8646-R1_NewGloucester_2022-2023_AnnualReport_Web

Events and Programs: The Library offered 81 adult and all ages programs, with a total participation of 1,306 people. These included three general interest book clubs. A Stitchin’ Time: Fiber Arts program, a FlyTying class, and a Beginner Learning to Weave class were the newest programs offered this year. In July, the Summer Concert Series continued with a visit from Sarah Levecque. An impressive performance by Robbie Fulks wrapped up the Summer Concert Series in August. In October, the library hosted an author talk by Ellen Frankel. In November, the Library cohosted the lighting of Tiny Timber holiday tree with the New Gloucester Historical Society and the Friends of the Library. In March, the library held a party to celebrate its 135 th birthday. The library also offered 163 programs with a total participation of 3,625. These included two weekly story times with Ms. Emily, make it/take it craft kits and outdoor story walks. In July and August, as part of the 2022 Summer Reading Program “Oceans of Possibilities,” the library offered a weekly Crafty Kids Art Program, author visits by Jean Flahive and Patty Farrin, a demonstration by Sparks Ark, a visit from Chewonki Traveling Natural History Program where kids reconstructed a Pilot Whale skeleton, a coloring contest, and an Under the Sea party to celebrate the end of summer reading. In October, the library hosted a Halloween Pumpkin Carving party and trick or treating with the assistance of volunteers from the library 4-H. The library offered a 2-day Winter Carnival for February vacation week, including indoor winter crafts and games, an outdoor winter play afternoon, and ending with a children’s movie matinee. The library presented play dough making, a LEGO afternoon and a movie matinee during April vacation. In May, special story times included planting seeds and plants with a Master Gardener. In June, as part of the 2023 Summer Reading Program “All Together Now” the library offered a Crafty Kids weekly art program, and Mad Science of Maine visited to teach us about scientific bonds. Outreach and Community Engagement: In August, the Library, and the Friends of the Library each had booths at the New Gloucester Community Fair. In February, Fiddlehead School 3rd Grade came to gather research materials for a project on Maine birds. In April, the library hosted a Girl Scout meet and greet. In May, the Library welcomed the Environmental Resources Committee for a seed giveaway, and they created a seed library to become part of the library special collections. Also in May, Fiddlehead School kindergarten and third grade class returned to learn library skills. In June, the Memorial School three second grade classes came for a visit as part of their field trip organized by the New Gloucester Historical Society. In October, Jay and Emily attended the Fall Family Night at Memorial School. Staff: Library Jay Campbell resigned as Director in May. Assistant Librarian Emily Martin became the Interim Director in May and was hired as Director in June.

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