The Waltham Public Library, located in Waltham, Massachusetts, is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of resources, services, and programs to its patrons. With a rich history dating back to 1857, the library has evolved over the years to meet the changing needs of the community, providing access to information, education, and entertainment. The library's mission is to foster a love of learning, promote literacy, and support the cultural and economic development of the city.
History and Architecture
The Waltham Public Library was founded in 1857, with a collection of 1,000 volumes. The library’s first home was a room in the Waltham Town Hall, where it remained until 1874. In 1874, the library moved to a new building on Main Street, which was designed by the prominent architectural firm of Shepley, Rutan and Coolidge. The building featured a stunning clock tower and a grand reading room with a soaring ceiling. Over the years, the library has undergone several expansions and renovations, including a major renovation in 1998 that added a new wing and updated the building’s infrastructure.
Collection and Services
The Waltham Public Library boasts a diverse collection of over 150,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, DVDs, CDs, and digital media. The library also offers a range of services, including free Wi-Fi, computer access, printing and scanning, and interlibrary loan. Patrons can access the library’s online catalog, which allows them to search for materials, place holds, and renew items. The library also offers a variety of programs and services for children, teens, and adults, including storytime, book clubs, author talks, and technology classes.
| Collection Category | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Books | 120,000 |
| Audiobooks | 5,000 |
| E-books | 10,000 |
| DVDs | 8,000 |
| CDs | 3,000 |
Programs and Services
The Waltham Public Library offers a wide range of programs and services for patrons of all ages. For children, the library offers storytime, craft programs, and book clubs. Teens can participate in gaming tournaments, movie nights, and volunteer opportunities. Adults can attend author talks, book clubs, and technology classes. The library also offers services for seniors, including home delivery of library materials and technology classes specifically designed for older adults.
Community Outreach
The Waltham Public Library is committed to outreach and community engagement. The library partners with local organizations, such as the Waltham School Department, the Waltham Housing Authority, and the Waltham Community Day Care Center, to provide services and programs to underserved populations. The library also offers a variety of programs and services for non-English speakers, including language classes, cultural events, and multilingual materials.
The library's outreach efforts include:
- Home delivery of library materials to seniors and people with disabilities
- Partnerships with local schools and community organizations
- Cultural events and programs celebrating the city's diversity
- Multilingual materials and services
Technology and Digital Resources
The Waltham Public Library offers a range of technology and digital resources to its patrons. The library has over 50 public computers, including laptops and desktops, which provide access to the internet, Microsoft Office, and other software. The library also offers free Wi-Fi, scanning and printing services, and a variety of digital media, including e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services.
Digital Collections
The Waltham Public Library’s digital collections include a wide range of resources, such as:
- OverDrive: a digital collection of e-books and audiobooks
- Hoopla: a digital collection of music, movies, and TV shows
- Kanopy: a digital collection of independent films and documentaries
- Lynda.com: an online learning platform offering courses and tutorials on a variety of subjects
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The Waltham Public Library is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. The library is closed on Sundays.
How do I get a library card?
+To get a library card, you can visit the library in person and provide proof of residency, such as a driver’s license or utility bill. You can also apply for a library card online and pick it up at the library.
What services does the library offer for people with disabilities?
+The Waltham Public Library offers a variety of services for people with disabilities, including home delivery of library materials, large print and audiobooks, and assistive technology, such as screen readers and magnification software.
