Newton Free Library, Main Library and Branches , 1870-1980

Unknown artist

The City of Newton owns a wealth of historic materials that speak to the community's social, cultural, and governmental past. These materials reflect the civic life of and provide insight into Newton from the 19th through the early 20th century, a time when Newton was transforming from agriculture to industry and becoming a suburban Boston residential community. Presented here are photographs of the interior and exterior of the Old Main Newton Free Library (414 Centre Street) and its branches, staff at work and patrons engaged in programs, concerts, book talks, plays, parties, story hour, art exhibits, circulating art collection, Dial-a-Story gift presentation, library equipment such as TTY machine, photocopier, and microfilm and microfiche machines.