Linda Lord Named State Librarian

Linda Lord was appointed Maine's State Librarian on October 19, in an announcement by Beth Edmonds, Chair of the Library Commission's Search Committee. Linda had been acting in that capacity since the January retirement of Gary Nichols, who occupied the post for 39 years.

Linda has been a regular attendee at FoML's annual conference and long a supporter of its work. FoML President John R. Clark issued the following statement:

I’ve had the pleasure of working both for and with Linda Lord for the past ten years. Her interest in the welfare and future health of Maine libraries is unquestioned and she is constantly seeking out grant and additional funding opportunities that she passes on to libraries. She is particularly committed to matching innovative grant opportunities with librarians she knows will take them and run with them. Her genuine friendliness and sense of humor make her all the more appropriate for her new position. As FOML president I welcome her and wish her the best in a very challenging time for libraries.

• Pittsfield Public Library received $250 to purchase much needed materials following a complete budget freeze brought about by hard economic times.
• Skowhegan Public Library received a like sum to cover expenses for musicians who will perform as part of Skowhegan Days next summer in lovely Coburn Park which overlooks the Kennebec River.
• The Strong Public Library will use their $250 FOML Stimulus Grant to expand a small, but extremely popular video and DVD collection. Their application noted that patron frustration with incomplete movie series like “Harry Potter” were significant and that filling these gaps was a priority.
• Lesley Maynard at the Charleston Public Library applied to get funding in order to capitalize on a budding interest among younger patrons generated when she brought in some rock and mineral samples that kids could examine under a microscope. She will use her grant money to purchase additional slides to keep her young naturalists involved in library activities.

Renew your Membership by Jan 31 and win a chance at a free membership in 2011. Membership Forms are here. List of 2009 Individual Members List of 2009 Organization Members Thank you for your support of FoML