Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the James Library & Center for the Arts, and who is it for?

    The James is a non-profit community center dedicated to art, music, and literature. Our mission is to be a welcoming place open to absolutely everyone—inspiring creativity and learning through our programs. We serve adults, children, and families from Norwell and all surrounding communities.


    Has the relationship between the James and the First Parish of Norwell changed?

    No. The structural relationship remains the same as it has been for years.

    • Our Structure: The James operates as a non-profit organization. We function as a "supporting organization" to the First Parish of Norwell.

    • The Building: The First Parish of Norwell owns the building, and the James occupies it as a tenant. A binding agreement ensures the use of the building is for the "James Library & Center for the Arts" and stays open to the public.

    • Governing Rules: The James is governed by specific bylaws. Not a single governing bylaw has changed. We continue to operate under the same rules and regulations we have used to successfully serve the community for years.

    • Financial Support: In addition to free rent, outside building and property maintenance, the church sustains an annual cash donation


    3. Is the James becoming a more church related organization?

    No. We are legally sponsored by First Parish of Norwell since our founding in 1874. The James has always had a distinct identity by serving everyone in the community. First as a library and, since the end of the 20th century, it has added the arts and community connection. The James’ board is fully autonomous. Our mission is to provide cultural and educational programs for the general public, and our strategic plan focuses on serving the wider community.


    Who makes the decisions at the James? Is the Board only for church members?

    Decisions are made by the Board of Trustees, elected for staggered 3 year terms.

    • In 1994 the James Library Bylaws were amended changing the number of trustees from 5 to 9, allowing up to 4 Trustees to be from outside the Parish membership. Since the library has always served non-members, this change was designed to represent the whole community.

    • The board composition bylaws have not changed and they have served the church and the community well for all these many years. 


    Are the programs or events changing?

    No. Our programming remains the same as it has been for the past several years. We continue to offer the events you know and love, including art gallery exhibitions, music concerts, and literary programs. The staff continues to run day-to-day operations guided by a strategic plan developed with community input.


    If I donate to the James, where does my money go?

    Your donations go directly to supporting the James.

    • Financial Independence: Even though we are connected to the Parish, the James operates its own budget and pays its own salaries and expenses.

    • The Financial Firewall: We have a specific system (a "financial firewall") in place. This ensures that money raised for the James—through the "James Charitable Trust"—is used exclusively for the James's mission.

    • Protection of Funds: This legal separation ensures that your contributions cannot be absorbed into the Parish’s general funds.


    How can I get involved?

    We rely on the community to keep the James vibrant!

    • Attend: Come to our concerts, art openings, and events.

    • Volunteer: Board members and volunteers are essential to our success.

    • Donate: As a non-profit, we rely on grants and fundraising for about 80% of our budget.

  • YES! You can find out the details on our ACCESSIBILITY PAGE.

  • Guests to the James are welcome to browse our library during business hours. You do not need to be a “member” to take out a library book.

  • Nope! The James Library is one of the few independent libraries in Southeastern Massachusetts offering 21st century books in an 19th century atmosphere. You do not need to be a Norwell resident to use the library.

  • The James Library has books and books and books—primarily fiction for adults and children, including New York Times bestsellers from the last few years.

    A wide variety of current fiction and non-fiction is available as well as specialized collections of garden books, Norwell and North River history, local authors, and mysteries.

    Holds can be placed on books by calling (781) 659-7100 or emailing the library.

    The children’s collection, which includes picture books, early readers, and fiction chapter books, provides a comfortable setting for small children and their caregivers to spend time with books.

  • If you are interested in donating a book in a loved one’s memory, please email or call the James’ at 781-659-7100.

    Donations of other book materials are accepted during open hours with the understanding that they may or may not be added to the collection, and could be sold or discarded. We do not accept magazines or encyclopedias. All materials must be in good, usable, or saleable condition. The library does not provide evaluation of gifts for tax deduction or other purposes but will provide a receipt if desired.

  • No. The James does not issue paper tickets. We will have your name at check-in at the door.

  • Our website is the best way to purchase tickets to events at the James. If you require assistance with online ticketing, you may reach us by calling 781-659-7100 during business hours.cription

  • The James is open for students during piano and voice lessons outside of our regular business hours. The building is not open to the public during those times, but to students and their families only.

  • Coat racks and umbrella stands will be available, however we encourage you to pack light and to bring your belongings to your seat.

  • Exterior doors open 30 minutes before the performance. However, to avoid groups congregating in the lobby, we will wait to admit guests until the musicians or presenters have completed sound check (typically 20-30 minutes before the event start time). 

  • There are concessions during some events at the James. You may contact us to inquire about food and drink availability at the event you plan to attend.

  • We have two great restaurants, Cheever Tavern and The Tinker’s Son, within walking distance of the James. We encourage you to visit before or after your visit.