Renovation and Expansion Frequently Asked Questions

Why are you renovating and expanding the Library

and what will the renovations consist of?

    • As we have known for some time, the Library building in its longtime home on Darby Road needs upgraded heating/cooling and electrical facilities, plus additional space to best serve our growing community's needs. After much planning and hard work to secure significant funding, the building is set to undergo a major expansion and renovation this year that will result in a complete transformation that will support our entire township. We have included some highlights below:
      • A new multi-story ADA compliant entrance — welcoming visitors and providing central access so that new meeting rooms can be accessible after library hours.  
      • A second-floor addition —will enlarge the building by roughly 25 percent.
      • For seniors, a cozy, quiet Living Room complete with an electric fireplace — essentially a mini-senior center within the Library.
      • Separate dedicated spaces for young children, tweens, and teens — allowing these groups to gather and enjoy the Library at the same time in maximum comfort.
      • More computers for public use — plus a laptop bar and robust WIFI throughout the building.
      • An audiovisual lab to create multimedia content and programs.
      • Friends of The Haverford Township Free Library book sale area.
      • Sensory space for children and individuals on the spectrum.
      • Creative/learning play areas for toddlers and preschoolers.

What happened to building a new library on another site?

    • After much discussion and deliberation, the Township determined that renovating the current library space and remaining at the corner of Darby and Mill Roads was most beneficial. The Township Commissioners voted and decided in favor of the on-site renovation/expansion with an array of improvements which will bring the Library in line with 21st century libraries..
  • Will the Library close during the renovation? 
    • Our temporary location is conveniently situated right next to The Gift Box in Manoa Shopping Center at 1305 West Chester Pike in Havertown.
    • During the Library’s upcoming renovation/expansion, we’re excited to offer services and resources at our temporary location.
    • Our Library is widely known for its excellent collection of books, technology and media. Available services and resources at the Manoa location include:
      • Book borrowing - Highly circulated, new and popular items will be available for all ages.
      • All technology resources – Hotspots, Rokus, video games, and e-Readers loaded monthly with the latest new reads. Our digital collection (e-books, audiobooks, magazines) is available 24/7 through Libby.
      • Computers for public use and patron seating.
      • Printing and photocopying services.
      • Storytimes and other Children’s Programming.
      • Museum passes, “Book Club in a bag,” and other resources.
      • For your convenience, the ‘Delco Reads’ App allows you to browse the entire Delaware County Library catalog and order items to be brought to our temporary library with the click of a button!  
      • Daily teen programming will be available exclusively at the Kelly Music Center at 4 Eagle Road in Havertown.  See Teen Event page for details
      • Adult Programming will be available at locations throughout the township. See Adult Events page for details.

Can I check out books, audiobooks, music, and other materials when the Library is in the temporary location? 

    • Yes, in addition to a collection of books and other materials available to browse onsite at the Manoa location, all library card holders can request any items from all other libraries in the Delaware County Library System through our interlibrary loan system.
    • The Library currently provides numerous educational programs for adults, teens, and children throughout the year, reaching thousands of patrons. We have great news! These services will continue during the Library's renovation. Thanks to partnerships with local organizations, churches, and community centers, we've secured alternative locations for many of our programs. See Events Page for details.

Will there be access to public computers, a copier, and printers when the Library is in the temporary location?

    • Yes, we will have public computers, a photocopier, and a printer available at the Manoa location for patron use.

Will there be more parking when the Library is renovated?

    • Yes

When will the Library move back to its current location? 

    • Renovations are set to wrap up by April 2025, and we can't wait to open the doors to the community soon thereafter, revealing our beautifutl new Library!

Will Children’s storytime programs be offered during the renovations?

    • Yes, there will be storytimes several times per week at the Manoa location.