SEARSPORT — Carver Memorial Library invites the public to a Volunteer Appreciation Open House, held Saturday, Jan. 26, during the library’s open hours of 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

At 11 a.m., a special appreciation for Friends and volunteers will be observed.

“This Open House is a time to honor the contributions of our Friends and volunteers and also showcase our library to the community,” said the library, in a news release. “We invite the public to visit the library, meet librarytTrustees and the library director, share your hopes and ideas for the future, and explore about ways to get involved.”

Staff will also inaugurate the new Large Print reading area and Book Nook shop.

Light refreshments will be served.

“A library is much more than books,” the release said. “It is a continuously evolving resource for the people of our community. Its ability to thrive and grow depends on the enthusiasm and vision of that community. We are grateful to our volunteers and Friends of the Library who do so much to make Carver a place for everyone.”

New Library Director Sue McClintock is looking forward to meeting new faces and getting better acquainted with our regulars, the release said. She came to Carver Memorial Library in September, having been Library Director at Vose Library in Union for six years, and after a brief stint in Rhode Island. She loves enthusing about books and helping people find information for whatever they’re working on.

“We would love to hear your hopes and ideas for the library. Come talk with the library director and members of the trustees. Whether you are a regular at the library, or someone who simply has a desire to contribute to the community, this Open House is an opportunity to share your ideas for the library and discover how your interests and skills can support and strengthen the library, its programs, and the town of Searsport.”

The monthly book sale is transforming into an ongoing sale with its own space in the Book Nook. Located next to the elevator at the bottom of the stairs, the Book Nook will be open during regular library hours. Most books and movies are $1, and mass market paperbacks are $0.50. Spend over $5 and get a library book bag!

The library is happy to receive donations in nice condition for the sale. Proceeds from book sales will support special library projects.

The Large Print collection will have a new home in a new reading area. The previous location was more difficult to access for those with vision difficulties, and was somewhat tucked into a corner, according to the release.

The new reading area will be located next to the accessible entrance and shelving will not go all the way to the floor. With an armchair and a sunny window, that staff hope will be a pleasant place to spend an afternoon.