Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton public libraries are collaborating on a project to share resources, save costs and more efficiently serve the public. The three libraries have shared an automation system for the past 13 years, but maintained separate patron databases and separate loan rules for their collections. Beginning this month, Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton public libraries will open their collections to each other. The three libraries will continue to be independent, but will also be identified as the Lehigh Valley Library System.

The project was conceived by Renee Haines of Allentown Public Library, Janet Fricker of Bethlehem Area Public Library, and Jennifer Stocker of Easton Area Public Library. The directors and members of the staffs of the three Lehigh Valley libraries have been meeting the past year to integrate their collections and align their borrowing policies. The Lehigh Valley Library System's inaugural service will allow patrons to borrow materials directly from the two other public libraries and have materials delivered to their own.

A van has been purchased with a generous grant from the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation to facilitate daily delivery between the three libraries. The delivery service is just the first step toward a more economical regional library system. State aid to public libraries has been noticeably reduced in the past three years. Sharing resources, coordinating purchases and avoiding duplication of materials mean a more responsible and efficient use of library funding.

The Bethlehem Area Public Library, 11 W. Church Street, Bethlehem is hosting a press conference July 16 at 10 a.m. to announce the launch of the new delivery service. The van detailed with the Lehigh Valley Library System's newly designed logo will be unveiled on the city plaza. The library directors, state and local officials will be in attendance.