August Library Newsletter :sun_with

August Newsletter

Our Summer Reading Challenge ends on August 30th—there’s still time to sign up and start logging books you've read! The more you read, the more chances you have to win exciting prizes. Click here to get started!

August is also National Dog Month! If you love books where furry friends take center stage, Library Assistant Tori has created a heartwarming list of titles just for you—check it out here: Dog Days of Summer Reads.

The Library is now accepting donations of gently used fiction, popular nonfiction (such as updated travel guides, biographies, and nonfiction published within the past three years), and children’s books. If you’re interested in donating, please contact librarian Wes at wblackburn@longbranchlib.org. Kindly note that we are unable to accept dictionaries or encyclopedias at this time.

Read on to explore the exciting programs we have lined up this August!

Programs & Events

Wednesday, August 6th at 4:30pm — Main Library

Learn the basics of money management, including budgeting, saving, spending wisely, and understanding how banking works. This workshop gives teens the tools to start building smart financial habits early.

Questions? Contact Ms. Nekesha at nmarshall@longbranchlib.org.

Saturdays, August 9th & 23rd — Main Library Theater

Visit our Movie theater on August 9th at 1:30pm for a showing of "In the Heights" and "Descendants" on August 23rd at 2pm!

Questions? Contact Miss Karime at krojas-tepepa@longbranchlib.org.

Tuesday, August 12th at 6:30pm — Main Library

Think you can outsmart your opponents—one tile at a time? Join us for The Art of the Game: Blokus!, a fun, fast-paced strategy game best with four players. Each turn, place pieces corner-to-corner to block others and claim territory. It’s trickier than it looks! Come with friends or solo—we’ll match you up. Megan Gilhool will teach the rules and share winning tips. For mature teens 16+ and adults only.

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

Wednesday, August 13th at 3pm - Main Library

This program is for all ages! Participants will follow a fun, hands-on workbook as they explore cartooning through a guided slideshow. They'll doodle, create characters, tell stories, and draw a four-panel comic inspired by their own lives—then design a cover to take home their very own comic book!

Questions? Contact Lisa at lkelly@longbranchlib.org.

Wednesday, August 13th at 7pm — Main Library

Bring calm and order to your space with The Art of Organizing, a practical workshop led by professional organizer Shannon Littlehale of Make Space. Learn expert tips on decluttering, creating systems, and staying organized—whether you're refreshing a closet or simplifying your whole life.

Questions? Contact Lisa at lkelly@longbranchlib.org.

Thursdays, August 14th, 21st and 28th at 2:00 PM — Main Library

Learn the art of Western Line Dancing with a Zumba twist! Each class begins with a mobilization/stretch, zumba style warm up, before practicing three differnent line dances to country-style songs, including Beyonce's Texas Hold 'Em, followed by a cool-down and stretching. Please wear sneakers and clothes you feel comfortable moving in. For adults only.

Questions? Contact Lisa at lkelly@longbranchlib.org.

Friday, August 15th at 2pm — Main Library

Come join us for a family art event! Both adult and child family members are welcome to enjoy creating “trivet art” by decorating glazed tiles. You can make a family bouquet, write a special message, or create an abstract art piece. The options are endless!

Questions? Contact Nekesha at nmarshall@longbranchlib.org

Tuesday, August 19th at 4pm - Main Library

At the flick of a spinner, players vie for space on a vinyl mat as they attempt to touch the correct coins and bills — and improve their currency recognition and money math skills in the process. Ages 3–12. The game includes movement, addition, and subtraction, but no reading.

Questions? Contact Nekesha at nmarshall@longbranchlib.org.

Tuesday, August 20th at 4:30pm— Main Library

Get creative and design your own unique jewelry and crafts in this fun, hands-on workshop just for teens.

Questions? Contact Nekesha at nmarshall@longbranchlib.org

Wednesday, August 20th at 7pm — Main Library

Attend a no obligation, interactive financial education seminar. Prudential’s financial education series is designed to help you understand basic financial concepts like minimizing debt, managing and growing your assets, preparing for retirement, and building a legacy.

Questions? Contact Lisa at lkelly@longbranchlib.org

Wednesday, August 21st at 6:00 PM — Main Library

Many nursing home residents in Monmouth County have no close family to speak up for them — and that’s where you can help. Volunteer advocates play a crucial role in preventing elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Visit the library on Wednesday, August 21st to learn how you can sign up to help.

Questions? Contact Wes at wblackburn@longbranchlib.org

Saturday, August 23rd from 11am to 2pm — Main Library Local History Room

Now on Display! Visit the Long Branch Free Public Library’s Local History Room for a rare exhibit of signed documents, books, and memorabilia from every U.S. president and vice president—on view through August 2025. Join us for a special Open House with collector Matthew Correia. Free and open to the public!

Questions? Contact Lisa at lkelly@longbranchlib.org

Wednesday, August 27th at 4:30pm — Main Library

Teens, take a break and relax with a guided meditation and coloring session. Unwind, get creative, and find your calm—just for you.

Questions? Contact Miss Karime at krojas-tepepa@longbranchlib.org.

Tuesday, August 27th at 7pm — Main Library

Join us for an author talk and book signing with Dr. Philip Wolfson, author of the spy thriller Faces Tell All. Drawing from his background in cosmetic dentistry and his fascination with facial recognition technology, Dr. Wolfson explores how our faces can reveal identity, intent, and even survival potential. He offers a unique perspective on the dangers of surveillance technologies and their role in global power struggles, particularly between the U.S. and China.

A Q&A and book signing will follow.

Questions? Contact Lisa at lkelly@longbranchlib.org

Thursday, August 28th at 3pm — Main Library

Parable of the Sower, a Hugo Award-winning graphic novel, imagines a chaotic America in 2024. As society collapses, Lauren Olamina escapes her gated community and begins a journey that sparks a new vision for humanity. Thalia Sweet, our Tech Processing Manager, will lead the discussion. Please note the new time for this month.

Questions? Contact Lisa at lkelly@longbranchlib.org

Receive Reminder

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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Basic English Class
Class A is on Tuesday, Class B is on Thursday - 5:30pm

Join us in a safe, welcoming space designed to support English language learners in our community. This free class is perfect for beginners with little to no English experience and will focus on practical language skills to help you confidently navigate life in Long Branch and the U.S. Registration is limited to 12 students so please register ahead.

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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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Spanish Story Time with Ms. Sara
Every Saturday at 4pm - Main Library

Ms. Sara will read stories on various topics in Spanish, then our listeners will create participate in a fun activity or craft!

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