Concord Academy’s library is an integral part of the student experience. It serves as a study space for collaborative and individual work, as well as a great place to hang out and read a book—making the space the epicenter of campus. However, CA students often overlook a similar resource that sits just across Main Street:the Concord Free Public Library (CFPL).
Faranza Patwa, CA library’s resource manager, believes CA students do not use the CFPL due to a lack of advertising. Even though there is much effort on the part of the library team to raise awareness of the CFPL’s existence among students, the opportunities it offers are lost on many.
CA students have full access to the resources the CFPL offers through the Minuteman Library Network. This includes checking out books, using study rooms, accessing the teen room and cafe, attending lectures, and speaking with specialized librarians. Each fall, all students are issued a library card to use if they do not already have one.
CA's relationship with the CFPL began in 1922, back when it served as the school’s sole library. This arrangement worked well, but CA would only continue to expand. “J. Josephine Tucker, the third head of school, felt the school needed its own library,” said CA librarian Martha Kennedy. Tucker led the charge in building CA’s library, which began as a small collection of books in Haines House.
There are many ways CA students can give back to the CFPL. CA sophomore Rose Whaley ’27, who volunteers with the CFPL and manages the Friends of the Concord Public Library Instagram, recommends that students, faculty and staff follow the instagram to be notified about volunteer opportunities and other ways to get involved at the library. Students can also visit CFPL’s website to learn more about upcoming events, ranging from knitting groups to art exhibitions. Kennedy is also available to answer any questions.