History
The memorial library building was originally constructed to serve three purposes:
- To house the Public Library
- To serve as a Civil War Memorial
- To be a meeting place for the Civil War Veterans Association in Adams.
The Veterans’ group was called the Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) George E. Sayles Post 126 and their meeting rooms were located on the second floor above the library. Their hall remains in its original condition with the chairs once occupied by Civil War veterans.
Today, the G.A.R. Memorial Hall serves as the location for special events and programs. It may be viewed by signing in at the main desk and taking a brochure that serves as a self-guided tour.
The building was extensively renovated in 2014 to make it fully accessible while maintaining its historic and architectural integrity.
The Adams Historical Society has a gallery in the auxiliary entrance hall, to the right of the main desk, where they display rotating exhibits of local historical topics.