Thayer Public Library, Braintree, Massachusetts

Rachael stumbled upon visiting the Thayer Public Library with less than 45 minutes before closing, so she had to be quick. However, that does not mean it wasn’t a worthwhile visit! She arrived with an old college friend, Molly, and Molly’s son. With him in tow, they went straight to the children's department. The library is three floors: a basement, the main floor, and the second floor. Interestingly, the children’s department was on the top floor. Most of the time when we visit libraries, the children’s department is on the bottom floor. There are exceptions, but this is not the norm. It always makes for a welcome change.

When Rachael arrived in the children’s room, the first thing she noticed was how bright and colorful the room was. She learned during this visit that the mural on the wall was inspired by the various locations in Braintree. In fact, sometimes the librarians will hold little scavenger hunts so the children may find certain well-known locations on the wall. Rachael also learned that this space was renovated in 2018. The colorful carpeting, walls, furniture, and study space were relatively new to the rest of the building. It was an incredibly cheery space. And Rachael was impressed by the study space in the tween area. The stained glass in this area caught her eye. We’re always fans of stained glass here at Library Land!

With the clock ticking, Rachael had to move on to the next floor. She went down a flight of stairs to the main floor, where the circulation desk, new materials, audiovisual materials, periodicals, and Friends Cafe are located. On the outside of the building, it was noted that it was originally built in 1999, and the overall aesthetic of the floor fit with that time period. It didn’t feel as modern as the previous floor, but you could still see the effort to provide services to patrons there!

Rachael nearly forgot to give herself time to check out the basement floor, but she did with a few minutes to spare. The basement floor is home to Reference, adult nonfiction materials, the Young Adult Room, a study room, public computers, and a Friends Book Sale. The materials here were plentiful, and the librarian on this floor was friendly as well. She took the time to say goodbye to patrons as they were leaving for the day. 

Unfortunately, since the building was closing, Rachael did not get a chance to see the study room or the young adult area. But she did notice a wall of flyers and advertising for community events. That was something she noticed on the other floors as well. A direct connection to the community via advertising, displays, or even murals could be found on every floor. It's evident that the Thayer Public Library strives to be a mainstay of the Braintree community. 

With that, it was time to go. Molly and her son were waiting outside when Rachael finally joined them. It was through her friend that Rachael learned how important the library was to her family and the various efforts it has made to serve the 39,000 Braintree residents. A quick, yet impressive, visit was had. Next time, Rachael hopes it will be a longer visit. She wants to have the time to appreciate the small details of the mural in the children’s room - among other things!