Librarian Lynn recommends:

Persuader, a Jack Reacher Novel by Lee Child (PBK Suspense, LP F Child)

Move over Jack Bauer. If you have been missing “24”, then you need to discover the Jack Reacher thrillers by Lee Child. Jack is a loner and an ex-military cop who travels from adventure to adventure. Wherever Jack goes, he is confronted by injustice. He is followed by trouble and violence and he doesn’t like to lose. Persuader has a fast paced beginning scene with a real twist. The action builds as he goes after an enemy from 10 years past who he spotted just by chance. This enemy got away with murder and Jack wants to settle the score. He’s tough and big and can plot against any enemy. This time he gets hired on as the bodyguard to the suspect who claims to be a simple oriental rug dealer. He is locked in his room at night but manages to investigate the surroundings looking for a missing Federal agent. He is aided by a female agent on the outside with whom he finds time for a quick romance. His chase after the killer makes for a real page turning thriller.

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Graphic Novels: Not Just for Kids Anymore!

Did you know that The Library has started a new section for graphic novels and comics? Located near the Reference Collection, between the Adult Services Desk and the Teen Area, this new collection features the best from Marvel, Vertigo and all of your other favorite comics publishers.

Looking for something to get started with?

Librarian Tim recommends: The Gunslinger Born by Peter David (G 741.5 DAV)

Based on the best-selling series of Dark Tower novels by Stephen King, this comic explores how Roland, the Gunslinger, became what he is. This works as something of a prequel to the King novels, but no prior knowledge of the series is required to enjoy this. On Earth in an alternate universe, humanity has nearly destroyed itself in a cataclysmic war. Many generations later, a feudal society has evolved into something like the old west, and a boy must prove himself a man in order to earn his guns and the right to stalk the evil that is casting its shadow over the lands once again. This is a well written and fast paced adaptation of King's epic story, and the artwork is just amazing in its scope and vision. King fans looking for an alternate view of his longest story arc, or those curious about graphic novels and looking for a mature and thoughtful story are encouraged to check out this splendid volume.

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Librarian Tim recommends: The Atrocity Archives by Charles Stross (SF Stross)

This collects two early novellas from Stross, "The Atrocity Archive" which recounts the adventures of Bob Howard, computer genius and reluctant spy for The Laundry, a super-secret British agency charged with protecting this universe from incursions from the outer realms. In an ingeniously pulpy plot involving escaped Nazis, modern-day terrorists, and portals into other universes, Howard must keep our universe safe and at the same time save his love interest, Mo, from the clutches of danger. In the second novella, "The Concrete Jungle", secret agent Bob is on the trail of exploding cows (!) that have been attacked with a pan-dimensional weapon. Bureaucratic intrigue and satire are the order of the day here. This is a modern day updating of the pulp adventure stories of the 30's with a serious infusion of computer geek cheekiness. Fans of techno-thrillers with a patience for some lingo-slinging will find a lot to enjoy here.

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Pianist Dave Schlossberg plays to a packed house at the Library.

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Darren Miguez leads a raucous story time in the Children's Room.

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Saturday, Feb. 16, 1:30pm at the Central Branch Live Music: Give My Regards to Broadway Keyboardist Dave Schlossberg, a 24 year old pianist from East Brunswick, New Jersey will perform your favorite Broadway tunes in a free concert. Dave has recently earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Piano Performance from the College of new Jersey and enjoys giving back to his community through music.

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For Dummies reference books are written for those frustrated and hard-working souls who know they're not dumb, but find that the technical complexities of computers and the myriad of personal and business issues — and all the accompanying horror stories — make them feel helpless. For Dummies books use a lighthearted approach, a down-to-earth style, and even cartoons and humorous icons to dispel fears and inspire confidence. Lighthearted but not lightweight, For Dummies books are the perfect survival guide for anyone who finds themselves in difficult situations.

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New Hours for the Central Branch of the Old Bridge Library:

Mondays thru Friday: 9:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday: 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Sunday (September - June): 12:30 - 5:00 p.m.

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February 9, 1:30 p.m. Freedom Stairway: Songs and photos depict the slaves' flight to freedom via the Underground Railroad. This is a multimedia program performed by Briz. His songs and photos depict the slaves’ flight to freedom via the Underground Railroad. Briz has performed on a National Tour and has entertained at numerous schools and public libraries. This is a wonderful program designed for the entire family. His material is based on the Slave Narratives conducted by our government in the 1930’s. Beautiful black and white photos provided by the Library of Congress enhance the experience. Briz’s songs portray the hardships that slaves endured while trying to gain their freedom.

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English as a Second Language Conversation Groups: Tuesdays, beginning February 12 at 7:00 p.m. Want to practice your English? Have fun and meet new friends at our group! Registration is limited, please register in person or by calling (732) 721-5600 ext. 5033. (ESL Conversation Groups are a program of The Old Bridge Public Library and The Literacy Volunteers of Middlesex County.)

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On Saturday, February 2, a program on the key role quilts played in preparing and guiding the slaves on their journey on the Underground Railroad was presented. Trish Chambers performed in period dress using a facsimile of a Freedom Quilt, and gave a brief history of the Underground Railroad and will discuss the use of quilts as a method of communication used by the slaves seeking freedom.

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During the month of February, the Library is exhibiting paintings and collections of the Sukira family. If you have a collection you'd like to share with the community, please send an e-mail to: OBPL