A grand building stands before you. This is the Lynn Public Library. It wasn’t always this way.
The Lynn Public Library boasts a rich history. Library services existed in Lynn as early as 1815. It wasn’t until a generous donation in 1896 that the city started planning a permanent home for its growing collection of books. A local architect George A Moore designed the building. He happened to be related to one of the library trustees. Interesting fact isn’t it?
The construction of this beautiful Renaissance Revival building began in 1898 and was completed in 1900 at a cost of $175000. No public funds were used. Imagine the community effort required. The library’s size and its location on the town common caused quite a stir. Some trees even had to be removed to make way for it.
In 1900 the Lynn Public Library commissioned its first mural from F Luis Mora a prominent Hispanic American artist. The library’s collection now contains almost 145000 items. That includes over 40000 children’s books. The Reference collection is particularly impressive. It has a strong focus on Lynn’s history genealogy and the Civil War.
The Lynn Public Library stands as a testament to community spirit and a love of learning. It’s a place where history and knowledge intertwine. This building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. It became part of the Lynn Common Historic District in 1992.
Step inside and discover the stories within. The Lynn Public Library awaits you.