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Want to learn more about Quincy's historic past?
We have a wealth of information on the history of Quincy and its residents—from neighborhoods and institutions to John Adams and the Goliath Crane—available in a variety of formats.
The Quincy Room contains our local history collection, including:
- local maps and atlases
- materials on Quincy history and development
- books by Quincy authors (native born or resident)
- biographical works about prominent Quincy people
- Quincy High School yearbooks
The materials in this collection are non-circulating, but they are available for in-library use. There are circulating duplicates of several books in the general collection.
At the core of the Warren S. Parker collection are over 2,000 lantern slides (c1890s - 1930s) which Mr. Parker, an avid student of Quincy history, used in giving his illustrated lectures.
Acquired by the library in 1945 for $2,500, the invaluable collection also contains copies of deeds, maps, scrapbooks, biographical notes and newspaper clippings on Quincy subjects. Mr. Parker’s position as City Building Inspector for many years gave him access to records not ordinarily available.
Much of this material is fragile; therefore, its use is restricted. Indexes are available to identify materials of interest.
If you would like to use materials from the Quincy Room, please speak with a librarian.
Local History Materials Use Policy
Use, photocopying and scanning of original materials is at the discretion of library staff. Microfilm, digital copies or photocopies will be provided when available.
- Please check before photocopying or scanning any materials provided.
- Briefcases, large purses, notebooks, etc., must be left at the reference desk.
- Pencils or computers may be used for taking notes.
- Photo ID or OCLN library card must be left wtih library staff until material is returned and examined.