Website for the Union Public Library
Learn the basics of chess or come practice your skills! All skill levels welcome. This program takes place at the Main Library and is best suited for ages 8 and up. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration opens two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Stop in at Vauxhall Branch and get help with library resources, including: Downloading e-Books from Libby and Hoopla How to use the library catalog and resources How to mobile print How to use the photocopier and scanner No reservations required. You can drop in from 12:30-2pm with 20 minute sessions per person.
Please join us as Newark native Chef Jesse Jones leads attendees on a tasty demonstration of his backyard BBQ sauce from his recent cookbook, POW! My Life in 40 Feasts. He will also talk about how he cleans up his ribs for competition and allow attendees to taste his award winning ribs and cheddar cheese biscuits. This program is in celebration of National Barbecue Month. Chef Jesse Jones is a renowned chef and author known for his modern approach to southern cuisine. His culinary DNA was developed during childhood summers in Snow Hill, North Carolina where his grandmother’s cast iron stove was the source of many memorable food experiences.
Do you have questions about services for seniors or their caregivers? Come visit the Aging Services Kiosk, speak to our specialist and get answers to your questions about: Pharmaceutical Assistance, Home Energy Assistance/USF, Cooling Assistance, Home Care, Home Delivered or Congregate Meals, Medicaid Eligibility, Social Security, Caregiver Relief Programs, Transportation
Join us for a sensory program for little ones to explore and play, led by our friends at Happi Hearts. This program takes place at the Vauxhall Library and is intended for ages 5 and under. Limited to 10 children per session. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration takes place two weeks prior to the event. There are two time slots: 10AM & 11AM. When registering, please select the time slot you prefer. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Yasmin Ofek's no-impact classes can help you establish a better connection between the brain and body, while also gently strengthening the muscles that keep your body upright and balanced in different situations. Give this popular class a try!
Bendy Bookworm uses books and yoga to teach children cognitive, social, and emotional skills! This program takes place at the Main Library and is best suited for ages 0-5. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration opens two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Please join us as music historian, Vinnie Bruno, takes attendees on a musical journey of the history of Motown Records. Motown, established by Berry Gordy in 1960, has been described as the greatest pop music hit factory in recording history. We will explore how the “Motown Sound” was created and how it has become a worldwide phenomenon beloved by millions to this day. From the “hit machine” songwriting teams to the in-house studio band to the extraordinary roster of recording artists including Smokey Robinson & the Miracles, The Supremes, Four Tops, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and countless others. The influence of the house that Gordy built is still standing with 201 No. 1 worldwide hits and counting.
Get your exercise in with a fun cardio workout featuring hip-hop inspired dance moves, presented by Tiffany Taylor!
Whether you're an expert knitter or just want to learn how this is your chance to talk with an expert. Bring your own materials and projects and join us. Adults and teens are welcome. This program takes place at the Main Library. Registration is required, as space is limited.
Let's move and groove -- we will read a story about dancing then get moving! This program takes place at the Main Library and is intended for ages 5 and under. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration takes place two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Whether you're an expert knitter or just want to learn how this is your chance to talk with an expert. Bring your own materials and projects and join us. This program takes place at the Vauxhall Branch Library. Registration is required, as space is limited.
Learn the basics of chess or come practice your skills! All skill levels welcome. This program takes place at the Main Library and is best suited for ages 8 and up. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration opens two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Stop in at Vauxhall Branch and get help with library resources, including: Downloading e-Books from Libby and Hoopla How to use the library catalog and resources How to mobile print How to use the photocopier and scanner No reservations required. You can drop in from 12:30-2pm with 20 minute sessions per person.
Stop by after school to enjoy board games, card games, and more! This program takes place at the Vauxhall Branch Library and is best suited for ages 5 and up. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration takes place two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Register at this link: https://libraryc.org/uplnj/27928/register Doesn’t it seem that the more we seek happiness, the more elusive it becomes? There is an easy fix, hiding in plain sight. Fun is an action you can take here and now, practically anywhere, anytime. Through research and science, we know fun is enormously beneficial to our physical and psychological well-being, yet fun’s absence from our modern lives is striking. Whether you’re a frustrated high-achiever trying to find a better work-life balance or seeking relief from life’s overwhelming challenges, it is time you gain access to the best medicine available. The Fun Habit: How the Disciplined Pursuit of Joy and Wonder Can Change Your Life is the ultimate guide to reap the serious benefits fun offers. Grounded in current research, accessible science, and practical recommendations, Dr. Rucker will use The Fun Habit strategies to teach you: How you can build having fun into an actionable and effortless habit; and Why doing so will help you become a healthier, more joyful, more productive person. The Fun Habit is an inspiring and motivational guidebook that you will want to share with everyone in your life. About the Author: Dr. Mike Rucker is an organizational psychologist and charter member of the International Positive Psychology Association whose work has been published in the International Journal of Workplace Health Management and Nutrition Research. His ideas about fun and health have been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Vox, Thrive Global, mindbodygreen, and more. Named one of ten digital change makers by the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, he currently serves as a senior leader at Active Wellness. Learn more at MichaelRucker.com.
This storytime is designed for toddlers and preschoolers. We'll move n' groove, read some books, and have lots of fun! This storytime takes place outdoors at the Vauxhall Branch Library. Please bring a towel or blanket to sit on. In case of inclement weather, this program will be moved indoors. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration opens two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Join Bindu Bhatt for a virtual meditation session. No experience necessary. Bindu has practiced meditation for over 30 years and would like to share her insight with you.
Participants will explore collage making as an art form, using repurposed library materials to create unique images, limited only by their imagination. All supplies will be provided. This program takes place at the Main Library and is best suited for ages 5 and up. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration opens two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Join us for a lapsit program designed for ages 3 and under. We'll read a few stories, sing songs, and discuss early literacy tips for caregivers. There will be open play time afterwards. This program takes place at the Main Library. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration opens two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Come explore UPL Island! Check out our inclusive virtual library building that serves children, teens, and adults. Discover our Mario-themed maze, shake fruit/money trees, shop at Nooks & Abels, help craft DIYs, and leave a message on the bulletin board. As a thank you for visiting, there will be freebies! In order to visit our island, you must add us as a friend before entering the island. Our UPL Nintendo friend code is SW-4027-1837-6212. All ages welcome. No registration necessary. If you have any questions, please contact jcarvajal@uplnj.org.
Drop-in for a chance to explore art, science, music, and more in this self-paced, group-focused program! This program takes place at the Main Library and is designed for ages 0-5 and their families. No registration necessary. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Make a fantastical piece of artwork by blending together different mediums, such as markers, paint, stickers, paper mache, clay, color pencils, and other materials! This program takes place at the Main Library and is best suited for ages 5 and up. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration opens two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Please join us live as Mr. JuanMa Morales, founder of the musical group Sonido Costeño, will perform on guitar a high energy fusion of latin music and salsa of many classic artists. Mr. Morales is a graduate of Cornell University and a Julliard alumni. His unique sound appeals to broad and diverse audiences from all generations. Come listen and even dance if you want to! This program was made in celebration of Carribean American Heritage Month.
Learn the basics of chess or come practice your skills! All skill levels welcome. This program takes place at the Main Library and is best suited for ages 8 and up. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration opens two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Interested in making our community a better place? Looking to earn community service hours? Join us each month for different projects to help the library and/or the wider Union community. This drop-in program takes place at the Main Library and is for ages 12 and up. No registration necessary. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Stop in at Vauxhall Branch and get help with library resources, including: Downloading e-Books from Libby and Hoopla How to use the library catalog and resources How to mobile print How to use the photocopier and scanner No reservations required. You can drop in from 12:30-2pm with 20 minute sessions per person.
Enjoy an outdoor music & movement class led by Boogie Woogie Babies! This program will take place on the lawn outside of the Vauxhall Branch and is best suited for ages 0-5 and their caregivers. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. In the case of inclement weather, this program will be moved indoors. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Join Bindu Bhatt for a virtual meditation session. No experience necessary. Bindu has practiced meditation for over 30 years and would like to share her insight with you.
Register at this link: https://libraryc.org/uplnj/27929/register An American in Provence is a beautiful collection of exquisite portrait, scenic, and still-life photography from New York Times bestselling author and award-winning photographer Jamie Beck. Looking to slow down from her fast-paced life in New York City, Beck embarked on a one-year getaway to Provence. One year, turning into five, Beck moved to the French countryside, documenting her life as “An American in Provence.” Equal parts art book, travel diary, memoir, and cookbook, An American in Provence transports you to the South of France. Beck shares her tips and techniques for creating incredible photos and details her transformational journey as an artist and woman. Beck also includes farm-to-table recipes she's learned along the way, including Braised Beef Stew, Spring Chicken with Herbs de Provence, Fresh Tagliatelle Pasta with Spring Asparagus, and Lemon Meringue Tart. This stunning visual journey will surely delight anyone wishing to escape reality and immerse themselves in life in Provence. About the Author: Jamie Beck took her first photograph at the age of thirteen and soon after began earning her living as a professional photographer. By twenty-eight, she opened her own commercial photographic studio in lower Manhattan. Jamie has shot campaigns and editorials for some of the world’s most famous brands, including Chanel, Donna Karan, Nike, Oscar de la Renta, Google, Samsung, and Microsoft. Her work has appeared under the mastheads of Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, on Netflix, and in digital ad displays for Disney. In 2016, she took what was to be a one-year sabbatical to create a personal body of work in the South of France, which changed the entire course of her life, one that blossomed into a career as an art photographer and delivered her a French-born baby girl named Eloise. Jamie is the author of the New York Times bestselling An American in Provence. She lives in Provence with her husband and daughter. Follow her on Instagram @JamieBeck.co.
Join presenter Rick Feingold as he leads a fascinating program about Madam C.J. Walker, the first African-American female millionaire in the United States. Learn how Sarah Breedlove, whose parents were formerly enslaved people, transcended poverty and prejudice to create a line of beauty care products for Black women, and later became a philanthropist.
Register for UPL's 2023 Summer Reading Program, All Together Now, starting today on READsquared! The SRP is open to everyone ages 5 and up.* Visit either UPL location if you prefer to sign up in person and/or need technical assistance using the READsquared app or website. Everyone who registers for the SRP will receive a welcome gift. *NOTE: If you have a child under 5, we encourage you to sign them up for 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten on READsquared.
Meet UPL's new therapy dog, Morrigan, and practice reading aloud to her! This program takes place at the Main Library and best suited for children who are learning how to read and/or would like to boost their confidence when reading aloud. Please register in advance to reserve a spot and so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration opens two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Let's get messy -- we will be making kinetic sand. Make sure to dress for the mess! This program takes place at the Main Library and is intended for ages 5 and under. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration takes place two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Join us for a dramatic movie where a couple's visit with their son takes a dramatic turn (Hope Gap).
Becoming a UPL teen volunteer is a fantastic way to develop problem solving, leadership, and time management skills, all while meeting new people and gaining valuable experience to add to your college applications and/or resume! Learn more about our VolunTeens Summer Program during this orientation session. We are currently accepting volunteers who will be entering 7th-12th grade in Fall 2023. College students are welcome as well. This orientation takes place at Main Library. If you haven’t already filled out the Volunteer Application Form, please do so here. *NOTE: If you’re unable to attend an orientation session (Thursday, 6/15 at 2pm or Tuesday, 6/20 at 2pm in person, or Friday, 6/23 at 12pm virtually on Zoom), please contact teens@uplnj.org. All volunteers must attend an orientation, whether in person or virtual.
Michael's dynamic knock-out sale will inspire and show you how to meet people who can help you whether looking for a job or growing your business.
Stop in at Vauxhall Branch and get help with library resources, including: Downloading e-Books from Libby and Hoopla How to use the library catalog and resources How to mobile print How to use the photocopier and scanner No reservations required. You can drop in from 12:30-2pm with 20 minute sessions per person.
Beat the summer heat every Wednesday at 1pm, featuring a different activity each week. This program takes place at the Main Library and is best suited for ages 5 and up. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration takes place two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Join Bindu Bhatt for a virtual meditation session. No experience necessary. Bindu has practiced meditation for over 30 years and would like to share her insight with you.
Enjoy a variety of carnival-style activities as we celebrate the beginning of UPL's 2023 Summer Reading Program, All Together Now! You can sign up for the SRP starting on Monday, 6/19 on READsquared, or if you prefer, sign up at the carnival. Everyone who registers for the SRP will receive a welcome gift. This event takes place at Rabkin Park, located at 1 Swanstrom Place East in Union, on Thursday, 6/22 from 2pm-4pm. *NOTE: The Summer Reading Program is open to everyone ages 5 and up, but all ages are welcome at this event! If you have a child under 5, we encourage you to sign them up for 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten on READsquared.
Please contact teens@uplnj.org for the Zoom link to this orientation. Becoming a UPL teen volunteer is a fantastic way to develop problem solving, leadership, and time management skills, all while meeting new people and gaining valuable experience to add to your college applications and/or resume! Learn more about our VolunTeens Summer Program during this orientation session. We are currently accepting volunteers who will be entering 7th-12th grade in Fall 2023. College students are welcome as well. If you haven’t already filled out the Volunteer Application Form, please do so here. *NOTE: If you’re unable to attend an orientation session (Thursday, 6/15 at 2pm or Tuesday, 6/20 at 2pm in person, or Friday, 6/23 at 12pm virtually on Zoom), please contact teens@uplnj.org. All volunteers must attend an orientation, whether in person or virtual.
Log your reading progress for UPL's 2023 Summer Reading Program, All Together Now, starting today on READsquared! The SRP is open to everyone ages 5 and up.* Visit either UPL location if you prefer to sign up in person and/or need technical assistance using the READsquared app or website. Everyone who registers for the SRP will receive a welcome gift. *NOTE: The SRP is open to everyone ages 5 and up. If you have a child under 5, we encourage you to sign them up for 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten on READsquared.
Bring the whole family to make a relaxing sensory bottle! This program takes place at the Main Library and is best suited for families with children ages 3 and up. Please register the total number of people attending in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration takes place two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Learn the basics of chess or come practice your skills! All skill levels welcome. This program takes place at the Main Library and is best suited for ages 8 and up. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration opens two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
This meeting will take place at the interim location for the Main Library 1060 Stuyvesant Avenue, Union, NJ 07083.
Stop in at Vauxhall Branch and get help with library resources, including: Downloading e-Books from Libby and Hoopla How to use the library catalog and resources How to mobile print How to use the photocopier and scanner No reservations required. You can drop in from 12:30-2pm with 20 minute sessions per person.
Beat the summer heat every Wednesday at 1pm, featuring a different activity each week. This program takes place at the Main Library and is best suited for ages 5 and up. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration takes place two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Register at this link: https://libraryc.org/uplnj/27929/register Please join us for a chat with Tananarive Due about her newest work, The Wishing Pool and Other Stories. The second collection of stories by the author is full of her signature offerings of horror, science fiction, and suspense while confronting monsters of all kinds, including racism, the monster within, and the supernatural. Due’s prolific body of work cements the author as a leading voice in black speculative fiction for more than 20 years. Due is an award-winning writer, educator, and producer. Her body of work includes sixteen books, including the Blood Colony, The Living Blood, The Good House, Joplin’s Ghost, Devil’s Wake, and the forthcoming The Reformatory. In addition, she is a contributing author of Black Panther: Tales of Wakanda and Black Panther: Sins of the King. Collaborating with her partner Steven Barnes, she also co-wrote "A Small Town" for Season 2 of Jordan Peele’s "The Twilight Zone" on Paramount Plus and two segments of Shudder’s anthology film Horror Noire. About the Author: Tananarive Due is an American Book Award–winning, Essence bestselling author of sixteen books. She was also a contributor to Jonathan Maberry’s middle grade anthology, Don’t Turn Out the Lights. She has won an American Book Award, an NAACP Image Award, and a British Fantasy Award. She teaches Black Horror and Afrofuturism at UCLA. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia. Visit her website TananariveDue.com.
This storytime is designed for toddlers and preschoolers. We'll move n' groove, read some books, and have lots of fun! This storytime takes place outdoors at the Vauxhall Branch Library. Please bring a towel or blanket to sit on. In case of inclement weather, this program will be moved indoors. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration opens two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Join Bindu Bhatt for a virtual meditation session. No experience necessary. Bindu has practiced meditation for over 30 years and would like to share her insight with you.
Stop by the Youth Services Desk today to get a copy of this month's pick, The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick. Come ready to discuss the book at 3:30pm, or just show up to watch the movie at 4:00pm! This program takes place at the Main Library and is best suited for ages 7-12. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration opens two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.
Join us for a lapsit program designed for ages 3 and under. We'll read a few stories, sing songs, and discuss early literacy tips for caregivers. There will be open play time afterwards. This program takes place at the Main Library. Please register in advance so we can contact you in case of cancellation. Registration opens two weeks prior to the event. If you lead a community group or institution (including, but not limited to: scout troops, camps, after-school groups, daycare centers) and would like to take part in this program, please contact kids@uplnj.org to discuss how UPL can best accommodate your needs.