page_title: James Blackstone Memorial Library
section_title: Library services
hierarchical_section_title: James Blackstone Memorial Library / Library services
caption_attribution_description: English: James Blackstone Memorial Library - Library at night, front steps
context_page_description: James Blackstone Memorial Library is a public library located in Branford, Connecticut. It is commonly referred to as the Blackstone Library or the Branford Library. The library was commissioned by Timothy Blackstone as a memorial to his father, James Blackstone. It was designed by Chicago architect Solon Spencer Beman. Construction on the building began in 1893 and was completed in 1896. The building was dedicated on June 17, 1896.
  There is also a Blackstone Library in Chicago, which is part of the Chicago Public Library System, and was named after Timothy Blackstone. This library was also designed by Solon Spencer Beman.
context_section_description: As of 2011, the library houses approximately 80,000 volumes (circulating over twice that many annually), and provides access to thousands of eBooks and audiobooks. The library serves a population of more than 29,000 residents.  The library is home to a number of public computers to use free of charge, as well as free wireless internet access. It offers many programs and events to the public, including lectures, movies, plays and musical recitals. The Associate Librarian for Reference, Barbara Cangiano, was the 2004 recipient of the New York Times Librarian Award for her outstanding service.
  There is a small meeting room, the Lucy Hammer room, as well as an auditorium in the library available for use by the public. Meetings, lectures, movies and weddings are held here. The library also has a Friends group that works to support the library through a variety of fundraising events.
  Although the library receives funds from the town of Branford, it is a private entity governed by a Board of Trustees.
caption: Library at night
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