NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ—The New Brunswick Public Library will use a $10,000 LibraryLinkNJ grant to host programs for the community such as sewing, knitting and crocheting, jewelry making, paper crafts, and rainbow looms.

Young Adult Librarian Rosy Henderson said the library hopes to host open houses this summer and launch the new programs this fall.

“We’re definitely going to be doing open houses so everyone is familiar with what we have,” Henderson said.

“This should really change what we’re able to offer the community,” Henderson added. “That is really important to us because we want to be able to offer them as much as we can.

Library director Robert Belvin said the programs, part of an initiative called “Makerspaces”, will give residents the opportunity to try creative outlets that of interest to them that they normally would not have access to.

Henderson said in addition to the aforementioned programs the library also hopes to collaborate with the New Brunswick 4-H to provide programs for middle school and high schoolers.

“The main focus is to develop skills they can take home with them,” Henderson said.

Materials for many of the programs have already been purchased, including a laptop computer and printer, sewing machines, felt, thread and looms. The library plans to host a sewing program in collaboration with Unity Square, which already hosts a regular sewing group.

The city was awarded the funding in January as part of the “New Jersey Library Makerspaces – The Leading Edge” initiative, a joint program between the State Library and LibraryLinkNJ.

Sports Reporter at New Brunswick Today | 732-208-5651 | acangiano@nb.today

Experienced journalist and educator who loves writing about local issues and social justice. Also a big fan of Rutgers sports.

Experienced journalist and educator who loves writing about local issues and social justice. Also a big fan of Rutgers sports.