Mission:
To be the first point of access for information, self-enrichment, leisure, and social connections
Vision:
The Northampton Area Public Library strives to be a dynamic source of information, services, and programs in an ever changing community, always something new
History of the Library
The first public library in Northampton opened its doors on August 23, 1965. It was located in the bay at the north end of the Northampton Memorial Community Center (next door). At the end of 1966 it was determined that the library location was inadequate for the public needs and a building fund was established by Dr. George A. Eichler, with a contribution on October 19, 1966, but the fund grew very slowly.
In October 1971, Mr. and Mrs. George H. Schisler announced that they would provide $125,000.00 for the construction of an Area Public Library Building. Mr. Jay Ferreira of Bond and Miller, Associates, was selected to be the architect for the building. In October 1971, the Borough of Northampton deeded the land, located on Laubach Avenue, for the new building. On April 17, 1972, the charter of incorporation was issued. The charter lists it as a nonprofit corporation which can accept tax deductible monetary gifts. The area it serves includes the boroughs of Northampton, Bath, and Chapmans, as well as the townships of Allen, East Allen, Lehigh, and Moore. On September 30th, 1973, the George H. Schisler Building of the Northampton Area Public Library, Inc., was dedicated in honor of Mr. and Mrs. George H. Schisler.
In 1984, George and Hattie Schisler donated funds for the construction of the Children’s Wing. Seibert, Ferreira, Schlicting were selected as the architect and John F. Simock Inc. was selected as the general contractor for the addition. The Children’s Wing was dedicated to George and Hattie Schisler on Sunday, October 27, 1985.
