Princeton Public Library

A few steps from Palmer Square in the heart of downtown Princeton, the Princeton Public Library is far more than a place to check out books. Its glass-walled Community Room and outdoor Hinds Plaza have become a low-key but genuine home for the town's amateur musicians, hosting a periodic Open Acoustic Jam that draws singers, guitarists, ukulele players, and anyone who wants to make music together in a completely informal, alcohol-free setting.

Atmosphere and Setting

The library's Community Room is bright, modern, and welcoming rather than a typical bar-room jam space. Chord charts and lyrics are projected on a large screen, or followed along on a phone through the NJAMP Songbook app, so the emphasis is on group participation rather than performance. It is an easy entry point for musicians who might feel intimidated by a bar-based open mic.

The Open Acoustic Jam

Held periodically throughout the year in partnership with NJ Acoustic Music in the Park (NJAMP), the Open Acoustic Jam runs on select Sunday afternoons from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM. Led by longtime NJAMP organizers Mike and Judy Seidel, the session welcomes acoustic guitar, ukulele, violin, resonator, tambourine, and voice at every skill level. No registration or performance experience is required — attendees can sing along, play along, or simply listen and clap.

Other Programming

Beyond the jam sessions, the library has also hosted outdoor Listen Local open mic afternoons on Hinds Plaza in partnership with the Einstein Alley Musicians Collaborative, giving local original and cover musicians a public stage in the middle of downtown. The library's event calendar is worth checking regularly for the next installment of either series.

Good to Know

Princeton Public Library is located at 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, NJ. Because the acoustic jam runs on an occasional rather than weekly schedule, check the library's online events calendar to confirm the next date before visiting.