Not too long ago, I read an article in a magazine entitled, Afar, about how visiting a city's public library can give insight into the city's personality and characteristics. The article remains my inspiration for every library that I visit in and outside of my home-town.
Recently, while wandering through Portland, Maine, I decided to also check out the Portland Public Main Library and in this blog post I share the impression it had on me and what I learned about the city while browsing its public library's bookshelves.
Date Visited: 29 March 2019
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Sundays | closed
Monday through Thursday | 10 am - 7 pm
Friday | 10 am - 6 pm
Saturday | 10 am - 5 pm
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(207) 871-1700
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- Parking -
Park on the street, in the Elm Street Parking Garage or Midtown Parking Garage (enter from Monument Square or Free St).
STYLE/PERSONALITY
The Portland Public Main Library was built in 1979 and recently has undergone a phase I renovation in 2010. Plans for phase II improvements are underway. The library's face comes in a stark modern contrast with the old-world vibe of the city, almost as a reminder that the vintage charm of downtown Portland is, in fact, in the 21st century.
Upon entering the library you are greeted with a small stair case leading to a sitting area that resembles a large dining cafe. Immediately you sense the feeling of community and multi-purposing, which actually are themes for most buildings in Portland (Portland prides itself in community homes for immigrants which serve also as learning centers for English and basic skill-sets). In addition, the library offers meeting rooms and the Lewis Art Gallery which has increased community usage and donations.
Although I loved the attention taken to renovate the library, I got the feeling that Portland was either betraying its personality or introducing a new dynamic. The modern edge of the library just didn't fit the city to me. I feel as though Portland is struggling with figuring out how to accept the new while still trying to maintain its sense of self.
SPACES
Meeting Rooms: Rines Auditorium, Meeting Rooms 1-5
PHOTOS
What public library would you like to see?