Together We Thrive
At the J. Lewis Crozer Library, we are more than just a library; we are a beacon of resilience, hope, and opportunity for Chester. Nestled between Memorial and MLK Parks, our library stands as a safe haven and vibrant community center where youth, families, and individuals come to learn, grow, and connect. In Chester—a city united by strength, diversity, and spirit—our role is pivotal in addressing community challenges, empowering residents, and providing the essential resources needed to thrive.
The educational landscape highlights an urgent need for support. Local schools face significant challenges in academic achievement, with Chester-Upland School District’s Grade 3 Math proficiency at 12.9% and Chester Community Charter School’s at just 3.8%—well below the state average. These figures underscore the essential role we play in offering educational resources that lift up every child, family, and individual in Chester.
Since launching our revitalization efforts in 2022, we’ve seen a 79% increase in library visits—demonstrating the trust our community places in us. Yet, with so much more to do, we need your help to keep growing. Together, we can provide even greater access to critical resources, enrich lives through educational programming, and empower Chester to build a stronger future.
Your Donation Will Help Us:
-
Expand Youth Programs
Support programs that go beyond the classroom by providing afterschool healthy meals to fuel young minds, early literacy initiatives that strengthen foundational skills for children and caregivers, and engaging STEAM-based educational activities that spark curiosity and innovation. These programs create opportunities for learning, creativity, and growth in a safe, nurturing environment. -
Foster Early Literacy
Empower families and educators with tools to support lifelong learning through the development and expansion of lendable early literacy kits. These kits include books, activities, and resources tailored to promote reading and language development at home and in classrooms, helping to close the literacy gap for Chester’s youngest learners. -
Bridge the Digital Divide
Ensure equitable access to technology and electronic resources by sustaining our hotspot lending service and offering digital literacy training. These initiatives equip residents with essential 21st-century skills and provide opportunities to connect to vital online services, educational tools, and career resources—empowering them to succeed in today’s increasingly digital world. -
Empower Employment Readiness
Help Chester residents prepare for meaningful employment by funding targeted job readiness workshops. These workshops offer practical tools like resume-building, mock interviews, and professional attire support, providing participants with the confidence and skills to pursue and secure jobs that support their economic self-sufficiency. -
Sustain a Welcoming Community Hub
Maintain a safe, inclusive space where every Chester resident can learn, grow, and thrive. Our historic building, though rich with character and history, requires significant care to continue serving the community. Your support helps us address critical needs such as installing a new HVAC system to ensure comfort year-round, replacing worn flooring, upgrading furniture for public use, and making essential environmental improvements to model sustainability. Together, we can preserve and revitalize this cherished community hub for future generations.
With your help, we can make a lasting difference in Chester. Join us in empowering lives, one program and one resource at a time. Together, we thrive!
Make a Difference Today: Help Us Build Chester's Future
Be part of Chester’s journey of transformation. Donate now and join us in building a stronger, more connected community.
Engage, Explore, Empower: Stay Connected with Us!
Sign up for the JLCL Jawn, our monthly newsletter, and follow us on social media channels like Facebook and Instagram to stay connected.