Our Mission
By sharing information and providing opportunities for life-long learning, we enrich the lives of the communities that we serve.
About Us
North Wales Area Library is a cornerstone of our community, providing a welcoming space for book lovers of all ages. Our library offers a wide selection of books, magazines, and digital resources to cater to diverse interests. We take pride in fostering a love for reading and learning, and our dedicated team is here to assist and guide you in making the most of our resources.
​
The North Wales Area Library (NWAL) is centrally located at 233 South Swartley Street, North Wales Borough.
​
Founded in 1927, the library originally operated in the basement of North Wales Elementary School. However, in 2007, the North Penn School District notified the library of their intention to reclaim the space, prompting the need for the library to find a new location within the borough.
​
Over its eighty years at the school, the library's collection had expanded significantly, outgrowing its original space. This growth also limited the library's ability to maintain and expand its free community programs. In response, the library purchased its current building in 2008, and after a two-year renovation, reopened on January 4, 2010.
​
Today, NWAL offers free access to a variety of programs and activities for all members. The library hosts events including children's story times, computer and online training, and adult health and education classes. These programs aim to enhance the community’s workforce skills, educational achievements, and healthcare knowledge, while also fostering a love for literature among all age groups.
​
NWAL operates 44 hours a week and provides free membership. It plays a crucial role in the North Penn community, continually evolving to meet local needs. The library also participates in the PA inter-library loan program, allowing members to access a wide range of titles.
​
Serving North Wales Borough, Upper Gwynedd Township, and all municipalities within the North Penn School District, the North Wales Area Library is committed to supporting and enriching its community.
Diversity Statement
Our library stands as a beacon of knowledge, discovery, and community for all. We are deeply rooted in the belief that diversity enriches our collective experience and strengthens the fabric of our society. Our commitment to inclusivity is unwavering, extending to every individual regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, socioeconomic status, religion, or ability. Our Roots: Founded on the principle of equal access to information and resources, North Wales Area Library has long been a cornerstone of our diverse community. We honor the varied backgrounds and experiences that have shaped our history and continue to guide our future. Our Commitment: We pledge to: 1. Cultivate a welcoming environment where all feel valued, respected, and empowered. 2. Develop and maintain a collection that reflects the diversity of human experiences and perspectives. 3. Offer programs and services that celebrate our differences and promote cross-cultural understanding. 4. Ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities, both in our physical spaces and digital resources. 5. Actively seek diverse voices in our decision-making processes and leadership roles. 6. Provide ongoing education and training for our staff to foster cultural competence and sensitivity. At the North Wales Area Library we believe that embracing diversity is not just a goal, but a continuous journey. We invite all members of our community to join us in creating an inclusive space where everyone can learn, grow, and thrive together. Together, we build a stronger, more vibrant community – one book, one program, and one interaction at a time.
North Wales Area Library
Vision Statement 2025: Roots and Wings
Rooted in our community's rich history and soaring towards a future of limitless possibilities, North Wales Area Library envisions itself as: A vibrant hub where knowledge takes flight, nurturing the roots of our shared heritage while empowering our community to spread its wings and explore new horizons. By 2025, we aspire to: 1. Honor our Roots:   - Preserve and celebrate our local history and cultural heritage   - Strengthen our connections with long-standing community partners   - Cultivate a deep sense of belonging for all members of our diverse community 2. Spread our Wings:   - Embrace innovative technologies and cutting-edge resources   - Expand our digital presence to reach beyond our physical walls   - Foster creativity, lifelong learning, and personal growth for all ages 3. Grow Strong Branches:   - Develop inclusive programs that bridge generations and cultures   - Create flexible, inspiring spaces for collaboration and individual pursuits   - Build resilient partnerships to address evolving community needs 4. Nourish New Leaves:   - Cultivate early literacy and a love for learning in our youngest patrons   - Support students and adults in their educational and professional journeys   - Encourage continuous discovery and skill development for all community members At North Wales Area Library, we envision a future where our deep roots in the community provide the strength and stability for our patrons to spread their wings, explore new ideas, and soar to new heights of knowledge and achievement.