Message from Mayor Josh Losardo | February 14, 2025

Happy Valentine’s Day!

And what better way to spend time with that special someone than by sharing the latest bestselling novel, award-winning movie or other new media that awaits at the Scotch Plains Public Library, 1927 Bartle Ave.

As we plan for 2025 and beyond, I look forward to collaborating with the Library’s Director, Staff and Board of Trustees to further enhance our library’s resources and services, ensuring there is even more love for this special place in our downtown.

I am thrilled to share that the library’s circulation soared to even higher levels in 2024, marking the highest totals in a decade. It underscores the vital role the library plays in our community.  It has become the “go-to” place for students, families, seniors and everyone in between.

The Circulation Department reported a very busy year, with more than 150,000 physical circulations and an anticipated total exceeding 200,000 interactions when we tally in the electronic materials. Nearly 80,000 patrons visited the library throughout the year, not accounting for virtual program attendees who enjoyed online programming from the comfort of home. 

The Library’s Museum Pass program has been particularly popular. 

Through the generosity of the Friends of the Library, free passes are handed out for great New York institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. There has been strong interest from residents eager to explore these cultural treasures and many more.  

You can find information about museum passes here.

The library also provides access to thousands of eBooks, audiobooks, and eMagazines through partnerships with great programs such as Libby, Hoopla, The Palace Project and Comics Plus. All you need to access these programs is your trusty library card. 

Find out more about these digital resources here.

I am confident that our library will continue to flourish, as we plan for an exciting 2025.

Whether it’s through our Wednesday movie series, “Trivia Night,” our Kids’ Newspaper Club, “learn to code” courses, collaborations with regional libraries, the library continues to find new ways to make a positive impact on the lives of residents. 

I encourage everyone to explore the incredible resources and programs offered by the Scotch Plains Public Library. And I want to express my deepest gratitude to our library staff, trustees, the Friends of the Library, and all who support this essential institution throughout every year. 

Together, we are making Scotch Plains a better place to live, learn, and grow – turning one page at a time.