The Historic Lehighton Library

On a momentous day, August 14, 1948, which coincided with the anniversary of VJ Day, the library's doors swung open, marking its official inauguration. Since that significant day, the library has tirelessly served the community without interruption, standing as a lasting tribute to the courageous men who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

The library's humble beginnings can be traced back to the old Seaboldt homestead at 188 South Third Street, which was acquired by the Lehighton Lions Club for this purpose. With the formation of the Library Association and the unwavering support from the school board, the initial funds, utilized for purchasing books, were raised through collections in local theaters. Within a span of fifteen years, the original location found itself bursting at the seams, prompting the decision to construct a new library on generously donated land. In June 1966, during the town's exuberant Centennial Celebration, the new library was completed and inaugurated, symbolizing a remarkable achievement. To facilitate the move, a human chain of individuals stretched from the old library site to its present location on North Street, ensuring the safe transfer of cherished literary treasures.

The library as it stands today is a testament to the unwavering dedication, arduous efforts, and generous donations that have shaped its evolution. Situated in the heart of a resurgent downtown, it caters to a vibrant community of over 17,000 individuals. The library's growth is evident in the increasing computer usage, program attendance, and daily visits. A plethora of enriching offerings awaits patrons, including captivating story times, engaging STEAM programs, dynamic summer reading events, creative crafting sessions, inspiring author visits, and more. Additionally, the library provides invaluable one-on-one assistance with tasks such as job applications, ancestry searches, retrieving online documents, and various technological needs. All of this has been accomplished within the confines of a modest 2,300 square foot building, housing a single public room.

In 2018, a momentous milestone was reached when the library received a prestigious matching grant from the Keystone Recreation, Park, and Conservation Fund, facilitated by the Office of Commonwealth Libraries. This grant paved the way for the construction of a much-needed addition to the library building at 124 North St. Matching funds were successfully secured through grants, generous donations from community groups, bequests, and the support of local families. Breaking ground in January 2020, the construction of the 1400 square foot addition was completed in November of the same year. This transformative expansion now encompasses a dedicated Youth Services Area, a versatile Community Room, and two ADA compliant restrooms, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors. The front entrance has also been thoughtfully redesigned to comply with ADA standards, further enhancing accessibility for everyone.

So, prepare for an unforgettable adventure at the library! As you step through its doors, you'll encounter a librarian like no other. This extraordinary storyteller is known for her wild and eccentric nature, making every visit a thrilling and whimsical experience. Embrace the excitement as you engage in conversation with this wonderfully quirky librarian, who has an uncanny ability to transport you to fascinating worlds through her tales. From enchanting folklore to unbelievable historical anecdotes, her stories will leave you captivated and craving for more. So don't miss out on the chance to meet this lively character and immerse yourself in the magical realm of books and imagination. Stop by and join the librarian's enthralling escapades today!