Libraries have long stood as a place to pick up a classic novel, participate in an after-school activity, or get together with your neighbors. Nowhere else is this truer than at the superb libraries of Maine. From reading programs to educational opportunities, you’ll find a plethora of great resources at the 10 best libraries in Maine.
Having recently undergone an enormous renovation, the Bangor Public Library has long been a pillar in the community. From lending books, movies, and more, to providing computers for use by those who don’t have their own, their reach is far and impacting. Check out the many programs they offer the community, including a relatively new one for seniors.
Featuring a vast number of programs for children, teens, and adults, the Portland Public Library lends both tangible books and eBooks. In fact, they have an enormous eLibrary for those who want to borrow their electronic books online. Their research materials are vast and their librarians are always willing to help as needed.
Check out the “Meet the Author” program at the Lithgow Public Library, and you may just find yourself meeting the man or woman who wrote the latest best seller you just read. Their program brings in countless notable authors each year, much to the delight of local reading groups. In addition, the library lends out passes to local museums and attractions and has impressive programs for kids.
Built in 1896, the quaint building that houses the Camden Public Library is as charming as the town itself. A new video streaming service is incredibly popular with members. The library’s book fairs are attended by people from miles around.
The William Fogg Library was constructed in 1907 and built from fieldstone found adjacent to the site. A new addition in 1999 made room for an extensive children’s collection. The library has that small town feel but offers some great programs, including book clubs and lectures, as well as lending out passes for nearby and Boston museums.
Would you like to learn to play a ukulele? Maybe you are eager to begin a job search. You can do both at the Waterville Public Library. A 2017 winner of a National Medal for Museum and Library Service, those who partake of their offerings aren’t the least bit surprised they won.
Film discussion groups, community care programs, children’s reading programs and more round out the wealth of offerings at the Merrill Memorial Library. They even host programs that teach avid readers how to create their own book clubs.
Offering discussion groups on book series, gatherings for those intrigued by local history and groups for creating a stronger community, the Lewiston Public Library is a hub for lots more than just books. That’s not to say they don’t have a fabulous collection, as well as programs pertaining to teaching adults to read and improving children’s reading skills.
Located on the campus of the University of Maine at Orono, the Raymond H. Fogler Library accepts library cards from many local communities. This means the vast world that exists within this library’s walls is open to the public. And what a world that is! Check out their expansive list of guest speakers and programs. Hear best-selling authors talk about breaking into the writing world. Visitors have access to an unfathomable quantity of books and resource materials.
In addition to all the typical library services it offers the community, the York Public Library is known for their art exhibits. Several display cases and a couple of rooms within the library are devoted to art. Be sure to check them out the next time you visit for a program or to check out a book.
