The Hirst Library

Welcome to the Historic Hirst Library. 

The historic Hirst Library, located on the upper floors of Johnson Armory, is one of the campus’s most beloved and historic landmarks. Built in 1907, the library has inspired generations of students through its timeless architecture and quiet beauty.

With its soaring windows, vaulted ceilings, and warm wood details, the library offers a welcoming retreat where focus and comfort come together. Comfortable chairs and quiet study nooks invite students to settle in, while the center of the room offers large tables for group work.

The library boasts a vast and varied collection ranging from fiction, to graphic novels, historical texts, and current nonfiction. Above all, the library serves as a hub for learning, provising students and staff with access to an array of resources and technology, while teaching individuals to critically access, analyze, evaluate, and create information from diverse sources.

Explore the Diverse Library Spaces.

The main reading room is an attractive, inviting space with a central fireplace, paintings, sculptures and a south-facing bank of leaded glass windows that provide a breathtaking view of Shumway Hall and its iconic clock tower. The upper level, called the Crow’s Nest, provides additional classroom space and also houses smaller collections (and a secret fireplace!).

The Shattuck-St. Mary’s Middle School Library is located in St. Mary’s Hall on the Middle School campus, and provides age-appropriate reading materials and a ready reference section. It doubles as an inviting classroom space for middle school English students. When needed, Middle School students use the Hirst Library for in-depth research projects.

Library Services and Offerings.

The Director of Library Services and supporting staff are available to all patrons of SSM to deepen and support learning.  Some of the ways in which (we/they?) do this is through book displays featuring awareness months, high areas of interests, award winners, Alumni Book Club, and more. These are ever-changing, so stop up to see what the library is featuring this month!

Additionally, you can access our catalogue of print and digital books, as well as databases through our online resource: Destiny Discover [link]. See what we have to offer, what books are checked out versus checked in, and find research resources.

We also strive to provide up-to-date information and digital literacy resources and tools as well. For example, providing mini-lessons and videos on how to properly utilize search terms on Google Scholar or other database search engines; discussing reading strategies supported by the latest researchers; working with teachers and departments to pull together curriculum resources as well as strategies and tools for effective and engaging usage (e.g. - Independent reading time, scientific or historical research projects, etc.); creating digital reference lists for long-term usage; examining and building skills in media literacy; and exploring the latest tools (e.g. AI) and literacy resources to assist students and teachers in reaching their goals.

Stop by the Hirst Library or email Dr. Belusa to discuss the possibilities!