Cape May County Library is a public library system serving the residents of Cape May County, New Jersey. The library system consists of five branch libraries located in Cape May Court House, Lower Township, Middle Township, Sea Isle City, and Stone Harbor. The library's mission is to provide free and equal access to information, education, and entertainment for all members of the community. With a vast collection of books, media, and digital resources, the Cape May County Library is an essential resource for residents, students, and visitors alike.
History and Development of the Cape May County Library
The Cape May County Library has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. The first library in the county was established in 1908 in Cape May City, and over the years, the library system has grown and expanded to meet the needs of the community. Today, the library system has a total of five branches, each offering a unique and welcoming environment for patrons to explore and learn. The library’s collection has also expanded to include a wide range of materials, including books, audiobooks, e-books, DVDs, and digital databases.
Services and Resources Offered by the Cape May County Library
The Cape May County Library offers a variety of services and resources to support the informational, educational, and recreational needs of the community. Some of the services and resources available include:
- Research assistance: Librarians are available to provide guidance and support with research projects, helping patrons to find and evaluate information.
- Computer and internet access: The library offers public computers and Wi-Fi access, allowing patrons to stay connected and access digital resources.
- Programs and events: The library hosts a range of programs and events for adults, children, and teens, including author talks, book clubs, and children's storytime.
- Interlibrary loan: Patrons can request materials from other libraries through the interlibrary loan service, expanding their access to information and resources.
- Digital resources: The library offers a range of digital resources, including e-books, audiobooks, and online databases, providing patrons with access to information and entertainment from anywhere.
The library also offers a variety of technical services, including printing, scanning, and faxing, as well as reference services, including research assistance and reader's advisory.
| Library Branch | Location | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| Cape May Court House | 30 Mechanic Street, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210 | Monday - Thursday: 9:00am - 8:00pm, Friday - Saturday: 9:00am - 5:00pm, Sunday: 1:00pm - 5:00pm |
| Lower Township | 2600 Bayshore Road, Villas, NJ 08251 | Monday - Thursday: 9:00am - 8:00pm, Friday - Saturday: 9:00am - 5:00pm, Sunday: 1:00pm - 5:00pm |
| Middle Township | 30 Mechanic Street, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210 | Monday - Thursday: 9:00am - 8:00pm, Friday - Saturday: 9:00am - 5:00pm, Sunday: 1:00pm - 5:00pm |
| Sea Isle City | 3001 Ocean Drive, Sea Isle City, NJ 08243 | Monday - Thursday: 9:00am - 8:00pm, Friday - Saturday: 9:00am - 5:00pm, Sunday: 1:00pm - 5:00pm |
| Stone Harbor | 9516 Second Avenue, Stone Harbor, NJ 08247 | Monday - Thursday: 9:00am - 8:00pm, Friday - Saturday: 9:00am - 5:00pm, Sunday: 1:00pm - 5:00pm |
Future Developments and Initiatives
The Cape May County Library is committed to continuous improvement and innovation. Some of the future developments and initiatives include:
- Expansion of digital resources: The library plans to expand its digital collection, including e-books, audiobooks, and online databases, to meet the growing demand for digital content.
- Enhancement of library facilities: The library is exploring options to renovate and expand its facilities, including the addition of new meeting and program spaces.
- Development of community partnerships: The library is seeking to establish partnerships with local organizations and businesses to enhance its services and resources, and to promote literacy and lifelong learning.
By staying focused on the needs of the community, the Cape May County Library is well-positioned to remain a vital and relevant resource for years to come.
What are the hours of operation for the Cape May County Library?
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The hours of operation for the Cape May County Library vary by branch. Please check the library’s website or visit the branch in person for the most up-to-date information.
Does the Cape May County Library offer interlibrary loan services?
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Yes, the Cape May County Library offers interlibrary loan services. Patrons can request materials from other libraries through the interlibrary loan service, which is available at no charge.
Can I access the Cape May County Library’s digital resources from home?
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Yes, the Cape May County Library offers a range of digital resources that can be accessed from home, including e-books, audiobooks, and online databases. Patrons can access these resources using their library card and a valid email address.
