The Mayo Hayes O’Donnell Library

The Mayo Hayes O’Donnell Library was originally the Saint James Episcopal Church, built in the California Gothic style by the Reverend James S. McGowan in 1876. It originally stood on Pacific Street near the Merritt House.

To save the little church from the wreckers’ ball, the Monterey History & Art Association in moved the property to its present location on north side of the Doud House on Van Buren Street in 1970. Visitors entering the library are struck at once by the lancet windows in the raised chancel at the end of the room, which provide a spectacular view of the harbor, the city of Monterey, and its backdrop of hills and mountains.

Today, as the Mayo Hayes O'Donnell Research Library, it houses an extensive collection of over 2000 books and documents pertaining to the history of Monterey and California. The core of this fine collection was amassed by MHAA member Mayo Hayes O’Donnell during her years as a columnist for the Monterey County Herald newspaper. Her books were greatly augmented by the Frank LaCauza Memorial Collection. In addition, the Library holds ephemera, photographs, documents and biographies donated by Amelie Elkinton, former Monterey Mayor Minnie Coyle, Judge Monty Hellam, Wayne Edwards, and the Ardaiz/Cano families.

Scholars, researchers, students, and the general public are all welcome to use it as a resource. A volunteer librarian is available during opening hours to answer questions or to advise researchers.

Mayo Hayes O’Donnell Library
155 Van Buren Street
Monterey, California
Tel. No. 831-372-1838
Open hours: 1:30-3:45pm Wednesday, Friday-Sunday, and by appointment.
Latitude: 36.604129
Longitude: -121.895974
GPS Locations by MontereyBiz.com