Summit Free Public Library facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Summit Free Public Library
Established	1911
Location	Summit, New Jersey, U.S.
Access and use
Population served	21,000 residents additional employees, visitors
Other information
Director	Susan Permahos
Staff	49
Website	website

The Summit Free Public Library is a fun and helpful public library located in Summit, New Jersey, United States. You can find it at 75 Maple Street. This library has more than just books! It also offers DVDs, CDs, music, and educational materials. You can enjoy many activities here, like interesting talks, art shows, cultural readings, movies, and special events. There are even cool programs just for teenagers! Plus, you can use the Internet for free. The library is super easy to get to, just a short walk from the train station and downtown Summit.

History of the Summit Library

How the Library Started

The very first library in Summit opened way back in 1891. But it wasn't a "free public library" back then. This first building later became the Summit Playhouse.

In 1911, the first free public library finally opened its doors on Maple Street. The land for this new library was given by the Bonnel family. A famous person named Andrew Carnegie helped libraries get built across the country. Funds from his estate helped build the Summit Public Library between 1900 and 1917. It's one of 36 Carnegie libraries in New Jersey!

Growing and Changing

In 1964, a newer building was built right next door to replace the old one. Later, in 1996, people worked hard to raise money for the library. They collected $1.3 million, partly by putting on a community play called "The Music Man"!

Construction to make the library bigger and better started in October 1997. While the work was happening, you could still get books by visiting temporary trailers. The newly expanded and renovated library reopened in March 1999.

The Joy of Reading Statue

In 2007, the library added a special statue called "The Joy of Reading." It was made by sculptor Robert Hill. This beautiful statue is outside on the eastern side of the building. It was dedicated to a young library staff member named Sherrie Murphy, who loved reading and had two young children.

Fun Programs and Activities

Workshops and Art Shows

The library often has week-long workshops where you can learn arts and crafts. They also show off amazing work from local artists and photographers. It's a great place to see creative talent!

Digital Resources

Did you know you can download audiobooks from the library? It's true! You can also renew your borrowed items online, which makes it super convenient.

Programs for Teens

The library has a special weekday afterschool program just for teens! It's called CATSS, which stands for Cool Awesome Teen Students of Summit. In CATSS, you can get help with homework, work on projects, read books, and play games. It's a fun way to hang out and learn.

Other Events

Sometimes, the library hosts interesting lectures on different topics. They also show award-winning foreign films during summer film festivals. The library even helps out the community by donating boxes of books for charity.

How the Library Works

Getting a Library Card

If you live in Summit, you can get a full-service library card for free! You just need to show proof of where you live. These cards are good for three years. People who work in Summit, students, and residents from nearby towns can also get cards.

Internet Access

The library offers free Internet access for everyone. For computers in the children's area, special software is used to make sure the content is safe for kids.

Donating Books

The library welcomes donations of books and other items. They especially like bestsellers, new novels, up-to-date non-fiction books, and current children's and young adult books. However, they can't accept books that are in bad condition, old textbooks, magazines, or encyclopedias. It's a good idea to call the library before you bring in your donations.

Taking Pictures

If you want to take pictures inside the library, you need to ask for permission first. This helps make sure everyone feels comfortable and respected.