Library, Woburn, Massachusetts

[LIB10392] - Woburn’s library history began 200 years ago in 1789. On April 13 of that year, just 17 days before George Washington was inaugurated as the country’s first President, thirty-three gentlemen and ladies signed a document in which they agreed to purchase shares in what would be known as the Social Library. Subsequent libraries in Woburn were also of the subscription variety; the concept of a free public library did not receive much support until 1854. At that time, Jonathan Bowers Winn offered his salary of $300.00, which he had received as a delegate to the Convention to revise the State Constitution, to found a public library if the Town would give a matching sum. The offer was accepted and in 1856 the first public library opened in a room in the Municipal Building. L.L. Whitney was the first librarian, a post he held until 1860. [Website]

Public Library, WOBURN, MASSACHUSETTS MA

Contemporary view of the library. [Image Source]

Early 20th Century view of the library.

The Woburn Public Library has been serving the people of Woburn since 1856. Originally the Library was located in a room in the old Town Hall and later moved to larger accommodations in Wade's Block. In 1879, the current building was donated to the town by the Winn family. The donor, Charles B. Winn, did not want his name on the building. However, he did want to recognize his father whose fortune actually paid for the Library. Thus, the plaque on the portico which reads “This building was erected in memory of Jonathan Bowers Winn from funds bequeathed by his son for the use, benefit, and improvement of the people of Woburn”. [Source: Woburn Public Library]