Branch Libraries

Adams Street

Brighton

Charlestown

Codman Square

Connolly

Dudley

Dudley Literacy Center

East Boston

Egleston Square

Faneuil

Fields Corner

Grove Hall

Honan-Allston

Hyde Park

Jamaica Plain

Kirstein Business

Lower Mills

Mattapan

North End

Orient Heights

Parker Hill

Roslindale

South Boston

South End

Uphams Corner

Washington Village

West End

West Roxbury

Related Links

Map of Library Locations

Central Library

Research &
Specialized Services

Literacy Resources

Kids' Page

Teen Lounge

DISTINCTIVE ASPECTS OF THE COLLECTION
The South End Branch has a fine collection of Spanish language books for adults and children. In addition, the branch has a collection of African-American history and biographies.

RECURRING PROGRAMMING OFFERED
Preschool story hours and films are offered weekly for children; one monthly book discussion group and weekly English conversation groups are offered for adults.

SPECIAL PROGRAMMING OFFERED
Special events and seasonal programs are offered for children year-round, and more frequently in summer and during school vacations. Adult lecture programs are typically offered in the fall and spring focusing on topics of local interest.  The South End has a fine art gallery, click here for a news about their current show.

HISTORY
Library service was established in the South End in 1877. The Branch was located in the Mercantile Library Association until 1879 when it was moved to the English High School. In 1904 the Branch relocated to 397 Shawmut Avenue and then again in 1923 to the John J. Williams Municipal Building at Shawmut Avenue and West Brookline Street. On June 7, 1971 the South End Branch Library moved to a new building at its present location, which was on the site of the original Mercantile building.

The South End Branch Library has recently completed its major capital improvement project. An elevator has been installed to make the second floor community room accessible to all. The threadbare carpet has been completely replaced, the roof leaks fixed, new bathrooms and closet areas created, and the whole library received a fresh coat of paint in an exciting palette.

The Friends of the South End Branch Library have worked tirelessly in their fundraising campaign to pay for additional beautification not included in the renovation project and not covered by other city or state funding. Thanks to their efforts, the Branch has been able to reupholster most of its public seating, the circulation desk,  a beautiful banquette reading area located near the library entrance,and have installed new draperies on the second floor lecture hall.