This is a lending and research library that has historical and rare books and manuscripts I Stopped by to view the current exhibition “Unfinished Revolution ….”It was a small hallway display that showcases remarkable books and documents.I never expected to view the Emancipation Proclamation just as Lincoln wrote and signed it. There were other impressive books that showed the writings of indigenous people who expressed their desire for equal rights during and after the American Revolution.Exhibit ends Sept 2026.

A beautiful historic public library in Southport, CT, located between Westport and Fairfield near Rte. 1. I came here as a kid and always loved the glass floor. Visiting as and adult, I still love that floor, but Al’s the wrought iron bookends, book elevator, and beautiful stained glass windows by Louis Comfort Tiffany.There is also a room where they exhibit rare books. The exhibit in July 2025 included a page from the original manuscript of “Gone with the Wind.”They accept book, SVD, and CD donations and have book sales. The staff is also helpful l and friendly.If you’re visiting this area, especially if you are or are with a bibliophile, this is worth a stop (will only take 20 minutes or so).

My husband and I recently came to Pequot to explore the Night Sky Planetarium which was being offered before the Total Eclipse. We both thought that it would be helpful to brush up on the night sky, and also prepare ourselves for the exciting eclipse that was going to occur in our area, even though we weren't in the direct path of the total eclipse. A large group of children and adults crawled into an inflatable silver Starlab planetarium in Pequot Library's auditorium. Mike Francis, our fearless leader, was an extremely knowledgeable Physics and Science teacher who had lectured for ten years at the Planetarium in Boston's Museum of Science. We sat on the floor of the lab where, once we had our bearings, the dome darkened and we were looking up at a magnificent starry night sky. Children and family members helped to identify individual stars and constellations in the remarkably realistic night sky projected onto the ceiling of the planetarium dome. We learned how sailors used these celestial objects to chart their courses across the ocean. It was awe-inspiring, informative, and fun!

Wow, many people describe Pequot Library as a hidden gem. I think it's regular visitors want to keep it that way, but it shouldn't be. This institution is not a public library. It may be publicly accessible, but by all accounts it is a privately owned and managed cultural center and rare books repository. In terms of programs and collections, I'd compare it to the beautiful Boston Athenium or Newport's Redwood Library. Not only do they have some of the quintessential rare books (Shakespeare Folios, Audubon Birds of America, etc) but they also are THE destination for New England related Americana. From the second you step foot in this beautiful museum, you feel like you are on the set of a Wes Anderson movie. Time stands still. The programs focus on both the special collections and the history of Southport/gilded age. If you are in Fairfield County, and want to really get a feel for the area, this is a must stop. They also offer historic tours of Southport Village and the Library itself.

The Pequot Library is in a stunning building and is a treasure to peruse. They host a constantly changing special exhibits centered around a theme. We have attended a number of different events there and have found each one to be so worth the time to visit! The recent Sea Shanty was so fun and informative. Loved the Grog!And all of the people who work there are kind and very helpful and knowledgeable.