MercerMe

Islamic Contribution to Civilization
2026-01-27 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | NJ
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 | NJ
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 | NJ
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 | NJ
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 | NJ
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 | NJ
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 | NJ
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 | NJ
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 | NJ
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.

In Conversation with Author Ted Chiang
2026-04-16 19:00 - 20:00 | Zoom Online
Thursday, April 16, 2026 @ 7 PM via Zoom
Ted Chiang has become a definitive voice in speculative fiction, captivating readers with his award-winning collections Stories of Your Life and Others and Exhalation. He possesses a masterful ability to bridge the gap between rigorous scientific inquiry and the profound depths of human emotion. His work serves as a modern exploration of the “what if,” often using our evolving relationship with technology to challenge our understanding of free will, memory, and consciousness. These stories resonate because they grapple with the fundamental questions of what it means to be sentient in an evolving universe. In this keynote, Chiang will discuss various themes found in Exhalation: Stories, with a focus on the persistence of wonder and how shifting the lens of logic can fundamentally alter our perspective on the nature of existence.
Sponsored by the Hopewell Valley Regional School District and the Friends of the Pennington Library

The Gambler, the Writer, and Zelda: The History Behind The Girl in the Green Dress
2026-04-20 18:30 - 19:30 | NJ
Join author Mariah Fredericks on Monday, April 20, 6:30 pm as she discusses her new mystery, inspired by the unsolved 1920 murder of Joseph Elwell. Through images and historical insight, Fredericks explores how she wove together the real-life stories of Elwell, Morris Markey, and Zelda Fitzgerald in her novel The Girl in the Green Dress — praised by The New York Times as “dazzling … a lively return to Jazz Age Manhattan.” Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Introduction to the Art of Arabic Calligraphy
2026-04-28 18:30 - 19:30 | NJ
Celebrate Arab American Heritage Month on Tuesday, April 28, 6:30 pm with calligrapher Elinor A. Holland. Explore the history, meaning, and traditional practices of Arabic script calligraphy, including the Arabic alphabet, global lettering styles, and classic tools. The program concludes with a live calligraphy demonstration showcasing this ancient and beautiful art form. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

A Poetry Happening: Mercer Poets Read
2026-04-29 19:00 - 20:00 | NJ
Join the Mercer County Library System for a celebration of National Poetry Month. Mercer County Library System continues this popular program on Wednesday, April 29, 7:00 pm for its fourth year, featuring local poets reading their own work or a favorite published poem. All are invited to attend an enjoyable evening of poetry! Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Hidden Meanings in Chinese Art
2026-05-06 18:30 - 19:30 | NJ
Hidden Meanings in Chinese Art
Wednesday, May 6, 6:30 pm
Bats, gourds, peaches, ribbons, and monkeys on horses: these images are frequently (and creatively) depicted in Chinese art — but what do they mean? Just as the Chinese language is an exquisite conduit for rebuses (visual puns) and symbolism, motifs that appear in Chinese art often represent wishes for good fortune. Join us as we decipher hidden messages of prosperity, health, and happiness found in traditional Chinese art using selected objects from the Asian Art Museum’s collection. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

The Timeline of Lawrence History: 300 Years in 60 Images
2026-05-12 19:00 - 20:00 | NJ
What can sixty images reveal about three centuries of community life? In 2014, the Lawrence Historical Society installed a timeline mural in the Lawrence Township Municipal Building, tracing 300 years of local history. The mural presents 60 carefully chosen images marking important moments in the township’s story, from the late seventeenth century through the end of the twentieth. On May 12th, join Dennis Waters, former Lawrence Township historian and current member of the Mercer County Library Commission, for a virtual guided “walk” along the timeline. Moving image by image, he will explore the people, places, and events behind the photographs and illustrations, offering historical context and little-known details to bring Lawrence Township’s past vividly to life. The Lawrence timeline mural installation was made possible by a grant from the Lawrence Township Community Foundation. You can visit the timeline mural whenever the Municipal Building is open. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.
The Timeline of Lawrence History: 300 Years in 60 Images Tuesday, May 12, 7:00 pm

The American Revolution and the Fate of the World
2026-05-19 19:00 - 20:00 | NJ
When we think of the American Revolution, we often imagine a local struggle between thirteen colonies and the British Crown. Historian and author Richard Bell challenges that familiar story, revealing the Revolution as a global war that reshaped lives and power across six continents. From the Caribbean and Canada to Africa, India, and South America, the conflict sparked migration, rebellion, and transformation far beyond North America. This program re-examines the Revolutionary War as a complex, high-stakes global event whose consequences continue to resonate in the modern world. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

The American Revolution and the Fate of the World
Tuesday, May 19, 7:00 pm

Borscht Belt: The Comic Legacy of the Catskills
2026-05-26 19:00 - 20:00 | NJ
The Jewish Catskill resorts of the 20th century were a summer paradise for millions — and the birthplace of some of America’s greatest comic careers. Legends such as Mel Brooks, Sid Caesar, Rodney Dangerfield, Joan Rivers, and Jackie Mason honed their craft entertaining guests at iconic resorts like Grossinger’s, Brown’s, The Concord, Kutsher’s, and The Nevele. Entertainment historian John Kenrick presents a lively, multimedia talk exploring this rich comic tradition, featuring hilarious video clips and behind-the-scenes stories from the golden age of Borscht Belt comedy. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.
Borscht Belt: The Comic Legacy of the Catskills
Tuesday, May 26, 7:00 pm

Transform Your Yard into a Wildlife Habitat!
2026-06-01 19:00 - 20:00 | NJ
Did you know even small changes in your yard can make a big difference for pollinators, birds, and local wildlife?
Join Hopewell Valley Gardens for Wildlife’s upcoming webinar, Transforming a Suburban Yard into Wildlife Habitat, and learn practical, achievable ways to create a thriving habitat using native plants and wildlife-friendly landscaping.
You’ll discover:
✨ Easy habitat-building ideas
✨ Real suburban yard transformations
✨ Tips for supporting birds & pollinators
✨ How to create a beautiful, eco-friendly landscape
📅 Monday, June 1st
🕒 7-8 pm
💻 Online Event
Reserve your spot today: www.eventbrite.com/e/webinar-transforming-a-suburban-yard-into-wildlife-habitat-tickets-1990176534589?aff=oddtdtcreator
Can’t make it live? Register anyway to receive the recording!

Catharine "Caty" Greene: Eyewitness to the American Revolution
2026-06-03 19:00 - 20:00 | Zoom Online
Catharine “Caty” Greene: Eyewitness to the American Revolution
Wednesday, June 3, 2026 @ 7 PM via Zoom
Registration required
Carol Simon Levin portrays Catharine “Caty” Greene, the indomitable wife of Nathanael Greene, one of General 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 Pennington Public Library
About Our Presenter: Carol Simon Levin is a professional storyteller, historical impersonator, and NJ council for the Humanities Scholar specializing in “Fascinating Women History Forgot” – women of all colors and creeds who have fought for women’s rights. She is the author of the book Remembering the Ladies: From Patriots in Petticoats to Presidential Candidates and the Garden State Legacy article “Reclaiming Our Voice: NJ’s Role in the Fight for Woman Suffrage.”

Art Talk: Egon Schiele
2026-06-18 19:00 - 20:15 | Zoom Online
Egon Schiele: Nature, Allegory, and the Human Condition
Thursday, June 18, 2026 @ 7 PM via Zoom
Registration required
Egon Schiele, Gustav Klimt’s protégé, shocked the art world with his sensual drawings, ravishing portraits, and ebullient landscapes that represent more than their apparent subject matter. His works characterize the cycle of life and the human condition in a unique and stunning way. Come and hear this presentation that will introduce you to intense, expressive works created during a productive but tragically abbreviated life.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Pennington Public Library and the Hopewell Valley Arts Council
Janet Mandel taught in New Jersey’s public schools for 32 years, the last eighteen of which were at Columbia High School in Maplewood, where she taught English, art history, and World Languages and Cultures. Now retired, Janet presents illustrated talks on a variety of art history topics at adult schools, libraries, museums, senior centers, community centers, and similar venues.

Getting Your Kicks on Route 66: Tales from the Mother Road
2026-07-09 18:00 - 19:00 | NJ
Explore the history of Route 66 and the experiences of everyday people who lived, worked, and traveled along the Mother Road during its heyday. It is informed by a collection of 100 oral histories recently compiled by the Illinois State Museum. Presented by Erika Holst, Curator of History at the Illinois State Museum. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.
Thursday, July 9, 6:00 pm

Clay & Culture: A Journey through Asian Ceramics
2026-07-15 18:30 - 19:30 | NJ
This insightful tour of the Asian Art Museum’s collection traces the development of ceramic art from its ancient origins, revealing the wide-ranging influence of Chinese ceramics on ceramic traditions across Asia and worldwide. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.
Wednesday, July 15, 6:30 pm

A Brief Review of OTC Cough and Cold Supplements
2026-07-23 19:00 - 20:00 | NJ
Join Antora Banerjee, BS, PharmD, MBA, BCGP, BCPS, BCACP, Registered Pharmacist II with Penn Medicine Princeton Health on Thursday, June 23, 7:00 pm, as she discusses what to consider when selecting over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold supplements. There will be an “Ask the Pharmacist” session after the presentation for any questions the audience may have on this topic. The program will focus on medication safety and promote awareness of reading labels, avoiding duplicate ingredients, and understanding possible side effects. 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.

Researching New Jersey Revolutionary and Civil War Records
2026-07-29 18:30 | NJ
Military records are a rich source of genealogical information, often preserving details not found anywhere else, including signatures. New Jersey offers especially strong resources for researching Revolutionary and Civil War ancestors. As the nation marks the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, these records help connect individual family histories to the broader story of the country’s founding and growth. Join Regina Fitzpatrick, Genealogy Librarian at the New Jersey State Library, on Wednesday, July 29, 6:30 pm, for an overview of key state and federal collections available through the New Jersey State Archives, New Jersey State Library, and National Archives. She will also introduce the State Library’s new digital exhibition, NJ250: Living Documents, Evolving Rights, exploring how New Jersey’s evolving constitutions shaped the ongoing fight for liberty. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.
