HILLSBOROUGH: Spelling bee tests young and old alike

    The Hillsborough Library is sponsoring a “GoodSpellers” spelling bee for ages 10 and up at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 17, at the library at 379 South Branch Road.
    The library promises casual spelling fun and cool prizes, donated by the Friends of the Library.
    When you arrive, you will be asked what group level you want to participate in — Brainiac, Genius or Master of the Universe! Spectators are welcome.
    • In April, view the collections of Allen Mitch and Sunitha Somasundaram.
    • ’Adult programs (registration required):
    • ESL conversation group — Ages 18 and older can sign up for a mixed-gender English as a Second Language group in the library conference room. Must know basic English. Mondays, April 14 and 21, at 7 p.m.
    • Zumba — An 8-week series at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays through March 3 combines high-energy music with moves and combinations that allow you to dance your way to fitness. Wear comfortable clothing and bring water.
    • Monday Morning Playtime (for parents/caregivers) — Topics of discussion along with recommended resources. Children ages birth through 36 months are welcome. (There will be toys for them to play with.) Mon., April 21, at 10 a.m.
   • Alternative/folk music — The Hazy Souls, a band from New Brunswick, will play original compositions that showcase their musical influences and personal experiences. Thurs., April 10, at 7 p.m.
    • Afternoon movies: “Secondhand Lions,” starring Michael Caine and Robert Duvall, will be shown Monday, April 14, at 1 p.m. “Saving Mr. Banks,” starring Tom Hanks and Emma Thompson and rated PG-13, will be shown Wednesday, April 16, at 1:30 p.m.
    • Indians lived here — Archaeologist Jim Wade will discuss the hidden presence of the Indians who once hunted, fished and gathered wild plants — maybe right in your backyard! Wed., April 16, at 7 p.m.
    • Book discussion — A newly formed Parenting Book Discussion group will meet bi-monthly. This session is on “Simplicity Parenting” by Kim John Payne — a small book with a big message covering the why’s and how’s of simplifying family life to create a friendly environment. Thurs., April 17, at 7 p.m.
    • Gardening and birds — John DeMarrais, a former board member of the N.J. Audubon Society, will offer insights based on observations of birds in more than 40 countries, and their relationship to local garden environments. Wed., April 23, at 7 p.m.
    • Book discussion — Topic is “The Art of Racing in the Rain” by Garth Stein. A heart-
wrenching look at the wonders and absurdities of human life . . . as only a dog could tell it. Light refreshments will be served. Thurs., April 24, at 3:30 p.m.
    • Sustainability series — The first of a monthly multi-
part “Sustainability Steps” series will hear Rutgers University energy and earth science professor Robert Kopp talk about “Rising Tides: What Can The Past Tell Us About Future Climate Change.” Sat., April 26, at 2 p.m.
    • Writers group — This is the first meeting of the Public Library Writers Group. This will be a “getting to know you” meeting to see how many people are interested in participating, what genres they write in, level of experience, etc. There will be a brief presentation on the various types of rights associated with your writing (print, reprint, digital, audio, etc), and why they are important. Thurs., April 24 at 7 p.m.
    • Learning workshop — Marcia Douglas of LearningRX of Warren will present a free workshop Thurs., April 24, at 7 p.m. for parents, early childhood educators and caregivers. The workshop provides methods for detecting students with weak skills and introduce tools to help strengthen those skills.
    This program is relevant for students of all ages, but special attention will be given to younger students (pre-K to grade 1). Kindergarten readiness will also be addressed. Professional development hours to attendees.
    Here are programs for youngsters. Registration is required.
    • Practice SAT test (grades 9-12) — This free Kaplan test prepares students for their exam. Bring a number 2 pencil, a calculator and a snack (if desired.) Kaplan sends test results to students in about 10 business days. Sat., April 12, at noon.
    • Tail Waggin’ Tutors (grades K-4) — Each registered child will get 10 minutes practicing reading skills while Xena, a Therapy Dog International-certified dog, listens. Online registration is not available; call or stop by the Children’s Desk. Mon., April 14, at 4 p.m.
    • Teen movie night (grades 7-12) — Bring friends to watch “The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones.” Snacks will be provided. Mon., April 14, at 6 p.m.
    • Early Reader Book Club (grades K-2) – Discuss “Cork & Fuzz: Short & Tall” by Dori Chaconas, do some activities and make a craft. Please read the book before the program. Copies available at the Children’s Desk. Tues., April 15, at 4 p.m.
    • Preschool Book Club (for parents and children ages 3-5) — Read books by Peter Brown and share book-related activities. Wed., April 16, at 10 a.m.
    • Garden club program (grades 2-4) — Join members of the Neshanic Garden Club to make a spring wreath. Wed., April 16, at 4 p.m.
    • Craft Time (ages 4-6) — Make an Earth Day craft with your preschoolor kindergarten child. Thurs., April 17, at 10 a.m.
    • Story Time (ages 3-6) — Enjoy stories and build language skills with your preschool or kindergarten child and read a story about bugs on Mon., April 21, at 1 p.m. No registration required.
    • Toddler Time (2- and 3-year-olds) — Introduce books to your child with a story on monkeys on April 22, at 10 a.m.
    • Rhyme Time (newborn to 24 months) — Twenty minutes of nursery rhyme fun. Tues., April 22, at 10:30 a.m.
    • Lego Buddies (grades 8-12) — Reliable teen volunteers are wanted to provide assistance during Lego Club programs. You must register for each individual session. Volunteers will earn community service hours for attendance. Space limited to four volunteers per session. Tues., April 22, at 3:45 p.m.
    • Lego Club (grades 1-5) — Build A Lego Earth on Tues., April 22, at 4 p.m. The library supplies the Legos and you supply the creativity.
    • Teen Advisory Board (grades 6-12) — Help plan teen programs and say what you’d like to see happen at the library. Attendance counts toward community service. Tues., April 22, at 7 p.m.