Bonney Memorial Library Newsletter September 2025

Four Grants Awarded to Bonney Memorial Library!

Hello, Bonney Memorial Library supporters! We are thrilled to share some exciting news with all of you. This year, our library has been the proud recipient of several generous grants that will greatly enhance our facilities and services. We couldn't have achieved this without your continuous support and enthusiasm and without our library staff, Trustees and volunteers.  Below, you’ll find details about each grant, the organizations behind them, and the impact they will have on our library and community.

1. Pilcrow Foundation Grant  

The Pilcrow Foundation has been instrumental in supporting rural public libraries across the United States by providing them with new, quality hardcover children's books. Thanks to their commitment, we received a generous matching grant of over 100 new children’s books. These books are now available in the Children’s Room Browsing Bin. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Pilcrow Foundation and all our donors for their incredible generosity.

2. A.L.A. Libraries Transform Communities 

We are eagerly awaiting the final approval of a grant from the American Library Association. This grant focuses on increasing the accessibility of our facilities, services, and programs for people with disabilities. We plan to use this funding to repair our front door's automatic opener and acquire large print books and sensory toys for the children’s room. This initiative will make our library a more inclusive space for everyone.

3. Manton Foundation Grant

The Manton Foundation, a family-managed endeavor since 1991, awarded us a  grant. This generous funding has allowed us to revamp the children’s room with safe, colorful, and durable furniture. The additions include tables, chairs, rockers, floor rockers for Storytime, a browsing bin, a new rug, colorful acoustic ceiling tiles, and a baby changing table. Our young patrons will now have an even more vibrant and engaging space to explore.

4. The Maine State Library “Remote Work Through Libraries” Grant

In partnership with the Department of Economic and Community Development, the Maine State Library has provided us with a grant to support remote and hybrid workers. This funding has enabled us to purchase new ergonomic chairs, room dividers, and a stand-up desk. We are also planning to acquire a Bluetooth Smart Board, noise-cancelling headphones, and new computers and printers. These upgrades will transform our library into a modern workspace for our patrons.

Celebrating Our Success

We are incredibly grateful for the support from these organizations and our wonderful community. To celebrate these enhancements, we’ll be hosting an Open House later this fall to showcase our new resources. Keep an eye on our website, Facebook page, and Instagram for further details.

Your continued support and patronage are vital to our library’s success, and we look forward to sharing these improvements with you. Thank you for being an essential part of Bonney Memorial Library's journey!

Sincerely,  Sharon Beever, MSLS,

Bonney Memorial Library Director