About the MBLC

The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) is the state library agency, founded in 1890, with the statutory authority and responsibility to organize, develop, coordinate, and improve library services throughout the Commonwealth.

As a state agency, the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners promotes equitable access, advances innovation, and fosters resilience in libraries across the Commonwealth through funding, guidance, partnerships, and the coordination of statewide services.

Our vision for libraries in the Commonwealth is to see every library in Massachusetts as a thriving community hub, transforming lives through access to knowledge, information, and lifelong learning.

About this Website

The Massachusetts Libraries website provides the public a place to discover and learn about our free public library services. Visitors can get a library card, find library events, do research, learn how to borrow an eBook or audiobook, or which library will lend you a kayak.

The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) runs this website. Though we are not a public library, we work with all 369 Massachusetts public libraries to level the playing field and make sure everyone has access to the library services they want and need.

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MBLC

  • Statewide Online Resources
  • Grants and State Aid
  • Guidance and Advisory
  • Construction Support
  • Summer Reading Support
  • Statewide Coordination

AT YOUR LIBRARY

  • Borrow books, DVDs, CDs
  • Attend a class or program
  • Use a computer
  • Get a Wifi hotspot
  • Use a Makerspace
  • Ask a reference question
πŸ“… Save the date! Commissioner Karen Traub will be presenting at the Beverly Public Library on 12/2/2024 about library activist Elizabeth Putnam Sohier (1847-1926), whose passion for libraries lead to the creation of the MBLC.

Learn more at πŸ”— the link in the bio!
πŸ“’ Coming soon: Library Advisory office hours with MBLC Library Advisory Specialist Al Hayden!

πŸ•˜ The first session will be held on 9/9 at 9 am.

No registration required; sessions will not be recorded. More info at πŸ”— https://mblc.libcal.com/calendar/main
πŸŽ‰ Thanks to our friends at @nhlbruins, @massartboston, and all our host libraries for making this summer a success! Check out our slideshow of some of our favorite memories from each event. πŸŽ‡

πŸ‘€ Keep an eye out for our next adventure!
πŸŽ‰Thanks @ala_aasl & MSLA! WeπŸ’–our school librarians!
πŸŽ‰ Congratulations to @gmlcolrain! @us_imls presented a National Medal to GML at their award ceremony on 7/30.

Learn more about Griswold Memorial Library and the National Medal at πŸ”— https://mblc.state.ma.us/news/news-releases/2024/nr240731.php

πŸ“·: GML Director Chelsea Jordan-Makely, @repmcgovern, and MBLC Director Maureen Amyot
βŒ›οΈ Time is running out to participate in the @masstechcollaborative BEAD Challenge! 

As Community Anchor Institutions, #MALibraries can:

βœ… Check that their locations are accurate
βœ… Test internet speeds
βœ… Assist patrons with filing challenges

Learn more about the BEAD Challenge at πŸ”— the link in the bio!
Libraries are #DigitalEquity champions! Whether your library is part of a municipality or community nonprofit, you have a voice for the future of broadband access in the Commonwealth. 

The @masstechcollaborative BEAD Challenge runs from 6/20/24-7/20/24, giving libraries an opportunity to report unserved and underserved areas in their community. Learn more about the BEAD Challenge at πŸ”— the link in the bio.

Register your library as a community anchor institution at πŸ”— the link in the bio. Multiple accounts can be created under the same institution name.