The Heart of Hometown USA: The Crandall Public Library
Located at 251 Glen Street, the Crandall Public Library is the undeniable architectural and cultural anchor of downtown Glens Falls. Serving as both a historic landmark and a hyper-modern community hub, the library provides a "feel-good" atmosphere that keeps locals coming back every week.
Crandall Public Library: A Legacy of Literacy
The library’s roots date back to 1892, when philanthropist Henry Crandall, who amassed a fortune in real estate and lumbering, proposed donating his wealth to create a library. His one non-negotiable requirement was that the library provide free books and services to anyone who wished to use them.
Originally housed on the second floor of a downtown building and later temporarily relocated to the Jerome Lapham residence on Ridge Street, the library finally found its permanent home in 1931.
- Architectural Excellence: The 1931 building was designed by Charles Platt of New York City, renowned for his work on the Library of Congress’s Coolidge Auditorium.
- Strategic Expansions: In 1969, an addition designed by the original architect’s sons expanded the floor space to hold approximately 180,000 volumes.
- The 2008 Transformation: An $18.8 million project added 14,028 square feet. Designed by Ann Beha Architects with support from Glens Falls’ JMZ Architects, this LEED-certified addition perfectly balances the cozy, wood-paneled "reading room" vibe of the 30s with wide-open, light-filled modern spaces.
The Folklife Center & Regional Research
Located on the lower level, the award-winning Folklife Center is dedicated to documenting the unique traditions of the Upper Hudson Valley and Southern Adirondacks. As the Central Reference Library for the Southern Adirondack Library System (SALS), it serves Warren, Washington, Saratoga, and Hamilton Counties.
- Programs: The Folklife Center hosts Shutter Squad program, where kids (ages 10–13) use professional Canon DSLR cameras to document their world for a framed gallery exhibition.
- Rare Archives: The Research Room contains a page from an original Gutenberg Bible, Look Magazine’s "Hometown USA" photo collection, and Civil War letters.
- Events: The center hosts rotating culture exhibits and the popular Live! Folklife Concert series.
Art on the Glens Falls Arts Trail
Crandall is a key stop on the Glens Falls Arts Trail, with art integrated into every floor.
- The Friends Gallery: Located on the first floor.
- Folklife Galleries: Located on the lower level with a distinct "museum feel."
- Children’s Department: Rotating displays of youth work on the second floor.
Stellar Youth & Teen Programs
From toddlers to teens, the library offers specialized environments for every age group:
- 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten: A challenge for caregivers to read to their kids before school starts. Finishing the program earns the child a hardcover book and a special tote bag.
- Read to a Therapy Dog: Kids can book 15-minute slots to practice their reading skills with a gentle canine listener.
- The Play Room: A bright space for little ones featuring toys and board books with windows overlooking City Park and Glen Street.
- The Teen Center (Ages 13–19): A dedicated lounge with drop-in gaming on Wednesdays, teen groups on Thursdays, plus board games, craft supplies, and graphic novels.
Community, Outreach & Book Sales
- The Community Room: A 200-seat auditorium for free film festivals and lectures.
- Friends of Crandall: This volunteer group promotes the library and hosts used book sales roughly four times a year. Prices are $1 for adult books and 4/$1 kids and teens books.
- More Books for Sale: In addition to the book sales, there is a selectin of books for sale in the entrance of the library that faces Glens Falls City Park.
- Library by Mail: A robust program for homebound residents in Glens Falls, Queensbury, and Moreau.
What Patrons Are Saying
“What a wonderful library. We live in Saratoga but decided to start driving out to Crandall just because of how friendly they are. We did the summer reading program and love it.”
"Our favorite local library we visit every week."
"Library is large, clean, welcoming. Very feel good atmosphere."
Crandall Public Library FAQs
How do I get a library card?
Visit the library in person with a photo ID and proof of address (like a utility bill). Those under 18 need a parent or guardian to sign for them.
Are there late fines?
While there are no longer overdue fines for books and related items, any materials that are 30 days over overdue are assumed lost, and you'll be charged for replacement and processing costs. There are still overdue fines on items like museum passes and birding kits.
How many books can I borrow?
You can borrow 75 items per card.
What is the Folklife Center?
Located on the lower level, the Folklife Center is a specialized department with programs, a gallery, a research room, and more.
Where is the best place to park?
Street parking is available on Glen Street, Maple Street, and other side streets; there may be a 2-hour limit in some spots. You can also park int he Elm Street Municipal Parking lot, a short walk away.
Can I print or scan documents at the library?
Yes. Black and white printing is available at 15 cents per page. Color printing is available in the first floor Internet Room at 25 cents per page.
Can I donate books to the library?
Yes, but there are rules on what you can donate and when. Gently used fiction, nonfiction, hardcovers, and paperbacks can be dropped off in the collection bins just inside the Glen Street lobby during regular library hours, with a limit of two boxes or bags per donor. No CDs, DVDs, VHS tapes, magazines, textbooks, etc. No books more than 5 years old in the categories of Business, Finance, Computers, Health, Childcare, or Education. Please hold all book donations approximately 3 weeks before and 1 week after each of their book sales.
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