About

In 2023, Parkland Community Library (PCL) celebrated its 50th anniversary. Articles of Incorporation were signed on August 2, 1973, and officially approved by the Department of State on August 21, 1973. Over the years of expanding its patronage, the library was relocated several times to larger facilities to meet the district’s needs, and it is now located in the South Whitehall Township Complex.

In December 2024, Representative Mike Schlossberg awarded Maryellen Kanarr, the library’s executive director, a House citation honoring 50 years of service. Mr. Schlossberg praised the staff and volunteers who have contributed to this milestone for our community.

Parkland Community Library began in 1973 in Guthsville, South Whitehall Township, as a grassroots effort. By February 1974, six months after opening, it owned 2,699 items and was open 12 hours weekly for 25,419 residents of South Whitehall, North Whitehall, and Upper Macungie Townships. By year’s end, 659 borrowers borrowed 4,373 items. In 1981, the library moved to a 5,000 sq ft building. By June 1982, the collection grew to 21,060 items, with hours expanded to 46 weekly. That year, 8,321 users borrowed 112,762 items from a population of 32,185. The library’s growth outpaced the 1981 building as the community expanded. The 2010 Census recorded 54,976 residents, and growth continues.

The 2020 U.S. Census recorded 73,578 residents in the library’s service area. The area continues to grow. After many attempts to build a larger building in Upper Macungie Township and two failed referendums in 2013 and 2016, the Board of Directors changed course, working with South Whitehall Township to expand its current location. In 2021, the library was modernized and expanded from 5,400 to over 11,000 square feet, including additional parking, a second-floor staff office, a new large meeting room, a shipping and receiving room, two ADA bathrooms, and a space for the Friends of the Library. A new children’s wing and story hour room with storage was created by moving staff upstairs.

In February 2023, PCL received the 2023 Lehigh Valley Environmental Innovations Nonprofit Award, presented by The Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce Energy & Environment Committee, for renovating our existing building, committing to energy efficiency, using recycled-content building materials, and demonstrating a commitment to sustainability overall.