Local History & Library History

The collection’s primary focus is Haverford Township’s history and development. The collection includes local school publications, including yearbooks. The Library will consider donations pertinent to Haverford Township and its immediate environs.

Please note, the collection does not circulate, but may be consulted in the Library with the assistance of staff. Please come to the Reference Desk for further information. Click the button below for a list of holdings by call number.

Explore history-related Digital Resources including Pennsylvania History (PA Photos and Documents) and local historic news.

Haverford Township Free Library first opened in a storefront location at 1627 East Darby Road on May 28, 1934. The Library originally had approximately 2,200 books and nearly 1,800 patrons.

By 1936, the library had outgrown the Darby Road storefront. In 1937, through the generosity of the heirs of Horatio Gates Lloyd, the Library purchased the Haverford Township Title and Trust Company building for $12,000. The Library formally opened at its present location on May 27, 1938. The building remained virtually unchanged until the 1970’s when an addition was built, followed by further updates in 1990’s.

A major renovation was undertaken in November 2023, completed in May 2025, adding additional space, parking, meeting rooms, study spaces, and updating technology and overall facilities. The library continues to serve the Haverford Township community from the Mill and Darby Roads location.