Wollaston Branch Library

QUINCY, MA.

The Wollaston Branch Library is located in the heart of an active business district and is within walking distance of many library users. The Wollaston Woman’s Club conducted a drive that resulted in the purchase of the land on which the building was erected in 1922. Community residents, including school children, bought land by the foot until approximately 8,500 square feet were acquired. The Woman’s Club continued its effort on behalf of the library by launching a book drive to fill empty shelves and by providing chairs for the recreation room. Wollaston Glee Club donated a piano.

The branch library was one of architect William Chapman’s earliest Quincy commissions. He chose a Classical Revival style. The rectangular single-story building has a hip roof and exterior walls of stucco. Its elegant entrance boasts many architectural details, including a book in low relief. Part of the Crane Memorial Fund was used to build the $15,000 neighborhood library.

The official opening in early 1923 was attended by Mayor George E. Adams; library trustees; and Truman Temple, librarian. Miss Catherine Saville, the branch librarian, was not in attendance, having been confined to her house with a broken ankle.