State Library of Massachusetts – Boston, MA

State Library of Massachusetts

Legislative and Historical Research

Located in the historic Massachusetts State House, the State Library of Massachusetts serves as a vital resource for the Governor, the Legislature, state employees, and the general public. Established in 1826, it holds a comprehensive collection of Massachusetts government publications, legislative histories, and maps. The library is a treasure trove for researchers interested in the political history of the Commonwealth, offering access to acts, resolves, and the papers of past governors. It provides a quiet, scholarly environment amidst the bustle of the state capitol. 📚🏛️

Access and Collections

The library is open to the public, but visitors must clear State House security at the Ashburton Park or Hooker entrance. While it is primarily a reference library where materials must be used on-site, staff librarians are available to assist with complex legislative tracking and genealogy requests. The library also hosts exhibitions showcasing rare artifacts and documents from Massachusetts history. Free Wi-Fi and computer terminals are available for research purposes. 💻📖

• Laws: Complete collection of Massachusetts General Laws and session laws.
• Special Collections: Rare maps, broadsides, and birds-eye views of towns.
• Genealogy: City directories, tax valuations, and vital records indexes.