Westwood Public Library
Westwood, Massachusetts

History of the Islington Branch

1884
This Victorian Gothic building was firone-room room schoolhouse, built on land given by Judge Alonzo Wentworth of Dedham.
1900
The First deposit of 70 books, given by the new Westwood Public Library, was placed here in the Wentworth School for use by Islington students and residents.
1910
The Islington School was built on School Street, and one room in the new school was used as the Islington Branch Library. Wentworth Hall, newly named, began as a community center for meetings, entertainment, and church services.
1911
A small garage for a fire engine was added, along with a rooftop fire bell.
1929
Westwood Town Meeting appropriated funds for the enlargement, painting, and furnishing of Wentworth Hall with an added stage on the main floor and a basement kitchen.
1944
The fire engine garage was vacated for use by the Tree and Recreation Department.
1959
Wentworth Hall became the Islington Branch Library. New shelves and books were added, and the stage was closed off for storage.
1972
As the Branch’s popularity grew, the stage was refurbished to become the new children’s area, and two stairways were built for access.
1996
Islington Branch Library completed an extensive interior renovation, including a new heating and air conditioning system, lighting, carpeting, a main floor bathroom, and a kitchenette. By removing the stage, adding a handicapped entrance, and making the library all one level, the Islington Branch Library once again has become a multi-functional center, meeting the diverse needs of a changing community.

Researched and prepared by Marion Manly
Painting and calligraphy by Deidre Sullivan
Donated by Nancy Sullivan in July 1996

 

2019

The Islington Branch Library temporarily moved into the Islington Community Church on October 17th, 2019, with limited hours.

2020

In March of 2020, coronavirus hit, and the Branch was temporarily closed.

2022

The town combined Youth and Family Services, Recreation Department, and Islington Branch Library into a new building called Wentworth Hall at 273 Washington St.