News Detail

Commissioners Recognize Public Library Week In Franklin County

Commissioners

April 14, 2025

The Franklin County Commissioners joined staff and board members of the Franklin County Library System in proclaiming April 6-12, 2025, as Franklin County Public Library Week during the commissioners’ April 9 public board meeting. Additionally, John Kilduff, corporate affairs officer with Patriot Federal Credit Union, presented a check for $3,500 to the library system’s 2025 fundraising campaign.

CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. – The Franklin County Commissioners recognized April 6-12, 2025, as Franklin County Public Library Week. In doing so, they urged residents to connect with their local libraries to take advantage of the services and resources these institutions offer in their communities.

Franklin County is home to seven public libraries, six of which are part of the Franklin County Library System. According to the American Library Association, these institutions are among nearly 125,000 libraries across the U.S., including public libraries, school libraries, academic libraries and specialty libraries that pertain to specific professions.

Franklin County libraries allow patrons to borrow books in a traditional format, but also now offer e-books, audiobooks and DVDs to better serve residents. Libraries also provide access to computers, the internet and other digital technology as well as personal enrichment activities and classes on a wide range of topics for a variety of audiences and ages. Additionally, bookmobiles bring books and other materials directly to consumers.

The National Library Week theme in 2025, “Drawn to the Library,” is reflected in library usage in Franklin County. Last year, the Franklin County Library System tracked 184,610 individuals who entered one of its facilities or bookmobiles. Other 2024 statistics of note include:

Books borrowed: 232,972

e-content items borrowed: 65,466

Items borrowed by children: 138,737

Active card holders: 24,364 (4,069 had e-cards)

Physical cards created: 2,632

e-cards created: 1,369

By observing Franklin County Public Library Week, the commissioners encouraged residents of all ages to visit their local libraries to explore life-long learning and enrichment opportunities.