Lacey Library Marks 50 Years With Penguin Program, Local History Event

LACEY, NJ — The Lacey Branch of the Ocean County Library will celebrate its 50th anniversary on Tuesday, July 28, with two public programs and an opening ceremony at the branch, 10 East Lacey Road. The ceremony will begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by “Penguin Pointers with Jenkinson’s Aquarium” at 11 a.m. and “Lacey Historical Society: History of the Lacey Library” at 6 p.m.

The morning program will focus on penguins and their care. According to the event announcement, attendees will learn about the birds’ basic biology, where they live, the threats they face, how people can help them in the wild and how Jenkinson’s cares for them at the aquarium. The announcement also says a penguin from the aquarium will make a special appearance.

The Ocean County Library Foundation is sponsoring “Penguin Pointers with Jenkinson’s Aquarium,” according to the announcement. Registration is required for that program, and registration will open July 14. People can register by visiting tinyurl.com/PenguinLacey, calling 609-693-8566 or stopping by the branch.

After the aquarium program, Vampire Penguin, a shaved ice food truck, will be outside for patrons who want to buy summertime treats. The announcement advises people to be aware of potential food allergens. The Friends of the Lacey Library is sponsoring the food truck, according to the announcement.

The evening program will turn to local history. “Lacey Historical Society: History of the Lacey Library” is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. and will examine how the library changed during the 20th century.

According to the announcement, the presentation will look at the library’s development from early reading rooms in private homes to its current role as a community hub. The program will also explore the people, places and stories connected to public access to knowledge in Lacey across generations.

Registration is not required for the evening history presentation.