About the Library

The Piscataway Public Library has two locations to serve residents: 

John F. Kennedy Memorial Library, 500 Hoes Lane

Johanna W. Westergard Library, 20 Murray Avenue

About

The Piscataway Township Public Library is operated under the control of the Board of Trustees. Seven members are appointed by the Mayor and approved by the Municipal Council. The Mayor and the Superintendent of Schools, or their appointed alternatives, are also members of the Library Board of Trustees. The Library system, which is administered by a Director, consists of two locations, J.F. Kennedy Library (500 Hoes Lane and J.W. Westergard Library (20 Murray Avenue). 
 

The Library offers public computer access and wireless hi-speed internet access. Piscataway Public Library is home to MiY Makerspace, the first public library “marketspace” in New Jersey, which houses tools and equipment including 3D printers, a laser cutter, sewing machines and computer design software. A local history collection is available to consult on-site at the Kennedy Library. Professional librarians provide support for the evaluation of resources, reference assistance, reader’s advisory and community-oriented services and programs on-line and in-person. 
 

Children’s programs include story times to promote early childhood literacy and a variety of activities to foster a love of reading and support children’s learning and development. Teens enjoy their own dedicated spaces at both buildings and participate in a variety of programs including STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) activities like computer and coding clubs, art classes, writing workshops and book discussions. Adult programs include educational and cultural presentations, a variety of hands-on classes for strengthening technology skills, craft and sewing classes, English conversation and English language learning groups, writing workshops and book discussion groups. 
 

The Library’s collection of books, DVDs, downloadable e-books, e-audiobooks and other digital media are available for loan to library cardholders. Piscataway Public Library’s membership in the STELLA consortium; allow for seamless borrowing from over 30 local libraries through a shared catalog.

Mission

Piscataway Public Library provides opportunities for all members of the community to learn and connect.

We Value

  • Access
  • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
  • Learning & Literacy
  • Community Engagement
  • Intellectual Freedom & the Right to Read
  • Curiosity & Innovation

Opening Access

Library services and resources are accessible to all members of our community.

  • Review and revise policies and practices to reduce or eliminate barriers to using the library.
  • Evaluate and update physical spaces and customer service points for accessibility.
  • Continue to prioritize remote access to Library resources and services.

Celebrating Our Community

Library services, programs, and collections reflect the diversity of our community.

  • Develop services and collections to be receptive and responsive to the community.
  • Evaluate Library services and collections for diversity visibility.

The Library affirms its commitment to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility.

  • Facilitate opportunities for library users to explore commonalities and differences.
  • Foster a sense of community through library services, resources, and spaces.

Welcoming Learners

Cultivate the Library’s community of learners, readers, and explorers.

  • Offer events and educational opportunities in response to expressed community interests.
  • Encourage patrons to explore and develop experiential knowledge through STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and making programs.

The Library supports all forms and stages of literacy.

  • Offer a robust array of services and collections for developing early literacy skills.
  • Encourage patrons in building and refining literacies through collections, services, and events.
  • Provide a variety of opportunities for English language learners to develop and improve spoken and written English skills.

Building Outreach, Engagement, and Visibility

Engage the public in an ongoing conversation about their needs and interests.

  • Solicit feedback from the public about Library services and investigate opportunities to implement their suggestions.

Connect with other organizations in the community to better serve patrons.

  • Enhance and maintain a robust and multi-faceted relationship with Piscataway Township Schools, private schools and homeschoolers to support students and families.
  • Develop and sustain relationships with community groups and increase collaborative opportunities.

Strengthen Library communications.

  • Design and implement a communications plan to inform the community about Library services.
  • Apply a new branding strategy.

 

Approved by the Library Board of Trustees on March 14, 2022.