Things to do in Franklin

Learn · Community · 10:00 am to 11:00 am

Welcome World to George Washington's Rockingham

Rockingham State Historic Site · Rockingham State Historic Site, 84 Laurel Avenue, Franklin Township, 08528, United States

New Jersey welcomes the world to Rockingham State Historic Site for the 250th Birthday of the United States. Visit the historic New Jersey Dutch Barn for an illustrated introduction to George Washington’s final headquarters of the Revolutionary War. Handle reproduction artifacts of the Revolutionary War. Sign up for tours of the grounds. Rockingham was George Washington’s final wartime headquarters. Arriving from New York, Washington stayed at Rockingham from August 23, 1783 and left November 10, 1783. While at Rockingham, Washington entertained guests, issued his Farewell Orders to the Army, and learned the United States became formally independent with the signing of the Treaty of Paris. The historic house remains closed due to construction for stabilization of the south elevation. ? Revolution NJ is New Jersey’s official observance of the 250th anniversaries of New Jersey’s first Constitution July 2, 2026 and the American Revolution in New Jersey from 2024 – 2033.

Learn · Library · 10:30 am to 12:00 pm

Conversational English as a Second Language (ESL) Class

Franklin Township Public Library — DeMott Lane Branch · 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873

Conversation groups are a great way to practice speaking English in a welcoming space with friendly people. Each week a volunteer tutor from the Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County will lead an interesting discussion. Example topics include: - American culture, history and holidays - English idioms and slang - Current events - Health and wellness - Sports, hobbies, and much more! You must be at least 18 years old and able to speak basic English. This session runs from October 3 through November 21. Attend as many classes are you are able! Registration is not required: walk-ins are welcome as long as there is space!

Learn · Community · 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm

The Evolution of Rockingham: The House and its Many Owners

Rockingham State Historic Site · Rockingham State Historic Site, 84 Laurel Avenue, Franklin Township, 08528, United States

Follow Rockingham through history from its earliest construction in the 1710s to relocation and preservation in the twenty-first century. Rockingham was George Washington’s final wartime headquarters in the fall of 1783, but the American Commander in Chief’s stay makes up just a few months in over 300 years of Rockingham’s story. Follow Rockingham through history from its earliest construction in the 1710s to relocation and preservation in the twenty-first century. Learn about Rockingham as home to the Higgins, Berrien and Cruser families of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, Rockingham’s role in the early Rocky Hill Quarry Co., and the transformation of Rockingham over the past 125 years into a historic shrine of the Washington Headquarters Association and then a State Historic Site of New Jersey. The Rockingham Association, friends of Rockingham State Historic Site, sponsors this program. ? Revolution NJ is New Jersey’s official observance of the 250th anniversaries of New Jersey’s first Constitution July 2, 2026 and the American Revolution in New Jersey from 2024 – 2033.

Learn · Community · 10:00 am to 11:00 am

Welcome World to George Washington's Rockingham

Rockingham State Historic Site · Rockingham State Historic Site, 84 Laurel Avenue, Franklin Township, 08528, United States

New Jersey welcomes the world to Rockingham State Historic Site for the 250th Birthday of the United States. Visit the historic New Jersey Dutch Barn for an illustrated introduction to George Washington’s final headquarters of the Revolutionary War. Handle reproduction artifacts of the Revolutionary War. Sign up for tours of the grounds. Rockingham was George Washington’s final wartime headquarters. Arriving from New York, Washington stayed at Rockingham from August 23, 1783 and left November 10, 1783. While at Rockingham, Washington entertained guests, issued his Farewell Orders to the Army, and learned the United States became formally independent with the signing of the Treaty of Paris. The historic house remains closed due to construction for stabilization of the south elevation. ? Revolution NJ is New Jersey’s official observance of the 250th anniversaries of New Jersey’s first Constitution July 2, 2026 and the American Revolution in New Jersey from 2024 – 2033.

Learn · Library · 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm

K-Pop Demon Hunters @ DeMott Lane

Franklin Township Public Library — DeMott Lane Branch · 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873

Make your own "All Access Backstage Pass", play some trivia, get cool Demon Hunter swag & chat with other KPop fans!

Learn · Library · 10:30 am to 10:45 am

Morning Rhymes @ Franklin Park Branch

Franklin Township Public Library — Franklin Park Branch · 64 Clover Place, Franklin Park, NJ 08823

Young children, accompanied by parents or caregivers, develop language in this 15-minute rhyme program which includes a simple story.

Learn · Library · 10:30 am to 12:00 pm

Megabyte Mondays: iPhone Basics Series

Franklin Township Public Library — DeMott Lane Branch · 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873

November 9: iPhone Basics Part 1 A review of the basics for using your iPad or iPhone. In this class we will cover the use of WiFi or cellular internet connections, popular basic settings, and updating, organizing, and deleting your apps. Please bring your iPad and iPhone questions to class as well and we will try to answer what we can during the time allotted. November 16: iPhone Basics Part 2 Know the basics of your iPhone and want to do more? Learn how to customize your phone, adjust privacy settings, use your camera, and more. Bring your devices and come with questions! Bring your own device or borrow one of ours. No registration necessary but limited space is available; patrons will be admitted into the program on a first-come-first-serve basis. This is an on-site, in-person program. If you have any questions regarding the library's policies and programming, please call us at 732-873-8700 x 111.

Learn · Library · 10:30 am to 11:00 am

Monday Morning Storytime @ Lewis Street branch

Franklin Township Public Library — Lewis Street Branch · 429 Lewis Street, Somerset, NJ 08873

Traditional 30-min storytime with stories, songs, rhymes & musical instruments like shakers, tambourines and bells! Session themes: 11/2 Farms, 11/9 Dinosaurs, 11/16 Turkeys.

Learn · Library · 10:30 am to 10:45 am

Bitty Babies (Lapsit Rhymes) @ DeMott Lane

Franklin Township Public Library — DeMott Lane Branch · 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873

A lapsit program for our youngest ones (accompanied by parents or caregivers). Babies will bounce through this active 15-minute program!

Learn · Library · 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm

Conversational English as a Second Language (ESL) Class

Franklin Township Public Library — DeMott Lane Branch · 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873

Conversation groups are a great way to practice speaking English in a welcoming space with friendly people. Each week a volunteer tutor from the Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County will lead an interesting discussion. Example topics include: - American culture, history and holidays - English idioms and slang - Current events - Health and wellness - Sports, hobbies, and much more! You must be at least 18 years old and able to speak basic English. This session runs from September 14 through November 16. Attend as many classes are you are able! Registration is not required: walk-ins are welcome as long as there is space!

Move · Library · 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Beginner Yoga

Franklin Township Public Library — DeMott Lane Branch · 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873

New to yoga? Learn the foundations for establishing a safe and effective yoga practice. Just some of the possible benefits of regular practice yoga include: - increased strength & muscle tone - improved concentration, flexibility and digestion - overall harmony of body & mind Supplies needed: a yoga mat is preferable, but if you don't have a yoga mat, you might want to put a towel or blanket on a carpeted surface. Otherwise, sometimes the class uses yoga blocks. You can substitute a stack of books if you don't have blocks. Sometimes the class uses yoga straps; potential alternatives include a scarf, a small towel, or a belt. Participants should consult their personal physician before beginning any exercise routine. Registration is required. A link to the Zoom meeting will be included in your confirmation email (sent after you register) and a reminder email (sent one day prior to the program). If you do not receive the emails, please call the library. The 'meeting room' will open 10 minutes before the scheduled start of the program.

Do · Library · 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm

Drop-in Chess for Adults

Franklin Township Public Library — DeMott Lane Branch · 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873

Studies show that playing chess can hone strategic planning, spatial analysis, and non-verbal reasoning skills. The royal game is also a fun pastime and a great way to get out of the house and meet some new people. We provide the chess boards, all you need is a desire to play. This drop-in adult chess group is open to beginner through advanced level players, and registration is not required.

Learn · Library · 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Cybersecurity & Online Fraud

Franklin Township Public Library — DeMott Lane Branch · 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873

This presentation will cover cybersecurity basics as well as the latest trends in online fraud, including phishing, identity theft, and financial scams. Leave with practical tips for avoiding being the victim of a financial crime, learn to recognize and respond to fraudulent activity, and understand the importance of secure online practices. The lecture will also include discussion of some of the largest cybersecurity crimes ever perpetrated. Presented by Eddi Khaytman, MBA, founder & CEO of Proto Ambitions. Eddi is an expert in the digital landscape, specializing in web design, SEO, and Artificial Intelligence. Registration is appreciated. For questions regarding this or any library program, please call 732-873-8700 x 111.

Learn · Library · 6:00 pm to 6:30 pm

I Found A Dino! @ DeMott Lane

Franklin Township Public Library — DeMott Lane Branch · 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873

One lone dinosaur stayed at the library after this summer's Dino theme. He's still here and wants you to come out to play!

Learn · Library · 10:30 am to 11:00 am

Storytime Adventures @ Franklin Park Branch

Franklin Township Public Library — Franklin Park Branch · 64 Clover Place, Franklin Park, NJ 08823

A fun and interactive program where children enjoy stories, songs, rhymes, and activities that encourage early literacy, creativity, and a love of reading.

Learn · Library · 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm

Alzheimer’s New Jersey Family Support Group for Caregivers

Franklin Township Public Library — DeMott Lane Branch · 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873

Alzheimer's New Jersey Family Support Groups provide families and caregivers with the emotional support and education they need to better understand Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Our volunteer support group facilitators receive specialized training about Alzheimer's disease and group facilitation techniques, as well as ongoing support and evaluation. Visit www.alznj.org or call our Helpline: 888-280-6055 for more information or to register for this group and learn about additional programs for individuals, families, and caregivers who are coping with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Registration required, please call 888-280-6055 to register. This is an on-site, in-person program.

Move · Library · 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Tai Chi for Beginners

Franklin Township Public Library — DeMott Lane Branch · 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873

Dr. Gang Huang, the founder of 'Seeking Tai Chi,' will be teaching Tai Chi classes for those who have little or no Tai Chi experience. The focus will be on fundamentals that aim to improve strength, balance, coordination, and inner piece to lead to healthy living. It is not necessary to attend previous classes to benefit from a Tai Chi for Beginner session. This will be a perfect opportunity to get to experience authentic Tai Chi training which is also referred to as 'Meditation in Motion.' Registration is appreciated but walk-ins are welcome!

Do · Library · 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm

Drop-in Mahjong

Franklin Township Public Library — DeMott Lane Branch · 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873

Join us at the library for Mahjong, a classic Chinese tile-based game. Play will be using National Mah Jongg League rules (American). The library provides Mahjong sets but not instruction. No registration required.

Do · Library · 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Drop-In Chess for Kids @ DeMott Lane

Franklin Township Public Library — DeMott Lane Branch · 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873

Drop-in to play a friendly game against other chess lovers! Novices know the rules of the game and are ready to sit down and play a game.

Know · Library · 12:00 am to 11:59 pm

DeMott Lane Branch Closed

Franklin Township Public Library — DeMott Lane Branch · 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873

All library locations closed today.

Move · Library · 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

Chair Yoga

Franklin Township Public Library — FTPL @ Home

Chair yoga is perfect for those who want the benefits of yoga without getting up and down from the floor. With the support of a chair, you can build strength, improve posture and increase flexibility in a comfortable and accessible way. Open to all levels of practice and abilities, this gentle class focuses on an exploration of basic yoga poses and how to connect them through attention to breathing, alignment and mindfulness. Although much of the class will be done seated in a chair, the option to practice standing poses to improve balance, strength and flexibility are also included. Expect lots of gentle stretching to bring movement to the joints and muscles. This class is perfect for stress relief and overall well-being. Amy Shanti Manifase is an experienced yoga teacher who has completed 500 hour Advanced Teacher Training with additional certifications in Therapeutic Yoga, Gentle Yogis, Prime of Life Yoga, Restorative Yoga and Mindful Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Meditation. Her teaching is rooted in accessibility, compassion and the belief that yoga is a lifelong practice adaptable to every circumstance and stage of life. Amy Shanti's classes offer students a safe & welcoming environment to reduce stress, support healthy aging & connect with a sense of calm & vitality beyond the mat. Participants should consult their personal physician before beginning any exercise routine. Registration is required. A link to the Zoom meeting will be included in your confirmation email...

Learn · Library · 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Marvel Madness! @ Lewis Street branch

Franklin Township Public Library — Lewis Street Branch · 429 Lewis Street, Somerset, NJ 08873

Vote for your favorite characters every Thursday. The Elite 8 will reduce to Final 4 until the Top 2 are announced on Nov 19. Who will be the absolute favorite Marvel character? Revealed on Nov 25!

Learn · Library · 4:45 pm to 5:30 pm

Tinker Time @ Franklin Park Branch

Franklin Township Public Library — Franklin Park Branch · 64 Clover Place, Franklin Park, NJ 08823

November: Snap Circuits! Join us for a STEM activity!

Learn · Library · 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm

Butter-Making: STEM program @ DeMott Lane

Franklin Township Public Library — DeMott Lane Branch · 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873

Learn about the science of how butter is made while working together to make some real yummy butter. Bring muscles because butter-making requires energy! At end of program, enjoy a taste!

Do · Library · 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Teen Crochet Club @ Franklin Park

Franklin Township Public Library — Franklin Park Branch · 64 Clover Place, Franklin Park, NJ 08823

We will have supplies to use at the program and can give advice on what to buy so you can practice at home. We meet monthly.

Learn · Library · 6:30 pm to 6:45 pm

Night Rhymes @ DeMott Lane

Franklin Township Public Library — DeMott Lane Branch · 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873

Young children, accompanied by parents or caregivers, develop language in this 15-minute rhyme program which includes a simple story.

Know · School · All day

No School for Students; Teacher Inservice

Learn · Library · 10:30 am to 11:00 am

Rhythm & Rhymes Storytime @ DeMott Lane

Franklin Township Public Library — DeMott Lane Branch · 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873

Join us for a rollicking rhyme storytime with stories and songs!

Learn · Library · 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

The New Yorker Short Story Club

Franklin Township Public Library — Franklin Park Branch · 64 Clover Place, Franklin Park, NJ 08823

The New Yorker Short Story Club invites readers to come together for lively, thoughtful conversations about short fiction featured in The New Yorker. Open to all, registration is not required. You can access the story here through Press Reader by clicking here , or by checking out the magazine from the library. See us at the Franklin Park Branch if you need help getting a copy of the story.