Toms River
New Jersey
Ocean County Library
About Us:
The Ocean County Library connects people, builds community and transforms lives through the power of information and the power of stories. We are essential to our community today more than ever. Public libraries support lifelong learning, sustainable communities, and economic development. The library serves as a portal of knowledge and strengthens civic involvement. It increasingly provides content that is digital in nature, as well as supporting our residents’ desire for personal growth.
Ocean County Library is located at the beautiful New Jersey Shore, a major tourist destination on the East Coast near New York City and Philadelphia. We have 21 library locations to serve a population of 575,397 residents in the 32 municipalities that comprise our service area. Each year, the library circulates over 4.3 million books, answers over 2.5 million reference questions, provides over 11,500 programs and activities for children, young adults, adults and families, and has over 3 million visits to our library system.
Recent News
Ocean County Library Toms River Branch to Host Ocean County Artists' Guild Exhibit in October
Toms River - The Ocean County Library Toms River Branch is pleased to present its annual exhibit of works by members of the Ocean County Artists’ Guild throughout the month of October. The display in the Second Floor Gallery will feature…
Read More »Online Dating and Sexual Health: Program for Older Adults at the Ocean County Library
TOMS RIVER – The need for companionship, love and intimacy doesn’t fade with age. Older adults can build new relationships with just a screen and a keyboard. The Ocean County Health Department will present “Connections Beyond Age:…
Read More »Horbelt Intermediate School Carolers Brought Holiday Cheer to the Ocean County Library Barnegat Branch
Barnegat, NJ - A jolly time was had by all when more than fifty youngsters of the Robert L. Horbelt Intermediate School Carolers raised their voices in songs of glad tidings and Yule cheer at the Ocean County Library Barnegat Branch on Friday,…
Read More »Citizen Preparation Course, Ocean County Library Lakewood Branch
Lakewood, NJ - Open registration begins Monday, December 4 at the Ocean County Library Lakewood Branch for free classes that can help you gain United States citizenship. Applicants may register through Monday, January 8 for classes that begin…
Read More »Ocean County Library Announces Thanksgiving Holiday Schedule
Toms River, NJ - All Ocean County Library branches and reading centers will close at 5 PM Wednesday, November 22, and will be closed Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 23. The Barnegat, Brick, Jackson, Lakewood, Manchester, Stafford and Toms…
Read More »Ocean County Library Toms River Branch Revises Halloween Operating Hours
The Ocean County Library Toms River Branch will conclude Library operations at 5 PM Tuesday, October 31, to accommodate the Toms River Halloween Parade. As one of 10 Early Voting locations designated by the Office of the Ocean County Clerk, the…
Read More »Ocean County Library In-Service Revised
Ocean County Library Announces Delayed Opening Friday, November 3 All branches and reading centers of the Ocean County Library will open at 1 PM Friday, November 3, to accommodate OCL’s annual Staff In-Service Training. All Ocean County…
Read More »Ocean County Library Toms River Branch Announces Early Closure On Halloween
The Ocean County Library Toms River Branch will close at 5 PM Tuesday, October 31, to accommodate the Toms River Halloween Parade. The Library’s remaining 20 branches and reading centers will follow normal hours of operation. Library…
Read More »Take Part In A Native American Pow-Wow At The Ocean County Library Toms River Branch
TOMS RIVER – Celebrate National Native American Heritage Month by experiencing an authentic Pow-Wow at the Ocean County Library Toms River Branch, 7 PM Thursday, November 30. Citizens of New Jersey’s Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape Tribal…
Read More »Ocean County Library Announces Delayed Opening , November 3
TOMS RIVER – All branches and reading centers of the Ocean County Library will open at 1 PM Friday, November 3, to accommodate OCL’s annual Staff In-Service Training. Library patrons are welcome to use OCL’s online resources,…
Read More »Get Cozy With John Stamos In Ocean County Library Virtual Author Talk
Four decades after springing into national consciousness, John Stamos remains one of America’s most versatile, likeable and enduring personalities. Meet the man behind the icon online at 8 PM Wednesday, November 1 during his Ocean County…
Read More »Meet Legendary Novelist John Irving Online In Ocean County Library’s Virtual Author Talk Series
Fans of The World According to Garp, The Cider House Rules and the rest of John Irving’s award-winning oeuvre will be in for a treat when the world-renowned author takes part in the Ocean County Library’s Virtual Author Talk series, 7 PM…
Read More »Budding Writers Gain Self-Publishing Tips from Pros at Ocean County Library Little Egg Harbor Branch
Little Egg Harbor - A group of dedicated writers seeking ways to launch their works into the print and digital marketplace now have a valuable road map, courtesy of three local authors who shared their self-publishing experiences at the Ocean County…
Read More »Ocean County Artists Guild Displays 'New Creations' at Ocean County Library Toms River Branch
Toms River - The Ocean County Library Toms River Branch is pleased to present “New Creations,” images by members of the Ocean County Artists Guild (OCAG), throughout the month of October. The exhibit occupies the Second Floor Gallery. …
Read More »Take Travel Tips From Rick Steves In Ocean County Library’s Virtual Author Talk Series
Join us as travel expert and TV host Rick Steves shares the latest about smart jaunts through Europe in the Ocean County Library’s Virtual Author Talk series, 4 PM Tuesday, October 10. Viewers will be treated to a slideshow and commentary as…
Read More »Celebrate LGBTQ and History Month with Trivia Contests at Ocean County Library Branches
Toms River, NJ - LGBTQ+ history began long before Stonewall, and a new chapter begins each day. Adults aged 55 and up can test their knowledge and be eligible for prizes during the Ocean County Library’s LGBTQ+ History Trivia Contests…
Read More »'When The Bough Breaks': Perinatal Loss Discussion Live and Online at Ocean County Library Lacey Branch
LACEY TOWNSHIP – In observance of October as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, the Ocean County Library Lacey Branch will offer a special live and online presentation, “When the Bough Breaks: Loss During and After…
Read More »Casey Masterson Author Talk Draws Crowd to Ocean County Library Stafford Branch
STAFFORD TOWNSHIP– The literary career of Ocean County’s Casey Masterson is off and running, following her appearance before an avid audience in the Ocean County Library Stafford Branch on Thursday, September 7, to discuss her debut…
Read More »Ocean County Library Toms River Branch To Present ‘Jersey Devil Palooza’
It’s notorious, it’s downright scary…and it’s all ours. Come celebrate Pinelands lore during our all-ages Jersey Devil Palooza at the Ocean County Library Toms River Branch, starting at 10:30 AM Friday, October 20.…
Read More »Develop English Conversation Skills At Ocean County Library Brick Branch
Expand your English conversation skills in an enjoyable, casual setting at the Ocean County Library Brick Branch, 7 until 8 PM every Tuesday and Thursday. Strengthen your mastery of the language in a non-classroom atmosphere while you make new…
Read More »Join Friends’ Board Game Mashup at Ocean County Library Lacey Branch
LACEY TOWNSHIP – What’s your game? Whether you’re an adult or senior who plays to win or plays for fun, there’ll be a seat for you during the monthly “Board Game Mashups” at the Ocean County Library Lacey Branch,…
Read More »Get Your Geek On FanNation 2023: The Geekstravaganza’ at Ocean County Library Toms River Branch
TOMS RIVER – Get ready for the Jersey Shore’s greatest comic con! Geek is chic during “FanNation 20203: The Geekstravaganza” in the Ocean County Library Toms River Branch, 10 AM until 4 PM Saturday, October 7. FanNation…
Read More »Ocean County Library Manchester Branch Presents Ben Collura’s ‘Remember 9/11’
The Ocean County Library Manchester Branch is pleased to feature New Jersey artist Ben Collura’s vivid, poignant exhibit, “Remember 9/11, Plus Other Artwork,” through September 23. Visitors are invited to meet Ben during his…
Read More »Art by Rosemary Lynch and Liz Higgins On Display at Ocean County Library Jackson Branch
Jackson Township, NJ - Acrylic paintings and charcoal sketches by Ocean County residents Rosemary Lynch and Liz Higgins will be on display throughout the month of September at the Ocean County Library Jackson Branch. In a “Meet The…
Read More »Ocean County Library Toms River Branch Features Toms River Artist Community’s ‘Illuminations’
The Ocean County Library Toms River Branch is pleased to present “Illuminations,” unique expressions by members of the Toms River Artist Community (TRAC), throughout the month of September. The exhibit in the Second Floor Gallery draws…
Read More »Ocean County Library’s Sparks B.F.F. Reading Club Toiletries Drive
Help Children in Need during Ocean County Library’s Sparks B.F.F. Reading Club Toiletries Drive The Ocean County Library seeks your help during the Sparks B.F.F. Reading Club Toiletries Drive, Friday, September 1 through Saturday, September…
Read More »Ocean County Library News - August 11, 2023
Toms River, NJ - Stress can affect anyone, for any number of reasons. Teens feeling overwhelmed can unplug, unwind, and re-focus in the Ocean County Library’s online Calm Room. Located in the Teen Zone at www.theoceancountylibrary.org, it…
Read More »One Book OCL: Your Online Book Club
One Book OCL: Your Online Book Club Wherever You Need to Be TOMS RIVER – Have you always wanted to join a book club, but find it hard to set aside the time and place? The Ocean County Library extends an invitation to enroll in the free One…
Read More »Ocean County Library Lacey Branch to Host Estate Planning Workshop
Lacey Township, NJ - The estate planning process involves many options, and often leads to many questions. Attorney Paul R. Daniele, Esq. will separate facts from fiction during his estate planning workshop in the Ocean County Library Lacey Branch,…
Read More »Ocean County Library Barnegat Branch to Exhibit 'Europe!'
The Ocean County Library Barnegat Branch is pleased to present “Europe!,” an exhibit of watercolors, acrylics, and mixed media works by Jersey Shore-based artists Barbara J. Kraemer and Suzi Hoffman, throughout the month of August. …
Read More »Ocean County Library Resumes Home Borrower Service at All Branches
Toms River, NJ - The Ocean County Library is pleased to announce the restoration of its popular, free Home Borrower Service, which provides items for patrons who cannot physically visit a branch. The service is available through all OCL branches. …
Read More »Ocean County Library Jackson Branch to Exhibit ‘Shells from the Jersey Shore and More’ in August
Jackson Township, NJ - With imagination, wit, and paint, Debi Heyck turns ordinary sea shells into decorative conversation pieces and collectors’ items. Her works will be on display throughout the month of August at the Ocean County Library…
Read More »Ocean County Library's Expanded Online Autism Resources Center
Toms River, NJ - Individuals with autism and their families find access to quality support systems through the Ocean County Library’s online Autism Resources Center. Now, OCL is pleased to announce that the listings are larger and more…
Read More »Ocean County Library Toms River Branch to Present Mark B. Retacco’s 'Stronger Together'
TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Library Toms River Branch is pleased to present artist Mark B. Retacco’s newest exhibit, “Stronger Together,” throughout the month of August. The display, in the Second Floor Gallery, is the…
Read More »Ocean County Library Toms River Branch to Display Fine Art by Ocean Steve Moran
TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Library Toms River Branch is pleased to present an exhibit of air-brushings and paintings by Toms River-based artist Steve Moran throughout the month of August. Steve’s extensive portfolio of oil and…
Read More »Ocean County Library Offers Bay Head Express Services at Borough Hall in July
Bay Head - The Ocean County Library is finalizing plans to serve patrons of the Bay Head Reading Center when the building at 136 Meadow Avenue returns to the Bay Head School District on July 1. The Reading Center’s final day of operation at…
Read More »Ocean County Library Announces Juneteenth Closure
Toms River - All branches and reading centers of the Ocean County Library will be closed Friday, June 16, in observance of Juneteenth. Patrons are welcome to access the Library’s online resources, databases, eBooks, eMagazines, video and…
Read More »Ocean County Librarye Photography Exhibit- June 2023
Attached is information regarding an exhibit of nature photos by shore-based artist Kate Sanchez, on view throughout June at the Ocean County Library Little Egg Harbor Branch. We hope that you will share the details with your viewers, listeners,…
Read More »Art Exhibit and Artist's Reception, Ocean County Library Jackson Branch
The Ocean County Library Jackson Branch is pleased to present an exhibit of airbrushings and paintings by Toms River artist Steve Moran throughout the months of June and July. Meet Steve during the Artist’s Reception, 2 to 4 PM Saturday, June…
Read More »An American in Provence’s Jamie Beck to Appear In Ocean County Library’s Virtual Author Talk Series
Toms River - Author-photographer Jamie Beck, whose extended hiatus in France produced the New York Times best-seller An American in Provence, will appear in the Ocean County Library’s Virtual Author Talk series, 2 PM Thursday, June 15. An…
Read More »'New Jersey Piece of Paradise P.O.P. Art Show,' Ocean County Library Toms River Branch
Toms River - The Ocean County Library Toms River Branch is pleased to present the “New Jersey Piece of Paradise P.O.P. Art Show” by Jersey Shore-based artist André Russell throughout the month of June. The exhibit in the…
Read More »Ocean County Library Jackson Branch to Feature Painted Rock Art by Ceil Smolowitz
Ocean County Library Jackson Branch to Feature Painted Rock Art by Ceil Smolowitz JACKSON TOWNSHIP – The Ocean County Library Jackson Branch is pleased to feature township resident Ceil Smolowitz’s minimalist art exhibit of painted…
Read More »Talewise to Present The Sword in the Stone at Ocean County Library Long Beach Island Branch
Surf City - Take the family on an adventure in medieval Britain. The Ocean County Library Long Beach Island Branch is pleased to present a Talewise interactive program for youngsters age 4 to 11, Kindness Heroes: The Sword in the Stone, 11 AM…
Read More »Yummy Summer Teen Fun: Cake Decorating at Ocean County Library Toms River Branch
Toms River - Cake is tasty, and an artfully-decorated one can make your mouth water before your first bite. Teens aged 13 to 18 can learn the art of cake decoration in a three-part program at the Ocean County Library Toms River Branch. The series…
Read More »'Butterflies and Hummingbirds,' Ocean County Library Stafford Branch
Stafford Township – Discover how the garden that beautifies your home can also nurture pollinators that help our ecology. The Ocean County Library Stafford Branch is pleased to present “Attracting Butterflies and Hummingbirds to Your…
Read More »Fun Habit Author Mike Rucker to Appear in Ocean County Library Virtual Talk Series
Toms River - Psychologist Mike Rucker, Ph.D., whose The Fun Habit employs scientific research to underscore the value of fun in a healthy lifestyle, will be the guest in the Ocean County Library’s next Virtual Author Talk, 4 PM Wednesday, June…
Read More »Ocean County Library Little Egg Harbor Branch Seeks Seasonal Teen Program Coordinators
Ocean County Library Little Egg Harbor Branch Seeks Seasonal Teen Program Coordinators The Ocean County Library Little Egg Harbor Branch is accepting applications through Friday, May 12, from those 18 years and older who wish to serve as summer…
Read More »Charitable Knitters Seek Yarn Donations at Ocean County Library Jackson Branch
Charitable Knitters Seek Yarn Donations at Ocean County Library Jackson Branch Your unused yarn can be transformed into something special for someone in need. The Knit-Chat-Chain volunteers of the Ocean County Library Jackson Branch seek donations…
Read More »Pineland Symphonic Band to Perform at Ocean County Library Toms River Branch
Toms River – The Ocean County Library is pleased to present a live concert by the Pineland Symphonic Band at the Toms River Branch, 7 PM, Wednesday, May 10. The popular, Whiting-based symphonic wind ensemble has performed for Ocean County…
Read More »Ocean County Library Staff Development Day
Toms River, NJ - All branches and reading centers of the Ocean County Library will be closed Friday, May 12, for the Library’s annual Staff Development Day. Patrons are welcome to access the Library’s online resources, databases,…
Read More »Maestro Robert Butts to Discuss Opera Icons at Ocean County Library Long Beach Island Branch
Surf City - The public is invited to join the Italian Cultural Society of LBI for international conductor, composer and educator Maestro Robert Butts’s examination of operatic architects of the Romantic Era, 6 PM Wednesday, May 10, at the…
Read More »Cathleen Englesen Art Exhibit and Program, Ocean County Library LongBeach Island Branch
Meet Historical Artist Cathleen Englesen at Ocean County Library Long Beach Island Branch Surf City - Historic images of the Jersey Shore, captured in the art of Ocean County native Cathleen Englesen, will be on display throughout the month of May…
Read More »Take Part in Authentic Japanese Tea Ceremonies at The Ocean County Library
Toms River, NJ - Be part of a time-honored ritual, deeply rooted in Japanese life. Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a Japanese Tea Ceremony during the month of May at four Ocean County Library branches. - Lacey…
Read More »Polynesian Luau Show at Ocean County Library to Celebrate Asian American-Native Hawaiian-Pacific Islander Heritage
Polynesian Luau Show at Ocean County Library to Celebrate Asian American-Native Hawaiian-Pacific Islander Heritage May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. As part of its activities and programs throughout the…
Read More »"Tasty Meals for One or Two" at Ocean County Library
Calling All Cooks! Learn ‘Tasty Meals’ at the Ocean County Library Expand your recipe binder with simple, economical and nutritious meal ideas from restauranteur Devon Smith, the host of “Tasty Meals for One or Two” at…
Read More »Ukraine Native's Invincible Spirit Displayed in Artifacts at Ocean County Library Jackson Branch
Ukraine Native's Invincible Spirit Displayed in Artifacts at Ocean County Library Jackson Branch Pysanky eggs, nesting dolls, ceramic bunnies, and lacy, woven keepsakes tell the powerful story of Alla Long, the retired Jackson teacher whose…
Read More »Time-Travel Through Popular Music with Phil Bruschi at The Ocean County Library
Time-Travel Through Popular Music with Phil Bruschi at The Ocean County Library TOMS RIVER–Tin Pan Alley, stage and screen soundtracks, teen idols, pop icons – Phil Bruschi’s performances will stir warm memories of timeless…
Read More »Smoothie Bowl Schooling for Seniors at Ocean County Library
Toms River - Savvy seniors aged 55 and up, with an eye for nutrition, can learn to create tasty, healthful, affordable smoothie bowls during the month of May at three Ocean County Library branches. - Long Beach Island Branch – 217 South…
Read More »Ocean County Library Jackson Branch Presents Art By Shari Olsen-Williams Through May
Scenic vistas, nature, and abstracts by Jackson resident Shari Olsen-Williams are on display at the Ocean County Library Jackson Branch throughout the months of April and May. The 22-year Jackson resident said that her parents supported her…
Read More »Ocean County Library - Applied Behavioral Analysis Therapy Discussion, Ocean County Library2023 Autism Resources Fair
TOMS RIVER – Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is widely used to help individuals with autism pursue lives of independence. Parsippany-based Step Up Family Services will present an overview during the Ocean County Library’s 2023…
Read More »Ocean County Library A Finalist For The 2023 IMLS National Medal Formuseum And Library Service
OCEAN COUNTY, N.J.—The Institute of Museum and Library Services announced today that Ocean County Library is among 30 finalists for the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. Ocean County Library is one of two institutions in New…
Read More »Ocean County Library News - Book Sale and NJ Makers Day Programs
Show Your Craftiness! NJ Makers Day Events at Ocean County Library Long Beach Island Branch SURF CITY–Enhance your skills and enjoy the satisfaction of being a do-it-yourselfer. The Ocean County Library Long Beach Island Branch will…
Read More »Ocean County Library : 'Crazy About Patsy Cline,' Featuring Maggie Worsdale
TOMS RIVER – Sixty years after her death, Patsy Cline remains among the top five female country singers of all time. The Ocean County Library is pleased to present international singing star Maggie Worsdale’s tribute, “CRAZY…
Read More »Ocean County Library - Barnegat Branch - March Art Exhibit
New Jersey artist Monroe Mullin declares his affinity for veterans wounded while serving their country in “FREEDOM” (Expressions of Color), his exhibit that remains on display throughout the month of March at the Ocean County Library…
Read More »Ocean County Library - Hidden Dangers" at three Ocean County Library branches
Families, guardians, parents, and professionals who interact with children and adults with autism, developmental challenges, and special needs can discover effective safety steps during upcoming programs at the Ocean County Library. Brick…
Read More »Ocean County Library - March Program, Shore to Age Well
The Ocean County Library is pleased to host a presentation by the Ocean County Health Department, “Shore to Age Well: Medication Management and Alternatives,” at four branches during the month of March: Brick Branch – 10 AM…
Read More »February Art Exhibit, Ocean County Library Toms River Branch
The Ocean County Library Toms River Branch is pleased to present an exhibit, “Art and Photography by Lorraine Pretty,” throughout the month of February. The Ocean County resident’s display will be showcased in the Branch’s…
Read More »'Of Land and Sea': February Art Exhibit
‘Of Land and Sea’: February Art Exhibit at Ocean County Library Toms River Branch – Local vistas captured on canvas by Ocean County artist Errol “Bud” Sylvester will be on display throughout the month of February at…
Read More »Ocean County Library To Honor Black History Month, Presidents’ Day With American Historical Theatre
TOMS RIVER – In honor of Black History Month and Presidents’ Day, the American Historical Theatre will re-create three notable Americans, whose lives spanned three centuries, at the Ocean County Library. Appearances will take place at…
Read More »Ocean County Library News - New Year, New Discoveries
New Year, New Discoveries Await at The Ocean County Library The year 2023 gleams with promise for patrons of the Ocean County Library, where new programs, innovations, and plans mean new ways of “Connecting People…Building…
Read More »Ocean County Library Holiday Schedule
Ocean County Library Announces Year-End Holiday Schedule All Ocean County Library branches and reading centers will be closed Saturday, December 24, Sunday, December 25, and Monday, December 26. Normal operating hours will resume Tuesday,…
Read More »'Vibrant Empath Art,' Ocean County Library Toms River Branch
TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Library Toms River Branch is pleased to present Shore-based artist Amanda Santomenna’s exhibit, “Vibrant Empath Art,” in the McConnell Gallery throughout the month of December. Visitors will view…
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