Since 1926, the Burnham Library has stood as a center of community and life-long learning in Bridgewater. Its story begins, not in the handsome stone building that graces our downtown, but scattered in multiple homes, organizations and spaces throughout Bridgewater. The desire to have a place to house a public library was finally realized thanks to the generous bequest of Captain William Dickson Burnham. Since this point, the Burnham Library has continued to keep its vision forward-thinking while being informed and guided by its past.

“Bad libraries build collections.
Good libraries build services.
Great libraries build communities”
–R. David Lankes

The goal of our staff, board and friends is to not just provide an institution rooted in the traditional trappings of libraries, but to create a place for gathering, conversation and community.

Our Mission

“The Burnham Library is a valued regional resource for Bridgewater and surrounding towns, providing a warm friendly environment for lifelong learning, cultural events and community activities. It is responsive to stakeholders needs and uses acknowledged best practices.”

Library Hours and Services

Library Hours

Tuesday

1:00 – 5:00

Wednesday

9:00 – 5:00

Thursday

9:00 – 5:00

Friday

1:00 – 5:00

Saturday

9:00 – 1:00

2020– 2021 Holiday Closings

Independence Day Saturday, July 4th
Bridgewater Fair 2020 Cancelled
O Silent Night Prep Day Cancelled
Thanksgiving Eve Wednesday, November 25th close at 1.00
Thanksgiving Day & Thanksgiving Friday Thursday, November 26th & Friday, 27th
Christmas Eve & Christmas Day Thursday, December 24 & Friday, December 25th

Library Services

Interlibrary Loan
Around The Corner Book Store
Public Computers  Including 4 laptops
WiFi
Meeting Space
Home bound Service
Printer/Scanner/Copy Machine Black/White 25¢ per page • Color 50¢ per page
Fax Machine $2.00 first page, $1.00 each additional
Paperback Exchange
Take one, leave one! FREE
Tech Tutoring
Chromecast Streaming Device
Amazon Kindle Readers