About Us

Since 1926, the Burnham Library has stood as a center of the 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 community anchor dedicated to lifelong learning and stimulating curiosity.

Our Vision

The Burnham Library aspires to be a trusted center for increasing knowledge, fostering imagination, and enabling creative engagement. Through the sharing of diverse ideas, we strive to promote an inclusive and welcoming community.