Opened on July 8, 1953 the building was designed by the firm of Isidor Richmond and Carney Goldberg, Architects and Engineers. The branch has a large landscaped back yard and the Friends of the Egleston Square Branch have helped to landscape the front of the building. The branch holds an extensive African-American collection. The branch has various literacy materials including books, videos and audiotapes. There are also many Spanish language materials. The Egleston Square branch recently hosted a visit from the 54th Massachusetts Volunteers, Civil War recreationists who specialize in the "Glory" brigade commemorated by film and statue.