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The Gale Free Library provides a wide range of resources, programs, and materials of interest to adults, including books, movies on DVD and videotape, audio books, and magazines.
Head of Reference: Stan Haney
Local History: Nancy Richards
For telephone reference information, call (508) 829-0229
Put the phrase "local history" in the subject line to be sure your message gets to Nancy.
The Reference Collection
The library maintains a collection of nearly three thousand reference books, with particular attention given to materials in health, literature, and history. We own a complete, current set of Westlaw's Massachusetts General Laws.
Electronic Resources
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The library has six public internet work stations with high-speed connections available at no charge. |
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The library subscribes to a variety of databases that provide authoritative newspaper, magazine, and other materials in many different fields, including business, health, and science. For a complete description, please see the Electronic Databases page. |
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The library provides two word-processing stations that can be used for homework, resume preparation, etc. |
Internet Tutorials
The library offers free, one-on-one tutorials for patrons who would like to learn internet basics. The tutorials are individually tailored to meet the needs of beginners of all ages. Learn how to surf the net, set up an email account, and do research on any topic under the sun. Please call the reference desk at (508) 829-0229 to set up an appointment.
Local History
The Jane Wilson Local History Room is maintained by the reference department, and is located just to the right of the Circulation Desk. This room should be the first stop for anyone interested in genealogy or local history. In addition to town histories, the local history librarian maintains news clippings, an obituary file, maps, photographs, Wachusett school yearbooks, and other artifacts important to Holden and the surrounding area. The Massachusetts Vital Records are available in book form and on computer. We also hold a complete run of The Landmark newspaper on microfilm.
While an appointment is not necessary, it is always a good idea to call ahead before coming: (508) 829-0229. The local history librarian is available Thursday evening, 5 - 8, and Saturdays, 9 - 1. At other times, inquire at the reference desk for access.
Book Discussion Group
The Book Circle meets each month to discuss books published within the last two years. It meets on Tuesday mornings at 10:00 and at 6:30 the same evening.
Book Express
The Book Express is a free service for those Holden residents who are house bound. We will personally select books for you and volunteers from the senior center will deliver them to your door. Please call the Main Desk at (508) 829-0228 if you are interested in signing up.
Program Room
The Gale Free Library has a small program room that can be used for community meetings. If you are interested in booking the room, please call Jane Dutton at (508) 829-0228. Remember that all meetings must be during the hours that the library is open.
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