LYNN — The Lynn Public Library marked 125 years in its iconic building Thursday evening with a celebration honoring the past, recognizing the present, and reaffirming the library’s place as a cornerstone of civic life.
The anniversary commemorates the April 4, 1900 opening of the building, a Beaux-Arts style landmark at the corner of Franklin and North Common streets. Though the Lynn Free Public Library dates back to 1862, the 2025 milestone specifically honors the structure made possible by benefactor Elizabeth Shute, who left $100,000 in her will to fund its construction.
“This building has always been a second home to me,” said Library Director Theresa Hurley. “We are here for everyone — for those seeking shelter, for the curious, for wanderers. That was always the mission of the public library: it’s open to all and free to all.”
The evening included a short video presentation on the library’s founding, followed by remarks from Hurley and elected officials, including Mayor Jared C. Nicholson, State Sen. Brendan Crighton, and City Councilor Coco Alinsug.
Nicholson called the library an essential part of a functioning democracy. “You need spaces in which you can enter and feel welcome,” he said. “A building like this — with breathtaking ceilings, gorgeous murals, and contemplative statues — invites us all to seek knowledge, help, and a better world.”
Alinsug reflected on his personal connection to the space, recalling his first visit to Lynn in 2009. “I asked my aunt to take me to her two favorite places in the city,” he said. “She brought me to the library — and to the beach.” Now representing Ward 3 on the City Council, Alinsug said it was “an honor” to be part of the celebration.
Crighton echoed that sentiment, describing the library as “a remarkable piece of our community” and praising those who have kept it vibrant for 125 years.
The building was formally dedicated to Lynn’s 55th mayor, Patrick J. McManus, in 2024. McManus, who served from 1992 to 2001, directed over $10 million in public funds to the library during his tenure and was remembered at the event for his lifelong commitment to education.
Tyrone Brown, a newly appointed trustee, said the library has been part of his life since childhood. “I grew up right down the street on Gladstone Street,” he said. “My cousins and I had a routine — after school, it was all work before play. We’d stop at the library first before heading to the Boys Club.”
Brown recalled how excited he was to get his first library card, a moment he said symbolizes the library’s value to generations of Lynn residents. “A mind is a terrible thing to waste,” he said. “And right here in our backyard, we have this treasure.”
While longtime staff were honored at the event, including some with decades of service, newer employees were also part of the story. Tyjei DiRico-Vanloan, who joined the staff just four weeks ago, said the experience has already made a strong impression.
“Everyone here is really nice, understanding, and patient,” he said. “These have been the best four weeks of my life — and I can’t wait to see what comes next.”
Hurley closed the evening by thanking the trustees, staff, and the Friends of the Lynn Public Library, who helped support the celebration. Guests were encouraged to explore displays and enjoy refreshments in the reading room beneath the rotunda, a space she described as “the heart of the building.”
“For 125 years, this library has been a place where people gather, learn, and grow,” Hurley said. “And we’re just getting started.”
To top it all off, the celebration even included a cake — printed with an image of the library itself.
