September is Library Card Sign-Up Month! It’s a time when the Rockland Public Library joins the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries nationwide to encourage everyone to sign up for “the most important card of all – a library card” – at their local public library, according to RPL, in a news release..  

From September 1st through the 30th, the Library will enter new cardholders, and those who haven’t used their card in five or more years, into a drawing for a prize package for adults or youth.

“If you haven’t been to the Library in a long while, we think you’ll enjoy the welcoming atmosphere,” said RPL. “It may look different, but staff are still eager to serve you.” 

According to RPL, Rockland Public Library is a vibrant community center: a vital information resource and place to connect with others. The Library provides access to an extensive collection within its walls and to an expanded collection via the shared systems, Minerva and MaineCat.

In addition to books and DVDs, the Library lends a telescope, binoculars, ukuleles, drums, and some other unexpected items. It offers access to downloadable audio- and eBooks, offers computers for access to, and assistance with, the internet and office productivity software, printing, scanning, and copying, free programs and events for the public, a self-service fax machine, assistance with patron-owned devices, and a notary public.

Staff provide research assistance and help navigating online government forms. Internet access via Wi-Fi is available around the clock, even when the Library is closed. 

At present, the hours at the Library are Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For those who do not want to enter the building, staff continue curbside service, Monday-Friday, from 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., and Saturday, from 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Throughout September, the Library will post reasons why people should become library cardholders on both their Facebook and Instagram accounts, daily.

“We’d also love to highlight stories of how the Library has made a positive difference in your life, or that of another,” said RPL.

If you have such a story to share, you can email Patty King at pking@rocklandmaine.gov or message the Library on social media. It can be a long story or brief testimonial.

“Let us know if you prefer anonymity if your experience is published,” said RPL. 

People who live in or own property in the city of Rockland are eligible for a "free" card, as Rockland property taxes support the operation of the library (and other City services). Coast Guard Personnel stationed in Rockland are eligible for a free card, with Coast Guard ID, and children as well as teachers in Knox County (through 12th grade) are also eligible for a free card. 

The fee for any other child is $10 annually. Nonresident fees are $45 for an annual individual or family card and $25 for a 3-month card.

To obtain a card, please bring a photo I.D. and proof of current physical address (utility bill, lease agreement, piece of mail delivered by the USPS).

Rockland Library is a City department; two support groups – the Rockland Public Library Endowment Association, and Friends of Rockland Public Library – also continue to provide robust support of time, energy, and funds. 

The Library is located at 80 Union Street, Rockland. 

FMI: call 594-0310.