Livingston Public Library

Join us at Livingston Public Library on Thursday, December 18th in the Program Room from 12pm to 1pm for a quick, drop-in afternoon craft! No registration required, just stop by and create a fun and easy craft to take home. In December we will be creating Gift Boxes out of paper.
Crafts are available while supplies last and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Event is sponsored by the Friends of the Livingston Library!

Local Event: Crafternoon - Paper Gift Boxes

Essex County

Livingston

New Jersey

Crafternoon - Paper Gift Boxes

Join us at Livingston Public Library on Thursday, December 18th in the Program Room from 12pm to 1pm for a quick, drop-in...

The Livingston Public Library invites the public to a Senior Happening performance on Friday, December 19th at 1pm where the NJPAC will present “The Music of Winter”. This program features songs centered around the theme of winter, including holiday classics. 
The Senior Happening is a monthly series that allows attendees (“Seniors” or otherwise) to socialize during the first part of the program (12 until 12:45 pm) by bringing a bag lunch, while enjoying desserts and coffee served by the Friends of the Library volunteers. The program and entertainment then begins at 1 pm.
Registration is required and may be done in person at the library; by telephone at (973) 992-4600; or online at www.livingstonlibrary.org. Registration begins on December 1st for Livingston and other Essex County residents.
Senior Happening is made possible in part by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, and administered by the Essex County Division of Cultural and Historic Affairs.

Local Event: Senior Happening: NJPAC Present's "The Music of Winter"

Senior Happening: NJPAC Present's "The Music of...

The Livingston Public Library invites the public to a Senior Happening performance on Friday, December 19th at 1pm where the...

Senior Happening: NJPAC Present's "The Music of Winter"

Join us for Crafterwork, a relaxing and stress-relieving arts and crafts workshop at the end of a busy workday. The program will be librarian-led and self-guided, and is geared towards those looking for a structured, crafty environment. All materials will be supplied. On Tuesday, December 23rd from 7pm-8pm we will be making Snowman Hot Chocolate Bombs.
The workshop is open to Livingston Library cardholders 18 and up; space is limited and registration opens Monday, December 8th at 10am. 
This event is made possible with the support of The Friends of the Livingston Public Library.

Local Event: Crafterwork - Snowman Hot Chocolate Bombs

Crafterwork - Snowman Hot Chocolate Bombs

Join us for Crafterwork, a relaxing and stress-relieving arts and crafts workshop at the end of a busy workday. The program...

The Livingston Public Library presents Sensory Social Hour, a drop-in program for teens and adults with sensory sensitivities, developmental disabilities, or those who prefer a calm and structured environment. The program will be held on Saturday, January 3rd from 11am - 12pm and is designed to allow individuals with special needs to socialize in a sensory friendly environment. It offers a safe and supportive space to socialize and engage in gentle activities such as storytime, crafts, and sensory bins. The theme for this event will be “a new year”.
Sensory Social Hour is free and open to all teens, adults, and their caregivers. No registration needed.
Sponsored by the Friends of the Livingston Public Library.

Local Event: Sensory Social Hour

Sensory Social Hour

The Livingston Public Library presents Sensory Social Hour, a drop-in program for teens and adults with sensory sensitivities,...

Cookbooks have existed as long as our nation has. Among the thousands of American cookbooks published over the past 250 years, a group of them have not only sold well but also profoundly influenced how we cook and eat. 
This illustrated talk explores ten notable cookbooks that shaped our shared culinary heritage. From the trail-blazing work of Fannie Farmer and Irma Rombauer to the innovative explorations of Julia Child and Craig Claiborne, these cookbooks have become milestone best-sellers. 
Join pop culture historian Leslie Goddard and prepare to immerse yourself in the pages of America’s favorite cookbooks and discover what they tell us about American food culture and eating habits.
Leslie Goddard is an award-winning actress and scholar who has been presenting history&nbsp;programs for more than twenty years. She holds a Ph.D. from Northwestern University specializing in American studies and U.S. history as well as a master’s degree in theater.


A former museum director, she is the author of three books on history and currently works full-time as an author and public speaker.

This program is being presented virtually over Zoom. Registration is required and the Zoom link will be emailed the day before the event.
It is made possible with the support of The Friends of the Livingston Public Library

Local Event: VIRTUAL Stirring Up History: The Cookbooks That Shaped America’s Kitchen

VIRTUAL Stirring Up History: The Cookbooks That...

Cookbooks have existed as long as our nation has.  Among the thousands of American cookbooks published over the past 250 years,...

VIRTUAL Stirring Up History: The Cookbooks That Shaped America’s Kitchen

Yoga offers a powerful blend of physical strength, mental clarity, and stress relief—helping you build flexibility, enhance focus, and cultivate inner peace. Join the Livingston Public Library’s monthly yoga session led by a certified instructor from Niyama Yoga Shala, and experience the transformative benefits of regular practice.
This Open Level Vinyasa Flow class links yoga poses (asanas) with breath in a smooth, flowing sequence. The session will incorporate mindful movement, traditional breathing techniques (pranayama), and inspiring music to help spark the mind–body connection and release stagnant energy.
All levels are welcome—no prior yoga experience is required. The instructor will offer modifications and variations so each participant can practice safely and effectively, regardless of experience or ability. You’ll leave feeling balanced, refreshed, and renewed.
Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat, any preferred props, and a water bottle.
This session is open to adults 18 and up and space is limited. Registration is encouraged. 
This program is made possible with the support of The Friends of the Livingston Public Library.

Local Event: Adult Yoga Workshop: Open Flow Vinyasa Yoga

Adult Yoga Workshop: Open Flow Vinyasa Yoga

Yoga offers a powerful blend of physical strength, mental clarity, and stress relief—helping you build flexibility, enhance...

With traditional defined benefit pensions becoming increasingly rare, most Americans rely on retirement savings vehicles like 401(k)s, IRAs, and other investments to fund their post-work years. Turning these savings into a reliable income stream can be challenging. 
This is where annuities have become a popular—and now mainstream—option. Many annuities offer “income for life,” similar to Social Security, providing peace of mind and financial security in retirement.
However, annuities come with important considerations. They often require locking up a portion of your assets, and not all annuities are created equal. Factors such as fees, surrender charges, payout options, and the financial strength of the issuing insurer can significantly impact your retirement strategy.
In this lecture, Fred Ciccone, a licensed insurance professional specializing in Medicare, long-term care, and retirement income, will explore the various types of annuities, how they work, and key points to consider when evaluating them as part of your retirement plan. 
Attendees will gain practical insights to help make informed decisions about securing lifetime income in retirement.

Local Event: Secure Your Retirement: Understanding Annuities

Secure Your Retirement: Understanding Annuities

With traditional defined benefit pensions becoming increasingly rare, most Americans rely on retirement savings vehicles like...

Get ready to stretch your brain and challenge your assumptions in this lively, interactive session with Michael Czuchnicki, full of clever riddles and surprising twists. We'll explore brainteasers that touch on everyday topics like money, love, family, science, and life itself.
Can you make 11 cents using two coins—where one isn’t a penny? Watch a dollar disappear, then try to figure out where it went. Would you trust a robot that always lies—or one that always tells the truth?
This program features riddles for every level: from simple stumpers to legendary puzzles that few have ever solved (except that one person…). Whether you're solving with others, trying to stump your friends, or just love a good mental workout, you'll find riddles that challenge, entertain, and connect.
Some riddles will make you think. Some will drive you nuts. Some might even give you a laugh. And of course, there's the infamous “Sunday Riddle”: Have you ever felt the heat from a nuclear explosion on your bare face? It’s not a joke—it’s a riddle. So think!
This program is perfect for puzzle lovers, curious minds, and anyone who enjoys a mental challenge with a twist of humor.
Michael’s career included executive positions in technology offices at the AMEX (the head of Systems Planning) and AIG (Head of Worldwide Communications). He then began consulting around the world on some interestingly large financial systems, e.g., Russia's first credit card system. He works in the New Jersey home he shares with Theresa. He believes creating and sharing is not an obligation, but his greatest pleasure.
This program is made possible with the support of The Friends of the Livingston Public Library.

Local Event: Can You Outsmart a Riddle?

Can You Outsmart a Riddle?

Get ready to stretch your brain and challenge your assumptions in this lively, interactive session with Michael Czuchnicki, ...

Start the year with purpose!
This interactive workshop guides participants through a series of reflective exercises to identify&nbsp;core values, clarify motivating actions, and craft a personal theme to guide their year. Activities include breath work, self-assessments, and group discussions, all designed to help attendees&nbsp;set meaningful intentions aligned with what matters most to them. 



Unlike a typical resolution which often fades with time, a personal theme acts as a steady, inspiring compass—helping you focus your energy and make choices that support your goals all year long.
Presenter Amaya Toland has spent over 30 years helping individuals succeed in their careers and personal lives. As an HR executive, administrative professional, and life coach, she partners with leaders and individuals to navigate change, growth, and transformation. She has worked with C-suite executives, entrepreneurs, and professional artists, always focusing on creating clarity, courage, and forward momentum.
A contributing author to The Coach’s Casebook, Amaya brings insights from her coaching journey to guide others. Outside of work, she enjoys drawing, reading, and long walks in nature, embracing curiosity, creativity, and compassion in all aspects of life.

Local Event: Create Your Personal Theme: Set Your Intention, Shape Your Year

Create Your Personal Theme: Set Your Intention,...

Start the year with purpose!
This interactive workshop guides participants through a series of reflective exercises to...

Create Your Personal Theme: Set Your Intention, Shape Your Year

The Livingston Public Library invites the public to the premiere of our 2026 Senior Happening performances on Friday, January 16 at 1pm where Robert Butts will present “Baroque to Broadway.” Musicians and singers of The Baroque Orchestra of New Jersey under the baton of Maestro Robert W. Butts will present music to warm the mid-winter afternoon. Enjoy familiar favorites and new discoveries from Baroque to Broadway, from Mozart to Webber. 
Maestro Robert W. Butts has lectured and taught at The Casperson School of Graduate Studies, Montclair State University, and The College of Saint Elizabeth as well as for The New Jersey Council for the Humanities. He has presented talks and courses for community programs throughout New Jersey. As a conductor, he has led the award-winning Baroque Orchestra of New Jersey for over 25 years and has conducted The New Jersey Symphony, The Plainfield Symphony, Opera at Florham, New Jersey Concert Opera, Eastern Opera, and Opera Theater of Montclair. In addition, he has conducted orchestra and opera performances in Russia, Romania, Germany, and Italy. His compositions have been performed in The United States, Europe, and Asia. 
The Senior Happening is a monthly series that allows attendees (“Seniors” or otherwise) to socialize during the first part of the program (12 until 12:45 pm) by bringing a bag lunch, while enjoying desserts and coffee served by the Friends of the Library volunteers. The program and entertainment then begins at 1 pm.
Registration is required and may be done in person at the library; by telephone at (973) 992-4600; or online at www.livingstonlibrary.org. Registration begins on December 29th for Livingston and other Essex County residents.
Senior Happening is made possible in part by funds from the Essex County Division of Cultural Affairs, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts and through the support from the Friends of the Livingston Library.

Local Event: Senior Happening: Robert Butts Presents "Baroque to Broadway" 

Senior Happening: Robert Butts Presents...

The Livingston Public Library invites the public to the premiere of our 2026 Senior Happening performances on Friday, January...

Senior Happening: Robert Butts Presents "Baroque to Broadway" 

Start the new year strong—inside and out, with our new wellness program offering total-body strength through mindful, precise Pilates flow.
Get ready to fire up your core and energize your entire body with this monthly All-Levels Adult Mat Pilates Fitness Class that blends strength, stability, and mobility training to help you move smarter, feel stronger, and elevate your everyday wellness. 
Mat Pilates is a powerful, low-impact workout that builds long, lean muscles, improves posture, and boosts your balance and coordination — all, while focusing on controlled, precise movements performed on the floor in a fun, motivating flow. By using your own body weight and breath to guide each motion, you’ll strengthen your core, tone muscles, improve posture, build stability and enhance body alignment.
Led by Luisa Kaiser, a certified Mat Pilates, Yoga, and Kids Yoga instructor known for her upbeat coaching and encouraging energy, this class is designed to make you feel empowered from the inside out. Expect controlled, athletic movements, intentional breathwork, and accessible variations so every participant can work at their own level while still getting an invigorating full-body workout.
Whether you’re new to Pilates or already living the fitness lifestyle, you’ll leave class feeling stronger, more energized, and confidently connected to your body.
Participants are encouraged to bring a yoga or Pilates mat, wear comfortable workout clothing, and bring water. You are also welcome to bring any small Pilates props you may already own, such as resistance bands, Pilates rings, or small stability balls. These are completely optional — the entire class can also be done with just a mat.
This session is open to adults 18 and up. Space is limited; Registration is encouraged.
Registration is also open for our next 2 sessions on February 27 and March 27.
This program is made possible with the support of The Friends of the Livingston Public Library.

Local Event: Total Body Mat Pilates Sculpt for Adults

Total Body Mat Pilates Sculpt for Adults

Start the new year strong—inside and out, with our new wellness program offering total-body strength through mindful, precise...

In 1914, Ernest Shackleton embarked on his daring Trans-Antarctic Expedition—an adventure that would become one of the most gripping survival stories in history. When disaster struck and his ship, Endurance, was trapped and crushed by ice, Shackleton and his crew faced unimaginable hardship at the very edge of the world.&nbsp;
This lecture will trace the dramatic journey: the bold ambitions, the setbacks, and the unshakable determination that carried the men through; they refused to quit even when shipwrecked in total isolation at the bottom of the world.
Presented in recognition of the 2022 discovery of Endurance and the remarkable 3D scans of the wreck completed in 2024, this program brings the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration vividly to life.
Greg Caggiano is a published author, historian, lecturer, and consultant. He holds a degree in history from New Jersey City University and NJ State teaching certifications in history and elementary education. Since 2014, Greg has worked as an instructor for Brookdale Community College in their Lifelong Learning department and as a field guide for their Ocean Institute on Sandy Hook, which focuses on local marine life, maritime history, and the history of the U.S. Military’s presence at Fort Hancock. In his spare time, he has served on the Board of Directors of two museums: the Proprietary House in Perth Amboy, and most recently the Atlantic Highlands Historical Society, housed at the Strauss Mansion Museum. A firm believer in volunteering and giving back to the community, he has helped fundraise tens of thousands of dollars for historic preservation over the years.
This program is being presented virtually over Zoom. Registration is required and the Zoom link will be emailed the day before the event.
It is made possible with the support of The Friends of the Livingston Public Library

Local Event: VIRTUAL Ernest Shackleton and the Age of Antarctic Exploration

VIRTUAL Ernest Shackleton and the Age of...

In 1914, Ernest Shackleton embarked on his daring Trans-Antarctic Expedition—an adventure that would become one of the most...

VIRTUAL Ernest Shackleton and the Age of Antarctic Exploration

Join us for an informative and empowering program that looks at weight management from a holistic, evidence-based perspective. 
This session led by clinical pharmacist Lucio Volino will review the fundamentals of maintaining a healthy weight, including the science behind metabolism, nutrition, physical activity, and behavioral habits. Attendees will also gain a clearer understanding of common eating disorders—how they manifest, why they develop, and the importance of early recognition and support.
The program will introduce the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) framework to help participants set realistic wellness goals and create sustainable lifestyle changes. In addition, the session will provide an overview of current medications, supplements, and emerging treatments related to weight management. While not offering medical advice, this discussion will equip you with the knowledge needed to have more informed, productive conversations with your healthcare provider.
Whether you’re just beginning your health journey or looking to refine your approach, this session offers practical insights to help you move “beyond the scale” toward overall well-being.
Dr. Volino earned his Doctor of Pharmacy at Albany College of Pharmacy, and completed a two-year, post-doctoral industry fellowship at Novartis Pharmaceuticals/Rutgers University. Dr. Volino’s current role as a Clinical Pharmacist involves managing an ambulatory care pharmacy practice site at Barnabas Health Retail Pharmacy – Saint Barnabas Medical Center where he supports clinical services and transitions of care initiatives.
This community health program is presented in cooperation with Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center and requires registration. To register visit the events calendar at <a href="https://livingstonlibrary.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">livingstonlibrary.org</a>

Local Event: Beyond the Scale: Approaches to Weight Management

Beyond the Scale: Approaches to Weight Management

Join us for an informative and empowering program that looks at weight management from a holistic, evidence-based perspective....

Even before films had synchronized sound, they were never truly silent—live music accompanied the images, setting mood and enhancing emotion. 
In this engaging lecture, Professor Allen Cohen traces the evolution of music written for film, illustrating its journey with audio and video examples. We’ll explore how film scores developed from the late 19th century into the Golden Age of Hollywood, and how they have continued to adapt through jazz, pop, electronic, and digital innovations. Along the way, Professor Cohen will discuss the aesthetics of film music, its many functions in storytelling, the variety of styles composers have embraced, and the technological changes that have shaped the art form. 
From the earliest picture palaces to today’s blockbusters, discover how music has always been essential to the magic of the movies.
Dr. Allen Cohen is Professor of Music at Fairleigh Dickinson University. His compositions have been played in Carnegie Hall and across the United States and Europe. He has also written dance arrangements for Broadway musicals, scores for off-Broadway musicals and plays, and music for several films and many radio and television commercials, and he has conducted three musicals on Broadway and many elsewhere. He is the author of Howard Hanson in Theory and Practice (Praeger/Greenwood) and the popular children’s book That’s So Funny I Forgot to Laugh! (Scholastic), and co-author of Writing Musical Theater (Palgrave Macmillan). He has served as a judge for the American Prize in music for many years, and he has presented papers about music and musical theater at conferences in New York City, Hawaii, Greece, and Germany.
This program is made possible with the support of The Friends of the Livingston Public Library.

Local Event: Scoring the Movies: A History of Film Music

Scoring the Movies: A History of Film Music

Even before films had synchronized sound, they were never truly silent—live music accompanied the images, setting mood and...

Yoga offers a powerful blend of physical strength, mental clarity, and stress relief—helping you build flexibility, enhance focus, and cultivate inner peace. Join the Livingston Public Library’s monthly yoga session led by a certified instructor from Niyama Yoga Shala, and experience the transformative benefits of regular practice.
This Open Level Vinyasa Flow class links yoga poses (asanas) with breath in a smooth, flowing sequence. The session will incorporate mindful movement, traditional breathing techniques (pranayama), and inspiring music to help spark the mind–body connection and release stagnant energy.
All levels are welcome—no prior yoga experience is required. The instructor will offer modifications and variations so each participant can practice safely and effectively, regardless of experience or ability. You’ll leave feeling balanced, refreshed, and renewed.
Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat, any preferred props, and a water bottle.
This session is open to adults 18 and up and space is limited. Registration is encouraged. 
This program is made possible with the support of The Friends of the Livingston Public Library.

From the nation’s founding to today, American presidents and their families have lived under intense public scrutiny, experiencing both extraordinary triumphs and heartbreaking losses. 
This lecture by speaker Brian Armstrong explores the Presidential scandals, tragedies, and dramatic events that shaped history—ranging from personal controversies and political corruption to assassination attempts and profound personal sorrows. Specific incidents include the assassinations of Presidents Lincoln, Garfield, McKinley, and Kennedy; the tragic death of Franklin Pierce’s son en route to his inauguration; President Harding’s scandals involving Teapot Dome and his mistress; and Grover Cleveland’s paternity scandal during the contentious election of 1884. 
He will also examine the deaths of presidents, vice presidents, and first ladies, as well as the more joyful occasions of White House life—weddings, births, and family milestones. With many more stories to uncover, this program provides a captivating look at the personal and political dramas behind America’s highest office.
Brian Armstrong is an independent historian, researcher, and author. He has worked for 40 years for various technology and staffing companies including EDS, Kelly Services, and International Technology Solutions, Inc. Armstrong was President of the South River Historical &amp; Preservation Society for 10 years and is now the President of the League of Historical Societies of New Jersey. He is a director for the Raritan Millstone Heritage Association.
In 2015, Brian co-wrote the book, South River, with Stephanie Bartz and Nan Whitehead. Armstrong authored the History Press book, The Franklin Park Tragedy: A Forgotten Story of Racial Injustice in New Jersey in 2019 and won the 2020 NJSAA Author Award for the book. Armstrong authored the History Press book, A History Lover’s Guide to Bar Harbor Maine (May 2021). He self-published the books, Lost Museums (2022), Totally Shameless Productions (2023), Franklin Park Axe Murders (2023), Victorian Housewife Rebellion (2023), Hunter’s Rest Birthday (2024), Cordova Elopement Scandal (2025), Camp AU (2025), and Xcapade (2025) through Kindle Direct Publishing.
Brian lectures on local history, World War I, the Spanish Influenza, political history,&nbsp;and using digital newspapers for genealogical research. He is a collector of US Presidential&nbsp;election memorabilia and is a member of American Political Items Collectors (APIC).


This program is made possible with the support of The Friends of the Livingston Public Library.

Local Event: The Dark Side of the White House: Scandals and Tragedies in US Presidential History

The Dark Side of the White House: Scandals and...

From the nation’s founding to today, American presidents and their families have lived under intense public scrutiny,...

The Dark Side of the White House: Scandals and Tragedies in US Presidential History

What happens when the science of medicine meets the wisdom of spirituality?
 In this insightful and inspiring talk, Dr. Shrenik Shah—primary care physician and author of Practical Spiritual Life: Spirituality in Day-to-Day Life—shares his remarkable journey of discovering how spiritual principles can transform health, healing, and daily living.
Drawing on moving stories from his medical practice, Dr. Shah reveals how treating the body is only part of the path to true wellness. Through practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and compassionate living, he demonstrates how spirituality can bring balance, reduce stress, and nurture emotional and mental well-being.
Dr. Shah also discusses his embrace of spiritual veganism and the powerful connection between our choices, our values, and the world around us. His holistic approach encourages us to live with authenticity, purpose, and kindness—creating harmony between what we believe and how we live.
Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a spiritual seeker, or simply curious about bringing more peace and meaning into your life, this talk offers practical tools and timeless insights for cultivating inner calm and joy in a fast-paced world.
The book has received praise for explaining the profound truths of life simply and practically.
Copies will be available for purchase after the presentation.

Local Event: A Practical Spiritual Life: Integrating Spirituality into Everyday Living 

A Practical Spiritual Life: Integrating...

What happens when the science of medicine meets the wisdom of spirituality?
 In this insightful and inspiring talk, Dr. Shrenik...

A Practical Spiritual Life: Integrating Spirituality into Everyday Living 

Jazz is more than just music—it’s a powerful lens through which we can understand Black history in America. Born from African American communities in the early 20th century, jazz became both a soundtrack and a voice for cultural identity, resilience, and change.
Join Sanford Josephson, Editor of Jersey Jazz Magazine, for an enlightening and entertaining exploration of Black history through the lens of jazz. Using video clips of legendary African-American jazz artists, this presentation delves into the complex, sometimes painful, and always powerful story of jazz in America.
Discover the paradoxes of the Harlem Renaissance, where world-class Black performers played in famous nightclubs that admitted only white audiences. Hear firsthand accounts of the hardships African-American musicians faced while touring in the 1930s, ’40s, and ’50s—from discriminatory hotels and restaurants to segregated audiences. Learn about the courageous Black artists who became expatriates to escape the racism they encountered at home, and celebrate the jazz heroes—both Black and white—who broke barriers, integrating bands and challenging social norms long before it was widely accepted.
Through stories, clips, and captivating history, Josephson brings to life the triumphs, struggles, and enduring legacy of the musicians who shaped jazz—and America itself.
Sanford Josephson, a resident of Basking Ridge, NJ, is the author of Jeru’s Journey: The Lifeand Music of Gerry Mulligan (Hal Leonard Books), published in October 2015, and Jazz Notes:Interviews Across the Generations (Praeger/ABC-Clio), published in June 2009. He is currently Editor of Jersey Jazz Magazine, published by the New Jersey Jazz Society, and has written



extensively about jazz musicians in publications ranging from the New York Daily News to American Way Magazine. Josephson is one of 90 journalists and photographers who contributed to The Jazz Omnibus -- 21st-Century Photos and Writings by Members of the Jazz Journalists Association, recently published by Cymbal Press.

This program is made possible with the support of The Friends of the Livingston Public Library.

Local Event: A Look at Black History Through Jazz

A Look at Black History Through Jazz

Jazz is more than just music—it’s a powerful lens through which we can understand Black history in America. Born from African...

Ever slept in a wigwam, snapped a selfie with Paul Bunyan, or wandered into the jaws of a giant alligator? Since the 1920s, when Americans first began exploring the open road, clever entrepreneurs have built fantastical roadside attractions to capture the attention—and curiosity—of passing travelers. Though their golden age faded with the rise of the interstate highway system, thousands of these quirky landmarks still dot the landscape today. 
Join pop culture historian Leslie Goddard, Ph.D. for a nostalgic and entertaining look at these one-of-a-kind creations and what they reveal about the history of American road travel.
Leslie Goddard is an award-winning actress and scholar who has been presenting history&nbsp;programs for more than twenty years. She holds a Ph.D. from Northwestern University specializing in American studies and U.S. history as well as a master’s degree in theater.


A former museum director, she is the author of three books on history and currently works full-time as an author and public speaker.

This program is being presented virtually over Zoom. Registration is required and the Zoom link will be emailed the day before the event.
It is made possible with the support of The Friends of the Livingston Public Library

Local Event: VIRTUAL Quirky Landmarks: The Curious History of America’s Roadside Attractions

VIRTUAL Quirky Landmarks: The Curious History...

Ever slept in a wigwam, snapped a selfie with Paul Bunyan, or wandered into the jaws of a giant alligator? Since the 1920s,...

VIRTUAL Quirky Landmarks: The Curious History of America’s Roadside Attractions

Long before the network became known as the Underground Railroad, enslaved people risked everything to escape bondage and seek freedom. In New Jersey, one of the most traveled routes ran along the Delaware River from Salem County to Trenton, then across the state toward New York. Along the way, both Black and white allies offered critical support to runaways on their perilous journeys to freedom.
This illustrated lecture will explore the history of enslavement in New Jersey, the role of Quakers who advocated for manumission, and the courageous individuals—famous and unsung—who shaped the Underground Railroad in the Garden State.
Rick Geffken has authored numerous articles on New Jersey history for local newspapers, magazines, historical societies and newsletters and presented historical papers at the New Jersey History &amp; Historic Preservation, the New Jersey Education Association, the New Jersey Library Association, and the Institute for Advanced Study (Princeton) conferences. He has participated in Symposia for groups such as the Rutgers Business School (Newark, NJ); the Navesink Maritime Historical Association, and has appeared on the New Jersey Cable TV show, Family Historian. 
He is part of a project called the New Jersey Slavery Records Index under the auspices of Rutgers University, (New Brunswick). He joined the New Jersey Social Justice Reconciliation Committee to commemorate the only recorded lynching of a Black man in New Jersey. Rick has taught courses on New Jersey slavery for Monmouth University (West Long Branch); and on Revolutionary War topics at Brookdale Community College (Lincroft). He contributes to the New Jersey Slavery Records Index project under the auspices of Rutgers University (New Brunswick).
As an active member of the New Jersey Social Justice Reconciliation Committee, Rick was instrumental in placing a memorial plaque in Eatontown, the 1886 site of the only recorded lynching of a Black man in New Jersey. He was also successful in convincing Middletown Township to erect a commemorative plaque at Cedar View Cemetery, purchased by fourteen free Black men in 1850.
This program is made possible with the support of The Friends of the Livingston Public Library.

Local Event: The Underground Railroad in New Jersey

The Underground Railroad in New Jersey

Long before the network became known as the Underground Railroad, enslaved people risked everything to escape bondage and seek...

Eric Kiefer

New York City Metropolitan Area

Morris County

East Hanover-Florham Park

NJ Patch Staff

Millburn-Short Hills

West Orange

South Orange

Maplewood

Madison

Union County

Summit

Caldwells

Springfield

Chatham

Hudson County

Caren Lissner

Jersey City

A RARE INVITATION:Breathe Out Stress Within Minutes with Evidence-based BreathworkExclusive Live Sessions with Gurudev Sri Sri...

Nearby Communities

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Posting Activity

Crafternoon - Paper Gift Boxes

DEC

18

12:00 PM

Livingston Public Library, 10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ

Senior Happening: NJPAC Present's "The Music of Winter"

DEC

19

9:00 PM

10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ

Crafterwork - Snowman Hot Chocolate Bombs

DEC

23

7:00 PM

Livingston Public Library, 10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ

Sensory Social Hour

JAN

3

11:00 AM

Livingston Public Library, 10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ

VIRTUAL Stirring Up History: The Cookbooks That Shaped America’s Kitchen

JAN

5

7:00 PM

Livingston Public Library, 10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ

Adult Yoga Workshop: Open Flow Vinyasa Yoga

JAN

7

11:00 AM

Livingston Public Library, 10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ

Secure Your Retirement: Understanding Annuities

JAN

11

2:00 AM

Livingston Public Library, 10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ

Can You Outsmart a Riddle?

JAN

12

7:00 PM

Livingston Public Library, 10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ

Create Your Personal Theme: Set Your Intention, Shape Your Year

JAN

15

7:00 PM

Livingston Public Library, 10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ

Senior Happening: Robert Butts Presents "Baroque to Broadway"

JAN

16

10:00 AM

10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ

Total Body Mat Pilates Sculpt for Adults

JAN

23

11:00 AM

Livingston Public Library, 10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ

VIRTUAL Ernest Shackleton and the Age of Antarctic Exploration

JAN

26

7:00 PM

Livingston Public Library, 10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ

Beyond the Scale: Approaches to Weight Management

JAN

28

2:00 PM

Livingston Public Library, 10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ

Scoring the Movies: A History of Film Music

JAN

28

7:00 PM

Livingston Public Library, 10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ

Adult Yoga Workshop: Open Flow Vinyasa Yoga

FEB

4

11:00 AM

Livingston Public Library, 10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ

The Dark Side of the White House: Scandals and Tragedies in US Presidential History