8984-R2_NewGloucester_2023-2024_AnnualReport_Web

Events and Programs: In FY2024 the library offered 252 programs, with a total participation of 3,527 people. Adult programming included: two monthly general interest book clubs, weekly A Stitchin’ Time: fiber arts program, a fly-tying class, a beginner weaving class and wreath making. The library hosted author talks by authors Tess Gerritsen, Cindy Langdon, Philip C. Baker, David Florig, Barry Somes, Don Perkins, Margaret Jones, and artist Roger Richmond. Children’s programming 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 2023 Summer Reading Program “All Together Now” the library offered a weekly Crafty Kids art program, a visit from Chewonki Traveling Natural History Program - bug mobile, a coloring contest for the NG Community Fair, and an Ice Cream party to celebrate the end of summer reading. Children’s authors that visited were Steve Westra, Tamra Wight, Misty Coolidge and Kalee Gwarjanski. In September, weekly school family gaming afternoons began. In December, the library started a monthly young adult book club with help from an 8th grader from GNG. The library Winter Carnival for February vacation week, included making playdough, Lego building, a movie matinee, a craft, and game day. During April vacation, the library offered dragon themed crafts, game, and movie matinee afternoons. In June, Summer Reading 2024 kicked off with a reading party, a weekly Crafty Kids art programs, movie matinees and Chewonki Traveling Natural History Program - vernal pools. Outreach and Community Engagement: In August, the library, and the Friends of the Library each had booths at the New Gloucester Community Fair. The library worked with Greenheart Exchange Student program to place students with local families. In October, the library began hosting Fiddlehead School kindergarten students monthly through the school year for story time, craft programs, and borrowing books. The library co-hosted with Building Livability in New Gloucester an introduction to the Casco Bay Trail Alliance proposal to expand trails in NG. In December, the library coordinated with the NG Historical Society and the Friends of the Library for the annual Tiny Timber tree lighting, enjoying baked treats and hot chocolate for all in attendance. In April, the library hosted a seed give-away with the Environmental Resource Committee. In May, the library attended Memorial School Spring Family Night signing people up for library cards and making crafts with the kids. Staff: In September, the library welcomed a new Assistant Librarian, Ellie Marsh-Meservier!

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