Boston Public Library - Parker Hill Branch

The Parker Hill Branch library is a gorgeous example of Roxbury's historic architecture from the outside. Within are some of the hardest working librarians in Boston, with a children's section that has been dear to several generations of people who grew up in the Mission Hill area. "Dolly's Garden" to the right of the entrance honors the late Dolly DeSimone, who in her long career as the director of children's activities as well as that department's librarian was unparalleled in her dedication to the kids of Roxbury. The library's interior has changed very little in those many generations, which some may perceive to be a slight; it is not. Those who expect bright, shiny, lifeless, industrial construction will not find it here. Instead, come inside and breathe in the atmosphere of history and community and the love of literature. Oh, and, you know, sit down and read a book, you might enjoy it. more

This library is in the ghetto. What do you think? Do you think the library is ghetto? I am here to tell you that it is very ghetto. The library looks very bad. It really needs a makeover. I don't know if it because black people live here in Roxbury, this city needs funding and a lot of help.They have books and computers but unfortunately loud teenagers are the one always taking over and they also come attached with their strollers with crying babies. Most of them are blacks, I saw a few hispanics. The staff is mixed. The customers are blacks. I did not see one white person in the library. I used their computer and left. I will not come back to use the computer. I rather go to Roxbury Community College it is more accessible. Truereview here to tell you the truth. more