Lacey Honors Library Ahead Of 100th Anniversary Celebration

LACEY, NJ — As the Ocean County Library system gears up for its 100th anniversary celebration, Lacey officials to honor their local branch - which, coincidentally, also got its start in 1925, though it didn't become an Ocean County branch until 1976.

The library is "a cornerstone of civic life in our township," Mayor Peter Curatolo read from a proclamation that was shared with a local librarian at a recent Township Committee meeting.

"The Lacey Branch of the Ocean County Library, since its opening, has been an invaluable resource for the residents of Lacey Township, offering not only books and research materials, but also innovative programs for children, teens, adults and seniors, access to technology and a welcoming space for learning and connections," he said.

The centennial celebration will be held Sept. 20 at the Lacey library. Along with cake, there will be a scavenger hunt, crafts and a Q&A of the branch's history.

Resident Barry Bendar noted that Lacey's library history dates back to 1925 as well, citing an article written for the local historical society.

The original Lacey library started that year out of a resident's home, and moved from home to home until it moved to the former community hall in 1936. It then moved to the Forked River Fire Company in 1938, then back to the community hall in 1955. It moved to a permanent location in 1957 at the old Forked River Schoolhouse.

According to the Ocean County Library, Lacey officially joined the system in 1976. The current library building opened in 1992.

See what else is planned for the Ocean County Library's 100th anniversary on their website.