Help Build Some Great Maine Libraries

The history of public library funding in Maine has been overwhelmingly reliant on local funds.   Except for an occasional state bond referendum providing limited funds, there is no money for public library construction and there is no money to assist public libraries in their operations.  Past support, such as a .10 per capita state support, have long since disappeared so that library funding is provided by a combination of  local taxpayer  and private funds.   I suppose, given the tremendous use and affection for public libraries in this state, you could describe the situation as either perplexing or shameful.

That might be about to change.  The Maine Library Commission gained permission to include the Maine’s public libraries as a check off option on state tax returns.  All funds will be dedicated to the Maine Public Library Fund.  So hopefully the hundreds of thousands of Mainers who use their public libraries might take a moment and contribute and then reap the benefits of their generosity. 

For more information, please check out the Maine State Library's web-site at http://www.maine.gov/msl/tax/index.shtml 

Art Everywhere

I have recently returned from a 4 month sabbatical, the intent of which was to get some perspective as to the future of Portland Public Library.  I interviewed colleagues in various parts of the country, sat, thought and read all kinds of things.  One of my major areas of investigation involved creativity.  I have come to the strong conclusion that, in going forward, the major asset required in employees and to be expressed organizationally is creativity.  You need starting points of curiosity and intelligence, both individually and organizationally, but I think you also need to make it possible for people to be creative by caring about the physical work environment and having the right structure.

When I returned from my time away, the first thing that I appreciated was the quality of the Main Library and the building as a whole.  On Friday May 4th, Alice Spencer of the City’s Public Art Committee gave a talk on the Little Water Girl, a public art work featured prominently in the Library.  By early June it will have been seen by one million visitors since the reopening in April 2010.  And even more special was the award received by our architects, Scott Simons and Associates, on Monday, May 7.   At the Maine Chapter of the American Institute of Architects biennial awards ceremony, held at the Portland Museum of Art, the Library received one of three Honor Awards and was the only non residential structure to be so honored.

http://aiamaine.org/awards2012/2012-award-winners/

It is good to be back.