New Bedford Free Public Library

What an amazing library and resource for the local community! The first thing one notices about this library is the stunning architecture. It is housed in what was the City Hall building in the 1830’s and rebuilt after a fire in 1906. It is neoclassical in style, and commands your attention just from the outside. Upon entering, you feel like you’ve time-traveled back to the old libraries of yesteryear, which mostly exist on television now and the few communities lucky enough to have one (like us!). It’s not just a library, with an impressive array of books, magazines and periodicals, but also a museum of sorts, with lots of paintings, local artifacts, sculptures and you name it. I really could spend an entire day in here exploring the four floors and everything the library has to offer.

Gorgeous library filled with historical information. They have books for adults and children as well as movies. They even have Manga and comic books! There's a study room and research area with Microfilm machines old & digital. The third floor is full of very cool artwork and is a must see. The staff is warm and welcoming and I hope you run into Russ, Allie, or Ned. Super friendly and informative. Take a walk through history in their marble halls and snuggle into a book.

The Main Branch of the New Bedford Free Public Library is currently housed in a neoclassical building that originally served as the city hall. The building had burned in 1906 and was reconstructed by 1908, with a date carved into the cornerstone. This is a good place to sit and relax for a little bit.

Very accommodating and helpful! Visited from out of town and needed to take a meeting, and the folks were very quick to help me out as much as they could. Plus it's a beautiful building!

Super kind and respectful and very appreciative of the study room! And can't wait to go and find books to read