Historic Monterey

29. Mayo Hayes O'Donnell Library

Monterey, CA

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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. John Steinbeck's son, Thom, was baptized in the church in 1945, and it is thought that Saint James's was the church referred to in John Steinbeck's book "To a God Unknown." In 1970, urban renewal threatened the church, and the Monterey History & Art Association stepped in to move the property to its present location on north side of the Doud House on Van Buren Street. 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. Mayo Hayes O’Donnell, a columnist for the Monterey County Herald newspaper, amassed the core of the collection. In addition, the Library holds ephemera, photographs, documents and biographies. 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. Content Provided By: Historic Monterey