In this post, we’ve selected and featured 10 of the best public libraries in Pennsylvania. Read on to learn about them and what they have to offer.
1. State Library of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is one of the earliest settled areas of the United States, which explains why some of its libraries have roots tracing back before the country declared its independence. The State Library began in 1745 after a British order requested literary materials and maps to be sent to Pennsylvania.
The library hosts a number of educational events that go beyond reading clubs. There are science talks and programs that keep the public informed of what the state government has in process. People can use the library’s free Wi-Fi and public computers. The library also has a Makerspace, which features Science, Technology, Education, and Math (STEM) programs and activities. The library also provides research guides for historians.
People can contact the State Library of Pennsylvania on their website.
2. Central Library (Bethlehem Area)
Libraries in the Bethlehem Area reach as far back as 1751, although these were privately operated. A public library did not open until February of 1901. The Central Library moved to its current location in 1967.
People can look through the Central Library’s online catalog to know more about the materials in circulation. The library offers a number of youth resources and even has a dedicated children’s area. People can view a list of planned events for children online. There are also Teen events that take place, which help enhance community engagement and participation among teenagers in the Bethlehem area. The library offers a number of research references and help online. There is public Wi-Fi and access to a number of computers.
Contact the library if you have any questions.
3. Main Library – Reading Public Library
The Main Library is located in central Reading, Pennsylvania. The library states that its mission is to help educate the future by meeting a variety of informational needs today.
The has computers for the public to use as well as Wi-Fi available throughout its location. There are printing services available, although they do come at a price. There are meeting rooms available at this location, which can be booked online. The library offers access to databases for patrons to use as a resource. Adults can attend computer classes, which are provided as a way for adults to increase their knowledge of computer programs. There are eBooks available for patrons to look through and virtually borrow.
Contact the library if you have any questions.
4. Southside Branch (Bethlehem Area)
The Southside Branch is the second public library in the Bethlehem area. It begin in 1906 and has relocated six times. It moved to its current location in 1930.
The library offers access to internet services and computers. Patrons can access the Southside Branch’s catalog to see what books are available. There are public events which are listed on the library’s website. There are also virtual events for patrons who choose to stay home, or might want something entertaining to do while away from the town. Researchers and historians can access online resources as references for any work or studies they are pursuing.
Reach out to the library for more information.
5. Northeast Branch – Reading Public Library
The Northeast Branch is located just west of Hampden Park in Berks County, PA. The library states that it is dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse culture in its library community.
Patrons can use public computers and access Wi-Fi and internet services. People can use their printing services at a cost. There are meeting rooms available for the public to use, but there is a fee. Patrons can use the library’s website to access a variety of databases. There is a virtual library, which provides eBooks and more for patrons to access. Historians, students, and researchers can also use a variety of reference materials, which highlight genealogy and local history.
Learn more by contacting the library directly.
6. Easton Area Public Library
Easton’s first library began in 1811 and was operated by public shareholders and funded through subscriptions. It became a public library in 1903. The library’s newest location opened in 1986.
Children can interact with a variety of virtual programs on their website. Programs for children range from Storytimes and STEM events. There is an eLibrary for patrons to use when they cannot make it in person to check out materials. The library offers free, public Wi-Fi as well as public computers. There are also hotspots available for patrons to check-out. The library hosts many events, which can be seen on their virtual calendar. The library also encourages patrons to volunteer and lists ways for patrons to get involved on its website.
Contact the library for more information.
7. New Castle Public Library
The New Castle Public Library has been an integral part of the New Castle community for more than one hundred years. The library has moved locations over the years, but its current location opened in 1981.
The library fosters community involvement by hosting a number of educational events, which can be seen on the library’s virtual calendar. The library also sells used books and other items to help fund the library. Historians and researchers can use resources provided by the library to help meet their educational needs. There are programs for kids and teens, and offers outreach services for people who cannot make it to the library. The library offers rooms available to reserve for community groups or for exhibition purposes.
The library’s contact information is located at the bottom of their home page.
8. Main Library (Montgomery County-Norristown Public Library)
The first library in the area began in 1794, but the Montgomery County-Norristown Public Library System did not start until 1968.
The library has many educational services. Patrons can borrow many downloadable items through a virtual library service. The Children’s Department puts together programs and events over the year. Teens can also take advantage of education and literary events. There are reference materials and resources listed on the library’s website. People can access Wi-Fi and computers. There is also printing available for patrons.
Learn more on the library’s website.
9. B.F. Jones Memorial Library
The B.F. Jones Memorial Library is located in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania and has provided its services to the community since 1929. The library is named in honor of Benjamin Franklin Jones Sr., who was a community businessman.
The library has children’s services, which include STEM programs and video projects in addition to literary events. There are also a number of young adult services and a dedicated teen space inside the library. People can look through a virtual calendar which lists the library’s events. There’s a chess club, a STEM lab, and more located at the library.
Contact the library for more information.
10. Altoona Area Public Library
The Altoona Area Public Library is a part of the Blair County Library System. The city’s first library opened in 1856. The building’s current location opened in 1968. It is located in downtown Altoona, and has a virtual walk-through for people to try out.
The Altoona Area Public Library offers its catalog online, so people know what materials are in circulation. The library facilitates education and community involvement through its outreach services. There are many programs and services available for children, from reading programs to play clubs. People can stay updated on all events online. The library offers computers and free Wi-Fi.
The library’s contact information is listed at the bottom of their website.