SEARSPORT —  The family of a long-time patron is fundraising in her memory to benefit Carver Memorial Library in the form of a special collection of children’s Christmas books.

Kimberly Rumney Blake (1991-2018) was a young mother who greatly enjoyed reading. She and her husband Caleb took every opportunity to pass that love of books on to their daughter Cora and new baby Jeremy.

Carver Memorial Library in Searsport was a favorite place to visit for the young family, who were enthusiastic participants in Story Time, the library’s program for preschoolers.

Ronda Nichols, the library’s children’s librarian, said in a news release: “Within weeks of Kim’s first visit with Caleb and Cora to Carver Memorial Library, the amount of participants at our preschool Story Time greatly increased, because Kim encouraged her many friends and extended family to attend. She engaged with all the children and delighted in them as they sang, danced, and participated throughout the hour.

“Kim noticeably enjoyed when quality books caught the children’s attention and drew them in. We are thankful that, for years to come, children and families will benefit from borrowing the interesting, heart-warming, and imaginative books added to our collection in Kim’s memory.”

Stricken with a rare form of sarcoma, Kim’s final wish was to spend Christmas, their happiest holiday, with her children. She was able to fulfill that wish, and passed away on January 9, 2018.

To honor Kim’s memory, her family is raising funds for a collection of children’s Christmas books at the library.

Two local businesses have designated days when they will donate a percentage of their proceeds. Supporters are encouraged to visit one or both participating businesses, or donate directly to the Kim’s Collection fund at the library.

Chick-fil-A on Stillwater Avenue in Bangor is participating on Tuesday, Nov. 20 from 4:30 p.m. to closing. The fundraiser includes the drive-through. In order to count, you must mention the library fundraiser with your purchase.

Sweet Frog in the Reny’s Plaza in Belfast is participating on November 30 from 2 to 6 p.m. All purchases at Sweet Frog will be automatically included in the fundraiser.

Donations may also be made directly to the library. Mark checks for “Kim’s Collection”, and mail to P.O. Box 439, Searsport, 04974, or drop off at the library at 12 Union Street.

A specific list of books has been created for the collection, to enhance the Christmas books already available at the library.

Questions can be directed to Sue McClintock, Carver Memorial Library director, at 548-2303.

“The library and Kim’s family are grateful for your support,”