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Our Library
Located in the heart of Somesville, nestled beside the Mill Pond and overlooking Somes Sound,
our book sanctuary is steeped in tradition but embraces modern times.
For a small library, the collection is remarkable. Rogier, the librarian, keeps the library stocked with the most interesting and readable fiction, non-fiction, biographies, books about Maine, and children's books.
Beyond being a lovely place to sit and read, our library brings Somesville together. We are a hub for community events like soup-and-bread winter suppers, children’s and adult programming, the annual books-and-blueberries sale in August, family game nights, and more.
Our building
Nestled next to Mill Pond on a former ship-building site, our building has always been a library, occupying a spot with the best views in town. It was completed as a one-room structure in 1896, and expanded in the 1970s with a meeting room in the rear and a children's playroom on the flank.
Our librarian
Since 1896, 17 librarians have made our library the most welcoming place in Somesville. Number 17, Rogier van Bakel, is proudly continuing the tradition. Still a prolific writer and photographer, Rogier has a background in publishing, journalism, and business.
Our board
The Somesville Library Board of Trustees is made up of some 20 year-round and summer residents who have a passion for preserving tradition while meeting the needs of today's visitors and residents. The board makes big-picture decisions to keep the library aligned with its historical mission.
Celebrating Our History
The Somesville Library had its origins during some long, cold winter months, more than 130 years ago.
Originally founded as the Ladies Aid Society (later rechristened the New LIbrary Society) in the 1880s, its members believed that community was best encouraged by buying and keeping books in people's homes. In 1891, through the New Library Society, residents became serious about the need for a permanent building and reading room. They held pie socials, dances, candy sales, baked-bean suppers, and rummage sales. They also hosted masquerade balls, plays, and dramatic readings.
By 1894, the society had raised $457.94. Soon, through the hard work of volunteers, the present library was erected. A more in-depth look at our past is here.
4 boys (Bob, John, Burnham & Arthur Cart) in pony cart near Mill Pond. Somesville Library rear right. Source: MDI Historical Society
View across Mill Pond to Somesville Library, early 20th century. Source: MDI Historical Society
Somesville Library lawn looking towards Main Street. c1965. Source: MDI Historical Society