Forbush Memorial Library, Westminster, Massachusetts
We’re constantly reminded of how lucky we are here in Massachusetts. In many states, libraries are county-based, and even a large county may have only one or two. With libraries being town-based here, there’s one every few miles. That makes visiting libraries here a snap and allows us to visit many whenever we go library-landing around the state.
Our recent visit to the Forbush Memorial Library in Westminster is a perfect example. We started the day at the Gardner Public Library, visited Westminster, and then ended in Fitchburg. They were all just minutes apart, but each was so different from the others.
Keeping our focus on Westminster, it’s a town of 8600 people on Route 2. The library was started in 1878 on a subscription basis. In 1901, it was rechristened the Forbush Memorial Library, moved into a new building, and became a public library. The library was expanded and renovated in 1997.
From the front, the library appears to be a simple one-story building. Continuing around to the rear parking lot, you can see the library is actually much larger than it appears. Entering the building on the ground floor, you find yourself in the children’s section. It’s a large space with the kids' collection, programming space, and during our visit, Catt, the library’s assistant director and youth services librarian.
Catt generously offered to take us on a tour of this fun and lively library.
On the second floor, she showed us the adult fiction collection, the public computers, and teens. Teens is located in the library’s original 1901 building, which is the part visible from the street. This space is clean, cozy, and very comfortable. Across from teens is a nice reading/work area with plush chairs and a nice-looking fireplace. An ornate grandfather’s clock and some of the library’s art collection are also located in this section.
Returning to the new building, we were struck by the excellent condition of the library. While there may be some frayed edges here or there, we didn’t see them on this visit. We saw a lot more of the library’s art collection - and in particular the folk art portraits of Deacon Robert Peckham (including one that looked suspiciously like Willem Dafoe!).
On this floor, we also saw the small but robust local history room. The other thing we saw, which had us in stitches, was the library’s “name the cart” competition. One thing you’ll learn if you spend time in library land is that librarians love their carts. They come in all shapes and sizes and colors and serve a critical role not only in library operations, but also in decor. These guys have come up with some of the best and funniest cart names we’ve come across. The Tell Tale Cart and Wheeliam Shakespeare are excellent examples.
We proceeded to the next floor, which housed the remainder of the adult collection, a programming space, and the library’s museum. As we toured this area, Catt told us there was a growing demand for work/study spaces. The library has no private rooms, but they have created plenty of spaces for people to work and is considering pods. There is also some space available on this floor that could be used for study rooms or a revamped teen area, but it would require quite a bit of work.
The library’s museum is outstanding. It is well-organized, and all of its items are neatly displayed and clearly explained. It’s lovely to visit a library and also get to enjoy something like this to boot!
As we were leaving, we spotted yet another piece of art on the stairs, a large painting of the town. Art was everywhere - including some terrific dogs in the front yard. It’s wonderful to see a library that serves so many vital roles in the community. We were fortunate to have the funny and gracious Catt as our guide to this marvelous library. Whether for resources, inspiration, or just a restful spot to read and relax, the Forbush Memorial Library is there for the community.