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News  March's Collection Spotlight: Celebrating the State Library

On Display March 2 through March 31
3/02/2026
  • State Library of Massachusetts
Illustration from the cover of Library Journal, March 1, 1926
Illustration of the State Library's interior from Ballou’s Pictorial, May 31, 1856

Ballou’s Pictorial, May 31, 1856

Library Journal, March 1, 1926

As the State Library turns 200 this month, we’re sharing items that illustrate its long and storied history in our Collection Spotlight case! This view of the interior of the reading room was featured in the May 31, 1856 issue of the weekly periodical, Ballou’s Pictorial. That image was then reproduced for the cover of Library Journal, published in honor of the State Library’s 100th anniversary. Read more in our blog post and visit us from March 2 through March 31 to see these items on display.

  • State Library of Massachusetts

    The State Library supports the research and information needs of government, libraries, and the public through innovative services and access to a comprehensive repository of state documents and other historical items.
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