Ogunquit Memorial Library

                                The library is the temple of learning, and learning has liberated more people than all the wars in history

                                                                                                                  -Carl T Rowan
 

Many people have warm memories of their public or school library when they were growing up. For me it was the stacks of books, comfortable chairs and the sense that time stood still. At the Ogunquit Memorial Library, time has stood still. The Library is closed from Noon to 2:00 pm for lunch ( It is rumoured that it is closed for two hours because that's how long it took one of the first librarians to walk home have lunch and walk back many years ago). You also sign books out the old fashioned way: by signing your name on the card on the back of the book.

The fieldstone structure was built in 1897 by Charles Burns in the HH Richardson Romanesque Tradition. The Library is unique in that it receives no funds from the town, and financially supported by donations and endowments.

The library's charming interior, with its huge stone fireplace that was once the only source of heat, has changed very little through the years. The structure resembles a mini castle with a turret tower. Ogunquit has a long-established art colony and the library has a collection of several paintings from local artists. The art collection is worth a visit on its own. While browsing along the stacks of books, I came across a book that was donated and signed by famed Ogunquit artist Henry Strater. You really never know what treasures are behind these stone walls!

The Details:
Ogunquit Memorial Library
166 Shore Road
Ogunquit, ME 03907
Phone: 207 646 9024

Hours: Winter, Tuesday to Saturday 9:00 to noon; 2:00 to 5:00
Librarians are helpful and resourceful. There are no public restrooms or computers. The library has an interesting Ogunquit art collection. There are over 18,000 books in the collection, daily newspapers, and best sellers. The annual  book sale is a must if you are visiting Ogunquit in the early autumn.