Build a Better World with SCLSNJ

Build a Better World

NJ’s Colonial Architecture (adults)
“New Jersey’s Colonial Architecture Told in 100 Buildings,” David Veasey’s latest book, discusses the substantial number of buildings remaining from NJ’s colonial past. Sandwiched between Philadelphia and New York City, New Jersey often doesn’t get due credit for its contributions to colonial and early American life, including its rich and diverse architectural heritage.

The History of Diners in New Jersey (adults)
During the 20th century, NJ was the diner manufacturing capital of the world. The vintage stainless steel gems built in NJ were distinctive icons of American industrial design and admired around the world. Author and historian Michael Gabriele will discuss how diners play an important role in the State’s culture, community life, commerce and mythology, and serve as the ultimate egalitarian dining experience.

The Arch in Architecture (adults)
Jharoka, an ornate window balcony, is a famous architectural element seen in many forts, palaces and homes in India. The beautiful arched openings were ornately decorated with sculptural designs, mosaics, and more! Join us to create a three-dimensional photo frame inspired by beautiful jharoka designs and have fun decorating it with Indian arts and crafts materials. Presented by Seema Moondra, from Enjoy Explore India.

George Post,“Dean of American Architects” (adults)
William Barry Thomson, co-author of “New Jersey Country Houses: The Somerset Hills,” will discuss the life of noted New York architect and Somerset County resident George Browne Post (1837-1913). Post, a long-time resident of Bernardsville, designed dozens of residences as well as numerous other structures in Somerset and neighboring counties. Post, referred by his peers as “the dean of American architects,” is perhaps best known for his design of the New York Stock Exchange and for the ways he advanced the technology and the art of the skyscraper.

Meet Frank Lloyd Wright (adults)
Famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright was born June 8, 1867 in Wisconsin. Wright promoted organic architecture and is known for his Usonian house concept and his Prairie School movement. Celebrate his 150th birthday with a performance by actor Bob Gleason from the American Historical Theatre.

*Get a Move On (adults)
All three programs in this series are hosted at SCLSNJ’s Mary Jacobs Memorial Library branch.
Adults with special needs can build better physical fitness and a broader social life at fun exercise activities. A parent or guardian is encouraged to remain in the library for the duration of the program.

Build a Better Wardrobe: Clothing Drive and Swap (adults)
The Library will collect donations beginning Monday, June 19, through Thursday, July 6, and the swap will take place on Saturday, July 8. What to bring: clean, gently used men’s, women’s, teens, and children’s clothes, coats, and shoes. Donate as many items as you want up until July 6. On the day of the swap, bring up to 15 items (per person) to exchange for 15 new-to-you items. You do not have to donate prior to the swap date in order to take part in the swap, and those making large donations will receive a voucher for use on swap day. All un-exchanged items will be donated to local organizations for the benefit of our community. No registration required.

Women Who Helped Build A Better World (adults)
Dressed as Abigail Adams, Carol Simon Levin will perform “Remembering the Ladies,” a “collective biography” highlighting influential women and events in American history.

Meet Alexander Graham Bell (adults)
Born to a deaf mother, Bell was taught elocution by his father who invented a phonetic alphabet called Bell’s Visible Speech, influencing Alexander’s later career choice as teacher of the deaf. To earn money to open a school, Bell applied his talents to improve the telegraph, enabling more than one message to be sent at a time. At the 1876 U.S. Centennial Exposition at Fairmount Park, Bell exhibited his telephone for the first time: the “tipping point” for the progress of the 19th century. Portrayed by actor Bob Gleason from the American Historical Theater. Children 9+ are welcome with an adult.

Bridge Builder in Petticoats: Emily Roebling (adults)
Many books and films have featured the Brooklyn Bridge and millions of people have crossed it. Yet, few people know that a woman helped manage much of its construction. After her husband was bedridden, Emily Roebling became his liaison to the project–eventually communicating with the engineers and suppliers so well that it was rumored that she had become the Chief Engineer herself! At her death, she was called “the most famous woman in New Jersey” and “one of the most noted women in the country,” yet today almost no one knows her name. Come see SCLSNJ’s very own Carol Simon Levin re-enact Emily’s story.

Meet Alice Paul (adults)
Alice Paul was an American suffragist, (born in NJ), feminist, women’s rights activist, and the main leader and strategist of the 1910s campaign for the Nineteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which prohibited sex discrimination in the right to vote. Reenacted by Alisa Dupuy of Ladies of History Historical Productions. Children ages 9+ are welcome with an adult.

Build Your Own World: LARPing in the Library (adults)
Test out your improvisational skills in a live action interactive theater experience with The Mind’s Eye Society. Program begins promptly at 6 p.m. Doors open at 5:45 p.m.

An (*) next to a program means that an SCLSNJ release/waiver must be signed to participate in the program.