The James Library
& Center for the Arts
What is The James?
The James Library & Center for the Arts is a nonprofit organization offering programs in music, art, and literature. Housed in a landmark 1874 Victorian building in the heart of historic Norwell Center, the James features a concert hall with a Steinway B grand piano, a free lending library, and an art gallery offering new exhibits each month.
The James is a vibrant place within the South Shore arts community with its active music instruction schedule, a stream of library patrons visiting daily, and activities offered throughout the year.
The James is a dynamic center for the arts whose mission is to inspire creativity and learning through music, visual, and literary programs in a historic and welcoming place open to all.
Our History
The James is the oldest library in Norwell and is located on the village green, adjacent to the historic Kent House and First Parish of Norwell. The three-story building stands as one of the few examples of Victorian architecture in the Norwell National Register Historic District.
Since 1874, the James has been a gathering place for scores of groups as diverse as the Young Ladies Union during the late 1870’s, to current community groups including the Norwell Garden Club, the Norwell Women’s Club, and the North River Commission.
