The Scotch Plains Library, located in the heart of Scotch Plains, New Jersey, is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of resources and services to its patrons. With a rich history dating back to 1912, the library has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community, providing access to information, education, and entertainment for people of all ages. In this guide, we will explore the various resources and services available at the Scotch Plains Library, highlighting its commitment to promoting literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement.
Library Collections and Resources
The Scotch Plains Library boasts an extensive collection of over 150,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and CDs. The library’s collection is diverse and inclusive, catering to the interests of adults, children, and teens. Patrons can access the library’s online catalog to search for materials, place holds, and renew items. The library also participates in the Libraries of Middlesex Automation Consortium (LMxAC), allowing patrons to borrow materials from other member libraries.
Children’s and Teen Services
The Scotch Plains Library offers a variety of programs and services specifically designed for children and teens. The children’s section features a cozy reading area, a play zone, and a collection of board books, picture books, and early readers. The library also offers storytime sessions for toddlers and preschoolers, as well as book clubs and other activities for children and teens. The teen section provides a quiet study area, a collection of young adult fiction and nonfiction, and access to online resources and databases.
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Interlibrary Loan | Borrow materials from other libraries through the LMxAC consortium |
| E-book Collection | Access to over 10,000 e-books through the library's digital collection |
| Online Databases | Research tools, such as Ancestry.com, Lynda.com, and JobNow, available for free with a library card |
Programs and Events
The Scotch Plains Library offers a wide range of programs and events for adults, children, and teens, including author readings, book clubs, concerts, and workshops. The library’s program calendar is available online, and patrons can register for events through the library’s website. Some popular programs include the Scotch Plains Library Book Club, which meets monthly to discuss a selected title, and the Children’s Summer Reading Program, which encourages kids to read for fun and prizes during the summer months.
Community Partnerships
The Scotch Plains Library is committed to building partnerships with local organizations and businesses to promote literacy, education, and community engagement. The library works closely with the Scotch Plains Township to offer programs and services that meet the needs of the community, such as the Scotch Plains Library Foundation, which supports the library’s programs and services through fundraising and grants.
- Museum Pass Program: The library offers free or discounted admission to local museums and attractions, such as the Newark Museum and the Liberty Science Center.
- Job Search Assistance: The library provides resources and support for job seekers, including resume review, interview practice, and online job search tools.
- Technology Classes: The library offers free technology classes for adults, covering topics such as computer basics, internet safety, and social media.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The Scotch Plains Library is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The library is closed on Sundays.
How do I get a library card?
+To get a library card, you can visit the library in person and provide proof of residency, such as a driver’s license or utility bill. You can also apply for a library card online and pick it up at the library.
What resources are available for children and teens?
+The Scotch Plains Library offers a variety of resources and services for children and teens, including storytime sessions, book clubs, and online resources such as TumbleBooks and TeenBookCloud.
