Founded as an English subscription library in 1763, Reading Public Library is one of the oldest, though not continuously operating, libraries in the United States. It wasn't until 1913 that the Main Library as it currently stands was built through the generosity of Andrew Carnegie. After a major fundraising campaign in 1989, the Main Library was renovated and modernized through a variety of projects during 1990–1993. It is the sixth oldest public library in the United States.
Recognition by IMLS
In May 2018, Reading Public Library was selected as a recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. This award represents institutions that offer "dynamic programming and services that exceed expected levels of service" and that also "bring about change that touches the lives of individuals and helps communities thrive" through outreach to and engagement with the service population.
Branch Libraries
An increase in the number of users and the changing collection needs over the years have prompted the construction of three Branches. , , and . services were added in 1951. The Main Library, all three Branches, and the Bookmobile readily share books and other materials to further facilitate complete coverage of the community's needs.
Website
The Reading Public Library provides access to the library's catalog and to online collections and subscription databases. It also includes information on such as free book talks, instruction sessions, and visiting speakers and authors. The online catalog allows users to search RPL's holdings of books and other materials as well as those of all participating libraries in Berks County. In conjunction with Access Pennsylvania, RPL gives library cardholders free access via to hundreds of current and historical magazines, newspapers, journals, and reference books in subscription databases, including EBSCOhost, Grove Art Online, Grove Music Online, and ERIC. Other include Ancestry Library, Foundation Directory, Reference USA, and Reading Eagle archives.
Resources and services
Resources
RPL offers a wide variety of print resources and non-print resources.
Services
Among RPL's many services are a fully staffed , capabilities, a dedicated to history and genealogy of the local area, award-winning & Departments, regularly scheduled Instruction & Programming, and freely available Public Internet Access via desktop computers and wifi).
