[4] It is responsible for public education at the elementary and secondary levels.

The program started in 1991 by the Early Education Department, who still runs and funds this grant today.

The purpose of these centers is to facilitate the availability and accessibility of early childhood materials and resources statewide.

Partnering with libraries has enabled broader access for parents, schools, child care agencies, and other entities involved with early education care and intervention.

As of 2017, the Cambridge, Falmouth, Haverhill, Norfolk, and Springfield Public Library are the five Early Childhood Resource Centers in Massachusetts.