Northampton

Forbes Library

20 West Street

Northampton, Massachusetts

Adventure date: 9/13/2024

N is for Northampton

WOW!  All I can say about this historic, impressive library is you should visit!

That's it.  Good bye.

Alright, there is a lot more to say about Northampton and the Forbes Library.  First of all I was accompanied by three wonderful friends.  That warm September day Beth, Katie, Nancy, and I set off for an adventure with Beth at the wheel.  Beth attended Smith college, knew the area, and made for a wonderful guide. The library was our first stop.

When I first stepped into the first floor foyer, I knew I was in a historic building.  I am glad I have pictures to share as it is difficult to describe the grandeur and welcoming vibe.

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Our Chat with the Librarian

I began my visit with my usual introduction of who I am and what my library-visiting-project was all about.  the librarian, Mary Biddle, listened, excused herself, and returned shortly to ask what exactly was I looking for.  When I explained, she appeared relieved, exhaled, smiled, and went on to educate and entertain us with stories about the library.  Her initial hesitation was a result of book banning proponents visiting and pushing their agenda.  If that was my goal she would have had me meet with the director of the library.

The Forbes library had the second largest volume in Western Massachusetts.  That is a source of pride as they serve more patrons than Worcester, which is a much larger city.  They know their population and understand what they want and need.  Mary told us that they are "unafraid to order diversity and queer cultural materials." 

Mary describes the Forbes library as a wonderful place to work.  The staff are long term employees.  The librarian she replaced had worked there for 50 years!

Judge Charles Edward Forbes, in 1876, in his will left funds to build a library for the town of Northampton.  It was to be a public-private partnership.  He wanted it to be built with fireproof materials so it would never burn down. It is still standing proud!  He also believed that the library should be full of art!  The friends of the library have ensured that art remains prominent.  There is an art gallery on the second floor.  The art exhibits revolve every three weeks.   Mary feels, and I agree that people often judge a town by its library.

The Calvin Coolidge Presidential Library and Museum is housed on the second floor of the Forbes library.  This is the only public library that has such a distinction.   Our 30th president studied law and served as Mayor in Northampton.  He used Forbes' law books before law school was required.  It is not uncommon to see groups touring both the Forbes and Calving Coolidge library as an activity.

This library offers numerous programs, both for fun and to assist the patrons. One Friday a month they hold an "Art Night" where visitors get a tour of the art gallery.

They host a career advise group and teach people how to sign up for social services. The staff is educated in social services. As government programs are cut, the library is stepping up!

Smith College is a stones throw from the Forbes Library. 1,000 Smith students have a library card with them.

"It has been my aim, to place within the reach of the inhabitants of a town ... the means of learning ... the marvelous development of modern thought ... "

E. Forbes, Last Will and Testament, September 25, 1987.

As I have heard several times, public libraries are filling the voids of government programs that are no longer offered. Northampton has a diverse community.  The library and its staff support education, host career advise, teach people how to sign up for social services, English language support groups and probably a lot more that I didn't get to write down.  The library staff is educated in social services.

Before heading downstairs to the children's room I walked around the fist floor admiring all the cozy spots to read and study.  The children's space is expansive and cozy with very friendly staff.  We chatted with two Smith students who worked there.  I must say the children's room's mascot was a highlight of the tour!!  They have a beautiful aquarium with a large fish named "Pacho".  While at the Belchertown library they had told me I had visit the Forbes library just to see the 38 year old fish!  I can't confirm the age of Pacho, but it is a very cute fish.

What does Northampton have on it's  "Library of Things" list?  Each library offers household items for borrowing, just like books.  Their most popular items include:

• Hot Spots 

• A "Brailer" which is a typewriter that writes in Brail.

• A Goo-Loo.  This is a lithium-ion jump starter and power station.  Evidently if your car needs a jump this is the tool you need. 

We eventually decided it was time for lunch.  We found a perfect outdoor lunch spot, ice cream shop, book store and art museum in a renovated bank!!  I will be making a return visit to this town for sure.   Having three friends to explore with was perfect.  It was a great day!

Distance traveled:  208 miles