Northampton Area Public Library is celebrating a big number — its 60th anniversary.

To observe this occasion, the library is planning several events. First up will be a S’mores ‘n’ More event, for all ages, 6-8 p.m. Aug. 7 at pavilion A at Municipal Park, Laubach Avenue and Smith Lane, Northampton. Then there will be a presentation perfect for the upcoming spooky season, set for 6-8 p.m. Sept. 25.

“The plan for the 60th anniversary is to host community events throughout the year, at least one per season,” said Veronica Laroche, NAPL director. “They haven’t all been planned yet, but I do have the first two.”

As you can imagine from the name, there will be yummy s’mores at the Aug. 7 event, but that’s not all.

“Not only is it the kickoff for celebrating our 60th anniversary, (but) it’s also the closing of Summer Quest 2025. We’ll also be inviting the community to participate in storytelling improvisational games. We will also be doing raffles for special 60th anniversary merchandise throughout the evening,” Laroche added.

You must register for the event on the library website, northampton-pa.whofi.com/calendar/event/323800?method=embed, to receive your sweet treat.

On Sept. 25, the library will welcome Eric Mintel and Dominic Sattele for the premiere of “Eric Mintel Investigates Northampton Area Public Library.” It will also take place at pavilion A in the park.

“Both Eric Mintel and Dominic Sattele will be there with us to answer any questions about the paranormal investigation that occurred at the library during the Christmas season,” Laroche said. “Eric will also be selling and signing his latest book, ‘Casebook Investigations 2016,’ and Dominic will be offering psychic readings.

“Light refreshments will be available, and we will have additional raffles for 60th anniversary merchandise throughout the evening. It’s the perfect start to spooky season for everyone,” Laroche added.

According to the library’s website, “The first public library in Northampton opened its doors Aug. 23, 1965. It was located in the bay at the north end of the [Northampton Banquet and Event Center] (next door). At the end of 1966, it was determined that the library location was inadequate for the public needs and a building fund was established by Dr. George A. Eichler, with a contribution Oct. 19, 1966, but the fund grew very slowly.

“In October 1971, Mr. and Mrs. George H. Schisler announced that they would provide $125,000 for the construction of an area public library building. Mr. Jay Ferreira, of Bond and Miller Associates, was selected to be the architect for the building. In October 1971, the borough of Northampton deeded the land, located on Laubach Avenue, for the new building.

“On April 17, 1972, the charter of incorporation was issued. The charter lists it as a nonprofit corporation, which can accept tax-deductible monetary gifts. The area it serves includes the boroughs of Northampton, Bath and Chapman, as well as the townships of Allen, East Allen, Lehigh and Moore,” the website continues.

Because of their support, the George H. Schisler Building of the library was dedicated Sept. 30, 1973, in honor of Mr. and Mrs. George H. Schisler.

“In 1984, George and Hattie Schisler donated funds for the construction of the children’s wing,” the website states. “Seibert, Ferreira, Schlicting were selected as the architect, and John F. Simock Inc. was selected as the general contractor for the addition.”

On Oct. 27, 1985, this wing was dedicated to George and Hattie Schisler.

NAPL is located at 1615 Laubach Ave.

Laroche said the events for the winter and spring seasons are forthcoming. Library staff invite you to suggest your ideas for the additional two celebrations. In the near future, Laroche will create a Typeform to fill out on the library website, northamptonapl.org.

For more information on these events and to register, visit the website.

Make sure to come on out with library staff and patrons and other community members to celebrate 60 years of this area treasure.