The Forbes Library in Northampton, Massachusetts, was established through the will of Judge Charles Edward 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] read more

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You know me and Libraries; can't keep me out of them!! and this one I daresay is my favorite in the Western 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. read more

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I love this library in Northampton because not only is it historically relevant but they have original glass floors in the nonfiction stacks area at Mezzanine as well as Art Gallery and even a museum to host a collection of Calvin Coolidge's works especially when he was President. I think he is based in this city. The Children's Library is beautiful as well. Down there, this is a fish tank as well as Young Adult's room attached to this area as well for teens. Located directly near Main Street, this place is a treasure! read more

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Forbes Library is a great place to visit. It's got a peaceful atmosphere that makes it enjoyable. I visited there a few years ago to see the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Library and Museum due to my interest in presidential history. Personally, I enjoyed it. For those that are interested, it's not the biggest as it is basically in one big room on the second floor, but it is worth it. I will also mention that it is actually more on the peaceful side from other presidential sites, which is what made it enjoyable for me. I'm also glad that Forbes Library was willing to be the location for the artifacts related to Calvin Coolidge. It was easy to get to, since I have family in Massachusetts. Looking back, my only regret was that I did not think of going to visit sooner. I will definitely be back to visit the next time I'm in the Northampton area. read more

The children's department is a dream -- fish tanks, toys, level and entrance of its own. Also, the librarians are incredibly friendly. read more

Forbes Library - Libraries Near Me - Northampton, Massachusetts

A great big library that has everything! We spend a lot of time here :) The children's area is filled with a great selection of books, toys, and a workspace with activities. The kids first say hi to the fish Paco and Moondust and then they can spend hours exploring the books. Easy to access bathrooms too which is helpful with little ones ;) read more

Forbes library is the best! I am so lucky to live in Northampton with this gem. They always have a fab selection of books, music, movies, children's multimedia, you can even rent instruments from here! If you can't find what you're looking for you can use the interlibrary loan system which finds items from around MA. They come in so quick! Be sure to pick them up on time or they will get sent back to their original location. One thing I like about Forbes is that you can pay your fines sometimes with canned goods. The events and workshops here are great and always free. Movie night on the lawn is the best. Seeing JAWS was a blast! read more

Peace and quiet! While it's with a good book, laptop, or your phone. Visit the huge Pacu in the kids area!

This library is fantastic! We came intending to see the room dedicated to Calvin Coolidge - it was closed, unfortunately. However the rest of this library is 3 floors of amazing books, local art displays, music, and discovery. We've been here about an hour so far and could easily spend the day! read more

I live nearby Forbes library, and so it's been the one I always go to. It has a stately, old-style type architecture. Yet it's not a musty old building. The inside has a dignified, classy ambience, and it's very well kept-up. Though not very large, this library contains a wide assortment of books, magazines, CDs, DVDs, etc. It also has plenty of free pamphlets and brochures, containing important information about community services and events. For a modest-sized library, Forbes has a decent number of computers, that patrons can use there. They have several computers that patrons can use, for 15-minute intervals. Those patrons who want longer computer-time, can reserve a computer for up to two hours per day. Events at Forbes, are a bit sparse. So they could improve in this area. I also think that Forbes should consider being open on Sundays. Many patrons are so busy other days of the week, that Sundays are the only days that they can go to the library. All-in-all, I'd recommend Forbes as a good solid library, with much to offer its patrons in the community. read more

The building is beautiful. The selection is good and of course, anything they don't have can be requested from another library. HOWEVER, I really try to avoid going here as everyone who works here is so glum. I mean, seriously... I dare you to try and get a smile out of any of the librarians here. And they tend to be very schoolmarmish in regards to how many books you have checked out or if you return things late. We are a family of readers that really utilizes our local libraries. Other librarians in the area -- if we have a late fee, we pay our fine and don't feel judged at all. We look at an occasional fine as a small price to pay for sometimes holding onto a much-loved book a little longer. At Forbes, I leave with the sense that I've committed a felony. It's a shame. We'd go here more otherwise. Instead we try to use the smaller libraries in the valley when we can. read more

Wonderful library. Beautiful building; helpful, attentive staff. Plenty of seating,along with a quiet area and a gender neutral bathroom on the second floor only. read more

The service here is pathetic, every time I have gone here they have given me no end of grief over one thing or another. Yes, the selection is exceptional, but if you want someone to actually be friendly with you I strongly suggest you try a different library. The childrens section has a very odd atmosphere, it almost discourages kids from being kids. It's dimly lit, and is sectioned off into small spaces. I have been going here off and on since I was young, and can tell you that Lilly Library about a mile up the road in Florence is 100 times better. Save yourself a bad day and go to Lilly. read more