Getting Started with Massachusetts Libraries
Welcome! Everyone is welcome at the public libraries in Massachusetts! Massachusetts is home to America’s First Free Public Library, and today there are 367 public libraries in the Commonwealth serving you.
Public libraries are FREE for everyone who lives, works, or studies in Massachusetts.
Find your library or a library near you and start enjoying all the great things you can do at the library for free!
About Public Libraries
What is a public library?
Public libraries are places for learning and enjoyment and offer opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to have fun, meet people, learn, and pursue self-improvement.
Basic amenities
Libraries provide basic amenities, including:
- Restrooms
- Tables to do work and homework
- Quiet study areas
- Meeting spaces that can be reserved
Free technology
Most public libraries provide technology for use inside or outside the library, including:
- Printers and scanners
- Free wi-fi and computers with internet access
- Some libraries offer Wi-Fi hotspots that can be borrowed
Using Public Libraries
How do I use the library?
You can use the library in-person or online. Librarians are available to help you and answer your questions. If a librarian can’t answer your question immediately, they will do research and get back to you when they’ve found the answer. You do not have to have a library card to visit and use the library in person, but to borrow materials, you’ll need a library card.
Get a free library card
Anyone who works, lives or studies in Massachusetts can get a library card. It’s FREE! You can apply for a library card online or get a library card in person at your local library. In most cases, you’ll need a photo ID and proof of your address (piece of mail or bill), along with your phone number or email address to get a library card.
Borrow books, eBooks, audiobooks and more!
Most materials in a library can be borrowed for a defined period of time, and then returned to the library at no cost. Check with your local library about lending policies.
You can get:
- Books, audiobooks, and eBooks for all ages
- Magazines and Newspapers
- Music and Movies
- If your local library doesn’t have what you’re looking for, ask a librarian for help. We can get titles from other libraries across the state for you. Libraries share materials giving you access to more than 59 million items.
What can I get from home or anywhere there’s internet?
You have access to library online resources anywhere you have internet connection in Massachusetts. These free online resources include:
- Research databases (journal articles, test preparation, language learning , etc.)
- LEA (Library eBooks and Audiobooks)
- The Boston Globe
- The New York Times
- Popular Magazines
- Digital Commonwealth (explore historical maps and collections from libraries, museums, and archives across Massachusetts)
Public Library Services
Library of Things
Some libraries have a Library of Things with tools, outdoor gear, games, electronics and more that can be borrowed.
Museum discounts and passes
Many libraries have agreements with museums across the state and offer passes and discounts that can be borrowed to use for the day and returned to the library.
At the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum just show your public library card and you will receive a 50% discount. Kids under 12 are free.
Free events and classes
You can see all the events, classes and programs happening at your library, at libraries in your area, and across the state on our statewide events calendar
- Art and music events
- Story times and other children’s activities
- Educational programs for adults and children
English/ English speakers of other languages (ESOL) classes and citizenship assistance
Some libraries offer English/ESOL classes for all levels (from beginners to those looking for a conversation group). Libraries also offer citizenship classes. You can see what’s available in your area through our statewide events calendar
Online you can take English lessons (LINK) , citizenship preparation tests, and TOEFL, TOIEC, and IELTS test preparation for free through the library.
Library Services for people who have a visual or physical disability
The Perkins Braille & Talking Book Library and the Worcester Talking Book Library enable people who are unable to read conventional print due to a disability, to experience the joy of reading, and lifelong learning, through free accessible library services and resources.
Career and job seeking support
Many libraries have classes and events to help people who are looking for a job or career assistance. You can see what’s available in your area through our statewide events calendar.
Online you can take vocational preparation practice tests for careers in hospitality, teaching, nursing, firefighter and more. Available for free through the library.
