The William Sanford Library, located in the heart of the city, is a renowned institution that has been serving the community for over a century. Established in 1888, the library has a rich history of providing access to knowledge, promoting literacy, and fostering a love for reading among people of all ages. With its impressive collection of over 500,000 volumes, the library is a treasure trove of information, catering to the diverse needs of its patrons.
History and Architecture
The William Sanford Library was founded by William Sanford, a philanthropist and book lover, who donated a significant portion of his estate to establish the library. The building, designed by renowned architect, Henry Hobson Richardson, is a stunning example of Romanesque Revival architecture, featuring a grand stone façade, soaring ceilings, and beautifully crafted woodwork. The library’s interior is equally impressive, with spacious reading rooms, cozy nooks, and elegant staircases, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that encourages patrons to explore and learn.
Collection and Services
The William Sanford Library boasts an extensive collection of books, periodicals, and digital media, including rare and historic volumes, bestsellers, and award-winning titles. The library’s catalog is available online, allowing patrons to search and reserve materials from the comfort of their own homes. In addition to its physical collection, the library offers a range of services, including author readings, book clubs, children’s storytime, and research assistance, making it a vibrant hub of community activity.
| Collection Category | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Books | 420,000 |
| Periodicals | 15,000 |
| Digital Media | 10,000 |
| Rare and Historic Volumes | 5,000 |
Programs and Events
The William Sanford Library offers a wide range of programs and events for adults, children, and teens, including author talks, workshops, and classes. The library’s popular Summer Reading Program encourages children to develop a love for reading, while the Adult Book Club provides a forum for discussion and debate. The library also partners with local organizations to offer literacy programs and job training initiatives, demonstrating its commitment to supporting the community’s educational and economic needs.
Community Outreach
The William Sanford Library is dedicated to reaching out to underserved populations, including seniors, immigrants, and people with disabilities. The library’s outreach services include home delivery of materials, assistive technology for people with disabilities, and English language classes for immigrants. By providing these services, the library aims to promote social inclusion, foster a sense of community, and support the well-being of all its patrons.
- Home delivery of materials for seniors and people with disabilities
- Assistive technology, including audiobooks and e-readers, for people with disabilities
- English language classes for immigrants
- Citizenship preparation classes
- Job training and employment resources
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The library is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Sunday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Can I access the library’s digital collection from home?
+Yes, the library’s digital collection is available 24⁄7, and can be accessed from home using your library card and PIN.
Does the library offer free Wi-Fi?
+Yes, the library offers free Wi-Fi to all patrons, and also provides public computers and printers for use.
