The Historic Lehighton Library

On August 14, 1948, the library opened its doors for the first time, marking an important day that also coincided with VJ Day. Since then, the library has been an important part of the community, honoring the brave men who sacrificed for their country.

The library began in the old Seaboldt homestead on South Third Street, which the Lehighton Lions Club bought to create a library. With support from the school board, money was raised through collections in local theaters to buy books. After 15 years, the original space became too small, so they decided to build a new library on land that was donated. In June 1966, during the town's Centennial Celebration, the new library opened. A human chain was formed to move the books from the old building to the new one on North Street.

Today, the library continues to serve the community. With over 17,000 people benefiting from its programs, the library has grown in popularity. More people visit, use the computers, and attend events like story times, summer reading programs, and author visits. The library also helps with things like job applications, ancestry research, and tech support. All of this happens in a 2,300-square-foot building with just one public room.

In 2018, the library received a matching grant from the Keystone Recreation, Park, and Conservation Fund. With that, plus donations from the community, the library expanded in 2020. The new addition, which is 1,400 square feet, includes a Youth Services Area, a Community Room, and ADA-compliant restrooms to make it accessible to everyone.

So, if you're looking for a fun place to visit, the library is the spot. The librarian is full of energy and loves to tell exciting stories that will take you on adventures. Whether it’s folklore, history, or a great story, the library is a place to let your imagination run wild. Come check it out!