History
Welcome to the Alice L. Pendleton Library. We are so happy you are here and are excited to share with you all the educational and entertainment resources at the library.
Explore the website and then visit us!
Melissa & Richard
Library Director: Melissa Olson
Assistant: Richard Coombs
Click box for a history of the library.
Highlights
Alice L. Pendleton
The Library building was initiated by the enthusiasm and hard work of Alice Lavinia Pendleton of Islesboro and Brooklyn.
Islesboro’s first librarian, Alice started lobbying for a properly-sized library facility in 1905, fund raising began in 1912, and doors opened on January 14, 1918.
Miss Alice continued as the librarian until 1915 and thereafter served as the assistant librarian every summer until her death in 1951.
Our Building
Since its opening on January 14, 1918, the beautiful granite and brick building became the town’s cultural center under the guidance of Miss Alice, and every Saturday afternoon in the summertime a “sociable” was held with programs: performances by children costumed as early island settlers, historical essays or quizzes, wild flower or bird contests, poetry, hobby or antique afternoons; and speakers, including monologist Ruth Draper.
Centennial
August 25, 2018 marked the Centennial Celebration of the Alice L. Pendleton Library building.
More than 100 visitors turned back the clock to mark the celebration. The day featured photo displays capturing events from bygone years, tea and sandwiches served by a costumed lady from from authentic silver tea service, and a presentation of Miss Alice's very words from early in the century.
Remembrance Garden
The Remembrance Garden beside the Library is Islesboro's only public garden — a peaceful place where individuals and groups have contributed memorials to honor friends and relatives.
Please stop by and enjoy the plants, bulbs, bird baths, benches, birdhouses and arbor.