The James Library
& Center for the Arts
Hello Friends of the James
Nominations for the 2026 Best of the South Shore (BOSS) Awards are officially open, and we would be honored to be nominated by you once again. Winning Best Art Gallery last year was truly meaningful to us—and it was only possible because of the incredible support of our community. Thank you for helping make the James such a special place on the South Shore. The BOSS Awards celebrate the local gems that make our South Shore community so vibrant. Whether you’ve discovered a book in our library, connected with a local artist in our gallery, or enjoyed a world-class concert in our hall, we hope the James Library & Center for the Arts has been a meaningful part of your year.
Every nomination helps us continue our mission of bringing people together through literacy, music, and the visual arts.
If you believe the James is a "Best of" destination, please take a moment to nominate us before Friday, February 6, at 11:00 PM.
Where to Nominate us:
Arts & Entertainment: Art Gallery, Live Music
Services and Resources: NonProfit Organization
James Library & Center for the Arts Internship Application
The James Library & Center for the Arts is dedicated to providing programs and services that are educational, entertaining, and enriching to the community. We are seeking enthusiastic, dedicated, and organized individuals to join our team for a structured internship experience. This program is designed to provide hands-on experience in nonprofit arts and library management and reports to the Director of the James Library & Center for the Arts.
Apply to the 7th Annual Spring Juried art Show
Application open through March 2, 2026. Exhibition dates: March 27 - April 25.
The James is a dynamic center for the arts whose mission is to inspire creativity and learning through music, visual, and literary programs in an 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, of which the James is an autonomous program. 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.
