Easton Area Public Library

The Easton Area Public Library, nestled in the heart of Easton, Pennsylvania, is a beacon of knowledge and history that has been serving the community for over a century. This Carnegie library, with its rich past and expansive collection, is not just a repository of books but a testament to the enduring spirit of public service and education.

A Glimpse into the Past

The origins of the Easton Area Public Library can be traced back to the early 19th century. Established by the Easton Library Company in 1811, the library initially operated on a subscription basis, making it accessible only to those who could afford the annual fee. By 1815, the company had raised enough funds to construct Library Hall on land donated by Samuel Sitgreaves, marking the beginning of a long-standing tradition of community support and involvement.

Fast forward to the late 19th century, the Easton Library Association was formed in 1895 by the women of Lehigh Valley to provide free public library services to all residents, regardless of their financial status. This initiative culminated in the establishment of a new library in 1896, which operated for a few hours each weekday and extended hours on select evenings.

The Carnegie Era

The turn of the 20th century brought significant changes and growth to the library. In 1901, industrialist Andrew Carnegie, renowned for his support of public libraries, donated $57,000 to the Easton Library Association for the construction of a new library building. The Modern Renaissance-style building, completed in 1903, became a cornerstone of the community, housing 14,000 books and featuring an auditorium with a seating capacity of 400 to 500 people.

As the library's collection and popularity grew, additional funding from Carnegie in 1911 allowed for further expansion, increasing the capacity to 80,000 volumes. The library continued to evolve, with renovations in 1941 and 1969 adding more space and modern amenities to accommodate the growing needs of the community.

The Marx Room: A Treasure Trove of Local History

One of the library's most notable features is the Marx Room, established in 1985. Named after Henry F. Marx, the library's first librarian, this climate-controlled room houses an extensive collection of local history and genealogy materials. With approximately 15,000 historical texts and artifacts, the Marx Room is a valuable resource for researchers and history enthusiasts.

Among the treasures housed in the Marx Room are the oldest known map of Easton, dating back to the early 18th century, and the original Flag of Easton. This flag holds historical significance as it was hoisted during one of the first public readings of the Declaration of Independence on July 8, 1776, in Easton.

The Palmer Branch: Expanding Horizons

In 1986, the Easton Area Public Library expanded its reach with the opening of the Palmer Branch in Palmer Township. This branch, constructed with community support and federal funding, replaced a temporary service branch and continues to serve the residents of Palmer Township and the surrounding areas.

Modern-Day Library Services

Today, the Easton Area Public Library is part of the Lehigh Valley Library System, a consortium established in 2001 that includes neighboring libraries in Allentown, Bethlehem, and at Moravian College. This collaboration enhances the library's ability to serve the approximately 660,000 residents of the Lehigh Valley region.

The library offers a wide range of services, from lending books and digital media to providing access to computers and the internet. Educational programs, workshops, and community events are regularly held, making the library a vibrant hub of learning and social interaction.

Architectural Grandeur

The Easton Area Public Library's architecture is a blend of historic charm and modern functionality. The original Carnegie building, with its grand façade and elegant design, stands as a testament to the library's rich heritage. The subsequent additions and renovations have seamlessly integrated modern elements, ensuring that the library remains a comfortable and accessible space for all visitors.

A Community Cornerstone

More than just a building filled with books, the Easton Area Public Library is a cornerstone of the community. It reflects the collective efforts of generations who have valued education, history, and public service. Whether you're a history buff delving into the archives of the Marx Room, a student seeking resources for a research project, or a resident attending a community event, the library offers something for everyone.

In conclusion, the Easton Area Public Library is not just a place to borrow books; it is a living, breathing institution that embodies the spirit of Easton. Its walls echo with the stories of the past, its shelves are filled with the knowledge of the present, and its doors are always open to the possibilities of the future. A visit to this historic library is a journey through time, a testament to the enduring power of knowledge and community.