By Arlene Miller, Friends of the Pennsauken Free Public Library

In addition to the return of spring – finally – there’s a lot going on elsewhere with the Friends that you’ll want to get in on.

First off, there are four free yoga sessions to help everyone limber up and get in shape for the new season. They’ll be held the first four Thursdays in March from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. in the Library Community Room. All levels of yoga practitioners are welcome, pros and newcomers alike, so just bring your mat or use one of ours, dress comfortably, and get ready for some stretching and relaxation.

Squeeze In A Free Concert

Also in March, you’ll want to attend our amazing free concert from the Westmont Philharmonia Accordion Orchestra (WPAO) on Saturday, March 10, from 11:00 a.m. to noon in the Community Room. WPAO is a classical symphonic orchestra made up of 10 highly-accomplished accordionists. With Stanley Darrow as its principal conductor, WPAO features virtuoso artists and guest conductors from around the world, and its concerts have been enjoyed throughout New Jersey and the United States and Europe. The harmonies and musical expertise of the members combine to create a chamber ensemble experience. The orchestra’s diverse repertoire ranges from classical to contemporary, and their March 10 performance will take the audience on a worldwide tour by representing regions of Europe and Asia that include pieces such as “Irish Suite – Reel and Jig” by Seiber; “Hungarian Dance #5 & #6” by Brahms; “The Italian in Algeria” by Rossini; “In the Mountains of Central Asia” by Borodin; “Santander” by Leutwiler; and “Kalif of Bagdad” by Boieldieu. The concert will end with a spirited performance of “Latina” by Bencriscutto, a composition originally written for a marching band. So come out and prepare to be spellbound!

Membership Meeting On March 18

The Friends’ annual membership meeting for lifetime and 2018 members comes up on Sunday, March 18, 1:30 p.m. If you’d like to become a member ahead of our April 1 annual membership drive kick-off and help the Friends continue to support the Pennsauken Free Public Library, you’ll be able to purchase a membership right at the door! We’ll be serving light refreshments and showing the highlights of all the activities we’ve sponsored throughout 2017 that added to community experiences and innovative library additions. We’ll also be highlighting future events – speakers, workshops, movies, sales, contests and more – that we’re planning for the rest of the year. Hope to see you there!

Munch And A Movie On March 20

Our monthly installment of the ever-popular Munch and a Movie comes up Tuesday, March 20, beginning at 12:30 p.m. in the Community Room. For those of you who don’t yet know the drill, you bring your lunch and we’ll supply the snacks, beverages and, of course, movie. And since we’re not allowed to divulge the name of the film, you can choose to be surprised when you show up, or call the circulation desk to find out what’s playing. Either way, get ready to enjoy a pleasant few hours.

April Highlights

The Friends’ annual art show and sale begins on April 22. Artists’ submissions will be due on April 19 and 20; flyers are available at the library’s lobby desk with the entry form and other information on the types of media acceptable, sizes, mounting instructions, etc.

In addition to the amazing artwork on display, there will be several workshops offered during “Art Week,” including drawing classes, picture framing Q&A, an opportunity to make your own fabric gift bag, and more. Additional details will be provided next month.

Also in April, we’ll be accepting poems for our annual poetry contest, which is open to all residents of Pennsauken and Merchantville. Information flyers explaining various ages and categories, type of poems, etc. are now available at the Library’s lobby desk. All entries must be received no later than 6:00 p.m. Friday, April 13, either in person or by mail to Friends of the Pennsauken Free Public Library Poetry Contest, 5605 Crescent Blvd., Pennsauken, NJ 08110. All entries must be original and applicants cannot have won in the previous two years. Winners must attend the awards reception on Wednesday, May 16.

More details about April’s events will be shared next month. In the meantime, our next Friends meeting will be on Wednesday, March 14, 7:00 p.m., in the Library’s Community Room. You’re invited to join us!