The Observatory Hill/Alma Boudreau Branch Library, the newest of the branch libraries, has the distinction of being not only the smallest of the branches but also the Cambridge Library with the most locations. Since 1927 when the branch opened on Huron Avenue it has had to move at least five times, including a brief sojourn in the cafeteria of St. Peter's School. But it has always survived thanks to strong neighborhood support. In 1989 the community's commitment was rewarded with a new bright and cheerful facility at 245 Concord Avenue, and the branch was dedicated to Alma Boudreau in recognition of her fifty years of service as a Library Trustee.

The Boudreau Branch serves an area with many small stores and offices and a diverse residential community of all ages. It as attractive, cozy, and friendly. The branch is busy and thriving, circulating over 70,000 books and materials last year. Programs include standing room only story hours, book groups, school and after school visits and an active and popular summer reading program (view current month's programs). The branch's storefront location helps it to remain a vital part of the community, filling recreational reading needs, in-house homework help, and providing more sophisticated resources through its participation in the larger area network. One of the jewels of the Boudreau Branch is its spectacular circulation desk, designed and crafted by Cambridge artist Mitch Ryerson with a grant from the Cambridge Arts Council. It's worth a visit just to see it.

-by Linda Haines, Branch Head