The Emily Williston Library's Board of Directors Meets on the 2nd Monday of each month 7 PM @ the Library:

Elections: following Annual Meeting in June

Mission:

To assist library patrons in their personal growth and enjoyment through using the library to participate in a collaborative effort to document, collect, and preserve the history and culture of the Connecticut River Valley.

• Pre-school story hour: twice a month on Wednesdays 1:30 PM & Thursdays 10:30 AM during the school year - call to find out when

History:

In 1869 Emily Williston and other notable citizens founded the Public Library Association of Easthampton. Its purpose was to provide library services to the residents of Easthampton. In 1869 the Association was chartered by the Massachusetts Legislature.

The current building was opened to the public in 1881. It was designed by the architectural firm of Peabody and Stearns and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The library was renamed The Emily Williston Memorial Library and Museum to honor Mrs. Williston who played an important part in the history of the Library.

Her tradition continues: Community serving Community.

Museum:

The museum was established at the same time as the Library. The collection consists of diverse groupings of artifacts:

• Americana Collection
• Civil War Objects
• American Indian Artifacts
• Doll Collection
• Pottery and Ceramics
• Antique Weapons
• Artwork

Special Collections/Archives:

The library has information on the history and culture of the Pioneer Valley and the Town of Easthampton as well as the records of the Public Library Association of Easthampton.

These collections include books, manuscripts, maps, microfilms, and visual materials.