MercerMe

Finding the Right Fit: Exploring Senior Living Choices
2025-10-21 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York)
Tuesday, October 21, 2:00 pm
It’s never too early to start preparing for your future or your parent’s future. Join this workshop to explore a range of living options, including independent and assisted living communities, 50+ communities, and aging in place. You’ll gain valuable insights into these choices and learn key factors to consider as you plan for the next chapter. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Pennington Borough Council Meeting
2025-10-27 19:00, 2025-11-03 19:00, 2025-11-24 19:00, 2025-12-01 19:00, 2025-12-29 19:00
Pennington Borough Council meetings are hosted by zoom on the first Monday and the last Monday of each month unless there is a holiday (ex: meeting on Tuesday September 2). For details please contact Pennington Borough.
See schedule here: https://www.penningtonboro.org/1211/Mayor-and-Council

Author Talk: Courtly Intrigue & Whispers as Weapons with Historical Fiction Queen Philippa Gregory
2025-10-29 14:00 - 15:00 | Zoom Online
Coined as the “queen of British historical fiction,” Philippa Gregory returns to the infamous Tudor Court with a tale that is both timely and timeless. We invite you to sit down with us for an intriguing conversation with Gregory about her newest novel Boleyn Traitor.
Jane Boleyn watches from the shadows of the Tudor Court, where secrets are currency, every choice is dangerous, and even the faintest whisper can seal the fate of queens. For Jane, survival demands playing every role required of her: a loving wife who conceals her doubts, a devoted sister to Anne Boleyn at the height of her power, and an obedient spy who carefully wields her words. But in a court ruled by ambition and a tyrant’s sword, Jane must rely on her sharp wit and skillful maneuvering to outthink those around her, knowing that one wrong move could cost her everything.
With a rich tapestry of new historical insights and lyrical language honed over decades of writing, Gregory’s return to the Tudors is a new definition of this most fascinating era. As the world becomes more extreme and unpredictable, Jane’s story of survival and ingenuity offers a compelling parallel, serving as both a powerful historical narrative and an echo of the challenges we face. This is a riveting tale of loyalty and betrayal, ambition and love—one that should not be missed by readers this fall.
About the Author: Dr. Philippa Gregory is one of the world’s foremost historical novelists. She wrote her first ever novel, Wideacre, when she was completing her PhD in eighteenth-century literature and it sold worldwide, heralding a new era for historical fiction. Her flair for blending history and imagination developed into a signature style and Philippa went on to write many bestselling novels, including The Other Boleyn Girl and The White Queen.
Dr. Gregory studied history at the University of Sussex and was awarded a PhD by the University of Edinburgh where she is a Regent and was made Alumna of the Year in 2009. She holds an honorary degree from Teesside University, and is a fellow of the Universities of Sussex and Cardiff. Philippa is a member of the Society of Authors and in 2016, was presented with the Outstanding Contribution to Historical Fiction Award by the Historical Writers’ Association. In 2018, she was awarded an Honorary Platinum Award by Neilsen for achieving significant lifetime sales across her entire book output. In 2021, she was awarded a CBE for services to literature and to her charity Gardens for the Gambia, and was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society.

Literary Figures in Princeton
2025-10-29 18:30
Wednesday, October 29, 6:30 pm

For more than two centuries, Princeton has attracted some of the most important voices in American literature, whose work has shaped both the local community and the broader landscape. This program highlights a selection of writers who lived or worked in Princeton, including F. Scott Fitzgerald, T.S. Eliot, Anne M. Martin, Toni Morrison, Joyce Carol Oates, Eugene O’Neil, and Thornton Wilder. Presented by Eve Mandel, Director of Education and Outreach, Historical Society of Princeton. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Our Lenape Heritage
2025-11-03 19:00 - 20:00
Monday, November 3, 7:00 pm

This presentation reviews the history of the original people of the area we now call New Jersey, giving an overview of life and culture before and during the settlement of Europeans. It reviews names of places that still exist today and Lenape words that are included in everyday communication. The historic records show land transactions, paths and trails that have become our modern highway system, and communities that are still in existence. Presented by Claire Garland, Director of Sand Hill Indian Historical Association and member of the New Jersey American Indian Affairs Commission. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Protecting Your Financial Future: Investor Education & Fraud Prevention
2025-11-06 14:30
Thursday, November 6, 2:30 pm
This interactive presentation, hosted by law students from Seton Hall University School of Law’s FINRA Investor Advocacy Program, provides practical tools to help individuals make informed financial decisions. Participants will learn how to spot red flags of investment fraud, understand their rights as investors, and overall, how to improve their financial literacy. The session runs 30–45 minutes with a Q&A to follow. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Understanding Memory & Communication in Aging
2025-11-10 19:00
Monday, November 10, 7:00 pm

Aging can bring changes in memory, speech, and communication that affect daily life and relationships. This program explores those age-related common challenges that often emerge over time and offers practical strategies to support cognitive health, stay socially connected, and communicate more effectively. Ideal for caregivers, professionals, and older adults. Led by Erin Coulter, Lead Speech Language Pathologist with Penn Medicine. Presented as part of the Penn Medicine Princeton Health Community Wellness Program. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Author Talk: The Search for Truth & the Persistence of Love Across Time with Novelist Amanda Peters
2025-11-13 19:00 - 20:00 | Zoom Online
Join us in an online conversation with acclaimed writer Amanda Peters as we discuss her instant bestselling novel, The Berry Pickers, as well as her tender short fiction collection, Waiting for the Long Night Moon: Stories.
Influenced by Peters’ own Mi’kmaq heritage, The Berry Pickers is a riveting exploration of family, grief, and the bonds we share.
July 1962. A Mi’kmaq family from Nova Scotia arrives in Maine to pick blueberries for the summer. Weeks later, four-year-old Ruthie, the family’s youngest child, vanishes. She is last seen by her six-year-old brother, Joe, sitting on a favorite rock at the edge of a berry field. Joe will remain distraught by his sister’s disappearance for years to come.
In Maine, a young girl named Norma grows up as the only child of an affluent family. Her father is emotionally distant, her mother frustratingly overprotective. Norma is often troubled by recurring dreams and visions that seem more like memories than imagination. As she grows older, Norma slowly comes to realize there is something her parents aren’t telling her. Unwilling to abandon her intuition, she will spend decades trying to uncover this family secret.
About the Author: Amanda Peters is a mixed-race woman of Mi’kmaq and European ancestry, born and raised in the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia. Her short fiction and non-fiction have been published in The Antigonish Review, Grain Magazine, The Alaska Quarterly Review, The Dalhousie Review, and Filling Station Magazine.
Amanda’s first novel, The Berry Pickers, was a finalist for the Atwood Gibson Writers’ Trust Fiction Prize in Canada, and won the Barnes and Noble Discover Prize and the Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction in the US. The Berry Pickers won the Dartmouth Book Award and the Crime Writers of Canada First Crime Novel Award, and has been translated into sixteen languages around the world. Her most recent book of short fiction, Waiting for the Long Night Moon, was published August, 2024 to critical acclaim.

Sweden Holiday Traditions & Today
2025-11-20 18:00
Thursday, November 20, 6:00 pm

What do you know about Sweden? Get a glimpse into life in Sweden today and learn about the traditions that are special to this Nordic nation. Join us as we explore Swedish culture, technology, environmentalism, and holiday celebrations, including a special look into Christmas and the December Lucia festival. Presented by the American Swedish Historical Museum of Philadelphia, which welcomes everyone to explore cultural identity through stories of Swedes and all Scandinavians, and to connect with a vibrant community dedicated to preserving and interpreting culture. Sponsored by Hightstown Library Association. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Snow Much Fun Cookie Decorating
2025-12-03 10:30 - 12:00 | Mercer County Library – Hopewell Branch, 245 Pennington Titusville Road, Pennington, NJ, United States
Come and decorate cookies with sprinkles, frosting, and more! We’ll bring the supplies; you bring the imagination. Space is limited. Registration is required.

Through the Eyes of the Artist: Norman Rockwell
2025-12-04 19:00 | Zoom Online
Art Historian Felicia Z. Stadelman showcases the life and works of Norman Rockwell — not the image he presents in his pictures, but his much more complex life filled with twists and turns. Few people really know very much about the man who tells stories in his paintings. Sponsored by Friends of the West Windsor Library. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Princeton and the American Revolution: The Ten Crucial Days
2026-01-08 19:00 - 20:00
This is the story of the desperate hours at the end of 1776 when the American Revolution seemed lost. Struggling through unimaginable difficulties, the Continental Army crossed the Delaware River on Christmas, winning three battles in 10 days, culminating in the Battle of Princeton on January 3, 1777. These victories changed the course of history and enabled the birth of our free nation. Presented by Barry Singer, Princeton Historical Society. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Cézanne: True to the Essence of His Subjects
2026-01-14 08:00 - 17:00
Virtual program hosted by the Mercer County Library SystemMonday, February 9, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.
This virtual lecture, hosted by the Mercer County Library System, examines the life and legacy of Paul Cézanne (1839–1906), one of the most influential artists in the history of modern painting. From his early years in Aix-en-Provence and initial study of law to his lasting impact on generations of artists, Cézanne’s relationships, inspirations, and working methods offer fascinating insight into his art.
The program is presented by Jeanne Johnson, docent at the Princeton University Art Museum and Morven Museum and Gardens.
Registration is required. Visit events.mcl.org to receive the virtual program link.

New Jersey Homeschooling Basics
2026-01-14 19:00 - 20:00
Join us for an overview of homeschooling in New Jersey and get answers to your questions. Are you considering homeschooling your child in NJ? Has your child asked to be homeschooled, but you don’t know where you would even start? A panel of experienced homeschooling parents will cover the basics of homeschooling in NJ, including homeschooling law, the range of approaches to homeschooling, resources and communities that support homeschooling (in-person and online), paths after homeschooling (high school, college, work, trades, etc.). A Q & A session will follow the presentation. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Token on the Freedman's Coat: The Story Behind Thomas Mundy Peterson's 1884 Voting Medal
2026-01-15 19:00 - 20:00
Thomas Mundy Peterson is celebrated as the first African American to vote under the Fifteenth Amendment. Gordon Bond, independent historian and publisher of NJ history website Garden State Legacy, will discuss the story of Peterson and how, on May 30, 1884, citizens of Perth Amboy, NJ, pinned a gold medal to his coat in honor of his having done something that, in another part of the nation, a noose might have been put around his neck for daring. Based on Bond’s book, To Cast a Freedman’s Vote. Sponsored by Friends of the Ewing Library. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Introduction to Smart and Safe Investing
2026-01-20 18:30 - 19:30
Chase Bertoldo, from the Seton Hall University School of Law FINRA Investor Advocacy Program, will cover a range of practical financial concepts, including budgeting and inflation, as well as different investment and savings products. Throughout the program, he’ll focus on smart and safe investment practices, illustrating the challenges facing every investor and how to avoid common pitfalls. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Islamic Contribution to Civilization
2026-01-27 19:00 - 20:00
Muslims have been influenced by and contributed to other cultures in numerous ways. Particularly, during the medieval Golden Age of Islam, Muslims made major contributions in diverse fields, including art, architecture, music, mathematics, medicine, astronomy, philosophy, and literature, as well as in hygiene, cuisine, clothing, and furniture. Presented by Samina Sattar of the New Jersey Islamic Networks Group.

Abolition and the Underground Railroad in South Jersey
2026-02-03 18:00 - 19:00
Virtual program hosted by the Mercer County Library SystemTuesday, February 3, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
This virtual presentation, hosted by the Mercer County Library System, explores Southern New Jersey during the Civil War era, when the region became a hotbed of fugitives from slavery, freedmen, and abolitionists. Activists such as Harriet Tubman, Abigail Goodwin, and Benjamin Sheppard assisted runaway slaves along the Underground Railroad through daring nighttime journeys in the Pine Barrens and coordinated signals from boats in the marshlands of Delaware Bay.
Author Ellen D. Alford will recount compelling narratives of abolition and the Underground Railroad in South Jersey.
Registration is required. Visit events.mcl.org to receive the virtual program link.

New Jersey in the Revolutionary War
2026-02-17 19:00 - 20:00
Virtual program hosted by the Mercer County Library SystemTuesday, February 17, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.
Hosted virtually by the Mercer County Library System, this program covers the period from 1763 to 1789, spanning the end of the French and Indian War through the establishment of the U.S. Constitution. The presentation highlights the critical role New Jersey—particularly Central Jersey—played in the nation’s founding, including the Ten Crucial Days, the Battle of Monmouth Courthouse, the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and the ratification of the Constitution.
Co-sponsored with the Historical Society of West Windsor.
Registration is required. Visit events.mcl.org to receive the virtual program link.

Powers of Attorney, Guardianship, and Essential Legal Planning
2026-02-18 18:00 - 19:00
Virtual program hosted by the Mercer County Library SystemWednesday, February 18, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
This virtual program, hosted by the Mercer County Library System, is designed for families, caregivers, professionals, and community members supporting loved ones with long-term care needs. Participants will gain an overview of estate and long-term care planning, including wills, decision-making authority, guardianship, inheritance considerations, Medicaid planning, and the benefits of planning ahead rather than reacting in a crisis.
The presentation is led by Ryann Siclari, Esq., an attorney experienced in disability law, elder law, and long-term planning, and is offered as part of the Colorful Dreams Care Program Series.
Registration is required. Visit events.mcl.org to receive the virtual program link.

Hospice Care: Comfort for Patients, Support for Families
2026-03-03 18:30 - 19:30
Join us on Tuesday, March 3, 6:30 pm for a heartfelt conversation about hospice care—what it is, how it works, and the difference it can make during a challenging time. Hospice isn’t just about caring for those at the end of life; it’s about surrounding families and caregivers with compassion, guidance, and practical support. Whether you’re caring for a loved one or are interested in learning more about end-of-life support and options, join Laurie Warren, Clinical Liaison for Princeton Hospice, as she facilitates this important discussion. Presented as part of the Penn Medicine Princeton Health Community Wellness Program. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Heads Up! -- A Fall Prevention and Pedestrian Safety Program for Older Adults
2026-03-12 14:00 - 15:00
Designed for older adults, this workshop on Thursday, March 12, 2:00 pm focuses on strategies to best prevent falls. It also includes strategies for pedestrian safety as well as safe driving strategies. Presented by Katie Law, Public Education Coordinator, of the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey. BIANJ is a statewide nonprofit that aims to improve the quality of life for anyone impacted by brain injury by providing support, advocacy, and information, while promoting brain injury prevention. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Catharine "Caty" Greene: Eyewitness to the American Revolution
2026-03-18 19:00 - 20:00 | Virtual, N/A
Carol Simon Levin portrays Catharine “Caty” Greene, the indomitable wife of Nathanael Greene, one of Gen. George Washington’s most valued officers. Known as a witty raconteur, she enlivened the spirits of officers and troops alike as the war ranged from New Jersey to South Carolina, famously dancing for 3 hours straight with George Washington. Her pluck and spirit carried her through victories and tragedies not only during the war but throughout a remarkable life of resilience and reinvention. Sponsored by the Friends of the Lawrence Library on Wednesday, March 18, 7:00 pm. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

The Founding Mothers: Women Who Shaped a Nation
2026-03-23 19:00 - 20:00
Monday, March 23, 7:00 pm
The “Mothers” of America—women whose influence on the early United States echoed for centuries—are often overlooked. Beyond the familiar names of Martha Washington and Abigail Adams, countless women played vital roles in shaping the nation. From soldiers and spies to writers, printers, scholars, farmers, and artists, their courage and contributions—whether during years of war or in a single heroic act—had lasting impact. In this talk, Laura Keyes highlights these remarkable women, exploring their bravery, achievements, and enduring legacies as eyewitnesses to the nation’s founding. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Camille Claudel and Frida Kahlo: Two Unwavering Artists!
2026-03-30 19:00 - 20:00
Monday, March 30, 7:00 pm
Camille Claudel was a visionary French sculptor whose emotionally charged works in bronze and marble explored love, loss, and human psychology. Overshadowed in her lifetime and long linked primarily to Auguste Rodin, she died in relative obscurity. Today, her art is being rediscovered and celebrated through major international exhibitions. Frida Kahlo was a groundbreaking painter known for her vivid, often surreal self-portraits exploring identity, pain, gender, and Mexican culture. Though her talent was not fully recognized during her lifetime, her work is now celebrated worldwide. In November 2025, her painting “The Dream, The Bed” set a new auction record, underscoring her lasting impact and continued rise in recognition. Both women lived lives of extraordinary creativity alongside deep personal struggle — and both are now widely celebrated for the lasting impact of their art. Presented by Jeanne Johnson, docent at the Princeton University Art Museum as well as Morven Museum and Gardens. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

The Declaration of Independence: America's Birth Certificate from Conception to Celebration
2026-04-06 19:00 - 20:00
Historian Joel Farkas discusses the development of the document, from the Magna Carta (1215) to the French and Indian War, the Declaration of Independence, the Revolutionary War, the French Revolution (and Napoleon), the War of 1812, to today. Joel Farkas is a graduate of The Ohio State University, an Officer in the United States Army, a National Park Service volunteer docent at Washington’s Headquarters, Morristown, NJ, a lecturer at Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Rutgers University, and a lecturer at Florham Institute for Lifelong Learning at Fairleigh Dickinson University on Monday, April 6, 7:00 pm. Sponsored by the Friends of the Hickory Corner Library. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.
