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Cancelled

Nonfiction Book Cafe: American History

Join us for discussions about nonfiction books! Each meeting features a shared theme. It's a great way to explore new ideas and connect with fellow readers. July's theme is American History.

Join us each month for discussions about nonfiction books! Each meeting features a shared theme. It's a great way to explore new ideas and connect with fellow readers.

July's theme is American History.

Here are some recommended reads:

Stamped from the Beginning by Ibram X. Kendi
Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Brown
The Field of Blood: Violence in Congress and the Road to Civil War by Joanne B. Freeman
Myth America: Historians Take On the Biggest Legends and Lies About Our Past edited by Kevin M. Kruse, Julian E. Zelizer.
Code Girls by Liza Mundy
Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era by James M. McPherson
The British are Coming by Rick Atkinson

AGE GROUP: | Seniors | Adults |

EVENT TYPE: | Book Discussion |

TAGS: | |

Lacey Branch
Phone: (609) 693-8566
Hours
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Mon, Jul 20 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Tue, Jul 21 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Wed, Jul 22 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Thu, Jul 23 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Fri, Jul 24 9:00AM to 5:00PM
Sat, Jul 25 9:00AM to 5:00PM
Sun, Jul 26 Closed
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Upcoming Events

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Reading Buddies - Grade K - 3rd
Mon, Jul 20, 11:00am - 11:30am
Lacey Meeting Room
Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.
Lacey Book Discussion
Mon, Jul 20, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
This month's book discussion is "The Blame Game" by Sandie Jones. Contact Lacey Circulation for more information
Escape The Labyrinth: Tween Escape Room - Ages 11 - 16
Mon, Jul 20, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Do you have what it takes to avoid the minotaur and escape the labyrinth? Learn about the myth behind this ancient being to aid you and your friends in unlocking treasures.
This event is full
Library Where You Are: Scholastic Databases
Tue, Jul 21, 10:30am - 11:30am
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.
What America Sounds Like: 250 Years of American Music
Tue, Jul 21, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Melissa Ziobro, Curator of BSCAM at Monmouth University, presents an interactive talk about the iconic music that helps us understand our shared history, as we celebrate America 250. Please register.
Superhero Teen Movie & Game Night - Ages 13 - 18
Tue, Jul 21, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Hang out, play games, and watch The Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025, PG-13, 115 minutes)
Unearth a Story Trail at Eno's Pond County Park
Wed, Jul 22, 9:30am - 10:30am
Lacey Meeting Room
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.
This event is full
Media: Unfiltered - Media Literacy For Teens - Presented by St. Francis Counseling Services
Wed, Jul 22, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Join representative of St. Francis Counseling Service for a presentation on media bias and make beaded keychains and bracelets. All supplies included.
NJ Snake Man Reptlies & Amphibians - For ages 3 - 12
Thu, Jul 23, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Experience a fun, hands-on encounter with snakes, lizards, frogs, and turtles and learn awesome and educational facts about each animal. Ages 3-12. Registration is required.
This event is full
Paws for Reading
Thu, Jul 23, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Practice your reading in the company of gentle therapy dogs. Please register.
Library Where You Are: Scholastic Teachables
Thu, Jul 23, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Join us to learn about our database Scholastic Teachables and how it can help your kids continue their studies while off from school during the summer. Please register.
Mini Musicians with Let It Be Music Therapy - for children with developmental disabilities - Ages 3 - 5
Fri, Jul 24, 10:30am - 11:30am
Lacey Meeting Room
Join Bri Dorso, Board-Certified Music Therapist, for our music therapy group, for children with developmental disabilities ages 3-5! Made possible by Kearny Bank Grant.
Typing Basics
Fri, Jul 24, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Learn the basics of typing on a computer keyboard. Program is for individuals seeking to learn the basics of typing and is beginner level. Please register.
Reading Buddies - Grade K - 3rd
Mon, Jul 27, 11:00am - 11:30am
Lacey Meeting Room
Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.
NJ State Library Talking Book and Braille Center (TBBC) - Celebrate Disabilities Pride Month
Mon, Jul 27, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
In honor of Disabilities Pride Month, learn about the New Jersey State Library Talking Book and Braille Center (TBBC) and the services they provide. Please register.
Pajama Tales Family Storytime - Best for ages 3 - 7 with a caregiver.
Mon, Jul 27, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Stories, rhymes and songs followed by a simple craft. Feel free to wear your coziest pajamas.
Penguin Pointers with Jenkinson's Aquarium - Lacey 50th Anniversary
Tue, Jul 28, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
In honor of the Lacey Branch's 50th Anniversary join us as Jenkinson's Aquarium presents Penguin Pointers. Potential allergens. Please register. Sponsored by the Ocean County Library Foundation Grant.
This event is full
Friends of the Lacey Library Meeting
Tue, Jul 28, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
The Friends design and manage fundraising activities to support the Lacey Library. New members always welcome. Drop In.
Lacey Historical Society: History of the Lacey Library - Lacey 50th Anniversary
Tue, Jul 28, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
In honor of the Lacey Branch's 50th Anniversary, discover how Lacey's library evolved throughout the 20th century in this engaging presentation by the Lacey Historical Society.
Digging up the Past: Fossils of New Jersey - Ages 6 to 10
Wed, Jul 29, 10:00am - 11:00am
Lacey Meeting Room
Join us as a Park Naturalist from the Ocean County Parks and Recreation Department talks about the prehistoric creatures that lived here so long ago in New Jersey. Please register.
This event is full
Anime Cooking With Chef Brian
Wed, Jul 29, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Join Chef Brian for a live cooking demonstration where you'll learn how to make delicious anime-inspired dishes inspired by your favorite shows. Potential allergen.
This event is full
Mother Goose Time - For babies up to 18 months and their caregivers.
Thu, Jul 30, 10:30am - 11:00am
Lacey Meeting Room
Rhythm, rhyme, music and movement for babies up to 18 months and their caregivers. Please register.
Coffee Painting with Culture Chauraha
Thu, Jul 30, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Brew up some creativity with this unique painting session where your favorite beverage becomes your artistic medium. Ideal for beginners and art enthusiasts alike.
Stitch It Club
Thu, Jul 30, 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Come knit, crochet, sew, or embroider with fellow stitch it members. Share leisurely conversation & tips. All skill levels are welcome.
Adult Craft: Seashell Waterfall Decor
Fri, Jul 31, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Join us for a fun afternoon crafting seashell waterfall decor. Supplies limited. Please register.
This event is full
Reading Buddies - Grade K - 3rd
Mon, Aug 03, 11:00am - 11:30am
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 20 2026 at 9:00am
Movie Matinee and Crafts - Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (PG)
Mon, Aug 03, 1:30pm - 4:30pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Join us for a matinee of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (PG, 152 minutes) and make wizarding world-themed crafts! Ages 6-12. Please register.
Registration opens Monday, July 20 2026 at 9:00am
Stitch It Club
Tue, Aug 04, 9:30am - 11:30am
Lacey Meeting Room
Come knit, crochet, sew, or embroider with fellow stitch it members. Share leisurely conversation & tips. All skill levels are welcome.
Transition to College for Students with Disabilites
Tue, Aug 04, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Jamie Prioli, Director of Access and Disability Services at Ocean County College, will provide an overview of accommodations for students with disabilities in a college setting. Please register.
Read With Pride Book Club
Tue, Aug 04, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Meets on the first Tuesday of the Month at 6:30. Register or drop in. Even if you didn't read the book, join us for a great conversation. In partnership with Barnegat Pride
Toddler Techno Dance Party
Wed, Aug 05, 10:30am - 11:15am
Lacey Meeting Room
Join us for a dance party with colorful lights and a (kid-friendly) techno playlist! Perfect for ages 0 to 5, their grown-ups, and their siblings to move and groove together! Please register.
Registration opens Wednesday, July 22 2026 at 9:00am
Marine Debris & How You Can Help - presented by Ocean County 4-H for ages 8 - 12
Wed, Aug 05, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Learn about how marine debris gets into our coastal waters and what you can do to help. Then, you'll create your own debris take-home artwork. Registration is required.
Registration opens Wednesday, July 29 2026 at 9:00am
Educate, Make and Take Herbal Sachet Workshop - Sweet Bayou Lou
Thu, Aug 06, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Join local herbalist Vee for a relaxing, sensory workshop where we will explore the calming power of Lavender and Chamomile and the energizing zest of Mint and Ginger. Registration required.
Registration opens Thursday, July 23 2026 at 9:00am
 LEGO® Free Play
Thu, Aug 06, 2:30pm - 4:00pm
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.
Teen and Adult Evening Movie & Craft - Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (PG)
Thu, Aug 06, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Join us for Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (PG) 118 min. We'll be creating a simple clay disc craft during the movie. Crafts while supplies last. No registration is required. 
Open Playtime - Best for ages 1 - 5 with a caregiver
Fri, Aug 07, 10:00am - 11:30am
Lacey Meeting Room
Stop in, play and meet new friends. No registration required.
Internet Basics
Fri, Aug 07, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Learn the basics of how to navigate the internet and visit websites. Program is for individuals seeking to learn internet basics and is beginner level. Please register.
Registration opens Friday, July 24 2026 at 9:00am
Adults with Developmental Disabilities: Builders' Club
Mon, Aug 10, 10:30am - 11:30am
Lacey Meeting Room
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, July 27 2026 at 9:00am
Reading Buddies - Grade K - 3rd
Mon, Aug 10, 11:00am - 11:30am
Practice reading this summer with our teen volunteers. For kids in grades K-3rd. Please register as space is limited.
Registration opens Monday, July 27 2026 at 9:00am
Rainbow Space For LGBTQ+ Teens & Allies - Ages 13 - 18
Mon, Aug 10, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Come hang out, get creative at our crafting station, find your next favorite read at our book nook, and connect with others in a relaxed safe space. Each month we will focus on a new activity.
Adults with Developmental Disabilities Book Talk and Craft
Tue, Aug 11, 10:30am - 11:30am
Lacey Meeting Room
Come join us to read and discuss a book about sunflowers and make a thankful sunflower related craft. Made possible by the Kearny Bank Foundation Grant. Please register for this event.
Registration opens Tuesday, July 28 2026 at 9:00am
T-Rex Tea Party - Ages 3-8
Tue, Aug 11, 2:30pm - 4:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
You're cordially invited to a T-Rex Tea Party at the library! Come dressed in your best for a DINO-MITE Tea Party, complete with delicious tea, snacks, and some T-Rex fun! Potential allergens.
Registration opens Tuesday, July 28 2026 at 9:00am
Meet the Mayor
Tue, Aug 11, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Join us as the Lacey Branch hosts Meet the Mayor. During this event you'll be able to ask questions directly to Lacey Mayor Steven Kennis in an informal setting.
Creative Writing for Teens
Tue, Aug 11, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Join horror author Casey Masterson as she provides writing tips, prompts, and advice on how to bring your stories to life! Sponsored by the Friends of the Lacey Library
Registration opens Tuesday, July 28 2026 at 9:00am
Artificial Intelligence & Information Literacy - for Teens
Wed, Aug 12, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Join Ocean County College Librarian Shawn Oates for an examination of AI, its place in the modern media ecosystem, and how you can engage with it ethically and critically.
Registration opens Wednesday, July 29 2026 at 9:00am
Jurassic Crafternoon - For families. Presented by SAIL teen volunteers
Wed, Aug 12, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Join us for a roaring good time with dinosaur related crafts. Please register.
Registration opens Wednesday, July 29 2026 at 9:00am
What the Vikings Left Behind - Ages 6 - 12
Thu, Aug 13, 10:30am - 11:30am
Lacey Meeting Room
Come explore the world of the Vikings through hands-on activities and a presentation from the American Swedish History Museum. Sponsored by the Friends of the Lacey Library.
Registration opens Thursday, July 30 2026 at 9:00am
Splatter Paint by MHAC
Thu, Aug 13, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Take a step inside Mullica Hill Art Center's portable splatter room. This is a fun way to let loose and relieve stress while making a beautiful abstract piece. No painting ever comes out the same. 
Registration opens Thursday, July 30 2026 at 9:00am
Chair Yoga with Linda Higley: Summer Evening Series
Thu, Aug 13, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
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.
Registration opens Thursday, August 6 2026 at 9:00am
Summer Toddler Tales - For ages 19 - 36 months with a caregiver.
Fri, Aug 14, 11:00am - 11:30am
Lacey Meeting Room
Stories, rhymes, music and movement for ages 19 - 36 months.
This event is full
Summer Cricut Craft for Adults
Fri, Aug 14, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Celebrate Summer with a fun Circut papercraft. Please register as supplies are limited.
Registration opens Friday, July 31 2026 at 9:00am
Magic Trick Workshop
Mon, Aug 17, 10:30am - 11:30am
Lacey Meeting Room
Come to the library to become a magician and learn how to do your own tricks. Ages 6-12. Registration is required.
Registration opens Monday, August 3 2026 at 9:00am
Ocean County Health Department Resource Table
Mon, Aug 17, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Stop by the library for a drop-in Resource Table hosted by the Ocean County Health Department.
Lacey Book Discussion
Mon, Aug 17, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
This month's book discussion is "The Personal Librarian" by Maire Benedict. Contact Lacey Circulation for more information
Introduction to A.I. - Presented by AARP
Mon, Aug 17, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Lacey Meeting Room
This lecture will introduce some of the basic ideas around artificial intelligence, including Chat GPT. Please register.
Registration opens Monday, August 3 2026 at 9:00am
Mother Goose Time - For babies up to 18 months and their caregivers.
Tue, Aug 18, 10:30am - 11:00am
Lacey Meeting Room
Rhythm, rhyme, music and movement for babies up to 18 months and their caregivers. Please register.
Registration opens Tuesday, August 4 2026 at 9:00am
Anime Summer Festival - Ages 12 - 18
Tue, Aug 18, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Join us for fun Japanese summer activities & food as we close out the summer! Library appropriate cosplay welcomed for our cosplay contest! Potential allergens.
Registration opens Tuesday, August 4 2026 at 9:00am
Haunted Gingerbread Houses - Ages 12 - 18
Wed, Aug 19, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Lacey Meeting Room
Get spooky & sweet by creating your own haunted gingerbread house! Pre-made houses will be provided with some delicious treats to help decorate your scary masterpiece. Potential Allergens. REG.
Registration opens Wednesday, August 5 2026 at 9:00am
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