The Northern Tier Library, located in Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, is a public library that serves the communities of Hampton, Richland, and West Deer townships. With a rich history dating back to 1963, the library has evolved to meet the changing needs of its patrons, offering a wide range of services, programs, and resources for people of all ages.
History and Development
The Northern Tier Library was established in response to the growing demand for library services in the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh. The library’s first location was a small storefront in the Gibsonia shopping center, with a collection of approximately 5,000 volumes. Over the years, the library has expanded and relocated several times, with the current facility opening in 1993. The library’s building features a spacious interior, comfortable seating areas, and state-of-the-art technology, making it an ideal destination for research, reading, and community engagement.
Services and Programs
The Northern Tier Library offers a diverse range of services and programs designed to meet the needs of its diverse community. These include:
- Access to a vast collection of books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and databases
- Free Wi-Fi and public computers with internet access
- Programs for children, including storytime, book clubs, and summer reading programs
- Services for teens, such as book discussions, gaming events, and college preparation resources
- Adult programs, including author talks, book clubs, and technology workshops
- Interlibrary loan services, allowing patrons to borrow materials from other libraries
- Partnerships with local organizations and businesses to provide additional resources and services
The library also hosts various events and activities throughout the year, such as author readings, art exhibits, and concerts, making it a vibrant community hub.
Collection and Resources
The Northern Tier Library’s collection comprises over 150,000 items, including:
| Category | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Books | 120,000 |
| Audiobooks | 10,000 |
| E-books | 20,000 |
| Magazines and Newspapers | 500 |
| Databases | 50 |
In addition to its physical collection, the library provides access to digital resources, including online databases, e-books, and streaming services.
Community Engagement and Outreach
The Northern Tier Library is dedicated to engaging with its community and promoting literacy, education, and cultural enrichment. The library partners with local schools, businesses, and organizations to develop programs and services that address the unique needs of the community. Through outreach efforts, the library aims to increase access to its resources and services, particularly for underserved populations.
Partnerships and Collaborations
The library collaborates with various organizations, including:
- Local schools to support curriculum development and literacy initiatives
- Businesses to provide workforce development resources and job training programs
- Community groups to promote cultural diversity and social justice
- Government agencies to offer access to government information and services
These partnerships enable the library to leverage resources, expertise, and funding to create innovative programs and services that benefit the community.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The Northern Tier Library is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
How do I get a library card?
+To obtain a library card, visit the library’s circulation desk with a valid form of identification and proof of residency. Library cards are free for residents of Hampton, Richland, and West Deer townships.
What digital resources are available through the library?
+The Northern Tier Library offers a variety of digital resources, including e-books, audiobooks, streaming services, and online databases. These resources can be accessed through the library’s website using a valid library card.
