Friends of BHPL Celebrate National Friends of Libraries Week with Special Programs and Community Giveaways

Union County Life is reporting that the Friends of the Berkeley Heights Public Library are marking National Friends of Libraries Week, Oct. 18 to 24, with programs and a community scavenger hunt. The Friends are a volunteer-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit that helps fund library programs, services, and resources.

Sharon Loeb, president of the Friends of BHPL, said, “Every day, our library brings people together to learn, explore, create, and connect. We’re proud to help make more of these experiences possible.”

Tinker Tuesday is set for Tuesday, Oct. 20, at 7 p.m. The program invites tweens, teens, and adults to make Luminary Jars using supplies provided by the Friends. No registration is required.

On Thursday, Oct. 22, at 1 p.m., a free Cybersecurity Awareness program features Stanley Field, Cybersecurity State Coordinator with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. He will brief attendees on current cyber threats and practical defenses. The program marks Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and the Friends will provide refreshments.

The scavenger hunt runs from Oct. 18 to 24. Completed sheets are entries in a drawing for one of three $50 gift cards to local restaurants, and winners choose the restaurant they want.

The Friends also support the library all year. Their contributions include Early Literacy Kits for children ages 0 to 5, Regional Museum Passes that give eligible cardholders free family access to museums and cultural sites in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, Museum Activity Bags, the Learn with Bubbles early literacy program for children up to age five, and a monthly Spice Club. The group raises money through book and jewelry sales and restaurant fundraisers.

Maureen Langley, assistant director of the Berkeley Heights Public Library, said, “The Friends of the Library are essential to the success of the library. Not only do they promote library services and initiatives through their fundraising efforts, but they are also advocates for the library throughout the community.”

Residents can learn more, become a member, volunteer, or donate at bhplnj.org/friends-of-bhpl. Friends meetings are open to the community, and residents who want to get involved can email friends@bhplnj.org.

For more Berkeley Heights events, businesses, and local news, visit Union County Life at unioncountylife.com.

FAQ

What is happening at the Berkeley Heights Public Library this week?
The Friends are sponsoring a Tinker Tuesday program on Oct. 20, a free cybersecurity program on Oct. 22, and a scavenger hunt that runs through Oct. 24.

Do I need to register for Tinker Tuesday?
No. Tinker Tuesday is open to tweens, teens, and adults without registration.

How do I enter the scavenger hunt?
Complete the scavenger hunt sheet during Oct. 18 to 24. Completed sheets are entries in a drawing for one of three $50 gift cards to local restaurants.

How can I join or support the Friends?
Visit bhplnj.org/friends-of-bhpl to become a member, volunteer, or donate, or email friends@bhplnj.org to get involved.