Christa McAuliffe Branch Library
🏢 Framingham Public Library · FRAMINGHAM, Massachusetts
Christa McAuliffe Branch Library
Named in 1987 to honor Framingham's own Christa McAuliffe — teacher, astronaut, and Challenger crew member — this branch relocated to a three-times-larger facility on Water Street in 2016 and is recognized as one of the busiest branch libraries in Massachusetts.
🕑 Library Hours
| Monday | 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Thursday | 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
Hours may vary on holidays.
📍 Location & Contact
Address: 746 Water Street, FRAMINGHAM, MA 01701
Phone: 5085325636
Website: framinghamlibrary.org
📖 About Christa McAuliffe Branch Library
<p>The Christa McAuliffe Branch Library traces its roots to the Saxonville Branch, which opened at 10 Nicholas Road in March 1963 to serve Framingham's western neighborhoods. In 1987 the branch was renamed to honor Christa Corrigan McAuliffe, the Framingham High School teacher and NASA astronaut who perished aboard Space Shuttle Challenger in January 1986. A landmark 2016 relocation brought the branch to a purpose-built 746 Water Street facility three times the size of its predecessor, featuring dedicated Children's and Young Adult rooms, multiple study rooms, and modern computer facilities. Library Journal recognized the new building in its 2016 Year in Architecture issue, and the branch consistently ranks among the more than 100 busiest branch libraries in Massachusetts.</p>
⭐ What makes this branch special
- Named for Christa McAuliffe, Framingham's own Space Shuttle Challenger astronaut and teacher
- Opened at current Water Street location in 2016 — three times larger than the original Saxonville Branch (est. 1963)
- Featured in Library Journal's 2016 Year in Architecture issue for its contemporary design
- Dedicated Children's Room and Young Adult area with active programming
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the branch named after Christa McAuliffe?
Christa Corrigan McAuliffe grew up in Framingham and taught social studies at Concord High School in New Hampshire before being selected as the first Teacher in Space through NASA's program. She died in the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster on January 28, 1986. The branch was renamed in her honor in 1987, one year after the tragedy.
Is the McAuliffe Branch open on Sundays?
Yes. The McAuliffe Branch is open Sundays from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM from September through June. The branch is closed on Sundays during July and August.
Does the McAuliffe Branch have study rooms available?
Yes. The 2016 building includes multiple study rooms available for patron use. Contact the branch at (508) 532-5636 or visit framinghamlibrary.org to check availability and reservation policies.