes
Batteries
Bottled water
Disposable diapers
Flashlights

“We’ve been able to help our Somerset County neighbors since the storm has passed by providing a safe, warm environment for patrons to recharge their mobile devices and get connected to vital information.  But we can stretch a little to help our New Jersey communities that have been so very badly devastated and for whom the recovery time will go on for considerable time, by giving them items that they can use immediately,” noted Edward Hoag, Hillsborough Library Director and coordinator of this donation effort.

Collection spots will be clearly marked at each of the SCLS branches throughout Somerset County.

Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at (908) 526-4016 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.


Wednesday, November 7, 2012

SCLS Branches Adjust Schedules Due to Weather


Weather is once again playing havoc with Somerset County Library System’s (SCLS) hours of operation. The following branches have shortened their hours due to today’s current weather event:

Bound Brook Library will close at 5 pm.
Bridgewater Library will close tonight at 7 pm.
Hillsborough Library will close today at 5 pm.
Manville Public Library closed at 3 pm due to lingering power issues
            related to last week’s storm.
Mary Jacobs Library at Rocky Hill will close at 5:50 pm.
Peapack & Gladstone Library will close today at 5 pm.
Warren Township Library, which resumed operation yesterday, 
             November 6, will close tonight at 5 pm.

In addition, tonight’s meeting of the Library Commission has been cancelled.  The meeting has been rescheduled for Wednesday, November 14 at 7 pm in the Bridgewater Library.

North Plainfield Memorial Library and Watchung Library continue to be closed due to unresolved power issues related to Hurricane Sandy.

For area residents without electricity, heat and media, SCLS continues to provide a venue to warm up, charge mobile devices and find out about local resources available during the aftermath of last week’s super storm.

Photos illustrating how well used several of the libraries have been over the last few days are available and may be downloaded for use by the press at:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/11519682@N07/

Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at (908)526-4016 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.

Knitting and Crochet Groups at the Bound Brook Library - November Meetings



Bound Brook Library
402 E. High St.
Bound Brook, NJ 08805
(732) 356-0043
www.sclsnj.org
Directions: http://www.somerset.lib.nj.us/boundbrook.htm


The Bound Brook Library offers two opportunities for knitters and crocheters of all skill levels. New members are always welcome.

Adults Beginning Knitting and Crocheting
Meets Wednesdays from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
November 7, 14, 21, 28

Knitting and crocheting are not just for doilies and scarves anymore! Karen our resident knitter and crocheter will help you learn the basics on Wednesdays from 3-5 pm in the upstairs meeting room. Bring your practice yarn, and crochet hooks or knitting needles. For new learners Karen recommends a size I hook or size 10. Worsted weight yarn, such as Red Heart Super Saver (in a fairly light, solid color is a good practice yarn. These sessions are free and open to the public. No registration is required.
__________________________________________

Library Loopers 
Monday, November 12 & 26

Meet! Learn! Share! An informal gathering of knitters and crocheters. All levels welcome. These sessions are free and open to anyone 15 and older. No registration is required. Meets the 2nd & 4th Mondays at 7:00 p.m.

Patrons with further questions can call the Bound Brook Library at (732) 356-0043 or enter the website at http:/www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.



Monday, November 5, 2012

SCLS Branches Open as Warming, Recharging, Information Spots


Seven branches of the Somerset County Library System (SCLS) are up and running. The branches are offering a lifeline to area residents by providing warmth, internet connections and recharging stations.

“We have heat and light, and we have been able to offer people the chance to recharge their mobile devices, particularly cell phones.  For many, their cell phone is the only way to check on family members, call the utility company, find out what the status is for school and work, find out where to get emergency help, and obtain important local information,” according to Brian Auger, director of SCLS.

Below is a list of SCLS libraries currently open, along with their hours of operation:

Bound Brook Library
o Monday, November 5: 9:30 am – 9:00 pm
o Tuesday, November 6: 9:30 am – 9:00 pm
o Wednesday, November 7: 9:30 am – 9:00 pm

Bridgewater Library
o Monday, November 5: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
o Tuesday, November 6: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
o Wednesday, November 7: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm

Hillsborough Library
o Monday, November 5: 9:30 am – 9:00 pm
o Tuesday, November 6: 9:30 am – 9:00 pm
o Wednesday, November 7: 9:30 am – 9:00 pm

Manville Library
o Monday, November 5: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
o Tuesday, November 6: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
o Wednesday, November 7: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm

Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill
o Monday, November 5: 9:30 am – 9:00 pm
o Tuesday, November 6: 9:30 am – 9:00 pm
o Wednesday, November 7: 9:30 am – 9:00 pm

Peapack & Gladstone Library
o Monday, November 5: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
o Tuesday, November 6: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
o Wednesday, November 7: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm

Somerville Library
o Monday, November 5: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
o Tuesday, November 6: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
o Wednesday, November 7: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm

Photos illustrating how well used several of the libraries have been over the last few days are available and may be downloaded for use by the press at:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/11519682@N07/

Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at (908)526-4016 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.

LANCE TO HOLD MOBILE OFFICE IN SOMERSET COUNTY TUESDAY TO ASSIST DISASTER VICTIMS


FEMA Officials To Join Lance In Helping Somerset County Residents

WASHINGTON – Congressman Leonard Lance (NJ-07) and his staff will hold a mobile office in Bridgewater on Tuesday, November 6, 2012 to assist Somerset County residents and small businesses with Hurricane Sandy disaster assistance.

At Lance’s request, officials from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will be on-hand to answer questions and help those affected by Hurricane Sandy.

IN BRIDGEWATER : Lance’s mobile office will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday, November 6, 2012 at the at the Bridgewater Library (part of the Somerset County library system) located at 1 Vogt Drive.   The Library is serving as the town’s warming and charging center.

Residents who are unable to attend the mobile office, but need assistance are urged to contact FEMA over the phone or online at 1.800.621.3362 (FEMA) or www.disasterassistance.gov  or www.fema.gov.

Area residents who have disaster related questions, but don’t know where to turn, can contact Lance’s Westfield office (908) 518-7733, Flemington office (908) 788-6900, Washington office (202) 225-5361 or online at lance.house.gov.

The mobile office is free and open to all members of the public.

Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at (908) 526-4016 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.

                                                         ###

Saturday, November 3, 2012

UPDATED: SCLS Helping Community Residents Weather the Storm


Seven branches of the Somerset County Library System (SCLS) are up and running.  While it may seem silly to worry about picking up the latest bestseller or making sure a borrowed item is returned on time, the reality is that the branches are offering a lifeline to area residents.

“We’re open.  We’re warm and we have been able to offer people the chance to recharge their mobile devices, particularly cell phones.  For many, their cell phone is the only way to check on family members, call the utility company, find out what the status is for school and work, find out where to get emergency help, and what supermarkets and gas stations are up and running.”  This is according to SCLS spokesperson Lisa Bogart.

At the Peapack & Gladstone Library, WiFi issues meant that patrons needed to use library computers to connect online, until a very generous patron lent the branch their Verizon 4G MiFi Jetpack.  Thus community access via WiFi at Peapack & Gladstone is good to go!

Several of the branches will be open on Sunday, November 4.  For Hillsborough and Bridgewater, this is business as usual.  For Bound Brook and Peapack & Gladstone Libraries, these are additional hours in order to better serve their communities.  These four libraries will be open on Sunday from 1 pm – 5 pm.

Below is a list of SCLS libraries currently open, along with their hours of operation:

Bound Brook Library
o Saturday, November 3: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
o Sunday, November 4: 1:00 pm – 5 pm
o Monday, November 5: 9:30 am – 9:00 pm
o Tuesday, November 6: 9:30 am – 9:00 pm

Bridgewater Library
o Saturday, November 3: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
o Sunday, November 4: 1:00 pm – 5 pm
o Monday, November 5: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
o Tuesday, November 6: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm

Hillsborough Library
o Saturday, November 3: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
o Sunday, November 4: 1:00 pm – 5 pm
o Monday, November 5: 9:30 am – 9:00 pm
o Tuesday, November 6: 9:30 am – 9:00 pm

Manville Library
o Saturday, November 3: 10:00 am – 5:30 pm
o Monday, November 5: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
o Tuesday, November 6: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm

Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill
o Saturday, November 3: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
o Monday, November 5: 9:30 am – 9:00 pm
o Tuesday, November 6: 9:30 am – 9:00 pm

Peapack & Gladstone Library
o Saturday, November 3: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
o Sunday, November 4: 1:00 pm – 5 pm
o Monday, November 5: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
o Tuesday, November 6: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm

Somerville Library
o Saturday, November 3: 10:00 am – 5:30 pm
o Monday, November 5: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
o Tuesday, November 6: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm

Photos illustrating how well used several of the libraries have been over the last few days are available and may be downloaded for use by the press at:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/11519682@N07/

Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at (908)526-4016 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.