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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.
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Let’s take a walk!
Walkers of all ages and abilities are invited to meet at the Library every Wednesday morning to go on a 30 to 45 minute walk around town. Walks will be led by librarians and no walker will be left behind. Join us for some exercise and conversation. In case of inclement weather, we will walk indoors in the library. Bring a friend or make some new ones! The walking club is intended for adults; children and teens are welcome if accompanied by a parent or caregiver. Participants of this program will be asked to sign a waiver of liability.
Hear volunteer storyteller Ms. Judy read from a variety of picture books then color or work on a craft together.
Easy Going Yoga is designed with the beginner student in mid. Antonia Small, owner of ORYX WORX Fitness, will teach you to stretch, strengthen, breathe, and relax while improving your alignment. Class size is limited to 12 students, so call or visit the library to register. Classes will continue through July 25th. Part of the Checkout Movement…series.
Storytimes will not be held in inclement weather.
Sing, sway, and clap with your little one at our story time focused on singing together. A great introduction for your baby to words, sounds, and new friends. Perfect for birth to age two, and welcome to any child who enjoys music.
Let’s build!
Calling all builders! Come join LEGO Guy Jon for an afternoon of making, creating and story-sharing at Rockland Public Library’s LEGO Club! LEGO Club is held every 3rd Thursday in the Children’s Room from 4:15-500 pm. Kids of all ages are welcome to use their imaginations to build.
Library policy is that children age 10 and under be accompanied by an adult.
(2016 )A village woman with no high school diploma becomes China’s most famous poet, and her book of poetry the best-selling such volume in China in the past 20 years. Still Tomorrow follows Yu Xiuhua, a 39-year-old woman living with cerebral palsy, as she faces sudden fame. The film poignantly weaves her personal narrative with that of an ascendant, urbanizing China. This event is a collaboration with POV, PBS’ award-winning nonfiction film series.
Saturday stories and crafts with Miss Jean in the Children’s room. All ages are welcome.
Hosted by Jesse Ellis. Unlike a traditional class, this is a place for people to learn the basics of American Sign Language by doing, and grow by learning. It is a place for people to learn about Deaf Culture. Each week we will learn basics for conversational sign; you will build your language skills through conversing with others, asking questions about vocabulary and grammar. It is a voice-off environment; finger spelling is taught and encouraged. Jesse Ellis is fluent in sign language, tutored for 2.5 years in undergraduate school and attended Gallaudet University, a Deaf school for 3 years for her Masters degree.
Join Miss Katie for stories, songs, and dances for children of all ages. Each week we will have a new theme and new ways to wiggle our sillies out. This special storytime continues unil August 7th.
This week: Let’s draw Maine’ coastal scenes!
Children will explore drawing Maine memories this July at the weekly drawing classes led by Catinka Knoth at Rockland Public Library. Knoth invites participants to follow along in drawing a
variety of motifs. July themes will include subjects such as: Rockland – buildings & landmarks of a Maine town; favorite cats & dogs from Maine books; marine mammals – harbor seals, whales, porpoises; and classic Maine scenes.
Wendy and Keith Wellin sponsor the ongoing free workshops, geared for age 6and up, (including the young at heart). Children age 10 and under need adult accompaniment. Knoth expects participants to work independently for the most part. The workshops provide all materials. Classes meet every Tuesday, 4-5 pm., Community Room, Rockland Public Library. FMI – Jean Young, Children’s librarian, 594-0310.
Frets Halligan
Part of the Arts…For Kids and Their Families series. “Yes, uke can!” Frets Halligan will be teaching beginner ukulele workshops this summer. Bring your own ukulele or check out one from the Library (library card required). Additional classes will be offered July 3rd, 17th, 24th & 31st.
Let’s take a walk!
Walkers of all ages and abilities are invited to meet at the Library every Wednesday morning to go on a 30 to 45 minute walk around town. Walks will be led by librarians and no walker will be left behind. Join us for some exercise and conversation. In case of inclement weather, we will walk indoors in the library. Bring a friend or make some new ones! The walking club is intended for adults; children and teens are welcome if accompanied by a parent or caregiver. Participants of this program will be asked to sign a waiver of liability.
Hear volunteer storyteller Ms. Judy read from a variety of picture books then color or work on a craft together.
Easy Going Yoga is designed with the beginner student in mid. Antonia Small, owner of ORYX WORX Fitness, will teach you to stretch, strengthen, breathe, and relax while improving your alignment. Class size is limited to 12 students, so call or visit the library to register. Classes will continue through July 25th. Part of the Checkout Movement…series.
Storytimes will not be held in inclement weather.
Sing, sway, and clap with your little one at our story time focused on singing together. A great introduction for your baby to words, sounds, and new friends. Perfect for birth to age two, and welcome to any child who enjoys music.
Saturday stories and crafts with Miss Jean in the Children’s room. All ages are welcome.
Hosted by Jesse Ellis. Unlike a traditional class, this is a place for people to learn the basics of American Sign Language by doing, and grow by learning. It is a place for people to learn about Deaf Culture. Each week we will learn basics for conversational sign; you will build your language skills through conversing with others, asking questions about vocabulary and grammar. It is a voice-off environment; finger spelling is taught and encouraged. Jesse Ellis is fluent in sign language, tutored for 2.5 years in undergraduate school and attended Gallaudet University, a Deaf school for 3 years for her Masters degree.
Join Miss Katie for stories, songs, and dances for children of all ages. Each week we will have a new theme and new ways to wiggle our sillies out. This special storytime continues unil August 7th.
This week: Let’s draw Maine lighthouses!
Children will explore drawing Maine memories this July at the weekly drawing classes led by Catinka Knoth at Rockland Public Library. Knoth invites participants to follow along in drawing a
variety of motifs. July themes will include subjects such as: Rockland – buildings & landmarks of a Maine town; favorite cats & dogs from Maine books; marine mammals – harbor seals, whales, porpoises; and classic Maine scenes.
Wendy and Keith Wellin sponsor the ongoing free workshops, geared for age 6and up, (including the young at heart). Children age 10 and under need adult accompaniment. Knoth expects participants to work independently for the most part. The workshops provide all materials. Classes meet every Tuesday, 4-5 pm., Community Room, Rockland Public Library. FMI – Jean Young, Children’s librarian, 594-0310.
Frets Halligan
Part of the Arts…For Kids and Their Families series. “Yes, uke can!” Frets Halligan will be teaching beginner ukulele workshops this summer. Bring your own ukulele or check out one from the Library (library card required). Additional classes will be offered July 3rd, 17th, 24th & 31st.
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.
The Library is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday – 9:00am – 8:00pm & Wednesday, Friday, Saturday-9:00am-5:00pm. Now open Sundays 1:00-5:00pm. We are closed for Federal and 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.
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. 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.
Yes; You can view the printing fees on this page. We recommend doing a print preview so you don’t pay for something which doesn’t print the way you expected.
Yes! We’ve recently started one called Catching up with the Classics. It meets (generally) the third Saturday of the month. You are welcome join.
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 $50 security deposit is required for use of A/V equipment and/or when food is permitted; this security deposit does not hold the room. Full payment is required to hold the room. Please write a separate check for the security deposit.
For more detailed information & fees, please visit our Meeting Rooms page.
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.
Yes. Please see our fees page for more details on the cost of this service.
Yes; there are two fountains just before you enter the Children’s Room.
Most items may be checked out for two weeks; DVDs circulate for one week. 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.
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.
We have an online interactive map of the Library here.
Rockland residents or property owners are eligible for a free library card, as are Knox County kids and teachers (K-12). 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 many library services. 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.
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. Your see signs pointing your way to the Community Room (to the right, a quick left, and then straight ahead). View the Community Room on our interactive map for a more detailed overview.
Users are required to sign the Library’s internet use policy, available at the Information Desk or Checkout Desk at the Library. At that point they are given the password for the wireless network. For more information please visit our WIFI & Internet Access page.
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.
Regular library hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday - 9:00am - 8:00pm & Wednesday, Friday, Saturday-9:00am-5:00pm. Now open Sundays 1:00-5:00pm. 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.
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.
All kinds! We have regular drawing classes on Tuesday afternoons, and LEGO™ Club on the third Thursday of the month. We offer Storytime & Crafts Wednesday and Saturday mornings, as well as Baby Time on Thursday mornings. Additionally we offer special programs such as puppet shows, magicians, music, art series, and oh so much more. Look at the Library events, or pick up a monthly Events Brochure.
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.
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.
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.
The Rockland Historical Society is housed in the lower level of the Library. It has its own separate 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.
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 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday - 9:00am - 8:00pm & Wednesday, Friday, Saturday-9:00am-5:00pm. Now open Sundays 1:00-5:00pm
Visit the About Rockland Library page for more information.
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.
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)
You can view our value statement by clicking here.
You can contact the Rockland Public Library using the details below or by completing the online form below.
Library hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday - 9:00am - 8:00pm & Wednesday, Friday, Saturday-9:00am-5:00pm. Now open Sundays 1:00-5:00pm.
(207) 594-0310
Rockland Public Library Phone
Rockland Public Library, 80 Union Street Rockland, ME 04841
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