The Norton Public Library, located in Norton, Massachusetts, is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of services and resources to its patrons. Established in 1859, the library has a long history of providing access to information, education, and entertainment to the residents of Norton and surrounding areas. With a collection of over 60,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and CDs, the library caters to the diverse needs of its community.
History and Development
The Norton Public Library has undergone significant transformations since its inception. Initially housed in a small room in the town hall, the library relocated to its current building in 1913, which was made possible through a generous donation from Andrew Carnegie. Over the years, the library has expanded its facilities and services to meet the growing demands of the community. In 2001, a major renovation and expansion project was undertaken, resulting in the addition of a children’s room, a young adult area, and a community meeting room.
Services and Resources
The Norton Public Library offers a wide range of services and resources to its patrons. These include free Wi-Fi, public computers, printing and scanning services, and interlibrary loan services. The library also provides access to online databases, such as OverDrive, Hoopla, and Lynda.com, which offer e-books, audiobooks, music, movies, and online courses. Additionally, the library hosts various programs and events for adults, children, and young adults, including author talks, book clubs, storytime sessions, and summer reading programs.
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Interlibrary Loan | Borrow books and materials from other libraries |
| Online Databases | Access to e-books, audiobooks, music, movies, and online courses |
| Public Computers | Free access to computers and internet |
| Printing and Scanning | Print and scan documents for a small fee |
Community Engagement
The Norton Public Library is deeply committed to engaging with the local community. The library partners with local organizations, such as schools, businesses, and community groups, to develop and implement programs that promote literacy, education, and cultural awareness. The library also hosts author talks, book signings, and other literary events, which attract visitors from surrounding areas and foster a sense of community among book lovers.
Children’s Services
The Norton Public Library offers a range of services and programs specifically designed for children. The library’s children’s room is equipped with a collection of picture books, early readers, and juvenile fiction, as well as puzzles, games, and educational toys. The library also hosts storytime sessions, craft workshops, and other activities that promote early literacy and learning. During the summer months, the library runs a summer reading program, which encourages children to read for pleasure and develop a lifelong love of reading.
The library's young adult section is designed to meet the unique needs of teenagers, with a collection of young adult fiction, non-fiction, and graphic novels. The library also hosts book clubs, writing workshops, and other programs that cater to the interests of young adults.
Technology and Innovation
The Norton Public Library is committed to embracing technology and innovation to enhance the library experience. The library offers free Wi-Fi, public computers, and access to online databases and digital media platforms. The library also provides technology training and support to help patrons develop their digital skills and stay connected in an increasingly digital world.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The library is open Monday to Thursday from 10am to 8pm, Friday from 10am to 5pm, and Saturday from 10am to 2pm. The library is closed on Sundays.
How do I get a library card?
+To get a library card, you need to provide proof of residency and a valid form of identification. You can apply for a library card in person at the library or online through the library’s website.
What services does the library offer for children?
+The library offers a range of services and programs for children, including storytime sessions, craft workshops, and summer reading programs. The library also has a children’s room with a collection of picture books, early readers, and juvenile fiction.
