Quincy: Thomas Crane Public Library

Quincy’s city library, the Thomas Crane Public Library, opened in 1882 thanks to the generous gift of more than $200,000 by Albert Crane in memory of his father. Thomas Crane had spent his formative years in Quincy and worked in the local quarries before making his fortune in New York as a stone contractor. Designed by renowned architect Henry Hobson Richardson, the building is considered Richardson’s masterpiece in library design and is complemented by grounds conceived by Frederick Law Olmsted. A National Historic Landmark, it holds the #43 ranking of the American Institute of Architects listing of “America’s Favorite Architecture.” Charles Francis Adams, Jr., great grandson of President John Adams and grandson of President John Quincy Adams -- all native sons of Quincy -- praised Mr. Crane for his New England sensibilities at the library dedication. The Richardson building, or Main Branch, has had three additions over the years, and Quincy is also served by three branch libraries, the Wollaston, North Quincy, and Adams Shore Branches. The mission of the Crane is to “inspire curiosity, foster community, connect people to the online world, and spark imagination.” To this end, it provides inclusive services to a culturally diverse population and sponsors many educational, arts, and cultural events. For more information, visit http://thomascranelibrary.org/.