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Summer Celebration Success, Thanks —and the Work Ahead

Aug 14, 2026

We are pleased to share that the 2026 Rangeley Public Library Summer Celebration was a wonderful success.

Thanks to the generosity of guests, sponsors, donors, auction contributors, and volunteers, the evening strengthened support for the Library’s programs and urgent roof replacement effort.  A generous $10,000 matching gift from the Oak Tree Family Fund inspired additional giving to surpass our Fund-a-Need Roof replacement goal of $25,000.

 

“The incredible generosity of our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and guests allows the Library to keep its doors open, its programs thriving, and its building protected for future generations,” the Board said. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s celebration a success.”  (Keep scrolling for photos from the event)

Guests enjoyed catering by Classic Provisions and Katie Bakes, with music by Mike Blyth. Raffle drawings, silent and live auctions, and a Fund-a-Need appeal added to an evening centered on the theme “Writing the Next Chapter.”

Speaking on behalf of Board President Peter Hayes, Treasurer Ellen Addelson welcomed attendees and emphasized the Library’s role as a gathering place, a resource for lifelong learners, and a hub for children’s programming. She also shared the completion of a five-year strategic plan shaped by public input and explained that the Library’s immediate priority is replacing the addition’s failing roof and addressing damage to the structure beneath it.

 

Trustee Mike Zuluaf recognized three recently retired trustees whose service totaled 60 years. Barbara Burgess served from 1999 to 2026 as Treasurer and, for a time, Bookkeeper, helping fund the building addition, grow the endowment, and support major fundraisers. Zenna Inness served from 2000 to 2015 and again from 2021 to 2025, contributing to the Book & Bake Sale, Phonebook, and Spaghetti Supper. Brent Quimby served from 2011 to 2025 in Facilities and Finance roles and as Vice President and President, helping oversee furnace improvements, heat pumps, and repairs to the slate roof.

The evening’s honoree was Maine debut children’s author Karen Wilson, author of Saddleback Molly, The Skiing Moose!, illustrated by Matt Gross. Wilson, an educator, outdoor enthusiast, and avid Saddleback skier, spoke about the importance of curiosity and community, and her inspiration for the book. Chris Farmer led the live auction, and Fund-a-Need gifts were directed toward replacing the roof and protecting the children’s programs, collections, and community activities housed beneath it.

If you were unable to join us—or would like to make an additional gift—there is still time to help. Please donate online at www.rangeleylibrary.org/donate/. Every contribution, at every level, helps protect the Library and carry its programs forward.

We are grateful to everyone who made the celebration a success—and to all who continue to invest in the Library’s future.