DISTINCTIVE ASPECTS OF THE COLLECTION
This beautiful Jacobean style branch in the Hyde Square section of Jamaica Plain offers popular books for children and adults and a large selection of Spanish books and magazines.

RECURRING PROGRAMMING OFFERED
Film programs are offered weekly for children.  There are a wide variety of programs throughout the year in both English and Spanish for all ages.  The Connolly branch has a bilingual staff.

HISTORY
Library service to the Hyde Square area of Jamaica Plain began in 1897 with a small book deposit in the rear of a neighborhood pharmacy at the corner of Lamartine and Paul Gore Streets. Eventually, in 1905 the Boylston Branch, named for the Boylston Railroad Station, opened its doors. Responding to the need for larger space, a beautiful white limestone building was built and opened in 1932. Designed by Maginnis and Walsh in the Jacobean style, the large arched entrance leads to a large interior space with wood and glass partitions dividing the adult and children's area. The ceilings, decorated with plaster moldings are reputedly inspired by the Rufford Abbey Library in England. On December 12, 1940, the name of the branch was officially changed to the Monsignor Arthur T. Connolly Branch, as a tribute to Monsignor Connolly, a long-time member of the Boston Public Library Board of Trustees and pastor of the neighboring Blessed Sacrament Church.


Library staff pose in their native dress at the annual Hispanic Heritage celebration.


Winners of the Red Sox raffle on their way to the game.


High School mentors and students from the Library's Homework Assistance Program (H.A.P.)

Reading Readiness Program "graduates" proudly display their new T-shirts.

An enthusiastic participant in the 2003 Summer Reading Program for children.