Worcester Public Library, Worcester

The Worcester Public Library is a vital institution in downtown Worcester. Founded in 1859, the library’s origins trace back to Dr. John Green III, a local physician, dentist, surgeon, and apothecary, who donated 7,000 volumes from his personal collection to establish a free public library for the city. Initially housed on the third floor of the Bank Block at Foster and Main Streets, the library moved to its first dedicated building on Elm Street in 1861, following the laying of its cornerstone on July 4, 1860.

By 1886, the library's collection had grown to nearly 60,000 volumes, and its services expanded further with the introduction of Sunday openings in 1872, a milestone recorded in The Worcester Book. In 1914, three new branches—Greendale (later renamed Frances Perkins), Quinsigamond, and South Worcester—were established with support from Andrew Carnegie grants. Throughout the 20th century, additional branches, including Billings Square, Tatnuck, and Main South, were built, though all six of these branches closed in 1990, except for Frances Perkins, which reopened in 1992. The main branch relocated from Elm Street to Salem Square in 1964, with the current building completed in 2001.

Beyond book lending, the Worcester Public Library offers numerous programs and services. It provides print and audio resources for New Americans and English learners, including citizenship application assistance and exam preparation classes. Additionally, it offers resume-writing workshops, technology assistance, and the Talking Book Library, which provides large-type materials, braille, and described videos for patrons with visual or physical disabilities. Since 2004, the Worcester Library Foundation has played a crucial role in raising funds and advocating for the library’s continued growth and community service.