Book Talk @ Scotch Plains Public Library: Louis Bamberger, Department Store Innovator and Philanthropist

Author and historian Linda B. Forgosh will give a talk on her recent biography of Louis Bamberger on Thursday, May 4 at 7pm at the Scotch Plains Public Library.

Beginning with the elegant flagship store in downtown Newark, Louis Bamberger built his business to become one of the most successful department stores in the country. Bamberger pioneered creative marketing techniques, including home delivery (originally by cart and horse), dramatic window displays, celebrity events and more. His staff, known for excellent customer service, were treated well and provided with benefits including an in-house branch of the Newark Public Library for their own use!

Bamberger, a largely self-educated man, made it his mission to fund cultural and social institutions, including the Newark Museum. His involvement with founding the Institute for Advanced Studies led to a friendship with Albert Einstein.

Learn more about this fascinating man from biographer Linda Forgosh, the Executive Director and Curator of the Jewish Historical Society of New Jersey. Registration is recommended.

The Scotch Plains Library is located at 1927 Bartle Avenue, one block from Park Avenue in the center of town.