Discover the Architectural Gem: Thomas Crane Public Library in Quincy, MA

The Thomas Crane Public Library was originally built in 1882, and was designed by architect Henry Hobson Richardson, who considered it one of his most successful civic projects. Richardson also designed the Buffalo State Asylum for the Insane (now known as the Richardson Olmsted Complex) in Buffalo, New York, which was the largest commission of his career and the first appearance of what is now known as the Richardsonian Romanesque style. In 1908, William Martin Aiken added an ell to provide extra stack space and stained glass, designed in Richardson’s style. A significant expansion followed in 1939, led by architects Paul A. and Carroll Coletti, featuring stone carvings by Quincy sculptor Joseph Coletti. In 2001, Boston architects Childs, Bertman, and Tseckares completed the most recent addition, doubling the library’s size.

Harper’s Weekly once described it as “the best village library in the United States,” and in 2007, it was ranked 43rd in a national poll by the American Institute of Architects of favorite buildings.

Inside the original building, there are notable works of art, including a 30-by-10-inch stained glass window titled *The Old Philosopher* by American artist John LaFarge, created in memory of Thomas Crane. A second LaFarge window, *Angel at the Tomb*, is located next to the carved fireplace, commemorating Crane’s son, Benjamin Franklin Crane. The library’s surrounding landscape was designed by the renowned Frederick Law Olmsted. In 1987, the library was designated a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its architectural and historical significance as one of Richardson’s finest works.