The Riverton Branch of the Burlington County Library System.

Spotlight on: Riverton Library

| Riverton Free Library

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.

Stop by the Riverton Library and you may feel like you’re paying a visit to the friendliest neighbor in town. Housed in a charming Victorian home built in 1852, it’s a place where even beginners are welcome to join a relaxing game of bridge, knitters swap patterns while socializing, and pulling out a chair to read the morning newspaper is encouraged. The librarians even know most of their customers by name, and they’re quick to note that walking through the front door of this cozy little branch is like stepping into the community’s living room.

A computer sits in a study carrel, ready for use by a patron.

Located on tree-lined Main Street just a mile-and-a-half from the more spacious Cinnaminson branch, Riverton Library is a beloved local fixture. Its roots stretch all the way back to 1899 when a group of volunteers founded the Riverton Free Library Association. In 1908, the widow of Riverton’s first mayor, Edward H. Ogden, deeded the historic house to the association in his memory for just $1. And nearly a century later, in 2003, the library officially joined BCLS. Residents have had access to all of the library system’s modern resources while continuing to enjoy its historic charm ever since.

Step inside the library today and you’ll find a tidy, organized space, friendly staff to welcome you, and original Victorian architecture that mixes well with up-to-date amenities, including half a dozen public computers and wireless printing. Since Riverton is a known walking and biking community, it’s not unusual to see families out for casual bike rides, seniors taking leisurely strolls, and children headed home from school stopping by to browse the stacks. According to staff, some of the library’s more popular items include historical and literary fiction, DVDs, and grab-and-go crafts. Customers also request information about the community, and our librarians work with the local historical society to help them research the histories of their homes, old newspaper clippings, maps and more.

Hans the Monkey makes regular reading recommendations.

In the children’s department, kids will find a wide selection of books to explore as well as the occasional reading recommendation from Hans, the library’s stuffed animal mascot. Named after Curious George author H. A. Rey (Hans Augusto Rey), the little monkey that sits on top of one of the shelves has his own sign to announce the books he loves (selected by our librarians, of course). In-person storytimes for little ones are held once a month. Teen readers will find a comfy spot featuring books just for them. And the library’s back room, filled with adult fiction titles, doubles as the gathering space for events.

Why not makes plans to visit cozy Riverton Library soon? We think you’ll feel right at home!

Audience:
Category:
Kids & Parents
Teens
  • There have been two notable additions to the library since it was built in 1852. The children’s room was added in 1958 and the adult fiction section was added in 1992. Renovations that spruced up the interior were completed in 2018.
  • Founded more than a century ago, the Riverton Free Library Association is still active today. A 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, nonprofit organization, it is responsible for the care and maintenance of the library building and grounds, helps fund resources and supports library programs.
  • A local girl scout created the Cells, Slime and Structures STEM Kits available in the children’s department.
  • The Friends of the Riverton Free Library, who help organize and run fundraising programs, maintain an office in the library basement and host monthly book sales (with the exception of July and August).
  • The walnut circulation desk was handcrafted by a local resident in 1992 as a gift to the library.
  • The library is located next door to the Campbell Mansion, the former home of the family that created Campbell’s Soup.
  • The Riverton Historical Society has its own library display case featuring books, postcards and souvenirs.
  • Paintings of local scenes, including the library itself and the Riverton Yacht Club, decorate the walls.
  • The smallest BCLS library has the largest Criterion Collection of culturally significant, classic and limited-release independent films on DVD in the system.
  • Themed exhibits that change regularly can be found in the display case near the library entrance.
  • The Riverton Readers Book Discussion group and the Great Books Group are open to all adults and welcome new members.
  • The Riverton Library is a good starting point for anyone who wants to explore the community. Our librarians will be happy to direct you to the river walk, local restaurants, businesses and historic sites.