The Jersey City Police Department and the local library is teaming up for a “Books & Badges” reading and discussion series that begins Wednesday at the Miller Library at 489 Bergen Ave.
Facebook photo.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“We may have some difficult conversations, and that’s OK. In some cases, they’re long overdue,” Lt. Collin Congleton, who developed the new program, said in a statement.
“Books and Badges is about creating opportunities for our officers and community members to engage in meaningful dialogue, exchange ideas, and better understand one another’s perspectives. Through these open and honest conversations, we’re facilitating, we can work together to identify actionable steps that strengthen trust and improve police-community relationships.”
The program aims to bring together Jersey City residents, teens ages 15 and older, library staff, and law enforcement professionals for thoughtful, book-centered conversations.
Tony Williams, manager of social services at the Jersey City Free Public Library, explained that Books & Badges was developed to use literature as a bridge for dialogue, reflection, and community connection.
“The idea for Books & Badges grew from a simple belief: books can give us a meaningful place to begin conversations that might otherwise feel difficult to have. Too often, community members and law enforcement encounter one another only during challenging moments, so I wanted to create an opportunity for people to sit together, listen, and learn from one another,” he explained.
“I hope this series helps build greater understanding—not by expecting everyone to agree, but by making room for honest and respectful dialogue. As a public library, our mission extends beyond providing books and information; we are also a trusted space where people can connect, examine different perspectives, and strengthen their community. Ultimately, Books & Badges is about building trust one conversation at a time.”
The full schedule includes:
Miller Branch — Wednesday, September 23, 5:00–6:00 p.m.Earl A. Morgan Branch — Wednesday, October 28, 5:00–6:00 p.m.Communipaw Branch — Tuesday, November 17, 6:00–7:00 p.m.Priscilla Gardner Main Library — Thursday, December 17, 6:00–7:00 p.m.
“Building a safer community takes more than policing alone. Our residents are among our most important public safety partners, but that depends on the level of trust and strong relationships established between the community and our police officers,” added Mayor James Solomon.
“Books & Badges is a unique platform to bring residents and officers together for conversations centered around some difficult issues and how we can address them. It is another important addition in our efforts toward strengthening police-community relationships.”
Further, Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose emphasized the importance of creating spaces where residents and officers can engage in meaningful conversations and learn from one another’s experiences.
“Strong relationships between police officers and the communities they serve are built through open communication, mutual respect, and a willingness to listen,” he expressed.
“Books & Badges will give residents and officers an opportunity to learn from one another, better understand different perspectives, and build much-needed trust. Those stronger connections will help our officers serve the community more effectively while ensuring residents feel heard, respected, and engaged.”
