Proudly serving the largest county in New Jersey, BCLS is a vibrant network of libraries sharing a vast array of resources. Our locations are conveniently located throughout Burlington County and each one is special in its own way. Take a few moments to learn more about each of our libraries, what makes it unique and all it has to offer.
As you approach the front entrance of the Cinnaminson Library, chances are you’ll notice the Frank Lloyd Wright influence of the building’s design. It’s low-sloped roof, brick siding and horizontal band of floor-to-ceiling windows are reminiscent of an earlier era. And if you take a peek at the date etched into the library’s cornerstone, you’ll have quick confirmation; it was built in 1965.
Cinnaminson Library officially opened its doors to the public in 1966 to become the library system’s first full-service branch location. Today, while it maintains its ‘60s charm, it also offers all the modern services and amenities that residents of Cinnaminson and neighboring towns have come to expect. In addition to comfortable seating, you’ll find ample tables for relaxing and studying, an active children’s department and a spacious multipurpose room.
Open and airy, the library’s first floor has cathedral ceilings with exposed wooden beams and, near the front entrance, the reading nook features a rustic stone wall that offers a cozy spot to relax, tackle the daily crossword puzzle, or peruse the latest newspaper and magazine headlines. Looking for a good book to read? You won’t be disappointed, and when it comes to reading, Branch Manager Nancy Fort notes that Cinnaminson customers have varied interests. They often check out police procedural novels, mysteries, historical fiction and wholesome romance stories. For non-fiction readers, books about knitting, cooking and gardening are popular. Public computers are plentiful throughout the building and the library also offers a wide range of events that are well attended each month, including storytimes for children, crafts for teens and book clubs for adults.
On the lower level, kids will find their own area to explore. Bright and spacious, and accessible by both stairwell and elevator, the children’s department features more than a half-dozen computers, colorful furniture and a cheerful, upbeat ambiance. Fun artwork made by little hands adorns the wall and it’s not unusual to see parents socializing while their youngsters happily play together. According to Miss Kelly, kid-friendly activities include the I Spy Tank filled with new items to discover each month and library scavenger hunts that encourage children to search for themed pictures on display.
Throughout the day, our Cinnaminson librarians enjoy seeing children fill their arms with big stacks of books to take home, and some of the more popular choices include Diary of a Wimpy Kid titles and graphic novels. In the afternoon, you may notice school-age children studying together or working with tutors. And a couple times a month, young students from a nearby school take advantage of the library’s close proximity by strolling over with their teachers to search for new books to check out. The local high school is also located just down the road and we’re fortunate to have a dedicated group of teen volunteers who help assemble take-and-make crafts kits, assist with YA book reviews, and perform a myriad of other important library tasks.
Cinnaminson Library likes to celebrate its young readers, too! Next time you visit, be sure to check out the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten wall of fame. It’s filled with photos of smiling kids on their way to completing this early literacy program with their families. Don’t be surprised to find more than a few at the top who have already reached this ambitious reading goal!
