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Frequently Asked Questions
How is the Waban Library Center different from the Newton Free Library?
Unlike the main branch, we are not supported by the City and have no public funding. We are located in the heart of Waban Village and serve as a meeting ground for neighbors. Our space is small and informal. It is a place where children and others not experienced with expansive, state-of-the-art libraries feel comfortable exploring and learning. We are staffed by trained volunteers and receive all of our funding from donations and class revenues. We are the only public library in Newton with proximity to the T, creating greater accessibility for those who do not drive, such as children, students, the elderly and disabled, along with the environmentally minded and health conscious. We share our building with our neighborhood food pantry.
What makes the Waban Library Center different from the Windsor Club?
We house a collection of books and are open to the public. We have a license with the City of Newton to use the building, but do not own it. We offer an extensive range of course offerings, including languages, music instruction, dance, theatre and exercise classes. We also offer a rich schedule of free, walk-in programs, such as story-times, book clubs, art exhibits, lectures, etc.
Why does the Waban Library Center not rent out space for private or commercial events?
Our license with the City of Newton does not allow us to rent space within the building. However, if you or a group would like to consider using the space for meetings or other non-commercial gatherings, please contact us e-mail: wabanlibrary@wabanlibrarycenter.org.
Why isn’t the Waban Library Center part of the Minuteman Library System?
All of our funding is received from private donations and class revenues. We do not currently have the resources to subscribe to the Minuteman Library System.
Why is the bathroom at the Waban Library Center not handicap accessible?
The Waban Library Center building was built in 1929 and is outdated in many ways. The City of Newton owns the building and we have a license with them to use the space. We are a non-profit, privately funded organization and receive all of our revenues from donations and class revenues. We currently do not have the funds to renovate the bathroom at this time, but are in the process of exploring federal grants that might fund such a project and are working to compile data to apply for such funding. Making the bathroom handicap accessible is an important WLC goal.
I want to volunteer at Waban Library Center
Please send us an email volunteer@wabanlibrarycenter.org
For updates to the website
Please send us an email updates@wabanlibrarycenter.org
Suggestions
We are always open to suggestions on how we can improve. Please send us an email suggestions@wabanlibrarycenter.org
I am interested in activities at Waban Library Center
Please send us an email activities@wabanlibrarycenter.org
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