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Official Website

of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

    The .gov means its official.

    Local, state, and federal government websites often end in .gov. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania government websites and email systems use "pennsylvania.gov" or "pa.gov" at the end of the address. Before sharing sensitive or personal information, make sure you're on an official state website. 
    Programs & Services

    Resources and Services for Libraries

    The Office of Commonwealth Libraries' Bureau of Library Development strengthens and improves Pennsylvania's library services by:

    • Providing advisory services and continuing education for library staff and volunteer leadership at public, school, academic, and special libraries;
    • Coordinating and funding library services and programs, such as POWER Library or Library Services for the Visually Impaired and Disabled;
    • Awarding state Keystone Recreation, Park, and Conservation Act grants to public libraries for construction and renovation projects; and
    • Collecting financial and statistical data (primarily from public libraries).

    Directory of PA Libraries

    This directory contains the contact information for Pennsylvania public, academic, institution, and other special libraries throughout the Commonwealth.

    Pennsylvania Libraries on the Web

    Programs and Services

    Professional consultation and support are provided to more than 600 public library facilities in Pennsylvania, as well as to library staff in state agencies, schools, colleges, museums, corporations, and private organizations throughout Pennsylvania in an effort to increase access, collaboration and promote professional development.  Programs and services are supported through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the U.S. Institute of Museums and Libraries Services Grants to State program.

    Contact the Bureau of Library Development for more information.

    Laws and Regulations

    The Public Library Code contains Pennsylvania statutes responsible for the operation and maintenance of the State Library of Pennsylvania and the coordination of a statewide system of local (public) libraries. 

    Laws & Regulations Information
    Bookshelf filled with many books.

    Compendium

    Our Compendium highlights and collects important information from both the entities of the State Library of Pennsylvania and additional Commonwealth libraries. It serves as the primary communication channel for the Bureau of Library Development. The Compendium also includes our LibGuides and additional library development resources.

    Compendium for Pennsylvania Libraries

    Information about Research & Statistics

    Information

    Subscribe to our Email Distribution Lists

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    Apply for Subsidies and Grants

    Applications

    Information about School Libraries

    Information