DISTINCTIVE ASPECTS OF THE COLLECTION
The Hyde Park collection of local history is a distinctive aspect of the collection. In addition there are large collections of Children's picture books, quilting books and golf books.
RECURRING PROGRAMMING OFFERED
Preschool story hours, and films are offered weekly for children. There is a monthly book discussion group for adults. There is a Winter Musical Program as well as annual book sales and lectures sponsored by the Friends of the Hyde Park Library.
SPECIAL PROGRAMMING OFFERED
Lecture programs are typically offered in the fall or spring focusing on topics of local interest including local history. Summer reading activities are offered for children.
 |
|
Red Sox pitcher Manny Delcarmen reading to our kids at the Hyde Park Branch as part of the 2006 Summer Reading Program. |
HISTORY
The town of Hyde Park opened its first library in the Cobb's block of Everett Square in 1873. In 1884 it moved to larger quarters in the Masonic Block at the corner of Harvard Avenue and River Street. Ground was broken for the Town Library in December of 1898 and the magnificent building was opened in September, 1899. The Library became a branch of the Boston Public Library when the town joined the City of Boston in 1912. The marble fireplace, high ceilings, and turn of the century details have charmed patrons for generations. In 1997 ground was broken for a new addition and a renovation of the existing building. The project, which doubled the size of the branch, was designed by Schwartz/Silver Architects. A grand-reopening ceremony with Mayor Thomas M. Menino was held in January 2000.
The Main Reading Room |
Looking to the Children's Garden |
The addition, as viewed from the south |
|
