Friends of the Scranton Public Library

Download the latest copy of our newsletter, The Avid Reader Fall 2023 Edition

The Scranton Public Library, a literary treasure for over 100 years and headquarters of the Lackawanna County Library System, plays an essential role in our community, serving the needs of all citizens, from toddlers to the elderly. It is among the ten largest public libraries in Pennsylvania and boasts the architectural beauty of the Albright Memorial Library Building.

Goals of the Friends

For years, this non-profit organization has worked hard to accomplish its two main goals:

• To raise public awareness of the library, its two branches, its services, and its vast array of resources, and
• To raise funds to help the library with all sorts of special, unmet needs — children’s summer reading programs, the poetry series, and operational and physical plant projects.

We work with Chief Executive Officer Scott Thomas and the Library Board of Trustees to identify areas where our financial support will benefit most. We raise funds through public events, grants, book sales, and the annual membership drive.

Become a Member

Join us in our effort to ensure the future of the Scranton Public Library by agreeing to become a member. Our membership year runs from January 1 through December 31 of each calendar year. The cost is minimal, but your membership does so much. In addition to helping the library, you receive these benefits for being a member: newsletters, discounts, and priorities on all Friends trips and activities; a Friends bookmark.

Contributions are tax-deductible as allowed by law.

or Download a Membership Form and drop it off at the library.

Book Sales

Most Book Sales are held outside of Crunch Fitness, located on the second floor of the Marketplace at Steamtown. Occasionally, we have Sidewalk Sales in front of the Albright Memorial Library on Vine Street. Friends of the Scranton Public Library members receive a discount during sales when they show their current membership card.

2024 Upcoming Sales

February 27-March 2, June 4-8, September 10-4, December 3-7
The second floor of the Marketplace at Steamtown
300 Lackawanna Ave, Scranton, PA 18503

New Sale Hours

Tuesday through Friday from 10 AM to 4 PM
Saturday from 10 AM to 2 PM
Weekend Special- Saturday – Fill a Friends’ tote bag for $5.
Teachers and workers for nonprofits take books for free!

Book Donations

We accept your books for our sales. A donation schedule is listed below.* Small donations, a bag or two, can be dropped off at the Circulation desk during library hours. Please, no magazines, textbooks, or encyclopedias.

For large donations, please call the Albright Memorial Library at (570) 348-3000 to arrange for a drop-off during these times. 

Donation Schedule:
Mondays: 5 PM-7 PM
Saturdays: 2 PM- 4 PM
Sundays: 2 PM – 4 PM

Get involved!

We need more help with the Book Sales. Can you spare some time? Contact Pat Bisignani at pbisignani@aol.com to volunteer. Any assistance at the sale, during set up or clean up, would be greatly appreciated.

We are interested in hearing from you!

Friends of the Scranton Public Library
500 Vine Street
Scranton, PA 18509
Attn: Scott Thomas
(570) 348-3000 ext. 5000

Donate to the Friends of the Scranton Public Library