Welcome to the Jones Library!

Our mission is to be a community hub to a diverse population of Amherst residents, where books are celebrated and all members of the community can enhance their educational, cultural, and lifelong learning pursuits.

Our staff is dedicated to providing excellent service, diverse collections, free and equal access to information, and exciting events.

We have three libraries:

You can apply for a library card at any of our libraries. Please bring a photo ID and proof of your current address. Once you have a card, you can borrow books and other items, use digital books and online tools, and request items from over 150 libraries in central and western Massachusetts through the CW MARS network. You can pick up your requested items at any of our libraries.

Our services include:

Collections

With your library card, you can borrow items from our extensive collection of books, large print books, magazines, DVDs, music CDs, audiobooks, musical instruments, museum passes, and much more. You can also borrow and download digital books, audiobooks, and magazines on your own computer, tablet, or smart phone. If we do not own the item you would like, we can try to borrow it from other libraries in Massachusetts and beyond. Please contact us if you have questions about requesting, borrowing, or downloading library materials.

Computers & Internet

At our libraries, you can use our public internet computers or bring your own computer, tablet, or smart phone and connect to our free public wireless internet. We have public scanners, printers, and copiers. Our librarians are happy to help you with our technology. We also offer access to a variety of online tools for research and lifelong learning.

Ask Us

Our librarians will help you find information to answer any question – from locating the newest bestselling book to learning how to use your smart phone or tablet!

Events

Our libraries offer a wide variety of events for all ages. See our Calendar of Events for more information about upcoming events and programs.

Kids & Teens

The Kids Room is a fun place for kids of all ages – the perfect place to play with trains, curl up with a good book, explore the toy box, or find a movie to watch. We also offer a variety of programs from storytimes to summer reading. Teens have a space of their own, where they can grab a graphic novel and relax in comfortable chairs.

ESL & Citizenship

Our award-winning ESL (English as a Second Language) program can help you improve your English skills. Anyone can attend our weekly Conversation Circles. You can also learn about becoming a U.S. citizen. We have books, DVDs, CDs, and volunteer tutors to help you achieve your learning goals. Contact our ESL Center for more information.

Special Collections

Our Special Collections Department has extensive collections related to local and regional history, genealogy, and Amherst authors such as Emily Dickinson, Robert Frost, and Julius Lester. Visit our research room and explore our exhibits during our Special Collections visiting hours.

Homebound Delivery

Our libraries offer free delivery service of library materials to homebound residents of Amherst. Contact our Homebound Delivery Coordinator for more information.

We hope you enjoy visiting and using our libraries!

Please contact us if you have any questions.