About the Library :

In 1815 a "Social Library" formed, that was then chartered by the Legislature in 1818. In 1819 the collection totalled an overwhelming 205 volumes, which were transferred to the Natural History Society in 1850. In 1855 the Library Association took over the books and incorporated 2000 volumes. On April 14, 1862, the volumes were transferred to the city for a Free Public Library. And August 20, 1862, an ordinance was passed for the establishment of the Library, which was located at the corner of Market and Tremont Streets.

In 1868, the Library was moved to the second floor of the old City Hall. By 1876, the collection numbered 27,000 volumes.

In 1893, Mrs. Elizabeth Shute gave a bequest to the city for a library building, and ground was broken in 1898. April 4, 1900, the present library at 5 North Common Street was opened. George A. Moore, a nationally known architect, won the competition for the design of the building.