Connolly Branch of the Boston Public Library

About

This beautiful Jacobean style branch library is located in the Hyde Square section of Jamaica Plain.

Story

DISTINCTIVE ASPECTS OF THE COLLECTION
The library offers popular books, magazines, DVDs, books-on-CD, music CDs, and more for children, teens, and adults. The branch also has a significant collection of Spanish-language books.

RECURRING PROGRAMMING OFFERED
Weekly programs include a film program for young children, a homework assistance program for school age children, and an English as a Second Language conversation group. Our monthly programs include an adult book discussion group and story times for babies and preschoolers. In the summer months there is a Summer Reading program for children as well as Family nights. A wide variety of other programs are held for all ages during the year.

HISTORY
Library service to the Hyde Square area of Jamaica Plain began in 1897 with a small book deposit in the rear of a neighborhood pharmacy at the corner of Lamartine and Paul Gore Streets. Eventually, in 1905, the Boylston Branch, named for the Boylston Railroad Station, opened its doors. Responding to the need for larger space, a beautiful white limestone building was built and opened in 1932. Designed by Maginnis and Walsh in the Jacobean style, the large arched entrance leads to a large interior space with wood and glass partitions dividing the adult and children's area. The ceilings, decorated with plaster moldings, are reputedly inspired by the Rufford Abbey Library in England. On December 12, 1940 , the name of the branch was officially changed to the Monsignor Arthur T. Connolly Branch, as a tribute to Monsignor Connolly, a long-time member of the Boston Public Library Board of Trustees and pastor of the neighboring Blessed Sacrament Church.