Peru Library was formed in 1977 by a group of volunteers, in a small front room of the current library building at 6 West Main Rd. on Rte. 143. The library’s initial collection was composed mainly of donated books, and local volunteers built shelving and held bake sales to help pay for supplies. The library was heated with wood. In 1978, the founders were able to secure $50 in annual funding from the town, and the library soon expanded to include a second small room, then moved to a larger main room.

By 1982, the library was receiving State Aid. In 1986, it achieved two milestones with its organization as a non-profit corporation, and the purchase of 6 West Main Rd., for $1, from Peru Congregational Church, just next door.

The building, variously described as Queen Anne, Greek Revival and Georgian, was long believed to be the town’s original meeting-house, dating to the 1780’s: however, it’s recently been discovered that the current structure dates to the 1910’s, when it was built to replace the original Colonial-era meeting house. 

In 1986, the founders noted, “The building had many problems, but proved to be the only available space in town.” This remains true today, though the library is well suited to its simple space, which is an appropriate size for the population, sited at town center, easily visible on a hill-top, and as a “living” building, the aging structure benefits from its continued use as a library.

In recent years, a new Local History Area has been created, with displays and resources for on-site research. Recent improvements to the interior include expansion of the children’s area, a new, dedicated computer area, and updates to improve energy efficiency. 

Peru Library is incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and is governed by a Board of Trustees. Funding is through a combination of Town appropriations and State Aid, along with grants and gifts. Peru Library is a member of the Massachusetts Library System.