News

4.13.23 Library Boot Camp

Dear Friends,

Back home and feeling relaxed and ready for spring! I had a wonderful time down south. I saw many whales and was treated to epic sunsets every night. I am grateful for my time away, the rest, and the opportunity to claim perspective again.

Daffodils kindly greeted me on my way to work, but I confess I was a bit overwhelmed on my first day back. I grew used to being on “vacation time,” but Skidompha is always bustling with energy, new programs, books, and experiences.

Speaking of programs, I want to let you know about our Library Bootcamp coming up over National Library week! 

On Monday, April 24, celebrate National Library Week with Skidompha Library by joining us for a one-of-a-kind library experience. From in-depth tours of the collection to trying your hand at being a librarian to learning how to request books and use databases, this day is sure to have something for everyone. Sessions run from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm, and you may register (required) for one or all of the following sessions:

9:00 am – 12:00 pm A peek behind the Scenes at Skidompha Library!
1:00 pm – 1:30 pm All About Your Online Library Account
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm How to Get What You Want (and not what you don’t want)
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm Accessing eBooks, Audiobooks, & More
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm Beyond the Catalog – Additional Online Resources

We’ll supply coffee and donuts in the morning. Bring a brown bag for lunch! To register, please email info@skidompha.org or call 207-887-0919.

I urge you all to consider joining us on the 24th to learn more about the library, what we do here, and how to become a Super-Powered Skidompha patron.

Be well,

Matthew Graff
Executive Director
Skidompha Public Library

04.06.2023 Afternoon in the Library

Dear friends,

While Matthew is on vacation – hopefully seeing a great many whales and enjoying the ocean – I am filling in for this week’s “hello” to all of you. In thinking about what, precisely, I wanted to say, it occurred to me that I mostly just wanted to take a moment to appreciate the physical space of the Library, and invite you to do the same.

A friend observed to me this week that she has become “the sort of person who comments on the light changing,” which I thought was simply delightful. Beyond that, I understand exactly what she means. Every afternoon, the light on the second floor of the Library hits a point where it is perfectly golden, and casts the sort of shadows that suddenly make Edward Hopper paintings make sense. The view out the windows over Main Street and to the water is worth seeing at any time of day, but the late afternoon really shows it at its best. It is a wonderful time and place to sit, and enjoy the moment.

Even on a cloudy or rainy afternoon, it can be exceedingly cozy to sit in one of the chairs upstairs with a book, and watch the rain roll in. So, regardless of the weather, I hope you are having a lovely day, and that you get the chance to enjoy an afternoon in the Library soon.

Cheers,

Meghan Hawkes
Adult Services Librarian | Communications Coordinator
Skidompha Public Library

2023.03.31 Spring Break at Skidompha

Dear Friends,

The library is starting to buzz with many of the signs of spring. The sun, which floats into the atrium most days, is still up as we lock up each night. We see fewer hats and jackets. Some of us have been enjoying lunch and coffee outside the courtyard. And the robins! Programming for April break is one of the signs we look forward to each year. 

As usual, Jessie and Kristi have organized various activities and programming for kids and teens to give them a chance to create, connect, and have some fun. So if you want to make some plans, we hope you’ll keep Skidompha in mind. I’ll offer some highlights here. Keep reading below for more detail and registration info for these fantastic activities!

We have programming for Kid Coders, ages 5 – 8, running Tuesday, April 18 – Thursday, April 20, from 10:30 – 11:30. It is a beginners coding camp, and no coding experience is required. Registration is required.

For 9 – 12-year olds, we have Coding with Dash, Tuesday – Thursday, from 12:30 – 2:00. This coding camp will culminate with artwork created by Dash using code we wrote, and we’ll display the art in the library. No coding experience is required, but please register ahead of time.

We’re offering Crafting Stories, a writing camp for 9-12-year-olds, Tuesday – Thursday from 10:30 – 12:00. We are very excited that this camp is being co-led and created with a couple of teens on our EPOCH editorial board. Over three days, kids will play and experiment with collaging, painting, and sketching and build worlds and characters from what they create. This camp is for anyone who likes writing and art and anyone who wants to try something new, and registration is required. 

And, partnering with The Lincoln Theater, we’re offering Coloring and a Movie from 1:00 – 4:00 on Wednesday, April 19. You provided us with so many amazing portraits for our community art project. Now, it’s time to begin coloring the canvases! We’ll have the canvases set up for coloring at 1:00 PM, and a free screening of The Lego Movie will start at 2:00 PM. If you need a break from the movie or you want to keep coloring, that’s great! The canvases will be available throughout. Watching the movie is not required. Feel free just to come and color!

If you prefer to be like the wind and follow your whims during April break, remember that we have books, movies, and more to keep you entertained and curious!

Be well,

Matthew Graff
Executive Director
Skidompha Public Library

03.23.23 Physty the Whale

Dear Friends,

The library is already making arrangements for Summer Read, and I believe the words, “Can you believe we are almost halfway through with March?” have been spoken at some point during that planning. For me, time always seems to move a little faster during spring. Maybe because of the anticipation of summer, Skidompha’s busiest time? Or maybe because the gentler weather entices me outside more?

I will be going on vacation starting on Thursday, March 23rd. I finally have a chance to get some of that Vitamin Sea I’ve spoken about in the past, and I plan to make the most of that opportunity and find my way down to the Island of Dominica. Research has shown me that Dominica is a favorite hangout for Sperm Whales (Physeter macrocephalus), and I hope to realize a life ambition and hang out and swim with these extraordinary animals.  

Please indulge me for a quick story about my fascination with these whales. In April of 1981, Physty, a young Sperm between the ages of 3 and 6, attempted to beach itself on Coney Island, NY. Police were initially successful at coaxing the whale back out to sea, but sadly it was found the next day in rough shape in shallow water at Oak Beach. Physty was towed to a boat basin at Robert Moses State Park on Fire Island, where it would hopefully recover. 

At that time, Physty’s “hospital room” was only a half hour’s drive away from my home, and my Mom, thoroughly aware of my infatuation with all things marine, took me to see this beautiful animal. (Thanks, Mom!) As hard as it is to make a young child speechless, seeing this twenty-foot-plus whale so close to me and resting at the water’s surface, blowing occasionally was enough to remove all the words in my mouth. Joy and amazement swept through me. I remember it was breezy and chilly that day, but I probably would have jumped in the water were it not for Mom’s presence.  

Lots of antibiotic-laden squid, and a few days of convalescence later, Physty, healthy enough to be released, was escorted by the Coast Guard out of Fire Island Inlet and into the open ocean and freedom. Years later, it was reported Physty, identifiable by unique scars on its caudal flukes, was seen swimming with a gam of Sperm Whales in the Atlantic. 
While I don’t rate my chances of seeing Physty in Dominica, you can be certain I will ask the local whales if in their travels they have met with another whale with a wild story about visiting Long Island over 40 years.  

Be well,

Matthew Graff
Executive Director
Skidompha Public Library

03.16.23 Carey Art Gallery

Dear Friends,

It is important to me that Skidompha be a place that inspires interest, curiosity and wonder. That it be filled with items that engage and prompt people to stop and look, and engage. Our books–Skidompha’s foundation–tick all those boxes, but other modalities exist: beautiful and unique plants, clever book displays, Migaloo and the bees, the fish, complex quilts, and art. Every work day I walk through the back doors of the library and am greeted each day by the gorgeous artwork hanging there. Sure, there are days when my mind is on the one hundred other things that need to get done before lunch, and I forget to pause and appreciate the artwork, but I’m practicing pausing more often and bringing awareness to my day.

Artwork hangs in the space officially known as the Carey Art Gallery. The artwork changes monthly, and Rachel Zoller, one of our Librarians, organizes and supports this space, and makes certain that we always have a diverse collection of artists and mediums in our Gallery. Rachel works with the artists to build the calendar, and often we are booked almost a full year out. I appreciate Rachel and her efforts immensely for all her work in this department.

This month’s show hanging in the Carey Art Gallery features the work of Kathleen Thornton and Linda Healy. Kathleen works primarily in acrylics and takes inspiration from the Maine environment. Linda is a weaver and an artist. She reframes the colors and patterns found in nature within the geometric constraints of warp and weft, often giving a nod to her Swedish heritage and historic Scandinavian weaving techniques.

Please take an extra minute to pause and engage with the artwork the next time you find yourself in Skidompha. Note the time, effort, and creativity the artist has devoted to each piece, and appreciate the art that surrounds us all.

Whose talents will we showcase next? Come and find out!

Be well,

Matthew Graff
Executive Director
Skidompha Public Library

03.09.23 Time for Spring

Dear Friends,

I love days like today—breezy without a cloud in the sky. The sunlight reflecting off the snow brings even more light, both outside and in. It reminds me that both the official arrival of spring, March 20, and Daylight Savings Time, March 12, are near. I can’t say I enjoy losing an hour of sleep in the morning, but that is more than offset by the extra sun in the evening, and the promise of stronger sun as winter takes a nap and spring, ready and refreshed from the prior year, comes out to play.

Just one note this week, about our meeting room policy. Our meeting rooms are free and open to the public, and over the years, we have found them to be one of the most utilized resources in the library. We have only two public meeting rooms and wish we had enough space for many more. To be fair to all of the patrons who call often to book these rooms, we’re changing our meeting room policy. Starting on Tuesday, March 14, meeting room use is limited to a maximum of three consecutive hours per day, and patrons may reserve rooms for a maximum of two times per week. Reservations over three hours and/or more than twice in one week that were already booked before this change was made will be honored.

This change was made after careful consideration. Many people requesting a room are turned away each day because there is no time available for them in the schedule. It is our hope that by managing room use in this way, availability will be more accessible to all of our patrons.

There are many lovely and cozy corners around the library available for use, with comfy chairs and desks scattered around Skidompha. These spots will always remain available without limit, and we invite you to enjoy them all day, every day when we are open. 

Be well,

Matthew Graff
Executive Director
Skidompha Public Library

03.02.23 New Library Programs

Dear Friends,

The recent snow brought me the mid-winter blahs. Yes, I know it’s February in Maine, but I could use a shot or two of Vitamin D and Vitamin Sea! I’m back at work, though, and I’m feeling energized by the thrum of creativity in the library. It’s fun to notice the movement of this shifting seasonal energy. It reminds me of the wind, which I watch blow the snow and sway the trees outside my window as I type. I’m sure the extra daylight we are enjoying and the prospect of spring drawing closer does not hurt either!

We have many new programs to highlight, and I love the energy they’re raising in Skidompha. We have a new playgroup for toddlers! On Wednesday mornings, from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m., the kids’ room will open up for toddler playtime. This is a chance for parents and caregivers to visit and help toddlers explore books, toys, and instruments. No parkas or boots are required!

Our artist-in-residence, Will, is here on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons to help teens explore synthesizers, experimental electronic sound, and more. I attended Will’s soldering class and learned about circuit bending, circuit boards, and how to solder! Will is a great teacher and resource, and I strongly urge you to check out their programs. Continuing our trend of creative and non-traditional book clubs, we have an upcoming Cookbook Book Group for teens starting March 10. This group is scheduled on Fridays at 3:30 pm, and Kristi will have snacks and books to share! Explore recipes, cooking processes, and ideas for meals and snacks.

Adults, are you tired of staying home in the evening? Looking for something to do with friends that does not involve Netflix or a bar? Get in on the fun with our new monthly game nights! We had our first game night on Friday, February 24th, and it was a blast. Thirteen people attended—many of whom were new to the library—and spent the night being together, playing games, laughing, and sharing in each other’s company. It was really lovely. Our next game night will be on Friday, March 31, from 6:00 – 9:00. Bring your friends, some snacks (no alcohol, please), and a favorite game to play. Or choose one of the games we will have on hand for you!

Along with these great offerings, our staff is already getting excited and looking ahead to summer reading programs. We’ll look forward to sharing news of what’s next, and we hope to see you sometime soon at the library!

Be well,

Matthew Graff
Executive Director
Skidompha Public Library

2.23.23 Winter Escapes

Dear Friends,

Each month, staff members select books, audiobooks, and movies to add to the collection. I was looking through the spreadsheet that captures staff choices—the list of DVDs we have selected for this month, and I was thinking about how it is often during this mid-winter time that I most enjoy wandering up the stairs at the library to spend time browsing our DVD collection.

I don’t know about you, but mid-winter can sometimes wear me out or, at the very least, leave me daydreaming about finding new worlds and new adventures. And how can I complain when my workplace is a treasure trove of these very things? So I let this feeling lead me to try something I might overlook in the warmer, busier months. I find myself pulling films off the shelf that I’ve heard others chatting about or aren’t my usual go-to’s.

So if you, like me, find yourself feeling winter stretch out before you, let this be a letter to remind you that we have some wonderful, simple escapes right at the library. Please stop in and see what we have on our new release shelves, or take a chance with something new!

Be well,

Matthew Graff
Executive Director
Skidompha Public Library

2.16.23 Welcome, Meghan

Dear Friends,
I am thrilled to introduce you to our newest staff member, Meghan Hawkes. Meghan’s role at the library will see her working in circulation and as the Communications Coordinator. We are so happy she is here!
An art school graduate, and book lover, Meghan comes to us from a background of work in town at Sherman’s and as a freelance illustrator. Meghan will read anything you put in front of her, though she reserves a particular love for history, science fiction, and books about marine life. We are all very excited to have her on board and to see the energy she brings to her new roles here at the library.
As is often the case, a new position replaces a former one. Meghan is taking over in circulation for Erika. Erika added so much during her time here, and we miss her! And Meghan is stepping in to fill the communications role for Jeannette, who is stepping out to focus more of her time on teaching mindfulness meditation and creative writing. I am happy and relieved that Jeannette will be staying at Skidompha to continue her weekly mindfulness and poetry groups and her work with EPOCH magazine and the teen editorial board.
Whenever you next find yourself at Skidompha or in one of Jeannette’s online groups, please take the time to welcome Meghan and wish Jeannette well. We are so lucky to have an incredible group of staff members here at the library, and I look forward to having you get to know Meghan as she settles into her new role.
Be well,
Matthew Graff
Executive Director
Skidompha Public Library

2.2.23 | Food Literacy News

Dear Friends,

Through these weekly letters, I am afforded the time and opportunity to reflect on our work at Skidompha. It’s important to me to share our news and to let you know that in between ordering for our collection and helping you to check those books and other media in and out of the library, our team is also working to bring programs and services to our community that will support and enhance. And it’s a lot of fun to do some “horn tooting” to show off some of the exceptional work our staff does here at Skidompha. During my three and a half years at Skidompha, I’ve always had news to share.

Many of our programs aim to address needs in our community, and this year we have been working with CLC YMCA, Healthy Lincoln County, Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine to address food literacy.

Between February and May of 2023, Skidompha Library will offer a series of workshops focused on meal planning, kitchen skills, food safety, the social impacts of food, and more! The first offering in this series is a 6-week Cooking Matters workshop offered by Lincoln County SNAP educator Larissa Hannon and hosted by the Central Lincoln County YMCA. These family-friendly cooking classes will allow participants to practice making fun and tasty recipes. The first workshop will take place on Saturday, February 18, at 9:30 a.m. You will find more information about this first workshop below.  Registration is required. To register, please email Larissa Hannon at lhannon@healthylincolncounty.org or call 207-622-7566 ext. 204.

We will announce additional workshops in the coming weeks! The Focus on Food Workshop Series is made possible through funding from the John Andrews fund and partnerships with CLC YMCA, Healthy Lincoln County, Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine. We are grateful for their generous support and for these important collaborations.

In 2019, Feeding America estimated that residents of Lincoln County experienced a food insecurity rate of 12.2% (n.d.b), which was almost 12% higher than the national average for that year (Staker, 2022). The children of Lincoln County alone experienced a food insecurity rate of 19.9% (Feeding America, n.d.a) in 2019 – a staggering 36.6% higher than the national average (Stacker, 2022). Though more recent survey data has not yet been released, it is a reasonable and logical assumption that the global pandemic and recent price inflation have only exacerbated issues of food insecurity in Lincoln County.

In recent years, libraries have begun offering food literacy programs as one way to address and combat issues like food insecurity. The Food Literacy Center defines food literacy as “understanding the impact of [one’s] food choices on [one’s] health, environment, and economy – and understanding that these impacts are not experienced equitably” (n.d.). To help patrons explore this definition, librarians around the country have started to offer resources and programming that focus on topics such as meal planning, understanding nutritional information, accessing food in different contexts, culinary skills, and the environmental impact of food consumption, among others (Dodge, 2020).

Skidompha Library has been fortunate to have forged a partnership with Healthy Lincoln County and now offers a Little Free Pantry of freely available food, snacks, and hygiene products here at the library; however, we are taking our efforts further by joining the food literacy movement and offering access to food literacy programming and resources.

We are grateful to all of you who take the time to read our news each week and support the library financially through your patronage, borrowing books and media, and attending things like these and other library events.

Be well,

Matthew Graff

Executive Director

Skidompha Public Library

 

References

Dodge, H. (2020). Gather ‘round the table: Food literacy programs, resources, and ideas for libraries. ALA Editions.

Feeding America. (n.d.a). Child food insecurity in Lincoln County before COVID-19. Retrieved May 25, 2022, from  https://map.feedingamerica.org/county/2019/child/maine/county/lincoln. 

Feeding America. (n.d.b). Food insecurity in Lincoln County before COVID-19. Retrieved May 25, 2022, from https://map.feedingamerica.org/county/2019/overall/maine/county/lincoln. 

Food Literacy Center. (n.d.) What is food literacy? Retrieved May 26, 2022, from https://www.foodliteracycenter.org/what-food-literacy. 

Stacker. (2022, February 5). Counties with the highest rate of food insecurity in Maine. https://stacker.com/maine/counties-highest-rate-food-insecurity-maine.