Red Bank Library
It's Spooky Season!
Red Bank Library
The Summer Reading Adventure Begins!
The Summer Reading Adventure Begins!
Red Bank Library
The RBPL congratulates one of our own on a job ...
The RBPL congratulates one of our own on a job well done!

Welcoming Writers for National Novel Writing Month

November is National Novel Writing Month and to celebrate we’re hosting a series of programs to support writers—of all skill levels and ages!

On Wednesday, November 6, you’re invited to join us to kick off National Novel Writing Month with Project Write Now.

Stop by the Library to learn a bit about NaNoWriMo and find your inspiration for the month; with the write support, of course! No library card needed to attend this free writing workshop, and you do not have to participate in NaNoWriMo; you just have to want to write. Learn more and register to reserve your seat!

And what’s a writer without a room to write?

To continue offering support to our writing community, we’re offering you a room to write on Friday afternoons.

Stop by the Library’s Meeting Room from 3-4PM for a change of scenery and space to write. Bring whatever you need to write; we’ll provide the quiet space, the workspace for writers, and the write vibes.

All are welcome to spend time in our Friday Writing Room, whether you’re working on a new project, want to accomplish your NaNoWriMo goals, or you’re just starting to dip your pen into ink.

Looking for more inspiration or resources to achieve your author goals?

  • Check out a book on writing from our non-fiction stacks in the 800s. If we don’t have a copy of what you’re looking for, place a hold from our sister branches.

  • Use your library card to access free digital courses from Universal Class to improve your skills, such as

    • Creative Writing for Beginners

    • Novel Writing 101

    • Romance Writing, and more!

Happy Writing!

It's Spooky Season!

It’s spooky season, and we can’t wait to get our haunt on!

Perhaps you shouldn’t be surprised that more than a few of our staff and volunteers love spooky season. After all, many of us grew up reading Poe and Christie, devouring any mystery or scary story that we could get our hands on. And of course, there’s the classic Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, responsible for more than a few sleepless nights for children of all ages.

This October, we’ve got plenty in store at Red Bank Public Library to celebrate Halloween all month long.

Stop by the Library any time to:

  • View our All About Bats display to learn a ton of interesting facts about these misunderstood animals.

  • Grab a fall craft from our Childrens Room or coloring page from our Young Adult area.

  • Borrow a book designed to give you chills!

  • Check out our Inflatable Projector for a Halloween movie night at home.

We’re also hosting a variety of Halloween events! Stop by on:

That’s right!

For one night only, we’re transforming the Red Bank Public Library into Hogwarts, so everyone can enjoy a magical evening.

Stop by between 5:00-7:30PM for a photo in front of Dursley’s fireplace, Dementor Bowling, Charms, a Horocrux Hunt, and more!

We welcome everyone to Halloween at Hogwarts; even if you’re a first-time witch or wizard!

To top it off, we’re sharing spooky stories all throughout town!

  • Every Friday afternoon we’re posting a new episode of Creepy Chronicles on our Facebook & YouTube. Tune in to watch Kirsten read a short spooky story and don’t forget to share with your fellow ghouls!

  • Visit our Story Walk at Riverside Gardens for a nice stroll and story with this month’s book, Gustavo the Shy Ghost.

Streaming Spooky shows

If you’re looking for something to scare you at home, check out Kanopy’s selection of spine-chilling films that will thrill and terrify you, sparking a journey into the unknown. You can start watching Kanopy for free—all your need is your Library card!

Happy Haunting!

Town Wide Yard Sale Map Available!

View the interactive map below or download a PDF version here

🌟 Calling all sellers and treasure hunters! The Red Bank Townwide Yard Sale is back on Saturday, September 21!

🗺️ Become a Featured Seller: We’re encouraging sellers to register with the Red Bank Public Library online or in=person by Wednesday, Sept. 18 to be a featured seller!

Why Register with RBPL for the Yard Sale?

  • Your home will be added to the 2024 Townwide Yard Sale Map, made public to everyone on Friday

  • Registration is $10, which entirely benefits the RBPL Foundation

    • The RBPL Foundation funds epic story times, wonderful workshops, & cool community events for everyone!

📅 Mark Your Calendar: The Yard Sale Map becomes available on Friday online. Paper copies are also available at the Library. the RBPL website. Paper copies will viand online. She registration deadline is Wednesday, September 18th.

Join the Fun: This is more than just a yard sale – it’s a community celebration! Discover hidden treasures, meet your neighbors, and enjoy a fantastic day out.

  • The Library will also be open from 10AM - 2PM on Saturday.

🌈 In case of rain, the yard sale will move to Sunday, September 22. Each seller can decide individually whether to participate on the rain date.

Voter Information & Resources

Public Libraries & Voter Assistance

One of the best resources during elections is your local library. New Jersey Public Libraries provide information and assistance to voters and prospective voters.

 

How to Vote in New Jersey

Download this New Jersey Votes PDF (click here for Spanish, Creole, Hindi, Korean, Chinese) with voting information and share it with your friends and family!

Remember that the voter registration deadline for the General Election is October 15, 2024.

Voter Information and Assistance Line: 1-877-NJ-VOTER (1-877-658-6837)

To register to vote online, you will need a current and valid NJ ID or a Social Security number.

If you would like a paper copy, you can download them by County, or pick one up from the Library. Need assistance or have questions? Visit our Reference Librarian. or need assistance.

Not sure if you’re registered to vote? Enter your name and DOB to search for your record.

 

Interested in more this election?

If you’re looking for non-partisan information on voting and the candidates, visit https://justfacts.votesmart.org/.

VOTE411 will also provide you with a preview of your personalized ballot so you can learn where candidates running for office in your community stand on the issues before Election Day.

If you’re help increase voter registration and spread the word, visit:

For even more information: The League of Women Voters of New Jersey is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization whose purpose is to promote political responsibility through informed and active participation of citizens in government.

 

Did you know the Division of Elections is seeking New Jersey citizens to assist by serving as poll workers?

A Note about the RBPL Locker System

Since migrating to the new library system, the RBPL lockers are currently unavailable as a selection when our patrons are placing holds on materials. If you would like your material to be placed in a locker once it is available for pick-up, please call us at 732-842-0690 to make the request. If you would always like to retrieve your held material from one of our lockers, please let us know, and our librarians will select that setting for you within our system. Please know that we are working diligently with our systems provider to rectify this limitation, and we thank you for your patience as we do so.

A Statement from our Library Staff

We are aware there is concern regarding the non-library sponsored program being held in our meeting room on Saturday, July 27, 2024.

Following the library’s meeting room policy, there is no reason to cancel this outside event at this time. The Teach-In is sponsored by Amnesty International, a nonprofit organization that followed the proper procedure to request meeting room space.

The Library’s Meeting Room Policy states: “The Library does not endorse the views expressed by any group using its meeting rooms. The Library does endorse the right of groups to express their views as long as they follow the Rules of Conduct of the Library and engage in civil discourse.” It also reiterates that “Use of the meeting room in no way implies any partnership with a community organization, business, or governmental unit or approval or endorsement of the contents and views of a program or meeting by the Red Bank Public Library.”

The Library also endorses the ALA’s Bill of Rights, which clearly states, “Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.”

The ALA Interpretation of this bill is also included below: “Publicly funded libraries are not obligated to provide meeting room space to the public. If libraries choose to do so, such spaces are considered designated public forums, and legal precedent holds that libraries may not exclude any group based on the subject matter to be discussed or the ideas for which the group advocates. However, if a group’s actions during a meeting disrupt or harass others in the library, library policies regarding acceptable behavior may apply. If libraries adopt policies that are perceived to restrict potentially controversial groups’ access to meeting rooms, they may face legal and financial consequences. Allowing religious groups to use library meeting rooms and spaces does not constitute a breach of the First Amendment’s Establishment Clause.”

The Library looks forward to continuing to be a place where all ideas can be exchanged freely in a safe atmosphere.

Summer Reading Community Read: THE WILD ROBOT

A community read is a shared reading experience where members of the community all read and partake in one book.

This summer, in conjunction with our Summer Reading program, the Red Bank Public Library is participating in a community read of THE WILD ROBOT, by Peter Brown.

Pick up your hard copy, download an e-book, or listen to the audiobook, and immerse yourself in Roz’s world while you join the library in crafts, activities, and events all pertaining to THE WILD ROBOT!

And remember, Adventure Begins at Your Library!

The Wild Robot, by peter brown

“Can a robot survive in the wilderness? When robot Roz opens her eyes for the first time, she discovers that she is all alone on a remote, wild island. She has no idea how she got there or what her purpose is--but she knows she needs to survive. After battling a violent storm and escaping a vicious bear attack, she realizes that her only hope for survival is to adapt to her surroundings and learn from the island's unwelcoming animal inhabitants. As Roz slowly befriends the animals, the island starts to feel like home--until, one day, the robot's mysterious past comes back to haunt her.”

From bestselling and award-winning author and illustrator Peter Brown comes a heartwarming and action-packed novel about what happens when nature and technology collide.

The Summer Reading Adventure Begins!

Get ready to participate in our 2024 Summer Reading Program!

Summer readers of all ages will earn badges and prizes for reading, attending virtual and in-person events, and completing challenges!

This year’s theme is Adventure Begins at Your Library, and we have plenty of adventures planned for you this summer! Summer Reading will run from June 15 - August 15, 2024, and is open to Children, Teens, and Adults.

First, sign up for Summer Reading and track your activity through the Beanstack App on your mobile device or online at redbankpl.beanstack.org. Beanstack also allows parents to manage their children’s accounts so they can help younger ones participate too! 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP/ LOGIN (redbankpl.beanstack.org)

Paper reading logs and calendars are available as well. Be sure to ask a librarian for one if you prefer that option. And stop by the Red Bank Public Library to pick up your Summer Reading goodie bag, or sign up for the program in-person at our Circulation Desk.

Follow the adventure all summer long

Enjoy KANOPY, RBPL’s latest film streaming service!

Kanopy is a movie streaming service that provides library patrons with access to over 30,000 films, including classic and world cinema, indie films, and top documentaries. Simply click on the hyperlink and add your Red Bank Public Library card number and PIN, and create a password.

Also be sure to check out Kanopy Kids for exclusive kid content, including movies, TV shows, and learning videos. Kanopy can be accessed on most major viewing devices as well as the Kanopy app for Android and Apple iOS.

!LIBRARY UPGRADE! On June 13th, LMxAC will launch a brand new library catalog with the RBPL!

See below flyer for all applicable details as well as a QR code with further information. Please see below for Red Bank Public Library Information.

Some more frequently asked questions.
Q: What if I don’t have a library card ?
During the offline period from June 3 - June 12th, we unfortunately cannot create any new accounts. We can however have you fill out an application and let you know that your card is ready once our system is back online.

Q: Can I check out the Library of Things?
Unfortunately, during the offline period, we won't be able to process any Library of Things checkouts. All items will be available again once the system goes live on June 13.

Q: Can you still put items in the Locker System for me to pick up later?
Yes! Our Locker System is still available but only for in-house materials.

Q: Can I still use Kanopy, Hoopla, Libby, and other online services?
Yes, all electronic resources are available during the offline period. Feel free to utilize our numerous digital resources during this time.

Q: What if I have more questions?
If you have any more questions, just ask any of us! We’re here to help and will do our best to assist you during this offline period. If we don’t have an answer, feel free to contact our consortium through their Upgrade Page.

Let's Talk About ... Affordable Housing

Our popular program Let’s Talk About Race is back …

and we’re bringing it to you in-person and via Zoom!

Join us on Tuesday, May 28 as we host two incredible speakers from the Affordable Housing Alliance for a conversation on Affordable Housing.

Whether you join us in-person or online, our May Let’s Talk About Race program will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of affordable housing. Led by Chief Executive Officer Randi Moore and Chief Program Officer Toi Collins, this conversation will break down the latest legislation on New Jersey housing and dive into the historical context of housing segregation.

Visit us online and register to save your seat, or click here to join us via Zoom.

The Affordable Housing Alliance’s mission is to improve the quality of life for all NJ residents by developing and preserving housing, offering services to maintain housing affordability, and more. To learn more about their work and services visit them online at https://housingall.org/.

Construction Updates

We know that you have questions and concerns about our elevator project. To give you an idea of the undertaking, we are not fixing the original elevator; our grant award replaces all elevator components with updated, modern technology. However, as with any major undertaking, unforeseen challenges have led to delays. Our awesome team, including our talented architect, construction crew, and elevator installer, are all working hard to make sure everything goes smoothly. We're aiming to kick off the installation of the new elevator this May, so stay tuned for some exciting changes!

TL;DR

+ What is this project again?

Before the era of COVID, our Library had the honor of being one of the inaugural recipients of the Library Construction Bond Grant. Our primary focus? Making our building more accessible through comprehensive ADA renovations. This includes installing modern automatic front doors, upgrading our lower-level restrooms to ensure ADA compliance, and replacing our existing elevator to better serve all patrons.

+ Will the Library be closed during the elevator installation?

We'll do our best to keep things running smoothly and stay open as much as we can. However, like with past renovations, there might be times when we need to close temporarily as the elevator work progresses. Rest assured, we'll keep you updated on any closures through our website and social media channels. We'll aim to give you as much notice as we can, but please understand that construction projects can sometimes throw unexpected curveballs.

+ Can I still pick up materials if the Library is closed?

If the library needs to temporarily close, don't worry! Our 24/7 locker system is available. Most library materials can fit into these lockers, with the exception of our larger "But Wait There’s More" items. This means you can still borrow items like a cake pan, Chromebook, iPad, or drill set, but unfortunately, our weed wacker is too large to fit in the lockers.

Need something printed? Just give us a heads-up, and we'll have it ready for you to pick up from the lockers

Additionally, you are welcome to visit any of the 40 other LMxAC member libraries with your Red Bank Public Library card.

Moreover, even during closures, you can still explore a wide range of online resources like Hoopla, Libby, Mango Languages, and more, using your library card from your computer or mobile device.

+ Who is paying for the project?

The project is funded by the  State of New Jersey (LCBA), the Borough of Red Bank and the Foundation for the Red Bank Public Library. 

+What if I have more questions?

Please feel free to contact the Library Director, Eleni Glykis, by email or at 732-842-0690 with any additional questions.

We understand your frustrations with the closures and construction that have occurred, particularly the absence of an elevator. But hey, once this project is wrapped up, our library will be back to its fully accessible self, and we can't wait to bring back our multi-level programming for you to enjoy!

Over the past couple of years, we've been hard at work making lots of cool improvements to our facilities and services. It's all part of our mission to make the library an even better place for our awesome community. We really appreciate your patience and support through all these changes.

Here are some of the upgrades and enhancements we've made:

+Exterior Revitilization

  • The exterior of our facility received a fresh coat of paint, rejuvenating its appearance and restoring our inviting ambiance. 

  • To preserve its historic appearance and character, the Eisner Mansion's wood window and door trimming has been recapped with designed aluminum, which provides aesthetics and durability.

 

+Enhanced Accessibility

  • Barrier free access with the installation of ADA-accessible doors allows patrons to walk in and out of the library effortlessly, promoting a welcoming atmosphere for all.

  • Installation of our 24-hour Locker System allows patrons to access materials conveniently on their schedule. 

  • Renovation and modernization of the lower-level restrooms, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of all residents.

+Modernizing Meeting Facilities

  • Upgrades included a French drain, new flooring, and a fresh coat of paint, which provided essential waterproofing and a contemporary ambiance.

  • Installation of a Zoom Room enabling access to our programming in person and anywhere with an internet connection. 

  • The Young Adult Space had been revamped with new furniture and fixtures, creating an inviting and comfortable environment. 

  • Installation of a TeleTalk Booth providing patrons with a soundproof space on the main floor for meetings, interviews, and phone calls. 

  • Upgrading the Library’s current lighting to LED enhances the environment and provides cost savings.

 

+Expanded Resources and Services


We are truly grateful for your patience and patronage.

TL;DR: The Library will soon have a working elevator. That means we might have to close for construction, but you’ll still be able to check access ematerials as well as physical materials through our 24 Hour Locker System. No, unfortunately the weed whacker won’t fit in a locker. Yes, the Library has recently gotten some new materials!

NO NONSENSE BOOK SALE!

Come on in and partake in our No Nonsense Book Sale, while supplies last!

Looking for some scrapbooking ideas? Curious about the ghosts of Cape May? Want to know which1,000 places to see before you die? You can learn about all of these subjects, and more, when you visit the Red Bank Public Library’s Book Sale room and purchase any non-fiction book for the bargain price of only $0.50 a book!

All other books for sale remain at their regular prices. Inquire at the Circulation Desk should you have any questions.

Checking Out the Future: Our Library's Next Chapter with a Fresh ILS!

Exciting times are ahead! We’re about to embark on a new adventure with the introduction of a cutting-edge Integrated Library System (ILS). We're taking this journey together, and we can't wait to share it with you all! 📚

This June, you’ll see major changes in our Catalog and Online System because we’re saying ‘goodbye’ to Enterprise and saying ‘hi’ to Polaris Vega for an even better library experience! 🌟

So, what can you expect from this shiny new addition to our library?

Picture it: June 2024, you’re trying to place a hold on The Midnight Feast, by Lucy Foley. But wait, there's a twist! You're navigating our brand-spankin'-new ILS! It's more intuitive, user-friendly, and easier to navigate. Managing your account is a breeze, smoother than a fresh bowl of gelato on a hot summer day. And just when you think you've seen it all, bam! You stumble upon new materials, like uncovering hidden treasures in the attic.

Yes, June is just around the corner! In the next couple of weeks, we’ll be getting trained on this new system and sharing information with all of you. Remember, we're on this journey together! Stay tuned for updates, sneak peeks, and plenty of literary delights as we dive headfirst into this new chapter.

Our consortium, LMxAC, is in charge of the transition, and we recommend utilizing their patron update page. Here, you’ll have access to updated timelines, weekly highlights of the new catalog features, FAQs, and asking LMxAC staff additional questions. 

While we hope this causes as little disruption as possible, some interruptions during this upgrade are unavoidable. We anticipate the impact to be limited to June 4-13.

Construction Updates

We know that you have questions and concerns about our elevator project. To give you an idea of the undertaking, we are not fixing the original elevator; our grant award replaces all elevator components with updated, modern technology. However, as with any major undertaking, unforeseen challenges have led to delays. Our awesome team, including our talented architect, construction crew, and elevator installer, are all working hard to make sure everything goes smoothly. We're aiming to kick off the installation of the new elevator this May, so stay tuned for some exciting changes!

TL;DR

+ What is this project again?

Before the era of COVID, our Library had the honor of being one of the inaugural recipients of the Library Construction Bond Grant. Our primary focus? Making our building more accessible through comprehensive ADA renovations. This includes installing modern automatic front doors, upgrading our lower-level restrooms to ensure ADA compliance, and replacing our existing elevator to better serve all patrons.

+ Will the Library be closed during the elevator installation?

We'll do our best to keep things running smoothly and stay open as much as we can. However, like with past renovations, there might be times when we need to close temporarily as the elevator work progresses. Rest assured, we'll keep you updated on any closures through our website and social media channels. We'll aim to give you as much notice as we can, but please understand that construction projects can sometimes throw unexpected curveballs.

+ Can I still pick up materials if the Library is closed?

If the library needs to temporarily close, don't worry! Our 24/7 locker system is available. Most library materials can fit into these lockers, with the exception of our larger "But Wait There’s More" items. This means you can still borrow items like a cake pan, Chromebook, iPad, or drill set, but unfortunately, our weed wacker is too large to fit in the lockers.

Need something printed? Just give us a heads-up, and we'll have it ready for you to pick up from the lockers

Additionally, you are welcome to visit any of the 40 other LMxAC member libraries with your Red Bank Public Library card.

Moreover, even during closures, you can still explore a wide range of online resources like Hoopla, Libby, Mango Languages, and more, using your library card from your computer or mobile device.

+ Who is paying for the project?

The project is funded by the  State of New Jersey (LCBA), the Borough of Red Bank and the Foundation for the Red Bank Public Library. 

+What if I have more questions?

Please feel free to contact the Library Director, Eleni Glykis, by email or at 732-842-0690 with any additional questions.

We understand your frustrations with the closures and construction that have occurred, particularly the absence of an elevator. But hey, once this project is wrapped up, our library will be back to its fully accessible self, and we can't wait to bring back our multi-level programming for you to enjoy!

Over the past couple of years, we've been hard at work making lots of cool improvements to our facilities and services. It's all part of our mission to make the library an even better place for our awesome community. We really appreciate your patience and support through all these changes.

Here are some of the upgrades and enhancements we've made:

+Exterior Revitilization

  • The exterior of our facility received a fresh coat of paint, rejuvenating its appearance and restoring our inviting ambiance. 

  • To preserve its historic appearance and character, the Eisner Mansion's wood window and door trimming has been recapped with designed aluminum, which provides aesthetics and durability.

 

+Enhanced Accessibility

  • Barrier free access with the installation of ADA-accessible doors allows patrons to walk in and out of the library effortlessly, promoting a welcoming atmosphere for all.

  • Installation of our 24-hour Locker System allows patrons to access materials conveniently on their schedule. 

  • Renovation and modernization of the lower-level restrooms, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of all residents.

+Modernizing Meeting Facilities

  • Upgrades included a French drain, new flooring, and a fresh coat of paint, which provided essential waterproofing and a contemporary ambiance.

  • Installation of a Zoom Room enabling access to our programming in person and anywhere with an internet connection. 

  • The Young Adult Space had been revamped with new furniture and fixtures, creating an inviting and comfortable environment. 

  • Installation of a TeleTalk Booth providing patrons with a soundproof space on the main floor for meetings, interviews, and phone calls. 

  • Upgrading the Library’s current lighting to LED enhances the environment and provides cost savings.

 

+Expanded Resources and Services


We are truly grateful for your patience and patronage.

TL;DR: The Library will soon have a working elevator. That means we might have to close for construction, but you’ll still be able to check access ematerials as well as physical materials through our 24 Hour Locker System. No, unfortunately the weed whacker won’t fit in a locker. Yes, the Library has recently gotten some new materials!

Prep for the new SAT with practice tests & more!

The SAT has changed and after this past weekend, a few test takers were caught off-guard. So what has changed? First, the length of the SAT exam was reduced and the test has gone digital. Questions are more concise, and test takers are allowed to use a calculator during the Math section.

While these improvements are here to help students, taking the SATs can still be extremely stressful. Don’t worry, though, the Red Bank Public Library is here to help!

With your library card, you can access Gale Presents: Peterson’s Test and Career Prep—the perfect resource for you to prepare for SAT testing.

You can use one of the public computers at the Library to study and prepare or access Peterson’s Test and Career Prep from your personal device. All you need is an account to access full-length, timed practice exams.

Remember, there’s a reason why practice makes perfect!

In addition to the practice test, you will find other helpful materials including flash cards, eBooks, and instructional videos. You can also access practice tests for AP, ACT, GRE, and search for scholarships.

Good luck!

Enter our Bookmark Contest!

The Red Bank Public Library is celebrating our 100th anniversary and needs your help!

We’re inviting patrons of all ages to design a bookmark to help us celebrate A Century of Service! Entry into our Bookmark Contest is easy. Download and print this form to design your bookmark. We also have copies available at the Library!

We have four age categories, giving everyone a chance to show off their artistic talents!

  • K-3rd grade

  • 4th-8th grade

  • 9th-12th grade

  • Age 18 & up.

Bookmark entries will be judged by a panel of local artists, and the winning designs will be printed and distributed to our Library patrons all year!

And remember, we’re looking for original artwork; please no computer-generated, AI or copyrighted images. One entry per person. All entries are due on March 15.

The RBPL congratulates one of our own on a job well done!

The Red Bank Public Library honored Linda Hewitt on Friday, February 2nd, with a party to say “farewell and good luck.” After dedicating 16 years to RBPL as Circulation Supervisor and Adult Programming/Community Outreach Coordinator, Linda is embarking upon her well-deserved retirement. Many speeches, toasts, and hugs were given all around on Friday night, and it was a felicitous send-off for an irreplaceable woman. We will miss you, Linda!