Annie Halenbake Ross Library: A public library in a historic building
Clinton County | I-80 Frontier of the Pennsylvania Wilds
If you’re traveling along the I-80 Frontier landscape, down the Bucktail Scenic Byway in the Pennsylvania Wilds or along the West Branch Susquehanna River, and you love to read or are looking for some historical information about the area, don’t miss the chance to stop off at the Annie Halenbake Ross Library in Lock Haven.
It is a traditional public library that not only offers traditional library services, but also is situated in a unique historic building in the city.
Annie Halenbake Ross gave her home to the City of Lock Haven to establish a free lending library that would not charge for membership or lending privileges. The library doors opened over Thanksgiving in 1910 with the book collection of Philip M. Price Library. The original Ross home at 232 W. Main St. expanded with a modern 1970’s addition, celebrated 100 years of service in 2010 and continues to serve as a public library, providing programs, materials, and services to area residents free of charge.
The Annie Halenbake Ross Library, often simply called “The Ross Library,” is one of three libraries that combine to form the Clinton County Libraries. Its sister libraries are the Renovo Area Library in Renovo and Friendship Community Library in Beech Creek.
Aside from the traditional books and other media at the library – including audio books, CD music, and more than 3,000 DVD movies, Ross Library offers a variety of programming and activities, such as monthly book discussions, hands-on arts and crafts, historic walking tours and an opportunity to exhibit in the Art Gallery. In addition, staff at the Ross Library and the Friendship Community Library provide one-on-one assistance with computing issues, including mobile devices such as iPads and Android tablets. Those interested in taking advantage of such services are encouraged to schedule an appointment to work with the technology assistant that services both of the facilities by calling (570)-748-332.
The Ross Library, located at 232 W. Main St. in Lock Haven, is open six days a week, including Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Learn more about The Ross Library or leave a review/recommendation on the organization’s Wilds Cooperative of PA profile here.
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