May Library Newsletter 📚🌷

May Newsletter

A Powerful Exhibit Comes to Long Branch 🏛️

We are thrilled to announce that the Long Branch Free Public Library has been selected as one of only 50 libraries nationwide to host Americans and the Holocaust, a powerful traveling exhibition from the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. This honor was made possible through a competitive grant awarded by the American Library Association, recognizing our commitment to meaningful public programming. The exhibition opens May 27th at our Main Library and will be on display through June 28th.

Through photos, documents, and firsthand accounts, the exhibit explores how Americans responded to the Holocaust and invites reflection on our shared responsibility in confronting injustice. Individuals and groups are invited to visit during regular library hours. Groups over 10 are encouraged to schedule a tour. Interested in volunteering to assist with the exhibit? Contact Lisa Kelly at lkelly@longbranchlib.org.

Introducing Our New Print from Anywhere Technology 🖨️

We're excited to unveil our newest service transformation! Our state-of-the-art multi-function device brings tomorrow's technology to your library today, allowing you to:

✅ Send print jobs from home, work, or on-the-go
✅ Translate documents into 90+ languages
✅ Convert documents to audio files in over 50 languages
✅ Restore cherished old photographs
✅ Transform handwritten notes into typed text
✅ Scan to USB, email, smartphone, or cloud storage
✅ Pay with cash or credit card

Whether you need to preserve family memories, translate important documents, or simply print your boarding pass minutes before heading to the airport, your library continues evolving to meet your real-world needs. Get started today by downloading the "ePRINTit SaaS" app from the Google Play Store or App Store or by clicking here!

Programs & Events

Friday, May 9th at 2pm - Main Library Community Floor

Curious about Reiki? Discover the healing power of reiki -- a gentle, energy-based practice that promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and supports the body’s natural ability to heal. In this hands-on workshop, Reiki Master Kimberly Ward will explain the principles of Reiki and teach simple self-Reiki techniques to reduce stress and restore balance. No experience is necessary, but space is limited—adults only and registration is required. Come dressed comfortably and ready to relax, recharge, and reconnect with your inner peace.

Questions? Contact Lisa at lkelly@longbranchlib.org.

Saturday, May 10th at 11am - Main Library Community Floor

Join instructors from Satori Martial Arts Academy for a free self-defense class! Build confidence and learn practical skills to protect yourself in real-world situations, with guidance in a supportive environment. This hands-on session will cover basic techniques for awareness, prevention, and response- no experience necessary. Come dressed comfortably and ready to move! For adults only. Walk-ins are welcome but registration is encouraged.

Contact Lisa at lkelly@longbranchlib.org if you have any questions.

Saturday, May 10th at 2pm - Main Library Movie Theater

Before Dorothy dropped in, there was Elphaba—the misunderstood green-skinned girl with a fiery spirit and a powerful gift. Wicked reimagines the Land of Oz through the eyes of these two unlikely friends. As politics, magic, and destiny collide, their journey reveals how one became the Wicked Witch of the West and the other, Glinda the Good. Starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, this dazzling musical adaptation of the Broadway hit blends unforgettable songs, spectacular visuals, and a heartfelt story about friendship, identity, and courage. Come early for the best seats—doors open at 1:45 PM and space is limited! All ages are welcome. Free.

Contact Lisa at lkelly@longbranchlib.org if you have any questions.

Thursday, May 15th at 1:30pm - Elberon Branch Library

Ed Zwick’s memoir, Hits, Flops, and Other Illusions, offers an intimate look at his four decades in Hollywood as a director, producer, and writer. With 18 Academy Award nominations (seven wins) and 67 Emmy nominations (22 wins), he’s worked with rising talents like Brad Pitt and Matt Damon, as well as icons like Leonardo DiCaprio and Julia Roberts. Filled with personal stories, industry insights, and even a victorious lawsuit against Harvey Weinstein, this book is both a revealing Hollywood memoir and a guide to artistic integrity.

Questions? Contact Anya at awells@longbranchlib.org.

Receive Reminder

Thursday, May 22nd at 2pm - Main Library Community Space

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion of The Satanic Verses by Salman Rushdie, a bold and controversial work of literary fiction infused with magical realism. The novel follows two Indian actors who survive a terrorist attack mid-flight and are mysteriously transformed—one into an angelic figure, the other into a devilish one—sparking a surreal exploration of faith, identity, and exile. As their stories unfold, Rushdie weaves together myth, dream, and reality in a genre-defying narrative. Moderated by Assistant Library Director Kate Angelo, this conversation promises rich discussion and insight as we explore the novel’s complex themes and genre-defying narrative. More than just the novel that sparked a global controversy, The Satanic Verses is a literary triumph, brilliantly showcasing Salman Rushdie’s wit, cultural insight, and linguistic mastery. Come ready to share your thoughts as we dive into this rich and complex novel. For adults only.

Questions? Contact Lisa at lkelly@longbranchlib.org.

Receive Reminder

Tuesday, May 27th through June 28th - Main Library Community Space

The Long Branch Free Public Library invites the community to experience *Americans and the Holocaust*, a powerful multi-media traveling exhibit on loan from the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Through photographs, documents, and firsthand accounts, the exhibit explores how Americans responded to the Holocaust in real time. It examines the limits of U.S. government action, the role of the media, and public attitudes toward the Nazi threat and the persecution of Europe’s Jews. Thought-provoking and timely, this exhibit encourages reflection on the responsibilities of individuals, governments, and societies in the face of injustice. Guided tours will be available. To schedule, please contact Lisa Kelly. You may also view the exhibit on your own. We are also looking for volunteers to assist with the exhibit, so please let Lisa know if you are interested!

Questions? Contact Lisa at lkelly@longbranchlib.org.

Thursday, May 29th at 5:30pm - Zoom

Join us for the opening program of Americans and the Holocaust, a traveling exhibit from the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, hosted by the Long Branch Free Public Library. In this moving virtual presentation, Jessica Goldsmith Barzilay—Assistant Vice President of Global Initiatives at the Holocaust Resource and Education Center and daughter of Holocaust survivor Peter Goldsmith—will share her father’s powerful story of survival, resilience, and remembrance. Following the talk, Dr. Adara Goldberg, Executive Director of the Holocaust Resource and Education Center, will briefly highlight some features of the exhibit with a virtual walk-through. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of Holocaust history and its relevance today. Free and open to the public. Adults and mature teens are invited to attend. Registration required to receive Zoom link.

Questions? Contact Lisa at lkelly@longbranchlib.org

Zoom Link

Friday, May 30th at 2pm - Main Library Community Floor

Marcia and Nekesha, members of the MLK Guild, will hold a 2nd discussion of A Call to Conscience: The Landmark Speeches of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in remembrance of Dr. King and his civic engagement and demonstration of the responsibilities of citizenship in a democracy.

Questions? Contact Nekesha at nmarshall@longbranchlib.org.

Recurring Programs (All Age Groups)

Conversation Class
Every Monday at 5:30pm - Main Library

This is an advanced ESL class focusing on conversations and simple readings in English. Students will practice their skills, connect with other community members, and further explore their identity as Long Branch/Monmouth County residents. Register here!
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Chess Club for Teens & Children
Every Monday at 4pm - Main Library

Every Friday from 3pm to 5pm - Main Library - NEW ADDITIONAL TIME

Chess club is open to children and teens ages 5 through 17 who wish to practice their skills against other students. A chess teacher will be available. All levels are welcome.
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Toddler Time with Ms. Nekesha
Every Tuesday at 11am - Main Library

Join Ms. Nekesha for stories, music and a take-home craft in our Children's Department!

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Elberon Writing Group
Every second Wednesday of the Month at 6:30pm - Virtual

Join our Elberon Writing Group, hosted by our Elberon Branch Manager Tara if you enjoy writing fiction, nonfiction, poetry, short stories...or anything! Contact tsullivan@longbranchlib.org for more info.

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Story Time with Miss Tara
Every Wednesday at 4:30pm - Elberon Branch

Join Miss Tara at the Elberon Branch for stories and fun for children. Family and friends are welcome as well!
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Toddler Time with Miss Tara
Every Friday at 10am - Elberon Branch

Join Miss Tara at the Elberon Branch for stories and fun for younger children. Family and friends are welcome as well!

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Craft & Story with Ms. Yanique
Every Saturday at 11am - Main Library

Join us at our Main Library's Children's Department where kids and their families can read a story with Ms. Yanique and make a craft!

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Long Branch Free Public Library
328 Broadway Long Branch, NJ 07740
Phone: (732) 222-3900