We bought a Christmas ornament in one of the little artist shacks near the marina and one of the artists told us to go and check out the library in town. We took his advice and walked there. He was right. It was absolutely stunning. There is a huge sailboat inside the library covering almost all of the inside, surrounded by books. It is absolutely beautiful. read more

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Very beautiful library. Go up to the second floor to see the 1/2 size replica boat that was built inside the library. This floor has the teen/kids section and it's a great spot. There's a toy/play area, crafting spot, veggies growing in a hydroponic tube, etc. This is a good place to let your kids relax and play a little and find some new books. Basement has public bathrooms (which is so nice after walking around all day). This floor also has a small room of books for sales. Lots of great finds if you are looking for vacation reading. Very nice library with multiple quiet areas of that is what you want. Also a reading room for Cape Cod books / information. read more

Provincetown Library - Boat up on the second floor in the the kids library - Libraries Near Me - Provincetown, Massachusetts

My mom purchased tickets to a talk and book signing starring fashion designer, Bob Mackie. I purchased a ticket that came with the book and I even brought my Tina Turner and Cher records for him to sign as well. The talk was great. The room was set up with a lot of space for people to sit comfortably. I got to ask my question and Bob Mackie even wished me a happy birthday. I don't know how the library got ahold of Bob Mackie and convinced him to come do a book signing, but this was a great event. I'm only in town over the summer but I'm now interested in seeing what other events and opportunities the library has to offer. I might also want to take a look at their book collection and see what they've got and how you can even check one out. I love a good public library and hope to support them and what they do for the community. read more

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Nearly a decade later and the PPL is still one of our first stops of our annual week-long trip to P-Town. The YA/middle reader section is adequate, but the wide variety of picture books is still what grabs my kids' attention most, even into the "tweenage" years. Staff is incredibly friendly, and are lovely conversationalists upon checking out. I only wish they had a DVD player or two in their "library of things" to check out, as our accommodation no longer provides them. Bravo to the daily and long term upkeep of the facilities, the reliably functioning air conditioning, clean restrooms, and attentive staff. read more

This is a nice library for the size of town. It has lots of audio books, films, regular books, etc. Every time I have walked in, I have seen lots of people using the resources of this library...either books, newspapers, periodicals, computer, etc. The Provincetown Public Library is located in the building that was once the Center Methodist Episcopal Church. This structure, like many in Provincetown, has had a long and varied history of use. When it was built in 1860 as the Center Methodist Episcopal Church it was reputed to be the largest church of Methodist denomination anywhere in the United States. It cost $22,000 to complete and could seat 900 people in its 128 pews. Through the efforts of the Provincetown Historical Association and the Historic District Study Committee, the building was nominated to the National Register of Historic Places. It received certification in October 1975. Subsequently in 1976, at a special town meeting, a group of citizens secured a vote to acquire the building for $135,000 and turn it into a local historical museum. The Provincetown Heritage Museum officially opened to the public on July 4, 1976. A dedicated group of volunteers set up exhibits on various aspects of the town's heritage. It was at this time that the half scale model of the schooner Rose Dorothea was built and installed in the building. The Heritage Museum operated on a seasonal basis with a minimal staff and a dedicated group of volunteers through the summer of 2000. In April 2005, the new Provincetown Public Library opened in the former Heritage Museum building bringing new life to this magnificent 1860 wooden structure. Inside, the Library is bright, spacious and designed to retain the feeling of the grand open spaces of the former church. On the first floor, much of the collection is contained in custom-built cases that were constructed by Provincetown master carpenter Bill Ingraham as a gift to the Town. The unique feature of these cases is that they re-use the mahogany arm rests from the church pews found in the basement before renovation. read more

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On all my previous trips to Provincetown, I never quite managed to visit this library due to time constraints and whom I was traveling with. This time around, my husband and I set aside a part of our day to go here. I was intrigued from the moment I walked in the grand entrance of a painted moonlit scene of a sailboat sitting in the bay. I soon learned that Provincetown is the oldest continuously running art colony and the library displays a portion of the town's art collection. I marveled from floor to floor, viewing the various art spanning different decades. Also, on display is the Lipton Cup. Since no other Fisherman's Cup Race was held after 1907, Provincetown remains the proud owner of the Lipton Cup. Another thing that made me gasp was a half scale replica of the Rose Dorothea schooner. The model spans an impressive 66 feet in length! I can go on and on about this magnificent library--a true beacon of learning and community spirit. If you find yourself in Provincetown with some time to spare, just wander in this impressive library. You will be mesmerized, I'm sure of it. Notes/Tips: **Even as a visitor, you may still join the library as a patron. **They offer binge boxes, which are set up by category (ie. James Bond, The American West, Marvel...) You can also get a complimentary bag of popcorn when checking one of these out. **For some stunning views of the bay and a quiet reading space, wander to the third floor of the library. read more

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A whaler's boat inside a Public library, something you do not see every day. We just had lunch nearby and had to check out this boat. Its a hidden gem preserved inside. You would Miss it from the outside. Not only that, the Public library is a full function library for all your needs. read more

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What a charming library! Whenever I visit a new place, I head to the library, and this is definitely one worth reviewing. I was here on the off season, and as much as I wanted to spend time on the beach, watching the water, it was too cold most days to enjoy the outdoors for extended periods of time. But then I discovered the third floor of this library, which has two armchairs set up in front of a window with incredible bay views. I sat here for hours reading. This library also gets points for what seems like a very extensive book collection, friendly librarians, intuitive setup and the ability to join the library even as a visitor. I wanted to borrow some books for my time here, and they made it easy and painless to do so. I think I would come back to Ptown just for the library! read more

A library with a surprise upstairs Provincetown has very close connections with the ocean and like many places associated with the sea, great drawings, photos and models of ocean scenes, lighthouses and beaches are common. However I never expected to see a 55 foot boat dominating the upstairs of the library. It's not really a true boat but it is a damn impressive 55 foot model of the Grand Banks Fishing Schooner Rose Dorothea. Not just a model but a complete reproduction that is accurate in every detail. You go up those stairs and once you look inside your jaw will drop. I've seen some cool things in eccentric libraries but never anything quite like this. They even cut away part of the ceiling to accommodate the top of the mast. The building is actually an old Methodist Church and the library was moved here from down the street in 2005. It's still ongoing renovations but even without the ship the building is stunning. Beautiful windows, wood and great old bookshelves quickly tells you that this is not just another library. Of course the library has it's modern side too, with computers, audio-visuals, large prints and periodicals. Not a bad place to relax and or do some research. Great views from the windows never lets you forgot where you are. In a lot of ways the Provincetown Library reminds me of the Antheneum on Nantucket. A fantastic old building, filled with history that just happens to be used as a library. A place that is so cool that it would still be great even if it didn't have any books at all. read more

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Enjoying my time in Provincetown by visiting the library. Very unique to be sitting by a sailboat in the library. Beautiful place to visit. read more

Provincetown Library - Libraries Near Me - Provincetown, Massachusetts

This is great history I never heard about in school. Petrina Young and Valerie Walker enjoyed visiting the Provincetown Library to see the legendary schooner Rose Dorothea. read more

Provincetown Library - Libraries Near Me - Provincetown, Massachusetts

Stumbled into the library to see the boat that is inside (Pro tip: go to the second floor). But, while there, walked into their Book Festival and had access to a wonderful talk by a visiting author. Stayed to buy a book and get it signed. Staff super friendly and helpful. Off chance to meet someone from their Board, who was also friendly and helpful. Interesting exhibit on the boat that is inside. And, from a readerly perspective, seemed to be an ok selection of recreatinal texts available. read more

I had a great time with friends in Provincetown today! All the little shops were fun to pop in and out of, and the shop keepers are super friendly. There are a lot of little waterfront restaurants and bars to sit and people watch, or enjoy a snack or cocktail. The only thing I didn't like was on Commercial St, where the main attractions were, it's a one way. There were a lot of cars going down the road with people everywhere, the sidewalk was tiny. Naturally people were in the road. I watched a couple of people from cars and on the street scream at each other. read more

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What a glorious destination, the icing on the tip of the finger of the fabulous and multi-faceted Cape Cod. Such wonderful geography, as it's set nicely apart from other pockets of civilization on the Cape, and of course, beyond it is wherever 42-03 latitude lies on the European continent. It would be fitting if that were Portugal, for Provincetown rests its might culinary laurels not lightly around the shoulders of Portugese cooking talent. Shellfish combined or separate, in broths, stews, or taken for a dip in the Friolator, is the central attraction on most menus here and the Portugese tradition of boat to table comprises many star attractions in the casual Provincetown dining scene. Of course, Provincetown also has its kitschy side, but is not overrun by it. And should you feel it is, you can alight out into Cape Cod Bay for a twilight sail to soak up the wonderful breezes and vistas, as commercial vessels glide through these waters with regularity. Take a date for the weekend or scheme to revitalize your marriage. Chances are good Provincetown will identify what brought you close together with your love interest in the first place. read more

Provincetown Library - A Kodachrome kinda town - Libraries Near Me - Provincetown, Massachusetts

I spend a lot of time in the Library, especially the last few years. I am in Ptown 4-5 times a year and I come to the Library for the quiet. The second floor has the most amazing view of the harbor and there are always a ton of kids crawling around and playing. So, I don't go to the 2nd floor when I want quiet. The first floor is usually pretty busy as well. This is where people can use the computers or print out a few pages. Also, this is where you can ask questions or take out a video. So, I don't go to the 1st floor either when I need or want quiet. When I want quiet, I go to the basement "Quiet Study Area" where not only are there several tables for quiet study, there are actually two rooms with doors for super extra quiet study. Don't give libraries 2 star reviews because you don't know how to read. read more

Beautiful, historic library in Provincetown!!! Stopped by the library during the week and was very impressed by how beautiful and "up to date" the library was. The library has 4 floors and also has a lower level section (with overflow books), so there's technically 5 floors. The 1st floor has books and a checkout area, the 2nd floor is a children's area, and the 3rd/4th floors have reading and study areas. What was really cool is the large ship they have on the second floor in the children's department. Despite looking old, yet beautiful, the library is quite modern... there are computers for use and also wifi. This library is a perfect retreat for a cold, rainy day!!! read more

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Ptown is one of my favorite places on earth, I swear! I tend to go to Provincetown at least 3-4 times during the summer every year. The minute I arrive my face sports a huge smile. Yes, it is quite expensive there but aren't most seasonal touristy spots? Everything from a tasty bowl of chowder at the Post Office Cafe to a cocktail at the Shipwreck Lounge. Not to mention the fabulous art galleries as well. It always seems as everyone is in a good mood here. The fast ferry gets you to here from Boston in about 90-100 minutes. The beach here is not my favorite as it is quite rocky, but the water is usually pretty warm here in the summer. Gay friendly, everyone welcome and the epitome of a New England summer getaway. How do I love thee Ptown? Let me count the many ways.... Now, what kind of person puts Provincetown down for getting Lyme disease? I do believe that you can get that anywhere....get a life. read more

I have been to Provincetown twice. Once during the off season and once during the 'on' season. Both times had their advantages and disadvantages. During the off season Provincetown seems like your typical small town. Sleepy. Not much going on at all. Only scraps of evidence was shown with lonely shop keepers peering out the windows of downtown hoping for a sale and not having the common sense to shutter up until tourist season began again as most shops do here. The restaurant we ate at was nice and quiet, not an exceptional meal but fair. I can't remember what the name of the place was. Since Provincetown does bring in lots of gay men there was a die hard going up a hill in his electric wheel chair with a rainbow flag waving proudly. Looking at the beaches were very nice but very chilly so we did not walk around much. It was in the dead of winter when we went there. In the tourist season my stay there was very brief and a bit frustrating. No parking anywhere at all! I did not even see much for parking garages. Coming from the west this was very unnerving where a parking space is almost always available no matter where you go, or one turns up shortly. Lots of tourists, lots of sun worshipers and lots of gay tourists that gives Provincetown its reputation. Nice place all around but if you go there during tourist season, just take a ferry from Boston or fly there. You save yourself much hassle! read more

It is an interesting town to visit but not to stay if you are on a family vacation. Definitely take 1/2 - 1 day walking around the piers and the Commerce Street when you are in Cape Cod. btw... the whale watching from the Ptown is fun but 1.5 hour commute each way in a rough sea will do a job for some of your follow passengers' stomach - therefore the smell on the boat can be a bit too much... read more

OK, if you take the scenic route, you shave a chunk off your life to get here. It's allllllll the way at the tip of the cape. If you're not into trading this chunk of life for consummate Cape Cod scenery, take the main highway...you'll get there in about half the time. I was questioning my decision to listen to our innkeeper who said not to miss this place... ...until we pulled into town. Being summer, we pulled in with hordes of other people. But, I didn't care. This was the cutest little beach community...with its own unique personality. A cute harbor, sand dunes, tons of touristy and chic boutiques, and a flamboyant Pride vibe. Loved it!!! We didn't want to miss anything, so we opted for the trolley tour. So glad we did...it saved us a lot of walking (and my sanity as I had my 13 year old daughter in tow). If you're a photographer of any level, you'll be busy here. Everyone should allow a full day here...one shouldn't rush Provincetown. read more

Nice little town with a lot of small shops and different restaurant. The street a very narrow. Very busy during the tourist season, little sleepy off season. During the tourist season driving is almost impossible, parking is difficult to find. The town has lots of charm. This is definitely a must see place. read more

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Had a GREAT time there this past weekend. The trip was a surprise for my wife. I got us a room at a B&B only to be surprised when we got there because friends of ours had made it a surprise for us! They paid for everything!!! Why that matters is how they did it. At the restaurant, everything was set up and went off without a hitch. They even paid for the gratuity. For most of the weekend, it was as if we were at an all inclusive resort. The Customer Service was second to NONE! (except for the parking, but I'll get to that in a minute.) We stayed at the Moffett House. Small B&B that I would HIGHLY Recommend. Had a great weekend walking around enjoying the sights and sounds. P-Town is always fun. We ate at Karoo Kafe - very good...casual, inexpensive and very, very good food! We also had dinner at the Mews...food was FANTASTIC!!! I had a bone in steak that melted in my mouth. If you go...do NOT park in Duartes Parking. It's on Bradford St. One of the first "major" lots. Staff was rude and they really do things by the letter of the law. Because my car - a CRV - is classified as an SUV, I had to pay the up-charge for an SUV. (The CRV has a smaller footprint than most medium sized cars - Accords and Camrys are wider and longer.) And then, because I left after the pre-paid 24 hour slot - by about 15 minutes - they hit me with another $6 charge. When I pointed this out, the employee he was quite rude about it. And then when I gave him $21 for the $6 charge, I had to argue with him to get change!!!! Next time, I'll park elsewhere!!!! read more

The library was built in 1860 as a Methodist Church. It's had several incarnations, including several years as the Chrysler Museum, before becoming a library. The building just finished a 10-year renovation that restored the exterior to its original beauty and added an additional floor of book shelves, tables, and a program room. There is an active schedule of programming for all ages. One of the best parts of the building is the 66.5 ft. replica of an historic schooner-- the largest replica in the nation, and the only one available in a library. read more

Provincetown Library - Renovated library building - Libraries Near Me - Provincetown, Massachusetts

A beautifully restored structure. Nice selection of local themed books and nautical displays. A bank of free computers to use for Internet and research purposes. And a beautiful view of the harbor from upstairs . That being said this is the noisiest library I've ever been to and trying to study here is impossible, but for the tiny "quiet room" on the second floor. There is open child's play area with toys and blocks and all things that make for incessant kids' noises and shrieks of delight that resonate throughout the building. And tourists' chattering and incessant "Oh's and "Ah's" in full voice is bothersome... clearly not just to me but to others who were studying or writing or doing things one expects in a library. No staff intervened in the 3 hours I tried to study here (donning headphones drowned out the din and allowed me to finally focus on study materials). Maybe I was out the day the rules changed but aren't libraries supposed to be quiet sanctuaries ? Next time I'll study across the street at the Wired Puppy - even with the espresso machines and bustling retail environment there I'm sure it's a quieter environment than this library . read more

Love this very old, well organized with amazingly friendly and professional staff! My son enjoys it as well, the children selection and also great! read more

Free internet for all the tourists. Cheap printing. Plenty of tables to use. There's a SHIP on the 2nd floor. The new facade is gorgeous, but Andy and I both agreed, more reminiscent of Puerto Rico than New England. read more

Definitely worth a visit if you are in the cape. Commercial Street is quite a happening street. Great for perusing shops like Black Dog, strolling down the long wharf, and burying your toes in the beach. I happened to be around during a party week with lots of people in outrageous costumes and music pumping from a distance. Great atmosphere. read more

I came here one week after peak season and it seems like its still a happening town. I can only imagine what the summer brings. The small little shops as well as local bars makes it such a fun place to visit during the off season. I can't wait to come back during the summer. read more

Perfect stop for a rainy day. It let my 1 year old time to crawl around and play. Plus their is a fabulous view of the bay/ocean. It was a fun stop, browsed through used books and tried toi find an audio book for my hubby and i as we venture through town, but nothing good. Overall we loved the library and its location. Right in the middle of shops and restaurants. read more

What is there not to love? Great views, amazing beaches and friendly people... I love this place if I had the money I would move here.