Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows said she grew up without electricity or running water. Instead of TV, she went to the nearest library where she could borrow five books a week, what she called an “absolute highlight.” June 28, she recognized Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library for making such experiences available to the Boothbay region for over a century.  

“It's important to me to honor the work that volunteers and library leadership have been doing for 100 years to support this community,” she said after presenting the library association with an official recognition from her office. “Libraries are the heart of our communities and such a center for reading and learning. To be here in this space at a memorial library that honors those who served in World War I and recognize the work and vision they have to continue this legacy is humbling to me.” 

During Bellows’ visit, her first time there, she met with several members of the library board of trustees and Executive Director Joanna Breen, who gave her a tour and program highlights. They discussed the library’s history, activity in the community and plans for the next 100 years.   

Breen said the recognition is a testament to the library’s ability to grow and adapt. She said much has changed in the country, state and town since it was founded in 1924, and it has managed to continually meet the community’s needs and stay relevant.  

“One hundred years is generations,” she said. “So, to be officially recognized is wonderful. It's an honor that the state realizes what it takes to maintain an institution for that long.” 

For Bellows, the popularity of the children’s summer reading program stood out, reminiscent of her own youthful passion for reading. She said it is important to recognize that libraries are a place for recreation, learning and excitement for kids, especially those who come from families with few resources.  

“Hearing about kids that come to Boothbay, perhaps just for the summer, and the library is their favorite place to come. Thinking about kids like (me) growing up poor for whom the library is such a rich resource. There's something incredibly special about that and recognizing that this library has been this place for so many kids for 100 years,” she said.