From October 3 - 30, the Rockport Public Library will host the Maine Fibershed Festival, a month-long exhibit complimented by special events focused on how Maine’s Soil-to-Soil fiber system weaves together a strong, stable, and connected community.

A Fibershed is a geographical region where natural fiber is produced, processed, made into textiles, and ultimately composted. The exhibit and the events will highlight how Maine’s network of local, natural fiber producers, dyers, processors, and artisans are working together to create a healthier environment, income equality, and a strong fiber community.

Friday, Oct. 3, at 1 p.m., Earth Loom creator Susan Barrett Merrill and historical storyteller Cathi Belcher invite the public to attend the warping of an Earth Loom in the library’s lower level. The demonstration will include the story of how the art of weaving mirrors community-building. Attendees will have an opportunity to utilize Maine-grown fiber, reclaimed fabric, and local plants to add to a communal tapestry.

Maine Fibershed’s Festival Day will take place Saturday, Oct. 25, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., in the upper and lower levels of the Rockport Library. Fiber enthusiasts of all ages can check out live demonstrations and meet farmers, mill owners, dyers, spinners, weavers, makers, menders and natural fiber composters. A complete list of participating exhibitors and demonstrations can be found at rockportlibrary.net.

Following the demonstrations, Dr. Alison King of the University of Maine’s School of Food and Agriculture will give the keynote presentation at 12:30 p.m. in the library’s lower level. She will discuss the rise of the modern fiber industry and its consequences for our bodies, waterways, and soils, while highlighting circular alternatives: the return of diverse fiber crops, turning waste wool into pellets for fertilizer and mulch, and developing natural landscape fabrics.

More information about Maine Fibershed can be found at mainefibershed.com. Additional information about the month-long exhibit can be found at rockportlibrary.net.

Maine Fibershed and the Rockport Public Library would like to thank Waldo County Soil and Water Conservation District for their generous sponsorship of the festival.