September Programs For Adults At Middletown Library

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — September is also Library Card Sign-Up Month — a great time to get a free library card at MTPL if you live, work or go to school in Middletown. New sign-ups in September will also be entered into a raffle for prizes at the end of the month.

Virtual Talk: The Democracy We Must Keep: Why the Ideas that Built America Still Matter with David O. Stewart

On Tuesday, September 1 at 2 pm, join award-winning historian David O. Stewart for a discussion of his newest book, The Democracy We Must Keep, exploring what America's founders believed about democracy and whether we remain true to their vision today. As the nation marks its 250th anniversary, Stewart revisits the founding documents and figures — Washington, Jefferson, Madison, and Hamilton among them — who shaped a government built on limited power and rights protected by law. Visit mtpl.org to register for a link to the virtual presentation.

Afternoon Screening: Little House on the Prairie Series, Part 2

On Thursday, September 3 at 2 pm in the History Room, join us for Part 2 of our afternoon showing series featuring episodes 5 to 8 of Netflix's remake of the classic Little House on the Prairie. Starring Luke Bracey, Crosby Fitzgerald, and Alice Halsey, this fresh adaptation of Laura Ingalls Wilder's semi-autobiographical books blends family drama and frontier survival into a fresh look at the American West. Rated TV-PG. All ages are welcome!

Virtual Talk: Writing the Nightmare – A Ship Called Sickness and One Unforgettable Space Crew with Daniel Kraus

On Tuesday, September 8 at 7 pm, join us online for a conversation with Daniel Kraus, winner of the 2026 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, as he discusses his new novel, The Sixth Nik. Set deep in space aboard a living, biomatter ship called The Sickness, the story follows nine-year-old Sisilla as she investigates a plague-ridden planet gone rogue, alongside a crew of unforgettable and dangerous characters. Register at mtpl.org to join this virtual program and hear from one of today's most visionary voices in fiction.

New Jersey Book Club: American Pastoral

On Monday, September 14 at 12 pm, join us to discuss this month's title, American Pastoral by Philip Roth. The novel follows Seymour "Swede" Levov, a celebrated athlete and successful businessman living out the promise of post-war America, whose life is shattered in 1968 when his daughter commits an act of political terrorism. Attend in person in the History Room, or register at mtpl.org to receive a Zoom link.

Virtual Talk: The Art of Fighting – Building Better, Stronger Relationships with Priya Parker

On Tuesday, September 15 at 4 pm, join master facilitator Priya Parker to discuss her new book, The Art of Fighting: The Transformative Power of Conflict. Parker argues that healthy conflict — not its avoidance — is what allows relationships and groups to grow, drawing on her experience as a conflict facilitator and real-world examples from boardrooms to playgrounds. Register at mtpl.org to join this virtual discussion and learn how to turn everyday disagreements into moments of connection and trust.

Virtual Program: Cracking the Code – Affordable College Solutions

On Tuesday, September 15 at 7 pm, join Carl Barling and Jodi Bloom of Cornerstone College & Wealth Solutions for a virtual program exploring ways to pay for college. Topics include financial aid, scholarships, college savings strategies, recent legislation affecting affordability, and cost-reduction strategies for families at all income levels. Open to parents of children of all ages. Register at mtpl.org to join this virtual program.

Virtual Lecture: Archeology & Lighthouses of the Jersey Shore

On Wednesday, September 16 at 7 pm, join Middletown native and professional archaeologist Julia Fuchs for a virtual discussion of the Jersey Shore's most iconic lighthouses. Fuchs, who holds degrees in history, anthropology and cultural heritage preservation, will explore the archaeological research behind how these lighthouses were built, how they were used, and the lives of the keepers who maintained them. Register at mtpl.org to join this virtual presentation.

Tech Tuesday: A Library Card Hits All the Right Notes

As part of Library Card Sign-Up Month, join a workshop on Tuesday, September 22 at 2:30 pm to learn how to access free digital resources, including e-books, audiobooks, and streaming video. Bring your own device for hands-on practice.

New Jersey Icons Music Bingo

On Thursday, September 24 at 7 pm, celebrate Library Card Sign-Up Month with a few rounds of Music Bingo, this time featuring iconic hits from beloved New Jersey musicians. Prizes will be awarded to winners. Registration is required.

Chorus of the Atlantic Concert – Red Bank Area Chapter

On Saturday, September 26 at 2 pm, a free concert featuring Chorus of the Atlantic, the Red Bank Area Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society. This a cappella ensemble is part of a worldwide organization dedicated to four-part barbershop harmony, bringing together singers in pursuit of musical excellence for performers and audiences alike.