Founded in 1886, built in 1908, and transformed in 2019, The Westport Library is one of the most active and innovative public libraries in the nation, devoted to enriching the intellectual and creative lives of the community.
Among its many highlights are an unparalleled collection of books for children, teens, and adults; an engaging and colorful Children’s Library; a MakerSpace; a Library of Things; a Seed Library; a robust café and store; and professional artwork that adorns its walls, with installations that rotate throughout the year.
The Library is also home to Verso Studios, the Library's media arm, replete with an SSL hybrid analog sound studio and broadcast control suite featuring a state-of-the-art console and six robotic cameras, and the Trefz Forum, an open, flexible space that can accommodate up to 650 patrons and features an 18-foot video wall, 35-foot stage, state-of-the-art sound, theatrical lighting, and video and digital projection.
Situated in the heart of downtown Westport overlooking the scenic Saugatuck River, the Library hosts StoryFest, the largest annual literary festival in Connecticut, and VersoFest, its multi-day music and media festival powered by Verso Studios, in addition to providing a full series of traditional programs for anyone and everyone.
Above all, the Library strives to provide a warm, welcoming destination where visitors can read and research, shop, and enjoy the camaraderie of being in a shared space — serving the whole community as a vibrant gathering spot where people of all ages come to seek information, gain knowledge, exchange ideas, and share experiences.
Vision
A future-focused library committed to lifelong learning, intellectual freedom, and creativity.
Mission
The Westport Library empowers individuals and fosters a connected, inclusive community through welcoming spaces, open exploration, the free exchange of ideas, and equitable access for all.
Lifelong Learning: We inspire curiosity and support exploration through multigenerational programming and resources, fostering an environment that nurtures personal growth, self-discovery, and creativity.
Connection: We are dedicated to working with the community to create enriching experiences that promote civic participation and civil discourse, creating a dynamic, engaging environment to help our community thrive.
Belonging: We provide all members of our community with equitable access to resources in a safe and inclusive environment, ensuring that they feel welcomed and valued.
Intellectual Freedom: We believe in the transformative power of open intellectual discourse and cultural exchange, providing access to a wide array of resources and cultivating an environment where diverse perspectives enrich our collective understanding.
Creativity: We embrace innovation, technology, and exploration, welcoming new ideas, supporting new initiatives, fostering collaboration, and sparking and supporting creative expression.
Service: We actively listen to and engage with our patrons and work to ensure our offerings reflect our community’s needs, wants, and interests.
Click here to access The Westport Library Strategic Plan 2025-2030 in brief
In 2019, the Library completed a long-awaited Transformation Project that entirely reimagined the space to provide more accessibility, adaptability and more flexibility. For more on the project and the many improvements to the facility and offerings, click here.
