HPL Past Events - 2021
Hopewell Public Library Director Retires after a Decade of Service
Also in her first months on the job, Anne inaugurated the “Wednesday Night Out” lecture series, a regular forum showcasing local authors, historians, and experts in fields ranging from mathematics and technology to butterflies and native plants, railroads and cooking. She expanded the range of programs hosted at the library and organized a wide array of community events, including walking tours, open house gatherings and nature walks. “When you are the director of a small library with a small budget, you have to do it all—prepare an annual budget, manage staff and volunteer schedules, maintain an up-to-date collection, plan and promote events and speakers, and keep the plants watered and biscuit tin full for canine visitors.” Anne’s arrival coincided with big changes in the publishing and library world. While the internet had been around for a while, online access from the library was limited. Anne oversaw upgrades to the library’s computers, high-speed internet with free WiFi, and built an all-new web site where patrons could see newly added titles in the book and media collections, news of upcoming events, search the catalog, and reserve materials. When the introduction of “e-books” arrived, Anne got the library’s collection up and running, allowing patrons to download e-books directly without having to visit the library. That would come in handy later, when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the temporary closing of the library. Building the library’s social media presence—including Facebook and Instagram pages—was another timely innovation that kept the library in touch with its users when direct, personal contact was restricted. Saying goodbye to the red library isn’t easy. “Working with and getting to know our incredible staff and volunteers has been a great pleasure and a privilege, as has getting to know the people and businesses that make Hopewell Borough such a wonderful place to live and work.” She is also grateful for the support of the Borough’s Library Board and its chairman, Woody Carsky-Wilson. “Library boards exercise important oversight, ensuring that the library is meeting the needs of the community in a fiscally responsible way. I’m thankful to have had the full backing of the board in all of the projects and improvements we’ve undertaken in my time with Hopewell Public.” Most of all, Anne will miss the people of Hopewell--parents who bring their kids to the library, the daily visitors who come in to use the computers or read the newspaper, and the many attendees who’ve supported and enjoyed the Wednesday Night Out events at the Train Station and Hopewell Theatre. “The library isn’t about books. It’s about people.” |
Jennifer Saltman Retiring
Jennifer was named the Children’s Librarian eleven years ago. Since then, we have renovated the children’s room, updated the collection, and greatly expanded the activities the library offers young people. Jennifer deserves a lot of the credit. She enhanced the Summer Reading Program, created new activities, and engaged local merchants in special projects aimed at encouraging literacy and creativity. With her background of 30 years experience in early childhood education and as director of a pre-school, Jennifer’s programs were always well-grounded in sound educational principles—but more importantly, they were always fun! Children often do not know the names of the HPL staff, but they all know Ms. Jennifer and call her by name. Jennifer has a special way with children, evident in her gentle, engaging manner. When Covid-19 forced the temporary closure of the library and the introduction of special safety precautions after the library re-opened, like masking and social distancing, Jennifer reacted with her characteristic imagination and energy. She moved Story Time from the second floor of the library building to the gazebo in the park, and then, when colder weather came, to the train station where there was lots of room for safe social distancing. During the height of the pandemic’s enforced isolation, Jennifer partnered with a local author and illustrator for an individual scavenger hunt in which the children used the clues to actually write their own story! In the last few years, Jennifer’s children have had children of their own, and our Children’s Librarian is handing off her duties at the Red Library to take up the duties of grandmother. Everyone, staff and patrons, young and old, will miss her greatly. We wish her great happiness and fulfillment in her new role and extend our warmest thanks for all she has done to make the Hopewell Public Library’s Children’s Room a fun, stimulating, and welcoming place. |
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Hopewell Train Stations: History and Art
Wednesday, December 1st, 7:00pm - 8:00pm Hopewell Theater, 5 South Greenwood Ave or via Zoom Free and open to the public Co-sponsored by the Hopewell Valley Historical Society and the Hopewell Museum. If attending via Zoom, register here. The Hopewell and Pennington train stations are not only historical National Register-listed properties, but also are iconic symbols of our communities. Built around 1880, these stations served over fifty trains a day between Philadelphia and New York in the heyday of the railroads, before sinking into disrepair with the decline of railroad traffic into the 1960s. But the stations have since been reborn, as a private residence in Pennington and as a community park and gathering place in Hopewell Borough. In this presentation, Doug Dixon of the Hopewell Valley History Project will present a visual history of these train stations, illustrating their story with photographs and artwork back to almost the beginning. This talk will celebrate both the history of the railroads in the Hopewell area, and the photographers and artists who captured these past moments for us. Attendees will be able to the meet the artists and their families. Chat with local artists Ken McIndoe and Jerry Cable, and the families of Sal Asaro and E. B. Walden before and after the event. Doug Dixon is an independent technology consultant and writer, now morphed into a history enthusiast. He is a board member of the Hopewell Museum and the Hopewell Valley Historical Society. Over the past few years, Doug has developed the Hopewell Valley History Project (HopewellHistoryProject.org), which is working with many local contributors to collect and freely share digital copies of local historical materials so as to aid research into Hopewell area people and places - Now with over 450 documents and maps, 2250 images, and an interactive historical map of Hopewell. Part of the "Wednesday Night Out" Lecture series. Image: "Hopewell Rail Station Looking East" (1979) by Hopewell painter Ken McIndoe. Oil on canvas. Shows the track side of the train station, with freight shed beyond and signal bridge over the tracks. |
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hoosing to Conquer: The Women Who Won the Vote
Wednesday, November 17th, 7:00pm - 8:00pm Hopewell Theater, 5 South Greenwood Ave Free and open to the public Hopewell author Nancy B. Kennedy brings the woman suffrage fight to life with historic and current-day photos in her talk, “Choosing to Conquer: The Women Who Won the Vote.” Drawing from her book, Women Win the Vote! 19 for the 19th Amendment, she blends stories of little-known local suffragists with those of the women who led the national fight. In this 101st year of the woman’s vote, come celebrate the three generations of women (and men!) who waged this fierce battle. Nancy is the author of eight books. She and her family make their home in Hopewell Borough. The event is free and open to the public; no reservation is required. Part of the Wednesday Night Out lectures series. 
Author Nancy B. Kennedy
Women's Suffrage event |
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Twilight in Hazard: An Appalachian Reckoning
By Alan Maimon Wednesday, October 20th, 7:00pm Hopewell Theater, 5 South Greenwood Ave Free and open to the public From investigative reporter and Pulitzer Prize finalist Alan Maimon comes the story of how a perfect storm of events has had a devastating impact on life in small town Appalachia. Maimon provides a comprehensive analysis of the region's recent history - the devastating opiate crisis, the intense religious allegiances, the bitter, bareknuckled political rivalries, and the faltering attempts to emerge from a century-long coal-based economy. The era-defining events of the early 2000s provide the basis for an exploration of where the region and our country stand today. Eastern Kentucky is a microcosm for the state of the nation. Part of the Hopewell Public Library's Wednesday Night Out series. |
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Book Reading, Discussion and Q&A with Author
By Colby Cedar Smith Wednesday, October 17th, 4:00pm Hopewell Train Station, 2 Railroad Place Free and open to the public Colby Cedar Smith's new young adult novel Call Me Athena follows Mary, the daughter of Greek and French immigrants, as she struggles to grow up into an independent, modern American woman. However, defining herself is not easy; Mary must come to terms with the Great Depression, civil unrest, her own history, and her parents' expectations. To hear a reading from Call Me Athena, and learn more about everything that went into writing it, stop by the Train Station at 4pm on Sunday, Oct 17th! The event is free, open to the public, and no registration is required! If you have any questions, feel free to contact the library at 609-466-1625 or hpl@redlibrary. |
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The Super Guide to Becoming a Superhero
By Michael DeLorenzo Wednesday, September 22nd, 4:00pm Hopewell Train Station, 2 Railroad Place Free and open to the public Ever wonder what makes superheroes so special? In this debut book by one of our own Hopewell Elementary School teachers, Mike DeLorenzo, we find out just how powerful we each can be. This inspiration story leads readers young and old through the steps to becoming just as super as the heroes they grew up admiring. While teaching through a global pandemic Mike DeLorenzo became inspired by his students' love of picture books to draft his own. This led to the creation of his first picture book, The Super Guide to Becoming a Superhero. |
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Seeing the Sourlands with Jim Amon
Wednesday, September 22nd, 7:00pm Hopewell Theater, 5 S. Greenwood Ave. Free and open to the public Jim Amon will share his love of the Sourlands in a special author event for the HPL at the Hopewell Theater.
Naturalist, Stewardship Director, and former Executive Director of the D&R Canal Commission, Jim describes the miracles that happen daily in our own backyard using his unique voice and his photographic lens to enlighten and delight us with knowledge of the natural beauty that surrounds us. An award-winning photographer, he will share the flora and fauna that reside in our Sourlands. |
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Hopewell Public Library Summer Reading Program 2021
Continues until Labor Day - Monday, September 6th Registration required - call 609-466-1625 or email hpl@redlibrary.org (for ages preschool and up) Decide how many books you want to read this summer. When you reach your goal - get a coupon for a free cookie at the Boro Bean! Come to the library to pick up your instruction packet - curbside or inside. Also join us this summer every Wednesday from June 23rd to July 28th, to meet some animals who live in and around Hopewell. Most of the activities will take place from 4 to 5pm unless otherwise noted. See details below:
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Women's Equality Day Celebration!
Thursday, August 26th, 5pm - 6pm Join us in celebrating Women's Equality Day, the day the 19th Amendment was signed into law 101 years ago! Our fun family program will include:
Local author Nancy B. Kennedy will be on hand to rally the crowd. Her children's book, "Women Win the Vote! 19 for the 19th Amendment," will be available for purchase in support of the museum. Town Crier Stanley Saperstein will open the program. Voicing historic characters during the program will be Hopewell Township Mayor Julie Blake, Deputy Mayor Courtney Peters-Manning, Pennington Borough Councilmember Kit Chandler, and Hopewell Borough Councilmembers Deb Stuhler and Samara McAuliffe. This event is co-sponsored by the Hopewell Public Library, The Hopewell Museum, and the Hopewell Valley Historical Society. |
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Stitch 'n Knit
Please Join Us! First and third Tuesday evenings at 7pm. Bring your knitting, crochet or any other craft project you'd like to work on. Grab a cup of coffee and join us for a virtual hour to share what you've been working on, exchange ideas or just chat. Whether you've been hand crafting for decades or days, join this welcoming group and work together at all skill levels while sharing tips and tricks. Beginners welcome. Please call 609-466-1625 or respond to hpl@redlibrary.org and we will send you the zoom link. |
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Hidden Gardens of Hopewell Garden Tour
Saturday, June 26, 2021, 10am - 3pm The HPL will be opening early at 10am for those purchasing or picking up tickets. An exhibition of Hopewell's hidden gems, the self-guided tour includes five gardens and three rain gardens. Tour highlights include an 11-acre farm, a large 1-acre garden exclusively of Native Plants, several "in-town" gardens as well as a small courtyard garden behind a townhouse. Tickets for this self-guided tour are $25 (or $30 day of the Tour) and include the map which shows participants how to visit each garden. They can be purchased at the Hopewell Public Library, 13 East Broad Street, Hopewell, N.J., or through PayPal below. Tickets are not available through PayPal on the day of the tour. Note: Bring your PayPal receipt to the Hopewell Public Library staff to retrieve your official numbered Garden Tour ticket. All proceeds go directly to the Hopewell Public Library. |
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Juneteenth - A Celebration of Freedom | Outdoor Movie
Friday, June 18, 2021 - 8:30 pm Woolsey Park, Titusville NJ No Registration Required Presented by the Hopewell Valley Arts Council in partnership with the Hopewell, Mercer County and Pennington Libraries Celebrate this day of freedom under the stars at Woolsey Park on Friday, June 18 at 8:30pm with a screening of "Juneteenth - A Celebration of Freedom," a 30-minute documentary produced by the Texas Institute for the Preservation of History and Culture. The film offers an insightful perspective about this significant day in American history. Following the film, learn more from representatives of the new Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum, hear about upcoming Juneteenth festivities in Trenton, and discover educational and advocacy resources available through our local libraries. Admission is free! Donations are appreciated. Bring your own folding chair or a blanket. Gate opens at 8:00pm. Woolsey Park ~ 221 Washington Crossing Pennington Road, Titusville, NJ. Please visit www.hvartscouncil.org for more. |
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Industrial Hopewell: The Growth of Railroad Place
An Online Virtual Tour - "Trains, Tomatoes, and Chocolates" Thurs., June 10, 2021, 7 pm Registration required - Register here (through the Mercer County Library) The arrival of two railroads in the 1870s spurred the growth of the towns of Hopewell and Pennington, as more convenient transportation brought greater opportunities for residents and businesses. But local boosters in Hopewell also saw a greater opportunity, and invested in developing Railroad Place as an industrial district that could support larger-scale manufacturing to provide more jobs and stronger growth. In this online version of his historical walking tour, Doug Dixon of the Hopewell Valley History Project explores the turn-of-the century Railroad Place as an open industrial area crisscrossed with railway spurs serving multiple factories and freight businesses. We'll investigate the sometimes convoluted history of the larger industrial buildings that have been passed down to us from that era, including the Chocolate Factory (manufacturing bon-bons for 25 years), the Tomato Factory (canning tomatoes for 55 years), J. B. Hill's (coal and then lumber for over a century), and Rockwell Manufacturing (back to Smith Novelty in the early 1900s). And we'll discover other lesser-known stories, some missing from today's landscape, including a shirt factory, vibrator company, farmers' co-op, ice cream factory, and bobbin and spool factory.
Doug Dixon is an independent technology consultant and writer, now morphed into a history enthusiast. Doug is a board member of the Hopewell Museum, the Hopewell Valley Historical Society, and Heritage Week. In the past few years, he has developed the Hopewell Valley History Project (HopewellHistoryProject.org), which is working with many local contributors to collect and share digital copies of local historical materials - now with over 400 documents and maps, 1800 images, and an interactive historical map of Hopewell. As a software technologist, Doug specializes in Web technology, databases, and digital media. He has consulted to the Aberdeen Test Center doing large data testing and visualization, and previously was a product manager and software developer at Intel and Sarnoff. He has authored four books on digital media, published hundreds of feature articles, and presented over a hundred seminars and talks. Co-sponsored by the Hopewell Valley Historical Society, The Hopewell Museum, the Hopewell Public Library, and the Hopewell Branch of the Mercer County Library. |
Hopewell Chocolate Factory
Hopewell Tomato Factory
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Hopewell Valley Heritage Week
May 22 - 31, 2021 Hopewell Valley Heritage Week is back, May 22 - 31, 2021, celebrating the rich heritage of the Hopewell Valley with a full week of events, some virtual and others outdoors. Hopewell Valley Heritage Weekend has morphed into Hopewell Valley Heritage Week. This year’s theme is Trains, Planes & Automobiles - American Indian to Modern Day Transportation in Hopewell Valley.
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The Mercer & Somerset Story - and the Frog War
Wednesday, May 26, 2021, 7:00 pm Internet Webinar via Zoom Registration Required -> Register here (through the Pennington Public Library) John Kilbride will present the history and legacy of the Mercer & Somerset Railroad, an obscure, rural, central New Jersey line that became famous not for its trains, but for its fate as a Pennsylvania Railroad proxy in the 1876 “Frog War.” John will cover the history of the line, its role in the Hopewell skirmish, and its decline and abandonment in 1881. Although the M&S was abandoned more than a century and a quarter ago, John will show examples of numerous portions of its right of way through the Hopewell Valley, and several surviving structures which remain as its legacy. Now retired from a 34-year (Amtrak) railroad career, John Kilbride is the moderator of the Camden & Amboy Railroad Historians and Railroads of Trenton Facebook groups, and has been studying the C&A since moving to New Jersey in 1979. Kilbride remains interested in historical research and writing on railroad topics, including a just-published article on a unique passenger train for a national publication, and contributing several photos to a Midwest railroad-themed book. Presently, he has started research on a book focusing on the electrification of the Long Island Railroad, and another on N. J.'s Camden & Amboy (C&A) Railroad. He is also involved with the “Save The (Princeton) Dinky” group, and advising local historians on specific historical aspects of both the C&A and the Pennsylvania Railroad in New Jersey. A frequent speaker in the Tri-State area, Kilbride is able to provide programs on a variety of railroad topics, from the C&A up to more contemporary themes. He seeks to travel by train whenever possible!!! This event is part of Hopewell Valley Heritage Week, May 22 - 31, 2021, celebrating the rich heritage of the Hopewell Valley with a full week of events. Co-sponsored by the Hopewell Valley Historical Society, The Hopewell Museum, the Hopewell Public Library, and the Pennington Public Library. |
John Kilbride
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Industrial Hopewell Historical Walking Tour
- Trains, Tomatoes, and Chocolates Saturday, May 22, 2021 - Three tours - 11 am, 2 pm, & 4 pm Sponsored by the Hopewell Public Library The arrival of two railroads in the 1870s spurred the growth of the towns of Hopewell and Pennington, as more convenient transportation brought greater opportunities for residents and businesses. But local boosters in Hopewell also saw a greater opportunity, and invested in developing Railroad Place as an industrial district that could support larger-scale manufacturing to provide more jobs and stronger growth. On this one-hour walking tour, Doug Dixon of the Hopewell Valley History Project explores the turn-of-the century Railroad Place as an open industrial area crisscrossed with railway spurs serving multiple factories and freight businesses. We'll investigate the sometimes convoluted history of the larger industrial buildings that have been passed down to us from that era, including the Chocolate Factory (manufacturing bon-bons for 25 years), the Tomato Factory (canning tomatoes for 55 years), J. B. Hill's (coal and then lumber for over a century), and Rockwell Manufacturing (back to Smith Novelty in the early 1900s). And we'll discover other lesser-known stories, some missing from today's landscape, including a shirt factory, vibrator company, farmers' co-op, ice cream factory, and bobbin and spool factory.
Doug Dixon is an independent technology consultant and writer, now morphed into a history enthusiast. Doug is a board member of the Hopewell Museum, the Hopewell Valley Historical Society, and Heritage Week. In the past few years, he has developed the Hopewell Valley History Project (HopewellHistoryProject.org), which is working with many local contributors to collect and share digital copies of local historical materials - now with over 400 documents and maps, 1800 images, and an interactive historical map of Hopewell. As a software technologist, Doug specializes in Web technology, databases, and digital media. He has consulted to the Aberdeen Test Center doing large data testing and visualization, and previously was a product manager and software developer at Intel and Sarnoff. He has authored four books on digital media, published hundreds of feature articles, and presented over a hundred seminars and talks. This event is part of Hopewell Valley Heritage Week, May 22 - 31, 2021, celebrating the rich heritage of the Hopewell Valley with a full week of events. Registration required - space is limited. Three tours will be held, at 11 am, 2 pm, and 4 pm. To register, visit the Hopewell Public Library; call 609-466-1625; or email hpl@redlibrary.org. |
Hopewell Chocolate Factory
Hopewell Tomato Factory
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Seed Sharing Day at the Library
Saturday, April 24, 2021, 12:00 - 2:00 pm In front of the HPL Calling all gardeners - experienced and beginners. Stop by and pick up some seeds to try out in your garden this year. The HPL will be sharing flower and vegetable seeds, including seeds donated by FEDCO-SEEDS and HUDSON VALLEY SEED CO. We will also be featuring a collection of organic tomato seeds - including heirloom varieties used by the Hopewell Canning Factory in the 1890s! SHARE YOUR SEEDS Have leftover flower or vegetable seeds from last year? Bring your extra seeds for the Seed Sharing table. (Seeds may also be dropped off at the Library before the event.) (Facemasks, social distancing, and sign-in will be required) |
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Step Into the Sourland Spring with Jim Amon
Saturday, April 24, 2021, 9:00 am Registration required Join Jim Amon, author of Seeing the Sourlands, to explore the 2021 spring.
Registration required Meet at the Sourland Mountain Preserve, Hopewell-Wertzville Road Parking is limited, please carpool Registration is limited – email hpl@redlibrary.org or call 609-466-1625 |
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1st Annual "Cook for Books" Event
Sunday April 18, 2021, 4 to 6 pm A virtual live streaming gourmet dinner class experience - cook along and learn new techniques in your own kitchen! Join Shelley Wiseman of the Farm Cooking School (Titusville, N. J.) to learn how to prepare sweet and savory crepes, and enjoy wine pairings selected by Sommelier Spencer Cutter. When you sign up, you will receive recipes and an ingredient list to prepare for the class. Limited Event - Only 30 tickets at $75.00. Reservations and payments are available at the library or through PayPal. All proceeds go to the Hopewell Public Library. Thanks to Shelley Wiseman for donating this class! |
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DIY Preschool Storytime
In January 2021 the HPL started DIY storytime! Much like Storytime with Ms. Jennifer, each week we’ll feature a different children’s book along with a related craft. Craft supplies and instructions will be laid out in the children’s room. You can make an appointment to visit and read the story and complete the craft, or just drop by to check if the room is available. Ms. Jennifer will be there on Tuesdays from 12 - 4 to help choose books to take home, and the Library is also open on Thursdays from 12 - 4 and Saturdays from 12 - 2. Also see Suggested Activities for Preschool Story Time with Miss Jennifer for a selection of read-aloud books and activities to extend each story. |
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HPL Book Club / Thank you, Ellie Rock!
After more than 10 years of leading the HPL Book Club, Ellie Rock is stepping down. Ellie has been a superb leader in every way - She has found some of the most thought-provoking and engrossing books to be discussed, always comes prepared with information about the books as well as the author, and knows how to lead a lively book discussion while including everyone. This, coupled with her unbridled enthusiasm for reading has made the HPL Book Club our most popular and long-running event. Ellie's last Book Club meeting is on Monday, Jan. 4th. Email us if you would like to join the Zoom meeting. The Book Club meetings will continue to be on the first Monday of each month. The next meeting is on Monday, February 1st. With heartfelt thanks for all you have done, Ellie, we wish you all the best. |
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