2021 Library Trustees annual report

Despite the continuing challenges of the pandemic, the Belgrade Public Library had a successful year.

Staff of the Belgrade Public Library has worked hard to continue to provide excellent service to the community during the COVID pandemic. This hard work was recognized by the community, and in March 2021, the Belgrade Public Library received a Spirit of America Award from the Town of Belgrade.

This year several members of the Trustee Board, the library director along with the 7 Lakes Alliance, and the Belgrade Historical Society teamed to promote a COMMUNITY READ of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel “The Overstory” by Richard Powers. The plan was to have copies of the book available for anyone interested in reading the book and to have programs and book discussions that revolved around the book and its theme of environmental issues. The final event would be a discussion with the author.

The COMMUNITY READ was a huge success, with programs for adults and children. Those included: a story stroll of the book “Who Will Plant a Tree” by Jerry Pallotta, (a big thank you to the Belgrade Regional Health Center for allowing this event to take place on its nature trail and for purchasing tree books for participants); “Maine’s Big Trees” presented by Jan Santerre, the Project Canopy director for the Maine Forest Service; Mr. Drew and his Animals Too; book group discussions; and an art show. A big thank you to Renee Cunningham, owner of Oliver & Friends Bookshop, the bookstore in Belgrade Lakes Village, for all her support.

With the resignation of Library Director Megan Aube, the library has undergone a huge staffing change. The board wishes Megan success in her future endeavors. Jared Bond, the longtime librarian, was the overwhelming choice to become the library director. Alaina Hood was hired as the new library assistant and Kim Dawes was hired as the library clerk. With an all-new staff, the Belgrade Public Library looks forward to continuing to provide excellent service and programming to the community.

Respectively submitted,

Dianne Dowd, Chair, Library Board of Trustees