The Rockland Public Library and the Rockland Historical Society invite the public to a special Independence Day Program in the Community Room of the Library on Thursday, July 2, at 6 p.m.

Members of the Society will share a copy of a rare draft of the Declaration of Independence in Thomas Jefferson's handwriting with scratch outs, changes and corrections by John Adams and Benjamin Franklin. One of the members obtained this copy over 20 years ago, according to a RPL news release. The original is now in a vault on the west coast of the United States and not available for public viewing. On July 3, 1776, John Adams wrote to his wife, Abigail, in Massachusetts; "The Second Day of July 1776 will be the most memorable Epocha in the History of America." 

In addition to this unique opportunity to view Jefferson's draft of the Declaration, Historical Society board members will share an update of the Society's move to 8 North Main Street in Rockland, and work on the building to prepare for a grand opening later this summer. The Society recently purchased space for expanded exhibits and research in an 1828 historic building located at the northern end of downtown Rockland.

"After more than two years in storage, the Historical Society is excited to share their progress toward their new home and help Rockland begin celebrating our nation's 250th Anniversary," said the news release. 

This event is free and open to all. 

For more information about the event, contact the Rockland Public Library at 594-0310.

The Library is located at 80 Union Street.