There are three libraries throughout the town, two of which are independent. The Norwell Public Library, temporarily relocated to Route 53 in Hanover while a new facility is presently under construction behind the high school near Assinippi, belongs to the Old Colony Library Network (OCLN). The James Library and Center for the Arts is located near the town center, and is associated with the First Parish Church of Norwell. The James Library was founded by Josiah Leavitt James of Chicago, a former resident of South Scituate, who was persuaded by Rev. William Hamilton Fish, minister of First Parish Church, to fund a town library. The South Shore Natural Science Center, located next to Jacobs Pond, also has a small nature library.