When Deputy Mayor Fred Profeta threw out the idea of closing or selling a branch of the Maplewood Memorial Library at a Township budget workshop meeting on January 9, he set off a debate centered around the libraries that has threatened to drown out other budget discussions at times.

And while Profeta did not question that the libraries were used and useful—rather he questioned the long-term sustainability of the libraries in the new municipal budgeting realities of hte 21st century in New Jersey—passionate defenders of the libraries arose to tout the branches and their many uses.

Patch decided to get on over to the libraries and find out just what was going on.

We found that, with the economy still waning and residents having more free time on their hands than ever, the libary not only provides people with ways to fill the day, but methods for getting on their feet again. The library also offers a place to keep kids busy, supplement education, showcase art and music, and offer a quiet respite from the world outside. It's both a resource and a community gathering place.

In recent months, Patch has covered a number of events at the main branch of the library from a blood drive, to a Community Coalition on Race event, Underground Music performance and Professionals in Transition event. At the Hilton Branch, Patch covered a plastic bag recycling and repurposing initiative.

Jayne Kennedy, the Maplewood Memorial Library Director, says circulation is definitely up over the last year. This, despite the fact that the main branch is closed on Sundays and the Hilton branch isn't open on Fridays. 

"The library is busier," she said. "More people are here reading. We see more men during the day, more parents with their children. People are also using the library for research, the Internet and to aid with job searches." Another factor, she added, is the difficulty people have in finding parking during the middle of the day. "That's a big indicator that the library is busier." 

As a frequent visitor to the main branch on Baker Street, this writer often sees many of the same people utilizing the library several times per week. Some are using the computers while others are simply there reading the newspaper or a novel.

One woman, who asked that her name not be used, moved to Maplewood four years ago to be closer to her children. She uses the library for quiet time to read and to view books on art and anthropology. "For a small town, it surprised me to find that they have such a wide collection of books," she said. "There are beautiful books here at that I enjoy looking at and taking out from time to time." The library is also important, she added, for people like her who might not have computers at home.

Also frequenting the library is Margot Sirois, a senior at Kent Place High School in Summit, who had come to the library one early evening to work on a big paper. A Maplewood resident, Margot uses the library for a number of reasons. "To be honest, sometimes there are too many distractions at home," she said. "I come to the library mainly if I have something big to do. I go more frequently near the end of the trimester. I also come once a week to study for tests or on weekends to take books out."

Other students are finding the library useful too. Recently, a number of high schoolers attended a free workshop held in the Main Library's Memorial Hall titled Finding Your Right-Fit College. The workshop was conducted by Jeff Melman, a Bergen County social worker and therapist, and Paige Continentino, a certified life coach. Melman has helped students in the past with improving academic performance and dealing with stress and anxiety. Paige helps youth/adults focus on changes that will best suit their lives and goals.

Devlin, a student at Columbia High School, attended the program at her mom's suggestion. "I'm trying to decide which school to attend, so she thought this might help me get started," Devlin said. Several Millburn High School sophomores were in attendance with their mothers. One of the students, Andrew, said he has always enjoyed being around animals and is thinking about possibly becoming a veterinarian.

During the session, which involved active participation, parents discussed their concerns over high schools pushing their kids toward specific colleges. Students talked about their expectations, fears and goals relating to college. The program was threefold. The topics discussed included: The best college is the one that's right for you; the one that addresses your values and needs; and is a blueprint of you.

Another recent event at the library was the Urban Art program, which was held as part of the library's Black History Month activities. Local graffiti artists gathered to present their work, swap graffiti books, and draw their "tags" on a community table lined with drawing paper. The program also included a showing of the film Bullet Proof Ambition – The Art & Courage of Jerry Gant (Brown 70 Films). Gant, a Newark-based visual and performance artist, was supposed to be in attendance but wasn't able to make the program. He started his career as a graffiti artist but later moved on to murals and sculptures. The event also honored deceased graffiti artist Lance Robinson.

"It was important for us to be here," said Mrs. Robinson, who is Lance's mother. "We came all the way here from the Poconos. His artwork meant a lot to him and I'm happy it's here on display." Urban Art was hosted by the library's media specialist Timur Davis.

Ultimately, the Township Committee did not choose to pursue Deputy Mayor Profeta's suggestion to close or sell a library branch building. However, the Township is looking at long-term plans to merge library systems with South Orange throught the two towns' shared services committee. Whatever happens in the long-run, Mayor Vic DeLuca has said that no action would be taken to impinge on the Maplewood Memorial Libraries branches or services in any major way in this budget cycle.

Some upcoming events at the branches of the Maplewood Memorial Library:

• Mating in Captivity, for couples, on March 10^th at the Main Library. Part of the Love Your Life non-fiction book club, the session is facilitated by Harlene Goldschmidt, PhD and revolves around the book Unlocking Erotic Intelligence by author and psychotherapist Esther Perel.
• There are two remaining sessions, March 11 and April 8, for the Inspiration and Conversation Series for Moms. To reserve a spot at the Main Library, email Lucila McElry at lucila.mcelroy@wearmomentum.com.
• On March 9, the Hilton Branch will offer a seminar titled How to Start and Manage Your Own Business. Presented by SCORE, reservations are suggested but not required. To reserve, email programs@maplewoodlibrary.org. Lawyer Vic Gomperts and retired VP of Finance at Verizon will offer five steps to a successful business.