Sturgis Library: America's Oldest Library Building

Published: [9/30/2025] | Reading Time: 7 minutes

QUICK FACTS

📍 Location: 3090 Main Street (Route 6A), Barnstable, MA 02630
🎟️ Admission: FREE - open to the public
⏰ Hours: Tuesday-Saturday (check website for current hours)
🚗 Parking: FREE parking lot adjacent to library
📅 Built: 1644 (original building) - Oldest library building in America
⭐ Must-See Rating: 5/5 - Historic significance, genealogy resources, beautiful architecture
📚 Special Collections: Genealogy, maritime history, rare books, local history
♿ Accessibility: Main floor accessible, historic building considerations

WHAT MAKES STURGIS LIBRARY EXTRAORDINARY

Sturgis Library in Barnstable, Massachusetts is the oldest building that houses a public library in America. The original library building was built in 1644 as the house of Rev. John Lothropp, making it not just a library but a living piece of American history that has served the community for nearly 400 years.

The house which forms the original part of Sturgis Library is the oldest Library building in the United States. Since Reverend Lothrop used the front room of the house for public worship, another distinction of the Sturgis Library is that it is the oldest structure still standing in the United States where religious services were regularly held.

Beyond its extraordinary historical significance, Sturgis Library serves as an active, vibrant public library offering modern services while maintaining its connection to Cape Cod's rich past through exceptional genealogy collections, maritime history resources, and a commitment to preserving local history.

REMARKABLE HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

1644 - Original Construction: The building was originally constructed in 1644 as the home of Rev. John Lothropp, a religious leader who fled persecution in England and established one of Cape Cod's earliest communities. The front room served as the area's first place of regular religious worship, a remarkable distinction that continues to define this historic structure.

The Lothrop Room: This room is now called "The Lothrop Room" and contains a beamed ceiling and pumpkin-colored wide-plank flooring original to the 1644 construction. Standing in this room connects visitors directly to colonial Cape Cod and America's earliest European settlement period.

Transformation to Public Library: The building became a public library through the vision and generosity of Captain William Sturgis, a wealthy sea captain and China trader who left funds in his will to establish a free public library for Barnstable. The library opened to the public in 1867, combining the historic 1644 structure with additions and expansions to create a functional modern library within America's oldest library building.

EXCEPTIONAL GENEALOGY RESOURCES

Premier Genealogy Destination: Sturgis Library has earned recognition as one of New England's finest genealogy research centers, particularly for families with Cape Cod connections. The library's genealogy collection includes thousands of family histories, vital records, cemetery transcriptions, and historical documents spanning centuries of Cape Cod history.

Genealogy Collections Include:

• Family Histories: Extensive collection of Cape Cod family genealogies
• Vital Records: Births, deaths, marriages from Cape Cod towns
• Cemetery Records: Transcriptions from Cape Cod cemeteries
• Church Records: Historical religious congregation records
• Military Records: Cape Cod residents' service records
• Maritime Records: Ship logs, crew lists, maritime documents

Research Assistance: Knowledgeable library staff and volunteers provide assistance to genealogy researchers, helping visitors navigate historical records and discover their Cape Cod connections. The library welcomes genealogy researchers from around the world seeking Cape Cod family history.

GETTING THERE & PARKING

Address: 3090 Main Street (Route 6A), Barnstable Village, MA 02630
Phone: (508) 362-6636

Directions:

• From Route 6: Take Exit 6 (Route 132 North)
• Follow Route 132 North to Route 6A
• Turn right on Route 6A (heading east)
• Sturgis Library on right in Barnstable Village
• Look for historic building with library sign

Parking:

• FREE parking lot: Adjacent to library building
• Street parking: Available along Route 6A (Main Street)
• Accessible parking: Designated spaces near entrance
• Easy access: Convenient parking for all visitors

LIBRARY HOURS & SERVICES

Regular Hours (verify on website as hours may vary):

• Tuesday-Thursday: 10 AM - 5 PM
• Friday-Saturday: 10 AM - 5 PM
• Closed: Sunday and Monday
• Special Hours: Check website for holiday schedules

Library Services:

• Book Borrowing: Fiction, non-fiction, large print, audiobooks
• Digital Resources: E-books, e-audiobooks, digital magazines
• WiFi: Free wireless internet access
• Computer Access: Public computers available
• Museum Passes: Discounted or free admission to area museums
• Programs: Author talks, lectures, children's programs, book clubs

CLAMS Network: Sturgis Library is part of the Cape Libraries Automated Materials Sharing (CLAMS) network, allowing cardholders to borrow materials from and return to any CLAMS library across Cape Cod and the Islands.

SPECIAL COLLECTIONS & ARCHIVES

Maritime History Collection: As Barnstable has deep maritime roots, Sturgis Library maintains extensive maritime history resources including ship records, whaling history, fishing industry documents, and Cape Cod's relationship with the sea. The collection reflects Captain William Sturgis's own maritime background as a China trade sea captain.

Local History Archives:

• Barnstable History: Comprehensive local history resources
• Cape Cod History: Regional historical documents and materials
• Historical Photographs: Images of historic Cape Cod
• Maps: Historical and contemporary Cape Cod maps
• Newspapers: Historical newspaper collections
• Town Records: Historical Barnstable documents

Rare Books Collection: The library houses rare books and historical volumes, some dating back centuries. These materials are preserved for research and represent important pieces of American literary and historical heritage.

ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES

1644 Original Structure: The oldest section of the library features:

• Hand-hewn beams: Original 17th-century ceiling beams
• Wide-plank flooring: Pumpkin-colored original pine floors
• Period windows: Small-paned colonial-era windows
• Historic proportions: Authentic colonial room sizes and layouts

Later Additions: The library has been thoughtfully expanded over centuries while preserving the original 1644 core. Later additions maintain architectural sensitivity to the historic structure while providing modern library facilities.

Preservation: Ongoing preservation efforts ensure this irreplaceable piece of American history remains structurally sound and accessible to future generations while maintaining its historical integrity.

PROGRAMS & EVENTS

Adult Programs:

• Author Talks: Local and regional authors present their work
• Historical Lectures: Cape Cod history and genealogy presentations
• Book Discussions: Multiple book clubs for various interests
• Technology Classes: Computer and digital resource instruction
• Special Events: Seasonal programs and community celebrations

Children's Programs:

• Story Times: Age-appropriate reading programs for young children
• Summer Reading Program: Annual summer literacy initiative
• School Partnerships: Programs supporting local education
• Craft Activities: Hands-on creative programs for kids

Community Events:

• Historical Commemorations: Programs celebrating Sturgis history
• Fundraising Events: Supporting library operations and preservation
• Community Gatherings: Library as community meeting place

BEST TIMES TO VISIT

For Genealogy Research:

• Weekdays: Less crowded, more staff assistance available
• Morning Hours: Quiet research atmosphere
• Advance Planning: Contact library about specific research needs

For Historical Tours:

• Weekday visits: More time to appreciate historic architecture
• Off-season: Quieter for detailed observation of building features
• Special Programs: Watch for historical lecture series

For General Library Services:

• Any open hours: Full services available during all operating hours
• Avoid early afternoon: Busiest period typically 1-3 PM
• Saturday morning: Good time for browsing without crowds

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS (Within 10 minutes)

Barnstable Village Historic District:

• Barnstable County Complex: Historic courthouse and government buildings
• Coast Guard Heritage Museum: Maritime history and rescue operations
• Historic Churches: Several colonial-era churches nearby
• Route 6A Antique Shops: Historic Old King's Highway shopping

Dining & Shopping:

• Barnstable Tavern: Historic dining establishment
• Route 6A Restaurants: Multiple dining options along Main Street
• Antique Shops: Extensive antique shopping corridor
• Art Galleries: Local and regional artwork

ACCESSIBILITY & VISITOR INFORMATION

Physical Accessibility:

• ♿ Main floor accessible for wheelchairs and mobility devices
• ♿ Accessible parking available adjacent to building
• ♿ Historic building constraints: Some areas may have limited access
• 🚪 Main entrance accessible with assistance if needed

Visitor Services:

• Restrooms: Available for library visitors
• Seating Areas: Comfortable reading and research spaces
• Staff Assistance: Knowledgeable, friendly library staff
• Visitor Welcome: Non-residents welcome to visit and use library

Library Cards:

• Barnstable Residents: Free library cards
• Non-Residents: Options for temporary cards or research access
• CLAMS Network: Access to all Cape Cod libraries with card

GENEALOGY RESEARCH TIPS

Before Your Visit:

• Research preparation: Know what family names you're researching
• Contact library: Inquire about specific genealogy resources
• Appointment option: Consider scheduling research consultation
• Bring information: Bring what you already know about your family

During Your Visit:

• Ask for assistance: Staff can guide you to relevant resources
• Document everything: Take notes and photos (with permission)
• Explore collections: Browse beyond your immediate research focus
• Time management: Genealogy research takes time - plan accordingly

PHOTOGRAPHY & DOCUMENTATION

Exterior Photography:

• Historic building exterior welcomes photography
• Beautiful colonial architecture perfect for architectural photography
• Seasonal landscaping provides varying photographic contexts
• Route 6A setting captures historic Cape Cod village atmosphere

Interior Photography:

• Ask permission before photographing interior spaces
• Historic rooms and architectural details of great interest
• Research materials may have photography restrictions
• Respect other visitors' privacy and research activities

LOCAL INSIDER TIPS

Library Secrets:

• Used Book Room: Excellent selection of used books for sale
• Little Free Library: Sturgis maintains a Little Free Library at Barnstable Tavern
• Museum Passes: Don't forget to check out discounted museum passes at front desk
• Historical Artifacts: Look for centuries-old historical items on display

Best Experience:

• Combine with village walk: Explore historic Barnstable Village
• Attend programs: Check calendar for special events and lectures
• Explore collections: Allow time to browse beyond immediate needs
• Support preservation: Consider donations to support this historic treasure

Research Strategies:

• Start general: Begin with broad Cape Cod genealogy resources
• Follow connections: Local families often intermarried - explore connections
• Multiple visits: Genealogy research often requires return visits
• Digital resources: Ask about online genealogy databases available

SUPPORTING STURGIS LIBRARY

Ways to Support:

• Memberships: Annual memberships support library operations
• Donations: Financial contributions welcome for preservation and programs
• Book Sales: Purchase used books to support library
• Volunteering: Opportunities to assist library operations
• Attend Events: Participation in programs supports community library

Preservation Needs: Maintaining a 380-year-old building requires ongoing preservation efforts. Community support helps ensure this irreplaceable American historic treasure remains accessible for future generations.

CONTACT & CURRENT INFORMATION

Sturgis Library:

• Phone: (508) 362-6636
• Website: www.sturgislibrary.org
• Email: Contact through website
• Catalog: barnstable-sturgis.clamsnet.org

Social Media:

• Follow library for program updates and announcements
• Historical posts about library and Barnstable history
• Event notifications and community news

CLAMS Network: Part of Cape Libraries Automated Materials Sharing system

Last Updated: [9/30/2025]
Report Changes: business@mustseein.com

Experience America's oldest library building - where 380 years of history meets modern library services in the heart of historic Barnstable Village. Whether researching family history, exploring Cape Cod's past, or simply enjoying a beautiful historic library, Sturgis Library offers an irreplaceable connection to American colonial heritage.

COMING SOON: Complete guides for all 26 Cape Cod libraries

Each library will include:

• Detailed history and significance
• Hours, location, and parking information
• Special collections and resources
• Programs and events
• Accessibility information
• Photography opportunities
• Nearby attractions
• Local insider tips

Total Cape Cod Libraries: 26+ public libraries across all Cape Cod towns