News & Updates
New Procedures
Beginning Wednesday, November 18, 2020, in-person services, with the exception of computer access, will be suspended until further notice. Our basket raffle has been cancelled. This decision comes after careful consideration & in...
Curbside Services
Our Events
Portage Public Library – Open
Using CloudLibrary
Christmas Holiday
New Years Holiday
Check back soon for more events and programs!
HOURS OF OPERATION
Sunday: Closed
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Thursday: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Available Amenities
Wi-Fi
Public Computers
Printing, Copying, and Scanning
After Hours Book Drop
Faxing
Public Restrooms
Staff Picks
My Sister, the Serial Killer
My Sister, the Serial Killer, by Oyinkan Braithwaite is a thriller that will make you think about the lengths you would go to to help your sister even if she was a, well, serial killer. Click here to read more about this title or put a hold on our copy to start...
The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires
This horror title has been called Fried Green Tomatoes and Steel Magnolias meet Dracula. Set during the 90's, it features a women's book club, whose unexpected guest in their suburban community starts to seem like. . . well. . . we won't spoil the...
Portage Public Library’s History
Thanks to the efforts of local women, the Portage Public Library opened in 1927. It was located in one room over the old borough building and Mrs. Nina Hess was the first librarian. Mrs. Kate Mears took over shortly after and retired in 1961. The library was kept in operation during those years through personal contributions of time and money!
In 1961 the Portage Public Library became a member of the Cambria County Library Plan, thereby qualifying for both state and county aid. A charter for the library was obtained, and the Portage Library Association was incorporated. Also at this time Attorney Ferdinand Bionaz became a member and President of the Library Board, serving for forty years.
After 1961, several women served as librarian, including Mrs. Isabel Evans, Mrs. Hilda Dey, Mrs. Winnie Leap, Mrs. Dorothy Hess and Mrs. Jean Hepner. Mrs. Josephine Semanchek took over the responsibilities in the late ’60s and remained as librarian until her death in December 1997.
Under the leadership of Mr. Bionaz, William Kristofco, and Peter Hons, in 1971 the former VFW building on Main Street was purchased and renovated as the new library. In 2000 the card catalog and circulation functions were automated, a new front desk was installed, and new computers were added.
Resources & Tools
