Latest news with #publiclibrary
Yahoo
25-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
A new chapter at Graves Library in Kennebunkport: Loretta Johnson takes the helm
KENNEBUNKPORT, Maine — After 20 years, the Louis T. Graves Memorial Public Library has a new library director. Loretta Swift Johnson from Middleton, Massachusetts, took over the position on July 1, following the retirement of Mary-Lou Boucouvalas. Johnson has more than 25 years of public library experience and comes to Kennebunkport from the Flint Public Library in Middleton, where she has been director since 2022. She worked her way up at the Flint Library, starting as a teenage library page in 1998 and advancing over two decades to hold positions of assistant children's librarian, outreach coordinator with teen and technical services, adult circulation and collection development librarian, assistant director, and finally library director. Two other library staff members have also taken on additional responsibilities and roles. Jennifer Gifford, technology and social media coordinator, will assume the role of interim assistant director through December 31, 2025, and Children's Librarian Theresa Bauld ('Miss Terri') will permanently assume the additional role of senior community liaison. The Kennebunkport library's new director holds a master's degree in library and information science from Simmons University, a bachelor's degree in business administration from Capella University, anda certificate in local government leadership and management from the Massachusetts Municipal Association and Suffolk University. 'Loretta impressed the board with her deep background in library management, her genuine passion for community and patron engagement, and her clear understanding of the welcoming and vibrantenvironment of Graves Library,' said Sarah Vander Schaaff, board vice president and chair of the search committee. 'We believe she will be an excellent fit with the library, our town, and the broader southern Maine community we serve.' 'Johnson's selection is the result of the search committee's four-month process,' continued Vander Schaaff, 'informed by best professional practices and input from library staff, volunteers, and former and current board members. The committee received more than 20 candidate resumes and interviewed more than 10 candidates over three rounds, assessing a wide range of qualities, including leadership, collaboration, strategic planning, and "a commitment to extending the legacy of our beloved library's role in the lives of all who love it.' Johnson said she is excited about the new opportunity. 'It is truly an honor to be the next director of the Graves Library and to build off the fabulous foundation laid by my predecessor, Mary-Lou," said Johnson. "Everyone who enters the Louis T. Graves Memorial Public Library knows that they have entered a special place, and that atmosphere is fostered by the staff, board, and volunteers who work diligently to serve this wonderful community. It is great to now be part of it, and I am looking forward to relocating to Maine soon to be even closer to where the good things happen.' The Louis T. Graves Memorial Public Library, established in 1898, is a full-service free library whose mission is to enrich the lives of all who enter its historic building. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Graves Memorial Library names Loretta Johnson as new director Solve the daily Crossword
Associated Press
03-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Maplewood Memorial Library's Historic $24 Million Rebuild Marks New Era of Access, Innovation and Sustainability
New Jersey's first LEED Gold-certified library serves as a model for modern public spaces, as cultural institutions nationwide face challenges 'This inspiring building represents who we are: open, forward-thinking, collaborative, rooted in community. It's the kind of library a 'reading town' like ours deserves.'— Sarah Lester, Maplewood Memorial Library director MAPLEWOOD, NJ, UNITED STATES, July 3, 2025 / / -- The Maplewood Library Board of Trustees and the Maplewood Library Foundation today announced the grand reopening of the Maplewood Memorial Library at 51 Baker Street. Now 33% larger, the 32,000-square-foot building reflects the community's commitment to investment in civic infrastructure. It will be the first New Jersey library to earn LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification. A public celebration and ribbon cutting will be held Saturday, July 5, at 11 a.m. The library transformation is more than a rebuild; it's a reinvention. The previous building, constructed in 1955 and expanded in 1969, was 24,000 square feet, with about half of that space underground. The light-filled, 21st-century facility reinforces the library as a vibrant space for all ages and backgrounds to gain knowledge and explore ideas. 'This isn't just the end of a decade-long journey, it's the beginning of a new chapter for Maplewood,' said Sarah Lester, Maplewood Memorial Library director. 'This inspiring building represents who we are: open, forward-thinking, collaborative, rooted in community. It's the kind of library a 'reading town' like ours deserves.' The $24 million project was made possible through a mix of state, local and private funding. The state contributed $8.3 million through the Library Construction Bond Act; the municipality contributed $12 million, exceeding the 50% match requirement; and the Maplewood Library Foundation raised more than $2 million from donors. Designed by New York City–based Sage and Coombe Architects, the library honors the historic footprint while infusing sustainable, contemporary design. The project was shaped with community input through surveys, community forums and interviews. As an all-electric building, it features solar roof panels (offsetting 58% of energy use), a green roof, bird-friendly fritted glass, daylight sensors, water-saving fixtures, native plantings and energy-efficient climate controls. A patio and reading terrace overlooking the park strengthen the connection to the outdoors. A fully accessible entrance at ground level and gently sloped ramp remove physical barriers. 'The genesis of our new, more resilient library building stems from two climate-related events that deeply impacted our community,' said Vic De Luca, Maplewood Township Committee member and library trustee. 'During Hurricane Sandy, the library retained power and became a beacon of safety and comfort in the days that followed. Then, just as we were preparing to begin new construction in 2021, Hurricane Ida flooded the basement with seven feet of water. We needed a building designed not just for today, but for the future.' Highlights of the new Maplewood Memorial Library include: ● Teen Room with floor-to-ceiling park views ● Children's Room celebrating early learning ● Community Room with separate entrance for after-hours use ● Maker Space with 3D printers and work benches ● Local History Room housing historic Maplewood materials and boardroom seating ● The Forum, a stepped seating area connecting floors for informal events ● 10 Quiet Study Rooms for individuals and small groups 'At a time when many public libraries face book bans, budget cuts and ideological scrutiny, Maplewood has made a bold statement,' said Lester. 'This community invested in a space where diversity of thought and access to information are not only protected, but celebrated.' For more information about the Maplewood Memorial Library and the grand opening, visit About Maplewood Memorial Library Founded in 1913, the Maplewood Memorial Library is a cornerstone of civic life in Maplewood, New Jersey. Dedicated to the principle of being 'Open for All,' the library fosters lifelong learning, cultural engagement and community connection through its inclusive programs, collections and spaces. About the Maplewood Library Foundation The Maplewood Library Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the Maplewood Memorial Library and ensuring its continued growth, accessibility and innovation. Through fundraising and community engagement, the Foundation helps advance the library's mission of being Open for All, providing resources that empower learning, creativity and connection for all members of the community. Rosemary Ostmann RoseComm for the Maplewood Memorial Library +1 201-615-7751 [email protected] Visit us on social media: Instagram Facebook YouTube Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Arab News
22-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
What We Are Reading Today: The Cultural House in Riyadh
I recently visited the newly opened Culture House public library, an initiative by the Libraries Commission and Riyadh municipality. The library is part of the King Salman Science Oasis project in Al-Ta'awun neighborhood, and it exceeded my expectations. Before visiting, I was aware that I needed to book a time for my preferred section. This is an important detail to note, as you must have a reservation to access any area of the library. Upon arrival, I easily scanned a QR code, filled in my name and phone number, and waited just 10 minutes for my tour. The staff at the library were exceptional; the representative who guided me was friendly and informative and made the experience more enjoyable. The library itself is designed with comfort in mind, offering various zones, including a tech space, a kids' area, flexible workspaces, and a cafe on the ground floor. The first floor features the main library with ample seating for both group and solo activities, as well as an outdoor space. It was great to see workstations equipped with computers, printers, and scanners that facilitate scanning colored books. I particularly enjoyed the outdoor area, which includes a playground and relaxing spots near the water, as well as food trucks. It's a great place for families and friends to gather. While I was unable to explore the middle or main section fully, I am eager to return. A couple of guidelines to consider: The library's washroom closes at midnight and while cycling on the grounds is not permitted, skateboards are allowed. Additionally, sitting on the grass is not allowed, though sitting on the floor is. I highly recommend a visit to the library. The clean, quiet environment, combined with friendly staff and great amenities, makes it a standout space in Riyadh. For a city of its size, I hope to see more libraries like this across the Kingdom's capital and beyond.
Washington Post
10-06-2025
- Washington Post
A parking structure is on fire in downtown Nashville
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A fire broke out in a parking structure of Nashville's main public library early Tuesday, sending a large plume of smoke into the air downtown. A nearby witness heard explosions from the structure but there were no immediate reports of injuries. Eli Gilmore, a Nashville musician who lives in the apartment building next door, said he heard loud explosions begin around 1:15 a.m.
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Yahoo
Fire breaks out in parking structure of Nashville library, explosions heard
A fire broke out in the parking structure of Nashville's main public library early Tuesday and explosions were heard. Eli Gilmore, a Nashville musician who lives in the apartment building next door, said he heard loud explosions after midnight, local time.
