From the Maplewood Library:
Maplewood Library is one of 50 US libraries selected to present a museum-quality travelling exhibition entitled Thinking Money: a Financial Expedition. Maplewood is the only New Jersey location where the 1000 square foot exhibit will be seen. It will be on view at the Main Library at 51 Baker St. from December 17, 2016 to January 21, 2017.
Money affects all Americans, but many of us lack the knowledge we need to make smart financial choices that will prepare us for whatever the future brings. Thinking Money strives to teach tweens, teens and their parents, caregivers and educators about financial literacy topics—like saving, spending and avoiding fraud—in a way that is not only understandable, but fun.
Through an adventure-themed storyline, interactive iPad content and other fun, hands-on activities, the exhibition explores a variety of financial themes, including Wants vs. needs; Earning and paying interest; Preparing for rainy/sunny day; Imagining your future self, and Avoiding financial fraud.
Thinking Money is coming to Maplewood thanks to Youth Services Librarian Irene Langlois. Irene, who previously worked in the financial services field, has a special understanding of the need for the young adults of our community to become financially literate. “Due to societal changes, many teens have little experience managing their own finances until after college and have little understanding of wants vs. needs or planning for the future and investments.”
A kick-off event will be held on Saturday, December 17 from 2-4 pm. The exhibit will be open for exploration, and there will be Scrooge piggy bank and Scrooge duct tape wallet crafts, in conjunction with Dickens Village. Kids can make a craft for themselves or as a no-cost gift! Refreshments will be served. A host of other programs are planned. Pick up a Thinking Money brochure in December.
Thinking Money was developed by the American Library Association Public Programs Office in collaboration with the FINRA Investor Education Foundation, whose support made this exhibition possible.
In addition to the exhibition loan, Maplewood Library will also receive $1,000 for exhibit-related programming, and will be partnering with local groups to offer fun and educational programs and events.
Hosting the exhibit aligns with several of the Library’s Strategic Plan initiatives, including “provide learning opportunities for all patrons in life skills, health and finance” and “find innovative ways to work with the schools to support learning and achievement”. The exhibit supports Columbia High School’s personal finance curriculum. The themes cover many of the state standards, including money management and becoming a critical consumer.
