Libraries across the country, including ours, are feeling the impact of a major industry change: the closure of longtime book supplier, Baker & Taylor.
As we adjust to the transition, you may notice some temporary delays in new releases and requested titles.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as we adapt and continue to provide meaningful access to books and resources.
For adults, anyone renewing, upgrading, or signing-up as a member for the first time will receive a Red Bank Public Library tote bag. For children, all new members will be entered into a raffle! Both of these events go through Tuesday, September 30. And don’t forget to write responses for our passive program, Check This Out!: What Your Library Card Means to You!
Janet Felton is both a painter and ceramic artist. Her whimsical, one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces showcase charming creatures like raccoons, dogs, and squirrels. In addition, Janet's bright and colorful waterscapes reflect the beauty found in our stunning coastal surroundings. If you missed her in September, don’t worry - her art will also be displayed throughout October!
We’re excited to announce that our Strategic Plan Survey is now open! This is your chance to share ideas, feedback, and priorities to help guide the Library’s next chapter.
The survey only takes a few minutes, and your input will make a real difference in shaping future programs, services, and community initiatives. Please take a moment to fill it out—we’d love to hear from you!
RBPL Strategic Plan Survey English
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¡Nos complace anunciar que nuestra Encuesta del Plan Estratégico ya está disponible! Esta es su oportunidad de compartir ideas, comentarios y prioridades para ayudar a guiar el próximo capítulo de la Biblioteca.
La encuesta solo toma unos minutos, y su opinión marcará una verdadera diferencia en la creación de futuros programas, servicios e iniciativas comunitarias. ¡Tómese un momento para completarla—queremos escuchar su voz!
The Red Bank Townwide Yard Sale is back on Saturday, September 13th!
Anyone wishing to take part as a seller can register here or in person at the library. The registration fee is $10 and benefits the RBPL Foundation. Registered homes will be placed on the map, which will be available in paper form and in PDF form on the RBPL website the day of the event. The only way to pay online is through PayPal -- if you'd prefer not to use PayPal, you can register online and then pay later in check or cash at the RBPL circulation desk. All registrants will be sent an info packet before the event.
We have a limited number of plots available at the library for apartment dwellers who wish to sell but do not have a yard. Apartment registrants will be required to bring their own tables and chairs.
The deadline for registration is Wednesday, September 10th at 5pm. The rain date for the event is Sunday, September 14th, but the library will NOT make this call -- that is up to the individual sellers.
Curious about how the library foundation supports Red Bank Public Library? Please join us for an informal Q&A session, Thursday, July 24th at 6:30pm, here at RBPL. We look forward to seeing you and answering your questions!
Summer Reading is designed for readers of all ages, providing you with a chance to win prizes for reading, attending programs, and completing challenges!
This year’s theme is Color Our World, and we encourage you to explore the world through art and creativity. Summer Reading will run from June 28 - August 16, 2025, and is open to Children, Teens, and Adults.
Step 1: Sign up for for Summer Reading at redbankpl.beanstack.org. Stop by the library to pick up your goodie bag.
Step 2: Log in to your Beanstack account (through the website or app) to log the books you read and track your progress. (P.S. Beanstack also allows parents to manage their children’s accounts so they can help younger ones participate too!)
Step 3: Earn prizes and online badges through reading, activities, and participation in summer programs.
Paper reading logs are available as well. Be sure to ask a librarian for one if you prefer that option.
Check our website calendar for all of our summer programs and activities
Download our Summer Reading Calendar to keep a copy with you on the go
Join us in June as we host community clubs and tease the start of summer. Then, we end the month kicking off this year’s Summer Reading program. Become a Master of Art, stop by for our tie-dye party, register for Summer Reading, and learn how to Color Our World with the Red Bank Public Library.
Click here for this month’s Adult calendar.
For this month’s Children & Teen calendar, click here.
Remember, all programs are open to the public and free to attend. You don’t need a card to hang out with us. To see full program details, browse our online calendar.
Learn how to navigate and organize your inbox at Gmail Basics on Thursday, June 5 with the assistance of our Eisner Computer Lab instructors.
Start a new crochet project with the help of YouTube and our Lab tutors. Bring your yarn and device to the Lab on Thursday, June 12 for Loop & Learn.
Learn how to navigate your Mac desktop or laptop on Tuesday, June 17 during the Lab’s Mac Basics workshop. Stop by again for the Lab’s 3rd Loop & Learn on Thursday, June 26.
Learn how to navigate a Windows desktop or laptop on Saturday, June 21 during the Lab’s Windows Basics workshop.
Professional traveler Chris McCormack is visiting us to share stories and photos of his colorful travels across the globe at Exploring Our Colorful World on Tuesday, June 11.
Healthy Eating for One provides education, and recipes, to adults from a Hackensack Meridian Health dietitian on Thursday, June 12; registration requested.
Our RBPL Book Club meets in our West Room this month on Wednesday, June 18.
Our last Historic Walking Tour of the season is on Saturday, June 21.
Board Games & Pizza Bagels for Teens is back! It begins on Thursday, June 5 and runs through August. Drop by between 2:30-4:30PM.
Teens are invited to play through Chicory, a Switch game, and express themselves with art during A Colorful Video Game on Wednesday evenings beginning June 18. Drop by between 5:30-7:30PM.
Junk Journaling for Teens now includes Tweens! Stop by our Young Adult (YA) area every Thursday night between 5-7PM.
Bilingual Story Time takes place in our Children’s Room on Friday, June 13 and again on Friday, June 27. Activities and stories are in English and Spanish!
Family Story Time on Race & Diversity is happening in person this month on Saturday, June 14 with local children’s author Tavea Sanderson reading her new book.
Create a caterpillar collage during The Hungry Artist: Art inspired by Eric Carle on Saturday, June 21.
Our Main Floor book displays are always changing. This month we’re displaying books to honor Caribbean American Heritage Month and African American Music Appreciation Month and celebrate Pride Month as well as the Great Outdoors.
We have more than books! Join us at a program this June to continue the celebration in person.
During Great Outdoors Month, we’re hosting Exploring Our Colorful World with professional traveler Chris McCormack.
RBPL will be out in the community on June 7 at Pride in the Park. Be sure to say hello!
Check out this June display to find your next read and make your decision: Was the book better than the movie?
Summer Reading kicks off at RBPL on Saturday, June 28. Everyone is invited to kick off this year’s program, sign up to participate, and tie-dye in our backyard.
Be sure to bring a T-shirt to tie-dye!
During the summer, libraries across the nation host a Summer Reading program, complete with exciting events and prizes, designed to celebrate and reward readers of all ages.
Children, Teens, and Adults are all invited to join in the Summer Reading fun—for free—at their local library! When you register you can track your books and attendance at our programs.
This year’s we invite you to embark on a journey of art & creativity with us as we Color Our World all summer long!
We’re hosting several programs to gear up for Summer Reading. Stop by RBPL to register early and enjoy these special programs.
Check out a few photos from this year’s New Jersey Library Association (NJLA) Conference. Our librarians and library workers are proud to expand our skills to continue serving our community.
Stop in to Red Bank Public Library this month and make an ever-lasting memory. Attend one of our free programs, read a new book, or learn a new skill. Whatever you’re looking for, RBPL has you covered.
Click here for this month’s Adult calendar.
For this month’s Children & Teen calendar, click here.
It’s Get Caught Reading month, and we have a few fan favorites, as well as tips to help you get caught reading anywhere you go!
Remember, all programs are open to the public and free to attend. You don’t need a card to hang out with us. To see all program details, browse our online calendar.
Diamond Painting for adults and mature teens is back on Saturday, May 3 in our Meeting Room. Join Candyce to learn all about this popular craft and complete their own painting. Registration required.
Shh! Search our Main Stacks in a Silent Scavenger Hunt. Pick a grab bag prize at Reference when you complete your hunt on Saturday, May 3.
Paint a plant pot with us in the Meeting Room from 3:30-5PM on Tuesday, May 6. Paints and pots provided; you just bring your creativity! Registration required.
Start a new crochet project with the help of YouTube and our Lab tutors. Bring your yarn and device to the Lab on Tuesday, May 8 for Loop & Learn.
Bilingual Story Time takes place in our Children’s Room on Friday, May 9 and May 23.
Learn how to download free ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, and more with Libby. Bring your digital device and library card to a Libby Help Session on May 13 in our Eisner Opportunity Lab.
Anime Club meets on May 14 and May 21. Last two meetings before summer break!
Another Historic Walking Tour is happening on Saturday, May 17, beginning at 10:30AM! Tours are led by Kathy Lou, last about 1.5 hours, and start from our front porch. Wear your walking shoes!
Take note of a few cancellations and closures this month as well.
Dance Fitness is cancelled this Friday, May 9.
The library is closed on Saturday, May 24, and Monday, May 26, for Memorial Day.
The library is closed on Thursday, May 29, for Staff Development.
Our Main Floor book displays are always changing. This month we’re displaying books to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and Jewish American Heritage Month, as well as our Military and pets!
Mixed-media artist and writer, Yolanda Navarra Fleming, will be exhibiting her bold, vibrant work this May and June. Come check out her expressive pieces and see how she brings emotion to life through art.
Learn more about Yolanda and view her work up-close at RBPL!
We’re excited for Summer Reading, which kicks off on June 28 at the Red Bank Public Library. People of all ages are invited to sign up and participate in this 8-week challenge, which celebrates and encourages reading, color, creativity, and community.
Get rewarded for reading and visiting RBPL this summer long when you sign up for Summer Reading!
Our daffodils have bloomed on our front lawn, so we know spring is here, and we can’t wait for this month’s programs to celebrate the start of a new season. April is a busy month at the library; here’s a quick list of what’s happening here at RBPL.
Click here for this month’s Adult calendar.
For this month’s Children & Teen calendar, click here.
National Library Week is an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries and library professionals play in transforming lives and strengthening our communities.
Discover what draws people to the library; stop in! Plus:
Follow us on social to learn more
Search our stacks during our Silent Scavenger Hunt
Complete trivia for a chance to win big
Thank the library staff that matter to you!
Remember, all programs are open to the public and free to attend. You don’t need a card to hang out with us.
Historic Walking Tours are back! The first Tour of 2025 is Saturday, April 5. Tours are led by our amazing volunteer Kathy Lou, last about 1.5 hours, and start from our front porch.
Controlled crafting fun with Emily during Retro Craft Chaos on Saturday, 4/5; expect Perler beads, friendship bracelets, plastic lanyards, crochet, origami.
Our Eisner Opportunity Lab is back! Anyone can make a tutoring appointment online or with our Reference Desk to improve their digital skills. Learn more about our Lab here.
National Library Week is April 6-12; look online daily for celebration suggestions, plus trivia in the library with prizes on Tuesday night.
Bilingual Story Time returns to our Children’s Room on Friday, 4/11 and 4/25, at 3:30PM.
Drop in to sample and rate Doritos on Friday, 4/25 during Dip into Chips.
Meet our new tutors, get tech tips, and pick up a Lab calendar of events at the Lab Grand Re-Opening on Saturday, 4/26.
Let’s Talk About Race is hosting movie night on Tuesday, 4/29, screening 10,000 Men Named George; popcorn provided!
April is National Volunteer Month, and it’s so important for all of us to take a moment to thank our RBPL volunteers. Our volunteers make this library FUNctional in so many ways. Stop by to view our display and be sure to thank the next volunteer you see shelving books, hosting a program, or attending a Board meeting.
On Saturday, February 22, we invited the Red Bank community to celebrate and highlight African American literature and voices at Red Bank’s National African American Read-In.
The National African American Read-In (AARI) is a groundbreaking effort to encourage communities to read together, centering around African American books and authors. This year, our Let’s Talk About Race committee partnered with T. Thomas Fortune Foundation & Cultural Center (TTFFCC) to host AARI at the Red Bank Public Library.
With more than 20 attendees in our Meeting Room, the Read-In began with a welcome and introduction from Library Assistant Claire, who shared more about AARI. Then, Fortune Tellers kicked off public participation with two powerful poems, reading Let America be America and Still I Rise.
After, audience members were welcome to read passages, poems, children’s book, even lyrics from a Black author. To everyone’s delight, our first reader was a young reader, Reza, who happily read the first chapter from one of his favorite books, Stunt Boy, in the Meantime. Following this, adult patron James delivered a strong and heartfelt reading of Malcolm X, bringing more than one audience member to tears.
Our afternoon continued with familiar faces in the Red Bank community, such as Lynn Humphrey, archivist at TTFFCC; Gilda Rogers, executive director of TTFFCC; and Sid Bernstein, co-founder of Citizens for a Diverse and Open Society.
As fellow co-founder of the Citizens for a Diverse and Open Society, Gilda reiterated why programs like AARI are so important, “Everyone’s history is a precious gift.”
Readings continued with a mix of materials, from a passage written 90 years ago to two children’s books to the lyrics of Winter in America, a 1974 song.
Patty Whyte, volunteer chair of Let’s Talk About Race, was one who chose to read a children’s book.
Anansi the spider: a tale from the Ashanti is a folklore story that originates in West Africa. Despite being a children’s book, Patty’s choice had “deep lessons that some of us adults need to hear.”
“I find the African American Read-In event a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the many expressions of storytelling, from prose to poetry to song. I always learn something new at these events and I’m looking forward to next year’s Read-In!”
Throughout the program, patrons chatted about reads and recommendations, including ways of using RBPL and TTFFCC to dive deeper in Black history—beyond February.
Just because February is ending, doesn’t mean we stop highlighting diverse voices and stories. In the words of author N.K. Jemisin, How Long 'til Black Future Month?
Explore more with your library card at redbanklibrary.org/24-hour-library
Watch documentaries, indies, blockbusters, and cinematic stories about African American experiences; check out movies made by Black filmmakers with free streaming services Kanopy and Hoopla.
Dive into individual, local, and state history with access to databases like JerseyClicks, Literary Reference Center, Newspaper Source Plus.
Encourage even more learning with interactive resources like Points of View Reference Center, Middle Search Plus, Primary Search, and the award-winning encyclopedia World Book.
Tour the T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center for an insightful look at the evolution of racial equality in America through a historic timeline. It opens the door to a historical treasure trove in person and on Zoom.
The Red Bank Community Engagement & Equity Committee meets in the Library’s West Room every 3rd Wednesday from 6:30-7:45PM. All are welcome to join as RBCEEC works to make Red Bank inclusive, safe, and rewarding for all. Next Meeting is 3/19.
Interested in supporting our Let’s Talk About Race committee? Email redbanklibrary@gmail.com.
Utilize HeritageQuest, a genealogical resource from Ancestry, in the library.
Attend our programs; free to everyone, no card required. Visit our online calendar for up-to-date details.
Dive into Red Bank’s history with our Local History digitized resources and publications like The Echo, “the oldest colored paper in New Jersey.”
Visit our YouTube channel for Miss Sira’s Family Story Time on Race & Diversity.
Check out—or just browse—one of the many books on display in on our Main Floor and Children’s Room to celebrate Black voices and stories—this month and beyond.
There’s so much happening in March! March is Women’s History Month, Nutrition Month, not to mention World Storytelling Day is on March 20. We’re celebrating and sharing stories all month long; stop by and check us out.
Click here for this month’s Adult calendar.
For this month’s Children & Teen calendar, click here.
Remember, all programs are open to the public and free to attend. You don’t need a card to hang out with us.
Spanish Driver’s Ed is back! Our free course begins March 13; registration required at bit.ly/m/RedBankManeja.
Escuela de Manejo Clases gratuitas en la Biblioteca Pública de Red Bank! Clases comienzan Marzo 13. Inscripción requerida: bit.ly/m/RedBankManeja
Learn a little more about AI at our March workshop on Thursday, March 6.
Hunt around RBPL at our Silent Scavenger Hunt on Saturday, March 8.
Our last cozy and mindful night of the season is happening in the West Room at Time to Hygge on Tuesday, March 11.
Hackensack Meridian Health helps us prepare a healthy diet for Nutrition Month at our afternoon program—Mediterranean and DASH Diet—on Thursday, March 13. Receive tips, recipes, and goodies with registration.
A can’t-miss hybrid program with the author of My Child is Trans, Now What? takes place on Tuesday, March 18 in-person and via Zoom. Share, support, attend, and learn.
We’re celebrating NJ Makers Day on March 22 with activities for all ages across the library; stop by!
Let’s Talk About Race is talking mental health in the minority community with a hybrid panel discussion on the evening of Tuesday, March 25.
It’s that time of year! Start planning for Earth Day and register to claim your free tree from RBPL. Snag your free tree to plant at bit.ly/RBPLfreetree.
This month we’re excited to welcome author, educator, and transgender advocate Ben V. Greene to a special hybrid program discussing his his latest book: My Child is Trans, Now What? A Joy-Centered Approach to Support.
All are welcome to join us in our Meeting Room or via Zoom to hear from Ben as he speaks about offering a judgement-free guide to people across generations, from millennial parents to members of older generations who may not have had previous positive exposure to the trans community.
He explains what to expect, what systems exist to support trans youth, and what loved ones can do to help with humor, personal stories, and compassion.
Click here to reserve your seat and learn more about Ben and this special program.
February is Black History Month, and Red Bank is celebrating throughout the month. There’s so much in store at the library as we honor the past and look to the future.
Check out our book displays throughout the library. We have books displayed for Black History Month on our Main Floor, Young Adult area, and Children’s Room.
Tune in for Miss Sira’s Family Story Time on Race & Diversity, dropping on Facebook and YouTube on Saturday, 2/8. You can also view past videos on our channel; a new Family Story Time on Race & Diversity is shared every 2nd Saturday of the month.
Join us on Saturday, 2/22, as we team up with The T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center to proudly present this year’s African American Read-In. All are welcome to stop the library from 11AM-1:30PM as we celebrate Black culture, history, and perspectives during a day of connection, community, and storytelling. Hear powerful stories from Fortune Tellers, listen to readings from Black authors, and participate with provided works and writings—or one of your own choosing! Learn more, share, or register to read here.
Remember, you don’t need a library card to attend these programs.
Drop in to our Meeting Room on 2/8 to build and play during our Fun with Forts day!
We’re opening up the Eisner Computer Lab on Monday, 2/10, for a free Internet safety workshop. Learn how to better protect yourself online, regardless of your computer skills.
Anime Club returns! Chill and craft, paint, and of course, watch anime every 2nd and 3rd Wednesday of the month from 4-5PM.
Teens are invited to drop by the YA area every Thursday night from 5-7PM for Junk Journaling. Supplies and space to hang provided!
Caregivers and kids are invited to Bilingual Story Time on Friday, 2/7, and 2/24. Stories are read in English and Spanish; no registration or card is required to join in on the fun.
All are invited to a T-Rex Tea Party on Saturday, 2/15. Come dressed in your best for a DINO-MITE Tea Party; just remember to register!
Throwback Thursday returns with a program on Thursday, Feb. 13—Mount Family History. Join us in our Meeting Room or on Zoom as Liam Collins brings the history of this important Red Bank family and institution to life.
Adults are invited to relax and craft during Diamond Painting on Tuesday, 2/25. Supplies are provided, and attendees will leave with their 4x4 mini masterpiece! Space is limited, so be sure to register soon.
Click here for this month’s Adult calendar.
For this month’s Children & Teen calendar, click here.
The Greater Red Bank Women's Initiative Immigration Committee teaches free English classes at the Red Bank Public Library on Thursday evenings from 6:00-7:30PM.
Classes are free, open to the public, and designed to help you improve your English language skills. Our spring semester is starting soon! Classes begin on Thursday, February 6, and run through June 26.
Registration is required though! Please be sure to sign up for the spring semester by completing this quick form: https://bit.ly/2025SpringESL.
El Comité de Inmigración de la Iniciativa de Mujeres de Greater Red Bank imparte clases gratuitas de inglés en la Biblioteca Pública de Red Bank los jueves por la tarde de 6:00-7:30PM.
Las clases son gratuitas, abiertas al público y diseñadas para ayudarte a mejorar tus habilidades en el idioma inglés. Los estudiantes deben registrarse con anticipación para reservar su lugar: https://bit.ly/2025SpringESL.
¿Preguntas? / Questions? / Info@grbwomensinitiative.org o (732) 842-0690 / redbanklibrary@gmail.com
ESL Classes are free to the public and no library card is required. Feel free to share with anyone who may benefit from this program!
Dear Red Bank Community,
After six incredible years as Library Director, it's time for me to turn the page. My last day at the Red Bank Public Library will be January 23rd, and I want to take a moment to acknowledge what we've accomplished together.
Candyce Valor, Eleni Glykis and Sira Williams at the NJLA Awards and Honors Ceremony 2022
We didn't just manage a library—we reimagined what being a dynamic force in the community meant. From launching the "But Wait, There's More" Collection to creating a 24/7 Locker System and introducing a Spanish Language Driver's Ed program, we've been all about breaking traditional library boundaries.
Let's talk numbers: 2024 was nothing short of remarkable. We welcomed 67,000 visitors—a 45% increase from the previous year and 11% higher than our pre-COVID peaks. Our programming hit another level, with nearly 11,000 people diving into everything from storytimes to workshops. Reference questions? Up. Volunteer hours? Up. Library card sign-ups? Definitely up. All clear signs that the library is more vital to the community than ever!
Sure, not everything is finished. YES, that new elevator is still on the to-do list. But progress isn't about instant perfection; it's about consistent momentum.
A resident recently told me that the library has always been a shining jewel, and it shines brighter after my tenure. That light will continue to shine under the leadership of Candyce Valor, who will step in as Interim Director. Candyce is no stranger to the library, having served here for 15 years in roles including Business Manager and Assistant Director. With a Master of Library Science from St. John’s University, Candyce brings the energy and expertise needed to guide the library through its next chapter and ensure it continues to grow.
Judy, Jaime, Eleni, and Candyce Valor at Red Bank’s Pride in the Park
A huge shout out to the rest of the incredible team who made this library something truly special. Sira, Cathy, Karen, Gail, Claire, Maria, Itzel, Natalya, Kirsten, Emily, MaryEllen, Barbara, Judy, Dawn, Jaime, and former teammates Linda, Jorge, Valerie, Victoria, and Matt—your energy, creativity, and talent have been the heartbeat of this library, turning every page, program, and moment into something extraordinary.
Candyce Valor, Eleni Glykis and Harmonica Sunbeam during Red Bank Public Library’s Drag Queen Story Hours
Eleni Glykis and Cathy Tobin, at the Library’s 2019 volunteer reception
Our volunteers, from classes from Red Bank Schools, to local businesses but especially our dedicated group: Kathy Lou , Barbara , and Sue, thank you for pouring your time and energy into helping make this place so special.
It would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the Library Board of Trustees for their unwavering support and guidance. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to serve as Director. Your commitment has been instrumental in making this library a core part of our community.
I want to extend heartfelt gratitude to the Foundation for the Red Bank Public Library. From funding innovative projects to ensuring we have resources to adapt and grow, the Foundation’s generosity and dedication has been an invaluable partner in our mission. Of course the Borough of Red Bank for their unwavering support and partnership!
And lastly, to all of you, the residents of the Red Bank. You're the reason this library feels alive. Your curiosity, your passion, and your support have transformed these shelves from just books to real stories, real connections. Thank you for trusting us, challenging us, and showing up—day after day.
My next adventure calls at the Elizabeth Public Library, serving one of New Jersey's largest, most diverse, and historic cities. As I move forward, I'm carrying the lessons, stories, and connections from Red Bank with me. This has been more than just a professional chapter— it's been a transformative journey of community and growth.
Thanks for everything, Red Bank. It’s been real!
Άντε, γειά!
Eleni Glykis
“The fight to make the Martin Luther King Jr. birthday a holiday took 32 years, a lot of campaigning, and guest appearances including Stevie Wonder, Ted Kennedy, and the National Football League.”
Every third Monday in January, we celebrate, recognize and acknowledge Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This year, the King holiday falls on Monday, Jan. 20. But did you know that Dr. King was actually born on January 15, 1929 in Atlanta?
Stop by the Red Bank Public Library to view our display on King and check out a book to learn more about his legacy and civil rights—both then and now.
“Today, the King holiday serves multiple purposes: It honors the total legacy of King; focuses on the issue of civil rights; highlights the use of nonviolence to promote change; and calls people into public service.”
For this month’s Race and Diversity Story Time, join our Children’s Librarian Miss Sira for a reading of Be A King: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Dream and You by Carole Boston Weatherford.
Check out this Story Time on your own time on our Facebook Videos or YouTube channel. Then, Miss Sira challenges you to be a KING in your personal life and spread warm fuzzies—on MLK Day and beyond!
A new year means new programs at the Red Bank Public Library. We’re excited to introduce several new programs and speakers to you. As always, our library programs are open to all and free to attend.
To learn more about each program, click the image. Please note, some programs may require registration. If you need assistance, just give us a call or stop by.
Everyone is welcome to drop by the Library to build and play in the Children’s Room and Young Adult area on our Main Floor.
Adults and young adults are invited to find your voice at our free workshop, hosted by experienced public speaker Paul Ireifej.
Discover the tools to speak with confidence, structure your message effectively, and captivate any audience. Sign up now to speak with confidence and leave a lasting impression!
Having a personal vision board is a great way to visualize your life in 2025 and keep your resolutions top of mind.
Start manifesting your future self and drop in our Meeting Room on January 11 between 11AM and 1:30PM to create your own vision board for the New Year!
Hygge—pronounced “hoo-gah”—is a Danish word describing a feeling of coziness, well-being, and creating a warm atmosphere.
We invite you to relax and enjoy life’s simple pleasures with us on Jan. 14 between 5:30-7PM during our hygge time. Enjoy candlelight, coziness, and quiet in our West Room. All are welcome!
You can check out our entire calendar of events online, or grab the latest paper copy from the library.
Hope to see you at the library!
Want to receive all of our RBPL updates? Sign up for our weekly newsletter, sent directly to your inbox on Mondays.
The Red Bank Public Library has adjusted hours for the holiday. Please take note of our closures and adjusted hours below. And remember, even when RBPL is closed, library resources are still available to you! Keep reading to learn more about what’s available to you when our building is closed.
We have adjusted hours for the holidays:
RBPL will be closed Tuesday, 12/24, and Wednesday, 12/25.
RBPL will be open from 10-5PM next Thursday, 12/26.
RBPL will be closed Tuesday, 12/31, and Wednesday, 1/1.
Tuesday & Wednesday, 12/24 & 12/25: Closed
Thursday & Friday, 12/26 & 12/27: 10AM - 5PM
Saturday, 12/28: 10AM - 2PM
Sunday: Closed
Monday, 12/30: 10AM - 5PM
Tuesday & Wednesday, 1231 & 1/1: Closed
We’ll see you in the New Year on Thursday, January 2, during our regular hours of 10AM - 8PM!
Not sure when you’ll be able to stop by the library for your books or movies? The Red Bank Public Library locker system is your solution!
The RBPL lockers allow patrons to pick up their library materials 24/7. Patrons can select the lockers as an option when placing a hold on materials or by calling the library.
Yes! Read more about our lockers here. When your materials are placed in a locker, you’ll receive a code, which you’ll use to unlock your locker. The best part? You can stop by whenever to grab your materials from the locker!
You can choose the lockers as a pick-up option when you place a hold in our STELLA app. Use the app to search for your materials, then select Place Hold. From there, click the drop-down menu, scroll to the bottom, then select Red Bank 24-Hour Locker.
The short video below walks you through the steps.
Yes! Just call the library at (732) 842-0690 and ask to have your hold placed in a locker.
That’s fine! Just call the library at (732) 842-0690, and let us know you would like your hold to be placed in a locker when it comes in. We’re happy to help make the adjustment for you.
Just because our building is closed doesn’t mean the library isn’t available to you!
We strive to make access to books and library resources available to all; all the time. So, even when we’re closed you can still:
Read a book, magazine, or listen to an audiobook. Use E-Library and Libby to download and read on the go, and all you need is your library card.
Watch a free movie, documentary or television show. Kanopy is a free streaming service providing you with access to films, TV shows, even foreign-language films. You’ll use your library card to get started.
Learn a new craft or brush up on one with Creativebug. You’ll have unlimited access to craft classes with an internet connection and your library card.
Learn a foreign language, ASL, or even how to speak like a pirate with Mango Languages, an internet connection and your card!
A library card grants you access to so much more than books in our building. There’s plenty more to discover on our 24-Hour Library page.
Our YouTube channel is thriving; so don’t forget to check here for:
More than 100 Story Time videos for young ones
Creepy Chronicles, our short scary stories, for adults
Past program videos organized in our Playlists
From December 26 to January 1, Miss Sira invites everyone to watch a series of videos on each of the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Every day she will light the Kinara, introduce the principle for the day, and read a corresponding book.
This special series of videos will be posted to the Family Story Time on Race & Diversity playlist on the Library's Facebook page and YouTube channel at 11AM.
Watch Miss Sira’s most recent Race & Diversity Story Time video on YouTube or Facebook.
December is learn a foreign language month, and the Red Bank Public Library is here to help you!
At the library, we recognize that learning languages is a skill—not an indication of intelligence. Learning new languages can be also fun, exhilarating, and even connect you closer to your personal heritage.
That’s why we want to share all of our free resources, tips, and more to help you begin your language-learning journey!
Browse our nonfiction collection for books on:
learning a foreign language
traveling to foreign places
exploring foreign cultures
Check out a fiction book in a different language to read:
We have both English and Spanish books in the Library.
You can also place a hold on another foreign-language book; browse our catalog to search through all of our sister libraries.
Hop on the computer to develop your skills:
Use your library card or guest pass to access our public computers, an iPad, or Chromebook.
Print language-learning resources, worksheets, even foreign-language articles so you can develop your skills on your own time—Remember you can print up to 10 free black-and-white pages a day!
Visit our 24-Hour Library webpage to explore all of the free language-learning resources available to patrons.
Mango Languages is an online language learning site that teaches real conversation skills for practical communication. Mango is the only personalized language-learning experience, providing you with tools and guidance to support your learning style.
Patrons have access to Mango—with more than 70 world languages—at no cost! You can create a profile, save your progress, access on a computer, a smartphone, even create a Family Profile to learn a new language with others! To get started:
Create a profile with Mango Languages.
Select your language course.
Start your learning wherever and whenever with the Mango Languages app!
Have you considered checking out an e-book, audiobook, magazine, or even children’s book in a foreign language? Use one of the free resources to expand your horizons:
E-Library and Libby make it easy to download and read on the go, and all you need is your library card.
Kanopy is a movie-streaming service providing you with access to free films, TV shows, even foreign-language films.
And if at the end of the day, you just want to explore a foreign country without actually learning the language or even leaving your chair, just check out World Book Online.
explore interactive maps to find articles on interesting places
travel to a new city or country
search the World Book Atlas
download maps to color
And don’t hesitate to visit our Reference Desk for assistance. We’re happy to help!
