Aldrich Public Library

The Aldrich Public Library’s mission is to inspire the joy of reading, promote lifelong learning, and strengthen the community. ​ The library is located on a well-chosen lot across from City Park on Washington Street (US Route 302). Dedicated on September 22, 1908, it is part of an unusual historic district composed of five churches and city hall with its recently-restored opera house. The first floor looks much the same as when the library was built, except for the electric lights that replaced gas fixtures, and the open stacks, originally closed off by wooden gates connected to the circulation desk. The remodeled basement contains a children’s room and space for processing, storage, and kitchen purposes. In 1984, empty space was converted into a gallery and meeting space on the second floor. The upstairs also contains a museum of Barre history.