The Heart of PML

A note from Library Director Stacy Mazur


There's something about helping a person with something as simple as downloading an image to their phone that tickles the happy part of a librarian's brain. And there's an extra little "woo-hoo!" when it's an image you know exists in digital form at the Osher Map Library.


Being able to share that knowledge, and watching someone's face light up, is the best part. Solving puzzles and being a helper is at the heart of our profession.


That instinct doesn't clock out when I leave work. The other day, my neighbor, who is aging in place, was trying to thumb a ride to his friend's house, so my partner and I stopped to pick him up. Helping each other matters so much in our community. Every day, we can offer small gifts of ourselves. Our kindness, our patience, our attention. Each one brightens someone else's world and our own.


This October, I hope your autumn days are full of that warmth, both given and received. Be bright. Be well.


Editor's Note: This article is the first in The Heart of PML, a new series featuring stories, reflections, and perspectives from across our library community. Each month, a different voice will share what makes Prince Memorial Library special to them.

 

Inside the PML Archives with Julia Walters


Did you know Prince Memorial Library is home to a growing archive of local history? Led by Archivist Julia Walters, current projects include digitizing North Yarmouth town records dating from 1680-1784, organizing the library's extensive digital archive, and making historical PML documents available online for public access.


Julia is also uncovering and sharing fascinating pieces of Cumberland's past. A recent addition to the archive is a handwritten transcript by Hope Dilloway created before the publication of Old Houses of Cumberland, now available through the DigitalMaine Repository.


Interested in learning more about the history of our area? Join Julia for the monthly Hands on History discussion group. The group meets this month on October 9, 10-11 a.m. at PML.


The next time you stop by the library, you may find Julia working behind the scenes to preserve the stories that connect our community to its history. Stay tuned for more archive updates as these important projects continue.

 

Friends of PML Annual Appeal


Keep an eye on your mailbox! The Friends of Prince Memorial Library Annual Appeal is on its way.


We’re incredibly grateful to the Friends of PML, whose generosity and dedication help make so much of what happens at the library possible. From supporting programs and special events to museum and park passes, enhanced collections, and community gathering opportunities, the Friends play a vital role in supporting PML and the people we serve.


If you've attended a program, borrowed a pass, discovered your next great read, or simply found connection and inspiration at PML, we hope you'll consider supporting the Friends' annual appeal.


Thank you for supporting the Friends of PML and the lasting impact they have on PML.


Save the Date: The Friends of PML Book Sale returns November 4-7 & 10.

 

127 New Library Cards and Counting!


A big welcome to the 127 friends and neighbors who signed up for a new Prince Memorial Library card during Library Card Sign-Up Month in September! We're thrilled to see new patrons discovering all the benefits that come with a free PML card, and we hope to keep that number growing all year long.


Know someone who doesn't have a library card yet? Share the love and encourage them to sign up today. From books, eBooks, museum and park passes, our Library of Things, events and programs, and so much more, one free card opens the door to thousands of good things. Encourage them to sign up online and start exploring all that PML has to offer!

 

If you're looking for a chilling read, browse our Books That Go Bump in the Night display featuring haunting classics, creepy page-turners, and stories that linger long after you've turned the final page.


Featured titles include:


The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving


The Shining by Stephen King, Maine's own master of horror


The Wolves of Midwinter by Anne Rice


Greenwich Unabridged Library Classics by Edgar Allan Poe


Whether you love ghost stories, gothic suspense, or a good scare, stop by PML and discover your next favorite spooky-season read.

 

Take the 2026 Maine Library Passport Challenge!


Ready for a library adventure? The 2026 Maine Library Passport Challenge invites Mainers to visit libraries across the state, collect stamps or signatures, and explore all that Maine libraries have to offer. Participants who complete and submit their passports by December 31 will be entered to win prizes.


Learn more here and stop by Prince Memorial Library to pick up a passport, and start your journey!

Join the Prince Memorial Library Team!



If you love connecting people with books, resources, and each other, we'd love to hear from you. Prince Memorial Library is hiring for two opportunities to make a difference in our community.



Youth & Teen Services Librarian (33 hours/week)

We're seeking a creative, energetic librarian with a passion for working with children, teens, and families. This position plays a key role in planning engaging programs, supporting youth literacy, building community partnerships, and creating welcoming spaces where young people can learn, grow, and thrive. Responsibilities include Storytime, school visits, summer reading programs, outreach, readers' advisory, collection support, and fostering connections with local families and organizations. Learn more and apply here.


Library Substitutes

We're also looking for friendly, reliable substitutes to assist patrons, support circulation services, and help keep the library running smoothly. If you enjoy helping others, are comfortable with technology, and can work evenings and Saturdays, we'd love to hear from you. Library experience is a plus, but not required. Interested? Please apply here.

Fall Event Highlights

This fall, Prince Memorial Library is offering new ways to learn, connect, and build community. Alongside our ongoing events and programs, we're excited to introduce several new initiatives through The Connection Project, a free, year-round series of low-pressure gatherings designed to ease isolation and rebuild community — one shared meal, skill, and conversation at a time. (Note: Events are held at PML unless otherwise noted)


New Connection Project Programs:

The Friendship Table

Fridays | 12-1 p.m.

A welcoming weekly lunch gathering for people with special needs and their caregivers. Bring your own lunch and enjoy conversation, friendship, and community.


Low-Stakes Craft Collective

First Thursdays | 6-8 p.m.

A relaxed monthly crafting group where the focus is as much on conversation and connection as it is on creativity. No expertise required.


Village Community Connection

Third Tuesdays | 6-7:30 p.m.

A parent-to-parent networking and discussion group for caregivers of people with special needs transitioning to adulthood. Share experiences, resources, and support with others on a similar journey.


Upcoming Program & Event Highlights:

Magic: The Gathering for Teens

Tuesday, October 13 | 6-8 p.m.

Learn to play or join others for friendly matches in this drop-in teen gathering.

Plot Twisters: A (Very) Relaxed Book Group for 6th-8th Graders

Wednesday, October 14| 6-7 p.m.

A book group for grades 6-8 that combines reading, games, snacks, and discussion in the Teen Room on the first Wednesday of each month, with the exception of October's meet-up. October's featured book is Mascot by Charles Waters and Traci Sorell.


PML Concert Series

Saturday, October 17 | 10-11 a.m.:Brad Terry & Peter Herman

Saturday, November 21 | 10-11 a.m.: The Downeasters Chorus

Enjoy free live performances at the North Yarmouth Community Center.


Introduction to Rug Hooking (Part 1)

Saturday, October 17 | 1-4 p.m.

Learn the traditional fiber art of rug hooking with instructors from Tin Pedlars of Maine. Registration required.


Open Mic Night

Thursday, October 22 | 7-8:30 p.m.

Tuttle Road Community Church

Musicians, storytellers, poets, and audience members of all ages are welcome for an evening of community creativity.


Thrift & Sift

Saturday, October 24 | 9 a.m.-Noon

North Yarmouth Community Center

Refresh your wardrobe while helping reduce waste at this community clothing and accessories swap. Registration required.


Repair Fair

Saturday, October 24 | 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

North Yarmouth Community Center

Bring a broken household item or an item that needs mending and let our volunteer fixers give it a second life rather than sending it to the landfill.


Entomophagy (Insect Eating) with Mr. Drew

Saturday, October 24 | 1-2 p.m.

Grades 6-12

Learn about insect-eating traditions from around the world and, for the adventurous, sample edible insects. Registration required.


Friends of PML Book Sale

November 4,5, 6, 7 & 10

Browse books, puzzles, games, and more for all ages. Every purchase helps support and enhance library programs, services, and collections.


Homer’s The Odyssey (Part 1):

A Short-Term Book Group

Thursday, November 12 | 1-2:30 p.m.

Share the adventure of The Odyssey with fellow readers as we work through Daniel Mendelsohn's acclaimed translation together in three gatherings. This is a reader-led group, not a scholarly seminar—no expertise in Homer or classical literature is required. Registration required.


Author Talk with Rick Ramseyer

Saturday, November 14 | 10-11 a.m.

Join author Rick Ramseyer for a discussion of Girl Without a Country: The Untold Story of a Landmark Fight for U.S. Citizenship and the fascinating history behind this landmark case.



Mark Your Calendar

Whether you're looking to learn something new, meet new people, explore a hobby, support sustainability, or just connect with neighbors, there's something for everyone at PML this fall. Visit our online calendar for complete details and registration information.

 

For Teens: Check Out the Latest PML Teen Newsletter!


Looking for book recommendations, upcoming events, and all things teen at PML? Read the latest PML Teen Newsletter and subscribe to get future issues delivered right to your inbox.


Check out The October issue here.

Contact Us:

207-829-2215

library@townofcumberlandmaine.gov

princememorial.org


Library Hours:

Tuesday – Thursday: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sunday and Monday: CLOSED