The Princeton Public Library
While the link is a representation of the traditional library, the Princeton Public Library is an image of a modern library. Even as one walks by the library it is instantly clear that it is 'modernity' reincarnate. Situated in the heart of Princeton, NJ and is adjacent to the majestic Princeton University campus, the architecture departs from traditional red brick and grey stone walls for glass and steel, and evokes Frank Lloyd Wright with its geometric outdoors.
As the saying goes, "You can't judge a book by its cover" so as I walked in I was prepared to disappointed by a ratty indoors. Luckily, I wasn't! The library reminded me of a Borders or Barnes & Nobles (which is a compliment in this situation) with its setup; three colorful floors completely filled with books, couches and tables, and one hundred computers for patrons to use. The bottom floor is dedicated for Fiction & Audiobooks; the second floor for Non-Fiction & DVDs; the third floor for Children & Teens. All areas are spacious and well-lit, and seemed like a generally pleasant place to be.
Besides the traditional library book areas, the building is also host to a cafe, community center, and library store (!).
Library Store:
From the website: "The Library Store offers a wide selection of gifts and useful items for the reader and writer – everything from pens to desk accessories, note cards to pillows, card games and puzzles to jewelry and picture frames. We carry literary-themed household items such as coasters and photo albums. A wide selection of library logo items are also available." The Library Store is staffed by volunteers. If interested in volunteering, contact the store manager, Chris Canfield, at 609-924-9529, extension 283.
Patron using one of the library's 100+ computers.
Monday - Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Friday and Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Sunday 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Closed on National Holidays.
Library Store Hours:
Tuesday - Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Thursdays until 8:00 p.m
Closed Sundays and Mondays
Address & Contact Numbers:
65 Witherspoon St., Princeton, NJ, USA 08542
Tel: 609-924-9529
link
Additional Information:
Princeton Public Library is host to many community classes like "Ask a Lawyer" (receive free legal advice) and "Crafting a College Admissions Application Essay". For further and updated info, check the link.
Children Storytelling: There are many different storytelling groups for children to attend, depending on their age. Registration is required for groups in bold. Adults required to attend for children five and under.
*Lapsits (ages newborn to 15 months) - Tues & Thurs, 11 a.m.
*Mother Goose Time (ages 15 months to 2 years) - Weds & Thurs, 10:30 a.m.
*Saturday Stories (ages 2 to 8) - Sat, 10:30 a.m.
*Sunday Stories (ages 2 to 8) - Sun, 3:30 p.m.
*Sleepytime Stories (ages 2 to 8) - Thurs, 7 p.m.
*Toddler Stories (ages 2 to 3 1/2) - Tues at 10 a.m., Weds at 11 a.m.
*Preschool Stories (ages 3 1/2 to 6) - Thurs, 2 p.m.
*Stories in Japanese (ages 3+) - Thurs, 4 p.m. on Sept 6, Oct 4 & Nov 1
*Stories in French (ages 5+) - Sat, 11:15 a.m. on Oct 6 & Nov 3
*Stories in Spanish (ages 3+) ~ Wed, 4 pm
The Princeton Library cafe
*Library cards are free to all residents of Princeton Borough and Township, including those in university housing. Identification and proof of residence is required for immediate cards.
*Cards are also free to non-resident Princeton property owners and teachers, librarians, and tutors who work in Princeton.
*Library cards are $40 for non-residents who work or attend school in Princeton. Cards are renewed annually.
*Non-residents 62 years of age or older may purchase cards for $50/year.
Princeton Public Library also generates many diverse 'recommended reading' lists. For Adult, Teen, and Children Lists, check out link.
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Bibliography:
-"Library Store" and Children Storytime Hours from www.princetonlibrary.org/
-Photos by Cressida Hanson
