DISTINCTIVE ASPECTS OF THE COLLECTION
The Parker Hill Branch is proud to offer a wide range of services to the residents of Mission Hill.  The Parker Hill Branch collection holdings include an ESL collection, Spanish collection for both adults and children, large print, numerous fiction titles (particularly mystery/detective novels), SCI-FI/fantasy, romance, historical fiction, nonfiction holdings include popular reference, informational materials (e.g. self-help and "how to books"). Additionally offered are a large variety of paperbacks, magazines, books on tape, c.d.’s and videos. The Parker Hill Branch also houses the Streetfeet Archives. Streetfeet Women, a culturally diverse troupe of writers and performers was organized and founded by Elena H. Dodd and Mary M. McCullough in 1982. These historic documents are housed in a beautiful hand-made dark oak cabinet that blends with the furniture and Flemish oak of the building. Individuals are permitted to peruse through and research this collection.

RECURRING PROGRAMMING OFFERED
The Children's Room of the Parker Hill Branch Library offers many fun and exciting activities for children of all ages on a year-round basis. For more information on special programs and events, please contact the Children's Librarian.
Preschool Cinema, Tuesdays, 10:30

SPECIAL PROGRAMMING OFFERED
There are many summer reading programs offered.  In addition there are family storytimes, internet trainings, and concerts throughout the year. Special puppet theatre and storytelling presentations are offered for children. Cultural programs such as African fashion shows, and the demonstration of various African drums and instruments have been offered. Through the Massachusetts College of Art, the Branch has offered art programs during a six-week student internship program. 

ART SHOWS AND DISPLAYS
The Parker Hill Branch Library hosts the annual Mission Hill Artists Association Open House. This special exhibition is a showcase of works done by Mission Hill artists. Local artists are also encouraged to contact the library in order to display their works and throughout the year, various exhibitions are arranged. Community members and groups are also encouraged to display their special talents at the library.

Drawings by 4th Graders Art Show

HISTORY
The Branch first opened in a rented space at 1518 Tremont Street in July 1907. It remained in this location until May 1931 when Mayor James Michael Curley opened the new branch that was designed in 1929 by famed architect Ralph Adams Cram.  Cram appeared on the cover of Time Magazine in 1926 and was heralded as Boston's foremost architect.  He left a significant impact on the area having designed many buildings and churches including All Saint's Church in Brookline, the Japanese Garden Court at the Museum of Fine Arts, the John W. McCormack Post Office and Courthouse, and the Second Unitarian Church in Boston.  He also designed the St. Thomas Church in New York City.  Many have said that the Parker Hill branch has a church-like feel to it - it is open and airy with many lovely details such as plaster rosettes on the ceiling. The branch is noted for its unique local history collection.

The outside of the building has the carved seal of Massachusetts on one side and the seal of the city of Boston on the other. Over the door is a carved seal of the Boston Public Library. Sunlight shines through the tiny window-panes on the heavy oak tables making the library a pleasant place to spend the afternoon.  In July 2001 artwork by Jessica Finch was installed above the windows in the Children's Room.

Children's Room	Circulation Desk
Children's Storytelling Area	Summer Reading Club Display