UNION, NJ — It is recommended that everyone sign up for the newsletter to keep up with new programs, services and updates about the library. Registration is required for all events. Starting in 2026, many programs may require registration by Union Public Library card only due to limited spaces.
The Beauty of Blackness: A Film and Community Discussion, Vauxhall Branch Library, Saturday, Feb. 14, at 1 p.m. – In 1973, Eunice Johnson, the founder of Ebony and Jet, noticed a problem: Black women had to mix their own foundation in order to find a color that matched their skin. To tackle the problem, Johnson launched Fashion Fair, the first national cosmetics company that focused entirely on Black women. A discussion will follow after the film.
Build Your Balance, Main Library, Wednesday, Feb. 18, at 10:30 a.m. – It’s more important than ever to avoid the risks of falling as we age. Through gentle strength, exercises and stepping strategies, learn to keep your body balanced in different situations.
Sankofa: Black History is World History with Emmanuel Kulu, Virtual on Zoom, Wednesday, Feb. 18, at 6 p.m. – Journey with African historian/Tedx speaker/best selling author Emmanuel Kulu Jr. as he embarks on uncovering the untold truth of Black history and its connection with the origin of all humanity. Hear this enlightening talk that will expand your community knowledge in DEI, cultural awareness and African historical re-awareness.
Vauxhall Vinyl Music Club: Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On,” Vauxhall Branch Library, Saturday, Feb. 21, at 1 p.m. – Do you collect records? Are you an avid music fan? Come for the inaugural first meeting of the Vauxhall Vinyl Music Club. Music will be played as you go in depth on important tracks and the making of an album. February’s selection will be Marvin Gaye’s rallying cry for peace on Motown Records, “What’s Going On.”
The Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Main Library, Monday, Feb. 23, at 6 p.m. – Take a journey through history as we explore Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s life and legacy, beyond his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech. Come learn about his childhood, education, mentors and influences, as well as the most important events of his career in activism, such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott, Greensboro Sit-In and Selma to Montgomery March.
Union Public Library’s Silent Book Club, Main Library, Monday, Feb. 23, at 6 p.m. – Join the Union Public Library’s Silent Book Club. There’s no assigned reading. All readers are welcome to join in, from fiction and non-fiction to ebooks and more. Bring your own book and read in quiet camaraderie.
Selection Bias: How the Baseball Hall of Fame Botched the Election of Negro Leaguers, Hybrid: Vauxhall Branch Library and Zoom, Monday, Feb. 23, at 6 p.m. – The Baseball Writers Association of America rules for election to the Baseball Hall of Fame are tantamount to a color line reminiscent of the National Association of Baseball Players ban of 1867. Moreover, BBWAA and Hall of Fame electors exploited shoddy record keeping to stonewall and deny segregation era players’ election. Join as baseball enthusiast David Shuffler talks about this issue and shares with attendees the speech he did on the subject at the Baseball Hall of Fame.
ESL Conversation Group, Main Library, Tuesday, Feb. 24, at 5:30 p.m. – Join at the Union Public Library for the English Conversation Group. English is a major barrier to health for many within our community. This ESL-adjacent program offers monthly, two-hour group sessions to support English speaking, writing and listening skills. While loosely structured, sessions are informal and use ESL books, games, audio lessons and role play to build proficiency with the English language.
Sweet Potato Pies with Chef Lamont Williams, Vauxhall Branch Library, Saturday, Feb. 28, at 1 p.m. – The sweet potato pie is a recipe that was born from a place of strength, resilience and determination. Join as Newark chef Lamont Williams of Yums for the Soul demonstrates how to prepare this important dessert of cultural significance at the Vauxhall Branch.
Meditation, Virtual on Zoom, Mondays at 6:30 p.m. – Join Bindu Bhatt for any of her virtual evening meditation sessions. No prior experience is necessary. Bindu has practiced meditation for more than 30 years and wants to share her insight.
Chair Yoga, Main Library, Tuesdays in February at 9:15 a.m. – Take a deep breath with friends and stretch. From beginners to professionals, join this popular class as a weekly series. Presented by the Gateway Family YMCA. Space is limited, so register to secure your chair.
For more information about our adult programs and resources, call Adult Services at 908-851-5450 ext. 3, the Vauxhall Branch at 908-851-5451, check the website at uplnj.org or visit the Main Library at 1980 Morris Ave. or the Vauxhall Branch at 123 Hilton Ave.
