LCBA Feature: Montgomery

The new Montgomery branch of the Somerset County Library System of New Jersey (SCLSNJ)

Published on June 6, 2025

Montgomery Township has long been a vibrant and growing community, and with that growth came an increasing need for accessible and modern library services for its residents. The decision to build a much-needed Township Municipal Center provided a timely opportunity to establish a dedicated library within Montgomery and its municipal complex.

From Vision to Reality: A Community-Driven Project

The decision to build a new library along with the development of the Township Municipal Center offered a unique opportunity to integrate essential community services under one roof. The vision was further bolstered by the availability of matching funds from the New Jersey Library Construction Bond Act (LCBA), making the project even more compelling and financially viable.

The library portion of the municipal complex was funded equally by the Township and LCBA funds. The Township’s contribution was funded through the County’s Improvement Authority, demonstrating a collaborative effort to bring this vital resource to fruition.

Ground was broken on October 15, 2020, and the library officially opened its doors on June 15, 2022.

Modern Amenities for a Modern Community

The SCLSNJ Montgomery branch is not just a building; it’s a state-of-the-art facility designed with the needs of its diverse community in mind. Stepping inside, visitors will discover a wealth of innovative features:

Automated Materials Handling System (“Sort-o-matic”): This cutting-edge system automatically checks in and sorts all returned materials, ensuring quick access to resources and freeing up library staff to provide valuable services to library patrons.
24/7 Holds Pickup Locker: A convenient outdoor locker allows for pickup of reserved materials, offering unparalleled flexibility.
Digital Lab: Preserving the past and embracing the future, the Digital Lab boasts a large format overhead archival quality scanner and equipment to convert legacy media, allowing the community to preserve cherished memories and historical documents.
Quiet Study Rooms & Conference Spaces: With eight highly utilized quiet study rooms, a dedicated conference room, and a spacious meeting room, the library provides ample space for individual focus, collaborative work, and community gatherings.
Comfort and Community: A beautiful lounge seating area, complete with vending machines and a cozy fireplace, offers a welcoming space for relaxation, reading, or casual conversation.

Prime Location, Unbeatable Convenience

Strategically located right off of US 206, the SCLSNJ Montgomery Branch is accessible and has quickly become a heavily used community resource. Its prime location makes it easy for residents to combine library visits with trips to the grocery store and other errands along US 206.

The SCLSNJ Montgomery Branch is more than just a library; it’s a testament to Montgomery Township’s commitment to education, community, and progress. It stands as a vibrant hub where residents can connect, explore, share, and discover for years to come.