Dream of a place where stories bloom. That place is the Linden Free Public Library. It is more than just books. It is a community hub.
The library’s story began with the Linden Rotary Club. A small group of citizens sponsored it. They operated it voluntarily for six months. Then, on January 1, 1928, it became a municipal institution. It was supported by taxes. Miss Viola R. Maihl was its first professional librarian. She was hired to organize the library.
In December 1939, the Linden Free Public Library moved. Its new building was erected with a federal grant. The library has always focused on Linden’s community. It serves people of all ages and backgrounds.
The Linden Free Public Library offers books, periodicals, CDs, and DVDs. It once operated with three branches. The staff included librarians and trainees. In a quarter-century, the Linden Library proved its value. The community and government supported its growth.
The Linden Public Library’s mission is clear. It aims to satisfy the community’s needs. These needs include information, culture, education, and recreation. It strives to provide modern resources.
The new Linden Free Public Library opened in June 2010. It is located at 31 E. Henry St. The library offers free wireless internet access. It has internet terminals for public use.
The Linden Free Public Library serves over 30 towns. These towns include Linden and Elizabeth. It helps people find the materials they need. The library has many registered borrowers. It also has a large number of bibliographic records. In 2017, the annual circulation was significant.
The Linden Free Public Library participates in programs like the Winter Clothing Drive. It collects hats, gloves, jackets, and socks. These donations benefit local organizations. The library also supports sneaker recycling. It partners with GotSneakers to turn old sneakers into cash. This keeps them out of landfills.
The Friends of the Linden Library raise money through online shopping. Over 1,500 stores participate. A percentage of each purchase benefits the library.
Dennis Purves is the director of the Linden Free Public Library. The library offers wireless internet. It also uses Library.Solution for its automation system.
The Linden Free Public Library is more than a building. It is a place for learning. It is a place for community. The Linden Free Public Library enriches the lives of those it serves.