The Walpole Public Library, located in Walpole, Massachusetts, is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of resources, services, and programs for residents of all ages. With a rich history dating back to 1872, the library has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community, providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone. The library's mission is to foster a love of reading, support lifelong learning, and promote community engagement, making it an essential part of Walpole's cultural and intellectual landscape.
History and Architecture
The Walpole Public Library was founded in 1872, with a collection of just over 1,000 volumes. The library’s first home was a small room in the town hall, but as the collection grew, so did the need for a larger space. In 1898, the library moved to a beautiful Victorian-style building on Main Street, which was specifically designed to house the library. The building featured a stunning clock tower, ornate woodwork, and large windows that filled the space with natural light. Over the years, the library has undergone several renovations and expansions, including a major addition in 1993, which doubled the size of the building and provided modern amenities and technologies.
Collections and Resources
The Walpole Public Library boasts an extensive collection of over 75,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and CDs. The library’s collections are carefully curated to meet the diverse interests and needs of the community, with a strong focus on popular fiction, nonfiction, and children’s materials. In addition to its physical collections, the library also provides access to a range of digital resources, including online databases, e-book platforms, and streaming services. Patrons can access these resources from the comfort of their own homes, or use the library’s public computers and Wi-Fi network to stay connected.
| Collection Category | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Adult Fiction | 20,000 |
| Adult Nonfiction | 15,000 |
| Children's Materials | 10,000 |
| Audiobooks | 5,000 |
| e-books | 3,000 |
Programs and Services
The Walpole Public Library offers a wide range of programs and services for residents of all ages, from children’s storytime and book clubs to author talks and technology workshops. The library’s programs are designed to promote literacy, support education, and foster community engagement, with a focus on providing opportunities for socialization, skill-building, and personal growth. Some of the library’s popular programs include:
- Children's storytime and book clubs
- Author talks and book signings
- Technology workshops and computer classes
- English language conversation groups
- Genealogy research and local history programs
Community Outreach and Partnerships
The Walpole Public Library is committed to reaching out to all members of the community, including those who may face barriers to accessing library services. The library partners with local organizations and agencies to provide outreach services, including book delivery to homebound residents, library cards for seniors and people with disabilities, and literacy programs for adults and children. The library also works closely with local schools and educational institutions to support student learning and provide resources for teachers and educators.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The library is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. The library is closed on Sundays and major holidays.
How do I get a library card?
+To get a library card, simply visit the library with a valid form of identification and proof of residency. You can also apply for a library card online and pick it up at the library. Library cards are free for Walpole residents and provide access to all of the library’s resources and services.
What types of programs and services does the library offer?
+The library offers a wide range of programs and services for residents of all ages, including children’s storytime and book clubs, author talks and book signings, technology workshops and computer classes, and much more. The library also provides outreach services, including book delivery to homebound residents and literacy programs for adults and children.
