Library Spotlights

Greetings:

Library Enthusiasts & Bibliophiles:

Happy New Year! 2026 is finally here, and I hope the start of this New Year has been spectacular. Most people make resolutions and abandon them within a few weeks. I resolve to stick to my resolutions to exercise more and read more books! My first library visit of the year brought me to Cheshire, CT. What a lovely library and interesting history! It all began in1888 with a group of concerned citizens. As always, experience library joy at a public library near you!

Let’s Visit

The Cheshire Public Library

In 1888, a group of Cheshire citizens formed the Village Improvement Society. Once the initial goals were met, the group set its sights on establishing a public library. Mary Baldwin and Mary Dickerman helped establish the library and its book collection.

This is Mary Baldwin, the first librarian for the Cheshire Public Library.

A Library Association was formed in 1892, and Mary Baldwin volunteered to become the very first librarian. Mary Baldwin served from 1892 to 1921, a span of twenty-nine years.

The first Cheshire Public Library opened in a former school building and was housed in a single room. Two years later, the library moved into a house owned by the Baldwin family. In 1896, the library moved to another school building and was once again confined to one room. This did not solve the need for more library space. Dr. George Williams comes to the rescue! Dr. Williams offered his home on Main Street for the library. The library remained in this location for the next 40 years. The library association purchased the property upon Dr. Williams' death in 1937.

Over the years, the collection was expanded, and space for both patrons and materials was at a premium. More space was needed. A new two-level library was built in 1958 right next to the Williams home. All library materials were relocated from the former library, which opened in 1961. An addition was added and completed in 1975.

The Library Association was renamed the Friends of the Cheshire Library in 1957. The Friends support many needs and “extras” that are generally not covered by the library budget.

The Cheshire Public Library entered a new phase with the introduction of online automation in 1978. The library partnered with 4 other towns to form the state's first automated library consortium.

Early in the 1990s, the library was experiencing growing pains. Space was at a premium, and collections needed room for expansion. Additionally, technology needs were increasing. Another addition was required.

The newly expanded Cheshire Public Library opened its doors during the summer of 1996. A third level was added, and a programming room named in honor of Mary Baldwin was now available for a variety of events for library patrons. The library has expanded its technological capabilities and is poised to embrace what lies ahead.

This is a rear view of the Cheshire Public Library's back entrance.

“History.” Cheshire Public Library, www.cheshirelibrary.org/about/. Accessed 9 Jan. 2026.