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  • June 7th, 2023 Report It, Fix ItAlerts & Announcements Doing Business My Rockland Search
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    Rockland Public Library

    (207) 594-0310 | library@rocklandmaine.gov | Rockland Public Library, 80 Union Street Rockland, Maine 04841

    Hours: The Library hours are Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday 10 AM to 8 PM, Wednesday & Friday 10 AM to 5 PM, and Saturday 10 AM to 4 PM.

    Upcoming closure: Monday, June 19th, JUNETEENTH

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    We'ere on the air! The library has a new monthly radio show on Rockland’s Community Radio station, WRFR, 93.3 FM and streaming online at wrfr.org!

    Lowdown Live with the Rockland Public Library

    The First Wednesday of the Month
    from 9 AM -10 AM

    Join Utility Librarian Jessie Blanchard and Deputy Library Director Patty King for a jam-packed hour of: information about library events, the inside scoop about library resources and cool things to check out, news from other City of Rockland departments, interviews, music, and more!

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    PLEASE NOTE: THE CHAIR YOGA CLASS STARTING IN JUNE IS FULL.
    To be added to the waitlist or list for if/when another class potentially occurs, please call 207-594-0310 or email Patty at pking@rocklandmaine.gov.

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    Good news for the gardeners of Midcoast Maine!

    Friends of Rockland Public Library will be holding their Annual Plant and Bake Sale once again on Saturday, June 10. This year we will also be offering gardening books for sale, as well as gardening gear. We are currently looking for plant and gardening donations for the upcoming sale. We have a dedicated group of volunteers who are happy to collect, divide, and repot your perennials. Now is the best time to start dividing, as the ground warms and plants start popping up. We are eager to accept any and all plants or garden stuff. All plants, great and small, welcome. Have leftover gear from backyard chickens? Pots for replanting? Too many rakes? Dahlia tubers? Send it all our way! Contact Rebecca Albright: 207.975.3946, becalbright1@gmail.com for more information. We are also accepting donations of gardening and cook books for our upcoming sale. Please contact friendsofrocklandpubliclibrary@gmail.com for more information on book donations. Just like old times, our Plant Sale will be complimented by our Bake Sale, featuring delicious treats prepared by Rockland Public Library volunteers. All proceeds from this event will benefit the Rockland Public Library.

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    Introducing Bendable Maine!

    Bendable Maine allows residents of all ages and backgrounds to easily discover and access content that is just right for them on a wide variety of subjects and then acquire new knowledge and skills through online courses as well as local, in-person learning opportunities. The vast majority of the learning made available through the system is FREE to residents of the state. Bendable Maine's work-related platform includes career pathways, backed by

    Maine employers, where you can earn a digital badge, giving you a leg up in your job search.

    Bendable Maine also has resources on a wide variety of topics, including cooking healthier meals,

    handling personal finances, fixing things around the house, understanding technology—even foraging for mushrooms.

    The platform features personal learning playlists from individual residents across Maine. It has resources from state and local providers (the university and community college systems, career centers, adult education programs, music schools, art museums and many others), along with a wide range of national providers (including Study.com, edX, GCFGlobal and a dozen more). Visit maine.bendable.com to learn more.

     

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    Sign Up for hoopla today!

    We introduce hoopla, our new subscription app. With hoopla Digital, Rockland Public Library cardholders will be able to instantly read, watch, and listen to their choice of more than 1,000,000 titles, for FREE! This includes TV series, newly released music, bestselling audiobooks, eBooks, Great Courses, and much more everywhere you have a screen - your computer, your phone, your car, even your TV. All you need is your valid library card!

    Cardholders may borrow up to five (5) titles each month; however, a Binge Pass allows unlimited streaming (only) using only one of your five borrows. The Binge Pass is currently available for magazines, Curiosity Stream (engaging documentaries and nonfiction series), Hellosaurus (interactive, engaging, and educational shows for kids ages 2 to 8), and Great Courses.

    The library is able to provide this new service thanks to funding from the Rockland Public Library Endowment Association.

    For more information, or help getting set up, call 594-0310 or email: refdesk@rocklandmaine.org.

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    BOOK STOP is OPEN FOR BUSINESS!

    The Friends of Rockland Library volunteers run The Book Stop, a wonderful used bookstore located on the lower level of the library building. The Book Stop sells gently used books in all genres, as well as DVD’s and CD’s, all at bargain prices. It is open year-round, Monday through Saturday, 10am to 1pm. Donations of nice quality items for re-sale are gratefully accepted, please contact a Library staff member for donation guidelines. All proceeds benefit the library.

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    We are pleased to share that patrons now have access to the Library's subscription to Booklist Reader. Booklist Reader is a digital magazine, featuring diverse readers' advisory recommendations, for readers and listeners of all ages. Filled with high-interest, themed lists that showcase books people can read and check out now. Booklist Reader is an exclusive service for library subscribers and their patrons. (That's You!) This link will live in the Digital Resources part of this website, under Find Something New to Read.

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    Do you love comic books and graphic novels? Rockland Library cardholders now have FREE access to online titles through the ComicsPlus app. Follow the link HERE for instructions on downloading the app, reading direct from the website, and using your library card to log in. TONS of titles are available, including new and popular works for both adults and kids.

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    Follow us at any of the social media links below for unique and informative content. Just click the pic!

     

     

     

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    Upcoming & Current Events

    June 2023

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    7Big Kid Storytime
    Wednesday Walkers
    Outdoor Art Crew: Shaving Cream Marbling
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    8Babytime with Miss Katie
    Sailing at the Edge of Disaster: A Talk by Elizabeth Garber
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    10Ukulele Class with Heather Beers
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    12NDEC Tech Class: Understanding CloudLibrary
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    13Rockin’ Storytime with Miss Katie
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    14Wednesday Walkers
    NO STORYTIME
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    15NO BABYTIME
    Safe use, Storage and Disposal of Medication for Older Adults
    The Allure of Maine Lighthouses: An Illustrated Talk by Bob Trapani, Jr., Co-Sponsored with the Rockland Historical Society
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    17Ukulele Class with Heather Beers
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    19LIBRARY IS CLOSED
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    20Rockin’ Storytime with Miss Katie
    Lawn Concert: New Shades of Blue
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    21Wednesday Walkers
    NO STORYTIME
    IN PERSON Contemporary Fiction Book Group
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    22Free Child Developmental Screenings
    “What’s a Mother to Do?” – A Conversation with Midcoast Women
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    24Ukulele Class with Heather Beers
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    26Book Group: Catching Up With the Classics
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    27Rockin’ Storytime with Miss Katie
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    28Wednesday Walkers
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    29Rockland Public Library Storytime at the Farmers Market
    Middle School Book Club
    Foodtopia: An Evening of Conversation with Margot Anne Kelley
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    Latest Rockland Public Library News

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    Rockland Public Library FAQs

    This section is to answer some of the frequently asked questions about the Rockland Public Library and its services.  If you do not find the answer here please feel free to call us (207) 594-0310 or ask your question online.

    Are you open today?
    As of July 11, 2021  the Library's hours are Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM; Wednesday & Friday, 10 AM to 5 PM, and Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM.  We are closed for Federal and State holidays. Curbside service, available on request. When the weather outside is frightful, the Library may be closed due to snow, ice, or other hazards, so please check our alerts & announcements for closures & delayed openings, or the Library's Facebook page,  and local news outlets, if unsure.
    Can I donate my used books to the Library?
    Sure; the Rockland Public Library accepts donations of used books, videos, and audio-books in good condition. Some may be added to the Library’s collection, or they may be sold by the Friends of Rockland Library in the Book Stop or book sales, or online. Proceeds of these sales go to the Rockland Public Library in the form of new books or programs. However, there are some things we cannot accept because past experience tells us we cannot use or re-sell these items. They include: damaged books (these are essentially worthless and should be disposed of), mildewed books (mildew is “contagious” and can quickly spread to other books), encyclopedias, most textbooks, medical or health books more than 5 years old, technical or computer books more than 5 years old, Readers Digest condensed books, vinyl records, videotapes, magazines or other periodicals, and remainders from other organizations' book sales. Because storage space is tight, the Library can only accept 2-3 bags or boxes of books at a time; we request that any boxes or bags remain with the donated items. If you have more to donate, please make an appointment for your delivery. Please call the library at (207) 594-0310 to leave your name, telephone number and the best times for you to bring in your donations. We will call you back to make an appointment, and do our best to accommodate your schedule. Thank you for your donation! Your support helps keep your Library strong.
    Can I print items at the Library? What is the cost?
    Yes; prints cost $.25 per page. We recommend doing a print preview so you don’t pay for something which doesn’t print the way you expected. You may print using one of our public computers, or print wirelessly from your phone.
    Do you have a book group?
    Yes! Catching up with the Classics meets (generally) the third Monday of the month.  You are welcome join. On the third Wednesday of the month, join Contemporary Fiction Book Group via Zoom, interested readers may contact pking@rocklandmaine.gov for link.
    Do you have meeting rooms for rent? What is the rental procedure, cost, etc.?
    Rent the Library's Board Room or Community Room for your next meeting or program.  Call the Library (207) 594-0310 for availability.  Once you have determined availability, read the Meeting Room Policy, print an application form and send or fax to Rockland Public Library with your payment. Payment is due before we can schedule the room.  A refundable $75 damage deposit is required for use of A/V equipment and/or $50, when food is permitted; the refundable deposits do not hold the room. Full payment is required to hold the room.  Please write a separate check for the damage deposit. For more detailed information & fees, please visit our Meeting Rooms page.
    Does the Library have a fax machine?
    Yes; it is self-service; it requires a credit or debit card; if you need one, the Library has fax cards available for purchase. You can view the fees for this service here.
    Does the Library have a photocopier? How much are copies?
    Yes. Please see our fees page for more details on the cost of this service.
    Does the Library have a water fountain?
    Yes; there are two fountains just before you enter the Children’s Room.
    For how long can I check out items?
    Most items may be checked out for two weeks. New books and DVDs may be renewed once; most other items may be renewed three times, as long as no one else is waiting for the item. For more detailed information on loan periods, please visit this page.
    How can I become a Library volunteer?
    Please pick up, print and complete the volunteer application form. We will get in touch with you.  There are often opportunities to volunteer in the Library, as well as with the Friends of the Rockland Public Library. For more information on volunteering at the Library, please visit this page.
    How do I find my way around the Library? Do you have a map?
    We have an online interactive map of the Library here.
    How do I get a library card?
    Rockland residents, current Coast Guard members, or property owners are eligible for a free library card, as are Knox County kids (from birth) and teachers through 12th grade. Any non-resident may purchase a card, and summer visitors may purchase a temporary card for a three-month period.  Library users must possess a card to enjoy some of the many library services offered.  A photo ID and proof of current address are required to obtain a card. For more information, please visit our Library Card & Loan Policies page.
    How do I get to the Community Room?
    You may come in through the lower level entrance, and it will be on your immediate left.  From the main level you may use the stairs or elevator. Take a right at the bottom, followed by another right, then an immediate left, and then straight ahead). View the Community Room on our interactive map for a more detailed overview.
    How do I obtain the Library’s WIFI password?
    The library's wifi connection and password are posted on both doors for access in the parking lot or lawn, users in the building may ask staff.
    How do I search for books?
    You can search the Library catalog online here. If you can't find what you are looking for, feel free to request an item using our online form or by calling the Library at (207) 594-0310.
    What are the Library hours?

    The Library hours are Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday 10 AM to 8 PM, Wednesday & Friday 10 AM to 5 PM, and Saturday 10 AM to 4 PM.. We are closed for all Federal & State holidays.

    When the weather outside is frightful, the Library may be closed due to snow, ice, or other hazards, so please check our alerts & announcements for closures & delayed openings if unsure.

    What do you have for Genealogy & local history resources?
    Just some of the resources are: the newly digitized and searchable archives of The Lime Rock Gazette, 1846-1850, The Rockland Gazette, 1851-1882, and The Courier Gazette, 1882-1920; Also, newspapers on microfilm - The Courier Gazette: 1846-2006, Rockland DailyStar: 1899-1906, Rockland Free Press: 1859-1890, Rockland Opinion: 1875-1917. We also have the online database - Ancestry Library, a full-service genealogy database. The Library has Vital Records of Rockland & area towns, the Maine Register from 1855 to the present, local cemetery records, and local history books.  Come in, call, or email us.
    What kind of programs do you have for children?
    We offer Storytimes on Tuesdays and Wednesday, and BabyTime on Thursdays. Additionally we offer special programs such as author/illustrator visits, STEM programs, take away crafts, and in-house scavenger hunts. In the summer we offer a themed Summer Reading Program for fun and skill-building. Look at the Library events, or pick up a monthly Events Brochure. You can also look for Miss Katie's supplemental storytimes on our YouTube channel, Rockland Public Library Maine.
    When is the Book Stop open and where is it located?
    FRIENDS' BOOK STOP   The Book Stop is open Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 1 PM.  It is right across from the Community Room on the lower level of the Library.  Next to the Library, it’s the best bargain in town. For more information, please visit the Book Stop page.
    Where are the Library restrooms?
    Upper level: There is a rest room near the Reference Desk (on the left, just before you exit on the Union Street side), as well as in the Children’s Room. Lower level: There are two additional restrooms (men's & women's) on the lower level, adjacent to the Community Room. Visit our interactive map of the Library for more detailed information.
    Where is the Library located?
    The address for the Library is 80 Union Street, in Rockland, between Beech Street and Limerock Street. Click here for a Google™ map.  Please note that the Library's parking lot is located on White Street which is clearly marked on the map. For directions to the Library simply use "White Street" as your destination. If looking for Library contact details, please visit our contact page here.
    Where is the Rockland Historical Society located?
    While the Rockland Historical Society is housed in the lower level of the Library please note it is a separate organization. It has its own entrance, though often you can access it through the interior door from the Library.  It is open Tuesdays & Thursdays from 12 noon to 5:00 PM. Their phone number is 594-6193.  Email: rocklandhistory54@yahoo.com When mailing the RHS, please use their PO Box 1331, Rockland, Maine 04841

    About Rockland Public Library

    The Library serves the citizens of Rockland by providing the community with a comprehensive collection of materials and programs in a variety of formats, which engage, enlighten and educate; we organize the resources for ease of access, and offer guidance in their use; we support easy access to library collections throughout Maine and beyond. The Library staff responds to the changing requirements and requests of the public. We offer you a warm welcome to this safe, beautiful, and inspiring facility; its infrastructure supports the collections, programs, services, current and future technology, and it provides a meeting place for people and local organizations and entities. The Library is staffed with friendly, professional, knowledgeable people who are here to offer excellent service.

    Call us at 207-594-0310, or visit The Library hours are Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday 10 AM to 8 PM, Wednesday & Friday 10 AM to 5 PM, and Saturday 10 AM to 4 PM.

    Visit the About Rockland Library page for more information.

    Rockland Public Library Additional Information & Statistics

    Mission

    The Rockland Public Library's mission is to foster community & connection, offer resources to inspire & encourage ideas, and provide the tools to explore our past, enrich our present, & empower our future.

    Public Value

    The private value of any public service is defined as the value accruing directly to the participants of the service (Kalambokidis, 2004); public value is defined as the value of a public service to individuals who do not use the service, but who benefit indirectly as others use the service (Kalambokidis, 2004)

    Libraries Encourage an Early Love of Reading, Leading to Greater Efficiency in Schools “Did you know that [Rockland Public] is a "Family Place Library," an initiative that helps libraries develop their full potential as community hubs for healthy child and family development, parent and community involvement, and lifelong learning beginning at birth? In addition to benefiting families with young children, this indirectly benefits all other local residents by making the community a more attractive place to live, which translates into better property values." Libraries Deliver Adult Educational Services, Benefiting Participants and Community "One of the most valuable but generally unnoticed services of our local library is the digital education programs for seniors. By helping seniors learn to use the Internet, the library fosters cultural awareness, self-sufficiency, and community investment in our older population. Indirectly this benefits all of us by helping to keep them in the community and contributing to its culture."

    Libraries Build a Sense of Community, Encouraging Civic Engagement
    "Our library is vital to our community as a public living room, where everyone—from natives to retirees 'from away'—is welcome, regardless of age, politics, or religion. While this directly benefits patrons, it also indirectly benefits the whole town because it makes the community a more attractive place, increasing home values."

    Excerpted from The Journal of Extension April 2015 // Volume 53 // Number 2 // Feature // 2FEA1 (Note: Rockland Public Library was a participant in this study, in 2013/2014)

    Value

    You can view our value statement by clicking here.

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    Contact the Rockland Public Library

    You can contact the Rockland Public Library using the details below or by completing the online form below.
    Library hours: The Library hours are Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday 10 AM to 8 PM, Wednesday & Friday 10 AM to 5 PM, and Saturday 10 AM to 4 PM..

    (207) 594-0310
    Rockland Public Library Phone

    library@rocklandmaine.gov
    Email

    Rockland Public Library, 80 Union Street Rockland, Maine 04841
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