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Explore Community Memories at Your Local Branch or Travel Digitally
About Blog Post
Aug 26, 2024
by SCLSNJ
Even while the Somerset County Library System of New Jersey's (SCLSNJ) Bound Brook branch is closed for long-term repairs, Library staff are still hard at work. In addition to outreach events at various venues throughout Bound Brook, staff have been digitizing and preserving archival materials, including 36 scrapbooks that detail the history of the branch and the community.
"SCLSNJ's Bound Brook branch has hosted some truly extraordinary events in years passed that would be hard to imagine in a modern library: a worm race; a pet talent show; and even visits from otters, a baby elephant, and a chimpanzee!," said Alyssa Titus, library assistant. "Digitizing these fascinating moments has been an incredibly rewarding journey, and I'm excited to help preserve and share these unique treasures for our community members to enjoy."
Compiled by Library staff over the years, the scrapbooks include newspaper clippings and photos documenting Library programs, staff gatherings, and other events. The images capture the evolution of the Library through staff changes, renovations, and its integration into SCLSNJ in 2006.
All scanned artifacts have been added to the Library's community memories digital collection by accessing the extensive technology - available to staff and customers alike - at SCLSNJ's Digital Lab located at the Montgomery branch in Skillman.
"Like the painted books and manuscripts of the Middle Ages, the many history books and online resources at SCLSNJ illuminate the lives and stories of the past," said Teresa Bayles, technical services manager. "Through the discovery and exploration of our varied collections, customers can connect with people and events of history, learning something new and perhaps finding comfort in the magic of shared experiences. As a librarian and historical re-enactor, I see our public libraries as integral places to explore the rich and complex narrative of the people and places that came before us, both locally and beyond."
Explore SCLSNJ's Historical and Community Memories Archive to discover digitized scrapbooks, community artifacts, and many other archived materials.
For more information about the Bound Brook branch, call (908) 458-8410, connect on WhatsApp (908) 331-1261, or email boundbrook@sclibnj.org. To discover all SCLSNJ has to offer, visit SCLSNJ.org or connect with SCLSNJ on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), or YouTube.