The Cleve J. Fredricksen Library stands as more than just a repository for books; it is a dynamic engine of cultural and educational growth serving the diverse residents of Camp Hill, Lemoyne, Wormleysburg, Hampden, East Pennsboro, and Lower Allen. Since its establishment in 1957, this institution has evolved into a premier resource center, adapting to the changing needs of the 21st century while maintaining its commitment to traditional literacy. Located at 100 North 19th Street in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, the library operates as a central pillar of the Cumberland County Library System, fostering an environment where curiosity meets opportunity.

A strategic approach to modern literacy

One of the most defining characteristics of the Cleve J. Fredricksen Library is its adoption of the "PA Forward" initiative, which focuses on five essential literacies. This framework ensures that the library’s services remain relevant in an era defined by rapid technological shifts and complex socio-economic landscapes.

Basic Literacy remains the foundation of all learning. The library provides the necessary building blocks for reading and writing through extensive collections and specialized programs. By focusing on basic literacy, the facility helps residents of all ages gain the fundamental skills required for further educational pursuits.

Information Literacy has become increasingly critical as the digital landscape expands. The library offers resources that help patrons navigate the vast amount of information available online. This includes understanding how to use various digital devices, effectively searching the internet, and, perhaps most importantly, developing the critical thinking skills needed to distinguish factual information from misinformation.

Civic and Social Literacy focuses on community engagement and governmental understanding. The library serves as a neutral ground where neighbors can gather to discuss differing opinions respectfully. Programs designed under this literacy umbrella help citizens understand the basics of local and national government, fostering a more informed and participatory community.

Health Literacy addresses the complexities of the modern medical system. By providing access to reliable health data and hosting workshops, the library empowers families to make informed decisions about their well-being. Whether it is understanding a new diagnosis or navigating insurance options, the resources available at Fredricksen are invaluable.

Financial Literacy is designed to help patrons manage their personal finances effectively. From basic budgeting workshops to advanced classes on retirement planning and investing, the library’s Business and Career Center provides the tools necessary for economic stability and growth.

Exploring the 140,000-item collection

The sheer volume of materials available at Cleve J. Fredricksen Library is impressive, with over 140,000 items including books, CDs, DVDs, and audiobooks. However, the collection extends far beyond traditional media. The library has gained recognition for its innovative "Library of Things" approach, allowing patrons to borrow non-traditional items that enhance their daily lives or hobbies.

For those interested in the paranormal, the library notably offers a ghost hunting kit for checkout, a unique addition that showcases the institution's willingness to cater to diverse and niche interests. Additionally, the collection includes specialized kits for early childhood development and STEAM education, ensuring that learning is tactile and engaging for younger generations.

Media enthusiasts benefit from the "Fred Box" system. Recognizing the high demand for new DVD releases, the library implemented this rental service to provide faster access to popular titles. While traditional checkouts remain free, the Fred Box offers a low-cost alternative for those who wish to bypass long hold lists for the latest blockbusters. This hybrid model exemplifies the library's ability to balance accessibility with the need for efficient service delivery.

Specialized spaces for innovation and history

The physical layout of the Cleve J. Fredricksen Library includes several specialized zones designed for specific community needs. These spaces are equipped with modern technology and curated resources that move beyond the standard library experience.

The Kunkel Creation Station is the library’s dedicated STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) lab. This space is particularly popular among teens and young adults, offering tools for digital creation, 3D printing, and hands-on experimentation. By providing access to high-end technology that might otherwise be cost-prohibitive, the library levels the playing field for aspiring creators.

The Business and Career Center serves as a vital resource for job seekers and entrepreneurs. In today’s competitive market, having a dedicated space for resume building, interview preparation, and professional research is essential. The center often hosts employment expos and workshops focused on online job applications and networking strategies, directly contributing to the local economy's health.

The War Room is a unique feature of the Fredricksen Library, catering to history buffs and those interested in military strategy. This specialized room houses an extensive collection of historical texts and serves as a venue for programs focusing on historical battles and military history. It is a testament to the library’s commitment to providing deep, specialized knowledge in niche subject areas.

Engaging programs for all ages

Community engagement is at the heart of the library’s mission. The calendar is consistently filled with programs that cater to every demographic, from toddlers to seniors.

For children, the library offers more than just simple storytimes. Programs are designed to incorporate the five literacies, helping preschoolers develop early reading skills while their parents learn about childhood development. These sessions often integrate music, movement, and play to create a holistic learning environment.

Adult programming is equally robust. The Great Decisions program, held in partnership with the World Affairs Council of Harrisburg, is a flagship offering. This discussion group focuses on critical global issues, utilizing briefing books and expert speakers to facilitate deep dives into topics such as international policy, environmental challenges, and global economics. Such programs elevate the library from a place of quiet study to a forum for high-level intellectual exchange.

Foreign Film Fridays provide a cultural window for the community, screening acclaimed international cinema that is often unavailable in mainstream theaters. These screenings are usually accompanied by discussions, allowing participants to explore different cultures and perspectives through the lens of film.

For aspiring writers, the Fredricksen Writes group provides a supportive environment for literary creation. Regular workshops on story structure, character development, and peer feedback sessions help local authors hone their craft and work toward publication. This focus on active creation, rather than just passive consumption, is a hallmark of the modern library's role.

A regional network: The East Pennsboro branch

The influence of the Cleve J. Fredricksen Library extends beyond its main campus in Camp Hill. The East Pennsboro Branch Library, located at 98 South Enola Drive in Enola, serves as a vital satellite location. This branch ensures that residents in the northern part of the service area have convenient access to the library system’s resources.

While smaller in scale, the East Pennsboro branch participates in the shared automation system of the Cumberland County Library System, meaning patrons can easily request materials from the main library or other branches across the county. This interconnectedness maximizes the value of every taxpayer dollar and ensures that the total resources of the county are available to every resident, regardless of their primary branch.

Visiting and supporting the library

Accessing the wealth of resources at Cleve J. Fredricksen Library is a straightforward process. Residents of the service area are eligible for a library card, which opens the door to the physical collection and a vast array of digital resources, including e-books and research databases.

Operating Hours (Main Library):

  • Monday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
  • Tuesday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
  • Wednesday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
  • Thursday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
  • Friday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
  • Saturday: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
  • Sunday: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

The library’s success is heavily supported by the Friends of Fredricksen Library, a dedicated group of volunteers who organize massive book and media sales throughout the year. These sales are major community events, often held in the spring and fall, providing a sustainable source of funding for library programs and materials that exceed the standard budget.

Furthermore, the library’s status as a non-profit association means that community support through donations and fundraisers—such as the annual blueberry sale or local festival collaborations—is vital. In 2012, the library won the prestigious John Cotton Dana Library Public Relations Award for its "Bee Local" festival, highlighting its excellence in community outreach and innovative programming.

The library's role in the 2026 landscape

As we navigate the complexities of 2026, the Cleve J. Fredricksen Library remains more relevant than ever. In an age of digital fatigue and social fragmentation, the library provides a physical space for human connection and reliable information. Its commitment to health and financial literacy directly addresses the practical challenges faced by modern families, while its focus on civic literacy helps maintain the fabric of local democracy.

Whether a visitor is seeking a quiet place to work, a new skill to master at the Kunkel Creation Station, or a community of fellow readers, the library delivers. It is a place where the history of the West Shore meets the technology of the future, all under one roof at 100 North 19th Street. The continued evolution of this institution ensures that it will remain a cornerstone of Camp Hill for many decades to come.

For those who have not visited recently, the library offers a constant rotation of new materials and fresh perspectives. From the latest bestsellers to historical research in the War Room, there is always something new to discover. The Cleve J. Fredricksen Library is not just a building filled with books; it is a community-driven institution dedicated to the power of imagination and the pursuit of knowledge.