November 2015

Twenty books were selected representative of notable fiction and non-fiction books for adults, young adults, and children published between the years of 1995 and 2005 either by a New Jersey author, about New Jersey, or using New Jersey locales. Posters were distributed statewide to libraries. The selected titles were: Margaret Brisco. Women in Transition: I am a Wanderer (2004: Publish read more

Winning Program: An exhibit titled, “Dear Bergenfield: Greetings from World War II” was curated. The display included a collection of letters, V-Mail and greeting cards from local servicemen stationed throughout the U.S. and abroad. An event brought community leaders, students and veterans together to read aloud some of the stories from the exhibit.

Winning program: A day-long event was held celebrating the role of agriculture in the development of the region. Many different activities and programs contributed to the event, including a farm showcase, an exhibit of early farming photographs, children’s activities and speakers about barn quilts and the history of local farms.

Winning Program: Based upon his award-winning book, Looking for America on the New Jersey Turnpike (co-authored with Michael Aaron Rockland), Angus Gillespie, Professor of American Studies at Rutgers University, entertained an audience with anecdotes and stories about the history and development of the Turnpike, both as a physical artifact and as an emblem of American ideas and values.

Winning program: In partnership with two local historical societies, an exhibit was created highlighting Parsippany history through the ages. Artifacts from the historical collections were displayed and volunteers served as docents. Various activities were available for children and adults, including the opportunity to create a time capsule to preserve personal memories.

Winning program: A program was held to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Library’s New Jersey Room and its vast collections of historical material. New Jersey historian Jim Madden and his co-author, from central New Jersey, Joe Bilby discussed their book published by the History Press chronicling NJ’s first 350 years, with a special emphasis on Jersey City and Hudson read more

Winning program: Local authors and their work were highlighted in two events. Judy Courter discussed her work on Fred and Ethel Noyes and Richard Porcelli presented his research on the Naval Air Station.

Winning program: Two public programs, one for school children and one for adults, were held exploring Dutch culture and influence on the history of New Jersey.

Winning program: A series of free public programs, exhibits and a walking tour were held highlighting the local Revolutionary hero, James Caldwell.

Winning program: A Maplewood Ideas Festival was held over a two-week period and featured readings, panel discussions and performances. A Local Literary Award was presented to Judith Viorst.