Know-Nothing Legislation
The 1855 Massachusetts Resolves described examinations by Governor Gardner himself of state almshouses and “lunatic hospitals.” In all cases, Gardner suggested that libraries be funded in order to provide the paupers/patients with suitable reading. In this case, this might have meant English books specifically, especially in the almshouses, because generally paupers were immigrants and Gardner, as a Know-Nothing, was trying to push out foreign culture.
The 1855 Acts, on the other hand, were examples of what else the Know-Nothing party did. They focused on regulating railroads and insurance companies. In these areas their program was surprisingly progressive.