Hubbard Free Library

About the Hubbard Free Library

The Hubbard Free Library is housed in the oldest library building in Maine still serving its original function. Designed by local architect Alexander C. Currier to look like an English country church, the library was dedicated in March, 1880, as the Hallowell Social Library. In 1893 General Thomas H. Hubbard of New York City, a Hallowell native, donated $20,000 for the construction of a free library. The money was used to build an addition to the existent building, in the form of a cross-axial transept, in keeping with the original church design, and the library became the Hubbard Free Library. A second addition was added in 1897, with money donated by Mrs. Eliza Lowell of Hallowell.

On the National Register of Historic Places since 1970, with an impressive collection of historic artifacts and archival materials, the library today is also a vibrant and much-cherished participant in the life of the communities it serves.

Overseen by a 16-member Board of Trustees, the library has traditionally received partial funding from the city of Hallowell and the towns of Farmingdale and Chelsea. However, Farmingdale recently elected not to continue funding the library; therefore, Farmingdale residents must pay the $40 non-resident fee, as do residents of other communities. Farmingdale residents can request reimbursement for the fee from their Town Hall, limit one reimbursement per family.

The library has three desktop computers and one ibook laptop computer available for public use, contingent upon observance of the library's Computer Use Policy. It also has wireless connectivity.

Adult and children's programming is presented throughout the year, including a Children's Story and Craft Hour for 2-5 year olds (younger and older siblings welcome), Thursday afternoons, 2:30-3:30. There is also a Summer Reading Program for children pre-school thru sixth grade.

Staff includes a full-time director, and four part-time staff, who all wear many hats, though each has her special area of expertise.

Staff: Melody Norman-Camp - Director
Doreen Judge
Stacie Linkle
Sue Moseley
Barb Rohrbaugh