Newark Public Library Recognition, October 2

On October 2, 2002 The Center for the Book designated the Newark Public Library a New Jersey Literary Landmark in recognition of that institution’s achievements and contributions over the last century to the print culture of New Jersey.

National Book Festival – Pavilion of States, October 12

The New Jersey Center for the Book was represented at the National Book Festival at the Library of Congress on October 12, 2002. At the Pavilion of States, New Jersey presented the memorable children’s character from the book Molly’s Pilgrim, by Barbara Cohen, formerly of Winter Hill, New Jersey. Old-fashioned clothespins were used to make modern-day Pilgrim dolls, with each accompanied by a paragraph describing the immigrant experience of the entrant doll.

This project has been so successful that EMA and The New Jersey Library Association are carrying it forward through craft projects at children’s libraries around the state, spearheaded by Bonnie Kunzel, Youth Services Coordinator at the State Library. Dolls should be sent to Susan Rardin, Library Media Specialist for Ravine Drive Elementary School of the Matawan Aberdeen School District. Every child that sends a doll will be invited to a state reception in May at Drumthwacket.