About the Library The Peabody Institute Library was established in 1852 through the vision and generosity of George Peabody, for whom the city was named. The cornerstone was laid on August 20, 1853 and the origi- nal 82-foot by 50-foot brick brownstone building was dedicated on September 29, 1854. Three years later, with a gift from Eliza Sutton in memory of her son, the Eben Dale Sutton Reference Room Library was added. Opened in 1869, the Sutton Room housed the reference collection until the late 1970’s, when the entire building was expanded and renovated. A miniature porcelain portrait of Queen Victoria resides on the first floor, which she gave to George Peabody in gratitude for his services to London’s poor. Near the portrait area, there are collections of other awards and presentations honoring George Peabody. Today, the library is a city department and is overseen by a board of twelve elected Trustees . Board of Trustees The Board of Trustees meets the first Monday of each month (except summer months) at 7:30 p.m. at the library. Public welcome. Sutton Room Call for hours to visit the Sutton Room and view the Audition prints. Also, visit Local History Resource Center (LHRCC) for genealogy and local history resources. Center for the Study of Human Rights Located on the third floor of the library, the Center currently includes the offices and resources of the Holacaust Center, Boston North (978.531.8288). Patrons may access and check out Holocaust Center materials with a valid library card. Access the materils using the Library catalog. The Friends of the Peabody Institute Library The friends provide financial support to the library for programs, furnishings, museum passes, and other items. The friends meet on the first Wednesday of each month (except summer months) at 7:30 at the South Branch Library. Membership is open to all. The Peabody Institute Library Foundation The Peabody Institute Library Foundation focuses on the long term financial in- terests of the library by funding special programs, materials and large capital projects. Examples of donations are memorial or named gifts, cash contributions and planned giving.