How to: Use the Libraries After Graduation

Your local public library may provide a free or for-fee interlibrary loan service for requesting books and other materials from other libraries. Your library may also provide access to some databases.

Resources for Massachusetts Residents:

• Find a public library near you
• Gale databases available through the Massachusetts library system
• Use the Commonwealth Catalog to search for resources at most libraries in Massachusetts
• Get an ecard for the Boston Public Library to access their online resources

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Special libraries serve specific communities and provide specialized information resources. These libraries may include court libraries, government libraries, medical libraries, news libraries, and more, and in some cases, will allow public access.

• Special Libraries in Massachusetts
• In Worcester:
  • Worcester Law Library
  • Worcester Historical Museum Library
  • Worcester Talking Book
  • American Antiquarian Society
  • Worcester Art Museum Library

Look for public walk-in rights at academic libraries near you, or consider joining an independent library, such as the Boston Athenaeum, if they have access to resources that would be helpful for your work. While independent libraries charge a membership fee, the fee may be reduced for new or younger members.