State Library of Pennsylvania

The Office of Commonwealth Libraries (OCL) within the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) supports, develops, and provides library services for learning and advancement.

We serve Pennsylvanians through the work of two bureaus:

The Bureau of the State Library & The Bureau of Library Development

POWER Library

POWER Library is an online portal that connects Pennsylvanians with library services.

  •  E-Resources:  Access a collection of online content and databases 24/7.  These resources can help you to find trustworthy answers to questions about healthcare, family history, national and world events, education, and much more. Search this collection of magazines, journals, and eBooks.
  • Chat with a Librarian: Connect with an experienced librarian in an online chat to find sources of factual information and get research guidance.
  • Statewide Catalog: Libraries across Pennsylvania have collaborated to create this shared catalog of their collections.  See which libraries may own the book you want to borrow.
  • PA Photos & Documents:  Explore thousands of digitized documents and photographs from unique collections in libraries across Pennsylvania.

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Find contact information for all of our offices.