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SCLSNJ and Rutgers University Partner for Virtual Summer Programs
About Blog Post
May 18, 2021
by Pressroom
This summer, the Somerset County Library System of New Jersey (SCLSNJ) and Rutgers University will partner for two virtual programs that explore the history of Juneteenth and local popular culture.
"We are very fortunate to be in such close proximity to Rutgers University,” said Darryl Voorhees, manager of adult services programming and collaborations, public services. “This summer, we are thrilled to continue our partnership with the university by connecting Library customers to Rutgers’ faculty expertise through educational, virtual programming.”
The first program on June 17 at 7 p.m., will examine the history of Juneteenth, the annual commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States. Juneteenth became an official holiday in New Jersey on September 10, 2020. The program will be presented by Lacey P. Hunter, professor of African American studies at Rutgers University.
“When the News Finally Came will consider the history of Juneteenth in the United States and the meanings of waiting for the African American people who remained enslaved until news of their freedom came in 1865,” said Hunter. “The talk will examine Juneteenth commemoration practices from the 18th through the 20th centuries and the significance of these traditions in the 21st century.”
For more information or to register: sclsnj.libnet.info/event/4894651.
The second virtual program on August 30 at 7 p.m., will examine local popular culture archives including the New Brunswick Music Scene Archive, New Jersey Regional Zine Collection, and New Jersey Beer Collection.
“Rutgers University Libraries' Special Collections and University Archives collects and preserves the history of the university and the state of New Jersey,” said Christine A. Lutz, New Jersey regional studies librarian and head of public services in special collections & university archives, Rutgers University. “Over the last few years, curators have focused on collecting contemporary popular culture materials, specifically around the legendary New Brunswick music scene, the ever-expanding craft beer industry, and zines reflecting diverse voices from around the state and region.”
For more information or to register: sclsnj.libnet.info/event/4924065.
In addition to exploring these archive collections, discover SCLSNJ’s historical and community memories archives: library.biblioboard.com/module/somerset-county-library-community-collections.