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The Lawrence Public Library

Preserving the Past. Serving the Present. Building the Future.

Lawrence has always been a city shaped by movement, industry, culture, resilience, and immigration. Generations of residents from different countries, cultures, and linguistic traditions have contributed to the identity of the city. The Library is part of that continuing story. We preserve Lawrence's past while responding to the needs of the community today. We support literacy and education, encourage the exploration of ideas, expand access to technology, connect people with reliable information and resources, celebrate culture and creativity, and provide spaces where people can learn from and connect with one another. The formats, technologies, and services of a public library will continue to evolve. Our commitment to providing accessible information and opportunities for learning remains at the heart of what we do. We are here to connect the people of Lawrence with the knowledge, resources, opportunities, and connections they need to learn, participate, and thrive.

Your Library. Your Community. Your Place to Discover.

For generations, Lawrence Public Library has connected people with knowledge, ideas, technology, culture, and one another. Today, we continue that tradition as a welcoming community resource where people can discover, learn, research, create, connect, and grow. Whether you are looking for your next great book, researching a question, learning a new skill, using technology, attending a program, exploring Lawrence's history, finding community resources, or simply looking for a welcoming place to read, study, or connect, your Library is here for you.

A Library That Belongs To Lawrence.

Lawrence Public Library serves people at every stage of life. From a child's first experience with books to lifelong learning, technology assistance, research, cultural programs, and community connections, the Library provides resources and opportunities designed to respond to the needs of the people who call Lawrence home.

Children and families can discover books, bilingual materials, early literacy activities, educational resources, homework support, and programs that encourage curiosity and a lifelong love of reading. Teens have access to collections, technology, study and social spaces, programs, and resources that support learning, creativity, exploration, and personal development. Young Adults, adults, and seniors can explore books and media, attend educational and cultural programs, receive research assistance, develop digital skills, access citizenship and community resources, participate in clubs and activities, and pursue personal and professional learning. Whatever brings you to the Library, we are here to help you discover what comes next.

More Than Books

Today's Lawrence Public Library extends far beyond the books on our shelves. We connect our community with information, technology, educational opportunities, cultural experiences, and resources available both inside the Library and from home.

Discover & Borrow. Explore books, audiobooks, magazines, movies, music, Spanish-language materials, eBooks, eAudiobooks, digital magazines, and other resources for education, information, and enjoyment. Through our membership in the Merrimack Valley Library Consortium (MVLC), your Library card also connects you with materials and resources from libraries throughout the Merrimack Valley.

Research & Learn. Have a question? Start at the Library. Our staff can help you locate reliable information, navigate research resources, explore databases, and connect with tools for education and lifelong learning. Library resources support a wide range of needs, including homework and tutoring, language learning, citizenship preparation, career development, test preparation, genealogy, business and nonprofit research, and independent learning.

Connect with Technology. Technology is an essential part of everyday life, and the Library helps make it more accessible. Use public computers and Wi-Fi, access printing and other technology services, explore online resources, and receive assistance navigating digital tools and information. Our goal is not simply to provide access to technology, but to help community members use it with greater confidence and independence.

Learn, Gather & Participate. Libraries bring people together. Throughout the year, Lawrence Public Library offers programs, workshops, cultural events, book discussions, children's and teen activities, educational opportunities, and other experiences that encourage learning, creativity, participation, and connection. Library meeting spaces also help bring together community organizations and activities that serve educational, civic, cultural, and nonprofit purposes.

Explore Beyond the Library. Your Library card can take you far beyond our buildings. Access eBooks, audiobooks, digital magazines, music, research databases, online courses, language-learning resources, homework assistance, and other digital services from home or on the go. Lawrence residents can also connect with expanded resources through MVLC and eligible Boston Public Library eCard services. Library cardholders can also take advantage of cultural and museum passes that help make educational and cultural experiences more accessible.

Discover Lawrence's Story. Lawrence has a remarkable history, shaped by generations of people who came here to work, build families, establish communities, create institutions, and make the city their home. The Library's Local History & Special Collections preserve and provide access to materials documenting that story, including manuscripts, archives, newspapers, periodicals, photographs, artifacts, ephemera, genealogical resources, and other historical materials. By preserving these collections, the Library helps ensure that the experiences and contributions of Lawrence's communities remain available to researchers, families, students, and future generations.