The Forbes Library in Northampton, Massachusetts, was established through the will of Judge Charles…read moreEdward Forbes, who died in 1881. He left $220,000 to the city to create a public library that would be free and accessible to all residents. Construction began in 1893, and the library opened in 1894. The building was designed by architect William Brocklesby in the Richardsonian Romanesque style, using Longmeadow brownstone and fireproof steel framing. It remains one of the most architecturally distinctive civic buildings in western Massachusetts. Judge Forbes was not related to the Forbes family associated with Forbes magazine or the well-known Forbes millionaire rankings. His wealth came from investments in the New Haven and Northampton Canal and later in railroads. He lived modestly, never married, and rented rooms in town. His legacy was civic rather than commercial, focused on education and public access to knowledge. The library also houses the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Library and Museum, reflecting its deep ties to local and national history. So while the name might suggest a connection to publishing or wealth, the Forbes Library stands as a monument to quiet generosity and intellectual accessibility. Beyond the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Museum, the Forbes Library offered a warm, welcoming space filled with quiet nooks, curated art displays, and shelves that seemed to stretch endlessly with local history, fiction, and research materials. We explored the main reading room, where natural light poured through tall windows and the original woodwork lent a sense of timeless dignity. A rotating exhibit near the entrance showcased regional artists, while tucked-away corners revealed archival maps and Northampton memorabilia. The elevator made it easy to reach the upper floors, ensuring that the library's resources and charm were accessible to everyone, regardless of mobility. [Review 1135 of 2025 - 1276 in Massachusetts - 24688 overall]

You know me and Libraries; can't keep me out of them!! and this one I daresay is my favorite in the…read moreWestern Mass area. Ok, ok, it's not just because Paco the vegetarian Pirahna is here. The building itself is an architectural marvel. There's something about this beautiful building that's up on the hill, surrounded by large oaks. It's as if the leaves billowing in the wind beckon you to: "please come in." There's just something about where this building is situated that exudes peace and tranquility. You'll see that others feel the same in the reviews. If you follow Forbes on Instagram, you'll not only see that it's active with events, but a lot of them strive to help the community. They have an upcoming event where they'll have clothes, shoes and general business attire available for people who are looking to get a job. I can't think of any other library that does that. To further expand on that note; they lend out musical instruments. You read right; you can borrow musical instruments here. I'm not sure what details are involved but I personally found that to be incredible, and a show of the willingness to go the extra mile for the community. Yes, you do have to pay for parking here. I know that sounds off putting, but there is a sign on the property that says the proceeds help the library and their programs. Besides, I think a dime gives you 20 minutes time so it's extremely cheap. Keep up the good work Forbes! You definitely have admirers.

I have no idea if the library is open to the public, but it was certainly open for me. I was here…read morefor three hours this afternoon where I found a study carrel and was able to spread out two laptops and get some work done. This is definitely a "quiet" space. I got shushed once and had to move to another place for a Zoom meeting even though I was not loud at all. Okay, I get it. Street parking nearby is metered only unless you have a Smith College parking pass. [Review 18427 overall - 1145 in Massachusetts - 1949 of 2022.]

Having completed my Masters here at Smith College I spent the better part of my summers either…read morestudying here or napping...usually napping. This library is a great place to study and the overall atmosphere is great. The staff is extremely polite and helpful and the study areas are built for long haul sessions. Overall, I have spent a lot of time here as well as the UMASS library and I have to say that this one holds a special place in my heart.

Disappointed! Been with is company for many years. In the spring we got a deal on oil, Whiting…read morecould not/would not match price we were getting. Now, I called to have my furnace fixed and was told by Service dept. " The problem is, we don't service people who don't buy oil from us". WOW! My business over the past years clearly does not matter to them! No problem~ I will hire someone to service my furnace AND buy cheaper oil!

From the owner: We install, repair and maintain any brand of air conditioning system in the market. Our licensed…read moretechnicians can help you choose the right system for your home or business and we offer expert advice on getting the most reliable and efficient system.

We called with a septic system emergency. While they were initially helpful and polite, they…read moreultimately forgot about the job, and us, entirely; on Saturday night they promised they would be out the next (Sunday) morning, but neither called nor showed. When we called to ask what was going on they had no idea who we were, then blamed the situation on, 'a little mix up '. They did not apologize once, nor could they tell us when they actually would be back to fix the issue. Perhaps Fletcher is fine for routine issues, but be wary if you have an emergency.

I was extremely pleased with the experience I had last week with both the scheduling of my call and…read morethe courteous and most knowledgeable technician that was sent to my home. He explained everything he was doing and put my mind at ease. The technician was Cody and I appreciated his politeness and manner. I wouldn't hesitate in a minute to recommend this business and their personnel. The quality of the work was impeccable and the expense of the service call was more than reasonable. Thank you again for helping us.

they helped to repair my driveway. Excellent communication and response. Fast work and very…read moreprofessional. I'm very happy with the results, and they were pleasure to work with.

From the owner: RCW Landscape and Construction was founded in 1973 by Richard Jaescke as an agriculture service…read morecompany. We produced baled hay for the equestrian industry in Northampton, MA and the surrounding areas. We also did large field mowing for commercial accounts including the Northampton Industrial Park and the Mt. Tom Ski Area. Today we use all the current construction technologies, while still maintaining our agricultural roots. We support all types of local agriculture in our community.

Was at a loss for resources in terms of dealing with a new rescue dog I have (sans documentation)-…read moredidn't think Noho police was the best option but it was the only option I had. Marly, who also works at a shelter, was incredibly patient and helpful with me despite the fact that I had little information to offer. They were so patient and gave me all of the information I could have possibly asked for and more, and offered resources I wasn't aware of. 5 stars for Marly!

I would give them a minus if I could rude, condescending police force in the area...think because…read morethey wear a uniform they can boss residents of the City around for no reason..need sensitivity training .... blow simple situations up. Do not care who they Inconvenience...block residents driveways and refuse to move their vehicles...just stand around doing nothing...new Chief is just as back because she allows this behavior to happen...does she just turn a blind eye to how her younger untrained officers are acting with resident of the City...should have her experience officers training these officers...better yet send them back to training on proper way to interact with residents!