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Library History

The original portion of the existing Chelmsford Library in Chelmsford Center was built in 1894. Mr. Amos F. Adams donated $30,000 to build the library itself, and later another $10,000 for library maintenance and operating costs.

Photo of the original 1894 Adams Library building.

Exterior Features

Carriage House and Greenway

After years of planning and construction, the Marjorie Scoboria Greenway officially opened to the public on September 9th, 2017, providing a place in Chelmsford Center for residents and visitors to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

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Christopher Polson’s “Immersion”

This sculpture was created by artist Christopher Polson in 2017, specifically for the Library, as part of the creation of the Marjorie Scoboria Greenway and Carriage House.

Photo of a round flower and bush garden surrounding a flagpole and flag.

1894 Heritage Pollinator Garden

A desire for beauty, education, reflection and a place for the public to gather led the Country lane Garden Club to design and install an 1894 themed garden at the Chelmsford Public Library.

Photo of a 1976 quilt depicting many scenes from Chelmsford present and past.

Chelmsford Bicentennial Quilt 1976

This hand-crafted quilt made by local residents hangs in a place of prominence within the library, at the entrance to the McCarthy Meeting Room.

Photo showing a garden mural on the wall of a Children's library room.

Children’s Room Mural

Artist Yetti Frenkel was commissioned to paint a mural in memory of Library Trustee Steven Maloney. Steve died suddenly in January 2006 leaving his wife Cynthia and two young children. Steve grew up in Chelmsford and was a great library supporter.

Photo of a stained glass panel with scenes of Chelmsford history.

Matthew Fallon’s Stained Glass Panel

Artist Matthew Fallon was commissioned by the town’s 350th anniversary Cultural Activities Committee to create a stained glass panel to celebrate the town of Chelmsford’s 350th anniversary.

Detail photo of a clock panel showing Thomas Jefferson's home Monticello.

Foster Campos Banjo Clocks

In 2019, Dave Duane donated two banjo clocks to the Town of Chelmsford. Both clocks were made by Foster Campos, of Pembroke, MA. One is on display in the Main Library, and the other is at the MacKay Branch.

Picture of an electric car plugged into a charging station.

Electric Car Charger

In January of 2012, two electric car charging stations were installed in Chelmsford – one in the parking lot of the main library, and one on Vinal Square in North Chelmsford.

Solar Panel Array

An array of solar panels was installed on the Library’s roof during the Fall of 2009, to help supply electricity for the building. All of the funding for the project came from State and Federal grants, and rebates from the energy company.