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Library Newsletter

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What's new at Flower Library?

September Spice Club – Ginger

Try something new! Our featured spice for the month of September is ground ginger. Stop in and pick up a kit beginning Tuesday September 1st at 9am. The kit will contain: a sample of the spice recipe cards history of the spice a list of cookbooks you can check out from the library Spice Club kits go fast! Unable to make it in time to grab one of your own? Try out a recipe! The recipes

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August 18, 2026 No Comments

August Spice Club – Cilantro

Try something new! Our featured spice for the month of August is cilantro. Stop in and pick up a kit beginning Saturday August 1st at 9am. The kit will contain: a sample of the spice recipe cards history of the spice a list of cookbooks you can check out from the library Spice Club kits go fast! Unable to make it in time to grab one of your own? Try out a recipe! The recipes included

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July 28, 2026 No Comments

Our History

Flower Library was built by the generosity of Emma Flower Taylor, in memory of her father, Roswell P. Flower, who was once Governor of New York. When Flower Library was dedicated in 1904, it was called “The most beautiful library in the United States.” The library doors opened in January of 1905, welcoming the citizens of Watertown into the public space.

Library Walking Tour

Curious about the history of Watertown? Take at look at our new tour of downtown, courtesy of a group from the 2026 Jefferson Leadership Institute class.

Downtown Walking Tour

What do Library Lovers say?

Read reviews left by library patrons.

Sherry W.
Sherry W.
I grew up in Watertown and the Flower Library was my favorite place when I was a child. It was always my safe place to go and I spent many happy hours there and my children both did as well. I have visited many libraries over the years and none compare to the Flower Library.
Cate L.
Cate L.
Gorgeous library with a delightful staff. Spent a lot of time perusing their +3,000 volume New York State collection. A real jewel.
Hannah K.
Hannah K.
It has something for everyone, kids to adults!
Melinda I.
Melinda I.
I've never been involved in a library before. It wasn't something I was not raised doing, but I've moved here and they are so active that I got hooked! I'm still not a library-aholic. But, I'm quick to think about this library for books and checking out what they are doing. That's HUGE for me!
Russ W.
Russ W.
We live near Watertown but never really joined [the] library. No working computer at home and really needed use of one with high speed internet for some personal business. Didn't expect such a courteous and accommodating experience. Facility really is beautifully designed and maintained.
Cheryl Ann R.
Cheryl Ann R.
It's beautiful architecture, friendly employees, well stocked shelves with latest books, music, movies, and more. And of course the fun free crafts and events going on all year long. Wonderful place to be.
Debbie D.
Debbie D.
Wonderful place to get lost in!
Craig S.
Craig S.
A breathtakingly beautiful building, it recalls a time when knowledge and literacy were so treasured that libraries were built with a majesty to match their importance in the community. One of the hidden jewels of New York State.
Tabitha B.
Tabitha B.
This place is an awesome place to spend an afternoon. The architecture alone is worth stopping by to see. There are large study rooms upstairs that can be reserved, I spend a lot of time here studying for finals.