Waves of Hope: the Inspirational Story of Agnes Negra

Tue, Jun 24, 9:00am - 9:00pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Starting Saturday, 6/21 at 12 pm through the following Saturday, 6/28 at 12 pm. Drop in and pick up some bargains. Books for all ages, music CDs, DVDs and more.

Tue, Jun 24, 9:00am - 1:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Come to the Upper Shores Branch on Tuesday mornings to enjoy a game of Hand and Foot. Players must bring their own cards and game sets.

Color Wheel Storytime - Ages 1-4

Tue, Jun 24, 9:30am - 12:30pm

Jackson Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Jackson Branch.

Word Basics

Tue, Jun 24, 10:00am - 11:00am

Lakewood Branch

Learn basic word processing skills to create and format a document. Mouse skills and registration required.

Registration is now closed

Tue, Jun 24, 10:00am - 10:30am

Long Beach Island Branch

Learn about all the colors of the rainbow, at this storytime for children age 1-4. Registration required. Registration opens 2 weeks prior.

This event is full

Drive Safe...Home Safe...Scam Safe - presented by Manchester Officer O'Hara and Officer Yatauro

Tue, Jun 24, 10:00am - 11:30am

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Learn valuable skills that can keep you safe in your car and tips to keep your home safe when you are there or away. Learn how to spot scams. There will be an opportunity to ask questions.

Happy Little Trees Painting Day (Ages 3-5)

Tue, Jun 24, 10:30am - 2:00pm

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Individuals and day programs for adults with special needs are welcome to enjoy a movie in our meeting room. Room opens at 10:30, movie starts at 11:30am.

Tue, Jun 24, 10:30am - 11:30am

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Ages 3-5: We'll have fun with painting.

This event is full

Storytime-Around-Town: Ocean County Artist Guild

Tue, Jun 24, 10:30am - 11:30am

Island Heights Branch

Discover more about your town by joining us at the Ocean County Artist Guild for stories, songs, and fingerplays. Ages 1.5-4

Toddler Fun: Stories & Scarves - For children 18 months to 3 years

Tue, Jun 24, 10:30am - 11:00am

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Please join us for songs, stories and fun for toddlers. For children 18 months to 3 years. Program registration is required. Please register each age appropriate child separately.

This event is full

Sun Printing

Tue, Jun 24, 10:30am - 11:30am

Manchester Branch

Ages 5-12. Join the children's department this Tuesday for a fun morning where we design bookmarks using the power of the sun! Registration is required.

This event is full

The Recharge

Tue, Jun 24, 11:00am - 12:30pm

Toms River Branch

Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey, in partnership with the Ocean County Library, is offering a support group for caregivers and their loved ones.

Creative Social Connections for Seniors

Tue, Jun 24, 11:00am - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

What Will You Create Today?

Tue, Jun 24, 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

An afternoon of creating and socializing with your neighbors. Lunch will be provided by Bagels and Beyond. Potential allergens. Please register.

This event is full

Tue, Jun 24, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Barnegat Branch

Drop in with your own supplies and say "hello" to a friendly group.

Tue, Jun 24, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Manchester Branch

Drop in and talk to a Master Gardener from the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Ocean County.

Tech Help Tuesday

Tue, Jun 24, 1:30pm - 3:30pm

Waretown Branch

One-on-one Tech Help. Please Register!

Tue, Jun 24, 1:30pm - 8:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Art Explorers: Alma Woodsey Thomas - for ages 7 - 12

Tue, Jun 24, 2:00pm - 8:30pm

Jackson Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Jackson Branch.

DIY Bubble Wands

Tue, Jun 24, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Design your own bubble wand with 3D pens. Test your bubble wand and see if it works. Ages 6 - 9. Please register.

This event is full

Tue, Jun 24, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

We'll learn about Thomas and create vibrant paintings inspired by her abstract art. Registration is required.

This event is full

Brain Games with Braven Health

Tue, Jun 24, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

Join us for this interactive presentation including games and exercises to keep the mind sharp.

NJ Snake Man Presents - Tropical Birds

Tue, Jun 24, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Live Animal Show for ages 5 - 12. REG

This event is full

Juneteenth Film: The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman

Tue, Jun 24, 2:30pm - 4:30pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Learn about the life of emancipated woman Jane Pittman as she navigates her road to freedom and the civil rights movement.

Adult Craft and Relax - Watercolor Lighthouses

Tue, Jun 24, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Plumsted Branch - Plumsted Meeting Room

We provide the items; you provide the imagination. All supplies provided by The Friends of the Plumsted Library. Seating limited. Please Register.

This event is full

Virtual Author Talk - Katherine Applegate's Otter Life - For Grades 3-6

Tue, Jun 24, 3:00pm - 6:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Free afterschool homework help. Not tutoring or reading help. Ages 4 - 12. Ayuda con las tareas gratis. No es tutoría o ayuda con la lectura. Edades 4 - 12.

Tue, Jun 24, 4:00pm - 5:00pm

Toms River Branch

To register, visit https://libraryc.org/theoceancountylibrary/77294

Tue, Jun 24, 4:30pm - 5:30pm

Toms River Branch - Mancini Hall

Registration required; begins June 10. Please register each child individually. Practice your reading skills in the company of gentle therapy dogs. Ages 6 - 12.

This event is full

Movie in the Library: Harriet

Tue, Jun 24, 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

What Will You Create Today?

Tue, Jun 24, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

The incredible true story of Harriet Tubman. From her escape from slavery to the dangerous missions she led, setting free hundreds of slaves through the Underground Railroad. (PG-13) 125 min.

Pens and Pages: Teen Writing and Book Club - Art Night - Ages 12-18

Tue, Jun 24, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Jackson Branch

Join your peers in a club devoted to reading and writing while creating a bookish craft. Please register!

Pride Tie Dye - Ages 12 - 18

Tue, Jun 24, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Express yourself by making tie dye with various colors in honor of Pride Month.

NJ Snakeman presents Tropical Birds - Live Animal Show for ages 5 - 12

Tue, Jun 24, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Live Animal Show for ages 5 - 12. Please register.

Writers' Group

Tue, Jun 24, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick 2nd Floor Computer Lab

Spark your writing creativity and participate in friendly peer critiques on novels, short stories, memoirs, or any writing project you are working on.

Vinyl Record Nights

Tue, Jun 24, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Toms River Branch - Atrium

Come unwind and listen to curated vinyl records under the stars of the Toms River library atrium. This edition will celebrate Black Music Month.

Paint Party: Surf's Up

Tue, Jun 24, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch - LBI Meeting Room

Paint your own 12-inch wooden surfboard using acrylic paint to add a coastal vibe to your house decor.

This event is full

Music Bingo

Tue, Jun 24, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Join us for the branch's first ever music bingo, where songs replace numbers in a game of bingo. There's no money and no prizes but lots of great music and tons of fun. Please register.

Soldiers of the Young Republic: The War of 1812

Tue, Jun 24, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Historian Jeff Brown will recreate the life of an American soldier from this often forgotten war, with a collection of original and reproduction items.

Wed, Jun 25, 9:00am - 9:00pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Starting Saturday, 6/21 at 12 pm through the following Saturday, 6/28 at 12 pm. Drop in and pick up some bargains. Books for all ages, music CDs, DVDs and more.

Colors & Shapes Bingo - Ages 3 - 5. REG

Wed, Jun 25, 9:30am - 12:30pm

Jackson Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Jackson Branch.

Balloon Zoo- Toddler

Wed, Jun 25, 9:30am - 10:15am

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Ages 2-4. See how stories come to life as a professional balloonist makes balloon animals while reading picture books. Registration is required.

This event is full

Wed, Jun 25, 10:00am - 10:40am

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Identify and match 10 colors and 10 shapes. Ages 3 - 5. Please register.

This event is full

Morning Crafter

Wed, Jun 25, 10:00am - 1:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

You Can Finally Finish That Craft Project That You've Been Working On...

Cancelled

Adults with Special Challenges Craft - Sun Printing

Wed, Jun 25, 10:30am - 11:30am

Jackson Branch

Join us to make fun pictures with the power of the sun!

Preschool Yoga Storytime - Ages 3 - 6 years

Wed, Jun 25, 10:30am - 11:00am

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Join the fun with simple yoga poses, breathing exercises, stories and more. Ages 3 - 6. Please bring a yoga mat and dress to move. Spaces are limited. Program registration is required.

This event is full

Balloon Zoo- Preschool

Wed, Jun 25, 10:30am - 11:15am

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Ages 3-6. See how stories come to life as a professional balloonist makes balloon animals while reading picture books. Registration is required.

This event is full

Family Storytime - Sandcastles

Wed, Jun 25, 10:30am - 11:30am

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Listen to sandcastle themed stories and make crafts. Ages 3 - 6. REG

This event is full

Story Explorer: Chooh Helped by Andrea L. Rogers - For ages 4 - 7

Wed, Jun 25, 10:30am - 11:30am

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

We'll share this Caldecott-winning picture book along with a variety of crafts and activities to extend our reading experience. Registration is required.

This event is full

Baby & Toddler Social Hour

Wed, Jun 25, 10:30am - 11:30am

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Join other caregivers in a relaxed open-play setting. Ages 0-4.

This event is full

Book Talk and Craft for Adults with Special Challenges

Wed, Jun 25, 10:30am - 11:30am

Toms River Branch - Green Room

Come join us to read and discuss a book, then make a related craft.

This event is full

The Korean Conflict: America's Forgotten War

Wed, Jun 25, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the start of the Korean War. Join historian Paul Zigo for a presentation about the war and the Armistice that brought it to a halt.

Knit Wits

Wed, Jun 25, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Beachwood Branch

Bring your knitting or crocheting projects to the library and make new friends. Registration not required.

Support Group for Caregivers'

Wed, Jun 25, 12:00pm - 4:00pm

Waretown Branch

Beginners are welcome.

Wed, Jun 25, 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Being a caregiver can be overwhelming. Learn how you can balance it all. Presented in partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health. To register call (609) 978-4728.

Sparks's Lab Mario Kart Tournament

Wed, Jun 25, 1:00pm - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Let's A Go!

Bujo® 101: Next Level Journaling

Wed, Jun 25, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - REF Floor

Drop in and talk to a Master Gardener from the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Ocean County.

Wed, Jun 25, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch

The Bullet Journal® Method was created by Ryder Carroll and has since become a popular way to merge organizational skills and creativity for a more present life.

Pride Lion Acrylic Paint Craft - Adult Workshop with Katy Tanis

Wed, Jun 25, 2:00pm - 8:30pm

Jackson Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Jackson Branch.

Mini Rainbow books

Wed, Jun 25, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Toms River Branch - Discovery Room

Registration required. Please register each child's name individually. Registration begins June 11th. Create tiny colorful books. Ages 8 - 12.

Wed, Jun 25, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Create an inspirational PRIDE LION in this acrylic paint Adult Workshop with author Katy Tanis. Please register.

Summer Kick off! - All Ages

Wed, Jun 25, 2:00pm - 4:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Wed, Jun 25, 2:30pm - 4:30pm

Jackson Branch

Kick off the summer with building toys, drop in crafts and more. Don't forget to sign up for Summer Reading!

Summer Reading Kick-Off Exstrava-GAME-za

Wed, Jun 25, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Island Heights Branch

Kick off Summer Reading with a board game extravaganza. Ages 6-14

Registration is now closed

Library Where You Are: Scholastic Databases

Wed, Jun 25, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Learn how to use, search, and view our collection of Scholastic Databases. Discover how these databases can assist with educating your children throughout the year. Please register.

Meet the Mayor

Wed, Jun 25, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Join Brick Mayor Lisa Crate at the library where the community will be able to ask questions directly to the Mayor in an informal setting. Please register.

Dungeons and Dragons: Summer Session for Teens

Wed, Jun 25, 3:00pm - 6:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Free afterschool homework help. Not tutoring or reading help. Ages 4 - 12. Ayuda con las tareas gratis. No es tutoría o ayuda con la lectura. Edades 4 - 12.

Wed, Jun 25, 3:00pm - 4:45pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Learn how to play this game of imagination and adventure. New and experienced players welcome.

This event is full

Summer Reading Kickoff Party

Wed, Jun 25, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Balloon and glitter tattoo artists will be here as we kick off a great summer of reading, programs and prizes. Registration required.

This event is full

DIY Keychain Craft for Teens and Tweens

Wed, Jun 25, 3:30pm - 4:30pm

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Stop by and make Keychain. Ages 9 - 18.

S.A.I.L. Orientation

Wed, Jun 25, 5:15pm - 6:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Teen Summer SAIL Orientation. Gain valuable leadership skills and earn community service hours. Ages 12 - 18. Please register: https://theoceancountylibrary.org/teens/SAIL

Sparks's Lab Mario Kart Tournament

Wed, Jun 25, 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Let's A Go!

Cross Stitch Club

Wed, Jun 25, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Lakewood Branch - Lakewood Large Study Room

Enjoy casual crafting and socialization.

Rescheduled

Adult Craft: Decoupage Shells - Session 1

Wed, Jun 25, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

New date Wednesday, June 25, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Upper Shores Branch

Create beautiful dishes using oyster shells. Please note: You may only sign up for 1 session.

Adult Craft: Decoupage Shells - Session 1

Wed, Jun 25, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Upper Shores Branch

Create beautiful dishes using oyster shells. Please note: You may only sign up for 1 session.

This event is full

Friends of the Little Egg Harbor Branch Meeting

Wed, Jun 25, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Living Room Area

The Friends design and manage fundraising activities to support the Library. New members are welcome.

Paper Bird Craft

Wed, Jun 25, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Take flight by making a bird out of paper. Age 5 - 12.

Concert with RB Express

Wed, Jun 25, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Toms River Branch - Mancini Hall

Come hear the tight harmonies and rhythms of the RB Express.

Chair Yoga with Linda Higley: Summer Evening Series

Wed, Jun 25, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Lacey Branch

Join us for a relaxing evening session of chair yoga led by certified yoga instructor, Linda Higley. A waiver form must be signed before the start of the program to participate.

This event is full

Drop-in English Conversation Group

Wed, Jun 25, 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Quiet Study Room

New to speaking English? A local volunteer will assist non-native English speakers practice conversational English. New members are always welcome.

PJ Party at the Park - Bayview Park

Wed, Jun 25, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch

Join us for stories & a craft at Bayview Park in Branch Beach. In the case of rain, this event will be held at the Long Beach Island in Surf City.

Adult Craft: Decoupage Shells - Session 2

Wed, Jun 25, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Upper Shores Branch

Create beautiful dishes using oyster shells. All participants must register individually. Please note: You may only sign up for 1 session.

This event is full

Good Readers Book Discussion Group

Wed, Jun 25, 7:30pm - 8:30pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Book Title: On the Rooftop by Margaret Wilkerson Sexton

Thu, Jun 26, 9:00am - 9:00pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Starting Saturday, 6/21 at 12 pm through the following Saturday, 6/28 at 12 pm. Drop in and pick up some bargains. Books for all ages, music CDs, DVDs and more.

Thu, Jun 26, 9:30am - 12:30pm

Jackson Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Jackson Branch.

Maker Building Drop-in - All Ages

Thu, Jun 26, 9:30am - 1:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Thu, Jun 26, 10:00am - 2:00pm

Jackson Branch

Drop into the Children's Department for some building fun. All ages.

Cancelled

Ocean County Office of Senior Services

Thu, Jun 26, 10:00am - 11:30am

Toms River Branch

Come meet staff from the Ocean County Office of Senior Services. Staff will be giving an overview of their services and programs. Staff will also be giving tours of their new Mobile Unit.

S.A.I.L. Orientation

Thu, Jun 26, 10:00am - 10:45am

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Teen Summer SAIL Orientation. Gain valuable leadership skills and earn community service hours. Ages 12 - 18. Please register: https://theoceancountylibrary.org/teens/SAIL

Sensory Play

Thu, Jun 26, 10:30am - 11:15am

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Sensory based activities for kids ages 2-5. Please register each child individually.

Little Hands, Big Art

Thu, Jun 26, 10:30am - 11:30am

Waretown Branch

Explore your creativity! Prepare to get messy, and enjoy this fun craft project for little artists. Ages 2 to 5. Please register.

This event is full

Toddler Sing-a-Long

Thu, Jun 26, 10:30am - 11:00am

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Come sing and dance to some of your favorite songs! Ages 18 months - 3 years.

This event is full

Messy Preschool Art - For ages 3 - 5 with a caregiver.

Thu, Jun 26, 10:30am - 11:30am

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Art and sensory activities. Dress for a mess or bring a smock. Please register.

This event is full

Storytime with Miss Renee - School's Out!

Thu, Jun 26, 10:30am - 11:30am

Plumsted Branch - Plumsted Meeting Room

Kids and their grown-ups will sit together as we read stories, move, and do a themed craft. Please register each child individually. Ages 0 - 5

This event is full

Busy Builders

Thu, Jun 26, 11:00am - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Can We Build It? Yes, We Can!

Thu, Jun 26, 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Mah Jong, Mahjong, Mahjongg no matter how you spell it, come and enjoy. All play levels welcome. Bring your current card and set.

Thu, Jun 26, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Drop in with your own supplies and say "hello" to a friendly group.

Chicks with Sticks: A Knitting and Crocheting Group

Thu, Jun 26, 1:00pm - 4:00pm

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Join a weekly session for experienced players of Mah Jongg. Players must bring their own set and current card. Drop in.

Thu, Jun 26, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Love to knit or crochet, come to our meeting room and join others with the same passion. Bring your yarn, needles, hooks and current projects.

Diamond Painting for Teens and Tweens

Thu, Jun 26, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Toms River Branch - Green Room

Craft and make new friends!

This event is full

Thu, Jun 26, 2:00pm - 8:30pm

Jackson Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Jackson Branch.

Rainbow Tie-Dye Totes - Happy Pride Month

Thu, Jun 26, 2:00pm - 8:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Tech Help Thursday

Thu, Jun 26, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Living Room Area

One-on-one help with smartphones, the OCL website, OCL's digital materials, creating an email account, learning computer basics, and more. Space is limited, to register, please call (609) 294-1197.

Thu, Jun 26, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch

Bring out your creativity by tie-dying a tote bag in rainbow colors in celebration of Pride Month. All supplies provided. Rain date: Friday, June 27th.

This event is full

Craft with Pride: Zen Doodle Rainbow

Thu, Jun 26, 2:30pm - 4:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Celebrate Pride Month by creating a rainbow using a combination of dots, lines and curves while listening to popular songs. No prior art experience needed. Materials will be provided. Please register

Estate Planning - Presented by Bratton Law Group

Thu, Jun 26, 3:00pm - 6:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Free afterschool homework help. Not tutoring or reading help. Ages 4 - 12. Ayuda con las tareas gratis. No es tutoría o ayuda con la lectura. Edades 4 - 12.

Thu, Jun 26, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Learn how to protect your assets, provide for your loved ones, and ensure your wishes are honored. Presented by Bratton Law Group.

WILD Jersey Gyotaku Fish Printing. - Hands-on art activity for Ages 8 - 12. REG

Thu, Jun 26, 4:00pm - 5:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Practice your reading in the company of gentle therapy dogs. Please register.

Busy Builders

Thu, Jun 26, 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Can We Build It? Yes, We Can!

Thu, Jun 26, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

WILD Jersey brings the nature center to you! For ages 8 - 12. REG

Perler Pride / Orgullo Perler

Thu, Jun 26, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Make a rainbow heart with Perler beads. Ages 8 - 12. REG.Haz un corazón color arcoíris con cuentas Perler. Edades 8 - 12. REG.

Model Magic Trinket Dish - Family Craft

Thu, Jun 26, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Create your own trinket dish out of model magic clay. Ages 5-10. Please register.

This event is full

Tween & Teen Gaming

Thu, Jun 26, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Manchester Branch

Teens & tweens, ages 10 - 16, will have the opportunity to play video games on the Nintendo Switch. Registration is required. Please add siblings attending as guests and list each of their ages.

This event is full

Cheers to Summer Mocktails

Thu, Jun 26, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Come join us to learn some recipes for mocktails. There will be a live demo followed by a tasting. Potential Allergens

This event is full

Stitch It Club

Thu, Jun 26, 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Come knit, crochet, sew, or embroider with fellow stitch it members. Share leisurely conversation & tips. All skill levels are welcome.

Tween & Teen Trivia

Thu, Jun 26, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Manchester Branch

Tweens and teens, ages 10 - 16, will have the opportunity to participate in a trivia game together. Please add siblings attending as guests and list each tween/teen attending with their age.

Drop-In Craft

Fri, Jun 27, All day

Plumsted Branch

Visit the Plumsted Library Children's area to participate in our themed drop-in craft. Crafts available while supplies last, first come first served. Ages 3-12.

Fri, Jun 27, 9:00am - 5:00pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Starting Saturday, 6/21 at 12 pm through the following Saturday, 6/28 at 12 pm. Drop in and pick up some bargains. Books for all ages, music CDs, DVDs and more.

Big Book Sale

Fri, Jun 27, 9:00am - 3:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch - LBI Meeting Room

The Friends of the Island Library will have a two-day book sale event on Friday, June 27 and Saturday, June 28 from 9-3. Donations will be accepted on Thursday, June 26 from 9-3. All are welcome.

Fri, Jun 27, 9:30am - 12:30pm

Jackson Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Jackson Branch.

Fri, Jun 27, 9:30am - 4:30pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

sponsored by the Friends of the Jackson Library

Summer Reading Kickoff - Touch-a-Truck

Fri, Jun 27, 9:30am - 1:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Fri, Jun 27, 10:00am - 1:00pm

Upper Shores Branch

Come visit the library for a touch-a-truck experience, crafts, and sign up for our Summer Reading Challenge!

Summer Reading Kick-off - Songs to Know and Love Concert for Kids

Fri, Jun 27, 10:00am - 10:45am

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Join the Summer Reading Kick-off in the musical, concert fun for kids ages Birth to - 8 with Jessica Carroll. Please register.

This event is full

Stonewall Uprising Documentary - (NR) 82 minutes

Fri, Jun 27, 10:00am - 11:30am

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

The Stonewall riots marked a major turning point in the modern gay civil rights movement in the United States and around the world.

Mini Mariners

Fri, Jun 27, 10:30am - 11:30am

Waretown Branch

Come join us for a fun-filled boat adventure at the library!

This event is full

Animal Bingo

Fri, Jun 27, 10:30am - 11:30am

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Come to the library to play bingo and win small prizes. Registration is required.

This event is full

Jurassic World Craft

Fri, Jun 27, 10:30am - 11:30am

Toms River Branch - Discovery Room

Registration required; begins June 13.Please register each child individually. Make a dinosaur craft to celebrate the new Jurassic World movie . Ages 7 - 12.

This event is full

LEGO® Free play

Fri, Jun 27, 10:30am - 12:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

We'll supply the LEGO® and you supply imagination. Display your creations for everyone to admire. Best for ages 5 - 12. No registration required.

Houseplant Hospital

Fri, Jun 27, 11:00am - 1:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Is your thumb not as green as you would like? Let a Master Gardener help! Drop in and bring your struggling houseplant so the gardeners can help diagnose the issue and offer suggestions to remedy it.

Friends Of the Waretown Library Book Sale

Fri, Jun 27, 12:30pm - 3:00pm

Waretown Branch

Support the Friends and the Branch at the book sale for all ages.

Friday Fun / Viernes De Diversion

Fri, Jun 27, 12:30pm - 4:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Bring your current year gaming cards and game sets. Drop in.

Fri, Jun 27, 1:30pm - 3:30pm

Lakewood Branch

Simple craft for small kids. Ages 0 - 12. Manualidades para niños en prescolar. ? Edades 0 ? 12.?

Advice from a Professional Genealogist - 10 Best Tips for Finding Your Ancestors

Fri, Jun 27, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Genealogist Debbie Hadley will teach you how to begin your own research on your family trees and how to find the records likely to provide answers to your research questions.

Ocean County Office of Senior Services

Fri, Jun 27, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Come meet staff from the Ocean County Office of Senior Services. Staff will be giving an overview of their services and programs.

Tabletop Players - Ages 12 - 18

Fri, Jun 27, 2:00pm - 4:30pm

Jackson Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Jackson Branch.

Fri, Jun 27, 2:00pm - 3:30pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Come play in a new summer-long adventure! Play as an animal friend on a calming pastoral adventure. Please note this is a 5 part series.

Teen Craft: Pride Month Flower Pot Painting

Fri, Jun 27, 2:00pm - 4:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Fri, Jun 27, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Celebrate Pride Month with us as we paint flower pots together!

Tween & Teen Knitting & Crochet Group

Fri, Jun 27, 3:00pm - 4:45pm

Lakewood Branch

Free afterschool homework help. Not tutoring or reading help. Ages 4 - 12. Ayuda con las tareas gratis. No es tutoría o ayuda con la lectura. Edades 4 - 12.

Fri, Jun 27, 3:30pm - 4:30pm

Island Heights Branch

Learn the basics of knitting and crocheting. Ages 8-18

This event is full

Sat, Jun 28, 9:00am - 12:00pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Starting Saturday, 6/21 at 12 pm through the following Saturday, 6/28 at 12 pm. Drop in and pick up some bargains. Books for all ages, music CDs, DVDs and more.

Big Book Sale

Sat, Jun 28, 9:00am - 3:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch - LBI Meeting Room

The Friends of the Island Library will have a two-day book sale event on Friday, June 27 and Saturday, June 28 from 9-3. Donations will be accepted on Thursday, June 26 from 9-3. All are welcome.

Sat, Jun 28, 9:30am - 1:30pm

Jackson Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Jackson Branch.

Friends Of the Waretown Library Book Sale

Sat, Jun 28, 9:30am - 4:30pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

sponsored by the Friends of the Jackson Library

Sat, Jun 28, 10:00am - 12:30pm

Waretown Branch

Support the Friends and the Branch at the book sale for all ages.

Drop-In English Conversation Group

Sat, Jun 28, 10:00am - 12:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Drop in with your own supplies and say "hello" to a friendly group.

Sat, Jun 28, 10:00am - 12:00pm

Lakewood Branch - Lakewood Large Study Room

Visit this conversation group and practice speaking English with this friendly group and meet people from other countries.

Through the Hoops

Sat, Jun 28, 10:00am - 11:00am

Manchester Branch

Tweens and teens will have the opportunity to participate in a throwing challenge involving obstacles and inflatable balls. Ages 10 - 16. Please register as space is limited.

Playtime Fun

Sat, Jun 28, 10:00am - 11:30am

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Drop by to socialize with other kids and caregivers. Ages 1-5

Rescheduled

OCL Bookfest 2025

Sat, Jun 28, 10:00am - 3:00pm

New date Saturday, June 21, 10:00am - 3:00pm

Toms River Branch

In honor of 100 years of OCL, we're celebrating the literary, musical and historical accomplishments of the Roaring 20s!

Embroidered Notebooks with Nonny Creates - Ages 8-12

Sat, Jun 28, 10:30am - 12:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Sat, Jun 28, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Jackson Branch - Storytime Room

Learn the basics of embroidery while creating a small project. Attendees will leave with all the supplies needed to complete the project. Ages 8-12. Please register

This event is full

Kids film screening: Harold and the Purple Crayon - For kids up to 12 years old

Sat, Jun 28, 11:00am - 1:15pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Join us for a special screening of Harold and the Purple Crayon (PG). For kids up to 12 years old.

Teen Scene

Sat, Jun 28, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Beachwood Branch

Join us for our monthly teen program. Ages 13-17. Please register.

Immigrant Heritage Month Documentary

Sat, Jun 28, 11:00am - 2:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Join us for a documentary about Jackson Heights, Queens, one of the most diverse communities in the nation. NR 189 min.

Stay 'n Play

Sat, Jun 28, 11:00am - 1:00pm

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Watch IF and play with Legos®. PG (104 min).

Feature Film: Bridget Jones - Mad About the Boy

Sat, Jun 28, 1:30pm - 3:30pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

After jumping back into the dating pool, single mother Bridget Jones finds herself caught between a younger man and her son's science teacher. Rated R. Runtime:124 minutes

Concert with the New Jersey Gay Men's Chorus

Sat, Jun 28, 1:30pm - 3:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Sat, Jun 28, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Toms River Branch - Mancini Hall

In honor of Pride Month, the New Jersey Gay Men's Chorus will perform a selection of well-known tunes and new songs.

Sun, Jun 29, 1:30pm - 4:30pm

Jackson Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Jackson Branch.

Sun, Jun 29, 1:30pm - 4:30pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

sponsored by the Friends of the Jackson Library

NJ Motor Vehicle Commission Mobile Unit

Sun, Jun 29, 1:30pm - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Scavenger Hunt

Mon, Jun 30, 9:00am - 5:00pm

Barnegat Branch

Stop by the children's area to complete a scavenger hunt. New scavenger hunt each Monday from 6/23 to 8/18.

Mon, Jun 30, 9:00am - 2:00pm

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Registration Is Full. No more appointments are being taken.

Mon, Jun 30, 9:30am - 3:30pm

Jackson Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Jackson Branch.

Mon, Jun 30, 9:30am - 4:30pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

sponsored by the Friends of the Jackson Library

Lego® Club

Mon, Jun 30, 10:00am - 11:00am

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Get ready to build. LEGO® bricks will be provided during the program, please do not bring your own bricks. Best for ages 5 - 12.

Mon, Jun 30, 10:30am - 2:00pm

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Individuals and day programs for adults with special needs are welcome to enjoy a movie in our meeting room. Room opens at 10:30, movie starts at 11:30am.

Glow Paint Party

Mon, Jun 30, 10:30am - 11:30am

Toms River Branch - Mancini Hall

Registration required. Please register each child's name individually. Registration begins June 16th. Glow with the flow at this blacklight paint party with Lil Monsters Art.

This event is full

Songs to Know and Love - Kid's Concert

Mon, Jun 30, 10:30am - 4:00pm

Plumsted Branch

Join us for our themed scavenger hunts! A new theme will be unveiled each Monday during summer, and will run through Saturday. Each new theme comes with a new prize. See the paper calendar for themes.

Crafty Kids

Mon, Jun 30, 10:30am - 11:15am

Upper Shores Branch

Join us for this hands-on craft program that will encourage creativity through a variety of fun projects. Ages 5-12.

Mon, Jun 30, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch

Join musician Jessica Carroll in a sing-along concert. Registration is required. Registration opens 2 weeks prior.

This event is full

Science Heroes: Adventure of the Missing Color

Mon, Jun 30, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Beachwood Branch

Join Science Heroes on our mission to turn science into an adventure! Ages 5-12. Please register each child individually. This is an offsite program at the Mayo Park Center in Beachwood, NJ.

Mahjongg Mondays

Mon, Jun 30, 12:00pm - 3:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Come play Mah Jongg at the library!

Knitting at the Library

Mon, Jun 30, 12:30pm - 2:30pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Join us for knitting at the Library. Relax and chat with other yarn enthusiasts, work on your knit or crochet projects, and swap patterns.

Monday Movie: September 5 - (R) 91 min.

Mon, Jun 30, 1:00pm - 2:30pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Join us for an afternoon movie at the Barnegat Library.

Movie Matinee Monday: 500 DAYS OF SUMMER (2009)

Mon, Jun 30, 1:30pm - 3:30pm

Long Beach Island Branch - LBI Meeting Room

Monday: 6/30- 1:30 PM: 500 DAYS OF SUMMER (2009), Romance, Rated PG-13, 95 min. Bring your own refreshments. Please register.

Make Your Own Jibbitz for Teens and Tweens

Mon, Jun 30, 1:30pm - 8:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Mon, Jun 30, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Teen Zone

Make your own shoe charms! Ages 10-18.

This event is full

Science Heroes: Adventure of the Missing Color - For ages 5 - 12

Mon, Jun 30, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Join Science Heroes on their mission to turn science into an adventure.

Busy Builders

Mon, Jun 30, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Can We Build It? Yes, We Can!

Glow Paint Party - For ages 5 - 12 REG

Mon, Jun 30, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Glow with the flow at this blacklight paint party with Lil Monsters Art!

This event is full

TAB Library Scavenger Hunt

Mon, Jun 30, 3:00pm - 6:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Free afterschool homework help. Not tutoring or reading help. Ages 4 - 12. Ayuda con las tareas gratis. No es tutoría o ayuda con la lectura. Edades 4 - 12.

Mon, Jun 30, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Join the Teen Advisory Board in a library scavenger hunt. Follow the clues to win a prize.

Bayside Ukulele Club

Mon, Jun 30, 3:15pm - 4:30pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Bayside Ukes welcomes uke players of all levels to our free gatherings. Bring your own ukulele. Drop-in.

Adventure of the Missing Color (Ages 5-12) - Presented by Science Heroes

Mon, Jun 30, 5:00pm - 8:30pm

Jackson Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Jackson Branch.

Mon, Jun 30, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Ages 5-12. Join Science Heroes on their mission to turn science into an adventure! Registration Required.

Glow Paint Party

Mon, Jun 30, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Join artist and teacher Jamie Jarka of Lil Monsters Art for a painting lesson on canvas. All materials are included. Ages 5-12. Registration required.

This event is full

Sketchbook Kait

Mon, Jun 30, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Ages 6-12. Kids will have so much fun playing fashion games and designing clothes on a fashion figure. Registration is required.

This event is full

Beginner Cricut Class

Mon, Jun 30, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Let's Make Something!

This event is full

Tal Naccarato - LIVE! Unplugged!

Mon, Jun 30, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Guitarist, songwriter, and instrumentalist in the Americana / folk- blues / classical guitar tradition performs solo acoustic from his original and traditional repertoire.

Cancelled

Drop-In English Conversation Group

Mon, Jun 30, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Lakewood Branch

Visit this conversation group and practice speaking English with this friendly group and meet people from other countries.

Sing out loud: Teens Edition

Mon, Jun 30, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Waretown Branch

Bring your friends and come for a Karaoke night - see you there!

Adult Crafting

Mon, Jun 30, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick 2nd Floor Computer Lab

Join us for a seasonal craft. Sponsored by The Friends of the Brick Library.

This event is full

The Trustees of the Library Meeting

Mon, Jun 30, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Beachwood Branch

A local volunteer Mary will assist non-native English speakers practice conversational English. New members are always welcome. Registration not required.

Mon, Jun 30, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Island Heights Branch

The Friends design and manage fundraising activities to support the Library. New members are welcome.

Mon, Jun 30, 7:30pm - 9:00pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch

Local volunteer Mary Turbek will assist non-native English speakers practice conversational English. New members are always welcome.

Pirates Scavenger Hunt

Tue, Jul 01, All day

Long Beach Island Branch

Stop by the Long Beach Island Branch this month and complete our fun monthly scavenger hunt.

July Scavenger Hunt- Summer Treats

Tue, Jul 01, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Tue, Jul 01, All day

Manchester Branch

Family Program. Drop in to the children's department during the month of July to search for hidden images of summer treats around the library. When you do, turn your sheet in for a sticker.

Harry Potter Scavenger Hunt - runs the whole month!

Tue, Jul 01, All day

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - YS Floor

Accio! Act like a wizard to find all 9 clues!

Disability Pride Month Book Bingo

Tue, Jul 01, All day

Island Heights Branch

Visit the YA department to pick up a bingo sheet with recommended books featuring protagonists with disabilities. After reading three of the recommended titles return the sheet for a prize.

Berkeley Friends of the Library "Bag" Book Sale - Runs the whole month of July

Tue, Jul 01, All day

Berkeley Branch

Check out Berkeley's Book Sale from July 1-31, 2025.

Tue, Jul 01, 9:00am - 1:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Come to the Upper Shores Branch on Tuesday mornings to enjoy a game of Hand and Foot. Players must bring their own cards and game sets.

Rescheduled

Tue, Jul 01, 9:30am - 4:30pm

New date Tuesday, July 01, 9:30am - 8:30pm

Jackson Branch

sponsored by the Friends of the Jackson Library

Tue, Jul 01, 9:30am - 8:30pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

sponsored by the Friends of the Jackson Library

Manchester Daytime Book Discussion

Tue, Jul 01, 9:30am - 1:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Tue, Jul 01, 10:15am - 11:30am

Manchester Branch

Book Title: "Absolution" by Alice McDermott

Baby Yoga - For little ones 12 weeks to 12 months with caregiver

Tue, Jul 01, 10:30am - 11:00am

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Join Miss Liz for a special 45-minute mom-and-me yoga class. For little ones 12 weeks to 12 months with caregiver. Please bring a yoga mat. Spaces are limited. Program registration is required.

Where Does your Candy Come From?

Tue, Jul 01, 10:30am - 11:30am

Toms River Branch - Discovery Room

Registration required; begins 6/17. Please register each child's name individually. Learn about plants used to make candy. Presented by Rutgers Master Gardeners of Ocean County. Ages 6 - 12 years.

This event is full

Tue, Jul 01, 10:30am - 2:00pm

Berkeley Branch

Individuals and day programs for adults with special needs are welcome to enjoy a movie in our meeting room. Room opens at 10:30, movie starts at 11:30am.

Storytime: Color Our World

Tue, Jul 01, 10:30am - 11:30am

Berkeley Branch - Children's Area

Show off your creativity by decorating the library sidewalks Ages 0-12

Blood Pressure Clinic

Tue, Jul 01, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch - LBI Meeting Room

Free monthly blood pressure screening from 11am-12pm the first Tuesday of every month performed by the Long Beach Island Health Department. Walk-ins welcome.

Writer's Group

Tue, Jul 01, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Waretown Branch

Join other writers to explore your skills in an informal and fun discussion.

Tue, Jul 01, 11:00am - 11:30am

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Enjoy stories, stories, songs, fingerplays and a craft. Ages toddler - 5. Register each child separately. Please do not register adults.

Tue, Jul 01, 11:00am - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Make And Take Home A Perler Bead Buddy!

Tuesday Muse Book Discussion Group

Tue, Jul 01, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Barnegat Branch

Drop in with your own supplies and say "hello" to a friendly group.

Tue, Jul 01, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

New venue Jackson Branch - Jackson Quiet Study Room

Title: All That's Left Unsaid

Art Chat

Tue, Jul 01, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Meet and talk with local artists. Bring your own work for feedback.

Teen Artsy Apron

Tue, Jul 01, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick 2nd Floor Computer Lab

If you are a crafty individual or someone who is trying to be, swing by and grab an apron and give it your own unique flair! Paint your own apron to bring wherever you express your art! Ages 10-17.

Drop-In 4th of July - Fun Handprint Art

Tue, Jul 01, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Waretown Branch

Drop-In 4th of July - Fun Handprint Art Ages 4-8. All supplies are first come, first served.

Summer Reading Kickoff Party

Tue, Jul 01, 2:00pm - 8:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Tue, Jul 01, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Plumsted Branch - Plumsted Meeting Room

Celebrate Summer with our kickoff party! We will have balloon animals, and glitter tattoos, and learn about our summer reading contests. Ages 4-12. Please Register.

Hot Air Balloon Craft / Artesanía de globo aerostático

Tue, Jul 01, 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Make And Take Home A Perler Bead Buddy!

Tue, Jul 01, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Create a hot air balloon. Ages 8 - 12. Crea tu propio globo aerostático. Edades 8 - 12.

Jackson Writers' Group

Tue, Jul 01, 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Quiet Study Room

Bring your work, any genre.

Game Night for Adults

Tue, Jul 01, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Toms River Branch - Green Room

Come play video games at the library and make new friends.

Book Café

Tue, Jul 01, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Join the book café, talk about whatever you're reading and enjoy light refreshments. Sponsored by the Friends of the Barnegat Library.

Wed, Jul 02, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Beach Storytime- Toddler

Wed, Jul 02, 9:30am - 10:15am

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Ages 2-4. Stories, rhymes, and activities perfect for your child themed around the beach! Registration is required.

This event is full

Wed, Jul 02, 9:30am - 4:30pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

sponsored by the Friends of the Jackson Library

Find Your Next Summer Read with Novelist

Wed, Jul 02, 9:30am - 1:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Wed, Jul 02, 10:00am - 11:00am

Lakewood Branch

Learn all about the database Novelist and how to use it to find your next book to read.

Bubbles and Chalk: Outdoor Messy Fun - For families.

Wed, Jul 02, 10:00am - 11:30am

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Explore a variety of art and sensory activities using bubbles and chalk. Stop in between 10 and 11:30 am and be sure to dress for a mess! Please register.

4th of July Straw Rockets, Story and Craft - Wear Red, White and Blue

Wed, Jul 02, 10:00am - 10:45am

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

4th of July Straw Rockets, Story and Craft. Listen to a patriotic story, music and make a paper rocket and shoot it with a straw into the air. Ages 2 - 12. Please register.

This event is full

First Wednesday Book Club

Wed, Jul 02, 10:00am - 11:00am

Stafford Branch

This month the group will be discussing The Book of Charlie by David Von Drehle. Contact the Branch if you would like to join.

Christmas in July

Wed, Jul 02, 10:30am - 11:30am

Upper Shores Branch

Join us for this fun-filled event that will bring the holiday spirit to life with merry music, creative crafts and a holiday themed obstacle course. Ages 2-5.

This event is full

Fourth of July Craft (Ages 5-12)

Wed, Jul 02, 10:30am - 11:30am

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Ages 5-12: We'll make a festive 4th of July craft you can hang at home.

This event is full

Fun with Macroinvertebrates

Wed, Jul 02, 10:30am - 11:30am

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

In this hands-on program you'll see live or preserved macroinvertebrates, learn to identify them, and learn how these critters can teach us about water quality.

This event is full

Preschool Storytime: All About Colors - Ages 3 - 6 years

Wed, Jul 02, 10:30am - 11:00am

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Please join us for songs and stories as we learn all about colors! Ages 3 - 6 years. Program registration is required. Please register each age appropriate child separately.

This event is full

Preschool Storytime

Wed, Jul 02, 10:30am - 11:30am

Toms River Branch - Green Room

Registration required; begins June 18. Have fun and develop pre-reading skills with stories and a craft. Ages 3-5.

Beach Storytime- Preschool

Wed, Jul 02, 10:30am - 11:15am

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Ages 3-6. Stories, rhymes, and activities perfect for your child themed around the beach! Registration is required.

This event is full

Coloring for Adults

Wed, Jul 02, 10:30am - 11:30am

Lakewood Branch - Lakewood Meeting Room

Color while listening to soothing music.

Sign Painting Workshop

Wed, Jul 02, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Beachwood Branch

Paint 12x12 wooden signs with a fun saying with Debbie Pease. Registration required. Ages 8-12.

This event is full

Wed, Jul 02, 11:00am - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

BFFs4EVER!

Wed, Jul 02, 12:00pm - 4:00pm

Waretown Branch

Beginners are welcome.

Adult Drop-in BYO Crochet and Knitting Club

Wed, Jul 02, 12:30pm - 4:00pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Please bring your current year gaming cards and game sets.

Wed, Jul 02, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Plumsted Branch - Plumsted Meeting Room

Join us for this low-key afternoon of yarn crafts, and socialization. Bring your own supplies.

Hidden Gems of NJ - Summer Edition

Wed, Jul 02, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Uncover the best-kept secrets of New Jersey!

Dungeons and Dragons: Summer Session for Teens

Wed, Jul 02, 2:00pm - 4:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Splendid Salad Eats

Wed, Jul 02, 2:30pm - 4:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Join us for a refreshing salad demo and tasting. Potential Allergens

Yarn Art / Arte de hilo

Wed, Jul 02, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Create a yarn masterpiece. Ages 5 - 12. Crea una obra maestra de hilo. Edades 5 - 12.

Wed, Jul 02, 3:00pm - 4:45pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Learn how to play this game of imagination and adventure. New and experienced players welcome.

Paws for Reading - Potential Allergen

Wed, Jul 02, 4:00pm - 5:00pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Practice your reading skills in the company of gentle therapy dogs.

Bugs on the Go with Insectropolis

Wed, Jul 02, 4:00pm - 4:45pm

Berkeley Branch

Join us as we learn about bugs. Insectropolis will have a variety of live critters and pinned specimens. Ages 8-17

Twisted Stitchers of Ocean County

Wed, Jul 02, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Are you a knitter? Do you want to learn to knit? Join our group to learn or bring your own project. If you are a beginner, knitting needles and yarn will be available.

Cookbook Club

Wed, Jul 02, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Bring in a dish from the selected cookbook of the month to share and discuss with fellow culinary enthusiasts!

Magic the Gathering Open Play

Wed, Jul 02, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Join us for Magic:the Gathering Open Play at the library! Bring your deck or use one of our provided starter decks, and enjoy friendly games in a relaxed environment.

Bugs on the Go with Insectropolis

Wed, Jul 02, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Join us as we learn about bugs. Insectropolis will have a variety of exotic specimens including a Hissing Cockroach, Emperor Scorpion, Giant Millipede, a Rosehair Tarantula, and more. Ages 8-17.

Sponge Popsicles / Paletas de esponja

Wed, Jul 02, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Make a summer treat. Ages 5 - 12. Haz una delicia. Edades 5 - 12.

Adult Crocheting Club

Wed, Jul 02, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

BYOCP...Bring Your Own Crochet Project

Mother Goose Time - For babies up to 18 months and their caregivers.

Thu, Jul 03, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Thu, Jul 03, 9:30am - 10:00am

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Rhythm, rhyme, music and movement activities. Please register.

This event is full

Shore Memory Cafe

Thu, Jul 03, 10:00am - 11:00am

Manchester Branch

Early-Stage Memory Cafés provide opportunities for concerned persons experiencing early cognitive decline, and for those diagnosed with early-stage memory loss, and their care partner(s) to meet.

Music Round

Thu, Jul 03, 10:30am - 11:30am

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

"Barbara Lysenko, director, and co-founder of Kids MusicRound, will be at the library with her guitar for a fun time of dancing, singing, and playing rhythm instruments.

This event is full

Baby Social Time

Thu, Jul 03, 10:30am - 11:30am

Waretown Branch

Come and sing, dance, and blow bubbles with us! Ages 6 - 18 months

PL Drop-In Craft : 4th of July

Thu, Jul 03, 10:30am - 4:30pm

Plumsted Branch

Visit the Plumsted Library Children's area to participate in our themed drop-in craft. Crafts available while supplies last, first come first served. Ages 3-12.

Summer Toddler Tales - For ages 19 - 36 months with a caregiver.

Thu, Jul 03, 11:00am - 11:30am

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Stories, rhymes, music and movement activities. Please register.

This event is full

Patriotic Palooza Craft

Thu, Jul 03, 11:00am - 11:45am

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Make a patriotic flying disc or paper flag. Ages 2 - 7. Register each child separately. Please do not register adults

This event is full

Thu, Jul 03, 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Mah Jong, Mahjong, Mahjongg no matter how you spell it, come and enjoy. All play levels welcome. Bring your current card and set.

Thu, Jul 03, 12:00pm - 1:00pm

Upper Shores Branch

Join us to practice your reading skills in the company of gentle therapy dogs. Recommended for ages 3 - 12. Please register each child individually.

This event is full

LBI Poets Studio

Thu, Jul 03, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch - LBI Meeting Room

Whether you are an accomplished poet or a new one, our monthly workshop will inspire you. To attend this event virtually please contact Sue Cummings via email scummings817@comcast.net.

Thu, Jul 03, 1:00pm - 4:00pm

Berkeley Branch

Weekly open play Mahjong from 1-4 Players must bring their own set and current card.

Live Piano: The Great American Standards

Thu, Jul 03, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Adults can join to learn Knit/Crochet or bring a project with them. Drop in.

Thu, Jul 03, 2:00pm - 3:30pm

Upper Shores Branch

The talented Gary Evans visits to entertain us at the piano with his delightful music. Stop by and listen or sing along to some of your favorites! Requests are always welcome!

Jack and the Beanstalk Plant Craft - Jack y las habichuelas mágicas artesanía de plantas

Thu, Jul 03, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Create a castle and plant your own beanstalk. Ages 5 - 12. REG. Crea un castillo y planta tu propio tallo de habichuelas. Edades 5 - 12. REG.

Book Lovers Book Cafe

Thu, Jul 03, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Manchester Branch

A different kind of book discussion group, where everyone reads a different book!

Art Club - Ages 6-12

Thu, Jul 03, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Jackson Branch - Storytime Room

Come get creative! Ages 6-12. Please Register.

Patriotic Craft for Adults

Thu, Jul 03, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Lacey Branch

Celebrate Independence Day with a Cricut craft. Please register to reserve a craft.

This event is full

Thursday Book Club

Thu, Jul 03, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

July Book: Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewell

Craft and Chat

Thu, Jul 03, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Join us for a trivia afternoon and make a craft! Ages 12-18

Drop-in Independence Day Craft

Thu, Jul 03, 5:30pm - 8:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Thu, Jul 03, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Toms River Branch - Discovery Room

No registration required. Stop by the Discovery Room to make a fun craft for the 4th of July while supplies last. Ages 5-12.

Video Games / Videojuegos

Thu, Jul 03, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Play video games. Ages 5 - 12. Juega videojuegos. Edades 5 - 12.

Night Crafting for Adults

Thu, Jul 03, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

This month we will be making patriotic clothespin stars.

This event is full

Mo Willems Putt-Putt

Thu, Jul 03, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Family Program. Join us for a fun round of mini golf themed to different beloved books and characters written by Mo Willems. Registration is required.

This event is full

Open Mic Night

Thu, Jul 03, 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Join Dennis "The Heavy Metal Poet" Townsend for Open Mic Night. Acoustic musicians and spoken word artists are welcome.

Adult Writers Group

Thu, Jul 03, 7:30pm - 8:30pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - YA Floor

Explore your writing skills in a fun, friendly, informal setting.

Maker Building Drop-in - All Ages

Sat, Jul 05, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Sat, Jul 05, 10:00am - 2:00pm

Jackson Branch

Join us in the Children's Department for some building fun. All ages.

Art by Cheryl Godley

Sat, Jul 05, 10:00am - 1:00pm

Waretown Branch

Her display will be from July 5th through August 30th 2025

Crochet Around the Corner

Sat, Jul 05, 10:00am - 12:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Adults can join to learn Knit/Crochet or bring a project with them. Drop in.

Sparks's Lab Open Hours

Sat, Jul 05, 10:00am - 12:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Sparks's Lab, the Makerspace in the Toms River Branch, will be open for self-led use of eligible equipment.

Cancelled

Sat, Jul 05, 10:30am - 11:30am

Brick Branch

Gather with us to crochet.

Drop-In Color Your Own Air Rocket

Sat, Jul 05, 10:30am - 11:30am

Toms River Branch - Discovery Room

Drop in and color your own air rocket then challenge each other to see who can blast off the highest. Ages 3-12. No registration required.

Sensory-Friendly Family Movie and Crafts - Dog Man (PG) 89 min.

Sat, Jul 05, 10:30am - 12:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

For families

Kids Film Screening: Despicable Me 4

Sat, Jul 05, 10:30am - 12:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Sat, Jul 05, 11:00am - 1:30pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Join us for a special screening of Despicable Me 4 (PG). For kids up to 12 years old.

Silly Fun with Finger Painting

Sat, Jul 05, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Dress for a mess. All ages. Drop in.

Road Trip Puzzle Packs

Sat, Jul 05, 12:00pm - 1:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch

Pick up a pack of puzzles and brainteasers to keep your mind sharp. While supplies last.

Sparks's Lab Open Hours

Sat, Jul 05, 1:00pm - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Sparks's Lab, the Makerspace in the Toms River Branch, will be open for self-led use of eligible equipment.

Music of the American Revolution

Sat, Jul 05, 1:30pm - 3:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Sat, Jul 05, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

In honor of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, step back in time with Anne and Ridley Enslow as they perform music on a hammered dulcimer and a violin dating back to 1776.

Yarn Art for Teens and Tweens

Sat, Jul 05, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Stop by and create some yarn art. Ages 9 - 18.

Sun, Jul 06, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Sun, Jul 06, 1:30pm - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Petite Picassos - Art for Babies

Mon, Jul 07, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Guess How Many #2

Mon, Jul 07, All day

Stafford Branch

Guess How Many and win a prize! July 7 - July 31

Scavenger Hunt

Mon, Jul 07, 9:00am - 5:00pm

Barnegat Branch

Stop by the children's area to complete a scavenger hunt. New scavenger hunt each Monday from 6/23 to 8/18.

Stitch It Club

Mon, Jul 07, 9:30am - 12:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Come knit, crochet, sew, or embroider with fellow stitch it members. Share leisurely conversation & tips. All skill levels are welcome.

Mon, Jul 07, 10:00am - 10:45am

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Join other caregivers and their children for an age-appropriate art activity. Recommended for ages 0-24 months. Please register each child individually. Adults do not need to register.

This event is full

Babytime - 0 - 18 months

Mon, Jul 07, 10:30am - 11:30am

Jackson Branch - Storytime Room

Join us for 15 - 20 minutes of songs and activities followed by an hour of adult and child socialization. Ages 0 - 18 months. REG

Ron Albanese's Sunshine and Good Times Show!

Mon, Jul 07, 10:30am - 11:30am

Beachwood Branch

Ron puts on a colorful, fun, and interactive show featuring music and comedy! Ages 0-12 Please Register.

This event is full

Adults with Special Challenges Craft: Under Sea Coral

Mon, Jul 07, 10:30am - 11:30am

Jackson Branch - Jackson Quiet Study Room

Join us as we create an Under the Sea Coral craft!

Mon, Jul 07, 10:30am - 2:00pm

Berkeley Branch

Individuals and day programs for adults with special needs are welcome to enjoy a movie in our meeting room. Room opens at 10:30, movie starts at 11:30am.

Alzheimer's Caregiver Support Group

Mon, Jul 07, 10:30am - 4:00pm

Plumsted Branch

Mahjongg Mondays

Mon, Jul 07, 12:00pm - 3:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Come play Mah Jongg at the library!

Mon, Jul 07, 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Caring for an Alzheimer's patient can be overwhelming. Join us monthly to learn how you can balance it all. Presented in partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health. To register call (609) 978-4728.

Lunch and Movie: That Thing You Do! - (PG) 110 minutes

Mon, Jul 07, 12:30pm - 3:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Join us for an afternoon movie and lunch at the Barnegat Library. Lunch will be provided by Causeway CARes at 12:30 pm. If you are attending the lunch, please register. The movie begins at 1 pm.

This event is full

Movie Matinee Monday: THE PRINCESS DIARIES

Mon, Jul 07, 1:30pm - 3:30pm

Long Beach Island Branch - LBI Meeting Room

Monday: 7/07- 1:30 PM: THE PRINCESS DIARIES (2001), Family/Comedy, Rated G, 114 min. Please Register

Advanced French Club

Mon, Jul 07, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick 2nd Floor Computer Lab

Join us at the Brick Branch and speak French with other French speakers in the community! Intermediate and Advanced speakers welcome.

Create a Garlic Basket with Pinelands Basketry

Mon, Jul 07, 2:00pm - 5:00pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Join us to create a Garlic Basket with Pinelands Basketry

Rescheduled

Color Your World: Stamping 101

Mon, Jul 07, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

New date Monday, July 07, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Berkeley Branch

Learn to design, layer, and experiment with rubber stamps to create unique art pieces and a handmade bookmark.

Color Your World: Stamping 101

Mon, Jul 07, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Berkeley Branch

Learn to design, layer, and experiment with rubber stamps to create unique art pieces and a handmade bookmark.

Ron Albanese?s Sunshine and Good Times library show!

Mon, Jul 07, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Island Heights Branch

Ron puts on a colorful, fun, and interactive show featuring music and comedy - everyone sings, dances, and laughs along! Ages 0-12 Please Register

Anime Afternoon - Age 12 - 18

Mon, Jul 07, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Join fellow anime fans for an afternoon of anime viewings, Japanese snack tasting, and discussions of all things anime. Potential allergens.

Monday Movie Matinee: Last Breath

Mon, Jul 07, 3:00pm - 5:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

A true story that follows seasoned deep-sea divers as they battle the raging elements to rescue their crew mate trapped hundreds of feet below the ocean's surface. Rated PG-13. Runtime 93 minutes

Bayside Ukulele Club

Mon, Jul 07, 3:15pm - 4:30pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Bayside Ukes welcomes uke players of all levels to our free gatherings. Bring your own ukulele. Drop-in.

Tween Craft: Make a Memory Box

Mon, Jul 07, 4:30pm - 5:30pm

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Ages 7-11. Please register each child separately.

Ron Albanese's Sunshine and Good Times Show!

Mon, Jul 07, 5:30pm - 8:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Mon, Jul 07, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Ron puts on a colorful, fun, and interactive show featuring music and comedy - everyone sings, dances, and laughs along!

This event is full

DIY Ice Cream Social

Mon, Jul 07, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

In honor of National Ice Cream Month, come out for a DIY ice cream social. Make your own ice cream and top it off with a buffet of fun fixin's. Potential allergens.

This event is full

Canasta Club

Mon, Jul 07, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Lakewood Branch - Lakewood Meeting Room

Join in some friendly competition playing the classic card game Canasta. Beginners welcome!

Cross Stitch

Mon, Jul 07, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Discovery Room

Registration required; begins June 23. Please register each child individually. learn how to cross stitch. Ages 8 - 12.

Aboriginal Style Dot Art / Arte de estilo Aborigen

Mon, Jul 07, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Beachwood Branch

A local volunteer will assist non-native English speakers practice conversational English. New members are always welcome.

Mon, Jul 07, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Create your own gecko painting in the style of Aboriginal dot art. Ages 5 - 12. Crea tu propia pintura de gecko al estilo del arte de puntos Aborigen. Edades 5 - 12.

"Tie-Dye" Papermaking with Wild Jersey - For ages 8 - 12

Mon, Jul 07, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

We'll make colorful handmade paper by shredding and pulping used paper in every color of the rainbow. Please register each child separately.

Defiant Lives: The Rise Of The Disability Rights Movement - Documentary Screening

Mon, Jul 07, 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

A triumphant film that traces the origins of the world-wide disability rights movement.

Mon, Jul 07, 7:30pm - 9:00pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch

Local volunteer Mary Turbek will assist non-native English speakers practice conversational English. New members are always welcome.

Tue, Jul 08, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Tue, Jul 08, 9:00am - 1:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Come to the Upper Shores Branch on Tuesday mornings to enjoy a game of Hand and Foot. Players must bring their own cards and game sets.

Baby Playdate

Tue, Jul 08, 9:30am - 10:30am

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Meet up with other parents and caregivers while your babies engage in sensory and free play time, board books and gentle music. Drop in.

Wild Exotics Animal Refuge

Tue, Jul 08, 9:30am - 1:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Read & Weed Storytime

Tue, Jul 08, 10:00am - 11:00am

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Join us at the Stafford Branch in partnership with the Reynolds Family Foundation, for stories and songs and crafts inside and gardening outside. Ages 3 - 12. Drop-In.

Tue, Jul 08, 10:00am - 11:00am

Lakewood Branch - Lakewood Meeting Room

Join Wild Exotics Animal Refuge (WEAR) in learning about their organization and the animals they have rescued with some special guest appearances. Ages 12-18. REG

Ocean County Health Department - Alcohol and Drug Abuse Services

Tue, Jul 08, 10:00am - 2:00pm

Jackson Branch

Visit an information table stationed in our foyer to learn about all that the Ocean County Health Department's Alcohol and Drug Abuse Department's Services.

Books & Beyond - Ages 5 -8

Tue, Jul 08, 10:30am - 11:30am

Jackson Branch - Storytime Room

Come and explore the art of Alma Woodsey Thomas and participate in a hands-on related activity. Please Register.

Color Your World: Watercolor Pencil 101

Tue, Jul 08, 10:30am - 12:30pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Explore watercolor pencils by sketching and painting an Impressionist masterpiece with guided, step-by-step instruction.

This event is full

Basic Weaving with Nonny Creates

Tue, Jul 08, 10:30am - 12:15pm

Waretown Branch

Teen DIY Program

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 9:00am

Cancelled

Drop-in Crafts: National Ice Cream Month

Tue, Jul 08, 10:30am - 11:30am

Toms River Branch

Drop by and make some fun crafts in celebration of National Ice Cream month. Ages 5 - 12 years. No registration required and there will be no food provided.

Splatter Blow Art Painting

Tue, Jul 08, 10:30am - 11:30am

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Use liquid watercolors and then blow with a straw to see what you can create. Ages 3 - 9. Please register.

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 9:00am

Live Animal Talk with Cattus Island

Tue, Jul 08, 10:30am - 2:00pm

Berkeley Branch

Individuals and day programs for adults with special needs are welcome to enjoy a movie in our meeting room. Room opens at 10:30, movie starts at 11:30am.

Tue, Jul 08, 10:30am - 11:30am

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Ages 5-12. Learn about the amazing reptile species in Ocean County from a Cattus Island Naturalist. Registration is required.

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 9:00am

Sing and Sign with Cristen Gallin

Tue, Jul 08, 10:30am - 11:30am

Berkeley Branch - Children's Area

Show off your creativity by decorating the library sidewalks Ages 0-12

Tue, Jul 08, 10:30am - 11:30am

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

For ages 1 - 5 with a caregiver.

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 9:00am

Frida Kahlo Craft for Adults with Special Challenges

Tue, Jul 08, 10:30am - 11:30am

Berkeley Branch - Teen Zone

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Tue, Jul 08, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Celebrate the birthday of artist Frida Kahlo as we create a Frida Kahlo flowerpot vase. For adults with special challenges.

Balloon Zoo - Ages 2-6

Tue, Jul 08, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch

This interactive Storytime will get us excited about the adventures we can have at the library as the animals come to life as balloons. Please register each child separately - opens 2 weeks prior.

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 11:00am

Storytime: Flowers

Tue, Jul 08, 11:00am - 11:30am

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Enjoy stories, stories, songs, fingerplays and a craft. Ages toddler - 5. Register each child separately. Please do not register adults.

Tie Dye Papermaking with Wild Jersey

Tue, Jul 08, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Plumsted Branch - Plumsted Meeting Room

In this exciting program we will make ?tie dye? paper by recycling used paper in every color, moving through a traditional paper making process. You will leave with your handmade paper. Ages 8-12.

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 11:00am

Tue, Jul 08, 11:00am - 1:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

You Won't Hear A Chirp

Jackson Afternoon Book Group

Tue, Jul 08, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Barnegat Branch

Drop in with your own supplies and say "hello" to a friendly group.

Tue, Jul 08, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

New venue Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

Title: The Whole Town's Talking

Outrageous Reptiles with Jenkinson's Aquarium - Ages 8-17

Tue, Jul 08, 1:00pm - 2:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch

Explore the characteristics of our scaly friends, the reptiles! During this live show meet reptile ambassadors to learn about their differences and how they adapt to their habitats.

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 1:00pm

Chair Yoga

Tue, Jul 08, 1:00pm - 1:45pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Stretch, learn poses and do simple breathing exercises. Led by a certified yoga instructor. Please wear comfortable shoes/clothes. You'll be required to sign a waiver. Please register.

Tech Help Tuesday

Tue, Jul 08, 1:30pm - 3:30pm

Waretown Branch

One-on-one Tech Help. Please Register!

Writer's Group

Tue, Jul 08, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Manchester Branch

Bring your poetry, essays, and short stories. The Writer's Group critiques each other's works and provides feedback.

Fashion Design Around The World - Ages 12 - 18

Tue, Jul 08, 2:00pm - 3:15pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Learn about different fashion cities, styles, and design cute outfits from around the world!

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 9:00am

Popsicle Stick Puzzle / Rompecabezas de palitos de helado

Tue, Jul 08, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Create and design your own puzzle with markers and popsicle sticks. Ages 0 - 12. Crea y diseña tu propio rompecabezas con marcadores y palitos de helado. Edades 0 - 12.

Summer Reading Club

Tue, Jul 08, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Lakewood Branch - Lakewood Meeting Room

Share what you've been reading this summer, and get recommendations from other readers!

Dibuja tu mundo con Raúl The Third (en español) - Preescolar a 2.º grado

Tue, Jul 08, 2:00pm - 8:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Tue, Jul 08, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Toms River Branch

To register, visit https://libraryc.org/theoceancountylibrary/79854

Dungeons and Dragons for Teens

Tue, Jul 08, 2:00pm - 3:30pm

Toms River Branch - Bishop (upstairs)

Join players on an adventure in the world of Dungeons and Dragons! Open to new and experienced players. Space is limited, be sure to register. Ages 13-18.

Drop-in Crafts: National Ice Cream Month

Tue, Jul 08, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Toms River Branch - Discovery Room

Drop by and make some fun crafts in celebration of National Ice Cream month. Ages 5 - 12 years. No registration required and there will be no food provided.

Tween Craft: Diamond Art Stickers

Tue, Jul 08, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

You Made What!??!

DIY Walking Sticks

Tue, Jul 08, 2:30pm - 4:00pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Decorate your own walking stick to take home with provided supplies. Use it for all your nature walks this summer or bring it to the Nature Walk at Freedom Fields on Friday.

Tue, Jul 08, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Teens are invited to a fun afternoon of diamond painting, a new art hobby that involves placing multi-colored rhinestones on a numbered canvas. Join us to "paint" your own sticker!

Outrageous Reptiles with Jenkinson's Aquarium

Tue, Jul 08, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Explore the characteristics of our scaly friends, the reptiles! During this live show meet reptile ambassadors to learn about their differences and how they adapt to their habitats.

Club 67

Tue, Jul 08, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick 2nd Floor Computer Lab

Join Club 67, the summer volunteer program at the Brick Branch for teens entering 6th or 7th grade.

Paws for Reading - Potential Allergen

Tue, Jul 08, 3:30pm - 4:30pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Practice your reading skills in the company of gentle therapy dogs.

Virtual Author Talk with Raúl The Third - For Grades up to 2nd

Tue, Jul 08, 4:00pm - 5:00pm

Toms River Branch

To register, visit https://libraryc.org/theoceancountylibrary/77806

NJ Snake Man (Ages 3-12)

Tue, Jul 08, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Ages 3-12. NJ Snake Man presents a smorgasbord of live snakes and other reptiles from around the world. Potential Allergens. Sponsored by the Friends of the Brick Library.

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 6:00pm

Tie Dye Papermaking with WILDJersey - Ages 12-18

Tue, Jul 08, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

We will make colorful handmade paper by shredding and pulping used paper in every color of the rainbow. Please register. Sponsored by the Jackson Friends of the Library.

Sensory Friendly Movie: Hook

Tue, Jul 08, 6:00pm - 8:30pm

Jackson Branch - Sensory Space

Come join us for a Sensory Friendly viewing of Hook (PG, 145 mins).

Campfire Snacks & A Movie - Ages 13 - 18

Tue, Jul 08, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Get ready to cozy up with campfire snacks and a feature film! Potential Allergens.

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 6:00pm

Meet the Mayor

Tue, Jul 08, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Lacey Branch

Join us as the Lacey Branch hosts Meet the Mayor with Lacey Mayor Peter Curatolo. During this event you'll be able to ask questions directly to the Lacey Mayor in an informal setting.

Writers' Group

Tue, Jul 08, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick 2nd Floor Computer Lab

Spark your writing creativity and participate in friendly peer critiques on novels, short stories, memoirs, or any writing project you are working on.

Craft with Pride

Tue, Jul 08, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Join us for some monthly crafts and conversations in the Maker Space. This program is for those who identify as LGBTQIA+ and their allies. All are welcome. Please Register.

Evening Book Discussion

Tue, Jul 08, 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Toms River Branch - Green Room

This month the selection is "The Pull of the Stars," by Emma Donoghue. Please register for this discussion.

Yankee Stadium: From the (Organ) Bench

Tue, Jul 08, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

New Jersey native. Ed Alstrom, has a storied career beyond the Bronx, from rock and roll to houses of worship to Broadway.

Marvelous Sleuths

Tue, Jul 08, 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Join us for our mystery book discussion group! Call the Branch for this month's title 609-294-1197. New members welcome!

Wood Painting Workshop - Dreams Are Made of Sand and Sun

Tue, Jul 08, 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Long Beach Island Branch - LBI Meeting Room

Paint a beach-themed sign made from pallet wood with the saying, Dreams are Made of Sand and Sun. All supplies will be provided. Please register.

This event is full

Raconteur Radio Presents: The Hobbit

Tue, Jul 08, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Join us for a very special theatrical presentation of J.R.R. Tolkien's classic fantasy adventure tale, The Hobbit, with Raconteur Radio. Sponsored by the Friends of the Barnegat Library.

Adventures in Bookland: Color Our World

Wed, Jul 09, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Wed, Jul 09, All day

Brick Branch

This summer we're embarking on a colorful adventure to celebrate the many ways the arts help to enrich our lives. Here are some books for kids to help them channel their inner artist!

Colorful Trails at Eno's Pond County Park

Wed, Jul 09, 9:30am - 10:30am

Eno's Pond County Park

The Ocean County Parks and Recreation Department leads a family nature walk tour at Eno's Pond County Park. Dress appropriately for weather. Insect repellant with DEET is recommended. Please register.

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 9:00am

Craft for Adults with Special Challenges - 10am session

Wed, Jul 09, 9:30am - 1:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Wed, Jul 09, 10:00am - 11:00am

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Join us for a fun craft. Registration opens two weeks prior to start of event and is required by phone (732-477-4513, option 4) or in person.

Toddler Play

Wed, Jul 09, 10:00am - 11:00am

Toms River Branch - Green Room

Registration required, begins June 25. Please register each child individually. Visit the library with your little one for playtime, coloring, and more. Ages 2-3 with a caregiver.

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 9:00am

Coloring for Adults with Special Needs

Wed, Jul 09, 10:00am - 12:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Spend the morning listening to music and coloring. Materials are provided but you may bring your own coloring projects and tools. Meets on the second Wednesday of the month. Please register.

Wild Jersey Leaf Rubbing Book

Wed, Jul 09, 10:30am - 11:30am

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Children will learn about leaf shapes and what leaves do, and why leaves change color in the fall. Ages 5-7. Please register each child individually.

Reading Buddies with Therapy Dogs

Wed, Jul 09, 10:30am - 11:30am

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Shark Storytime

Wed, Jul 09, 10:30am - 11:30am

Island Heights Branch

Join us for Shark themed stories and songs. Ages 2-5.

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 10:30am

Wed, Jul 09, 10:30am - 11:30am

Stafford Branch

Join us in the Children's Room and practice reading this summer with therapy dogs. For children in grades K-3.

This event is full

Little Yogi + Me - Ages 2 - 4 with caregiver

Wed, Jul 09, 10:30am - 11:30am

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Yoga for ages 2 - 4 with caregiver. Only register child.

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 9:00am

Baby & Toddler Social Hour

Wed, Jul 09, 10:30am - 11:30am

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Join other caregivers in a relaxed open-play setting. Ages 0-4.

Music and Puppets with Jumpin' Jamie - Live Music Show for ages 0 - 5 REG

Wed, Jul 09, 10:30am - 11:15am

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Join kindie rock artist Jumpin' Jamie and their puppet friends for an interactive and fun performance!

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 9:00am

Craft for Adults with Special Challenges - 11am session

Wed, Jul 09, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Brick Branch

Join us for a fun craft. Registration opens two weeks prior to start of event and is required by phone (732-477-4513, option 4) or in person.

Did You Know that Stillbirth Can Happen to Any Pregnancy?

Wed, Jul 09, 11:00am - 12:30pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

Presented by the Central Jersey Family Health Consortium.

Wed, Jul 09, 11:00am - 1:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Make And Take Home A Perler Bead Buddy!

Wed, Jul 09, 12:00pm - 4:00pm

Waretown Branch

Beginners are welcome.

Rainbow Combs / Arcoíris con peines

Wed, Jul 09, 12:30pm - 4:00pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Please bring your current year gaming cards and game sets.

Wed, Jul 09, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Paint your own rainbows using plastic combs. Ages 5 - 12. Pinta tu propio arcoíris con peines de plástico. Edades 5 - 12.

Movie Matinee - Into the Spotlight

Wed, Jul 09, 2:00pm - 3:45pm

Lakewood Branch - Lakewood Meeting Room

A theater program composed of adults with disabilities celebrate their creativity, and empower a community in their own words and in their own way.

Wed, Jul 09, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - REF Floor

Drop in and talk to a Master Gardener from the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Ocean County.

Make a Fairy Door for the Garden

Wed, Jul 09, 2:00pm - 4:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Be a Juggler - Ages 6-12

Wed, Jul 09, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Watch as Molly juggles balls, rings, Chinese yoyo and spins a plate. Then you get a chance to juggle scarfs, balance peacock feather and try out the spinning plates. Ages 6-12. Registration required.

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 9:00am

Wed, Jul 09, 2:30pm - 4:00pm

Jackson Branch - Makerspace

Create a fairy door using materials provided. Spice up your indoor or outdoor gardens with a tiny portal to another world.

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 9:00am

Book Talk!

Wed, Jul 09, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Come talk about your favorite books with other readers and learn about new ones to read.

Adult Crafternoon Trash Art

Wed, Jul 09, 2:30pm - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

It's Not Trash, It's Art!

Sip and Paint for Teens - Ages 12-18

Wed, Jul 09, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

Beat the heat and join us in a painting party with your peers!

Teen DIY Dried Flower Lantern Jars

Wed, Jul 09, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick 2nd Floor Computer Lab

Drop into the library and make lantern jars with dried flowers!

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 9:00am

Diversability Month Documentary

Wed, Jul 09, 3:00pm - 5:00pm

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Stop by the library and see an informative documentary.

Family Game Night

Wed, Jul 09, 5:30pm - 7:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Drop in for a fun, family experience with classic and new board games. Sponsored by the Friends of the Lacey Library.

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 5:30pm

Flower Arranging 101 - for Tweens & Teens

Wed, Jul 09, 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Make And Take Home A Perler Bead Buddy!

Wed, Jul 09, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Learn the Basics of flower arranging with a staff member from Black-Eyed Susan's Florist in Barnegat. Participants will make a flower arrangement to take home. Space is limited.

Let's Make a Mural / Hagamos un mural

Wed, Jul 09, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Come draw a mural together. Ages 0 - 12. Ven a dibujar un mural juntos. Edades 0 - 12.

Landlord-Tenant Law Workshop

Wed, Jul 09, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

This workshop will educate participants about their rights and responsibilities in a landlord-tenant relationship. Presented by Eugenia Lynch, Esq., of The Law Offices of Eugenia Lynch.

Friends of the Upper Shores Branch Meeting

Wed, Jul 09, 6:30pm - 7:00pm

Upper Shores Branch

Quarterly meeting for the Friends of the Upper Shores Branch. New members welcome! Followed by a program.

Wizard of Oz Party

Wed, Jul 09, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Family Program. Go on your own Oz themed adventure through stations, games, and other fun activities. Please notify staff of food allergy concerns. Registration is required.

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 9:00am

Rave On

Wed, Jul 09, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Upper Shores Branch

Join the Friends of the Upper Shores Branch and list to the Rave On band. This event will feature the music of Buddy Holly and Roy Orbison. Please register.

Fishing for the Origins of the Great White Shark

Wed, Jul 09, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch - LBI Meeting Room

New Jersey State Museum, Curator of Natural History Dr. Dana Ehret will discuss his research into the origin and evolution of great white sharks.

Songs with Miss Summer - Ages 0-4

Thu, Jul 10, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Baby & Me

Thu, Jul 10, 10:00am - 11:00am

Toms River Branch - Green Room

Registration required; begins 6/26. Please register each child's name individually. Visit the library for an interactive program for you and your baby. For babies up to 12 months with a caregiver.

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 9:00am

Thu, Jul 10, 10:00am - 10:30am

Long Beach Island Branch

*All children must wear foot coverings (shoes, booties, slippers, or socks) in order to follow the library's health & safety rules.

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 10:00am

Color Your World Spin Art

Thu, Jul 10, 10:30am - 11:30am

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Children will use spin art machines and vibrant paints to create one-of-a-kind art. Ages 5-12. Please register each child individually.

This event is full

Toddler Art: Finger Painting Fun (Ages 1-3)

Thu, Jul 10, 10:30am - 11:30am

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Ages 1-3. Join us for some freestyle finger-painting fun! Dress for mess. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Brick Library.

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 10:30am

Toddler Sing-a-Long

Thu, Jul 10, 10:30am - 11:00am

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Come sing and dance to some of your favorite songs! Ages 18 months - 3 years.

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 10:30am

Clay Creations - Ages 6 - 12

Thu, Jul 10, 10:30am - 11:30am

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

We'll supply a block of air-dry clay and some sculpting tools and see what you create. Registration is required. Please "Dress for a Mess" or bring a smock.

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 9:00am

Toddler Story Time

Thu, Jul 10, 10:30am - 11:30am

Waretown Branch

Come play along with stories, movement, and activities designed for toddlers on the go! For ages 18 - 36 months

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 10:30am

Storytime with Miss Renee- Beach Days

Thu, Jul 10, 10:30am - 11:30am

Jackson Branch

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Thu, Jul 10, 10:30am - 11:30am

Plumsted Branch - Plumsted Meeting Room

Kids and their grown-ups will sit together as we read stories, move, and do a themed craft. Please register each child individually. The craft is geared toward ages 3-9. Siblings are always welcome.

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 10:30am

Summertime Songs with Jessica Carroll

Thu, Jul 10, 10:30am - 11:30am

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Join guitarist and singer Jessica Carroll as she sings summertime favorites from the 50's and 60's Please register.

Seed Art Craft

Thu, Jul 10, 11:00am - 11:45am

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Create artwork with seeds. Ages 4-10. Register each child separately. Please do not register adults.

Calming Coloring: Bookmarks

Thu, Jul 10, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Beachwood Branch

Stop by the library, meet new friends and color using colored pencils or markers. For adults & seniors. No registration required.

DIY Potato Sock Plushie

Thu, Jul 10, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

We are making a no-sew stuffed plushie potato.

Thu, Jul 10, 11:00am - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

BFFs4EVER!

Literature and Lunch - Book Discussion

Thu, Jul 10, 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Mah Jong, Mahjong, Mahjongg no matter how you spell it, come and enjoy. All play levels welcome. Bring your current card and set.

Thu, Jul 10, 12:00pm - 1:00pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

The Literature and Lunch book discussion group is reading Stranger in a Life Boat by Mitch Albom.

Thu, Jul 10, 12:00pm - 1:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Join us to practice your reading skills in the company of gentle therapy dogs. Recommended for ages 3 - 12. Please register each child individually.

Thu, Jul 10, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Drop in with your own supplies and say "hello" to a friendly group.

Thu, Jul 10, 1:00pm - 4:00pm

Berkeley Branch

Weekly open play Mahjong from 1-4 Players must bring their own set and current card.

Chicks with Sticks: A Knitting and Crocheting Group

Thu, Jul 10, 1:00pm - 8:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Thu, Jul 10, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Love to knit or crochet, come to our meeting room and join others with the same passion. Bring your yarn, needles, hooks and current projects.

Controlling Diabetes and Healthy Eating During the Summer - Presented by Hackensack Meridian Health

Thu, Jul 10, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Join our expert educators as they discuss the signs, symptoms, complications, medications and much more related to diabetes.

Registration is now closed

Birch Tree Painting for Adults

Thu, Jul 10, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Manchester Branch

Paint your very own forest of Birch Trees using yarn and paint. Limited supply. Please register.

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 9:00am

Tween Crafternoon: Stafford Branch - Butterflies

Thu, Jul 10, 2:00pm - 2:45pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Ages 9-13. EACH ATTENDEE MUST BE REGISTERED SEPARATELY. Space is Limited. Program runs 45 minutes. Join us in the meeting room and create a summer butterfly.

De-Stress with Dogs for Teens & Tweens

Thu, Jul 10, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Toms River Branch - Teen Zone

Drop in and de-stress with therapy dogs. You can talk to the dogs about your troubles, relax, play, and hang out with the visiting furry friends.

Art Club - Ages 6-12

Thu, Jul 10, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Jackson Branch - Storytime Room

Come get creative! Ages 6-12. Please Register.

Messy Time

Thu, Jul 10, 2:30pm - 3:15pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Explore safe textures, colors & sensory play. Enhance motor skills & bonding through creative mess and learning through joyful chaos.

Thu, Jul 10, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Jackson Branch

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Group Ukulele Lessons for Teens and Adults

Thu, Jul 10, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Berkeley Branch - Teen Zone

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Coffee and Coloring

Thu, Jul 10, 3:00pm - 4:30pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Spend an afternoon coloring, listening to soothing music, drinking coffee, and relaxing with like-minded adults at the library.

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 3:00pm

Thu, Jul 10, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Over this five-week series of hour-long lessons, local music instructor Kevin Kelley will teach ukulele basics in a group.

Watercolor String Art / Arte de cuerda con acuarela

Thu, Jul 10, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Make watercolor pictures using string. Ages 5 - 12. Haz dibujos en acuarela con una cuerda. Edades 5 - 12.

Let's Get Animated! For Neurodivergent Teens - Ages 12 - 18

Thu, Jul 10, 3:30pm - 4:30pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Part social hour, part art time, all fun! Watch cartoons while getting creative. Program made possible by the Kearny Bank Foundation Grant.

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 3:30pm

Surflight Vacation Serenaders - All Ages Welcome

Thu, Jul 10, 4:15pm - 4:45pm

Long Beach Island Branch

The Surflight Serenaders will perform a variety of family friendly showtunes for your enjoyment. Come see this youth ensemble at 4:15 on the following dates: 7/10, 7/29, and 8/19. Please register.

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 4:15pm

Current State of Cybercrime - by NJ Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell

Thu, Jul 10, 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

BFFs4EVER!

Thu, Jul 10, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

This presentation from the NJCCIC will provide a comprehensive overview of the diverse cyber threats facing both individuals and organizations. Real-world examples will be shared.

Candy Bingo - Family Program

Thu, Jul 10, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Come to the library for family fun. Ages 4 - 12. Register children.

This event is full

Washi Tape Art / Arte de cinta washi

Thu, Jul 10, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Make art with washi tape. Ages 8 - 12. Haz arte con washi tape. Edades 8 - 12.

Therapy Dog Visit

Thu, Jul 10, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Manchester Branch

Teens will meet with a therapy dog. Ages 12 - 18. Registration is required. Please add siblings attending as guests and list each tween/teen attending with their age.

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 9:00am

Summer Evening Film: Top Gun - Maverick

Thu, Jul 10, 6:00pm - 8:30pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Join us as we view the film "Top Gun: Maverick". Film rated PG-13 (131 min.)

Typing 101

Thu, Jul 10, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Learn the basics of typing with guided practice.

Family Bingo

Thu, Jul 10, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Come out for some family fun playing bingo. Light snacks will be served.

Family Fun Time - Bingo! Recommended for ages 5 - 12. REG

Thu, Jul 10, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Come out for some family fun! Please register.

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 9:00am

Trickshots

Thu, Jul 10, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Manchester Branch

Teens will participate in different trick shot challenges involving ping pong balls. Ages 12 - 18. Registration is required. Please add siblings attending as guests and list each of their ages.

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 9:00am

S'mores Paper Craft - Drop-in

Fri, Jul 11, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Fri, Jul 11, 9:00am - 5:00pm

Barnegat Branch

Stop by the children's area to create a paper s'mores craft. While supplies last. Recommended for ages 3 - 7. Drop in.

Morning Book Club

Fri, Jul 11, 10:00am - 11:00am

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

July Book: Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano

Lil Builders Club - Ages 1 - 5. REG

Fri, Jul 11, 10:00am - 11:00am

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Ages 1 - 5. Please register.

Registration opens Friday, June 27 2025 at 9:00am

Sign Language Name Plate Craft

Fri, Jul 11, 10:00am - 12:00pm

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Ages 5-12. Learn about sign language and celebrate Disability Pride Month by making your own name plate using sign language. Registration is required.

Registration opens Friday, June 27 2025 at 9:00am

Parkinson Voice Project's SPEAK OUT!®

Fri, Jul 11, 10:00am - 11:00am

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Program designed to improve communication skills for those with Parkinson's and other neurological disorders. Meets the 2nd Friday of the month. New members welcome, call (609) 488-2650 to register.

Flannery Documentary - (NR) 96 minutes

Fri, Jul 11, 10:00am - 11:40am

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Explore the life and work of author Flannery O'Connor with this documentary on Kanopy©.

Under the Sea Craft Day (Ages 2-5)

Fri, Jul 11, 10:30am - 11:30am

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Ages 2-5: Join us as we make several ocean inspired crafts.

Registration opens Friday, June 27 2025 at 10:30am

Sensory Space Storytime

Fri, Jul 11, 10:30am - 11:30am

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Registration required; begins June 27. Please register each child individually. Enjoy stories and songs while engaging your little one's senses in our calming Sensory Space. Ages 3-5.

Registration opens Friday, June 27 2025 at 9:00am

Fishing Adventures

Fri, Jul 11, 10:30am - 11:30am

Waretown Branch

Join us for a fun and engaging story time including hands-on activities! Ages 4-8.

Registration opens Friday, June 27 2025 at 10:30am

Stories & STEM: Sticky Stuff - Ages 3 - 6 with a caregiver.

Fri, Jul 11, 10:30am - 11:30am

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Tape, glue, slime, velcro...we'll investigate all things sticky with crafts and simple science activities. Registration is required.

Registration opens Friday, June 27 2025 at 9:00am

Preschool Storytime

Fri, Jul 11, 10:30am - 11:30am

Beachwood Branch

Join us for stories and a simple craft. Registration required. Ages 3-5.

Registration opens Friday, June 27 2025 at 10:00am

Summer Drop In Crafts

Fri, Jul 11, 10:30am - 4:00pm

Plumsted Branch

Join us each Friday, this summer, in the kid zone for 8 weeks of drop in crafts. First come first served, no registration necessary.

Outdoors Sensory Play

Fri, Jul 11, 10:30am - 11:15am

Upper Shores Branch

Sensory based activities for kids ages 2-5. Please register each child individually. The program will be held outdoors weather permitting. No rain date. Please register each child individually.

This event is full

Nature Walk at Freedom Fields

Fri, Jul 11, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch

Join us at Ocean County Freedom Fields for a short nature walk.

Fri, Jul 11, 11:00am - 1:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

You Won't Hear A Chirp

Nature Walk at Freedom Fields

Fri, Jul 11, 12:30pm - 4:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Bring your current year gaming cards and game sets. Drop in.

OC Purls Knitting Group

Fri, Jul 11, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Bring your knitting projects to the library and enjoy some conversation while you knit!

Fri, Jul 11, 1:00pm - 2:00pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch

Join us at Ocean County Freedom Fields for a short nature walk.

Friday Afternoon Book Club

Fri, Jul 11, 1:00pm - 2:30pm

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Please contact the Berkeley Branch for details.

Friday Fun / Viernes De Diversion

Fri, Jul 11, 1:30pm - 3:30pm

Lakewood Branch

Simple craft for small kids. Ages 0 - 12. Manualidades para niños en prescolar. ? Edades 0 ? 12.?

Teen Movie Friday

Fri, Jul 11, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Come watch a PG-13 movie! Ages 12-18.

K-Pop Party for Teens & Tweens

Fri, Jul 11, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Mancini Hall

Join us for a celebration of K-Pop! Potential allergens. Ages 10-18.

LBI Canasta

Fri, Jul 11, 2:00pm - 5:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch - LBI Meeting Room

Play Canasta with other teams and players at the Long Beach Island Library twice a month. Participants must already have a basic knowledge of the game.

Club 67

Fri, Jul 11, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick 1st Floor Conference Room (located in Teen Zone)

Join Club 67, the summer volunteer program at the Brick Branch for teens entering 6th or 7th grade.

Tabletop Players - Ages 12 - 18

Fri, Jul 11, 2:00pm - 3:30pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Come play in a new summer-long adventure! Play as an animal friend on a calming pastoral adventure. Please note this is a 5 part series.

SAIL and Snacks - Potential Allergen

Fri, Jul 11, 2:00pm - 4:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Paper-Crafternoon

Fri, Jul 11, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Roll It, Fold It, Glue It, Behold it!

Becoming Helen Keller

Fri, Jul 11, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

This documentary examines the complex life and legacy of this author, advocate and human rights pioneer. Rated PG. Runtime: 82 minutes

Fri, Jul 11, 2:00pm - 3:30pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Stop by and join our summer SAIL volunteers as we taste test different fun snacks. Sponsored by the Friends of the Point Pleasant Borough branch.

Disability Pride Book Cafe

Fri, Jul 11, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Lakewood Branch

Join us in observing Disability Pride Month with a selection of fiction and non-fiction titles.

Afternoon Book Club

Fri, Jul 11, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

July Book: The Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson

Nintendo Switch Gaming Club for Kids and Teens

Fri, Jul 11, 3:00pm - 4:30pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Kids and Teens, ages 7 - 15, will play Nintendo® Switch games together, with the teens teaching the younger players tips and techniques.

Registration opens Friday, June 27 2025 at 3:00pm

Drop In: 100th Anniversary Banner Coloring Activity

Sat, Jul 12, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Sat, Jul 12, 9:30am - 4:30pm

Jackson Branch

Drop in near the Sensory Space from Sat. 7/12 through Sat. 7/19 to add to our 100th Anniversary Banner!

Sat, Jul 12, 9:30am - 4:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Lotus Flower Lanterns for Teens

Sat, Jul 12, 10:00am - 12:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Drop in with your own supplies and say "hello" to a friendly group.

Sat, Jul 12, 10:00am - 11:00am

Toms River Branch - Mancini Hall

Learn to make a lovely lotus flower lantern using colored paper and wireframes, while learning about Korean history and culture from a member of the Korean Spirit and Culture Promotion Project.

Drop-In Craft in the Children's Room

Sat, Jul 12, 10:00am - 11:00am

Stafford Branch

Stop in the Children's Room and make a paper craft. Drop-In. Ages 2 - 12.

Saturday Movie and Craft

Sat, Jul 12, 10:30am - 12:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Enjoy viewing the 1970 film release of "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory." Run time 100 min (G).

Mindfulness Meditation: Three Poisons

Sat, Jul 12, 10:30am - 11:30am

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

Explore three basic causes of suffering in this compassion based meditation. Presented by Shazia Zaman, a certified mindfulness meditation practitioner.

Story and a Craft

Sat, Jul 12, 10:30am - 11:15am

Manchester Branch

Ages 2-6. Come to the library to listen to a story and make a craft. Registration is required.

Registration opens Saturday, June 28 2025 at 9:00am

Movie in the Library: Wicked

Sat, Jul 12, 1:30pm - 3:30pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Come watch the phenomenon starring Emmy, Grammy and Tony winning powerhouse Cynthia Erivo and Grammy-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and global superstar Ariana Grande. PG (160 min.)

Saturday Trivia: Disability Pride

Sat, Jul 12, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Test your knowledge and earn prizes with a fun trivia game to celebrate Disability Pride Month. Categories: Celebrities/Famous Figures, History, and Special Olympics.

Registration opens Saturday, June 28 2025 at 9:00am

Painted Flower Wine Glass Candle Holder

Sat, Jul 12, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Stop by the library create a beautiful flower candle holder for the summer. Sponsored by the Friends of the Berkeley Library.

This event is full

Drop In: 100th Anniversary Banner Coloring Activity

Sun, Jul 13, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Sun, Jul 13, 1:30pm - 4:30pm

Jackson Branch

Drop in near the Sensory Space from Sat. 7/12 through Sat. 7/19 to add to our 100th Anniversary Banner!

Sun, Jul 13, 1:30pm - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Sun, Jul 13, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

New to speaking English? Practice English conversation and talk about current events in a friendly, informal setting. This volunteer-led group meets every 2nd and 4th Sunday at 2 pm. Drop-in.

Mon, Jul 14, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Drop In: 100th Anniversary Banner Coloring Activity

Mon, Jul 14, All day

Long Beach Island Branch

Stop by Bayview Park in Brant Beach to view a summertime StoryWalk®. Provided by the Surf City Library.

Scavenger Hunt

Mon, Jul 14, 9:00am - 5:00pm

Barnegat Branch

Stop by the children's area to complete a scavenger hunt. New scavenger hunt each Monday from 6/23 to 8/18.

Mon, Jul 14, 9:30am - 8:30pm

Jackson Branch

Drop in near the Sensory Space from Sat. 7/12 through Sat. 7/19 to add to our 100th Anniversary Banner!

Ask a Master Gardener - Diagnostic Clinics

Mon, Jul 14, 10:00am - 12:00pm

Stafford Branch

The Rutgers Master Gardeners of Ocean County will answer any gardening questions you may have. Located on the main library floor. Drop-in.

Decorate a Picture Frame (Ages 6-12)

Mon, Jul 14, 10:30am - 11:30am

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Ages 6-12: Create a cool picture frame.

This event is full

Storytime with Cinderella - Children of All Ages

Mon, Jul 14, 10:30am - 11:30am

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

Join us for a storytime with Cinderella. This program will feature stories, games, songs and a meet and greet.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 10:30am

Sand Painting with WILD Jersey

Mon, Jul 14, 10:30am - 11:30am

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Design your own sand painting with Debbie Hadley from WILD Jersey. This program is intended for Teens and Tweens.

Mon, Jul 14, 10:30am - 2:00pm

Berkeley Branch

Individuals and day programs for adults with special needs are welcome to enjoy a movie in our meeting room. Room opens at 10:30, movie starts at 11:30am.

Builders' Club for Adults with Special Challenges

Mon, Jul 14, 10:30am - 11:00am

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 9:00am

Mon, Jul 14, 10:30am - 11:30am

Lacey Branch

Come join us for a creative experience, where participants can freely explore and build using the library's kits. Made possible by the Kearny Bank Foundation Grant. Please register for this event.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 10:30am

Mon, Jul 14, 10:30am - 4:00pm

Plumsted Branch

Mon, Jul 14, 10:30am - 12:30pm

Waretown Branch

Join us to learn how to knit. We provide all supplies. Ages 7-12. Please register.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 9:00am

Crafty Kids

Mon, Jul 14, 10:30am - 11:15am

Upper Shores Branch

Join us for this hands-on craft program that will encourage creativity through a variety of fun projects. Ages 5-12. Please register each child individually.

Time to Learn About Bees

Mon, Jul 14, 10:30am - 11:30am

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Learn the importance of bees in our environment and the challenges bees face. Presented by certified Rutgers Master Gardener of Ocean County, Georgina Price. Please register.

Tween Marshmallow Catapults STEAM program

Mon, Jul 14, 11:15am - 11:45am

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 9:00am

Mahjongg Mondays

Mon, Jul 14, 12:00pm - 3:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Come play Mah Jongg at the library!

Knitting at the Library

Mon, Jul 14, 12:30pm - 2:30pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Join us for knitting at the Library. Relax and chat with other yarn enthusiasts, work on your knit or crochet projects, and swap patterns.

Mon, Jul 14, 1:00pm - 1:45pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Build a catapult and shoot marshmallows in the air. Ages 8-14. Please register.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 1:00pm

Monday Movie: Black Bag - (R) 93 min.

Mon, Jul 14, 1:00pm - 2:35pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Join us for an afternoon movie at the Barnegat Library.

Knitting and Crocheting at the Beach

Mon, Jul 14, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Knitters and crocheters of all skill levels welcome.

Adult Movie Kit: BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE (2024)

Mon, Jul 14, 1:30pm - 2:30pm

Long Beach Island Branch

*MOVIE KIT ONLY* Copies of the movie will be available for check out while supplies last. All you need to enjoy a movie at home. Potential allergen. BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE (2024)

Pallet Wood Painting for Teens

Mon, Jul 14, 1:30pm - 5:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Mon, Jul 14, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Ages 11-17: Teen and Tweens will paint pallets with a fun saying. Sponsored by the Friends of the Brick Library.

Registration opens Friday, June 27 2025 at 9:00am

Having Fun with Sign Language for Adults: Part I

Mon, Jul 14, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Manchester Branch

Learn some sign language basics in this two part series which will be held in a fun and informal setting. Registration for this event also includes registration for Part II on Monday, 7/21 at 2PM.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 9:00am

Canvas and Coffee

Mon, Jul 14, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

Join Carolyn Frazier from Beach House Studio to paint a Summer theme on canvas while you enjoy refreshment. Materials are limited. Please register. Sponsored by the Jackson Friends of the Library.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 9:00am

Teen Video Gaming

Mon, Jul 14, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Toms River Branch - Teen Zone

Stop by the Teen Zone for drop-in video gaming.

Dragon Eggs / Huevos de dragón

Mon, Jul 14, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Decorate a dragon egg. Ages 5 - 12. REG. Decora un huevo de dragón. Edades 5 - 12. REG.

Fur, Feathers and Scales - Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge

Mon, Jul 14, 3:30pm - 4:30pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Learn about and meet the animals!

Oh My Yokai! Escape Room - Ages 12 - 18

Mon, Jul 14, 3:30pm - 4:30pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Yokai have invaded the library! Work together to catch these supernatural entities based in Japanese folklore in this part scavenger hunt, part escape room challenge.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 3:30pm

Performance & Sing Along with Bayside Ukulele Club

Mon, Jul 14, 3:30pm - 4:30pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Sing along with the Bayside Ukulele Club as they play familiar songs. Please register.

Tween Craft: Gods Eye

Mon, Jul 14, 4:30pm - 5:30pm

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Ages 7-11. Please register each child separately.

Beaded Keychains / Llaveros de cuentas

Mon, Jul 14, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Create a patterned keychain with beads. Ages 0 - 12. Crea un llavero estampado con cuentas. Edades 0 - 12.

Brizo the Mermaid Storytime

Mon, Jul 14, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Enjoy stories with a special guest from the ocean. All ages. Register each child separately. Please do not register adults.

Family Friendly Movie Night: Dog Man

Mon, Jul 14, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Beachwood Branch

Join us for our monthly family movie night. Registration required. All ages welcomed.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 10:00am

Friends of the Ocean County Library - Toms River Meeting

Mon, Jul 14, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Toms River Branch - Green Room

The Friends design and manage fund raising activities to support the library. New members are welcome.

Fur, Feathers, and Scales - presented by Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge

Mon, Jul 14, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Ages 5-12. Join Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge for a fun talk featuring live animals. Registration is required.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 9:00am

Dungeons & Dragons for Teens

Mon, Jul 14, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 9:00am

Mon, Jul 14, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Waretown Branch

Join Players on an adventure in the world of dungeons and dragons! Open to new and experienced players.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 9:00am

Meet the Mayor - Doug Vitale

Mon, Jul 14, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Join us as the Point Pleasant Beach Branch hosts "Meet the Mayor" with Pt. Beach Mayor Doug Vitale.

Keep Calm and Color On

Mon, Jul 14, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Please join us in the Sensory Space to color some summer-themed items.

The Seeing Eye® Dog Program

Mon, Jul 14, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Plumsted Branch - Plumsted Meeting Room

Learn about Seeing Eye Dog and meet the trainers and dogs. The Seeing Eye, pioneer and innovator in guide dog services, provides specially bred and trained dogs to guide people who are blind.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 6:30pm

Beginner Embroidery Basics

Mon, Jul 14, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Get your stitch on with Nonny Creates!

Talk Saves Lives - An Introduction to Suicide Prevention

Mon, Jul 14, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Toms River Branch

A flagship education program from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)

Knitting & Fiber Arts Group

Mon, Jul 14, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Island Heights Branch

Join us at the library work on your current fiber arts project, while sharing tips and tricks with others that share your interest. All skill levels and fiber arts welcome.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 6:30pm

Mon, Jul 14, 7:30pm - 9:00pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch

Local volunteer Mary Turbek will assist non-native English speakers practice conversational English. New members are always welcome.

Tue, Jul 15, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Drop In: 100th Anniversary Banner Coloring Activity

Tue, Jul 15, All day

Long Beach Island Branch

Stop by Bayview Park in Brant Beach to view a summertime StoryWalk®. Provided by the Surf City Library.

Tue, Jul 15, 9:30am - 8:30pm

Jackson Branch

Drop in near the Sensory Space from Sat. 7/12 through Sat. 7/19 to add to our 100th Anniversary Banner!

It's Fun to Be One Storytime

Tue, Jul 15, 9:30am - 1:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Toddler Time - Ages 1-4

Tue, Jul 15, 10:00am - 10:30am

Long Beach Island Branch

*all children must wear shoes or slippers of some kind to follow health and safety guidelines. Registration opens 2 weeks prior for Toddler storytime.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 1 2025 at 10:00am

Tue, Jul 15, 10:00am - 11:00am

Toms River Branch - Green Room

Registration required; begins July 1. Please register each child individually. Grow little one's love for the library with stories, songs, playtime, and more. Ages 12-23 months with a caregiver.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 1 2025 at 9:00am

Read & Weed Storytime

Tue, Jul 15, 10:00am - 11:00am

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Join us at the Stafford Branch in partnership with the Reynolds Family Foundation, for stories and songs and crafts inside and gardening outside. Ages 3 - 12. Drop-In.

Ocean County Health Department Resource Table

Tue, Jul 15, 10:00am - 2:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Come and meet representatives from the Ocean County Health Department for vital general public health and substance use information and resources. Information provided is accessible for all ages.

Hair Wraps

Tue, Jul 15, 10:30am - 12:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Create a personalized hair wrap with embroidery thread and beads. DIY project wraps on cording for a temporary clip-in option. Ages 8-12. Please register each child individually.

Teen Takeover - Ages 5-12

Tue, Jul 15, 10:30am - 11:30am

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

Puppet shows, Giant game boards, crafts? Come see what our Teen Volunteers have cooked up! Ages 5-12. Please Register.

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 10:30am

Toddler Read Along Storytime with Miss Liz - Ages 2 - 3

Tue, Jul 15, 10:30am - 11:00am

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Each child will have a read along copy of That's Not My Plane to help strengthen early literacy skills. Ages 2 - 3. Registration required. Please register each age appropriate child separately.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 1 2025 at 9:00am

Andrew's Big Show

Tue, Jul 15, 10:30am - 11:30am

Plumsted Branch - Plumsted Meeting Room

Join us for a fun for all ages, one-man-comedy and circus show. Andrew?s been practicing in circuses and on cruise ships, and now is bringing his show to your library. Ages 0-12. Registration required

Registration opens Tuesday, July 1 2025 at 10:30am

Ready, Set, Play! / ¡Preparados, listos, a jugar!

Tue, Jul 15, 10:30am - 12:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Children up to age five can have fun in supervised free-form play. Ages 0 - 5. Los niños de hasta cinco años pueden divertirse con juegos. Edades 0 - 5.

Tue, Jul 15, 10:30am - 2:00pm

Berkeley Branch

Individuals and day programs for adults with special needs are welcome to enjoy a movie in our meeting room. Room opens at 10:30, movie starts at 11:30am.

Sensory Play and Indoor Obstacle Course - Ages 2 - 6 with a caregiver.

Tue, Jul 15, 10:30am - 11:30am

Berkeley Branch - Children's Area

Show off your creativity by decorating the library sidewalks Ages 0-12

Reading Buddy

Tue, Jul 15, 10:30am - 11:30am

Waretown Branch

Join us for a fun and supportive program where children are paired with teens to practice reading. Ages 5-9

Registration opens Tuesday, July 1 2025 at 10:30am

Tue, Jul 15, 10:30am - 12:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Explore a variety of sensory activities. For children ages 2 - 6 with a caregiver. Come any time between 10:30 and 12 pm. Please register, beginning on July 1st.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 1 2025 at 9:00am

Incredible Infants

Tue, Jul 15, 10:30am - 11:30am

Beachwood Branch

Join us for songs, rhymes and playtime. Registration required. Ages 0-18 months with caregiver.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 1 2025 at 10:00am

Tue, Jul 15, 10:30am - 11:30am

Berkeley Branch - Teen Zone

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Tue, Jul 15, 10:30am - 12:30pm

Waretown Branch

Join us to learn how to knit. We provide all supplies. Ages 7-12. Please register.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 1 2025 at 9:00am

Writer's Group

Tue, Jul 15, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Waretown Branch

Join other writers to explore your skills in an informal and fun discussion.

Tie-Dye Papermaking

Tue, Jul 15, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Debbie Hadley of WILD Jersey will be here to show you how to make your own tie-dye paper. Sponsored by Friends of the Barnegat Library. Ages 8 -12. Register.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 1 2025 at 9:00am

Storytime: Caterpillars

Tue, Jul 15, 11:00am - 11:45am

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Enjoy stories, stories, songs, fingerplays and a craft. Ages toddler - 5. Register each child separately. Please do not register adults.

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 9:00am

Miniature Horse Visit for Teens

Tue, Jul 15, 11:00am - 1:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

You Made What?!!?

Tue, Jul 15, 11:30am - 12:30pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

This year, Ana and her adorable miniature horses are bringing an unforgettable experience to your library!

Registration opens Tuesday, July 15 2025 at 9:00am

Art Chat

Tue, Jul 15, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Meet and talk with local artists. Bring your own work for feedback.

Senior Tech Workshop - Personalized Technology Help

Tue, Jul 15, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Barnegat Branch

Drop in with your own supplies and say "hello" to a friendly group.

Knitters of Brick

Tue, Jul 15, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick 2nd Floor Computer Lab

Are you a knitter? Do you want to learn to knit? Join our group to learn or bring your own project and enjoy some conversation!

Tue, Jul 15, 1:00pm - 2:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Join retired IT professional and computer science professor, Darren Tietsworth, for personalized technology help. Bring your own devices and questions. Registration required.

Adult Craft Club

Tue, Jul 15, 1:30pm - 3:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Every month we make a new craft. All materials provided. Please register.

Pallet Painting for Kids & Tweens (Ages 8-12)

Tue, Jul 15, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Kids & Tweens will paint pallets with a fun saying. Ages 8 - 12. Registration required.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 1 2025 at 2:00pm

Friends of the Island Library Book Sale

Tue, Jul 15, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch - LBI Meeting Room

Get four books for $1 and help the Friends of the Island Library continue to provide great programs and support.

Osteoporosis

Tue, Jul 15, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Worried about the health of your bones? Join us as presenters from the Ocean County Health Department discuss what Osteoporosis is, the warning signs, and symptoms. Please register.

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 9:00am

Sensational Summer Smoothies

Tue, Jul 15, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Celebrate the flavors of summer by learning and tasting smoothie recipes with Amy Paradise and take home recipes to use yourself. Potential allergen. For adults. Registration required.

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 9:00am

The Five Love Languages

Tue, Jul 15, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Manchester Branch

The Five Love Languages: Understanding the Ways We Give and Receive Love for Better Relationships. Adult Program. Please register.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 1 2025 at 9:00am

Teen Takeover - Ages 5-12

Tue, Jul 15, 2:00pm - 8:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Andrew's Big Show

Tue, Jul 15, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Lakewood Branch - Lakewood Meeting Room

Andrew's Big Show is a family friendly, variety, circus show.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 1 2025 at 2:30pm

Tue, Jul 15, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

Puppet shows, Giant game boards, crafts? Come see what our Teen Volunteers have cooked up! Ages 5-12. Please Register.

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 2:30pm

Summer Slime

Tue, Jul 15, 2:30pm - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

It's Summer Slime Time!

This event is full

Scratch Art Keychains

Tue, Jul 15, 3:30pm - 4:30pm

Island Heights Branch

Drop in to create your own scratch art keychain. Ages 6-12

Miniature Horse Visit for Teens

Tue, Jul 15, 3:30pm - 4:30pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

This year, Ana and her adorable miniature horses are bringing an unforgettable experience to your library!

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 9:00am

Andrew's Big Show - Family friendly comedy, juggling show. Ages 0 - 12 REG

Tue, Jul 15, 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

You Made What?!!?

Tue, Jul 15, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Family friendly comedy, juggling show.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 1 2025 at 9:00am

Rescheduled

Anime Club

Tue, Jul 15, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

New date Tuesday, July 22, 7:30pm - 8:30pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch

We'll watch anime, talk about our favorite characters, and dive into Japanese culture. Each session may include drawing activities, trivia, and more! For grades 1 - 6

Campfire Snacks & A Movie - Ages 13 - 18

Tue, Jul 15, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Get ready to cozy up with campfire snacks and a feature film! Potential Allergens.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 1 2025 at 6:00pm

Fairy Drop-In Craft (Ages 2-6)

Tue, Jul 15, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Brick Branch

Ages 2-6. Drop in between 6 - 7pm to make a fun craft to celebrate International Fairy Day.

Jackson Writers' Group

Tue, Jul 15, 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Quiet Study Room

Bring your work, any genre.

Rescheduled

Marvelous Sleuths

Tue, Jul 15, 7:00pm - 8:30pm

New date Tuesday, July 08, 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch

Join us for our mystery book discussion group! Call the Branch for this month's title 609-294-1197. New members welcome!

Wed, Jul 16, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Drop In: 100th Anniversary Banner Coloring Activity

Wed, Jul 16, All day

Long Beach Island Branch

Stop by Bayview Park in Brant Beach to view a summertime StoryWalk®. Provided by the Surf City Library.

Wed, Jul 16, 9:30am - 8:30pm

Jackson Branch

Drop in near the Sensory Space from Sat. 7/12 through Sat. 7/19 to add to our 100th Anniversary Banner!

Bluey Party- Toddler

Wed, Jul 16, 9:30am - 10:15am

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Ages 6m-3. Have fun dancing, playing games, and doing fun activities at this Bluey themed party. Please notify staff of food allergy concerns. Registration is required.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 9:00am

Cops & Crayons session one - A Community Event

Wed, Jul 16, 9:30am - 1:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Baby & Me

Wed, Jul 16, 9:30am - 10:00am

Barnegat Branch

Come for rhymes, songs, and stories in this 30-minute program. Ages 0 - 18 months with a caregiver. Please register.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 9:00am

Rescheduled

Messy Time

Wed, Jul 16, 10:00am - 10:45am

New date Friday, July 25, 10:00am - 10:45am

Little Egg Harbor Branch

Explore safe textures, colors & sensory play. Enhance motor skills & bonding through creative mess and learning through joyful chaos.

Wed, Jul 16, 10:00am - 11:00am

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Join us for Cops & Crayons at the Point Boro Library!

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 9:00am

Rock and Roll Storytime (Ages 3 - 5)

Wed, Jul 16, 10:30am - 11:30am

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Ages 3-5. Celebrate National Day of Rock and Roll with stories and a craft.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 10:30am

Maker Activities

Wed, Jul 16, 10:30am - 11:30am

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Play and learn with circuits, robots, blocks and much more. Ages 5-12. Please register each child individually.

Cancelled

Preschool Yoga Storytime - Ages 3 - 6

Wed, Jul 16, 10:30am - 11:30am

Little Egg Harbor Branch

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Kids Yoga

Wed, Jul 16, 10:30am - 11:30am

Island Heights Branch

Yoga for ages 5 - 12.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 10:30am

Wed, Jul 16, 10:30am - 11:00am

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Join the fun with simple yoga poses, breathing exercises, stories and more. Ages 3 - 6. Please bring a yoga mat and dress to move. Spaces are limited. Program registration is required.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 9:00am

Reading Buddies with Therapy Dogs

Wed, Jul 16, 10:30am - 11:30am

Stafford Branch

Join us in the Children's Room and practice reading this summer with therapy dogs. For children in grades K-3.

Amazing Animals: Tales & Tails

Wed, Jul 16, 10:30am - 11:30am

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Join us for a story. Then, Ocean County Parks and Recreation Department will allow your child to touch animal furs, feathers, skulls and other natured related items. Ages 3 -7. Register.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 9:00am

Bluey Party- Preschool

Wed, Jul 16, 10:30am - 11:15am

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Ages 2-6. Have fun dancing, playing games, and doing fun activities at this Bluey themed party. Please notify staff of food allergy concerns. Registration is required.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 9:00am

Glow Paint Party - Ages 5 - 12

Wed, Jul 16, 10:30am - 11:30am

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Glow with the flow at this blacklight paint party with Lil Monsters Art.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 9:00am

Wed, Jul 16, 10:30am - 12:30pm

Waretown Branch

Join us to learn how to knit. We provide all supplies. Ages 7-12. Please register.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 9:00am

T-Shirt Painting Party

Wed, Jul 16, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Plumsted Branch

Join us for a T-Shirt Painting Party with stamps, fabric paint and music. Ages 4-12. Adults with little ones that need help must assist them . Please register.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 11:00am

Cops & Crayons session two - A Community Event

Wed, Jul 16, 11:00am - 1:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

You Won't Hear A Chirp

Wed, Jul 16, 11:15am - 12:15pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch

Join us for Cops & Crayons at the Point Boro Library!

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 9:00am

Wed, Jul 16, 12:00pm - 4:00pm

Waretown Branch

Beginners are welcome.

Cancelled

Adult Drop-in BYO Crochet and Knitting Club

Wed, Jul 16, 12:30pm - 4:30pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch

Please bring your current year gaming cards and game sets.

Wed, Jul 16, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Plumsted Branch - Plumsted Meeting Room

Join us for this low-key afternoon of yarn crafts, and socialization. Bring your own supplies.

Culinary Enthusiasts Club

Wed, Jul 16, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Come to our new monthly meeting to discuss favorite foods and restaurants. Bring in questions about recipes and food, and sometimes there will be dishes to try.

Shells, Scales & Froggy Tales

Wed, Jul 16, 1:30pm - 2:30pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 9:00am

Wed, Jul 16, 1:30pm - 2:30pm

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Stories and live animals from Cattus Island County Park. Ages 3-10. Register each child separately. Please do not register adults.

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 9:00am

Paint Party

Wed, Jul 16, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Toms River Branch - Discovery Room

Registration required; begins July 2nd. Please register each child's name individually. Visit the library and paint your own masterpiece. Ages 6 - 12.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 9:00am

Charcuterie Boards with Chef Brian Cook

Wed, Jul 16, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Come connect with your community and learn the art of charcuterie. Chef Brian Cook will teach you how to create the perfect charcuterie board. Potential allergen. Registration required.

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 9:00am

Toddler Music and Movement Storytime

Wed, Jul 16, 2:00pm - 2:45pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Listen to a story, move to music using scarves and eggs and make a rain stick with rice and tubes. Age 2. Please register

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 2:00pm

From Scratch: Pasta Sauce - Teens & Adults

Wed, Jul 16, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Learn about the history of pasta sauce and how to make it from scratch. Samples of pasta sauce will be provided to taste. Potential allergen.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 2:00pm

The Spirit of Lindbergh - Performed by Neill Hartley

Wed, Jul 16, 2:00pm - 4:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Wed, Jul 16, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Experience first-hand the incredible aviation journey that riveted the world! Neill Hartley brings to life aviator Charles Lindbergh and relives his historic 1927 flight across the Atlantic.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 9:00am

Glow Paint Party - Ages 5-12

Wed, Jul 16, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

You Made What!??!

Wed, Jul 16, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

Glow with the flow at this blacklight paint party with Lil Monsters Art. Ages 5-12. Please register.

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 2:30pm

T-Shirt Painting Party

Wed, Jul 16, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Plumsted Branch

Join us for a T-Shirt Painting Party with stamps, fabric paint and music. Ages 4-12. Adults with little ones that need help must assist them . Please register.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 2:30pm

Experiment Lab with Science Heroes

Wed, Jul 16, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Through hands-on experimentation, teens work together to investigate exciting science concepts like air pressure, chemical reactions, and more!

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 3:00pm

Teen Bug Printmaking

Wed, Jul 16, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick 2nd Floor Computer Lab

Join us and make a bug themed print for summertime!

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 9:00am

Sand Art Necklaces for Tweens

Wed, Jul 16, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Berkeley Branch - Teen Zone

Stop by and make sand art necklace. Ages 9 - 12.

Paint Class w/ Lil' Monsters Art (Ages 5-12)

Wed, Jul 16, 4:00pm - 5:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Practice your reading skills in the company of gentle therapy dogs. No registration necessary.

Wed, Jul 16, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Ages 5-12. Join artist and teacher Jamie Jarka of Lil Monsters Art for a painting lesson on canvas. All materials are included. Registration required.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 6:00pm

Open Our Mind Book Discussion Group

Wed, Jul 16, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

The Light Pirate by Lily Brooks-Dalton

Family Movie Night / Noche de cine en familia

Wed, Jul 16, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Come watch a G or PG movie with us. Ages 0 - 12. Ven a ver una película clasificada G o PG con nosotros. Edades 0 - 12.

Seashell Art

Wed, Jul 16, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

A touch of coastal charm. Simple process for a pretty decoupaged seashell will be demonstrated. Create a decorative accent, unique gift, hanging ornament, ring or candy dish.

This event is full

Experiment Lab with Science Heroes

Wed, Jul 16, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Manchester Branch

Ages 12-18. Through hands-on experimentation, teens work together to investigate exciting science concepts like air pressure, chemical reactions, and more!

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 9:00am

Tangible Tarot

Wed, Jul 16, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Lakewood Branch - Lakewood Meeting Room A

Get hands-on practice with one of our tarot decks while learning to read the Celtic Cross spread.

Twisted Stitchers

Wed, Jul 16, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - YA Floor

Drop-in and join the Twisted Stitchers.

Tween & Teen Craft: Tie-Dye-Tastic

Wed, Jul 16, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Bring out your creativity by tie-dying a t-shirt, drawstring bag or tote bag. T-shirt sizes will be available in small to x large. Sizes are limited and will be first come first served. Ages 9-17.

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 9:00am

Adult Crocheting Club

Wed, Jul 16, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

BYOCP...Bring Your Own Crochet Project

Adult Craft: Embroidered Notebooks

Wed, Jul 16, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Attendees will have the opportunity to craft a handmade stitched greeting notebook for themselves or someone special.

Huntington's Disease Support Group

Wed, Jul 16, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

This volunteer-led group is open to anyone with Huntington's Disease, as well as caregivers, family, or friends of someone with the disease or simply anyone interested in learning more. Drop-in.

Concert with the Pineland Symphonic Band

Wed, Jul 16, 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Toms River Branch - Mancini Hall

The crowd-pleasing ensemble returns to the library to showcase their varied repertoire featuring music from Sousa to Dixieland, patriotic tunes to rock.

PJ Party at the Park - Bayview Park

Wed, Jul 16, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch

Join us for stories & a craft at Bayview Park in Brant Beach. In the case of rain, this event will be held at the LBI Library in Surf City.

Thu, Jul 17, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Drop In: 100th Anniversary Banner Coloring Activity

Thu, Jul 17, All day

Long Beach Island Branch

Stop by Bayview Park in Brant Beach to view a summertime StoryWalk®. Provided by the Surf City Library.

Toddler Playdate

Thu, Jul 17, 9:30am - 10:30am

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Meet up with other parents and caregivers while your toddlers engage in sensory and free play time, board books and gentle music. Drop in.

Thu, Jul 17, 9:30am - 8:30pm

Jackson Branch

Drop in near the Sensory Space from Sat. 7/12 through Sat. 7/19 to add to our 100th Anniversary Banner!

Ice Painting - Ages 1-4

Thu, Jul 17, 10:00am - 11:00am

Long Beach Island Branch

Cool off with ice painting. We will use ice mixed with paint to create sensory-friendly art. REG opens 2 weeks prior.

Registration opens Thursday, July 3 2025 at 10:00am

Adults With Special Challenges Craft - Patriotic Star Magnet

Thu, Jul 17, 10:00am - 11:00am

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Create a red, white, and blue star magnet - designed especially for adults with special challenges. Please register as supplies are limited.

Registration opens Thursday, July 3 2025 at 9:00am

Color Your World Balloon Yarn Art

Thu, Jul 17, 10:30am - 11:30am

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

In this hands on program, children will create a unique, three dimensional design by wrapping vibrant colored yarn around a balloon mold. Ages 5-12. Please register each child individually.

I Love Sharks Storytime

Thu, Jul 17, 10:30am - 11:30am

Toms River Branch - Green Room

Registration required; begins July 3. Please register each child individually. Learn about sharks, listen to stories, and make a craft. Ages 3 - 5.

Registration opens Thursday, July 3 2025 at 9:00am

Mini Art & Play

Thu, Jul 17, 10:30am - 11:30am

Waretown Branch

Join us for colorful art and fun playtime!

Registration opens Thursday, July 3 2025 at 10:30am

Baby and Toddler Play

Thu, Jul 17, 10:30am - 11:30am

Plumsted Branch

For babies, toddlers and their adults. Join us in the Children's Department for playtime with babies and their caregivers. Please register each child individually.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 10:30am

"Tie Dye" Papermaking with WILD Jersey

Thu, Jul 17, 10:30am - 12:30pm

Waretown Branch

Join us to learn how to knit. We provide all supplies. Ages 7-12. Please register.

Registration opens Thursday, July 17 2025 at 9:00am

Thu, Jul 17, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Make colorful recycled note paper by turning used paper to pulp and back into paper.

Paint by Memory Craft

Thu, Jul 17, 11:00am - 11:45am

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Ages 4-10. Please register each child separately. Please do not register adults.

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 9:00am

Fraud Watch: Vigilance Against Cybercrime

Thu, Jul 17, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Beachwood Branch

AARP will present on how to stay safe in public, at home, when using social media and when shopping and banking as well as common scams and how to avoid them. Registration required.

Registration opens Thursday, July 3 2025 at 10:00am

Thu, Jul 17, 11:00am - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Make And Take Home A Perler Bead Buddy!

Thu, Jul 17, 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Mah Jong, Mahjong, Mahjongg no matter how you spell it, come and enjoy. All play levels welcome. Bring your current card and set.

Thu, Jul 17, 12:00pm - 1:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Join us to practice your reading skills in the company of gentle therapy dogs. Recommended for ages 3 - 12. Please register each child individually.

Friday Afternoon Book Discussion

Thu, Jul 17, 1:00pm - 4:00pm

Berkeley Branch

Weekly open play Mahjong from 1-4 Players must bring their own set and current card.

Cancelled

Thu, Jul 17, 1:00pm - 2:30pm

Berkeley Branch

Please contact the Berkeley Branch for details.

Meet the Pollinators: Craft & Science

Thu, Jul 17, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Adults can join to learn Knit/Crochet or bring a project with them. Drop in.

Summer Snacks

Thu, Jul 17, 1:30pm - 2:30pm

Manchester Branch

Ages 6-12. Learn how to make delicious and nutritious snacks this summer through hands on learning. Please notify staff of food allergy concerns. Registration is required.

Registration opens Thursday, July 3 2025 at 9:00am

Thu, Jul 17, 2:00pm - 3:30pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Artist and conservationist Katy Tanis will introduce children to colorful native plants and their pollinators. For Kids ages 4-8. Please register each child individually.

Shrinky Fun for Teens & Tweens

Thu, Jul 17, 2:00pm - 3:30pm

Toms River Branch - Teen Zone

Drop into the Teen Zone to make pins or keychains out of shrink plastic. Ages 10-18.

Coloring Paper Fans / Abanicos de papel para colorear

Thu, Jul 17, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Create your own colorful fan using paper fans and pastels. Ages 5 - 12. Crea tu propio abanico de colores. Edades 5 - 12.

Tween Art: Design a Rocket (Ages 9-12)

Thu, Jul 17, 2:00pm - 8:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Thu, Jul 17, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Ages 9-12. Celebrate National Moon Day by designing a rocket.

Registration opens Thursday, July 3 2025 at 2:30pm

Simple Sewing: Sock Monsters - Ages 9 - 12

Thu, Jul 17, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Design and create your own monster using colorful socks, felt, buttons and a few simple stitch techniques. Registration is required.

Registration opens Thursday, July 3 2025 at 9:00am

Baby and Toddler Play

Thu, Jul 17, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Plumsted Branch

For babies, toddlers and their adults. Join us in the Children's Department for playtime with babies and their caregivers. Please register each child individually.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 2:30pm

Group Ukulele Lessons for Teens and Adults

Thu, Jul 17, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Berkeley Branch - Teen Zone

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Thu, Jul 17, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Over this five-week series of hour-long lessons, local music instructor Kevin Kelley will teach ukulele basics in a group.

Up in the Air - Air Gliders

Thu, Jul 17, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Learn about milestones in aviation and make your own paper air gliders in air-mazing experiments. Ages 5 -11. Register.

Registration opens Thursday, July 3 2025 at 9:00am

Smoothie Bowls

Thu, Jul 17, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Manchester Branch

Join Jen Klein from RWJBarnabas Health and learn how to make healthy smoothie recipes. Potential allergens. Ages 12 - 18. Registration is required.

Registration opens Thursday, July 3 2025 at 9:00am

Jackson Friends of the Library

Thu, Jul 17, 4:00pm - 6:00pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

The Friends design and manage fundraising activities to support the library. New members are welcome.

Virtual Author Talk with Marie Lu - For Grades 9-12

Thu, Jul 17, 4:00pm - 5:00pm

Toms River Branch

To register, visit https://libraryc.org/theoceancountylibrary/78318

Library Where You Are: Ancestry

Thu, Jul 17, 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Make And Take Home A Perler Bead Buddy!

Drop-in Dino Sand Art

Thu, Jul 17, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Toms River Branch - Discovery Room

No registration required. Visit the library for dinosaur sand art while supplies last. Ages 5-12.

Thu, Jul 17, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Learn how to use, search, and view our Ancestry Library Edition Database. Discover how this database can assist you with your genealogy research. Please register.

Registration opens Thursday, July 3 2025 at 9:00am

Night Crafting for Adults

Thu, Jul 17, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

This month we will be making a bumblebee from a can.

Registration opens Thursday, July 3 2025 at 9:00am

Dungeons & Dragons for Teens

Thu, Jul 17, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Join fellow teen adventurers at the library's Dungeons and Dragons program. Ages 13-18.

Adult Writers Group

Thu, Jul 17, 7:30pm - 8:30pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - YA Floor

Explore your writing skills in a fun, friendly, informal setting.

Crafting With Miss Chris: Cassette Tape Mini-Notebooks

Fri, Jul 18, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Fri, Jul 18, All day

Island Heights Branch

Follow along at home to learn the basics of book binding.

Drop In: 100th Anniversary Banner Coloring Activity

Fri, Jul 18, All day

Long Beach Island Branch

Stop by Bayview Park in Brant Beach to view a summertime StoryWalk®. Provided by the Surf City Library.

Chair Yoga

Fri, Jul 18, 9:30am - 10:30am

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Boost your strength, flexibility, and mental health through chair yoga with local certified yoga instructor Regina Pietersen. A waiver must be signed before start of program.

Fri, Jul 18, 9:30am - 4:30pm

Jackson Branch

Drop in near the Sensory Space from Sat. 7/12 through Sat. 7/19 to add to our 100th Anniversary Banner!

Crazy Crayons Craft - Ages 5-12

Fri, Jul 18, 9:30am - 1:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Fri, Jul 18, 10:00am - 11:00am

Long Beach Island Branch

This summer's theme is "Color Your World." Join us for a crayon themed craft! REG opens 2 weeks prior. Please register each child separately.

Registration opens Friday, July 4 2025 at 10:00am

Lemonade Stand Craft

Fri, Jul 18, 10:00am - 11:00am

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Design and create a popsicle stick lemonade stand. Ages 4 - 11. Register

Registration opens Friday, July 4 2025 at 9:00am

Out of this World Storytime (Ages 3-5)

Fri, Jul 18, 10:30am - 11:30am

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Ages 3-5. Celebrate National Moon day with stories and a craft.

Registration opens Friday, July 4 2025 at 10:30am

Toddler Open Play and Building

Fri, Jul 18, 10:30am - 11:30am

Toms River Branch - Discovery Room

Registration required; begins 7/8. Please register each child's name individually. Engage in playtime with different stations around the room. This is a program for toddlers and their caregivers.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 8 2025 at 9:00am

Mother Goose Time - For babies up to 18 months and their caregivers.

Fri, Jul 18, 10:30am - 11:00am

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Rhythm, rhyme, music and movement for babies up to 18 months and their caregivers. Please register.

Registration opens Thursday, July 3 2025 at 9:00am

Summer Drop In Crafts

Fri, Jul 18, 10:30am - 4:00pm

Plumsted Branch

Join us each Friday, this summer, in the kid zone for 8 weeks of drop in crafts. First come first served, no registration necessary.

Fri, Jul 18, 10:30am - 12:30pm

Waretown Branch

Join us to learn how to knit. We provide all supplies. Ages 7-12. Please register.

Registration opens Friday, July 4 2025 at 9:00am

Fri, Jul 18, 11:00am - 1:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

BFFs4EVER!

Waretown Woolies Knitting Club

Fri, Jul 18, 12:30pm - 4:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Bring your current year gaming cards and game sets. Drop in.

Out of Sight Alpacas

Fri, Jul 18, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Upper Shores Branch

Out of Sight Alpacas of Waretown will be bringing their alpacas back to visit the Upper Shores Branch! All Ages.

Fri, Jul 18, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Waretown Branch

Come join us and relax as we work on our latest knitting, crochet and or fiber related projects!

Friday Fun / Viernes De Diversion

Fri, Jul 18, 1:30pm - 3:30pm

Lakewood Branch

Simple craft for small kids. Ages 0 - 12. Manualidades para niños en prescolar. ? Edades 0 ? 12.?

Cancelled

Adult Gaming - Canasta

Fri, Jul 18, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch

Join in some friendly competition playing the classic card game Canasta. Please register.

Tote-ally Crafty Bags

Fri, Jul 18, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

For those looking to show off their style, look no further! Swing by and design your own personal tote bag provided by Brick Young Adult Services. Ages 10-18. Please Register.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 1 2025 at 9:00am

LBI Canasta

Fri, Jul 18, 2:00pm - 5:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch - LBI Meeting Room

Play Canasta with other teams and players at the Long Beach Island Library twice a month. Participants must already have a basic knowledge of the game.

Point Pleasant Super Smash Bros Annual Tournament - At the Pt. Pleasant Boro Branch

Fri, Jul 18, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch

Pre register for this main summer event of a Point Pleasant Super Smash Bros Tournament between Beach and Boro.

The Boggs Center on Disability and Human Development

Fri, Jul 18, 2:00pm - 4:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Fri, Jul 18, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

In honor of Disability Pride Month discover the Boggs Center on Disability and Human Development. Learn the history of this center and the work they do. Please register.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 9:00am

Point Pleasant Super Smash Bros Annual Tournament - Boro vs. Beach - Potential Allergen

Fri, Jul 18, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Pre register for this main summer event of a Point Pleasant Super Smash Bros Tournament between Beach and Boro.

Meet the Mayor

Fri, Jul 18, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Berkeley residents, become acquainted with Mayor John Bacchione in a casual setting. Drop in and ?Meet the Mayor? at the Ocean County Library Berkeley Branch, 2 PM Friday, July 18.

Fri, Jul 18, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch

BFFs4EVER!

Ice Cream in a Bag

Fri, Jul 18, 2:30pm - 4:00pm

Island Heights Branch

Learn the science behind making ice cream and then enjoy this sweet snack. Ages 10-18. Potential Allergen

Registration opens Friday, July 4 2025 at 2:30pm

Sat, Jul 19, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Drop In: 100th Anniversary Banner Coloring Activity

Sat, Jul 19, All day

Long Beach Island Branch

Stop by Bayview Park in Brant Beach to view a summertime StoryWalk®. Provided by the Surf City Library.

Sat, Jul 19, 9:30am - 4:30pm

Jackson Branch

Drop in near the Sensory Space from Sat. 7/12 through Sat. 7/19 to add to our 100th Anniversary Banner!

Lotus Flower Lanterns for Teens

Sat, Jul 19, 10:00am - 11:30am

Plumsted Branch - Plumsted Meeting Room

Learn to make a lovely lotus flower lantern using colored paper and wireframes, while learning about Korean history and culture from a member of the Korean Spirit and Culture Promotion Project.

Registration opens Sunday, June 29 2025 at 10:00am

Saturday Morning Cartoon - All Ages

Sat, Jul 19, 10:00am - 12:00pm

Jackson Branch

Come watch some cartoons in the Children's section.

Playtime Fun

Sat, Jul 19, 10:00am - 11:30am

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Drop by to socialize with other kids and caregivers. Ages 1-5

Saturday Morning Cartoons - All Ages

Sat, Jul 19, 10:00am - 12:00pm

Jackson Branch

Enjoy classic cartoons, coloring, and crafts available in the Children's Department. No registration required.

Summer Saturday Toddler Sing-a-Long

Sat, Jul 19, 10:00am - 12:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Adults can join to learn Knit/Crochet or bring a project with them. Drop in.

Sat, Jul 19, 11:00am - 11:30am

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Come sing and dance to some of your favorite songs! Ages 18 months - 3 years.

Registration opens Saturday, July 5 2025 at 11:00am

Stay 'n Play

Sat, Jul 19, 11:00am - 12:45pm

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Watch Inside Out 2 & play with Legos®. Drop in. PG (100 min.)

Feature Film: Captain America - Brave New World

Sat, Jul 19, 1:30pm - 3:30pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Sam Wilson, the new Captain America, finds himself in the middle of an international incident and must discover the motive behind a nefarious global plan. Rated PG-13. Runtime:118 minutes

Registration opens Saturday, July 5 2025 at 9:00am

Drop-in Video Games for Kids

Sat, Jul 19, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Toms River Branch - YS Living Room/YS Area

Play video games and make some new friends. Ages 4 - 12. No registration required.

Sun, Jul 20, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Sun, Jul 20, All day

Long Beach Island Branch

Stop by Bayview Park in Brant Beach to view a summertime StoryWalk®. Provided by the Surf City Library.

Sun, Jul 20, 1:30pm - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Mon, Jul 21, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Baby Bookworms - Babies 0-24 months

Mon, Jul 21, All day

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Main Floor

Friends of the Upper Shores Branch will be having their annual Christmas in July Book Sale.

Carnival Scavenger Hunt

Mon, Jul 21, 9:00am - 5:00pm

Barnegat Branch

Stop by the children's area to complete a scavenger hunt. New scavenger hunt each Monday from 6/23 to 8/18.

Mon, Jul 21, 10:00am - 10:30am

Long Beach Island Branch

*babies must wear foot coverings such as socks, or slippers to follow health & safety guidelines. Please register.

Storywalk® at the Stafford Branch - "Bugs from Head to Tail" by Stacey Roderick

Mon, Jul 21, 10:00am - 11:00am

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Storywalk® at the Stafford Branch. Drop-In. Crafts while supplies last. Ages 3 - 12.

Mon, Jul 21, 10:30am - 2:00pm

Berkeley Branch

Individuals and day programs for adults with special needs are welcome to enjoy a movie in our meeting room. Room opens at 10:30, movie starts at 11:30am.

Adults with Special Challenges Storytime

Mon, Jul 21, 10:30am - 11:00am

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Registration opens Monday, July 7 2025 at 10:30am

Mon, Jul 21, 10:30am - 11:30am

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

Join us for a storytime perfect for adults with special challenges with a craft to follow. Ages 18 and up.

Mon, Jul 21, 10:30am - 4:00pm

Plumsted Branch

Crafty Kids

Mon, Jul 21, 10:30am - 11:15am

Upper Shores Branch

Join us for this hands-on craft program that will encourage creativity through a variety of fun projects. Ages 5-12.

Lunchtime Movie for Adults with Special Challenges

Mon, Jul 21, 11:15am - 11:45am

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Registration opens Monday, July 7 2025 at 11:15am

Mon, Jul 21, 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Bring your own lunch and watch a movie in our meeting room.

Unique Creatures

Mon, Jul 21, 12:00pm - 1:00pm

Upper Shores Branch

Live animal show for ages 5 to 12.

Support Group for Caregivers'

Mon, Jul 21, 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Being a caregiver can be overwhelming. Learn how you can balance it all. Presented in partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health. To register call (609) 978-4728.

Lacey Book Discussion

Mon, Jul 21, 1:00pm - 2:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

This month's book discussion is "Heaven & Earth Grocery Store" by James McBride. Contact Lacey Circulation for more information

Master Gardeners

Mon, Jul 21, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Waretown Branch

Bring photos or soil and plant samples and receive quality tips.

Monday Movie: Small Things Like These - (PG-13) 98 minutes

Mon, Jul 21, 1:00pm - 2:40pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Join us for an afternoon movie at the Barnegat Library.

Movie Matinee Monday: CLUELESS

Mon, Jul 21, 1:30pm - 3:30pm

Long Beach Island Branch - LBI Meeting Room

Monday: 7/21- 1:30 PM: CLUELESS (1995), Drama, Rated PG-13, 110 min. Please register.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 9:00am

Having Fun with Sign Language for Adults: Part II

Mon, Jul 21, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Manchester Branch

This class is a continuation from Part I. This is a two part workshop. Use the link to session #1 to register you for both sessions on 7/14 and 7/21.

Color By Number / Colorea por numero

Mon, Jul 21, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Lakewood Branch

An assortment of color by numbers. Ages 0 - 12. Un surtido de colores por números para hacer. Edades 0 - 12.

Unique Creatures - Ages 5-12

Mon, Jul 21, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

What Will You Create Today?

Rescheduled

Lego® Club

Mon, Jul 21, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

New date Monday, July 28, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch

Get ready to build. LEGO® bricks will be provided during the program, please do not bring your own bricks. Best for ages 5 - 12.

Mon, Jul 21, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

Live animal show for ages 5 - 12.

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 2:30pm

Create Your Own Beach Tote

Mon, Jul 21, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Stop by the library and create your own tote for the beach. Sponsored by the Friends of the Berkeley Library.

This event is full

WILD Jersey: Sand Painting

Mon, Jul 21, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Beachwood Branch

Kids will choose a design, then paint their picture using glue and colored sand. Registration required. Please register each child individually. Ages 8-12.

Registration opens Monday, July 7 2025 at 10:00am

Bayside Ukulele Club

Mon, Jul 21, 3:15pm - 4:30pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Bayside Ukes welcomes uke players of all levels to our free gatherings. Bring your own ukulele. Drop-in.

Mold Your Imagination

Mon, Jul 21, 3:30pm - 4:30pm

Brick Branch - Brick 2nd Floor Computer Lab

Come on in and try your hand with Paper Clay. Use it to create jewelry, dolls, ornaments, miniatures, sculptures, wall hangings, and more. Ages 10-18. Please Register

Registration opens Monday, July 7 2025 at 9:00am

Unique Creatures (Ages 5-12)

Mon, Jul 21, 4:30pm - 5:30pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Live animal show for ages 5 ? 12. REG.

Registration opens Monday, July 7 2025 at 4:30pm

Pickin' at Point

Mon, Jul 21, 5:00pm - 8:30pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Bring your acoustic instrument and a song to share at this drop-in acoustic jam session.

Crayons with an Ocean Township Cop

Mon, Jul 21, 5:30pm - 8:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Find a Fossil

Mon, Jul 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Island Heights Branch

Be a paleontologist for a day with Wild Jersey, as we excavate real fossils from a mock rock. You'll get to identify and label your fossil, then take it home to keep. Ages 10-18

Registration opens Monday, July 7 2025 at 6:00pm

Cancelled

Mon, Jul 21, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Waretown Branch

Color with a police officer and enjoy snacks. This program is sponsored by The Ocean Township Police Department.

Clay Sea Snails / Caracoles marinos de arcilla

Mon, Jul 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Make a clay snail with a seashell home. Ages 5 - 12. Haz un caracol de arcilla con una casa de conchas marinas. Edades 5 - 12.

Pajama Tales Family Storytime - Best for ages 3 - 7.

Mon, Jul 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Stories, rhymes, music and movement followed by a simple craft. Feel free to wear your coziest pajamas. Please register.

Registration opens Monday, July 7 2025 at 9:00am

Monday Night Movie: American Graffiti

Mon, Jul 21, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Music-packed comedy-drama about teenage life in 1962 California. Starring Richard Dreyfuss, Ron Howard, Cindy Williams, Harrison Ford and many others before they were stars. PG (110 min.)

Plumsted Evening Book Discussion

Mon, Jul 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Plumsted Branch - Plumsted Meeting Room

The Woman they Could Not Silence by Kate H. Moore

Advanced Cricut Class

Mon, Jul 21, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

You've Learned The Basics, Now Learn The Rest

Mon, Jul 21, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Registration opens Monday, July 7 2025 at 9:00am

3D Puzzle Painting

Mon, Jul 21, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Discovery Room

Registration required; begins July 7. Please register each child individually. Paint a 3D animal puzzle. Ages 7 - 12.

Registration opens Monday, July 7 2025 at 9:00am

Mon, Jul 21, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Beginning Readers. Practice your reading skills with our teen S.A.I.L. volunteers. Registration is required.

Registration opens Monday, July 7 2025 at 9:00am

Meet George and Martha Washington: A Love Story

Mon, Jul 21, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Beachwood Branch

A local volunteer will assist non-native English speakers practice conversational English. New members are always welcome.

Mon, Jul 21, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Waretown Branch

Join us for a journey into the heart of history

Registration opens Monday, July 7 2025 at 9:00am

Mon, Jul 21, 7:30pm - 9:00pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch

Local volunteer Mary Turbek will assist non-native English speakers practice conversational English. New members are always welcome.

Tue, Jul 22, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Tue, Jul 22, All day

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Main Floor

Friends of the Upper Shores Branch will be having their annual Christmas in July Book Sale.

Family Storytime: All about Colors

Tue, Jul 22, 9:00am - 1:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Come to the Upper Shores Branch on Tuesday mornings to enjoy a game of Hand and Foot. Players must bring their own cards and game sets.

Tue, Jul 22, 10:00am - 11:00am

Toms River Branch - Green Room

Registration required; begins July 8th. Please register each child's name individually. Learn about colors with some stories, songs, and a craft. Ages 0 - 6 years.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 8 2025 at 9:00am

Read & Weed Storytime

Tue, Jul 22, 10:00am - 11:00am

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Join us at the Stafford Branch in partnership with the Reynolds Family Foundation, for stories and songs and crafts inside and gardening outside. Ages 3 - 12. Drop-In.

Live Animal Talk with Cattus Island (Ages 5-12)

Tue, Jul 22, 10:30am - 11:30am

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Ages 5-12. Learn about Ocean County's turtles and snakes and gain an appreciation for these fascinating creatures. Potential allergens.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 8 2025 at 10:30am

Sensory Play & Toddler Building - Ages 2-5

Tue, Jul 22, 10:30am - 11:30am

Jackson Branch - Storytime Room

Explore your senses with fun station-based play. Please register.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 1 2025 at 9:00am

Baby & Me - Up to 18 months with caregiver

Tue, Jul 22, 10:30am - 11:00am

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Please join us for songs, music, rhymes, and stories. Up to 18 months with caregiver. Program registration is required.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 8 2025 at 9:00am

Basic Weaving with Nonny Creates - Tweens & Teens

Tue, Jul 22, 10:30am - 11:30am

Long Beach Island Branch

Join us for a fun, hands-on weaving workshop where we'll be learning basic weaving techniques. We'll show you how to turn "trash" into unique, earth friendly treasures. REG opens 2 weeks prior.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 8 2025 at 10:30am

Tue, Jul 22, 10:30am - 2:00pm

Berkeley Branch

Individuals and day programs for adults with special needs are welcome to enjoy a movie in our meeting room. Room opens at 10:30, movie starts at 11:30am.

Summer Toddler Tales - Ages 19 - 36 months with a caregiver.

Tue, Jul 22, 10:30am - 11:30am

Berkeley Branch - Children's Area

Show off your creativity by decorating the library sidewalks Ages 0-12

Reading Buddy

Tue, Jul 22, 10:30am - 11:30am

Waretown Branch

Join us for a fun and supportive program where children are paired with teens to practice reading. Ages 5-9

Registration opens Tuesday, July 8 2025 at 10:30am

Tech Help Tuesday

Tue, Jul 22, 10:30am - 12:30pm

Waretown Branch

One-on-one Tech Help. Please Register!

Tue, Jul 22, 10:30am - 11:00am

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Stories, rhymes, music and movement for ages 19 - 36 months with a caregiver. Please register.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 8 2025 at 9:00am

Little Chefs - Ages 2-5 (Potential allergens)

Tue, Jul 22, 10:30am - 11:30am

Berkeley Branch - Teen Zone

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

The Recharge

Tue, Jul 22, 11:00am - 12:30pm

Toms River Branch

Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey, in partnership with the Ocean County Library, is offering a support group for caregivers and their loved ones.

Silly Time

Tue, Jul 22, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Enjoy Play-Doh®, Legos® & Lincoln Logs®. Ages toddler - 5. Drop in.

Tue, Jul 22, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Plumsted Branch - Plumsted Meeting Room

Join us for stories, movement and a snack you prepare with your little ones. Ages 2-5. Potential allergens

Super Smash Brothers Tourney

Tue, Jul 22, 11:00am - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Let's A Go!

How To Train Your Dragon! The Hidden World - Movie and Clay Dragon Eye craft

Tue, Jul 22, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Barnegat Branch

Drop in with your own supplies and say "hello" to a friendly group.

Tue, Jul 22, 1:45pm - 3:45pm

Plumsted Branch - Plumsted Meeting Room

Join us in watching "How to Train your Dragon! The Hidden World." We will be making a clay dragon eye craft while the movie is playing. This program is for ages 9-12.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 8 2025 at 1:45pm

Fashion Design Around The World

Tue, Jul 22, 2:00pm - 3:15pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Learn about different fashion cities, styles, and design cute outfits from around the world! Ages 12-18.

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 2:00pm

Shark Tote Bags (Ages 6-10)

Tue, Jul 22, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Ages 6-10. Celebrate shark week all month long with a shark tote bag craft.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 8 2025 at 2:00pm

Cartooning Workshop with Author Mike Dawson

Tue, Jul 22, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Learn about cartooning with a graphic novelist. Ages 8 - 12. Please register.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 8 2025 at 9:00am

Paper Bag Puppets / Títeres de bolsa de papel

Tue, Jul 22, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Create a paper bag puppet. Ages 0 - 12.Crea una marioneta de bosa de papel. Edades 0 - 12.

Summer Reading Club

Tue, Jul 22, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Lakewood Branch - Lakewood Meeting Room

Share what you've been reading this summer, and get recommendations from other readers!

Tween/Teen Tuesday: Stafford Branch - Christmas in July

Tue, Jul 22, 2:00pm - 2:45pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Ages 9-17. EACH ATTENDEE MUST BE REGISTERED SEPARATELY. Space is Limited. Program runs 45 minutes. Join us in the meeting room and create some Christmas Crafts.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 8 2025 at 2:00pm

Slang Bee

Tue, Jul 22, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Toms River Branch - Teen Zone

Challenge your friends to define the most popular slang terms for the boomers and beyond. Prizes for all participants, and a chance to win the coveted Slang Bee award.

Blending Fun with Amy: Ice Cream for Teens

Tue, Jul 22, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Join us for a fun and educational ice cream blending demo and tasting program. Sponsored by the Friend of the Little Egg Harbor Branch. This program is intended for Teens and Tweens.

WILD Jersey - Leaf Rubbing Books for ages 5 - 7. REG

Tue, Jul 22, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Nature activity program with Debbie Hadley of Wild Jersey. Ages 5 - 7.

Teen Minute to Win It

Tue, Jul 22, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Manchester Branch

Teens will have the opportunity to participate in a themed game challenge that pits them against each other. Ages 13 - 18. Please register as space is limited.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 8 2025 at 9:00am

Paint a Patriotic Gnome

Tue, Jul 22, 2:30pm - 4:00pm

Jackson Branch - Makerspace

Join us in the Makerspace for a creative afternoon! Patrons are invited to paint charming gnomes in festive red, white, and blue. All supplies provided.

This event is full

Cyanotpye Sun Printing

Tue, Jul 22, 2:30pm - 4:00pm

Island Heights Branch

Learn how to create Cyanotype sun prints. Ages 18+ Please register

Registration opens Tuesday, July 8 2025 at 2:30pm

Friends of the Lacey Library Meeting

Tue, Jul 22, 4:00pm - 5:00pm

Lacey Branch

The Friends design and manage fundraising activities to support the Lacey Library. New members always welcome. Drop In.

Tue, Jul 22, 4:30pm - 5:30pm

Toms River Branch - Mancini Hall

Registration required; begins July 8. Please register each child individually. Practice your reading skills in the company of gentle therapy dogs. Ages 6 - 12.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 8 2025 at 9:00am

Super Smash Brothers Tourney

Tue, Jul 22, 5:30pm - 8:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sensory Space

Visit the Sensory Space on the 2nd floor of the Toms River Branch.

Tue, Jul 22, 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

Let's A Go!

The Jersey Surecats Present - American Artists in Rock Music and Their Influences

Tue, Jul 22, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Join us for an exciting concert by the Jersey Surecats! Playing everything from British Invasion, to the 80s, to the 90s, and some of Today's Hits. Get ready for a musical trip through the decades!

Marine Mammals: Ocean Giants & Coastal Creatures

Tue, Jul 22, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Join experts from the Jacques Cousteau Coastal Education Center to explore marine mammals! Learn about their adaptations, behaviors, and challenges in today's changing oceans. Family Program.

Gyotaku Fish Printing with WILDJersey - Ages 12-18

Tue, Jul 22, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Jackson Branch

Learn the art of Japanese fish printing. We'll start with a lesson in fish anatomy and then make your own colorful fish prints to keep. Sponsored by the Jackson Friends of the Library.

Campfire Snacks & A Movie - Ages 13 - 18

Tue, Jul 22, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Get ready to cozy up with campfire snacks and a feature film! Potential Allergens.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 8 2025 at 6:00pm

Paws for Reading- Session 1

Tue, Jul 22, 6:00pm - 6:30pm

Manchester Branch

Ages 5-8. This program is for beginning readers who would like to practice their reading skills by reading aloud to a trained service dog. Please register.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 8 2025 at 9:00am

Writers' Group

Tue, Jul 22, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick 2nd Floor Computer Lab

Spark your writing creativity and participate in friendly peer critiques on novels, short stories, memoirs, or any writing project you are working on.

Vinyl Record Nights

Tue, Jul 22, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Toms River Branch - Atrium

Come unwind and listen to curated vinyl records under the stars of the Toms River library atrium.

Paws for Reading- Session 2

Tue, Jul 22, 6:30pm - 7:00pm

Manchester Branch

Ages 5-8. This program is for beginning readers who would like to practice their reading skills by reading aloud to a trained service dog. Please register.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 8 2025 at 9:00am

RB Express Concert

Tue, Jul 22, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Upper Shores Branch

Featuring tight rhythms and harmonies, this vocal group combines their voices to enrapture you with music of the 1950s in ways no instruments can.

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 7:00pm

The Strictly 60's Band

Tue, Jul 22, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch - LBI Meeting Room

Come listen to the best songs and sounds of the 1960s. Please register.

Registration opens Tuesday, July 1 2025 at 9:00am

DIY Pinwheels / DIY Molinetes

Tue, Jul 22, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Create your own pinwheels using colorful paper and straws. Ages 5 - 12. Crea tus propios molinetes con papel de colores y pajitas. Edades 5 - 12.

Anime Club

Tue, Jul 22, 7:30pm - 8:30pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

We'll watch anime, talk about our favorite characters, and dive into Japanese culture. Each session may include drawing activities, trivia, and more! For grades 1 - 6

Wed, Jul 23, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Trevor's Banned Book Club

Wed, Jul 23, All day

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Main Floor

Friends of the Upper Shores Branch will be having their annual Christmas in July Book Sale.

Rescheduled

Wed, Jul 23, 9:00am - 8:00pm

New date Wednesday, July 23, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Toms River Branch

Trevor's Banned Book Club believes reading is fundamental and knowledge is power. Gather to read and discuss books that have been subject to bans across the country.

Groovy Babies

Wed, Jul 23, 10:00am - 11:00am

Toms River Branch - Green Room

Registration required; begins July 9. Please register each child individually. Move and groove along to golden oldies songs and interactive stories. For babies from 0 - 18 months.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 9 2025 at 9:00am

Summer Ceramics Workshop - Blueberry Bowls

Wed, Jul 23, 10:00am - 12:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch - LBI Meeting Room

Paint a beautiful seasonal pottery piece, with Lorraine Kofman, owner of Just Kil'n Time Ceramics Studio.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 9 2025 at 9:00am

Wild Jersey Balloon Powered Cars

Wed, Jul 23, 10:30am - 11:30am

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Assemble and decorate a miniature car powered by air. Then pump up your air tank and race your car against a friend's. Ages 8-12. Please register each child individually.

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 9:00am

Little Yogi + Me

Wed, Jul 23, 10:30am - 11:30am

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room A

Yoga for ages 2 -4 with caregiver.

Preschool Storytime: Creating Art - Ages 3 - 6

Wed, Jul 23, 10:30am - 11:00am

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Please join us for songs and stories about making art! Ages 3 - 6 years. Program registration is required. Please register each age appropriate child separately.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 9 2025 at 9:00am

Reading Buddies with Therapy Dogs

Wed, Jul 23, 10:30am - 11:30am

Stafford Branch

Join us in the Children's Room and practice reading this summer with therapy dogs. For children in grades K-3.

Yellow Hat Storytime

Wed, Jul 23, 10:30am - 11:30am

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Listen to classic stories and then make a yellow hat. Ages 2 - 6. Register.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 9 2025 at 9:00am

Baby & Toddler Social Hour

Wed, Jul 23, 10:30am - 11:30am

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Join other caregivers in a relaxed open-play setting. Ages 0-4.

Ocean Storytime (Ages 3-5)

Wed, Jul 23, 10:30am - 11:30am

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Ages 3-5. Celebrate World Ocean Day with stories and a craft.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 9 2025 at 10:30am

Little Chefs - Ages 6-10 (Potential allergens)

Wed, Jul 23, 10:30am - 11:30am

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room B

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Knit Wits

Wed, Jul 23, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Beachwood Branch

Bring your knitting and crocheting to the library and meet new friends. Registration not required.

Wed, Jul 23, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Plumsted Branch - Plumsted Meeting Room

Join us for themed stories and a snack you prepare with your child. Ages 6-10.Potential allergens.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 9 2025 at 11:00am

Wed, Jul 23, 11:00am - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

What Will You Create Today?

Support Group for Caregivers'

Wed, Jul 23, 12:00pm - 4:00pm

Waretown Branch

Beginners are welcome.

Wed, Jul 23, 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Being a caregiver can be overwhelming. Learn how you can balance it all. Presented in partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health. To register call (609) 978-4728.

Wed, Jul 23, 12:30pm - 4:30pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room B

Please bring your current year gaming cards and game sets.

Science Heroes - Adventure of the Missing Colors

Wed, Jul 23, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Have specific questions about plants in your garden? Need help diagnosing issues and how to address them? Stop in and speak to master gardeners for advice and to learn gardening techniques to help.

Wed, Jul 23, 1:00pm - 2:30pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Join the Science Heroes with hands-on experiments and fun, interactive stories as we celebrate the scientists who color our world with art! Ages 5-12.

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 1:00pm

Outrageous Reptiles with Jenkinson?s Aquarium

Wed, Jul 23, 1:00pm - 1:45pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

Explore the characteristics of our scaly friends, the reptiles! During this live show meet reptile ambassadors to learn about their differences and how they adapt to their habitats.

Summer Ceramics Workshop - Blueberry Bowls

Wed, Jul 23, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Long Beach Island Branch

Paint a beautiful seasonal pottery piece, with Lorraine Kofman, owner of Just Kil'n Time Ceramics Studio.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 9 2025 at 9:00am

Wed, Jul 23, 1:30pm - 2:30pm

Brick Branch - Brick 2nd Floor Computer Lab

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Registration opens Monday, July 7 2025 at 9:00am

Teen Challenge: Will it Waffle?

Wed, Jul 23, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - REF Floor

Drop in and talk to a Master Gardener from the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Ocean County.

Better Battery Life

Wed, Jul 23, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Get the most out of your devices and keep them running longer between charges with simple tips and tricks to extend the battery life of your phone, tablet, or laptop. Please register.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 9 2025 at 9:00am

Wed, Jul 23, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room A

Experiment with different kinds of waffles to try to discover a surprisingly delicious new creation. This program is intended for Teens and Tweens.

Family STEAM Club with K'nex Building Kit. - Ages 5 - 12. REG

Wed, Jul 23, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Come explore, create, and learn using OCLs STEAM kits and materials. Ages 5 -12. REG

Registration opens Wednesday, July 9 2025 at 9:00am

LEGO® Free Play

Wed, Jul 23, 2:30pm - 4:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

We'll supply the LEGO® and you supply imagination. Display your creations for everyone to admire. Best for ages 5 - 12. No registration required.

Outrageous Reptiles with Jenkinson?s Aquarium

Wed, Jul 23, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Plumsted Branch - Plumsted Meeting Room

Explore the characteristics of our scaly friends, the reptiles! During this live show meet reptile ambassadors to learn about their differences and how they adapt to their habitats.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 9 2025 at 3:00pm

Blow Paint Art / Arte de pintura soplado

Wed, Jul 23, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Create abstract art with watercolor and straw. Ages 5 - 12. Crea arte abstracto con acuarela y una pajita. Edades 5 - 12.

D&D 101: Character Creation

Wed, Jul 23, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick 2nd Floor Computer Lab

New to D&D? Learn to start by creating your character and learning the basics.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 9:00am

Dungeons and Dragons: Summer Session for Teens

Wed, Jul 23, 3:00pm - 4:45pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Learn how to play this game of imagination and adventure. New and experienced players welcome.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 9 2025 at 3:00pm

STEM LEGO® Builders

Wed, Jul 23, 4:00pm - 4:45pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

LEGO® building fun. Join in and use the LEGO® pieces from the Library and apply creativity and building skills while having fun! Ages 5-12. Please register.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 9 2025 at 4:00pm

Virtual Author Talk with Rex Ogle - For Grades 5-8

Wed, Jul 23, 4:00pm - 5:00pm

Toms River Branch

To register, visit https://libraryc.org/theoceancountylibrary/78830

Family Movie Night: The Wild Robot (PG)

Wed, Jul 23, 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

What Will You Create Today?

Wed, Jul 23, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

After a shipwreck, Roz the robot is stranded on an uninhabited island. To survive the harsh environment, Roz bonds with the island's animals and cares for an orphaned baby goose. Rated PG. 1hr 42min.

Movie in the Library: Wicked

Wed, Jul 23, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Come watch the phenomenon starring Emmy, Grammy and Tony winning powerhouse Cynthia Erivo and Grammy-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and global superstar Ariana Grande. PG (160 min.)

Registration opens Wednesday, June 25 2025 at 6:00pm

Friends of the Little Egg Harbor Branch Meeting

Wed, Jul 23, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

The Friends design and manage fundraising activities to support the Library. New members are welcome.

Intro to Computers

Wed, Jul 23, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Berkeley Branch - Berkeley Meeting Room

Stop by the library with your own device for this introductory course. Please register.

Trevor's Banned Book Club

Wed, Jul 23, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Toms River Branch - Green Room

Trevor's Banned Book Club believes reading is fundamental and knowledge is power. Gather to read and discuss books that have been subject to bans across the country.

Dungeons & Dragons for Teens

Wed, Jul 23, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Join players on a short, but fun, beginner-friendly adventure in the world of Dungeons & Dragons! Open to and good for both new and experienced players! Ages 13-18.

Registration opens Wednesday, July 2 2025 at 9:00am

Good Readers Book Discussion Group

Wed, Jul 23, 7:30pm - 8:30pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Book Title: The Librarianist by Patrick deWitt

Thu, Jul 24, All day

Lakewood Branch

Win a prize if you get the number right. Ages 0 - 12. Gana un premio si aciertas el número. Edades 0 - 12.

Mermaid Princess Storytime

Thu, Jul 24, All day

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Main Floor

Friends of the Upper Shores Branch will be having their annual Christmas in July Book Sale.

Playdate - Toddler

Thu, Jul 24, 9:30am - 10:15am

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Ages 6m-3. Open playtime in our meeting room. Registration is required.

Registration opens Thursday, July 10 2025 at 9:00am

Tales & Tunes Storytime

Thu, Jul 24, 10:00am - 11:00am

Toms River Branch - Green Room

Registration required; begins July 10. Please register each child individually. Listen to summer themed stories, sing songs, and create a fun craft. Ages 2 - 3.

Registration opens Thursday, July 10 2025 at 9:00am

Thu, Jul 24, 10:30am - 11:30am

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Join your favorite mermaid princess for stories, songs, and pictures! Ages 3-12.

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 10:30am

Preschool Art: Finger Painting Fun! (Ages 3-5)

Thu, Jul 24, 10:30am - 11:30am

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Ages 3-5. Join us for some freestyle finger-painting fun! Dress for mess. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Brick Library.

Registration opens Thursday, July 10 2025 at 10:30am

Be a Magician

Thu, Jul 24, 10:30am - 11:30am

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Learn how to do magic with everyday objects. You will be able to amaze your friends with your new found skills. Ages 6 - 12

This event is full

Toddler Sing-a-Long

Thu, Jul 24, 10:30am - 11:00am

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Come sing and dance to some of your favorite songs! Ages 18 months - 3 years.

Registration opens Thursday, July 10 2025 at 10:30am

Playdate - Preschool

Thu, Jul 24, 10:30am - 11:15am

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Ages 2-6. Open playtime in our meeting room. Registration is required.

Registration opens Thursday, July 10 2025 at 9:00am

Little Hands, Big Art

Thu, Jul 24, 10:30am - 11:30am

Waretown Branch

Explore your creativity! Prepare to get messy, and enjoy this fun craft project for little artists. Ages 2 to 5. Please register.

Registration opens Thursday, July 10 2025 at 10:30am

Accessible Sing-Along for Older Teens and Adults

Thu, Jul 24, 10:30am - 11:30am

Jackson Branch

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Registration opens Thursday, July 3 2025 at 10:30am

Thu, Jul 24, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Point Pleasant Borough Branch - Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room

Led by a NJ licensed speech therapist, this is a musical program designed for older teens and adults who have speech impairments and/or developmental disabilities.

Glitter & Glow Balls Craft

Thu, Jul 24, 11:00am - 11:45am

Tuckerton Branch - Tuckerton Meeting Room

Ages 4-10. Please register each child separately. Please do not register adults.

Registration opens Thursday, July 3 2025 at 9:00am

Vocational Paths - Teen and Adults with Special Challenges

Thu, Jul 24, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

In honor of Disability Pride Month, Venus Majeski from the NJ Institute for Disabilities will share resources for finding the career path that suits your needs and interests. Please register

Registration opens Monday, June 30 2025 at 9:00am

Thu, Jul 24, 11:00am - 1:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

You Won't Hear A Chirp

Thu, Jul 24, 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Mah Jong, Mahjong, Mahjongg no matter how you spell it, come and enjoy. All play levels welcome. Bring your current card and set.

Craft for Adults with Special Challenges

Thu, Jul 24, 12:00pm - 1:00pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Join us to practice your reading skills in the company of gentle therapy dogs. Recommended for ages 3 - 12. Please register each child individually.

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 12:00pm

Thu, Jul 24, 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Waretown Branch

Come join us in making a fun craft. Please register.

Registration opens Thursday, July 10 2025 at 12:00pm

Thu, Jul 24, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Drop in with your own supplies and say "hello" to a friendly group.

Chicks with Sticks: A Knitting and Crocheting Group

Thu, Jul 24, 1:00pm - 4:00pm

Berkeley Branch

Weekly open play Mahjong from 1-4 Players must bring their own set and current card.

Thu, Jul 24, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Manchester Branch - Manchester Meeting Room

Love to knit or crochet, come to our meeting room and join others with the same passion. Bring your yarn, needles, hooks and current projects.

Drop in Pipecleaner Portraits - Ages 5-12

Thu, Jul 24, 2:00pm - 3:30pm

Jackson Branch

Make a self portrait out of pipe cleaners! No Registration required.

The Art of Charcuterie with Chef Brian Cook

Thu, Jul 24, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Jackson Branch - Jackson Meeting Room

Come connect with your community and learn the art of charcuterie. Chef Brian Cook will teach you how to create the perfect charcuterie board. Potential allergen. Registration required.

Registration opens Tuesday, June 24 2025 at 2:00pm

Shells, Scales, and Froggy Tales

Thu, Jul 24, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Plumsted Branch - Plumsted Meeting Room

Join a Cattus Island Park Naturalist to learn about the unique reptiles and amphibians that can be found right here in Ocean County. even meet some live animal friends. Ages 4-10.

Registration opens Thursday, July 10 2025 at 2:00pm

Drum Craft

Thu, Jul 24, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Lakewood Branch

Come make a drum with us. Age 8 - 12.

Be A Magician with Debby Pease - Ages 6-12

Thu, Jul 24, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

You Made What!??!

Thu, Jul 24, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Long Beach Island Branch

Learn how to do magic with everyday objects. You will be able to amaze your friends with your new found skills. REG opens 2 weeks prior. Please register each child separately.

Registration opens Thursday, July 10 2025 at 2:30pm

Afternoon Nintendo Switch Gaming for Teens

Thu, Jul 24, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Little Egg Harbor Branch - Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room

Teens & tweens will have the opportunity to play video games on the Nintendo Switch. This program is intended for Teens and Tweens.

Thu, Jul 24, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Jackson Branch

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Registration opens Thursday, July 3 2025 at 2:30pm

Mindful Art Club

Thu, Jul 24, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Stafford Branch - Stafford Meeting Room

Come spend a stress-free hour listening to chill music and making art. Materials are provided or bring your own projects and coloring tools. Meets the 4th Thursday of every month. Please register.

Sound Bowls for Seniors - A Vibe Session with Kate

Thu, Jul 24, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Berkeley Branch - Teen Zone

Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.

Thu, Jul 24, 2:30pm - 3:30pm

Upper Shores Branch - Upper Shores Meeting Room

Join Kate for a calming sound bath experience using crystal singing bowls.

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 9:00am

Group Ukulele Lessons for Teens and Adults

Thu, Jul 24, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Point Pleasant Beach Branch - Point Pleasant Beach Meeting Room

Over this five-week series of hour-long lessons, local music instructor Kevin Kelley will teach ukulele basics in a group.

Minute to Win it

Thu, Jul 24, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Brick Branch - Brick Meeting Room

Join us for some fun as we compete in several challenging minute to win it games

Registration opens Thursday, June 26 2025 at 9:00am

Tween Craft: Mosaic Coasters

Thu, Jul 24, 3:15pm - 4:15pm

Barnegat Branch - Barnegat Meeting Room

Design a ceramic coaster using glass mosaic tiles. Ages 9-15.

Thu, Jul 24, 4:00pm - 5:00pm

Lacey Branch - Lacey Meeting Room

Practice reading in the company of gentle therapy dogs. Please register.

Registration opens Thursday, July 10 2025 at 9:00am

Thu, Jul 24, 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Toms River Branch - Sparks's Lab (Makerspace)

You Made What!??!