The Ridgewood Public Library, located in Ridgewood, New Jersey, is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of services, programs, and resources to residents of all ages. With a rich history dating back to 1890, the library has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community, providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for people to learn, explore, and connect.
History and Development
The Ridgewood Public Library was founded in 1890, with a initial collection of 500 books and a small reading room. Over the years, the library has undergone several expansions and renovations, with the most recent major renovation completed in 2006. This renovation added 15,000 square feet of new space, including a large children’s area, a teen room, and a state-of-the-art media center. Today, the library boasts a collection of over 150,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, DVDs, and digital media.
Services and Programs
The Ridgewood Public Library offers a diverse range of services and programs for adults, children, and teens. These include author readings and book discussions, children’s storytime and craft sessions, teen gaming and movie nights, and adult education classes on topics such as technology, health, and wellness. The library also provides free Wi-Fi, public computers, and printing and scanning services. Additionally, the library offers a variety of research databases and online resources, including language learning tools, test preparation materials, and genealogy resources.
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Interlibrary Loan | Borrow books and materials from other libraries |
| Museum Passes | Free or discounted admission to local museums and attractions |
| Test Preparation | Online resources and study materials for standardized tests |
Community Outreach and Partnerships
The Ridgewood Public Library is committed to outreach and partnerships with local organizations and businesses. The library works closely with the Ridgewood Board of Education, the Ridgewood Parks and Recreation Department, and other community groups to provide programs and services that meet the needs of the community. The library also partners with local authors, artists, and performers to offer cultural and educational programs. Additionally, the library offers meeting rooms and study spaces for community groups and individuals, and provides support for local literacy programs and initiatives.
Technology and Digital Media
The Ridgewood Public Library is at the forefront of technology and digital media, offering a range of services and resources to support the community’s information and entertainment needs. The library provides free access to e-books, audiobooks, and digital magazines, as well as streaming services for music, movies, and TV shows. The library also offers a variety of online resources, including language learning tools, test preparation materials, and genealogy resources. Additionally, the library provides public computers, laptops, and tablets for in-library use, and offers free Wi-Fi and printing and scanning services.
- Digital media services: e-books, audiobooks, digital magazines, music, movies, and TV shows
- Online resources: language learning tools, test preparation materials, genealogy resources
- Public computers and devices: laptops, tablets, and public computers
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The library is open Monday through Thursday from 9am to 9pm, Friday from 9am to 5pm, Saturday from 9am to 5pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm.
Can I borrow items from other libraries?
+Yes, the Ridgewood Public Library is a member of the Bergen County Cooperative Library System, which allows you to borrow items from other libraries in the system.
Do I need a library card to use the library’s services?
+Yes, a library card is required to borrow items, access digital media, and use certain online resources. You can apply for a library card in person at the library with a valid form of identification and proof of residency.
