Maynard Public Library

The Maynard Public Library, located in Maynard, Massachusetts, is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of services, programs, and resources to its patrons. With a rich history dating back to 1881, the library has evolved over the years to meet the changing needs of the community, providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for people of all ages.

History of the Maynard Public Library

The Maynard Public Library was established in 1881, with a collection of approximately 1,000 volumes. The library was initially housed in a small room in the town hall, but as the collection grew, it was moved to a larger space on Main Street. In 1918, the library was relocated to its current location on Nason Street, where it has remained ever since. Over the years, the library has undergone several renovations and expansions, including a major renovation in 2004, which added a new wing to the building and increased the library’s square footage by 50%.

Services and Programs

The Maynard Public Library offers a wide range of services and programs for adults, children, and teens. These include author talks, book clubs, children’s storytime, and summer reading programs. The library also provides access to a variety of digital resources, including e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services. In addition, the library offers free Wi-Fi, public computers, and printing and scanning services. The library’s interlibrary loan service allows patrons to borrow materials from other libraries, expanding their access to a vast collection of books, articles, and other resources.

The library's programs and services are designed to meet the diverse needs of the community. For example, the library offers a job search assistance program, which provides one-on-one assistance with resume writing, job searching, and interview preparation. The library also hosts a technology assistance program, which provides instruction on basic computer skills, such as using the internet, email, and Microsoft Office.

Collection and Resources

The Maynard Public Library’s collection includes over 50,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, DVDs, and CDs. The library also provides access to a variety of digital resources, including OverDrive for e-books and audiobooks, Hoover’s for business research, and Lynda.com for online learning. In addition, the library offers a local history collection, which includes materials related to the history of Maynard and the surrounding area.

The library's collection is constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of the community. For example, the library has recently added a STEAM collection, which includes materials related to science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. The library has also expanded its large print collection, which includes books with larger font sizes for patrons with visual impairments.

Community Engagement

The Maynard Public Library is committed to engaging with the community and promoting literacy and lifelong learning. The library partners with local organizations and businesses to offer programs and services that meet the needs of the community. For example, the library has partnered with the Maynard Community Chest to offer a food pantry program, which provides food and other essentials to families in need.

The library also offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, which allow community members to get involved and give back. Volunteers can assist with programs and services, such as shelving books, helping with storytime, and providing technology assistance.