Welcome to the Waterford Library

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Prior to 1899, the Ladies Sewing Circle of Waterford carried on a lending library at the Knight store, run by Sarah and Carrie Knight. In 1899, the Circle incorporated as the Ladies Library Association of Waterford, electing Sarah Knight as its first librarian. Three years later, Mrs. Florence Rounds was elected assistant librarian. Interest in the library grew and more room was needed for books. The Knight sisters began construction of a stone building on the front of their lot, but both died only a few weeks apart in August 1911. In 1912 the old association turned its property over to the newly formed Waterford Library Association. Mrs. Rounds was chosen as new librarian and she appointed Miss Charlotte Morse (Fillebrown) as assistant librarian.

On Oct. 1, 1937 a fire destroyed the Knight Store, parts of the library, and other nearby buildings. In early 1938, the library's second floor was renovated in the new Dutch Colonial style. The association received the deed to the land where the store had been, a gift from Albert Rice, Mabel Gage and Dr. Bishop. That land now houses the Rice Museum, was moved from Rice Hill to the site in 1978.

In South Waterford, the Bear Mountain Library Association was started in 1928, along with the Community Club, which supported the library for 48 years. The Library was located on the first floor of the home of Flora Hamlin Abbott, a great benefactor of the library along with her sister, Alice Hamlin Warren. On September 30, 1994, the Bear Mountain Library merged with the Waterford Library in the Flat. The consolidation leaves the town with one library serving all Waterford residents. 

The library is an Arts & Crafts / Colonial Revival style building designed by noted Portland architect John Calvin Stevens and his son John Howard Stevens. This firm was also responsible for rebuilding the second story after the 1937 fire. The library is part of the Waterford Flat Historic District.

New Heat Pumps / Air Conditioners were installed in January 2023, made possible by an Association for Rural & Small Libraries Grant (ARSL) through a generous regional partner foundation with additional funds from private donations. Total costs offset by EffiencyMaine rebates. We are most grateful to everyone who contributed to this wonderful development.

The Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL) builds strong communities through professional development and elevating the impact of rural and small libraries. ARSL recognizes the uniqueness of small and rural libraries and is committed to providing an environment that encourages excellence within this community of practice, supporting their goals of service and speaking on behalf of this important constituency. Since 1 in 3 public libraries in the U.S. serve a population of fewer than 2,500 people, there is a great opportunity to support these library professionals that are often overlooked. We believe in the value of rural and small libraries and strive to create resources and services that address national, state, and local priorities for libraries situated in rural communities.

PREVIOUS GRANTS

In 2019. a grant from Northern Forest, the King Foundation, and Maine Community Foundation updated our internet access Wi-Fi, added two new public Dell Laptops, and a Brother Printer. We were most grateful for this gift that included Microsoft Office and Adobe to help visitors with writing and publishing.  Thank YOU one and all!

2021 ITDRC GRANT 

 Our entire Wi-Fi system was updated thanks to a grant from projectConnect (ITDRC) Information Technology Disaster Resource Center to install upgraded Community Wi-Fi. An entirely new router, modem, 1000 GB Wi-Fi connector, and outdoor satellite extender unit were installed to consolidate the system, and all laptops were reconnected to the printer, assuring wireless connection for individual patron devices. The new system also connects into the NetworkMaine UniFi to collect user statistics. Hopefully, these efforts will resolve our long-standing issues. We are most grateful for the assistance of all these cooperating organizations.

LIBRARY EVENTS

Whether you come to pick up a good book, attend a Storytime, book discussion group, weekly knitting circle, Friday morning coffee cafe, family community event, or make use of our free WiFi and office space, there is always something happening here at the Waterford Library. 

THANK YOU

Whether you support the Library as a reader, visitor, volunteer, donor, attendee, or in any capacity -  THANK YOU

Because of your participation, the Waterford Library thrives as a center for community, learning, internet access, friendship, and information sharing.

RESOURCE ASSISTANCE

Our knowledgeable and friendly Librarian plus all our dedicated volunteers are always available to try to help you find what you're looking for. Whether you need assistance with research, technology, or just finding a good book to read, we're here to help.

GET INVOLVED 

This is YOUR Library. 

We welcome book or program suggestions. Your input and ideas are important. Your continued support and enthusiasm help make the Waterford Library a special place. 

THANK YOU.

VOLUNTEER

Are you passionate about what we're doing? Let us know! We're always looking for people  to help make our vision a reality, and will gladly help you find a way to volunteer that best suits your skills and interests. We're excited to have you join us!

THANK YOU!