October 20, 2026 Submitted By Geri Duff
This was the first public library building in Hingham.
Up until 1869, the people of Hingham borrowed their books from “Social Libraries,” which were located in shops and people’s homes. There was one at Hingham Centre, two in South Hingham, and The Circulating Library, owned by Caleb Gill, Jr.
In 1869, Albert Fearing bought land at the junction of Main and Middle Streets, had a building constructed, furnished it, and stocked it with books from the First Social Library. He then deeded the building to the town.
The library burned down in 1879. The fire was caused by an overheated furnace, and priceless art, books, and papers were lost.
With the help of insurance and his own money, Mr. Fearing had a larger building constructed in its place and once again donated it to the town.
The second library remained in use until 1966, when the books were moved to the new library on East Street.
Photo courtesy of the Hingham Historical Society.