MacKay Branch

Open for visits!

On Wednesday, May 17, 2023, our MacKay branch in North Chelmsford opened its doors after a long hiatus. You can visit the updated space during regular hours: Mondays 1 pm – 5 pm, Wednesdays 3 pm – 6 pm, and Fridays 9:30 am – 1:30 pm.

You can also still use curbside pickup during branch hours for reserves or items available at MacKay. Questions? 978-256-5521 option #6.

Everyone is invited to the official ribbon cutting on
Wednesday, May 31 at 3:00 pm and we hope to see you there!

What’s been happening?
On Monday, September 12, 2022 the Select Board entered into a contract with Thomas E. Snowden to complete the update on the HVAC project for the MacKay Branch Library. This work was finished in Spring of 2023. Since then, Library staff have been working hard on a MacKay re-opening day collection of new and popular materials and we are looking forward to adding more comfy seating and children’s reading and activity space!

The MacKay Branch was the former home of Anna C. MacKay, a librarian in Chelmsford from 1906-1924. It was given to the Town of Chelmsford in 1947 by her brother, Stewart MacKay, to be used in Anna’s honor as a library serving the residents of North Chelmsford – which the MacKay Branch has been doing enthusiastically ever since!

Read more about the history of Anna C. MacKay and the MacKay Branch [pdf].

 

New Gardens and Benches!


Eagle Scout James Barrett has revitalized the raised garden at the MacKay Branch, replacing the original single large garden with four new raised beds. This work took place during the spring and summer of 2020, with guidance and advice from Kathy Downey and Mary Beth Hayes. Thanks to James for the hard work, and the crew of volunteers who helped. Thanks also to everyone who contributed to fund the project, especially the Chelmsford Friends of the Library for their generous $500 donation!