Thomas Crane Public Library facts for kids
|
Thomas Crane Public Library
|
|
.JPG)
The original building (1882), front view, architect H. H. Richardson
|
|
 Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | Quincy, Massachusetts |
|---|---|
| Built | 1881 |
| Architect | Henry Hobson Richardson |
| Architectural style | Richardsonian Romanesque |
| NRHP reference No. | 72000143 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
|
| Added to NRHP | October 18, 1972 |
| Designated NHL | December 23, 1987 |
|
Wollaston Branch, Thomas Crane Public Library
|
|
The Wollaston Branch
|
|
| Location | 41 Beale St., Quincy, Massachusetts |
|---|---|
| Area | 0.2 acres (0.081 ha) |
| Built | 1922 |
| Architect | William Chapman |
| Architectural style | Classical Revival |
| MPS | Quincy MRA |
| NRHP reference No. | 89001316 |
| Added to NRHP | September 20, 1989 |
The Thomas Crane Public Library (TCPL) is a special city library in Quincy, Massachusetts. It is famous for its beautiful design. A rich family, the Crane family, paid for the library to honor Thomas Crane. He was a successful businessman who worked with stone from the Quincy quarries. The Thomas Crane Library has the second largest collection of books and materials in Massachusetts. Only the Boston Public Library is larger.
Contents
Amazing Library Architecture
The Thomas Crane Public Library was built in four main parts. Each part added to its unique look.
Original Building and Early Additions
The first building was finished in 1882. It was designed by a famous architect named H. H. Richardson. He thought this library was one of his best public buildings. Later, in 1908, more space was added. This part included a special stained-glass window.
Expansions and Awards
In 1939, the library grew even more. Architects Paul A. and Carroll Coletti designed this expansion. It featured cool stone carvings by sculptor Joseph Coletti. Then, in 2001, another big addition was built. This new part actually doubled the library's size!
Harper's Weekly magazine once called the library "the best village library in the United States." In 2007, a national poll by the American Institute of Architects ranked it very high. It was chosen as one of the favorite buildings in the entire country.
Special Art and Design Elements
Inside the original building, you can find amazing art. There is a large stained-glass window by artist John LaFarge. It is called The Old Philosopher and remembers Thomas Crane. Another LaFarge window, "Angel at the Tomb," is also there. It honors Crane's son, Benjamin Franklin Crane. Even the library's outdoor areas are special. They were designed by a famous landscaper, Frederick Law Olmsted.
The main library building was named a National Historic Landmark in 1987. This means it's a very important historical place. It is recognized as one of Richardson's best library designs.
Library Branches Around Quincy
Over the years, the Thomas Crane Public Library system has grown. It has added several smaller branches. These branches help serve different neighborhoods in Quincy.
History of Branch Locations
By 1910, there were two "reading rooms" where people could read books. By the 1920s, the library system had nine branches! These were in different areas like Squantum, South Quincy, and Wollaston.
Current Branch Locations
In 1981, some budget cuts meant fewer branches. Today, besides the main building, there are three other branches:
- The Wollaston branch (built in 1922) is very old and important. It is even listed separately on the National Register of Historic Places.
- The North Quincy branch (built in 1963) is on Hancock Street. It is near North Quincy High School.
- The Adams Shore branch (built in 1970) is on Sea Street in Hough's Neck.
Community Hub and Services
The Thomas Crane Public Library is more than just a place for books. It is a lively center for the community.
Events and Public Spaces
The library often has fun events like concerts and lectures. It also hosts art shows. You can even use private rooms there for free. These rooms are great for studying or for small community groups to meet. The library is also home to QATV. This is Quincy's local public-access television cable TV channel.
Services for Everyone
The library works hard to help everyone in the community. This includes people with disabilities. The Main Branch has special parking and elevators to all floors. Its aisles and computer areas are designed for wheelchairs. For people who are blind or have trouble seeing, there are special large print keyboards. You can also borrow handheld magnifiers at the Reference Desk. Braille books can be ordered through interlibrary loan.
Images for kids
-
The original building (1882), front view, architect H. H. Richardson
-
The Wollaston Branch
See also
In Spanish: Biblioteca Pública Thomas Crane para niños
