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Main Library

Exterior view of the Jersey City Free Public Library Priscilla Gardner Main Library building.
Learn about the Main Library

The Jersey City Free Public Library (JCFPL) has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1889 by Dr. Leonard Gordon. JCFPL’s first facility opened in 1891 on Washington Street, and throughout the 1890s, the library acquired property at Jersey Avenue and Montgomery Street. The cornerstone was laid in 1899, and the doors officially opened in 1901.
JCFPL has greatly expanded its services and resources, particularly since the early 2000s, with the addition of digital resources. It has a significant circulating collection and is home to the Reference Department, Bonetti Children’s Room, New Jersey Room, Biblioteca Criolla, Literacy Department, and administrative offices. Major renovations began in October 2014 and are currently ongoing.
On September 16, 2019, the Main Branch library was renamed in honor of Jersey City’s first African-American library director, Priscilla Gardner, who retired after 50 years of service.


Lending Department

Ornate ceiling of the Lending Department at Jersey City Free Public Library.
Learn about the Lending Department

The Lending Department is JCFPL’s largest circulating collection.
JCFPL coordinates an Interlibrary Loan Service (ILL), enabling patrons to access materials from other libraries. It also implemented an automated library catalog that is available online. This system allows patrons to search quickly and reserve materials from the library’s collection, streamlining the borrowing process.
In 2016, the library completed renovations that included restoring the Italian Renaissance-style ceiling, new book stacks, and flooring.


Information Services Department

Bookshelves filled with reference materials in the Reference Room at Jersey City Free Public Library.
Learn about the Reference Department

The Information Services Department is a valuable resource for anyone seeking materials on various subjects and viewpoints. The library’s collection includes books, periodicals, microfiche and film, and an online database, providing diverse sources and media for patrons to explore.


New Jersey Room

Sign for the New Jersey Room at Jersey City Free Public Library.
Learn about the New Jersey Room

The New Jersey Room, JCFPL local history collection, covers New Jersey, particularly Jersey City and Hudson County. The collection includes rare historical books, maps, images, periodicals, manuscript collections, and topical files. Knowledgeable staff members are always available to assist patrons with their research inquiries.
One unique aspect of the collection is its Hudson County high school yearbook collection, which boasts nearly 1,500 volumes. This collection provides an invaluable resource for genealogists, historians, and anyone interested in local history.
In 2016, the New Jersey Room underwent renovations that improved the library’s facilities. These renovations included the installation of new flooring and lighting, restoring original furniture, and the upgrading document storage.


Bonetti Children’s Room

Children sitting on the floor and listening to a storyteller in the Bonetti Children’s Room at Jersey City Free Public Library.
Learn about Bonetti Children’s Room

JCFPL offers a lending collection and programs for youth up to grade eight.
In 2002, a dedicated children’s area was established in honor of Vincenzo Bonetti, who sadly passed away at two years old.
The space was completely renovated in 2008, including updates to electrical work and lighting, refinishing original woodwork, new vinyl flooring installation, and acquisition of contemporary furniture and a Circulation Desk.
The Bonetti Children’s Room is a testament to this commitment and is a valuable asset for families in the area.


Biblioteca Criolla

Interior view of the Biblioteca Criolla at Jersey City Free Public Library with bookshelves and wooden flooring.
Learn about Biblioteca Criolla

Biblioteca Criolla opened in 1972 on Newark Avenue to serve the Spanish-speaking population and is now New Jersey’s largest collection devoted exclusively to Spanish-language works and Latino-centered programming.
Biblioteca Criolla relocated to the Priscilla Gardner Main Library in 2010. It includes a circulating collection and programs serving patrons of all ages, offering various materials and events.


Literacy Program

Two women sitting at a table with books open, participating in a literacy program at Jersey City Free Public Library.
Learn about the Literacy Program

JCFPL provides essential literacy instruction to Hudson County residents ages 18 and up. This program offers tutoring in basic literacy, English as a Second Language (ESL), citizenship preparation, mathematics, and TASC (GED) preparation.
JCFPL recognizes the importance of education and literacy in empowering individuals to achieve their goals and succeed personally and professionally. Through this program, the library provides a supportive and welcoming environment where individuals can receive personalized instruction and guidance from skilled tutors.


Glenn D. Cunningham Branch

Exterior of the Glenn D. Cunningham Branch Library & Community Center at Jersey City Free Public Library.
Learn about the Glenn D. Cunningham Branch

The Glenn D. Cunningham Branch Library is a notable addition to the library system, which opened in 2004 as the first new building constructed since 1962. The branch was named in honor of the late Jersey City Mayor Glenn D. Cunningham, Jersey City’s first African-American mayor and a New Jersey State Senator and U.S. Marshal.
The library features a community meeting and program space, an outdoor shaded reading area, and a children’s paving stone maze. It offers a wide range of programs, especially for young adults and children.


Five Corners Branch

Front entrance of the Five Corners Branch of Jersey City Public Library.
Learn about the Five Corners Branch

Now one of the busiest Regional Branch Libraries in the Jersey City Free Public Library system, the Five Corners Branch Library has been serving the community since 1924, initially in a rented space and then in a modern building erected in the 1960s. The current facility, costing $500,000 at the time and designed by architects Hugh C. Clarke and Leroy A. Cowan, houses various collections including the Art and Music Reference Collection, as well as a Mezzanine housing Media Arts. Its dedication marked a new era for cultural and arts presentations, and it’s renowned as a Fine Arts Library, with needs for renovation after six decades of high usage. The library’s history intertwines with local figures such as Edmund W. Miller, former President of the Library Board of Trustees, and Chaplain Major Charles Watters, whose memorial is located on the Mezzanine. The branch stands as a testament to the evolution of libraries, the cultural growth of the community, and is slated for renovation after the Main Library renovations are complete.


Heights Branch

Entrance of the Heights Branch of Jersey City Free Public Library with steps and railing.
Learn about the Heights Branch

The Heights Branch opened its doors in 1911 on Central Avenue under Hudson City Branch. In 1918, the library relocated to its current address. Over the years, the branch underwent renovations and upgrades and was completed in 2001. In 2002, an additional seating area was completed providing even more space for visitors to enjoy.
The Heights Branch features a presentation and program room, offering a space for various events and activities. The library is dedicated to providing engaging programming for all ages, from storytimes and arts and crafts to author talks and technology workshops.


Lafayette Branch

Front view of the Lafayette Branch of Jersey City Free Public Library with display windows and entrance.
Learn about the Lafayette Branch

The Lafayette Branch is a longstanding part of the Jersey City Free Public Library system, first opening in 1924. The library underwent renovations in 2000, creating a modern and welcoming space for patrons.
The Lafayette Branch is dedicated to serving the needs of the diverse and rapidly changing neighborhood it serves. The library offers a wide range of services and programming, including storytimes, computer classes, and author talks.


Marion Branch

Front window of the Marion Branch of Jersey City Free Public Library with seasonal decorations.
Learn about the Marion Branch

The Marion Branch has served the community since 1930, providing access to a circulating collection of over 8,000 volumes. The library’s collection includes various materials, from books and periodicals to audiobooks.
The Marion Branch is dedicated to providing engaging programming tailored to the needs and interests of the neighborhood, with a particular emphasis on children’s programs. The library offers many opportunities for learning, creativity, and social interaction, from storytimes and crafts to technology workshops and summer reading programs.


Miller Branch

Exterior view of the Miller Branch of Jersey City Free Public Library with steps leading to the entrance.
Learn about the Miller Branch

Founded in 1914, formerly known as the Bergen Branch, the Miller Branch Library is a historic part of the JCFPL. Located at 489 Bergen Avenue, the current location became the branch’s home in 1921.
Since 1994, the Miller Branch has been home to the Computer Learning Resource Center, the first facility in the JCFPL system. The center provides access to technology, computer-based resources, and technology training and support.
In addition to its technology resources, the Miller Branch is also home to the JCFPL’s Teen Center. The Teen Center provides a space for young adults to study, socialize, and participate in engaging and educational programming.


Earl A. Morgan Branch

Front facade of the Earl A. Morgan Branch of Jersey City Free Public Library.
Learn about the Earl A. Morgan Branch

The Earl A. Morgan Branch Library opened in 1917 as the Greenville Branch on Danforth Avenue. It relocated in 1927.
The Earl A. Morgan Branch has been home to the Afro-American Historical and Cultural Society Museum since 1980. The museum preserves and shares the history and culture of African Americans in Jersey City and beyond.
In 2008, the branch had extensive renovations, which included wheelchair access, new furnishings, and the brand-new state-of-the-art Barack Obama Auditorium.
The Earl A. Morgan Branch was renamed in 2018 in honor of the late journalist and community activist Earl A. Morgan, who was a longtime advocate for the library and its role in the community.

Pavonia Branch

Entrance to the Pavonia Branch of Jersey City Free Public Library with a sign above the door.
Learn about the Pavonia Branch

The Pavonia Branch serves a neighborhood with significant development and population change over the last two decades.
Pavonia Branched opened in 1924, closed in 1970, and moved to a series of temporary locations before reopening at its current address in 1989.
The branch has a particular focus on children’s programs. From storytimes and crafts to technology workshops and summer reading programs, the branch provides a safe and engaging space for children to learn, grow, and explore.


West Bergen Branch

Side view of the West Bergen Branch of Jersey City Free Public Library with large windows and a sign
Learn about the West Bergen Branch

The West Bergen Library has been a part of the library system since 1971. In 1990, the library moved from 503 West Side Avenue to 476 West Side Avenue. It was expanded and upgraded in 2015.
The West Bergen Branch Library is moving to a newly constructed space at 546 West Side Avenue, expected to open soon. The new location will consist of modern and state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring that the library can continue to provide a welcoming and inclusive space for patrons of all ages.

Bookmobile

Jersey City Free Public Library's blue and yellow Bookmobile parked on the street.
Learn more about the Bookmobile

The Bookmobile runs daily, Monday through Friday, with two routes covering the entire city.
The Bookmobile is a full-service, wheelchair-accessible library branch, providing access to a circulating collection of materials and public access computer terminals. The Bookmobile is custom-designed and built to meet the specific needs of the community it serves and has been on the road since May 2008.

Attention: The Five Corners Branch will have a delayed opening at 11 AM on Wed, Jul 10th due to staff development.

Please be informed that the Earl Morgan Branch will be closed for Staff Development from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM on Tuesday October 29, 2024. Hours of operation will resume at 1 PM.
📢 Communipaw Branch Hours Now Extended! Check out the new schedule at jclibrary.org/branch/communipaw 📅

The Learning Center will be closed from Wednesday, May 29 through Friday, May 31. Thank you for your understanding.

The Marion Branch will closed from 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM on Friday, August 16 due to staff development. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

¡Feliz Cinco de Mayo desde JCFPL! Celebrate with us and explore our Spanish-language collections at Biblioteca Criolla.

All library locations will be closed on Monday, November 11, in observance of Veterans Day. We will reopen and resume services on Tuesday, November 12.

Due to unexpected circumstances, the Marion Branch Library will temporarily close Today, 6/4/2024, from 12:00pm-1:00pm. The Marion Branch will reopen at 1:00pm.

Biblioteca Criolla has new operating hours. See the updated schedule here.
Please be advised that the Earl Morgan Branch will be closed for Staff Development from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM on September 24, 2024. Hours of operation will resume at 1 PM.

Miller Branch will open at 11:00am on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, due to a delayed opening.

Due to unexpected circumstances, the Biblioteca Criolla at PGML will temporarily close Today, 8/15/2024, from 4:00pm-5:00pm.

The Pavonia branch will have a delayed opening for Staff Development on August 16, 2024, and will be open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Please be informed that the Bookmobile will be off the road today, Tuesday, November 19.

Morgan Branch will open at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, July 16 due to staff development. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

Bookmobile Services Temporarily Unavailable from May 8th to May 10th. We apologize for the inconvenience caused.

Due to unexpected circumstances, the Program Room at the Heights Branch will be closed Today, 8/19/2024

Due to unexpected circumstances, the Marion Branch will be closed Today, 8/19/2024 from 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Heights Branch will open at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, July 16 due to staff development. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

Biblioteca Criolla will be closed from 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Today, Tuesday, August 20, 2024. We apologize for the inconvenience. 

Heights Branch will have a delayed opening at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, August 21, 2024. We apologize for any inconvenience.

The Five Corners Library will open at 11am on Wednesday, June 12th. We apologize for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding.

Due to unexpected circumstances, the Marion Branch will be closed Today, 8/22/2024 from 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

All library locations will close at 12:30 PM on 8/23/2024 for the Annual Backpack Giveaway. Please note that only patrons who registered during the specified period will receive a backpack due to high demand. 

All Library Locations Will Be Closed on Friday, April 19, for Staff Development. The Library Will Open for Services on Saturday, April 20. We Apologize for Any Inconvenience.

Please be advised that the Bookmobile will be out of service from Monday, August 26th, to Monday, September 9th. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.

Today for Hudson Gives, there will be a $5k match minute at 2:01 p.m. and later at 5:51 p.m.. All giving will end at 11:59PM on May 17th.

📢 Important Update: The Communipaw Branch Library is closed today. We apologize for the inconvenience.

We are currently experiencing an issue where some patrons with Yahoo email addresses may not receive email notifications from our system, SIRSI. SIRSI is actively working to resolve this problem, and we apologize for any inconvenience caused.

The Cunningham Branch will be closed from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM today November 19. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Please note that the Bonetti Department will be closed from 3 to 6 p.m. on Monday, June 17, 2024, for the SLP Kickoff Party ,which will take place in the Fourth Floor Multipurpose Room. Thank you for your understanding.

In observance of Labor Day, all JCFPL locations will be closed on Saturday, August 31, and Monday, September 2. We will reopen on Tuesday, September 3 during regular hours.

Please be informed: the Cunningham Branch will open at 1:00 PM on June 26th; we appreciate your understanding.

Today’s (Nov 21) scheduled Bookmobile stop at Newport Apartments (River Dr. South near Duane Reade) has been cancelled.

The Pavonia branch will have a delayed opening for Staff Development on June 28, 2024, and will be open at 10:00 am.

The Pavonia branch will have a delayed opening for Staff Development on July 19, 2024, and will be open at 10:00 am.

The Pavonia branch will have a delayed opening for Staff Development on September 20, 2024, and will be open at 10:00 am.

All library locations will be open from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM on Wednesday, November 27.

All library locations will be closed from Thursday, November 28, through Sunday, December 1, in celebration of Thanksgiving. The library will reopen for regular hours on Monday, December 2.

CORRECTION, NO DELAYED OPENING: The Pavonia Branch will be open during its regular hours, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, on Friday, October 18, 2024.

Correction: The Pavonia branch will have a delayed opening for Staff Development on Friday, November 22, 2024, and will open at 10:00 am.

The Pavonia branch will have a delayed opening for Staff Development on December 20, 2024, and will be open at 10:00 am.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Earl Morgan Branch will be closed Today 6/17 from 2 PM to 3 PM. The branch will reopen at 3 PM. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.

Biblioteca Criolla Will Be Closed for Services Today 6/17 From 2 PM Onward Due to the SLP Kick Off Party in the 4th floor Multi-Purpose Room.

📢 Due to unforeseen circumstances, today's "World Animal Day" craft event on October 4, 2024 has been cancelled. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

Please be advised the Heights Branch will be closed for staff development on Wednesday, June 26, from 10 AM to 11 AM. The branch will open at 11 AM following the session.

Please be informed that the West Bergen Branch will open at 2:00 PM today, September 3, 2024. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Registration for the Jersey City Free Public Library Annual Backpack Giveaway has been extended until August 12. Visit this page to register while supplies last.

The Priscilla Gardner Main Library will open at 12:00 pm on 05/24/2024 due to a delayed opening.

Please be informed that the Marion Branch will be closed for Staff Development from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM on October 11, 2024. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

The Five Corners Branch will open at 12:00 pm on 05/30/2024 due to a delayed opening.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the West Bergen Branch will be closed today 8/1. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.

CORRECTION: The Marion Branch will be open for regular hours on Friday, November 15, 2024.

The West Bergen Branch will open at 12:00 pm on 06/05/2024 due to a delayed opening.

Please be informed that the Marion Branch will be closed for Staff Development from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM on December 13, 2024. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

The Cunningham Branch will open at 12:00 pm on 06/06/2024 due to a delayed opening.

Please be informed that the Five Corners branch will be closed to the public for Staff Development on September 11, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

The Morgan Branch will open at 12:00 pm on 06/13/2024 due to a delayed opening.

The Miller Branch will open at 12:00 pm on 06/18/2024 due to a delayed opening.

Please be advised that the Bookmobile will be off the road for the remainder of the week and will return on Monday, August 5th. We apologize for the inconvenience.

The Marion Branch will open at 12:00 pm on 06/20/2024 due to a delayed opening.

📅 Find out when the Bookmobile will be in your neighborhood! See Bookmobile Schedule

The Heights Branch will open at 12:00 pm on 06/21/2024 due to a delayed opening.

All library locations will be closed on Monday, October 14, in observance of Indigenous Peoples' Day. We will reopen for services on Tuesday, October 15.

The Bookmobile is out of service until Thursday, June 27, 2024.

The Pavonia branch will have a delayed opening for Staff Development on August 30, 2024, and will be open at 10:00 am.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the bookmobile will be off the road from Tuesday, Oct.15 through Thursday, Oct. 17. 

Our holiday schedule has been updated for each of our branches. We encourage you to visit your branch's page to view important information regarding closures, limited hours, and alternate hours. Thank you.

In observance of Memorial Day, all branches of the library will be closed on Monday, May 27th, 2024. The library will be open for service on Tuesday, May 28th, 2024. Thank you for your understanding.

The Heights branch will be closed to the public for Staff Development on September 18, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

The bookmobile will be off the road today, Oct 4, 2024. Thank you for your understanding.

West Bergen Branch Is Temporarily Closed Today 5/23/2024 due to flooding. We Anticipate Reopening on or Before Fri., May 24.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Pavonia Branch will be closed today 8/9/2024 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.

The Cunningham Branch will be closed from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM today, July 6. It will reopen at 2:00 PM. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.

The Communipaw Branch will be expanding it's hours of operation starting on November 1st. For more details, visit the Communipaw Branch Page.

Please be advised that Priscilla Gardner Main Library will be closing at 5pm today, April 11th, 2024.

All library locations will be closed on Friday, October 25, for staff development, and the Bookmobile will not be making trips. Regular services will resume on Saturday, October 26.

Please note that all library branch locations will be closed in observance of Independence Day on July 4th, 2024.

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