In 1893, Mrs. Elizabeth Shute gave a bequest to the city for a library building, and ground was broken in 1898. George A. Moore, a nationally known architect, won the competition for the design of the building.

The Lynn Public Library

On April 4, 1900, the present library at 5 North Common Street was opened. The Boys & Girls Department opened on Jan. 31, 1920.

Visit the Lynn Library's web site for some great construction photos!

The Reading Room

The concept of a "Social Library" in Lynn began in 1815. Books were held by the Natural History Society and the Library Association until being transferred to the City for a Free Public Library in 1862.

A post card from the 1960's.

The first home for the L.P.L. was at the corner of Tremont and Market Streets. The Library was moved to the second floor of the City Hall in 1868. By 1876 the collection numbered 27,000 volumes.