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Our Library -
VISION To be the center of cultural enrichment and information for lifelong learning for the Plainfield community.
MISSION The Plainfield Public Library will provide all citizens of Plainfield full and equal access to information resources, technologies, and programs for a lifetime of learning and cultural enrichment, by promoting literacy, preserving the history of the community, and serving as a community center.
PROFILE The award-winning Plainfield Public Library, second largest in Union County, serves the Plainfield residential and business community, as well as residents of many neighboring communities.
The library houses over 200,000 volumes and employs a staff of 40, of whom 11 hold M.L.S. degrees. In addition to having a large book and video collection, the library is heavily used by the community as a meeting place and as a distribution point for information about community events and services. Cultural exhibits and special events are featured throughout the year.
Free public access computers are available for word processing and access to the Internet and e-mail. A children's Computer Learning Center provides interactive learning experiences.
Among the library's most noteworthy services are its multiple award-winning Adult Literacy Program (LVA) that provides free tutoring and life-skills classes; Children's Services, which interacts with teachers and students throughout the year and presents special programs, such as the popular Summer Reading Club and the Reading Is Fundamental program; and Special Collections, which houses the largest local history collection in Union County. The library also offers book delivery to the homebound and services to small businesses.
The basic services of the Library are funded by the City of Plainfield. Grants from private and government agencies provide funds for upgrading and enhancing services.
The Early Years The Plainfield Public Library was incorporated in 1881, following a resolution by the Plainfield Common Council. The first library was a rented room, in which the librarian began to build a collection of books and periodicals. Job Male, a Plainfield philanthropist and the first Mayor of Plainfield, offered to donate the land and a library building on the condition that others donate money and art works.
The building was completed in 1886 by Male and donated to the Library Board of Trustees. In gratitude they named it "The Job Male Public Library, Art Gallery and Museum." The art gallery featured newly donated paintings, which remain in the library's collection, plus temporary exhibits of other contemporary artists. The museum gallery featured natural history collections of insects, birds, and coin collections.
In 1912 a Carnegie grant funded an addition. As was typical of Carnegie library buildings, Plainfield's had an imposing entry staircase and an airy, light-filled Reading Room.
Our Present Building In 1968, the present 45,000 square-foot building opened to the public, and the older buildings were razed.
In 1996, the Library Board of Trustees adopted a new Master Plan to strengthen the library's service to the community through renovations to the building. Repairs and upgrades to the infrastructure began with the construction of two exterior ramps for handicapped access. In recognition of its "outstanding commitment to improving access for people with disabilities," the library received the "2000 Access Union County Award."
The Archives Room Completed in 2002, this climate-controlled area preserves local history collections of out-of-print books, maps, photographs and a unique collection of 15,000 architectural drawings of Plainfield buildings. Local history materials can be located through published finding aids and searched online via the new database-driven web site.
The library owns an exceptional art collection, with three original works by Winslow Homer and artworks by noted local artists: John G. Carlson, Jonas Lie, Riva Helfond, and Alonzo Adams.
To maximize unused interior space and allow for the expansion of electronic technologies, the library has planned a two-story "Technology Tower." Architects are now working on an entirely new layout of the public areas that will make books and other materials easier to find. In accordance with the legal requirements of the State of New Jersey, the library is governed by a seven-member Board of Trustees. Five community members, who serve five-year rotating terms, are appointed by the Mayor, subject to the approval of the City Council. The Mayor and Superintendent of Schools, or their appointed delegates, also sit as Trustees for the length of their terms.
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