Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Children's Book Festival @ The Hillsborough Public Library

Saturday, May 17 
10 am to 3 pm
Hillsborough Public Library
Program Room B
379 South Branch Rd.
Hillsborough, NJ 08844

Come one, come all! The Hillsborough Public Library Advisory Board is sponsoring the first ever Children's Book Festival at the Hillsborough Public Library!

Over 20 authors and illustrators of picture books, middle grade, and young adult books will be available from 10 am to 3 pm. Meet your favorite authors, buy a brand new book and have it personally autographed! Attend presentations every 20 minutes. Bring your library card (or sign up for a new one!) and receive a discount on books purchased! Any town's card will be accepted, so invite your friends and family!

Register NOW by clicking here, or just stop by. If you have questions, please call (908) 369-2200 ext.13, or visit our website at www.sclsnj.org.

The Hillsborough Library is on Facebook and Twitter! Get information on our programs and events!

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

Friday, April 25, 2014

Retirement Planning and Concepts

McAdam Financial Group is coming to Somerville Library, 35 West End Avenue, on April 26th at 2:30PM. They will provide an in depth seminar on how to retire comfortably. Topics such as pension and social security options and the 4 –step financial planning process to ensure a successful, worry-free retirement will be discussed.

Come join us for a very informative program, with a wealth of relevant information which will help to ensure that you have a paycheck in retirement as well as a play check!

Patrons with further questions can call Somerville Public Library at (908)725-1336 or enter the website at http://www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.

May programs are in bloom at the Bridgewater Library!

Bridgewater Library
1 Vogt Drive
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
(908) 526-4016

Just to name a few:

The popular Friends Book Sale starts on Wednesday, April 30 (pre-sale fee this day only) and ends Sunday, May 4. Something for everyone at reasonable prices!

There will be a Friends concert on Friday, May 9 at 7:30 pm featuring Ken Lelen strumming and singing pop songs (1912 - 1955) by America's greatest composers.  He also will offer amusing anecdotes on the music and play vintage acoustic guitars from the same era.

May is Mental Health Month.  On Tuesday, May 13, Just Say Hello begins at 9:00 am and Mental Health Recovery and Hope begins at 11:00 am.  Stigma and Mental Illness is Thursday, May 15 at 9:00 am.

Our Open Mic Night is on Thursday, May 22 from 6:45-8:30pm; please help support local artists and musicians – you don’t need to be an artist to enjoy our Open Mic Night!

Exercise at Your Library is Friday, May 23 at 10:30 am.  Learn to dance the Salsa!

Tuesday's Afternoon Movie is Gloria on May 27 at 2:00 pm.  The Friday Night Movie, Her, is May 30 at 7:00 pm.

The Family Night Storytime in the Children's Department is May 6 from 7:00 pm - 7:30 pm in the story well.  No registration required.  Wear your pj's to our all ages nighttime storytime with Miss Gretchen!

The library is located at 1 Vogt Drive, Bridgewater, NJ. Registration is required for most events.  Patrons with further questions can call the Bridgewater Library 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.

The Bound Brook Library presents...Savvy Social Security Planning: What Baby Boomers Need to Know to Maximize Retirement Income

Tuesday, April 29 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

Social Security is far more complicated than most people realize. The decisions baby boomers make now can have a tremendous impact on the total amount of benefits they stand to receive over their lifetime.

 Questions boomers are asking include:
• Will Social Security be there for me?
• How much can I expect to receive?
• When should I apply for Social Security?
• How can I maximize my benefits?
• Will Social Security be enough to live on in retirement?

 To help baby boomers better understand the Social Security system, this workshop will cover:
• 5 factors to consider when deciding when to apply for benefits
• When it makes sense to delay benefits -- and when it does not
• Why you should always check your earnings record for accuracy
• How to estimate your benefits
• How to coordinate benefits with your spouse
• How to minimize taxes on Social Security benefits
• How to coordinate Social Security with your other sources of retirement income

Presented by Michael Aloi, Certified Financial Planner™
Not-for-profit, The Society of Financial Awareness

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=379404&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.

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Free Equipment Helps Digitize Historic Materials at SCLS

Making material available for internet audiences is a must for research, and wider access to historical documents is a special challenge.  Creating those web based documents, however, can often be a drawn out and expensive process.

At a recent American Library Association Conference, Somerset County Library System (SCLS) Assistant Director Keith McCoy helped to make the process much quicker and more affordable.  After speaking with salespeople from Digital Library Systems Group about a color book scanner made specifically for libraries, McCoy entered his name into a drawing and promptly forgot about it.

A phone call at the beginning of March alerted McCoy and SCLS that his name had been drawn in the contest.  The prize: scanning equipment and software worth approximately $6,600 would be awarded to the library for free.  The machine was set up in mid-March and is already being used to digitize photos and other materials that are a part of the project to capture local Somerset County history: www.mysomersetcounty.org.

SCLS branches also have extensive research materials – photos, letters, rare books, newspaper and magazine articles – that are only available with an appointment in the location where they are stored.  However, the scanning equipment will allow SCLS to scan these often fragile documents and put them on the web, reaching a far wider audience more easily.

“This is a very exciting opportunity for SCLS to help the County tell its history to a much wider audience through the internet,” said McCoy.  “That we are able to have such sophisticated equipment now in-house for free is a real win for everyone throughout the region.”

Electronic Services Librarian Richard Loomis heads up the My Somerset County Project, which is a joint venture with the Somerset County Office of Freeholders.  Residents wishing to add their documents to the collection should contact Loomis at (908) 526-4016 ext. 171 or rloomis@sclibnj.org.  He will also be leading the project to digitize SCLS historic documents.

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.

Shakespeare's birthday & Famous New Jerseyans this week @ Warren

The Warren Township Library presents:

Method & Madness: Shakespeare for Today– Thursday, April 24 at 7 PM.

In honor of Shakespeare's 450th birthday, Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey Director of Education and resident director Brian B. Crowe will explore the 'method and madness' of producing the Bard's canon in the 21st century, including selecting and adapting material, developing a production concept, and inspiring a love of Shakespeare in the younger generation. 'Peek behind the curtain' as Crowe shares a unique perspective from the longest-running Shakespeare theater on the East Coast and New Jersey's largest professional theatre company dedicated to Shakespeare's canon and other classic masterworks.

Famous and Not so Famous New Jerseyans – Saturday, April 26 at 2 PM.

Charismatic History Channel commentator, historian Bill Chemerka will give a lively and entertaining presentation about Famous and Not-so-Famous New Jerseyans. There have been many famous people who have been born in New Jersey, and others who were born elsewhere but made a name for themselves while residing here. And there are still others who called New Jersey home and helped create unique moments in our history. Test your knowledge about local history and popular culture, in this program which is part of the library's celebration of the 350th anniversary of the founding of the Garden State.

Registration is required to attend these free programs. To register online please click on this link: http://www.libraryinsight.net/calendarmv.asp?jx=wt or call 908-754-5554 ext 64 for more information or assistance with registration.

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

Information about Library services and resources is available at the Library’s website at http://www.sclsnj.org or by calling the Warren Library at 908-754-5554. 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.

For updates on programs, services, etc. follow the Warren Twp Library on Twitter@warrenlibrarynj and like us on Facebook/WarrenLibrary. 

Monday, April 21, 2014

For the Birds!

 April 23, 2014 at 7PM
 Hillsborough Public Library
Program Room B
379 South Branch Rd.
Hillsborough, NJ  08844

John DeMarrais, a former board member of the NJ Audobon Society, will present 'For the Birds', which offers insights based on observations of birds in over 40 countries, and their relationship to your garden environment.

Register NOW by clicking here, or just stop by. If you have questions, please call (908) 369-2200 ext.13, or visit our website at www.sclsnj.org.

The Hillsborough Library is on Facebook and Twitter! Get information on our programs and events!

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

Rising Tides: What Can the Past Tell Us About Future Climate Change?

Saturday, April 26, 2014 at 2PM
Hillsborough Public Library
Program Room B
379 South Branch Rd.
Hillsborough, NJ  08844

'Sustainability Steps' Kickoff Program

Bob Kopp is Associate Director of the Rutgers Energy Institute and Assistant Professor in the Department of Earth & Planetary Sciences at Rutgers University. His presentation focuses on past and future climate and sea level changes,  the uncertainties of the geological record, and the economic risks of future climate change.

As a tribute to Earth Day, join us for the first of a multi-part series titled, 'Sustainability Steps'. This series will focus on monthly topics to engage you in minimizing your carbon footprint.

Register NOW by clicking here, or just stop by. If you have questions, please call (908) 369-2200 ext.13, or visit our website at www.sclsnj.org.

The Hillsborough Library is on Facebook and Twitter! Get information on our programs and events!

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

CHANGE SOMEONE'S LIFE--BECOME A LITERACY VOLUNTEER!

April 24th, 6:30pm
North Plainfield Memorial Library
6 Rockview Ave
North Plainfield, NJ 07060
908-755-7909

Imagine a life without the ability to read, speak, or understand English well. Everyday tasks like reading the mail, writing a note to a teacher, or having phone conversations are overwhelmingly difficult. Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County is a non-profit organization that provides one-on-one and small group tutoring to functionally illiterate adults.

The need for literacy tutors in Somerset County is great, and there are many people waiting for a tutor.

Join representatives from LVSC for an information session to learn more.

Registration required. Click here to register.

For questions about this session, please contact Selwa Shamy at 908-755-7909 or sshamy@sclibnj.org

Visit the LVSC website: www.literacysomerset.org.

Follow the North Plainfield Library on Facebook and check out the NPL Children's Library's tumblr page! Get information on programs and events!

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

Dog Training & Behavior presented by Iris Fryzel

Saturday, April 26th at 2:00pm
Peapack & Gladstone Library
Conference Room #1
Municipal Complex
1 School Street
Peapack, NJ 07977

Ever wonder why your dog acts a certain way or can’t be broken of a bad behavior?

Older children, teens, and adults are welcome to join professional dog trainer Iris Fryzel at the Peapack & Gladstone Library and learn how dogs think, why they behave the way they do, and how to train them. Iris will also be taking and answering questions from the audience throughout the program. Please bring questions and enthusiasm but leave your dogs at home. Interested attendees can also ask about an in-home consultation.

Iris has a MS and BS in Wildlife Biology and Management, is a certified Pet Dog Trainer, APDT Professional Member, and was formerly a Canine Officer with the US Department Homeland Security and US. Department of Agriculture.

Registration is required. For more information or to register for this program stop by the library’s circulation desk, call the library at 908-234-0598, or email Adult Services Librarian Diane Hahn at dhahn@sclibnj.org or Young Adult Librarian Melissa John at mjohn@sclibnj.org.

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

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Pet Foster Parent Seminar at Somerville Library

Somerville Library, 35 West End Avenue in Somerville is hosting a foster parent seminar offered by The Somerset Regional Animal Shelter, on April 17th at 6:30PM. The seminar will provide training and information regarding what to expect when fostering an animal for the shelter. By fostering animals for short periods of time, the shelter can provide more room at their facility, allowing them to help other animals in need.

The Somerset Regional Animal Shelter will provide all the food and medical care for the fostered animals. They will also include basic care, administering medication and caring for nursing mothers, in their training. Come and support the wonderful work the shelter does for our furry friends!

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

Rising Tides: Climate Change @ The Hillsborough Library

Rising Tides: What The Past Can Tell Us About Future Climate Change

Saturday, April 26 at 2 p.m.
Hillsborough Public Library 
Program Room B
379 South Branch Rd.
Hillsborough, NJ  08844

As a tribute to Earth Day, join us for the first of a multi-part series titled 'Sustainability Steps'.  This series will focus on monthly topics to engage you in minimizing your carbon footprint. Today our speaker is Professor Robert Kopp, Associate Director of the Rutgers Energy Institute and Assistant Professor in the Department of Earth & Planetary Sciences at Rutgers University.  Dr. Kopp's presentation focuses on past and future climate and sea level changes, the uncertainties of the geological record, and the economic risks of future climate change.

Register NOW by clicking here, or just stop by. If you have questions, please call (908) 369-2200 ext.13, or visit our website at www.sclsnj.org.

The Hillsborough Library is on Facebook and Twitter! Get information on our programs and events!

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

Monday, April 14, 2014

Donate to ‘BOBO Fridays’ Food Drive – April 25

Freeholder Patricia Walsh has announced that the next “Buy One, Bring One” (BOBO) collection of food for Somerset County families and individuals in need will be held Friday, April 25.  The program has collected 15-plus tons of donations to date.

Canned or boxed food items are accepted.  For ideas about healthy foods to donate, go to http://bit.ly/FoodPantryDonations.  The monthly drop-off program has collected more than 31,000 pounds of donations since it began in July 2010.

Look for the blue BOBO Fridays bins at these county locations: Somerset County Administration Building, 20 Grove St., Somerville; Park Commission Headquarters, 355 Milltown Road, Bridgewater; Lord Stirling Stable, 256 S. Maple Ave., Basking Ridge; and Environmental Education Center, 190 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge.

Local libraries hosting the bins include the Bound Brook Memorial Library, Bridgewater Library, Manville Library, Mary Jacobs Memorial Library (Rocky Hill), North Plainfield Library, Peapack-Gladstone Library, Somerville Public Library, Warren Township Library and Watchung Library.

Towns that have BOBO Fridays bins in their municipal buildings are Bedminster, Bound Brook, Franklin, Green Brook, North Plainfield and Raritan.

The usual third-Friday collection is being moved to the fourth Friday this month, as most county and municipal offices are closed April 18 for Good Friday.

Even if you miss one of the monthly collection dates, the blue BOBO bins are available every day, so donations may be dropped off at any time during regular business hours at all locations.

Thursday, April 10, 2014

What Indians Lived in Your Backyard? The Indigenous People of Hillsborough,NJ

Wednesday, April 16 at 7PM
Hillsborough Public Library 
Program Room B
379 South Branch Rd.
Hillsborough, NJ  08844

Did you know that there were Native American Indians living in Hillsborough, NJ and throughout the surrounding region five hundred to thousands of years ago? Come take a journey back in time with archaeologist and archaeological field assistant, Jim Wade, as he uncovers the hidden presence of the Indians who once hunted, fished, and gathered wild plants throughout the Hillsborough region and maybe right in your own backyard

Register NOW by clicking here, or just stop by. If you have questions, please call (908) 369-2200 ext.13, or visit our website at www.sclsnj.org.

The Hillsborough Library is on Facebook and Twitter! Get information on our programs and events!

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

ACA Enrollment Help Continues at Bridgewater Library

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is in place, having taken effect January 1, 2014.  People who have begun but not finished the medical insurance enrollment process may still be looking for assistance.  The Bridgewater Library, a part of the Somerset County Library System (SCLS) continues to host enrollment assistance sessions for individuals, families and small business owners through Wednesday, April 30, 2014.

The scheduled days and times are:
Wednesdays, 3:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Saturdays, 10:30 am to 4:00 pm

The Bridgewater Library is located at 1 Vogt Drive, Bridgewater, NJ.  Further information is available at 908-526-4016 ext. 105.

The enrollment assistance programs are being offered for free to all Somerset County residents.  Partnering with CognoSante, on behalf of the US Department of Health, SCLS is offering this service to help local residents in obtaining the health care insurance coverage and information they may need.

Applicants will need to attest to their inability to complete the application process through HealthCare.gov, CuidadoDeSalud.gov, the Health Insurance Marketplace Call Center, the State Medicaid Agency or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Agency.  The following documents are needed for applicants in order to complete the enrollment process:
Current healthcare insurance (if applicable) and policy numbers
Information about health care coverage available through current jobs
Social security numbers (or documentation for legal immigrants)
Employer and income information verification for every member of household requiring coverage (pay stubs or W-2 forms are acceptable)

“We recognized a need for assistance in navigating the ACA application process as it can be confusing.  By partnering with CognoSante, we are happy to provide this service,” noted Mun Hwa Chen, Head of Adult Services.

Questions?  Call SCLS at (908)526-4016 extension 105 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.

The Bound Brook Library presents...LVA Become A Tutor Information Session

Tuesday, April 15 at 11:00 a.m.
Tuesday, April 22 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

Imagine a life without the ability to read, speak or understand English well. Everyday tasks like reading the mail, writing a note to a teacher, or having phone conversations are overwhelmingly difficult.

Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County is a non-profit organization that provides one-on-one and small group tutoring to functionally illiterate adults.

The need for literacy tutors in Somerset County is great, and there are many people waiting for a tutor.

Join representatives from LVSC for an information session to learn more.

Visit the LVSC website: www.literacysomerset.org.

This program is free and open to the public. Registration is requested. Call (732) 356-0043 or click one of the links below to sign up for one of the sessions.

Tuesday, April 15 at 11:00 a.m.
http://www.libraryinsight.net/eventdetails.asp?jx=jbp&lmx=394920&v=3

Tuesday, April 22 at 7:00 p.m.
http://www.libraryinsight.net/eventdetails.asp?jx=jbp&lmx=394921&v=3

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.

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

The Bound Brook Library presents... Does Your Business Plan Make Sense

Thursday, April 17 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

Combining the best elements of the most important part of the business plan, the marketing component and the finance component, this seminar walks you through the steps involved in producing a successful business plan. The business plan is absolutely essential to anyone seeking to either start a new business or expand an existing business. Whether you need it to approach a financial institution for financing, or simply strengthen your own vision, the business plan is as essential as a roadmap for a traveler planning a major trip.

Presented by the Central New Jersey Chapter of SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives).

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=375814&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 Bound Brook Library presents... Butterfly Gardens of New Jersey

Monday, April 21 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

Learn facts about the butterfly’s life cycle and behavior. Use these tips to attract up to 30 species of butterflies to your garden.

Presented by Connie Kallas, Rutgers Master Gardeners of Somerset and Hunterdon Counties.

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=382384&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.

Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County Tutor Information Session.

Literacy Volunteers will hold a Tutor Information session on April 14 at 2:30PM at Somerville Library, 35 West End Avenue, Somerville.

Come learn about LVSC and its programs to help adults learn or improve their English literacy skills. Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County offers one-to-one tutoring, English conversation groups and ESL classes taught by certified teachers.

If you are interested in learning about becoming a tutor with the Literacy Volunteers, please join us for this program. There are many adults in the community waiting for a tutor.

Patrons with further questions can call Somerville Public Library at (908)725-1336 or enter the website at http://www.sclsnj.org. Somerville Library is located at 35 West End Avenue, adjacent to the Borough Hall building in Somerville. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, Manville, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.

Hazy Souls at the Hillsborough Library

Thursday, April 10 7PM
Hillsborough Public Library 
West Wing
379 South Branch Rd.
Hillsborough, NJ  08844

The Hazy Souls are an alternative folk band from New Brunswick, NJ consisting of Nick Geremia (vocals, mandolin,fiddle), Kyle Pucciarello (vocals, guitar,banjo), and Brett Praskach (bass). Their original compositions showcase their diverse musical influences as well as their varying personal experiences and create a sonically unique, original sound.

Register NOW by clicking here, or just stop by. If you have questions, please call (908) 369-2200 ext.13, or visit our website at www.sclsnj.org.

The Hillsborough Library is on Facebook and Twitter! Get information on our programs and events! The Hillsborough Library is part of the Somerset County Library System. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack and Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township, and Watchung.

Monday, April 7, 2014

Rental Assistance Program at Somerville Library

Somerville Library, 35 West End Avenue, is hosting The Department of Human Services from Warren Street in Somerville. The County staff will present an information session and eligibility screening for the Homelessness Trust Fund Rental Assistance Program. This event will take place on Thursday, April 10th from 6:30-8:00PM.

This session is an opportunity for County residents to learn more about the program, which offers up to 15 months of rental assistance to working families. Come join us for a very informative program! All are welcome!

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

The Bound Brook Library presents...How to Probate a Will: The Basics of Estate Planning and Estate Administration

Tuesday, April 8 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

Presented by Frank G. Bruno, Surrogate of Somerset County

Topics such as the following will be discussed:

- Wills
- Testamentary Trusts
- Living Will and Health Care Directive
- What to Bring to the Surrogate’s Court
- What is probating a will?
- How does the process work?
- Estate Tax – NJ & Federal
- NJ Inheritance Tax
- Refunding Bounds
- If Someone Dies without a Will
- Guardianships
- Contacting the Surrogate’s Court

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=390318&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.

Friday, April 4, 2014

Health Screenings at the North Plainfield Library Provided by Overlook Hospital staff in their mobile health center.

North Plainfield Memorial Library
6 Rockview Ave
North Plainfield, NJ 07060
April 3---Cholesterol ($10)
May 1---Cholesterol ($10)
June 5---Glucose (NO FEE)
11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Education and prevention can keep you and your loved ones healthy. We invite you to take advantage of these health screenings conveniently located at the North Plainfield Library. To register for any of these screenings please call 1-800-247-9580 Monday through Thursday from 8:30am to 8:00pm and Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm. Or register online here and click on the heading Screening Search. Select the screening from the Name drop down menu.

Follow the North Plainfield Library on Facebook and check out the NPL Children's Library's tumblr page! Get information on programs and events!

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

Residents Invited to Displays, Programs to Celebrate County Government Month

Somerset County Freeholder Director Patrick Scaglione invites residents to learn about Somerset County through informational displays and activities at various county locations during National County Government Month in April.

Somerset County will join county governments nationwide in celebrating National County Government Month to raise public awareness and understanding about county government.  This year’s theme is “Ready and Resilient Counties-Prepare, Respond, Thrive."

“We look forward each year to providing opportunities for our residents to learn about the many programs and services Somerset County offers,” said Freeholder Scaglione.  “We hope residents will take advantage of some of the events and will pick up literature.”

Somerset County has been participating in National County Government events since its inception in 1991.

An information display hosted by the Somerset County Board of Freeholders/Public Information Office with literature from many county divisions will be available in the lobby of the Somerset County Bridgewater Library at 1 Vogt Drive from Saturday, April 5, to Saturday, April 12.  Residents are invited to help themselves to materials. Call (908) 526-4016 for library hours or visit www.somerset.lib.nj.us/locationlist.html. Contact Joanne Vuoso of the Somerset County Public Information Office for information at (908) 231-7020 or vuoso@co.somerset.nj.us.

 Somerset County freeholders are looking forward to meeting and talking with residents at the Library display table as follows:  Freeholder Peter Palmer will be on hand Monday, April 7, from 1 to 4 p.m. and Freeholder Patricia Walsh on Tuesday, April 8, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Read More

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Special Event: "GoodSpellers" Spelling Bee @ The Hillsborough Library

"GoodSpellers' " Spelling Bee
Thursday, April 17 starting at 6 p.m.
Hillsborough Public Library
Program Room B
379 South Branch Rd.
Hillsborough, NJ  08844

Join us for this special event: "GoodSpellers" Spelling Bee for Ages 10-200!!
Everyone is welcome to the Hillsborough Public Library's first spelling bee! Join
us for some casual spelling fun and cool prizes, donated by the Friends of the
Hillsborough Library.

We will ask you when you arrive for the spelling bee which "group level" you
want to participate in: Brainiac, Genius, or Master of the Universe! Spectators
are also welcome!

Register NOW by clicking here, or just stop by. If you have questions, please call (908) 369-2200 ext.13, or visit our website at www.sclsnj.org.

The Hillsborough Library is on Facebook and Twitter! Get information on our programs and events!

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

Two Gardeners: Emily Dickinson & Beatrix Potter @ Warren Library

Saturday, April 5 at 2 pm



In this illustrated talk, NJ author Marta McDowell will explore the connection between the pen and the trowel by looking at two particular women:  Emily Dickinson and Beatrix Potter.  Both born in the 19th century, they had different artistic careers but shared a love of gardening.  McDowell gives a very interesting talk with accompanying slides on Dickison and Potter 's lives.

Marta McDowell consults for public gardens and private clients, writes and lectures on gardening topics, and teaches landscape history and horticulture at the New York Botanical Garden, where she studied landscape design. Her first book, Emily Dickinson’s Gardens: A Celebration of a Poet and Gardener, was published in 2005. Her latest book Beatrix Potter's Gardening Book was published last year and is a delightful book filled with color photographs reproducing Potter's artwork and her locations and gardens in England. The December issue of Book Page featured McDowell’s book.  To read about it click on this link http://bit.ly/1e9IoGG.

Registration is required due to limited seating.  To register online please click on this link http://bit.ly/ObSbVP or call 908-754-5554 ext 64 for more information or assistance with registration.

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

Information about Library services and resources is available at the Library’s website at http://www.sclsnj.org or by calling the Warren Library at 908-754-5554. 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.

For updates on programs, services, etc. follow the Warren Twp Library on Twitter@warrenlibrarynj and like us on Facebook/WarrenLibrary.

Tuesday, April 1, 2014

The Bound Brook Library presents... Louisa May Alcott

Thursday, April 3 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

Explore the life of Louisa May Alcott as she grows from the rebellious child to an icon of American literature, following a life plan of her own design.

Trish Chambers is an author and historical re-enactor whose performances focus on events that have shaped the nation’s history. Her presentations, performed in period costume, bring history to life as she performs as a Woman at the Turn of the Century, Rosie the Riveter, a Civil War Woman or Jane Austen.

This program is free and open to the public. Registration is requested. Call (732) 356-0043 or click on http://www.libraryinsight.net/eventdetails.asp?jx=jbp&lmx=376998&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 Bound Brook Library presents... Free Antique Appraisal


Saturday, April 5 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

Alan Snyder, a certified antiques and estate appraiser, of A.G. Snyder & Associates will be at the library to appraise your antiques. Bring your treasures and find out what they are worth.

Initial limit of three items per person If time allows additional items may be appraised. Numbers will be given to attendees and appraisals will be given in order of arrival.

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=379529&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 & Crochet Groups at the Bound Brook Library - April Meetings

Bound Brook Library
402 E. High St.
Bound Brook, NJ 08805
(732) 356-00463
Directions: http://www.somerset.lib.nj.us/boundbrook.htm

Beginning Knitting & Crocheting
Every Wednesday, 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm
April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Knitting and crocheting are not just for doilies and scarves anymore! Karen our resident knitter and crocheter, will help you learn or review the basics.

Library Loopers
Meets 2nd & 4th Monday at 7:00 pm
April 14 & 28

Join this informal gathering. Meet! Learn! Share!

These programs are free and open to the public. Call (732) 356-0043 for more information.

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.

Homelessness Trust Fund Provides Rental Assistance & More

Thursday, April 10 6-8 pm
Somerville Library
35 West End Avenue
Somerville, NJ 
(908) 725-1336

Somerset County’s Homelessness Trust Fund has leveraged more than $350,000 in accrued fees to provide rental assistance and other services aimed at helping clients maintain permanent housing within Somerset County. 

“The results speak for themselves,” said Freeholder Patricia Walsh, program liaison. “Of the 19 people who have completed the program to date, all are still housed and are paying their rent with earned income. There have been several success stories: one client has purchased a home, another will pursue a doctorate at Rutgers this fall, and three clients got higher-paying jobs – two of them making enough money so that they are no longer eligible for the program. 

“This program was developed to help prevent homelessness among people who are working but who may have experienced a setback, or couples where one partner has lost a job,” she said. “In the current economy, this situation has occurred in all too many households.” 

A special information session on the Homelessness Trust Fund program will be held , from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Somerville Library. For details visit http://bit.ly/HTFInfo2014 or call 908-541-5756. 

The Homelessness Trust Fund was created by the Board of Freeholders in 2010 through a resolution authorizing the County Clerk to collect a $3 surcharge for all documents recorded. The Board also appoints a committee of 14 people – including two Freeholders, county staff and community members – to approve a plan setting priorities for the use of the funding and to make changes to the program as needed. 

To date the fund has accrued $511,511, of which $289,000 has been allocated for rental assistance, case management and financial education; $18,000 for planning and administration through the county Community Development Office; and $50,000 for special-needs housing. Clients are referred by the Somerset County Board of Social Services, the Central Jersey Housing Resource Center (CJHRC) and other community agencies. 

Clients receive an average subsidy of $250 per month and are required to meet monthly with a case manager, apply to a savings-match program and attend a “Money in Motion” class at the CJHRC. Currently there are 17 households enrolled, with a total of 40 people. 

Future plans for the Homelessness Trust Fund program include an enhanced referral system with the Board of Social Services and the recruitment of client mentors. 

In order to qualify, applicants must be employed, have a formal lease at a rate lower than the fair-market rent for the unit size and be within the following income limits: $51,500 for one person, $58,800 for two people, $66,200 for three, $73,500 for four, $79,400 for five or $85,300 for six. 

For more information or to apply, contact the Somerset County Community Development Office at 908-541-5756. 

Questions?  Call SCLS at (908) 725-1336 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.

The Bound Brook Library presents... How to Probate a Will: The Basics of Estate Planning and Estate Administration

Tuesday, April 8 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

Presented by Frank G. Bruno, Surrogate of Somerset County
Topics such as the following will be discussed:
- Wills
- Testamentary Trusts
- Living Will and Health Care Directive
- What to Bring to the Surrogate’s Court
- What is probating a will?
- How does the process work?
- Estate Tax – NJ & Federal
- NJ Inheritance Tax
- Refunding Bounds
- If Someone Dies without a Will
- Guardianships
- Contacting the Surrogate’s Court

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=390318&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.